cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nicotinate-adenine dinucleotide phosphate-induced Ca2+-release does not behave as a Ca2+-induced Ca2+-release system

We investigated the dependence of nicotinate-adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP)-induced Ca2+ release from intracellular stores of sea urchin egg homogenates, upon extravesicular Ca2+. In contrast to the Ca2+ release induced inositol 1',4',5'-triphosphate (IP3) or cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPR), the Ca2+ release induced by NAADP was completely independent of the free extravesicular Ca2+ over a wide range of concentrations (0-0.1 mM). The Ca2+ release triggered by either cADPR or IP3 was biphasically modulated by extravesicular Ca2+, and the Ca2+ release by these agents was abolished when the extravesicular Ca2+ was removed by chelation with 2 mM EGTA. On the other hand, NAADP-triggered Ca2+ release was not influenced by EGTA. These data indicate that while both cADPR and IP3 systems behave as functional Ca(2+)-induced Ca2+ release mechanisms, NAADP activates a Ca2+ release mechanism which is independent of the presence of extravesicular Ca2+. Therefore, the NAADP-sensitive Ca2+ release mechanisms may have a unique regulatory impact upon intracellular Ca2+ homoeostasis.
Metabolic Mapping of Mouse Brain Activity after Extinction of a Conditioned Emotional Response

Metabolic mapping with fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), a radiolabeled glucose analog, was used to assess regional activity changes in the mouse brain that result from extinction of a conditioned emotional response (CER). In the extinction group, Pavlovian tone–foot shock conditioning, followed by repeated tone-alone presentations, resulted in the reduction of the CER (freezing behavior). A second group underwent CER acquisition alone (nonextinction group), and a third group showed no CER after pseudorandom training. Then mice were injected with FDG, and tone-evoked brain activity was mapped. In the auditory system, increased activity resulted from the associative effects of acquisition training. Effects common to extinction and nonextinction groups, presumably reflecting the tone–foot shock association independently of CER expression, were found in the medial geniculate, hippocampus, and subiculum. In the extinction group, a major finding was the elevated activity in prefrontal cortex regions. In addition, brain–behavior correlations between FDG uptake and freezing behavior confirmed that subjects with higher prefrontal activity were more successful at inhibiting the CER. Interregional activity correlations showed extensive functional coupling across large-scale networks in the extinction group. The increased activity of the prefrontal cortex and its negative interactions with other regions within the extinction group suggest a functional network inhibiting the CER composed of prefrontal cortex, medial thalamus, auditory, and hippocampal regions. This is the first time that such a functional network resulting from Pavlovian extinction has been demonstrated, and it supports Pavlov9s original hypothesis of extinction as the formation of cortical inhibitory circuits, rather than unlearning or reversal of the acquisition process.
Evaluation of a personal device in reducing the risk of low back disorders during stooped work

Adoption of the stooped posture in the workplace is widespread throughout the world in agriculture, construction, and mining. This type of posture has been established as a risk factor for developing low back disorders (LBDs). The purpose of this study is to evaluate a personal weight transfer device as a possible intervention to reduce the load on the lumbar spine, thereby reducing the risk of developing LBDs. Eighteen healthy subjects performed stooped posture tasks in a laboratory study designed to simulate harvesting of low-growing crops. Results showed that when wearing the device in the static stooped posture, biceps femoris activity was reduced by 17%, lumbar flexion was reduced by 12%, ankle plantar-flexion increased by 5%, and the lumbar erector spinae of those subjects who did not experience flexion-relaxation of the erector spinae was reduced by 26%. Hip and knee flexion were not significantly altered. Therefore, the device may be beneficial for those with existing LBDs, and who use the stooped posture routinely.
Selective destabilization of short-lived mRNAs with the granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor AU-rich 3' noncoding region is mediated by a cotranslational mechanism.

Abstract The 3' noncoding region element (AUUUA)n specifically targets many short-lived mRNAs for degradation. Although the mechanism by which this sequence functions is not yet understood, a potential link between facilitated mRNA turnover and translation has been implied by the stabilization of cellular mRNAs in the presence of protein synthesis inhibitors. We therefore directly investigated the role of translation on mRNA stability. We demonstrate that mRNAs which are poorly translated through the introduction of stable secondary structure in the 5' noncoding region are not efficiently targeted for selective destabilization by the (AUUUA)n element. These results suggest that AUUUA-mediated degradation involves either a 5'-->3' exonuclease or is coupled to ongoing translation of the mRNA. To distinguish between these two possibilities, we inserted the poliovirus internal ribosome entry site, which promotes internal ribosome initiation, downstream of the 5' secondary structure. Translation directed by internal ribosome binding was found to fully restore targeted destabilization of AUUUA-containing mRNAs despite the presence of 5' secondary structure. This study therefore demonstrates that selective degradation mediated by the (AUUUA)n element is coupled to ribosome binding or ongoing translation of the mRNA and does not involve 5'-to-3' exonuclease activity.
Growth in capacity for integrated coastal management since UNCED: an international perspective

Abstract This article reviews progress achieved in the implementation of the concept of ‘integrated coastal management’ (ICM), a central concept in Chapter 17 of Agenda 21 . A number of signs indicate that a growth in capacity for integrated coastal management has taken place since the 1992 Earth Summit. Among the developments discussed are: (1) the ICM concept has come to be embraced as a central organizing concept in a number of the post Earth Summit conferences and in international agreements formerly lacking a coast and ocean emphasis, such as the Biological Diversity Convention; (2) the ICM concept has been further interpreted and operationalized in several efforts by international entities to develop ICM guidelines; and (3) a number of new training and teaching programs in ICM have been established.
The oxidation of Fe-Cr surface and bulk alloys at 300°C

The oxidation behavior of several surface and bulk Fe-Cr alloys and iron at 300°C and 4×10−6 Torr oxygen was studied. The surface alloys were fabricated by implantation of 25 keV Cr ions into the outermost 300A of polycrystalline iron samples. The oxide thickness as a function of oxygen exposure was obtained using proton-excited X-ray analysis, and composition profiles of oxide films were obtained using Auger electron spectroscopy and ion sputtering. The addition of Cr to Fe by surface and bulk alloying caused the oxidation rate to decrease and changed the oxidation kinetics from parabolic (for Fe) to logarithmic (for Cr concentrations ≥4.7at.%). Interpretation of the data in terms of simple oxidation theories indicates that the Cr additions may reduce the oxidation rate by altering the electronic properties of the metal-oxide interface.
Sea surface temperature estimation from the DMSP operational linescan system using a SSM/I-derived water vapor correction

Atmospheric correction algorithms for Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) Operational Linescan System (OLS) single channel infrared (IR) estimation of sea surface temperature (SST) have been derived based on Special Sensor Microwave/Imager (SSM/I) water vapor (WV) content retrievals. It is demonstrated that the OLS single IR channel atmospheric correction can be correlated to WV and that the SSM/I-derived correction algorithms provide significant improvement over uncorrected single IR channel SST estimation. Best results are obtained from a correction algorithm that incorporates a quadratic WV term. Use of the quadratic SSM/I-derived WV correction on properly cloud screened OLS IR data produces SST retrievals accurate to within 1.0°C RMS when compared to moored buoy in situ SST measurements.
Priming Media Stereotypes Reduces Support for Social Welfare Policies: The Mediating Role of Empathy

Two experiments involving White participants tested the influence of media-based priming of Black stereotypes on support for government policy that assisted Black versus White persons-in-need. Experiment 1 showed that priming the "Black criminal" stereotype through exposure to photographs of Blacks looting after Hurricane Katrina reduced policy support for Black evacuees-in-need but did not influence support responses toward White evacuees-in-need. Experiment 2 showed that priming the "promiscuous Black female" stereotype through exposure to sexual rap music reduced policy support for a Black pregnant woman-in-need but did not influence support responses toward a White pregnant woman-in-need. Further tests of mediated moderation demonstrated that in both experiments, the interactive influence of priming Black stereotypes and race of persons-in-need on policy support was mediated by empathic responding.
On detection of the number of signals in presence of white noise

Abstract In this paper, the authors propose procedures for detection of the number of signals in presence of Gaussian white noise under an additive model. This problem is related to the problem of finding the multiplicity of the smallest eigenvalue of the covariance matrix of the observation vector. The methods used in this paper fall within the framework of the model selection procedures using information theoretic criteria. The strong consistency of the estimates of the number of signals, under different situations, is established. Extensions of the results are also discussed when the noise is not necessarily Gaussian. Also, certain information-theoretic criteria are investigated for determination of the multiplicities of various eigenvalues.
Near-infrared spectral monitoring of Triton with IRTF/SpeX I: establishing a baseline for rotational variability

Abstract We present eight new 0.8 to 2.4 μm spectral observations of Neptune's satellite Triton, obtained at IRTF/SpeX during 2002 July 15–22 UT. Our objective was to determine how Triton's near-infrared spectrum varies as Triton rotates, and to establish an accurate baseline for comparison with past and future observations. The most striking spectral change detected was in Triton's nitrogen ice absorption band at 2.15 μm; its strength varies by about a factor of two as Triton rotates. Maximum N 2 absorption approximately coincides with Triton's Neptune-facing hemisphere, which is also the longitude where the polar cap extends nearest Triton's equator. More subtle rotational variations are reported for Triton's CH 4 and H 2 O ice absorption bands. Unlike the other ices, Triton's CO 2 ice absorption bands remain nearly constant as Triton rotates. Triton's H 2 O ice is shown to be crystalline, rather than amorphous. Triton's N 2 ice is confirmed to be the warmer, hexagonal, β N 2 phase, and its CH 4 is confirmed to be highly diluted in N 2 ice.
Characterization of the rat LDL receptor 5′-flanking region

A 1.5-kb genomic DNA fragment corresponding to the 5'-flanking region of the rat LDL receptor gene was cloned and putative regulatory regions were identified. A major transcription start site was identified at -154 bp relative to the ATG translation initiation codon, within a region containing two thyroid hormone response element half-site motifs (2H-TRE). Binding of thyroid hormone receptors alpha and beta1 to this element was demonstrated. Mutations within this 2H-TRE region abolished basal transcription levels of the rat LDL receptor gene. Reporter gene studies indicated that the promoter region between -300 and -200 bp, which contains one sterol response element (SRE) and two specificity protein-1 sites (Sp1) sites, is crucial for basal transcription of the rat LDL receptor gene. The functionality of the SRE motif was confirmed using electrophoretic mobility shift assays and reporter gene studies.
The relative value of tranquilizing drugs and social and psychological therapies in chronic schizophrenia

Forty-six chronic schizophrenic patients were divided into two groups and treated for six months with tranquilizing drugs in two different settings, a large state hospital and a small treatment center. The rate of improvement was the same at the two hospitals. Marked or moderate improvement was made in one-third of the patients. Another one-fourth was slightly improved and the remainder unimproved. The discharge rate was significantly different at the two hospipitals. Eight patients (33 per cent) were discharged from the small hospital and one patient (5 per cent) was discharged from the large hospital. Discharges were to protected environments, similar in varying degrees to the patient's previous hospital life. The relation of drug therapy to social and psychological therapy in chronic schizophrenia is discussed. Drug treatment appeared to be related to the uniform improvement rate. Intensive social and psychological therapy appeared to increase significantly the discharge rate at the small hospital. The implications of the present study for the management and disposition of chronic schizophrenic patients are listed.
Making A Second Urban History

This article suggests that Arnold Hirsch’s Making the Second Ghetto has been particularly pathbreaking for the field of urban history, as well as for other urban disciplines, primarily because its probing and detailed examination of postwar Chicago exploded several widely held academic assumptions about race relations, political consensus, the “ghetto” as a “natural” or “inevitable” entity, and so forth. In addition, this work sparked new scholarly interest in America’s urban centers and deeply influenced the sorts of questions that academics now ask about cities in the past.
Promiscuous mating in feral pigs (Sus scrofa) from Texas, USA.

Context Feral pigs represent a significant threat to agriculture and ecosystems and are disease reservoirs for pathogens affecting humans, livestock and other wildlife. Information on the behavioural ecology of feral pigs might increase the efficiency and effectiveness of management strategies. Aims We assessed the frequency of promiscuous mating in relation to oestrous synchrony in feral pigs from southern Texas, USA, an agroecosystem with a widespread and well established population of feral pigs. An association between multiple paternity of single litters and synchrony of oestrous may indicate alternative mating strategies, such as mate-guarding. Methods We collected gravid sows at nine sites in southern Texas during 2005–07. We used a panel of DNA microsatellite markers to estimate frequency of multiple paternity and the distribution of male mating among litters of feral pigs. Conception dates were determined by fitting average fetal crown–rump measurements within litters to expected fetal development relative to gestation time. Key results We found evidence of multiple paternity in 21 of 64 litters (33%) from seven of nine sites sampled. Synchrony of oestrous did not influence promiscuous mating, as we found multiple paternity at sites with synchronous and asynchronous oestrous. Males sired from 8 to 11 offspring at three sites where >10 litters were sampled. Mean litter size (5.4) was less than the best-fit value for the number of offspring, indicating that some males sired offspring with ≥ 2 females. Key conclusions Feral pigs in Texas appear to be promiscuous under a range of demographic conditions, unlike wild boar and feral pigs in other regions. The ecological and behavioural factors affecting multiple paternity are not clear, but may include male–male competition, harassment avoidance, genetic benefits for offspring, response to macro-habitat conditions, or selection. Implications A high incidence of sexual contact among individuals may increase the opportunity for diseases transmitted by oral or venereal routes, such as swine brucellosis and pseudorabies. In addition, fertility-control methods targeting males only are likely to be inefficient if female promiscuity is high; methods targeting females or both sexes jointly may be more effective.
Reaction Sites on Poly(dimethylsiloxane) Elastomer Surfaces in Microwave Plasma Reactions with Gaseous Imidazole: A Spectroscopic Study

Our recent studies were concerned with the microwave plasma reactions of imidazole molecules to cross-linked poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) surfaces. However, the issue of the PDMS surface sites responsible for imidazole bonding reactions remained open. In this study, attenuated total reflectance (ATR) Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy will be used to assess the origin of species responsible for the PDMS reactions with imidazole. Analyses of spectroscopic data indicate that the primary reactive sites on the PDMS surfaces are Si−CH2• radicals, which are formed through the hydrogen abstraction of the Si−CH3 groups. The Si−CH2• radicals react with the imidazole CHCHNCHN• radicals, resulting from hydrogen abstraction of the N−H bonds, to form Si−CH2−imidazole surface entities. Reaction mechanisms responsible for imidazole−PDMS reactions in microwave plasma are proposed.
Effects of Chloroacetanilide Herbicides on Membrane Fatty Acid Desaturation and Lipid Composition in Rice, Maize, and Sorghum☆☆☆

Abstract The effects of the chloroacetanilide herbicides pretilachlor and metolachlor on the composition of membrane fatty acids and lipids were studied in dark-grown rice ( Oryza sativa L., cv. Lemont), maize ( Zea mays L., cv. Cargill 7567), and grain sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench., cv. G522DR) seedlings. The main desaturated fatty acid found in control and herbicide-treated seedlings of rice, maize, and grain sorghum was 18:2. Applied at their respective GR 50 concentrations, pretilachlor (0.1 μM) and metolachlor (10 and 5 μM) did not inhibit the overall desaturation of 18:1 to 18:2 and 18:3 fatty acids in root and shoot tissues of rice, maize, or grain sorghum. However, seedlings of the three grass species treated with the two herbicides showed some decrease in 18:1 and a concomitant increase in 18:2 or 18:3 fatty acids, compared to control plants. The safeners fenclorim, benoxacor, and fluxofenim protected the three grass crops against injury caused by pretilachlor and metolachlor but did not change the composition of membrane fatty acids in any of the three plant species. The effects of metolachlor and pretilachlor on plant membranes were determined also by a detailed analysis of individual lipids extracted from the roots of the three grasses. Metolachlor and pretilachlor did not alter the composition of membrane lipids and the degree of desaturation of fatty acids in the individual lipids found in the roots of rice, maize, and grain sorghum. The obtained results do not seem to support recent suggestions correlating the herbicidal activity of chloroacetanilide herbicides with an inhibition of fatty acid desaturation in algal species. The mechanism of action of these herbicides may be related to an inhibition of the synthesis of very long chain fatty acids or of the incorporation of unsaturated fatty acids into nonlipids of plants.
Stratospheric condensation nuclei variations may relate to solar activity

Observations of increases of stratospheric condensation nuclei suggest a photo-initiated sulphuric acid vapour formation process in spring in polar regions. It is proposed that the sulphuric acid rapidly forms condensation nuclei through attachment to negatively charged multi-ion complexes and that the process may be modulated through variations in solar activity.
Combustion of Liquid Fuel Sprays in Stagnation-Point Flow

Abstract Abstract The steady combustion of polydispersed sprays of ethanol and kerosene in the stagnation-point flow of lean methane/ air mixtures is experimentally investigated. Using laser Doppler velocimetry, the axial and radial velocity profiles of the dropletsare measured for water sprays in the presence or absence of lean methane/ air flame. These results are then compared with the velocity profiles obtained for small MgO particles under identical flow conditions. The results show the effects of gas expansion on droplet deceleration (acceleration) in the pre-flame (post-flame) regions. Also, it is found that addition of water spray results in the formation of a distributed region of yellow-orange emission downstream of the lean methane flame. In combustion of ethanol spray, certain critical fuel-concentration/ velocity limits are identified above which the flame becomes acoustically unstable. The implications of the study to the modeling of turbulent spray combustion are discussed.
Some Israeli Libraries.

While on a three month research leave of absence from Hunter College, I meandered the length and breadth of Israel, not by camel caravan but far less romantic modern means to assess the current state of Israeli library art. Primarily, I focused on specific Israeli contributions, but at the same time, observed their general library practices. Sometimes Israelis adopt Continental procedures, but for the most part American prototypes prevail. Adoption of foreign methods does not appear to hamper Israeli originality; moreover, they are genuinely eclectic, often taking over the tried and true but still unabashedly ready to design their own. Especially noteworthy are Israeli librarians, a unique blend of energy and expertise. Though Israeli librarians tend to concentrate more on the technical aspects of the profession, by and large their goals and concerns are familiar. For example, all librarians polled echoed our oft-repeated complaints of shortage of book funds and frightful overcrowding. Their professional status is somewhat more relaxed, rather less stratified than ours. Though many university librarians are fully "academically qualified," a significant percentage have yet to attain the required M.L.S. degree from an accredited library school. First the truly enfranchised librarian must hold a university degree, followed by two years of course work, only now available at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. At this institution, the program adheres closely to American models, providing up to date training in all aspects of librarianship including computer technology. Unfortunately, for personal or financial reasons a number of potentially qualified individuals are unable to complete this credential; however, they manage to successfully function in a professional librarian's capacity at a considerable reduction. Though professional and clerical tasks are less clearly differentiated, this factor does not seem to adversly affect their library service.
Bridge Constructed with GFRP-Reinforced Precast Concrete Deck Panels: Case Study

AbstractLong-term monitoring of two precast deck panels constructed with glass fiber–reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars and six girders of a single-span bridge is reported. Each instrumented panel is 12.5 m long, 2.1 m wide, and 235 mm thick; all panels in the bridge are reinforced with GFRP bars. Static truck-load test results are discussed and observations are made regarding the overall response of the bridge. The deflections of the girders to known static loads and AASHTO distribution factors are evaluated. Data from loads applied to the bridge were collected remotely for approximately 3 years and analyzed. Collected data also include concrete strains in the deck panels and relative displacements of the panels with respect to the girders. The response of the girders and bridge deck is evaluated by comparing test results to design requirements as well as to finite-element analyses. It is shown that, after 3 years in service, the performance of the bridge including the precast concrete deck is well within de...
The perceived value of direct mail advertising in small retail firms: Threat to local newspapers?

Abstract This exploratory study contributes to an overlooked area of direct marketing research—the small local retail view of direct mail as an advertising medium. Traditional wisdom has indicated newspaper advertising as most appropriate for local retail firms, however, recent literature challenges that perspective. Data gathered from 187 small local retail firms in 41 states indicated that direct mail is perceived as a valuable advertising medium. Moreover, analysis suggests that direct mail is seen as significantly more valuable than weekly/community and daily newspapers—media that historically have been mainstays in the small retailer promotional mix. However, the data do reveal several significant differences in media perceptions between various retail sectors. Because of increased advertiser pressure for measurable results from advertising, and challenges facing the newspaper industry, it appears that direct mail may pose a significant threat to newspapers.
A probe for measurement of thermal conductivity of frozen soils in place

A probe has been used for several hundred determinations in situ of the thermal conductivity of naturally frozen and thawed soils, snow, fresh-water ice, and sea ice in northern Alaska. The probe is about 20 inches long, one-quarter inch in diameter, and contains a small bead thermistor that is used as the temperature-sensitive element. Under normal field conditions conductivity determined with the probe is reproducible within about two per cent. The absolute accuracy of the instrument is estimated to be within five per cent. Results obtained with this probe have suggested a modification in design that is expected to offer a practical method for determining simultaneously the thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity in situ.
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor inhibition by an apolipoprotein E-derived peptide relies on low-density lipoprotein receptor-associated protein

Abstract The effects of a synthetic apoE peptide, viz., residues 133–149 (apoE[133–149]), a mimetic that comprises the apoE receptor binding domain, on N -methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA)/glycine-induced ion flow through NMDA receptor (NMDAR) channels, have been investigated. The activity of apoE[133–149] was found to depend on the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP). Competition experiments with receptor-associated protein (RAP) and activated α 2 -macroglobulin (α 2 M ∗ ), two proteins that compete for apoE binding to LRP, demonstrate that apoE[133–149] inhibition of NMDAR function is mediated at a locus in LRP that overlaps with the binding sites of RAP and α 2 M ∗ . A coreceptor of LRP, cell surface heparin sulfate proteoglycan, did not function in this system. Additional electrophysiology experiments demonstrated that the inhibitory potency of apoE[133–149] was threefold greater for NMDAR-transfected wild-type Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells compared with NMDAR-transfected CHO cells deficient in LRP. Studies with truncation and replacement variants of the apoE peptide demonstrated that the NMDAR inhibitory properties of these peptides correlate with their binding affinities for LRP. These novel results indicate that apoE functions as an inhibitor of NMDAR ion channels indirectly via LRP, and are suggestive of a participatory role for LRP in NMDAR-based neuropathies.
Traits of Transformative Anti-Trafficking Partnerships

The efficacy of “partnerships” (between states, intergovernmental organizations, nongovernmental organizations, and businesses) to combat human trafficking should and can be assessed 15 years after the primary United Nations treaty and United States’ primary law addressing trafficking were promulgated in 2000. This article examines illustrations and lessons of partnerships around the world in eight areas of anti-human-trafficking efforts: mapping and quantifying the problem; identification, immediate care, and economic empowerment of survivors; prosecution of perpetrators; prevention through awareness and training and through reducing demand; and mobilization and coordination of resources. These areas indicate that partnerships are more likely to effectively reduce trafficking if they account for market mechanisms incentivizing perpetrators, enablers, and customers, tangible metrics, synergy between partners’ missions, and the soundness and substance of partners’ motives.
Extreme Evolutionary Disparities Seen in Positive Selection across Seven Complex Diseases

Positive selection is known to occur when the environment that an organism inhabits is suddenly altered, as is the case across recent human history. Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have successfully illuminated disease-associated variation. However, whether human evolution is heading towards or away from disease susceptibility in general remains an open question. The genetic-basis of common complex disease may partially be caused by positive selection events, which simultaneously increased fitness and susceptibility to disease. We analyze seven diseases studied by the Wellcome Trust Case Control Consortium to compare evidence for selection at every locus associated with disease. We take a large set of the most strongly associated SNPs in each GWA study in order to capture more hidden associations at the cost of introducing false positives into our analysis. We then search for signs of positive selection in this inclusive set of SNPs. There are striking differences between the seven studied diseases. We find alleles increasing susceptibility to Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), and Crohn's Disease (CD) underwent recent positive selection. There is more selection in alleles increasing, rather than decreasing, susceptibility to T1D. In the 80 SNPs most associated with T1D (p-value <7.01×10−5) showing strong signs of positive selection, 58 alleles associated with disease susceptibility show signs of positive selection, while only 22 associated with disease protection show signs of positive selection. Alleles increasing susceptibility to RA are under selection as well. In contrast, selection in SNPs associated with CD favors protective alleles. These results inform the current understanding of disease etiology, shed light on potential benefits associated with the genetic-basis of disease, and aid in the efforts to identify causal genetic factors underlying complex disease.
The deubiquitylase USP37 links REST to the control of p27 stability and cell proliferation

The RE1 silencing transcription factor (REST) is a repressor of neuronal differentiation and its elevated expression in neural cells blocks neuronal differentiation. In this study, we demonstrate a role for REST in the control of proliferation of medulloblastoma cells. REST expression decreased the levels of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)NIB/p27, a CDK inhibitor and a brake of cell proliferation in these cells. The reciprocal relationship between REST and p27 was validated in human tumor samples. REST knockdown in medulloblastoma cells derepessed a novel REST target gene encoding the deubiquitylase ubiquitin (Ub)-specific peptidase 37 (USP37). Ectopically expressed wild-type USP37 formed a complex with p27, promoted its deubiquitination and stabilization and blocked cell proliferation. Knockdown of REST and USP37 prevented p27 stabilization and blocked the diminution in proliferative potential that normally accompanied REST loss. Unexpectedly, wild-type USP37 expression also induced the expression of REST-target neuronal differentiation genes even though REST levels were unaffected. In contrast, a mutant of USP37 carrying a site-directed change in a conserved cysteine failed to rescue REST-mediated p27 destabilization, maintenance of cell proliferation and blockade to neuronal differentiation. Consistent with these findings, a significant correlation between USP37 and p27 was observed in patient tumors. Collectively, these findings provide a novel connection between REST and the proteasomal machinery in the control of p27 and cell proliferation in medulloblastoma cells.
Futures markets and monetary policy

Abstract It has recently been argued that when differentially informed agents trade with one another monetary policy can influence the distribution of output by altering the information content of prices. This paper introduces a futures market into the Barro (1980) model and shows that under certain conditions prices may aggregate information in a manner such that differentially informed agents hold identical beliefs concerning aggregate market conditions. In such cases, monetary policy will be unable to influence the distribution of output. These results then serve as a backdrop for a more general discussion of the relationship between asset prices and the role of monetary policy.
Patterned forest-assembly of single-wall carbon nanotubes on gold using a non-thiol functionalization technique

An approach for non-thiol functionalization of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) on gold was demonstrated via an Fe3+-assisted self-assembly technique. Upon immersion of gold into a pH 2.2 aqueous FeCl3 solution, FeCl3 oxidized the gold surface, due to the aqua regia effect, resulting in the formation of films of FeO(OH)–FeOCl crystallites. Subsequent immersion into a SWNT dimethylformamide (DMF) dispersion led to needle-like forest assemblies of SWNTs based on metal-assisted chelation and electrostatic interactions. Two approaches for surface patterning of these SWNT forests were investigated based on shadow-mask evaporation and conventional photolithographic lift-off to localize FeO(OH)–FeOCl/Au composite pads on Si substrates. The strong adhesion of Fe3+ ions onto silica surfaces can be partially overcome by repeated washes in aqueous HCl solution (pH < 4), and completely overcome by photoresist-assisted protection which prevents unwanted Fe3+ ions from complexing with the unexposed silica surfaces. Such patterned Fe3+-functionalized Au structures provided the basis for the site-specific forest-assembly of SWNTs as characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and resonance Raman spectroscopy.
Heightened mortality after the death of a spouse: Marriage protection or marriage selection?

We test whether the heightened mortality after the death of a spouse represents correlation or causation by examining the heterogeneity in the bereavement effect based on the spouse's cause of death. Some causes of death are correlated with socioeconomic characteristics while others are not. Equality in the bereavement effect across these two types of death would signal a causal relationship while no bereavement effect for uncorrelated causes of death would indicate an omitted variables bias. Results indicate that the observed effect for women is subject to an omitted variables bias but the estimates for men indicate a causal relationship.
Effect of habitat fragmentation on dispersal in the butterfly Proclossiana eunomia

Comparison of dispersal rates of the bog fritillary butterfly between continuous and fragmented landscapes indicates that between patch dispersal is significantly lower in the fragmented landscape, while population densities are of the same order of magnitude. Analyses of the dynamics of the suitable habitat for the butterfly in the fragmented landscape reveal a severe, non linear increase in spatial isolation of patches over a time period of 30 years (i.e. 30 butterfly generations), but simulations of the butterfly metapopulation dynamics using a structured population model show that the lower dispersal rates in the fragmented landscape are far above the critical threshold leading to metapopulation extinction. These results indicate that changes in individual behaviour leading to the decrease of dispersal rates in the fragmented landscape were rapidly selected for when patch spatial isolation increased. The evidence of such an adaptive answer to habitat fragmentation suggests that dispersal mortality is a key factor for metapopulation persistence in fragmented landscapes. We emphasise that landscape spatial configuration and patch isolation have to be taken into account in the debate about large-scale conservation strategies. (C) 2003 Academie des sciences. Published by Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.
Inhibition of mitochondrial respiration by neutral, monocationic, and dicationic bis-pyridines related to the dopaminergic neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium cation (MPP+).

Abstract The cytotoxic effect of the dopaminergic neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP + ) is believed to be associated with a compromise in cellular energy arising as a consequence of its persistent inhibition of mitochondrial respiration. MPP + is a rather weak inhibitor of electron transport, but it undergoes passive accumulation inside actively respiring mitochondria in response to the transmembrane electrochemical potential gradient. In order to test the prediction that dicationic analogs of MPP + might be concentrated to a much greater extent and thereby exert especially potent inhibition of respiration on the intact organelle, we synthesized four differently spaced bis-pyridines, each in neutral, monocationic, and dicationic forms, and evaluated their inhibitory activities in intact mitochondria and in electron transport particles (ETP). Compared to the neutrals, the monocations and especially the dications exhibit reduced inhibition in ETP, but the inhibition in mitochondria is enhanced selectively for the cationic inhibitors presumably on account of their accumulation in the mitochondrial matrix. This enhancement is limited by the relatively poor ability of the cationic bis-pyridines to enter mitochondria, as judged from experiments which evaluated the rate of onset of inhibition (without preincubation), in the absence and presence of tetraphenylborate (TPB − ). The dications appear to be transported less well than the monocations, and only the most lipophilic dication exhibited a substantially greater accumulation-dependent enhancement of inhibitory activity on mitochondria than did the corresponding monocation. The compounds studied here constitute a novel class of respiratory chain probes which may be useful for a variety of studies on mitochondria.
Imagining Tomorrow: History, Technology, and the American Future

"Imagining Tomorrow" takes a lively and informative look at the future as envisioned in the American past. Covering the period from the 1880s to the present, it examines the expectations that various groups of Americans held regarding the technology of tomorrow. The book contributes to our understanding of twentieth-century culture, technology and what may be called the history of the future.Six of the ten essays in the book probe the future imagined for particular inventions, such as the electric light, x-ray, radio, and computer. Two others explore the way architects and designers repackaged the traditional house and city into exciting and evocative images of the future. The remaining two essays focus respectively on the novels of 19th-century technological utopians and 1930s world's fairs, both popular forums for speculating about technology and the future.Joseph J. Corn, a Lecturer in the Program on Values, Technology, Science, and Society at Stanford University, served as general editor for the volume and provides an overall historical perspective in an introduction and epilogue. The other contributors are Paul Ceruzzi, Steven L. Del Sesto, Susan J. Douglas, Brian Horrigan, Folke T. Kihlstedt, Nancy Knight, Carolyn Marvin, Jeffrey L. Meikle, Howard P. Segal, and Carol Willis.
A high through-put reverse genetic screen identifies two genes involved in remote memory in mice.

Previous studies have revealed that the initial stages of memory formation require several genes involved in synaptic, transcriptional and translational mechanisms. In contrast, very little is known about the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying later stages of memory, including remote memory (i.e. 7-day memory). To identify genes required for remote memory, we screened randomly selected mouse strains harboring known mutations. In our primary reverse genetic screen, we identified 4 putative remote memory mutant strains out of a total of 54 lines analyzed. Additionally, we found 11 other mutant strains with other abnormal profiles. Secondary screens confirmed that mutations of integrin β2 (Itgβ2) and steryl-O-acyl transferase 1 (Soat1) specifically disrupted remote memory. This study identifies some of the first genes required for remote memory, and suggests that screens of targeted mutants may be an efficient strategy to identify molecular requirements for this process.
Thermal Response of Graphite Epoxy Composite Subjected to Rapid Heating

A one-dimensional finite difference analysis describing the transient ther mal response of fiber-reinforced organic matrix composte plates subjected to intense surface heating is presented. The eff...
Reactions of trimethyltinsodium with alkyl halides. effects of structure and solvent on course of reaction and reactivity

The reactions of eleven alkyl chlorides and bromides with trimethyltinsodium have been examined. It has been found that primary and secondary halides react smoothly and rapidly to provide good yields of substitution products in THF and TG at 0°. The reaction is less satisfactory for allyl bromide and unsatisfactory for cinnamyl chloride and tertiary halides. Trimethyltinsodium and 2-chlorobutane react with second order kinetics. Relative reactivities of the halides have been determined in the two solvents and are discussed. Lithium, sodium and potassium as counterions yielded the same results in the reaction of the trimethyltin-alkalis with primary, secondary and tertiary butyl bromides in THF.
Use of gadolinium chelates in MR imaging of the spine

Spinal disease can be divided into intramedullary, extramedullary-intradural, and extradural compartments. In the cord (intramedullary compartment), gadolinium chelates are useful to diagnose primary and metastatic tumors, inflammation, and demyelination, and to evaluate syringomyelia when a Chiari I malformation is not present. In the extra-medulullary-intradural compartment, gadolinium chelates are useful for the diagnosis of drop metastases, meningiomas, and schwannomas. In the extradural compartment, gadolinium chelates are most useful to distinguish recurrent disc herniation from epidural fibrosis in the postoperative back and may be useful to diagnosis the soft tissue component of osseous metastases.
The lightest massive invisible particles at the LHC

Abstract The observation of new physics events with large missing transverse energy at the LHC would potentially serve as evidence for the direct production of dark matter. A crucial step toward verifying such evidence is the measurement of the would-be dark matter mass. If, for example, the invisible particles are found to have masses consistent with zero, it may prove very challenging to ascertain whether light dark matter or neutrinos are being observed. We assume that new invisible particles are pair-produced in a t t ¯ -like topology and use two M T 2 -based methods to measure the masses of the particles associated with the missing energy. Instead of simulating events and backgrounds, we estimate the uncertainty associated with measuring the mass of the invisible particle by assuming a fixed value of the uncertainty associated with the location of the M T 2 endpoint. We find that if this uncertainty associated with measuring the M T 2 endpoints is, quite optimistically, O ( 1 GeV ) , the invisible particles must have masses greater than O ( 10 GeV ) so they can be distinguished from massless ones at 95% CL. If the results from the CoGeNT, DAMA/LIBRA, and CRESST experiments have indeed revealed the existence of light dark matter with mass O ( 10 GeV ) , our results suggest that it may be difficult for the LHC to distinguish dark matter from neutrinos solely via mass measurements.
Education in the School of Dreams: Travelogues and Early Nonfiction Film Jennifer Lynn Peterson. Durham, NC: Duke University Press, 2013.

Education in the School of Dreams: Travelogues and Early Nonfiction Film Jennifer Lynn Peterson. Durham, NC: Duke University Press, 2013.Educational films are not a recent phenomenon. As the reader will learn from this very interesting book by Jennifer Lynn Peterson, assistant professor of film studies, University of Colorado Boulder, many of the earliest ones began as what the author calls "travelogues" or "scenics." These were a staple of the early motion picture theaters, short films that depicted tourist destinations and exotic landscapes which were otherwise inaccessible to most viewers. Peterson's title is a play on words as "the school of dreams" reflects the attitude of these early film-viewers to visit, if only through these short films, other parts of the world. For the modern traveler, social media makes it possible to show the sights and sounds of a trip available to all right as the visitor is in the midst of the site, but, right before World War I in the early days of film, this was obviously not possible. Instead, the early film viewer saw travelogues, which were a form of virtual tourism or travel documentary that was often presented as lectures to supplement accompanying films and photos.Peterson attempts to bring attention to this early period in film history that she feels has been overlooked by historians. Most of the emphasis of her discussion is on travel films and the American West which was a considerable source of fascination to audiences in this period. Not surprisingly, many of the early films were adventure stories and Westerns, with the "good" cowboys and the "bad" Indians. This book focuses on "travel films exhibited in commercial US theaters during early cinema's transnational era, roughly the years 1907 to 1915, when films first began to be shown in dedicated movie houses and cinema emerged as a distinct form of media with its own set of practices" (2).Travelogues evolved from the work of American writer and lecturer, John Lawson Stoddard, who began traveling around the world in 1874; he published books about his adventures and gave lectures which he illustrated with black and white lantern slides he reproduced from his photographs. Then, in 1892, Stoddard recruited Burton Holmes as his junior associate; in 1897 Holmes succeeded his mentor then went on to become one of the most important lecturers of his day. He coined the term, "travelogues," in 1904 when he introduced film clips to his lecture series. …
“Fire and Mud: Eruptions and Lahars of Mount Pinatubo, Philippines” Edited by Christopher G. Newhall and Raymundo S. Punongbayan

Fire and Mud: Eruptions and Lahars of Mount Pinatubo, Philippines is an absorbing monograph on the events before, during, and after the June 15, 1991, climactic eruption of Pinatubo, along with a compilation of numerous scientific studies that provide great insight into the structure and behavior of the volcano. Many seismologists are no doubt familiar with the story of the Philippine and USGS volcanologists and seismologists who risked their lives monitoring Pinatubo's activity and, ultimately, with a combination of skill, nerve, and luck, issued evacuation warnings that saved untold thousands of lives. This book captures that drama, with a public (not to mention the US military) generally oblivious to the potential hazard, and scientists frantically trying to maintain the inflow of information (seismic data, gas emissions, deformation, visual observations, etc.) while struggling to keep abreast of what that information implied so as to permit their eventual life- saving decision making...
The political economy of the peace dividend

We develop a model of the peace dividend and use it to predict the fiscal consequences of a reduction in the demand for military spending. The model is based on the assumption that the political process responds to political demands and costs in a way that maximizes net political benefits. The predictions of our model on how a peace dividend will be allocated over nonmilitary spending, tax relief, and deficit reduction is tested against the experience of eight major wars in United States history.