cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An approximate method for the dynamic response of strain-hardening clamped beams

Summary An instantaneous mode solution is derived for a rigid, strain-hardening beam clamped against rotation at its ends. The associated differential equations for time-dependent amplitude and plastic region sizes are solved for a variety of loadings and types of matching conditions. Relative accuracy is determined and the best choice of matching condition is made.
Altering PPARγ Ligand Selectivity Impairs Adipogenesis by Thiazolidinediones But Not Hormonal Inducers

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) acts as a ligand-dependent transcription factor with a key role in mediating adipocyte differentiation and insulin sensitivity. Recently, we and others have shown that PPARγ recruits the nuclear corepressors NCoR and silencing mediator for retinoid and thyroid hormone receptors (SMRT) to modulate adipogenesis. While the synthetic ligands for PPARγ, the thiazolidinediones (TZD), are widely used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, the biologically relevant endogenous PPARγ ligand involved in adipogenesis remains unidentified. To further understand the role of ligand binding and corepressor interaction in PPARγ-mediated adipogenesis, a mutation was introduced in the ligand-binding domain (LBD) of murine PPARγ. PPARγmut was created via two amino acid substitutions known to be major determinants of ligand selectivity among PPAR isotypes, H323Y and R288M. These mutations alter PPARγ to the corresponding residues of the PPARα. Characterizing the in vitro functional properties of this mutant, we show that PPARγmut preferentially responds to the PPARα agonist, WY-14643, over the TZD, pioglitazone. When expressed in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes using recombinant adenovirus, wild-type PPARγ leads to adipocyte formation with both hormonal and TZD treatment. PPARγmut blocks the upregulation of adipocyte-specific proteins by TZD, but surprisingly, not by standard hormonal inducers. Our data suggest that TZDs and the purported endogenous ligand do not interact in the same way with the PPARγ LBD. We propose that the endogenous ligand has distinct properties that allow for promiscuity within the hydrophobic PPAR ligand-binding pocket, yet fosters appropriate cofactor recruitment and release to allow adipogenesis to proceed.
Requirement of lipocalin 2 for hematopoietic and solid tumor malignancies.

Our published studies indicate that lipocalin 2 is a critical factor for invasion of hematopoietic tissues by chronic myelogenous leukemia cells. Lipocalin 2 is secreted by Bcr-Abl+ chronic myeloid leukemia cells causing apoptosis in normal hematopoietic cells but not in Bcr-Abl+ cells. Secreted lipocalin 2 forms a complex with metalloproteinase MMP-9, and is reported to stabilize its activity, which implies that lipocalin 2 may have a role in solid tumor formation. Our studies indicate that Bcr-Abl+ mouse marrow cells lacking the lipocalin 2 gene are not only defective for leukemia induction but also are defective in forming solid tumors compared to Bcr-Abl marrow cells that express lipocalin 2. Thus, our findings indicate that lipocalin 2 has two functions in tumor malignancies: one involving induction of apoptosis in normal hematopoietic cells and the other to facilitate solid tumor formation.
Being in the thick of things: context-dependent network centrality in a captive flock of American flamingos

We test the hypothesis that the relationship between networks resulting from unresolved agonistic interactions (URI) and social dominance was context-dependent in a captive group of American Flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber ruber). URI formed networks that differed substantially from the dominance network and depended on the context in which the interactions occurred. Betweenness centrality in the URI network on the region (“the island”) where nesting took place was strongly correlated with dominance score. This correlation was particularly strong in the case of males, but, in both sexes, the dominant individual in a dyad was likely to have a higher betweenness centrality in the island URI. On the other hand, betweenness centrality in URI networks at the feeder did not show any relationship with dominance, but was associated with observed visits to the feeder. Thus, centrality in both the island URI network and the feeder URI network was associated with access to a resource over which individuals competed. Along with other results suggesting that non-dominance interactions may form social networks distinct from, but related to, dominance networks, our results support the hypothesis that relationships within animal social groups can be modeled as a series of distinct but inter-related networks.
What you don't know can hurt you: perceptions of sex-partner concurrency and partner-reported behavior.

Abstract Background The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) to determine the extent of agreement between adolescents' perceptions of sex-partner concurrency (having a partner who has other overlapping sexual partnerships) and their partners' self-reported concurrency, and (2) to identify the relationship-level factors associated with agreement. Methods Adolescents ages 14 to 19 years, along with their main sex partners, were recruited from a primary care clinic and a public sexually transmitted disease clinic and interviewed separately about their own concurrency status and their perception of their partner's concurrency status. Information from both participants and their partners were included in this analysis (N = 90 couples). Results This sample consisted of African-American, sexually experienced heterosexual couples. For males and females who perceived their partner not to have other partners, 16% and 37% of their sex partners reported having other partners, respectively. Of males and females who perceived their partner to have other partners, 80% and 39% of their sex partners reported not having other partners, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that adolescents who had been with their partners for more than 6 months and considered themselves more emotionally close were nearly twice as likely to agree on concurrency. Conclusions Among adolescent couples, agreement between perceptions of sex-partner concurrency and partner-reported behavior was low. To the extent that partner self-reports are accurate, individuals who presume that they are in a mutually monogamous relationship often underestimate their own sexually transmitted disease risk. To appropriately tailor risk reduction messages, prevention efforts need to consider adolescents' perceptions of concurrent sex partners.
Predictors of feminist social identity among college women

This study employed constructs derived from theories of social identity and collective action to test predictors of feminist social identity. The sample consisted of 95 Anglos, 36 African-Americans, 38 Asians, 43 Latinas, and 14 women who chose not to disclose their ethnicity. A two-step hierarchical multiple regression on these data showed that, as a group, positive evaluation of feminists, positive opinion of the feminist movement, exposure to feminism, recognition of discrimination against women, and belief in collective action contributed significantly to the prediction of feminist social identity, after support for feminist goals was entered into the equation. For a subsample of 36 African-American women, intercorrelations showed that racial identification, as well as a perception of conflict between racial identity and feminist identity, are compatible with aspects of feminist beliefs and values. Nevertheless, substantial differences between white women and women of color were found in willingness to socially identify as a feminist. Results support the importance of distinguishing between private feminist self-labeling and more social forms of feminist identification.
Ellis-Van Creveld syndrome; report of two cases in siblings.

Summary 1. Two cases of the Ellis-Van Creveld syndrome are presented. These are the first cases reported in siblings. 2. It is suggested that strabismus, pseudo-hairlip, and changes in metacarpal ossification centers are additional, though less frequent components of the syndrome. 3. Ecto-mesodermal dysplasia is proposed as a more descriptive name for this syndrome. Le syndrome dapos;Ellis-Van Creveld. Rapport sur deux cas chez des enfants de memes parents. Presentation de deux cas de syndrome dapos;Ellis-Van Creveld. Ce sont les deux premiers cas rapportes sur des enfants de memes parents. II a ete supposee que le strabisme, le pseudo bec-de-lievre et les changements dans les centres de lapos;ossification metacarpienne sont des composants supplementaires du syndrome, bien qu'ils soient moins frequents. On a propose d'appeler ce syndrome: dysplasie de l'ecto-mesoderme, etant un mon plus descriptif. Das Ellis- Van Creveldsche Syndrom. Bericht uber zwei Falle bei Geschwistem. Zwei Falle von Ellis-Van Creveldschem Syndrom werden besehrieben. Diese sind die ersten bei Geschwistern, iiber die berichtet wird. Die Ansicht wird ausgesprochen, dass Strabismus, Pseudohasenscharte und Veranderungen in metakarpalen Ossifikationszentren zusatzliche, wenn auch weniger haufige Bestandteile des Syndroms sind. Ekto-mesodermale Dysplasie wird als ein, dieses Syndrom besser beschreibender Name, vorgesehlagen. Casuistica del sindrome de Ellis-Van Creveld en dos descendientes directos. Se exponen dos casos de sindrome de Ellis-Van Creveld. Son estos los primeros registrados en descendientes directos. Se sugiere que el estrabismo, el seudo labio leporino y los cambios en los centros de osificacion metacarpiana, son constitutivos adicionales de este sindrome, aunque menos frecuentes. Se propone para este sindrome el nombre mas descriptivo de displasia ectomesoderma.
Dissociations between the behavioral effects of LSD and tolerance development during ontogeny in cats: A novel approach to the study of tolerance mechanisms

The characteristic behavioral effects of d-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in cats first appeared at approximately 25 days of age and increased rapidly in magnitude over the next 10 days. However, 25 day old kittens showed no tolerance to the repeated administration of the drug. While the behavioral response to the initial dose of LSD remained relatively constant between 35 and 112 days of age, the tolerance gradually became more pronounced throughout this time period, reaching an adult level of virtually complete tolerance at 112 days. These findings provide new insight into the nature of the relationship between the primary drug action and the development of tolerance, and suggest a new strategy for investigating the neural bases of tolerance, i.e., examining the neurochemical effects of repeated LSD administration in kittens during various stages of tolerance development.
Some conditions for optimality of the almost unbiased estimators of regression coefficients

The purpose of this paper is to examine the asymptotic properties of the operational almost unbiased estimator of regression coefficients which includes almost unbiased ordinary ridge estimator a s a special case. The small distrubance approximations for the bias and mean square error matrix of the estimator are derived. As a consequence, it is proved that, under certain conditions, the estimator is more efficient than a general class of estimators given by Vinod and Ullah (1981). Also it is shown that, if the ordinary ridge estimator (ORE) dominates the ordinary least squares estimator then the almost unbiased ordinary ridge estimator does not dominate ORE under the mean square error criterion.
“Magnetic dead layers” on chemisorption at ferromagnetic surfaces☆

Abstract Chemisorption induced “magnetic dead layers” have been determined from Ferromagnetic Resonance (FMR) absorption of Ni and Fe thin films. Within experimental error “magnetic dead” or “live layers” can be excluded at free Ni surfaces. Approximately one hydrogen atom diminishes the contribution of one nickel atom to the thin film ferromagnetism in the β2-state. Twice the effect is found for CO adsorption on nickel. Possible models to explain chemisorption effects in surface magnetism are discussed briefly.
A de novo mutation in the coding sequence for neurophysin-II (Pro24-->Leu) is associated with onset and transmission of autosomal dominant neurohypophyseal diabetes insipidus

The molecular basis of autosomal dominant neurohypophyseal diabetes insipidus, a hereditary deficiency of vasopressin, was determined by nucleotide sequence analysis of the arginine vasopressin-neurophysin-II gene. A C-->T mutation at nucleotide 1761 was detected in one allele of this gene in each affected individual in three generations of one family. This mutant gene encodes a normal arginine vasopressin peptide, but predicts a substitution of leucine for proline at amino acid 24 of neurophysin-II, the arginine vasopressin carrier protein. This mutation was not detected 50 control individuals, thus demonstrating that it is not a common silent genetic polymorphism. The disease arose in the second generation of the studied family, and the chromosome 20 carrying this new mutation was identified by polymorphic CA microsatellite haplotype analysis. The first affected individual inherited this chromosome segment from her mother, who had neither the disease nor this mutation in her somatic cell DNA. Third gene...
Co-cultures of microglia and astrocytes from kainic acid-lesioned adult rat hippocampus : effects of glutamate

The long-standing question concerning the direct actions of glutamate on the membrane potential of astroglial cells in the central nervous system was addressed using the in vitro kainic acid-lesioned hippocampal slice preparation and primary cell co-cultures of astrocytes and microglia derived from such lesions. The ultrastructure of the lesioned hippocampus was examined to aid in the identification of the cells appearing in culture. In culture, microglia appeared as flat cells, less than 1 μm in thickness at the edge of the cell, but thicker (about 5 μm) near the nucleus. The cytoplasm was packed with granular inclusions. Microglia appeared in two morphological forms, amoeboid and ramified. The amoeboid form was characterized by a cell body with a single process, and was always observed 1 day after starting the cell culture. Such cells became less frequent after 1 week in culture. The ramified form appeared as a rounded cell, devoid of processes, and were frequently observed in older cultures (> 1 week). Microglia did not round up after exposure to dibutyrylcyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), and did not stain for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). An ultrastructural examination of the lesion demonstrated that microglia were present and that they contained many cytoplasmic granules similar to lipofuscin-containing granules. No filaments were observed in the cytoplasm of microglia. By contrast, the cytoplasm of astrocytes in culture had far fewer granules, rounded up to dibutyryl-cAMP, exhibited multiple processes, and stained for GFAP. In slices, astrocytes had no lipofuscin-containing granules, but numerous cytoplasmic filaments were present. The membrane potential of the rounded-up cells in culture varied between −10 mV and −95 mV (while electrically unresponsive cells in the lesion varied between −47 and −95 mV). In culture, glutamate evoked a depolarization or a hyperpolarization of the membrane potential of 87% of the rounded-up cells tested. Ionophoretic application of glutamate depolarized the membrane potential of 50% of the cells tested in the lesion. The results show that co-cultures of microglia and astrocytes can be obtained routinely from lesions within the adult central nervous system, and that glutamate can affect the membrane potential of astrocytes in cultures derived from such adult tissue. These findings suggest that responses to glutamate, recorded from unresponsive cells (presumptive astrocytes) in the lesioned slice preparation, are likely the result of direct action of this neurotransmitter on these cells. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
An equatorial temperature and wind anomaly (ETWA)

Data obtained from the WATS (Wind and Temperature Spectrometer) and LP (Langmuir Probe) experiments on board DE-2 (Dynamic Explorer) during high solar activity show evidence of anomalous latitudinal variations in the zonal winds and temperature at low latitudes. The zonal winds exhibit a broad maximum centered around the dip equator, flanked by minima on either side around 25 degrees; while the temperature exhibits a pronounced bowl-shaped minimum at the dip equator which is flanked by maxima. The two minima in the zonal winds and the corresponding maxima in the temperature are nearly collocated with the crests of the well known Equatorial Ionization Anomaly (EIA). The maximum in the zonal winds and the minimum in the gas temperature are collocated with the trough of the EIA. The differences between the maxima and minima in temperature and zonal winds, on many occasions, are observed to exceed 100 K and 100 m/s, respectively. The characteristics of this new phenomenon have eluded present day empirical models of thermospheric temperature and winds. The connection among these variables can be understood from the ion-neutral drag effect on the motions of the neutrals that in turn affect their energy balance.
Effect of starvation and experimental feeding on the proximate composition and caloric content of an antarctic teleost, Notothenia coriiceps neglecta

Abstract 1. 1. Starving Notothenia coriiceps nn/lecta at 1°C for 20 days resulted in a loss of 4.22 gcal/kcal per day. 2. 2. During starvation energy was obtained from lipid and carbohydrate stores of the liver and red muscle. 3. 3. Feeding N. coriiceps neglecta low lipid, high protein shrimp meat at 18.9 gcal/kcal per day at 1°C for 20 days resulted in a gain of 8.5 gcal/kcal per day. 4. 4. The level of carbohydrate in the liver and red muscle increased five times. 5. 5. Gross growth efficiency (K1) equalled 0.52. 6. 6. Net growth efficiency (K2) equalled 0.67.
Critical Democracy Through Digital Media Production in a Third-Grade Classroom

This article explores the ways that alternative digital media production by elementary students can support education for critical democracy. The article centers on a collaborative, qualitative study in which students in a 3rd-grade class at a Title One school created and disseminated podcasts about issues of historical injustice rooted in the key tenets of critical literacy. Producing this counter-hegemonic digital media supported students becoming a community of active citizens dedicated to promoting social justice. The students used their podcasts as a public forum to educate others about historical injustice and take action for social change.
Saturable first-pass metabolism of sulfisoxazole N1-acetyl in rats.

Saturable metabolism of sulfisoxazole N1‐acetyl in the rat during the initial pass of the drug from the intestinal lumen through the liver following oral administration of the drug (saturable first‐pass metabolism) was investigated. The fraction of the total amount of drug recovered from the urine as the N4‐conjugate decreased as the dose of orally administered sulfisoxazole acetyl was increased. No dose dependency of the N4‐conjugated fraction was apparent following the intravenous administration of sulfisoxazole acetyl or the oral administration of sulfisoxazole at the same dose levels.
The Use of Twitter Profiles to Assess Personality and Hireability

The use of social media screening in the hiring process is becoming commonplace by HR practitioners, but has yet to be thoroughly studied by academics. Using 152 active Twitter users, we examined w...
Drug Use by Urban and Rural Adolescents

This study investigated drug use behaviors of students in both rural and urban communities of Georgia. Data from 1,897 response forms to ninety survey items served as the basis for the findings reported in this study. The socio-economic characteristics of the sample, both rural and urban, corresponded to the characteristics identified by the United States Census Report of 1970, e.g., family income, education and occupation. Experimental use of beer/wine and other alcoholic beverages was high (approximately two-thirds) for both rural and urban samples; while approximately one-third reported that they used marijuana. In both the urban and rural communities, males exceed females in drug use on a weekly and daily basis in all types of drugs. Drug use in the urban and rural communities of Georgia is quite similar, and this usage closely relates to the national reported usage for comparable age groups. There seems to be a difference between an individual's drug use behavior and his or her perception of his/her ...
Interference with phosphoenzyme isomerization and inhibition of the sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase by 1,3-dibromo-2,4,6-tris(methylisothiouronium) benzene.

Abstract ATP hydrolysis and Ca2+ transport by the sarco-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA) are inhibited by 1,3-dibromo-2,4,6-tris(methylisothiouronium) benzene (Br2-TITU) in the micromolar range (Berman, M. C., and Karlish, S. J. (2003) Biochemistry 42, 3556–3566). In a study of the mechanism of inhibition, we found that Br2-TITU allows the enzyme to bind Ca2+ and undergo phosphorylation by ATP. The level of ADP-sensitive phosphoenzyme (i.e. E1P-2Ca2+) observed in the transient state following addition of ATP is much higher in the presence than in the absence of the inhibitor. Br2-TITU does not interfere with enzyme phosphorylation by Pi in the reverse direction of the cycle (i.e. E2P) and produces only a slight inhibition of its hydrolytic cleavage. The inhibitory effect of Br2-TITU on steady state ATPase velocity is attributed to interference with the E1P-2Ca2+ to E2P-2Ca2+ transition. In fact, experiments on conformation-dependent protection from proteolytic digestion suggest that, in the presence of Br2-TITU, the loops connecting the “A” domain to the ATPase transmembrane region undergo greater fluctuation than expected in the E2 and E2P states. Optimal stability of the gathered headpiece domains is thereby prevented. These effects are opposite to those of thapsigargin, in which the mechanism of inhibition is related to stabilization of a highly compact ATPase conformation and interference with Ca2+ binding and phosphoenzyme formation. Our experiments with Br2-TITU provide the first demonstration of a kinetic limit posed by an inhibitor on the E1P-2Ca2+ to E2P-2Ca2+ transition in the wild-type enzyme.
Molecular and Evolutionary Analysis of Two Divergent Subfamilies of a Novel Miniature Inverted Repeat Transposable Element in the Yellow Fever Mosquito, Aedes aegypti

A novel family of miniature inverted repeat transposable elements (MITEs) named Pony was discovered in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. It has all the characteristics of MITEs, including terminal inverted repeats, no coding potential, A+T richness, small size, and the potential to form stable secondary structures. Past mobility of PONY: was indicated by the identification of two Pony insertions which resulted in the duplication of the TA dinucleotide targets. Two highly divergent subfamilies, A and B, were identified in A. aegypti based on sequence comparison and phylogenetic analysis of 38 elements. These subfamilies showed less than 62% sequence similarity. However, within each subfamily, most elements were highly conserved, and multiple subgroups could be identified, indicating recent amplifications from different source genes. Different scenarios are presented to explain the evolutionary history of these subfamilies. Both subfamilies share conserved terminal inverted repeats similar to those of the Tc2 DNA transposons in Caenorhabditis elegans, indicating that Pony may have been borrowing the transposition machinery from a Tc2-like transposon in mosquitoes. In addition to the terminal inverted repeats, full-length and partial subterminal repeats of a sequence motif TTGATTCAWATTCCGRACA represent the majority of the conservation between the two subfamilies, indicating that they may be important structural and/or functional components of the Pony elements. In contrast to known autonomous DNA transposons, both subfamilies of PONY: are highly reiterated in the A. aegypti genome (8,400 and 9, 900 copies, respectively). Together, they constitute approximately 1. 1% of the entire genome. Pony elements were frequently found near other transposable elements or in the noncoding regions of genes. The relative abundance of MITEs varies in eukaryotic genomes, which may have in part contributed to the different organizations of the genomes and reflect different types of interactions between the hosts and these widespread transposable elements.
DENDRITIC CELL/MACROPHAGE PRECURSORS CAPTURE EXOGENOUS ANTIGEN FOR MHC CLASS I PRESENTATION BY DENDRITIC CELLS

Presentation of MHC class I antigens by professional antigen-presenting cells (APC) is an important pathway in priming cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses in vivo. This study sought to identify the nature of the professional APC responsible for indirect class I presentation by examining a special feature of professional APC, namely their ability to process exogenous forms of antigen for class I presentation. Incubation of highly purified bone marrow-derived precursor cells with chicken ovalbumin (OVA) led to the efficient presentation of the major class I-restricted OVA determinant by mature dendritic cells (DC), but not by macrophages (Mphi) derived from the precursor population. DC as well as macrophages were, however, able to mediate class II presentation of OVA, suggesting that macrophages were deficient in class I processing but not in capturing exogenous OVA. The majority of mature DC, i.e. over 80 %, generated from the precursor cells pulsed with OVA, presented the class I OVA epitope. Upon maturation, class I presentation of OVA by DC was greatly reduced, suggesting that class I processing of exogenous antigen is modulated during DC maturation in a manner similar to class II antigen processing. This study shows that bone marrow-derived DC/ME progenitors capture exogenous antigen for class I presentation, and that cells of the DC lineage can be functionally distinguished from cells of the macrophage lineage based on their ability to process exogenous antigen for class I presentation.
Localized-electron mechanism for configuration mixing in Sm compounds

Abstract A new mechanism for (4f)5 - (4f)5 5d configuration mixing in SmB6 and SmS is described. It involves the simultaneous intra-atomic excitation of two Sm sites.
Characterization of multi-phase aerogels by contrast-matching SANS

Contrast-matching small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) has been used to independently characterize the structures of two-phase aerogels consisting of a metal oxide supported on silica aerogel. Ru oxide was formed on silica aerogel by oxidation at 400°C of ruthenocene, impregnated from the vapor phase, or Ru(III)acetylacetonate, impregnated via an acetone solution. Fe oxide was formed by vapor-phase impregnation of ferrocene, followed by reduction at 400°C and exposure to ambient air. The Ru oxide forms particles several tens of nanometers in diameter in the aerogel mesopores. The Fe oxide forms a coating which mimics the structure of the support. The silica aerogel structure is not affected by the deposition and heat treatment processes.
Surfactant-free emulsions for waterborne, two-component polyurethane coatings

Catalytic chain transfer polymerisation based on cobalt II or III chelates is a free radical technique which allows the synthesis of functional oligomers with a terminal α-substituted acrylate group. This paper will review the applications of such oligomers in the design of low molecular weight, graft and block copolymer emulsions and dispersions for waterborne, two-component polyurethane paints. Such emulsions and dispersions have a composition and molecular weight control and offer unique properties when compared with binders prepared via conventional techniques.
Interactive 3D Model Acquisition and Tracking of Building Block Structures

We present a prototype system for interactive construction and modification of 3D physical models using building blocks.Our system uses a depth sensing camera and a novel algorithm for acquiring and tracking the physical models. The algorithm,Lattice-First, is based on the fact that building block structures can be arranged in a 3D point lattice where the smallest block unit is a basis in which to derive all the pieces of the model. The algorithm also makes it possible for users to interact naturally with the physical model as it is acquired, using their bare hands to add and remove pieces. We present the details of our algorithm, along with examples of the models we can acquire using the interactive system. We also show the results of an experiment where participants modify a block structure in the absence of visual feedback. Finally, we discuss two proof-of-concept applications: a collaborative guided assembly system where one user is interactively guided to build a structure based on another user's design, and a game where the player must build a structure that matches an on-screen silhouette.
Trajectories or parental monitoring and communication and effects on drug use among urban young adolescents.

Abstract Purpose Identify the number and characteristics of heterogeneous trajectories of parental monitoring and communication among a sample of urban, racial/ethnic minority youth and examine the effects of these patterns on alcohol, cigarette and marijuana use. Methods The study sample (n=2,621) was predominantly African American or Hispanic (38% and 32%, respectively) and low-income (67% received free, or reduced price, lunch). They completed classroom-based surveys when in 6th-8th grades. Multilevel general growth mixture modeling was used to identify the heterogeneous trajectories of parental monitoring and communication and estimate the effects of these distinct patterns on drug use in 8th grade. Results Four trajectories of parental monitoring and communication were identified: (1) High (76.4%), (2) Medium (9.1%), (3) Decreasing (6.0%) and (4) Inconsistent (8.5%). Relative to those with high monitoring/communication, youth in the decreasing and inconsistent trajectories were at significantly greater risk for past year and past month alcohol and marijuana use and having ever smoked a cigarette. After controlling for family composition, only youth in the decreasing trajectory were significantly more likely to report substance use in 8th grade. Conclusions Findings support the role of parents in preventing drug use during early adolescence and suggest that efforts to improve the level and consistency of parental monitoring and communication may be a fruitful target for prevention. Many youth initiate use of alcohol, tobacco or marijuana in this critical developmental period and considered with the health and social consequences of use, engaging parents in preventing drug use should remain a priority for prevention.
Global differences in the training, practice, and interrelationship of cardiac and thoracic surgeons.

Background Training and certification for general thoracic surgeons varies enormously between countries. There is little knowledge about training and certification for general thoracic surgeons, and the relationship between thoracic surgery and cardiac surgery around the world. Methods A 38-item survey was designed to assess training, practice, demographics, and relationships of general thoracic and cardiac surgeons. Eighteen cardiothoracic societies representing surgeons on six continents were contacted, and 15 submitted the survey to their membership. The survey was advertised through CTSnet, and 928 surgeons from 105 countries were contacted directly in regions not covered by the professional societies. Results In all, 1,520 survey respondents were tabulated, representing 95 separate countries. Non-US respondents were younger, more commonly had practices exclusively in cardiac or thoracic surgery, less commonly obtained general surgery certification, less commonly performed esophageal surgery, and had shorter overall surgical training but longer specialized training in cardiothoracic surgery, although US respondents received greater length of cardiac surgery specific training (all p Conclusions Marked differences in training and certification across the world result in discrepancies in clinical practice, levels of collaboration between cardiac and thoracic surgeons, and culture and attitude differences that are relevant to the feasibility of alliances relating to public policy. These findings also provide important data to inform any decisions about changes in US cardiothoracic training. Greater international cooperation may diminish these differences in order to propagate improvements in cardiothoracic education, and improve patient access and outcomes through shared specialty advocacy.
New Approaches to Strong Coupling Lattice QCD

Efficient cluster algorithms have recently been discovered to solve strong coupling lattice QCD with staggered fermions in the chiral limit from first principles. This allows us for the first time to uncover the universal properties close to chiral phase transitions and make connections with chiral perturbation theory. In this article we will review some of the recent progress and outline some possible directions for future work.
Iron and Nickel Complexes Containing β-Diketiminato Ligands with Thioether Tethers†

A novel β-diketiminato ligand precursor, LH (II), containing thioether tethers was synthesized by the reaction of acetylacetone and 2-methylthioaniline. II was deprotonated and used in the synthesis of two iron(II) complexes, [LFeCl] (1), and [LFeOTf] (2), and one nickel(II) complex, [LNiBr] (3). All three compounds were characterized by means of single crystal X-ray diffraction and their structures are discussed.
The Marital Patchwork of Colonial South Asia: Forum Shopping from Britain to Baroda

The British Empire created channels for imperially intended movement. Commodities, bodies, and ideas flowed along axes structured by imperial law and technology. Unintended motion also occurred along these same planes. With every legal structure meant to promote one type of behavior came litigants devising strategies to achieve the opposite. Collusion, bribery, forgery, and perjury were favorite ways to manipulate imperial law. The more permissible strategy of forum shopping was another. Forum shopping is the attempt to push one's case into a jurisdiction promising an optimal result when there is ambiguity over the controlling jurisdiction. It reveals the perception among litigants that bottom-up—and sideways—mechanics exist within legal systems. Unlike work on resistance to state law through extralegal means, I here examine the ways parties tried to work strategically within the confines of the legal system to reconfigure their marital situations. Rather than documenting the success of these maneuvers, however, I note their more common failure. The colonial courts usually saw through unconvincing attempts to forum shop. The fact that litigants continued to try reflects the ingenuity, arguably, of the “legal lottery” mechanism at work in British imperial law. Colonial law, and therefore colonial rule, reinforced its hold on subjects by dangling before them the possibility of individual relief through rule-of-law proceduralism.
Dowling–Degos disease——A heat aggravated variant

SUMMARY A 22-year-old woman presented with a 5-year history of a micropapular eruption localized to the flexor aspect of her limbs as well as persistent reticulate pigmentation of her neck and upper chest resembling Darier’s disease. The eruption was associated with pruritus that was precipitated by heat and was worse in summer. The axillae, groins and inframammary areas had multiple papules but lacked reticulate pigmentation. Multiple biopsies showed an epidermis with club- and antler-like rete ridges but no acantholysis or dyskeratosis. This distinct clinical presentation may represent an unusual heat aggravated variant of Dowling–Degos disease that clinically shares features with Darier’s disease and transient acantholytic dermatosis.
Real-time slicing of data space

Real time rendering of iso contour surfaces is problematic for large complex data sets. An algorithm is presented that allows very rapid representation of an interval set surrounding an iso contour surface. The algorithm draws upon three main ideas. A fast indexing scheme is used to select only those data points near the contour surface. Hardware assisted splatting is then employed on these data points to produce a volume rendering of the interval set. Finally, by shifting a small window through the indexing scheme or data space, animated volumes are produced showing the changing contour values. In addition to allowing fast selection and rendering of the data, the indexing scheme allows a much compressed representation of the data by eliminating "noise" data points.
Where Are You From? A Validation of the Foreigner Objectification Scale and the Psychological Correlates of Foreigner Objectification Among Asian Americans and Latinos

Many ethnic minorities in the United States consider themselves to be just as American as their European American counterparts. However, there is a persistent cultural stereotype of ethnic minorities as foreigners (i.e., the perpetual foreigner stereotype) that may be expressed during interpersonal interactions (i.e., foreigner objectification). The goal of the present study was to validate the Foreigner Objectification Scale, a brief self-report measure of perceived foreigner objectification, and to examine the psychological correlates of perceived foreigner objectification. Results indicated that the Foreigner Objectification Scale is structurally (i.e., factor structure) and metrically (i.e., factor loadings) invariant across foreign-born and U.S.-born Asian Americans and Latinos. Scalar (i.e., latent item intercepts) invariance was demonstrated for the two foreign-born groups and the two U.S.-born groups, but not across foreign-born and U.S.-born individuals. Multiple-group structural equation models indicated that, among U.S.-born individuals, perceived foreigner objectification was associated with less life satisfaction and more depressive symptoms, and was indirectly associated with lower self-esteem via identity denial, operationalized as the perception that one is not viewed by others as American. Among foreign-born individuals, perceived foreigner objectification was not significantly associated directly with self-esteem, life satisfaction, or depressive symptoms. However, perceived foreigner objectification was positively associated with identity denial, and identity denial was negatively associated with life satisfaction. This study illustrates the relevance of perceived foreigner objectification to the psychological well-being of U.S.-born Asian Americans and Latinos.
Guanine-Nucleotide Exchange Factors (RAPGEF3/RAPGEF4) Induce Sperm Membrane Depolarization and Acrosomal Exocytosis in Capacitated Stallion Sperm

Capacitation encompasses the molecular changes sperm undergo to fertilize an oocyte, some of which are postulated to occur via a cAMP-PRKACA (protein kinase A)-mediated pathway. Due to the recent discovery of cAMP-activated guanine nucleotide exchange factors RAPGEF3 and RAPGEF4, we sought to investigate the separate roles of PRKACA and RAPGEF3/RAPGEF4 in modulating capacitation and acrosomal exocytosis. Indirect immunofluorescence localized RAPGEF3 to the acrosome and subacrosomal ring and RAPGEF4 to the midpiece in equine sperm. Addition of the RAPGEF3/RAPGEF4specific cAMP analogue 8-(p-chlorophenylthio)-2 0 -O-methyladenosine-3 0 ,5 0 -cyclic monophosphate (8pCPT) to sperm incubated under both noncapacitating and capacitating conditions had no effect on protein tyrosine phosphorylation, thus supporting a PRKACA-mediated event. Conversely, activation of RAPGEF3/RAPGEF4 with 8pCPT induced acrosomal exocytosis in capacitated equine sperm at rates (34%) similar (P . 0.05) to those obtained in progesterone- and calcium ionophoretreated sperm. In the mouse, capacitation-dependent hyperpolarization of the sperm plasma membrane has been shown to recruit low voltage-activated T-type Ca 2+ channels, which later open in response to zona pellucida-induced membrane depolarization. We hypothesized that RAPGEF3 may be inducing acrosomal exocytosis via depolarization-dependent Ca 2+ influx, as RAPGEF3/RAPGEF4 have been demonstrated to play a role in the regulation of ion channels in somatic cells. We first compared the membrane potential (E m ) of noncapacitated (� 37.11 mV) and capacitated (� 53.74 mV; P ¼ 0.002) equine sperm. Interestingly, when sperm were incubated (6 h) under capacitating conditions in the presence of 8pCPT, E m remained depolarized (� 32.06 mV). Altogether, these experiments support the hypothesis that RAPGEF3/RAPGEF4 activation regulates acrosomal exocytosis via its modulation of E m , a novel role for RAPGEF3/RAPGEF4 in the series of events required to achieve fertilization.
The 100-year evolution of the isolated internal iliac artery aneurysm.

Background Isolated internal iliac artery aneurysms (IIIAA) are a rare form of aneurysm. The incidence increases with age, and the prevalence is higher in men. The clinical presentation can vary, and standard treatment protocols are not established. The first case of an IIIAA was described more than 100 years ago. The purpose of the study is to summarize the various clinical presentations and treatment options that have been reported in the literature in the past 100 years. Methods Literature about IIIAA was reviewed using the electronic databank PubMed. All case reports and case series were analyzed, and we included our own data with 2 case reports. Results Over time, IIIAA diagnosis increasingly resulted from asymptomatic incidental findings on radiologic studies. Various clinical presentations included abdominal pain, back pain, rectal bleeding, hydronephrosis with renal failure, hematuria, and free rupture with shock. Rupture has a mortality rate of 53%. IIIAAs were more common on the left (61.8% left, 27.3% right, 10.9% bilateral). Treatments include open surgical repair and endovascular repair using a variety of methods. One article reported a hybrid method using both endovascular and open surgical technique. Conclusions Since its first description 100 years ago, we have gained knowledge about the natural history of IIIAA. Multiple treatment options have been described, but long-term outcome needs further investigation.
Cduct-Larc Status: Shear Layer Refraction and Noise Radiation

A proposed boundary condition accounting for shear layer effects within the Ffowcs Williams-Hawkings radiation module of the CDUCT-LaRC code is investigated. The development and numerical justification of the boundary condition formulation are reviewed. An initial assessment of the effectiveness of the shear layer correction is conducted through comparison with experimental data. Preliminary results indicate that the correction provides physically meaningful modifications of the baseline predicted directivity patterns. Trends of peak directivity steepening and shifting that appeared in predicted patterns were found to follow similar structures in measured data, particularly at higher radiation angles.
Efficient differentiation and integration of lineage-restricted neural precursors in the traumatically injured adult cat spinal cord.

Several recent studies have shown that highly undifferentiated neural stem cells (NSCs) grafted into the intact or injured adult spinal cord of animal either remain undifferentiated or show fate restriction to a astrocytic lineage. This indicates that functionally diverse roles expected of cellular replacement cannot be performed by the transplantation of highly immature precursors; rather, more differentiated or appropriate mixtures of more restricted neural precursors may be important in replacement strategies. In this study, we investigated the ability of lineage-restricted neural progenitors derived from adult mouse periventricular subependymal zone (SEZ) to integrate and differentiate into the chronically injured adult spinal cord. To this end, NSCs were grown as adherent cultures followed by expansion in non-adhesive dishes. This allowed us to grow NSCs as colonies of restricted neural precursors, illustrated by NCAM, nestin, Sox-2, A2B5, and GFAP immunostaining. The mixture of lineage-restricted precursors was directly implanted into the chronically injured spinal cord of immunosuppressed cats. The fate of the cells was traced with GFP fluorescence and immunocytochemistry for neural markers such as β-III-tubulin, GFAP, and Ng2. After four weeks, transplanted cells survived, giving rise to neurons and in addition to cells with an astrocytic phenotype. We conclude that a mixture of more restricted neural precursors may be better suited than highly immature NSCs for neural replacement strategies after central nervous system (CNS) injuries.
Missouri: The History of a User Friendly Program

The University of Missouri-Columbia has been a major training ground in counseling psychology for more than 40 years. Its development and influence on the field are explored through the use of historical archives and comments from faculty, graduates, and APA site visit reports.
Treatment of murine gliomas by adoptive transfer of ex vivo activated tumor-draining lymph node cells.

Abstract The adoptive transfer of tumor-reactive T lymphocytes has recently been demonstrated to be an effective means for mediating the regression of experimental intracranial fibrosarcomas. In this study, mice bearing syngeneic intracranial GL261 gliomas were cured by the combination of sublethal whole body irradiation followed by the intravenous transfer of tumor-draining lymph node (LN) T cells activated with anti-CD3 or staphylococcal enterotoxin C2 (SEC2). To further identify the functional effector T cell population in the adoptive immunotherapy, LN T cells were separated into two subsets, based on the level of expression of the cell adhesion molecule CD62L (L-selectin). As few as 5 × 10 5 CD62L low cells could cure the majority of animals, whereas 2 × 10 6 CD62L high cells were completely ineffective. Moreover, T cells isolated from advanced intracranial tumors were identified to be predominantly CD62L low . In contrast, spleens contained a mixture of CD62L low and high cells similar to the transferred cell population. T cells in the glioma site were more actively proliferating than those isolated from the spleen. Mice cured of GL261 tumors demonstrated long-term immunologic memory by rejecting intracranial challenges of the original tumor but not an immunologically distinct tumor. Furthermore, despite infiltration of transferred cells into the intracranial tumors, cured mice did not exhibit any apparent neurologic abnormalities during treatment, prolonged follow-up, or after intracranial tumor rechallenge. This study demonstrates the effective treatment of an intracranial murine glioma by the systemic adoptive transfer of activated tumor-draining LN T cells and selective tumor infiltration by the therapeutically active CD62L low T cells.
Methodological problems associated with the present conceptualization of the minimum clinically important difference and substantial clinical benefit.

COMMENTARY ON: Carreon LY, Glassman SD, Campbell MJ, Anderson PA. Neck Disability Index, short form-36 physical component summary, and pain scales for neck and arm pain: the minimum clinically important difference and substantial clinical benefit after cervical spine fusion. Spine J 2010;10:469–74 (in this issue) .
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis: change in incidence following a switch in gadolinium agents and adoption of a gadolinium policy--report from two U.S. universities.

Following the use of gadobenate dimeglumine and gadopentetate dimeglumine and the adoption of restrictive gadolinium-based contrast agent policies, no patients with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis were detected in the patient populations examined.