cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New center for IT research

Abstract August 1, 2002 marked the launch of the National Science Foundation (NSF) Science and Technology Center (STC) on Materials and Devices for Information Technology Research (MDITR). The Center will strive to develop new materials and device concepts that will complement existing semiconductor and inorganic electronic and photonic materials in information technology (IT). An initial five_year award of $18.35 million supports this development and the training of a workforce capable of implementing that technology. Education, human resource development, and technology transfer are also important components of this Center and approximately 30% of the NSF funding is committed to these activities. The motivation for creating such a center is quite obvious. Despite the ‘dot com’ crash, IT continues to be the fastest growing and dominant component of world economy. Computing power and the ability to rapidly move information around the world are, of course, important drivers of that IT economy.
Arm work interferes with normal ventilation

Arm work, by limiting movement of the chest wall and use of the respiratory muscles, may alter breathing pattern and gas exchange sufficiently to interfere with the ability to perform certain tasks. To determine the effects of arm work on breathing pattern during a well-controlled work task, depth of breathing, breathing frequency and end-expiratory lung volume (EELV) were measured at rest and during cycling exercise using an arm and a leg ergometer. Six subjects performed arm work at light, moderate and heavy intensities (30%, 60% and 90% of maximum arm work capacity respectively) and leg work at three intensities where ventilation was matched for that achieved during the arm work. This matching was necessary since the level of ventilation affects the breathing pattern. Subjects breathed on a mouthpiece and tubing that led to automated equipment for the measurement of respiratory variables. Ventilation during arm work was accomplished with a lower depth of breathing, a higher breathing frequency and a decreased EELV compared to leg work. Arm work places increased demands on the ventilatory system, including the muscles of respiration that are also recruited for task performance. The competition for using these muscles for breathing as opposed to a particular work task may result in a compromise in breathing capacity that ultimately may limit the ability to perform tasks requiring sustained heavy use of the arms. These increased demands on the upper body muscles must be considered when evaluating the ability of individuals to perform tasks that involve heavy arm work.
Incomplete factorization for finite element methods

An incomplete factorization iterative scheme with ORTHOMIN acceleration is evaluated for three-dimensional finite element applications. Both heat conduction and combined heat and fluid flow are investigated. Computational efficiency is investigated for both linear (8 node) and quadratic (27 node) elements as well as for various degrees of LU Decomposition. The factorization schemes worked well with both types of elements, and a variable factorization scheme, which distributes the level of factorization, performed well on difficult heat and fluid flow problems.
Rapid protein separations in ultra-short microchannels: microchip sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and isoelectric focusing

We have developed novel protein gel electrophoresis techniques, sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and isoelectric focusing (IEF) in short microchannels (approximately millimeters) that take less than a minute. A photopatterning technique was used to cast in situ crosslinked polyacrylamide gel in a microchannel to perform SDS-PAGE. A fluorescent protein marker sample (Mr range of 20,000-200,000) was separated in less than 30 s in less than 2 mm of channel length. Crosslinked polyacrylamide gel, patterned in channels using UV light, provides higher sieving power and sample stacking effect, therefore yielding faster and higher-resolution separation in a chip. IEF of proteins was also achieved in a microchannel, and several proteins were focussed within tens of seconds in mm-length channels. As resolution in IEF is independent of separation distance, focusing in ultra-short channels results in not only faster separation but also more concentrated bands potentially allowing detection of low-concentration species.
Mitigating Principal-Agent Problems in Base-of-the-Pyramid Markets: An Identity Spillover Perspective

The potential for profitably distributing products to previously underserved "base-of-the- pyramid" (BOP) markets as a means of poverty alleviation has received growing interest within the management field. However, such business models often struggle with the agency costs that arise between the firm and local sales agents as the institutions and infrastructure in BOP markets make traditional contractual and monitoring mechanisms difficult and expensive to employ. We present the results of two complementary studies which were both conducted with salespeople in rural Guatemala. The first study employed a quasi-experimental field-study combined with in-depth interviews, while the second study was a laboratory experiment. The results of the studies suggest that identity-based mechanisms can potentially mitigate agency costs through a positive identity spillover effect in multiproduct settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Image reconstruction in lens-based intensity diffraction tomography

Two image reconstruction methods for 3D lens-based intensity diffraction tomography (I-DT) are developed that account for the effects of a focusing lens placed between the object and the detector. One reconstruction method is a generalization of the original I-DT method and requires measurement of the transmitted wavefield intensity on two detector planes behind the object at each tomographic view angle. The second method employs a data-acquisition strategy in which the two intensity measurements are acquired, in turn, on a fixed detector plane, corresponding to distinct forms of lens aberration. Preliminary computer-simulation studies are conducted to demonstrate the numerical implementation of both methods and corroborate their mathematical correctness.
Neutrophils employ the myeloperoxidase system to generate antimicrobial brominating and chlorinating oxidants during sepsis

The myeloperoxidase system of neutrophils uses hydrogen peroxide and chloride to generate hypochlorous acid, a potent bactericidal oxidant in vitro. In a mouse model of polymicrobial sepsis, we observed that mice deficient in myeloperoxidase were more likely than wild-type mice to die from infection. Mass spectrometric analysis of peritoneal inflammatory fluid from septic wild-type mice detected elevated concentrations of 3-chlorotyrosine, a characteristic end product of the myeloperoxidase system. Levels of 3-chlorotyrosine did not rise in the septic myeloperoxidase-deficient mice. Thus, myeloperoxidase seems to protect against sepsis in vivo by producing halogenating species. Surprisingly, levels of 3-bromotyrosine also were elevated in peritoneal fluid from septic wild-type mice and were markedly reduced in peritoneal fluid from septic myeloperoxidase-deficient mice. Furthermore, physiologic concentrations of bromide modulated the bactericidal effects of myeloperoxidase in vitro. It seems, therefore, that myeloperoxidase can use bromide as well as chloride to produce oxidants in vivo, even though the extracellular concentration of bromide is at least 1,000-fold lower than that of chloride. Thus, myeloperoxidase plays an important role in host defense against bacterial pathogens, and bromide might be a previously unsuspected component of this system.
Implications of changing natural gas prices in the United States electricity sector for SO2, NOX and life cycle GHG emissions

Projections of increased domestic natural gas supply and low prices have encouraged increased natural gas utilization in the United States electricity sector. Natural gas can offset coal, likely decreasing overall greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and other air emissions such as SO2 and NOX. Previous life cycle assessment (LCA) studies using limited system boundaries have attempted to quantify the benefit of offsetting coal use. However, these studies do not consider that relative regional fuel prices may contribute most to the choice of coal over natural gas. External incentives such as low natural gas prices compared to coal are required if natural gas is to displace coal. In this study, simplified economic dispatch models are used to determine how natural gas utilization will increase in the short-term in response to changes in natural gas prices in three US grid regions—ERCOT, MISO and PJM. The results indicate that the change in air emissions is lower than suggested by LCAs, since LCAs generally do not include the complexity of regional electricity grids. For instance, this study estimates that life cycle GHG emissions may, at best, decrease by 7‐15% due to low natural gas prices, compared to almost 50% reductions estimated by previous LCAs.
High Definition video support for natural interaction through distance learning

Using high definition video distance learning allows large areas of the classroom to be captured at a resolution approaching human visual acuity. This allows instructors and students to interact with significantly less constraints then the classic television based distance learning design. Hi Definition Television (HDTV) is becoming commonplace. This drives cost down, but more significantly it creates an increase in student expectation as HDTV replaces standard television in the home. Implementing a useful distance learning classroom based on HDTV requires significant attention to layout in order to achieve a pedagogically functional classroom, especially when applications beyond a simple lecture are considered. The classrooms considered here use two channel video in each direction, as well as stereo audio. This paper will discuss the issues in capturing an entire instructional area (whiteboard and podium) using multiple HD cameras. Careful attention to audio design is also critical to natural interaction.
The antimicrobial activity of cationic proteins isolated from the cells in bulk milk samples.

Abstract Cationic proteins isolated from the cells in bulk milk samples were shown to inhibit the growth of two pathogenic strains of staphylococci and also Streptococcus agalactiae S 13. Polyacrylamide gel disk electrophoresis studies on these proteins revealed the presence of at least 9 components some of which had isoelectric pH's between 7·0 and 9·0. Trace amounts of the isolated protein had isoelectric pH's greater than 9·0. Staphylococci incubated with milk-cell cationic proteins absorbed the protein, thereby allowing the organism to be stained with the anionic dye Fast Green FCF. Protein-treated staphylococci in isotonic solutions autoagglutinated. This autoagglutination was more marked in hypo- and hypertonic solutions. Lysozyme was not demonstrated in the isolated protein fractions in assays involving incubation with Micrococcus lysodeikticus for 90 min. The antimicrobial activity of the cationic proteins isolated from the bulk milk samples was not destroyed after heating to temperatures up to 70° C for 30 min., whereas at higher temperatures the activity diminished and was almost completely lost at 100° C.
Lessons learned from studying families genetically predisposed to type 2 diabetes mellitus

Early interventions to prevent type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) demand a better understanding of its underlying mechanisms. Nonobese healthy subjects with a strong family history of T2DM (FH+ subjects) hold a key to this end by allowing the study of the disease before the development of confounding factors, such as obesity or hyperglycemia. In this article, we share our experience over the past decade in studying FH+ subjects and how lipotoxicity alters glucose metabolism in such individuals, in particular pancreatic β-cell function. FH+ subjects have no obvious clinical abnormalities, but when carefully studied, reveal severe hepatic/muscle/adipose tissue insulin resistance and subtle defects in β-cell function. In most subjects, metabolic adaption allows freedom from diabetes for decades. However, the obesity epidemic is drastically changing this. Given the unique susceptibility of pancreatic β cells to free fatty acids in FH+ subjects, interventions that protect against obesity-induced lipotoxicity may hold the greatest promise for preventing T2DM in genetically predisposed individuals.
Vitamin D3 compounds regulate human immunodeficiency virus type 1 replication in U937 monoblastoid cells and in monocyte‐derived macrophages

We studied the effects of vitamin D3 compounds on the replication of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) in the monoblastoid cell line U937 and in primary monocyte-derived macrophage cultures to understand how modulators of monocyte/macrophage effector function might affect the pathogenesis of HIV-1 infection. U937 cell cultures exposed to 1, alpha 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 prior to HIV-1 infection showed enhanced virus replication that was apparently due to increased cellular resistance to viral cytopathic effects; a marked inhibition of virus replication was noted in cells exposed to 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 subsequent to infection. Exposure of blood-derived monocyte/macrophages to vitamin D3 compounds prior to infection also affected virus growth; in most cases, substantial inhibition of HIV-1 replication was noted in vitamin D3-treated macrophage cultures. Our results demonstrate that vitamin D3 compounds with recognized abilities to induce cellular differentiation can modulate HIV-1 infection of human macrophages.
Relationships among Learner Characteristics and Preservice Elementary Teachers' Views of Nature of Science.

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship of learner characteristics and preservice teachers’ views of nature of science (NOS) prior to formal instruction. Learner characteristics investigated included metacognitive awareness, self-efficacy, attitudes toward science teaching, Perry’s intellectual and ethical developmental levels, concerns for teaching NOS, and cultural values. Findings indicated interesting relationships between NOS views and cultural values, self-efficacy, attitudes toward teaching science, metacognitive awareness, and Stages of Concern (SOC) for teaching NOS. Implications for preservice science teacher education include attending to cultural values related to science as a separate, but not better, way of knowing.
The development of primordial and definitive amniotic cavities in early rhesus monkey and human embryos

Re-examination of early rhesus monkey and human embryos in the collection of the Carnegie Institution of Washington suggests that the mechanism of amniogenesis in both is basically similar to that of the hedgehog and vespertilionid bats. A primordial amniotic cavity develops by cavitation within the embryonic mass of 10-day rhesus monkey, and 7-day human, blastocysts. This primordial cavity has no relationship initially with the overlying trophoblast, contrary to earlier reports. Subsequently, there is a thinning and peripheral spreading of the epiblastic roof of the primordial cavity, resulting in partial opening of the roof and formation of a slightly cupped embryonic disc. The resulting space is not homologous with the primordial amniotic cavity; instead, it is a transitory tropho-epiblastic cavity. The definitive amniotic epithelium forms by the upfolding and mitotic proliferation of the margins of the epiblastic disc; this process is completed in 11-day rhesus, and 9-day human, blastocysts. Amniogenesis by cavitation is associated with the persistence of polar trophoblast following implantation, and it is suggested that this cavitation process may be essential for providing a free epithelial surface for the morphogenetic movement of epiblastic cells during subsequent formation of the primitive streak.
Velocity Statistics of Round, Fully Developed, Buoyant Turbulent Plumes

An experimental study of the structure of round buoyant turbulent plumes was carried out, limited to conditions within the fully developed (self-preserving) portion of the flow. Plume conditions were simulated using dense gas sources (carbon dioxide and sulfur hexafluoride) in a still air environment. Velocity statistics were measured using laser velocimetry in order to supplement earlier measurements of mixture fraction statistics using laser-induced iodine fluorescence. Similar to the earlier observations of mixture fraction statistics, self-preserving behavior was observed for velocity statistics over the present test range, (87-151 source diameters and 12-43 Morton length scales from the source), which was farther from the source than most earlier measurements. Additionnally, the new measurements indicated that self-preserving plumes are narrower, with larger mean streamwise velocities near the axis (when appropriately scaled) and with smaller entrainment rates, than previously thought. Velocity statistics reported include mean and fluctuating velocities, temporal power spectra, temporal and spatial integral scales, and Reynolds stresses
Properties of fast endocytosis at hippocampal synapses

Regulation of synaptic transmission is a widespread means for dynamic alterations in nervous system function. In several cases, this regulation targets vesicular recycling in presynaptic terminals and may result in substantial changes in efficiency of synaptic transmission. Traditionally, experimental accessibility of the synaptic vesicle cycle in central neuronal synapses has been largely limited to the exocytotic side, which can be monitored with electrophysiological responses to neurotransmitter release. Recently, physiological measurements on the endocytotic portion of the cycle have been made possible by the introduction of styryl dyes such as FM1-43 as fluorescent markers for recycling synaptic vesicles. Here we demonstrate the existence of fast endocytosis in hippocampal nerve terminals and derive its kinetics from fluorescence measurements using dyes with varying rates of membrane departitioning. The rapid mode of vesicular retrieval was greatly speeded by exposure to staurosporine or elevated extracellular calcium. The effective time-constant for retrieval can be < 2 seconds under appropriate conditions. Thus, hippocampal synapses capitalize on efficient mechanisms for endocytosis and their vesicular retrieval is subject to modulatory control.
PORTABLE ROOTS: LATIN NEW YORKER COMMUNITY BUILDING AND THE MEANINGS OF WOMEN'S RETURN MIGRATION IN SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO, 1960-2000

This article examines the life histories of women return migrants to Puerto Rico. It emphasizes the cultural aspects of return migration, especially how the narrators understood and expressed their collective identity as distinctive from Puerto Ricans born and raised on the island. These informants turned their life histories into morality fables of class mobility, gender role restriction, and social rejection on the island. These tales asserted their radical differences from both middle class-islanders, whom they had joined, and the working-class diaspora in New York City, from which they had come. The narrators also built an organization which reinforced their “Latin New Yorker” identity, invented on the island.
Interactions between soil physicochemistry and belowground biomass production in a freshwater tidal marsh

The success of tidal freshwater wetland restoration is typically gauged by the re-establishment of characteristics found in reference marshes. Although plant species composition may resemble reference marshes within a few years after the initiation of restoration, return of soil physicochemical properties may take much longer. We investigated soil characteristics in a post-levee breach freshwater tidal marsh restoration site (Liberty Island, California), and the impacts of soil compaction on the survival and growth of emergent macrophytes. In a field study, we examined soil physicochemical properties throughout 50-cm deep soil cores collected from locations at Liberty Island that differed in location and stage of vegetation colonization. In a controlled mesocosm study, we subjected three species that are commonly implemented in restoration plantings (Schoenoplectus acutus, S. californicus, and Typha latifolia) to two levels of soil compaction (control and high soil bulk density) to determine the influence of soil compaction on soil physicochemical properties and macrophyte response. Belowground biomass increased and soil bulk density decreased with time since vegetation colonization. The controlled study showed that both Schoenoplectus species exhibited greater survival than T. latifolia. The species explored are capable of ameliorating compacted soil conditions over time; this ability can facilitate the re-establishment of wetland structure and function at restoration sites.
Soybean Aphid Infestation Induces Changes in Fatty Acid Metabolism in Soybean

The soybean aphid (Aphis glycines Matsumura) is one of the most important insect pests of soybeans in the North-central region of the US. It has been hypothesized that aphids avoid effective defenses by inhibition of jasmonate-regulated plant responses. Given the role fatty acids play in jasmonate-induced plant defenses, we analyzed the fatty acid profile of soybean leaves and seeds from aphid-infested plants. Aphid infestation reduced levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids in leaves with a concomitant increase in palmitic acid. In seeds, a reduction in polyunsaturated fatty acids was associated with an increase in stearic acid and oleic acid. Soybean plants challenged with the brown stem rot fungus or with soybean cyst nematodes did not present changes in fatty acid levels in leaves or seeds, indicating that the changes induced by aphids are not a general response to pests. One of the polyunsaturated fatty acids, linolenic acid, is the precursor of jasmonate; thus, these changes in fatty acid metabolism may be examples of “metabolic hijacking” by the aphid to avoid the induction of effective defenses. Based on the changes in fatty acid levels observed in seeds and leaves, we hypothesize that aphids potentially induce interference in the fatty acid desaturation pathway, likely reducing FAD2 and FAD6 activity that leads to a reduction in polyunsaturated fatty acids. Our data support the idea that aphids block jasmonate-dependent defenses by reduction of the hormone precursor.
Prevalence, risks and severity of musculoskeletal disorder symptoms among administrative employees of a Brazilian company.

BACKGROUND Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are common among office workers. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence, risks and symptoms of MSD among office workers of a Brazilian dairy company. METHODS Fifty office workers participated in the study. The following evaluations and questionnaires were completed: Rapid Upper Limb Assessment, Strain Index, Muscle Fatigue Assessment, Nordic General Questionnaire, and Oswestry Disability Index. RESULTS Seventy-four percent (n = 37) of the participants had MSD symptoms. The back was most commonly affected body part (81% , n = 30), followed by the upper limbs (70% , n = 26). Fifty-three percent of the workers with low back pain had mild to moderate disability, and the risk for the hands, wrists and fingers was moderate. Changes are required to reduce the risk of MSD among the participating office workers. CONCLUSION The prevalence of MSD symptoms was high; the back and upper limbs were most commonly affected. Data from the evaluations and questionnaires supplemented each other. The Rapid Upper Limb Assessment and Strain Index were better indicators of risk of MSD symptoms than the Muscle Fatigue Assessment. The participating office workers were exposed to moderate risk of developing MSD due to biomechanical overload and changes are required.
In vitro catabolism of heterologous and homologous serum albumin by lysosomal enzymes.

SummaryThe products of hydrolysis and reaction rates for the degradation of homologous and heterologous serum albumin by lysosomal enzymes from spleen and liver were compared. The products of the degradation of homologous and heterologous serum albumin are similar with the exception of the small peptides with a mol wt less than 1000. A greater quantity of these small peptides were found in the degradation of heterologous serum albumin. Liver lysosomal enzymes hydrolyze heterologous serum albumin more rapidly and to a greater extent than homologous serum albumin.The ability of an animal to distinguish between native and foreign proteins may be dependent upon the proteolytic enzymes which catabolize such proteins. The greater degradation of foreign protein by liver suggests that mechanism for differentiation of homologous and heterologous protein may reside with lysosomal enzymes.
Doping Location-Dependent Energy Transfer Dynamics in Mn-Doped CdS/ZnS Nanocrystals

Dynamics of energy transfer and charge carrier localization in Mn-doped CdS/ZnS core/shell nanocrystals correlated with doping location and concentration are studied via transient absorption measurement of exciton relaxation dynamics. The strong dependence of exciton–Mn energy transfer rate on doping location was directly resolved in the transient bleach recovery and electron intraband absorption data by using layer-by-layer synthesized Mn-doped nanocrystals. With 1.2 nm decrease in doping radius in the ZnS shell, energy transfer rate increases by 6 fold. We identified that hole trapping is the major competing process that inhibits the energy transfer in Mn-doped CdS/ZnS nanocrystals. From the branching ratio of the energy transfer and hole trapping, combined with luminescence quantum yield measurement, we also obtained doping location-dependent radiative relaxation quantum yield of Mn2+ ions that is as high as 0.95.
Evolution of solidification texture during additive manufacturing

Striking differences in the solidification textures of a nickel based alloy owing to changes in laser scanning pattern during additive manufacturing are examined based on theory and experimental data. Understanding and controlling texture are important because it affects mechanical and chemical properties. Solidification texture depends on the local heat flow directions and competitive grain growth in one of the six preferred growth directions in face centered cubic alloys. Therefore, the heat flow directions are examined for various laser beam scanning patterns based on numerical modeling of heat transfer and fluid flow in three dimensions. Here we show that numerical modeling can not only provide a deeper understanding of the solidification growth patterns during the additive manufacturing, it also serves as a basis for customizing solidification textures which are important for properties and performance of components.
Financial market response to extreme events indicating climatic change

A variety of recent extreme climatic events are considered to be strong evidence that the climate is warming, but these incremental advances in certainty often seem ignored by non-scientists. I identify two unusual types of events that are considered to be evidence of climate change, announcements by NASA that the global annual average temperature has set a new record, and the sudden collapse of major polar ice shelves, and then conduct an event study to test whether news of these events changes investors’ valuation of energy companies, a subset of firms whose future performance is closely tied to climate change. I find evidence that both classes of events have influenced energy stock prices since the 1990s, with record temperature announcements on average associated with negative returns and ice shelf collapses associated with positive returns. I identify a variety of plausible mechanisms that may be driving these differential responses, discuss implications for energy markets’ views on long-term regulatory risk, and conclude that investors not only pay attention to scientifically significant climate events, but discriminate between signals carrying different information about the nature of climatic change.
Dark Clouds and Silver Linings: Social Responses to 9/11

There is clear evidence that the September 11,2001, attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon had both immediate and long-term effects on the American psyche.1 Some of the psychological consequences of the attacks were transparently hostile, negative, and defensive. An unfortunate consequence of terrorist attacks against Western liberal democracies is that people often react to these attacks by becoming more willing to sacrifice necessary cornerstones of freedom, that is, by becoming willing to restrict both their own and others’ civil liberties, and often worse.
Innate immunity kinase TAK1 phosphorylates Rab1 on a hotspot for posttranslational modifications by host and pathogen

TGF-β activated kinase 1 (TAK1) is a critical signaling hub responsible for translating antigen binding signals to immune receptors for the activation of the AP-1 and NF-κB master transcriptional programs. Despite its importance, known substrates of TAK1 are limited to kinases of the MAPK and IKK families and include no direct effectors of biochemical processes. Here, we identify over 200 substrates of TAK1 using a chemical genetic kinase strategy. We validate phosphorylation of the dynamic switch II region of GTPase Rab1, a mediator of endoplasmic reticulum to Golgi vesicular transport, at T75 to be regulated by TAK1 in vivo. TAK1 preferentially phosphorylates the inactive (GDP-bound) state of Rab1. Phosphorylation of Rab1 disrupts interaction with GDP dissociation inhibitor 1 (GDI1), but not guanine exchange factor (GEF) or GTPase-activating protein (GAP) enzymes, and is exclusive to membrane-localized Rab1, suggesting phosphorylation may stimulate Rab1 membrane association. Furthermore, we found phosphorylation of Rab1 at T75 to be essential for Rab1 function. Previous studies established that the pathogen Legionella pneumophila is capable of hijacking Rab1 function through posttranslational modifications of the switch II region. Here, we present evidence that Rab1 is regulated by the host in a similar fashion, and that the innate immunity kinase TAK1 and Legionella effectors compete to regulate Rab1 by switch II modifications during infection.
Exploitation and Freedom

Karl Marx argued that capitalist economies are necessarily exploitative. Nineteenth-century classical liberal political economists agreed that exploitation was rampant, but blamed government grants of privilege rather than capitalism. This chapter argues that while both schools of thought produced genuine insights into exploitation in markets and politics, neither developed a tenable account of what exploitation actually is. Understanding exploitation in terms of the more basic concept of fairness allows us to appreciate when wage labor and government transfers are exploitative, and when they are not. The chapter concludes by arguing that exploitation is probably a permanent feature of a free society because the moral costs of attempting to eliminate it will often prove unacceptable. In particular, it might be impossible to ensure that a government invested with the power to stamp out one form of exploitation does not become a tool for an even more troubling form of exploitation itself.
Comparing the Survivability of Lactobacillus Species in Various Probiotic Delivery Vehicles.

Background: Probiotics are widely used in healthy and nonhealthy individuals to maintain a favorable gut microbiome and inhibit pathogen takeover. Currently, there are many varieties of probiotic delivery vehicles on the market, with no real research indicating which is the most effective at allowing for colon colonization. In this study, we sought to determine if probiotic preparation influences the ability of Lactobacillus species, one of the most common genera of probiotic bacteria, to survive gastric acidity. Objective: To determine the survivability of lactobacilli in stomach-level acidity for a variety of probiotic delivery vehicles. Materials and Methods: We tested the ability of 6 different probiotic preparations—enterically encapsulated pills, nonencapsulated pills, lyophilized powder, yogurt, yogurt drink, and kefir—to enhance survivability of lactobacilli in pH 2.0–adjusted phosphate-buffered saline over time. Colony-forming units were enumerated by spot plating on both nonselective (brain-hear...
Using a Case Approach to Assess Farmers’ Attitudes Regarding Central Terminal Model Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Programs at Selected Michigan Farmers Markets

Recently, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has pushed to increase the number of farmers markets that accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (formerly known as food stamps) via Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT). However, a small percentage of farmers markets accept SNAP and little is known of the experience of the farmer-vendors who participate in central terminal model EBT programs at farmers markets. The objective of this exploratory study was to elucidate farmers’ attitudes regarding central terminal model EBT programs at selected Michigan farmers markets. This study used qualitative research methods and a case approach. Thirty-two farmers that participated in central terminal model EBT programs at farmers markets were interviewed. Three main themes emerged. First, based on their experiences, farmers expressed a positive attitude toward central terminal model EBT programs at farmers markets. Second, positive attitudes were often associated with the view that market managers had made it easy for farmers to accept EBT benefits and freed them from the administrative burdens of redemption and federal reporting. Third, farmers believed that accepting food assistance benefits attracted new customers to the farmers market thus expanding their customer base. While these results may not be reflective of farmers’ attitudes in other regions, the themes that emerged highlight topics that may be important considerations when making future decisions about the expansion of electronic food assistance programs at farmers markets.
Csapody, Tamás. 2014. Bortól Szombathelyig - Tanulmányok a bori munkaszolgálatról és a bori munkaszolgálatosok részleges névlistája ('From Bor to Szombathely- Studies on the Forced Labor Service at Bor Camp and the Partial List of the Forced Laborers in Bor'). Budapest: Zrinyi Kadó. 254 pp. ; Csapody, Tamás. 2015. A Cservenkai tömeggyilkosság ('The Mass Murder at Cservenka'). Budapest: Zsidó Tudományok Szabadegyeteme Alapítvány. 150 pp.

Csapody, Tamas. 2014. B ortol Szombathelyig - Tanulmanyok a bori munkaszolgalatrol es a bori munkaszolgalatosok reszleges nevlistaja ('From Bor to Szombathely- Studies on the Forced Labor Service at Bor Camp and the Partial List of the Forced Laborers in Bor'). Budapest: Zrinyi Kado. 254 pp. ; Csapody, Tamas. 2015. A Cservenkai tomeggyilkossag ('The Mass Murder at Cservenka'). Budapest: Zsido Tudomanyok Szabadegyeteme Alapitvany. 150 pp. (e-book; a shorter version is accessible at: http://zsido.com/konyvek/a-cservenkai-tomeggyilkossag/ ).
Leukemic Transformation in Mice Expressing a NUP98-HOXD13 Transgene Is Accompanied by Spontaneous Mutations in Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Pathway Genes.

The NUP98-HOXD13 ( NHD13 ) fusion gene, formed by the t(2;11)(q31;p15), has been identified in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We recently reported that mice which express an NHD13 transgene develop MDS; over half of these mice eventually develop acute leukemia between six and fourteen months. An emerging paradigm holds that at least one event from each of two classes is required for leukemic transformation: Class I (proliferation or survival promoting events) and Class II (differentiation blocking events). The NHD13 fusion protein has previously been shown to fit the criteria of a Class II event, as it impairs differentiation of haematopoietic cells. Therefore, we used a candidate gene approach that focused on Class I mutations to search for secondary genetic events that might collaborate with the NHD13 transgene. Since the most frequently mutated Class I genes in human myeloid leukemia are FLT3 (24%), NRAS (16%), KIT (5%) and KRAS (4%), we sequenced relevant regions of these genes ( Flt3 , exons 14, 15 and 20; Kit , exons 8 and 17; Nras , exons 2 and 3; and Kras , exons 2 and 3) in a cohort of 26 mice with AML. We found no Flt3 or Kit mutations in this cohort; however, we identified 3 (12%) Nras and 3 (12%) Kras mutations. All six of the ras mutations identified in the AML cohort occurred within codon 12, which is predicted to result in a constitutively active ras protein. We also screened a smaller sample set of NHD13 mice that developed pre-T lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma and found 0/8 Nras mutations but 1/8 (13%) Kras mutation; this mutation occurred in codon 13. CBL is a ubiquitin ligase that is responsible for targeting degradation of selected receptor tyrosine kinases. Intriguingly, CBL mutations that lead to FLT3 activation have recently been identified in AML patients. Therefore, we screened the NHD13 AML cohort for mutations in Cbl and identified a deletion of 297 bp that results in loss of the exon 8 splice acceptor site. RT-PCR demonstrated an aberrant Cbl cDNA which lacks the RING finger domain encoded by exon 8. We have previously reported the derivation of an IL-3 dependent haematopoietic cell line from embryonic stem (ES) cells that expressed an NHD13 “knock-in” allele. Preliminary results indicate that the activated ras mutations are capable of transforming the cell line to IL-3 independence, supporting the contention that the ras mutations (Class I) complement the NHD13 fusion protein (Class II). We are currently investigating the potential of the Cbl mutant to transform the IL3-dependent cell line. Although the current paradigm for AML predicts these results, this is the first report of spontaneous Class I ( Cbl or ras) mutations that complement a defined, genetically engineered Class II mutation in an animal model of AML. These results have general implications for other oncogenic mouse models, as well as specific implications for the nature of NHD13-mediated leukemogenesis.
Decision-Based Disorders: The Challenge of Dysfunctional Health Behavior and the Need for a Science of Behavior Change

Dysfunctional health behavior is a contemporary challenge, exemplified by the increasingly significant portion of health problems stemming from people’s own behavior and decision making. The challenge not only includes the direct consequences of unhealthy behavioral patterns but also their origins and the creation of policies that effectively decrease their frequency. A framework rooted in behavioral economics identifies the processes and mechanisms underlying poor health. Two behavioral economic processes, economic demand and delay discounting, are discussed in detail. Through continued development, this behavioral economic framework can guide improved outcomes in treatment and policies related to dysfunctional health behavior. Approaches are evolving to alter demand and discounting. Current and prospective policies aimed at decreasing unhealthy behavior may profit from such research.
Statistical Survey of Persistent Organic Pollutants: Risk Estimations to Humans and Wildlife through Consumption of Fish from U.S. Rivers

U.S. EPA conducted a national statistical survey of fish tissue contamination at 540 river sites (representing 82 954 river km) in 2008–2009, and analyzed samples for 50 persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including 21 PCB congeners, 8 PBDE congeners, and 21 organochlorine pesticides. The survey results were used to provide national estimates of contamination for these POPs. PCBs were the most abundant, being measured in 93.5% of samples. Summed concentrations of the 21 PCB congeners had a national weighted mean of 32.7 μg/kg and a maximum concentration of 857 μg/kg, and exceeded the human health cancer screening value of 12 μg/kg in 48% of the national sampled population of river km, and in 70% of the urban sampled population. PBDEs (92.0%), chlordane (88.5%) and DDT (98.7%) were also detected frequently, although at lower concentrations. Results were examined by subpopulations of rivers, including urban or nonurban and three defined ecoregions. PCBs, PBDEs, and DDT occur at significantly higher concen...
Density of Large Urban Areas in the U.S., 1950-2010

Density is a fundamental, defining characteristic of urban areas that has important implications for many other aspects of urban life. Using census tract data for 1950 to 2010, the extent of the built-up urban areas is delineated in a consistent manner for 59 of the largest metropolitan regions in the United States. Contrary to common expectations of nearly universal decline in urban densities, many areas showed relatively stable densities or even significant increases over the period. The areas with stable or increasing densities were located in the South and, especially for increases in density, in the West. The larger declines in densities occurred in areas in the Northeast and Midwest. Density levels and changes in density were associated with the sizes of areas, prior densities, rates of growth, and the presence of barriers to urban expansion.
Failure behavior and scaling of graphene nanocomposites

Abstract This work proposes an investigation on the scaling of the structural strength of polymer/graphene nanocomposites. To this end, fracture tests on geometrically scaled Single Edge Notch Bending (SENB) specimens with varying contents of graphene were conducted to study the effects of nanomodification on the scaling. It is shown that, while the strength of the pristine polymer scales according to Linear Elastic Fracture Mechanics (LEFM), this is not the case for nanocomposites, even for very low graphene contents. In fact, small specimens exhibited a more pronounced ductility with limited scaling and a significant deviation from LEFM whereas larger specimens behaved in a more brittle way, with scaling of nominal strength closer to the one predicted by LEFM. This behavior, due to the significant size of the Fracture Process Zone (FPZ) compared to the specimen size, needs to be taken into serious consideration. In facts, it is shown that, for the specimen sizes investigated in this work, neglecting the non-linear effects of the FPZ can lead to an underestimation of the fracture energy as high as 113%, this error decreasing for increasing specimen sizes.
Efficiency and interpretability of text paging communication for medical inpatients: A mixed-methods analysis

This mixed-methods analysis investigates text page message content among clinicians regarding patient care with particular focus on efficiency and safety.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Guidance for an All-Aspect Approach to a Stationary Point

This paper offers an integrated framework enabling planar and spatial guidance for a fixed-wing aerial vehicle to approach a stationary point from any direction. Specifically, it elaborates on the ...
Abstract P263: Computer-Assisted Decision Support in the Treatment of Acute Coronary Syndromes and Impact on Cardiovascular Outcomes

Background: Evidence from clinical trials and consensus guidelines suggest that in-hospital initiation of key therapeutics can reduce mortality and morbidity in patients admitted with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). As a result, the AHA and ACC have co-developed guideline-based “performance measures” for ACS patients, such that when every measure has been performed, the patient is considered to have achieved optimal or “perfect” care (PC). Computer-assisted decision support (CADS) is a tool that can improve quality of care and is well suited for complex algorithms governing treatment decisions. We sought to determine if CADS tailored to ACS would enhance the likelihood of achieving PC, and whether achievement of PC would translate into reduced mortality. Methods: 452 consecutive patients (mean age 68±13 years) admitted with ACS in 2009 were evaluated (unstable angina 29%, NSTEMI 61%, STEMI 10%). Physicians had the option of using either pre-printed ACS orders (standard orders) versus CADS generated orders. The CADS system utilized patient clinical data including risk scoring, to suggest specific therapeutics and drug dosing based on consensus guidelines. Endpoints were attainment of PC and 30-day mortality. Results: The 77 patients admitted using CADS generated orders were statistically similar (age, gender, ACS diagnosis, TIMI risk) to the 375 patients admitted with the standard order set. Attainment of PC was almost twice as likely when using CADS versus standard orders (84% vs. 44%, p Conclusions: Use of CADS in the setting of ACS is feasible and doubles the likelihood of attaining PC. Although patients achieving PC had higher baseline risk, their mortality was reduced by 50% compared to those not achieving PC. These data support the use of CADS in the setting of ACS to improve quality of care and subsequent outcomes.
An Exploration into Semantic Distance

The notion of semantic distance or similarity measurement is closely related to the process of categorization. Any theory of measurement must take into account some real-world results from cognitive science: it is not possible to make a priori judgments about how similar are two random concepts.
Ultra-wideband and high-gain parametric amplification in telecom wavelengths with an optimally mode-matched PPLN waveguide

We report a wideband optical parametric amplification (OPA) over 14 THz covering telecom S, C, and L bands with observed maximum parametric gain of 38.3 dB. The OPA is realized through cascaded second-harmonic generation and difference-frequency generation (cSHG-DFG) in a 2 cm periodically poled LiNbO3 (PPLN) waveguide. With tailored cross section geometry, the waveguide is optimally mode matched for efficient cascaded nonlinear wave mixing. We also identify and study the effect of competing nonlinear processes in this cSHG-DFG configuration.
Contact interactions between cells that suppress neoplastic development: can they also explain metastatic dormancy?

A comprehensive listing with accompanying discussions is given for established cases of interactions between normal and neoplastic cells of the same histotype that suppress neoplastic development. General principles that apply to the process are: (a) the requirement for a large excess of normal cells in direct contact with the neoplastic cells; (b) the effectiveness of suppression decreases with the degree of malignant progression of the neoplastic cells; and (c) the transformability of normal cells decreases under long‐term negative selection, which also increases their contact suppression of neoplastic cells. Although suppression requires adhesive contact, it does not require gap junction communication, and it represents the first line of defense against tumor development. In contrast, potentially metastatic cells released from primary carcinomas into the circulation are activated to multiply when they form heterotypic adhesions with endothelial and parenchymal cells of distant organs. The great majority of the disseminated cancer cells (DCCs) fail to develop heterotypic cells adhesions in distant organs, and remain metastatically dormant as single cells. The lack of growth factors for the DCC in foreign territory also contributes to metastatic dormancy. The major insights about suppression of neoplastic development by homotypic contact arose from strictly operational experiments with living cells in culture. Molecular characterization of the cell–cell adhesions that underlie neoplastic suppression and metastasis activation has had only limited success, probably because of the complex variety of molecules involved. Hence, a program is outlined for further operational experiments on cell–cell interactions in tumor suppression to deepen our understanding of the neoplastic process, and provide possible avenues for its control.