cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Primary, return and onward migration in the U.S. and Canada: is there a difference?

Using microdata sources available from the U.S. Census Bureau and Statistics Canada this paper contrasts primary return and onward migration in the two countries. These classifications are based on information on the region (state or province) of birth and region of residence at the start and end of the census period. To study the propensities to make a primary return or onward migration rates are calculated...and compared with previous census periods. Analysis reveals that both countries have experienced similar temporal patterns and that primary return and onward migration patterns tend to be similar. Analysis using a nested logit model further reveals that return and onward migration in both countries can be similarly explained. Data are from the Public Use Micro Sample (PUMS) for the United States and the Public Use Micro File (PUMF) for Canada. (EXCERPT)
Meta-analysis of interventions to increase physical activity among cardiac subjects.

Abstract Background Extensive primary research has tested interventions to increase physical activity (PA) among adults with cardiovascular disease. This meta-analysis integrates the extant research about how to increase PA in cardiac samples. Methods Extensive literature searching located published and unpublished intervention studies that measured PA outcomes. Results were coded from primary studies. Fixed- and random-effects meta-analytic procedures included moderator analyses. Results Data were synthesized across 11,877 subjects from 79 eligible research reports. The overall mean PA effect size for 2-group comparisons was 0.35 (higher mean for treatment than control), which is consistent with a difference of 1984 kcal/week for treatment subjects versus 1615 for control subjects. The fitness effect size for 2-group comparisons was .17. Other statistically significantly positive 2-group effect sizes were .24 for quality of life and .23 for subsequent cardiac events. Effect sizes for anthropometric measures and blood pressure did not differ significantly from 0. Exploratory moderator analyses found large effect sizes for PA among studies that had (1) an exclusive focus on PA versus diverse health behaviors, (2) more contact between interventionists and subjects, (3) supervised exercise sessions, (4) fitness testing, (5) face-to-face encounters versus mediated intervention delivery, and (6) more minutes of activity per week. Effect sizes were unrelated to funding status, dissemination vehicle, gender distribution, or attrition rate. Conclusions These findings document that interventions can be effective in increasing PA among patients with cardiovascular diseases. Primary research should compare interventions in randomized trials to confirm causal relationships.
Glass—A Continuing Challenge to Chemistry

This review of the modern chemistry of glass shows that silicate glasses are extremely reactive materials. Compositions, phases, surfaces, and structures can be manipulated in endless variety, and there is no foreseeable limit to the benefits of research in this area.
US executives’ post 9/11 perceptions of competing middle eastern nations as foreign direct investment options

In this study, perceptual mapping was used to identify the post 9/11 positions of ten, competing Middle Eastern nations as foreign direct investment (FDI) options. The perceived position of the “ideal” nation also was identified. FDI executives indicated that a limited number of Middle Eastern nations are positioned to benefit from future foreign direct investments. However, none of the nations studied hold a strategically superior position. The stability of a nation’s political and economic risk, economic opportunities, and natural resources contributes to a nation’s perceived position. Some nations face more significant FDI obstacles than others.
Synchrotron X-Ray Fluorescent Imaging and Spectroscopy Studies of the Role of Copper in the Stem Cell Niche Architecture of Adult Neural Stem Cells

Improvements in sensitivity and spatial resolution of X-ray fluorescent (XRF) imaging and spectroscopy allowed us to study the distribution of metals in brain tissues. We discovered the specific Cu enrichment in cells in the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the lateral ventricle. This area in the brain contains adult neural stem cells (NSCs). NSCs niche architecture enables to continuously generate functional neurons in specific brain regions throughout life. Knowledge about the mechanisms controlling NSCs self-renewal, proliferation and differentiation is of critical importance for future therapeutic interventions of major brain disorders.XRF-imaging with sub-cellular (200 nm) resolution on rat brains demonstrated that sub-population of cells in the SVZ builds up sub-cellular Cu accumulations. The Cu concentration inside these structures is as high as 50 mM. It is well established that SVZ has four types of cells: ependymal cells, type B progenitors, type C transit amplifying cells and type A migrating neuroblasts. Imaging the Br signal in brains of BrdU treated rats, we found that actively dividing cells are largely depleted of Cu accumulations. However, cells surrounding actively dividing cells, which are assigned to type B progenitors, demonstrate significant Cu accumulations. Cu K-edge micro-XANES demonstrated that Cu is in Cu(I) form with and spectrum has shape characteristic of a Cu(I)-thiolate multimetallic cluster. The Cu co-localizes with increased sulfur signal which allows quantitation of the Cu/S content.Copper is known to play an important role in the brain's development and function. However, the role of Cu in the viability and control of the NSCs is presently unknown. Our study is a first attempt to look at the role of Cu in mechanisms controlling the NSCs.
Catenins: playing both sides of the synapse.

Synapses of the central nervous system (CNS) are specialized cell–cell junctions that mediate intercellular signal transmission from one neuron to another. The directional nature of signal relay requires synaptic contacts to be morphologically asymmetric with distinct protein components, while changes in synaptic communication during neural network formation require synapses to be plastic. Synapse morphology and plasticity require a dynamic actin cytoskeleton. Classical cadherins, which are junctional proteins associated with the actin cytoskeleton, localize to synapses and regulate synaptic adhesion, stability and remodeling. The major intracellular components of cadherin junctions are the catenin proteins, and increasing evidence suggests that cadherin–catenin complexes modulate an array of synaptic processes. Here we review the role of catenins in regulating the development of pre- and postsynaptic compartments and function in synaptic plasticity, with particular focus on their role in regulating the actin cytoskeleton.
The preparation, isomerization, and characterization of some phosphagerma- and arsagermacarboranes

Abstract Treatment of the disodium salts of 7,8- and 7,9-B 9 H 9 CHE 2− with germanium diiodide in refluxing benzene results in the formation of 1,2,3- and 1,2,7-GeB 9 H 9 CHE (E = P or As), icosahedral boranes containing three different heteroatoms in the cage. Heating 1,2,7-GeB 9 H 9 CHP at 512° for 8 hours in an evacuated sealed tube yields a mixture of three new isomers one of which has been isolated and characterized.
Fatima El-Tayeb. European Others: Queering Ethnicity in Postnational Europe

European Others: Queering Ethnicity in Postnational Europe is a book about cultural practice, identity and resistance among racialized minorities in continental Western Europe. Fatima El-Tayeb docu...
Southern Green Stink Bug and Leaffooted Bug: Effect on Cowpea Production

Outdoor screen cage tests conducted in 1979 and 1980 showed that the southern green stink bug (SGSB), Nezara viridula (L.), and the leaffooted bug (LFB), Leptoglossus phyllopus (L.), cause significant loss of yield in cowpeas. Initial infestations of cowpeas at early bloom (1979) with SGSB at three adults per plant resulted in 100% pod damage, a 99% average rate of seed abortion, a 100% loss in total seed yield, a 71% average increase in vine weight, and increases of over 100% in the number of pod abscission scars on the peduncles. Treatments with the SGSB at three adults per plant applied at late bloom (1980) caused 28% pod damage, a 41% average rate of seed abortion, a 74% loss in total seed yield, >100% increase in vine weight, and > 100% increase in numbers of pod abscission scars. Initial infestation with three LFB adults per plant during early bloom (1979) caused an average of 22% pod damage, a 63% average rate of seed abortion, and an average loss in total seed yield of 54%, whereas late-bloom infestations (1980) caused a 22% loss in total seed yield. The LFB had no significant effect on vine weight or pod abscission at either infestation time.
Negative Feedback Effects of Progesterone Correlated with Changes in Hypothalamic Norepinephrine and Dopamine Turnover Rates, Median Eminence Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone, and Peripheral Plasma Gonadotropins

Progesterone (P) amplifies and advances gonadotropin surges when administered to estradiol (E2)-treated ovariectomized rats. While daily rhythmic LH surges continue to occur in E2-treated rats, they are extinguished in E2- and P (E2P)-treated animals 24 h after P treatment. We examined whether this negative feedback effect on P affect catecholamine activity within the median eminence, medial preoptic nucleus, arcuate nucleus, and suprachiasmatic nucleus and also the changes which occur in median eminence LHRH concentrations. Twenty-four hours after P exposure, LH and FSH surges in E2P-treated rats are extinguished, and the magnitude of the PRL surge is reduced. In E2-treated rats, there is an increase in medial preoptic nucleus, suprachiasmatic nucleus, and median eminence NE turnover rates from 1000--1200 to 1500--1700 h, but these changed in NE activity do not occur in E2-treated rats which received P 24 h earlier. Rather, such E2P-treated animals have markedly elevated medial preoptic nucleus, arcuate nucleus, and median eminence DA turnover rates during the period that plasma gonadotropin levels are suppressed. No differences in median eminence LHRH concentrations in E2- or E2P-treated rats were detected. P may exert its negative feedback action in suppressing LH, FSH, and PRL release by blocking activation of the hypothalamic noradrenergic system and by increasing dopaminergic activity within the tuberoinfundibular system.
Bochner-Riesz means with respect to a rough distance function

The generalized Bochner-Riesz operator S R,λ may be defined as S R,λ f(x)=F -1 [(1-ρ R) λ + f](x) where p is an appropriate distance function and F -1 is the inverse Fourier transform. The behavior of S R,λ on L P (R d x R) is described for p(ξ', ξ d+1 ) = max{|ξ'|, |ξ d+1 |}, a rough distance function. We conjecture that this operator is bounded on R d x R when λ> max{d(1 2-1 p)-1 2, 0} and p < 2 + 6 d-3, and unbounded when p≥2+6 d-3. This conjecture is verified for large ranges of p.
Separation of a lipoprotein lipase cofactor from the α1-acid glycoprotein fraction from the urine of nephrotic patients

Abstract Previously, we showed that the α1-acid glycoprotein fraction from the urine of nephrotic patients stimulates triacylglycerol hydrolysis in a lipoprotein lipase assay system. This fraction also accelerates triacylglycerol clearance in vivo in a nephrotic rat model. Based on these observations, we postulated that the hyperlipemia in nephrotic patients may be directly related to the urinary loss of the active α1 -acid glycoprotein fraction which could lead to reduced plasma levels of this lipoprotein lipase cofactor. In the present report we show that the stimulatory activity can be separated from the active α1-acid glycoprotein fraction by DEAE-cellulose chromatography and the conditions necessary for elution (1.0 M NaCl) are indicative of a molecular class of compounds with high negative charge. From additional data, such as precipitation by lysozyme, electrophoretic mobility, toluidine blue staining and the presence of uronic acid, we have concluded that the activity-containing material is a glycosaminoglycan. Gel filtration data suggest that the active α1-acid glycoprotein fraction from urine of nephrotic patients consists of two components: free α1-acid glycoprotein and a glycosaminoglycan- α1-acid glycoprotein complex. This complex can be precipitated by lysozyme leaving free α1-acid glycoprotein in the supernatant. Since the glycosaminoglycan associated with the α1-acid glycoprotein in urine appears to have a cofactor function in the lipoprotein lipase enzyme reaction, we postulate that it is the urinary loss of plasma glycosaminoglycan that may be responsible for the hyperlipemia associated with the nephrotic syndrome.
Alveolar hemorrhage associated with a membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis and smooth muscle antibody

Abstract Alveolar hemorrhage along with glomerulonephritis developed in a 31-year-old black man. Renal biopsy demonstrated a granular pattern of immunofluorescence along basement membrane glomeruli, suggesting an immunologically mediated illness; however, light microscopy revealed a pure membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, which has not been described to date in association with the alveolar hemorrhage syndromes. The patient's immunologic profile revealed a positive anti-nuclear antibody titer along with the presence of smooth muscle antibodies.
Brief report: impact of child problem behaviors and parental broad autism phenotype traits on substance use among parents of children with ASD

Using data from the Simons Simplex Collection, the present study examined the impact of child externalizing behavior and parental broad autism phenotype traits on substance use among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (n = 2,388). For both fathers and mothers, child externalizing behaviors predicted tobacco use (OR = 1.01 and OR = 1.02, respectively), whereas rigidity increased risk of tobacco use for fathers (OR = 1.29) but not mothers. Additionally, among mothers, child externalizing behaviors increased risk of illegal substance use (OR = 1.04), whereas maternal rigidity decreased risk of alcohol use (OR = .83). Collectively, results suggest that child externalizing behaviors and parental rigidity may have differing impacts on the types of substances used by parents.
Soft-Sphere Model for Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance: Rare-Earth Trichlorides under Hydrostatic Pressure

Nuclear quadrupole resonance of ${\mathrm{Cl}}^{35}$ in five hexagonal rare-earth trichlorides under hydro-static pressure up to 5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{3}$ kg/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ showed a decrease in frequency $\ensuremath{\nu}$ with increase in pressure. The normalized pressure coefficients ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{0}^{\ensuremath{-}1} {(\frac{\ensuremath{\partial}\ensuremath{\nu}}{\ensuremath{\partial}P})}_{T}$ varied smoothly between the extremes (-5.586 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.020) \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} (${10}^{\ensuremath{-}6}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/kg) and (-3.855 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.016) \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} (${10}^{\ensuremath{-}6}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/kg) for Ce${\mathrm{Cl}}_{3}$ and Gd${\mathrm{Cl}}_{3}$, respectively. The negative sign suggested a model with a significant overlap contribution to the electric field gradient and a soft-sphere model was developed in analogy to the Born-Mayer model of inter-ionic repulsive forces. This model proved adequate to explain the systematic variations in ${\ensuremath{\nu}}_{Q}$ with compound and was consistent with the pressure dependence of $\ensuremath{\nu}$. The use of pressure data as a critical test for the model must await reliable compressibility data for the compounds. Pressure data for monoclinic Er${\mathrm{Cl}}_{3}$ and Yb${\mathrm{Cl}}_{3}$ are also presented.
A BRISC-SHMT Complex Deubiquitinates IFNAR1 and Regulates Interferon Responses

Lysine63-linked ubiquitin (K63-Ub) chains represent a particular ubiquitin topology that mediates proteasome-independent signaling events. The deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) BRCC36 segregates into distinct nuclear and cytoplasmic complexes that are specific for K63-Ub hydrolysis. RAP80 targets the five-member nuclear BRCC36 complex to K63-Ub chains at DNA double-strand breaks. The alternative four-member BRCC36 containing complex (BRISC) lacks a known targeting moiety. Here, we identify serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) as a previously unappreciated component that fulfills this function. SHMT directs BRISC activity at K63-Ub chains conjugated to the type 1 interferon (IFN) receptor chain 1 (IFNAR1). BRISC-SHMT2 complexes localize to and deubiquitinate actively engaged IFNAR1, thus limiting its K63-Ub-mediated internalization and lysosomal degradation. BRISC-deficient cells and mice exhibit attenuated responses to IFN and are protected from IFN-associated immunopathology. These studies reveal a mechanism of DUB regulation and suggest a therapeutic use of BRISC inhibitors for treating pathophysiological processes driven by elevated IFN responses.
Fluoro-Substituted Polysiloxanes. I. Synthesis of Poly(p-Fluorophenylmethylsiloxane)

Abstract The monomer chosen for the synthesis of this polymer, diethoxy-p-fluorophenylmethylsilane, was prepared by the Grignard reaction of methyltriethoxysilane with p-fluorophenyl magnesium bromide. The structure and purity of the monomer were characterized by gas chromatography and mass, infrared, and proton NMR spectroscopy. It was hydrolyzed in aqueous HCI solution and then polymerized by dehydration and ring-chain equilibration. The resulting polymer, poly(p-fluorophenylmethylsiloxane) [-Si(p-C6H4F)(CH3)O-]x was characterized by infrared spectroscopy, and proton and fluorine NMR spectroscopy. Its number-averagemolecular weight. approximately 7 × 104 g mol−1, may be high enough for evaluation of this material as a gas-separation membrane.
Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development: A Macroergonomics Perspective

This paper examines and discusses the implications of a macroergonomic perspective for assimilating advanced manufacturing technological innovations into an organization's human infrastructure. A framework for integrating sociotechnical systems and advanced manufacturing technology design is presented which identifies first-and second-order effects of the new technology on the human infrastructure. The Human Infrastructure Impact Statement (HISS) operationalizes these concepts into a systematic assessment tool. This paper ends with a brief list of some of the pertinent macroergonomic decisions that a manager and a macroergonomist must consider in implementing and designing Advance Manufacturing Technologies.
PROTON--NUCLEUS SCATTERING AND THE NUCLEAR FORWARD-SCATTERING AMPLITUDE.

It is possible to extract the nuclear part of the forward-scattering amplitude from small-angle proton-nucleus elastic scattering. The process is complicated in practice by the effects of experimental errors and theoretical approximations. Optical-model calculations are done, using 14.5-MeV protons on $^{16}\mathrm{O}$, $^{40}\mathrm{Ca}$, and $^{90}\mathrm{Zr}$, to examine the effects of these uncertainties on the determination of the nuclear forward amplitude.
When Patients Teach Their Doctors: A Curriculum for Geriatric Education.

In response to aging patient demographics and a call for increased formal geriatric training in medical schools, a community volunteer geriatric mentor program, Bridging Generations, was developed to shape attitudes of medical students caring for the elderly. The geriatric mentor experience provided students with unique insight into the challenges and joys that accompany aging and encouraged the medical students to become empathetic and knowledgeable providers of care for geriatric patients.
Bucindolol, a beta-adrenoceptor blocker with vasodilatory action: Its effect in systemic hypertension

Abstract Bucindolol is a newly developed, nonselective β-adrenergic blocking agent with intrinsic sympathomimetic activity and direct vasodilator properties. In 14 patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension, the effects of bucindolol, hydrochlorothiazide and their combination on blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR) and parameters of the reninaldosterone system were compared with those after placebo. Bucindolol's antihypertensive effect was evident within the first hour after drug administration, maximal at 2 to 3 hours, and lasted for as long as 12 hours. Compared with placebo values (108 ± 5 mm Hg ), both bucindolol (97 ± 9 mm Hg ) and hydrochlorothiazide (99 ± 10 mm Hg ) alone significantly and comparably reduced the 12-hour averaged standing diastolic BP, with the combination resulting in approximately additive effects (91 ± 9 mm Hg ). Although bucindolol alone did not affect HR, it attenuated the hydrochlorothiazide-induced increase in HR. There was a tendency for bucindolol to decrease plasma renin activity. Except for transient postural hypotension in 2 patients, bucindolol was well tolerated.
Soft Data – Hard Data: The Painful Art of Fence‐Sitting

Considers the dichotomy of soft data/hard data that exists in traditional market research. Argues that by developing a long‐run orientation and a pluralistic approach to research designs, soft data and hard data can be combined in complementary ways, and cites a recent case example. Concludes that in the light of the increasingly rapid changes in customer lifestyles markets, and competition, a unidimensional research approach can only be detrimental.
Diphenylamine-2-carboxylate (DPC) inhibits both Cl- conductance and cyclooxygenase of canine tracheal epithelium.

Diphenylamine-2-carboxylate (DPC) decreases Cl− conductance (G Cl) in epithelia and cells of several tissues, an effect which has been ascribed to blockade of conductive Cl− channels. However, one DPC derivative, flufenamic acid, is a clinically useful non-steroidal antiinflammatory agent, the mechanism of action of which involves the blockade of arachidonic acid metabolism by cyclooxygenase. BecauseG Cl in canine tracheal epithelium is stimulated by exogenous prostaglandins and induction of cyclooxygenase activity, we tested the hypothesi that DPC inhibits dog tracheal epitheliumG Cl through inhibition of cyclooxygenase. DPC inhibited the short circuit current of amiloride-pretreated tissues by 50% at 0.138 mmol/l and by more than 95% at 3 mmol/l. Isoproterenol reversed the inhibition seen at 0.1 mmol/l DPC and stimulated current above control (indomethacin-pretreated) levels. Higher concentrations of DPC diminished the stimulation of current by subsequent exposure to isoproterenol, such that there was little effect of isoproterenol in the presence of 3 mmol/l DPC. DPC, 0.1 mmol/l, also blocked stimulation of current by exogenous arachidonic acid, but not of exogenous prostaglandins PGE or PGD. The metabolism of3H-arachidonic acid to3H-PGD2, monitored by HPLC, was completely blocked by 0.1 mmol/l DPC. We conclude that the isoproterenol/prostaglandin reversible blockade ofG Cl by DPC can be attributed to inhibition of arachidonic acid metabolism.
If I Had to Choose

The charge is clear. Ignoring the intrusion of reality, Jim Rettig asks you to create a reference service of ten sources on a desert island. Let's, then, imagine a primitive, yet pleasant spot where prospects of good health and food are matched by comfortable housing and a total lack of smiling, sincere television newscasters. Your companions are compatible, enjoy conversation, and are fond, particularly, of browsing in reference books. At this point the rules of experience, education and culture foretell the magic list of ten. One may name the works quickly, and without much need for discussion: World Book, World Almanac, Webster's Third New International Dictionary of the American Language, Oxford English Dictionary, Bartlett's Familiar Quotations, Times Atlas of the World, Statistical Abstract of the U.S., United States Government Manual, Statesman's Yearbook, and the Dictionary of American Biography.
Probing peroxisomal β-oxidation and the labelling of acetyl-CoA proxies with [1-13C]octanoate and [3-13C]octanoate in the perfused rat liver

We reported previously that a substantial fraction of the acetyl groups used to synthesize malonyl-CoA in rat heart is derived from peroxisomal β-oxidation of long-chain and very-long-chain fatty acids. This conclusion was based on the interpretation of the 13C-labelling ratio (malonyl-CoA)/(acetyl moiety of citrate) measured in the presence of substrates that label acetyl-CoA in mitochondria only (ratio 1.0). The goals of the present study were to test, in rat livers perfused with [1-13C]octanoate or [3-13C]octanoate, (i) whether peroxisomal β-oxidation contributes acetyl groups for malonyl-CoA synthesis, and (ii) the degree of labelling homogeneity of acetyl-CoA proxies (acetyl moiety of citrate, acetate, β-hydroxybutyrate, malonyl-CoA and acetylcarnitine). Our data show that (i) octanoate undergoes two cycles of peroxisomal β-oxidation in liver, (ii) acetyl groups formed in peroxisomes contribute to malonyl-CoA synthesis, (iii) the labelling of acetyl-CoA proxies is markedly heterogeneous, and (iv) the labelling of C1+2 of β-hydroxybutyrate does not reflect the labelling of acetyl-CoA used in the citric acid cycle.
Towards accurate residue-residue hydrophobic contact prediction for alpha helical proteins via integer linear optimization.

A new optimization-based method is presented to predict the hydrophobic residue contacts in α-helical proteins. The proposed approach uses a high resolution distance dependent force field to calculate the interaction energy between different residues of a protein. The formulation predicts the hydrophobic contacts by minimizing the sum of these contact energies. These residue contacts are highly useful in narrowing down the conformational space searched by protein structure prediction algorithms. The proposed algorithm also offers the algorithmic advantage of producing a rank ordered list of the best contact sets. This model was tested on four independent α-helical protein test sets and was found to perform very well. The average accuracy of the predictions (separated by at least six residues) obtained using the presented method was ∼66% for single domain proteins. The average true positive and false positive distances were also calculated for each protein test set and they are 8.87 and 14.67 A, respectively. Proteins 2009. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Stellar collapse without singularities

For the singularity theorems of Hawking and Penrose to hold, the stress-energy tensor of matter must satisfy certain restrictions. A model is developed representing the interior of a collapsing, spherically symmetric cloud of matter, which is everywhere free of singularities, due to a relaxation of the so-called "weak energy condition." The regions of the model in which the condition must be violated, and the properties of matter and energy which result, are determined. The indications are that, at least in spherically symmetric cases involving very large masses, the energy condition must be violated in a region where the density is no larger than normal matter densities, which seems physically implausible. Hence suspending the energy conditions may not be a reasonable approach to the avoidance of singularities.
IN VIVO OVEREXPRESSION OF FLT3 LIGAND EXPANDS AND ACTIVATES MURINE SPLEEN NATURAL KILLER DENDRITIC CELLS

Natural killer dendritic cells (NKDC) are a unique class of murine immune cells that possess the characteristics of both natural killer (NK) cells and dendritic cells (DC). Because NKDC are able to secrete IFN-γ, directly lyse tumor cells, and present antigen to naive T cells, they have immunotherapeutic potential. The relative paucity of NKDC, however, impedes their detailed study. We have found that in vivo, overexpression of the hematopoietic cytokine Flt3 ligand (Flt3L) expands NKDC in various organs from 2–18 fold. Flt3L expanded splenic NKDC retain the ability to lyse tumor cells and become considerably more potent at activating naive allogeneic and antigen-specific T cells. Compared to normal splenic NKDC, Flt3L-expanded splenic NKDC have a more mature phenotype, a slightly increased ability to capture and process antigen, and a similar cytokine profile. In vivo, we found that Flt3L-expanded splenic NKDC are more effective than normal splenic NKDC in stimulating antigen-specific CD8 T cells. Additi...
What types of hospitals form the safety net

ABSTRACT: This analysis describes hospitals that provide large amounts of uncompensated care and hospitals with sizable teaching programs, using data from the American Hospital Association. Despite...
Massively parallel characterization of restriction endonucleases

Restriction endonucleases are highly specific in recognizing the particular DNA sequence they act on. However, their activity is affected by sequence context, enzyme concentration and buffer composition. Changes in these factors may lead to either ineffective cleavage at the cognate restriction site or relaxed specificity allowing cleavage of degenerate ‘star’ sites. Additionally, uncharacterized restriction endonucleases and engineered variants present novel activities. Traditionally, restriction endonuclease activity is assayed on simple substrates such as plasmids and synthesized oligonucleotides. We present and use high-throughput Illumina sequencing-based strategies to assay the sequence specificity and flanking sequence preference of restriction endonucleases. The techniques use fragmented DNA from sequenced genomes to quantify restriction endonuclease cleavage on a complex genomic DNA substrate in a single reaction. By mapping millions of restriction site–flanking reads back to the Escherichia coli and Drosophila melanogaster genomes we were able to quantitatively characterize the cognate and star site activity of EcoRI and MfeI and demonstrate genome-wide decreases in star activity with engineered high-fidelity variants EcoRI-HF and MfeI-HF, as well as quantify the influence on MfeI cleavage conferred by flanking nucleotides. The methods presented are readily applicable to all type II restriction endonucleases that cleave both strands of double-stranded DNA.
Brain volumes in psychotic youth with schizophrenia and mood disorders

Background: We sought to test the hypothesis that deficits in grey matter volume are characteristic of psychotic youth with early-onset schizophrenia-spectrum disorders (EOSS) but not of psychotic youth with early-onset mood disorders (EOMD). Methods: We used magnetic resonance imaging to examine brain volume in 24 psychotic youth (13 male, 11 female) with EOSS (n = 12) or EOMD (n = 12) and 17 healthy controls (10 male, 7 female). We measured the volume of grey and white matter using an automated segmentation program. Results: After adjustment for age and intracranial volume, whole brain volume was lower in the EOSS patients than in the healthy controls (p = 0.001) and EOMD patients (p = 0.002). The EOSS patients had a deficit in grey matter volume (p = 0.005), especially in the frontal (p = 0.003) and parietal (p = 0.006) lobes, with no significant differences in white matter volume. Limitations: The main limitations of our study were its small sample size and the inclusion of patients with depression and mania in the affective group. Conclusion: Adolescents with EOSS have grey matter deficits compared with healthy controls and psychotic adolescents with EOMD. Our results suggest that grey matter deficits are not generally associated with psychosis but may be specifically associated with schizophrenia. Larger studies with consistent methods are needed to reconcile the contradictory findings among imaging studies involving psychotic youth.
γ-Hydroxybutyric Acid in Subcellular Fractions of Rat Brain

The presence of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) in synaptosome-enriched fractions of rat brain was ascertained using a GLC technique. The stability of GHB in synaptosomes was evaluated by addition of various gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transaminase (GABA-T) inhibitors, GHB, or ethosuximide to the homogenizing medium. Furthermore, changes in whole brain GHB levels were compared with those in the synaptosomal fraction in animals treated with GABA-T inhibitors, GABA, or ethosuximide. GHB was present in synaptosome-enriched fractions in concentrations ranging from 40 to 70 pmol/mg of protein. There was no evidence for redistribution, leakage, or metabolism of GHB during the preparation of synaptosomes. The elevations of whole brain GHB level associated with GABA-T or ethosuximide treatment were reflected by a parallel increase in synaptosomal GHB content. These data add to the growing evidence that GHB may have neurotransmitter or neuromodulator function.
Fragmentation of α2 Plates in a Fully Lamellar TiAl During Creep

The fragmentation and spheroidization of α 2 laths in a fully-lamellar TiAl alloy during creep were examined. Three possible mechanisms, Rayleigh's perturbation model, subgrain boundary groove mechanism and intersection of deformation twins with α 2 lamellae were presented and discussed. During creep deformation, the pile-up of interfacial dislocations leads to a change of planar interface, which, in turn, causes a difference in local chemical potential, and further results in the spheroidization of α 2 lamellae. On the other hand, the deformation of the α 2 phase is expected to be induced by the high local stress concentration introduced by the pile up of interfacial dislocations. The dynamic recovery process may lead to the formation of subgrain boundaries in the α 2 lamellae, which results in the spheroidization and termination of α 2 lamellae with the aid of diffusion during creep.
Schlieren Imaging of the Aerodynamic Flow Field Induced by a Paraelectric Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) Plasma Actuator

Schlieren imaging methods respond to density gradients in gases and are used in aerodynamic research to visualize the structure of atmospheric pressure flow fields. We have used this method to study the flow induced in atmospheric pressure air by electrohydrodynamic body forces generated by a single paraelectric plasma actuator energized in the filamentary mode of operation. The schlieren images show the absence of significant vertical flow and also show an induced boundary layer flow no more than a few millimeters thick.
Replacement of ParC α4 Helix with That of GyrA Increases the Stability and Cytotoxicity of Topoisomerase IV-Quinolone-DNA Ternary Complexes

Replacement of the α4 helix of ParC with that of GyrA increased the stability of topoisomerase IV-quinolone-DNA ternary complexes. This mutant topoisomerase IV-mediated cell killing was more efficient than topoisomerase IV-mediated cell killing in Escherichia coli. Thus, the α4 helix plays critical roles in determining the stability and the cytotoxicity of ternary complexes.
Full frequency diversity codes for single input single output systems

Due to the severe conditions of wireless channels, it is crucial for wireless systems to accommodate some sort of diversity to achieve reliable communication. Different types of diversity techniques such as temporal, frequency, code, and spatial have been developed in the literature. In addition to the destructive multipath nature of wireless channel frequency selective channels pose intersymbol interference (ISI) while offering frequency diversity for successfully designed systems. Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) has been shown to fight ISI very well by converting the frequency selective channel into parallel flat fading channels. On the other hand, bit interleaved coded modulation (BICM) was shown by Zehavi (IEEE Trans. Comm.. vol. 40, no. 5, pp. 873-884, 1992) and later by Caire et al (IEEE Trans. Inform. Theory vol. 44, no. 3, 1998) to have high performance for flat fading Rayleigh channels. It is natural to combine BICM and OFDM to exploit the common ground of both techniques to improve overall system performance. In this paper we show both analytically and via simulations that for L tap frequency selective fading channels, BICM-OFDM can achieve a diversity order of min(d/sub free./ L), where d/sub free/ is the minimum Hamming distance of the convolutional code used for BICM.
InfoCrystal: A visual tool for information retrieval

This paper introduces a novel representation, called the InfoCrystal, that can be used as a visualization tool as well as a visual query language to help users search for information. The InfoCrystal visualizes all the possible relationships among N concepts. Users can assign relevance weights to the concepts and use thresholding to select relationships of interest. The InfoCrystal allows users to specify Boolean as well as vector-space queries graphically. Arbitrarily complex queries can be created by using the InfoCrystals as building blocks and organizing them in a hierarchical structure. The InfoCrystal enables users to explore and filter information in a flexible, dynamic and interactive way. >
Parametric Identification of Nondegrading Hysteresis in a Laterally and Torsionally Coupled Building Using an Unscented Kalman Filter

AbstractA parametric approach is proposed for identifying the inelastic response of individual elements, which provide resistance against lateral loads in torsionally coupled buildings. Depending on the severity of the ground shaking in each lateral direction and the amount of eccentricity, different lateral load resisting elements (LLREs) will experience different levels of permanent deformation and energy dissipation based on their location and orientation. The proposed method utilizes the well-known Bouc-Wen model for representing the hysteretic response of each LLRE. An unscented Kalman filtering approach is implemented for identifying the Bouc-Wen model parameters, and for direct estimation of the force-displacement loops experienced by each LLRE during damaging seismic events. The simulated response of a single-story building to ground motion is used for demonstrating the utility of the proposed method, which may also be applied to multistory frames in a straightforward fashion, if certain instrumen...
That Dog Is Smarter Than You Know: Advances in Understanding Canine Learning, Memory, and Cognition

Tests of canine cognition are now receiving much deserved attention. Not only are dogs excellent models for human anxiety-related conditions and those involving brain aging, but how dogs learn and problem solve are interesting stand-alone topics. A number of factors can affect learning at the molecular level including stress or distress, factors that affect olfaction, effects of breed and nutritional factors including that may affect available brain energy. This review provides an overview of how these factors may affect baseline learning and brain aging.
Report of Committee on Lakes, 1942-43

This Committee is the successor to the former Committee on Physical Limnology. The Chairman was notified of his appointment in February, 1943, and the Committee is still in the process of formation. The field of activity of this Committee has not as yet been fully defined and the particular subjects on which it may work have not been selected. Suggestions regarding such subjects and the names of members interested in this field will be welcome.
BEM Formulations for Body Forces Using Particular Integrals

BEM formulations for a class of body force problems have been developed by utilizing the well known method of constructing the solutions of governing differential equations by means of complimentary functions and particular integrals. The method has been applied to problems involving centrifugal loading, self weight, free-vibration, acoustic eigenfrequency analysis, thermal and elastoplastic problems. Under the sponsorship of NASA-Lewis Center, the developed analyses have been incorporated in a large general purpose engineering analysis system which allows for complex multiregion assembly, self-adaptive integration with automatic error control, local boundary conditions, sliding interfaces, cyclic symmetry, etc. A series of examples are shown to demonstrate that these have been fully developed for engineering analyses.
Reversal in Africa

Acemoglu, Johnson, and Robinson (2002) document a 'Reversal of Fortune' among former European colonies. Former colonies that were relatively advanced in 1500, measured by urbanization rates and population density, are comparatively poor today. Although, when using population density data, they include sub-Saharan Africa in the sample, it is not examined in isolation. The contribution of this paper is to explore, focusing solely on sub-Saharan Africa, whether estimates of initial population density in 1500 are correlated with economic outcomes today. It is found that population density in 1500 is strongly negatively correlated with current GDP per capita, even after controlling for latitude, ethnolinguistic fractionalization, fraction of current population of European descent, identity of colonizing power, and whether a country is landlocked or not. The robustness of these results to dropping various countries from the sample, such as the island nations and countries in southern Africa, is also tested. In addition, two possible channels are examined through which population density in 1500 could affect income today: institutional quality and human capital. These findings highlight one historical factor that helps explain current income variation within sub-Saharan Africa.
Ocean Distribution of Dungeness Crab Megalopae and Recruitment Patterns to Estuaries in Southern Washington State

We investigated the distribution of meroplankton and water properties off southern Washington and simultaneously measured time series of larval abundance and water properties in two adjacent estuaries, Grays Harbor and Willapa Bay. The cruise period, in late May 1999, coincided with large variation in the alongshore wind stress that caused dynamic change in the position of the Columbia River plume, coastal upelling and downwelling, and offshore phytoplankton production. In the coastal ocean, meroplankton groups responded differently to this wind event and the associated advection of water masses. Dungeness crab (Cancer magister) megalopae were largely indifferent to the wide salinity variation, and were found throughout the surveyed area in both plume and recently upwelled waters. Megalopae of kelp crab (Pugettia producta) and hermit crab (Pagurus spp). were more abundant in upwelled water and low numbers were caught in the plume water. Barnacle cyprids appeared to track the advective transport suggesting that they may be more passively dispersed. Within the estuaries, hydrography responded rapidly and synchronously to variation in wind stress. Intrusions of both plume and newly upwelled waters were detected at estuarine sites, depending on the type of water present at the coast, indicating a tight link between the estuaries and the coastal ocean in this region. A 90-d record ofC. magister megalopae abundance was made at 3 estuarine sites using light traps. The bulk of theC. magister recruitment was limited to a relatively brief period in late May through June. Within this window, megalopae occurred in distinct pulses of 3–5 d interspaced with periods of low or zero abundance.C. magister megalopae recruited to the estuaries over a wide range of wind forcing, and were transported into the estuary within varied water types. There were no periodic patterns indicative of spring-neap tidal variations in the abundance time series. Abundance was only weakly cross-correlated between the adjacent Grays Harbor and Willapa Bay estuaries, which contrasts with the more synchronous estuarine-coastal linkages measured for water properties. These results suggest the interaction of larval aggregation size in the ocean with estuary-ocean exchange processes likely controls patterns of estuarine recruitment.
Heat Island Effect Aggravates Mortality

Cases of death during heat waves are most commonly due to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, with the main contribution from the negative effect of heat on the cardiovascular system. In an attempt to control the body temperature, the body’s natural instinct is to circulate large quantities of blood to the skin. However while trying to protect itself from overheating, the body actually harms itself by inducing extra strain on the heart. This excess strain has the potential to trigger a cardiac event in those with chronic health problems, such as the elderly. Those in the U.S.A. between the ages of 65 and 74 are at a higher risk of mortality during heat waves when they are single, have a history of chronic pulmonary disease, or suffer from a psychiatric disorder. In the older group, 75+, single people are again more vulnerable as well as women. The relationship of mortality and temperature creates a J-shaped function, showing a steeper slope at higher temperatures. Records show that more casualties have resulted from heat waves than hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes together. The significance of this is that the U.S. suffers the highest damage total from natural catastrophes annually. Studies held from 1989–2000 in 50 U.S. cities recorded 1.6% more deaths during cold temperature events, as opposed to a staggering 5.7% increase during heat waves. People are at risk when living in large metropolitan areas, especially those mentioned above, due to the heat island effect. Urban areas suffer heat increases from the combination of global warming effects as well as localized heat island properties. It is flawed to claim that the contribution of anthropogenic heat generation to the heat island effect is small. Analyzing the trend of extreme heat events (EHEs) between 1956 and 2005 showed an increase on average of 0.20 days/year, on a 95% confidence interval with uncertainty of ±0.6. This trend follows the recorded data for 2005 with 10 more heat events per city than in 1956. Compact cities experience an average of 5.6 days of extreme heat conditions annually, compared to that of 14.8 for sprawling cities. The regional climate, city populace, or pace of population growth however does not affect this effect. Statistics from the U.S. Census state that the U.S. population without air conditioning saw a drop of 32% from 1978 to 2005, resting at 15%. Despite the increase in air conditioning use, the positive affects of it may have run their course as a critical point may have been reached. A study done by Kalkstein through 2007 proved that the shielding effects of air conditioning reached their terminal effect in the mid-1990s. Heat-related illnesses and mortality rates have slightly decreased since 1980, regardless of the increase in temperatures. This may be in part to the increase in availability of air conditioning, and other protective measures, to the public. Protective factors have mitigated the danger of heat on those vulnerable to it, however projecting forward the heat increment related to sprawl may exceed physiologic adaptation thresholds.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Investigations for Anorectal Disease

Proper evaluation of the broad spectrum of anorectal disease consists of the history and the all-important anorectal physical examination. The anorectal examination is of paramount importance and should be undertaken in a logical, stepwise manner. Many patients who present to a specialist have yet to be examined and are often nervous, apprehensive, and scared. It is the colorectal surgeon’s responsibility and duty to make this examination as comfortable as possible. A proper anorectal examination in the office will yield much information and allow for proper diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Furthermore, endoscopic evaluation allows for a more detailed inspection of the anorectum and distal colon with the advantage of a timely diagnosis and occasional treatment in the office setting. Anal manometry and endoanal ultrasound can be performed in select patients in whom certain anorectal or pelvic floor diseases may exist.