cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterizing the Effects of Droplines on Target Acquisition Performance on a 3-D Perspective Display

The present study investigated the effects of droplines on target acquisition performance on a 3-D perspective display in which participants were required to move a cursor into a target cube as quickly as possible. Participants' performance and coordination strategies were characterized using both Fitts' law and acquisition patterns of the 3 viewer-centered target display dimensions (azimuth, elevation, and range). Participants' movement trajectories were recorded and used to determine movement times for acquisitions of the entire target and of each of its display dimensions. The goodness of fit of the data to a modified Fitts function varied widely among participants, and the presence of droplines did not have observable impacts on the goodness of fit. However, droplines helped participants navigate via straighter paths and particularly benefited range dimension acquisition. A general preference for visually overlapping the target with the cursor prior to capturing the target was found. Potential applications of this research include the design of interactive 3-D perspective displays in which fast and accurate selection and manipulation of content residing at multiple ranges may be a challenge.
Robust energy harvesting from walking vibrations by means of nonlinear cantilever beams

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Naval Engineering Education Center. (Grant 3002883706)
Imperfect Price Discrimination and Welfare

We develop a model in which a monopolist uses differences across consumers in their valuation of time to imperfectly price discriminate. Though it is customary to analyse price discrimination problems by the calculus of variations after postulating a continuum of types, we assume a finite number of types and exploit the geometry and duality of the contract set and the structure of the programming specification. We analyse in detail the qualitative properties of the model's solution and show by construction that our results exhaust the implications of the model for equilibrium contract pairs. We show that imperfect discrimination is not bounded in welfare terms between perfect discrimination and single-price monopoly and that the deadweight loss, consumer surplus and output comparisons between single-price monopoly and imperfect discrimination are ambiguous.
Combining disciplines in rapid appraisal: The Sondeo approach

Abstract Multidisciplinary agricultural research teams can augment information on agricultural technology needs. In Guatemala a reconnaissance survey team of ten, equally split between socio-economists and technologists, has been used to assess farmer constraints and technology needs in advance of agricultural research. Quantified information and questionnaires are not required and the survey lasts only one week. The team investigated farmer conditions in pairs made up of a social scientist and a natural scientist. On each of four days the pairing changes. Daily post-survey team discussions are regarded as essential. Each member of the team prepares a report and these are finally amalgamated into one joint report. Experience has shown that combined disciplines can, if well managed, produce incisive and efficient diagnoses of rural conditions and needs and educate the participants in multidisciplinary thinking.
Partial generalization in pigeons trained to discriminate morphine from saline: Applications of receptor theory

Koek, W., and J.H. Woods: Partial generalization in pigeons trained to discriminate morphine from saline: Applications of receptor theory. Drug Dev. Res. 16:169-181, 1989. In pigeons trained to discriminate 5.6 mgikg of morphine from saline, cyclazocine, I-N-allyl-normetazocine (I-NANM, I-SKFlO,O47), and ketamine, but not U50,488, produced partial generalization, i.e., a maximum level of drug-appropriate responding between the levels produced by saline and by the training drug. The generalization gradient of cyclazocine and of I-NANM, but not that of ketamine, was less steep than the gradient of morphine. Cyclazocine and I-NANM, but not U50,488 and ketamine, antagonized partially the discriminative stimulus (DS) effects of morphine. Naltrexone antagonized the DS effects of morphine, cyclazocine, and I-NANM, but not ketamine. Increasing the training dose of morphine shifted the morphine gradient to the right, increased the antagonist effects of cyclazocine and of I-NANM, and decreased their agonist effects, but did not alter the effects of ketarnine. Decreasing the training dose of morphine shifted the morphine gradient to the left and increased the agonist effects of cyclazocine, but did not alter the effects of I-NANM and ketamine. The full generalization produced by cyclazocine when the training dose of morphine was lowered could be blocked completely by naltrexone and I-NANM, but not by ketamine. These results suggest that cyclazocine and I-NANM, but not ketamine, produced partial generalization because of their low efficacy at the receptor that underlies the DS effects of morphine. However, the results obtained with ketamine suggest that partial generalization may also be produced through other mechanisms.
Exploring the Neural Basis of Consciousness through Anesthesia

Anesthetics are among the most widely used drugs affecting the CNS. While we have a reasonable understanding of the pharmacological effects of anesthetics ([Brown et al., 2011][1]), very little is known about the neural mechanisms by which this class of drugs brings about sedation and loss of
Characterization of gem-difluoropropargyl synthons through HF loss from protonated molecules in methane chemical ionization mass spectra

Abstract Electron impact and methane chemical ionization mass spectra were obtained following gas chromatography/mass spectrometry for several gem-difluoropropargyl compounds, which had been synthesized as potential intermediates for synthesis of gem-difluoromethylene-containing C-3 acetylenes. EI spectra were variable with respect to the presentation of molecular ions, depending on substituent functional groups present. Methane-CI spectra were characterized by loss of 19 mass units from molecular weight with all compounds examined. These [M − 19]+ ions often presented as base peaks of the CI spectra, and were more reliably present and abundant than [M + 1]+ ions for these compounds. These ions could have been formed by elimination of HF from the protonated molecules under conditions of methane chemical ionization.
Cytological observations of deletions in pachytene stages of oogenesis and spermatogenesis in the mouse.

Cytological examination of pachytene stages of oogenesis and spermatogenesis revealed the presence of diagnostic loops in cells heterozygous for each one of six radiation induced lethal albino alleles in the mouse. Such loops were never found in any of the normal sibs or other controls. Such evidence supports the contention that all six of these mutations are deletions as indicated previously for five of them by complementation tests. An incidental finding was that of a pleiomorphic region on a medium sized pachytene bivalent in both sexes. This was not restricted to mutant cells but was also found in control cells. Whereas the pachytene deletion loops characterize lethal albino allele carriers, the observation of the pleiomorphic region reveals an apparently normal Cytological phenomenon in the mouse, the significance of which remains to be determined.
Processing Strategies of Foreign Language Readers: Authentic and Edited Input

While there is increasing use of authentic texts in foreign language instruction and much has been written about using authentic texts in the foreign language class, little empirical data have been collected regarding authentic materials. This study examines cognitive and affective responses to one authentic and three edited texts. Four levels of language learners (first through fourth year) at a major university in the United States were asked to read the same Spanish authentic passage and an edited passage written for the level of their Spanish course. After each silent reading, they performed think-alouds in the native language to provide data on strategy-use, and recall protocols, also in the native language, to provide reading comprehension scores. After the recall protocol task, subjects were interviewed to assess their affective responses to each text. Results indicated that all students comprehended significantly more from the authentic passage than from the edited ones. The majority of students also responded more favorably to the authentic passage than to the edited ones. This research suggests that students would benefit more from reading authentic texts, having cultural information written in English, or reading edited texts written with the characteristics often found in authentic texts, such as bold headings, subheadings, pictures, obvious rhetorical organization, etc., than from reading edited texts that lack these characteristics and are typically found in first- and second-year language textbooks)1.
Modulation transfer function of QWIP and superlattice focal plane arrays

Abstract Modulation transfer function (MTF) is the ability of an imaging system to faithfully image a given object. The MTF of an imaging system quantifies the ability of the system to resolve or transfer spatial frequencies. In this paper we will discuss the detail MTF measurements of a 1024 × 1024 pixel multi-band quantum well infrared photodetector and 320 × 256 pixel long-wavelength InAs/GaSb superlattice infrared focal plane arrays.
Smoking behavior among US adults with diabetes or impaired fasting glucose.

Abstract Background Cigarette smoking is a well-known cardiovascular risk factor and its impact on cardiovascular disease is even greater among people with diabetes. The aim of this study is to compare the prevalence and determinants of smoking among US adults with diabetes or impaired fasting glucose, and those without diabetes or impaired fasting glucose. Methods We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (1999-2008). Age-adjusted prevalence of smoking was calculated, and we used logistic regression models to identify the correlates of smoking among people with diabetes, impaired fasting glucose, and normal glucose metabolism. Results Among 24,649 participants ≥20 years old, age-adjusted smoking prevalence was 25.7% in 3111 individuals with diabetes, 24.2% in 3557 individuals with impaired fasting glucose, and 24.1% in 17,981 individuals without diabetes. Smoking prevalence did not differ across groups or change over time (1999-2008) in any group. Younger age, less education, more alcohol consumption, less physical activity, and major depression symptoms were associated with smoking in people with diabetes, impaired fasting glucose, and normal glucose metabolism. Conclusions In the US, smoking prevalence among people with diabetes and impaired fasting glucose has not changed and is comparable with the nondiabetic population. Tobacco control efforts should be intensified among this population at high risk for complications and mortality.
Stimulant-like effects of magnesium on aggression in mice ☆

The effects of magnesium excesses resulting from daily injections of magnesium chloride (MgCl2) were examined on offensive behavior in a resident-intruder situation. Male mice tested 5 min post-injection of 15 mg/kg or 30 mg/kg exhibited a significantly greater number of attacks and threats than saline controls; while in mice injected with 125 mg/kg threat and attack behaviors were decreased. No tolerance developed to this decrease which persisted throughout the 15 day injection period. Tolerance to the aggression enhancing effects developed in the 30 mg/kg group which returned to normal by Day 4 and in the 15 mg/kg group which returned to normal by Day 15. Two weeks following the last injection, all groups performed equally. When mice were tested prior to daily injections on Days 4, 8, and 15 in a second experiment, there were no MgCl2 dose differences in threat or attack behavior, thus there was no cumulative effect of MgCl2 on behavior. These data and our previous data showing that MgCl2 deficiencies reduce offensive aggression suggest an inverted U-shape function to magnesium's influence on behavior. Since aggression has been linked to the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, and magnesium has been shown to be an important cofactor in the activity of these neurotransmitters, it is possible that the effects seen here are related to changes in one or more of these systems.
Antibiotic and antiseptic resistance: impact on public health.

More and more we are moving patients from hospitals to homes for continued treatment. Vancomycin and triclosan were used for 30 years before any resistance emerged, because their applications were strictly limited. Today, after greatly increased use, resistance to both antibiotics and antibacterials has appeared. Of importance there are genetic links between resistance to antibiotics and to antibacterials. Health professionals and the public need to be educated about the rational use of drugs that affect the microbial world. The Alliance for the Prudent Use of Antibiotics, an international organization established in 1981 with members in more than 100 countries, has adopted education as its prime mission. Via its web site (www.apua.org) and linked information on reservoirs of antibiotic resistance (ROAR) among nonpathogenic bacteria, it reaches both providers and consumers. The message is simple: bacteria are needed for our survival. The vast majority of bacteria perform important functions that are crucial for our lives. Prudent use of both antibiotics and antibacterials must be championed to achieve and maintain the balanced microbial environment in which we have entered and evolved.
Treatment of Male Homosexuality Through Marriage Counseling: A Case Presentation

This case presentation describes the use of marriage counseling for the treatment of male homosexuality and examines several theoretical issues including mixed sexual and dominance-submission dynamics, a transference family concept, and the economy of the particular homosexual syndrome and its meanings. Editor.
Compensation for spectral darkening of short wave optics occurring on the cloud's and the Earth's radiant energy system

Cloud's and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) is an investigation into the role of clouds and radiation in the Earth's climate system. Four CERES scanning thermistor bolometer instruments are currently in orbit. Flight model 1 (FM1) and 2 (FM2) are aboard the Earth Observing System (EOS) Terra satellite and FM3 and FM4 are aboard the EOS Aqua satellite. Each CERES instrument measures in three broadband radiometric regions: the shortwave (SW 0.3-5μm), total (0.3- > 100μm), and window (8-12μm). It has been found that both CERES instruments on the Terra platform imply that the SW flux scattered from the Earth had dropped by up to 2% from 2000 to 2004. No climatological explanation for this drop could be found, suggesting the cause was a drift in both the Terra instruments. However, the onboard calibration lamps for the SW channels do not show a change in gain of this magnitude. Experience from other satellite missions has shown that optics in the orbital environment can become contaminated, severely reducing their transmission of ultra-violet (UV) radiation. Since the calibration lamps emit little radiance in the UV spectral region it was suggested that contaminates could be responsible for an undetectable 'spectral darkening' of the CERES SW channel optics and hence the apparent drop in SW flux. Further evidence for this was found by looking at the comparison between simultaneous measurements made by FM1 and FM2. The proposed mechanisms for contaminant build up would not apply to a CERES instrument operating in the normal cross track scan mode. Indeed it was found from the comparison between CERES instruments on Terra that the response of the instrument operating in rotating azimuth plane (RAPS) mode consistently dropped relative to the other cross track instrument. Since at all times one of the instruments operates in cross track mode, where it is not subject to spectral darkening, it allowed that unit to be used as a calibration standard from which the darkening of the other RAPS instrument can be measured. A table of adjustment coefficients to compensate for this spectral darkening are therefore derived in this paper. These figures are designed to be multiplied by SW fluxes or radiances produced in the climate community using Edition 2 CERES data. SW CERES measurements that have been revised using these coeffcients are therefore to be referred to as ERBE-like Edition2_Rev1 or SSF Edition2B_Rev1 data in future literature. Current work to fully characterize the effect of spectral darkening on the instrument spectral response before the release of Edition 3 data is also described.
Placental DNA methylation alterations associated with maternal tobacco smoking at the RUNX3 gene are also associated with gestational age.

Aims: The developmental origins of health and disease hypothesis states that later-life disease may be influenced by the quality of the in utero environment. Environmental toxicants can have detrimental effects on fetal development, potentially through effects on placental development and function. Maternal smoking during pregnancy is associated with low birth weight, preterm birth and other complications, and exposure to cigarette smoke in utero has been linked to gross pathologic and molecular changes to the placenta, including differential DNA methylation in placental tissue. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between maternal smoking during pregnancy, methylation changes in the placenta and gestational age. Materials & methods: We used Illumina®’s (CA, USA) Human Methylation27 BeadChip technology platform to investigate the methylation status of 21,551 autosomal, non-SNP-associated CpG loci in DNA extracted from 206 human placentas and examined loci whose variation in methylatio...
Redox-Assisted Asymmetric Ostwald Ripening of CdSe Dots to Rods

The redox-assisted asymmetric Ostwald ripening of dots to rods was observed upon annealing a concentrated dispersion of CdSe nanocrystals (NCs) containing 0.1 M CdCl2 in 3-amino-1-propanol (APOL)/H2O (v/v = 9/1) at 135 °C. Transmission electron microscopic investigation, along with UV−vis and photoluminescence results, revealed that, while the length of these NCs increased upon annealing, their diameter remained constant. The surface oxidation of NC Se atoms to SeO2 and its subsequent dissolution into the basic APOL/H2O mixture as SeO32- was found instrumental for such dot-to-rod transformation. The amine-assisted SeO2 reduction to Se0 (as confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction results) provides the Se source for further NC growth. The preferential growth along the c-axis leads to the formation of rods with zinc blende CdSe structure at its growing ends, due to the low-temperature growth conditions.
Development and Validation of an HPTLC‐Densitometry Method for Assay of Caffeine and Acetaminophen in Multicomponent Extra Strength Analgesic Tablets

Abstract A quantitative method using silica gel HPTLC plates with fluorescent indicator, automated sample application, and UV absorption densitometry has been developed for the determination of caffeine and acetaminophen in pharmaceutical preparations. Multicomponent analgesic tablets containing caffeine, acetaminophen, and acetylsalicylic acid as the active ingredients were analyzed to test the applicability of the new method. Precision for the caffeine analysis was evaluated by replicate analysis of samples and accuracy by analysis of two spiked blank samples containing inactive ingredients in common with the multicomponent analgesic tablets. The amount of caffeine in the tablets analyzed ranged from 96 to 115% of the label value. Precision was 1.19% relative standard deviation, and the errors from the two spiked blank analyses averaged 1.90% compared with fortification levels. The limit of detection was 0.200 µg of caffeine. Precision for acetaminophen analysis was evaluated also by replicate analysis ...
Two-Photon Excitation of Quantum Dot Based Nonradiative Energy Transfer

We demonstrate nonradiative energy transfer in a two-photon excited system with quantum dot donors and proximal dye acceptors. A prototype nanosensing scheme for maltose is also presented in this excitation mode.
Narrating everyday spaces of the resettled Adivasis in Sardar Sarovar

Population geographers continue to contribute to migration scholarship using feminist-informed methods. Adding to this literature, this article combines migration and development discourses and addresses the realities and lived experiences of the Adivasi populations whose lives are impacted by development-induced displacement due to the construction of a multipurpose river valley project, the Sardar Sarovar Project (SSP) on the Narmada River in western India. The different sections of this article discuss the conceptual approach to migration, provide a detailed case study of the Adivasi displacees, and contribute towards understanding the everyday spaces of displaced Adivasis by taking a narrative approach. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GEOMETRIC SCALING PROPERTIES OF INFLATABLE STRUCTURES FOR USE IN SPACE SOLAR POWER GENERATION

Investigation of the geometric scaling properties of polyimide film inflatable booms is described. These structures have considerable potential for use in space with solar concentrators, solar sails, and space solar power systems including solar arrays. Multiple cylindrical test articles were fabricated, utilizing two different thicknesses of Kapton polyimide film and seven aspect (slenderness) ratios. Numerous static bending and axial buckling experiments were conducted and compared to computer simulations using the MSC/NASTRAN program. Both beam element models and shell element models were developed for several inflatable struts and compared to experimental test results. Several problems encountered during the construction, experimentation, and finite element analyses are described. These included creating the proper experimental setup for static testing and establishing the optimum finite element analysis process for the analytical models. Many of these problems were overcome in the course of the research. Using the results from both experimental and analytical aspects of the research effort, guidelines for appropriate analysis techniques and experimental test article design were determined. These can be used to approximately determine properties of large-scale structures, which can not be tested in laboratory experiments.
New fast preconditioners for Toeplitz-like linear systems

Toeplitz-like matrices are matrices that are Toeplitz, block Toeplitz with Toeplitz blocks, and mosaic Toeplitz (Toeplitz blocks of different sizes). Toeplitz-like systems of equations arise in 2-D interpolation, 2-D linear prediction, and 2-D least-squares deconvolution. In this paper, we use the Woodbury formula to reformulate a Toeplitz-like system of equations into a circulant-plus-diagonal system, and use the discrete Fourier transform to transform this into a banded system which can be solved quickly and which requires little storage. We propose the use of this as a preconditioner for Toeplitz-like systems, as an alternative to the circulant-block-circulant preconditioner commonly used for Toeplitz-block-Toeplitz systems. Using condition number as a figure-of-merit, this preconditioner seems to work much better for Toeplitz matrices than the usual circulant preconditioner.
Characterization of Anatomic Ventricular Tachycardia Isthmus Pathology after Surgical Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot

Background— Although catheter ablation has been used to target the critical isthmuses for re-entrant monomorphic ventricular tachycardia in tetralogy of Fallot, the anatomy and histology of these regions have not been fully characterized. Autopsy hearts with tetralogy of Fallot were evaluated to clarify the pathological substrate. Methods and Results— Twenty-seven hearts with the diagnosis of tetralogy of Fallot were examined. Anatomically defined isthmuses included (1A) ventriculotomy-to-tricuspid annulus, (1B) ventriculotomy-to-ventricular septal defect patch, (2) ventriculotomy-to-pulmonary annulus, (3) pulmonary annulus-to-ventricular septal defect patch, and (4) ventricular septal defect patch-to-tricuspid annulus. Length and wall thickness were measured for all specimens, and light microscopy was performed for those surviving surgery. For subjects ≥5 years at death, isthmuses 1A and 1B were present in 88%, isthmus 2 in 25%, isthmus 3 in 94%, and isthmus 4 in 13%. Isthmus 1A had the greatest dimensions (mean length, 3.9±1.08; thickness, 1.5±0.3 cm), isthmus 1B intermediate dimensions (mean length, 2.4±0.8; thickness, 1.1±0.4 cm), and isthmuses 2, 3, and 4 the smallest dimensions (mean length, 1.5±0.5, 1.4±0.8, and 0.6±0.4 cm; thickness, 0.5±0.2, 0.6±0.2, and 0.3±0.04 cm, respectively). Histological examination (n=7) revealed increased fibrosis in anatomic isthmuses relative to nonisthmus controls. Conclusions— Consistencies in isthmus dimensions and histology are found among patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot. Isthmus 1A is associated with the largest morphological dimensions, whereas the nearby newly described isthmus 1B is significantly smaller. Of isthmuses with the smallest dimensions, isthmus 3 is the most common.
Mixed deterministic and probabilistic networks

The paper introduces mixed networks, a new graphical model framework for expressing and reasoning with probabilistic and deterministic information. The motivation to develop mixed networks stems from the desire to fully exploit the deterministic information (constraints) that is often present in graphical models. Several concepts and algorithms specific to belief networks and constraint networks are combined, achieving computational efficiency, semantic coherence and user-interface convenience. We define the semantics and graphical representation of mixed networks, and discuss the two main types of algorithms for processing them: inference-based and search-based. A preliminary experimental evaluation shows the benefits of the new model.
Assistance to Aging Parents and Parents-In-Law: Does Lineage Affect Family Allocation Decisions?

In this analysis we used data from the Health and Retirement Study to examine how couples organize transfers of assistance to aging parents and whether the flow of assistance is structured by family lineage. We found evidence of a tradeoff between types of assistance and a unilineal pattern of assistance. Few couples provided both time and money, and few assisted parents and parents-in-law. The determinants of assistance varied by type of care, recipient, and patterns of parental survival. Couples were more responsive to the needs of the wife's parent(s) and were less likely to exclude her parents from care even under circumstances of competition. Controlling for resources, African American and Hispanic couples were consistently more likely to provide assistance.
A Methodology of Analysis for Monitoring Treatment Progression with 19-Channel Z-Score Neurofeedback (19ZNF) in a Single-Subject Design.

19-Channel Z-Score Neurofeedback (19ZNF) is a modality using 19-electrodes with real-time normative database z-scores, suggesting effective clinical outcomes in fewer sessions than traditional neurofeedback. Thus, monitoring treatment progression and clinical outcome is necessary. The area of focus in this study was a methodology of quantitative analysis for monitoring treatment progression and clinical outcome with 19ZNF. This methodology is noted as the Sites-of-Interest, which included repeated measures analyses of variance (rANOVA) and t-tests for z-scores; it was conducted on 10 cases in a single subject design. To avoid selection bias, the 10 sample cases were randomly selected from a pool of 17 cases that met the inclusion criteria. Available client outcome measures (including self-report) are briefly discussed. The results showed 90 % of the pre-post comparisons moved in the targeted direction (z = 0) and of those, 96 % (80 % Bonferroni corrected) of the t-tests and 96 % (91 % Bonferroni corrected) of the rANOVAs were statistically significant; thus indicating a progression towards the mean in 15 or fewer 19ZNF sessions. All cases showed and reported improvement in all outcome measures (including quantitative electroencephalography assessment) at case termination.
Stationary "cross-track" interferometry for ocean wave measurement

Knowing the relationship between ocean wave characteristics and radar returns is important in interpreting the data from scatterometers and altimeters. This paper describes a new method of characterizing this relationship using the methods of cross-track interferometry in a stationary instrument. The authors' method uses a real aperture interferometer on a platform with a vertical baseline to infer the wave height at each point. This instrument will be coupled with altimeters and scatterometers to study the relationship between the shape of the waves and the backscatter to each type of instrument in a future tower experiment. The authors describe the interferometric instrument and analyze it through numerical simulations.
Metformin-associated lactic acidosis

In 1995, the oral antihyperglycemic agent, metformin, was introduced in the United States for treating diabetes mellitus. Rare cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis caused by the accumulation of the drug in patients with renal dysfunction have been described, although a detailed time course of the resulting metabolic derangements has not been reported. A case of metformin-associated lactic acidosis is presented along with key serial laboratory abnormalities observed during the treatment phase. The patient made a complete recovery following therapy with hemodialysis and supportive care.
Monitoring Precipitation over the Arctic Terrestrial Drainage System: Data Requirements, Shortcomings, and Applications of Atmospheric Reanalysis*

An effort is under way aimed at historical analysis and monitoring of the pan-Arctic terrestrial drainage system. A key element is the provision of gridded precipitation time series that can be readily updated. This has proven to be a daunting task. Except for a few areas, the station network is sparse, with large measurement biases due to poor catch efficiency of solid precipitation. The variety of gauges used by different countries along with different reporting practices introduces further uncertainty. Since about 1990, there has been serious degradation of the monitoring network due to station closure and a trend toward automation in Canada. Station data are used to compile monthly gridded time series for the 30-yr period 1960‐89 at a cell resolution of 175 km. The station network is generally sufficient to estimate the mean and standard deviation of precipitation at this scale (hence the statistical distributions). However, as the interpolation procedures must typically draw from stations well outside of the grid box bounds, grid box time series are poorly represented. Accurately capturing time series requires typically four stations per 175-km cell, but only 38% of cells contain even a single station. Precipitation updates at about a 1-month time lag can be obtained by using the observed precipitation distributions to rescale precipitation forecasts from the NCEP-1 reanalysis via a nonparametric probability transform. While recognizing inaccuracies in the observed time series, cross-validated correlation analyses indicate that the rescaled NCEP-1 forecasts have considerable skill in some parts of the Arctic drainage, but perform poorly over large regions. Treating climatology as a first guess with replacement by rescaled NCEP-1 values in areas of demonstrated skill yields a marginally useful monitoring product on the scale of large watersheds. Further improvements are realized by assimilating data from a limited array of station updates via a simple replacement strategy, and by including aerological estimates of precipitation less evapotranspiration ( P 2 ET) within the initial rescaling procedure. Doing a better job requires better observations and an improved atmospheric model. The new ERA-40 reanalysis may fill the latter need.
Plasma leptin and exercise: recent findings.

It is established that plasma leptin is associated with satiety and that leptin stimulates lipid metabolism, and increases energy expenditure. These effects implicate leptin as a major regulator of energy homeostasis, which may serve to limit excess energy storage. As plasma leptin concentrations are tightly coupled with fat mass in humans, decreases in adipose mass with weight loss coincide with decreased concentrations of circulating leptin. However, due to many confounding factors, the effects of exercise on circulating leptin are less clear. The data from investigations examining single exercise bouts suggest that serum leptin concentrations are unaltered by short duration (41 minutes or less), non-exhaustive exercise, but may be affected by short duration, exhaustive exercise. More convincingly, studies investigating long duration exercise bouts indicate that serum leptin concentrations are reduced with exercise durations ranging from one to multiple hours. These findings raise speculation that exercise-associated reductions in leptin may be due to alterations in nutrient availability or nutrient flux at the level of the adipocytes, the primary site of leptin production and secretion. Thus, one purpose of this review is to discuss the effects of exercise on circulating leptin concentrations with special emphasis on studies that have examined single exercise bouts that are associated with high levels of energy expenditure and energy deficit. In addition, a ‘nutrient sensing pathway’ (the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway), which regulates leptin gene expression, will be discussed as a possible mechanism by which exercise-induced energy deficit may modulate serum leptin concentrations.
The role of chemisorbed hydroxyl species in alkaline electrocatalysis of glycerol on gold

The mechanism of energy conversion in a direct glycerol fuel cell (DGFC) is governed by the anode supported heterogeneous steps of glycerol electro-oxidation. In aerated alkaline electrolytes, glycerol also participates in a base catalyzed process, which can release certain species mixing with the anode catalyzed surface products. As a result, selective probing of the surface catalytic reactions involving such systems can be difficult. The present work addresses this issue for a gold anode by using the analytical capability of cyclic voltammetry (CV). In addition, surface plasmon resonance measurements are used to optically probe the adsorption characteristics of the electrolyte species. The net exchange current of the oxidation process and the transfer coefficient of the rate determining step are evaluated by analyzing the CV data. The interfacial reactions and their products on Au are identified by measuring the number of electrons released during the electro-oxidation of glycerol. The results indicate that these reactions are facilitated by the surface bound hydroxyl species on Au (chemisorbed OH(-) and faradaically formed Au-OH). By comparing the findings for stationary and rotating electrodes, it is shown that, convective mass transport is critical to maintaining efficient progression of the consecutive oxidation steps of glycerol. In the absence of hydrodynamic support, the main surface products of glycerol oxidation appear to be glyceraldehyde, glycerate and malonate, formed through a net six-electron route. In the presence of controlled convection, a ten-electron process is activated, where mesaxolate is the likely additional product.
Mechanisms of shock-induced arrhythmogenesis during acute global ischemia

Little is known about the mechanisms of vulnerability and defibrillation under ischemic conditions. We investigated these mechanisms in 18 Langendorff-perfused rabbit hearts during 75% reduced-flow...
Passive leg movement and nitric oxide-mediated vascular function: the impact of age.

In young healthy men, passive leg movement (PLM) elicits a robust nitric oxide (NO)-dependent increase in leg blood flow (LBF), thus providing a novel approach to assess NO-mediated vascular functi...
Educational Pathways and Work Value Trajectories

This study relates change and stability in work values to educational pathways in the transition to adulthood. Using panel data, we examine whether levels and rates of change in work values in the eight years after high school are linked to postsecondary education. Along some value dimensions, initial differences increased notably between those who finished their education with high school and those who obtained postsecondary degrees, with postsecondary students demonstrating larger change on average. Young people who continued their education beyond high school initially placed greater importance on having influence at work and less importance on job security than other young people. These tendencies strengthened over time. Along other dimensions, including extrinsic, altruistic, and social, high school graduates attached less importance to rewards over time, whereas those who obtained postsecondary degrees maintained their initial values to a greater extent. The findings are consistent with the idea tha...
Identification of Host-Chromosome Binding Sites and Candidate Gene Targets for Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus LANA

LANA is essential for tethering the Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) genome to metaphase chromosomes and for modulating host-cell gene expression, but the binding sites in the host-chromosome remain unknown. Here, we use LANA-specific chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with high-throughput sequencing (ChIP-Seq) to identify LANA binding sites in the viral and host-cell genomes of a latently infected pleural effusion lymphoma cell line BCBL1. LANA bound with high occupancy to the KSHV genome terminal repeats (TR) and to a few minor binding sites in the KSHV genome, including the LANA promoter region. We identified 256 putative LANA binding site peaks with P < 0.01 and overlap in two independent ChIP-Seq experiments. We validated several of the high-occupancy binding sites by conventional ChIP assays and quantitative PCR. Candidate cellular LANA binding motifs were identified and assayed for binding to purified recombinant LANA protein in vitro but bound with low affinity compared to the viral TR binding site. More than half of the LANA binding sites (170/256) could be mapped to within 2.5 kb of a cellular gene transcript. Pathways and Gene Ontogeny (GO) analysis revealed that LANA binds to genes within the p53 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) regulatory network. Further analysis revealed partial overlap of LANA and STAT1 binding sites in several gamma interferon (IFN-γ)-regulated genes. We show that ectopic expression of LANA can downmodulate IFN-γ-mediated activation of a subset of genes, including the TAP1 peptide transporter and proteasome subunit beta type 9 (PSMB9), both of which are required for class I antigen presentation. Our data provide a potential mechanism through which LANA may regulate several host cell pathways by direct binding to gene regulatory elements.
Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells receptor family modulators: a patent review

Introduction: Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells (TREM) receptors and TREM-like transcript (TLT; or TREML) receptors of the immunoglobulin superfamily are known as key modulators of host immune responses. TREM-1 (CD354) and TREM-2 share the transmembrane adaptor DNAX-activation protein of 12 kDa (DAP12), but they possess separate stimulatory and inhibitory functional roles, especially in myeloid cells.Areas covered: This review covers findings related to TREMs and TLTs published in patent applications from their discovery in 2000 to the present. New roles for TREM-1, TREM-2, TLT-1 and TLT-2 in maladies ranging from acute and chronic inflammatory disorders to cardiovascular diseases and cancers are discussed. Putative endogenous ligands and novel synthetic peptide blockers are also discussed.Expert opinion: So far, therapeutic use of activators/blockers specific for TREMs and TLTs has been limited to preclinical animal models. TREM-1 is an immediate therapeutic target for acute and chronic infl...
On the role of CoO in CoOx/TiO2 for the photocatalytic hydrogen production from water in the presence of glycerol

AbstractThe photocatalytic water splitting activity of nanocomposite photocatalysts of TiO2 with CoOx was studied under UV and visible light, and the catalysts were characterized by XRD, XPS, and UV–vis techniques. The presence of CoOx enhances the hydrogen production activity of TiO2 by five times at an optimal loading of .2 wt. %. To investigate the role of CoOx, the photocatalytic activity was also studied under visible light and with different amounts of sacrificial agent. Our results indicate that the increasing activity was not due to increasing absorption of the visible light but most likely due to the role of CoOx nanoparticles as hole scavengers at the interface with TiO2. XPS Co2p analyses of CoO/TiO2 showed a considerable decrease in their signal after prolonged reaction time (44 h) when compared to that of the fresh catalyst. Because part of Co2+ cations is dissolved in solution, in neutral or acidic pH, the possible increase in the reaction rate upon their addition to TiO2 under UV excitation...
From an Honored Value to a Harmful Choice: How Presidential Candidates Have Discussed Electoral Participation (1948–2012)

This article analyzes how Barack Obama and Mitt Romney discussed electoral participation in campaign 2012 and compares their statements to those made by presidential nominees over the past 16 elections. Findings show that, overall, presidential candidates have depicted voting as a choice (not a right, duty, or value) and as harmful and divisive (as opposed to helpful or honorable). The data also reveal significant differences over the years, as candidates in the 1950s and 1960s were more likely to talk about voting as a value than transpires today and as candidates prior to the 1980s largely refrained from describing voting as a negative act. The article concludes by addressing how the campaign process has sharpened and politicized discussions of electoral participation over the years and what these shifts might mean for the contemporary campaign context.
Impact of Exercise and Education in Adults of Lubbock, Texas: Implications for Better Lifestyle.

Abstract The objective of our study was to evaluate the exercise and educational intervention in the city of Lubbock via the GET FiT Lubbock (GFL) program. The GFL program was designed to increase exercise and educational opportunities, which positively impact health risk factors in Lubbock residents. The GFL program design included the recruitment of subjects to participate on a team that consisted of four individuals, each subject tracked their exercise minutes, and their educational session attendance. The tracking of exercise and educational sessions was done on the GFL website. Biometric testing was conducted pre- and post- intervention. The program was located within the Lubbock community in places that were close to their place of residence. The intervention included walking and educational sessions, including goal setting lectures, nutrition information, and exercise demonstrations. Study participants, included male and female adults who tracked their exercise time and educational sessions. Exercise minutes and educational session attendance were self-reported. Our data analysis revealed that significant difference was found between pre- and post- intervention measures, including weight, body mass index (BMI), high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Significant difference was found for weight, BMI, and HDL in females. Based on these findings, we conclude that the intervention showed positive effects on exercise and lifestyle.
514 PREVALENCE OF RISKY LIFESTYLE BEHAVIORS AMONG A NATIONAL SAMPLE OF MEDICAL STUDENTS.

Purpose of Study The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of risky lifestyle behaviors among a national sample of medical students. Design Cross-sectional anonymous, Web-based survey. Methods Used 2,698 medical students from 36 US medical schools (1st-4th year) completed this survey. The instrument included questions regarding smoking, drug use, exercise, body mass index, sexual behavior, and two standardized scales to assess drinking (AUDIT) and gambling (South Oaks Gambling Screen) behaviors. Summary of Results Majority of the sample was female (60%) with mean age at 26 years. Based on BMI (≥ 25), 29% were considered overweight adding that 47% exercise 1 hour or less each week. Over 15% (n = 412) were found to have at-risk drinking behaviors (≥ 8). 9% smoked tobacco in the last 7 days and 16% in the last 30 days. Nearly 50% admitted that they have gambled for money while 3.2% scored positive for pathologic gambling (≥ 5). Drug use in the last 12 months included prescription use (79%); sedatives (8.3%); analgesics or prescription painkillers (13.1%); amphetamines (6.0%); cocaine (1.5%); marijuana (14.3%); heroin (0.1%); PCP or other hallucinogen (1.1%); inhalants (0.7%); and others (3.7%). 76% reported sexual activity in the last 6 months, with 10% having 2+ partners; less than 50% used condoms regularly. Conclusions Reached The results show mixed differences with some behaviors more prevalent when compared to the general population. These risky behaviors may be associated with the stress of medical school and ineffective interventions currently in place. Further studies should look into possible modifiable covariates that help curb the frequency of some at-risk behaviors. Physicians who have healthier lifestyles are more likely to be positive role models of healthy behaviors. Finding ways to encourage medical students to live healthier lifestyles will prepare them to become physicians with healthy lifestyles, thus becoming better health care providers and promoters.
Rapid microwave-assisted synthesis of sub-30nm lipid nanoparticles.

Abstract Hypothesis Accessing the phase inversion temperature by microwave heating may enable the rapid synthesis of small lipid nanoparticles. Experiments Nanoparticle formulations consisted of surfactants Brij 78 and Vitamin E TPGS, and trilaurin, trimyristin, or miglyol 812 as nanoparticle lipid cores. Each formulation was placed in water and heated by microwave irradiation at temperatures ranging from 65 °C to 245 °C. We observed a phase inversion temperature (PIT) for these formulations based on a dramatic decrease in particle Z-average diameters. Subsequently, nanoparticles were manufactured above and below the PIT and studied for (a) stability toward dilution, (b) stability over time, (c) fabrication as a function of reaction time, and (d) transmittance of lipid nanoparticle dispersions. Findings Lipid-based nanoparticles with distinct sizes down to 20–30 nm and low polydispersity could be attained by a simple, one-pot microwave synthesis. This was carried out by accessing the phase inversion temperature using microwave heating. Nanoparticles could be synthesized in just one minute and select compositions demonstrated high stability. The notable stability of these particles may be explained by the combination of van der Waals interactions and steric repulsion. 20–30 nm nanoparticles were found to be optically transparent.
Chapter 27 Antitrust and competition in health care markets

Abstract In this chapter we review issues relating to antitrust and competition in health care markets. The chapter begins with a brief review of antitrust legislation. We then discuss whether and how health care is different from other industries in ways that might affect the optimality of competition. The chapter then focuses on the main areas in which antitrust has been applied to health care: hospital mergers, monopsony, and foreclosure. In each of these sections we review the relevant antitrust cases, discuss the issues that have arisen in those cases, and then review the relevant economics literature and suggest some new methods for analyzing these issues.