cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of composition on isothermal solidification kinetics of highly undercooled alloys

Abstract A modified theory incorporates the effects of composition on homogeneous nucleation and isotropic crystal growth in isothermal, massive solidification of alloys. Simple, realistic values for the needed kinetic and thermodynamic quantities facilitate calculation of grain size and solidification times as a function of temperature and concentration. Reasonable agreement is found between the isothermal theory and results of continuous cooling experiments on pure Al and some Al-based alloys. The conditions for producing a vitreous, non-crystalline solid are also given. We propose that the extremely fine grain sizes obtained in AlGe and AgCu alloys rise from quenching to form a glass, followed by isothermal crystallization at or near room temperature.
Bitolterol mesylate in exercise-induced asthma

Abstract Exercise-induced asthma is a useful model for evaluating the activity and duration of action of pharmacologic agents of asthma. The main objective of this double-blind, crossover study-was to determine the effect of the aerosolized β-adrenergic agent, bitolterol mesylate, on exercise-induced asthma while its efficacy was being compared with isoproterenol and placebo. Twelve subjects with exercise-induced asthma performed cycloergometer exercise 45 minutes after three inhalations of bitolterol mesylate aerosol (1050 μg), or isoproterenol (255 μg), or placebo in random sequence. Bitolterol mesylate aerosol was very effective in protecting against exercise-induced asthma. The mean percent maximal decrease of FEV 1 after exercise was 5.0% for bitolterol, 22.2% for isoproterenol, and 23.2% for placebo. Subjects experienced skeletal muscle tremor with both bitolterol mesylate (four subjects) and isoproterenol (three subjects), but not with placebo. No other side effects were noticed.
An ecosystem analysis of spider mite outbreaks: physiological stimulation or natural enemy suppression

A simulation model was used to assess the role of several mechanisms proposed to be responsible for spider mite outbreaks on cotton that are typically observed following applications of insecticides. Simulation results were compared to an outbreak that occurred after two pyrethroid applications on cotton in a controlled experiment in the San Joaquin Valley of California. In the model, physiological effects were simulated by increasing spider mite fecundity and decreasing developmental duration, whereas loss of natural enemies was simulated by increasing spider mite age-specific survival. At the levels simulated, survival had the greatest impact on maximum spider mite density, degree days (oD) to maximum density, and cumulative spider mite-oD, whereas fecundity had the least, and developmental duration had an intermediate effect. There were substantial two-way interactions among all three life history parameters, with age-specific survival having the most influence. Survival had the greatest effect on spider mite population dynamics when in combination with short developmental duration. The influence of developmental duration on maximum spider mite density was greater than comparable percentage changes in fecundity, an effect that was more pronounced at high than at low survival. Changing fecundity, developmental duration, or age-specific survival individually did not result in a spider mite outbreak of the magnitude observed in the field. However, changing these three parameters simultaneously, resulted in a simulated maximum density of 8,000/m2, which represents a 12-fold increase over the untreated control, and closely mimicked the previously observed field outbreak. It is proposed that spider mite outbreaks on cotton following insecticide applications are not solely the result of physiological stimulation, but are rather due to several life history parameters being affected simultaneously, with natural enemy-mediated survival having the greatest individual impact. Implications of chemically-induced phenomena affecting spider mite management on cotton are discussed.
Depth measurement by motion stereo

Abstract Depth information can be great value in the analysis of scenes of three-dimensional objects. A stereo pair of images allows extraction of such depth information. Use of a number of progressive, closely spaced views has the advantage of reliability over the use of just two views for stereo, and potential savings of computational effort. Such progressive views are naturally available in many applications; such as for a moving robot vehicle, pictures taken at different times in the flight of an aircraft, and for industrial parts placed on a slowly moving conveyor belt. Experimental results on laboratory scenes, including average error and speed of execution, are presented.
Incorporation of Integral Membrane Proteins in Giant Lipid Vesicles by Swelling from a Protein-Loaded Hydrogel

While giant unilamellar lipid vesicles (GUVs) have proven to be useful tools for probing the properties of biomembranes, the incorporation of integral membrane proteins into GUVs of controlled composition has remained challenging. We have developed a simple method for incorporating integral membrane proteins into the GUV membrane. Detergent-solubilized proteins are dissolved in an agarose hydrogel, which is spread as a thin film on a solid substrate. Lipids of the desired membrane composition are then deposited on top of the partially dehydrated, protein-containing hydrogel. The entire system is swollen with buffer following previously published protocols for forming GUVs from hydrogel-supported lipid films. The final detergent concentration in the rehydrated system is significantly lower than the critical micellar concentration of the detergent used to solubilize the membrane protein, which is transferred to the lipid bilayer of the GUV. GUVs form reliably and with good yield at a wide range of buffer ionic strengths and lipid compositions. High-molecular weight species can be encapsulated within the GUV interiors by including them in the rehydration buffer. We have used this system to demonstrate the cholesterol-dependent phase segregation of the alpha-helical transmembrane proteins aquaporin SoPIP2;1, aquaporin-Z, and bacteriorhodopsin. In lipid systems expected to undergo liquid ordered-liquid disordered phase segregation, these three proteins all consistently co-segregate with the cholesterol-poor phase as cholesterol concentration is varied from 20 to 50 mol%. We have also incorporated the human glucose transporter GLUT1 into GUV membranes and demonstrated its function. GUVs were fabricated encapsulating an enzymatic glucose assay with a fluorescent output. These GUVs were then immobilized in a microfluidic channel and a buffer containing glucose was introduced. Fluorescence was observed only in those GUVs fabricated with GLUT1 present in the agarose substrate.
Power flow control in networks using controllable network transformers

The drive for higher reliability has motivated many utilities to move toward a more meshed system. Two control areas are often connected together with tie-lines. Power flow through the tie-lines connecting two control areas is difficult to control. This lack of controllability of power flow is one of the major issues in the modern grid. It causes asymmetric stress on the grid assets. This makes some grid assets more vulnerable to failure than others, and therefore, decreases the overall system reliability. Presently utilities can achieve very limited power flow control using devices like load tap-changing transformers and phase-shifting transformers. Controllable network transformers (CNTs) were introduced as a simple, low-cost solution to the power flow problem. This paper develops a theoretical analysis for the operation of CNT in a meshed network. It also shows the various possible applications of the CNT. Experimental validation of the working principle of a small-scale prototype CNT is also provided.
Heteroscedastic Projection Based M-Estimators

Robust regression methods, such as RANSAC, suffer from a sensitivity to the scale parameter used for generating the inlier-outlier dichotomy. Projection based M-estimators (pbM) offer a solution to this by reframing the regression problem in a projection pursuit framework. In this paper we modify the pbM formulation to obtain an improved pbM algorithm. Furthermore, the modified algorithm is easily generalized to handle heteroscedastic data . The superior performance of heteroscedastic pbM, as compared to simple pbM, is experimentally verified.
Barrett's esophagus in 2012: updates in pathogenesis, treatment, and surveillance.

Barrett’s esophagus (BE) is the only established precursor lesion in the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) and it increases the risk of cancer by 11-fold. It is regarded as a complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease. There is an ever-increasing body of knowledge on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance of BE and its associated dysplasia. In this review, we summarize the latest advances in BE research and clinical practice in the past 2 years. It is critical to understand the molecular underpinnings of this disorder to comprehend the clinical outcomes of the disease. For clinical gastroenterologists, there is also continuous growth of endoscopic approaches which is daunting, and further improvements in the detection and treatment of BE and early EAC are anticipated. In the future, we may see the increased role of biomarkers, both molecular and imaging, in both diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for BE.
Interfacial reaction studies on lead (Pb)-free solder alloys

Recently, the research and development activities for replacing Pb-containing solders with Pb-free solders have been intensified due to both competitive market pressures and environmental issues. As a result of these activities, a few promising candidate solder alloys have been identified, mainly, Sn-based alloys. A key issue affecting the integrity and reliability of solder joints is the interfacial reactions between a molten solder and surface finishes in the solder joint structures. In this paper, a fundamental study of the interfacial reactions between several Pb-free candidate solders and surface finishes commonly used in printed-circuit cards is reported. The Pb-free solders investigated include Sn-3.5 Ag, Sn-3.8 Ag-0.7 Cu, and Sn-3.5 Ag-3.0 Bi. The surface finishes investigated include Cu, Au/Ni(P), Au/Pd/Ni(P), and Au/Ni (electroplated). The reaction kinetics of the dissolution of surface finishes and intermetallic compound growth have been measured as a function of reflow temperature and time. The intermetallic compounds formed during reflow reactions have been identified by SEM with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy.
Variance and Sample Size Calculations in Quality‐of‐Life‐Adjusted Survival Analysis (Q‐TWiST)

The Quality-Adjusted Time Without Symptoms or Toxicity (Q-TWiST) statistic previously introduced by Glasziou, Simes and Gelber (1990, Statistics in Medicine 9, 1259-1276) combines toxicity, disease-free survival, and overall survival information in assessing the impact of treatments on the lives of patients. This methodology has received positive reviews from clinicians as intuitive and useful, but to date, the variance of this statistic has remained unspecified. We review aspects of the Q-TWiST method for analyzing clinical trial data, extend the method to accommodate multiple treatment arms, and provide closed-form asymptotic variance formulas. We also provide a framework for designing Q-TWiST clinical trials with sample sizes determined using the derived asymptotic variance formulas. Trials currently collecting quality of life data did not have the benefit of these sample size calculation techniques in designing their studies.
Calcium Levels Affect the Ability to Immunolocalize Calmodulin to Cortical Microtubules

Calcium affects the stability of cortical microtubules (MTs) in lysed protoplasts. This calmodulin (CaM)-mediated interaction may provide a mechanism that serves to integrate cellular behavior with MT function. To test the hypothesis that CaM associates with these MTs, monoclonal antibodies were produced against CaM, and one (designated mAb1D10) was selected for its suitability as an immunocytochemical reagent. It is shown that CaM associates with the cortical MTs of cultured carrot (Daucus carota L.) and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) cells. Inasmuch as CaM interacts with calcium and affects the behavior of these MTs, we hypothesized that calcium would alter this association. To test this, protoplasts containing taxol-stabilized MTs were lysed in the presence of various concentrations of calcium and examined for the association of CaM with cortical MTs. At 1 [mu]M calcium, many protoplasts did not have CaM in association with the cortical MTs, whereas at 3.6 [mu]M calcium, this association was completely abolished. Control experiments were performed to eliminate alternate explanations including differential antibody binding in the presence of calcium and/or taxol, detergent-induced redistribution of antigen, and epitope masking. The results are discussed in terms of a model in which CaM associates with MTs via two types of interactions, one that occurs in the presence of calcium and another that occurs only in its absence.
Operative Techniques in the Management of Scapular Fractures

Operative fixation of the scapula is associated with good outcomes. Techniques have been developed to facilitate surgical exposure of the osseous anatomy so that stability can be achieved. Although the familiar deltopectoral approach can be used for anterior glenoid fractures, the more common exposure is a posterior approach for fractures involving the neck and body of the scapula. The posterior approach has been nuanced to match needs related to fracture pattern and timing of surgery. Reducing the fragments and stabilizing them can be challenging but, a satisfactory reduction and stable fixation can be achieved, which allows immediate motion and rehabilitation.
The United States and the United Nations: toward a new realism

Quantitatively, international governmental organizations (IGOs) are still an expanding force in international affairs. According to one recent count, there now exist more than 1,100 such organizations all told. Some 40 percent more IGOs were created in the 1970s than in the 1960s. And, with the passage of time, more and more are being created by decisions of existing organizations rather than by treaty ratification by states.' Qualitatively, however, the world of IGOs is not in good shape. Indeed, there is widespread talk these days about a crisis of multilateralism, especially but not exclusively in the context of the United Nations.2 With regard to peace and security, the UN secretary general himself has remarked that the organization's machinery functions so poorly that the international community finds itself "perilously near to a new international anarchy."3 NorthSouth economic negotiations in the United Nations have been stalemated for a decade, and the decade-long Law of the Seas negotiations failed to produce a universally acceptable treaty. The administrative performance of the United Nations and its agencies is said by many critics to be inferior, the salary and benefit levels inflated. Many of its technical agencies are
Diastolic dysfunction was predictive of all-cause mortality.

Source Citation Redfield MM, Jacobsen SJ, Burnett JC Jr., et al. Burden of systolic and diastolic ventricular dysfunction in the community: appreciating the scope of the heart failure epidemic. JAM...
Spatial Distribution of Protein Kinase A Activity during Cell Migration Is Mediated by A-kinase Anchoring Protein AKAP Lbc

Protein kinase A (PKA) has been suggested to be spatially regulated in migrating cells due to its ability to control signaling events that are critical for polarized actin cytoskeletal dynamics. Here, using the fluorescence resonance energy transfer-based A-kinase activity reporter (AKAR1), we find that PKA activity gradients form with the strongest activity at the leading edge and are restricted to the basal surface in migrating cells. The existence of these gradients was confirmed using immunocytochemistry using phospho-PKA substrate antibodies. This observation holds true for carcinoma cells migrating randomly on laminin-1 or stimulated to migrate on collagen I with lysophosphatidic acid. Phosphodiesterase inhibition allows the formation of PKA activity gradients; however, these gradients are no longer polarized. PKA activity gradients are not detected when a non-phosphorylatable mutant of AKAR1 is used, if PKA activity is inhibited with H-89 or protein kinase inhibitor, or when PKA anchoring is perturbed. We further find that a specific A-kinase anchoring protein, AKAP-Lbc, is a major contributor to the formation of these gradients. In summary, our data show that PKA activity gradients are generated at the leading edge of migrating cells and provide additional insight into the mechanisms of PKA regulation of cell motility.
Towards chirality-controlled SWCNTs: can a plasma help?

The exceptional mechanical, chemical, thermal, electrical and optical properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have tantalized the scientific community for over two decades. However, SWCNTs must be prepared with a high degree of uniformity, which represents a significant synthetic challenge, to make the envisioned technological applications a reality. Among the various approaches that have been developed to synthesize SWCNTs, plasma-based processes are attractive because of their important role in the electronics industry. In this perspective paper, the most recent and promising applications of plasma technology for chirality-controlled SWCNT synthesis are presented including preparation of well-defined catalysts, selective nucleation etching and reacting tubes after growth. Overall, these strategies have achieved improved uniformity over the structure and properties of SWCNTs and offer great potential for the integration of these novel materials in future electronic and optical devices.
Evaluation of a Prototype Hybrid Vacuum Pump to Provide Vacuum-Assisted Suspension for Above-Knee Prostheses

Vacuum-assisted suspension (VAS) of prosthetic sockets utilizes a pump to evacuate air from between the prosthetic liner and socket, and are available as mechanical or electric systems. This technical note describes a hybrid pump that benefits from the advantages of mechanical and electric systems, and evaluates a prototype as proof-of-concept. Cyclical bench testing of the hybrid pump mechanical system was performed using a materials testing system to assess the relationship between compression cycles and vacuum pressure. Phase 1 in vivo testing of the hybrid pump was performed by an able-bodied individual using prosthesis simulator boots walking on a treadmill, and phase 2 involved an above-knee prosthesis user walking with the hybrid pump and a commercial electric pump for comparison. Bench testing of 300 compression cycles produced a maximum vacuum of 24 in-Hg. In vivo testing demonstrated that the hybrid pump continued to pull vacuum during walking, and as opposed to the commercial electric pump, did not require reactivation of the electric system during phase 2 testing. The novelty of the hybrid pump is that while the electric system provides rapid, initial vacuum suspension, the mechanical system provides continuous air evacuation while walking to maintain suspension without reactivation of the electric system, thereby allowing battery power to be reserved for monitoring vacuum levels.
Agenda-building unorthodoxies on the Population Commission.

A good analytic starting point in determining the true primary products of presidential commissions is examining the policy-formulating processes of the U.S. Commission on Population Growth and the American Future. There developed on the Commission 3 basic positions: 1) the :unwanted fertility" view that saw the population problem resulting from lack of fertility control as solvable by promoting access to means of control; 2) the ecological view that argued for a different set of values toward nature transcendence of a laissez faire market system a redefinition of human identification and a radical change of the growth ethic; and 3) the social justice view which did give population a high priority and saw the unwanted fertility solution as a poor substitute for redistribution of income and equality of opportunity. It is felt that most views avoid the most conspicuous feature of Commission policy formation or how little went off according to Hoyle. The combined result of these procedural and structural unorthodoxies was substantial in terms of what issues got on the policy agenda and how they were resolved. The fact that the problem analyses and policy recommendations in the Commissions Final Report were chiefly of the "limited unwanted fertility" sort is attributed to 4 factors: 1) the temporary structure of the Commissions agenda; 2) the natural advantage which accrued to those in favor of the more limited approach; 3) the Commissions desirability of presenting a solid front; and 4) differing levels of skill and time input among the commissioners and staff. Grounds are set forth for the view that it is a good thing that the Commissions policy proposals are not always taken seriously by the White House or Congress. It is not that Commissions are useless. The superstitution should be abjured that the Commissions primary purpose was to come up with the best population policy. It did not do that but if it had knowledge of its procedures would have left the analyst ascribing the result more to chance than to serious consideration.
A Rapid, High-Quality, Cost-Effective, Comprehensive, and Expandable Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing Assay for Inherited Heart Diseases

Rationale: Thousands of mutations across >50 genes have been implicated in inherited cardiomyopathies. However, options for sequencing this rapidly evolving gene set are limited because many sequencing services and off-the-shelf kits suffer from slow turnaround, inefficient capture of genomic DNA, and high cost. Furthermore, customization of these assays to cover emerging targets that suit individual needs is often expensive and time consuming. Objective: We sought to develop a custom high throughput, clinical-grade next-generation sequencing assay for detecting cardiac disease gene mutations with improved accuracy, flexibility, turnaround, and cost. Methods and Results: We used double-stranded probes (complementary long padlock probes), an inexpensive and customizable capture technology, to efficiently capture and amplify the entire coding region and flanking intronic and regulatory sequences of 88 genes and 40 microRNAs associated with inherited cardiomyopathies, congenital heart disease, and cardiac development. Multiplexing 11 samples per sequencing run resulted in a mean base pair coverage of 420, of which 97% had >20× coverage and >99% were concordant with known heterozygous single nucleotide polymorphisms. The assay correctly detected germline variants in 24 individuals and revealed several polymorphic regions in miR-499. Total run time was 3 days at an approximate cost of $100 per sample. Conclusions: Accurate, high-throughput detection of mutations across numerous cardiac genes is achievable with complementary long padlock probe technology. Moreover, this format allows facile insertion of additional probes as more cardiomyopathy and congenital heart disease genes are discovered, giving researchers a powerful new tool for DNA mutation detection and discovery. # Novelty and Significance {#article-title-36}
Dynamics of dissolved carbohydrates in the Chesapeake Bay: Insights from enzyme activities, concentrations, and microbial metabolism

The interactions between heterotrophic microbes and high-molecular-weight (HMW) dissolved organic carbon in estuaries are complex and poorly understood. This study examined the coupling between hydrolysis of HMW carbohydrates (polysaccharides) and uptake of monosaccharides by bacterioplankton along a salinity gradient in the Chesapeake Bay water column and nearby coastal waters in order to evaluate the potential importance of polysaccharides as a carbon source for the estuarine microbial loop. We measured the rates of enzymatic hydrolysis of six polysaccharides (arabinogalactan, chondroitin sulfate, fucoidin, laminarin, pullulan, and xylan) as well as total carbohydrate and monosaccharide concentrations, bacterioplankton abundance, and monosaccharide assimilation rates. Enzymatic hydrolysis rates were sufficiently rapid to produce on a daily basis 40-62% of the monosaccharides present in Chesapeake Bay surface waters but a lower percentage (23%) of monosaccharides present in surface water on the continental shelf. Rates of both monosaccharide assimilation and polysaccharide hydrolysis were markedly lower on the continental shelf than in the Chesapeake Bay. These measurements suggest that at the time of sampling, polysaccharides in the Chesapeake Bay were rapidly recycled, while rates of cycling were considerably slower on the nearby continental shelf. In contrast to the apparently rapid turnover of bulk polysaccharides, hydrolysis of two polysaccharides, pullulan and chondroitin sulfate, was essentially undetectable, implying that those substrates would be unavailable to the microbial communities sampled on a timescale of 10 d.
Identification of Escherichia coli outer membrane protein A receptor on human brain microvascular endothelial cells.

Neonatal Escherichia coli meningitis continues to be a diagnostic and treatment challenge despite the availability of active antibiotics. Our earlier studies have shown that outer membrane protein A (OmpA) is one of the major factors responsible for Escherichia coli traversal across the blood-brain barrier that constitutes a lining of brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMEC). In this study we showed that OmpA binds to a 95-kDa human BMEC (HBMEC) glycoprotein (Ecgp) for E. coli invasion. Ecgp was partially purified by wheat germ agglutinin and Maackia amurensis lectin (MAL) affinity chromatography. The MAL affinity-purified HBMEC proteins bound to OmpA+ E. coli but not to OmpA− E. coli. In addition, the deglycosylated MAL-bound proteins still interact with OmpA+ E. coli, indicating the role of protein backbone in mediating the OmpA binding to HBMEC. Interestingly, the MAL affinity-bound fraction showed one more protein, a 65-kDa protein that bound to OmpA+ E. coli in addition to Ecgp. Further, the 65-kDa protein was shown to be a cleavage product of Ecgp. Immunocytochemistry of HBMEC infected with OmpA+ E. coli by using anti-Ecgp antibody suggests that Ecgp clusters at the E. coli entry site. Anti-Ecgp antibody also reacted to microvascular endothelium on human brain tissue sections, indicating the biological relevance of Ecgp in E. coli meningitis. Partial N-terminal amino acid sequence of Ecgp suggested that it has 87% sequence homology to gp96, an endoplasmic reticulum-resident molecular chaperone that is often expressed on the cell surface. In contrast, the 65-kDa protein, which could be the internal portion of Ecgp, showed 70% sequence homology to an S-fimbria-binding sialoglycoprotein reported earlier. These results suggest that OmpA interacts with Ecgp via the carbohydrate epitope, as well as with the protein portion for invading HBMEC.
Computer simulation of an inverse problem for electric current computed tomography using a uniform triangular discretization

For the inverse problem of electric current computed tomography, discretization is achieved using a uniform mesh composed of triangular elements. The simulation presented utilizes network analysis, linearization, and iteration to obtain a solution. The network analysis algorithm for the direct as well as the inverse problem is described. It is shown how the matrices used to define the inverse problem can be generated automatically, given only a few parameters that describe the size of the mesh. A way to visualize the result graphically is presented. >
Purification of rabbit sperm autoantigens by preparative SDS gel electrophoresis: amino acid and carbohydrate content of RSA-1.

This study has described a relatively simple preparative procedure for isolating sperm autoantigens from testis membrane pellets using an SDS-7%-1 5% polyacrylamide gradient prep-disc gel column. Using this system, the rabbit sperm membrane autoantigen, RSA-1, has been isolated without the use of an immunoadsorbent column, giving an almost 10-fold greater yield than with the immunoadsorbent column method. A second autoantigen (RSA-2) has also been isolated. Both RSA-1 and RSA-2 retain their antigenic activity after isolation from the prep-disc gel. The carbohydrate and amino acid content of RSA-1 was determined. RSA-1 is 9.1% carbohydrate and by gas liquid chromatographic analysis contains xylose, galactose, mannose, glucose and glucosamine. The average hydrophobicity of RSA-1 indicates that it is a relatively nonpolar, asymmetric protein in the general category of fibrous or tropomyosin-like proteins.
Change in cardiometabolic score and incidence of cardiovascular disease: the multi-ethnic study of atherosclerosis.

Abstract Purpose Examine the relationship between changes in cardiometabolic risk profiles and subsequent cardiovascular disease (CVD). Methods The study sample included 5557 Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis participants, recruited in 2000 from six U.S. counties. Standardized scores were calculated for metabolic and cardiovascular components relative to accepted clinical cut points and summed to create an index of cardiometabolic risk. CVD events and/or deaths were assessed after examination 3 (years, 2004–2005) through December 2011. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the association between change in the cardiometabolic index (examination 3 minus examination 1) and subsequent cardiovascular outcomes adjusted for demographics, socioeconomic status, medication, and stratified by tertiles of baseline cardiometabolic risk. Results We found a 31% relative increase in the CVD event rate per SD change in the cardiometabolic index among those in the highest tertile of baseline cardiometabolic risk (Hazard ratio = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.14–1.50); associations were not statistically significant in the lower tertiles of baseline risk. Conclusions We found that larger increases in the cardiometabolic index over time were significantly associated with higher risk for subsequent CVD events among those with elevated cardiometabolic risk at baseline. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring temporal changes in risk factor profiles for predicting cardiovascular outcomes.
Visual Revelations: How the Rule of 72 Can Provide Guidance to Advance Your Wealth, Weight, Career, and Gas Mileage

“The sciences do not try to explain, they hardly even try to interpret, they mainly make models. By a model is meant a mathematical construct which, with the addition of certain verbal interpretati...
Susceptibility of HeLa Cells in S-Phase to Inhibition of DNA Synthesis by Poliovirus Infection.∗

SummaryThe inhibition of DNA synthesis in the 4 to 5 hour interval following infection with poliovirus was the same in untreated HeLa cells as in those whose DNA synthesis had been blocked up to this point by action of FUDR. The viral mechanism which inhibits DNA synthesis can develop in the absence of DNA synthesis. The inhibitory action is directed against cells already in the DNA productive phase rather than to prevent cells from entering this phase.
An in Situ STM Study of Cu and Ni Electrodeposition

An STM study has been initiated to investigate the various processes associated with electrodeposition of Cu-Ni multilayers on Cu (100). The substrates were prepared by electropolishing in phosphoric acid followed by immersion in 10 mmol/l HCl. A (√2×√) R°45 adlattice of oxidatively adsorbed chlorine is formed under these conditions. The adlayer stabilizes the surface steps in the 〈100〉 direction which corresponds to the close packed direction of the chloride adlattice. In dilute mmo1/1 solutions of cuprous ion, reduction occurs under mass transport control with the electrocrystallization reaction proceeding by step flow in the 〈100〉 direction. At more negative potentials chloride is reductively desorbed. Coincident with desorption the highly kinked metal steps become frizzy and move towards adopting the close packed 〈110〉 orientation of the metal lattice. Preliminary experiments on heteroepitaxial nickel deposition reveal regions where electrocrystallization on Cu(100) occurs via step flow in the 〈110〉 direction.
Current Situation and Countermeasures on Technological Application of Protected Vegetable——Taking Beijing City as An Example

Vegetable is an important agricultural product to urban and rural residents while the vegetable supply security is a major livelihood issue. The protected vegetable industry in Beijing city,which focuses on technology development and promotion,has achieved technological breakthrough in many areas and resulted in good economic social benefit in recent years. Though the overall development of protected vegetable industry in Beijing city has developed to a rather high level,there are still problems existing when compared with developed countries,such as low utilization rate of resources,poor production of scale,low postharvest-handling level,as well as problems existing in the coordination of agricultural equipment and cultivating methods. These problems has seriously influenced the comprehensive competitiveness and the overall development of protected vegetable industry. Based on the survey on the development and application of technology in protected vegetable industry in suburb of Beijing city,this study analyzed the production technology and equipment application status,and put forward the technological development countermeasures for protected vegetable industry.
Analysis Of Bacterial Food Poisoning In Tongling City From 2004 To 2008

Objective To explore the rules and characteristics of food poisoning in Tongling City from 2001 to 2005 and to provide the government so as to improve the preventive work.Methods Total of food poisoning in Tongling City from 2004 to 2008 were analyzed.Result A total of 12 food poisoning events occurred from 2004 to 2008.The average incidence rate of food poisoning is 6.75/100000.The peak month for food poisoning in May,June and October were relatively high.Bacterial food poisoning was the main pathogen.Vibrio parahaemolyticus accounted for the largest number of outbreaks(44.44%) and cases(74.06%).Vibrio alginolyticus caused 22.22%of outbreaks and 15.57%of cases.The incidents mainly occur in food services units(25.41%) and dining hall schools(22.95%).The major cause of food poisoning was intercross pollution.Conclusion The main sites for food poisoning control and prevention are the food services units and dining hall schools.Control measure and monitoring for the feasts should be emphasized during May to October.
Oncofertility and the social sciences.

Due to breakthroughs in medical technology and more aggressive forms of cancer treatment, today most people diagnosed with cancer survive. In 2000, over 2.5 million adults of childbearing age were survivors of cancer [1,2]. And by 2010, it is estimated that one out of every 250 adults will be a survivor of childhood cancer [3,4]. The more aggressive forms of treatment that have made it possible for more people, particularly those diagnosed at younger ages, to survive cancer, however, also often impair an individual’s fertility. The field of oncofertility has emerged as a way to address lost or impaired fertility in those with a history of cancer. Biomedical research in this area is active in developing new ways to help those afflicted preserve their ability to have biological children. Oncofertility is also an interdisciplinary field that bridges biomedical and social sciences and examines issues regarding an individual’s fertility concerns, options, and choices in light of cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Although the potential effects of cancer treatment on an individual’s fertility are well documented, the rate and extent of fertility impairment among those who have undergone cancer treatment are not fully known. Similarly, within the social sciences, how cancer patients are affected by infertility in their day-to-day lives and the impact on their sense of self have been largely overlooked. Improved survivorship rates over the last several decades, however, mean that cancer-related infertility is an issue that will become a concern for an increasing portion of the population along with their partners and families. Biomedical and social science research have largely been separate areas of scholarship with little discussion or inquiry across fields. However, a recent issue of Science implored that “the successful application of new knowledge and breakthrough technologies, which are likely to occur with ever-increasing frequency, will require an entirely new interdisciplinary approach” (p. 1847) [5]. Similarly, the interdisciplinary nature of oncofertility recognizes that understanding the social dynamics, institutional behaviors, and structural factors that envelop emerging technologies are not secondary research issues but require careful empirical inquiry as technologies are developed because the surrounding social environment influences and is affected by how those technologies are integrated into society and used by individuals and institutions. Including social science research as a constitutive part of oncofertility will help to broaden understanding within the
Rhetorical Orientations: Inviting Reader Engagement

Chapter 7 talked about how popular science writers position themselves in texts and about some of the consequences for reader engagement. This chapter looks at the ways that texts signal readers directly about how to engage with science-related issues by presenting, or not presenting, certain kinds of information and arguments. Depending on how texts pose problems, they may invite readers to be passive recipients of knowledge, or to be engaged coparticipants in figuring out what the knowledge means, or (usually) in some middle ground between these poles.
Listening to Afro-Latinidad: The Sonic Archive of Olú Clemente

Herrera’s chapter provides a close reading of the “sonic archive” of the musical Olu Clemente: The Philosopher of Baseball by renowned Nuyorican poets Miguel Algarin and Tato Laviera. She argues that reading the “sonic archive”—that is, the sound recording of the one-time performance in Central Park—as opposed to merely the playbook offers us new ways of understanding how Afro-Latinidad is represented and performed in the play.
Do Economists Play Well with Others? Experimental Evidence on the Relationship between Economics Education and Pro-Social Behavior

Does an economics education affect an individual's behavior? It is unclear whether differences in behavior are due to the education or whether those who choose to study economics are different. This issue is addressed using experimental evidence from the Trust Game where trusting and reciprocating behaviors can be measured. First, it is shown that economics students provide greater trusting investments and reciprocate more. Accounting for the selection effect, these effects are explained by those who choose to study economics and not directly from the education being provided. Thus, economists play well with others and these social preferences are not taught in the classroom.
Anatomy of Memory

Studies of the anatomy and function of the brain system for memory in humans and animal models are reviewed from the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Diego and the Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA.
ZnO nanostructures a versatile material platform(Conference Presentation)

ZnO an interesting material platform provides broad applications in electronics and photonics. In this talk we will discuss the growth of vertically aligned and core-shell nano-structures. Some optical applications will be discussed.
Gradients of the signaling lipid S1P in lymph nodes position natural killer cells and regulate their interferon-γ response

The lymph node periphery is an important site for many immunological functions, from pathogen containment to the differentiation of helper T cells, yet the cues that position cells in this region are largely undefined. Here, through the use of a reporter for the signaling lipid S1P (sphingosine 1-phosphate), we found that cells sensed higher concentrations of S1P in the medullary cords than in the T cell zone and that the S1P transporter SPNS2 on lymphatic endothelial cells generated this gradient. Natural killer (NK) cells are located at the periphery of the lymph node, predominantly in the medulla, and we found that expression of SPNS2, expression of the S1P receptor S1PR5 on NK cells, and expression of the chemokine receptor CXCR4 were all required for NK cell localization during homeostasis and rapid production of interferon-γ by NK cells after challenge. Our findings elucidate the spatial cues for NK cell organization and reveal a previously unknown role for S1P in positioning cells within the medulla.
Transport Fitness of Cull Sows and Boars: A Comparison of Different Guidelines on Fitness for Transport

Sows and boars that have reached the end of their productive lives have a greater risk for welfare problems. This paper reviews literature on culling reasons that may affect the animals’ fitness for transport. The top two reasons identified for culling boars were: obesity and reproductive problems. Sows are most often culled due to lameness, low body condition, or failure to rebreed. The OIE (World Organization for Animal Health) fitness for transport guidelines that would apply to sows and boars were compared with documents from the Canadian Code of Practice, Northern American Meat Institute (NAMI), EU-UK-DEFRA (European Union-United Kingdom, Dept. Environment, Food and Rural Affairs), U.S. National Pork Board, European Practical Guidelines to Assess Fitness for Transport of Pigs, and U.S. Pork Trucker Quality Assurance. The guidelines had the greatest agreement on the following fitness for transport issues: non-ambulatory, severely injured animals, sows in the last ten percent of pregnancy and sows with uterine prolapses were not fit for transport. There was less agreement on low body condition. One of the reasons for the lack of agreement is that there were stakeholders who specialized in transporting and processing extremely thin animals. A standard that would severely restrict the transport and slaughter of these animals could hinder the business practices of these stakeholders. Many welfare specialists would agree that some of these animals would be unfit for transport.
Controversial Issues in Bone Densitometry

Publisher Summary Bone densitometry is an extremely valuable tool for the diagnosis of osteoporosis, assessment of fracture risk, tracking the course of disease states that alter bone remodeling, and monitoring the response to treatment for osteoporosis and other metabolic bone diseases. This chapter focuses on key controversial issues related to bone densitometry, which include discrepancies in T-score determination among bone densitometers, prevalence versus risk in reporting bone mineral density device results, differences in ethnic- and gender-specific databases among different bone density devices, and value and limitations of serial bone mineral density measurements. The WHO established the BMD-cutoffs for the diagnosis of osteoporosis, using the T-score, which is the number of standard deviation (SD) a patient's BMD is from the young normal mean BMD, rather than the absolute BMD value, to reduce the effect of measured differences in BMD produced by different equipment at identical skeletal sites. As the young normal reference populations are not consistent among the manufacturers, a patient's T-score at a specific skeletal site may differ depending on the equipment used. This may lead to different WHO classifications, based solely on inconsistent young normal databases. The T-score discrepancy is compounded if a patient's BMD is measured at different skeletal sites using different technologies. The second controversial issue in bone densitometry is the use of prevalence versus risk for reporting BMD results. Prevalence is used for diagnosis and risk is used for fracture prediction. Prevention of the first fracture is possible only if the population with low bone mass who are at risk can be identified.
Three‐dimensional intracellular transport in neuron bodies and neurites investigated by label‐free dispersion‐relation phase spectroscopy

Due to the limitations of fluorescence imaging techniques, the study of intracellular cargo is typically restricted to two-dimensional analyses. To overcome low light levels and the risk of phototoxicity, we employ quantitative phase imaging, a family of full-field imaging techniques that measure the optical path length shift introduced by the specimen. Specifically, we use spatial light interference microscopy (SLIM) to study the transport of mass in whole tomographic volumes and show that a time-correlation technique, dispersion-relation phase spectroscopy (DPS), can be used to simultaneously assay the horizontal and vertical traffic of mass through a cell. To validate our method, we compare the traffic inside cell bodies and neuronal extensions, showing that the vertical transport of mass may prove a more sensitive and interesting metric than similar measurements limited to a 2D, horizontal plane. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
Stamping Out Icons: A Legal Analysis on How to Legislate Against Virtual Child Pornography Without Trampling Over the First Amendment

Both the United States Supreme Court and the United States Congress have struggled on how to eliminate child pornography within the American legal framework. This paper will analyze the legal controversy and examine both judicial precedent and federal legislation that have attempted to address the issue of exploitation of children in pornography.
Ocean Wave Prediction Using Large-Scale Phase-Resolved Computations

A direct phase-resolved simulation tool for largescale nonlinear ocean wavefield evolution has been developed. Unlike the phase-averaged model, it solves the primitive Euler equation and preserves the phase of the wavefield during its nonlinear evolution, therefore the detailed descriptions of the free surface and the kinematics of the wavefield are obtained. Using the direct simulation capability we investigate the statistics of the nonlinear wavefield including skewness and kurtosis. By comparing the results with the field measurements, our model is shown to be a reliable and useful tool capable of predicting the key characteristics of nonlinear ocean surface wavefields.
Variable Stiffness Pneumatic Structures for Wearable Supernumerary Robotic Devices

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and experimental characterization of variable stiffness inflatable structures for soft pneumatic supernumerary robotic (SR) fingers. These novel pneumatic SR fingers consist of inflatable, rigidizable finger phalanges and variable stiffness pneumatic bending actuators which are designed and manufactured using soft robot fabrication methods. The buckling conditions of the phalanges are predicted using a simplified deformation model and validated by empirical data to allow the prediction load bearing capacity, and the mechanical behavior of the bending actuators is empirically characterized for stiffness tuning capability. Experimental testing of a wearable, clinically-focused pneumatic SR grasp assist device demonstrates the feasibility of using variable stiffness pneumatic structures to produce grasp synergies without the need for complicated, high power mechanisms or precise, low-level motion control.