cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Perfluorinated compound concentrations in great blue heron eggs near St. Paul, Minnesota, USA, in 1993 and 2010-2011.

A great blue heron (Ardea herodias) colony on Pig's Eye Island on the Mississippi River near St. Paul, Minnesota, USA, is located near several potential perfluorinated compound (PFC) sources. The PFC concentrations in great blue heron eggs reported from a 1993 collection from the Pig's Eye colony were among the highest measured in bird eggs worldwide. The objective of this investigation was to determine whether PFC concentrations in great blue heron eggs at the Pig's Eye colony have changed since 1993. Total PFC concentrations in great blue heron eggs collected at the Pig's Eye colony in 2010 and 2011 (geometric mean = 340 and 492 ng/g wet wt) were 60% lower than the 1993 collection (1,015 ng/g wet wt). Among PFCs, perfluoroalkyl sulfonate concentrations were lower and perfluoroalkyl carboxylate concentrations were higher in the 2010 and 2011 collections. Two of 20 (10%) of the eggs analyzed from Pig's Eye in 2010 and 2011 were >1,000 ng PFCs/g wet weight and the maximum PFC value (2,506 ng PFCs/g wet wt) measured in 2010 and 2011 was among the highest PFC concentration reported in bird eggs. These high concentrations are at levels associated with physiological and neurological effects in birds. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2013;32:1077–1083. © 2013 SETAC
Molecular Beam Study of the KrF* Laser Photodissociation of Cr(CO) 6 and Mo(CO) 6

The one-photon and sequential two-photon KrF* laser (248 nm) photodissociation of Cr(CO) 6 and Mo(CO) 6 were studied in a molecular beam using mass spectrometry to detect the photoproduct molecular ions. For Cr(CO) 6 , the major one-photon product, Cr(CO) 4 , undergoes secondary photodissociation to give predominantly Cr(CO) 2 . The photodissociation cross section of Cr(CO) 4 is found to be 1.6 × higher than that of Cr(CO) 6 at 248 nm. For Mo(CO) 6 , the major one-photon products, Mo(CO) 5 and Mo(CO) 4 , undergo secondary photodissociation to give predominantly Mo(CO) 3 .
Dynamic Current Density of the Disk Electrode Double-Layer

With applied potential, the current distribution at the surface of a disk electrode is spatially nonuniform and time dependent. This distribution is important to control in applications that desire a uniform current density profile or minimal corrosion. We examine the current density profile of a capacitive disk electrode subjected to a voltage-step using finite element analysis software to solve the system of partial differential equations. In detailed analyses we show quantitatively that the current density shifts from peripheral enhancement to near-uniformity following 1/2 of the lumped element time constant. As charging continues, the current density is slightly enhanced in the central region. We present curves for the evolution of local ldquotime constantsrdquo as time progresses and calculate their effective values. The model is intended to be the basis of future work to control the corrosion profile of biologically implantable electrodes of arbitrary shape. Data suggest a means to control corrosion by retarding the edges of a stimulus pulse. Additionally, smaller electrodes may be more effective in fully utilizing surface area for charge transfer due to their shorter time constants.
Detection in coal tar waste-contaminated groundwater of mRNA transcripts related to naphthalene dioxygenase by fluorescent in situ hybridization with tyramide signal amplification

The ideal ecological metabolic activity assay would be applied to naturally occurring microbial populations immediately fixed in the field, and the assay would focus upon intracellular parameters indicative of a dynamic biogeochemical process. In this study, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) with tyramide signal amplification (TSA) detected intracellular mRNA in bacteria. Detection sensitivity was enhanced by using a Hamamatsu color chilled CCD camera and extended exposure times. Pseudomonas putida NCIB 9816-4, a model naphthalene degrading bacterium, was used to refine the protocol. Probe Ac627BR was developed for detecting naphthalene dioxygenase (nahAc) mRNA transcripts. Only induced cells showed positive hybridization to probe Ac627BR. Results were verified by RNase A or DNase I digestion of samples prior to hybridization. When applied to field-fixed groundwater samples, the naphthalene dioxygenase mRNA probe conferred fluorescence on a subset (f1%) of the cells present in the contaminated groundwater. This methodology represents progress towards achieving one of the longstanding goals of environmental microbiology: to simultaneously ascertain the identity, activity, and biogeochemical impact of individual microorganisms in situ—in soil, water, or sediment where they dwell. D 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
High‐temperature magnetic fabric development from plastically deformed magnetite in experimental shear zones

SUMMARY Magnetic fabric development has been studied in synthetic magnetite-silicate aggregates in a series of high-temperature simple shear deformation experiments. Samples composed of magnetite grains with a nominal size of 20–40 μm dispersed at 3 wt % in a matrix of plagioclase were deformed between 1000 and 1200 °C with a confining pressure of 300 MPa, shear stresses in the range 10–130 MPa, and shear strains up to γ= 3. We determined that both magnetite and plagioclase were deformed plastically at these conditions. An oblate magnetic fabric ellipsoid develops subparallel to the shear plane and the degree of AMS rapidly increases with strain up to a value of 2.5. Theoretical strain response models of magnetic fabric development were applied to the data to obtain estimated magnetite strains. The shape-preferred orientation of magnetite grains after deformation, determined from reflected light image analysis, was used to calculate independent magnetite strain estimates. These results were then compared with strains estimated from theoretical magnetic anisotropy development. Both strain estimation methods indicate strain partitioning between magnetite and the plagioclase matrix and the results are used to determine approximate viscosity ratios between the two phases at the experimental conditions.
Cell proliferation in bioprinted cell-laden collagen droplets

Cell printing is an emerging technology for engineering complex 3D tissue/organ structures. In this study, the proliferation of primary rat bladder smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in printed cell-laden collagen droplets was quantified. The results showed that the bioprinting system is capable of printing viable cells, while keeping their proliferation ability in a 3D collagen matrix.
Mechanisms of layer structure formation in peritectic alloys

The mechanisms of layer structure formation in the two phase region of peritectic systems are discussed. Under diffusive growth conditions, a banded structure is predicted within a narrow composition range in the hypoperitectic composition. Experimental studies show the formation of an oscillatory structure in the hyperperitectic region. It is shown that this structure is induced by convection in the melt, and it is a novel structure in which a large single tree-like structure of primary phase is surrounded by the peritectic phase. Basic ideas of convection that lead to this tree-like morphology are described.
All-sputtered CdS/CdTe solar cells on polyimide

We have made CdS/CdTe solar cells on polyimides from different sources. These cells were fabricated using sputtered zinc oxide doped with aluminum as the transparent conducting oxide. The CdS and CdTe were also deposited by sputtering. In this paper we report properties of the sputtered AZO and its changes with CdCl 2 heat treatments. We have achieved a cell efficiency of 10.5% at air mass 1.5G illumination.
A VLSI circuit for recreating living nerve networks

Using conventional CMOS VLSI technology, a comprehensive neuromime circuit has been implemented based on the discrete model by French and Stein (1970). The circuit occupies under 0.5 mm/sup 2/ of die area, plus a few passive biasing components, and offers continuously variable excitatory and inhibitory sensitivity refractoriness, and operating rate. The implementation provides free and continuous access to waveforms for membrane and threshold potentials. As such, it is amenable to many secondary behavioral characteristics, such as fatigue, postinhibitory rebound, accommodation, and facilitation. In VLSI form, it provides the economy, comprehensiveness, reliability, efficiency and convenience to support larger networks of artificial nerve cells.
Soviet Citizen Participation on the Eve of Democratization

We reassess the debate over Soviet citizen politics in the USSR during the Brezhnev era. We argue the need for a more complex model of citizen participation in the USSR before Gorbachev if we are to have an accurate baseline for evaluating changes in regime-society relations. We examine the connections between individual attitudes and individual behavior and show that political participation under the “old regime” was not nearly as one-dimensional and devoid of effect as many previous researchers (and current Soviet leaders) have described it. Many forms of political participation in the Soviet Union before Gorbachev did not fit the stereotype of a psychologically disengaged citizenry driven to participate only by coercion, a desire to conform, or a quest for particularized benefits from public officials.
Analytical theories of turbulence

This paper surveys the current state of analytical attempts at a theory of turbulence. The formulation of the problem in terms of moments is discussed. The difficulty posed by the closure problem is examined in detail using the quasinormal approximation as an example. The notion of dynamical relaxation by non-linear scrambling leads to the introduction of eddy relaxation times and the direct-interaction approximation. The properties of the direct-interaction approximation are indicated. Finally, a comparison is made between numerical solution of the equations of turbulence their and direct numerical simulation of the Navier–Stokes equations.
Death education and grief/suicide intervention in the public schools.

Abstract We surveyed a stratified random sample of 423 public schools, from prekindergarten through 12th grade, with respect to three death-related programs. Using categorical and open-ended questions, we asked the respondents about the structure and characteristics of the programs, types of curriculum materials, and training of personnel. The schools that responded were distributed similarly to the national population by region. The national estimate for schools offering a course or unit on general death education was 11%, 17% offered a grief education/support program, and 25% had suicide prevention/intervention programs. Senior high schools in the midwest had the highest proportions of death-related programs. Of the few death education programs offered, most are taught as part of a health education course and are two weeks or less in duration. Most of the grief and suicide programs are crisis oriented, and typically involve counselors or a team of school staff members. Opportunities for in-service educa...
Unconditional Tests of Hypotheses Concerning Relative Risk

The problem of estimation of, and statistical tests for, the relative risk (=α) from samples in which there is matching on covariates have been discussed by various authors (Cox, 1970; MANTEL and HAENSZEL, 1959) using the approach of conditional variates. This paper discusses log LR (likelihood ratio) tests of hypotheses concerning α, as based on one or more sets of matched samples. Approximate X2 tests are also developed for the hypotheses concerning α. An example is presented which illustrates the proposed tests of significance (Table 1).
Autolysis control hypotheses for tolerance to wall antibiotics.

Antibiotics are divided into two classes: bacteriostatic and bactericidal. The reasons for their classification are usually self-evident, although seldom proven. For example, chloramphenicol stops protein synthesis and is bacteriostatic, probably because when it is removed growth can recommence. Penicillin and congeners are bactericidal, probably because continued cytoplasmic synthesis should lead to increased cellular pressure and eventually to the rupture of the wall and to cell death. Lethality is not always the outcome, and certain strains may neither grow nor lyse in the presence of lactams (46–51, 55, 57, 60); they are called “tolerant.”
In our image: interface design in the 1990s

People, not technology, have become the focus of current interface design. Multimedia interface designers try to take advantage of human senses to ease our communication with one another and with the computer. This survey of current work highlights the complexity facing them in their task. >
SINR analysis and energy allocation of preamble and training for time division CT with range extension

In this paper, we investigate the packet decoding performance degradation due to the joint effects of synchronization and channel estimation errors in orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM)-based time-division cooperating transmission (TDCT) for the purpose of range extension. The signal to interference and noise ratio (SINR) of maximal ratio combining (MRC) with OFDM TDCT is analyzed in multipath fading channels. We demonstrate the performance impairment on decoding for different TDCT implementation scenarios with conventional synchronization and different channel estimation schemes through the simulation of the practical system with complete synchronization, channel equalization and decoding processes. We show that when the total energy for synchronization and channel estimation is limited because of the range extension objective, the way energy is distributed between preamble and training sequence plays an important role.
Peak Expiratory Flow Rate and 5-Year Mortality in an Elderly Population

During a population survey in 1982-1983 among all community-dwelling elderly aged 65 years and over in East Boston, Massachusetts, measurements of peak expiratory flow rate using the mini-Wright peak flow meter were made on 3,582 participants (80% of those eligible). The average peak flow rate was 315 liters/minute, and a measure of peak flow rate adjusted for age, sex, height, and weight was computed. This was a highly significant (p less than 0.0001) predictor of 5-year total mortality, whose ascertainment was virtually complete. The relative risk was 1.27 (95 percent confidence interval 1.19-1.36) per 100 liters/minute decrease in peak flow rate, using a proportional hazards model including terms for age, sex, and smoking. There was no apparent modification of the effect of this measure in various categories of smoking, with relative risks of 1.24 for nonsmokers, 1.29 for ex-smokers, and 1.26 for current smokers. This finding also persisted after adjustments for other covariates, including respiratory symptoms such as cough, phlegm, and wheeze; cardiovascular risk factors such as history of myocardial infarction and stroke; and systolic and diastolic blood pressures; socioeconomic status; scores on simple tests of cognitive function; measures of physical activity and functional ability; and self-assessed state of health. In a stepwise model including all of these variables, the relative risk was 1.16 (p less than 0.0001) per 100 liters/minute decrease in peak flow rate, indicating that peak flow rate is a strong independent predictor of total mortality in the elderly.
The Personal is Political

“The personal is political” was a political slogan frequently used by feminists from the late 1960s and 1970s—the so-called second wave—who expanded the suffrage concern of the first wave to a wide range of issues such as sexuality, family, the workplace, or reproductive rights.
Time to first cigarette and serum cotinine levels in adolescent smokers: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2007-2010.

INTRODUCTION Nicotine dependence and uptake among adolescents remains challenging to characterize and measure. Among adults, a shorter time to the first cigarette after waking up in the morning (TTFC) has become increasingly recognized as an indicator of nicotine dependence because of its association with biological measures of nicotine exposure, smoking relapse, and failed cessation attempts. However, the relation between TTFC and these measures has not been studied among adolescents. This study explored the association between TTFC and cotinine among adolescent smokers. METHODS The study utilized 2007-2008 and 2009-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 220 regular adolescent smokers between the ages of 12 and 19 who provided blood samples for cotinine evaluation. Regression modeling was conducted to determine whether TTFC predicts cotinine levels, a marker of nicotine uptake. RESULTS The time to first cigarette was significantly correlated with several smoking behaviors including number of cigarettes per day, time since last cigarette, and having a family member who smokes at home. Mean cotinine levels were more than 200 ng/ml in youths who smoked within 5 min after waking, compared with less than 34 ng/ml in youths who waited for more than 1 hr. In multiple regression models, a shorter time to first cigarette predicted higher cotinine levels after controlling for number of cigarettes per day and other factors. The TTFC was a predictor of cotinine for both male and female smokers. CONCLUSION The TTFC is a strong indicator of nicotine dependence in adolescents and could be an important component in screening for high-risk smoking and the development of tailored adolescent smoking intervention programs.
Low-Energy Ion−Surface Collisions Characterize Alkyl- and Fluoroalkyl-Terminated Self-Assembled Monolayers on Gold

Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) formed from alkyl-terminated, CF 3 -terminated, CF3CF2-terminated, and C 1 0 F 2 1 -terminated alkanethiolates on gold substrates were examined by low-energy (eV) ion-surface collisions to determine the impact of varying the degree of fluorination of the thiolate tail group. The fluorine-terminated SAMs are compared and contrasted to previously examined CF 3 -terminated Langmuir-Blodgett films. Polyatomic (M + . for benzene and pyrazine) and atomic (Mo + . and Cr + . ) ions were collided with the different SAM films at various collision energies (20-70 eV). Data indicate that substitution of CH 3 with CF 3 as the terminal group has a substantial influence on the ion-surface interactions, including energy transfer (fragmentation), electron transfer (neutralization), and atom/group transfer (reaction). However, slight penetration into a depth of the film is apparent and illustrated with the formation of certain ion-surface reaction products and theintensities ofthose products. This penetration has a noticeable effect on low-energy ion-surface collisions. Also, results for a series of CF 3 (CH 2 ) n S-Au films (where n = 12, 13, 14, 15) illustrate that ion-surface reactions vary with the orientation of the fluorine atoms that are present in the terminal group. The results from collisions of low-energy ions with these relatively well-defined surfaces allow further characterization of the collision events that have the potential to become valuable tools in surface analysis.
Simulation and Experimental Investigation into the Cooling of a Heated Cylinder using an Air-Water Spray

Computational fluid dynamics simulations and experimental measurements are conducted to investigate the effect of the operating conditions of air-assisted water sprays on the heat transfer enhancement in the cooling of a cylindrical surface heated to temperatures near the nucleate boiling point. Experimental measurements are performed to investigate the effect of the droplet size, water flow rate, and liquid-to-air loading on the spray heat transfer along the circumference of the cylinder. A parallel study consisting of the modeling of the spray flow transportation process is also conducted based on the test setup conditions to support the interpretation of the test findings. Results show surface wetting of the cylinder and spray heat transfer to be strongly dependent on the spray operating conditions and the droplet size. The results of this study lead to a better understanding of the heat transfer enhancement of multiphase cooling applicable for certain heat exchangers.
The status of assessment for clinical resident training in the United States and China

Residency standardized training program plays an important role in providing high qualified medical staff in our country. The United States has established a good system of standardized training and quality assessment. Although we have achieved progress in clinical residents training since 1993,a scientific,standardized and consistent assessment system still needs to be established. In contrast,there is no standardized training system for public health works in our country. Therefore,we introduced and compared the systems of training and assessment of clinical residents in U. S. and China through paper review in order to provide evidences for building training and assessment program for clinical residents and public health workers in China.
Application of Field Epidemiology in Public Health Emergencies

The public health emergency response is one of most important responsibilities of disease control and prevention institutions.The epidemiologists should adopt the philosophy thought on the basis of actual situation,carry out the field investigation according to field epidemiology,and bring it into correspondence with conventional epidemic situation.It is important to identify the root courses,accurately define and analyze the cases.The way to confirm whether an event is public health emergency is to implement related regulations prescribed by Ministry of Health,search and perfect cases,study and analyze according to epidemical distribution,establish and verify the presumption.To confirm and diagnose the public health emergencies,carry out the comprehensive control measures on the basis of actual situation,and explore the application of field epidemiology has practical significance for public health emergency.
Disordered Order, Ordered Disorder: Threads, Folds, and Artistic Action

Alterglobal social movements and psychoanalysis are mined for actionable transformation of the mathematics educator, shifting the scholar of mathematics education, and offering phases for changing oneself in order to change the world: Identify (Deleuzian) nomadic terms; use these terms in nontraditional ways; craft the work with the new, nomadic topology; and study the points of time/space simultaneity within the new topology. Mathematics as public art is used to illustrate these phases. Alterglobal discourses act as tools of psychoanalytic understanding, functioning as hinges across the apolitical and the political, making mathematics education a part of changing social reality.
Relaxing retinotomies. Analysis of anatomic and visual results.

Abstract The authors analyzed 100 consecutive eyes undergoing relaxing retinotomies to determine the anatomic and visual results associated with the use of this procedure. With a minimum follow-up of 6 months, 58 eyes were completely attached, 8 were partially attached (macula on), and 34 were detached. Thirty-four percent of all eyes and 50% of attached eyes obtained a visual acuity of 5/200 or greater at 6 months. At last examination, 29% of all eyes and 43% of attached eyes had a visual acuity of at least 5/200. Eyes that had circumferential relaxing retinotomies involving the entire temporal quadrant generally had lower visual acuities when compared with eyes that had relaxing retinotomies sparing the entire temporal quadrant. The use of a radial relaxing retinotomy also was associated with lower final visual acuity. The length of the relaxing retinotomy or the placement of the relaxing retinotomy either anterior or posterior to the encircling scleral buckle did not appear to influence the anatomic or visual results. Hypotony (intraocular pressure
Wanting and liking: Separable components in problematic eating behavior?

Some individuals may have an addictive-like response to certain foods, possibly contributing to problematic eating. Highly processed foods, with added fats and/or refined carbohydrates, are suggested to be most associated with addictive-like eating. The incentive sensitization theory suggests that wanting (e.g. craving) may drive compulsive drug use rather than liking (e.g. enjoyment), but it is unknown whether highly processed foods elicit similar wanting and liking patterns as drugs of abuse, or whether individual differences exist. The current study examines the association of highly processed foods with craving and liking, and whether these relationships differ by food addiction symptomology, cognitive restraint, or body mass index (BMI). Participants (n = 216) reported craving and liking for 35 foods and completed the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) and Three Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ). Highly processed foods were craved more overall. Craving of highly processed foods was predicted negatively by restraint and positively by YFAS score. Liking of highly processed foods was predicted negatively by restraint and positively by BMI. In conclusion, craving and liking appear distinct with respect to highly processed foods, and may be influenced by addictive-like eating, cognitive restraint, and BMI. This suggests that the incentive sensitization framework may also be relevant for problematic food consumption, especially for individuals reporting food addiction symptoms.
Utility of Sun-Reactive Skin Typing and Melanin Index for Discerning Vitamin D Deficiency

Skin color, a vitamin D status determinant, can be assessed subjectively by Fitzpatrick sun-reactive skin typing (FST) and objectively by melanin index (MI). FST was validated against MI for discerning vitamin D deficiency (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) <20 ng/ml) in children. We measured FST, MI, and serum 25(OH)D in healthy, 8- to 18-year-old children from one of two vitamin D trials. MI from forehead, hand, and upper arm split at the median of the more racially balanced study cohort and FST (I–III vs. IV–V) were used for discriminating vitamin D deficiency. A total of 296 participants (mean age, 12.3±2.3 years; black, 208; FST IV–V, 209; 25(OH)D <20 ng/ml, 159) were studied. MI and FST had a strong positive association. Serum 25(OH)D was negatively associated with MI and FST. Sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values were similar for discriminating vitamin D deficiency between higher vs. lower MI and between FST I–III vs. IV–V. ROC area under the curves for FST (0.59) and MI (forehead (0.63); hand (0.62); and arm (0.64)) were similar. FST is comparable to MI for discerning vitamin D deficiency and can be deemed as an inexpensive, useful surrogate measure of skin color in the context of vitamin D research.
Association between haptoglobin gene and insulin resistance in Arab-Americans.

Aim To analyze associations between variation in the HP gene and lipid and glucose-related measures in Arab-Americans. Secondary analyses were performed based on sex. Patients & methods Genomic DNA was extracted from samples obtained from a previous epidemiological study of diabetes in Arab-Americans. The HP 1 and 2 alleles were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction and gel electrophoresis. Associations were analyzed by linear regression. Results & conclusion Associations were identified between the heterozygous haptoglobin 2-1 genotype and insulin resistance, fasting insulin and fasting c-peptide. The effect of sex did not remain significant after adjustment for relevant variables. HP genetic variation may have utility as a biomarker of insulin resistance and diabetes risk in Arab-Americans, however, future prospective studies are needed.
Effect of substrate on the growth and properties of thin 3R NbS2 films grown by chemical vapor deposition

Abstract The effect of substrate (c-plane sapphire versus epitaxial graphene/6H-SiC) on the CVD growth and properties of thin 3R NbS2 films was investigated using niobium (v) pentachloride (NbCl5) and hydrogen disulfide (H2S) as precursors in a hydrogen carrier gas. The growth temperature ranged from 400 °C to 800 °C and the sulfur to niobium ratio (S/Nb) ranged between 640 and 5100 under 100 Torr total pressure. Growth on sapphire resulted in fine grained nanocrystalline NbS2 films under all conditions studied whereas smooth NbS2 films with triangular-shaped domains, on the order of 1–2 μm in size, were obtained on epitaxial graphene under identical conditions. The differences in growth morphology were attributed to enhanced surface diffusion of Nb adatoms on the passivated graphene surface compared to that of c-plane sapphire. This work demonstrates that the substrate choice plays a very crucial role in the deposition of 3R NbS2.
Analysis of Heterogeneous Interactions

Publisher Summary This chapter presents the mathematical formalism to describe heterogeneous equilibria, with particular attention to the relationship between the macroscopic and microscopic equilibrium constants. Identification and characterization of critical macromolecular interactions within the cell are central research problems of the postgenomic era. Quantitative methods capable of accurately defining the stoichiometry, affinity, cooperativity, and thermodynamics are required for a fundamental mechanistic understanding and to effectively target molecular interactions for therapeutic intervention. Although many biologically significant interactions involve association of identical subunits, a much larger class of binding events involves interactions of dissimilar partners. Rigorous investigation of heterogeneous interactions presents particular challenges for experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation. Heterogeneous interactions involve at least two distinct macromolecular components. The features of several biophysical methods that are commonly used to characterize heterogeneous interactions are compared. Equilibrium and velocity analytical ultracentrifugation are particularly useful as baseline methods to define assembly models and extract equilibrium parameters. The focus in this chapter is on sedimentation equilibrium and this approach is illustrated with an analysis of a nonspecific protein–nucleic acid interaction.
Role of endogenous testosterone in TNF-induced myocardial injury in males.

Background: Gender-specific disparities have been observed in myocardium exposed to tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF). Male myocardium demonstrates greater loss in cardiac function in the presence of a given TNF level compared to female. In addition, we have previously demonstrated that estrogen has little influence on reducing TNF- caused myocardial dysfunction in female hearts, suggesting that male hormone - testosterone may be responsible for gender differences in TNF-mediated myocardial damage. Therefore, in this study, we hypothesize that endoge- nous testosterone plays a detrimental role in TNF-induced myocardial injury in male hearts. Methods: Isolated mouse hearts from age-matched adult males, females, castrated males and males treated with androgen receptor blocker- flutamide were subjected to 45 minutes of TNF infusion via a Langendorff model. Left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP) and heart rate were continuously recorded. After TNF infusion, heart tissue was analyzed for myocardial levels of caspase-8 and caspase-3 by Western blot assay. Results: TNF infusion significantly depressed LVDP, but not heart rate in males. Myocardial rate pressure product (RPP, LVDP*heart rate) was markedly decreased in male hearts com- pared to females in exposure to TNF, which was associated with higher levels of TNF-induced caspase-8 and caspase -3. Importantly, depletion of endogenous testosterone by castration or blockade of androgen receptor by flutamide treatment abolished TNF-decreased RPP in male hearts. However, castration or flutamide treatment did not affect TNF production and myocardial expression of TNFR1 and TNFR2. Conclusion: Our study shows that testosterone is critical to the gender difference in TNF-induced detrimental effects on myocardium. Relative low threshold for TNF- caused myocardial damage in males is likely due to the interaction of testosterone with downstream signals of TNFR1 and/or TNFR2.
Short Range Order in “Amorphous” Thin Films of Titanium Diboride

Thin films of titanium diboride have been prepared by thermal vapourisation of crystalline specimens onto an unheated substrate. X-ray diffraction and electron diffraction studies confirmed that the films were “almost amorphous”. EXAFS and EXELFS studies revealed that the films exhibited short range order, probably of the kind found in crystalline specimens, but lacked long-range periodicity.
The Core Cyber-Defense Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities That Cybersecurity Students Should Learn in School: Results from Interviews with Cybersecurity Professionals

Our cybersecurity workforce needs surpass our ability to meet them. These needs could be mitigated by developing relevant curricula that prioritize the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) most important to cybersecurity jobs. To identify the KSAs needed for performing cybersecurity jobs, we administered survey interviews to 44 cyber professionals at the premier hacker conferences Black Hat 2016 and DEF CON 24. Questions concerned 32 KSAs related to cyber defense. Participants rated how important each KSA was to their job and indicated where they had learned that KSA. Fifteen of these KSAs were rated as being of higher-than-neutral importance. Participants also answered open-ended questions meant to uncover additional KSAs that are important to cyber-defense work. Overall, the data suggest that KSAs related to networks, vulnerabilities, programming, and interpersonal communication should be prioritized in cybersecurity curricula.
Against coloniality: Toward an epistemically insurgent curriculum:

This study interrogates the colonial and Western epistemology underlying mainstream curricula and proposes a decolonial approach that can build an epistemically insurgent curriculum that takes into...
Transplant Center Refusal Rate and Waitlist Outcomes in Pediatric Heart Transplantation

Purpose Approximately 40% of potential pediatric heart donations go unused, while waitlist mortality remains high. The aim of our study was to investigate associations between center refusal rate and waitlist outcomes. Methods Retrospective analysis was performed using UNOS/OPTN pediatric ( Results 5,639 listed patients in 59 centers met inclusion criteria. The lowest quartile of center had a median RR of 75th percentile had a RR ≥ 4. There was no association between RR quartile and transplant center volume (p=0.4). Centers in the highest RR quartile were more likely to remove patients from the waitlist due to death or clinical deterioration versus those at lowest RR quartile (24.1% vs 14.6%, p Conclusion Patients listed at high RR centers had worse survival from listing. High RR centers are more likely to remove patients from the waitlist due to death or clinical deterioration and are less likely to transplant patients. Refusal rate is not associated with center transplant volume.
Multi-Agent Learning with a Distributed Genetic Algorithm

Lightweight agents distributed in space have the potential to solve many complex problems. In this paper, we examine a model where agents represent individuals in a genetic algorithm (GA) solving a shared problem. We examine two questions: (1) How does the network density of connections between agents a ffect the performance of the systems? (2) How does the interaction topology a affect the performance of the system? In our model, agents exist in either a random network topology with long-distance communication, or a location-based topology, where agents only communicate with near neighbors. We examine both fixed and dynamic networks. Within the context of our investigation, our initial results indicate that relatively low network density achievesthe same results as a panmictic, or fully connected, population. Additionally, we find that dynamic networks outperform fixed networks, and that random network topologies outperform proximity-based network topologies. We conclude by showing how this model can be useful not only for multi-agent learning, but also for genetic algorithms, agent-based simulation and models of diff usion of innovation.
Statins as a free pass: Body mass index and other cardiovascular risk factors among lipid-lowering medication users and nonusers in the California Men's Health Study

Abstract To lower risk from cardiovascular disease (CVD), national guidelines recommend lifestyle changes followed by use of lipid-lowering medications when appropriate. Previous studies have questioned whether individuals taking these medications are less likely to modify their dietary intake and physical activity, resulting in increased body mass index (BMI). We assessed BMI and CVD clinical risk factors over time between lipid-lowering medication users and nonusers in a diverse cohort of middle-aged and older men. The cohort consisted of 63,357 men who enrolled in the California Men's Health Study between 2002 and 2003 and were not taking lipid-lowering medications at baseline. Lipid-lowering medication use was determined over twelve years of follow-up. BMI and other CVD risk factors were assessed with longitudinal linear mixed effect models adjusting for possible confounders. Overall, lipid-lowering medication users had higher BMI than nonusers (p
Anytime is the Right Time: A Content Analysis of Marijuana Ads in Freely Distributed Print Media in Western Washington State, USA

Background: Cannabis advertisement content in print media has not yet been studied, despite youth high exposure to them. This study analyzes cannabis ads content in two publications in Western Wash...
A Comparison of Two Group Contingencies On Teachers' Use of Behavior-Specific Praise

The present study evaluated the effects of two reinforcement contingencies on teacher use of behavior-specific praise (BSP) in the classroom. An alternating treatments design was used to compare the implementation of both an independent and interdependent contingency to increase frequency of BSP delivery. Four general education elementary school teachers and their students participated. Teachers’ use of BSP and general praise, as well as, behavior-specific and general reprimands were evaluated. Data were also collected on students’ levels of academically engaged and disruptive behaviors. Both the independent and interdependent conditions resulted in higher frequencies of BSP and reduced the use of both general and behavior-specific reprimands. Student levels of academic engagement increased while disruption decreased across both contingencies. Results of the present study are discussed in terms of related literature and implications for applied practice.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ENABLED ECG DETECTS SIGNIFICANT LEFT VENTRICULAR DYSFUNCTION IN SUBJECTS WITH DILATED CARDIOMYOPATHY

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) can be inherited and guidelines recommend screening first-degree relatives. However, screening with echocardiography is limited due to availability and cost. Recently, artificial intelligence-enabled electrocardiography (AI-ECG) has shown promise in detecting left
Thermal imaging for rapid noninvasive on-site insulation diagnostics

High voltage electrical failures are dangerous and costly events in any type of power system. The troubleshooting and diagnostic time required to identify and locate these failures can be significant. Partial discharge is one of the early warning signs for electrical degradation. In insulation systems, partial discharge typically occurs in voids located within the dielectric, at material interfaces, or along energized electrode surfaces. Effective methods for finding this failure precursor enabling circumvention of future catastrophic events are highly valuable as successful detection can improve safety, reduce service interruptions, and result in significant financial savings. Challenges arise when these events are obstructed from a direct line of sight (which is common in compact electrical systems). Conventional electrical partial discharge measurements capable of diagnosing concealed defects based on phased resolved partial discharge (PRPD) patterns require coupling devices physically connected to the circuit. This paper presents a non-invasive, real-time, method to detect and locate partial discharge and faulty insulation with potential for automated quality control of in-factory manufactured products and in-service operational devices, in contrast to post-failure assessment. This paper will cover both Alternating Current (AC), previous research, and Direct Current (DC), new research, detection methods and results.
Controlling antiferromagnetic domains in patterned La0.7Sr0.3FeO3 thin films

Transition metal oxide thin films and heterostructures are promising platforms to achieve full control of the antiferromagnetic (AFM) domain structure in patterned features as needed for AFM spintronic devices. In this work, soft x-ray photoemission electron microscopy was utilized to image AFM domains in micromagnets patterned into La0.7Sr0.3FeO3 (LSFO) thin films and La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (LSMO)/LSFO superlattices. A delicate balance exists between magnetocrystalline anisotropy, shape anisotropy, and exchange interactions such that the AFM domain structure can be controlled using parameters such as LSFO and LSMO layer thickness, micromagnet shape, and temperature. In LSFO thin films, shape anisotropy gains importance only in micromagnets where at least one extended edge is aligned parallel to an AFM easy axis. In contrast, in the limit of ultrathin LSFO layers in the LSMO/LSFO superlattice, shape anisotropy effects dominate such that the AFM spin axes at micromagnet edges can be aligned along any in-plane crystallographic direction.
Gender and Racial Differences in Awareness and Consideration of Curricular Programs: Exploring a Multistage Model of Major Choice:

One method for reducing gender and racial segregation in career fields is addressing sorting by major in college. However, previous research has not examined the full process of major sorting; few ...
Developing coastal relocation policy: lessons learned from the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program

Relocation is increasingly being considered a viable adaptation strategy in some coastal locations. Even though recent coastal disasters and a higher awareness of sea level rise have accentuated th...
Impact of nuclear reactor radiation on the performance of AlN/sapphire surface acoustic wave devices

Abstract The performance of an AlN/sapphire surface acoustic wave (SAW) delay line device was characterized in real time under irradiation inside a nuclear reactor. Both its resonant frequency and transmission efficiency were observed to respond to a change in reactor power. The response follows an exponentially saturating behavior after a step power increase, followed by an exponentially decaying recovery after reactor shutdown. A sensitivity analysis based on the governing electro-mechanical equations shows that the frequency shift can be attributed to the softening of sapphire’s elastic constants under neutron radiation. A kinetic rate equation is adopted to interpret device response and describe its microstructural evolution. These results suggest that the AlN/sapphire SAW device remains functional under irradiation, is sensitive to neutron and gamma ray fluxes, and offers an opportunity for remote sensing and in-situ measurement of material properties when exposed to nuclear reactor environment.
Brain function distinguishes female carriers and non-carriers of familial risk for autism.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by high population-level heritability and a three-to-one male-to-female ratio that occurs independent of sex linkage. Prior research in a mixed-sex pediatric sample identified neural signatures of familial risk elicited by passive viewing of point light motion displays, suggesting the possibility that both resilience and risk of autism might be associated with brain responses to biological motion. To confirm a relationship between these signatures and inherited risk of autism, we tested them in families enriched for genetic loading through undiagnosed (“carrier”) females. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we examined brain responses to passive viewing of point light displays—depicting biological versus non-biological motion—in a sample of undiagnosed adult females enriched for inherited susceptibility to ASD on the basis of affectation in their respective family pedigrees. Brain responses in carrier females were compared to responses in age-, SRS-, and IQ-matched non-carrier-females—i.e., females unrelated to individuals with ASD. We conducted a hypothesis-driven analysis focused on previously published regions of interest as well as exploratory, brain-wide analyses designed to characterize more fully the rich responses to this paradigm. We observed robust responses to biological motion. Notwithstanding, the 12 regions implicated by prior research did not exhibit the hypothesized interaction between group (carriers vs. controls) and point light displays (biological vs. non-biological motion). Exploratory, brain-wide analyses identified this interaction in three novel regions. Post hoc analyses additionally revealed significant variations in the time course of brain activation in 20 regions spanning occipital and temporal cortex, indicating group differences in response to point light displays (irrespective of the nature of motion) for exploration in future studies. We were unable to successfully eye-track all participants, which prevented us from being able to control for potential differences in eye gaze position. These methods confirmed pronounced neural signatures that differentiate brain responses to biological and scrambled motion. Our sample of undiagnosed females enriched for family genetic loading enabled discovery of numerous contrasts between carriers and non-carriers of risk of ASD that may index variations in visual attention and motion processing related to genetic susceptibility and inform our understanding of mechanisms incurred by inherited liability for ASD.
Maximum allowable fluid velocity and concern on piping stability of ITER Tokamak cooling water system

Abstract The ITER facility is an international research project that is under construction in Cadarache, France. US ITER is responsible for the design, engineering, and procurement of the Tokamak Cooling Water System (TCWS). TCWS piping size varies from DN40 to DN500. A design guideline specifies that piping smaller than DN150 must have a fluid velocity below 6 m/s, while a fluid velocity of up to 9 m/s is permitted for piping larger than DN150. Fluid velocity affects pipe size, pressure drop, pump size, piping support, etc. Factors considered when determining maximum allowable fluid velocity include erosion and corrosion, pump capacity, cavitation, hydrodynamic instability, and actual nuclear plant experience. The previous study performed to support the ITER piping design indicated that the hydrodynamic instability was a reason to limit maximum allowable fluid velocity below 6 m/s regardless of the piping size. However, the later study found that, when properly supported, pipe buckling and fluttering from hydrodynamic force would not cause instability. Instead, cavitation erosion—a pipeline phenomenon that forms vapor cavities in pipe—may limit allowable fluid velocity. Cavitation is a pipeline phenomenon that forms vapor cavities, which then go unstable and collapse violently in low-pressure, turbulent, flow-separation regions inside valves, elbows, pipe expansions, and other fluid handling components. Considering the cavitation issue, pressure drop, and a typical practice in a nuclear plant system, fluid velocity is to limit below 6 m/s for piping smaller than DN150 and 9 m/s for piping larger than DN150. This paper describes a hydraulic stability analysis, the fluid velocity generally accepted in nuclear plants and the cavitation-erosion limit in fluid velocity.