cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
THE RELATION OF GENETIC STRUCTURE TO ENVIRONMENTAL STRUCTURE: GAMMARUS MINUS IN A KARST AREA.

A species possesses an internal genetic structure that is compounded on the genetic architecture of constituent local populations. Each local population may be subtly unique in its coadapted gene ensemble, including the fine tuning of its genic regulatory system. More obviously and more approachably, populations may be differentiated in allele frequencies at single structural loci. This study describes the regional genetic patterns of allozyme loci in the amphipod crustacean Gammarus minus Say in a karst area of southeastern West Virginia. It is a part of an investigation of this species throughout the mid-Appalachian portion of its range, whose initial purpose is to map the genetic relationships among populations onto the highly structured environment of this region. Gammarus minus is highly differentiated in allele frequencies at several loci over short distances. There are at least three possible reasons for this fact. (1) As in other pericardians, females of G. minus brood their young in a ventral marsupium, and there is no specific migratory stage in the life history. (2) This species is principally found in freshwater lotic streams. Individual streams are essentially one-dimensional habitats from the viewpoint of gene flow, and drainage networks have a dimensionality between one and two (analogous to roads in Cavalli-Sforza and Bodmer, 1971). There is a greater decrease of genetic correlation with distance as dimensionality decreases in stepping-stone models of isotropic gene flow (Kimura and Weiss, 1964; Kimura and Maruyama, 1971). (3) G. minus in the Mid-Appalachians is largely confined to springs, spring runoff, and stream caves situated in carbonate strike valleys. Each local population is partially isolated from others in the local drainage system, and more profoundly isolated from populations in other streams and in other regions of carbonate outcrop. Holsinger (1969) discusses the Appalachian zoogeography of the Gammaridae in greater detail. In Virginia and West Virginia this species is widely distributed in the Ridge and Valley physiographic province and flanking areas, where its populations are mainly located in the headward reaches of feeders of trunk streams that trend northeast-southwest along linear strike valleys floored by Paleozoic limestones and dolomites. Some of these valleys are marked by karst development. A particularly extensive karst topography is displayed on the Greenbrier Limestone of Mississippian age in Pocahontas, Greenbrier, and Monroe Counties of southeastern West Virginia. This is a highly structured environment in which G. minus is found in three ecophenotypic forms. The primary aim of this study has been to map allozyme allele frequencies and levels of heterozygosity onto the structured topography to determine their concordance. The second goal has been to determine if the ecophenotypic
Immune System Crashes After a Brake Failure

Human primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) are genetic disorders that result in an impaired immune response and recurrent infections. Approximately 1 in 1200 people in the United States are currently diagnosed with PIDs, with more than 200 diseases and more than 100 genetic etiologies uncovered. The
Joint-Stock Business Organization in France, 1807–1867

The organizational alternatives available to businessmen are often important in the channeling of economic growth, as shown in this historical study of the French experience.
Study on resembling simulation experiment of spontaneous combustion in goaf

To study the impact of different types of ventilation leakage on spontaneous combustion in goaf,and in accordance with the different states of ventilation leakage in goaf,the goaf is divided into different regions of the fire danger,in order to judge the location of spontaneous combustion in goaf.By developing the resembling simulation models,many experiments are carried out to research the spontaneous combustion in goaf.Then,the goaf ventilation pressure isoline and ventilation flow distribution are observed and drawn,which are also drawn after the air duct for gas releasing is placed in the upper corner of coal face and after the stowing strips are placed in goaf.
Gas–liquid two-phase flow in microchannels: Part II: void fraction and pressure drop

Abstract Void fraction and two-phase frictional pressure drop in microchannels were experimentally investigated. Using air and water, experiments were conducted in transparent circular microchannels with 1.1 and 1.45 mm inner diameters and in microchannels with semi-triangular (triangular with one corner smoothed) cross-sections with hydraulic diameters 1.09 and 1.49 mm. Gas and liquid superficial velocities were varied in the 0.02–80 m/s and 0.02–8 m/s ranges, respectively, and void fractions were calculated by analyzing photographs taken from the test sections with circular cross-section. Measured void fractions were compared with several correlations. The homogeneous flow model provided the best prediction of the experimental void fractions in bubbly and slug flow patterns. The homogeneous flow model and all other tested empirical correlations significantly over predicted the void fractions in annular flow pattern, however. A one-dimensional model, based on the numerical solution of mass and momentum conservation equations was applied for the calculation of test section pressure drops, using various two-phase friction models. For bubbly and slug flow patterns, the two-phase friction factor based on homogeneous mixture assumption provided the best agreement with experimental data. For annular flow the homogeneous mixture model and other widely used correlations significantly over predicted the frictional pressure drop.
Hroswitha of Gandersheim. Her Life, Times and Works, and a Comprehensive Bibliography. Edited by Anne Lyon Haight: New York (The Hroswitha Club): Stechert-Hafner, 1965. Pp. xiv, 129; 18 illustrations. $15.00

(1966). Hroswitha of Gandersheim. Her Life, Times and Works, and a Comprehensive Bibliography. Edited by Anne Lyon Haight. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 41, No. 4, pp. 302-303.
Shear wave velocity imaging using transient electrode perturbation: A phantom study

A new shear wave velocity imaging technique to monitor radiofrequency and microwave ablation procedures is presented, coined electrode vibration elastography. A piezoelectric actuator is attached to the ablation needle and is transiently vibrated to generate shear waves that are tracked at high frame rates. The time-to-peak algorithm is used to reconstruct the shear wave velocity and thereby the shear modulus variations. The feasibility of this approach is demonstrated in phantoms mimicking fully ablated (phantom 1) and partially ablated (phantom 2) regions. Shear wave velocity estimates in phantom 1 were within 7% of mechanical measurements and within 17% in phantom 2. Good boundary delineation was observed in both phantoms. No significant differences in ellipsoid area estimates between shear wave velocity and B-mode images were present in phantom 1. Shear wave velocity area estimates were significantly higher than B-mode area estimates in phantom 2. Electrode vibration elastography shows promise as an imaging modality that provides ablation boundary delineation and quantitative information during ablation procedures.
0.5 micron CMOS for high performance at 3.3 V

In addition to higher packing density, the scaling of CMOS technology to the half-micron regime must provide improved circuit performance at a reduced supply voltage without increased process complexity. These goals have been met with a 0.5- mu m CMOS technology with 12-nm gate oxide thickness that gives at least a 20% speed improvement at a 3.3-V supply voltage compared to an 0.8- mu m technology at 5.0 V with 20-nm gate oxide. Adequate process margin is obtained by requiring that transistors patterned 0.1 mu m shorter than design length fully meet the requirements for minimum short-channel leakage and sensitivity to hot-carrier stress. >
Energy conversion properties of ZnSiP 2 , a lattice-matched material for silicon-based tandem photovoltaics

ZnSiP 2 demonstrates promising potential as an optically active material on silicon. There has been a longstanding need for wide band gap materials that can be integrated with Si for tandem photovoltaics and other optoelectronic applications. ZnSiP 2 is an inexpensive, earth abundant, wide band gap material that is stable and lattice matched with silicon. This conference proceeding summarizes our PV-relevant work on bulk single crystal ZnSiP 2 , highlighting the key findings and laying the ground work for integration into Si-based tandem devices.
Infusing Mature Megakaryocytes Into Mice Yields Functional Platelets: Biological and Clinical Implications.

Abstract Abstract 225 Thrombopoiesis, the process by which circulating platelets (plts) arise from megakaryocytes (Megs) remains incompletely understood. Two models had been proposed: (1) release of plts produced from Megs within the marrow space and (2) release of plts by circulating Megs within the pulmonary vasculature. Recently, murine two-photon electron microscopy suggested that the actual process may involve an intermediate model, wherein Megs adjacent to vascular spaces within the marrow shed large cytoplasmic fragments into the circulation, which presumably go on to form plts in the vascular space. We have now tested whether infused cultured Megs can form circulating, functional plts. Cultured Megs from the fetal livers of Day 14 wildtype (WT) C57Bl6 murine embryos grown in the presence of thrombopoietin for 10 days were separated using a bovine serum albumin gradient into two cell fractions: (1) large, mature CD41+/CD42+ Megs (average ploidy = 16–32N) and (2) an admixture of proplatelets and small CD41+/CD42+ Megs (average ploidy = 2-4N). These fractions were separately infused into hαIIb mice that expressed human, but not mouse, αIIb on their platelets. Donor-derived circulating plts were detected using species-specific antibodies to distinguish them from recipient hαIIb+ plts. Infusions of isolated WT plts as a positive control resulted in immediately detectable donor plts, and these plts lasted 24–36 hrs. Infused large Megs produced plts with delayed kinetics. Few donor plts were detectable at 5 mins, followed by a peak at 30–60 min. These plts were normal in size as determined by side-scatter and lasted for ∼24 hrs. The peak yield was ∼50-100 plts/infused Meg. In these studies, these derived plt levels reached as high as 10% of the total circulating plts in these mice who had plt counts of >8×105/μl. Maximal tolerated dose of infused large Megs was not tested. Infusion of the proplatelets/small Megs fraction generated an immediate peak of circulating plts and these lasted Disclosures: Poncz: Diagnostica Stago: Patents & Royalties.
Confronting carceral power through experiential learning in macro social work practice

AbstractFounded on a rich tradition of community engagement, social work’s commitment to macro practice has waxed and waned throughout its short professional history. Despite an ethical mandate to advocate for social and economic justice, there is a retrenching emphasis on macro practice within social work education. This circumstance affects the profession’s commitment to human rights and social justice as social work students are often unable to actively engage in change-making activities. Many students graduate without the knowledge and skills needed to enact systemic change in their agencies, communities, states, or nation. This case study will explore the use of experiential learning methods to challenge carceral power through the demonstration of macro practice skills, which are essential for challenging the status quo of practices and policies that sustain oppressive systems. This case study details the organization and facilitation of ‘Know Your Rights’ (KYR) trainings, which educate community mem...
Long-term follow-up of paediatric MEFV carriers

Although familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is inherited autosomal recessively, some heterozygotes may express disease phenotype and require therapy. To date, there is no study in the literature about how to follow-up Mediterranean fever (MEFV) heterozygotes who do not fulfil FMF criteria in the paediatric age group. This study aims to share a single-centre experience of the long-term clinical and laboratory follow-up of paediatric MEFV carriers. We reviewed the charts of 69 children who were heterozygous for MEFV variants. All children were followed-up with their routine analysis and serum amyloid A levels every 6 months. Thirty-nine children had pathogenic mutations and 30 children had variants of unknown significance. The mean follow-up was 3.2 ± 1.6 years (min 2 years, max 6 years). The children with pathogenic mutations had significantly higher mean SAA levels than the children with variants of unknown significance (p = 0.018); however, the mean CRP and ESR were similar. Besides, the children with pathogenic mutations complained of fever episodes significantly more than the children with variants of unknown significance (p = 0.04). None of the children had persistent proteinuria in the follow-up. We started colchicine in only two patients who were M694V heterozygous. Both patients had family history for FMF and fulfilled the disease criteria after 2 years of follow-up. Neither of these patients had persistently elevated acute phase reactants in their routine follow-up. This study suggested that routine clinical follow-up is useful; however, routine periodic laboratory workup is not necessary among MEFV carriers.
TLR4-dependent tumor-initiating stem cell-like cells (TICs) in alcohol-associated hepatocellular carcinogenesis.

Alcohol abuse predisposes individuals to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and synergistically heightens the HCC risk in patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The mechanisms of this synergism have been elusive until our recent demonstration of the obligatory role of ectopically expressed TLR4 in liver tumorigenesis in alcohol-fed HCV Ns5a or Core transgenic mice. CD133+/CD49f+ tumor-initiating stem cell-like cells (TICs) isolated from these models are tumorigenic in a manner dependent on TLR4 and NANOG. TICs’ tumor-initiating activity and chemoresistance are causally associated with inhibition of TGF-β tumor suppressor pathway due to NANOG-mediated expression of IGF2BP3 and YAP1. TLR4/NANOG activation causes p53 degradation via phosphorylation of the protective protein NUMB and its dissociation from p53 by the oncoprotein TBC1D15. Nutrient deprivation reduces overexpressed TBC1D15 in TICs via autophagy-mediated degradation, suggesting a possible role of this oncoprotein in linking metabolic reprogramming and self-renewal.
GENETICS | Gene Association Studies

With the completion of the Human Genome Project and the rapid progress in genotyping technology, the number of genetic association studies in respiratory diseases has increased exponentially in recent years. Most of these association studies have employed a population-based case-control design, and very few have provided results that have been replicated by others. While disagreement in results between studies may be due to true differences in genetic variation and environmental exposures among populations, attention must be paid to potential problems that lead to lack of replication. These potential problems include differences in phenotype definitions, lack of attention to Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in controls, small sample sizes, multiple testing, and potential population stratification. While methods have now been developed to test and control for population stratification, family-based methods have also been developed in response to this problem. This article provides an overview of the design and conduct of genetic association studies for complex respiratory diseases.
Intelligent Structures Research at Virginia Tech

The desired static performance and dynamic adaptability of advanced structural materials demands the development of intrinsic analysis and control systems which are capable of independently optimizing structural properties in response to particular external disturbances. Materials and structures which incorporate environmental and material sensors, mechanical actuators, and electronic signal processing and adaptive control systems to produce either appropriate readouts or actuator responses for particular sensor inputs have been termed “smart”, “intelligent”, “sense-able” or “organic” during the past several years [1]. The primary advantage of such materials and structures is that they may be designed to adapt to a wide range of conditions during their normal use lifetimes. Some types of sensors and actuators, particularly small and lightweight optical fiber sensors and shape memory metal actuators, may be directly embedded without seriously affecting material integrity. Additionally, the optical fibers embedded in such material systems may be used as life cycle sensors to monitor nondestructively the way in which composite and metal structures are fabricated, the inservice lifetime performance conditions of the material, and the onset of material degradation due to a variety of causes including fatigue and impact damage [2].
Value-centered R&D organizations: Ten principles for characterizing, assessing, and managing value: Regular Paper

The management of R&D organizations has received considerable attention in terms of the nature of the flow from research to development to deployed technology, as well as planning and managing this flow. R&D strategies, innovation funnels, and multistage decision processes, to name just a few constructs, have been articulated and elaborated. This article builds on this foundation to consider the nature of the value created by this process. An options-based approach is advocated for economic valuation of the products of R&D. Adoption and implementation of this approach is outlined in terms of ten principles for characterizing, assessing, and managing value. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.† Syst Eng 7: 167–185, 2004This article is a US Government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
Evidence for function of a metal ion in the activity of dihydroorotase from Zymobacterium oroticum.

Dihydroorotase (4,5-ndihydro-orotate amidohydrolase, EC 3.5.2.3) catalyzes the reversible cyclization of L-ureidosuccinate to n-dihydroorotate. The enzyme was first shown by Lieberman and Kornberg (l-3) to be involved in pyrimidine biosynthesis and degradation in Zymobacterium oroticum. Dihydroorotase also has been identified in Escherichia coli (4,5), rat liver (6,7), human erythrocytes and leukocytes (8-11) and Novikoff ascites tumor cells (12-14). However, the enzyme has not been extensively purified and characterized from any of the above sources. During studies on the purification of dihydroorotase from Z. oroticum, we have had occasion to note considerable cationic stimulation of the activity following treatments with protamine sulfate and ammonium sulfate. The present investigation describes evidence for requirement of a cation, probably Zn++, in the catalytic function of dihydroorotase.
Active Reward Learning from Critiques

Learning from demonstration algorithms, such as Inverse Reinforcement Learning, aim to provide a natural mechanism for programming robots, but can often require a prohibitive number of demonstrations to capture important subtleties of a task. Rather than requesting additional demonstrations blindly, active learning methods leverage uncertainty to query the user for action labels at states with high expected information gain. However, this approach can still require a large number of labels to adequately reduce uncertainty and may also be unintuitive, as users are not accustomed to determining optimal actions in a single out-of-context state. To address these shortcomings, we propose a novel trajectory-based active Bayesian inverse reinforcement learning algorithm that 1) queries the user for critiques of automatically generated trajectories, rather than asking for demonstrations or action labels, 2) utilizes trajectory segmentation to expedite the critique / labeling process, and 3) predicts the user's critiques to generate the most highly informative trajectory queries. We evaluated our algorithm in simulated domains, finding it to compare favorably to prior work and a randomized baseline.
Effects of Teaching Upper Elementary Grade Students to Use Word Learning Strategies

This study examined the effects of three trials of a one-semester program designed to teach word learning strategies. Together, the three trials included 320 fourth- and fifth-grade students from d...
Modeling intercellular calcium dynamics in an epithelial organ using Dynamic Mode Decomposition

Abstract Calcium ions (Ca2+) are versatile, yet critical components of molecular communication networks. Cells have developed complex mechanisms to maintain homeostasis of Ca2+ concentration levels within cytoplasm. Both at the cellular and tissue levels, information is transferred through complex dynamical patterns of Ca2+ signals. Since Ca2+ is involved in the regulation of various biological processes, understanding its dynamics is a valuable source of information with potential applications in systems and synthetic biology. However, modeling such complicated dynamics is a challenge in systems biology. In this work, we present a data driven analysis of Ca2+ dynamics based on Dynamic Mode Decomposition (DMD) to study the dynamics of Ca2+ signaling in Drosophila melanogaster wing disc in late larval stages. This system is amenable to studying Ca2+ signaling in a developing epithelium. Experimentally, it is observed that Ca2+ dynamics show different dynamical patterns depending on genetic perturbations. Therefore, from a systems biology perspective, devising a reasonable model to capture various dynamical patterns can shed light into interplay between dynamics and various biological processes. The dynamics of Ca2+ is analyzed using a first-order state space model approximated by DMD algorithm. DMD modes and eigenvalues of the derived model was investigated to identify coherent spatial and temporal patterns that reflect the known morphogenetic boundaries of the organ. This implies that Ca2+ signaling dynamics encode the differentiation state of cells in the system.
Molecular Diagnostics in Hematologic Malignancies

In hematologic malignancies, molecular testing of cytology specimens can be extremely useful in the context of tissue-based neoplasms such as lymphomas and myeloid sarcomas when the source of nucleic acids can be limited. FNA specimens are ideal for obtaining unprocessed high-quality nucleic acids essential for simultaneous assessment of a variety of genetic alterations as is usually the case with hematologic malignancies. Concurrent quantitative tumor burden assessed by multiparametric flow cytometry analysis on these samples enables a more informative interpretation of results. Clonality assays to detect monoclonal rearrangements in immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) and T-cell receptor (TCR) beta or gamma receptor genes are invaluable for differentiating low-grade B-cell and T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders from reactive conditions. Assessment of characteristic gene translocations and gene mutations is fundamental for subclassification of small B-cell lymphomas and myeloid leukemias and prognostication of large B-cell lymphomas. Estimation of the degree of somatic hypermutation in IGHV is the standard of care for prognostication in CLL/SLL. Gene mutation analysis also affects the choice of therapy by identification of targets for treatment using approved FDA drugs and novel agents in clinical trials. In this context, screening of drug resistance mutations has emerged as a critical aspect of monitoring these patients akin to the assessment of measurable (minimal) residual disease. And lastly, monitoring of cancer-associated viruses such as EBV is crucial in various settings. Further details are elaborated in the chapter below.
Baseline Characteristics and Readmissions after Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis in a Nationally Representative Database.

BACKGROUND There are limited epidemiologic data on cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST). We aim to summarize baseline characteristics and outcomes using a large nationally representative administrative database. METHODS Using the 2013 Nationwide Readmissions Database, we used validated International Classification of Disease, Ninth Revision codes to identify baseline characteristics of patients admitted with CVST. We calculated readmission rates (per 100,000 index hospitalizations) for neurological complications. Multivariable Poisson regression yielded rate ratios (RR) of associations between index admission variables and all-cause readmission up to 1 year. RESULTS Among 2,105 patients with index admission for CVST, mean age was 46.8 (SD 18.4); 65.2% were female, and 6.1% were pregnant. Hemorrhagic stroke (15.6%) was more common than ischemic stroke (10.7%), seizure occurred in 16.3, and 3.7% of patients died during index hospitalization. The 90-day readmission rate (per 100,000 index CVST hospitalizations) was the highest for CVST (1,447) and ischemic stroke (755). Diabetes (RR 1.10, 95% CI 1.002-1.22), cancer (1.23, 1.09-1.39), insurance status (0.92, 0.83-0.97 for Medicare/private insurance vs. others), and discharge home (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.85-0.99) were associated with increased readmission rate. CONCLUSIONS We provide baseline characteristics and readmission rates after CVST over a 1-year period. In-hospital mortality rate and association with pregnancy were lower than previously observed.
Covering and Packing of Triangles Intersecting a Straight Line

We study the four geometric optimization problems: Open image in new window , Open image in new window , Open image in new window , and Open image in new window with Open image in new window (a triangle is a right-triangle whose base is parallel to the x-axis, perpendicular is parallel to the y-axis, and the slope of the hypotenuse is \(-1\)). The input triangles are constrained to be intersecting a Open image in new window . The straight line can either be a Open image in new window or an Open image in new window line (a line whose slope is \(-1\)). A right-triangle is said to be a Open image in new window , if the length of both its base and perpendicular is \(\lambda \). For \(1\)-right-triangles where the triangles intersect an inclined line, we prove that the set cover and hitting set problems are \(\mathsf {NP}\)-hard, whereas the piercing set and independent set problems are in \(\mathsf {P}\). The same results hold for \(1\)-right-triangles where the triangles are intersecting a horizontal line instead of an inclined line. We prove that the piercing set and independent set problems with right-triangles intersecting an inclined line are \(\mathsf {NP}\)-hard. Finally, we give an \(n^{O(\lceil \log c\rceil +1)}\) time exact algorithm for the independent set problem with \(\lambda \)-right-triangles intersecting a straight line such that \(\lambda \) takes more than one value from [1, c], for some integer c. We also present \(O(n^2)\) time dynamic programming algorithms for the independent set problem with \(1\)-right-triangles where the triangles intersect a horizontal line and an inclined line.
Co-optimization approach to post-storm recovery for interdependent power and transportation systems

The power and transportation systems are urban interdependent critical infrastructures (CIs). During the post-disaster restoration process, transportation mobility and power restoration process are interdependent, and their functionalities significantly affect other well-beings of other urban CIs. Therefore, to enhance the resilience of urban CIs, successful recovery strategies should promote CI function cooperatively and synergistically to distribute goods and services efficiently. This paper develops an integrative framework that addresses the challenges of enhancing the recovery efficiency of urban power and transportation systems in short-term recovery period. Specifically, the post-storm recovery process is considered as a scheduling problem under the constraints representing crew dispatch, equipment and fuel limit. We propose a new framework for co-optimizing the recovery scheduling of power and transportation systems, respecting precedency requirement and network constraints. The advantages and benefits of co-optimized recovery scheduling are validated in a testing system.
Sticks, stones, and stress: PTSD symptoms and pain catastrophizing mediate the association between peer victimization and poor physical health

Abstract Introduction: Being bullied, also known as peer victimization, is a significant social stressor robustly associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms, pain catastrophizing, and poor physical health. Although much of the research on this topic has been correlational, longitudinal studies have found that being bullied predicts the development of physical health and mental health symptoms in children and college students. However, the interrelationships (mediation) between PTSD, pain catastrophizing, and physical health as they relate to peer victimization is unclear. In the current study we sought to better establish a pathway among peer victimization, PTSD symptoms, pain catastrophizing, and physical health symptoms. Method: College students (N = 275) in an engineering and technology research university in upstate New York participated. Participants completed assessments of peer victimization, PTSD symptoms, pain catastrophizing, and physical health symptoms. Results: Consistent with previous research, peer victimization was significantly correlated with frequency and severity of physical health problems, PTSD symptoms (reexperiencing, avoidance, and arousal), and pain catastrophizing (rumination, magnification, and helplessness). Significant mediational models were also established, where both PTSD symptoms and pain magnification each mediated the association between peer victimization and severity of health problems. Conclusions: The current research further elucidates the interrelationship among PTSD symptoms, pain catastrophizing, and health problems resulting from peer victimization. The current study expands the current understanding of interrelationships of these variables and provides implications for interventions and treatment. Keywords: Peer victimization, bullying, PTSD symptoms, physical health
A preliminary investigation of wild pig (Sus scrofa) impacts in water quality

The United States, particularly the southern portion, has recently suffered drastic population expansion of wild pigs causing destruction of prime farmland. An associated concern, which has been understudied, is the potential transfer of nutrients and pathogens to surface water. This study aimed to identify the abiotic and biotic impacts of captive wild pigs on water quality, including nutrients, fecal indicator and pathogenic bacteria, and antimicrobial resistance. Overall, the study demonstrated that wild pigs harbored Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., Escherichia coli, and Clostridium perfringens, which were found in water runoff collected directly beneath the hog paddock, often 2 log10 greater than above-paddock levels. However, the impacts to downstream water quality were limited, perhaps because of a relatively large riparian buffer between the paddock and surface water. A higher rate of ammonium concentration changes over time was detected in the runoff water below the paddock; additionally, microbial releases detected in runoff were also time dependent, possibly associated with increasing pig numbers. Antibiotic resistance was generally not associated with the wild pigs. Antibiotic resistance genes were found in upstream as well as downstream surface water, suggesting that nonpoint sources of microbial contamination were present. Interestingly, intI1 levels were greater in below-paddock runoff by nearly 2 log10 . Overall, it appears that wild pigs potentially pose a threat to water quality but only if they have direct access to the water. Pathogen, fecal indicator bacteria, and some nutrient release were significantly associated with wild pigs, but riparian buffers limited water quality impairment.
The Global Scenario of Biofuel Production and Development

Bioenergy has been ranking number one among all forms of renewable energy consumed by human beings. Over the past two decades, tremendous investment has been made in biofuel development and production. This chapter reviews the global research, refinery, and utilization of biomass-based liquid biofuels as transportation petro-fuel substitutes. There are four major types of liquid biofuels: bioethanol, biodiesel, pyrolysis bio-oil, and drop-in transportation fuels. Bioethanol has been commercially produced from lignocellulosic materials since 2013, supplementing the annual 25.7 billion gallons from food crops. Biodiesel from oilseeds and animal fats reached the 8.3 billion gallons/yr production capacity, with further increases depending on new feedstock development. Pyrolysis bio-oil and most drop-in transportation fuel candidates are still in the development stage, facing cost-effective conversion and upgrading challenges. Commercial production of two drop-in biofuels, hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), and Fischer–Tropsch liquids has just started or is starting. Overall, the global development and consumption of bioenergy and biofuels are steadily advancing, particularly in the cellulosic bioethanol and HVO sectors. By 2050, biofuels will likely account for 27% of the world’s liquid transportation fuel supply.
Thermodynamic analysis of tri-reforming of oxy-fuel combustion exhaust gas

Abstract A thermodynamic equilibrium analysis of the tri-reforming of oxy-combustion exhaust gases based on the minimisation of the Gibbs energy, was performed. To capture the effect of air leakage into the oxy-combustion boiler, two cases were investigated, representing 10 % and 1% combustion air leakage. The effects of temperature, pressure, and the ratio of methane to carbon dioxide (CH4/CO2) on the tri-reforming of the exhaust gases was studied. The domain of the practical operating regime for the tri-reforming of exhaust gases which is circumscribed by the maximum operating temperature, minimum CO2 conversion and zero-coke equilibrium was identified. In addition, three reactions (steam reforming, dry reforming and reverse water gas shift) were identified to be dominating in the temperature domain above the zero-coke equilibrium temperature. Within the boundaries of the practical operating regime, the tri-reforming of coal oxy-combustion exhaust gas results in more than three times the net conversion of CO2/kg CH4, when compared to the tri-reforming of conventional coal combustion exhaust gas.
Do You Believe Your Partner is Capable of Killing You? An Examination of Female IPV Survivors' Perceptions of Fatality Risk Indicators.

Advocates in the field of intimate partner violence (IPV) have started to more actively engage survivors around their own perceptions of their lethality risk, as well as assist them in developing s...
A Tale of Good Fortune in the Era of DNA

Two strains of good fortune in my career were to stumble upon the Watson-Gilbert laboratory at Harvard when I entered graduate school in 1964, and to study gene regulation in bacteriophage λ when I was there. λ was almost entirely a genetic item a few years before, awaiting biochemical incarnation. Throughout my career I was a relentless consumer of the work of previous and current generations of λ geneticists. Empowered by this background, my laboratory made contributions in two areas. The first was regulation of early gene transcription in λ, the study of which began with the discovery of the Rho transcription termination factor, and the regulatory mechanism of transcription antitermination by the λ N protein, subjects of my thesis work. This was developed into a decades-long program during my career at Cornell, studying the mechanism of transcription termination and antitermination. The second area was the classic problem of prophage induction in response to cellular DNA damage, the study of which illuminated basic cellular processes to survive DNA damage.
It might be a tumor: a unique presentation of a chronic rotator cuff tear.

Abstract A 59 year-old male presented to the county emergency department (ED) in southeastern United States for evaluation of a progressively worsening lump on his left shoulder. He describes it as painful and suggests “it might be a tumor”. There were no other associated complaints. On physical examination, there was a firm, non-tender, non-mobile mass without erythema or warmth, superior to the patient's left acromioclavicular (AC) joint. Both hawkins and empty can test were positive for pain. Point-of-care ultrasound identified a fluid filled structure overlying the AC joint. Initial radiographs demonstrated the so-called geyser sign, a finding of synovial fluid expressed through the AC joint consistent with rotator cuff tear. Subsequent CT scan identified atrophy of the supraspinatus muscle most consistent with rotator cuff tear. This case represents a unique presentation of a chronic rotator cuff tear.
Teacher effect change model: latent variable regression 5-level hierarchical model

This paper proposes a teacher effect change model in the form of a latent variable regression 5-level hierarchical model (LVR-HM5). Using multiple years of student achievement data, the LVR-HM5 attempts to simultaneously estimate teacher effect as well as teacher initial status and the gap parameter to model the change of such latent parameters over time. The gap parameter, the latent variable regression coefficient (Choi and Seltzer 2010; Choi and Kim 2019), captures the relationship between initial status and rates of changes within each year’s classroom. Furthermore, the LVR-HM5 allows us to model the teacher effect over time as a function of both time-varying and time-invariant characteristics. Such studies that focus on finding key correlates of teacher effect may have policy implications on teacher education, teacher professional development, and teachers’ instructional strategies that are potentially associated with improving teacher effectiveness.
Effects of simvastatin on tissue factor pathway of blood coagulation in STATCOPE (Simvastatin in the prevention of COPD exacerbations) trial.

BACKGROUND Statins are widely used to lower lipids and reduce cardiovascular events. In vitro studies and small studies in patients with hyperlipidemias show statins inhibit tissue factor (TF) and blood coagulation mechanisms. We assessed the effects of simvastatin on TF and coagulation biomarkers in patients entered in STATCOPE, a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of simvastatin (40 mg daily) versus placebo on exacerbation rates in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). METHODS In 227 patients (114 simvastatin, 113 placebo; mean [± standard error of the mean] age 62 ± 0.53 years, 44.5% women) we measured (baseline, and 6 and 12 months): whole blood membrane TF-procoagulant activity (TF-PCA) and plasma factors VIIa, VII, VIII, fibrinogen, TF antigen, tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI), thrombin-antithrombin complexes (TAT), and D-dimer. We excluded patients with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and those taking or requiring a statin. RESULTS In the statin group, there was a small increase in TF-PCA (from 25.18 ± 1.08 to 30.36 ± 1.10 U/ml; p = .03) over 12 months; factors VIIa and VIII, fibrinogen, TAT, and D-dimer did not change. Plasma TFPI (from 52.4 ± 1.75 to 44.7 ± 1.78 ng/ml; p < .0001) and FVIIC (1.23 ± 0.04 to 1.15 ± 0.03 U/ml; p = .03) decreased and correlated with total cholesterol levels. No changes in biomarkers were observed with placebo. CONCLUSIONS In contrast to previous studies on statins, in COPD patients without diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or requiring a statin treatment, simvastatin (40 mg per day) did not decrease TF or factors VIIa and VIII, fibrinogen, TAT, or D-dimer. The decreases in TFPI and factor VII reflect the decrease in serum lipids.
Hybrid Vine Robot With Internal Steering-Reeling Mechanism Enhances System-Level Capabilities

Continuum robots have high degrees of freedom and the ability to safely move in constrained environments. One class of soft continuum robot is the “vine” robot. This type of robot extends from its tip by everting or unfurling new material, driven by internal body pressure. Most vine robot examples store new body material in a reel at their base, passing it through the core of the robot to the tip, and like many continuum robots, steer by selectively lengthening or shortening one side of the body. While this approach to steering and material storage lends itself to a fully soft device, it has three key limitations: (i) internal friction of material passing through the core of the robot limits its length in tortuous paths, (ii) body buckling as the robot's body material is re-spooled at the base can prevent retraction, and (iii) constant curvature steering limits the robot's poses and object approach angles in a given workspace. This letter presents a hybrid soft-rigid robotic system comprising a soft vine robot body and a rigid, mobile, internal steering-reeling mechanism (SRM); this SRM is equipped with a reel for material storage, a bending actuator for steering, and is capable of actuating the robot at any point along its length. This hybrid configuration increases reach along tortuous paths, allows retraction, and increases the workspace. We describe the motivation for the device, generate its mathematical models, present its methods of operation, and verify experimentally the models we developed and the performance improvements over previous vine robots.
Do Ranked Ballots Stimulate Candidate Entry

Systems of ranked-choice voting (RCV) have been cast as ways to diversify candidate pipelines. One purported mechanism is that RCV lets trailing candidates seek non-first-place rankings from their competitors' supporters. In turn, that property might encourage more candidate entry. Does that property resonate with people? Does it operate as suggested on under-represented groups? We approach these questions via survey experiments on attitudes toward running for office. Two involve national surveys, one of which over-samples people of color (the 2020 Collaborative Multiracial Post-election Survey, or CMPS). Two more are in Philadelphia -- large, diverse, and without local RCV advocacy at the time. Our treatments are: that voters can rank choices unlike in the current system (RCV), that transfers can help a person win (RCV+), and that RCV systems have been shown to benefit women and people of color (RCV++). We find null effects with four exceptions: positive for Black respondents from RCV+ (second Philadelphia experiment), positive for White respondents from RCV++ (second Philadelphia experiment), and negative for Latino respondents from RCV++ (second Philadelphia experiment and CMPS). However, none of these effects is large enough to offset generally low interest in running, and one of them (Latinos, second Philadelphia experiment) depends on the type of post-hoc analysis.
Toward the Development of an Integral Approach to Social Work: Implications for Human Behavior Theory and Research

Abstract The social work profession has often struggled with how to achieve the conceptual unity and coherence sought in theory, practice, policy, and education. This struggle has often included paradigmatic debates that serve to articulate the broader metatheoretical backgrounds and systems (epistemic domains) from which we understand human behavior. Integralism represents an approach that can potentially transcend social work's dialectical dilemma inherent within the debates between modern and postmodern influences. By combining the epistemological insights and value awareness of the various schools of postmodernism with the methodological and conceptual achievements of modernism, and the partial truths and insights of premodernism, a transcendent or integral approach is conceptualized.
The Role of Social Norms in Personalized Alcohol Feedback: A Dismantling Study With Emerging Adults

This study compared two Web-based alcohol programs in a sample of incoming freshmen on the reduction of drinking and related risks (N = 122). Participants were randomized to either a standard personalized normative feedback (PNF) intervention with descriptive social norms, or to a version of the program with personalized feedback only (PFO). At 3-month follow-up results indicated that both programs reduced drinking and related risks significantly, and that PFO resulted in greater reductions on all alcohol use outcomes, with comparable reductions on alcohol-related risk. Findings suggest that the use of PFO may be preferable to use with first-year college students.
Freedom, Not Institutions: How Russians and Indonesians Understand 'Democracy'

This paper analyzes how citizens of two countries that underwent democratization during the past twenty years — Russia and Indonesia — understand “democracy.” Evaluating both large-N public opinion surveys and open- and closed-ended questions from interviews with a quota sample of the population in Russia and Indonesia, this paper provides a comprehensive picture of popular conceptualizations of democracy in these two distinct societies. I find that while both Russians and Indonesians view democracy through the lens of freedom, Russians have expressed their freedom by not participating in politics, while Indonesians have increased their engagement in contentious activities. These differences may help explain Russians’ general indifference to Russia’s authoritarian backsliding and low levels of political participation, as well as Indonesians’ unusually high levels of political activism. This paper further finds that measures of popular understandings of “democracy” depend heavily on how the question is worded and the scope of possible responses.
Fast Key Exchange with Elliptic Curve Systems

The Diffie-Hellman key exchange algorithm can be implemented using the group of points on an elliptic curve over the field F2n. A software version of this using n = 155 can be optimized to achieve computation rates that are slightly faster than non-elliptic curve versions with a similar level of security. The fast computation of reciprocals in F2n is the key to the highly efficient implementation described here.
Selective adsorption of H2 + Cu(001) surface: II. Quantum mechanical calculation of quasibound compound states

Abstract The selectively adsorbed compound states for H2 + Cu rigid surface scattering, which are the quasibound states embedded in the continuum, are computed employing quantum mechanical method. With a semi-empirical molecule-flat surface interaction potential, we diagonalize the total Hamiltonian of the system including the rotational and vibrational states of the molecular projectile. Our emphases here are to study the vib-rotational and vibrational components that are proportional to the scattering amplitude of the Feshbach type internal excitation associated with selectively adsorbed resonance states, to study the relative importance between the rotational and vibrational mediations for selective adsorption, and to make comparison with quasiclassical trajectory results obtained in the preceeding paper. For incident energy below ∼ 0.3 eV, rotation mediations are found to be dominant in the resonance scattering, whereas the resonance states that arise from the vibrational mediation often appear above that energy. Good agreement between the quantal and the classical trajectory results is obtained regarding the energies of the selectively adsorbed quasibound states and other related physical quantities in the energy region above the potential barrier. Below this barrier, the quantum mechanical tunneling effect is important.