cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Progesterone-induced activation of membrane-bound progesterone receptors in murine macrophage cells

Parturition is an inflammatory process mediated to a significant extent by macrophages. Progesterone maintains uterine quiescence in pregnancy, and a proposed functional withdrawal of progesterone classically regulated by nuclear progesterone receptors (nPRs) leads to labor. Progesterone can impact the functions of macrophages despite the reported lack of expression of nPRs in these immune cells. Therefore, in this study we investigated the effects of the activation of the putative membrane-associated progesterone receptor on the function of macrophages (a key cell for parturition) and discuss the implications of these findings for pregnancy and parturition. In murine macrophage cells (RAW264.7), activation of mPRs by progesterone modified to be active only extracellularly by conjugation to BSA (P4BSA, 1.0×10−7 mol/l) caused a pro-inflammatory shift in mRNA expression profile, with significant up-regulation of the expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (Ptgs2), Il1B, and Tnf and down-regulation of membrane progesterone receptor alpha (Paqr7) and oxytocin receptor (Oxtr). Pretreatment with PD98059, a MEK 1/2 inhibitor, significantly reduced P4BSA-induced Il1B, Tnf and Ptgs2 mRNA. Inhibition of protein kinase A (PKA) by H89 blocked P4BSA-induced Il1B and Tnf mRNA levels. P4BSA induced rapid phosphorylation of MEK1/2 and cAMP responsive element binding protein (CREB, a downstream target of PKA). This phosphorylation was inhibited by pretreatment with PD98059 and H89, respectively, revealing that MEK1/2 and PKA are two of the components involved in mPR signaling. Taken together, these data demonstrate that changes in membrane progesterone receptor alpha expression and signaling in macrophages are associated with the inflammatory responses; and that these changes might contribute to the functional withdrawal of progesterone related to labor.
Analysis on epidemic situation and treatment outcome of tuberculosis in Pingxiang City from 2005-2012

[Objective]To analyze the epidemic situation and treatment management surveillance results of tuberculosis in Pingxiang City of Guangxi( the border area between China and Vietnam),provide a scientific basis for the sustainable development in tuberculosis prevention and control. [Methods]The data from the Tuberculosis management information system in Pingxiang City,as well as the monthly reports,quarterly reports,annual reports and related information from the tuberculosis prevention and control institutions in Pingxiang City during 2005-2012 were collected and analyzed. [Results]The incidence of tuberculosis showed a downward trend in Pingxiang City from 2005-2012. The incidence rate increased from 162. 11 / lakh in 2005 to 203. 07 / lakh in 2007,afterwards it began to decline in 2008,and reached 112. 73 / lakh in 2012. Cases were mainly concentrated in the 25-64 year-old age group,accounting for 67. 51% of the total cases. The incidence in 35-44 year-old age group was the highest,which the cases accounted for 18. 90% the total cases,followed by 55-64 year-old age group,accounting for 17. 66% the total cases. The male patients with active tuberculosis were significantly more than female patients( 2. 09∶ 1). 69. 84% of cases were farmers. During 2005-2012,the cure rates of smear positive tuberculosis patients reached over 87. 80%,and the average cure rate was 92. 25%.[Conclusion]The epidemic situation of tuberculosis in Pingxiang City is serious,and it has been gradually controlled since implementing the tuberculosis control strategy in 2008.
Diversity Science New Dawn in a Golden Age

Despite a stated value for diversity within clinical psychology, testing of theories and treatments is often conducted with homogenous/monolithic samples, and diversity science thus lags behind. Re...
Richard Friedenthal, Luther. His Life and Times. Translated from the German by John Nowell: New York: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc., 1970. Pp. 566; 14 plates, 27 contemporary woodcuts and engravings.

(1972). Richard Friedenthal, Luther. His Life and Times. Translated from the German by John Nowell. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 47, No. 2, pp. 150-152.
Selective Nerve Root Transection in the Rat Produces Permanent, Partial Nerve Injury Models with Variable Levels of Functional Deficit.

Background The goal of this study was to develop a partial, nonregenerative nerve injury model in a rat that results in permanently reduced motoneuron numbers and function. This model could serve as a platform for the study of therapeutics, such as a reverse end-to-side nerve transfer (i.e., supercharge). The authors hypothesized that transection of one or more of the L4 to L6 nerve roots supplying the sciatic nerve would cause a permanent reduction in muscle force. Methods Rats were randomized into five groups that underwent variations of nerve root transections or sham injury. The L4 to L6 nerve roots were selectively transected and capped to prevent regeneration. Tibial and common peroneal nerves were harvested for quantitative histology and retrograde-labeled to assess the number of motoneurons projecting axons. Muscle force and relative muscle mass were assessed as metrics of postinjury motor function. Results At 6 months, the number of motoneurons projecting axons and myelinated axon counts were reduced in both the tibial and common peroneal nerves after injury in all groups. Transecting both L4 and L5 or both L4 and L6 reduced motoneuron numbers sufficiently below sham numbers to reduce muscle force and mass in major muscles of the hindlimb innervated by both nerves. Transecting L4 reduced muscle force and mass in common peroneal-innervated muscles, whereas transecting L5 reduced muscle force and mass in tibial-innervated muscles. These findings were stable over time. Conclusion Transection of nerve roots produces stable (time-independent) partial nerve injury models with a selective decrease in motor function.
STRUCTURE-FUNCTION RELATIONSHIPS IN CEREBRATULUS TOXIN B-IV

ABSTRACT A series of experiments are described which probe structure-function relationships in Cerebratulus toxin B-IV, a small, crustacean-selective, polypeptide neurotoxin whose primary effect is to greatly prolong the repolarization phase of the action potential. Nitration of a specific tyrosine residue, or alkylation of a specific tryptophan, are shown to abolish toxicity without causing gross conformational changes in the protein. A highly radioactive, pharmacologically active derivative of B-IV has been prepared, and preliminary studies of the binding of this molecule to crustacean axon membranes are described.
Finite element simulation of ultrasonic waves in corroded reinforced concrete for early-stage corrosion detection

In reinforced concrete (RC) structures, corrosion of steel rebar introduces internal stress at the interface between rebar and concrete, ultimately leading to debonding and separation between rebar and concrete. Effective early-stage detection of steel rebar corrosion can significantly reduce maintenance costs and enable early-stage repair. In this paper, ultrasonic detection of early-stage steel rebar corrosion inside concrete is numerically investigated using the finite element method (FEM). Commercial FEM software (ABAQUS) was used in all simulation cases. Steel rebar was simplified and modeled by a cylindrical structure. 1MHz ultrasonic elastic waves were generated at the interface between rebar and concrete. Two-dimensional plain strain element was adopted in all FE models. Formation of surface rust in rebar was modeled by changing material properties and expanding element size in order to simulate the rust interface between rebar and concrete and the presence of interfacial stress. Two types of surface rust (corroded regions) were considered. Time domain and frequency domain responses of displacement were studied. From our simulation result, two corrosion indicators, baseline (b) and center frequency (fc) were proposed for detecting and quantifying corrosion.
Boundedly Rational Patients? Health and Patient Mistakes in a Behavioral Framework

During medical visits, the stakes are high for many patients, who are put in a position to make, or to begin to make, important health-related decisions. But in such visits, patients often make cognitive errors. Traditionally, those errors are thought to result from poor communication with physicians; complicated subject matter; and patient anxiety. To date, measures to improve patient understanding and recall have had only modest effects. This paper argues that an understanding of those cognitive errors can be improved by reference to a behavioral science framework, which distinguishes between a “System 1” mindset, in which patients are reliant on intuition and vulnerable to biases and imperfectly reliable heuristics, and a “System 2” mindset, which is reflective, slow, deliberative, and detailed-oriented. To support that argument, we present the results of a randomized-assignment experiment that shows that patients perform very poorly on the Cognitive Reflection Test and thus are overwhelmingly in a System 1 state prior to a physician visit. Assigning patients the task of completing patient-reported outcomes measures immediately prior to the visit had a small numerical, but not statistically significant, shift towards a reflective frame of mind. We describe hypotheses to explain poor performance by patients, which may be due to anxiety, a bandwidth tax, or a scarcity effect, and outline further direction for study. Understanding the behavioral sources of errors on the part of patients in their interactions with physicians and in their decision-making is necessary to implement measures improve shared decision-making, patient experience, and (perhaps above all) clinical outcomes.
Status and challenges in enabling the lithium metal electrode for high-energy and low-cost rechargeable batteries

Enabling the reversible lithium metal electrode is essential for surpassing the energy content of today’s lithium-ion cells. Although lithium metal cells for niche applications have been developed already, efforts are underway to create rechargeable lithium metal batteries that can significantly advance vehicle electrification and grid energy storage. In this Perspective, we focus on three tasks to guide and further advance the reversible lithium metal electrode. First, we summarize the state of research and commercial efforts in terms of four key performance parameters, and identify additional performance parameters of interest. We then advocate for the use of limited lithium (≤30 μm) to ensure early identification of technical challenges associated with stable and dendrite-free cycling and a more rapid transition to commercially relevant designs. Finally, we provide a cost target and outline material costs and manufacturing methods that could allow lithium metal cells to reach 100 US$ kWh–1. Li metal batteries offer much hope for the future of high-energy storage systems. Albertus et al. survey the current status of research and commercial efforts, and discuss key metrics and measurements as well as cost issues in enabling high-performing lithium metal electrodes.
Love the Prisoner, Ban the Substance: Pope Francis and the War on Drugs

Pope Francis has been embraced by progressives in the English-speaking world for his anti-capitalist rhetoric, even as his position on the War on Drugs is at odds with their commitments. By the same token, his support for criminalization does not completely align with conservative arguments. As such, Francis’s third way provides a useful alternative to the binary in American politics. However, the legitimacy of this third way is being challenged by strong arm rulers who use the War on Drugs to terrorize their population, such as President Rodrigo Duterte in the Philippines. Natural law arguments would provide a much stronger restraint on abusive policies, but that is not Francis’ approach. Rather than condemn brutal policies, Pope Francis focuses on building a people. Will that distinction survive the pope’s association with authoritarian rulers?
Pure, Applied, and Industrial Mathematics: Strength Through Connections

It gives me great pleasure to participate in the 60th birthday celebration of Karl-Heinz Hoffmann. Professor Hoffmann is known worldwide through his research in applied mathematics. He is also recognized for his leadership role in making connections between mathematics and the sciences, and between mathematical research in academia and industrial problems which lend themselves to mathematical modeling. I recall travelling with Professor Hoffmann to companies such as BASF and SIEMENS to discuss and identify problems of interest to these companies. I also recall attending his lectures in international conferences. In these lectures, he developed models in areas such as smart materials and phase transition, and presented innovative mathematical analysis as well as effective numerical simulations.
Microfluidic production of size-tunable hexadecane-in-water emulsions: Effect of droplet size on destabilization of two-dimensional emulsions due to partial coalescence

Abstract Hypothesis Despite numerous studies, the mechanism of destabilization of oil-in-water emulsions during cooling-heating cycles is unclear due to indirect measurements and lack of direct control over the droplet size. It is hypothesized that emulsions with a smaller droplet size are more resistant to destabilization than emulsions containing larger droplets since the probability of initiating partial coalescence and forming large-scale aggregates is lower for small droplets. Experiments Monodisperse hexadecane-in-water emulsions with controlled droplet sizes were produced using a microfluidic valve-based flow-focusing device and varying the system parameters. A unique approach was developed to create a two-dimensional (2D) array of droplets enabling visualization of the destabilization process due to temperature cycling. The influence of droplet size on partial coalescence and destabilization was investigated. Findings In the 2D emulsion, destabilization proceeds through a combination of spontaneous coalescence events that yield small-scale structures followed by formation of large-scale structures by coalescence propagation. We find that emulsion destabilization increases with droplet size. Quantifying the frequency of n-body coalescence events reveals that in emulsions with small droplets coalescence propagation is hindered. Phenomena involving restructuring, growth and cross-linking of droplet aggregates are identified as the key features of the emulsion destabilization mechanism.
Evaluation of group concept mapping during advanced pharmacy practice experiences

Abstract Background and purpose Concept mapping is an active learning tool associated with meaningful learning. In the pharmacy education literature, most evaluations of concept mapping focused solely on students’ perceptions of mapping without evaluating its effectiveness on students’ ability to apply the information learned. This article describes an evaluation of the effectiveness of group concept mapping during advanced pharmacy practice experiences (APPEs) by evaluating both application of the knowledge gained and students’ reflections on the process. Educational activity and setting Ambulatory care APPE students created group concept maps on pain management based on provided focus questions during a single session. Students completed pre-session and post-session tests comprised of the same multiple-choice questions that were derived from chapters on pain within licensure exam preparatory books. Additionally, students completed a survey after the group concept mapping session that assessed their thoughts on concept mapping. Findings Most students (92%) reported that concept mapping was an effective approach to learning, though there was not a statistically significant improvement in scores on the multiple-choice test. More than half (55%) of the students indicated the greatest gain in individual learning when actively discussing pain treatment related concepts amongst their group during concept map creation. Over 40% of students identified misconceptions related to pain management. Summary Using group concept mapping as a framework for discussions led to student integration of both concrete and abstract patient care concepts with individualized awareness of learning.
Natural diets promote retention of the native gut microbiota in captive rodents

Wild animals entering captivity experience radical lifestyle changes resulting in microbiome alterations. However, little is known about the factors that drive microbial community shifts in captivity, and what actions could mitigate microbial changes. Using white-throated woodrats (Neotoma albigula), we tested whether offering natural diets in captivity facilitates retention of native microbial communities of captive animals. Wild-caught woodrats were brought to laboratory conditions. Woodrats received either a natural diet of Opuntia cactus or an artificial diet of commercial chow over three weeks. Microbial inventories from woodrat feces at the time of capture and in captivity were generated using Illumina 16S rRNA sequencing. We found that providing woodrats with wild-natural diets significantly mitigated alterations in their microbiota, promoting a 90% retention of native microbial communities across the experiment. In contrast, the artificial diet significantly impacted microbial structure to the extent that 38% of the natural microflora was lost. Core bacteria including Bifidobacterium and Allobaculum were lost, and abundances of microbes related to oxalate degradation decreased in individuals fed artificial but not natural diets. These results highlight the importance of supplementing captive diets with natural foods to maintain native microbiomes of animals kept in artificial conditions for scientific or conservation purposes.
Dietary immunoassay of pelagic nemerteans by use of cross-reacting polyclonal antibodies: preliminary findings

With little data on the diet of pelagic nemerteans, apreliminary immunoassay survey of the gut contents ofthree species from the Pacific Ocean was performedusing non-specific, cross-reacting polyclonalantibodies. Results suggest that Nectonemertescf. mirabilis, Phallonemertes cf. murrayi, and Cuneonemertes elongata containedsomewhat different types of prey. Worms elicitedstrong responses when probed with antibodies tosquid-like mollusks and to mysids and shrimp. Heteropods are more likely ingested than pteropods. Additional studies must be done to confirm thesehighly suggestive results.
Intraoperative radiation therapy in early-stage breast cancer: Presence of lobular features is not associated with increased rate of requiring additional therapy

Abstract Background There is a paucity of data regarding the application of IORT to the treatment of carcinomas with lobular features. Methods This study includes women with invasive breast cancer who underwent breast conservation in combination with IORT from February 2011 to October 2016. Patients whose final pathology did not satisfy inclusion criteria or had inadequate margins were recommended to undergo additional therapy (AT) with WBRT as well as re-excision of inadequate margins. Results 243 invasive breast cancers were treated with IORT. The lobular features (LF) group comprised 62 patients and the invasive ductal carcinoma (IDCA) group consisted of 172 patients. Rate of AT was similar between groups (LF 19 patients, 30.6%, vs IDCA 56 patients, 32.6%, p = 0.87) groups. Lobular histology was not associated with a need for AT. Local recurrence rate for the cohort was 1.2% with a median follow up of 46 months. There was no difference in recurrence or survival after 46 months of follow-up. Conclusions IORT is an effective treatment option for well-selected patients with early breast cancer and can be considered for patients with lobular histology.
Control of Water Migration Through Concrete Using Electro-osmosis

Electro-osmosis, in electro-osmotic pulse (EOP) form, is a means to prevent water intrusion in below-grade spaces and has been in use for several years. This article evaluates the effectiveness of EOP in concrete walls with clay and gravel backfills, in conjunction with conventional repair and dehumidification techniques. EOP effectively controlled moisture in two backfills, with clay performing slightly better than gravel. When the EOP configuration was changed from four cathodes surrounding the test basement to two cathodes, no significant change in EOP effectiveness was observed. No significant change occurred when the pulse was changed from 35 to 40 s.
Piezoelectret-based and piezoresistivity-based stress self-sensing in steel beams under flexure

Abstract This work reports for the first time the structural self-sensing of stress in steel beams under flexure (elastic regime, ≤200 MPa) through measurement of the electric field (piezoelectret), capacitance (dielectricity) and resistance (piezoresistivity). Coplanar electrodes on the top or bottom surface are used. Under flexure, the electric field and resistance increase at the top surface, but decrease at the bottom surface, while the capacitance decreases at both surfaces. Under normal compression, the electric field, capacitance and resistance decrease at both surfaces. For flexure and normal compression, the resistance and capacitance changes are essentially completely reversible, whereas the electric field change is not. Longitudinal tension (whether in flexure or normal compression) causes the electric field to decrease, whereas longitudinal compression (in flexure) causes the electric field to increase. Longitudinal tension (whether in flexure or normal compression) causes the resistance to decrease, whereas longitudinal compression (in flexure) causes the resistance to increase (negative piezoresistivity). The capacitance (2 kHz) decreases due to the stress (whether flexure or normal compression and whether at the top or bottom surface) and is attributed to the permittivity decrease, except that the capacitance decrease under longitudinal compression (in flexure) is attributed to the AC voltage used to measure the capacitance penetrating the full thickness and the effect of longitudinal tension at the bottom surface dominating over that of longitudinal compression at the top surface. In contrast, the DC voltage used to measure the resistance is much smaller and does not penetrate the full thickness, so that the resistances at the top and bottom surfaces respond to flexure differently. The magnitude of the fractional change in electric field, capacitance or resistance increases with decreasing beam width.
How research ethics boards should monitor clinical research

The objective of this commentary is to provide a framework and ethical justification for a more proactive model of continual, active monitoring of research. We outline what the increased monitoring should consist of, and the practical constraints associated with executing these monitoring functions. We also defend the idea that adequate post-initial-review monitoring requires greater REB involvement, rather than trust and researcher's assurances.
Secreted Phospholipase A 2 Group X Acts as an Adjuvant for Type 2 Inflammation, Leading to an Allergen-Specific Immune Response in the Lung

Secreted phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) enzymes release free fatty acids, including arachidonic acid, and generate lysophospholipids from phospholipids, including membrane phospholipids from cells and bacteria and surfactant phospholipids. We have shown that an endogenous enzyme sPLA2 group X (sPLA2-X) is elevated in the airways of asthmatics and that mice lacking the sPLA2-X gene (Pla2g10) display attenuated airway hyperresponsiveness, innate and adaptive immune responses, and type 2 cytokine production in a model of airway sensitization and challenge using a complete allergen that induces endogenous adjuvant activity. This complete allergen also induces the expression of sPLA2-X/Pla2g10 In the periphery, an sPLA2 found in bee venom (bee venom PLA2) administered with the incomplete Ag OVA leads to an Ag-specific immune response. In this study, we demonstrate that both bee venom PLA2 and murine sPLA2-X have adjuvant activity, leading to a type 2 immune response in the lung with features of airway hyperresponsiveness and Ag-specific type 2 airway inflammation following peripheral sensitization and subsequent airway challenge with OVA. Further, the adjuvant effects of sPLA2-X that result in the type 2-biased OVA-specific adaptive immune response in the lung were dependent upon the catalytic activity of the enzyme, as a catalytically inactive mutant form of sPLA2-X does not elicit the adaptive component of the immune response, although other components of the immune response were induced by the inactive enzyme, suggesting receptor-mediated effects. Our results demonstrate that exogenous and endogenous sPLA2s play an important role in peripheral sensitization, resulting in airway responses to inhaled Ags.
Growth and dispersion of the Shoemaker-Levy 9 impact features from HST imaging

The Hubble Space Telescope Wide Field Planetary Camera 2 imaging data provide the highest spatial resolution of individual Shoemaker-Levy 9 impact sites. Analysis of images obtained with the F410M filter yielded horizontal translation rates of tropospheric cloud structures and the east-west components have been interpreted as zonal winds which vary with latitude. When the tropospheric zonal winds between —60° and —30°, which were derived from the SL9 images, are compared with Voyager data there are no discernible changes in the magnitude or latitudinal positions of wind minima and maxima. This result provides additional evidence of the long-term stability of the zonal winds. Changes in individual sites during a two week period in July 1994 have been mapped. Their evolution is consistent with zonal winds decreasing with height and it provides evidence that local circulation associated with isolated weather systems perturbs the lower stratosphere.
Mental Health and the Association between Asthma and E-cigarette Use among Young Adults in The United States: A Mediation Analysis.

Background: Asthma is associated with a greater likelihood of e-cigarette use among young adults, which may increase the risk of pulmonary complications. Because substance use trajectories emerge in early adulthood, it is important to identify factors that may be important in addressing this new public health threat. One such factor may be poor mental health. Methods: Data were extracted from the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Current and former asthma status was measured by self-reported lifetime and current asthma status; mental health functioning was measured by the number of self-reported bad mental health days during the past 30 days; e-cigarette use was measured by self-reported current e-cigarette use. We tested the hypothesis that mental health mediates the association between asthma status and e-cigarette use among young adults using structural equation modeling. Results: The prevalence of e-cigarette use was significantly higher among young adults with current (9.90%) or former asthma (13.09%) than those without asthma (9.58%). Furthermore, the number of bad mental health days in the past 30 days was significantly greater among young adults with current or former asthma than among those without asthma (Mean (Standard Deviation): 6.85 (0.42), 4.18 (0.85) versus 3.83 (0.17)), respectively. Finally, we found a statistically significant indirect effect of asthma on the likelihood of e-cigarette use through mental health such that the higher prevalence of e-cigarette use among those with current or former asthma was statistically accounted for by a greater number of bad mental health days in the past 30 days. Conclusions: Consistent with mediation, poorer mental health accounted for the higher prevalence of e-cigarette use among those with asthma. However, longitudinal studies are needed to interrogate causal relationships, including the effects of e-cigarette use on mental health. Mental health services may play an important role in improving health and wellbeing in this vulnerable population.
Mass Transportation, Apartment Rent and Property Values

Rent plays a vital role in property valuation because anypositive or negative influence on rent will in turn affect aproperty's value. This paper examines the effect of masstransportation on apartment rent. Specifically, this studyinvestigates the impact on rent and value for residentialincome properties located in close proximity to Washington,D.C. Metrorail stations. After reviewing the empiricalresearch which has focused on the effect of masstransportation availability on property values, this paperexamines the benefits on apartment rent of Washington, D.C.apartment buildings from location near Metrorail stations.Our empirical results show that distance from a metrostation has an adverse effect on apartment rent, i.e., eachone-tenth mile increase in distance from the station resultsin a decrease in rent per apartment unit of about 2.50%.This analysis should be of interest to a host of domesticand international market participants including academicswho study real estate markets, tax assessors who determinemarket value, appraisers who make market-derived rentadjustments, and property managers who set apartment rents.
Pandemic Spikes and Broken Spears: Indigenous Resilience after the Conquest of Mexico (preprint)

It is well-established that the Conquest of the Americas by Europeans led to catastrophic declines in indigenous populations. However, less is known about the conditions under which indigenous communities were able to overcome the onslaught of disease and violence that they faced. Drawing upon a rich set of sources, including Aztec tribute rolls and early Conquest censuses, we develop a new disaggregated dataset on the pre-Conquest economic, epidemiological and political conditions both in 11,888 potential settlement locations in the historic core of Mexico and speci fically in 1093 actual settlements recorded in an early Conquest-era census, the Suma de Visitas (1548). Of these 1093 settlements, we show that 37% had disappeared entirely by 1790. Yet, despite being subject to Conquest-era violence, subsequent coercion and multiple pandemics that led average populations in those settlements to fall from 2377 to 128 by 1646, 13% would still end the colonial era larger than they started. We show that both indigenous settlement survival durations and population levels through the colonial period are robustly predicted, not just by Spanish settler choices or by their diseases, but also by the extent to which indigenous communities could themselves leverage nonreplicable and non-expropriable resources and skills from the pre-Columbian period that would prove complementary to global trade. Thus indigenous opportunities and agency played important roles in shaping their own resilience.
Analysis of Impulsive Parametric Excitation Problems by Point Mapping

In this chapter we consider a class of mechanical systems for which the governing point mappings can be obtained exactly in analytical form. Thus, we can have confidence that the results obtained from point mapping analyses truly reflect the behavior of the original systems, no matter how complex or unexpected they may be.
EFFECTS OF INSTRUCTIONS ON WIRING TASK ACCOMPLISHMENT.

An attempt was made to determine the effects of different types of instruction on task accomplishment. Three groups of 19 subjects each were given a nonsense wiring task on an IBM machine control panel under three conditions of instruction: diagrammed instruction, diagrammed instructions with additional references on the control panel, and written instructions with the additional references on the control panel. It was found that the group using the diagrammed instructions with the additional references on the control panel had longer task accomplishment times than the other two groups. There were no significant differences among the three groups in errors committed.
Diagnosis of osteoarthritis: Imaging

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, debilitating joint disease characterized by degenerative changes to the bones, cartilage, menisci, ligaments, and synovial tissue. Imaging modalities such as radiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and ultrasound (US) permit visualization of these structures and can evaluate disease onset and progression. Radiography is primarily useful for the assessment of bony structures, while OCT is used for evaluation of articular cartilage and US for ligaments and the synovium. MRI permits visualization of all intraarticular structures and pathologies, though US or OCT may be preferential in some circumstances. As OA is a disease of the whole joint, a combination of imaging techniques may be necessary in order to gain the most comprehensive picture of the disease state. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Osteoarthritis".
Toxoplasma gondii: epidemiology, feline clinical aspects, and prevention

Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite of birds and mammals. Cats are the only definitive host and thus the only source of infective oocysts, but other mammals and birds can develop tissue cysts. Although feline infections are typically asymptomatic, infection during human pregnancy can cause severe disease in the fetus. Cat owners can reduce their pets' exposure risk by keeping all cats indoors and not feeding them raw meat. Humans usually become infected through ingestion of oocyst-contaminated soil and water, tissue cysts in undercooked meat, or congenitally. Because of their fastidious nature, the passing of non-infective oocysts, and the short duration of oocyst shedding, direct contact with cats is not thought to be a primary risk for human infection.
Real gas simulation of hydrogen release from a high-pressure chamber

Hydrogen release from a high-pressure chamber is to be modeled in this paper. Two approaches are developed to investigate the real gas effects at high pressures. In the first method, an analytical model is developed to simulate time histories of stagnation properties of hydrogen inside the chamber, as well as sonic properties of hydrogen at the orifice. Corresponding thermodynamic relations, which describe specific heats, internal energy and speed of sound, are derived based on the Beattie–Bridgeman state equation. Regarding the second approach, a 3-D unstructured tetrahedral finite volume Euler solver is applied to numerically simulate the hydrogen release whereby the solver is modified to take into account the real gas effects. All the required modification for calculation of real gas Jacobian matrices, eigenvectors and Roe's average convective fluxes are described. Real gas effect is thus modeled by the same state equation. Numerical and analytical results are then compared for ideal and real gas conditions and, to conclude, an excellent agreement is reported.
Modified Atmosphere Storage of Dungeness Crab (Cancer magister)

A modified atmosphere (MA) of 80% CO2 and 20% air coupled with refrigerated storage was effective in extending shelf life of cooked whole Dungeness crab. Aerobic plate counts were lower over the storage period tested (25 days) for samples held in MA compared to controls held in air. Tissue pH decreased in MA samples, but increased in samples held as air controls (AC). There were significant differences in redox potential between groups, but these did not appear large enough to affect bacterial growth. Trimethylamine and ammonia values were similar for 14 days, then became higher in controls. There were no differences between treatment groups in thiobarbituric acid values, in textural properties as determined by Instron or in reflectance measurements. After removal from MA storage, the crab had a microbial shelf life that mimicked that of a fresh product.
Trade-offs between growth and reproduction in female bison.

The extent to which (a) larger females produce more or larger offspring, (b) reproduction imposes costs, and (c) the benefits of early reproduction outweigh the costs was examined for female bison (Bison bison) with data from an 8-year period. Description of ontogenetic patterns indicated that reproductive performance reached a plateau near the end of the growth period; changes with age in fecundity were little related to those of body weight during the typical reproductive lifespan (age 3–18 years). Examination of inter-and intra-individual variation showed that the relationship between growth and reproduction depends on the age of subjects. Larger juveniles matured earlier and were more fecund (though smaller) as adults. In contrast, post-pubertal growth was negatively related to reporductive performance, although intra-individual weight variation was positively associated with pregnancy rate. Fecundity was not generally lower in years after reproduction than after barren years, in spite of weight loss, suggesting that reproduction did not impose significant fitness costs. On the other hand, offspring quality was lower when mothers reproduced in successive rather than alternate years. Early maturation resulted in immediate costs, including reduced growth and infertility in the year after first parturition. However, there were long-term benefits: fecundity in the first 7–9 years was highest for early-maturing and lowest for late-maturing females, suggesting that reproductive success is greater for early-maturing females despite reduced growth. In the present study, trade-offs between growth and reproduction did not appear to reflect substantial costs as measured by long-term reproductive success.
License Plate and Telephone Numbers in Changeable Message Sign Amber Alert Messages

Studies were conducted with a driving simulator and laptop computers to determine the effects of displaying license plate and 10-digit telephone numbers in Amber (America’s Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response) alert changeable message sign messages. The first study was conducted using the Texas Transportation Institute driving environment simulator in College Station, Texas. A laboratory study was also conducted in six cities in Texas. It was found that the average reading time for Amber alert messages with a license plate number was significantly longer than for messages without a license plate number. In addition, the majority of subjects were not able to recall the entire number. A license plate number was found to be equivalent to more than three units of information. Thus a message with a license plate number exceeds current effective message design guidelines that specify a maximum of four units of information in a message and a maximum of three units of information in a message phase. Similarly, the average reading time for messages with a 10-digit telephone number is significantly longer than for messages without a telephone number. The majority of subjects were not able to recall the entire number. A telephone number was found to be equivalent to more than three units of information. A message with a 10-digit telephone number exceeds current effective message design guidelines.
Sex differences and prior residence effects in shelter competition in juvenile lobsters, Homarus americanus Milne-Edwards

Abstract Using a resident–intruder paradigm, a four-experiment study of competition for a single shelter between same- and mixed-sex dyads of juvenile lobsters, Homarus americanus Milne-Edwards, revealed a significantly greater advantage for male residents than female residents against intruders of either sex. However, there was no significant direct competitive advantage for residents of one sex over intruders of the other, as occurs for adult males over females in this species. There was a prior residence effect only in the male–male dyad condition. Unexpectedly, there was a reliable intruder advantage in female–female dyads. The methods employed showed that the shelter-seeking response of the juvenile lobster is a phylogenetic adaptation and that juvenile aggressive behavior differs little in form from that of adult lobsters but appears to be more intense.
Internal marketing for Six Sigma success: a conceptual framework

Six Sigma methodology has been described as a process improvement tool responsible for billions of dollars in business improvements and is the most popular improvement methodology in use in businesses today. Yet, in spite of its popularity, both managers and Six Sigma teams often express frustration over incomplete implementations that fail to live up to the benefits planned by the Six Sigma teams. Interestingly, this frustration is common even in companies with strong corporate commitment to Six Sigma methodology. In addition, a recurring theme for over twenty years in quality management literature is frustration with the implementation of continuous improvement initiatives and inconsistencies in long term gains. The breakdown of organisational support for improvements is frequently blamed. Could weaknesses in implementation and organisational support be related to a lack of internal marketing of changes to the workforce? Can regulatory fit theory help explain these phenomena? This study looks at Six Sigma projects as process improvement ‘products and/or services’ that need to be marketed to the workforce in order to accomplish lasting benefits. Regulatory fit theory is applied and a Kano model survey methodology is proposed to examine the effects of internal marketing on long term improvement success.
Prostaglandin F2α-activated protein kinase Cα phosphorylates myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate protein in bovine luteal cells

Prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α)-induced secretion of oxytocin by the bovine corpus luteum involves the phosphorylation of a unique protein kinase C (PKC) substrate, myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate (MARCKS) protein. This study was conducted to determine the specific PKC isoform engaged in phosphorylation of MARCKS protein in bovine luteal cells. In experiment 1, dispersed luteal cells recovered from the corpus luteum on d 8 of the estrous cycle were preincubated with [32P] orthophosphate and then exposed to PGF2α alone or in combination with PKC inhibitors. Autoradiography and densitometry of Western blots revealed that MARCKS protein was phosphorylated by a conventional PKC (cPKC) isoform. Experiment 2 was conducted to identify the specific cPKC isoform that phosphorylates MARCKS protein in luteal cells. Corpora lutea were removed from control and PGF2α-treated heifers on d 8 of the cycle, and PKC isoforms associated with membrane and cytosolic fractions were determined. Treatment with PGF2α increased membrane concentrations of PKCα within 5 min after treatment (p<0.005). Collectively, these data suggest that phosphorylation of MARCKS protein coinciding with oxytocin secretion is mediated by PKCα.
Equilenin: a specific fluorescent probe for steroid—protein interactions in sex steroid-binding protein

Equilenin, a naturally fluorescent steroid, has high binding affinity for human sex steroid-binding protein (SBP). At 4 degrees C the equilibrium association constant is approximately 6 X 10(7) M-1. The fluorescence excitation and emission spectra of the steroid-protein complex indicate that both hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding of the 3'-hydroxyl group of the estrogen are important in its binding to the protein. Equilenin has a substantially different 3-dimensional spatial configuration compared with the normally bound androgens, and yet exhibits very tight binding to SBP. This suggests that SBP undergoes a conformational change to accomodate equilenin.
Effect of relative particle size on large particle detachment from a microchannel

The detachment of a single rigid sphere in a cylindrical PDMS microchannel has been investigated for systems where the particle occupies greater than 50% of the channel cross-sectional area. The fluid velocity required to detach a particle adhering to a microchannel wall is a function of many variables; however, only the effect of particle size is considered in this paper. Experiments were performed for Reynolds numbers less than 0.1, and the ratio of particle diameter, d p, to channel dimension, D, was varied from 0.50 to 0.95 in a 230 μm channel. A nonionic surfactant (Tween 80) was used to minimize the effect of adhesive forces other than van der Waals forces. In addition, a simple force-balance model based on particle lift, buoyancy, drag, gravitational forces, and adhesion due to van der Waals forces has been developed to predict the velocity required for particle detachment. The predicted and experimentally measured velocities agree relatively well within the limit of experimental error. The detachment velocity was qualitatively found to increase with decreasing d p /D.
Understanding Scattering in Silver Nanoparticle Arrays for Improving Plasmon Enhanced Photovoltaic Cells

Through the use of Mie theory, finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) modeling and spectrometer measurements, we identify fundamental plasmon resonant scattering behavior in Ag nanoparticles that is beneficial towards improving the performance of plasmon enhanced photovoltaic cells.
trp RNA-binding attenuation protein-5' stem-loop RNA interaction is required for proper transcription attenuation control of the Bacillus subtilis trpEDCFBA operon.

The trp RNA-binding attenuation protein (TRAP) regulates expression of the Bacillus subtilis trpEDCFBA operon by a novel transcription attenuation mechanism. Tryptophan-activated TRAP binds to the nascent trp leader transcript by interacting with 11 (G/U)AG repeats, 6 of which are present in an antiterminator structure. TRAP binding to these repeats prevents formation of the antiterminator, thereby promoting formation of an overlapping intrinsic terminator. A third stem-loop structure that forms at the extreme 5′ end of the trp leader transcript also plays a role in the transcription attenuation mechanism. The 5′ stem-loop increases the affinity of TRAP for trp leader RNA. Results from RNA structure mapping experiments demonstrate that the 5′ stem-loop consists of a 3-bp lower stem, a 5-by-2 asymmetric internal loop, a 6-bp upper stem, and a hexaloop at the apex of the structure. Footprinting results indicate that TRAP interacts with the 5′ stem-loop and that this interaction differs depending on the number of downstream (G/U)AG repeats present in the transcript. Expression studies with trpE′-′lacZ translational fusions demonstrate that TRAP-5′ stem-loop interaction is required for proper regulation of the trp operon. 3′ RNA boundary experiments indicate that the 5′ structure reduces the number of (G/U)AG repeats required for stable TRAP-trp leader RNA association. Thus, TRAP-5′ stem-loop interaction may increase the likelihood that TRAP will bind to the (G/U)AG repeats in time to block antiterminator formation.
Equation-of-State Parameter for Reheating

Constraints to the parameters of inflation models are often derived assuming some plausible range for the number—e.g., N k = 46 to N k = 60 —of e -folds of inflation that occurred between the time that our current observable Universe exited the horizon and the end of inflation. However, that number is, for any specific inflaton potential, related to an effective equation-of-state parameter w re and temperature T re , for reheating. Although the physics of reheating is highly uncertain, there is a finite range of reasonable values for w re . Here we show that, by restricting w re to this range, more stringent constraints to inflation-model parameters can be derived than those obtained from the usual procedure. To do so, we focus in this work in particular on natural inflation and inflation with a Higgs-like potential and on power-law models as limiting cases of those. As one example, we show that the lower limit to the tensor-to-scalar ratio r , derived from current measurements of the scalar spectral index, is about 20%–25% higher (depending on the model) with this procedure than with the usual approach.