cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A NEW CRAB, ZYGASTROCARCINUS CARDSMITHI (CRUSTACEA, DECAPODA), FROM THE LOWER PIERRE SHALE, SOUTHEASTERN MONTANA

The third species belonging to Zygastrocarcinus from the Cretaceous of the Western Interior is represented by a single carapace collected from below the Groat Sandstone Bed, Gammon Ferruginous Member, Pierre Shale of Carter County, Montana. Comparison of Zygastrocarcinus cardsmithi n. sp. with the other North American congeners, Z. mendryki (Bishop, 1982) and Z. griesi Bishop, 1983, and with the Pacific Slope species Z. richardsoni (Woodward, 1896) suggests early separation of the Pacific Slope and Western Interior lineage having Z. cardsmithi as a possible ancestor to Z. mendryki and Z. griesi.
Ablation of atrial fibrillation with mitral valve surgery.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Recent advances in understanding of the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation and development of new technology have resulted in a surge of interest in the surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation, particularly in patients with mitral valve disease. For patients with both mitral valve dysfunction and atrial fibrillation, a variety of new approaches are available to enable a complete operation that includes both mitral valve repair and ablation of atrial fibrillation. The purposes of this review are to review the rationale for surgical ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) in mitral valve patients, describe the classic Maze procedure and its results, detail new approaches to surgical ablation of AF, emphasize the importance of the left atrial appendage, and consider challenges and future directions in the ablation of AF in mitral valve patients. RECENT FINDINGS Left untreated, atrial fibrillation increases mortality and morbidity in patients undergoing mitral valve surgery. While the Maze procedure effectively eliminates atrial fibrillation in most of these patients, its complexity and increased operative time has precluded widespread application. New operations that use alternative energy sources to create left atrial lesion sets ablate atrial fibrillation in 60 to 80% of patients having mitral valve surgery. SUMMARY In mitral valve patients with atrial fibrillation of more than 6 months' duration, the operative strategy should include both mitral valve surgery and ablation of atrial fibrillation. In many cases, these procedures can be performed minimally invasively. Refinements in mapping and ablation technology are on the horizon, and these will facilitate more widespread application of minimally invasive approaches and further improve results.
Optimal adaptation strategies for Golomb codes on correlated sources

For binary two-state Markov sources, we compute the bit-rate for context-independent Golomb coding, sequential coding, and interleaved coding. We also relate these coding methods to image compression work. Sequential coding is a context-dependent method that sequentially codes the source, choosing the order of the elementary Golomb code based on the last bit seen. Interleaved coding codes the even-numbered bits before the odd-numbered bits using elementary Golomb codes of several different orders. Of these methods, we show that no one method is best on all Markov sources.
Dynamic signature hashing

A dynamic hashing scheme that guarantees single access retrieval from the disk is proposed. This is based on the external hashing scheme proposed by G.H. Gonnet and P.A. Larson (see JACM, vol.35, no.1, p.161-84, 1988). The performance of the scheme is achieved at the cost of a small amount of internal memory which remains proportional to the file size. The necessary algorithms for address computation, insertions and file expansions are presented. Since theoretical analysis appears too difficult, the performance is studied using simulations with real-life files. >
Uncorrected sagittal plane imbalance predisposes to symptomatic instrumentation failure

Abstract Background context Elucidation of the factors responsible for symptomatic failure of spinal instrumentation has been a keen interest for many investigators. Purpose To quantitate the number of symptomatic instrumentation failures (SIFs) encountered during a 2-year period. The effect of sagittal plane imbalance (corrected or uncorrected) on the rate of SIF was evaluated. Study design Retrospective evaluation of all patients requiring spinal instrumentation to determine which factors predispose toward instrumentation failure. Patient sample All patients requiring spinal instrumentation over a 2-year period were retrospectively studied. Outcome measures Sagittal plane imbalance pre- and postoperatively was determined using Cobb angle analysis on plain X-rays. SIF was defined as screw back-out and/or breakage, pseudarthrosis, cage migration, or rod disconnection in patients with concordant symptoms. Asymptomatic patients did not demonstrate instrumentation failure on the routine postoperative X-rays. Methods Of the 355 patients who fit the criteria, 47 patients presented with either idiopathic or secondary sagittal plane deformity preoperatively. Additionally, long-segment fixation, smoking, age, and fixation across junctional segments were evaluated as risk factors for SIF. Results Of the 47 patients with sagittal plane deformity, 40 patients (85%) achieved correction demonstrated on postoperative radiographs whereas in 7 (15%), the sagittal plane imbalance was not corrected. Of these seven cases, five suffered instrumentation failure (failure rate 71.5%) versus no instrumentation failures (failure rate 0%) for the remaining 40 patients. SIF was demonstrated in 10 patients overall (failure rate of 2.8%). There was no correlation found between factors such as age, indications for surgery, or long-segment fixation, and instrumentation failure. Conclusions Failure to correct sagittal plane deformity intraoperatively predisposes patients to SIF regardless of age, level of surgery, or indication of surgery.
Ultra Low Power MOX Sensors with ppb-Level VOC Detection Capabilities

This paper deals with the development of state-of-the-art metal oxide semiconductor (MOX) gas sensors based on ultra-low power (ULP) consumption micro-machined hot plates. Several gas sensors have been fabricated by means of a wafer level technological process, and deeply functionally and morphologically characterized. Details on device design and on the fabrication processes are provided. Results of functional characterizations towards different gases at different working conditions will be reported. The capability of detecting volatile organic compounds (VOC) down to few parts per billion (ppb), will be shown. Outcomes of morphological sensing layer characterization will show the well controlled nano-structured thin film of tin oxide.
An improved interpretation of Mason's model for piezoelectric plate transducers

A new interpretation of Mason?s model (1948) for a piezoelectric plate transducer is presented. The network model emphasizes a series connection for the two acoustic loads while utilizing lumped impedance elements expressed 88 functions of the delay operator Z = exp ST. An exact analysis of the plate dynamics permits a simplifii resistive model for conditions of light asymmetry in acoustic loading. A simplified resistive structure provides transmission (reception) loss near the halfwave resonance. Air backed front loading b modeled. Finally, RLC lumped component models are provided fo1 evaluation of transducers as lumped-element filters.
A distribution-free test for parallelism

Abstract This article suggests a distribution-free signed rank test for the parallelism of two regression lines. Pitman efficiency comparisons of the signed rank test and a normal theory t-test are presented. Monte Carlo sampling is used to compare the signed rank test with a nonparametric test proposed by Potthoff [7].
Were Tom and Huck on-shelf? Public libraries, Mark Twain, and the formation of accessible canons, 1869-1910

Public libraries are "accessible canons" for their communities. As part of their efforts to connect people and ideas, librarians purchase classic and bestselling books from "selective," "personal," "nonce," and other canons. They also create bibliographies, professional standards, and other tools that help shape reading habits. Thus libraries embody complex, ongoing processes of canon using and canon forming. This essay illustrates the canonical activities of American public libraries during the early years of the profession. It describes the American Library Association Catalog , local finding lists and accession records, and other primary sources that shed light on collection building during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Taking Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens) as a case study, it presents statistics on library ownership during the author's lifetime from more than seven hundred communities across the United States. Tables focus on nine titles: The Innocents Abroad , Roughing It , The Gilded Age , The Adventures of Tom Sawyer , The Prince and the Pauper , Life on the Mississippi , Adventures of Huckleberry Finn , A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court , and The Tragedy of Pudd'nhead Wilson . Statistical analysis reveals that "controversial" items such as Huckleberry Finn were widely available in Gilded-Age and Progressive-era public libraries, thus calling into question some assumptions about censorship of Twain's work. Also, library holdings of some titles varied by decade and geography, demonstrating that libraries implemented "national" and "recognized" canons unevenly. In sum, the essay shifts attention toward the operationalization of literary canons and provides empirical evidence of Mark Twain's presence in the late-nineteenth- and early-twentieth-century literary landscape.
Mechanisms of Mechanotransduction

Essentially all organisms from bacteria to humans are mechanosensitive. Physical forces regulate a large array of physiological processes, and dysregulation of mechanical responses contributes to major human diseases. A survey of both specialized and widely expressed mechanosensitive systems suggests that physical forces provide a general means of altering protein conformation to generate signals. Specialized systems differ mainly in having acquired efficient mechanisms for transferring forces to the mechanotransducers.
Acquiring and delivering lessons learned for NASA scientists and engineers: a dynamic approach

Web forms are a common mechanism for collecting information online. They pose some limitations which negatively affect ease and flexibility of user interaction. These limitations are more pronounced when collecting information that can not be broken down into well defined and agreed upon structures. Lessons Learned or any kind of 'knowledge' is an example of such information. In this paper we introduce a concept of 'Dynamic Forms' which is aimed at enhancing user interaction while collecting unstructured information, 'Lessons Learned' in particular.
Adhesion Measurement of Interfaces in Multilayer Interconnect Structures

Interface decohesion is increasingly becoming a reliability concern in multilayer interconnect structures. It is therefore necessary to provide adhesion tests as a part of materials characterization procedures and to study the fundamental material properties that affect interface toughness. A sandwich structure 4-point bend test was developed for measuring the adhesion between interlayer dielectric and metal interfaces. This technique offers well defined and easily controllable fracture processes and simple analyses based rigorously on fracture mechanics. Using this technique, a number of interfaces were studied. For conventional interconnect systems consisting of Al lines and SiO2 as the interlayer dielectric, the focus was to improve the interface fracture toughness through structure design and process engineering. Potential low dielectric constant materials, such as polymers and porous SiO2, were also studied as candidates for interlayer dielectric materials in the future. Interface strengthening effects of both mechanical and chemical origin, including interface roughness and thin film plasticity, as well as alteration of chemical bonding were explored.
Assignment of ADA, ITPA, AK1, and AK2 to Chinese hamster chromosomes Genetic and structural evidence for the conservation of mammalian autosomal synteny

Interspecific somatic cell hybrids formed by fusion of mouse Cl1D cells with Chinese hamster primary spleen or fibroblast cells were used to form a clone panel with members retaining different combinations of Chinese hamster chromosomes and isozyme markers. Concordant segregation analysis of isozymes and chromosomes among clone panel members enabled the provisional assignment of ADA, ITPA, and AK1 to Chinese hamster chromosome 6. Diphtheria toxin selection for Chinese hamster chromosome 2 segregants in Dede cell X Cl1D somatic cell hybrids indicated AK2 is located on chromosome 2. These assignments extend observations of autosomal linkage group conservation in mammals--a concept further supported by similarity of G-band patterns in certain chromosomal regions bearing homologous loci in Chinese hamsters, humans, and mice.
Lead exposure in pregnancy: a review of the literature and argument for routine prenatal screening

Despite a steady decline in average blood lead levels in the U.S. population, approximately 0.5% of women of childbearing age may have blood levels exceeding 10 microg/dl. Strong correlations between maternal and umbilical cord blood lead levels demonstrate that lead is transferred from the mother to the fetus. High lead levels are known to cause neurobehavioral effects in infants and children, and the cumulative effects of low levels of lead exposure in utero and after birth can have similar detrimental effects. Modern sources of exposure include occupational exposure during automotive or aircraft paint manufacturing, lead production or smeltering, exposure to stained glass soder, and environmental exposure during home renovation. Prenatal screening for lead exposure may include use of a five-item questionnaire similar to the pediatric questionnaire. Management of prenatal lead exposure focuses on removal of the lead source. Rarely, highly toxic chelation therapy is needed for maternal indications. Recognition and removal of lead sources during the prenatal period can prevent maternal and neonatal morbidity.
Conversion of progesterone-4-C14 to aldosterone by perfused calf adrenals.

SummaryCalf adrenal glands were perfused with progesterone-4-C14 and the presence of radioactive aldosterone in the perfusate was established by isotopic and paper chromatographic technics.
Focal Adhesion: A Focal Point in Current Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine

Cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) is an important property of virtually all cells in multi-cellular organisms. Cell-ECM adhesion research, therefore, has broad impact on biology and medicine. Studies over the past three decades have resulted in tremendous advance in our understanding of the molecular basis and functions of cell-ECM adhesion. Here, I focus on some of the general lessons that we have learned from recent studies on cell-ECM adhesion. In addition, I highlight several topics in this rapidly advancing research area. These topics, which include assembly, disassembly and regulation of cell-ECM adhesion structures, the molecular mechanisms of bi-directional signaling through cell-ECM adhesions, and the tissue and organ pathobiology of cell-ECM adhesion, are pertinent to our understanding of cell-ECM adhesion and signaling.
Collective Representation as a Mobilizer: Race/Ethnicity, Gender, and Their Intersections at the State Level

Prior research has found that descriptive representation by race, ethnicity, or gender increases political action, but it has paid less attention to how the intersection of these identities influen...
Selection and Validation of Reference Genes for Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Studies in Mossy Maze Polypore, Cerrena unicolor (Higher Basidiomycetes)

Abstract With its ability to produce ligninolytic enzymes such as laccases, white-rot basidiomycete Cerrena unicolor, a medicinal mushroom, has great potential in biotechnology. Elucidation of the expression profiles of genes encoding ligninolytic enzymes are important for increasing their production. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is a powerful tool to study transcriptional regulation of genes of interest. To ensure accuracy and reliability of qPCR analysis of C. unicolor, expression levels of seven candidate reference genes were studied at different growth phases, under various induction conditions, and with a range of carbon/nitrogen ratios and carbon and nitrogen sources. The stability of the genes were analyzed with five statistical approaches, namely geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, the ΔCt method, and RefFinder. Our results indicated that the selection of reference genes varied with sample sets. A combination of four reference genes (Cyt-c, ATP6, TEF1, and β-tubulin) were recommended for normalizing gene expression at different growth phases. GAPDH and Cyt-c were the appropriate reference genes under different induction conditions. ATP6 and TEF1 were most stable in fermentation media with various carbon/nitrogen ratios. In the fermentation media with various carbon or nitrogen sources, 18S rRNA and GAPDH were the references of choice. The present study represents the first validation analysis of reference genes in C. unicolor and serves as a foundation for its qPCR analysis.
ANALYSIS OF PRIMARY ADJUSTMENT FOR COMBUSTION-ORIENTED AIR DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OF SUPERCRITICAL ONCE-THROUGH BOILERS

Through adjustment of the coal pulverizing system,primary air averaging,secondary air flow calibration,adjustment of burners,adjustment of flue gas damper,and cold-state dynamic field test etc.for unit no.1 in Datang Wushashan power plant,elimination of problems in aspects of combustion and air distribution etc.of the boiler has been carried out,obtaining satisfactory result.
The construction of zonal polynomials

The discussion of previous chapters has shown that in many of the non-central problems the answer involves an integral that cannot be evaluated in closed form, typically an integral over a locally compact topological group with respect to a Haar measure. In this book the groups have been matrix groups. For example the discussion of James (1955a) given in Chapter 4 obtains the probability density function of the noncentral Wishart distribution in terms of an integral ∫o(n)exp(tr X t HM) dH, where dH means the Haar measure of unit mass on O(n). The possibility of deriving noncentral density functions by integration with respect to Haar measures is further discussed in Chapters 5, 9 and 10 where also examples of integrals over T(n) and GL(n) have been given.
Host plants impact courtship vibration transmission and mating success of a parasitoid wasp, Cotesia flavipes (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)

Host plants provide food, shelter, and mating habitats for herbivorous and para- sitoid insects. Yet each plant species is a microhabitat with distinct chemical and physical attributes that may drive selection and diversification of insects. This study examines differ- ences in courtship vibration signal transmission through leaves of three host plant species that vary in physical characteristics (leaf tissue density, leaf width and percent moisture) and how signal transmission relates to mating success for a parasitoid wasp. The vibration signals transmit with a longer duration and a higher relative amplitude in the host plant leaves of the species with the lowest leaf tissue density, which was also the plant type with the highest mating frequency. Host plants may be a selective force on courtship vibration signals and may con- tribute to the behavioral or genetic divergence of populations on different host plant species.
Finite Element Formulation for 3-Dimensional Large Rotation Analysis of A Beam

Finite element analysis of 3-dimensional large rotation problem has been possible with nonlinear beam element by J.C.Simo,L.Vu-Quoc[1,2]. Their beam model is described by a configulation manifold which involves special orthogonal group SO(3). But the special orthogonal group is noncomutative, so the tangent stiffness matrix becomes non-symmetric away from equilibrium.
Conclusion: What Matters?

The discussion of calls for new law in the previous chapter suggests that the question of what makes a normative order a legal order rather than something else matters. To say that “there ought to be a law against it” cannot just mean that someone should stop it, but neither can it mean just that it is wrong or that people should believe it is wrong. It seems worth reflecting on just what we are asking for when we say that. Of course, if we never in fact needed to know the content of the law in force – if, that is, eliminativism about the law were the right view to take – then we would have no good reason to call for a new law, or a new kind of law. We should rather call for new kinds of institutions and practices of various kinds, and better ways of understanding the moral responsibility of those who occupy various roles within those structures. So eliminativism would render both kinds of question about the nature of law empty. I have rejected eliminativism. I believe we do need to know the content of the law in force, most importantly because we often have moral reason to comply with law. State officials typically have very strong moral reason to comply with law. It matters what the law is, and therefore the dispute over the grounds of law matters. But that dispute seems to be in a strange condition. I have claimed that no argument is in sight to move the discussion about the grounds of law forward. I have also argued that this does not matter very much because the two positions agree in very many cases about the factors relevant to determining the content of law. Am I not saying both that the dispute matters and that it doesn't?
Central Perspectives in Political Philosophy

The bases for my comparative institutional evaluation are those principles and values that predominate in contemporary political philosophy, in particular those that are used to justify welfare states. These are egalitarianism (and a cousin, prioritarianism), positive-rights theory, communitarianism, and epistemic accessibility, a requirement common to many forms of liberalism. Before I describe these, some preliminaries are needed. First, I do not discuss every major principle or value in contemporary political philosophy. I ignore, for example, socialism. Socialist principles and values either support abolishing welfare-state institutions (perhaps because they are too tainted with or constituted by the evils of market capitalism) or support welfare-state institutions as an adjunct to socialist institutions. If the former is correct, then socialist concerns are not relevant for my project because the institutional choices under consideration in this book are welfare states versus more market alternatives. If the latter is correct (which is more likely because most socialists today do not favor abolishing all market institutions), then the principles or values that they rely on are likely to be the ones I will discuss – in particular, egalitarianism and communitarianism. I also will not spend time discussing libertarianism because it is quite obvious that libertarians will prefer market-based alternatives to welfare states. (Of course, libertarians would prefer pure free-market institutions to the qualified form of market institutions that are the focus of this book, but that is a separate matter).
Prevalência do consumo de risco de álcool no idoso: estudo numa unidade dos cuidados primários da região de Braga

Introduction: Alcohol consumption is associated with risks and benefits depending on the quantity ingested. It is helpful to understand patterns of alcohol consumption in a population in order to decrease risk. The elderly represent a group of special interest, currently under-studied in this area. Family physicians can play a role in the evaluation and prevention of risky alcohol consumption in the elderly. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of risky alcohol consumption in the elderly in a primary care unit. Methods: A cross-sectional study of a sample the clinical records of an 1,225 individuals aged 65 or over was conducted. A representative random sample of 210 elderly patients was selected. Risky consumption was defined as 14 or more standard ethanol units (168g) per week. Results: In this sample of 210 elderly patients, the mean age was 73.7 ± 7.7 years and 57.6 % were women. The prevalence of alcohol consumption was 63% (95% CI 56,69) and risky consumption was found in 32.9% (95% CI 26,39) [56.2% (95% CI 49,62) in men, 15.7% (95% CI 10,20) in women], with 36.7% (95% CI 30,41) of the sample who were abstinent. We found a significant association between male gender and risky alcohol consumption. Age and education were not related to risky consumption. Discussion: In the elderly, excessive consumption of alcohol can have serious consequences. There is a lack of studies to assess patterns of alcohol consumption in this population. We found that 63.3% of the elderly in this population consume alcohol, with a male predominance, similar to findings in national studies. The prevalence of the risky consumption in this population, which includes a third of the sample, is higher than that found in other similar studies. Conclusion: Alcohol risk consumption is prevalent in the elderly in this population and family physicians should be aware of this problem.
Subcutaneous emphysema after vigorous sneezing in the setting of acute frontal sinusitis.

Abstract Introduction Subcutaneous emphysema [SCE] can develop due to traumatic, infectious, and spontaneous causes and usually localizes to the periorbital space. Case We present a case of an 18-year-old male with an 8-day history of migraine-like headaches followed by the acute onset of frontofacial swelling after vigorous sneezing. Radiologic and physical exam findings supported a diagnosis of frontofacial SCE in the setting of frontal sinusitis. Discussion A sneeze, although usually benign, causes a significant increase in intranasal pressure. When coupled with a history significant for facial trauma or rhinosinusitis, this rise in pressure can be sufficient to cause fracturing of the bone overlying a paranasal sinus, leading to the formation of SCE.
Changes in Salivary Cortisol During Psychotherapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Pilot Study in 30 Veterans.

Background Convergent evidence suggests that the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is disrupted in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and that HPA axis normalization may be associated with symptom improvement. Thus, the current study was designed to test the association between HPA axis reactivity and treatment response in psychotherapy for PTSD. Methods Thirty returning veterans with DSM-IV-TR PTSD were randomly assigned to receive 10 sessions of prolonged exposure therapy or present-centered therapy as part of a previously published randomized clinical trial (2008-2010). Treatment groups were collapsed for the current analyses. Salivary cortisol was collected 3 times during 3 therapy sessions. Cortisol reactivity was calculated by area under the curve with respect to ground. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to measure longitudinal change in salivary cortisol nested within patients and to test the effects of treatment responder status at both levels. Results Session number was significant in the final model, indicating linear increases in cortisol output across sessions (β = 1.06, P = .02). In addition, responder status significantly predicted slope of cortisol reactivity across sessions (β = 1.35, P = .04). Compared to high responders, low responders exhibited a 1.35 (μg/dL) mean increase in cortisol reactivity between sessions. Responder status accounted for 6% of the previously unexplained variance in cortisol reactivity. Conclusions As compared to high treatment responders, low treatment responders showed greater increases in salivary cortisol output over the course of treatment. These results indicate that increases in HPA axis reactivity over the course of psychotherapy may be associated with worse treatment response. Future work is needed to investigate how modulation of HPA axis reactivity may be targeted in order to optimize PTSD treatment outcomes. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00475241​.
Flavivirus Pathogenesis in the Mosquito Transmission Vector

We hope to provide an overview of flavivirus pathogenesis in the mosquito, including the mosquito immune response to infection. There has been a great deal of research in the past decade examining interactions of flaviviruses with mosquito proteins as well as the complex immune reaction to flavivirus infection. We also touch upon novel strategies to prevent mosquito infection with flaviviruses of human importance. The mosquito is a crucial component of the flavivirus transmission cycle, and thus, it is vital to thoroughly examine flavivirus pathogenesis in the mosquito vector. There have been some important recent findings in this area yet further research is needed for a comprehensive picture of mosquito-human flavivirus transmission.
California’s Use of Health Statistics in Child Health Planning

The California Health Plan for Children, 1979, compiled by the Committee on Health Planning of California, District IX of the American Academy of Pediatrics, is an extensive report on health problems unique to the children of California. Since its publication, many local and state health agencies have been using it as a guide and source of data in their planning efforts for child and youth health. The creation of the plan demonstrated a successful working relationship between health care practitioners and biostatisticians, the acceptance by health professionals of the use of health statistics in planning, the different uses of health statistics in formulating recommendations, and an approach to organizing and summarizing large bodies of data. Nevertheless, our experience indicates that although collection systems for data on population, mortality, natality, morbidity, and health services statistics abound, their use in community health planning for subpopulations is still limited by problems in the definition, validity, and completeness of the data elements. The establishment of an individualized data system for the entire population, to be developed, coordinated, and controlled by one central agency, could be a significant step toward solving these long-standing problems in our data systems.
From Delay to Degree: The Postsecondary Experiences of Six Nontraditional Students

This qualitative study extends the research on postsecondary delay by examining the college experiences of six male nontraditional students from the North Texas area who purposefully postponed coll...
Sexual Medicine in Primary Care. By William L. Maurice, in consultation with Marjorie A. Bowman. St. Louis: Mosby, 1999. 366 pages. Paper, $39.95. ISBN 08151-2797-9.

(1998). Sexual Medicine in Primary Care. By William L. Maurice, in consultation with Marjorie A. Bowman. St. Louis: Mosby, 1999. 366 pages. Paper, $39.95. ISBN 08151-2797-9. Journal of Sex Education and Therapy: Vol. 23, No. 4, pp. 318-319.
The influence of political and economic changes on macro-level property crime variation: The case of post-communist Central and Eastern Europe:

The goal of this article was to assess the extent to which major changes in the political and economic systems of Central and Eastern European countries after the fall of communism contributed to v...
Neurosteroid allopregnanolone reduces ipsilateral visual cortex potentiation following unilateral optic nerve injury

In adult mice with unilateral optic nerve crush injury (ONC), we studied visual response plasticity in the visual cortex following stimulation with sinusoidal grating. We examined visually evoked potentials (VEP) in the primary visual cortex ipsilateral and contralateral to the crushed nerve. We found that unilateral ONC induces enhancement of visual response on the side ipsilateral to the injury that is evoked by visual stimulation to the intact eye. This enhancement was associated with supranormal spatial frequency thresholds in the intact eye when tested using optomotor response. To probe whether injury-induced disinhibition caused the potentiation, we treated animals with the neurosteroid allopregnanolone, a potent agonist of the GABAA receptor, one hour after crush and on post-injury days 3, 8, 13, and 18. Allopregnanolone diminished enhancement of the VEP and this effect was associated with the upregulated synthesis of the δ-subunit of the GABAA receptor. Our study shows a new aspect of experience-dependent plasticity following unilateral ONC. This hyper-activity in the ipsilateral visual cortex is prevented by upregulation of GABA inhibition with allopregnanolone. Our findings suggest the therapeutic potential of allopregnanolone for modulation of plasticity in certain eye and brain disorders and a possible role for disinhibition in ipsilateral hyper-activity following unilateral ONC.
Laplace’s Equation

In this chapter we will consider the solution of Laplace’s Equation $${\nabla }^{2}\Phi = 0$$ (9.111) using separation of variables. We can claim that this chapter is required by the preceding Chap. 8, which indicated the importance of the homogeneous solution to Poisson’s Equation. However, as with Chap. 8 it is not integral to a study of the theory of classical fields. The reader already familiar with the use of separation of variables to solve Laplace’s Equation may skip this chapter without any loss in continuity.
Biochar as a Soil Amendment for Vegetable Production

Environmental concerns and the price of fossil fuels have encouraged research on technologies to utilize biomass in energy production. Some technologies being investigated for their potential to provide energy involve a process known as pyrolysis. One of the byproducts of pyrolysis is called biochar. Biochar has shown potential to improve plant and soil health on several unproductive soils around the world. Much of the research on the use of biochar in Iowa soils has been focused around agronomic crops with little research into how it may affect vegetable production systems. Objectives of this study were to investigate the effects of using biochar as a soil amendment on bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L. Paladin) production in Iowa. The study investigated biochar’s effects on plant growth, yield, and soil nutrient retention.
Comparison of Tobacco and Electronic Cigarette Reward Value Measured During a Cue-Reactivity Task: An Extension of the Choice Behavior Under Cued Conditions Procedure

Introduction Up to 24% of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) users are concurrent users of both tobacco and e-cigarettes (dual users). Dual users provide an opportunity to assess key motivational processes supporting e-cigarette use, such as the reward value of e-cigarettes. This study used the Choice Behavior Under Cued Conditions procedure to examine cue-specific reactions to tobacco and e-cigarettes with a primary focus on evaluating the relative reward value of both forms of cigarettes. Methods Fifty-four dual users were exposed to a lit tobacco cigarette, their own e-cigarette, or a cup of water across multiple trials. On each trial, participants rated their craving for both tobacco and e-cigarettes and indicated the amount of money they would spend to access the cue. Key measures included craving, amount of money spent to access the cue, latency to access the cue, spending choice time, and consumption. Results Participants reported significantly higher craving and spent significantly more money on tobacco and e-cigarette trials than on water trials. The magnitude of cue-specific craving was comparable across tobacco and e-cigarettes, but participants spent significantly more to access tobacco cigarettes than e-cigarettes. Conclusions This is the first study to demonstrate cue-specific reactivity to e-cigarettes utilizing a neutral comparison condition and to examine the reward value of e-cigarettes relative to tobacco cigarettes. Overall, the data suggest that e-cigarette puffs are less valued and generate less craving than tobacco cigarette puffs for dual users. The data provide clear support for the utility of Choice Behavior Under Cued Conditions for examining a range of motivational processes supporting e-cigarette use. Implications The test procedure used in this research generates multiple indices of nicotine and tobacco motivation and allows for an explicit comparison of those variables in people who use both e-cigarettes and tobacco cigarettes.
Combination Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema with Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Steroids: Analysis of DRCR.net Protocol U

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is the main cause of visual impairment in diabetic patients. Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy is considered the first-line treatment option in the management of DME with corticosteroids used as second-line therapy. The DRCR.net Protocol U study was a Phase II trial that sought to compare the combination of a steroid and anti-VEGF therapy to anti-VEGF monotherapy regarding visual acuity and anatomic outcomes. This review highlights the strengths, weaknesses, and clinical implications of this study.
Environmental Niches for NTM and Their Impact on NTM Disease

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are ubiquitous inhabitants of natural and man-made water sources as well as outdoor and indoor dusts and soils. Individuals that are susceptible to NTM pulmonary disease are likely acquiring infection through inhalation of aerosolized organisms and possibly also from aspiration of ingested organisms. Numerous studies have documented the colonization of municipal water supplies, commercial and institutional plumbing, and household plumbing with NTM. In addition, NTM have been found in high numbers in various natural and man-made dusts and soils. This chapter will review the current knowledge regarding environmental sources of NTM and the complex factors associated with their survival and transmissibility to humans. Interventions seeking to reduce numbers of NTM in the environment require further study, but avoidance of activities associated with a high risk of aerosolization of water, dusts, and soils can be recommended to individuals with host factors that deem them susceptible to NTM disease.
Particle squeezing in narrow confinements

Many lab-on-a-chip applications require processing of droplets, cells, and particles using narrow confinements. The physics governing the process of a particle squeezing through narrow confinement is complex. Various models and applications have been developed in this area in recent years. In the present paper, we review the physics, modeling approaches, and designs of narrow confinements for the control of deformable droplets, cells, and particles. This review highlights the interdisciplinary nature of the problem, since the experimental, analytical, and numerical methods used in studies of particle squeezing through narrow confinements come from various fields of science and technology.
Futurelessness, Risk Perceptions, and Commitment to Institutional Rules Among a Sample of Incarcerated Men and Women.

Using self-reported surveys of a sample of 2,927 incarcerated men and women from correctional facilities of varying security levels in the United States, this study explores the interrelationship o...
Detection of Chemical Weapon Nerve Agents in Bone by Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry

A recently proposed model for the incorporation of xenobiotics of forensic interest into the human skeleton suggests nerve agent metabolites may incorporate into bone at relatively elevated concentrations based on their unique chemical properties. To test the hypothesis that nerve agent metabolites interact with bone, methods for the extraction, isolation and semi-quantitative detection of nerve agent metabolites (MPA, EMPA, IMPA, iBuMPA, CMPA and PMPA, corresponding to the nerve agents VX, Russian VX, sarin, cyclosarin and soman, respectively) from osseous tissue were developed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry with both quadrupole time-of-flight and triple quadrupole (QqQ) instruments. The optimized methods were validated on the QqQ instrument. Despite high ion suppression, the achieved limits of detection (5-20 pg/g for four analytes; 350 pg/g for the fifth analyte) were lower than many of those published for the same analytes in other biomatrices, including serum and urine. These methods were tested on the skeletal remains of minipigs exposed to the chemical weapon VX in vivo. The VX metabolite was detected in multiple minipig bone samples; to the authors' knowledge, this is the first time in vivo nerve agent exposure has been detected from bone. Further, detected concentrations and diaphyseal-to-epiphyseal area count ratios reflect animal exposure history. Although the results are limited, they are promising, indicating that nerve agent metabolites may interact with bone as a pharmacokinetic compartment and can be extracted from bone postmortem. Additional studies, assessing the effects of different agents, exposure pathways and taphonomic variables, are needed; however, these results suggest the method may be used with human bone to detect use of chemical weapons from postmortem biomatrices even well after a suspected attack. More general implications for both nerve agent toxicology and skeletal toxicology are also discussed.
Tussilagone Reduces Tumorigenesis by Diminishing Inflammation in Experimental Colitis-Associated Colon Cancer.

Background: Tussilagone, a major component of Tussilago farfara L., has anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the therapeutic and preventive activity of tussilagone in colitis-associated colon carcinogenesis is unknown. Methods: We intended to investigate the therapeutic effects and the potential mechanism of action underlying the pharmacological activity of tussilagone on colitis-associated colon cancer induced in mice using azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulfate sodium (DSS). We injected BALB/c mice with AOM and administered 2% DSS in drinking water. The mice were given tussilagone (2.5 and 5 mg/kg body weight) and colon tissues was collected at 72 days. We used Western blotting, immunohistochemistry and real-time RT-PCR analyses to examine the tumorigenesis and inflammatory status of the colon. Results: Tussilagone administration significantly reduced the formation of colonic tumors. In addition, tussilagone treatment markedly reduced the inflammatory mediators and increased heme oxygease-1 in protein and mRNA levels in colon tissues. Meanwhile, nuclear NF-κB-positive cells were elevated and nuclear Nrf2-positive cells were demised by tussilagone treatment in colon tissues. Tussilagone also reduced cell proliferation, induced apoptosis and decreased the β-catenin expression. Conclusions: Tussilagone administration decreases the inflammation and proliferation induced by AOM/DSS and induced apoptosis in colon tissue. Overall, this study indicates the potential value of tussilagone in suppressing colon tumorigenesis.
Water distillation using an ohmic heating apparatus

Many regions, including Basrah Governate in Iraq, suffer from undrinkable water due to high salt content and an economical means of desalinisation is needed. Ohmic heating was tested as a potential...
Articular Cartilage Biology

The composition and structure of its extracellular matrix gives articular cartilage the unique material properties that enable it to withstand compressive loads and to minimize friction between joint surfaces. This specialized matrix typically remains stable for decades despite the challenges of limited nutrition, hypoxia, and changing mechanical stresses. The cartilage matrix is elaborated and maintained by chondrocytes, which are metabolically well adapted to the articular environment. Chondrocytes are equipped with mechanosensory systems that allow adaptation to prevailing loading conditions. Normal physiologic loads are well tolerated and stimulate the biosynthesis of key matrix components. However, excessive loading, or the absence of loading, leads to loss of biosynthetic activity and increased matrix degradation. Declines in chondrocyte function or density associated with aging or acute mechanical injury are also thought to contribute to matrix degeneration. These factors may contribute to the pathogenesis of primary and post-traumatic osteoarthritis, respectively. Fortunately, recent findings suggest that aging and injury need not lead inevitably to arthritis: BMP and Wnt pathway modulators, antioxidants, caspase inhibitors, and membrane stabilizers all show promise as anti-degenerative agents that may mitigate the progression of arthritis.
Aging, Frailty, and the Microbiome-How Dysbiosis Influences Human Aging and Disease

The human gut microbiome is a collection of bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and viruses that coexist in our bodies and are essential in protective, metabolic, and physiologic functions of human health. Gut dysbiosis has traditionally been linked to increased risk of infection, but imbalances within the intestinal microbial community structure that correlate with untoward inflammatory responses are increasingly recognized as being involved in disease processes that affect many organ systems in the body. Furthermore, it is becoming more apparent that the connection between gut dysbiosis and age-related diseases may lie in how the gut microbiome communicates with both the intestinal mucosa and the systemic immune system, given that these networks have a common interconnection to frailty. We therefore discuss recent advances in our understanding of the important role the microbiome plays in aging and how this knowledge opens the door for potential novel therapeutics aimed at shaping a less dysbiotic microbiome to prevent or treat age-related diseases.
Working capital management and CEO age

Abstract The existing literature provides strong evidence that working capital management affects a firm’s performance and value. In this paper, we examine how CEO age affects firms’ working capital decisions. Using a sample of 28,243 firm-year observations of U.S. firms from 1993 to 2018, we find that net operating working capital increases with CEO age, and firms with younger CEOs hold lower levels of inventory and higher levels of payables. The results are robust to various model specifications and variable definitions, providing strong and robust evidence that younger CEOs tend to implement more aggressive working capital management policies (Aggressive strategy hypothesis). The findings provide important insights to the board of directors, investors, and various monitoring groups.
RNAi and chemogenetic reporter co-regulation in primate striatal interneurons

Using genetic tools to study the functional roles of molecularly specified neuronal populations in the primate brain is challenging, primarily because of specificity and verification of virus-mediated targeting. Here, we report a lentivirus-based system that helps improve specificity and verification by (a) targeting a selected molecular mechanism, (b) in vivo reporting of expression, and (c) allowing the option to independently silence all regional neural activity. Specifically, we modulate cholinergic signaling of striatal interneurons by shRNAmir and pair it with hM4Di_CFP, a chemogenetic receptor that can function as an in vivo and in situ reporter. Quantitative analyses by visual and deep-learning assisted methods show an inverse linear relation between hM4Di_CFP and ChAT protein expression for several shRNAmir constructs. This approach successfully applies shRNAmir to modulating gene expression in the primate brain and shows that hM4Di_CFP can act as a readout for this modulation.