cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dopamine D4 receptors regulate intracellular calcium concentration in cultured chicken cone photoreceptor cells: relationship to dopamine receptor-mediated inhibition of cAMP formation

Abstract Dopamine is a retinal neuromodulator secreted from amacrine and interplexiform cells. Activation of dopamine D4 receptors on photoreceptor cells reduces a light-sensitive pool of cAMP. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of dopamine receptors and cAMP in the regulation of intracellular Ca 2+ concentrations ([Ca 2+ ] i ) in photoreceptor cells of chick retina. Retinal cells from 6 day-old chicken embryos were isolated and cultured for 5–7 days prior to experiments. Cone photoreceptors were the predominant cell type in these cultures. Dopamine and agonists of dopamine D4 receptors suppressed K + -stimulated uptake of 45 Ca 2+ and [Ca 2+ ] i , measured with the Ca 2+ -sensitive fluorescent dye fura-2AM. The effects of the agonists were blocked by dopamine D2/D4 receptor antagonists or by pertussis toxin. 8Br-cAMP, a cell-permeable analog of cAMP, had no effect on inhibition of K + -stimulated 45 Ca 2+ influx or [Ca 2+ ] i by dopamine D2/D4 receptor agonists. Quinpirole inhibited the increase in cAMP level elicited by K + , which requires Ca 2+ influx through voltage-gated Ca 2+ channels, but not that induced by the calcium ionophore A23187. Moreover, dopamine had no effect on either forskolin-stimulated or Ca 2+ /calmodulin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity in cell membranes prepared from the cultured cells. These data indicate that the decrease of cAMP elicited by dopamine D4 receptor stimulation may be secondary to decreased [Ca 2+ ] i .
Laser photostimulation of collagen production in healing rabbit achilles tendons

Background and Objective Low energy laser photostimulation at certain wavelengths can enhance tissue repair by releasing growth factors from fibroblasts and stimulate the healing process. This study was designed to evaluate the influence of laser photostimulation on collagen production in experimentally tenotomized and repaired rabbit Achilles tendons. Study Design/Materials and Methods: A total of 24 male New Zealand rabbits, ages 10–12 weeks, were used. Following tenotomy and repair, the surgical hind limbs of the rabbits were immobilized in customized polyurethane casts. The experimental animals were treated with a 632.8 nm He:Ne laser daily at 1.0 J cm−2 for 14 days. Control animals were sham treated with the laser head. On the fifth day after repair, the casts were removed to allow the animals to bear weight on the lower extremity. The animals were euthanized on the 15th postoperative day, then, the Achilles tendons were excised, processed and analyzed. Results Biochemical analyses of the tendons revealed a 26% increase in collagen concentration with laser photostimulation indicating a more rapid healing process in treated tendons compared to controls. Sequential extractions of collagen from regenerating tissues revealed that the laser photostimulated tendons had 32% and 33% greater concentrations of neutral salt soluble collagen and insoluble collagen, respectively, than control tendons suggesting an accelerated production of collagen with laser photostimulation. A significant decrease (9%) in pepsin soluble collagen was observed in laser-treated tendons compared to controls. There were no statistically significant differences recorded in the concentrations of hydroxypyridinium crosslinks and acid soluble collagen between treated and control tendons. Conclusion This study of laser photostimulation on tendon healing in rabbits suggests that such therapy facilitates collagen production in a manner that enhances tendon healing. Lasers Surg. Med. 22:281–287, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Polyurethane monitoring by mid-infrared fiber Fourier transform spectrometry

Chalcogenide fibers that transmit radiation in the mid-infrared region have been coupled to a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. The fibers are used to measure attenuated total reflectance spectra of samples that are remote, or do not lend themselves to conventional sampling methods. The samples used in this study are polyurethane foams and spectra are collected while the foams are forming. The reaction intermediates can be monitored, as well as the reaction kinetics. Spectra can be collected rapidly; faster than one spectrum per second, however, the reaction rates in this study do not require temporal resolutions of faster than 10 seconds. The collected spectra are subjected to factor analysis to identify the reactants, intermediates and products.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Laryngeal Disease in Dogs and Cats

The most common disease process involving the larynx is laryngeal paralysis, which occurs much more frequently in dogs than in cats. Diagnosis of laryngeal paralysis requires close attention to anesthetic plane and coordination of respiratory effort with laryngeal motion. Surgical arytenoid lateralization improves respiration and quality of life in dogs with laryngeal paralysis; however, aspiration pneumonia is a recognized complication, and generalized neuropathy can progress. Laryngeal collapse can result from any cause of chronic upper airway obstruction, but is most often associated with unaddressed brachycephalic airway syndrome. Laryngeal neoplasia, while generally uncommon, occurs more frequently in cats than in dogs.
Challenges and promises for the development of donor-independent platelet transfusions.

Platelet transfusions are often a life-saving intervention, and the use of platelet transfusions has been increasing. Donor-derived platelet availability can be challenging. Compounding this concern are additional limitations of donor-derived platelets, including variability in product unit quality and quantity, limited shelf life and the risks of product bacterial contamination, other transfusion-transmitted infections, and immunologic reactions. Because of these issues, there has been an effort to develop strategies to generate platelets from exogenously generated precursor cells. If successful, such platelets have the potential to be a safer, more consistent platelet product, while reducing the necessity for human donations. Moreover, ex vivo–generated autologous platelets or precursors may be beneficial for patients who are refractory to allogeneic platelets. For patients with inherited platelet disorders, ex vivo–generated platelets offer the promise of a treatment via the generation of autologous gene-corrected platelets. Theoretically, ex vivo–generated platelets also offer targeted delivery of ectopic proteins to sites of vascular injury. This review summarizes the current, state-of-the-art methodologies in delivering a clinically relevant ex vivo–derived platelet product, and it discusses significant challenges that must be overcome for this approach to become a clinical reality.
Symbols, Myth-Making, and Identity: The Red Hand of Ulster in Late Nineteenth-Century Paterson, New Jersey

Symbols are manipulated to express social identity and to reaffirm or create a sense of place. Smoking pipes recovered from late nineteenth-century privies in the Dublin Section of Paterson, New Jersey, bear the symbol of the Red Hand of Ulster. Today, the Red Hand of Ulster is ubiquitous on Unionist murals throughout Northern Ireland symbolizing Northern Irish Protestant identity. Originally, the Red Hand symbolized the dawn of the Irish High King of Ulster. In late-nineteenth-century Paterson, it is argued here, the symbol was embedded in ethnic politics involving the Irish Diaspora and Irish–American identity developed through the Gaelic revival and Irish–American organizations and labor unions.
Pygopus, a nuclear PHD-finger protein required for Wingless signaling in Drosophila

The secreted glycoprotein Wingless (Wg) acts through a conserved signaling pathway to regulate target gene expression. Wg signaling causes nuclear translocation of Armadillo, the fly β-catenin, which then complexes with the DNA-binding protein TCF, enabling it to activate transcription. Though many nuclear factors have been implicated in modulating TCF/Armadillo activity, their importance remains poorly understood. This work describes a ubiquitously expressed protein, called Pygopus, which is required for Wg signaling throughout Drosophila development. Pygopus contains a PHD finger at its C terminus, a motif often found in chromatin remodeling factors. Overexpression of pygopus also blocks the pathway, consistent with the protein acting in a complex. The pygopus mutant phenotype is highly, though not exclusively, specific for Wg signaling. Epistasis experiments indicate that Pygopus acts downstream of Armadillo nuclear import, consistent with the nuclear location of heterologously expressed protein. Our data argue strongly that Pygopus is a new core component of the Wg signaling pathway that acts downstream or at the level of TCF.
A New Protozoan Parasite, Nyctotherus cheni n.sp. (Ciliata), from Chinese Frogs

In 1904, Bezzenberger investigated ciliates from the rectum of several amphibian hosts of Asia and described two new species of Nyctotherus, N. macropharyngeus and N. magnus . Recently Dashi Nie (1932) described two more new species, N. nankingensis and N. pyriformis , with several opalinids from Rana limnocharis Gravenhorst of Nanking. It is the purpose of this paper to describe a new species of Nyctotherus from the Chinese frog, Rana spinosa .
Impact on rectal dose from the use of a prostate immobilization and rectal localization device for patients receiving dose escalated 3D conformal radiation therapy

Purpose: When 25% of the rectum is irradiated to 70 Gy, the risk of developing Grade 2 or higher rectal complications is significantly increased. This study evaluates the impact on dose to the rectum from the use of an intrarectal (IR) balloon device, previously shown to immobilize the prostate gland and localize the rectum, in patients receiving dose escalated 3-dimentional (3D) conformal radiation therapy. Materials and Methods: From July 2001 through February 2003, 28 consecutive patients with prostate cancer underwent computerized tomography-based simulation with and without the IR balloon in place. Treatment planning was performed for three clinical paradigms in which the IR balloon was not used at all (0 Gy), used during the cone-down for 15 treatments (28.35 Gy), or used for the entire course of 40 treatments (75.6 Gy). The three plans were compared for differences in the percent of rectum receiving 70 Gy. Results: Dose volume histogram (DVH) analysis revealed that the median(range) of percent rectal volume exceeding 70 Gy was 25% (12.7– 41.5%), 7.5% (0.9 –19.5%), and 3.6% (0 – 8.7%) for patients in whom the IR balloon was used for 0, 15, and 40 treatments, respectively. The percent of rectum exceeding 70 Gy was significantly different for all treatment plan comparisons ( P 0.0001). Conclusions: Grade 2 or higher rectal toxicity may be minimized during dose escalated 3D conformal radiation therapy through the use of an IR balloon during the 3-week cone down portion of an 8-week treatment course. © 2004 Elsevier Inc All rights reserved.
Dislocation escape-related size effects in single-crystal micropillars under uniaxial compression

The size-dependence of the plastic response of single-crystal micropillars at submicron/micron length scales under compression was investigated using three-dimensional discrete dislocation dynamics (DDD) simulations. In the simulations, the initial dislocation configuration consists of randomly distributed Frank–Read-type dislocation sources. The simulation results are compared with a dislocation evolution model for geometrically confined systems with free surfaces, intended to approximate the evolution behavior of the dislocation density at sufficiently high velocities or stress levels. The dependence of the effective stress on both the sample dimension and source density was shown to take the form τeff∝1/a〈N〉 at a fixed strain rate, where a is the sample dimension and 〈N〉 is the number density of activated sources. This relationship is found to be in good accord with the DDD simulation results. The new finding in this study is that the size dependence of the plastic response can be independent of source strength in the high-velocity or high-stress regime. The length-scale effects we observe are due to dislocation escape through free surfaces. Mobile dislocations can typically escape faster in a smaller sample, leading to a lower mobile dislocation density and an increased resistance to plastic flow. Thus, the dislocation-escape mechanism provides a possible explanation of the experimentally observed size effects in the testing of micropillars.
Function of corpora lutea of pregnancy in the viviparous garter snake, Thamnophis elegans.

Although corpora lutea of the viviparous garter snake, Thamnophis elegans, are the major source of plasma progesterone during pregnancy, a specific function for this steroid or any other luteal factor has yet to be shown. Thirty pregnant snakes weighing 80–200 g were divided into three equal groups so that all groups contained snakes of comparable size. Equal numbers of snakes were luteectomized, sham luteectomized, or received no treatment during early pregnancy and were then allowed to complete gestation. Duration of pregnancy was significantly (P < 0.01) longer in luteectomized snakes than in either control group. Luteectomized snakes gave birth to a lower percentage of living young and fewer birth products, which also weighed significantly less. However, luteectomy did not prevent normal embryonic development and did not appear to affect the rate of embryonic development. There were no significant differences between intact and sham luteectomized snakes in any of the above parameters. We conclude that CL in the viviparous garter snake, Thamnophis elegans, function through the mediation of a hormone which ensures that parturition occurs at the normal time and with the delivery of a normal number of young. The mechanism or the compound responsible for this action remains unknown.
Energy minimization via graph cuts: settling what is possible

The recent explosion of interest in graph cut methods in computer vision naturally spawns the question: what energy functions can be minimized via graph cuts? This question was first attacked by two papers of Kolmogorov and Zabih, in which they dealt with functions with pair-wise and triplewise pixel interactions. In this work, we extend their results in two directions. First, we examine the case of k-wise pixel interactions; the results are derived from a purely algebraic approach. Second, we discuss the applicability of provably approximate algorithms. Both of these developments should help researchers best understand what can and cannot be achieved when designing graph cut based algorithms.
High-throughput screening-based identification of paramyxovirus inhibitors.

Several members of the paramyxovirus family constitute major human pathogens that, collectively, are responsible for major morbidity and mortality worldwide. In an effort to develop novel therapeutics against measles virus (MV), a prominent member of the paramyxovirus family, the authors report a high-throughput screening protocol that uses a nonrecombinant primary MV strain as targets. Implementation of the assay has yielded 60 hit candidates from a 137,500-entry library. Counterscreening and generation of dose-response curves narrows this pool to 35 compounds with active concentrations 500. Library mining for structural analogs of several confirmed hits combined with retesting of identified candidates reveals a high accuracy of primary hit identification. Eleven of the confirmed hits interfere with viral entry, whereas the remaining 24 compounds target postentry steps of the viral life cycle. Activity testing against selected members of the paramyxovirus family reveals 3 patterns of activity: 1) exclusively MV-specific blockers, 2) inhibitors of MV and related viruses of the same genus, and 3) broader range inhibitors with activity against a different Paramyxovirinae genus. Representatives of the last class may open avenues for the development of broad-range paramyxovirus inhibitors through hit-to-lead chemistry.
Direct simulation, Monte Carlo, aerosol dynamics: Coagulation and condensation

Abstract In a post-accident reactor environment, condensation of different species on the aerosol particles can occur at a rapid rate which increases the mass and volume of the aerosol particles. This change in particle properties affects both the coagulation and deposition rates of the aerosols as well as removal of the condensates (for example, the fission products). We have explored the feasibility of the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) technique when condensation alone occurs, and when both condensation and coagulation occur simultaneously. We have simulated several test cases and compared the DSMC results against the analytical results. We have found that the DSMC results agree well with the analytical results for all the test cases simulated.
The earliest narratives were musical

In a baby’s first months of life, adults direct a lot of ‘talk’ at them, to which they respond with obvious delight. Baby talk can be regarded as narrative (or proto-narrative), though of a very pe...
Effects of N, P, and organic carbon on stream biofilm nutrient limitation and uptake in a semi-arid watershed

We examined the effect of agricultural land use on whole-stream nutrient availability, biofilm standing crop, and biofilm nutrient limitation and uptake in 21 stream locations in southeastern Idaho. Higher stream water concentrations of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), but not nitrate (NO3-N) or phosphate (PO4-P), were associated with % agriculture in the watershed. Streambed chlorophyll a (Chl a) and ash free dry weight (AF dry wt) also increased with agricultural land use. Nutrient diffusing substrate (NDS) bioassays, which determine biofilm nutrient limitation, showed that Chl a was NO3-N limited and suppressed by labile DOC, whereas AF dry wt did not respond to either NO3-N or labile DOC additions. Together, the different responses of Chl a and AF dry wt suggest potential competition between biofilm autotrophs and heterotrophs for nutrients or other resources. Nutrient uptake, determined with short-term releases of NO3-N, PO4-P, and DOC (as glucose) showed that NO3-N uptake velocity (Vf) increased with agricultural land use. Despite the N-limited status of biofilms indicated by the NDS results, uptake of NO3-N could not be consistently detected at all locations. The differences in response of biofilm to organic carbon enrichment suggests a difference in DOC quality, with labile DOC added with NDS compared to perhaps less-labile DOC found in-stream. Linking the interactive responses of biofilm communities to altered nutrient availability is an important step toward understanding whole ecosystem responses to land-use change.
Finite-dimensional objects in distinguished triangles

Abstract Let T be a Q -linear closed symmetric monoidal triangulated category in the sense of [M. Hovey, Model Categories, Math. Surveys Monogr., vol. 63, Amer. Math. Soc., Providence, RI, 1999]. We prove an additivity for evenly and oddly finite-dimensional vertices of distinguished triangles in T (Theorem 1). As a corollary, we get motivic finite dimensionality for quasi-projective curves over a field (Theorem 3). The last result has been independently obtained by C. Mazza, see [C. Mazza, Schur functors and motives, preprint, 2003, http://www.math.uiuc.edu/K-theory/0641/ ].
Large differences in secondary metal-arene interactions in the transition-metal dimers ArMMAr (Ar = terphenyl; M = Cr, Fe, or Co): implications for Cr-Cr quintuple bonding.

Quantum mechanical calculations, using both CASPT2 and DFT methods, for the model systems (MeMMMe, PhMMPh, (MeMMMe)(C6H6)2, Ar§MMAr§, Ar#MMAr#; M = Cr, Fe, Co; Ar§ = C6H4-2(C6H5), Ar# = C6H3-2,6(C6H3-2,6-Me2)2) are described. These studies were undertaken to provide a multireference description of the metal−metal bond in the simple dimers MeMMMe and PhMMPh (M = Cr, Fe, Co) and to determine the extent of secondary metal−arene interaction involving the flanking aryl rings of the terphenyl ligands in quintuply bonded Ar′CrCrAr′ (Ar′ = C6H3-2,6(C6H3-2,6-Pri2)2). We show that in the Cr−Cr species the Cr−arene interaction is a feeble one that causes only a small weakening of the quintuple bond. In sharp contrast, in the analogous Fe and Co species strong η6-arene interactions that preclude significant metal−metal bonding are predicted.
Supply chain design under uncertainty for advanced biofuel production based on bio-oil gasification

An advanced biofuels supply chain is proposed to reduce biomass transportation costs and take advantage of the economics of scale for a gasification facility. In this supply chain, biomass is converted to bio-oil at widely distributed small-scale fast pyrolysis plants, and after bio-oil gasification, the syngas is upgraded to transportation fuels at a centralized biorefinery. A two-stage stochastic programming is formulated to maximize biofuel producers' annual profit considering uncertainties in the supply chain for this pathway. The first stage makes the capital investment decisions including the locations and capacities of the decentralized fast pyrolysis plants as well as the centralized biorefinery, while the second stage determines the biomass and biofuels flows. A case study based on Iowa in the U.S. illustrates that it is economically feasible to meet desired demand using corn stover as the biomass feedstock. The results show that the locations of fast pyrolysis plants are sensitive to uncertainties while the capacity levels are insensitive. The stochastic model outperforms the deterministic model in the stochastic environment, especially when there is insufficient biomass. Also, farmers' participation can have a significant impact on the profitability and robustness of this supply chain.
Oral Contraceptives and Neoplasia

Some of the available data concerning the suspected association between oral contraceptive (OC) use and the development of cancer is surveyed and the attempt is made to evaluate possible associations between OCs and human neoplasia in light of pregnancy risk or benefit of oral contraception. The principal investigative methods in humans include various epidemiologic approaches and the methodologies most often used are case reports (tumor registries) disease rates and trends case-control studies and cohort studies. These methods cannot prove a causal relationship between exposure to a possible carcinogen and the occurrence of disease. Consistent positive or negative evidence confirmed by multiple epidemiologic approaches can be used to guide physicians and regulatory agencies in formulating policy for the clinical use of OCs. Both the progestogen-only and the combined OCs have been shown to have a protective effect on the development of benign breast disease with this protective effect not appearing until 2 years of use. Long-term combined OC use appears to be related to the development of benign liver neoplasia and this risk increases with the dose of the steroid and the age of the user. These lesions are quite rare but may be life threatening because of potential spontaneous rupture and hemorrhage. Long-term postmenopausal use of estrogens appears to increase significantly the risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia and adenocarcinoma of the endometrium. Estrogens appear to be related to the growth of pre-existing uterine leiomyomas. Endocervical cells under the influence of progestogens may develop adenomatous changes and these benign changes have on occasion been misinterpreted as carcinoma.
Analysis of Jet-Wing Distributed Propulsion from Thick Wing Trailing Edges

Conventional airliners use two to four engines in a Cayley-type arrangement to provide thrust, and the thrust is concentrated right behind the engine. Distributed propulsion is the idea of redistributing the thrust across most, or all, of the wingspan of an aircraft. This can be accomplished by using several large engines and using a duct to spread out the exhaust flow to form a jet-wing or by using many small engines spaced along the span of the wing. Jet-wing distributed propulsion was originally suggested as a way to improve propulsive efficiency. A previous study at Virginia Tech assessed the potential gains in propulsive efficiency. The purpose of this study was to assess the performance benefits of jet-wing distributed propulsion. The Reynolds-averaged, finitevolume, Navier-Stokes code GASP was used to perform parametric computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses on two-dimensional jet-wing models. The jet-wing was modeled by applying jet boundary conditions on the trailing edges of blunt trailing edge airfoils such that the vehicle was self-propelled. As this work was part of a BlendedWing-Body (BWB) distributed propulsion multidisciplinary optimization (MDO) study, two airfoils of different thickness were modeled at BWB cruise conditions as examples. One airfoil, representative of an outboard BWB wing section, was 11% thick. The other airfoil, representative of an inboard BWB wing section, was 18% thick. Furthermore, in an attempt to increase the propulsive efficiency, the trailing edge thickness of the 11% thick airfoil was doubled in size. The studies show that jet-wing distributed propulsion can be used to obtain propulsive efficiencies on the order of turbofan engine aircraft. If the trailing edge thickness is expanded, then jet-wing distributed propulsion can give improved propulsive efficiency. However, expanding the trailing edge must be done with care, as there is a drag penalty.
Thermal Modeling for Temperature Aware Operations in Field Robots

Many small size field robots experience heat dissipation problems due to their compact construction, the sealing of compartments to protect against dirt and moisture, and the lack of space and/or power to support an active cooling system. Overheating may cause early failure of their components or even necessitate a shutdown of the robot mid-mission. In this paper we introduce the concept of temperature aware operations in which a robotic system uses thermal models to predict, and thus avoid, overheating events (by either warning the operator or adjusting its behavior autonomously). In this work we develop a model of a small robot’s thermal dynamics based on gray box system identification techniques. We show that this model can predict system temperatures over a 20 minute horizon with a typical accuracy of a few degrees Celsius, thus demonstrating the feasibility of temperature aware operations.© 2012 ASME
OIII‐B‐2

BACKGROUND Heart failure (HF) is characterized by neurohormonal activation of sympathetic nervous and renin-angiotensin systems. We tested whether genetic polymorphisms in these systems are associated with death or heart transplantation in patients with HF. METHODS 227 HF patients were enrolled from a tertiary care HF clinic and followed for outcomes every 6 months for up to 4 years. We genotyped 8 polymorphisms in 6 genes including: β1 adrenergic receptor (ADRB1, S49G and R389G), β2 adrenergic receptor (ADRB2, G16R and Q27E), α2c adrenergic receptor (ADRA2C, Insertion/Deletion (I/D) 322–325), angiotensinogen (AGT, M235T), angiotensin receptor type 1 (AGTR1, A1166C), and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE, I/D in intron 16). HAP software was used for haplotype assignment for ADRB1 and ADRB2. Cox proportional hazard regression was performed to model the outcomes with genotypes/haplotypes, adjusting for non-genetic predictors of HF. RESULTS During a median 2.5 year follow-up period, 78 patients had an adverse outcome. Ninety five percent and 81% of the patients received an ACE inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker and a β-blocker at baseline, respectively. Significant predictors are shown in the Table. The ADRB2 RQ haplotype was the only genotype/haplotype associated with adverse outcomes. Variable Hazard ratio 95% confidence interval P-value NYHA class 2.56 1.84–3.56 <0.0001 Creatinine clearance 0.99 0.98–0.99 0.0016 Sodium 0.91 0.86–0.97 0.0019 Male gender 2.33 1.33–4.10 0.0032 ADRB2 RQ haplotype 1.40 1.01–1.93 0.047 CONCLUSIONS In addition to other traditional predictors, ADRB2 haplotype may have a significant effect on risk for heart transplant/death in HF patients who receive contemporary HF pharmacotherapy. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2005) 79, P30–P30; doi: 10.1016/j.clpt.2005.12.111
Reversible Inhibition of Thyroidal Uptake of 131I by Dimethyl Sulfoxide

SummaryDimethyl sulfoxide, in sufficient concentration, inhibited uptake of 131I by mouse thyroids in vitro. Both active transport and organification of 131I appeared to be affected. The inhibitory effect was readily reversed by washing the thyroids in saline. In vivo, a slight, transient, depression of 131I thyroidal uptake was found.
Monitoring Results Analysis on Tableware Disinfection in Nantong from 2012 to 2014

OBJECTIVE This study aims to find out the tableware disinfection quality provided by catering services providers within Nantong urban area in the recent three years,analysis the factors that could affect the qualified rate of disinfection as well as to propose proper solutions.METHODS Detections of coliform group was carried out on the tableware provided by the service providers according to Sanitary Standard for Food Drink Tableware Disinfection(GB14934-1994).RESULTS The qualified rate of the disinfected tableware within Nantong urban area was 92.05%.The small scale service providers had relatively lower qualified rates.Seasons and the disinfection facilities could affect the qualified rate as well.CONCLUSION The general quality of tableware disinfection within Nantong urban area was good.It was important to enforce inspection and supervision in summer and autumn,especially for those small restaurant.It was also essential to provide more detailed instructions and improve the staff' s professional ethics and sanitation consciousness.With actions,the food safety could be ensured.
Sage Grouse Groceries: Forb Response to Piñon-Juniper Treatments☆

Juniper and pinon coniferous woodlands have increased 2- to 10-fold in nine ecoregions spanning the Intermountain Region of the western United States. Control of pinon-juniper woodlands by mechanical treatments and prescribed fire are commonly applied to recover sagebrush steppe rangelands. Recently, the Sage Grouse Initiative has made conifer removal a major part of its program to reestablish sagebrush habitat for sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) and other species. We analyzed data sets from previous and ongoing studies across the Great Basin characterizing cover response of perennial and annual forbs that are consumed by sage grouse to mechanical, prescribed fire, and low-disturbance fuel reduction treatments. There were 11 sites in western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis Hook.) woodlands, 3 sites in singleleaf pinon (Pinus monophylla Torr. & Frem.) and Utah juniper (Juniperus osteosperma [Torr.] Little), 2 sites in Utah juniper, and 2 sites in Utah juniper and Colorado pinon (Pinus edulis Engelm). Western juniper sites were located in mountain big sagebrush (A. tridentata ssp. vaseyana) steppe associations, and the other woodlands were located in Wyoming big sagebrush (A. tridentata ssp. wyomingensis) associations. Site potential appears to be a major determinant for increasing perennial forbs consumed by sage grouse following conifer control. The cover response of perennial forbs, whether increasing (1.5- to 6-fold) or exhibiting no change, was similar regardless of conifer treatment. Annual forbs favored by sage grouse benefitted most from prescribed fire treatments with smaller increases following mechanical and fuel reduction treatments. Though forb abundance may not consistently be enhanced, mechanical and fuel reduction conifer treatments remain good preventative measures, especially in phase 1 and 2 woodlands, which, at minimum, maintain forbs on the landscape. In addition, these two conifer control measures, in the short term, are superior to prescribed fire for maintaining the essential habitat characteristics of sagebrush steppe for sage grouse.
Optical Coherence Tomography: Clinical Applications in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a high-resolution imaging modality that uses principles of light interferometry. It has achieved clinical application in several other specialties such as ophthalmology and cardiology where its high resolution and deeper penetration into the surface permits much more detailed examination of the mucosa. In the field of gastroenterology, the technology has evolved through several iterations beginning with a focal magnifying imaging technique and evolving into currently a widefield imaging modality that can scan a relatively large area of mucosa with high resolution. OCT has been used to detect dysplasia in Barrett’s esophagus, differentiate between inflammatory bowel disease subtypes, and define pancreaticobiliary strictures, among other applications. This chapter provides an overview of the principles of OCT and its applications in gastrointestinal imaging with emphasis on recently commercially available OCT technologies.
Optimal Energy Storage Siting and Sizing: A WECC Case Study

The large-scale integration of a grid-scale energy storage and the increasing penetration of renewable resources motivate the development of techniques for determining the optimal ratings and locations of storage devices. This paper proposes a method for identifying the sites where energy storage systems should be located to perform spatio-temporal energy arbitrage most effectively and the optimal size of these systems. This method takes a centralized perspective where the objective is to minimize the sum of the expected operating cost and the investment cost of energy storage. It has been tested on a realistic 240-bus 448-line model of the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) interconnection. The influence on the results of the following parameters is analyzed: Maximum number of storage locations, maximum size of storage systems, capital cost of deploying storage, value assigned to spillage of renewable energy, marginal cost of conventional generation, and renewable generation capacity. These numerical results are used to characterize the benefits that energy storage can provide in prospective large-scale power systems with renewable generation.
Impact and importance of electrostatic potential calculations for predicting structural patterns of hydrogen and halogen bonding

The way in which differences in electrostatic potential values can govern how ditopic hydrogen/halogen-bond acceptors form supramolecular interactions in the solid state has been examined using two heterocycles, [1,2,3]triazalo-[3,5-α]quinoline and, [1,2,3]triazalo-[3,5-α]pyridine. In general, the “better” donor (as ranked by electrostatic potential values) preferentially binds to the acceptor atom that carries the higher electrostatic potential value but the outcome is crucially dependent on the magnitude of the potential-energy differences, and structural selectivity can be fine-tuned to generate specifically targeted supramolecular architectures. DFT calculations on [1,2,3]triazalo-[3,5-α]quinoline and [1,2,3]triazalo-[3,5-α]pyridine indicate that the differences in electrostatic potential between the competing sites on the molecules are 38 kJ mol−1 and 26 kJ mol−1, respectively. In order to establish how the nature of the electrostatic potential differences impact the structural landscape around these molecules both heterocycles were co-crystallized with twelve hydrogen-bond (HB) donors, five halogen-bond (XB) donors, and four mixed HB/XB donors. A total of 42 new co-crystals were obtained (as determined by IR spectroscopy), eight of which yielded crystals suitable for single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Results indicate that an electrostatic potential difference greater than 38 kJ mol−1 leads to a pronounced intermolecular preference for the best acceptor but no selectivity is obtained with a smaller difference. This study shows that electrostatic factors play important roles for defining the structural landscape around molecules capable of engaging in a numerous and competing intermolecular interactions as long as the difference between potentially competing sites is large enough.
Altered glycosyltransferases in colorectal cancer

The cellular glycome, comprised of the entire spectrum of glycan structures, is immensely complex and has gained increasing interest due to its ability to influence and regulate key cellular proces...
Museum specimen data reveal emergence of a plant disease may be linked to increases in the insect vector population.

The emergence rate of new plant diseases is increasing due to novel introductions, climate change, and changes in vector populations, posing risks to agricultural sustainability. Assessing and managing future disease risks depends on understanding the causes of contemporary and historical emergence events. Since the mid-1990s, potato growers in the western United States, Mexico, and Central America have experienced severe yield loss from Zebra Chip disease and have responded by increasing insecticide use to suppress populations of the insect vector, the potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli (Hemiptera: Triozidae). Despite the severe nature of Zebra Chip outbreaks, the causes of emergence remain unknown. We tested the hypotheses that (1) B. cockerelli occupancy has increased over the last century in California and (2) such increases are related to climate change, specifically warmer winters. We compiled a data set of 87,000 museum specimen occurrence records across the order Hemiptera collected between 1900 and 2014. We then analyzed changes in B. cockerelli distribution using a hierarchical occupancy model using changes in background species lists to correct for collecting effort. We found evidence that B. cockerelli occupancy has increased over the last century. However, these changes appear to be unrelated to climate changes, at least at the scale of our analysis. To the extent that species occupancy is related to abundance, our analysis provides the first quantitative support for the hypothesis that B. cockerelli population abundance has increased, but further work is needed to link B. cockerelli population dynamics to Zebra Chip epidemics. Finally, we demonstrate how this historical macro-ecological approach provides a general framework for comparative risk assessment of future pest and insect vector outbreaks.
Notes on the Fauna of the Chipola Formation- VII on the Occurrence of the Genus Concholepas (Gastropoda: Thaididae), With the Description of a New Species

The bizarre gastropod genus Concholepas Lamarck, 1801 (type species: Concholepas peruviana Lamarck, 1801,=Buccinum concholepas Bruguiere, 1789) today is confined to the coast of southern Peru and Chile, where it inhabits the same ecologic niche as the abalone further north, and Purpura patula (Linne) in the tropics; that is to say, it clings to surf-battered rocks by means of its extremely muscular foot.
From Consensus to Conflict: Political Polarization, the Culture War, and Gay Rights

Gooch examines the debate over political polarization in American mass political behavior. He focuses on the theoretical and empirical points of agreement and disagreement in the study of political polarization. Gooch offers a theoretically sound and empirically defensible definition of political polarization, develops an empirical measure of polarization in polling responses, and uses that measure to assess political polarization on gay rights issues in American public opinion from the 1970s through to 2016. While he shows there was a consensus on gay rights in the 1970s, he argues it has collapsed into significant opinion polarization in later decades. This polarization leads parties to adopt distinct positions on gay rights.
Nonclassical and endogenous cannabinoids: effects on the ordering of brain membranes.

The effects of several nonclassical cannabinoids and the endogenous cannabinoid ligand, anandam-ide on the lipid ordering of rat brain synaptic plasma membranes (SPM) were examined and compared to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC). SPM order was determined using fluorescence polarization. All compounds tested affected membrane ordering. Δ9-THC, CP-55,940, CP-55,244 and WIN-55212 decreased lipid ordering in SPM. Some stereospecificity was observed with Δ9-THC and WIN-55212, but not other compounds. Anandamide also decreased lipid order as did its putative precursor, arachidonic acid. In contrast to these compounds, levonantradol increased SPM lipid order. Although all pharmacologically active cannabinoids affect SPM lipid order, potency on this measure does not correlate well with their pharmacological potency. The results of this study suggest that membrane perturbation (either increases or decreases in lipid order) may be a necessary characteristic for cannabinoid pharmacological activity, but it is not a primary or sufficient determinate of action for this class of drugs.
A Multi-Objective Force Allocation Model

Modern western unified force commanders are presented with the problem of conducting a forward defense in the face of overwhelming numbers of enemy forces. The probable location of main and supporting enemy attacks and the associated force composition will generally be available to the defense commanders through the use of sophisticated reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition equipment. This paper presents a multi-objective allocation model to assist the defense commander in the tactical deployment of available maneuver units and combat support forces. The three principal goals used in the model are: maximize firepower of defense forces, minimize attrition of enemy forces on defense forces, and achieve the desired distribution of weapon system between different defense sectors. The third goal is achieved through a number of subgoals obtained from command planning guidance. The constraints are the number of different weapon types available to the defense as well as enemy forces and certain minimum required firepower of different types. The weapon effectiveness values used as coefficients in the first two objectives can be obtained from the output of a medium resolution combat simulation model. Possible application of the model is illustrated by using Goal Programming to solve an example problem with six sectors and seven weapons systems.
NF1 Mutations in Hematologic Cancers

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common autosomal dominant cancer predisposition syndrome that is caused by germ line mutations in the NF1 tumor suppressor gene. Children with NF1 are at greatly increased risk of developing myeloid malignancies, particularly an aggressive myeloproliferative neoplasm called juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML). The association between NF1 and JMML prompted the discovery of NF1 as a bona fide tumor suppressor gene in hematopoietic cells whose loss plays a key role in tumorigenesis through increased Ras output. This link also led to the discovery of JMML as fundamentally a disease of hyperactive Ras. Although anecdotal data suggest that patients with NF1 are at increased risk of developing leukemia after receiving genotoxins to treat another primary cancer, adults with NF1 are not predisposed to spontaneously develop hematologic cancers for unknown reasons. With the advent of new technologies for genome-wide analysis, NF1 is emerging as an important tumor suppressor in sporadic cancers, including acute myeloid leukemia. Studies in animal models have shown that Nf1 inactivation initiates myeloid leukemia in vivo and are suggesting new therapeutic strategies for treating JMML and other hematologic cancers. In this chapter, we address the role of NF1 mutations in hematologic cancers and emphasize recent advances in the field, therapeutic options, unanswered questions, and future directions.
Pathologist Review of the Peripheral Smear: A Mandatory Quality Assurance Activity?

Peripheral smear review (PSR) might be viewed as another undesired and burdensome consequence of today's often oppressive regulatory climate. At The New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center, specific criteria have been formulated that reflect disorders likely to be present in the patient population; thus, a productive quality assurance activity has been established and a positive learning experience has been created. In addition, interactions with clinical colleagues have been enhanced and patient care has been improved.
Peripheral visual response time and retinal luminance-area relations.

Experiments were undertaken to elucidate the stimulus luminance-retinal area relationship that underlies response time (RT) behavior. Mean RT was significantly faster to stimuli imaged beyond about 70 deg of arc from the fovea when their luminance was increased by an amount equal to the foveal stimulus luminance multiplied by the cosine of the angle between the peripheral stimuli and the line of sight. This and additional data are discussed in relation to previous psychophysical data and to possible response mechanisms.
EXPERIMENTAL MEASUREMENTS OF ENHANCED CONDENSATION ON A POROUS COATED SURFACE

This paper presents preliminary experimental results of heat transfer enhancement during filmwise condensation in a composite porous/fluid system. The composite medium consists of a fluid layer overlaying a thin, highly conductive, and permeable coating (high porosity) which is attached to a solid impermeable surface. The experiment focuses on condensation from a porous coated vertical plate which is contained in a steam environment containing noncondensibles. The experimental results document the formation of condensate, the condensation flow rate, and the heat flux (represented by the Nusselt number) of the porous coated plate system which are then compared to the results of the classical uncoated surface case. A comparison of the experimental results with a theoretical model previously published by one of the authors is also made. The results of this investigation highlight the potential that exists for enhanced condensation when a porous coating is utilized.
An Optimal Integrated Real-time Disruption Control Model for Rail Transit Systems

Rail transit systems are subject to frequent minor disruptions caused by random disturbances. Although these minor disruptions usually last no longer than 10-20 minutes, they can degrade the level of service significantly on a short headway service. This paper describes an integrated real-time disruption control model, formulated as a mixed integer program, for rail transit systems, which includes holding, expressing and short-turning strategies. Although the model is capable of dealing with multi-branch systems, the model was applied to a disruption scenario on a single line system as a first step. Two cases with 10 and 20 minute disruption duration are tested. The results showed that holding strategies combined with short-turning strategies reduced the mean passenger waiting time by 35% in the former case and 57% in the latter case, compared with not applying any control strategies. Expressing provided only modest additional benefits. Sensitivity analysis was used to investigate the impact of the deterministic disruption duration assumption. The results showed that holding and expressing solutions were fairly robust, but the effectiveness of short-turning solutions was quite sensitive to the accuracy of the disruption duration estimate. In one scenario, the passenger waiting time increased by 14% under an estimate 50% less than the actual disruption duration, compared with the result with correct estimate. Problem instances without expressing can be solved in less than 30 seconds of computation time with the branch-and-bound algorithm proposed to solve this mixed integer problem.