cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Presence/Absence of a Nasogastric Tube in the Same Person on Incidence of Aspiration

Objective. To determine what effect, if any, the presence or absence of a nasogastric (NG) tube in the same person had on the incidence of anterograde aspiration.Design. Case series with planned da...
T-stress, mixed-mode stress intensity factors, and crack initiation angles in functionally graded materials: a unified approach using the interaction integral method

For linear elastic functionally graded materials (FGMs), the fracture parameters describing the crack tip fields include not only stress intensity factors (SIFs) but also T-stress (nonsingular stress). These two fracture parameters are important for determining the crack initiation angle under mixed-mode loading conditions in brittle FGMs (e.g. ceramic/ceramic such as TiC/SiC). In this paper, the mixed-mode SIFs and T-stress are evaluated by means of the interaction integral, in the form of an equivalent domain integral, in combination with the finite element method. In order to predict the crack initiation angle in brittle FGMs, this paper makes use of a fracture criterion which incorporates the T-stress effect. This type of criterion involves the mixed-mode SIFs, the T-stress, and a physical length scale rc (representative of the fracture process zone size). Various types of material gradations are considered such as continuum models (e.g. exponentially graded material) and micromechanics models (e.g. self-consistent model). Several examples are given to show the accuracy and efficiency of the interaction integral scheme for evaluating mixed-mode SIFs, T-stress, and crack initiation angle. The techniques developed provide a basic framework for quasi-static crack propagation in FGMs. 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Advances in properties and biodegradability of co-continuous, immicisible, biodegradable, polymer blends

A series of blends consisting of polylactic acid (PLA) and aliphatic succinate polyester (Bionolle#3000) have been prepared. The results of the mechanical property investigation have shown that using more than 20 wt % Bionolle#3000 can significantly increase the toughness of the PLA, increase the elongation at break (more than 200%) and increase the impact strength (more than 70 J/m). These properties were not significantly affected by the aging behavior of PLA for more than two months. DMA results show that Bio#3000 reduces the elastic modulus of the blends between -15°C and 60°C.
Stereo based gesture recognition invariant to 3D pose and lighting

This paper describes a stereo-based approach for gesture recognition that works well under extreme lighting conditions and tolerates a large range of hand poses. The approach proposes a hybrid gesture representation that models the user's arm as a 3D line and uses images to represent the hand gestures. The algorithm finds the arm orientation and the hand location from the disparity data and uses this information to initialize a color based segmentation algorithm that cleanly separates the hand from the background. Finally, our approach uses the arm orientation to compute a frontal view of the hand through perspective unwarping producing easily recognizable hand gesture templates. The classification algorithm uses statistical moments of the binarized gesture templates to find the match. We achieve 96% recognition rates under varying lighting and 3D poses for a set of 6 gestures.
Feline lectin activity is critical for the cellular entry of feline infectious peritonitis virus

Feline infectious peritonitis is a lethal disease of felids caused by systemic infection with a feline coronavirus. Here, we report identification and analysis of the feline homologue to the human lectin DC-SIGN and show that it is a coreceptor for virulent strains of serotype 1 and serotype 2 feline coronaviruses.
Some Surviving Elements in the Work of Henry George

. While not appreciated by many professional economists during his lifetime despite his appeal to the general public, Henry George (1839-1897) was a self-taught economist whose best work is still surviving. His work is still applauded by economists in their theoretical work especially in the area of site value taxation and rentseeking. However, perhaps the most enduring tribute to the genius of Georgism is in the current application of land value taxation and gradation in several countries around the world including the United States.
Resisting the Blue Revolution: contending coalitions surrounding industrial shrimp farming.

Multinational corporations, national governments, and international development agencies are promoting the expansion of industrial shrimp farming in tropical, coastal zones of Asia, Latin America, and Africa. Support is based on the belief that shrimp farming can contribute to the world's food supply by compensating for declines in capture fisheries, generate significant foreign exchange earnings, and enhance employment opportunities and incomes in poor, coastal communities. However, the explosive growth of the industry is generating mounting criticisms over its social, economic, and environmental consequences. The escalating conflicts between critics and supporters of industrial shrimp farming have transcended local and national arenas. They have catalyzed the formation of global alliances of environmental and peasant-based nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) opposed to shrimp farming and of industry groups seeking to counter the claims and campaigns of this resistance coalition. This paper uses a polit...
Geographic variation in the long‐nosed snake, Rhinocheilus lecontei (Colubridae): beyond the subspecies debate

Scalation, colour pattern, linear and geometric morphometrics were used to quantify geographical differentiation in the long-nosed snake, Rhinocheilus lecontei, and to test the hypothesis that all four subspecies are morphologically distinct. Also investigated were potential associations between morphological (scalation, colour pattern, linear measurements) and environmental variables (climate, vegetation, soil). Sexual dimorphism was weakest for geometric and strongest for linear morphometric variables. Morphological variables differed widely in their ability to differentiate subspecies. Linear morphometric variables achieved the most statistically significant pairwise Mahalanobis distances between subspecies, while geometric morphometrics largely failed to differentiate them. Colour pattern showed the strongest and linear morphometrics the weakest correlation with environment. Several characters varied continuously along latitudinal or longitudinal gradients, such that, in some cases, the clines for closely related traits were discordant. No one subspecies was consistently divergent in all analyses, leading to the conclusion that the three mainland subspecies are not sufficiently distinct to warrant separate subspecies status. The island subspecies, though not always statistically distinct, is geographically separate from other populations and differs in characters related to size. Given the small number of specimens available, a decision regarding its taxonomic status (i.e. elevation to species level) is best deferred until additional specimens can be examined and data on molecular variation can be analysed. © 2004 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2004, 83, 65–85.
Passive Localization: Large Size Sensor Network Localization Based on Environmental Events

We develop a localization algorithm based on global environmental events observed by a sensor network. Examples of such events include the sound of thunder, the shades of moving clouds, or the vibrations in seismic data. Because our localization method does not generate signals for distance measurements, it saves energy. In fact, the algorithm may use existing sensor recordings to determine the locations of nodes at which the recordings were taken. Moreover, the method does not accumulate errors, making it also effective for large and sparse sensor networks. The localization uses time synchronization; we provide an algorithm to compensate for clock synchronization errors. Versions for both two dimensional and three dimensional localization of the algorithm are presented. Simulation results suggest that the algorithm can provide a high degree of accuracy when many events are recorded.
Climate, tectonics, and the morphology of the Andes

Large-scale topographic analyses show that hemisphere-scale climate variations are a first-order control on the morphology of the Andes. Zonal atmospheric circulation in the Southern Hemisphere creates strong latitudinal precipitation gradients that, when incorporated in a generalized index of erosion intensity, predict strong gradients in erosion rates both along and across the Andes. Cross-range asymmetry, width, hypsometry, and maximum elevation reflect gradients in both the erosion index and the relative dominance of fluvial, glacial, and tectonic processes, and show that major morphologic features correlate with climatic regimes. Latitudinal gradients in inferred crustal thickening and structural shortening correspond to variations in predicted erosion potential, indicating that, like tectonics, nonuniform erosion due to large-scale climate patterns is a first-order control on the topographic evolution of the Andes.
Energy Storage via Polyvinylidene Fluoride Dielectric on the Counterelectrode of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells.

Abstract To study the fundamental energy storage mechanism of photovoltaically self-charging cells (PSCs) without involving light-responsive semiconductor materials such as Si powder and ZnO nanowires, we fabricate a two-electrode PSC with the dual functions of photocurrent output and energy storage by introducing a PVDF film dielectric on the counterelectrode of a dye-sensitized solar cell. A layer of ultrathin Au film used as a quasi-electrode establishes a shared interface for the I − /I 3 − redox reaction and for the contact between the electrolyte and the dielectric for the energy storage, and prohibits recombination during the discharging period because of its discontinuity. PSCs with a 10-nm-thick PVDF provide a steady photocurrent output and achieve a light-to-electricity conversion efficiency ( η ) of 3.38%, and simultaneously offer energy storage with a charge density of 1.67 C g −1 . Using this quasi-electrode design, optimized energy storage structures may be used in PSCs for high energy storage density.
Matched-Illumination Waveform Design for a Multistatic Through-the-Wall Radar System

We present the matched illumination waveform design for improved target detection in through-the-wall radar imaging and sensing applications. We consider a multistatic radar system for detection of stationary targets with known impulse responses behind walls. The stationary and slowly moving nature of typical indoor targets relaxes the orthogonality requirement on the waveforms, thereby allowing sequential transmissions from each transmitter with simultaneous reception at multiple receivers. The generalization of the matched illumination waveform design concept from a monostatic to a multistatic setting casts the indoor radar sensing problem in terms of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) operations and puts in context the offering of MIMO to urban sensing and imaging of targets in enclosed structures. Numerical electromagnetic modeling is used to provide the impulse response of typical behind-the-wall stationary targets, namely tables and humans, for different target orientations and at various incident and reflection angles. Simulation results depict an improvement in the signal-to-clutter-and-noise-ratio (SCNR) at the output of the matched filter receiver for multistatic radar as compared to monostatic operation.
A small signal model for V 2 control with composite output capacitors based on describing function approach

A small signal model based on describing function method is proposed for V2 control with composite output capacitors (combination of various types of output capacitors). V2 control structure is widely used in DC/DC converters to provide fast dynamic performance. By adding ceramic capacitors in parallel with OSCON or SP output capacitors, the output impedance characteristic can be improved. However the original stable system may run into sub-harmonic oscillation with large amount of ceramic capacitance. The proposed model can indicate how much ceramic capacitance we can add and still keep sufficient stability margin. The effect coming from the parallel ceramic capacitors is also explained. The modeling result is verified using Simplis simulation and measurement result.
Pairwise ranking aggregation in a crowdsourced setting

Inferring rankings over elements of a set of objects, such as documents or images, is a key learning problem for such important applications as Web search and recommender systems. Crowdsourcing services provide an inexpensive and efficient means to acquire preferences over objects via labeling by sets of annotators. We propose a new model to predict a gold-standard ranking that hinges on combining pairwise comparisons via crowdsourcing. In contrast to traditional ranking aggregation methods, the approach learns about and folds into consideration the quality of contributions of each annotator. In addition, we minimize the cost of assessment by introducing a generalization of the traditional active learning scenario to jointly select the annotator and pair to assess while taking into account the annotator quality, the uncertainty over ordering of the pair, and the current model uncertainty. We formalize this as an active learning strategy that incorporates an exploration-exploitation tradeoff and implement it using an efficient online Bayesian updating scheme. Using simulated and real-world data, we demonstrate that the active learning strategy achieves significant reductions in labeling cost while maintaining accuracy.
Factors influencing the distributional abundance of two trophic guilds of Peruvian cricetid rodents

The distributional abundance of 13 species of southern Peruvian rodents is significantly correlated with altitude and patterns of vegetation but vegetation is a better predictor than altitude. Coincidental reversals in the altitudinal trends of both vegetation and rodents demonstrate that rodents are responding to vegetation patterns. Abundance and diversity of rodents are greatest around 4000 m elevation which coincides with the region of greatest vegetational abundance and seasonally heavy rainfall. The rodent communities consist of two separate feeding guilds, omnivores and insectivores and these guilds show distinctly different distributional patterns. Insectivorous species are strongly associated with the zone of seasonally heavy rainfall (4000 m) whereas omnivorous rodents are relatively abundant over a broader spectrum of elevations and habitats. In a previous study of these same communities, we showed a correspondence between rodent morphology and their diets. This study reveals a correspondence between distributional abundance of the various species and their diets. We conclude that the distributional abundance of southern Peruvian rodents is related to the physiological constraints imposed by altitude (climate) and the distributional abundance of food resources.
Center-surround interactions in foveal and peripheral vision

The perceived contrast of a central stimulus can be decreased (surround suppression) or increased (surround facilitation) by the presence of surround stimuli. In this report we examined center-surround interactions in foveal and peripheral vision using contrast-matching tasks. We found that: (1) surround suppression became markedly stronger as the center-surround stimulus was moved toward the periphery; (2) surround facilitation diminished in the periphery; and (3) the suppression in the periphery was less orientation- and frequency-specific than that in the fovea, so that significant suppression was induced even when the central and surround gratings had very different orientations and spatial frequencies. The different center-surround interactions in the fovea and periphery can not be accounted for by cortical magnification, suggesting that center-surround interactions in the fovea and periphery are incommensurable and play different functional roles in human image processing.
Use of Lithium as an Adjuvant to Radioiodine in the Treatment of Thyroid Cancer

Radioactive iodine (131I) is the most effective medical therapy for metastatic thyroid cancer. Eradication of persistent or recurrent cancer with radioiodine is dependent on successful uptake and adequate retention of 131I in tumor deposits. To optimize radionuclide uptake, dietary depletion of iodide and thyrotropin-secreting hormone (TSH)- induced sodium-iodide symporter activity are required. Methods to enhance the half-time of 131I in the tumor tissue are limited. Iodine clearance is prolonged by alterations of renal function that occur in the hypothyroid state or by chronic administration of diuretics. Hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide, and salt loading increase renal sodium excretion, leading to iodide depletion. Unfortunately, the reduced blood volume from the associated loss of water ultimately diminishes iodine clearance, thereby increasing radiation to tumor and whole-body proportionately (1).
Locally Adapted Textbooks Can Help Biodiversity

The conservation of biodiversity is a worldwide endeavor, requiring the engagement of many countries, inter national agencies, universities, and nongovernmental organizations. However, the study of the theory and practice of conservation biology, even as it continues to develop, is not as internationalized as it should be. Rather, publications in the field are dominated by English-speaking authors from relatively wealthy, developed countries, and there are few authors from the developing countries in which many of the world’s biodiversity hotspots are located (Amano and Sutherland 2013). Correcting this imbalance could improve global biodiversity conservation, but it requires the training and cultivation of local expertise in more
Aneurysmal vasculopathy in human-acquired immunodeficiency virus-infected adults: Imaging case series and review of the literature.

BackgroundIntracranial vasculopathy in adult patients with human-acquired immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a rare but increasingly recognized disease entity.ObjectiveWe aimed to contribute to and summarize the adult literature describing patients with HIV/AIDS who have intracranial vasculopathy.MethodsA retrospective review of adult patients with HIV/AIDS undergoing diagnostic cerebral angiography at our institution from 2007–2013 was performed. A literature review of relevant existing studies was performed.ResultsFive adult patients with HIV-related aneurysmal and occlusive vasculopathy were diagnosed and/or treated at our institution. A comprehensive review of the literature yielded data from 17 series describing 28 adult patients with HIV/AIDS and intracranial vasculopathy. Our review suggests that low CD4 count, motor weakness, and meningismus may be associated with the sequelae of intracranial vasculopathy/vasculitis in patients with HIV/AIDS.ConclusionPatient...
Status of the Fundamental Constants

In 1973 Cohen and Taylor1 published an analysis and adjustment of the fundamental physical constants which was subsequently adopted and recommended for general use by C0DATA.2 As is the usual fate of such publications, the paper was rapidly challenged by new measurements of the velocity of light, c; the Rydberg constant, R∞; the ampere realization, K; the Faraday constant, F; the proton gyromagnetic ratio, γp’; the Avogadro constant, NA; and the gas constant, Ro; as well as improved theoretical calculations of the anomalous moment of the electron and of the higher order corrections to fine structure and hyperfine structure separations in positronium, muonium and helium. The entire situation was reviewed by Taylor and Cohen at AMCO-V in 1975, where much of this new data was also reported.3
Abstract 1272: Myeloid leukemia cell lines suppress T cell activation and proliferation.

In preliminary experiments to develop the K562 human leukemia cell line as an artificial antigen presenting cell we found that K562 cells strongly inhibited T cell proliferation. To explore this phenomenon further we tested CD4+CD25- T cells from healthy donor PBMC as targets of proliferation suppression. Targets were co-cultured with 3 chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) derived cell lines (K562, BV173 and CML1 established from a CML patient in our laboratory), two monocytic leukemia derived cell lines (THP-1 and U937), the myeloid leukemia derived cell line (KG1a) and the Burkitt lymphoma cell line (Daudi). To evaluate early activation, CD154 expression was tested by flow cytometry 16h after stimulation with CD3/CD28 beads. T cell proliferation was tested by CFSE dilution in T cells stimulated for 72h. All myeloid lines blocked CD154 expression (10.9-62.8% of control at 1:8 target: suppressor ratio). In CFSE proliferation assay, K562, KG1a, CML1, THP-1 and U937 induced comparable suppression (28.4-93.9%, at 1:8 ratio). In contrast, BV173 and Daudi cells were the least suppressive (4.96-23.0%, P Citation Format: Kazushi Tanimoto, Sawa Ito, Samantha Miner, Pawel Muranski, Nancy F. Hensel, J. Joseph Melenhorst, A. John Barrett. Myeloid leukemia cell lines suppress T cell activation and proliferation. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1272. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-1272
Thermophysical Property Measurement on Chemically Reacting Systems-a Case Study.

This short paper describes several ex~ perimentai approaches for dealing with chemical reactions or decomposition which can occur when making thermo­ physical property measurements at high temperature and high pressure. The as­ sociated equipment was designed and built to allow thennophysicai property data to be cast in a more realistic per­ spective by taking explicit account of chemical changes which may occur dur­ ing an experiment. As an example of these methods, the measurements on the methanol system are discussed in detail.
The Atom as the Building Block in Crystal: The Use of Electron Charge-Density Data Base for Calculating Structural Properties of Metals

We suggest a new method of calculating structural properties of metals. The method utilizes the data base of “first-principle” charge-density distributions in pure metals accumulated in recent years. If, for a metal, the solution to the Schrodinger equation within the atomic cell is known, the electron charge-density distribution in an orbitrary point of the crystal may be “reconstructed” within the framework of a model. Using the Density-Functional Formalism and the virial theorem, the total energy of the crystal may be found in terms of an effective interatomic potential. The latter may be used for the calculating of other structural properties, such as phonon spectra and elastic moduli. The extension of this method to alloys is briefly discussed.
Seismicity of the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone Based on a Temporary Seismic Array Experiment

We operated an eleven-station network of digital instruments in the Wabash Valley region from November 1995 through June 1996 in order to investigate seismic activity in the Wabash Valley seismic zone. One station of the network was a ten-element, three-component, high-frequency, phased array The array was primarily responsible for lowering the detection threshold by approximately 1.5 magnitude units below that achieved previously, to magnitudes of 1.2 to 1.5. We observe a significant excess of events in the region from that expected by extrapolation of the historical and earlier instrumental catalogs. We show that the excess is related to a cluster of earthquakes near New Harmony, Indiana. We argue that their shallow depth, similarity of waveform characteristics, and proximity to producing oil wells and underground coal mines suggest that these small-magnitude events may be artificially induced. We find that discarding the events from this cluster leads to seismicity rates more consistent with previous data.
HUD Strategic Plan 2014-2018

This document presents the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD’s) Strategic Plan for fiscal years (FY) 2014 through 2018. HUD was created as a cabinet-level agency in 1965. Its mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality, affordable homes for all. To provide a framework for the delivery of HUD’s mission and vision, the Strategic Plan outlines a set of strategic goals, objectives, and performance measures. Simply put, this plan serves as a guide for what the Department will achieve, how we will achieve it, and how we will measure our success.Over the past 4 years, HUD has aimed to engage new local and federal partners, adjust our policies and programs to better serve the American people, address common problems across a broader metropolitan geography, and transform the way we do business. HUD has been committed to doing its part in preventing foreclosures, enhancing access to affordable housing, and revitalizing distressed communities. To build on this progress, this Strategic Plan 2014-2018 lays out priorities and goals to accelerate the gains already made.
Acute myocardial infarction: an unusual presentation of essential thrombocytosis in a 17-year-old man.

Primary thrombocytosis is extremely rare in childhood.1 Thrombotic events are a recognized complication of clonal thrombocytosis and are predicted in childhood by a prior history of thrombotic events or a platelet count greater than 1,500  109/L. In adults, the same factors predict future thrombotic events, with the addition of cardiovascular risk factors and advanced age. Acute coronary syndrome associated with thrombocytosis is very uncommon in adults under the age of 40, with rare case reports.2 We report the case of a 17-year-old male who presented with an acute ST segment–elevation myocardial infarction (MI) following a 3-year history of mild idiopathic thrombocytosis eventually attributed to essential thrombocytosis (ET).
Interrelationship between hepatic ureagenesis and gluconeogenesis in early sepsis

This study was performed to investigate the interrelationship between gluconeogenesis and ureagenesis during sepsis. In isolated perfused livers, gluconeogenesis was assessed using either lactate or a combination of lactate, glutamine, and alanine as substrate. Ureagenesis was assessed using either NH4Cl or glutamine plus alanine as substrate. NH4Cl stimulated urea production in livers from both septic and sham-operated control rats. Urea release was approximately 1.2 and 2.0 mg urea nitrogen.g-1.h-1 for 1 and 5 mM NH4Cl, respectively, and was equal for both groups. With amino acids as substrate, urea production was significantly greater in livers from septic animals compared with controls. Phenylephrine stimulated urea production in the sham-operated group by about twofold, whereas in the septic group urea release was slightly inhibited. Gluconeogenesis from lactate was inhibited by NH4Cl (1 and 5 mM) in both groups, with no difference between groups. In contrast to enhanced ureagenesis from amino acids in septic rats, gluconeogenesis was decreased by approximately 24% (P less than 0.5). Similarly, phenylephrine (1 microM) stimulated gluconeogenesis by 13 +/- 1 mumol.g-1.h-1 in sham-operated rats but only by 9 +/- 1 mumol.g-1.h-1 in septic rats (P less than 0.02). These results suggest that hepatic gluconeogenic and ureagenic pathways are intact in sepsis but that altered substrate preference and hormone sensitivity may result in decreased gluconeogenesis in the presence of elevated amino acid levels.
How boundaries shape chemical delivery in microfluidics.

In microfluidics systems, the small size of the channels ensures that the flow profiles are laminar, so solute mixing is largely governed by diffusion in the absence of active mixing. Aminian et al. revisited the classic phenomenon of Taylor diffusion to investigate the effects that the aspect ratio of the conduit has on the longtime axial distribution of solutes. They show both numerically and experimentally that the aspect ratio controls the skewness of this distribution, and thus pipe design alone is enough to control mixing profiles. Science , this issue p. [1252][1] [1]: /lookup/doi/10.1126/science.aag0532
Primary Orbital Malignancies

Malignancies of the orbit can be classified as primary, secondary, or metastatic. Primary orbital malignancies arise within the orbit. Secondary orbital malignancies are extensions of locally invasive tumors from adjacent structures, whereas metastatic tumors travel from distant sites. Evaluation of all potential orbital malignancies requires a detailed systematic workup including clinical history, examination, ancillary testing, and imaging. This information can help to narrow the differential diagnosis and direct diagnostic procedures and treatment. Specialized radiologists and ophthalmic pathologists can be invaluable in determining the correct diagnosis. Additional specialists may be needed to direct medical therapies or for collaborative surgical management.
Polymer derived silicon oxycarbide-based coatings

ABSTRACTSilicon oxycarbide (SiOC) is a promising protective coating material. However, so far there has not been any comprehensive review to systematically evaluate the characteristics and properties of this material as coatings. In this review, SiOC compositions and fillers are examined based on their fundamental functions in the coating materials. From a processing point of view, different coating formation processes, such as plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition, dip coating, and spin coating, are discussed. As an intrinsic requirement and one of the most challenging aspects for SiOC to be used as coating materials, the stability of SiOC in air conditions is analysed and the degradation mechanisms of SiOC are discussed. Lastly, for different application needs, the physical and mechanical behaviours, electrical conductivity, and optical property of the coatings are presented. This first-ever systematic review on the SiOC system as coating materials is intended to provide guidance for future SiOC co...
Public transit access and the changing spatial distribution of poverty

Abstract This article examines whether access to public transportation plays a significant role in determining the spatial distribution of poverty in a metropolitan area. Our empirical strategy relies on long-term changes in poverty and access to bus transit at the neighborhood level in the Atlanta metropolitan area. We estimate the effect of bus transit access on poverty using fixed effects models to control for time-invariant unobservable characteristics. Furthermore, we undertake several robustness checks using a combination of instrumental variable regression, subsample analysis, and propensity score matching. Our results indicate that, on average, after controlling for neighborhood characteristics, census tracts with better access to public bus transportation have a higher proportion of low-income households – in both the central city and the suburbs. Thus, policies that improve access to transit in underserved areas can plausibly expand residential opportunities for the poor and reduce spatial inequities in urban centers.
Effects of iron supplementation on growth, gut microbiota, metabolomics and cognitive development of rat pups.

© 2017 Alexeev et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. Background Iron deficiency is common during infancy and therefore iron supplementation is recommended. Recent reports suggest that iron supplementation in already iron replete infants may adversely affect growth, cognitive development, and morbidity. Methods Normal and growth restricted rat pups were given iron daily (30 or 150 μg/d) from birth to postnatal day (PD) 20, and followed to PD56. At PD20, hematology, tissue iron, and the hepatic metabolome were measured. The plasma metabolome and colonic microbial ecology were assessed at PD20 and PD56. T-maze (PD35) and passive avoidance (PD40) tests were used to evaluate cognitive development. Results Iron supplementation increased iron status in a dose-dependent manner in both groups, but no significant effect of iron on growth was observed. Passive avoidance was significantly lower only in normal rats given high iron compared with controls. In plasma and liver of normal and growth-restricted rats, excess iron increased 3-hydroxybutyrate and decreased several amino acids, urea and myo-inositol. While a profound difference in gut microbiota of normal and growth-restricted rats was observed, with iron supplementation differences in the abundance of strict anaerobes were observed. Conclusion Excess iron adversely affects cognitive development, which may be a consequence of altered metabolism and/or shifts in gut microbiota.
Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectrometry in Ultra-high Vacuum Environments

The addition of an energy dispersive x-ray spectrometer to the ultra-high vacuum (UHV) environment present in many modern electron microscopes should be done under two major constraints. First, the addition of the spectrometer should not compromise the UHV environment in the specimen chamber, and second, the vacuum environment of the electron microscope should not compromise the performance of the spectrometer. Thus, the successful addition of an EDS to a UHV vacuum system requires an understanding of UHV and of how the constituents of the vacuum can affect the performance and the sensitivity of the EDS. Materials used in the construction of the spectrometer as well as the mechanical design of the spectrometer must be compatible with UHV conditions.
Characterization of network behavior to detect changes: a cybersecurity perspective

This paper explores the process of change detection to identify shifts in network behavior that are associated with cyberattacks. Our objective is to select targeted points such as key nodes whose role on the network is vital to ensure communication across the network. While traditional intrusion detection techniques require knowledge of attack signatures, they are limited in cases of novel attacks. More so the process of anomaly detection focuses on identifying the unusual behavior in the network. However, communication patterns fluctuate especially in real world networks which are complex and thus makes it challenging to conclude what is truly abnormal. Our approach is geared towards detecting change associated to potential threats such as the onset of a cyberattack, which changes the way a network appears in terms of key graph properties. This paper highlights the importance of drilling down into the network to focus on key network points in identifying potential cyber threats that may be difficult to detect on a larger scale.
Continuous method of producing ductile titanium

The authors describe a continuous method of producing titanium, the feasibility of which has been fairly well demonstrated. Magnesium and titanium tetrachloride are used as raw materials for producing titanium or titanium-alloy ingots.
Stressed or stressed out: what is the difference?

The term “allostasis” has been coined to clarify ambiguities associated with the word “stress.” Allostasis refers to the adaptive processes that maintain homeostasis through the production of mediators such as adrenalin, cortisol and other chemical messengers. These mediators of the stress response promote adaptation in the aftermath of acute stress, but they also contribute to allostatic overload, the wear and tear on the body and brain that result from being “stressed out.” This conceptual framework has created a need to know how to improve the efficiency of the adaptive response to stressors while minimizing overactivity of the same systems, since such overactivity results in many of the common diseases of modern life. This framework has also helped to demystify the biology of stress by emphasizing the protective as well as the damaging effects of the body's attempts to cope with the challenges known as stressors.
The Central Role of Theory in Qualitative Research

The use of theory in science is an ongoing debate in the production of knowledge. Related to qualitative research methods, a variety of approaches have been set forth in the literature using the te...
Multiple GPS fault detection and isolation using a Graph-SLAM framework

Autonomous vehicles operating in GNSS challenged urban environments are prone to uncorrelated multipath effects in multiple satellite channels. In addition, the increasing number of GNSS satellites due to the addition of new constellations increases the probability of multiple satellite faults caused by broadcast anomalies. We propose a graph-based Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (Graph-SLAM) framework to perform multiple GPS Fault Detection and Isolation (FDI), in particular, satellite faults due to broadcast anomalies and received signal faults due to multipath. SLAM is a well-known technnique in robotics. It utilizes sensor measurements to estimate the landmark features in an unknown 3-Dimensional (3D) map while simultaneously localizing the robot within it. Analogous to this, we design a GraphSLAM framework, where the robot is the receiver, and the landmarks in the map are the GPS satellites. Utilizing the pseudoranges, receiver and satellite motion model, our SLAM-based FDI simultaneously estimates the position, velocity and time of both GPS receiver and satellites. Thereafter, we assess the probability of fault in each satellite by individually evaluating the corresponding test statistic against its empirical cumulative distribution calculated on-the-fly. We validate our algorithm via different experimental scenarios, namely, adding multiple simulated broadcast anomalies to the open-sky data collected using a ground vehicle; flying an aerial vehicle in an urban area prone to multipath. We demonstrate the capability of our algorithm in performing multiple FDI while accurately locating the receiver.
Outpatient visits versus telephone interviews for postoperative care: a randomized controlled trial.

Our aim was to determine whether postoperative telephone follow-up was noninferior to in-person clinic visits based on patient satisfaction. Secondary outcomes were safety and clinical outcomes. Women scheduled for pelvic surgery were recruited from a single academic institution and randomized to clinic or telephone follow-up. The clinic group returned for visits 2, 6, and 12 weeks postoperatively and the telephone group received a call from a nurse at the same time intervals. Women completed the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Surgical Care Survey (S-CAHPS) questionnaire, Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI)-20, and pain scales prior to and 3 months postoperatively. Randomized patients who completed the S-CAHPS at 3 months were included for analysis. Sample size calculations, based on a 15% noninferiority limit in the S-CAHPS global assessment surgeon rating, required 100 participants, with power = 80% and alpha = 0.025. From October 2016 to November 2017, 100 participants were consented, underwent surgery, were randomized, and included in the final analysis (clinic group n = 50, telephone group n = 50). Mean age was 58.5 ± 12.2 years. Demographic data and surgery type, dichotomized into outpatient and inpatient, did not differ between groups. The S-CAHPS global assessment surgeon rating from patients in the telephone group was noninferior to the clinic group (92 vs 88%, respectively, rated their surgeons 9 and10, with a noninferiority limit of 36.1; p = 0.006). Adverse events did not differ between groups (n = 26; 57% fclinic vs 43% telephone; p = 0.36). Patients in the telephone group did not require additional emergency room or primary care visits. Clinical outcome measures improved in both groups, with no differences (all p > 0.05). Telephone follow-up after pelvic floor surgery results in noninferior patient satisfaction, without differences in clinical outcomes or adverse events. Telephone follow-up may improve healthcare quality and decrease patient and provider burden for postoperative care. ClinicalTrials.gov , www.clinicaltrials.gov , NCT02891187.
Altered cortical structure and psychiatric symptom risk in adolescents exposed to maternal stress in utero: A retrospective investigation.

Abstract Maternal exposure to stress during pregnancy is associated with increased risk for cognitive and behavioral sequelae in offspring. Animal research demonstrates exposure to stress during gestation has effects on brain structure. In humans, however, little is known about the enduring effects of in utero exposure to maternal stress on brain morphology. We examine whether maternal report of stressful events during pregnancy is associated with brain structure and behavior in adolescents. We compare gray matter morphometry of typically-developing early adolescents (11–14 years of age, mean 12.7) at a single timepoint, based on presence/absence of retrospectively-assessed maternal report of negative major life event stress (MLES) during pregnancy: prenatal stress (PS; n = 28), comparison group (CG; n = 55). The Drug Use Screening Inventory Revised (DUSI-R) assessed adolescent risk for problematic behaviors. Exclusionary criteria included pre-term birth, low birth weight, and maternal substance use during pregnancy. Groups were equivalent for demographic (age, sex, IQ, SES, race/ethnicity), and birth measures (weight, length). Compared to CG peers, adolescents in the PS group exhibited increased gray matter density in bilateral posterior parietal cortex (PPC): bilateral intraparietal sulcus, left superior parietal lobule and inferior parietal lobule. Additionally, the PS group displayed greater risk for psychiatric symptoms and family system dysfunction, as assessed via DUSI-R subscales. These preliminary findings suggest that prenatal exposure to maternal MLES may exact enduring associations on offspring brain morphology and psychiatric risk, highlighting the importance of capturing these data in prospective longitudinal research studies (beginning at birth) to elucidate these associations.
Up-regulation of miR-let7a-5p Leads to Decreased Expression of ABCC2 in Obstructive Cholestasis.

Adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette subfamily C member 2 (ABCC2/Abcc2) is critically important to biliary excretion of many endobiotic and xenobiotic compounds, and is a major driving force for bile acid-independent bile flow. Abcc2 expression is reduced at the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels in various forms of experimental cholestasis. In a microRNA (miRNA) screen of mouse liver after biliary obstruction, we found that miRNA let7a-5p was significantly up-regulated approximately 4-fold. Similarly, ABCC2 mRNA was depleted and miRNA let7a-5p was elevated over 4-fold in livers of children with biliary atresia compared with normal livers. In silico analysis predicted that let7a-5p would target the 3' untranslated region (3' UTR) of ABCC2/Abcc2 RNA. The objective of this study was to determine whether let7a-5p contributes to the depletion of ABCC2/Abcc2 in cholestasis. To demonstrate the functional importance of miRNA let7a-5p in regulating the expression of ABCC2, co-transfection of a let7a-5p mimic and an ABCC2-3' UTR luciferase construct into Huh-7 cells led to a marked inhibition of luciferase activity by about 60%-70% compared with controls, which was reversed by a let7a-5p mimic inhibitor. Expression of this mimic led to a significant decrease in endogenous ABCC2 mRNA and protein levels in a Huh-7 liver cell line, which could be blocked by expression of a let7a-5p mimic inhibitor. Injection of a lentivirus let7a-5p inhibitor into normal mouse liver or into mouse liver after common bile duct ligation led to a significant increase in endogenous Abcc2 mRNA and protein levels and a depletion of let7a-5p mRNA levels compared with untreated, saline-injected livers or livers treated with an inactive lentivirus control. Conclusion: These studies demonstrate that miR-let7a-5p is involved in regulating ABCC2/Abcc2 expression, and is aberrantly up-regulated in obstructive cholestasis.
Correlates of poor adherence to a healthy lifestyle among a diverse group of colorectal cancer survivors.

Lifestyle factors may have a synergistic effect on health. We evaluated the correlates of poor adherence to a healthy lifestyle among a diverse sample of colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors to inform future lifestyle promotion programs. Lifestyle questions from a cross-sectional survey were completed by 283 CRC survivors (41% Hispanic, 40% rural, 33% low income). Adherence to recommendations (yes/no) for physical activity, fruit and vegetable servings/day, avoiding tobacco, and healthy weight was summed to create an overall lifestyle quality score. Polytomous logistic regression was used to evaluate correlates of good (reference group), moderate, and poor overall lifestyle quality. Potential correlates included sociodemographic characteristics, cancer-related factors, and indicators of health and well-being. CRC survivors with poor adherence were 2- to 3.4-fold significantly more likely to report multiple comorbidities, poor physical functioning, fatigue, anxiety/depressive symptoms, and poor social participation. In multivariable analyses, poor physical functioning was the only significant correlate of poor adherence to lifestyle recommendations, compared to good adherence [OR (95% CI) 3.4 (1.8–6.4)]. The majority of survivors, 71% and 78%, indicated interest in receiving information on exercise and eating a healthy diet, respectively. Future lifestyle promotion programs for CRC survivors should carefully consider indicators of physical and psychosocial health and well-being, especially poor physical functioning, in the design, recruitment, and implementation of these health programs.
Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Intake Among Pregnant and Non-pregnant Women of Reproductive Age.

Frequent sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) intake is associated with weight gain in women, and pre-pregnancy overweight and excessive gestational weight gain are linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes. SSB intake information for women of reproductive age (WRA) is limited. We described SSB intake among non-pregnant and pregnant WRA and identified correlates of daily intake. Using 2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data, we analyzed SSB intake (regular soda, fruit drinks, sweet tea, sports/energy drinks) for 11,321 non-pregnant and 392 pregnant WRA (18–49 years) in 12 states and D.C. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for daily (≥ 1 time/day) SSB intake (reference: < 1 time/day) by characteristics were estimated using multivariable logistic regression. Overall, 27.3% of non-pregnant and 21.9% of pregnant women reported consuming SSBs ≥ 1 time/day; 12.6% and 9.7%, respectively, consumed SSBs ≥ 2 times/day. Among non-pregnant women, odds of daily SSB intake were higher for women who were non-Hispanic black (aOR 2.04, 95% CI 1.55–2.69) vs. non-Hispanic white; had ≤ high school education (aOR 2.79, CI 2.26–3.44) or some college (aOR 1.85, CI 1.50–2.27) vs. college graduates; lived in nonmetropolitan counties (aOR 1.35, CI 1.11–1.63) vs. metropolitan; had no physical activity (aOR 1.72, CI 1.43–2.07) vs. some; were former (aOR 1.51, CI 1.17–1.94) or current (aOR 3.48, CI 2.82–4.28) smokers vs. nonsmokers. Among pregnant women, those not married had higher odds (aOR 2.81, CI 1.05–7.51) for daily SSB intake than married women. One in five pregnant women and one in four non-pregnant women of reproductive age consumed SSBs at least once per day. Sociodemographic and behavioral correlates of daily SSB intake were identified.