cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Salivary Gland Hypertrophy Virus on the Reproductive Behavior of the Housefly, Musca domestica

Pathological studies demonstrated that the salivary gland hypertrophy virus of houseflies (MdSGHV) shuts down reproduction in infected females. The mechanism that underlay the disruption of reproduction functioned on several levels. Females infected at the previtellogenic stage did not produce eggs, reflecting a block in the gonadotropic cycle. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and Western blot analysis of hemolymph samples demonstrated that MdSGHV infection reduced the levels of both the female-specific hexamerin and egg yolk proteins. Furthermore, reverse transcriptase quantitative real-time PCR data demonstrated that infection blocked hexamerin and yolk protein gene transcription. When females were allowed to develop eggs prior to infection (postvitellogenic stage), the outcome of mating attempts depended upon when mating took place. If egg-containing, virus-infected females were mated within 24 h of infection, they copulated and deposited a single batch of fertilized eggs. However, if mating was delayed for a longer period, the egg-containing females refused to copulate with healthy males. Both of these results suggested that a virusinduced signal influenced the central nervous system, shutting down female receptivity and egg production. All experiments demonstrated that MdSGHV-infected males did not display azoospermia and were fertile. Both healthy females mated with infected males, and the resulting F1 progeny were free of salivary gland hypertrophy symptoms, which suggests that the virus is not sexually or vertically transmitted. In the early 1990s, an insect virus was detected and isolated from hypertrophied salivary glands of male and female houseflies, Musca domestica L., in Florida. The virus was described initially as a nonoccluded, enveloped, rod-shaped, doublestranded DNA virus (7). Feeding bioassays demonstrated that the virus could be transmitted per os to healthy adult houseflies and that infection with the virus was responsible for the salivary gland hypertrophy (SGH) symptoms. In these experiments, 95% of the female houseflies with symptoms of SGH showed no sign of ovarian development (7). A similar virus causing symptoms of SGH has been reported in the narcissus bulb fly, Merodon equestris (Fabricius) (3), and in various species of tsetse flies, Glossina spp. (3, 11). Comparisons of the different virus-host fly systems have demonstrated that the different viruses have several morphological and pathological properties in common (3, 7, 8, 11, 15, 16, 19). Electron microscopic observation of virus particles either in thin sections of hypertrophied salivary glands or from sucrose density gradientpurified, negatively stained preparations showed enveloped bacilliform virions. In all three fly groups, the virus replicates in the salivary gland tissue of male and female flies. Additionally, infected adults do not exhibit any external disease symptoms, and morphogenesis occurs in the nuclei, resulting in nuclear SGH.
Effects of resistance training and protein supplementation on bone turnover in young adult women.

The strength of aging bone depends on the balance between the resorption and formation phases of the remodeling process. The purpose of this study was to examine the interaction of two factors with the potential to exert opposing influences on bone turnover, resistance exercise training and high dietary protein intake. It was hypothesized that resistance training by young, healthy, untrained women with protein intakes near recommended levels (0.8 g·kg-1·d-1) would promote bone formation and/or inhibit bone resorption, and that subsequent supplementation to provide 2.4 g protein·kg-1·d-1 would reverse these effects. Bone formation was assessed with serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP) and osteocalcin (OC), and bone resorption with urinary calcium and deoxypyridinoline (DPD). Biochemical, strength, anthropometric, dietary, and physical activity data were obtained from 24 healthy, untrained, eumenorrheic women (18–29y) at baseline, after eight weeks of resistance training (3 d·wk-1, ~1 hr·d-1; 3 sets, 6–10 repetitions, 13 exercises, 75–85% maximum voluntary contraction), and after 12 weeks of resistance training and 10 days of protein/placebo supplementation. Subjects were randomized (double-blind) to either a high protein (HP) or training control (TC) group and, during the final 10 days, consumed either enough purified whey protein to bring daily protein intake to 2.4 g·kg-1·d-1, or an equivalent dose of isoenergetic, carbohydrate placebo. Strength, lean tissue mass, and DPD increased significantly in both groups over time, while percent body fat and BAP decreased (repeated measures ANOVA, p ≤ 0.05, Bonferroni correction). No significant changes were observed for serum OC or urinary calcium, and no significant group (TC, HP) × time (baseline, week 8, week 12) interactions emerged for any of the biochemical measures. (1) Twelve weeks of high-intensity resistance training did not appear to enhance bone formation or inhibit bone resorption in young adult women, as assessed by biochemical markers of bone metabolism. (2) Subsequent maintenance of a high protein intake for 10 days in these regularly-training, calcium-replete women also showed no effects on bone metabolism.
Mood state and salivary cortisol levels following overtraining in female swimmers

Mood, as measured by the Profile of Mood States questionnaire, and resting salivary cortisol levels were examined in 14 female college swimmers during progressive increases and decreases in training volume, and were compared to the same measures in eight active college women who served as controls. Training volume increased from 2,000 yards/day in September (baseline) to a peak of 12,000 yards/day in January (overtraining), followed by a reduction in training (taper) to 4,500 yards/day by February. The swimmers experienced significant (p less than 0.01) alterations in tension, depression, anger, vigor, fatigue and global mood across the training season compared to the controls. Salivary cortisol was significantly (p less than 0.01) greater in the swimmers compared to the controls during baseline and overtraining, but was not different between the groups following the taper. Salivary cortisol was significantly correlated with depressed mood during overtraining (r = .50; p less than 0.05) but not at baseline or taper. Global mood, depression, and salivary cortisol were significantly (p less than 0.05) higher during the overtraining phase in those swimmers classified as stale, compared to those swimmers who did not exhibit large performance decrements.
Racial- ethnic identity in mid-adolescence : Content and change as predictors of academic achievement

Three aspects of racial-ethnic identity (REI)—feeling connected to one's racial-ethnic group (Connectedness), being aware that others may not value the in-group (Awareness of Racism), and feeling that one's in-group is characterized by academic attainment (Embedded Achievement)—were hypothesized to promote academic achievement. Youth randomly selected from 3 low-income, urban schools (n=98 African American, n=41 Latino) reported on their REI 4 times over 2 school years. Hierarchical linear modeling shows a small increase in REI and the predicted REI–grades relationship. Youth high in both REI Connectedness and Embedded Achievement attained better grade point average (GPA) at each point in time; youth high in REI Connectedness and Awareness of Racism at the beginning of 8th grade attained better GPA through 9th grade. Effects are not moderated by race-ethnicity.
Effects of roadside transect width on waterfowl and wetland estimates

Strip transects located along roads are commonly used to estimate waterfowl populations and characterize associated wetland habitat. We used data collected in May and early June, 1995, on forty-five 40-km2 plots in North Dakota to evaluate bias of 800-m and 400-m wide roadside transects for sampling wetlands relative to a larger (40-km2) scale and to compare duck abundance at the two widths. Densities of all basins combined and of seasonal basins considered alone were biased high for both transect widths, but mean bias did not differ from zero for temporary or semipermanent basins. Biases did not occur when excavated seasonal and temporary basins (i.e., road ditches) were excluded from the sample. Mean basin density was higher for the inner (400-m) transect width than for the outer transect width (area remaining of the 800-m transect, outside of center 400-m width) for all basins combined and for seasonal and temporary basins. We detected an area-related bias in the occurrence of basins in transects: smaller basins (0.08–1.6 ha) were over-represented in transect samples by 2.9–6.5%, and larger basins (≥11 ha) were under-represented in 800-m transects by 7.3% and in 400-m transects by 16.3%. We compared the distribution of ducks relative to water conditions in the inner and outer transect widths to evaluate whether they were affected by proximity to the road. Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos L.), northern pintails (A. acuta L.), and gadwall (A. strepera L.) responded to water conditions equally in the inner and outer transect widths, but northern shovelers (A. clypeata L.) and blue-winged teal (A. discors L.) responded more strongly to wetlands on the inner than the outer transect width, indicating that estimates of these species would be higher from a 400-m wide transect than from an 800-m wide transect. Differences in an adjustment index, used to account for the portion of basin obscured from view, were highly variable between inner and outer transect widths but did not indicate that use of wider transects was hampered by visibility. Biases of transect sampling need to be carefully considered when extrapolating wetland basin or duck densities from transects to larger landscape scales.
Polygenic Influence on Educational Attainment: New Evidence From the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health

Recent studies have begun to uncover the genetic architecture of educational attainment. We build on this work using genome-wide data from siblings in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health). We measure the genetic predisposition of siblings to educational attainment using polygenic scores. We then test how polygenic scores are related to social environments and educational outcomes. In Add Health, genetic predisposition to educational attainment is patterned across the social environment. Participants with higher polygenic scores were more likely to grow up in socially advantaged families. Even so, the previously published genetic associations appear to be causal. Among pairs of siblings, the sibling with the higher polygenic score typically went on to complete more years of schooling as compared to their lower-scored co-sibling. We found subtle differences between sibling fixed-effect estimates of the genetic effect versus those based on unrelated individuals.
Residues in Milk Resulting from Ultra-low-Volume Sprays of Malathion, Methoxychlor, Coumaphos, Ronnel, or Gardona® for Control of the Horn Fly

No residues were found in samples of milk from dairy Cows treated twice daily for 21 days with I ml of a mist spray of either of 2 concentrations of malathion, coumaphos, or Gardona® (2-chloro-I-(2,4,5-trichlorophenyl)-vinyl dimethyl phosphate). The maximum residues of methoxychlor found were 0.006 ppm from applications of the low concentration (1 %) and 0.010 ppm from applications of the high concentration (2%). The maximum residues of ronnel found were 0.014 ppm for the low concentration (5%) and 0.037 for the high concentration (10%). The lower concentrations of insecticides were about the minimum required to control the horn fly, Haematobia irritans (L.), and the higher concentration was twice this minimum amount.
A cortical thickness and radiation dose mapping approach identifies early thinning of ribs after stereotactic body radiation therapy

Abstract Background and Purpose High rates of spontaneous rib fractures are associated with thoracic stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). These fractures likely originate within the cortical bone and relate to the cortical thickness (Ct.Th). We report the development and application of a novel Ct.Th and radiation dose mapping technique to assess early site-specific changes of cortical bone in ribs. Materials and methods Rib Ct.Th maps were constructed from pre-SBRT and 3month post-SBRT CT scans for 28 patients treated for peripheral lung lesions. The Ct.Th at approximately 50,000 homologous points within the entire rib cage was determined pre- and post-SBRT. Each rib was then divided into 30 homologous regions. The mean dose and thinning were determined per section. Results Regions of ribs that received ⩾10Gy exhibited significant thinning of cortical bone ( p =0.001). The mean Ct.Th percent difference (95% CI) in regions receiving 10–20Gy, 20–30Gy, 30–40Gy, and ⩾40Gy were −7% (−4%,−11%), −14% (−18%,−11%), −15% (−19%,−11%), and −18% (−22%,−15%) respectively. Regions receiving >20Gy experienced significantly more thinning than regions receiving lower doses. Conclusions Substantial early cortical bone thinning was observed post-SBRT in regions of ribs that received ⩾10Gy. The rapid thinning of ribs may predispose ribs to fracture after SBRT.
Radiation-Induced Growth Retardation and Microstructural and Metabolite Abnormalities in the Hippocampus

Cranial radiotherapy (CRT) increases survival in pediatric brain-tumor patients but can cause deleterious effects. This study evaluates the acute and long-term impact of CRT delivered during childhood/adolescence on the brain and body using a rodent model. Rats received CRT, either 4 Gy fractions × 5 d (fractionated) or a cumulative dose of 20 Gy (single dose) at 28 d of age. Animals were euthanized 1 d, 5 d, or 3.5 mo after CRT. The 3.5 mo group was imaged prior to euthanasia. At 3.5 mo, we observed significant growth retardation in irradiated animals, versus controls, and the effects of single dose on brain and body weights were more severe than fractionated. Acutely single dose significantly reduced body weight but increased brain weight, whereas fractionation significantly reduced brain but not body weights, versus controls. CRT suppressed cell proliferation in the hippocampal subgranular zone acutely. Fractional anisotropy (FA) in the fimbria was significantly lower in the single dose versus controls. Hippocampal metabolite levels were significantly altered in the single dose animals, reflecting a heightened state of inflammation that was absent in the fractionated. Our findings indicate that despite the differences in severity between the doses they both demonstrated an effect on cell proliferation and growth retardation, important factors in pediatric CRT.
Assessment of mode-II fracture tests for unidirectional fiber reinforced composite laminates

Three basic mode-II test methods (ENF, JIS, and ASTM D7905M-14) are assessed using the material system AS4/8552 carbon/epoxy unidirectional composite laminate to understand similarities and differe...
Sensitive and specific miRNA detection method using SplintR Ligase

We describe a simple, specific and sensitive microRNA (miRNA) detection method that utilizes Chlorella virus DNA ligase (SplintR(®) Ligase). This two-step method involves ligation of adjacent DNA oligonucleotides hybridized to a miRNA followed by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR). SplintR Ligase is 100X faster than either T4 DNA Ligase or T4 RNA Ligase 2 for RNA splinted DNA ligation. Only a 4-6 bp overlap between a DNA probe and miRNA was required for efficient ligation by SplintR Ligase. This property allows more flexibility in designing miRNA-specific ligation probes than methods that use reverse transcriptase for cDNA synthesis of miRNA. The qPCR SplintR ligation assay is sensitive; it can detect a few thousand molecules of miR-122. For miR-122 detection the SplintR qPCR assay, using a FAM labeled double quenched DNA probe, was at least 40× more sensitive than the TaqMan assay. The SplintR method, when coupled with NextGen sequencing, allowed multiplex detection of miRNAs from brain, kidney, testis and liver. The SplintR qPCR assay is specific; individual let-7 miRNAs that differ by one nucleotide are detected. The rapid kinetics and ability to ligate DNA probes hybridized to RNA with short complementary sequences makes SplintR Ligase a useful enzyme for miRNA detection.
ZnO nanorod arrays and direct wire bonding on GaN surfaces for rapid fabrication of antireflective, high-temperature ultraviolet sensors

Abstract Rapid, cost-effective, and simple fabrication/packaging of microscale gallium nitride (GaN) ultraviolet (UV) sensors are demonstrated using zinc oxide nanorod arrays (ZnO NRAs) as an antireflective layer and direct bonding of aluminum wires to the GaN surface. The presence of the ZnO NRAs on the GaN surface significantly reduced the reflectance to less than 1% in the UV and 4% in the visible light region. As a result, the devices fabricated with ZnO NRAs and mechanically stable aluminum bonding wires (pull strength of 3–5 gf) showed higher sensitivity (136.3% at room temperature and 148.2% increase at 250 °C) when compared with devices with bare (uncoated) GaN surfaces. In addition, the devices demonstrated reliable operation at high temperatures up to 300 °C, supporting the feasibility of simple and cost-effective UV sensors operating with higher sensitivity in high-temperature conditions, such as in combustion, downhole, and space exploration applications.
Study of Mechanisms Underlying Fetal Transplantation Tolerance: Relative Organ Distribution of B Cells and CD45 Isoform Expression Patterns.

Abstract Transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells into fetal sheep early in gestation (day (d) 55) (term gestation = 145d) results in long-term multi-lineage hemopoietic chimerism. We have proposed that the fetus is immunologically receptive at this time. However, our understanding of the mechanisms underlying this establishment of fetal tolerance remains poorly defined. We hypothesized that examination of developmental events in fetal immune ontogeny might provide insights into mechanisms underlying fetal tolerance formation. To this end we have previously reported the early appearance of cells phenotypically consistent with T regulatory cells (CD4+/CD25+) and multilineage expression of the CD45 isoform CD45R early in gestation (d40–65). Here, we extend our observations on B lineage cell distribution and relative CD45 isoform expression during gestation. The two commercially-available ovine CD45 antibodies are CD45 (immunoprecipitates proteins of MW 225, 210, and 190 kD, (Immunology. 1985; 55:347–353)) and CD45R (immunoprecipitates a single protein of MW 220 kD (Cell. Immunol. 1987; 110:46–55)). Using dual-color flow cytometry, cells from fetal thymus, intestine, lung, spleen, bone/bone marrow, and peripheral blood (PB) were analyzed for expression of surface IgM, CD45 and CD45R from d39 to two days after birth. Surface IgM+ cells in the thymus were observed to be as high as 28% at d39 of gestation (uniformly CD45R+/CD45−). This rapidly dissipated to less than 1% after d65 of gestation, although IgM+ cells were observed as late as two days after birth. All IgM+ cells expressed CD45R in all organs tested but relative CD45 expression varied by gestational age and organ. Subsequent sampling noted rapid onset of CD45 coexpression on >70% of detectable thymic surface IgM+ cells throughout gestation. Similarly, splenic IgM+ cells co-expressed high levels of CD45 while PB IgM+ cells had delayed CD45 expression (beyond d65). Bone/bone marrow showed variable coexpression of CD45 throughout gestation. By contrast, surface IgM+ cells in lung and intestine maintained CD45R expression without coexpression of CD45 prior to birth. We have previously reported humoral tolerance to retroviral vector transgene products transplanted at d55–60 (Blood. 2001; 97:3417–3423). Further understanding of CD45 isoform expression patterns and relative organ distribution of surface IgM+ cell populations during the time of immune receptivity in the sheep may provide insight into fetal transplantation tolerance.
Design, Synthesis and Characterization of Conformational Peptides at the Interface of HER-2 Dimerization and Pertuzumab Binding

Introduction HER-2 is a 185-kDa member of the EGFR family that is expressed in many epithelial tumors. HER-2 positivity is associated with an aggressive disease course and high risk of relapse and death. HER-2 positive tumor cells are potentially good targets for tumor-reactive CTLs. In addition monoclonal antibodies (mAb) against HER-2 protein can inhibit growth of cancer cells that overexpress this receptor on the cell surface. There are several drawbacks associated with passive mAb treatment (insufficient tissue distribution, generation of anti-idiotypic antibodies, and levels necessitating multiple infusions and hence the associated cost [1]). An active specific immunotherapy presents the advantage of generating a long-lasting immune response. We have previously shown the antitumor properties of B-cell epitopes derived from the HER-2 extracellular domain (ECD) [2] using an active immunotherapy approach. Pertuzumab (recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody 2C4; Omnitarg; Genentech Inc) has been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth [3] and is currently being evaluated in Phase II clinical trials. The crystal structure of HER-2 bound to pertuzumab reveals that the mAb sterically blocks the region necessary for HER-2 dimerization with other members of the EGFR family [4]. We have designed epitopes from this region that makes contact with pertuzumab (MVF HER-2 298-333 and 315-333). In an attempt to elicit conformationally dependent anti-peptide antibodies we have reconstructed this epitope (298-333) by incorporating the native disulfide bonds.
Synchronization: The Computational Currency of Cognition

Spatiotemporal codes, such as synchronization of neuronal activity, offer significant computational advantages over traditional rate codes, and our recent simulation studies suggest a role for synchronization in a broad range of cognitive processes, from contour detection to associative memory. We suggest that synchronization mediates Gestalt-based perceptual organization in striate cortex, and that the degree of synchronization represents the perceptual salience of an object. Spatiotemporal coding provides an efficient representation for recognition, and we propose a medial point hypercolumn representation of object shape. Finally, we consider the effects of neuromodulation on synchronization and temporal dynamics in the hippocampal memory system. Together, these processes suggest that the control and coordination of synchronization may be a basic component of many cognitive processes.
From Bacteria to Fish: Ecological Consequences of Seasonal Hypoxia in a Great Lakes Estuary

The occurrence of bottom-water hypoxia is increasing in bodies of water around the world. Hypoxia is of concern due to the way it negatively impacts lakes and estuaries at the whole ecosystem level. During 2015, we examined the influence of hypoxia on the Muskegon Lake ecosystem by collecting surface- and bottom-water nutrient samples, bacterial abundance counts, benthic fish community information, and performing profiles of chlorophyll and phycocyanin as proxies for phytoplankton and cyanobacterial growth, respectively. Several significant changes occurred in the bottom waters of the Muskegon Lake ecosystem as a result of hypoxia. Lake-wide concentrations of soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) and total phosphorus increased with decreasing dissolved oxygen (DO). Bacterial abundance was significantly lower when DO was less than 2.2 mg L−1. Whereas there were no drastic changes in surface chlorophyll a concentration through the season, phycocyanin increased threefold during and following a series of major wind-mixing events. Phycocyanin remained elevated for over 1.5 months despite several strong wind events, suggesting that high SRP concentrations in the bottom waters may have mixed into the surface waters, sustaining the bloom. The fish assemblage in the hypolimnion also changed in association with hypoxia. Overall fish abundance, number of species, and maximum length all decreased in catch as a function of bottom DO concentrations. The link between hypoxia and wind events appears to serve as a positive feedback loop by continuing internal loading and cyanobacterial blooms in the lake, while simultaneously eroding habitat quality for benthic fish.
Is the labor wedge due to rigid wages? Evidence from the self-employed

Abstract A central goal of labor economics is explaining cyclical variation in hours worked. Procyclical hours can always be explained in a market clearing model with a residual tax wedge, the “labor wedge.” Convincing progress has been made in reducing the cyclical volatility in the labor wedge and therefore explaining movements in hours worked by amplifying technology shocks with endogenously rigid wages [Hall, R. E., 2005. Employment Fluctuations with Equilibrium Wage Stickiness. American Economic Review 95 (1), 50–65.],[Shimer, R., 2010. Labor Markets and Business Cycles. Number 9217 in Economics Books, Princeton University Press.], and rigid wages in general. This paper demonstrates that the cyclical component of labor hours for the self-employed, who are not vulnerable to such frictions, is of comparable cyclicality and volatility as the cyclical component of labor hours for wage and salary workers, even conditioning on wages, consumption, and occupation-industry composition. This finding suggests that explaining the labor hours of the self-employed presents a new test for amplification mechanisms.
Preoperative Anemia Is Associated With Failure of Open Debridement Polyethylene Exchange in Acute and Acute Hematogenous Prosthetic Joint Infection

Abstract Background Acute and acute hematogenous prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are often treated with open debridement and polyethylene exchange (ODPE) in an effort to save the prosthesis, decrease morbidity, and reduce costs. However, failure of ODPE may compromise a subsequent 2-stage treatment. The purpose of this study is to identify patient factors that impact the success of ODPE for acute and acute hematogenous PJIs. Methods A retrospective review examined comorbidities, preoperative laboratory values, and patient history for patients with successful and failed ODPE treatment for acute perioperative or acute hematogenous periprosthetic hip or knee joint infections. Successful treatment was defined as retaining a well-fixed implant without the need for additional surgery for a minimum of 6-month follow-up with or without lifelong oral maintenance antibiotics. Results Fifty-three of 72 patients (73.6%) underwent successful ODPE. Of the 19 failures, 14 completed 2-stage revision with one subsequent known failure for recurrent infection. Patients with a Staphylococcus aureus infection were more likely to fail ODPE (48.3% vs 11.6%, P = .0012, odds ratio 7.1, 95% confidence interval 2.3-25.3). Patients with a preoperative hematocrit ≤32.1 were also more likely to fail ODPE (55% vs 16%, P = .0013, odds ratio 6.7, 95% confidence interval 2.2-22.4). When neither risk factor was present, 97.1% of PJIs were successfully treated with ODPE. Conclusion S aureus infection and preoperative hematocrit ≤32.1 are independent risk factors for ODPE failure. ODPE is a safe alternative to 2-stage revision in patients without preoperative anemia and without S aureus infection. Two-thirds of patients with a failed ODPE were successfully treated with a 2-stage reimplantation.
Competitive responses and effects of the invasive grass Microstegium vimineum during oak woodland restoration.

The relevance of diversity—invasibility studies to the conservation of biodiversity has been questioned on grounds that species-rich assemblages may not deter invasion by competitively superior invaders. Few studies have compared the competitive effects of invaders on native species individually vs. in mixture. Using field experiments, we measured competition between an invasive grass, Microstegium vimineum, and six species of large native groundcover plants. We first examined whether planting six native species was more effective than planting an equivalent number of a single species in competitively suppressing Microstegium. Using a split-plot design, naturally occurring patches of Microstegium were treated with one of the two planting treatments or a control. We monitored Microstegium emergence and percent cover through 2015 and into the spring of 2016. We then tested the competitive effect of Microstegium on plantings of native species within Microstegium patches using a removal experiment in 2016. Although initial transplant survival was high in spring 2015, subsequent mortality during the growing season was also high in both planting treatments and, thus, there was no evidence of competitive suppression of Microstegium. In contrast, removal of Microstegium benefited the growth (and flowering) of native transplants in 2016, and all native species were more or less equally affected. These results suggest that neither high native diversity nor the presence of certain native species is likely to be effective in constraining the abundance of invaders demonstrated to have strong competitive effects on most or all native species under conditions that favor both native diversity and the invader.
Abstract 20840: Feasibility of a Visualization Radio Frequency Balloon Catheter for Epicardial Ablation

Introduction: Epicardial ablation has been shown to improve VT outcomes, but is generally used after a failed attempt of endocardial ablation. The potential of injuring epicardial coronary arteries...
Dispatching Mobile Robots in Flexible Manufacturing Systems: The Issues and Problems

The problem of dispatching automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) in flexible manufacturing systems (FMSs) has, so far, not been addressed in depth. This research is an attempt to explore and present the complexities of issues involved in dispatching these vehicles, the techniques for modeling them and their behavior, and some heuristic solutions for some of the associated problems.
Nondestructive analysis techniques for freeze-thaw damage detection in concrete slabs using shear waves

Abstract Freeze-thaw damage in concrete structures is a serious issue for infrastructure in cold regions. Accurate detection of this type of damage at early stages allows for the selection of optimum strategies for preservation and rehabilitation activities. This paper explores the feasibility of utilizing ultrasonic shear wave technology, called MIRA, for quantification of damage in concrete slabs for the detection of freeze-thaw damage. Four slabs with varying levels of freeze-thaw damage were tested and two analysis techniques were developed to characterize the damage present. These methods involve the formulation of reconstruction images to analyze the subsurface condition, as well as the creation of a numerical index based upon recorded shear wave signal characteristics. The results of both analyses showed agreement both with each other and with the visual survey assessments for detection of freeze-thaw damage. However, the methods were also able to detect damage in portions of the slab where no visual cracks were observed. These techniques showed promise for an accurate nondestructive quantification of the extent of freeze-thaw damage, or similar damage manifestations, in concrete structures. Advantages of the methods include their applicability on in-situ concrete infrastructure for determining real-time concrete condition, without requiring previous measurements for comparative purposes.
Japan-China Relations and the Changing East Asian Regional Order

Cooperation between Japan and China as the two largest economies in East Asia is essential for any stable and predictable East Asian international order. But the two countries now experience heightened security tension over territorial disputes. They also have competing nationalist narratives about history. Japan is concerned about China gaining more ground and will do its utmost to thwart that. Japan and China are adequate spoilers for each other’s regional leadership ambition. Thus, the Japan-China conflict means an absence of a peaceful and coherent East Asian regional order however we define the term. With uncertainties abound partly due to the unpredictable Trump administration, one cannot rule out a scenario of cautious bilateral improvement of Japan-China relations but that is unlikely to extend to regional cooperation.
A simple and portable multi-channel pyrometer allowing temperature measurements down to 800 K on the microsecond scale

The measurement of transient temperatures less than 1000 K for samples in laser-heated diamond anvil cells remains a challenge. Here we present the design and performance characteristics of a multi-channel pyrometer that works in the near-infrared from 1200 to 2000 nm. It has a relatively small footprint, is portable, requires only low voltage power supplies, and can report temperatures down to 800 K on the millisecond scale or faster. A single data point without averaging can be acquired in 14 µs (sampling rate of 7 kilosamples per second). In conjunction with a diamond anvil cell, the system delivers accurate and rapid measurements down to ∼830 K. The pyrometer has been successfully interfaced several times with the combined x-ray diffraction and laser heating system at the High Pressure Collaborative Access Team at the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratories.
Remittances and financial access: Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa

This paper empirically investigates the effects of remittances on access to financial services in 26 Sub-Saharan African countries over the period 2004–2015. We find that remittances have a signifi...
Single-Case Time Series With Bayesian Analysis: A Practitioner's Guide

This article illustrates a simplified time series analysis for use by the counseling researcher—practitioner in single-case baseline plus intervention studies with a Bayesian probability analysis t...
Determining If a Somatic Tumor Mutation Is Targetable and Options for Accessing Targeted Therapies.

Targeted cancer therapies are drugs and biologics designed to affect cancer cell growth by blocking or interfering with specific molecular pathways in the cancer cell. Use of targeted agents usuall...
Linear isolators using wavelength conversion

Optical isolators, reliably integrated on-chip, are crucial components for a wide range of optical systems and applications. We introduce a new class of wideband nonmagnetic and linear optical isolators based on nonlinear frequency conversion and spectral filtering among the pump, signal, and idler wavelengths. The scheme is experimentally demonstrated using difference-frequency generation in periodically poled thin-film lithium niobate integrated devices and short- and long-pass optical filters. We demonstrate a wide bandwidth of more than 150 nm, limited only by the measurement setup, and an optical isolation ratio of up to 18 dB for the involved idler and signal waves. The difference of transmittance at the signal wavelength between forward and backward propagation is 40 dB. We also discuss pathways for substantial isolation improvement using appropriate anti-reflection coatings. The integrable isolator, operating in the telecommunication band, is characterized by a perfectly linear output versus input power dependence and can be incorporated into high-speed telecom and datacom systems as well as a variety of other applications.
Incorporation of proteins into complex coacervates.

Abstract Complex coacervates have found a renewed interest in the past few decades in various fields such as food and personal care products, membraneless cellular compartments, the origin of life, and, most notably, as a mode of transport and stabilization of drugs. Here, we describe general methods for characterizing the phase behavior of complex coacervates and quantifying the incorporation of proteins into these phase separated materials.
Racial disparities in mortality for patients with prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy.

Background Although racial disparities in prostate cancer survival are well documented, the relative importance of contributing factors remains unclear. Few studies have examined the disparity between Whites and Hispanics or between Whites and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). Methods Using data from the National Cancer Database for 526,690 patients with prostate cancer who underwent radical prostatectomy between 2004 and 2014, this study systematically evaluated the impact of clinical characteristics and factors related to access to care on survival by race. Included in the analysis were 432,640 White patients (82.1%), 63,602 Black patients (12.1%), 8990 AAPI patients (1.7%), and 21,458 Hispanic patients (4.1%). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals to measure racial survival disparities. Inverse probability weighting was used to adjust for imbalances of prognostic factors. Results When adjustments were made for age and year of diagnosis only, Blacks had 51% higher mortality, AAPIs had 22% lower mortality, and Hispanics had 6% lower mortality than Whites. Overall, with adjustments for all clinical factors and nonclinical factors, the Black-White survival disparity narrowed to 20%, whereas the AAPI-White disparity increased to 35%. Among the controlled-for factors, education, median household income, and insurance status contributed the most to the racial disparity. Conclusions The overall survival disparity among men undergoing radical prostatectomy was significantly decreased, but not eliminated, for Blacks and significantly increased for AAPIs in comparison with Whites after adjustments for a number of clinical factors and factors related to access to care.
Situational assessment of adult vaccine preventable disease and the potential for immunization advocacy and policy in low- and middle-income countries

Abstract By 2050, the number of adults over 65 years of age will be double the under-5 population, and heavily concentrated in low- and middle-income countries. Population growth and increasing life expectancies call for effective healthy aging strategies inclusive of immunization to reduce the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases, improve quality of life, and mitigate antimicrobial resistance. Based on a review of available literature on the pneumococcal disease, influenza, and herpes zoster epidemiology and economic burden, and the health systems and policy barriers for adult immunization, we identified evidence gaps and considerations for prioritizing adult immunization. The body of evidence for adult immunization and the health and economic burden of adult disease is heavily concentrated in high-income countries. The few countries reporting adult immunization policies generally focus on high-risk groups. Despite robust child immunization programs in most countries, adult immunization programs and policies lag far behind and there is a general lack of appropriate delivery platforms. Global adult disease burden and economic costs are substantial but evidence from low- and middle-income countries is limited. There is a need for a strengthened evidence base and political commitment to drive a comprehensive, global technical consensus on adult immunization.
Sleep and alcohol use among young adult drinkers with Insomnia: A daily process model.

Abstract Background Previous studies examining associations between sleep and alcohol use have done so primarily at the aggregate (between-person) level and primarily among healthy young adults. This study aimed to examine reciprocal, within-person associations between sleep and alcohol use among young adult drinkers with insomnia. Methods Young adults who engaged in past-month binge drinking and met diagnostic criteria for insomnia (N = 56) wore wrist actigraphy and completed online daily diaries assessing sleep and drinking for an average of 8.52 days (SD = 2.31), resulting in 477 reports. Multilevel models were used to examine within- and between-person effects of sleep quality and efficiency on alcohol use and vice versa. Bedtime and waketime were included as secondary sleep parameters. Results Participants reported drinking on 231 days (48%). Participants did not report significantly different sleep quality on heavier-drinking days, nor did they demonstrate significant changes in actigraphy-measured sleep efficiency. However, they self-reported better sleep efficiency on heavier-drinking days (driven primarily by improvements in sleep onset latency), and they reported heavier drinking following days of better sleep efficiency (driven by improvements in total sleep time). Drinking was also associated with later bedtimes and waketimes. Conclusions Young adult drinkers with insomnia report reciprocal associations between subjective sleep efficiency and alcohol use, but these results were not replicated using objective measures. Providers may need to challenge the belief that there is a positive association between alcohol use and sleep among young adults who drink and have insomnia.
The Revolutionary Potential of the Hidden Half of Nature in Agriculture and Medicine

Recent advances in microbial community ecology have reframed our view of the microbial world. In particular, advances in understanding the importance of horizontal gene transfer and symbiotic relationships with host organisms carry practical relevance for agriculture and medicine. In both areas, growing recognition of the potential to cultivate beneficial microbial communities presents opportunities to revolutionize conventional practices. Regenerative farming systems based on soil-health building principles can greatly reduce major impacts of agriculture’s environmental footprint. And dietary practices that promote nutrient-dense foods and cultivate beneficial gut microbiomes can help address the distinctly modern chronic diseases that increasingly afflict humanity. Acknowledging the duality of the microbial world and adopting practices to promote development of beneficial communities and limit opportunities for pathogens could transform these two areas that remain central to human health.
Experiential Education in Corrections

Experiential education in the corrections component of the justice system should be considered in terms of institutional and community corrections. In the past, institutional correctional facilities such as jails, prisons, and other secure facilities were under the jurisdiction of a local, state, or federal agency, and policies and operations were closed to outsiders. Community corrections originated with volunteers, specifically with probation, and although community corrections usually come under a government agency, other programs, including community halfway houses and specialized programs for the treatment of drug alcohol and sex offenders, are under private administration.
A Field-Deployable Diagnostic Assay for the Visual Detection of Misfolded Prions

Diagnostic tools for the detection of protein-misfolding diseases (i.e., proteopathies) are limited. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) facilitate sensitive diagnostic techniques via visual color change for the detection of a variety of targets. In parallel, recently developed quaking-induced conversion (QuIC) assays leverage protein-amplification and fluorescent signaling for the accurate detection of misfolded proteins. Here, we combine AuNP and QuIC technologies for the visual detection of amplified misfolded prion proteins from tissues of wild white-tailed deer infected with chronic wasting disease (CWD), a prion disease of cervids. Our newly developed assay, MN-QuIC, enables both naked-eye and light-absorbance measurements for detection of misfolded prions. MN-QuIC leverages basic laboratory equipment that is cost-effective and portable, thus facilitating real-time prion diagnostics across a variety of settings. To test the portability of our assay, we deployed to a rural field-station in southeastern Minnesota and tested for CWD on site. We successfully demonstrated that MN-QuIC is functional in a non-traditional laboratory setting by performing a blinded analysis in the field and correctly identifying all CWD positive and CWD not detected deer at the field site in less than 24 hours, thus documenting the portability of the assay. Additionally, we show that electrostatic forces help govern the AuNP/prion interactions. Importantly, all of our white-tailed deer (n=37) were independently tested using ELISA, IHC, and/or RT-QuIC technologies and results secured with MN-QuIC were 100% consistent with these tests. We conclude that hybrid AuNP and QuIC assays, such as MN-QuIC, have great potential for sensitive, field-deployable diagnostics of a variety of protein misfolding diseases. Statement of SignificancePortable diagnostic tools for the detection of prion and protein-misfolding diseases are limited. Using chronic wasting disease (CWD) as a model, we demonstrate the functionality of a gold nanoparticle (AuNP)-based assay for the field-based detection of prion diseases. CWD is spreading through cervid populations across North America and the disease poses significant threats to a number of economic sectors, with global implications. Our newly developed diagnostic assay leverages the visible color change of AuNPs to detect the presence of CWD-causing prions. The assay can be performed using lowcost equipment and reagents, thus having great potential to expand prion disease surveillance efforts and prevent infectious prions from entering the human food chain.
Neurological proficiencies for psychiatrists : a pilot survey.

Faculty at the University of California at Los Angeles were surveyed regarding appropriate proficiencies for general and subspecialty trained psychiatrists with respect to a number of neurological problems. Survey responses were obtained from 40 psychiatrists and 7 neurologists, representing 69% and 70%, respectively, of those surveyed in each group. Five levels of proficiency were defined, ranging from making a screening diagnosis to instituting definitive treatment and having laboratory expertise. Psychiatrists’ expectations ranged from screening to monitoring proficiencies for a wide range of higher cortical func tion neurological disorders. Higher expected proficiencies were noted for schizophreniform symptoms of epilepsy, acute extrapyramidal reactions, tardive dyskinesias, dementias, and depressive syndromes associated with brain damage.
Death and Its Criteria

In Human Evolution, Reproduction, and Morality and in the last two chapters, the focus was on issues relating to the beginning of life; questions were explored about when life begins, when a human organism should be considered a person, when a person assumes the duties and responsibilities of a moral agent, and what manipulations of genetic potential are permissible. Issues were examined and policies were recommended regarding contraception, abortion, infanticide, genetics and manipulation, and the use of reproductive technologies. These issues were discussed within the perspectives of evolutionary theory, cognitive principles, and a rational liberalism seasoned with some utilitarian spices.