cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Global DNA hypomethylation is associated with in utero exposure to cotinine and perfluorinated alkyl compounds.

Environmental exposures in utero may alter the epigenome, thus impacting chromosomal stability and gene expression. We hypothesized that in utero exposures to maternal smoking and perfluoroalkyl compounds (PFCs) are associated with global DNA hypomethylation in umbilical cord serum. Our objective was to determine if global DNA methylation could be used as a biomarker of in utero exposures to maternal smoking and PFCs. Using an ELISA-based method, global DNA methylation was quantified in umbilical cord serum from 30 newborns with high (>10 ng/ml, mean 123.8 ng/ml), low (range 1–10 ng/ml, mean 1.6 ng/ml) and very low (<1 ng/ml, mean 0.06 ng/ml) cord serum cotinine levels. Y chromosome analysis was performed to rule out maternal DNA cross-contamination. Cord serum global DNA methylation showed an inverse dose response to serum cotinine levels (p < 0.001). Global DNA methylation levels in cord blood were the lowest among newborns with smoking mothers (mean = 15.04%; 95% CI, 8.4, 21.7) when compared to babies of mothers who were second-hand smokers (21.1%; 95% CI, 16.6, 25.5) and non-smokers (mean = 29.2%; 95% CI, 20.1, 38.1). Global DNA methylation was inversely correlated with serum PFOA (r = -0.35, p = 0.06) but not PFOS levels. Serum Y chromosome analyses did not detect maternal DNA cross-contamination. This study supports the use of global DNA methylation status as a biomarker of in utero exposure to cigarette smoke and PFCs.
Improved tolerance to salt and water stress in Drosophila melanogaster cells conferred by late embryogenesis abundant protein.

Abstract Mechanisms that govern anhydrobiosis involve the accumulation of highly hydrophilic macromolecules, such as late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins. Group 1 LEA proteins comprised of 181 (AfLEA1.1) and 197 (AfLEA1.3) amino acids were cloned from embryos of Artemia franciscana and expressed in Drosophila melanogaster cells (Kc167). Confocal microscopy revealed a construct composed of green fluorescent protein (GFP) and AfLEA1.3 accumulates in the mitochondria (AfLEA1.3-GFP), while AfLEA1.1-GFP was found in the cytoplasm. In the presence of mixed substrates, oxygen consumption was statistically identical for permeabilized Kc167 control and Kc167-AfLEA1.3 cells. Acute titrations of permeabilized cells with NaCl up to 500 mM led to successive drops in oxygen flux, which were significantly ameliorated by 18% in Kc167-AfLEA1.3 cells compared to Kc167 controls. Mitochondria were isolated from both cell types and resuspended in a sucrose-based buffer solution. The purified mitochondria from Kc167 control cells showed significantly larger reductions in respiratory capacities after one freeze–thaw cycle (−80 °C) compared to mitochondria isolated from Kc167-AfLEA1.3 cells. When cultured in the presence of a non-permeant osmolyte (50–200 mM sucrose) cells expressing AfLEA1.3 showed significantly improved viability (10–15%) during this hyperosmotic challenge as compared to Kc167 controls. Furthermore, Kc167-AfLEA1.3 cells survived desiccation by convective air drying in presence of 200 mM extracellular trehalose to lower final moisture contents than did control Kc167 cells (0.36 g H2O/g DW vs.1.02 g H2O/g DW). Thus, AfLEA1.3 exerts a protective influence on mitochondrial function and increases viability of Kc167 cells during water stress.
Obesity, independent of p53 gene dosage, promotes mammary tumor progression and upregulates the p53 regulator microRNA-504.

Nikki A. Ford, Sarah M. Dunlap, Karrie E. Wheatley, Stephen D. Hursting, Department of Nutritional Sciences University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, United States of America
A SIMPLIFIED METHOD of COLONY HYBRIDIZATION USING RADIOLABELED PROBES IN SEALED PETRI DISHES

A simplified colony hybridization procedure was developed using sealed disposable plastic petri dishes in place of sealed plastic bags. Prior to hybridization, the dishes were sealed with successive layers of parafilm, plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent evaporation of the solution. This self-contained procedure eliminates some of the technical problems such as spilling of radioactive materials, leakage of solution, sealing of plastic bags and the formation of air bubbles. Therefore, this method allows for safer and easier handling of radioactive materials during hybridization procedures.
Evaluation of image-guidance strategies in the treatment of localized prostate cancer.

Purpose To compare different image-guidance strategies in the alignment of prostate cancer patients. Using data from patients treated using daily image guidance, the remaining setup errors for several different strategies were retrospectively calculated. Methods and Materials The alignment data from 74 patients treated with helical tomotherapy were analyzed, resulting in a data set of 2,252 fractions during which a megavoltage computed tomography image was used for image guidance with intraprostatic metallic fiducials. Given the daily positional adjustments, a variety of protocols, differing in imaging frequency and method, were retrospectively studied. The residual setup errors were determined for each protocol. Results As expected, the systematic errors were effectively reduced with imaging. However, the random errors were unaffected. Even when image guidance was performed every other day with a running mean of the previous displacements, residual setup errors >5 mm occurred in 24% of all fractions. This frequency increased to about 40% if setup errors >3 mm were scored. Conclusion Setup errors increased with decreasing frequency of image guidance. However, residual errors were still significant at the 5-mm level, even with imaging was performed every other day. This suggests that localizations must be performed daily in the set up of prostate cancer patients during a course of external beam radiotherapy.
Amazing developments in nuclear astrophysics

The time since ENAM ‘01 is short by astrophysical standards, but this period has seen some exciting progress in the area of experimental nuclear astrophysics. New results have been obtained from facilities both large and small, with stable and exotic beams. In the process, we have learned a great deal about stellar structure and evolution. This talk highlights a few of many notable results obtained since ENAM ‘01 and will attempt to place them into an astrophysical context. In the process, it may be possible to see where the field is heading and what we might anticipate over the next three years.
Aerodynamics in the blown film process

Most industrial and laboratory blown film lines use an air ring with one or more lips to produce an annular air jet that cools the polymer extrudate. Experience in operating blown film lines indicates that the air flow around the bubble plays an important role in both heat transfer and momentum trasfer. The former has received some attention in the literature, but few investigations have been made on the latter. This paper deals with the aerodynamic aspect of the blown film process. An air flow field similar to that in the blown film process was produced by blowing air past a rigid model. Aerodynamic experiments were carried out to determine the velocity and pressure distributions, and the overall axial force on the rigid model. Theoretical predictions using the techniques of superposition of stream functions and macro-balances of mass and energy were compared with experimental data.
Tumor Cells Are the Dip on This Chip

In order to improve patient treatment, scientists are always searching for better, faster, and cheaper ways of doing things. Microfluidic chips are becoming increasingly popular in medicine due to their advanced capabilities and low cost. In this research highlight, we look at a paper by Peterson et al. in which they develop a microfluidic method utilizing ascites fluid from ovarian cancer patients that can very sensitively detect and characterize the tumor cells present in the fluid oftentimes drained from these patients. The technology has numerous possibilities in clinical oncology and beyond.
Impact of direct-to-consumer genomic testing at long term follow-up

Background There are few empirical data to inform the debate surrounding the use and regulation of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genome-wide disease risk tests. This study aimed to determine the long term psychological, behavioural, and clinical impacts of genomic risk testing for common disease. Methods The Scripps Genomic Health Initiative is a prospective longitudinal cohort study of adults who purchased the Navigenics Health Compass, a commercially available genomic test. Web based assessments were administered at baseline, short (3 months), and long term (1 year) follow-up. Results 2240 participants completed either or both follow-ups and a subset of 1325 completed long term follow-up. There were no significant differences from baseline in anxiety (p=0.50), fat intake (p=0.34), or exercise (p=0.39) at long term follow-up, and 96.8% of the sample had no test related distress. Longitudinal linear mixed model analyses were consistent with results of cross-sectional analyses. Screening test completion was associated with sharing genomic test results with a physician (36.0% shared; p Conclusions Over a third of DTC genomic test recipients shared their results with their own physician during an approximate 1 year follow-up period, and this sharing was associated with higher screening test completion. Genomic testing was not associated with long term psychological risks, and most participants reportedly perceived the test to be of high personal utility.
Self control of when and how much to test face–name pairs in a novel spaced retrieval paradigm: An examination of age-related differences

Although the mnemonic benefit of spaced retrieval is well established, the way in which participants naturally space their own retrieval is relatively unexplored. To examine this question, a novel experimental paradigm was developed in which young and healthy older adults were given control over the frequency and timing of retrieval practice in the context of an ongoing reading task. Results showed that both age groups naturally expanded the intervals of their retrieval practice. When instructed, younger adults but not older adults were better able to employ equal spaced retrieval during retrieval practice. However, even under equal spaced retrieval instructions, young adults included an early retrieval attempt prior to equally spacing their retrieval. Although memory performance was equivalent, secondary task performance was reduced in the experimenter-instructed condition compared with the participant-selected condition. The results overall indicate that both younger and older participants naturally monitor their memory and efficiently use testing to titrate the number and timing of retrieval attempts used during the acquisition phase.
Supply and demand in the material recovery system for cathode ray tube glass

This paper presents an analysis of the material recovery system for leaded glass from cathode ray tubes (CRTs). In particular, the global mass flow of primary and secondary CRT glass and the theoretical capacities for using secondary CRT glass to make new CRT glass are analyzed. The global mass flow analysis indicates that the amount of new glass required is decreasing, but is much greater than the amount of secondary glass collected, which is increasing. The comparison of the ratio of secondary glass collected to the amount of new glass required from the mass flow analysis indicates that the material recovery system is sustainable for the foreseeable future. However, a prediction of the time at which the market for secondary glass will collapse due to excess capacity is not possible at the moment due to several sources of uncertainty.
Dissection of Central Forehead and Temporal Pocket with Periosteal Release

Through the paracentral incisions, blunt elevator dissection in the subperiosteal plane is performed. The dissection extends laterally to the temporalis line and posterior to the vertex of the skull, permitting shifting of tissues posteriorly. Much of the subperiosteal dissection can be performed safely and quickly in a blind fashion, taking care to stay directly on the bone. Temporally, dissection should stop before the temporalis line of fusion.
Treatment guidelines for healthcare providers' interventions with domestic violence victims: experience from the USA.

In this article, the author shares her own personal experience with the health sector and the recommendations made in the United States for universal screening for violence of women in the health sector. Healthcare providers can greatly assist patients impacted by domestic violence by implementing the interventions recommended.
The effect of pH upon the solubility of phenobarbital in alcohol-aqueous solutions.

Abstract The solubility of phenobarbital in combinations of alcohol and water at various pH values has been determined and is herewith reported. It was found that acid pH values have little effect upon the solubility of phenobarbital as the alcohol concentration is increased; whereas, hydrogen ion concentrations of 10 −7 to 10 −10 do cause a marked increase. A table and figure are included for use in determining quickly the volume of alcohol required to dissolve a given weight of phenobarbital when the
The Consistencies and Vagaries of the Washington State Inventory of Evidence-Based Practice: The Definition of “Evidence-Based” in a Policy Context

As states increasingly establish the importance of evidence-based practice through policy and funding mandates, the definition of evidence-based practice can have a significant impact on investment decisions. Not meeting established criteria can mean a loss of funding for established programs and the implementation disruption of programs without a strong research base. Whether the definition of “evidence-based” is influenced by these high stakes contexts is an interesting question that can inform the larger field about the value and utility of evidence-based practice lists/inventories for disseminating knowledge. In this paper we review the development of the Washington State Inventory of Evidence-Based, Research-Based and Promising Practices as a case study for the process of defining evidence-based practice in a policy context. As part of this study we also present a comparison of other well-known evidence-based practice inventories and examine consistencies and differences in the process of identifying and developing program ratings.
Active Botnet Probing to Identify Obscure Command and Control Channels

We consider the problem of identifying obscure chat-like botnet command and control (C & C) communications, which are indistinguishable from human-human communication using traditional signature-based techniques. Existing passive-behavior-based anomaly detection techniques are limited because they either require monitoring multiple bot-infected machines that belong to the same botnet or require extended monitoring times. In this paper, we explore the potential use of active botnet probing techniques in a network middle-box as a means to augment and complement existing passive botnet C & C detection strategies, especially for small botnets with obfuscated C & C content and infrequent C & C interactions. We present an algorithmic framework that uses hypothesis testing to separate botnet C & C dialogs from human-human conversations with desired accuracy and implement a prototype system called BotProbe. Experimental results on multiple real-world IRC bots demonstrate that our proposed active methods can successfully identify obscure and obfuscated botnet communications. A real-world user study on about one hundred participants also shows that the technique has a low false positive rate on human-human conversations. We discuss the limitations of BotProbe and hope this preliminary feasibility study on the use of active techniques in botnet research can inspire new thoughts and directions within the malware research community.
Modulating Electron Density in the Bound Product, 4-Hydroxybenzoyl-CoA, by Mutations in 4-Chlorobenzoyl-CoA Dehalogenase Near the 4-Hydroxy Group†

The enzyme 4-chlorobenzoyl-CoA dehalogenase hydrolyzes 4-chlorobenzoyl-CoA (4-CBA-CoA) to 4-hydroxybenzoyl-CoA (4-HBA-CoA). Biochemical and crystallographic studies have identified a critical role for the dehalogenase residue Asp 145 in close proximity to the ligand's 4-hydroxy group in the structure of the product-enzyme complex. In the present study the effects of site selective mutations at Asp 145 on the product complex are explored by Raman spectroscopy. The spectral signatures of the WT-product complex, the large red shift in lambdamax, and the complete reorganization of the benzoyl ring modes in Raman data are absent for the D145E complex. The major spectral perturbations in the WT complex are brought about by strong electron "pull" at the benzoyl carbonyl and electron "push" by the side chain of Asp 145 near the 4-OH group. Acting in concert, these factors polarize the benzoyl's pi-electrons. Since the Raman data show that very strong electron pull occurs at the benzoyl's carbonyl in the D145E complex, it is apparent that the needed electron push near the benzoyl's 4-OH group is missing. Thus, very precise positioning of Asp 145's side chain near the benzoyl's 4-position is needed to bring about the dramatic electron reorganization seen in the WT complex, and this criterion cannot be met by the glutamate side chain with its additional CH2 group. For two other Asp145 mutants D145A and D145S that lack catalytic activity, Raman difference spectroscopic data for product complexes demonstrate the presence of a population of ionized product (i.e., 4-O-) in the active sites. The presence of the ionized phenolate form explains the observation that these complexes have highly red-shifted absorbance maxima with lambdamaxs near 400 nm. For the WT complex only the 4-OH form is seen, ionization being energetically expensive with the presence of the proximal negative charge on the Asp 145 side chain. Semiquantitative estimates of the pKa for the bound product in D145S and D145A indicate that this ionization lies in the pH 6.5-7.0 range. This is approximately 2 pH units below the pKa for the free product. The Raman spectrum of 4-dimethylaminobenzoyl-CoA undergoes major changes upon binding to dehalogenase. The bound form has two features near 1562 and 1529 cm-1 and therefore closely resembles the spectrum of product bound to wild-type enzyme, which underlines the quinonoid nature in these complexes. The use of a newly developed Raman system allowed us to obtain normal (nonresonance) Raman data for the dehalogenase complexes in the 100-300 microM range and heralds an important advance in the application of Raman spectroscopy to dilute solutions of macromolecules.
Feedback processing in fast timing simulation on a multiprocessor system

The implementation of feedback processing techniques in waveform-relaxation-based fast timing simulation on a shared-memory multiprocessor system is presented. A multilevel partitioning technique is applied to the circuit similar to a hierarchical interconnection specification. This multilevel partitioning presents unique problems in its multiprocessor implementation in order to achieve efficient use of processors, especially when simulation activity occurs at various levels in the partitioning. A number of feedback processing techniques have been implemented in a fast timing simulator, IDSIM2, to run on an ALLIANT FX/8 shared-memory computer. A comparison of these techniques when applied to typical examples is presented. >
Reproducing kernel element method. Part IV: Globally compatible Cn (n ≥ 1) triangular hierarchy

In this part of the work, a globally compatible C n ðXÞ triangular element hierarchy is constructed in the framework of reproducing kernel element method (RKEM) for arbitrary two dimensional domains. In principle, the smoothness of the globally conforming element can be made arbitrarily highðnP 1Þ. The triangle interpolation field can interpolate the derivatives of an unknown function up to arbitrary mth order, (I m ), and it can reproduce complete kth order polynomials with k P m. This is the first interpolation hierarchical structure that has ever been constructed with both minimal degrees of freedom and higher order smoothness and continuity over discretizations of a multiple dimensional domain. The performance of the newly constructed compatible element is evaluated in solving several Kirchhoff plate problems.
Malaria infection does not affect the sensitivity of peripheral receptor neurons in Anopheles stephensi

Mosquitoes transmit many important diseases including malaria, dengue and yellow fever. Disease transmission from one vertebrate host to another depends on repeated blood feedings by single mosquitoes. In order for the mosquito to acquire the blood that it needs to complete oogenesis, the insect must locate a suitable host. Olfactory cues (including carbon dioxide) released by the host and detected by the mosquito are the primary signals that vector insects use for host location. Previous studies have suggested that the physiological status - including bacterial, fungal, viral and Plasmodium infections - can modulate aspects of behavior in haematophagous insects. Standard electrophysiological techniques were used to record extracellular responses from the receptor neurons located in sensilla found on the maxillary palps of the insects. The recording microelectrode was inserted through the cuticle at the base of an individual sensillum and the extracellular electrical signals obtained from the three neurons within the sensillum were recorded. Stimulations consisted of 2 s pulses of the desired concentrations of CO2 or dosages of 1-octen-3-ol. Accordingly, we were interested in determining whether Plasmodium infection affects the sensitivity of those peripheral olfactory sensors that are involved in host-seeking in mosquitoes. Our studies indicate that infection of female Anopheles stephensi with Plasmodium berghei does not alter the response characteristics of the neurons innervating the maxillary palp sensilla that respond to the attractants carbon dioxide and 1-octen-3-ol. Although the response characteristics of the peripheral sensory neurons are not affected by infection status, we found that the age of the mosquito alone does affect the threshold of sensitivity of these neurons to carbon dioxide. The proportion of older insects (21–30 d post-emergence) that responds to 150 ppm carbon dioxide is higher than the proportion that responds among younger insects (1–10 d post-emergence). Anopheles stephensi infected with Plasmodium berghei exhibit sensitivities to stimulation with carbon dioxide and 1-octen-3-ol similar to those of uninfected mosquitoes. However, the age of the infected or uninfected mosquito does affect the threshold of sensitivity of these neurons to carbon dioxide.
A modified GaAs IMPATT structure for high-efficiency operation

A p+-n(+)-n-n+just punchthrough IMPATT structure is proposed and analyzed. This high-low junction structure differs from the Read structure in that the carrier concentration in the n-layer is high enough that the breakdown and punchthrough occur at the same time; yet it differs with the regular p+-n junction structure in that an additional n(+)-layer with prescribed carrier concentration and layer thickness is present. Tradeoffs between the efficiency and noise of this high-low junction IMPATT are presented and compared to the case of a conventional p-n junction IMPATT. It is shown that either the efficiency or noise performance can be improved, although one at the expense of the other. As an example, the maximum efficiency of a high-low junction IMPATT is improved from about 23 to 30 percent at the expense of a degradation in noise performance of 7 dB. On the other hand, the noise of an X-band diode can be improved by 6 dB with a degradation in efficiency from 23 to 12 percent. This structure should be useful for high-efficiency high-power applications where the noise specifications can be relaxed, or as local oscillators where the noise performance is important.
Smad3 Is Required for Normal Follicular Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Responsiveness in the Mouse

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is the major regulator of folliculogenesis, but other factors modulate its action, including members of the transforming growth factor (TGF) beta family. The intersection of signal transduction pathways that integrate the follicular response to FSH remains to be elucidated. Herein, we investigated the role of Smad3, a critical molecule mediating the intracellular TGFbeta family proteins, in follicle development and the expression of FSH receptors. We found that gonadotropin stimulation could not induce normal ovulation in Smad3-deficient mice. Moreover, FSH could not stimulate early follicle growth in Smad3-deficient mice in in vivo or in vitro systems. Cultured granulosa cells from Smad3-deficient animals had reduced cell division rates following FSH treatment compared with granulosa cells derived from the ovaries of wild-type (WT) mice. Whole ovaries and isolated granulosa cells from Smad3-deficient animals had lower basal expression of FSH receptor (Fshr), aromatase (Cyp19a1), and cyclin D2 (Ccnd2) mRNA compared with WT mice. Follicle-stimulating hormone treatment of granulosa cells from WT ovaries upregulated Fshr, Cyp19a1, and Ccnd2 expression. However, FSH did not increase these mRNAs in Smad3-deficient granulosa cells. When Smad3 was introduced into Smad3-deficient granulosa cells with adenovirus vectors, FSH responsiveness was restored, and FSH was able to upregulate Fshr expression. Furthermore, SMAD3 interacts with a palindromic SMAD binding element in the Fshr promoter, and TGFB can activate promoter constructs containing this element. Collectively, these observations establish an essential role for Smad3 in regulating the response of ovarian follicles to FSH.
Open Problems About Sumsets in Finite Abelian Groups: Minimum Sizes and Critical Numbers

For a positive integer h and a subset A of a given finite abelian group, we let hA, \(h \hat{\;} A\), and \(h_{\pm }A\) denote the h-fold sumset, restricted sumset, and signed sumset of A, respectively. Here we review some of what is known and not yet known about the minimum sizes of these three types of sumsets, as well as their corresponding critical numbers. In particular, we discuss several new open direct and inverse problems.
MARC to schema.org: providing better access to uiuc library holdings data

Taking advantage of the Web as a means for disseminating large datasets, libraries have begun publishing their bibliographic metadata on the Web--e.g., the University of Michigan, the University of Florida, and Harvard University. Initially, most libraries focused on releasing their catalogs as MARCXML, however, MARC consists primarily of string data with few, if any, URIs linking to ontologies or related resources. MARCXML was not designed for use with RDF. Libraries are now experimenting with disseminating catalogs as linked open data in other serializations, e.g., OCLC, and the British Library. Semantics compatible with RDF are being used, but specific schemes vary. Detail about holdings associated with bibliographic descriptions is still lacking, e.g., the volumes of a described serial title held by the library are not enumerated. This last seems a significant omission given that libraries are uniquely positioned to provide this information. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) Library has released 5.5 million bibliographic catalog records that include detailed local holdings information to allow consumers to know exactly which volumes or parts of the creative work described are available at UIUC. MARCXML serializations are available for downloading now. MODS serializations enriched with links to name and subject authorities and RDF serializations (using schema.org semantics) will soon be available. This poster reports on the development of workflows for this project, on the multiple formats of catalog metadata being made available through these workflows, and on the lessons learned to date.
Albert J. Stunkard: His Research on Obesity and Its Psychological Impact.

Albert J. (“Mickey”) Stunkard, MD, was a leader in the field of obesity research, with his work spanning more than five decades. He published several groundbreaking findings on the psychosocial influences of obesity, the genetics of obesity, and the relationship between obesity and factors such as socioeconomic status, stigma, and mood. He also helped establish two eating disorders associated with obesity—binge eating disorder and night eating syndrome. This paper highlights his work and its implications for the field.
Chronic administration of an HDAC inhibitor treats both neurological and systemic Niemann-Pick type C disease in a mouse model

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) are approved for treating rare cancers and are of interest as potential therapies for neurodegenerative disorders. We evaluated a triple combination formulation (TCF) comprising the pan-HDACi vorinostat, the caging agent 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPBCD), and polyethylene glycol (PEG) for treating a mouse model (the Npc1 nmf164 mouse) of Niemann-Pick type C (NPC) disease, a difficult-to-treat cerebellar disorder. Vorinostat alone showed activity in cultured primary cells derived from Npc1 nmf164 mice but did not improve animal survival. However, low-dose, once-weekly intraperitoneal injections of the TCF containing vorinostat increased histone acetylation in the mouse brain, preserved neurites and Purkinje cells, delayed symptoms of neurodegeneration, and extended mouse life span from 4 to almost 9 months. We demonstrate that the TCF boosted the ability of HDACi to cross the blood-brain barrier and was not toxic even when used long term. Further, the TCF enabled dose reduction, which has been a major challenge in HDACi therapy. TCF simultaneously treats neurodegenerative and systemic symptoms of Niemann-Pick type C disease in a mouse model.
A No-Fault Approach to the Duty to Settle

This paper revisits the old question whether a liability insurer's "duty to settle" should be governed by a fault standard, as it is under current law, or should instead be governed by a rule that would hold the insurer liable without proof of fault when it declines an offer to settle for an amount within policy limits. The paper, part of a symposium on the Restatement of the Law of Liability Insurance project, develops the economic argument in favor of a no-fault (or strict liability) rule, and considers some of the objections that have been raised against such a rule.
Predicting Children's Overarm Throw Ball Velocities from Their Developmental Levels in Throwing

Abstract This study examined the movement process-product relationship from a developmental perspective. The authors used multiple regression to investigate the changing relationship between qualitative movement descriptions of the overarm throw and the throwing outcome, horizontal ball velocity. Seventeen girls and 22 boys were filmed longitudinally at ages 6, 7, 8, and 13 years. Their movements were assessed using Roberton's (Roberton & Halverson, 1984) developmental sequences for action of the humerus, forearm, trunk, stepping and stride length. The sequences accounted for 69–85% (adjusted) of the total velocity variance each year. The components that best predicted ball velocity changed over time, although humerus or forearm action always accounted for considerable variance. Gender was a good predictor of ball velocity, but if the developmental descriptions were entered first in a stepwise regression, gender then explained no more than 2% additional variance.
A Profile of the Academy Of Management Member

This article presents a study that profiles the typical member of the Academy of Management, developed through a mail survey conducted in 1967. 410 questionnaires were returned of the 833 mailed. T...
Efficacy of Chlorpyrifos in Soil in ‘Florunner’ Peanut Fields to Lesser Cornstalk Borer (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

Survival of lesser cornstalk borer, Elasmopalpus lignosellus (Zeller), larvae in soil from conventionally tilled and planted ‘Florunner’ peanut, Arachis hypogaea L., fields treated with chlorpyrifos in Alabama and Florida was evaluated by testing first instars every 2 wk after application. Treatments were an untreated control and granular chlorpyrifos applied at planting, planting plus pegging, pegging, or flowering. Larval survival in soil from treated plots varied with time of application, location, and year. Application of chlorpyrifos at planting was effective in 1986 and 1987 (42 and 102 d in Alabama; 102 and 72 d in Florida). The fewer days of effectiveness in Alabama in 1986 was probably caused by accelerated chlorpyrifos degradation from hot, dry weather during the growing season. Effectiveness of the application at flowering time was at least as great as effectiveness of the application at pegging. This study indicates that application of chlorpyrifos at flowering or pegging would be more effective for lesser cornstalk borer management than an application at planting, and that these applications would provide adequate control of the lessercornstalk borer during pod-fill.
Dissemination and Discovery of Diverse Data: Do Libraries Promote Their Unique Research Data Collections?

ABSTRACTAcademic libraries acquire and steward numeric datasets as well as large collections of image files, audio archives, digital texts, and other non-numeric resources. This article considers how a sample of libraries in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom present these collections and make them available for discovery. And, importantly, the article examines whether these non-numeric collections are positioned on the library Website as research datasets, rather than as artifacts of limited local and/or historical interest. Findings from this analysis may help collection managers and Web designers as libraries define their role in connecting users to research data.
The Applications of Link Mechanism in Welding Clamp

The article introduces application cases of four-bar linkage and six-bar linkage in welding clamp,and points that the reasonable applications of link mechanism can simplify the structure of clamp and reduce the use-cost of clamp.
Pre-evaluation on occupational hazards of coal oven No.4 project in a newly-built district of Urumqi

Objective To determine occupational hazards of coal oven No.4 in a newly-built district of Urumqi,to provide necessary occupational prevention strategy and suggestion for project design and pre-evaluate occupational hazards.Methods Checklist,analogism,quantitive classification and experience were combined to evaluate the hazards.Results Occupational hazard factors of the project were dissipation of coal oven,benzene,toluene,xylene,carbon monoxide,carbon dioxide,hydrogen sulfide,sulfur dioxide,nitric oxide,nitrogen dioxide,ammonia,as well as high temperature,dust,nose,ionizing radiation and so on.Conclusions The project is of severely occupational hazards.And there are complete prevention facilities and measures in the project.After the building project is brought into production,concentration(intensity) of the occupational hazard factors at the most watch points will be under the limit of vocational contact,concentration of dissipation of coal oven at the watch points and WBGT index and uncomfortable loudness level at partial measurement points may be over the limit of vocational contact.
Radical prostatectomy for clinical stage T1-2N0M0 prostatic adenocarcinoma: long-term results.

AbstractA total of 441 stage T1-2N0M0 and 11 stage T1-2N0M0 cancer patients with an elevated acid phosphatase level only, and 18 stage T1-2N+M0 cancer patients underwent radical prostatectomy. Analysis of the 441 stage T1-2N0M0 cancer patients demonstrated that failure and survival were a function of the disease being organ-confined, specimen-confined or margin-positive, with 10-year failure rates of 12, 30 and 60%, respectively.Of the patients with positive margins 44 were and 79 were not irradiated postoperatively. Postoperative radiation produced no survival advantage. No difference in interval to failure or of survival could be identified between 105 patients whose disease was diagnosed by transurethral resection and 328 who had a palpable abnormality. Eleven patients had negative bone and node findings but they had an elevated acid phosphatase level. All 8 patients not treated with immediate androgen deprivation failed within 36 months. (J. Urol., 144: 1180–1184, 1990)
An overview of carbon dioxide sequestration

Increasing public concern about the possible effects that anthropogenic emissions of "greenhouse gases" such as CO2 may have on global climate has led to a variety of international meetings aimed at limiting these emissions. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, for example, calls for capping greenhouse gas concentrations.
From the Cover: Alterations in Optineurin Expression and Localization in Pre-clinical Parkinson’s Disease Models

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects ∼5 million people around the world. PD etiopathogenesis is poorly understood and curative or disease modifying treatments are not available. Mechanistic studies have identified numerous pathogenic pathways that overlap with many other neurodegenerative diseases. Mutations in the protein optineurin (OPTN) have recently been identified as causative factors for glaucoma and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. OPTN has multiple recognized roles in neurons, notably in mediating autophagic flux, which has been found to be disrupted in most neurodegenerative diseases. OPTN(+ )aggregates have preliminarily been identified in cytoplasmic inclusions in numerous neurodegenerative diseases, however, whether OPTN has a role in PD pathogenesis has yet to be tested. Thus, we chose to test the hypothesis that OPTN expression and localization would be modulated in pre-clinical PD models. To test our hypothesis, we characterized midbrain OPTN expression in normal rats and in a rat rotenone PD model. For the first time, we show that OPTN is enriched in dopamine neurons in the midbrain, and its expression is modulated by rotenone treatment in vivo Here, animals were sampled at time-points both prior to overt neurodegeneration and after severe behavioral deficits, where a lesion to the nigrostriatal dopamine system is present. The effect and magnitude of OPTN expression changes are dependent on duration of treatment. Furthermore, OPTN colocalizes with LC3 (autophagic vesicle marker) and alpha-synuclein positive puncta in rotenone-treated animals, potentially indicating an important role in autophagy and PD pathogenesis.
Are we at risk of becoming biological digital machines

The brain can be viewed as an organic computer that can be reprogrammed to incorporate external elements, such as artificial tools. But is there a risk that our increasing reliance on digital devices, such as smartphones, could also be reprogramming our brains and blunting our human attributes?
Super-emitters in natural gas infrastructure are caused by abnormal process conditions

Effectively mitigating methane emissions from the natural gas supply chain requires addressing the disproportionate influence of high-emitting sources. Here we use a Monte Carlo simulation to aggregate methane emissions from all components on natural gas production sites in the Barnett Shale production region (Texas). Our total emission estimates are two-thirds of those derived from independent site-based measurements. Although some high-emitting operations occur by design (condensate flashing and liquid unloadings), they occur more than an order of magnitude less frequently than required to explain the reported frequency at which high site-based emissions are observed. We conclude that the occurrence of abnormal process conditions (for example, malfunctions upstream of the point of emissions; equipment issues) cause additional emissions that explain the gap between component-based and site-based emissions. Such abnormal conditions can cause a substantial proportion of a site’s gas production to be emitted to the atmosphere and are the defining attribute of super-emitting sites. A large proportion of methane emissions from natural gas production sites are released by a fraction of high-emitting sources. Here, using Monte Carlo simulations, the authors reveal that super-emitters occur due to abnormal process conditions, explaining component and site-based inventory discrepancies.
A simple and rapid solvent extraction method for determining total lipids in fish tissue

Solvent systems that have been developed for lipid extraction include chloroform-methanol, n-hexane-isopropyl alcohol, and methylene chloride-methanol. The extraction methods are labor intensive, lack precision, or require a large volume of solvent. Correct computation of lipid content calls for full recovery of solvent after extraction, but recovery always is incomplete because of unaccounted solvent residue that remains in jar, filter paper, and homogenized tissue. A rapid and simple extraction method coupled with correct computation was developed for determining total lipids in fish tissue. The method uses chloroform-methanol and an Eberbach blending jar. Variables examined were chloroform-methanol ratio, solvent-to-sample ratio, and phase separation time. Precision was within 0.5%. Conventional computation of lipid content depends on the volume of chloroform measured after filtration. This volume does not include unaccounted solvent residue. Thus, a time-consuming second extraction is required for complete recovery. The mass balance of each extraction and filtration step confirmed that the correct volume of chloroform (measured plus unaccounted) was close to the theoretical volume. The procedure eliminates problems associated with laborious filtration and variation in chloroform volume readings and does not require an exact reading of chloroform volume. Instead it allows use of a theoretical volume, which depends on solvent volume and ratio used.
Discerning From the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is one of the most malignant inherited arrhythmias, with onset of symptoms in childhood and a 70% risk of experiencing a cardiac event before the age of 20 years if untreated.1 Presymptomatic diagnosis is challenging, because the resting ECG is normal, and a family history of adrenergic-related sudden cardiac death or syncope is only present in 30% of individuals.1 The hRyR2 gene, coding for the ryanodine receptor channel, has been linked to the autosomal dominant form of CPVT, and a mutation may be detected in ≈65% of probands.2 A rare autosomal recessive form, linked to CASQ2 homozygous mutations, has also been described.2 Additional genes have been linked to the phenotype, but their prevalence is to date limited to sporadic cases.2 See Article by Landstrom et al Initially, it was suggested that RyR2 mutations causing CPVT cluster in specific residues of the genes; however, reports of CPVT patients harboring mutations outside these clusters prompted the recommendation of screening the entire coding region of the gene.2 Overall, the gene has a negative residual variation intolerance score (a gene-based score that ranks genes from intolerant to tolerant based on whether they have more or less common functional genetic variation),3 hence suggesting that most variants are expected to be deleterious. The Heart Rhythm Society/European Heart Rhythm Association Expert Consensus2 advises the use of genetic testing in everyone with a suspect clinical diagnosis of CPVT, based on the high yield of the test and on the malignancy of the disease that could manifest with sudden cardiac …
Virus Interactions With the Cell

Virus replication requires specific interactions with host cells. The replication cycle begins with attachment of viral proteins to host cell receptors. The presence or absence of receptors is an important factor in determining if the cell is permissive for infection. The next step in the virus replication cycle is transfer of the genome into cytosol or nucleoplasm. Some viruses transport just their nucleic acid genomes into the cell while others deliver the entire virion. Once in the cell, virion proteins and genome interact with a variety of cell proteins, nucleic acids, and membranes. Productive replication requires synthesis of viral mRNAs, protein, and genomes. The details of these processes vary widely. However, to be successful a virus must be able to compete with host cell for building materials. For example, as the cell is constantly synthesizing proteins, viral mRNAs must be able to redirect ribosomes to their own mRNAs. Some viruses can shut down cellular transcription and translation to redirect those processes to the production of viral proteins. In contrast DNA viruses have developed methods to induce cell DNA replication and/or cell division to obtain materials necessary for genome synthesis. Viruses pack a lot of information into their relatively small genomes. Most do not have the complex promoters that drive cell transcription nor do they have long noncoding introns in their genes. Viruses that replicate in the nucleus often use alternative splicing to generate families of related mRNAs from a single precursor transcript. In other cases a single transcript may be used to produce multiple proteins by ribosome-mediated processes such as leaky scanning, stop codon suppression, and frame shifting. Once viral building blocks have been synthesized, new virions are assembled and must leave the cell. Again, the details of these processes can vary widely. Some of the simplest viruses can assemble in a test tube, from purified capsid proteins and genomes. More complex viruses use a variety of cell proteins and structures for assembly and release.
Short communication: Snapshot of industry milk hauling practices in the western United States

ABSTRACT The Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) mandates milk hauling sanitation and operational practices; however, the use of vague language (i.e., "as needed") and gaps in processes lead to variability in industry practices. Our aim was to characterize industry milk hauling practices and identify areas that may be an unexplained source of contamination in the dairy processing continuum, and communicate this information with industry to cultivate best practices. The objectives of this study were to (1) survey industry hauling sanitation and operation practices in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, and (2) quantify microbial populations [aerobic plate count (APC), lactic acid bacteria, coliforms] on the internal surfaces of transfer hoses (tanker and receiving bay) to determine their potential contribution to the microbiological quality of raw milk. Eleven facilities (78% response rate) participated in our survey. All facilities surveyed were compliant with the PMO; however, overall milk reception layout, sanitation practices, and routine maintenance greatly varied between facilities. Farm hose samples (n = 115) had significantly higher microbial loads (APC: mean 4.7 log cfu/100 cm 2 ; median 5.1 log cfu/cm 2 ) than receiving hose samples (n = 57; APC: mean: 2.1 log cfu/100 cm 2 ; median 1.9 log cfu/100 cm 2 ). Microbial populations on transfer hose surfaces did not correlate with time since last cleaning for either tanker or receiving bay hoses. Microbial content of farm hoses is likely to reflect the microbial quality of the previous milk transferred through the hose, making on-farm management practices the primary consideration to maintain low microbiological counts downstream. Upon arrival at the processor, 10% of farm hoses were missing caps. Although this did not correlate with elevated microbiological counts, uncapped farm hoses are exposed to the farm environment, provide opportunity for contamination, and are in violation of the PMO. Through observations made during our studies, manual cleaning procedures appear to be a major weakness in hauling practices and need more attention. Recognizing and communicating variability and areas of weakness allows industry to elevate their hauling sanitation and operational practices to maintain optimum milk microbiological quality.