cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Density-functional description of electrides

Electrides are a unique class of ionic solids in which the anions are stoichiometrically replaced by electrons localised within the crystal voids. There are only nine electrides with known crystal structures and their study represents a challenge for theory. A systematic investigation of their electronic structure is conducted using semilocal density-functional theory (DFT) in this article. The band structure is calculated for each electride and a range of techniques including plots of the valence densities, procrystal densities, non-covalent interaction isosurfaces, and Bader's quantum-chemical topology are applied. All of these methods provide consistent results, confirming the presence of localised interstitial electrons and demonstrating that these crystals display a characteristic electronic structure.
Credibility and Persistency

Policyholders often decide to buy, renew, or cancel insurance based on the premium charged by the insurer compared with what they expect their claims will be. When policyholders buy insurance at a premium lower than they anticipate their clairns will be, actuaries and underwriters call this occurrence selecting against the insurer. We assume that the persistency of policyholders depends on the difference between the premium charged and their anticipated claims. We extend the work of Taylor (1975) in which he obtains linear credibility lbrmulas by minimizing loss functions that incorporate the persistency of policyholders. We consider Taylor's loss functions and other objective functions, namely, those that also account for the amount of business that the insurer writes of renews. Taylor, G. C. (1975), Credibility under conditions of imperfect persistency, Credibility: Theory and Applications, edited by P. M. Kahn, Academic Press, New York, New York: 391-400.
Nonrigid object motion and deformation estimation from three‐dimensional data

This article presents a model-based approach for nonrigid object motion and deformation analysis from 3D data. The modeling primitives used in this research are the superquadrics, which have already been proven useful in describing a variety of natural and man-made objects. This model-based approach is not only in accordance with the human visual perception process but also able to decouple the large and unstructured nonrigid motion estimation system into simple and well structured subsystems. We develop a recursive algorithm for estimating global motion and object shape, which effectively incorporates a priori knowledge of the object into the estimation procedure and obtains a good estimate of the global motion and object shape even if the given 3D points are distributed bias. After compensating for the global motion of the object a tensor model of local deformation is introduced and a spherical harmonic surface-fitting algorithm is described such that the localized deformations of the object surface can be characterized. The local deformations of the object are then estimated using tensor-description-based analysis and parametrized by the directions and magnitudes of the extreme deformations in a localized surface element. To illustrate the potential of this model-based approach for nonrigid motion analysis, a real data example is presented using the proposed approach. This example involves estimating the left ventricle motion and deformations from a time sequence of 3D coordinates of coronary artery bifurcation points. The estimation results show the success of the model-based approach even when the given bifurcation points are distributed only on half of the left ventricle surface.
Spin density distribution in oxygen-liganded model heme proteins: Predictions of 17O hyperfine broadening of ESR spectra of metmyoglobin, cytochrome c peroxidase, catalase, and cytochrome P450

In heme proteins, the axial ligands bound directly to the iron are important modulators of biological function. A common spectroscopic technique used to detect the presence of heme units with oxygen-containing ligands, is the broadening of the electron spin resonance (ESR) spectrum by hyperfine interactions with unpaired spin density in 17O-enriched systems. To be useful as a means of identifying such ligands, there must be a measurable level of unpaired spin density on the oxygen ligand. In this study, we have used the semiempirical INDO/ROHF quantum mechanical method to calculate and compare the spin density localized on the axial oxygen ligand in the active site of four model heme proteins, Metmyoglobin, cytochrome c peroxidase (CCP), P450cam, and catalase. In particular, we have attempted to determine for which systems the results of such an experiment would be a reliable indicator of the presence of water or other types of oxygen-containing ligands. Using the MetMb system, for which such broadening has been observed, to determine a threshold value of spin density on the oxygen atom needed to detect broadening of the ESR spectra, we have found one-hundredth less spin on the water ligand in P450cam, thus explaining the observed lack of broadening in the ESR spectra of the low spin resting state. In addition, we predict that the catalase system would, in principle, exhibit 17O broadening of its ESR spectra but that CCP would not. Finally, given the similarity of CCP and HRP (horse radish peroxidase), our calculations suggest that the absence of broadening in the ESR spectra of HRP does not rule out the presence of water as a sixth ligand.
Tandem deep brain stimulation – Challenging new structural targets for Parkinson's disease

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) targets for Parkinson's disease have been limited to neuronal regions wherein lesions have produced beneficial effects. Improvements in imaging allow placement in small and novel targets. Additionally, due to the ability of impulse generators to accommodate multiple electrodes, simultaneous stimulation in multiple neuronal regions is possible. Given that the two most disabling clinical features of Parkinson's disease, namely postural instability and dementia, have evaded effective treatment, consideration for new structural targets is warranted. Characteristics of dementia in parkinsonism include progressive deficits in attention and executive function. Additionally, many patients experience pronounced variability in cognition with profound fluctuations/variability in attention and alertness. Anecdotal and initial trial reports concerning DBS to the fornix/hypothalamus have been associated with improvement in memory function and reductions in expected cognitive decline in patients with early Alzheimer's disease. The fornix constitutes the major inflow and output pathway from the hippocampus and medial temporal lobe. I hypothesize that tandem DBS, targeting the STN/GPi and fornix/hypothalamus and/or hippocampus may have a positive impact on improving cognitive function and/or reducing risk for subsequent dementia with Lewy bodies/Parkinson dementia. Such targets also pose potential negative ramifications. Nevertheless, given the tremendous disability produced by dementia, new structural targets require systematic study.
The in vitro biotransformation of 2-aminofluorene in the visceral mass of the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas

1. The in vitro biotransformation of 2-aminofluorene (2-AF) was examined in visceral mass microsomes from the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas.2. The major metabolite was N-formyl-2-aminofluorene with smaller quantities of N-hydroxy-2-aminofluorene and nitroso-2-aminofluorene or 2-nitrofluorene.3. The mechanism of N-oxidation was explored using various inhibitors, stimulators, cofactors, and pH modifications within incubations.4. N-Oxidation may occur via a one electron mechanism which involves a transition metal and/or lipid peroxidation.5. Flavin-containing monooxygenase and possibly prostaglandin synthase also seem to play a role in N-oxidation.
A fundamental study of the effects of grain boundaries on performance of poly-crystalline thin film CdTe solar cells

Poly-crystalline CdTe-based thin film photovoltaic devices have shown a great potential and are commercially used for large-scale energy conversion applications. Despite this success conversion efficiency of CdTe has achieved very minor improvements over the last 20 years. To overcome this stagnation and further drive cost-per-watt of the modules, better atomic-scale understanding of native dislocation structures and grain boundaries is needed. In this collaborative study we systematically investigate effects of grain boundaries using ultra-high-vacuum bonded CdTe bi-crystals with pre-defined misorientation angles.
The Role of the Marketer in a Market-Oriented Organization

Over the last several years, marketers have been particularly successful as preachers of a simple message: all facets of a business should be driven by an overriding focus on customers, including the identification of their expressed and unexpressed needs and wants and the maximization of all aspects of customer satisfaction. This view, reflecting both the earlier notion of the marketing concept and more recent work on market orientation, has generally been embraced by forward-thinking organizations as an appropriate philosophy to guide not just major marketing and strategic decisions but also the implicit culture of the firm.
Determining the Size of Bank Term Loans

By convention, borrowing capacity of the balance sheet of a bankable company is determined by some maximum ratio structure of creditor claims to owner claims. Various studies have attempted to determine the level at which this structure becomes unsustainable. In this paper, we provide a model for finding the maximum of amount of term loan debt based strictly upon the ability to repay, or, in other words, when cash flow breakeven is reached. Borrowing amounts determined by the model increase with lower interest rates, longer maturity, shorter depreciation life, lower dividends, lower tax rate, higher sales, lower costs. Use of the model is easy since it depends upon inputs read directly off financial statements of a borrowing company.
Prevalence of Carotid and Lower Extremity Arterial Disease in Patients With Renal Artery Stenosis

Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of renovascular hypertension secondary to hemodynamically significant stenoses (> 60% diameter reduction). To assess the prevalence of atherosclerosis in the peripheral arteries and carotid bifurcation, we prospectively studied 60 patients who had renal artery stenosis documented by ultrasonic duplex scanning. Disease of the peripheral arterial circulation was assessed by the measurement of the ankle/brachial systolic pressure ratio. To evaluate the extracranial carotid artery, ultrasonic duplex scanning was employed. The prevalence of a 50-100% diameter reducing stenosis in the carotid artery was 46% in patients with a > 60% diameter reducing renal artery stenosis. The prevalence of severe peripheral arterial disease was 73% in those patients with a high grade renal artery lesion. The prevalence of severe disease in the peripheral and carotid arteries was less (50% and 25%, respectively) in patients with renal artery lesions that reduced the diameter of the renal artery less than 60%. The high prevalence of associated lesions in the carotid and peripheral circulation in patients with renovascular disease secondary to atherosclerosis should prompt investigation of these major arteries when renal artery disease is detected. Disease of the carotid and peripheral arteries is a common cause of morbidity and should be treated according to accepted guidelines.
Electron theory

A brief and simple picture of electron theory, this article is intended for those readers who are not familiar with the more recent theories and who have followed branches of the profession not dealing with electronic devices. The electron is shown to be part of the atom, and to be the means by which electricity flows. Its function in electron tubes is explained, and the operation of amplifiers, rectifiers, and photoelectric cells of various types is discussed.
The Automatic Canteen Co. Case and Buyer's Liability under the Robinson-patman Act

As used in this quotation "section" refers to the entire section 2 of the Clayton Act as amended by the Robinson-Patman Act. See infra for discussion of types of price discriminations that are prohibited. 2 In presenting a report on the Robinson-Patman bill to the House a congressman explained: Section 2(f) ". . . makes it easier (for the manufacturer) to resist the demand for sacrificial price cuts coming from mass-buyer customers, since it enables him to charge them with knowledge of the illegality of the discount, and equal liability for it...." Quoted in Automatic Canteen Company of America v. Federal Trade Commission, U.S. Supreme Court, No. 89-October Term, 1952 (June 8, 1953) p. 12, footnote. This reference, and all others to the Supreme Court decision in this case, refer to the advance "slip decision" report of the case.
Turner's Methodology: Multiple Working Hypotheses or Ruling Theory?

IREDERICK JACKSON TURNER told his students that his own work had been strongly influenced by the idea of multiple hypotheses in scientific research postulated by the geologist Thomas C. Chamberlin. Homer C. Hockett recalled that Turner often had stressed Chamberlin's concepts in lectures and in the seminar at Wisconsin; and Merle Curti, who studied under Turner at Harvard, has also emphasized Turner's reliance on the concept of multiple hypotheses.' The question of the extent to which Turner actually adopted Chamberlin's methods is, indeed, an important one, not only because Turner believed Chamberlin's methodology to be as consequential for the serious study of history as it was for geology but also because Turner's own approach to historical research has exercised so great an influence on modern historical writing.2 Since Turner hoped that the procedures which he him-
Abstract 4951: The role of endothelin axis signaling pathway in astrocyte mediated chemoprotection of tumor cells.

Proceedings: AACR 104th Annual Meeting 2013; Apr 6-10, 2013; Washington, DC Purpose: More than 40% of patients with the breast cancer develop brain metastasis that are resistant to conventional chemotherapeutic agents. We have reported that reactive astrocytes establish gap junction communication channels with adjacent tumor cells and protect tumor cells from chemotherapy by up-regulation of survival genes in the tumor cells. We now report on the mechanism by which astrocytes up-regulate expression of the survival genes in tumor cells. Materials and Methods: Human breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231 cultured with murine astrocytes produce endothelin 1 (ET-1) leading to expression and activation of endothelin receptors (ETRs). Using small interfering RNA (siRNA) of ETAR and ETBR, and ETRs specific antagonists (BQ123, BQ788, and [PD145065][1]) demonstrated the correlation between the activation of the endothelin axis in tumor cells and the induction of survival genes (BCL2L1, GSTA5, and TWIST1) leading to chemoresistance. Results: Co-culture of MDA-MB-231 cells and murine astrocytes induced up-regulation of ETRs (ETAR and ETBR) and activation of endothelin receptors axis in tumor cells as well as increased production of ET-1 by murine astrocytes. Activation of the ETRs by exogenous ET-1 up-regulated the expression of survival genes, such as BCL2L1, GSTA5 and TWIST1 via activation of phosphorylated AKT/MAPKinase signal transduction pathways, leading to resistance of tumor cells to several chemotherapeutic agents. Knockdown of both ETAR and ETBR by siRNAs or treatment of tumor cells with dual ETR inhibitor abolished the chemoprotection induced by astrocytes. Conclusion: ET axis signaling pathway plays an essential role in astrocytes-mediated induction of chemoresistance of tumor cells by up-regulation of survival genes in tumor cells. Simultaneous blockade of both ETR can prevent tumor cells from developing resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. Citation Format: Seung Wook Kim, Sun Jin Kim, Hyun Jin Choi, Ho-Jeong Lee, Junqin He, Qiuyu Wu, Erica J. Lawson, Isaiah J. Fidler. The role of endothelin axis signaling pathway in astrocyte mediated chemoprotection of tumor cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4951. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4951 [1]: /lookup/external-ref?link_type=GEN&access_num=PD145065&atom=%2Fcanres%2F73%2F8_Supplement%2F4951.atom
Isolation of a Reaction Center Particle and a Small c-Type Cytochrome from Heliobacillus mobilis

The Heliobacteriaceae are the most recently isolated family of photosynthetic bacteria (1). The main pigment in these bacteria is bacteriochlorophyll g (BChl g) which is structurally intermediate between chlorophyll a found in higher plants and BChl b found in some purple bacteria (2). Redox titrations and ESR measurements on isolated membranes from Heliobacterium chlorum indicate the presence of low potential iron-sulfur centers (3,4). This suggests that the photosynthetic reaction center (RC) is most similar to that found in green sulfur bacteria and photosystem I. The large antenna size found in the green sulfur bacteria makes it difficult to isolate pure RCs devoid of extraneous antenna pigments from them. By contrast, H. chlorum contains only 30–60 antenna pigments per P800 (5), making it a good choice as a source of Fe-S type RCs.
Study on the Pathology in 1134 Cases Cervical Tissues

Objective:To investigate the trends of the incidences of cervical carcinoma and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia(CIN).Methods:1134 cases of cervical tissues were enclosed in the study.The cases comes from our hospital in 2000～2001 and 2004～2005.Pathology、result of HPV test and age were compared and analysed.Results:Compared with in 2000～2001,the incidence of cervical carcinoma decreased in 2004～2005;The incidence of CINⅡ～Ⅲ,especially less than or equal to 35 years old,obviously ascended and there were significant differences(P0.01;P0.05);The average ages of cervical carcinoma and CINⅡ～Ⅲ all declined(P0.05);The incidence of HPV infection ascended(P0.01);The average age of HPV infection among cervical carcinoma and CIN patients descended(P0.05),and the incidence of HPV infection of cervical carcinoma and CIN patients less than or equal to 35 years old was higher than above and beyond 35 years old,and there were apparent differences(P0.05).Conclusions:The trends of cercical carcinoma and CINⅡ～Ⅲ in young women are obvious,and related to HPV infection.Intensifing detection and follow-up of high-risk population is helpful in early diagnosis and treatment.
Effects of Organic Manure Application Combined with Chemical Fertilizers on Rice Nutrient Uptake and Distribution and Nitrogen Use Efficiency

Chemical fertilizers,especially nitrogenous fertilizer,have played an important role on increasing paddy rice production. In this research,field experiment with 7 fertilizers under 225 kg/hm2 nitrogen amount and five high-yielding medium hybrid rice varieties has been conducted. Results showed that there were significant difference on nitrogen accumulation of leaf (NAL),nitrogen accumulation stem (NAS) and total nitrogen accumulation (TNA) between the compound application of the inorganic and organic fertilizer in A7,A6 and A5 with the corresponding treatments A2,A3 and A4. Varieties difference was showed mainly on NAL and TNA at the late development stages. Nitrogen harvest index (NHI) of A6 was highest,15.2% higher than no compound application with organic fertilizer treatment A5. Leaf and stem nitrogen apparent translate ratio (NATR) of A3 was highest,6.1% and 9.53% higher than A2 and A5,respectively. The nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) increased by 10% through compound application organic fertilizer. The biomass and grain yield of A4 were higher than those of the other treatments,50.6% and 16.4% higher than A1,respectively. Thus,the compounding organic fertilizer as base fertilizer was applied in favor of the nitrogen accumulation of leaf,stem and total plant. NATR was no significant difference in fertilizers test and higher yield varieties. The compound organic fertilizer can significantly increase NUE and NHI.
Idiopathic Rupture of the Bladder

AbstractNon-traumatic spontaneous rupture of the otherwise normal bladder is a rare occurrence. The literature is reviewed and 4 new cases are reported. Experimental data are presented and a theory is reviewed regarding the frequent intraperitoneal location of the rupture. The frequent paucity of symptoms compared to the high mortality rate is stressed.
Stimulation of pyrophosphate production in articular cartilage by a platelet-derived factor is independent of mitogenesis

The disordered production of extracellular inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi) by cartilage contributes to calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal formation and associated diseases. We have previously shown that a factor(s) derived from human platelets markedly stimulates the accumulation of PPi in the media of porcine articular cartilage in organ culture. This is the first known physiologic modifier of PPi production by cartilage. We report herein that platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) is not the platelet factor responsible for PPi stimulation and that the active factor is not mitogenic for chondrocytes. PDGF added to the media of articular cartilage explants in the presence of 0.5% (platelet-poor) plasma (PPP) produces 3.92 +/- 1.6 mumol/L PPi compared with 2.85 +/- 0.7 mumol/L PPi in cartilage exposed to PPP alone. The platelet extract (PE) and PDGF are mitogenic for adult articular chondrocytes in high-density monolayer cultures. Anti-PDGF antibodies block the mitogenic effects of PDGF and PE. The uptake of thymidine labeled with tritium is 157% of control in cells exposed to PE, PPP, and polyclonal goat immunoglobulin G (IgG); 114% of control in cells exposed to PE, PPP, and anti-PDGF antibody; 148% of control in cells treated with PDGF, PPP, and goat IgG; and 98% of control in cells treated with PDGF, PPP, and anti-PDGF antibody. However, anti-PDGF antibody has no effect on PPi accumulation. PPi levels are 17.22 +/- 1.6 mumol/L in media from cartilage treated with PPP, goat IgG, and PE and 17.62 +/- 2.2 mumol/L in cartilage exposed to PE, PPP, and anti-PDGF antibody. We have further characterized the platelet factor responsible for the stimulation of PPi by cartilage. It is not mitogenic for chondrocytes, and it is not PDGF.
Modeling the Geographic Distribution of Ixodes scapularis and Ixodes pacificus (Acari: Ixodidae) in the Contiguous United States

In addition to serving as vectors of several other human pathogens, the black-legged tick, Ixodes scapularis Say, and western black-legged tick, Ixodes pacificus Cooley and Kohls, are the primary vectors of the spirochete (Borrelia burgdorferi) that causes Lyme disease, the most common vector-borne disease in the United States. Over the past two decades, the geographic range of I. pacificus has changed modestly while, in contrast, the I. scapularis range has expanded substantially, which likely contributes to the concurrent expansion in the distribution of human Lyme disease cases in the Northeastern, North-Central and Mid-Atlantic states. Identifying counties that contain suitable habitat for these ticks that have not yet reported established vector populations can aid in targeting limited vector surveillance resources to areas where tick invasion and potential human risk are likely to occur. We used county-level vector distribution information and ensemble modeling to map the potential distribution of I. scapularis and I. pacificus in the contiguous United States as a function of climate, elevation, and forest cover. Results show that I. pacificus is currently present within much of the range classified by our model as suitable for establishment. In contrast, environmental conditions are suitable for I. scapularis to continue expanding its range into northwestern Minnesota, central and northern Michigan, within the Ohio River Valley, and inland from the southeastern and Gulf coasts. Overall, our ensemble models show suitable habitat for I. scapularis in 441 eastern counties and for I. pacificus in 11 western counties where surveillance records have not yet supported classification of the counties as established.
Caudal Ganglionic Eminence Precursor Transplants Disperse and Integrate as Lineage-Specific Interneurons but Do Not Induce Cortical Plasticity

The maturation of inhibitory GABAergic cortical circuits regulates experience-dependent plasticity. We recently showed that the heterochronic transplantation of parvalbumin (PV) or somatostatin (SST) interneurons from the medial ganglionic eminence (MGE) reactivates ocular dominance plasticity (ODP) in the postnatal mouse visual cortex. Might other types of interneurons similarly induce cortical plasticity? Here, we establish that caudal ganglionic eminence (CGE)-derived interneurons, when transplanted into the visual cortex of neonatal mice, migrate extensively in the host brain and acquire laminar distribution, marker expression, electrophysiological properties, and visual response properties like those of host CGE interneurons. Although transplants from the anatomical CGE do induce ODP, we found that this plasticity reactivation is mediated by a small fraction of MGE-derived cells contained in the transplant. These findings demonstrate that transplanted CGE cells can successfully engraft into the postnatal mouse brain and confirm the unique role of MGE lineage neurons in the induction of ODP.
Labor’s Surplus Value; A Neoclassical Approach

Neoclassical tools of marginalism and profit maximization are used to measure labor’s surplus value. Recent empirical estimates of a firm’s wage elasticity of labor supply imply a surplus so large that the value of labor may exceed the total value of a firm’s production. Labor value in excess of a firm’s production is matched by a negative value of capital. Capital appears to have accumulated to the point where additional capital can decrease rather than increase production.
A Multiply Qualified Conditional Analysis of Disposition Ascription: Mapping the Conceptual Topography of Ceteris Paribus

Given that an analysis of disposition ascription cannot be made in terms of a simple subjunctive conditional, we present a multiply qualified conditional analysis that places disposition ascription within an implicit fundamental causal conceptual typography within which a disposition ascription is embedded, framed, and understood. By placing the multiply qualified analysis within an implicit causal matrix involving a focal cause, pathway of influence, mechanism of action (via the intrinsic property responsible for the disposition), contributing/partial cause, mediator (i.e., transmitting agent), extrinsic moderator, (protective factor, inhibitory factor), intrinsic moderator, and manifestation (causal consequence), we show how this analysis evades counterexamples and arguments raised against the simple conditional analysis. We then indicate how the causal conceptual landscape provides a roadmap for unpacking and explicating parameters of the ceteris paribus qualifier to acquit the analysis of charges of being vacuous or irredeemably vague.
IMAGES IN CLINICAL MEDICINE. Human Papillomavirus-Associated Oropharyngeal Squamous-Cell Carcinoma.

A 68-year-old man presented with a mass on the left side of his neck. A biopsy was performed, and histopathological examination revealed squamous-cell carcinoma that was positive for HPV and overexpressed p16, a tumor-suppressor gene product.
Light-activated nanoheaters with programmable time-dependent response(Conference Presentation)

We design nanopatterned, all-dielectric structures that heat up suddenly when illuminated by a laser. The delay time for heating can be programmed into the structure by adjusting the spacing and size of holes in the pattern. The key operating principle is excitation of an absorptive, electromagnetic resonance in the structure by laser light, combined with a thermooptic response. Shifting of the resonance in time leads to a sudden increase in absorptive heating when the resonance aligns with the laser wavelength. We use optical transmission measurements to characterize the heating behavior in both air and water and demonstrate controlled microbubble formation.
Optical characterization studies of a low-cost particle sensor

ABSTRACT Compact low-cost sensors for measuring particulate matter (PM) concentrations are receiving significant attention as they can be used in larger numbers and in a distributed manner. Most low-cost particle sensors work on optical scattering measurements from the aerosol. To ensure accurate and reliable determination of PM mass concentrations, a relationship of the scattering signal to mass concentration should be established. The scattering signal depends on the aerosol size distributions and particle refractive index. A systematic calibration of a low-cost particle sensor (Sharp GP2Y1010AU0F) was carried out by both experimental and computational studies. Sodium chloride, silica, and sucrose aerosols were used as test cases with size distributions measured using a scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS). The mass concentration was estimated using the measured size distribution and density of the particles. Calculations of the scattered light intensity were done using these measured size distributions and known refractive index of the particles. The calculated scattered light intensity showed better linearity with the sensor signal compared to the mass concentration. To obtain a more accurate mass concentration estimation, a model was developed to determine a calibration factor (K). K is not universal for all aerosols, but depends on the size distribution and refractive index. To improve accuracy in estimation of mass concentration, an expression for K as a function of geometric mean diameter, geometric standard deviation, and refractive index is proposed. This approach not only provides a more accurate estimation of PM concentration, but also provides an estimate of the aerosol number concentration.
Micropollutants in groundwater from septic systems: Transformations, transport mechanisms, and human health risk assessment

Septic systems may contribute micropollutants to shallow groundwater and surface water. We constructed two in situ conventional drainfields (drip dispersal and gravel trench) and an advanced drainfield of septic systems to investigate the fate and transport of micropollutants to shallow groundwater. Unsaturated soil-water and groundwater samples were collected, over 32 sampling events (January 2013 to June 2014), from the drainfields (0.31-1.07 m deep) and piezometers (3.1-3.4 m deep). In addition to soil-water and groundwater, effluent samples collected from the septic tank were also analyzed for 20 selected micropollutants, including wastewater markers, hormones, pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), a plasticizer, and their transformation products. The removal efficiencies of micropollutants from septic tank effluent to groundwater were similar among three septic systems and were 51-89% for sucralose and 53->99% for other micropollutants. Even with high removal rates within the drainfields, six PPCPs and sucralose with concentrations ranging from <0.3 to 154 ng/L and 121 to 32,000 ng/L reached shallow groundwater, respectively. The human health risk assessment showed that the risk to human health due to consumption of groundwater is negligible for the micropollutants monitored in the study. A better understanding of ecotoxicological effects of micropollutant mixtures from septic systems to ecosystem and human health is warranted for the long-term sustainability of septic systems.
The role of poly ADP-ribosylation in the first wave of DNA damage response

Poly ADP-ribose polymerases (PARPs) catalyze massive protein poly ADP-ribosylation (PARylation) within seconds after the induction of DNA single- or double-strand breaks. PARylation occurs at or near the sites of DNA damage and promotes the recruitment of DNA repair factors via their poly ADP-ribose (PAR) binding domains. Several novel PAR-binding domains have been recently identified. Here, we summarize these and other recent findings suggesting that PARylation may be the critical event that mediates the first wave of the DNA damage response. We also discuss the potential for functional crosstalk with other DNA damage-induced post-translational modifications.
Association of Simian Virus 40 with Rodent and Human Mesotheliomas

Simian virus 40 (SV40) is an oncogenic papovavirus capable of inducing tumors in hamsters and of transforming cells from many species in tissue culture.(1) In the past, although useful for basic studies, the SV40-induced hamster tumor model was considered to have only limited relevance in the elucidation of mechanisms for human cancer development. Recently, however, the discovery of relationships between SV40 proteins and human tumor suppressor gene products suggested that DNA tumor viruses could possibly illuminate molecular mechanisms of human carcinogenesis.(2) Moreover, the very recent finding of SV40-like sequences in human tumors(3,4) underscores the direct relevance of SV40 research to human cancer. The SV40 proteins associated with in vivo oncogenesis and in vitro cell transformation are encoded by the early region of the virus; these proteins are known as the T (tumor) antigens because animals bearing tumors induced by SV40 have antibodies against these viral proteins. Two SV40 tumor antigens are detected in infected or transformed cells, “large T antigen” (Tag) and “small t antigen” (tag), and these two proteins are produced from a single viral gene by differential splicing of an RNA transcript.(1,2) Unlike the oncogenes of the retroviruses, the T antigen oncogenes of SV40 do not have a homologous cellular protooncogene.(5)
Exercise, Play, and Physical Training in Animals

Since animal play includes vigorous physical exercise, such behavior has been hypothesized to serve in part as physical training for young animals. Citing recent physiological studies of training responses of muscle, bone, and the cardiopulmonary, endocrine, and nervous systems, I offer seven testable, physiologically based predictions about play, including its behavioral composition, interruption and repetition, age dependence, and phylogenetic distribution. 1 also discuss manipulative, social, and diversive aspects of play which the physical training hypothesis alone does not fully explain.
Chapter 17 – Initial Value Problems

Initial value problems involve ordinary differential equations where information about the function is specified at a single point. In this chapter we apply several standard methods for solving initial value problems: forward and backward Euler, Crank–Nicolson, and Runge–Kutta methods. The difference between explicit and implicit methods is defined, as well as notions of stability and accuracy. The chapter begins with single-equation initial value problems before proceeding to solve systems of differential equations, including how to cast higher-order differential equations as a system. The methods are applied to the point-reactor kinetics equations for modeling the timedependent power in a nuclear system.
Communist Ideology, Secularity, and Reenchantment: Challenges for the Catholic Church in Vietnam, 1954–2015

This chapter examines the extent to which Charles Taylor’s thesis as expressed in his The Secular Age applies to the current situation of Vietnam, especially with regard to the Catholic Church. After a brief survey of the relations between the Vietnamese Communist Party and the Vietnamese Catholic Church and a detailed examination of the government’s policies on religious freedom and religious practices, the essay analyzes the gradual shift of the Vietnamese Communist Party’s attitude toward religion in general and toward the Catholic Church in particular, from hostility and even persecution to a pragmatic modus vivendi. It also notes that in spite of all the repression by the Communist government, and not merely secularization, a deep sense of religiosity, as embodied in popular religious practices, has never been destroyed; indeed, there are signs that it is undergoing a widespread renascence.
STUDIES ON THE MECHANISM OF INTERFERON ACTION. II. THE EFFECT OF INTERFERON ON SOME EARLY EVENTS IN MENGO VIRUS INFECTION IN L CELLS.

Abstract The effect of interferon on early events of Mengo virus replication in suspended cultures of L cells has been studied. Interferon, at levels that almost completely block the production of Mengo virus, has no ameliorative effect on the early inhibition of normal cell protein synthesis induced by Mengo virus. Such infected interferon-treated cells go on to die in a manner similar to infected cells not treated with interferon. However, in the presence of interferon, the rapid inhibition of normal cell RNA synthesis seen in Mengo virus infection does not appear until about an hour later than usual.
Fatal angioedema associated with captopril.

A markedly hypertensive, 70-year-old, black man had been on captopril for 2 years when he rapidly developed obstructive angioedema. The initial sign of difficulty in understanding his speech progressed to severe laryngeal and glossal edema over a 3½ h period. His airway became obstructed less than a minute after arrival at the emergency room. Oral intubation was unsuccessful, and a difficult tracheostomy was too late to save the patient. The death was reported to the medical examiner because of its sudden and unusual nature. The risk of angioedema while on angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor therapy has been noted previously in the clinical literature. Because of the sudden onset and possible confusion with an allergic reaction, this entity is brought to the attention of the forensic medical community.
Synthesis of Heteroatom-Containing Compounds

A wide variety of heteroatom-containing compounds can be conveniently prepared via organomercury intermediates. A number of the more synthetically interesting of these transformations will be covered in this chapter, starting first with some methods of forming oxygen-containing compounds. Subsequent sections will deal with the synthesis of organic compounds of some of the Group VIb (sulfur, selenium and tellurium) and Vb (nitrogen and phosphorus) elements, followed by a very brief discussion of the synthesis of some organosilicon compounds which might be of interest to the organic chemist. The synthesis of organic compounds of other elements of the periodic table is beyond the scope of this monograph and will not be covered.
Papaverine and Hydergine

Increased cerebral blood flow and decreased cerebral-vascular resistance result from the administration of the nonspecific smooth muscle relaxant papaverine. This agent has been employed with varied success in the treatment of a variety of symptoms in the geriatric patient, including mental confusion (LeBrecque, 1966), chronic brain syndrome secondary to cerebral arteriosclerosis (Stern, 1970; Ritter et al., 1971; McQuillan et al., 1974), and psychological and psychophysical test performance (Smith et al., 1968). Some studies (Bazo, 1973) have indicated that papaverine has little effect upon intellectual function or cognition when given for 12 weeks to a population with cerebral arteriosclerosis with cerebrovascular insufficiency. However, other studies (Bambasova et al., 1974) have indicated that the drug did improve intellectual functions and verbal communication and reduced anxiety and depression in patients with arteriosclerotic dementia.
HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES ON THE RECOMBINANT DNA CONTROVERSY

Publisher Summary This chapter presents historical perspectives on the recombinant DNA controversy. The process of developing guidelines on recombinant DNA was influenced by the realization that a popular, exciting new field was emerging and by the conviction that it should be encouraged to grow. Scientists were eager to get involved in recombinant DNA research and the developers of the guidelines felt that artificial restraints should interfere as little as possible. In the United States, the National Institutes of Health was in the ambiguous position of encouraging and facilitating the growth of research using recombinant DNA techniques while at the same time, it was responsible for establishing and enforcing safety regulations that would restrict it. While all of this was going on, scientists were tooling up to use the new technique and were waiting for the green light that would allow them to proceed as rapidly as possible. The scientists involved believed that there was a need to demonstrate to the public that scientists, on their own, could act responsibly to protect the public. As a result, the process of establishing rules involved a series of compromises aimed at achieving a consensus within that portion of the scientific community affected by the regulations while at the same time providing assurance to the public that they would be protected against possible hazards.
Criminology as a Force for Human Tolerance

Criminology traditionally has been the study of twin forms of intolerance--crime and punishment. Punishment can only increase crime. Criminology ought to become a study of how to alleviate crime and punishment by engineering tolerance of greater varieties of human behavior, where "social control" takes on positive connations. A framework is outlined for making criminology a force for human tolerance. When national spirits are low as now in my country, crime is fearsome and war or its onset palpable. Spirits become low as it becomes apparent that national appetites are unsatisfied. Within a society, the problems may range from children dying of hunger to chieftains ordering death and destruction because palace vaults remain unfilled. While it is tempting to point fingers at villains to punish for national disspirit, and while the hungry children deserve more sympathy than chieftains whose thirst for power is unquenchable, the only cure for a national disease like ours is one that satisfies human appetites throughout society. Unless paths to power can be so directed that wealth moves toward the poor and the food moves to hungry children, even the chieftains risk a premature violent end.
Complications of Nephron Sparing Surgery for Renal Tumors

AbstractThe technical results of 259 nephron sparing operations for renal cell carcinoma or renal oncocytoma were reviewed. Local or renal related complications occurred after 78 procedures (30.1%). The incidence of complications was less for operations performed after 1988 (22% versus 37%, p = 0.009) and for incidentally detected versus suspected tumors (p = 0.009).The most common complications were urinary fistula formation (45 operations) and acute renal failure (33). Significant predisposing factors for urinary fistula formation included central tumor location (p = 0.001), tumor size greater than 4cm. (p = 0.001), the need for major reconstruction of the collecting system (p = 0.001) and ex vivo surgery (p = 0.001). Only 1 urinary fistula required open operative repair, while the remainder resolved either spontaneously (30) or with endoscopic management (14). Significant predisposing factors for acute renal failure included a solitary kidney (p = 0.001), tumor size greater than 7cm. (p = 0.008), great...
Impact of population change and unemployment rate on Philadelphia's waste disposal.

Abstract Predicting waste disposal of a given municipality could be complicated and expensive for government agencies. Lack of a uniform modeling approach, the gap between the scientific community and the government, inaccessibility to the forecasts of variables used in the waste management literature, and budget deficiencies could all result in over-simplification and possibly employing inaccurate modeling approaches for decision makers. This paper portrays the trend of Total Solid Waste (TSW) and Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) disposal of Philadelphia (Pennsylvania, US) with respect to the rate of population change, unemployment rate change, and the current recycling policies. The objective is to develop satisfactory predictive models for the TSW disposal using the same number of variables as currently used by the City of Philadelphia. It is crucial to include an economic factor such as unemployment rate in modeling the waste disposal, especially during economic downturns when economic factors can dominate the effects of population change on waste generation and therefore disposal. Two predictive models are developed using time series analysis and stationary multiple linear regression. The stationary multiple linear regression model yields more accurate predictions for both TSW and MSW disposal of Philadelphia with an approximate level of 8.8% Root Mean Square Percentage Error (RMSPE) and R 2 of 0.7. Even the VAR model, with RMSE of 0.15 million tons (RMSPE = 10.7%), provides better estiamtions than does the City of Philadelphia’s current working model.
A case-control study of breast cancer risk and ambient exposure to pesticides.

Because lifetime estrogen exposure is a key factor in breast cancer development, exposure to endocrine-disrupting pesticides might contribute to breast cancer development.1–3 While the estrogenic properties of some pesticides have been established,4–6 results from previous studies of pesticide exposure on breast cancer risk are conflicting: some studies show a positive association,7–11 while others are null.12–20 Many previous epidemiologic studies relied upon self-reported exposure based on pesticide usage, occupation, or living on a farm.11,14,17–20 Aside from a cohort study which did find some associations for specific pesticides,7,13 the majority of these studies grouped together pesticides with varying toxicologic effects, likely leading to nondifferential exposure misclassification and reported null effects that may have obscured associations with specific chemicals. Other studies used ecologic designs,16 spatial regression,8,9 or proximity to aggregated pesticide data at only one residential location.10,15,20 Studies that use biomarkers to measure pesticide metabolites in serum samples taken near the time of cancer diagnosis may not reflect previous exposures that are most relevant for breast cancer etiology and do not reflect long-term exposure.21 There is a need for research methodologies that can reconstruct exposures occurring decades before diagnosis and evaluate pesticide-specific exposures on breast cancer risk.22,23 We conducted a case–control study of breast cancer risk from exposure to pesticides using a Geographical Information Systems (GIS)–based method that combines geocoded residential and occupational histories with state pesticide use reports and land use data24 in California’s highest-ranking counties (Fresno, Tulare, and Kern) for agricultural density and commercial pesticide use in the United States.25 In highly agricultural regions, pesticide drift from neighboring application sites presents a major source of nonoccupational exposure.26–30 We evaluated a group of structurally and toxicologically similar31 organochlorine pesticides with known estrogenic effects that are most likely related to breast carcinogenesis because of their ability to accumulate in adipose tissue and potential to act synergistically (aldrin, chlordane, dicofol, dieldrin, endosulfan, lindane, methoxychlor, and toxaphene).3,5,32–36 We also assessed breast cancer risk from exposure to three commonly applied pesticides in the region (chlorpyrifos, diazinon, and 1,3-dichloropropene) detected at levels of concern to human health in air monitoring conducted by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (CDPR) in 2006 in a Fresno County farming community.37 Because no regulatory ambient air standards exist for most pesticides, CDPR developed health-based screening levels for 35 pesticides and found that diazinon exceeded its screening level, chlorpyrifos approached its screening level and was frequently detected, and 1,3-dichloropropene exceeded its cancer potency value.
Bitter sweet imaginings: Form, gender, and religion in Bhai Vir Singh’s Sundarī

This paper undertakes a detailed reading of BVS’ novel Sundarī. Commenting on the as yet uncertain and experimental form of the modernist novel, the essay demonstrates how fiction and history, gene...