cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cannabidiol attenuates deficits of visuospatial associative memory induced by Δ9tetrahydrocannabinol

Background and Purpose Recent human studies suggest that recreational cannabis strains that are relatively high in cannabidiol (CBD) content produce less cognitive impairment than do strains with negligible CBD and similar Δ9tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. Self-selection in such studies means it is impossible to rule out additional variables which may determine both cannabis strain selection and basal cognitive performance level. Controlled laboratory studies can better determine a direct relationship. Experimental Approach In this study, adult male rhesus monkeys were assessed on visuospatial Paired Associates Learning and Self-Ordered Spatial Search memory tasks, as well as additional tests of motivation and manual dexterity. Subjects were challenged with THC (0.2, 0.5 mg·kg−1, i.m.) in randomized order and evaluated in the presence or absence of 0.5 mg·kg−1 CBD. Key Results CBD attenuated the effects of THC on paired associates learning and a bimanual motor task without affecting the detrimental effects of THC on a Self-Ordered Spatial Search task of working memory. CBD did not significantly reverse THC-induced impairment of a progressive ratio or a rotating turntable task. Conclusions and Implications This study provides direct evidence that CBD can oppose the cognitive-impairing effects of THC and that it does so in a task-selective manner when administered simultaneously in a 1:1 ratio with THC. The addition of CBD to THC-containing therapeutic products may therefore help to ameliorate unwanted cognitive side-effects. Linked Article This article is commented on by Mechoulam and Parker, pp 1363–1364 of this issue. To view this commentary visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.12400
Severe Outbreak of Downy Mildew Caused by Plasmopara obducens on Impatiens walleriana in Florida

Impatiens, Impatiens walleriana Hook.f., are grown as an ornamental crop in greenhouse and shade house production in Florida and other regions of the United States. Downy mildew on impatiens was detected from numerous landscapes (Manatee, Hillsborough, Collier, Hendry, Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade counties) in the winter of 2012. Incidence reached nearly 100% on many affected landscape plantings. Symptoms initially appeared as yellowing on the lower leaves and were typically vein-delineated, although in some cases the entire leaf was affected. Diseased plants later wilted and infected leaves abscised from the stem. A white, downy growth was apparent on the abaxial leaf surface. Microscopic observation revealed coenocytic mycelium with sporangiophores that were hyaline, thin-walled, and had slightly swollen bases. Branches of sporangiophores were monopodial and formed right angles to the supporting branches. Sporangia were hyaline and obvoid with a single pore on the distal ends that was mostly flat...
Aleukemic cutaneous myeloid sarcoma.

Background Aleukemic cutaneous myeloid sarcoma (CMS) represents an important yet rare entity denoting the presence of a cutaneous myeloid leukemic infiltrate without concurrent peripheral blood or bone marrow disease. The clinicopathologic diagnosis remains elusive due to isolated skin findings and variable immunostaining. Cytogenetic and molecular findings have infrequently been reported. Methods Twenty-five patients with CMS were identified in the Massachusetts General Hospital pathology database between 2004 and 2012. Patients were excluded if concurrent blood or marrow acute myeloid leukemia (AML), myelodysplastic syndrome or lymphoproliferative disorder were diagnosed. Results Three patients were identified: a neonate with recurrent CMS and marrow disease that never met diagnostic criteria for AML and two patients relapsing as CMS without concurrent blood or marrow disease following chemotherapy-induced complete remission. Histology showed atypical mononuclear cell interstitial dermal infiltrates. All cases were CD68+, lysozyme+ and CD117−; one of two were CD34+; two of three were myeloperoxidase negative. 11q23 rearrangement, t(1;14), NPM1 (nucleophosmin I), FLT3-ITD (Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3-internal tandem duplication), and novel FLT3-D835 mutations were identified. Conclusion An isolated atypical cutaneous infiltrate may represent aleukemic CMS and should prompt a search for other extramedullary sites of involvement. Immunohistochemistry, molecular and cytogenetic studies can help differentiate aleukemic CMS from benign and malignant, monocytic and histiocytic mimickers, and may potentially indicate therapy and prognosis.
Asymptomatic respiratory tract infection with Chlamydia pneumoniae TWAR

Chlamydia pneumoniae is a newly recognized organism associated with respiratory tract infections. Asymptomatic infection with C. pneumoniae, although it has been suggested to occur, has not been previously documented. We describe two asymptomatic individuals infected with this organism; these infections demonstrate that C. pneumoniae is able to establish a subclinical infection.
Treatment of adenovirus pneumonia with cidofovir in pediatric lung transplant recipients.

Background Adenovirus pneumonia results in significant morbidity and mortality in lung transplant recipients. Cidofovir allows for directed therapy but can result in nephrotoxicity. We report our experience with cidofovir for the treatment of adenovirus pneumonia in pediatric lung transplant recipients. Methods In a retrospective review, we identified four cases of culture-proven adenovirus pneumonia in children who underwent lung transplantation at Texas Children's Hospital (TCH). All patients received cidofovir 1 mg/kg every other day or three times a week for a total of 4 weeks. Probenecid and intravenous hydration were administered in conjunction with the cidofovir. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) was given as adjunctive therapy, and immunosuppression was not modified during the treatment course. Results The four cases of adenovirus pneumonia comprised 4 of the 54 (7%) lung transplantations performed at TCH from 2002 to 2006, and all were in children Conclusions Pediatric lung transplant recipients
A Transgenic Mouse Model for Trilateral Retinoblastoma

• We present a murine model of trilateral retinoblastoma. Ocular retinoblastoma and central nervous system tumors are observed in a line of mice formed by the transgenic expression of SV40 T-antigen. An oncogenic protein known to bind to the retinoblastoma gene product (p105-Rb) is specifically expressed within retinal cells in this model. All animals that carry this genetic alteration develop multifocal retinal tumors. Midbrain tumors are observed in 15% of ocular tumor-bearing animals, and these arise ventral to the cerebral aqueduct at the level of the pineal gland. Both ocular and central nervous system neoplasms are heritable in heterozygous offspring through 10 sequential generations of breeding. Retinal tumors display the gross appearance, invasive properties, light and electron microscopic features, and immunohistochemical staining characteristics of human retinoblastoma. The light and electron microscopic characteristics as well as immunocytochemical features of undifferentiated midline central nervous system neoplasms further correlate with human trilateral retinoblastoma. We postulate an alternative mechanism of retinoblastoma tumorigenesis that involves functional inactivation of retinoblastoma protein locally in the face of an intact retinoblastoma gene locus.
Invariant based ship DC power system design

This paper introduces an alternative to traditional design approach — a design which provides the system components with the rules of interaction (invariants) and uses computational resources already available in the controller to implement these rules. We obtain rules of in-system interaction by analyzing power sharing in m-paralleled connected power sources feeding a complex load. We illustrate the design using the example of a system with an arbitrary number of paralleled buck converters feeding a constant power load. We introduce the found invariants into the system using synergetic control theory, analyze the closed loop performance, and define the stability conditions as well as conditions for compensating impact of constant power load, Finally, we exercise the design on a two-converter system, where we illustrate power sharing capabilities.
Virulence factors and their mechanisms of action: the view from a damage–response framework

The virulence factor concept has been a powerful engine in driving research and the intellectual flow in the fields of microbial pathogenesis and infectious diseases. This review analyzes virulence factors from the viewpoint of the damage-response framework of microbial pathogenesis, which defines virulence factor as microbial components that can damage a susceptible host. At a practical level, the finding that effective immune responses often target virulence factors provides a roadmap for future vaccine design. However, there are significant limitations to this concept, which are rooted in the inability to define virulence and virulence factors in the absence of host factors and the host response. In fact, this concept appears to work best for certain types of bacterial pathogens, being less well suited for viruses and commensal organisms with pathogenic potential.
Evaluation of thin film MCM materials for high-speed applications

The role of material properties in thin-film multichip module (MCM-D) performance as signal frequencies increase above 100 MHz is examined. Specifically, the impact on system performance of dielectric constant, dielectric loss tangent, interconnect metal resistance, and interconnect metal skin depth is discussed. These properties are compared for common MCM-D materials. >
FETAL NEURONAL GRAFTS IN MONKEYS GIVEN METHYLPHENYLTETRAHYDROPYRIDINE

Abstract Fetal substantia nigra cells of two different gestational ages were successfully transplanted into the brains of three methylphenyltetra-hydropyridine-treated monkeys with severe parkinsonian motor and behavioural deficits. Functional improvement continued for 10 weeks after cell grafts into the striata of two monkeys with substantial numbers of tyrosine-hydroxylase-positive fetal neurons at necropsy. Behavioural improvement was correlated with increases in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) homovanillic acid (HVA) concentrations after the transplants. A control monkey with inappropriately placed transplanted cells of an earlier gestational age remained severely parkinsonian and died during a similar period. CSF HVA fell slightly in this monkey from the low level seen before the transplants. Fetal dopamine neurons of two different gestational ages appear to survive transplantation in primates and have biochemical and functional effects.
Building a knowledge-efficient sanding advisor

Abstract Recently, more and more problems in the petroleum industry are being analyzed by the Knowledge-Based Systems (KBS) technology. However, the cost in terms of time and money remains high. To handle this problem smartly, an optimum combination of machine resources, programming skills and development tools has been used in the development of a petroleum-industry sanding advisor/expert-system. Starting with an overview of the system's knowledge-base and knowledge engineering process, this paper proceeds to discuss its object-oriented programming aspects as well as its reasoning models and graphical user interface characteristics. In addition to the benefits of class inheritance for representing taxonomic knowledge, the message-passing aspect of object-oriented systems simplified the representation of the program's various modules and interacting components, thus allowing the knowledge engineer to deal with the complexity of the simulation process.
Validation of automated scores of TOEFL iBT tasks against non-test indicators of writing ability:

Automated scoring has the potential to dramatically reduce the time and costs associated with the assessment of complex skills such as writing, but its use must be validated against a variety of criteria for it to be accepted by test users and stakeholders. This study approaches validity by comparing human and automated scores on responses to TOEFL® iBT Independent writing tasks with several non-test indicators of writing ability: student self-assessment, instructor assessment, and independent ratings of non-test writing samples. Automated scores were produced using e-rater®, developed by Educational Testing Service (ETS). Correlations between both human and e-rater scores and non-test indicators were moderate but consistent, providing criterion-related validity evidence for the use of e-rater along with human scores. The implications of the findings for the validity of automated scores are discussed.
U11 snRNA interacts in vivo with the 5' splice site of U12-dependent (AU-AC) pre-mRNA introns

A notable feature of the newly described U12 snRNA-dependent class of eukaryotic nuclear pre-mRNA introns is the highly conserved 8-nt 5' splice site sequence. This sequence is virtually invariant in all known members of this class from plants to mammals. Based on sequence complementarity between this sequence and the 5' end of the U11 snRNA, we proposed that U11 snRNP may play a role in identifying and/or activating the 5' splice site for splicing. Here we show that mutations of the conserved 5' splice site sequence of a U12-dependent intron severely reduce correct splicing in vivo and that compensatory mutations in U11 snRNA can suppress the effects of the 5' splice site mutations to varying extents. This provides evidence for a required interaction between U11 snRNA and the 5' splice site sequence involving Watson-Crick base pairing. This data, in addition to a report that U11 snRNP is bound transiently to the U12-dependent spliceosome, suggests that U11 snRNP is the analogue of U1 snRNP in splicing this rare class of introns.
Occluding the Global: Analytic Bifurcation, Causal Scientism, and Alternatives in Historical Sociology

Historical sociology has not been as global as it might be, instead remaining tied to various forms of state-centrism. This paper explains why and suggests some strategies for redressing the problem. Focusing mostly upon “second wave” historical sociology, it argues that historical sociology’s occlusion of global and transnational forms, dynamics, and processes lies in its analytic infrastructure which analytically bifurcates social relations across space and emphasizes a variable-based causal scientism. Overcoming the occlusion requires rescaling the objects of study and seeking descriptive assemblages of global and transnational forms, dynamics, and processes.
Exponential Box-Like Splines on Nonuniform Grids

We generalize the exponential box spline by allowing it to have arbitrarily spaced knots in any of its directions and derive the corresponding recurrence and differentiation rules. The corresponding spline space is spanned by the shifts of finitely many such splines and contains the usual family of exponential polynomials. The (local) linear independence of the spanning set is equivalent to a geometric condition closely related to unimodularity.
Simulation experiments: better data, not just big data

Data mining tools have been around for several decades, but the term "big data" has only recently captured widespread attention. Numerous success stories have been promulgated as organizations have sifted through massive volumes of data to find interesting patterns that are, in turn, transformed into actionable information. Yet a key drawback to the big data paradigm is that it relies on observational data---limiting the types of insights that can be gained. The simulation world is different. A "data farming" metaphor captures the notion of purposeful data generation from simulation models. Large-scale designed experiments let us grow the simulation output efficiently and effectively. We can explore massive input spaces, uncover interesting features of complex simulation response surfaces, and explicitly identify cause-and-effect relationships. With this new mindset, we can achieve quantum leaps in the breadth, depth, and timeliness of the insights yielded by simulation models.
Nanometer Localization of Single Green Fluorescent Proteins: Evidence that Myosin V Walks Hand-Over-Hand via Telemark Configuration

Myosin V is a homodimeric motor protein involved in trafficking of vesicles in the cell. It walks bipedally along actin filaments, moving cargo ;37 nm per step. We have measured the step size of individual myosin heads by fusing an enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) to the N-terminus of one head of the myosin dimer and following the motion with nanometer precision and subsecond resolution. We find the average step size to be 74.1 nm with 9.4 nm (SD) and 0.3 nm (SE). Our measurements demonstrate nanometer localization of single eGFPs, confirm the hand-over-hand model of myosin V procession, and when combined with previous data, suggest that there is a kink in the leading lever arm in the waiting state of myosin V. This kink, or ''telemark skier'' configuration, may cause strain, which, when released, leads to the powerstroke of myosin, throwing the rear head forward and leading to unidirectional motion.
The application of the Gibbs-Bogoliubov-Feynman inequality in mean field calculations for Markov random fields

The Gibbs-Bogoliubov-Feynman (GBF) inequality of statistical mechanics is adopted, with an information-theoretic interpretation, as a general optimization framework for deriving and examining various mean field approximations for Markov random fields (MRF's). The efficacy of this approach is demonstrated through the compound Gauss-Markov (CGM) model, comparisons between different mean field approximations, and experimental results in image restoration.
The Proteins PDIP3 and ZC11A Associate with the Human TREX Complex in an ATP-Dependent Manner and Function in mRNA Export

The conserved TREX complex, which contains UAP56, Aly, CIP29, and the multi-subunit THO complex, functions in mRNA export. Recently, several putative new components of the human TREX complex were identified by mass spectrometry. Here, we investigated the function of two of these, PDIP3 and ZC11A. Our data indicate that both of these proteins are components of a common TREX complex and function in mRNA export. Recently, we found that both CIP29 and Aly associate with the DEAD box helicase UAP56 and with the TREX complex in an ATP-dependent manner. We now show that this is also the case for PDIP3 and ZC11A. Thus, together with previous work, our data indicate that the TREX complex participates in multiple ATP-dependent interactions.
Structural interrogation of a cucurbit[7]uril-ferrocene host–guest complex in the solid state: a Raman spectroscopy study

A complex formed between cucurbit[7]uril (CB7) and ferrocene (Fc) is investigated in the solid state using Raman spectroscopy. The Raman spectra are compared with those of the CB7 host and the Fc guest reference molecules, revealing significant frequency shifts of some vibrational modes upon complexation. These changes expose the structural and electronic interactions between the host and guest components and provide evidence that the ferrocene moiety resides within the cucurbituril cavity in the solid state environment.
COMBINATORIAL RECONSTRUCTION OF HALF-SIBLING GROUPS FROM MICROSATELLITE DATA

While full-sibling group reconstruction from microsatellite data is a well-studied problem, reconstruction of half-sibling groups is much less studied, theoretically challenging, and computationally demanding. In this paper, we present a formulation of the half-sibling reconstruction problem and prove its APX-hardness. We also present exact solutions for this formulation and develop heuristics. Using biological and synthetic datasets we present experimental results and compare them with the leading alternative software COLONY. We show that our results are competitive and allow half-sibling group reconstruction in the presence of polygamy, which is prevalent in nature.
The role of biodegradation in limiting the accumulation of petroleum hydrocarbons in raingarden soils

Previous studies have indicated that raingardens are effective at removing petroleum hydrocarbons from stormwater. There are concerns, however, that petroleum hydrocarbons could accumulate in raingarden soil, potentially resulting in liability for the site owner. In this work, 75 soil samples were collected from 58 raingardens and 4 upland (i.e., control) sites in the Minneapolis, Minnesota area, representing a range of raingarden ages and catchment land uses. Total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentrations in the samples were quantified, as were 16S rRNA genes for Bacteria and two functional genes that encode for enzymes used in the degradation of petroleum hydrocarbons. TPH levels in all of the raingarden soil samples were low (<3 μg/kg) and not significantly different from one another. The TPH concentration in raingarden soil samples was, however, significantly greater (p ≤ 0.002) than TPH levels in upland sites. In addition, the number of copies of Bacteria 16S rRNA genes and functional genes were greater in the raingardens planted with deeply-rooted natives and cultivars than in raingardens containing simply turf grass or mulch (p < 0.036), suggesting that planted raingardens may be better able to assimilate TPH inputs. The ability of microorganisms present in the soil samples to degrade a representative petroleum hydrocarbon (naphthalene) was also investigated in batch experiments. A sub-set of the field sites was selected for re-sampling, and all soil samples tested (n = 8) were able to mineralize naphthalene. In these experiments the initial mineralization rate correlated with the number of copies of Bacteria 16S rRNA genes present.
Ectopic craniopharyngioma of the fourth ventricle in a patient with Gardner syndrome

Ectopic craniopharyngioma is uncommon and a craniopharyngioma confined purely within the fourth ventricle is extremely rare. We report a craniopharyngioma of the fourth ventricle in a 20-year-old man with Gardner syndrome. Imaging characteristics of craniopharyngiomas and fourth ventricle lesions are discussed with a review of the literature regarding the pathogenesis of craniopharyngiomas and the possible association with Gardner syndrome.
Storage of Fractional Flow Reserve Hemodynamic Waveforms Using Semantic Extension of the DICOM Standard

Visual assessment of coronary stenoses by coronary angiography remains widely used but correlates poorly with ischemia, particularly for moderate lesions. Fractional flow reserve (FFR) is a cardiac catheterization procedure that aims to provide objective measures of coronary lesion hemodynamic significance and involves the acquisition of phasic pressure and electrocardiographic waveforms. The dataset from these procedures currently remains in proprietary systems with restricted data access, inability for data exchange, and often inadequate archiving. Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) includes a waveform information object definition. We describe the method of encapsulating FFR procedural information into a DICOM waveform file. We define private data elements to capture modality-specific data that is not represented by standard DICOM data elements. We propose the adoption of this semantic extension of the DICOM waveform information object for exchange and archiving of data from studies of pressure-derived indices of coronary stenoses.
Episodic Disturbance from Boat Anchoring Is a Major Contributor to, but Does Not Alter the Trajectory of, Long-Term Coral Reef Decline

Isolating the relative effects of episodic disturbances and chronic stressors on long-term community change is challenging. We assessed the impact of an episodic disturbance associated with human visitation (boat anchoring) relative to other drivers of long-term change on coral reefs. A one-time anchoring event at Crab Cove, British Virgin Islands, in 2004 caused rapid losses of coral and reef structural complexity that were equal to the cumulative decline over 23 years observed at an adjacent site. The abundance of small site-attached reef fishes dropped by approximately one quarter after the anchoring event, but this drop was not immediate and only fully apparent two years after the anchoring event. There was no obvious recovery from the impact, and no evidence that this episodic impact accelerated or retarded subsequent declines from other causes. This apparent lack of synergism between the effect of this episodic human impact and other chronic stressors is consistent with the few other long-term studies of episodic impacts, and suggests that action to mitigate anchor damage should yield predictable benefits.
Commercial Truck Driver Health and Safety: Exploring Distracted Driving Performance and Self-Reported Driving Skill

Reducing distracters detrimental to commercial truck driving is a critical component of improving the safety performance of commercial drivers, and makes the highways safer for all drivers. This study used a driving simulator to examine effects of cell phone, texting, and email distractions as well as self-reported driver optimism bias on the driving performance of commercial truck drivers. Results revealed that more visually demanding tasks were related to poorer driving performance. However, the cell phone task resulted in less off-the-road eye glances. Drivers reporting being "very skilled" displayed poorer driving performance than those reporting being "skilled." Onboard communication devices provide a practical, yet visually and manually demanding, solution for connecting drivers and dispatchers. Trucking company policies should minimize interaction between dispatchers and drivers when the truck is in motion. Training facilities should integrate driving simulators into the instruction of commercial drivers, targeting over-confident drivers.
China’s transitioning class identity

China’s rapid economic transformation is similar in some ways to those that have occurred in other rapidly developing nations. Is the pattern in China the same? Cross-country macrodata are used to compare class self-identification transition in China with other similar countries. Survey microdata from two sources are used to test the comparative pattern to test the determinants of such identification in both China and around the world. The changing structure of self-identification that occurs in many rapidly growing economies are found to be absent in China. In fact, as China has continued to grow, such change as has occured is found to be downward, despite the immense material improvement there. Objective data on income distribution in China do not explain this phenomenon, but distinct features of China's urban real estate market might.
Resistance of Bluegrass Cultivars to Biotypes C and E Greenbug (Homoptera: Aphididae)

Damage of biotypes C and E greenbugs, Schizaphis graminum (Rondani), was determined on Canada bluegrass, Poa compressa (L.), and 23 cultivars of Kentucky bluegrass, Poa pratensis L. Damage ratings for each biotype were made 4 and 5 weeks postinfestation on bluegrass infested at 1 or 6 weeks postemergence. Both biotypes caused greater damage to plants infested at 1 week postemergence than with plants infested at 6 weeks postemergence; cultivars responded similarly to both biotypes 5 weeks postinfestation. Entries which showed the highest levels of resistance included Canada bluegrass and Kentucky bluegrass cultivars ‘South Dakota Common,’ ‘Nebraska Common,’ ‘Vantage,’; and ‘Sydsport.’
Vibrational excitation of H 2 by proton impact

The forward-scattered component of the absolute cross sections for proton- and deuteron - impact excitation of the first four vibrational levels of the electronic ground state of ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ have been measured. Excitation cross-section measurements are reported for laboratory energies from 100 to 1500 eV; and, for energies below 100 eV, excitation cross sections are reported for forward-scattered protons from $\ensuremath{\theta}=0\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$ to $\ensuremath{\theta}=1.9\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$. The cross sections were measured from the peak intensities observed in the ion energy-loss spectra generated by passing a high-quality proton beam (energy spread 80 meV, angular divergence \ensuremath{\le}\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}) through a collision chamber containing the target gas at room temperature. Each excitation cross section (${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{0{v}^{\ensuremath{'}}}$, where the quantum number ${v}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ refers to the final energy level) is found to reach a maximum value at an energy which decreases with increasing quantum number ${v}^{\ensuremath{'}}:{\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{01}(max)=1.37\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}16}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ at 200 eV, ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{02}(max)=0.342\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}16}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ at 140 eV, and ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{03}(max)=0.078\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}16}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ and ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{04}(max)=0.021\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}16}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ both at 110 eV. These maxima give collision times and distances which are consistent with the adiabatic hypothesis. For energies beyond the maxima, the cross sections decrease very slowly with increasing energy. Furthermore, the cross sections for excitation to the higher levels decrease more rapidly than the cross sections for excitation to the lower levels, an effect predicted by Shin in a three-dimensional calculation involving a semiclassical theory for the excitation of a classical harmonic oscillator. A comparison of our results with vibrational excitation studies of other systems demonstrates the unique features of the ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$-${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ system. The large values of these vibrational excitation cross sections and their wide effective kinetic energy span show that vibrational excitation must be an important process in a wide variety of physical phenomena.
Socioeconomic and Ethnic Disparities in Periocular Cutaneous Malignancies

Cutaneous malignancies make up the majority of periocular tumors diagnosed and treated by ophthalmologists. In this review, we examine literature regarding ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in incidence and clinical outcomes of the three most common cutaneous periocular tumors: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. In all three tumor types, the literature shows an increased incidence among two groups: those with lightly pigmented skin and those of higher socioeconomic status. While incidence is high in these groups, clinical outcomes for these patients tend to be good. Those with lower socioeconomic status and ethnic minorities, on the other hand, have a low incidence but are more likely to have poor clinical outcomes. These disparities are likely the result of both biologic and behavioral differences between patients and could provide opportunities for intervention to change risk perception and improve outcomes.
Rapid race perception despite individuation and accuracy goals

ABSTRACTPerceivers rapidly process social category information and form stereotypic impressions of unfamiliar others. However, a goal to individuate a target or to accurately predict their behavior can result in individuated impressions. It is unknown how the combination of both accuracy and individuation goals affects perceptual category processing. To explore this, participants were given both the goal to individuate targets and accurately predict behavior. We then recorded event-related brain potentials while participants viewed photos of black and white males along with four pieces of individuating information in the form of descriptions of past behavior. Even with explicit individuation and accuracy task goals, participants rapidly differentiated targets by race within 200 ms. Importantly, this rapid categorical processing did not influence behavioral outcomes as participants made individuated predictions. These findings indicate that individuals engage in category processing even when provided with ...
Upconversion processes in Ho:YAG

Uponversion processes in Ho:YAG were studied using laser pump excitation at 2014 nm. The emissions at 558 and 760 nm (5S2), 670 nm (5F5) and 930 nm (5I5), 1220 nm (5I6) were determined. The observations were compared with theoretical predictions.
Ammoniation of Whole Cottonseed at Atmospheric Pressure and Ambient Temperature to Reduce Aflatoxin M1 in Milk

Aflatoxin-contaminated cottonseed was treated with 1 1/2% ammonia and 10% water and packed into a 3 m in diameter by 30-m long polyethylene bag and held for 21 d. The ammoniated cottonseed was fed to lactating dairy cattle in two different trials. (a) Ammoniated cottonseed was added to a standard dairy ration for 90 cows at a level of 3.5 kg per cow per day for 19 d. Non-ammoniated cottonseed was then fed at the same level for 7 d. Daily analysis of the milk from the bulk tank was performed. No differences in aflatoxin M1 from the background level of 0.1 μg/L was noted until the 22nd day of feeding. The maximum aflatoxin M1 level was reached at 0.55 μg/L on days 25-27. Levels returned to 0.1 μg/L 4 d after resumption of the feeding of the standard dairy ration. (b) Two and two tenths kg per day of ammoniated or non-ammoniated seed were added to rations of each of 6 dairy cows for 7 d. Milk samples were taken two milkings before feeding of the cottonseed, at each milking during the feeding and for 7 d after cottonseed feeding ceased. Analysis of milk for aflatoxin M1 showed a maximum level of 1.8 μg/L from the group receiving the untreated cottonseed and a maximum of 0.18 from the group receiving the ammoniated meal. Milk from both groups was negative for aflatoxin M1 6 d after cottonseed feeding ceased. Ammoniation of whole cottonseed included in the ration of dairy cattle was effective in reducing the amount of aflatoxin M1 in their milk by approximately 90% but not in completely eliminating it at treatment conditions used.
Remote backward-propagating water lasing in atmospheric air

We demonstrate backwards lasing from atmospheric air humidity. The 656nm stimulated emission is obtained via two-photon excitation of atomic hydrogen created from water dissociation. The hydrogen lasing can be used for standoff optical gas detection.
Anxiety symptoms and risk of cognitive decline in older community-dwelling men.

Background: Previous research regarding anxiety as a predictor of future cognitive decline in older adults is limited and inconsistent. We examined the independent relationship between anxiety symptoms and subsequent cognitive decline. Methods: We included 2,818 community-dwelling older men (mean age = 76.1, SD ±5.3 years) who were followed on an average for 3.4 years. We assessed anxiety symptoms at baseline using the Goldberg Anxiety Scale (GAS; range = 0–9). We assessed cognitive function at baseline and at two subsequent visits using the Modified Mini-Mental State Examination (3MS; global cognition) and the Trails B test (executive function). Results: At baseline, there were 690 (24%) men with mild anxiety symptoms (GAS 1–4) and 226 (8%) men with moderate/severe symptoms (GAS 5–9). Men with anxiety symptoms were more likely to have depressed mood, poor sleep, more chronic medical conditions, and more impairment in activities of daily living compared to those with no anxiety symptoms. Compared to those with no anxiety symptoms at baseline, men with any anxiety symptoms were more likely to have substantial worsening in Trails B completion time (OR = 1.56, 95% CI 1.19, 2.05). The association was attenuated after adjusting for potential confounders, including depression and poor sleep, but remained significant (OR = 1.40, 95% CI 1.04, 1.88). Conclusion: In cognitively healthy older men, mild anxiety symptoms may potentially predict future decline in executive functioning. Anxiety is likely a manifestation of an underlying neurodegenerative process rather than a cause.
Mechanistic Insights into Solution-Phase Oxidative Esterification of Primary Alcohols on Pd(111) from First-Principles Microkinetic Modeling

We present an ab initio microkinetic model for the oxidative esterification of 1-propanol to methyl propionate over Pd(111). The model fully accounts for solvation of solution-phase species and added catalytic base and provides key insights into the factors that limit the activity of unpromoted Pd aerobic oxidation catalysts. In particular, we find that the activity is limited by the large steady-state surface H coverage, which destabilizes other adsorbed intermediates via lateral interactions, and substantial barriers governing the formation of O–H bonds, which is required for the reduction of O2 and removal of H byproducts from the catalyst surface.
Effect of IBA Treatments, Bottom Heat, Stock Plant Location, and Cutting Type on the Rooting of Spigelia marilandica Cuttings

Abstract Spigelia marilandica (India pink, pinkroot), a herbaceous perennial native to the United States, is underused in the nursery trade, in part because it is difficult to propagate. We found from the first of two studies conducted during winter 2007 that stem-tip cuttings collected from greenhouse-grown stock plants submersed in 3000 or 6000 ppm (mg·liter−1) potassium salt of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) for one minute had greater percentage rooting (average 76.6) than cuttings not treated with IBA (46.9). Bottom heat [average 27.2C (81F)] compared to no bottom heat [23C (73F)] increased rooting percentage from 48 to 85%. The second winter 2007 study determined that rooting percentage according to method of application of 3000 ppm IBA was in the order: solution dip (60.1) > powder dip (49.8) ≥ solution submersion (46.6) ≥ control (42.7). During summer 2009, bottom heat and the same methods of application of 3000 ppm IBA described above were applied to terminal (stem tip) or subterminal cuttings collec...
Decoupling Structures for Millimeter Wave Integrated Circuits in Digital CMOS Processes

This brief studies the effect of nonideal decoupling structures on the performance of single-ended circuits operating at the millimeter wave frequency range. Based on a first-order approximation, an upper limit on the impedance of decoupling structures is derived, given a prespecified accepted degradation in insertion loss. To verify the analysis, a 110-GHz single-ended amplifier with a compact decoupling structure based on distributed interdigitized metal-oxide-metal capacitor is implemented. The full-wave electromagnetic simulations of the decoupling structure show an input impedance of (0.47 – j0.12) $\Omega $ at 110 GHz, and the magnitude is less than $1~\Omega $ from 82 to 144 GHz. The degradation in the insertion loss of the matching network is simulated to be less than 0.5-dB compared with the use of ideal decoupling capacitors at 110 GHz. The area of the decoupling structure is $18\times 100 ~\mu \text{m}^{2}$ when implemented in 65-nm digital CMOS process.
Characterization of mouse chorda tympani responses evoked by stimulation of anterior or posterior fungiform taste papillae

Different gustatory papilla types vary in their locations on the tongue. Distinctions have often made between types, but variation within fungiform papillae has seldom been explored. Here, regional differences in fungiform papillae were investigated by flowing solutions selectively over either an anterior fungiform (AF, tongue tip) or a posterior fungiform (PF, middle third) region as taste-evoked activity was measured in the chorda tympani nerve of C57BL/6J (B6) mice. Significantly larger responses were evoked by NaCl applied to the AF than PF region, and the ENaC blocker amiloride reduced the NaCl response size only for the former. Umami synergy, based on co-presenting MSG and IMP, was larger for the AF than PF region. The regions did not differ in response size to sour chemicals, but responses to l-lysine, l-arginine, sucrose, and tetrasodium pyrophosphate were larger for the AF than PF region. Thus, fungiform papillae on the tongue tip differed from those found further back in their transduction mechanisms for salty and umami compounds. Gustatory sensitivity also showed regional variation, albeit with a complex relationship to palatability and taste quality. Overall, the data support a regional organization for the mouse tongue, with different functional zones for the anterior, middle, and posterior thirds.
Extending the life of legacy robots: MDS-Ach, a real-time, process based, networked, secure middleware based on the x-Ach methodology

This work shows how to add modern tools to legacy robots while retaining the original tools and original calibration procedures/utilities through the use of a lightweight middleware connected to the communications level of the robot. MDS-Ach is a middleware made for the Xitome Mobile Dexterous Social (MDS) Robot originally released in 2008. The robot is being actively used at multiple locations including the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory's Laboratory for Autonomous Systems Research (NRL-LASR). The MDS-Ach middleware gives the MDS Robot the software capabilities of modern robot systems using the x- Ach real-time processes based architecture. It controls the MDS Robot directly over the controller area network (CAN) bus via a dedicated real-time daemon. Each process communicates with the others over a network capable shared memory. The shared memory is a "first-in-last-out" (i.e. reads the newest data first) non-head-of-line blocking ring buffer which ensures readability of latest data first while retaining the ability to retrieve the older data. When running over a network, UDP or TCP protocol can be utilized depending on the timing and reliability requirements. SSH tunneling is used when secure connections between networked controllers are required. The MDS-Ach middleware is designed to allow for simple and easy development with modern robotic tools while adding accessibility and usability to our non-hardware-focused partners. Real-time collision avoidance and a robust inverse kinematics solution are implemented within the MDS-Ach system. Examples of collision avoidance, inverse kinematics implementation, and the software architecture are given.
Peak lung function during young adulthood and future long-term blood pressure variability: The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study.

Abstract Background and aims Long-term blood pressure variability (BPV) is associated with cardiovascular events independent of mean blood pressure (BP); however, little is known about its predictors. Methods Using data from the CARDIA study, we investigated the association between peak lung-function and long-term BPV in 2917 individuals (mean age 24.8 years, 45.3% males, 58.6% whites) who were not taking antihypertensive medications. Lung-function was measured using forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1-s (FEV1) at years 0, 2, 5, 10 and 20 and the maximum score attained was considered as peak lung-function. Variability independent of the mean (VIM) and coefficient of variation (CV) of BP were calculated to quantify BPV since achieving peak lung-function across 9 visits over 30 years. Results In a multivariate linear regression models, individuals in the 2nd (−0.64 mmHg; 95% CI: −1.06, −0.19), 3rd (−0.96; −1.47, −0.45), and 4th (−0.85: −1.53, −0.17) quartiles of FVC had lower VIM of systolic BP than the those in quartile 1 (p-trend = 0.005). CV of systolic BP was also lower by −0.58 (−0.98, −0.19), −0.92 (−1.42, −0.43), and −0.74 (−1.40, −0.08) percentage points, in the three progressively higher quartiles of FVC compared to quartile 1 (p-trend = 0.008). Similar findings were observed when the outcome was diastolic BPV. There was no association of FEV1 and FEV1-to-FVC ratio with BPV. Conclusions These findings suggest that smaller lung volume or restrictive lung disease during young adulthood, which result in lower peak FVC, may independently increase the risk of higher long-term BPV during middle adulthood.
Economics of production of broiler chickens fed maggot meal as replacement for fish meal.

The economics of production of broiler chickens considered for 0-35 days, 35-56 days, and 0-56 days was compared for fishmeal (FM) and maggot meal (MM) diets. The maggot meal diet had a replacement of the fish meal at 75%> on protein basis. Replacing FM at 75% with MM resulted in reduced cost of feed as well as cost /kilogramme weight gain of broiler chicken at starter, finisher and the overall production period. Consequently, net returns was raised by 15.79%, 12.28% and 13.63% respectively at the starter, finisher and during the overall production period. The increase in net returns are encouraging as the least cost diet had no negative effect on the performance of the birds. Therefore the profit-maximising objective of commercial broiler enterprises is achieveably by MM utilization in broiler feed as replacement for FM under this condition of reduced cost of production. Keywords: Economics of production, maggot meal, fishmeal, net returns
Restriction endonuclease analysis and nucleotide composition of satellite III DNA from Drosophila virilis.

Abstract Satellite III DNA from Drosophila virilis is composed of a tandemly repeated heptanucleotide containing the sequence which is normally cleaved by EcoRI∗ restriction endonuclease activity. However, we observed only a very limited amount of cleavage of satellite III DNA by this activity. Although methyldeoxyadenosine is known to block EcoRI∗ activity, no modified nucleotides were detected in satellite III DNA subjected to nucleotide composition analysis. Since the proportion of each nucleotide present was consistent with the heptanucleotide sequence, we speculate that the resistance of satellite III DNA to EcoRI∗ cleavage may result from the highly repetitive nature of this DNA.
Functional Imaging in Cardiac Tumors

Primary cardiac neoplasms are rare and identified in 0.05–0.15 % of cases in large autopsy [1, 2] and echocardiography series [3]. Primary cardiac tumors may be classified as benign or malignant. The most common benign cardiac tumors include myxoma, rhabdomyoma, fibroma, and lipoma, whereas the most common malignant primary tumors are sarcomas (angiosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, undifferentiated sarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma) and lymphoma [4, 5]. The majority, about three-fourth, of these tumors are benign [1, 2]. Secondary involvement of the heart or pericardium through local invasion or metastatic spread of malignant tumors is at least 20 times more common, identified in about 1.2 % of autopsy cases [1, 2] and 8 % of cancer victims [6]. Thoracic tumors (e.g., lung, breast, and esophagus) commonly invade the pericardium and heart. Other tumors that tend to metastasize to the heart include melanoma, soft tissue sarcomas, and gastric, pancreatic, thyroid, renal, and hepatocellular carcinomas [2, 6]. Cardiac involvement in lymphoma and leukemia is also common [2, 6]. When analyzed by the frequency according to the histologic type of the primary tumor, melanoma is the malignancy that more often metastasizes to the heart (46 % in autopsy series), followed by germ cell tumors (38 %), leukemia, and lymphoma [7].
A New Variational Functional for Space-Time Neutronics

A new variational functional for space-time neutronics is presented. This functional is stationary about the integro-differential form of the diffusion equation, in which the delayed neutron source is expressed as a convolution integral of the flux, and an integro-differential adjoint flux equation. The new functional is used to derive a quasi-static method that is similar to the improved quasistatic (IQS) method, except that the equation for the flux shape uses a different expression for the delayed neutron source. In a one-dimensional sub-prompt critical test problem, the new variational quasi-static method was slightly more accurate than the IQS method.