cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detailed facies analysis of the Upper Cretaceous Tununk Shale Member, Henry Mountains Region, Utah: Implications for mudstone depositional models in epicontinental seas

Abstract Lower-Middle Turonian strata of the Tununk Shale Member of the greater Mancos Shale were deposited along the western margin of the Cretaceous Western Interior Seaway during the Greenhorn second-order sea level cycle. In order to examine depositional controls on facies development in this mudstone-rich succession, this study delineates temporal and spatial relationships in a process-sedimentologic-based approach. The 3-dimensional expression of mudstone facies associations and their stratal architecture is assessed through a fully integrative physical and biologic characterization as exposed in outcrops in south-central Utah. Sedimentologic characteristics from the millimeter- to kilometer-scale are documented in order to fully address the complex nature of sediment transport mechanisms observed in this shelf muddy environment. The resulting facies model developed from this characterization consists of a stack of four lithofacies packages including: 1) carbonate-bearing, silty and sandy mudstone (CSSM), 2) silt-bearing, calcareous mudstone (SCM), 3) carbonate-bearing, silty mudstone to muddy siltstone (CMS), and 4) non-calcareous, silty and sandy mudstone (SSM). Spatial and temporal variations in lithofacies type and sedimentary facies characteristics indicate that the depositional environments of the Tununk Shale shifted in response to the 2nd-order Greenhorn transgressive-regressive sea-level cycle. During this eustatic event, the Tununk shows a characteristic vertical shift from distal middle shelf to outer shelf (CSSM to SCM facies), then from outer shelf to inner shelf environment (SCM to CMS, and to SSM facies). Shifting depositional environments, as well as changes in dominant paleocurrent direction throughout this succession, indicate multiple source areas and transport mechanisms (i.e. longshore currents, offshore-directed underflows, storm reworking). This study provides a rare documentation of the Greenhorn cycle as exposed across the entire shelf setting. High-resolution mapping of genetically-related packages facilitate the development of process-based depositional models that can be utilized for lateral correlations into the equivalent foredeep strata of the Cretaceous Interior.
Revaccination after Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Is Safe and Effective in Patients with Multiple Myeloma Receiving Lenalidomide Maintenance.

Abstract Guidelines recommend vaccination starting 12 months after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (aHCT), but there is varying practice for patients on maintenance therapy, with some centers not immunizing at all. Because of decreased vaccine rates among the general population causing loss of herd immunity, we aimed to establish the safety and efficacy of revaccinating multiple myeloma patients on lenalidomide maintenance (LM). Of the 122 patients who were vaccinated after aHCT between 2010 and 2014 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 91 (75%) were on LM. Vaccine responses were defined by increases between pre- and postvaccination titers. Reponses varied by vaccine type with 76% responding to pertussis, 70% diphtheria, 60% tetanus, 71% Haemophilus influenzae, and 58% pneumococcal. All patients retained minimal levels of polio immunity, but 27% responded with increased titers. Fewer patients received hepatitis A and B, but of those who did, 30% responded to hepatitis A and 40% to hepatitis B. No differences were seen in rates of response for those on LM at time of vaccination compared with those who were not. There were no vaccine-related adverse effects. Reimmunization with inactivated vaccines in patients on LM is therefore both safe and effective, offering this population immunity to vaccine-preventable diseases.
Mesenteric Oxygenation Changes Associated with Necrotizing Enterocolitis and Pneumoperitoneum after Multiple Blood Transfusions: A Case Report

Background The multifactorial pathology and broad clinical presentation of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) development in premature infants make prediction of disease onset extremely challenging. Over the past decade, packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusions have been temporally linked to the development of NEC in severely anemic preterm infants, although this issue is highly controversial. Purpose In this case study, we describe events of an extremely low birth-weight infant who developed NEC complicated by pneumoperitoneum after receiving multiple PRBC transfusions. Specifically, we describe mesenteric tissue oxygenation trend changes as measured by continuous near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) technology. Methods As part of a larger prospective, observational investigation, this infant was monitored with NIRS (INVOS 5100C; Medtronic, Boulder, Colorado) before, during, and 48 hours following PRBC transfusions. Results The infant demonstrated severe, prolonged, and persistent reductions in mesenteric tissue oxygenation following blood transfusions, yet routine physiologic monitoring did not indicate intestinal hypoperfusion or impending NEC onset. Implications for practice This report demonstrates the ability of NIRS to capture possible tissue ischemia during early stages of NEC that may help guide bedside therapeutic interventions. Implications for research Larger cohort studies to evaluate the ability of NIRS to capture early tissue ischemia are essential to validate the feasibility of adding this technology as a routine clinical bedside tool.Video Abstract available at https://journals.lww.com/advancesinneonatalcare/Pages/videogallery.aspx.
Sinter-Forging of Chemically Precipitated Nanocrystalline TiO2

Two mechanisms appear to occur during the sinter-forging of nanocrystalline titania. The first mechanism occurs at stresses below ≈ 25 MPa where the densification kinetics are shown to be independent of the stress. However, at higher stresses, the densification kinetics are greatly enhanced by a plastic flow mechanism. The nucleation rate of rutile during the concurrent anatase-to-rutile phase transformation is shown to be enhanced by compressive stresses; however, the overall transformation rate is increased only at high stresses. At these high stresses, the enhanced densification and increased nucleation and transformation rates allow for the production of nanocrystalline grain sizes in nearly dense samples.
Life-Cycle Environmental Impacts of Biofuels and Co-products

Issues of energy independence and security, global climate change, and the depletion of fossil resources drive research into biofuels and bioproducts. While emerging biofuels and biorefineries pursue lower carbon transportation fuels, careful consideration of a wide range of potential environmental impacts is necessary to avoid unintended consequences. These concerns can be addressed by holistic life-cycle evaluation of bioenergy/biofuel supply chains from raw materials acquisition, to fuel conversion and end use. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a promising tool for assessing the environmental sustainability of these biofuels. This chapter discusses current biofeedstocks and fuels, introduces the methodological framework of LCA, and explores challenges, critiques, benefits, and applications of LCA in evaluating the environmental performance and sustainability of emergent biofuels and co-product systems. An analysis of algal biodiesel production is presented as a case study, and the broader implications and potential of LCA to inform decision making are explored.
Immanuel Kants Schrift „Zum Ewigen Frieden — als Satire gelesen ein philosophischer Entwurf“ als Satire gelesen.

Das dritte Wort der ersten Zeile der knappen Vorrede zu Immanuel Kants Schrift „Zum ewigen Frieden — ein philosophischer Entwurf“ (1795) lautet bemerkenswerterweise „satirisch“. Gleichwohl ist dieses Adjektiv — soweit ich sehe — bisher nicht als Ausgangs- oder Bezugspunkt einer philosophisch-politischen Lekture oder Interpretation dieser wohl bekanntesten Schrift des Konigsberger Philosophen im Ganzen verwendet worden. Wenn es uberhaupt Erwahnung findet, so wird es einzig und allein auf diese Vorrede selbst bezogen, die ihr satirisches Moment, von Kant inszeniert, aus dem merkwurdigen Umstand zieht, dass sich der Titel „Zum ewigen Frieden“ uberraschenderweise nicht auf das allgemeine und ernste Thema des „Ewigen Friedens“ als Menschheitsproblem bezieht, sondern makaberer Weise als Inschrift auf dem Wirtshausschild eines hollandischen Gasthofes figuriert, auf dem ein Friedhof abgebildet ist, der doch von alters her fur die hier bestatteten Toten als ein Ort eben des „ewigen Friedens“ gilt.
The Forces of the Macrodynamic Realm

For most of human history, bands of 50 or so individuals organized into nuclear families of parents and offspring wandered a defined territory to secure food from gathering and hunting activities. Bands revealed no real inequalities. Economic activity was organized by the division of labor in kinship, with women gathering and men hunting. Religious rituals were conducted by individuals within the family, although at times a shaman or religious specialist could be found who served non-kin members of the band. Political activity did not exist because no individual had the power to tell others what to do. Education was mostly informal with children simply observing or helping parents and, in so doing, learning what was necessary.
The diverse functions of role models across primary care specialties.

Background and Objectives: This study investigated the relationship of role models to primary care specialty and gathered information on the attributes and functions of role models. Methods: A questionnaire on medical school experiences and attitudes was administered to primary care graduates from 24 US medical schools. Results: Questionnaires were completed by 1,457 physicians. Sixty-three percent of primary care respondents had a role model. Having a role model was significantly related to current specialty and ethnicity. Respondents most valued their role models’ patient relationships. For family medicine and internal medicine graduates, having a role model was related to more contact and more-positive views of faculty in their specialty. Those with a role model reported that primary care was encouraged at their medical school and were more satisfied with their specialty choice. Conclusions: Role models may be more important to students who are not well represented among medical school faculty, namely women, underrepresented ethnic minorities, and those interested in family medicine. For family medicine graduates, role models function to moderate negative stereotypes. Role models may also make explicit the values of physicians in that specialty, making students more informed when choosing a specialty and as a consequence more satisfied with the decision.
Predictive Value of Quantitative Uterine Fibroid Perfusion Parameters From Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound for the Therapeutic Effect of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Ablation.

OBJECTIVES To assess the predictive significance of quantitative perfusion parameters from contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) for the therapeutic response to high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation in patients with uterine fibroids. METHODS A total of 263 patients with single uterine fibroids were treated with HIFU ablation under ultrasound guidance. The arrival time, peak time, enhancement time, enhancement intensity, and enhancement rate were evaluated with pretreatment CEUS. According to a nonperfused volume ratio evaluation by posttreatment magnetic resonance imaging, all patients were assigned to groups with volume ratios of 70% or higher and lower than 70%. Then the predictive performances of different parameters for ablation efficacy were studied. RESULTS The arrival time, peak time, and enhancement time in the group with a nonperfused volume ratio of 70% or higher were longer than those in the group with a volume ratio lower than 70% (mean ± SD, 16.7 ± 3.5, 26.5 ± 4.9, and 10.2 ± 2.6 seconds, respectively, versus 13.3 ± 4.2, 20.8 ± 5.4, and 7.6 ± 2.3 seconds), whereas patients with a volume ratio of 70% or higher had a lower mean enhancement intensity and enhancement rate than those with a volume ratio lower than 70% (29.7 ± 16.7 dB and 3.2 ± 1.5 dB/s versus 63.2 ± 26.3 dB and 8.6 ± 4.3 dB/s; P < .05). The nonperfused volume ratio was negatively correlated with the enhancement intensity and enhancement rate (r = -0.631 and -0.712) but positively correlated with the arrival time, peak time, and enhancement time (r = 0.322, 0.456, and 0.477; P < .05). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the enhancement time, enhancement intensity, and enhancement rate were 0.73, 0.79, and 0.81 (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS Quantitative parameters from CEUS are potentially useful for evaluating the therapeutic effect of HIFU ablation for uterine fibroids.
The psychological contamination of pro-environmental consensus: Political pressure for environmental belief agreement undermines its long-term power

Abstract Is political pressure effective at producing pro-environmental action? While political pressure can have benefits, it may also sow the seeds for long-term backlash because it psychologically contaminates any emerging consensus. Three studies demonstrate the value of considering this psychological contamination perspective across three different environmental domains. Study 1 (n = 151) demonstrated that psychological contamination about climate science is a unique predictor of the likelihood of supporting both governmental and civilian action about climate change. Studies 2 (n = 302) and 3 (n = 351) used experimental scenarios to test psychological contamination's indirect role in the political pressure→contamination→rejection of governmental action chain. Using rainforest protection (Study 2) and recycling (Study 3), results provide support for the hypothesis that political pressure increases psychological contamination, which in turn decreases support for governmental action. We discuss implications of these findings for understanding Americans' lukewarm attitudes towards climate change action, and the ultimate success of pro-environmental policies more broadly.
Dentin and enamel demineralization inhibition at restoration margins of Vitremer, Z 100 and Cention N.

PURPOSE To examine the in vitro caries inhibition of a resin-modified glass-ionomer cement, and a fluoride and calcium releasing resin-based composite. METHODS Standardized Class V preparations were placed in 30 molars, the gingival margin placed below the cemento-enamel junction. Randomly, 10 Vitremer, 10 Z 100 and 10 Cention N restorations were placed according to manufacturer's instructions, in 30 teeth. The Z 100 non fluoride-releasing resin-based composite group acted as the control. All teeth had an acid-resistant varnish placed to within 1 mm of restoration margins and they were placed into artificial saliva for 2 weeks, the saliva being replenished every 48 hours. All teeth were subjected to thermocycling each day and to an artificial caries challenge (pH 4.4) for one hour twice a day. Sections of 100 µm were obtained, photographed under polarized light microscopy and then demineralized areas adjacent to restorations were quantitated. RESULTS The mean (± S.D.) area (µm 2) demineralization 100 µm from the enamel and dentin margins were: Vitremer 1,554 ± 1,153, 4,125 ± 301; Cention N 3580 ± 1,518, 6,246 ± 630; Z 100 13,257 ± 3,794, 8,842 ± 1,799. A Mann-Whitney Rank Sum Test indicated that Vitremer had significantly less enamel demineralization then Cention N (P< 0.003) and Z 100 (P< 0.001) and Cention N had significantly less enamel demineralization than Z 100 (P< 0.001) and Z 100 (P< 0.001). Vitremer also had significantly less dentin demineralization than Cention N (P< 0.001) and Cention N had significantly less dentin demineralization than Z 100 (P< 0.001). CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Recurrent caries remains a concern and this in vitro research indicates that Cention N, as well as Vitremer may clinically inhibit caries at restoration margins.
Illuminating HPV: An Experiential Learning Activity

Safer sex education efforts often emphasize the importance of condom use and the adverse consequences of sexual risk-taking: sexually transmitted infection (STI) and unplanned pregnancy. Few programs focus on another important aspect of sexuality education—cancer prevention—although the most common viral STI, human papillomavirus (HPV), is associated with thousands of cases of anogenital cancers yearly. Recent epidemiologic studies estimate that approximately 8 in 10 people will be infected with HPV during their lifetime. HPV poses unique clinical and educational challenges because of its viral reservoir, a large squamous genital field that is capable of harboring subclinical virus, even in the absence of symptoms. By gaining a clear understanding of the HPV viral reservoir, from which condom use affords only partial protection, sexuality educators are given a framework from which to emphasize the importance of routine cancer screening for sexually active individuals. An activity designed to illustrate vi...
Quality of the publications on the genetic damage in mammalian cells exposed to radiofrequency fields.

Four specific quality control measures were used to determine the quality of 225 publications on the genetic damage in mammalian cells exposed in vitro and in vivo to RF energy and they were as follows. (i) ‘Blind’ collection/analysis of the data to eliminate individual/observer ‘bias’. (ii) Adequate description of ‘dosimetry’ for independent replication/confirmation. (iii) Inclusion of ‘positive controls’ to confirm the outcomes. (iv) Inclusion of ‘sham-exposed controls’ which are more appropriate to compare the data with those in RF exposure conditions. In addition, meta-analysis of the data reported from 2160 tests was used to obtain the ‘d’ values or effect size or the standardized mean difference between the experimental and control cells. The relationship between d values and the above-mentioned quality control measures was ascertained. In addition, the correlation between the quality control measures and the conclusions (no significant difference between the cells exposed to RF energy and control cells; increased damage in former cells compared with the latter; increased, no significant difference and decreased damage in cells exposed to RF energy in the same experiment; decreased damage in cells exposed to RF energy) reported in the publications was examined.
HUMAN NUTRITION | Cardiovascular and Obesity Health Concerns

A healthy eating pattern is recommended for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease and overweight/obesity, two of the major chronic diseases that contribute to the global burden of diseases. The Mediterranean Diet, Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Diet and, the US Department of Agriculture Food Patterns all meet current food-based and nutrient recommendations and can include lean beef. Lean beef is a nutrient-dense food and contains essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B-vitamins, as well as good-quality protein. Incorporating lean beef in a healthy dietary pattern would be expected to promote adherence to food-based dietary recommendations, achieve nutrient adequacy, and decrease risk of many major chronic diseases, notably cardiovascular disease and overweight/obesity.
Efficient Thermal Processes Using Alternating Electromagnetic Field for Methodical and Selective Release of Hydrogen Isotopes

The controlled and selective release of hydrogen isotopes from lanthanum–nickel–aluminum (LANA) materials was achieved using an alternating electromagnetic field (AEMF). In the presence of the AEMF...
High resolution mapping and candidate gene identification of downy mildew race 16 resistance in spinach

Downy mildew, the most devastating disease of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.), is caused by the oomycete Peronospora effusa [=P. farinosa f. sp. spinaciae]. The P. effusa shows race specificities to the resistant host and comprises 19 reported races and many novel isolates. Sixteen new P. effusa races were identified during the past three decades, and the new pathogen races are continually overcoming the genetic resistances used in commercial cultivars. A spinach breeding population derived from the cross between cultivars Whale and Lazio was inoculated with P. effusa race 16 in an environment-controlled facility; disease response was recorded and genotyped using genotyping by sequencing (GBS). The main objective of this study was to identify resistance-associated single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers from the cultivar Whale against the P. effusa race 16. Association analysis conducted using GBS markers identified six significant SNPs (S3_658,306, S3_692697, S3_1050601, S3_1227787, S3_1227802, S3_1231197). The downy mildew resistance locus from cultivar Whale was mapped to a 0.57 Mb region on chromosome 3, including four disease resistance candidate genes (Spo12736, Spo12784, Spo12908, and Spo12821) within 2.69–11.28 Kb of the peak SNP. Genomewide association analysis approach was used to map the P. effusa race 16 resistance loci and identify associated SNP markers and the candidate genes. The results from this study could be valuable in understanding the genetic basis of downy mildew resistance, and the SNP marker will be useful in spinach breeding to select resistant lines.
The association of type of cannabis product used and frequency of use with problematic cannabis use in a sample of young adult cannabis users.

Abstract Research exploring patterns and predictors of problematic cannabis use behaviors among young adults is limited. This knowledge is essential for intervening to prevent abuse and dependence outcomes. Methods Young adult cannabis users (Mage = 19.2[SD = 0.8]) in Southern California (N = 1007) were classified by patterns of problematic cannabis use from the Cannabis Abuse Screening Test, using Latent Class Analysis. Multinomial regression evaluated the association of frequency of use (no past 30 day use, infrequent [use on 1–2 of past 30 days], semi-frequent [use on 3–9 of the past 30 days], and frequent [use on 10 or more of the past 30 days]) for each cannabis product type (combustible, edible, vaporized, concentrate, blunt) with class membership. Results Four distinct classes of cannabis-related problems were identified: “non-symptomatic” (no problems; 33.8 %), “non-recreational use” (before noon and when alone; 34.5 %), “moderate use problems” (before noon, alone, and memory problems; 8.0 %), and “severe cannabis problems” (all 6 problems; 23.7 %). Semi-frequent (AOR range: 1.85–4.63;ps Conclusions Differences in cannabis use problems across these classes and their predictors reveal the heterogeneity in cannabis-related problems experienced by young people. Combustible cannabis, vaporized cannabis, and blunt cannabis use may confer the most risk for cannabis abuse and dependency outcomes, with more frequent days of use contributing to increased patterns of risk.
Retinopathy of prematurity: Where are we today?

The purpose of this review is to discuss the history and pathogenesis of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and how this information currently impacts the understanding of risk factors for this complication of preterm birth. Aspects of retinal development, ROP development and progression, treatment, relevant basic science and clinical research studies are reviewed. Evolving knowledge in this field underscores the absolute necessity to reinforce the need for close follow-up of infants with ROP or a history of ROP to insure best visual outcomes into adulthood for children born prematurely.
Di- and Trinuclear Mixed-Valence Copper Amidinate Complexes from Reduction of Iodine.

Molecular examples of mixed-valence copper complexes through chemical oxidation are rare but invoked in the mechanism of substrate activation, especially oxygen, in copper-containing enzymes. To examine the cooperative chemistry between two metals in close proximity to each other we began studying the reactivity of a dinuclear Cu(I) amidinate complex. The reaction of [(2,6-Me2C6H3N)2C(H)]2Cu2, 1, with I2 in tetrahydrofuran (THF), CH3CN, and toluene affords three new mixed-valence copper complexes [(2,6-Me2C6H3N)2C(H)]2Cu2(μ2-I3)(THF)2, 2, [(2,6-Me2C6H3N)2C(H)]2Cu2(μ2-I) (NCMe)2, 3, and [(2,6-Me2C6H3N)2C(H)]3Cu3(μ3-I)2, 4, respectively. The first two compounds were characterized by UV–vis and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopies, and their molecular structure was determined by X-ray crystallography. Both di- and trinuclear mixed-valence intermediates were characterized for the reaction of compound 1 to compound 4, and the molecular structure of 4 was determined by X-ray crystallography. The elect...
Placental transmission and fetal distribution of cyclamate in early human pregnancy

Abstract Radioactive cyclamate was administered intravenously to women undergoing therapeutic abortion by abdominal hysterectomy in early pregnancy. Distribution in fetal tissues was studied by direct counting and autoradiography. Cyclamate crossed the placenta and was present in the fetal circulation at approximately one fourth of comparable maternal levels. It was widely distributed in fetal tissues with highest concentration in liver, spleen, and kidney. From autoradiographic studies no localization within specific cell types or organelles was observed. The total amount of cyclamate in the fetus, at maximum levels, represented slightly less than one per cent of the maternal intravenous dose.
Structural and functional conservation and divergence among acyl-CoA desaturases of two noctuid species, the corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea, and the cabbage looper, Trichoplusia ni.

In this report, we describe the structural and functional analyses of four acyl-CoA desaturase-encoding cDNAs that we isolated from RNA expressed in the pheromone gland of the corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea. We deduced the homology relationships of the encoded proteins, designated HzPGDs1, HzPGDs2, HzPGDs3 and HzFBDs, to each other and to previously described desaturases of the cabbage looper moth, Trichoplusia ni, the fly, Drosophila melanogaster, and other more distantly related organisms. We also isolated genomic DNA fragments of the four H. zea desaturase-encoding genes, determined the locations of introns present in them, and compared them to conserved intron positions in reported desaturase genes of other species. We measured the levels of the four desaturase mRNAs in H. zea pheromone glands and larval fat bodies by RT-PCR. We established the functional identities of the deduced proteins HzPGDs1 and HzPGDs2, encoded by the two desaturase mRNAs that are differentially and abundantly expressed in pheromone glands of sexually mature adult H. zea females, by functional expression of their encoding cDNAs in a desaturase-deficient mutant, ole1, of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We compared the unique unsaturated fatty acid profiles of HzPGDs1- and HzPGDs2-expressing transformants to those of strains expressing previously described Δ11 and Δ9 desaturases of T. ni.
Social science findings in the United States

The rising number of acres burned annually and growing number of people living in or adjacent to fire-prone areas in the United States make wildfire management an increasingly complex and challenging problem. Given the prominence of social issues in shaping the current challenges and determining paths forward, it will be important to have an accurate understanding of social dynamics. After providing a brief contextual background of fire management in the United States, this chapter focuses on a review of the key findings from social science research related to how the public views fire management in the United States. Primary topics discussed are public acceptance of fuels treatments on public lands, homeowner mitigation activities, and social dynamics during and after a fire. The goal of the chapter is to (1) provide fire managers and other interested stakeholders with an accurate understanding of what shapes public response to fire management before, during, and after fires; (2) provide a context for future research; and (3) inform future efforts to foster fire-adapted communities where people are aware of the fire risk and have taken appropriate action to reduce that risk and increase resilience to wildfire.
Decade in review-reproductive endocrinology: Understanding reproductive endocrine disorders.

The past decade has witnessed incredible advances in the field of reproductive endocrinology. The use of new genetic and genomic tools has had a particular impact, leading to advances in our understanding, diagnosis and treatment of reproductive endocrine disorders, particularly those related to the neuroendocrine control of reproduction and ovarian biology.
Microstimulation of afferents in the sacral dorsal root ganglia can evoke reflex bladder activity

Aims Pudendal afferent fibers can be excited using electrical stimulation to evoke reflex bladder activity. While this approach shows promise for restoring bladder function, stimulation of desired pathways, and integration of afferent signals for sensory feedback remains challenging. At sacral dorsal root ganglia (DRG), the convergence of pelvic and pudendal afferent fibers provides a unique location for access to lower urinary tract neurons. Our goal in this study was to demonstrate the potential of microstimulation in sacral DRG for evoking reflex bladder responses. Methods Penetrating microelectrode arrays were inserted in the left S1 and S2 DRG of six anesthetized adult male cats. While the bladder volume was held at a level below the leak volume, single and multiple channel stimulation was performed using various stimulation patterns. Results Reflex bladder excitation was observed in five cats, for stimulation in either S1 or S2 DRG at 1 Hz and 30–33 Hz with a pulse amplitude of 10–50 µA. Bladder relaxation was observed during a few trials. Adjacent electrodes frequently elicited very different responses. Conclusions These results demonstrate the potential of low-current microstimulation to recruit reflexive bladder responses. An approach such as this could be integrated with DRG recordings of bladder afferents to provide a closed-loop bladder neuroprosthesis. Neurourol. Urodynam. 34:65–71, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cholesterol efflux capacity in humans with psoriasis is inversely related to non-calcified burden of coronary atherosclerosis

Aims Cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC) was recently shown to predict future cardiovascular (CV) events. Psoriasis both increases CV risk and impairs CEC. However, whether having poor CEC is associated with coronary plaque burden is currently unknown. We aimed to assess the cross-sectional relationship between coronary plaque burden assessed by quantitative coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) with CEC in a well-phenotyped psoriasis cohort. Methods and results Total burden and non-calcified burden (NCB) plaque indices were assessed in 101 consecutive psoriasis patients using quantitative software. Cholesterol efflux capacity was quantified using a cell-based ex vivo assay measuring the ability of apoB-depleted plasma to mobilize cholesterol from lipid-loaded macrophages. Cholesterol efflux capacity was inversely correlated with NCB (unadjusted β -coefficient −0.33; P < 0.001), and this relationship persisted after adjustment for CV risk factors ( β −0.24; P < 0.001), HDL-C levels ( β −0.22; P < 0.001), and apoA1 levels ( β −0.19; P < 0.001). Finally, we observed a significant gender interaction ( P < 0.001) whereby women with low CEC had higher NCB compared to men with low CEC. Conclusions We show that CEC is inversely associated with prevalent coronary plaque burden measured by quantitative CCTA. Low CEC may therefore be an important biomarker for subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in psoriasis. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01778569.
Monitored wood use in Hood River homes: Saving energy or saving electricity

Abstract This paper analyzes wood use for space heating in the 100 Hood River Conservation Project (HRCP) participant homes that were submetered for electricity use, indoor temperature, and wood heat output. Analyses of survey data indicate that wood users live in larger homes and have larger families and higher incomes. Analysis of household reports of wood use and submetered wood use data indicates that the former are unreliable. HRCP energy conservation investments saved much more energy associated with wood than electricity in wood-using homes. Investments in wood-using homes were relatively the most cost-efficient at saving energy, but least cost-efficient at saving electricity. Future research on residential wood use should focus on collecting wood-use data which are more reliable than survey data but less expensive than submetering, developing techniques to adjust billing history data to better reflect wood use, and evaluating the benefits and costs of weatherizing wood-using homes.
Denervation effects on newt limb regeneration: DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis

Abstract Denervation of the regenerating limbs of adult newts results in a time-dependent loss in the capacity to incorporate radioactive precursors of RNA, DNA, and protein in the regenerating tissues, but not in neighboring nonregenerative tissue. The capacity to incorporate radioactive uridine decreases within 7 hours after denervation, whereas thymidine and leucine incorporation are not affected until 24 hours after denervation. The decrease in synthetic capacity of regenerating tissue can be reproduced in in vitro organ culture. It is suggested that the nerve may exert a direct control over the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and protein in regenerating tissues.
Analysis and Manipulation of the Structure of Odor Plumes from a Piezo-Electric Release System and Measurements of Upwind Flight of Male Almond Moths, Cadra cautella, to Pheromone Plumes

We investigated the plume structure of a piezo-electric sprayer system, set up to release ethanol in a wind tunnel, using a fast response mini-photoionizaton detector. We recorded the plume structure of four different piezo-sprayer configurations: the sprayer alone; with a 1.6-mm steel mesh shield; with a 3.2-mm steel mesh shield; and with a 5 cm circular upwind baffle. We measured a 12 × 12-mm core at the center of the plume, and both a horizontal and vertical cross-section of the plume, all at 100-, 200-, and 400-mm downwind of the odor source. Significant differences in plume structure were found among all configurations in terms of conditional relative mean concentration, intermittency, ratio of peak concentration to conditional mean concentration, and cross-sectional area of the plume. We then measured the flight responses of the almond moth, Cadra cautella, to odor plumes generated with the sprayer alone, and with the upwind baffle piezo-sprayer configuration, releasing a 13:1 ratio of (9Z,12E)-tetradecadienyl acetate and (Z)-9-tetradecenyl acetate diluted in ethanol at release rates of 1, 10, 100, and 1,000 pg/min. For each configuration, differences in pheromone release rate resulted in significant differences in the proportions of moths performing oriented flight and landing behaviors. Additionally, there were apparent differences in the moths’ behaviors between the two sprayer configurations, although this requires confirmation with further experiments. This study provides evidence that both pheromone concentration and plume structure affect moth orientation behavior and demonstrates that care is needed when setting up experiments that use a piezo-electric release system to ensure the optimal conditions for behavioral observations.
Steric-Induced Layer Flection in Templated Vanadium Tellurites

A series of organically templated vanadium tellurites has been prepared under mild hydrothermal conditions. Single crystals were grown from mixtures of NaVO3, Na2TeO3, and either 1,4-diaminobutane, 1,6-diaminohexane, or N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine in H2O. Each compound contains similar [V2Te2O10]n2n– layers. The layer metrics of [1,4-diaminobutaneH2][V2Te2O10], [1,6-diaminohexaneH2][V2Te2O10], [N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamineH2][V2Te2O10], and [piperazineH2][V2Te2O10] reflect the steric bulk of the respective amines. Topotactic conversions between compounds through amine exchange are possible in reactions in which an increase in the strength of the amine–[V2Te2O10]n2n– hydrogen-bonding network is observed.
Inhibition of peroxidase-catalyzed reactions by deferoxamine.

Abstract Phagocytes generate superoxide (O⨪2) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and their interaction in an iron-catalyzed reaction to form hydroxyl radicals (OH.) (Haber-Weiss reaction) has been proposed. Deferoxamine chelates iron in a catalytically inactive form, and thus inhibition by deferoxamine has been employed as evidence for the involvement of OH. generated by the Haber-Weiss reaction. We report here that deferoxamine also inhibits reactions catalyzed by the peroxidases of phagocytes, i.e., myeloperoxidase (MPO) and eosinophil peroxidase (EPO). The reactions inhibited include iodination in the presence and absence of chloride and the oxidation of guaiacol. Iodination by MPO and H2O2 is stimulated by chloride due to the intermediate formation of hypochlorous acid (HOCl). Iodination by reagent HOCl also is inhibited by deferoxamine with the associated consumption of HOCl. Iron saturation of deferoxamine significantly decreased but did not abolish its inhibitory effect on iodination by MPO + H2O2 or HOCl. Deferoxamine did not affect the absorption spectrum of MPO, suggesting that it does not react with or remove the heme iron. The conversion of MPO to Compound II by H2O2 was not seen when H2O2 was added to MPO in the presence of deferoxamine, suggesting either that deferoxamine inhibited the formation of Compound II by acting as an electron donor for MPO Compound I or that deferoxamine immediately reduced the Compound II formed. Iodination by stimulated neutrophils also was inhibited by deferoxamine, suggesting an effect on peroxidase-catalyzed reactions in intact cells. Thus deferoxamine has multiple effects on the formation and activity of phagocyte-derived oxidants and therefore its inhibitory effect on oxidantdependent damage needs to be interpreted with caution.
Uncorrelated Noise in Turbulence Measurements

Abstract We show that the error variance contributed by random uncorrelated measurement noise can be merged with the error variance contributed by real variations in the atmosphere to obtain a single expression for the total error variance when the sampling time is much less than the integral scale of atmospheric variability. We assume that the measured signal is a representation of a variable that is continuous on the scale of interest in the atmosphere. The characteristics of this noise are similar, but not identical, to quantization noise, whose properties are briefly described. Uncorrelated noise affects the autocovariance function (or, equivalently, the structure function) only between zero and the first lag, while its effect is smeared across the entire power spectrum. For this reason, quantities such as variance dissipation may be more conveniently estimated from the structure function than from the spectrum. The modeling results are confirmed by artificially modifying a test time series with Poiss...
Mobilizing Public Will Across Borders: Roles and Functions of Communication Processes and Technologies

Public will is a social force that can mobilize organically, or with external support and influence, to become a political lever for social change. This essay investigates three different forms of public-will mobilization: endogenous, which occurs within the confines of a social system; networked, which involves partnerships and collaborations across borders of a social system; and exogenous, which involves the collaborative efforts of change agencies external to the social system. Particular attention is paid to the role of new media in helping to facilitate public-will mobilization within and across borders of all levels. Examples include mobilization efforts in China, Tanzania, Burma and Iran.
Photochemical separation of metals in aqueous solution

Abstract Several d-block transition elements have been separated from mixtures by photochemical means, using lines from various lasers. The species involved, oxalato complexes of Fe and Co, exhibit selective photoreduction following absorption in bands in the visible and near ultraviolet regions of the spectrum. This experiment is apparently the first demonstration of selective laser photochemistry in liquid phase mixtures of chemically related elements.
Formation, trapping, and lifetime of the biradicals generated in the photochemistry of valeraldehyde

The photochemistry of valeraldehyde was examined in the presence of the electron acceptors paraquat(1,1'-dimethyl-4,4'-bipyridylium) ions and 4-carboxy-1-methylpyridynium. Kinetic data for the trapping of biradicals by the compounds are shown in a graph.
Steady state Kalman Filter behavior for unstabilizable systems

Some important textbooks on Kalman Filters suggest that positive semidefinite solutions to the filtering Algebraic Riccati Equation (ARE) cannot be stabilizing should the underlying state variable realization be unstabilizable. We show that this is false. Questions of uniqueness of positive semidefinite solutions of the ARE are also unresolved in the absence of stabilizability. Yet fundamental performance issues in modern communications systems hinge on Kalman Filter performance absent stabilizability. In this paper we provide a positive semidefinite solution to the ARE for detectable systems that are not stabilizabile and show that it is unique if the only unreachable modes are on the unit circle.
Buyer behavior in business-to-business services: The case of foreign exchange

Abstract Empirical regularities in buying behavior observed in mostly consumer markets have been linked into a comprehensive model, the Dirichlet. No attempt has yet been made to see if this model applies to services in general or to business-to-business services in particular. In this paper, we examine the purchasing behavior of large multinational corporations from four countries who purchase foreign exchange contracts from the major banks. We highlight similarities to the patterns of buying behavior observed in consumer markets. Implications for the management of business-to-business services firms are discussed.
Taking a bird's eye view on a mouse model review: a comparison of findings from mouse models targeting DISC1 or DISC1-interacting proteins

DISC1 has garnered much interest from researchers trying to understand the neurobiology of psychiatric disease. DISC1 appears to function as a structural protein hub for a number of molecules, many of which are considered disease-relevant targets in their own right. Thus, in this article, we compare behavioral, anatomical and biochemical findings in genetic mouse models of DISC1 and DISC1-interacting proteins to better understand how dysfunction of DISC1 and/or its interactors could contribute to psychiatric pathophysiology through convergent effects on distinct cells, circuits and behaviors. Consistencies in phenotypes across mouse models suggest that DISC1 and its binding partners are particularly critical for working memory performance, proper neuronal migration and cortical volume, normal spine density, an intact monoaminergic system, proper levels of parvalbumin and normal cytokine/stress signaling in the rodent. If these DISC1 functions translate to humans, it would explain how alterations in DISC1 ...
Evolution of the supraorbital region in Upper Pleistocene fossil hominids from South‐Central Europe

South-Central European fossil hominids dated to the Upper Pleistocene exhibit a distinct morphological and metric continuum in supraorbital form from early Neandertal (Krapina), through late Neandertals (Vindija), to early Upper Paleolithic hominids. The supraorbital morphologies pertinent to this continuum are documented, and the alterations in size and morphology are discussed ralative to the function of supraorbital superstructures and their relationship to overall craniofacial form. It is concluded that this continuum most likely reflects localized transition between Neandertals and modern man in this region of Europe.
Longitudinal Effects of the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program on Cognitive Ability and Cognitive Style

50 college students practicing the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi program were administered the Culture Fair Intelligence Test and Group Embedded Figures Test. Significant longitudinal incr...
New wide-dynamic-range ADC for FPA applications

CMOS image sensors have several clear advantages over CCD image sensors: selective readout, low power, small size, high frame rate, on-chip functionality, and low cost. However CCD image system still dominates over digital camera market, because the CMOS image system has a poor dynamic range and peak signal-to-noise ratio. In this paper, we propose a new enhanced DR and SNR CMOS image sensor with pixel parallel analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and memory. The proposed reset and time-to-digital converter (TDC) increase the well capacity of the image sensor. Consequently, DR and peak SNR are increased simultaneously while other DR enhancement schemes can't increase peak SNR. The circuit reuse concept is proposed to increase the fill factor. We designed and simulated the proposed circuit and achieved 12bit resolution with 1000frames/sec. Power consumption per each pixel is 50nW. DR is increased by 36dB and peak SNR is enhanced by 18dB.
The exocyst complex is required for targeting of Glut4 to the plasma membrane by insulin

Insulin stimulates glucose transport by promoting exocytosis of the glucose transporter Glut4 (refs 1, 2). The dynamic processes involved in the trafficking of Glut4-containing vesicles, and in their targeting, docking and fusion at the plasma membrane, as well as the signalling processes that govern these events, are not well understood. We recently described tyrosine-phosphorylation events restricted to subdomains of the plasma membrane that result in activation of the G protein TC10 (refs 3, 4). Here we show that TC10 interacts with one of the components of the exocyst complex, Exo70. Exo70 translocates to the plasma membrane in response to insulin through the activation of TC10, where it assembles a multiprotein complex that includes Sec6 and Sec8. Overexpression of an Exo70 mutant blocked insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, but not the trafficking of Glut4 to the plasma membrane. However, this mutant did block the extracellular exposure of the Glut4 protein. So, the exocyst might have a crucial role in the targeting of the Glut4 vesicle to the plasma membrane, perhaps directing the vesicle to the precise site of fusion.
Buckling control of cast modular ductile bracing system for seismic-resistant steel frames

Abstract The buckling behavior of a new ductile bracing concept for steel structures is examined. The system makes use of cast components introduced at the ends and the center of the brace to produce a special bracing detail with reliable strength, stiffness and deformation capacity. The system takes advantage of the versatility in geometry offered by the casting process to create configurations that eliminate non-ductile failure modes in favor of stable inelastic deformation capacity. This paper presents analytical research performed to determine the buckling strength and buckling direction of the bracing element based on the geometries of the cast components. Limiting geometries are determined for the cast components to control the buckling direction. Design formulas for buckling strength are proposed.