cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Extracellular Loop II Modulates GTP Sensitivity of the Prostaglandin EP3 Receptor

Unlike the majority of G protein–coupled receptors, the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) E-prostanoid 3 (EP3) receptor binds agonist with high affinity that is insensitive to the presence of guanosine 5[prime]-O-(3-thio)triphosphate (GTPγS). We report the identification of mutations that confer GTPγS sensitivity to agonist binding. Seven point mutations were introduced into the conserved motif in the second extracellular loop (ECII) of EP3, resulting in acquisition of GTP-sensitive agonist binding. One receptor mutation W203A was studied in detail. Loss of agonist binding was observed on intact human embryonic kidney 293 cells expressing the W203A receptor, conditions where high GTP levels are present; however, high affinity binding [3H]PGE2 was observed in broken cell preparations washed free of GTP. The [3H]PGE2 binding of W203A in broken cell membrane fractions was inhibited by addition of GTPγS (IC50 21 ± 1.8 nM). Taken together, these results suggest that the wild-type EP3 receptor displays unusual characteristics of the complex coupled equilibria between agonist-receptor and receptor–G protein interaction. Moreover, mutation of ECII can alter this coupled equilibrium from GTP-insensitive agonist binding to more conventional GTP-sensitive binding. This suggests that for the mutant receptors, ECII plays a critical role in linking the agonist bound receptor conformation to the G protein nucleotide bound state.
Energetics, structure, mechanical and vibrational properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes

In this paper, we present extensive molecular mechanics and molecular dynamics studies on the energy, structure, mechanical and vibrational properties of single-wall carbon nanotubes. In our study we employed an accurate interaction potential derived from quantum mechanics. We explored the stability domains of circular and collapsed cross section structures of armchair (n,n), zigzag(n,0) , and chiral (2n,n) isolated single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) up to a circular cross section radius of 170 A. We have found three different stability regions based on circular cross section radius. Below 10 A radius only the circular cross section tubules are stable. Between 10 and 30 A both circular and collapsed forms are possible, however, the circular cross section SWNTs are energetically favorable. Beyond 30 A (crossover radius) the collapsed form becomes favorable for all three types of SWNTs. We report the behavior of the SWNTs with radii close to the crossover radius ((45, 45), (80, 0), (70, 35)) under uniaxial compressive and tensile loads. Using classical thin-plane approximation and variation of strain energy as a function of curvature, we calculated the bending modulus of the SWNTs. The calculated bending moduli are [kappa][sub](n,n)=963.44 GPa, [kappa][sub](n,0)=911.64 GPa, and [kappa][sub](2n,n)=935.48 GPa. We also calculated the interlayer spacing between the opposite sides of the tubes and found d[sub](n,n)= 3.38 angstroms, d[sub](2n,n)= 3.39 angstroms, and d[sub](n,0)= 3.41 angstroms. Using an enthalpy optimization method, we have determined the crystal structure and Young's modulus of (10,10) armchair, (17,0) zigzag and (12, 6) chiral forms (which have similar diameter as (10,10)). They all pack in a triangular pattern in two dimensions. Calculated lattice parameters are a[sub](10,10)= 16.78 angstroms, a[sub](17,0)= 16.52 angstroms and a[sub](12,6)= 16.52 angstroms. Using the second derivatives of potential we calculated Young's modulus along the tube axis and found Y[sub](10,10)=640.30 GPa, Y[sub](17,0)=648.43 GPa, and Y[sub](12,6)=673.94 GPa. Using the optimized structures of (10,10), (12,6) and (17,0), we determined the vibrational modes and frequencies. Here, we report the highest in-plane mode, compression mode, breathing mode, shearing mode and relevant cyclop mode frequencies.
On the Relativistic Theory of Charge

The concept of charge is developed relativistically by assuming that there is a linear relation between point charge (e) and point mass (m) of the type: \[ e =\zeta m \kern150pt (1) \] where ζ is a scalar parameter which is unchanged in all reference frames. The theory shows that charge, in a relativistic development based on this hypothesis, depends in general on the velocity of the particle carrying the charge, and the latter vanishes at the speed of light. The hypothesis (1) also implies that charge depends on the scalar and vector potentials of the electromagnetic field. These conclusions are in qualitative agreement with experimental observation.
Long-Term Portfolio Returns from Timber and Financial Assets

Executive Summary. This study estimates inflation adjusted multiperiod portfolio returns from direct real estate investments in Douglas fir and Southern pine timber stands combined with common stoc...
Comment on "Anomalies in chemical equilibria near critical points"

The apparent enhancement in the extent of the reaction ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$${\mathrm{O}}_{4}$ \ensuremath{\rightarrow} ${2\mathrm{N}\mathrm{O}}_{2}$, dissolved in near-critical ${\mathrm{CO}}_{2}$, an effect measured by Krichevskii, is reconsidered. The data are shown not to be consistent with the enhancement predicted by Procaccia and Gitterman. It is further shown that the entire effect can be quantitatively accounted for as a consequence of critical turbidity. It is concluded that Krichevskii's data cannot be used as an example of the proposed effect of critical points on the extent of a reaction and that great care should be taken when interpreting any data where the effect seems to appear.
Significance of irregular antibodies.

In addition to antibodies normally found in human blood serum, irregular antibodies provoked by the introduction of erythrocyte antigens on isologous erythrocytes may also be present. The serum of every pregnant woman, regardless of her D type, should be examined for irregular antibodies, and if they are found, the physician should be aware that they may cause serious blood transfusion reactions or hemolytic disease of the newborn.
Construction and in vitro expression of Toxoplasma gondii GRA8 eukaryotic expression plasmid

To construct an eukaryotic expression plasmid containing gene encoding Toxoplasma gondii RH strain dense granule protein GRA8,gene fragment encoding GRA8 was amplified by PCR with special primers from Toxoplasma gondii genomic DNA, and was cloned into pMD18-T vector.The right gene fragment encoding GRA8 in positive clone was digested with BamHand EcoRand was subcloned into pVAC which was also digested with BamHand EcoR.Then the recombinant plasmid was transformed into E.coli DH5α.The positive recombinant clone was characterized by PCR and digestion with restriction endonucleases. pVAC-GRA8 was transfected into Africa green monkey kindey Vero cell lines and expression of GRA8 in vero cell lines were detected by RT-PCR and immunoblot with rabbits sera infected with Toxoplasma gondii.The results showed that the gene fragment encoding GRA8 was amplified by PCR from Toxoplasma gondii genomic DNA and the insert of GRA8 in positive clone was coincident with the original sequence of GRA8 gene from GenBank,The recombinant plasmid pVAC-GRA8 was contructed through subcloning the right insert of GRA8 into pVAC properly; GRA8 was expressed in Vero cells transfected with pVAC-GRA8.In conclusion the eukaryotic expression plasmid pVAC-GRA8 was successfully constructed.
Cancer in Utah: Risk by Religion and Place of Residence

We compared cancer incidence during 1967--75 between Mormons and non-Mormons living in urban and rural areas of Utah. The non-Mormon urban men had a 34% higher risk of cancer compared with their rural counterparts. Most of this increase in risk occurred in sites associated with tobacco and for cancers of the stomach, colon, and prostate gland. Urban Mormon males had no significant increase in risk. The urban female population was at higher risk than was the rural regardless of religion. The increase was not as striking as that observed in non-Mormon men (8 vs. 34%); cancers of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts and female genitalia contributed to the elevated risk. We concluded that personal habits such as smoking and drinking and reproductive factors were possible explanations for the previously observed urban-rural gradients in cancer risk.
Factors influencing initiation of cocaine use among adults: findings from the Epidemiologic Catchment Area Program.

This study assesses the effect of a number of risk factors on the initiation of or progression in cocaine use using longitudinal analysis of data from the Epidemiological Catchment Area Study. Evidence is presented showing that depression is associated with initiating cocaine use. Becoming employed is positively associated with the risk of cocaine initiation.
Polarization in Abortion Attitudes in U.S. Religious Traditions, 1972-1998

Studies have shown that attitudes toward abortion are polarizing. Yet, these studies have not focused upon what is often assumed to be the cause of polarization—religion. In this paper I find that polarization has increased between mainline and evangelical Protestants, as well as between black Protestants and both Catholics and white evangelicals. Moreover, I find that mainline Protestants and Catholics are internally polarizing. Finally, while I cannot determine the cause of the internal polarization of Catholics, the polarization within mainline Protestantism is caused by demographic changes. For white evangelicals, demographic changes have restrained polarization that would otherwise have occurred.
Inpatient Neonatal Dermatology

This chapter discusses five cutaneous conditions seen in the newborn period that have implications for the health of the newborn: subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn, aplasia cutis, congenital melanocytic nevus, neonatal lupus, and incontinentia pigmenti. Neonatal subcutaneous fat necrosis is a disorder that presents with erythematous nodules in the newborn. It is a self-resolving condition associated with neonatal stress or hypothermia, and may be complicated by hypercalcemia. Aplasia cutis congenita is a heterogeneous group of disorders with many genetic and environmental causes, which all present with absence of the epidermis, and sometimes deeper tissues. Most lesions heal spontaneously with standard wound care, although larger lesions may need to be treated surgically. Neonatal lupus is a transient, passively acquired immune disorder due to maternal antibodies that can affect the skin, heart, and blood. The most serious risk is congenital heart block, which can be permanent and must be screened for carefully. Giant congenital melanocytic nevi are benign proliferations of melanocytes that may be associated with neurocutaneous melanocytosis and malignant melanoma. Proper surveillance for complications and avoidance of unnecessary prophylactic treatment is crucial. Incontinentia pigmenti is a rare dominant X-linked genetic disorder that presents with four distinct stages of skin lesions following the lines of Blaschko. Other systems that may be affected include the central nervous, dental, and ophthalmologic systems.
Examining the Role and Diversity of Fiscal Sponsors in the Nonprofit Sector

This study discusses and documents the role and diversity of fiscal sponsors within the nonprofit sector. Fiscal sponsors provide critical support to nascent nonprofits, yet relatively little is kn...
New Methods for the Site-Selective Placement of Peptides on a Microelectrode Array: Probing VEGF–v107 Binding as Proof of Concept

Cu(I)-catalyzed “click” reactions cannot be performed on a borate ester derived polymer coating on a microelectrode array because the Cu(II) precursor for the catalyst triggers background reactions between both acetylene and azide groups with the polymer surface. Fortunately, the Cu(II)-background reaction can itself be used to site-selectively add the acetylene and azide nucleophiles to the surface of the array. In this way, molecules previously functionalized for use in “click” reactions can be added directly to the array. In a similar fashion, activated esters can be added site-selectively to a borate ester coated array. The new chemistry can be used to explore new biological interactions on the arrays. Specifically, the binding of a v107 derived peptide with both human and murine VEGF was probed using a functionalized microelectrode array.
Polyvictimization and Developmental Trauma Adaptations in Sex Trafficked Youth

Human trafficking in children is often part of a larger constellation of childhood adversity. Many trafficked youth have been exposed to multiple layers of traumatic stress, including physical, sexual, and/or verbal abuse; witnessing violence; emotional neglect; and family dysfunction. This paper is a qualitative analysis of the charts of 32 youth who were sex trafficked as minors, including both foreign national and domestic youth. It explores their history of early adversity and polyvictimization and reviews common coercive strategies used by the traffickers, including manipulation of these children’s unmet physical and emotional needs. It identifies developmental trauma adaptations in these youth, including affect dysregulation and impulsivity; alterations in attention and consciousness; issues in interpersonal relationships; and impairments in self-perception and attributions. It concludes with recommendations based on these findings, including the development of developmentally and culturally appropriate trauma-informed services for sex trafficked children and youth.
Volatile Antifungal Compounds in Maize Kernels: Effect of Ear Position on Aflatoxin Production

Volatiles produced by ground maize kernels from 3 zonal areas of Pioneer Hybrid 3136 maize ear inhibited the growth of aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus and, therefore, production of aflatoxin B 1 in a static culture bioassay. Volatiles from kernels obtained from the medial zonal area of the maize ear resulted in 75% mean inhibition of A. flavus radial growth and 76% mean inhibition of aflatoxin contamination. Volatiles from kernels obtained from the apical zone resulted in 19% mean inhibition of radial growth and 33% mean inhibition of aflatoxin contamination. Volatiles from kernels obtained from the basal zone resulted in 23% mean inhibition of radial growth and 37% mean inhibition of aflatoxin contamination. Volatiles were purged on Tenax columns and analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Compounds highly toxic to A. flavus, such as C 4 -C 6 aldehydes, benzothiazole, methyl jasmonates, and 2-furancarboxaldehydes, were found mostly In volatiles from kernels obtained from the medial zone. These results demonstrate a relationship between volatile fungitoxic compounds from kernels obtained from different zonal areas and aflatoxin contamination.
Not only size matters: Early-talker and late-talker vocabularies support different word learning biases in babies and networks

In typical development, word learning goes from slow and laborious to fast and seemingly effortless. Typically developing 2-year-olds seem to intuit the whole range of things in a category from hearing a single instance named—they have word-learning biases. This is not the case for children with relatively small vocabularies (late talkers). We present a computational model that accounts for the emergence of word-learning biases in children at both ends of the vocabulary spectrum based solely on vocabulary structure. The results of Experiment 1 show that late-talkers' and early-talkers' noun vocabularies have different structures and that neural networks trained on the vocabularies of individual late talkers acquire different word-learning biases than those trained on early-talker vocabularies. These models make novel predictions about the word-learning biases in these two populations. Experiment 2 tests these predictions on late- and early-talking toddlers in a novel noun generalization task.
70. Faulkner’s the Sound and the Fury

(1972). 70. Faulkner’s the Sound and the Fury. The Explicator: Vol. 30, No. 8, pp. 129-131.
Generalized Confidence Intervals Compatible with the Min Test for Simultaneous Comparisons of One Subpopulation to Several Other Subpopulations

A problem where one subpopulation is compared to several other subpopulations in terms of means with the goal of estimating the smallest difference between the means commonly arises in biology, medicine, and many other scientific fields. A generalization of Strassburger, Bretz and Hochberg (2004) approach for two comparisons is presented for cases with three and more comparisons. The method allows constructing an interval-estimator for the smallest mean difference, which is compatible with the Min test. An application to a fluency-disorder study is illustrated. Simulations confirmed adequate probability coverage for normally distributed outcomes for a number of designs.
Kinetics of DNA Strand Displacement Systems with Locked Nucleic Acids.

Locked nucleic acids (LNAs) are conformationally restricted RNA nucleotides. Their increased thermal stability and selectivity toward their complements make them well-suited for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Although the structural and thermodynamic properties of LNA–LNA, LNA–RNA, and LNA–DNA hybridizations are known, the kinetic effects of incorporating LNA nucleotides into DNA strand displacement systems are not. Here, we thoroughly studied the strand displacement kinetics as a function of the number and position of LNA nucleotides in DNA oligonucleotides. When compared to that of an all-DNA control, with an identical sequence, the leakage rate constant was reduced more than 50-fold, to an undetectable level, and the invasion rate was preserved for a hybrid DNA/LNA system. The total performance enhancement ratio also increased more than 70-fold when calculating the ratio of the invading rate to the leakage rate constants for a hybrid system. The rational substitution of LNA nucleotides for DN...
The roentgenkymogram in myocardial infarction: II. Clinical and electrocardiographic correlation☆

Abstract 1. 1. A correlation is presented of the roentgenkymographic observations, electrocardiographic changes, and clinical course in 200 cases of acute and old myocardial infarction secondary to coronary artery occlusion. 2. 2. A close correlation was found between the incidence and degree of kymographic abnormalities and the clinical course, as judged by the severity of the attack and degree of recovery. The kymogram is usually normal when the attack is mild and the recovery good. Regression or complete disappearance of kymographic abnormalities is a good prognostic sign. The kymographic abnormalities are usually marked when the attack is severe and the recovery incomplete. 3. 3. The roentgenkymogram not infrequently presents abnormalities characteristic of myocardial infarction when the electrocardiogram is normal or atypical. On the other hand, the roentgenkymogram may remain normal or return to normal, while typical electrocardiographic abnormalities persist. These two methods of examination therefore supplement each other. 4. 4. The roentgenkymogram should prove to be of most diagnostic value during the acute stage, when the clinical course and electrocardiogram are not typical of coronary artery occlusion, and following recovery, when the characteristic signs of previous infarction have disappeared. 5. 5. Posterior infarction produced abnormalities in the posteroanterior kymogram as often as did anterior infarction. In only a minority of cases of either anterior or posterior infarction were abnormalities visualized better in the left oblique kymogram than in the posteroanterior kymogram. A possible reason for this is discussed. When multiple infarcts were present, or one involving both surfaces of the left ventricle, the frequency and degree of kymographic abnormalities increased. 6. 6. At post-mortem examination, systolic expansion in four cases could be correlated with a large area of infarction or thinning of the left ventricle. Diminution of pulsation occurred in one case in which there was a small posterior infarct, and in another in which there was diffuse myofibrosis.
Using noise to speed up video classification with recurrent backpropagation

Carefully injected noise can speed the convergence and accuracy of video classification with recurrent backpropagation (RBP). This noise-boost uses the recent results that backpropagation is a special case of the generalized expectation maximization (EM) algorithm and that careful noise injection can always speed the average convergence of the EM algorithm to a local maximum of the log-likelihood surface. We extend this result to the time-varying case of recurrent backpropagation and prove sufficient noise-benefit conditions for both classification and regression. Injecting noise that satisfies the noisy-EM positivity condition (NEM noise) speeds up RBP training. The classification simulations used eleven categories of sports videos based on standard UCF YouTube sports-action video clips. Training RBP with NEM noise in just the output neurons led to 60% fewer iterations in training as compared with noiseless training. This corresponded to a 20.6% maximum decrease in training cross entropy. NEM noise injection also outperformed simple blind noise injection: RBP training with NEM noise gave a 15.6% maximum decrease in training cross entropy compared with RBP training with blind noise. Injecting NEM noise also improved the relative classification accuracy by 5% over noiseless RBP training. NEM noise improved the classification accuracy from 81% to 83% on the test set.
Evaluation of the patient with hip pain

Hip pain is a common and disabling condition that affects patients of all ages. The differential diagnosis of hip pain is broad, presenting a diagnostic challenge. Patients often express that their hip pain is localized to one of three anatomic regions: the anterior hip and groin, the posterior hip and buttock, or the lateral hip. Anterior hip and groin pain is commonly associated with intra-articular pathology, such as osteoarthritis and hip labral tears. Posterior hip pain is associated with piriformis syndrome, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, lumbar radiculopathy, and less commonly ischiofemoral impingement and vascular claudication. Lateral hip pain occurs with greater trochanteric pain syndrome. Clinical examination tests, although helpful, are not highly sensitive or specific for most diagnoses; however, a rational approach to the hip examination can be used. Radiography should be performed if acute fracture, dislocations, or stress fractures are suspected. Initial plain radiography of the hip should include an anteroposterior view of the pelvis and frog-leg lateral view of the symptomatic hip. Magnetic resonance imaging should be performed if the history and plain radiograph results are not diagnostic. Magnetic resonance imaging is valuable for the detection of occult traumatic fractures, stress fractures, and osteonecrosis of the femoral head. Magnetic resonance arthrography is the diagnostic test of choice for labral tears.
The Lower and Middle Paleolithic

Europe in the ice age was a very different place than today, or rather, it was many different places. During the vast time period examined in this chapter the continent underwent numerous, dramatic changes in habitat and climate. Studies of these changes have focused on the geological record of river gravels and soil deposition, on the evidence for climatic changes preserved in deep sea cores, on the vegetational record preserved in pollen, and on the varying evidence of human artifacts. Each of these approaches has developed and modified its own chronological scheme; changes in one sort of evidence, however, tend not to correlate well with changes in others, so that there is an often bewildering variety of terms and stages used to describe the record of the past.
Prospective Analysis of Lipid Composition Changes with Antiretroviral Therapy and Immune Activation in Persons Living with HIV

Background: Lipid profiles are altered by HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART). Among HIV-uninfected (HIV-) populations the concentrations of various lipid classes (ie, lysophosphatidylcholine, LPC) and their saturated (SaFA), monounsaturated (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) composition are related to cardiometabolic disease risk. Associations between changes in the lipidome and immune activation in HIV-infected (HIV+) individuals beginning ART have not been described. Methods: Plasma lipid concentrations and their fatty acid composition were measured by differential mobility spectroscopy in samples from 35 treatment-naive HIV+ participants beginning raltegravir (RAL)-based ART and from HIV- individuals (N=13) matched for age and sex. Results: The levels of SaFA, including palmitic (16:0) and stearic (18:0) acid were enriched in HIV+ participants (pre- and post-ART), and SaFA levels were often positively correlated with levels of immune activation (ie, IL-6, sCD14, and TNFR1) at baseline and week 48. Levels of PUFAs (including 18:3, 20:4, and 20:5) were lower in HIV+ participants at baseline compared to levels in HIV- participants ( P <0.01), and levels of these PUFAs were increased following 48 weeks of ART. Levels of PUFAs were often inversely related to immune activation. Levels of LPC were increased in HIV+ participants, both pre- and post-ART vs HIV- participants, and the composition of LPC was enriched for SaFAs among HIV+ individuals. At week 48, several LPC molecules containing SaFAs were positively correlated with levels of sCD14, D-dimer, and TNFR1 ( P <0.01), and levels of PUFA-containing LPC (18:3, 20:5, 22:5, 22:6) were positively correlated with CD4+ T cell counts and inversely correlated with sCD14 and IL-6 ( P <0.01). Conclusions: The composition of the lipidome is altered in HIV infection and changes when ART is administered. Alterations in SaFAs were generally associated with inflammatory markers and may contribute to comorbid disease pathogenesis.
Inhibition of Dihydrostreptomycin Action against Mycobacterium smegmatis by Sodium, Magnesium, and Strontium Salts

Detailed knowledge of environmental factors affecting the bioactivity of antibiotics is needed for intelligent use of these agents in vivo and to aid in the selection or design of appropriate media and cultural conditions for in vitro susceptibility testing. The activity of aminoglycoside antibiotics is adversely affected by a host of environmental factors. For example, streptomycin action is influenced by organic culture medium constituents (1–3), pH (2–5), and anaerobic conditions (6). This chapter discusses specifically the effects of inorganic salts (i.e., the ionic environment) on aminoglycoside activity. Many independent studies, which will be summarized in the following section, have shown that inorganic salts can antagonize the bioactivity of aminoglycoside antibiotics against a variety of bacterial species. We recently demonstrated that salts can interfere with the bacteriostatic and bactericidal activities of dihydrostreptomycin against Mycobacterium smegmatis. SrCl2 was employed in a number of experiments designed to characterize the nature of this antagonism. These studies revealed several new and interesting effects of Sr2+ in a microbiological system. Since the reviews included in this volume are intended primarily for those interested in the behavior of Sr2+ ion on biological systems, a rather detailed consideration of our experiments with SrCh is presented.
Noncommutative Power Series and Formal Lie-algebraic Techniques in Nonlinear Control Theory

In nonlinear control, it is helpful to choose a formalism well suited to computations involving solutions of controlled differential equations, exponentials of vector fields, and Lie brackets. We show by means of an example —the computation of control variations that give rise to the Legendre-Clebsch condition— how a good choice of formalism, based on expanding diffeomorphisms as products of exponentials, can simplify the calculations. We then describe the algebraic structure underlying the formal part of these calculations, showing that it is based on the theory of formal power series, Lie series, the Chen series —introduced in control theory by M. Fliess— and the formula for the dual basis of a Poincare-Birkhoff-Witt basis arising from a generalized Hall basis of a free Lie algebra.
The Linear System |2D|

Let D be an ample divisor on an abelian variety X. Recall by Lemma 2.7 the complete linear system |2D| has no base points. Let φ : X → ℙ n be the morphism defined by |2D|.
Beyond the computer science curriculum: empowering students for success

Students learn most of the skills they need for a career in computer science through their college courses, especially the computer science courses. However, there are many skills, many life lessons, and many experiences that students can add to their repertoire in college life that are not defined as part of any particular course or courses. In this paper, we discuss things that are important in becoming a successful professional computer scientist, and how we have tried to empower our students in various areas tailored to computer science students in general, and specifically for students weak in certain areas. In particular, we discuss real-world and hands-on projects, independent study, internships, program verification, and the development of good communication, research, and social skills.
Gender and Electoral Behavior

Kittilson examines the general contours of men and women’s electoral participation and voting preferences in the post-World War II era through the theoretical lens of the “gender gap.” She provides an overview of gender gaps in voter participation and vote preferences around the world, focusing on cross-national and cross-temporal variations. Although early research was largely limited to the USA and Western Europe, more recent literature examines Eastern and Central Europe, Latin America, and Africa. Overall, gender differences in voter participation have narrowed in recent decades, such that today women are as likely as men to cast a ballot on election day. At the same time, gaps in vote choice have reversed direction: Whereas women tended to vote more conservatively than men, they now vote more progressively.
Hypotonic versus isotonic maintenance fluid administration in the pediatric surgical patient

Abstract Intravenous fluid administration has been occurring for well over one hundred years for a variety of pediatric disease processes. Surprisingly, clinicians have yet to agree upon a standardized intravenous solution. There is ongoing debate regarding the administration of isotonic versus hypotonic fluids as maintenance solutions. In this article, we will review what is known about different maintenance solutions, discuss the potential complications with their use, and summarize the available evidence to help guide clinicians in their choice of maintenance fluids for their patients.
Impact of a Rapid Point of Care Test for Influenza on Guideline Consistent Care and Antibiotic Use.

Background: Rapid influenza diagnostic tests that detect the presence of viral antigens are currently used throughout the United States but have poor sensitivity. The objective of this study was to identify if the use of a new highly accurate rapid point of care test would significantly increase the likelihood of guideline consistent care. Methods: We prospectively recruited 300 students at a university health clinic who presented with cough and 1 influenza-like illness symptom between December 2016 and February 2017 to receive care guided by a rapid polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Of the 300 patients receiving the PCR test, 264 had complete medical records and were compared to 771 who received usual care. We used a logistic regression model to identify whether PCR guided care was associated with guideline consistent care, based on the appropriate use of oseltamivir and antibiotics. We also assessed whether PCR guided care decreased the likelihood of return visits within 2 weeks by patients. Results: Logistic regression revealed that the odds of receiving guideline supported care did not significantly increase for patients who received PCR guided care (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.24; 95% CI, 0.83–1.88). It significantly decreased the likelihood of an antibiotic prescription (aOR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.40–0.94), increased the likelihood of receiving oseltamivir (aOR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.09–2.28), and decreased the likelihood of return visit within 2 weeks (aOR, 0.19; 95% CI, 0.04–0.81). Conclusions: The use of a rapid PCR test did not significantly improve the likelihood of guideline consistent care. However, independent of test outcome, patients who received the test were more likely to receive an antiviral and less likely to receive an antibiotic or have a return visit within 2 weeks.
Making the Mass White: How Racial Segregation Shaped Consumer Segmentation

The prevailing wisdom in many US marketing circles is that Whites do not comprise a discrete consumer segment. However, just because Whiteness is not explicitly named in marketing discourse does not mean that advertisers have never targeted a White market. Over the course of the twentieth century, Whiteness has been rendered synonymous with the marketing industry’s unmarked category for the average American consumer. First known in industry terminology as the “mass market” but currently termed the “general market,” the historical development of these concepts is inextricably tied to the long-standing practice of racial segregation in the USA. This chapter offers a historical survey and analysis of the racialized invention of the mass market in American marketing discourse and argues that by centering Whiteness and separating people of color as distinct from the mass, American market research and segmentation practices serve as key sites of knowledge production through which the politics of racial segregation are both mirrored and maintained.
Influenza infection impairs both ENaC and CFTR function in primary mouse tracheal epithelial cells

Influenza infection causes edematous pathophysiological processes in upper airway. The airway surface fluid is finely tuned by apically located epithelial sodium channels (ENaC) and cystic fibrosis...
FingerSight: A Vibrotactile Wearable Ring for Assistance With Locating and Reaching Objects in Peripersonal Space

This paper describes a prototype guidance system, “FingerSight,” to help people without vision locate and reach to objects in peripersonal space. It consists of four evenly spaced tactors embedded into a ring worn on the index finger, with a small camera mounted on top. Computer-vision analysis of the camera image controls vibrotactile feedback, leading users to move their hand to near targets. Two experiments tested the functionality of the prototype system. The first found that participants could discriminate between five different vibrotactile sites (four individual tactors and all simultaneously) with a mean accuracy of 88.8% after initial training. In the second experiment, participants were blindfolded and instructed to move their hand wearing the device to one of four locations within arm's reach, while hand trajectories were tracked. The tactors were controlled using two different strategies: (1) repeatedly signal axis with largest error, and (2) signal both axes in alternation. Participants demonstrated essentially straight-line trajectories toward the target under both instructions, but the temporal parameters (rate of approach, duration) showed an advantage for correction on both axes in sequence.
Meaning of Turnover in Biochemistry

IN a recent communication, Kleiber1 criticized the ‘logic’ of the term ‘turnover-rate’ used as an index of rate of synthesis, exchange, or appearance of some material2. He suggested that turnover-rate should properly refer only to the reciprocal of turnover time, that is, the fraction of a given metabolic pool renewed per unit of time.
Low-Dose Total Body Irradiation (TBI) Use As Part of Pre-Transplant Conditioning Regimen Is Associated with Worse Outcomes in Patients with Severe Aplastic Anemia (SAA) Treated with Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HCT)

Introduction Allogeneic HCT is a potentially curative strategy for SAA. In combination with fludaribine, anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) or alemtuzumab, low-dose (2 Gy) total body irradiation (TBI) has been incorporated in the conditioning regimen for matched unrelated donors (MUD) for SAA, with the intention of reducing the cyclophosphamide dose and rate of graft failure. Progressive telomeric shortening in SAA can theoretically increase the risk of radiation injury in affected patients. Outcomes between TBI and non-TBI containing conditioning regimens in SAA have not been systematically compared. Methods After regulatory approval, clinical and outcomes data for patients with SAA treated with allogeneic HCT from 1998-2018 were collected, and compared between TBI and non-TBI groups. Results Fifty seven patients were included in the study, median age 25 (range: 1-63) years; 23 (40%) 12 months in 28 (49%) patients. Graft source was bone marrow (BM) in 48 (84%) patients, followed by peripheral blood in 8 (14%), and cord blood in 1 patient. Twenty-nine (51%) patients were transplanted with matched sibling donors (MSD), followed by 20 (35%) MUD, and 13 (23%) others (cord/mismatch/haplo). TBI-containing regimens were used in 30 (53%) patients [MUD-20 (67%), mismatch-5 (17%)], while non-TBI regimens were used in 27 (47%) patients [MSD-24 (89%), mismatch-3 (11%)]. Although the rate of RBC (P = 0.02) and platelet transfusion dependence (P = 0.04) was higher in the TBI group, presence of clinically significant HLA alloantibodies prior to transplant (MFI>1000) was not different (P = 0.07). At a median follow-up of 77 (95% CI 63-95) months, there were 11 (19%) deaths [TBI-8 (27%), non-TBI-3 (11%), p=0.1]. Median overall survival (OS) was lower in the TBI group among MSD donors (163 mo v/s median NR, P = 0.01), and MSD+MUD donors (93 mo v/s NR, P = 0.0002, figure 1). The two groups did not significantly differ in terms of rates of graft failure (P = 0.7), acute (P =0.2), and chronic GVHD (P =0.6), and documented infections (P =0.5). Based on prior knowledge of adverse prognostic factors in SAA and limited events, a Cox proportional hazard model was designed with three variables; age at transplant, donor source and TBI-use. Only TBI use was independently associated with poor OS (HR 6, 95% CI 1-33, P = 0.05). Conclusion In our limited series, low-dose TBI use as part of pre-transplant conditioning regimen for SAA was associated with poor overall survival, despite no significant differences in rates of post-transplant graft failure, GVHD, and infections. Prospective validation of this finding in larger cohorts is needed.
Management of 213 newborns required mechanical ventilation during transportation between hospitals

Objectlve To explore the strategies and results of transportation between hospitals for neonates under mechanical ventilation. Methods From January 2006 to December 2007,medical records of 213 newborn infants under meghanical ventilation transported to Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center,Guangzhou Children's Hospiml from other hospitals were reviewed.Emergent events,complications and relative managements and prognosis during the transportation were analyzed. Results No patients died during the transportation,giving a rate of Success of 100%.Before transportation,11 babies received sedatives and 157 were transported with indwelling gastric tube.During transportation,three cases required temporary parking for some emergency,and relieved after proper management.One case was due to dislocation of the tracheal tube,one due to cardiac arrest and one due to the tracheal tube block.After transportation,195 patients(91.6%) were fully recovered,11(5.2%) failed to receive any treatment,7(3.3%) died. Conclusiom Skilled doctors and nurses,full preparation before transportation and close monitoring and prompt and proper management during the transportation are essential for successful transportation of newborns under mechanical ventilation. Key words: Respiration,artificial; Infant,newborn; Transportation of patients; Neonatal nursing
Correlations of grain boundary segregation to sintering techniques in a three-phase ceramic

Abstract The effects of using different sintering techniques (conventional, flash and spark plasma sintering) on grain boundary segregation were investigated in a 3-phase polycrystalline ceramic containing cubic 8 mol% Y2O3 stabilized ZrO2 (YSZ), α-Al2O3 and MgAl2O4. Six types of interfaces for each sintered sample were analyzed for grain boundary chemistry. Using aberration-corrected STEM and EDS, we show Al segregation at YSZ-YSZ boundaries, and Y/Zr segregation at Al2O3-Al2O3, MgAl2O4-MgAl2O4 and MgAl2O4-Al2O3 boundaries. YSZ-MgAl2O4 and YSZ-Al2O3 heterointerfaces, in contrast, do not show elemental segregation. Our results show that the type of segregation at different boundaries does not change with different sintering processes, indicating that elemental segregation mainly depends on initial sample composition, although the amount of segregation can vary. Quantitative analyses reveal that spark plasma sintering (950°C for 5 min, 100 MPa) results in relatively higher average segregation at grain boundaries and heterointerfaces compared to conventional sintering (1550°C for 10 h), suggesting that low temperatures result in higher grain boundary segregation. The average segregation concentrations at the grain boundaries of our flash sintered sample (estimated to reach 1700°C for 6 s) were found to be consistently similar to long-annealed spark-plasma sintered sample (1350°C for 20 h), suggesting that very high temperatures reached during flash process can achieve similar segregation concentrations compared to a SPS sample annealed for several hours at lower temperature. The presence of other phases in multi-phase systems can modify the grain boundary chemistry and segregation compared to segregation in single-phase ceramics.
Using the organic system plan template as a policy lever for improving biodiversity on US organic farms

In the USA, conservation and monitoring of biodiversity on organic farms have been poorly enforced, leading to the suggestion of explicitly addressing biodiversity through the organic system plan. We use primary data to examine the efficacy of this approach. We find that that farmers reporting using no-till farming, cover crops, and buffer strips observed improved or maintained levels of pollinator and wild animal biodiversity on their farms. Those using biological pest management observed higher or constant levels of pollinators on their farms. Inclusion of questions about biodiversity on the certifier-provided template, used to guide development of the organic system plan, was determined to be positively and significantly related to the predicted probability of observing higher or constant levels of pollinator and wild animal biodiversity on their farms.
What does it mean to be civic-ready? Uncovering citizenship conceptualizations in US states that require the ‘citizenship test’:

There is a growing trend within civics education within the United States to adopt the USCIS naturalization civics exam (commonly referred to as the ‘citizenship test’), which consists of 100 multi...
Perovskite films prepared by solvent volatilization via DMSO-based intermediate phase for photovoltaics

Abstract Perovskite films are commonly prepared by the anti-solvent method. However, the method is not suitable for large scale production. In this work, we develop a perovskite film fabrication technique based on dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) using volatilization solvents. The perovskite solute is modified by DMSO, and the volatile solvents of 2-methoxyethanol (2-ME), and methylamine ethanol 33 wt% in ethanol (MA ethanol) are designed to replace the traditional anti-solvent method due to the high vapor pressures of the solvents. Perovskite films are obtained by thermal treatment via phase transition from DMSO-based intermediate films. The perovskite film fabrications are optimized by the amount of DMSO, annealing temperatures, and perovskite precursor concentrations. The films with large grain sizes, uniform structure, and even surface are achieved. The photovoltaic properties of the perovskite films are studied. The films prepared by our method show high reproducibility, facile operation, and significant potential in large scale production for practical applications. Therefore, the method developed in this work paves the way for the commercialization of the perovskite solar cells (PSCs) in terms of repeatability, simplification, and large-scale production.
Clinical outcomes following high-dose-rate surface applicator brachytherapy for angiosarcoma of scalp and face.

Purpose Angiosarcoma is a sub-type of soft tissue sarcoma, often presenting as a multifocal or diffuse disease process with poor prognosis. This study presents outcomes of a single institution cohort of patients with angiosarcoma of the scalp and face following treatment with multimodality therapy, including high-dose-rate surface applicator (HDR-SA) brachytherapy, and represents the largest cohort utilizing this therapeutic approach. Material and methods Twenty patients with primary or recurrent angiosarcoma of the face or scalp were treated with HDR-SA brachytherapy between 2003-2018, with clinical characteristics and outcomes collected from medical records and used to identify prognostic features. Results Median follow-up was 45 months. Patients treated with HDR-SA brachytherapy had a 4-year local control rate of 63%, a 4-year progression-free survival (PFS) rate of 20%, and a 4-year overall survival rate of 54%. Disease features associated with worse loco-regional control (LRC) included location on the scalp (vs. face, p = 0.04) and tumor size ≥ 5 cm (p = 0.0099). Outcomes after HDR-SA brachytherapy for salvage therapy vs. HDR-SA brachytherapy as a component of an initial treatment approach were also significantly different, with worse LRC (p = 0.0084) and worse overall survival (OS) (p = 0.0019) in a setting of salvage therapy. Conclusions Local control rates following HDR-SA brachytherapy for scalp or face angiosarcoma are moderate and similar to what is described in the literature using a variety of local control treatment modalities. Smaller tumors and those involving the face rather than scalp had better outcomes. PFS rates were poor and there is a pressing need for treatment intensification and novel therapeutic options.
Fibro-Adipogenic Progenitors: Versatile keepers of skeletal muscle homeostasis, beyond the response to myotrauma

Abstract While Fibro-Adipogenic Progenitors (FAPs) have been originally identified as muscle-interstitial mesenchymal cells activated in response to muscle injury and endowed with inducible fibrogenic and adipogenic potential, subsequent studies have expanded their phenotypic and functional repertoire and revealed their contribution to skeletal muscle response to a vast range of perturbations. Here we review the emerging contribution of FAPs to skeletal muscle responses to motor neuron injuries and to systemic physiological (e.g., exercise) or pathological metabolic (e.g., diabetes) perturbations. We also provide an initial blueprint of discrete sub-clusters of FAPs that are activated by specific perturbations and discuss their role in muscle adaptation to these conditions.