cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Core Flow Turbulence on Planar Lobed-Mixer Nozzle Effectiveness

4 , based on the average velocity and lobe wavelength). The freestream turbulence level on the high velocity stream was augmented from 0.6% to 9.5% using a passive grid while the low velocity stream turbulence level remained constant at 1.5%. In addition to the experimental measurements a computational study was performed with the same inlet conditions for the two contrasting turbulence cases. The primary effect of adding a turbulence-generating grid to the high velocity stream of the mixer was that the upstream boundary layer remained attached in the diffusing portion of the mixer lobe geometry to a greater extent than for the low turbulence case. This was due to two factors: decreased boundary layer thickness with the addition of the grid and increased boundary layer mixing with the heightened freestream turbulence. The result was a larger difference in velocities at the interface of the two flows, a feature conducive to more rapid mixing of the two streams. The shear layer in the low velocity lobe of the mixer did not show a significant effect of the elevated freestream turbulence in the region where measurements were taken. The companion computational study, using a steady Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes solver with an RNG k-e turbulence model, achieved a high degree of similarity with the experimental results. Other turbulence models did not fare as well in this study. The implication is that the proper use of current computational methods can predict the effect of elevated freestream turbulence on lobed mixer performance reasonably well.
Stress response of germanium electrodes during Lithiation/delithiation cycling

An in situ study of stress evolution of germanium as a lithium-ion battery electrode material is presented. Thin films of germanium are cycled in a half-cell configuration with lithium metal foil as counter/reference electrode, with 1M lithium hexafluorophosphate in ethylene carbonate, diethylene carbonate, dimethyl carbonate solution (1:1:1, wt. %) as electrolyte. Real-time stress evolution in the germanium thin-film electrodes during electrochemical lithiation and delithiation is measured by monitoring the substrate curvature using the multi-beam optical sensing method. Germanium thin film undergoes extensive inelastic deformation during electrochemical lithiation and delithiation similar to silicon. The peak compressive stress during lithiation in germanium was 0.6 GPa, which is almost half of the peak compressive stress of lithiated silicon. The tensile stress of lithiated Ge on the other hand was almost same as that of lithiated silicon, 1 GPa of peak stress. The stress response of the first cycle was slightly different from that of the second cycle, which is an indication of irreversible structural changes in the Ge electrode during the first cycle. The Ge thin films survived stresses as high as 1 GPa of tensile stress without developing any cracks while the Si films under same conditions showed extensive cracking, consistent with previous observations which claimed lithiated Ge to be tougher than lithiated Si.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Ontogeny of development of the hypothalamic regualtion of gonadotropin secretion: effects of perinatal sex steroid exposure.

Ontogeny of development of the hypothalamic regulation of gonadotropin secretion was investigated with special emphasis on the effects of perinatal sex steroid exposure. 5-day-old rats were injected with the oil vehicle 1.25 mg testosterone propionate or 5 mcg estradiol benzoate. Synthetic luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) was injected at 6 15 or 20 days of age and blood was collected 30 minutes later. LH was measured by radioimmunoassay. The exposure of prepubertal rats to androgen produced anovulatory sterility and the sites of action of early androgen treatment were found to be multiple. Follicular responsiveness to endogenous LH release induced by exogenous or endogenous LHRH was suppressed and ovulation occurred only when peak plasma LH concentrations exceeded 200 ng/ml. The effects of LHRH on LH release in normal rats were found to depend primarily on whether or not the gland was dominated by testosterone or estradiol rather than the genetic sex of the animal. Even following steroid replacement in the androgen sterilized rat pituitary responsiveness to LHRH was reduced suggesting that increased concentration of LHRH would be required to induce an ovulatory release of LH under any circumstance. The most damaging malfunction produced by early androgen treatment was the inability of the preoptic area to initiate the spontaneous events essential for the release of LHRH into portal blood which would account for the anovulatory syndrome.
Plasma BMP-2 level and its clinical significance in patients with coronary calcification

AIM: To investigate plasma BMP-2 level and its clinical significance in patients with coronary calcification.METHODS: According to the results of coronary angiography(CAG),171 patients were divided into three groups: control group,stenosis without coronary calcification group,and stenosis with coronary calcification group.Plasma BMP-2 levels were studied and the plasma concentrations of BMP-2 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays(ELISA).RESULTS: Plasma BMP-2 levels in stenosis with coronary calcification group were higher than in the group of stenosis without coronary calcification.CONCLUSION: Elevation of plasma BMP-2 levels can be used as a marker for detection of coronary calcification.
Non-public competition and public school performance: evidence from West Virginia

ABSTRACTIn this study, we investigate whether non-public school enrolment affects the performance of public school districts. If homeschooling and private schools act as competition, public school districts test scores should be positively associated with non-public enrolment. Using data on West Virginia county school districts, and controlling for endogeneity with an instrumental variables approach, we find that a one standard deviation increase in relative non-public enrolment in a county is associated with statistically significant improvements in public school district test scores. Our findings thus confirm that non-public enrolment and the competition it provides act to improve, rather than impede, public school performance.
Seizures Induced by Eye Closure

A case of a 19-year-old mentally-retarded female with an unusual form of seizures induced by eye closure is reported from the Universities of Toronto and Calgary, Canada.
Sensemaking and visualization for situation cognition

Motivation - The study describes an on-going effort to develop empirically-based operational visualization concepts and their implementations to support sensemaking skills in ill-structured problem situations. Research approach -Military officers with command experiences are used to conduct sensemaking exercises in simple and moderately complex scenarios. Findings/Design -The study is a 2×2 between-subject design with two task scenarios and two sensemaking tools conditions. The use of Analysis of Variance revealed mean differences between aided and unaided groups and across task scenarios. Research limitations/Implications - The results indicate the need to use environment visualization aids to support sensemakers who normally deal with ill-structured problem situations. The limitation of the study is studying the different types of cue prompting and their presentation modalities (e.g., a combination of auditory and visual modes). Originality/Value -The existing literatures on situation awareness do not clarify the relationship between display and visualization, and sensemaking performance in ill-structured problem situations. Take away message - Attaining decision superiority in technology-enabled work place is enabled primarily by visualization and display tools which can make sensemaking tasks less cognitively taxing.
Essential role for CCR2 + inflammatory monocytes in early and late control of persistent Salmonella infection (INC2P.412)

Monocytes play a critical role in innate and adaptive immunity. Monocytes originate from progenitors in the bone marrow and traffic via the bloodstream to peripheral tissues, where they can differentiate into protective cell types such as macrophages and dendritic cells. Emigration of Ly6C hi monocytes from the bone marrow is dependent on CC-chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) and largely mediated by CC-chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2, also referred to as MCP1). We previously showed that large numbers of Ly6C hi Ly6G - CD11b + monocytes accumulate and persist in tissues of mice infected with the bacterial pathogen Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium ( S . Typhimurium). Here, we report that Ccr2 is required and Ccl2 is important for the recruitment of Ly6C hi Ly6G - CD11b + monocytes into tissues during persistent S . Typhimurium infection of hemizygous C57BL/6J Nramp1 G169 mice, which are phenotypically Nramp1 + . We show that Ccr2 - and Ccl2 -deficient mice are more susceptible to S . Typhimurium infection than wild-type mice, with Ccr2 -deficient mice being more susceptible to S . Typhimurium infection than Ccl2 -deficient mice. We also show that depletion of CCR2 + cells during the first or third week of S . Typhimurium infection increases susceptibility to salmonellosis. These results indicate that CCR2 + cells, including Ly6C hi Ly6G - CD11b + monocytes, play an essential role in early and late control of S . Typhimurium infection.
Well-defined nickel and palladium precatalysts for cross-coupling

Transition metal-catalysed cross-coupling is one of the most powerful synthetic methods and has led to vast improvements in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and precursors for materials chemistry. A major advance in cross-coupling over the past 20 years is the utilization of well-defined, bench-stable Pd and Ni precatalysts that do not require the addition of free ancillary ligand, which can hinder catalysis by occupying open coordination sites on the metal. The development of precatalysts has resulted in new reactions and expanded substrate scopes, enabling transformations under milder conditions and with lower catalyst loadings. This Review highlights recent advances in the development of Pd and Ni precatalysts for cross-coupling, and provides a critical comparison between the state of the art in Pd- and Ni-based systems. Elaborate molecules can be assembled in a relatively mild manner through organic cross-coupling reactions, with those mediated by group 10 metal complexes being particularly useful. This Review covers the development of nickel and palladium precatalysts, comparing state-of-the-art systems and offering design principles for future technologies.
Some Tools for Learning Game Design: Game Engines, Virtual Worlds, and Transmedia

There are a huge number of tools available to learning game developers today. Rather than detail all of them, this chapter provides a broad overview of what is out there with a few examples. We discuss what each general tool supports best in terms of learning game design from our experience.
Safety-Based Left-Turn Phasing Decisions for Signalized Intersections

The efficient and safe movement of traffic at signalized intersections is the primary objective of any signal-phasing and signal-timing plan. Accommodation of left turns is more critical because of the higher need for balancing operations and safety. The objective of this study was to develop models to estimate the safety effects of the use of left-turn phasing schemes. The models were based on data from 200 intersections in urban areas in Kentucky. For each intersection, approaches with a left-turn lane were isolated and considered with their opposing through approach to examine the left-turn–related crashes. This combination of movements was considered to be one of the most dangerous in intersection safety. Hourly traffic volumes and crash data were used in the modeling approach, along with the geometry of the intersection. The models allowed for the determination of the most effective type of left-turn signalization that was based on the specific characteristics of an intersection approach. The accompa...
Expanding the U.S. Electric Transmission and Distribution Grid to Meet Deep Decarbonization Goals

This Article, excerpted from Michael B. Gerrard & John Dernbach, eds., Legal Pathways to Deep Decarbonization in the United States (forthcoming in 2018 from ELI), addresses the critical role of the electric transmission and distribution grid in achieving deep decarbonization, and discusses the primary federal and state laws that govern expanding the grid. Although significant legal and political barriers exist to creating the new transmission necessary to meet deep decarbonization goals, there are public law and nonpublic law tools available to surmount these barriers. Moreover, technology developments in energy storage, demand response, distributed energy resources, and the smart grid can both improve the existing grid and reduce the extent of grid expansion required for deep decarbonization.
Development of polyvinylpyrrolidone/paclitaxel self-assemblies for breast cancer.

The goal of this investigation was to develop and demonstrate a polymer/paclitaxel self-assembly (PTX-SA) formulation. Polymer/PTX-SAs were screened based on smaller size of formulation using dynamic light scattering analysis. Additionally, fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry studies exhibited that polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-based PTX-SAs (PVP/PTX-SAs) had superior cellular internalization capability in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. The optimized PVP/PTX-SAs exhibited less toxicity to human red blood cells indicating a suitable formulation for reducing systemic toxicity. The formation of PVP and PTX self-assemblies was confirmed using fluorescence quenching and transmission electron microscopy which indicated that the PVP/PTX-SAs were spherical in shape with an average size range of 53.81 nm as detected by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). FTIR spectral analysis demonstrates incorporation of polymer and paclitaxel functional groups in PVP/PTX-SAs. Both proliferation (MTS) and clonogenic (colony formation) assays were used to validate superior anticancer activity of PVP/PTX-SAs in breast cancer cells over paclitaxel. Such superior anticancer activity was also demonstrated by downregulation of the expression of pro-survival protein (Bcl-xL), upregulation of apoptosis-associated proteins (Bid, Bax, cleaved caspase 7, and cleaved PARP) and β-tubulin stabilization. These results support the hypothesis that PVP/PTX-SAs improved paclitaxel delivery to cancer cells.
Random House v. Rosetta Books

s/sch99.htm. 14. See Reader's E-Book Primer: What's an E-Book, supra note 8, at http://www.ebookconnections.com/ReadersPrimer/what's-an-e-book.htm; James Sachs, SoftbookPress: Marketing a Paperless Reading System, INSTITUTE FOR CYBERINFORMATION (Summer 1998), at http://futureprint.kent.edu/articles/sachs01.htm. 15. Random House, 150 F. Supp. 2d at 615 16. Id. 17. Hyperlinks are embedded links which, when clicked with a mouse, immediately transport the reader to another part of the work or to other texts, audio, video, or other digital elements which are outside the book itself but accessible through. the Internet. See National Writers Union, supra note 12, at http://www.nwu.org//docs/online-p.htm (last modified April 16, 1997).
Gender Differences in Facial Rejuvenation

As the demand for facial rejuvenation procedures continue to grow, both male and female patients will seek out dermatologists to perform them. The most sought after procedures are neurotoxin and dermal fillers. There are substantial differences in genders in terms of aging, behavioral differences and facial anatomy. Having a firm understanding of these gender differences is essential in producing a successful outcome for male and female patients.
MHV Neuropathogenesis: The Study of Chimeric S Genes and Mutations in the Hypervariable Region

Mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) is studied as a model system for both acute and chronic virus-induced neurologic disease. Infection of susceptible mice with MHV results in a potentially fatal acute encephalomyelitis, and survivors of this acute disease often go on to develop a chronic demyelinating disease. Using targeted recombination we have demonstrated that the MHV spike (S) glycoprotein is a major determinant of the severity of the acute disease (Phillips et al., 1999). Isogenic recombinant viruses differing exclusively in the spike gene were found to differ dramatically in their neurovirulence. Recombinants containing the spike of the highly neurovirulent MHV-4 virus were highly neurovirulent while recombinants containing the spike of the mildly neurovirulent MHV-A59 virus exhibited a similarly mild degree of neurovirulence.
Development of a Regional System for Surgical Emergencies (RSSE)

In the United States, in the first decade of the twenty-first century, a 60-year-old man run over by a truck may have better access to life-saving care than a man with a perforated viscus or a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. The reason is that many states and counties now have regional systems to coordinate the care of injured patients, but the concept of a geographic plan for non-traumatic, but devastating, surgical emergencies is new. The trauma system model is appropriate for these other surgical emergencies and possibly for certain medical emergencies as well, such as stroke and acute myocardial infarction. The concept of trauma system development is based on the principle that the system adds value over and above the efforts of individual practitioners or hospitals.1, 2, 3
Orientational Phase Transitions in a Quasi-One-Dimensional Conductor

A method is presented by calculating orientational phase transitions in quadrupolar strands with itinerant-electrons, which arise from the coupling of the conduction electrons with librons (the small tortional oscillations about the equilibrium orientations of the molecules). The Peierls instability has been studied for a model of one-dimensional conductor in which the rotational motion is described in terms of a pseudo spin S=1 Hamiltonian, where the molecules in the solid interact through quadrupole-quadrupole and dipole-dipole interactions. The electron and libron fields are expressed in the second quantization representation and the Green’s function formalism is used to calculate the excitation spectrum of the coupled system. The derived expressions for both the electron and libron Green’s functions for the coupled system give a simple recursion formula for the Peierls transition temperature Tc, which is driven by the loss of librons from the Peierls condensate through thermal excitation. The recursion formula is solved numerically for a half- filled tight-binding conduction band and the dependence of Tcon the values of the different parameters in the problem is studied; the numerical results are graphically pre-sented. An expression for the electrical conductivity is derived, which describes the collective contribution arising from the phase oscillations of the lattice distortion.
Mother-Daughter Interpersonal Processes Underlying the Association Between Child Maltreatment and Adolescent Suicide Ideation.

Objective The aim of the present study was to investigate whether mother-daughter relationship quality and mother-daughter conflict represent mechanisms underlying the association between child maltreatment and adolescent passive or active suicide ideation. Method The sample included 164 socioeconomically disadvantaged depressed adolescent girls and their mothers (adolescents: mean age = 14.00 years; 66.3% African-American, 21.3% white, 14.0% Latina). Structural equation modeling was used to test three simultaneous and distinct mediating pathways linking child maltreatment to adolescent suicide ideation: (1) mother-daughter relationship quality, (2) mother-daughter conflict, and 3) adolescent depressive symptoms. Results Consistent with the interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide (Joiner, Why people die by suicide, 2005, Harvard University Press, Cambridge, MA), both mother-daughter relationship quality and mother-daughter conflict mediated the effect of child maltreatment on adolescent suicide ideation, over and above the significant depressive symptoms mediational pathway. Conclusions These findings advance our understanding of why individuals who experienced child maltreatment are at risk for suicide ideation and highlight the importance of relationship-based interventions for these vulnerable youths.
A 220 GHz OOK Outphasing Transmitter in 130-nm BiCMOS Technology

This paper presents a novel 220 GHz transmitter based on on-off keying (OOK) modulation in 130 nm SiGe BiCMOS process. An outphasing architecture is explored for the first time beyond 200 GHz to enable the use of nonlinear power amplifier-multiplier chains (AMC) while supporting nonconstant envelope modulation schemes. The transmitter consists of a high speed outphasing modulator and two identical power amplifier frequency doubler chains. The modulator modulates the phase difference of two parallel signal paths between 0° and 90° through a double-pole double-throw (DPDT) switch and two fixed-value phase shifters. A −2 dBm continuous wave output power is measured at 220 GHz with a 3-dB bandwidth of 20 GHz. A data rate of 8 Gb/s is reported at a total DC power consumption of 380 mW.
323 FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER PREVENTION: AN EVIDENCE-BASED APPROACH.

Purpose of Study Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) was identified as a significant health problem in the rural Native American community of Plummer, Idaho. An evidence-based prevention approach was designed to reduce the amount of alcohol-exposed pregnancies in this community. Methods An extensive literature review and consultation with experts in the field found empirically supported motivational interviewing to be the most effective way to change patient behavior using very brief interventions. Motivational interviewing uses open-ended questioning and summary statements to develop discrepancies between the patient9s current behaviors and their values or future goals. Resistance from patients is explored rather than confronted to avoid entrenchment and support autonomy. Techniques used in previously successful research studies were synthesized into a provider-delivered intervention. Using a previously validated approach, two groups were targeted: pregnant women and women who drink and use ineffective means of contraception. Results Community health providers were taught the motivational interviewing style and the developed intervention via a 30-minute PowerPoint presentation. The intervention was organized into an easy to follow flowchart and a copy was given to each provider. Community education and awareness materials about FASD were also updated. Conclusion Initial implementation of an evidence-based program to prevent FASD in the community is a step in the right direction. Targeting key community members and arming them with empirically supported techniques allow them to reach a larger audience.
Plant nitrilase: a new job for an old enzyme

Nitrilases are versatile enzymes that hydrolyze nitriles to carboxylic acids and ammonia, but many members of this family lack defined biological functions. In plants, nitrilases have been associated with detoxification of cyanide-containing compounds and auxin biosynthesis; however, recent work suggests that the chemical versatility of these proteins contributes to metabolite repair. In this issue of the Biochemical Journal, Niehaus et al. demonstrate that the Nit1 nitrilase from Arabidopsis thaliana functions as a metabolite repair enzyme that removes deaminated glutathione from the cytoplasm and plastids.
Exercising our options: comparing effects of exercise and positive expiratory pressure on mucociliary clearance.

This editorial discusses the paper by Dwyer and co-workers: “Effects of exercise and airway clearance (PEP) on mucus clearance in cystic fibrosis”, including implications for clinical care and future researchhttp://ow.ly/3P6X30o6EaK
A New Three-Dimensional Random Scanner for Ultrasonic/Computer Graphic Imaging of the Heart

Echocardiography is a valuable technique for cardiac diagnosis. It is now routinely used in many clinical situations to evaluate the aortic and mitral valves and to diagnose pericardial effusion. Although useful for many applications it does not meet urgent clinical needs for easier and faster diagnosis of structural abnormalities and for accurate, non-invasive evaluation of cardiac function. The use of echocardiography to establish the nature of a congenital cardiac malformation requires an unusually high degree of technical skill and knowledge of congenital heart disease. Such examinations are so difficult and time consuming that they are beyond the capability of all but the most dedicated and expert echocardiographer. In addition, while many studies have attempted to establish the usefulness of echocardiography for evaluation of cardiac function (1–5) the results have been disappointing. Recently an awareness of the limited usefulness of echocardiography for this purpose has developed (6,7). Echocardiography cannot provide precise estimations of ventricular volume although calculation of ejection fraction from the chordal echo diameter may be clinically useful (6).
Chapter 5 – Dissolution Characteristics of Metal Oxides and Kinetics of Ceramic Formation

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the dissolution characteristics of metal oxides and kinetics of ceramic formation. The chemically bonded phosphate ceramics (CBPC) formation is a result of the following three steps— the acid phosphates dissolve in water, release phosphate anions, and form an acid-phosphate solution of low pH; the oxides dissolve gradually in the low pH solution and release cations; and the phosphate anions react with the newly released cations and form a coordinated network, and consolidate into a CBPC. The dissolution of acid phosphates, or that of oxides, is an endothermic or heat absorbing reaction. As a result, there is some cooling effect on the slurry. However, the acid–base reaction is inherently exothermic generating heat during the reaction. The amount of net heat generated and the rate at which it is produced are also important factors in forming the CBPCs. The heating due to the acid–base reaction more than compensates for the initial cooling resulting from the dissolution steps, and the net effect of all three steps is to heat the slurry.
COCO-Search18: A Dataset for Predicting Goal-directed Attention Control

ABSTRACT Attention control is a basic behavioral process that has been studied for decades. The currently best models of attention control are deep networks trained on free-viewing behavior to predict bottom-up attention control—saliency. We introduce COCO-Search18, the first dataset of laboratory-quality goal-directed behavior large enough to train deep-network models. We collected eye-movement behavior from 10 people searching for each of 18 target-object categories in 6202 natural-scene images, yielding ∼300,000 search fixations. We thoroughly characterize COCO-Search18, and benchmark it using three machine-learning methods: a ResNet50 object detector, a ResNet50 trained on fixation-density maps, and an inverse-reinforcement-learning model trained on behavioral search scanpaths. Models were also trained/tested on images transformed to approximate a foveated retina, a fundamental biological constraint. These models, each having a different reliance on behavioral training, collectively comprise the new state-of-the-art in predicting goal-directed search fixations. Our expectation is that future work using COCO-Search18 will far surpass these initial efforts, finding applications in domains ranging from human-computer interactive systems that can anticipate a person’s intent and render assistance to the potentially early identification of attention-related clinical disorders (ADHD, PTSD, phobia) based on deviation from neurotypical fixation behavior.
Association of Insurance Status With Provision of Recommended Services During Comprehensive Postpartum Visits.

Importance Improving care during the postpartum period is a clinical and policy priority. During the comprehensive postpartum visit, guidelines recommend delivery of a large number of assessment, screening, and counseling services. However, little is known about services provided during these visits. Objective To examine rates of recommended services during the comprehensive postpartum visits and differences by insurance type. Design, setting, and participants This cross-sectional study included 20 071 093 weighted office-based postpartum visits (645 observations) with obstetrical-gynecological or family medicine physicians from annual National Ambulatory Medical Care Surveys from December 28, 2008, to December 31, 2016, and estimated multivariate regression models to calculate the frequency of recommended services by insurance type, controlling for visit, patient, and physician characteristics. Data analysis was conducted from November 1, 2019, to September 1, 2020. Exposures Visit paid by Medicaid vs other payment types. Main outcomes and measures Visit length and binary indicators of blood pressure measurement, depression screening, contraceptive counseling or provision, pelvic examinations, Papanicolaou tests, breast examinations, medication ordered or provided, referral to other physician, and counseling for weight reduction, exercise, stress management, diet and/or nutrition, and tobacco use. Results A total of 20 071 093 weighted comprehensive postpartum visits to office-based family medicine or obstetrical-gynecological physicians were included (mean patient age, 29.7 [95% CI, 29.1-30.3] years). Of these visits, 34.3% (95% CI, 27.6%-41.1%) were covered by Medicaid. Mean visit length was 17.4 (95% CI, 16.4-18.5) minutes. The most common procedures were blood pressure measurement (91.1% [95% CI, 88.0%-94.2%]), pelvic examinations (47.3% [95% CI, 40.8%-53.7%]), and contraception counseling or provision (43.8% [95% CI, 38.2%-49.3%]). Screening for depression (8.7% [95% CI, 4.1%-12.2%]) was less common. When controlling for visit, patient, and physician characteristics, the only significant difference in visit length or provision of recommended services based on insurance type was a difference in provision of breast examinations (14.7% [95% CI, 8.0%-21.5%] for Medicaid vs 25.6% [95% CI, 19.4%-31.8%] for non-Medicaid; P = .02). Conclusions and relevance These findings suggest that receipt of recommended services during comprehensive postpartum visits is less than 50% for most services and is similar across insurance types. These findings underscore the importance of efforts to reconceptualize postpartum care to ensure women have access to a range of supports to manage their health during this sensitive period.
Valuation of digital goods during the coronavirus outbreak in the United States

Abstract We examine how the Coronavirus pandemic affected consumer valuation of digital services. Governments responded to the pandemic with various forms of lockdowns and social distancing, leading to increased dependence on digital services for work, social engagement, and leisure activities. We identify consumer valuations through surveys where respondents express their reservation prices for digital services such as email, search, and social media. We compare our results to surveys done in 2016 and 2017 and find an about five-fold increase in valuations.
Supporting Sexual Minority Youth: Protective Factors of Adverse Health Outcomes and Implications for Public Health.

Abstract Purpose Sexual and gender minority (SGM) youth (e.g., gay, lesbian, bisexual, questioning, transgender) are systemically impacted by victimization and poor mental health because of discrimination in society. To prevent adverse outcomes, we must understand factors that help communities support and protect SGM youth. This study examined to what extent protective factors longitudinally predict outcomes 2 years later in an effort to inform more sensitive prevention efforts. Methods Students from nine Colorado high schools (N = 2,744) completed surveys across four consecutive school semesters (T1 to T4). Structural equation modeling was conducted to determine the longitudinal associations between baseline protective factors (access to medical and counseling services, help-seeking beliefs, trusted adults, family support, peer support, spirituality) and distal adverse outcomes (substance use, depression, suicidal ideation, peer victimization, bullying perpetration, sexual violence victimization and perpetration, homophobic name-calling victimization, and perpetration), by sexual orientation. Results All protective factors examined, except for access to medical services, were associated with lower likelihood of adverse outcomes. Associations differed across sexual orientations. For students identified as questioning or something other than heterosexual, lesbian, gay, or bisexual, family support is a notable protective factor of depression, peer victimization, bullying perpetration, and sexual violence perpetration. Family support was not significantly protective for these outcomes among heterosexual, lesbian, gay, and bisexual students. Conclusions There is no singular protective factor or universally impactful intervention for public health. Public health initiatives should recognize intersectional identities of young people and build strategies that are relevant to specific identities to create more comprehensive and effective programing.
Short- and intermediate-term exposure to ambient fine particulate elements and leukocyte epigenome-wide DNA methylation in older men: the Normative Aging Study.

Abstract Background Several epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) of ambient particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 µm (PM2.5) have been reported. However, EWAS of PM2.5 elements (PEs), reflecting different emission sources, are very limited. Objectives We performed EWAS of short- and intermediate-term exposure to PM2.5 and 13 PEs. We hypothesized that significant changes in DNAm may vary by PM2.5 mass and its elements. Methods We repeatedly collected blood samples in the Normative Aging Study and measured leukocyte DNA methylation (DNAm) with the Illumina HumanMethylation450K BeadChip. We collected daily PM2.5 and 13 PEs at a fixed central site. To estimate the associations between each PE and DNAm at individual cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG) sites, we incorporated a distributed-lag (0–27 d) term in the setting of median regression with subject-specific intercept and examined cumulative lag associations. We also accounted for selection bias due to loss to follow-up and mortality prior to enrollment. Significantly differentially methylated probes (DMPs) were identified using Bonferroni correction for multiple testing. We further conducted regional and pathway analyses to identify significantly differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and pathways. Results We included 695 men with 1,266 visits between 1999 and 2013. The subjects had a mean age of 75 years. The significant DMPs, DMRs, and pathways varied by to PM2.5 total mass and PEs. For example, PM2.5 total mass was associated with 2,717 DMPs and 10,470 DMRs whereas Pb was associated with 3,173 DMPs and 637 DMRs. The identified pathways by PM2.5 mass were mostly involved in mood disorders, neuroplasticity, immunity, and inflammation, whereas the pathways associated with motor vehicles (BC, Cu, Pb, and Zn) were related with cardiovascular disease and cancer (e.g., “PPARs signaling”). Conclusions PM2.5 and PE were associated with methylation changes at multiple probes and along multiple pathways, in ways that varied by particle components.
Abstract 14845: Targeted Delivery of Endothelial Cells Overexpressing Interleukin-8 Receptors Attenuates Ischemia-Reperfusion Acute Kidney Injury

Introduction: Ischemia-reperfusion acute kidney injury (AKI) damages the renal microvascular endothelium, prolonging the underperfused state of the kidney and exacerbating renal injury. Injured kidney tissue expresses large amounts of the neutrophil chemoattractant interleukin-8 (IL8) which binds to receptors (IL8RA and IL8RB) on neutrophil membranes. Hypothesis: This study tested the hypothesis that systemic transfusion of rat aortic endothelial cells (ECs) transduced with IL8 receptors (IL8RA/RB-ECs) ameliorates renal dysfunction and promotes structural recovery of the kidney following ischemia-reperfusion AKI. Methods and Results: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to AKI by clamping the left renal artery for 45 min and removing the right kidney. At time of reperfusion, 1.5x106 IL8RA/RB-ECs or vehicle were infused in the femoral vein. At 24 hrs after AKI, serum creatinine increased ~ 7-8 fold in the vehicle treated group and then gradually decreased towards baseline (Fig). In rats that received IL8RA/RB-ECs, the rise in serum creatinine was significantly blunted (46% lower at 24 hrs and 69% lower at 72 hrs). At 6 wks after AKI, the left kidney was harvested and stained with picrosirius red for assessment of collagen area (index of fibrosis) and CD31 (capillary density). Kidneys from rats that received IL8RA/RB-ECs showed significantly less fibrosis (2.1±0.3% vs. 8.0±2.6%) and higher capillary density (18.0±2.3 vs. 8.5±0.9, p<0.05 for both) compared to kidneys from vehicle-treated rats. ![][1] Conclusions: Using an innovative strategy of targeted delivery of ECs equipped with a homing device (IL8 receptors), ECs mimic the behavior of neutrophils and are attracted to the site of injury in order to accelerate tissue repair and preserve renal function following ischemia-reperfusion AKI. This novel approach of targeted systemic delivery of cell-based therapy for treatment of AKI is an attractive model that lends itself to future applications in humans. [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
An interferometric-spectroscopic orbit for the binary HD 195987: Testing models of stellar evolution for metal-poor stars

We report spectroscopic and interferometric observations of the moderately metal-poor double-lined binary system HD 195987, with an orbital period of 57.3 days. By combining our radial-velocity and visibility measurements we determine the orbital elements and derive absolute masses for the components of M(A) = 0.844 +/- 0.018 Msun and M(B) = 0.6650 +/- 0.0079 Msun, with relative errors of 2% and 1%, respectively. We also determine the orbital parallax, pi(orb) = 46.08 +/- 0.27 mas, corresponding to a distance of 21.70 +/- 0.13 pc. The parallax and the measured brightness difference between the stars in V, H, and K yield the component absolute magnitudes in those bands. We also estimate the effective temperatures of the stars as Teff(A) = 5200 +/- 100 K and Teff(B) = 4200 +/- 200 K. Together with detailed chemical abundance analyses from the literature giving [Fe/H] approximately -0.5 (corrected for binarity) and [alpha/Fe] = +0.36, we use these physical properties to test current models of stellar evolution for metal-poor stars. Among the four that we considered, we find that no single model fits all observed properties at the measured composition, although we identify the assumptions in each one that account for the discrepancy and we conclude that a model with the proper combination of assumptions should be able to reproduce all the radiative properties. The indications from the isochrone fits and the pattern of enhancement of the metals in HD 195987 are consistent with this being a thick disk object, with an age of 10-12 Gyr.
The beam driven chromospheric evaporation model of large solar flares: a model getting “no respect” from the sun

Since before the last solar maximum, theoretical and to some extent observational, flare physics were dominated by beam driven chromospheric evaporation models. Comparisons between theoretical predictions and observations from soft and hard X-ray radiations point to major model inconsistencies. An account of some of the inconsistencies as well as the requirements for a better soft X-ray model are presented.
Direct Observational Assessment during Test Sessions and Child Clinical Interviews.

Test sessions and child clinical interviews offer opportunities for direct observations of children’s behavior in controlled settings. Moreover, standardized instruments for test session and interv...
Robust Dynamic Human Activity Recognition Based on Relative Energy Allocation

This paper develops an algorithm for robust human activity recognition in the face of imprecise sensor placement. It is motivated by the emerging body sensor networksthat monitor human activities (as opposed to environmental phenomena) for medical, entertainment, health-and-wellness, training, assisted-living, or entertainment reasons. Activities such as sitting, writing, and walking have been successfully inferred from data provided by body-worn accelerometers. A common concern with previous approaches is their sensitivity with respect to sensor placement. This paper makes two contributions. First, we explicitly address robustness of human activity recognition with respect to changes in accelerometer orientation. We develop a novel set of features based on relative activity-specific body-energy allocation and successfully apply them to recognize human activities in the presence of imprecise sensor placement. Second, we evaluate the accuracy of the approach using empirical data from body-worn sensors.
Does associative LTP underlie classical conditioning

A major goal in cognitive neuroscience is to identify the cellular substrates that underlie learning and memory. One prominent approach toward achieving this goal has been to study the enhancement of synaptic transmission produced by high-frequency electrical stimulation. This activity-dependent increase in synaptic strength, which shares characteristics with memory, is commonly referred to as long-term potentiation (LTP). One focus within the LTP field is a phenomenon termed “associative LTP.” Associative LTP is an enhancement of response that develops specifically as a result of the coactivation of two anatomically distinct inputs. Some investigators have suggested that associative LTP is a substrate for classical conditioning, based on the apparent correspondence between the parameters of electrical stimulation used to induce associative LTP and the parameters of training used in classical conditioning. This commentary presents our view that the notion of a putative associative LTP/classical conditioning connection is of limited heuristic value. We have proposed an alternative interpretation of the findings based on the hypothesis that an associative LTP-like process occurs during behavioral conditions that produce intense coactivation of different groups of hippocampal synapses. Endogenous associative LTP might occur as a result of the synchronous activation of the hippocampus by rhythmic bursting activity (theta rhythm) and afferent activity conveying information about the animal’s environment. This approach minimizes fitting models of learning to the temporal constraints of classical conditioning training parameters and emphasizes an understanding of the behavioral conditions that maximize synaptic plasticity and information storage.
Interactions of dithiols with p-aminophenyldichloroarsine and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors

Abstract Interactions of dithiols with p-aminophenyldichloroarsine (APA) and with Torpedo nicotinic receptors were studied using two approaches. First, the stability of dithiol-APA complexes in solution was studied based on quenching thiol reactions with dithiobis-(nitrobenzoic acid). A peptide corresponding to a portion of the Torpedo alpha-subunit and various 1,2-dithiols such as 2,3-dimercaptopropanesulfonic acid (DMPS), 2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid formed stable complexes with APA, while 1,4-dithiols, such as dithiothreitol (DTT) and 2,5 dimercapto-N,N,N'N'-tetradipamide (DTA) did not. The Kd of APA association with DTT in Tris buffer is 2 microM. These data suggest that APA has greater affinity for reduced nicotinic receptors than for either DTT or DTA, a prediction that was experimentally confirmed, since these reagents do not reverse the effects of APA on nicotinic receptors. Second, application of DMPS and BAL, but not 2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid, to DTT-treated receptors both reversed the effects of APA-receptor complexes and prevented alkylation by bromoacetylcholine, suggesting that DMPS and BAL "oxidize" reduced nicotinic receptors. The presence of air is required for this "oxidizing" effect, but no clear mechanism was discovered, since prevention of formation of the reactive oxygen species superoxide, hydrogen peroxide, or hydroxyl radicals failed to block oxidation. These data suggest that oxygen reacts with dithiols to produce unknown reactive species that directly oxidize reduced nicotinic receptors, although other interpretations are still possible.
Immunoglobulin G levels and the titers of specific antiviral antibodies in amniotic fluid.

Abstract Preliminary data from the analysis of amniotic fluid/maternal serum pairings obtained at the time of premature and term deliveries for complement-fixing antiviral antibodies and immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels reveal that specific antibody in amniotic fluid appears early in gestation. It is predominantly a function of the corresponding maternal titer and does not vary significantly during gestation. The amount of IgG detected in amniotic fluid at 25 to 34 weeks of gestation is quantitatively comparable to that observed in amniotic fluid samples obtained at term. Analysis of either specific antibody or IgG levels in amniotic fluid independently suggests that the distribution of maternally derived IgG and consequently specific antibody, in amniotic fluid, unlike that in the fetal circulation, does not change significantly with the progression of gestation.
Comorbidity of partial and subthreshold ptsd among men and women with eating disorders in the national comorbidity survey-replication study †

Objective—The comorbidity of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and eating disorders (EDs) is high among women but has been understudied in men. Little is known about the association between partial or subthreshold PTSD and EDs among women or men. Method—This study included PTSD and ED data from male (n=2382) and female (n=3310) National Comorbidity Survey-Replication study participants. Results—The vast majority of women and men with anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge eating disorder (BED) reported a history of interpersonal trauma. Rates of PTSD were significantly higher among women and men with BN and BED. Subthreshold PTSD was more prevalent than threshold PTSD among women with BN and women and men with BED. Discussion—Interpersonal forms of trauma, PTSD, and subthreshold/partial PTSD, were prevalent among men and women with EDs. Findings highlight the importance of assessing for trauma and PTSD in ED patients.
VALUE OF MULTI-PLANAR CT IMAGES IN INTERACTIVE DOSIMETRY PLANNING OF INTRACAVITARY THERAPY

A method of intracavitary treatment planning and dosimetry analysis which uses multi-planar reconstructed computerized tomography (CT) images is presented. The aim of the method is to improve ability to precisely locate clinical reference points, to fully define pertinent anatomic structures and to provide dose distributions and their relationship to these structures in multiple planes. Our approach is based on interactive treatment planning and point dose display on sagittal and coronal reconstructed CT images as well as the usual transaxial image. The advantages of clinical evaluation of isodoses directly on multi-planar CT images are assessed. These include precise anatomic and dose relationships between the cervix and paracervical structures, the bladder, rectum and pelvic node-bearing sites. Problems of image magnification, blurred images and inadequate resolution attendant to orthogonal radiographs, which are the basis of current techniques, are minimal. Analysis and results of the method and a comparison with the technique of orthogonal radiographs are presented for a demonstration case.