cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Perspectives on the Diagnosis, Epizootiology, and Control of the 1973 Duck Plague Epizootic in Wild Waterfowl at Lake Andes, South Dakota

An epizootic of duck plague occurred in early 1973 in a population of 163,500 wild waterfowl, primarily mallards (Anas platyrhynchos), wintering on Lake Andes and the nearby Missouri River in southeastern South Dakota (USA). The diagnosis was based on pathologic lesions and confirmed by virus isolation. Control measures included quarantine, attempts to reduce virus contamination of the area, dispersal of waterfowl, and monitoring of wild waterfowl populations for mortality. The epizootic resulted in documented mortality of 18% and estimated mortality of 26% of the waterfowl at risk. Prompt implementation of control measures might have limited mortality to approximately 8%. Losses during the epizootic were equivalent to 0.12% of the annual mortality in the North American 1996 fall population of 80,000,000 wild ducks. The most likely sources of the infection were free-flying wild mallard or American black duck (Anas rubripes) carriers from the upper midwestern or northeastern United States. Duck plague serum neutralization antibodies were demonstrated in 31% of 395 apparently healthy mallards sampled prior to dispersal of the flock at Lake Andes, suggesting that tens of thousands of potential duck plague carriers entered the wild waterfowl populations of all four major flyways. Consequently, the absence of major epizootics of duck plague in wild waterfowl in the subsequent two decades is evidence that substantial numbers of duck plague carriers can occur in wild waterfowl populations without resulting in epizootic mortalities. The failure to isolate duck plague virus from apparently healthy mallards sampled during the epizootic raises questions concerning the validity of conclusions regarding the status of duck plague in wild waterfowl based upon negative results of random surveys conducted in the absence of epizootics.
Processing and Release of IL-16 from CD4+ But Not CD8+ T Cells Is Activation Dependent

IL-16 is synthesized as a precursor molecule of 68 kDa (pro-IL-16) that is processed by caspase-3, a member of the IL-1 converting enzyme (ICE) family. This cleavage results in a 13-kDa carboxy terminal peptide, which constitutes the bioactive secreted form of IL-16. We have previously reported constitutive IL-16 mRNA expression and pro-IL-16 protein in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Although bioactive IL-16 protein is present in unstimulated CD8+ T cells, there is no bioactive IL-16 present in CD4+ T cells. Along these lines, unstimulated CD8+ T cells contain active caspase-3. In the current studies we investigated the regulation of IL-16 protein and mRNA expression in CD4+ T cells and determined the kinetics of secretion following stimulation of the TCR. CD4+ T cells release IL-16 protein following antigenic stimulation, and this release is accelerated in time by costimulation via CD28. However, CD3/CD28 costimulation did not alter IL-16 mRNA appearance or stability in either CD4+ or CD8+ T cells. The secretion of bioactive IL-16 from CD4+ T cells correlated with the appearance of cleavage of pro-caspase-3 into its 20-kDa active form. Thus, resting CD8+ T cells contain active caspase-3 that is capable of cleaving pro-IL-16, whereas CD4+ T cells require activation for the appearance of active caspase-3. The mechanism of release or secretion of bioactive IL-16 is currently unknown, but does not correlate with cellular apoptosis.
Angular distribution of polarization transfer in 2H(d, p)3H

Abstract Measurements have been made of seven polarization transfer coefficients for the 2 H( d , p ) 3 H reaction. The experiment used a polarized deuteron beam from the Los Alamos Scientific Laboratory Lamb-shift polarized ion source, a liquid-nitrogen cooled deuterium gas target, a magnetic quadrupole triplet for focusing the reaction protons and a helium filled polarimeter for simultaneously measuring the proton polarization along two transverse axes. Results have been obtained at 10 MeV and for lab angles of 15, 30, 45 and 60 degrees for the vector transfer coefficients K x x ′ , K y y ′ and K z x ′ , and the tensor transfer coefficients K xx y ′ , K yy y ′ , K zz y ′ and K xz y ′ .
Viscoelastic Effects on the Scratch Resistance of Polymers: Relationship Between Mechanical Properties and Scratch Properties at Various Temperatures

Scratch resistance of polymers has been the subject of numerous studies, which have lead to specific definitions for plastic characteristic and fracture phenomena during scratch behavior. Viscoelastic and viscoplastic behavior during a scratch process has been related to dynamic mechanical properties that can be measured via dynamic nano-indentation testing. Yet, the understanding of the origin of the fracture process of a polymer during scratch remains approximate. Parameters like tip geometry and size, scratch velocity and loading rate, applied strain and strain rates, have been considered critical parameters for the fracture process, but no correlation has been clearly established. The goal of this work was to analyze the scratch resistance and indentation properties of PMMA as a function of temperature. Compression and tensile properties from literature have also been compared to the scratch results for more complete understanding of the material’s behavior. The analysis of the evolution of the properties of PMMA at various temperatures, along with the evolution of the fracture toughness during scratch with temperature and scratch velocity has helped in identifying a correlation between the tensile stress-strain behavior and scratch fracture toughness for PMMA. This correlation brings a new understanding of the origin of the fracture mechanisms during a scratch process, and the strain effect on the fracture strength of PMMA.
Norplant: Systemic Immunological Complications — Case Report:

The Norplant* system is composed of a set of six Silastic* (silicone polydimethysiloxane) capsules measuring 34 mm by 2.4 mm, each containing 36 mg of levonorgestrel and sealed at either end with a medical grade silicone elastomer adhesive. Levonorgestrel is a synthetic progestin, widely used in combination oral contraceptives and in single-agent "mini-pills". In a procedure completed in less than 15 minutes by an experienced physician, the six capsules are surgically implanted subdermally, most commonly on the inside of the left upper arm. The levonorgestrel diffuses through the Silastic material into the blood stream and is carried to the target organs. Ovulation is suppressed in the majority of the cycles during the first years of use, and cervical mucus is thickened, inhibiting sperm penetration. During use, the effective delivery of levonorgestrel is about 30 mcg/day from day 500 to day 2300. Recently, we have seen patients with complications from Norplant, and we describe here a patient who presented with systemic complications resulting from both the endocrinological aspects of Norplant and the immunological aspects of the Silastic implants. To our knowledge this is the first case report in the western medical literature describing systemic immunological complications as a result of a failed Norplant device.
Microarrays and Deep Sequencing in Clinical Microbiology: Moving from PCR testing to more sophisticated nucleic acid testing opens up great opportunities as well as considerable challenges

Nucleic acid detection technology is revolutionizing microbiological diagnostic testing. With the exception of infectious prion proteins, all pathogenic microbes contain DNA and / or RNA and are thus targets for nucleic acid-based testing. Some clinical microbiology laboratories are largely shifting to nucleic acid testing, which is particularly useful for detecting slow-growing or unculturable organisms such as viruses, mycobacteria, and fastidious bacterial pathogens. However, significant challenges remain before this technology can be applied universally in clinical laboratories.
Population ecology of preimaginal Culex tarsalis (Diptera: Culicidae) in Kern County, California.

The effects of abiotic and biotic mortality factors on preimaginal survivorship and the production of adults were investigated for populations of Culex tarsalis Coquillett at a stable foothill breeding site during 1985 and at seven ephemeral breeding sites during 1986. Female abundance was correlated temporally with larval abundance and spatially with first instar to adult survivorship. Catastrophic events, such as fluctuations in water level and pollution, drastically reduced larval and pupal abundance. Under relatively stable conditions, the effect of natural mortality factors was estimated by comparing preimaginal survivorship rates, estimated horizontally for fed and unfed cohorts in predator exclusion cages, with survivorship, estimated vertically from the age structure of the natural population using a life table approach. Mortality for fed cohorts ranged from 8.5 to 90.0% and was attributed to abiotic factors, including temperature and water quality. Mortality caused by lack of food was comparatively low (< 15%); however, the low nutrient level at three of six sites lengthened the duration of the fourth stadium, delayed pupation, and resulted in the emergence of small-sized adults with a reduced expression of autogeny. Predation mortality ranged from 3.7 to 84.5% and was the most important cause of larval death at five of six study sites. Based on relative abundance and correlation over time and space, zygopteran naiads were the most important predator at a stable foothill breeding site during 1985, and coleopteran larvae were the most important predator at ephemeral breeding sites sampled during 1986.
On the Emission and Absorption of Thermal Radiation in Photonic Crystals

We investigate the general features of thermal emission and absorption of radiation in photonic crystals. The light-matter interaction is strongly affected by the presence of the three-dimensional photonic crystal and the alteration of the photonic density of states can be used to suppress or enhance the thermal emissivity and absorptivity of the dielectric structure. Our analysis shows that the thermal response of the system depends on both the elementary absorbers/emitters and the photonic reservoir characteristics. In particular, we demonstrate that, depending on the system configuration, the thermal emission may exceed the free-space radiative energy density given by Planck's law. This modification of the Planck's law is achieved without altering the optical properties of the absorber/emitter medium, which remain consistent with the usual definition of a frequency and angle dependent grey-body. We also evaluate the rate of spontaneous emission, stimulated emission and absorption for thermally driven two-level atomic systems in a photonic crystal, and introduce effective A and B coefficients for the case of a photonic crystal.
The effects of steady swimming on fish escape performance

Escape maneuvers are essential to the survival and fitness of many animals. Escapes are frequently initiated when an animal is already in motion. This may introduce constraints that alter the escape performance. In fish, escape maneuvers and steady, body caudal fin (BCF) swimming are driven by distinct patterns of curvature of the body axis. Pre-existing muscle activity may therefore delay or diminish a response. To quantify the performance consequences of escaping in flow, escape behavior was examined in bluegill sunfish (Lepomis macrochirus) in both still-water and during steady swimming. Escapes executed during swimming were kinematically less variable than those made in still-water. Swimming escapes also had increased response latencies and lower peak velocities and accelerations than those made in still-water. Performance was also lower for escapes made up rather than down-stream, and a preference for down-stream escapes may be associated with maximizing performance. The constraints imposed by pre-existing motion and flow, therefore, have the potential to shape predator–prey interactions under field conditions by shifting the optimal strategies for both predators and prey.
CASE HISTORY OF SHORE PROTECTION AT PRESQUE ISLE PENINSULA, PA.

The beach protection aspects rather than the importance to navigation of Presque Isle Peninsula is stressed in this paper, The history of the locality is so extensive that only that which bears on beach protection and the portion deemed pertinent to provide background to the early importance of the site will be related. The three main reasons for protecting Presque Isle Peninsula are as follows: for protection of the natural harbor at Erie, Pennsylvania; for the preservation of the beaches which provide Pennsylvania's only public lakeshore recreational area on Lake Erie; and to prevent destruction of the only land access to the facilities on the peninsula. It is reported that in 1947 over 1,500,000 people visited the 3,200 acre Presque Isle State Park. There are also located on the peninsula installations of the Erie Water Works, the United States Coast Guard and the Pennsylvania State Department of Fisheries.
Abstracts of previous tutorials in this series: Multiple hypothesis tracking for multiple target tracking

Presents abstracts of previous tutorials published in IEEE Aerospace and Electronic Systems Magazine.
Clinical Improvement with JAK2 Inhibition in Chuvash Polycythemia.

Rare mutations in the VHL gene may lead to polycythemia in children. Ruxolitinib resulted in clinical improvement in three people with this disorder.
Thirty Years of Compositional Change in an Old-Growth Temperate Forest: The Role of Topographic Gradients in Oak-Maple Dynamics.

Ecological communities are structured in response to spatial and temporal variation of numerous factors, including edaphic conditions, biotic interactions, climatic patterns and disturbance regimes. Widespread anthropogenic factors such as timber harvesting can create long-lasting impacts, obscuring the relationship between community structure and environmental conditions. Minimally impacted systems such as old-growth forests can serve as a useful ecological baseline for predicting long-term compositional shifts. We utilized decadal tree species sampling data (1979–2010) divided into three strata (understory, midstory, overstory) to examine temporal changes in relative abundances and spatial distributions of dominant taxa, as well as overall shifts in community composition, in a relatively pristine Appalachian old-growth forest in eastern Kentucky, USA. Quercus and Carya species persisted mainly as mature canopy trees with decreasing juvenile recruitment, especially in mesic areas. In contrast, Acer, Fagus, and other mesophytic species were abundant and spatially widespread in subcanopy layers suggesting these species are more likely to recruit in gap-scale canopy openings. In the overstory, mesophytic species were spatially restricted to lower and mid-slope mesic habitats. Temporal changes in community composition were most evident in the understory and tended to be greater in mesic areas, a trend seemingly driven by recruitment failure among xerophytic species. In subcanopy vegetation we discovered a loss of distinction through time among the ecological community designations established following the 1979 survey (Chestnut oak, Mixed mesophytic, and Beech). The overstory was more stable through time, suggesting a storage effect where long-lived trees have maintained a particular community composition through time in areas where regeneration opportunities are minimal under current environmental conditions. Overall, sitewide canopy succession is occurring slowly in the absence of major disturbance, and topography-driven environmental variation appears to have an important local-scale filtering effect on communities.
Stigma and diurnal cortisol among transitioning transgender men

This study assessed diurnal cortisol functioning in relation to stigma-based transition-specific stressors experienced by transgender men during their transition from female to male. Sixty-five healthy transgender men undergoing testosterone therapy participated in in-person interviews through which transition-specific stressors were identified. Interviews were coded according to participant reported (1) Transitioning-identity stress; (2) Coming Out stress; (3) Gender-specific Public Bathroom stress; and (4) levels of general Perceived Stress. Participants provided fifteen salivary samples assessing cortisol diurnal rhythm over three days. Hierarchical linear models, adjusted for duration of time on testosterone therapy, body mass index, steroid-related medication use, mean awakening time, and CAR, confirmed that elevated diurnal cortisol levels at awakening were associated with transition-specific social stressors including experiencing Transitioning-identity stress, frequent Coming Out stress, and Gender-specific Public Bathroom stress. Transitioning-identity stress and Gender-specific Public Bathroom stress also predicted a steeper negative slope at awakening. General Perceived Stress was not associated with elevated cortisol or slope. These results clarify the relation of increased cortisol at awakening with a negative linear slope to perceived stigma and transition-related stress experience among transgender men.
A Novel Tobacco Use Phenotype Suggests the 15q25 and 19q13 Loci May be Differentially Associated With Cigarettes per Day and Tobacco-Related Problems

Introduction Tobacco use is associated with variation at the 15q25 gene cluster and the cytochrome P450 (CYP) genes CYP2A6 and CYP2B6. Despite the variety of outcomes associated with these genes, few studies have adopted a data-driven approach to defining tobacco use phenotypes for genetic association analyses. We used factor analysis to generate a tobacco use measure, explored its incremental validity over a simple indicator of tobacco involvement: cigarettes per day (CPD), and tested both phenotypes in a genetic association study. Methods Data were from the University of California, San Francisco Family Alcoholism Study (n = 1942) and a Native American sample (n = 255). Factor analyses employed a broad array of tobacco use variables to establish the candidate phenotype. Subsequently, we conducted tests for association with variants in the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor and CYP genes. We explored associations with CPD and our measure. We then examined whether the variants most strongly associated with our measure remained associated after controlling for CPD. Results Analyses identified one factor that captured tobacco-related problems. Variants at 15q25 were significantly associated with CPD after multiple testing correction (rs938682: p = .00002, rs1051730: p = .0003, rs16969968: p = .0003). No significant associations were obtained with the tobacco use phenotype; however, suggestive associations were observed for variants in CYP2B6 near CYP2A6 (rs45482602: ps = .0082, .0075) and CYP4Z2P (rs10749865: ps = .0098, .0079). Conclusions CPD captures variation at 15q25. Although strong conclusions cannot be drawn, these finding suggest measuring additional dimensions of problems may detect genetic variation not accounted for by smoking quantity. Replication in independent samples will help further refine phenotype definition efforts. Implications Different facets of tobacco-related problems may index unique genetic risk. CPD, a simple measure of tobacco consumption, is associated with variants at the 15q25 gene cluster. Additional dimensions of tobacco problems may help to capture variation at 19q13. Results demonstrate the utility of adopting a data-driven approach to defining phenotypes for genetic association studies of tobacco involvement and provide results that can inform replication efforts.
Duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT): a call for personalized medicine

Advances in drug-eluting stent (DES) technology have led to a decrease in the risk of developing stent thrombosis (1). Nevertheless, the optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) required after DES placement has remained elusive. Data from randomized studies have had conflicting results, with some suggesting that durations of DAPT as short as 3 or 6 months might be as effective in limiting these events as compared with longer durations previously supported by guidelines (2-5). On the other hand, the largest randomized study comparing DAPT durations, the DAPT study, found that continuation of therapy for 30 months significantly reduce rates of stent thrombosis and myocardial infarction (6), including among patients receiving second generation DES, at the expense of increased bleeding (7).
Controlled Pilot Study of High-Impact Low-Frequency Exercise on Bone Loss and Vital-Sign Stabilization in Adolescents With Eating Disorders.

Abstract Purpose Adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) face an increased lifetime risk of bone fragility. This randomized controlled study examined the efficacy and safety of a high-impact activity program on markers of bone turnover and stabilization of vital signs (VSS). Methods Forty-one hospitalized adolescents with AN were randomly assigned to routine care or routine care plus 20 jumps twice daily. Bone markers were measured at baseline days 1–3 (T1), days 4–6 (T2), and days 7–9 (T3). The primary outcome was change in bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BSAP) at T3 adjusted for BSAP and % median body mass index at T1. Secondary outcomes were serum N-telopeptide (NTX) and osteocalcin at T3. Safety was determined by comparing weight gain, time to VSS and length of stay for each group. Results BSAP, NTX, or osteocalcin did not differ between groups at baseline or at T3. BSAP and NTX at T3 were not associated with group of enrollment or % median body mass index. VSS was significantly reduced in the intervention group compared with the control group (11.6 ± 5.7 days vs. 17 ± 10.5 days, p = .049). There was no significant difference in weight gain or length of stay between groups. Conclusions Twice-daily jumping activity failed to influence markers of bone turnover in adolescents with AN but was well tolerated, shortened time to vital-sign stabilization and did not slow weight gain.
The pressure-induced deformation response of the human lamina cribrosa: Analysis of regional variations.

Abstract The objective of this study was to measure the pressure-induced deformation response of the human lamina cribrosa (LC) and analyze for variations with age and anatomical region. The posterior scleral cup of 8 eyes from 6 human donors was mounted onto a custom inflation chamber. A laser-scanning microscope was used for second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging of the collagen structure in the posterior volume of the LC at pressures from 5 mmHg to 45 mmHg. The SHG volumes were analyzed by the Fast-Fourier Iterative Digital Volume Correlation (DVC) algorithm for the three dimensional (3D) displacement field. The components of the Green–Lagrange strain tensor and the in-plane principal and maximum shear strains were evaluated from the DVC displacement field for the central and peripheral regions of the LC and the nasal, temporal, inferior, and superior quadrants surrounding the central retinal artery and vein. Among the major findings were that older age was associated with lower strains, the maximum shear strain was larger in the peripheral than central region, and the maximum principal strain was lower in the nasal quadrant. The elliptical shape of the LC was also predictive of the biaxial strain ratio. Age-related and structure-related variations in the pressure-induced strains of the LC may contribute to the susceptibility and severity of optic nerve damage in glaucoma, and regional variations may explain the progression of axonal damage and tissue remodeling observed in the LC in glaucoma. Statement of Significance Glaucoma causes vision loss through progressive damage of the retinal ganglion axons at the lamina cribrosa (LC), the connective tissue structure that supports the axons as they leave the eye. Mechanical characterization of the LC is challenging because of the complex 3D shape and inaccessibility of the tissue. We present a new method using digital volume correlation to map the 3D displacement and strain fields in the LC under inflation. We report for the first time significant regional variations in the strains that are consistent with the pattern of optic nerve damage in early glaucoma. Thus regional strain variations may be predictive of the progression of axonal damage in glaucoma.
An Investigation of Bayes Estimation Procedures for the Two-Parameter Logistic Model

The accuracy of Bayesian procedures was considered for estimation of parameters in the two-parameter logistic item response theory model. For the example data, all estimation procedures yielded comparable item and ability estimates. Simulated data sets were also analyzed using six estimation procedures for item parameters. Hierarchical Bayes estimation yielded consistently smaller root mean square differences and mean euclidean distances.
Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) overuse.

To the Editors: It was with great interest that I read the study by Partin and colleagues in the December 2012 issue of the Journal of General Internal Medicine (JGIM), wherein they address the overuse of colon cancer screening within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). As someone who just received a 25-year service pin from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and has seen the wonderful transformation of care within the system, I was intrigued by their findings. I clearly remember a time many years ago where the VA often didn’t do much to improve upon its poor reputation, one painfully depicted in the movie Born on the Fourth of July. I find it fascinating that now in the VHA, not only do we have chronic disease scores that surpass that of Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) commercial and Medicare rates, but these authors have found that we actually overuse fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and colonoscopy by their criteria. As someone who has toiled in the primary care trenches for two decades, I certainly understand several factors that are perhaps partially responsible for their findings. While I don’t support overuse, I feel it can be best explained by:
Funding rebellion: The Rebel Contraband Dataset

We introduce a new dataset measuring if and how rebel groups earn income from the exploitation of natural resources or criminal activities. The Rebel Contraband Dataset makes three contributions to...
Synaptic Mechanisms and Circuitry Involved in Motoneuron Control During Sleep

Spontaneous amplitude fluctuations of the brainstem monosynaptic trigeminal jaw-closing reflex were examined in the freely moving chronic cat during wakefulness, quiet sleep, and active sleep. The largest amplitude responses occurred during active wakefulness; they decreased in size during quiet sleep. The lowest amplitude responses occurred during active sleep. A chronic cat preparation was developed in order to record intracellularly from identified trigeminal motoneurons for prolonged period of time throughout the states of sleep and wakefulness. The membrane potential of trigeminal motoneurons exhibited fluctuations that were correlated with changes in the animal's behavioral state. The fundamental pattern consisted of (a) slight hyperpolarization during quiet sleep, compared to arousal or alert wakefulness, (b) little if any hyperpolarization during quiet sleep compared to quiet wakefulness, and (c) dramatic hyperpolarization when active sleep was compared to quiet sleep. Sustained spike activity of trigeminal motoneurons, when present during wakefulness, decreased in frequency or tended to occur in bursts when the animal was in quiet sleep. During active sleep, activity ceased except for a few isolated spikes or short-duration bursts of action potentials. Based on an analysis of antidromically induced spike potentials and monosynaptically induced postsynaptic potentials, it was concluded that postsynaptic inhibition of trigeminal motoneurons during active sleep acts to suppress somatic reflex activity and produce muscular atonia. A companion study of the membrane potential of lumbar motoneurons in the chronic, unanesthetized, undrugged, normally respiring cat was performed during sleep and wakefulness. The antidromic field potential, antidromic and orthodromic spike, EPSP, membrane input resistance, and rheobasic current of lumbar motoneurons were studied during sleep and wakefulness. No change in motoneuron excitability occurred when quiet wakefulness was compared to quiet sleep. Postsynaptic inhibition resulted in decrease in excitability during active sleep. Further phasic decreases in excitability, also due to postsynaptic inhibition, occurred during active sleep in conjunction with clusters of rapid eye movements. The mesencephalon, pons, and medulla were explored in a conditioning-test paradigm in an attempt to find a site where electrical stimulation induced a pattern of somatomotor reflex and motoneuron membrane potential modulation comparable to that which occurs spontaneously during sleep and wakefulness. In unanesthetized, freely moving cats during wakefulness and quiet sleep, electrical stimulation within and in the vicinity of the nucleus pontis oralis produced facilitation of the masseteric reflex, whereas during active sleep the identical stimulus resulted in potent suppression of the reflex.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
CONCLUDING REMARKS ON THE INTEGRATIVE ROLE OF THE AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM IN THE REGULATION OF CARDIOVASCULAR FUNCTION

Publisher Summary In reflex action, the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems are not confined to a reciprocal action. This does occur in many instances but one also sees coactivation and nonreciprocal cooperative response. The reflex reactions are much more sophisticated than expressed in a sympathetic–parasympathetic antagonism and reciprocal action. An evidence is presented that the stimulation of hypothalamic areas evoke not only reciprocal but also the coactivation of autonomic discharge. This chapter describes the tonically active sympathetic and parasympathetic neurons of the reticular formation and some other nuclear structures of the brain. It discusses the involvement and consequences of autonomic system action in imposed stress.
Psychological Treatment Approaches for Depression in Children

It is acutely apparent from the preceding chapters that depression during childhood is a very serious disturbance that has been formally recognized only since 1980. The research base for understanding this disorder is growing very rapidly, and much exciting research is currently under way. While research on childhood depression has mushroomed, very little research on the treatment of depression during childhood has been completed. In fact, there have been more chapters and books written about how to treat depression than there are studies evaluating the effectiveness of psychological treatments for depressed youths. Furthermore, most of the studies that have been completed could be considered clinical analog studies, since they have involved subclinical populations. In this chapter, we hope to contribute something beyond another review of the existing treatment literature. To this end, we will first evaluate existing treatment programs against their adequacy in addressing the disturbances that may cause or maintain a depressive disorder during childhood and then describe a comprehensive intervention program for depressed youths.
Allophonic and phonotactic constraints are useful

This paper argues that allophonic and phonotactic cues are a source of constraint, not a source of noise as many speech researchers have assumed in the past. These constraints are formulated so that they can be exploited with well-known parsing techniques.
A requirement for slc15a4 in imiquimod-induced systemic inflammation and psoriasiform inflammation in mice.

There is competing evidence that plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC), the most potent source of IFN-I, may initiate psoriasis. We targeted pDC function using the slc15a4feeble loss-of-function mouse whose pDC are unresponsive to TLR agonists. slc15a4feeble treated with the topical TLR7-agonist imiquimod (IMQ) demonstrated decreased epidermal thickening 24 hours post-treatment which was more pronounced by day 5 as compared to wildtype mice. These findings were specific to the acute IMQ model and not the protracted IL23 model that drives inflammation downstream of TLR activation. Systemically, slc15a4 was required for IMQ-induced weight loss and cutaneous accumulation of CD4+ and Siglec H+, but not CD11b+ cells. Consistent with this phenotype and the function of slc15a4, induction of IFN-I was virtually absent systemically and via cutaneous gene expression. Induction of other inflammatory cytokines (cytokine storm) was modestly blunted in slc15a4feeble except for inflammasome-associated genes consistent with slc15a4 being required for TLR7-mediated (but not inflammasome-mediated) inflammation downstream of IMQ. Surprisingly, only IFN-I gene expression was suppressed within IMQ-treated skin. Other genes including conserved psoriasiform trademark gene expression were augmented in slc15a4feeble versus littermate controls. Taken together, we have identified a role for slc15a4 but not canonical psoriasiform genes in the imiquimod model of psoriasiform dermatitis.
Methamphetamine self-administration in a runway model of drug-seeking behavior in male rats.

Abstract Cocaine administration has been shown to produce immediate positive (rewarding) and subsequent negative (anxiogenic) effects in humans and animals. These dual and opposing affective responses have been more difficult to demonstrate with administration of methamphetamine (meth). While animal studies have reliably demonstrated the positive reinforcing effects of the drug, reports of negative aftereffects following acute exposure have been few in number and contradictory in nature. The current research was devised to assess the effects of acute meth using a runway model of self-administration that is uniquely sensitive to both the positive and negative effects of a drug reinforcer in the same animal on the same trial. Male rats were allowed to traverse a straight alley once a day for 16 consecutive days/trials where entry into the goal box resulted in a single IV injection of meth (0.25, 0.5 or 1.0 mg/kg/inj.). The chosen doses were confirmed to be psychoactive as they produced dose-dependent increases in motoric/locomotor activation in these same subjects. The results demonstrated a U-shaped dose-response curve for the reinforcing effects of meth in that the intermediate dose group (0.5 mg/kg) produced the strongest approach behavior in the runway. Unlike other psychomotor stimulants, like cocaine, animals running for IV meth exhibited no evidence of any significant approach-avoidance behaviors reflective of the drug's negative anxiogenic effects. These results suggest that the abuse potential for meth is likely higher than for other shorter-acting psychomotor stimulants and reaffirms the utility of the runway procedure as a screen for a substance's abuse potential.
Causal inference for quantifying displaced primary production from recycling

Abstract Recycling only creates environmental benefits when it displaces other material production. Without displacement it only delays rather than prevents ultimate disposal. It is therefore critically important that we improve our understanding of the causality between recycling and other material production. This research focuses on estimation of the causal link between an increase in recycling and a reduction in primary material. We first review how structural models of supply and demand, for both the primary material and the recycled material, can be used to identify a causal link. The supply and demand approach suffers from issues of endogeneity, which require the use of advanced regression techniques. These techniques, in turn, require detailed and large datasets, which are often hard to obtain. Here, we introduce the Difference-in-Differences estimator to the industrial ecology literature, as an alternative approach to quantifying the causal effect between additional recycling and primary material production. The Difference-in-Differences estimator is based on a quasi-experimental approach, in that it classifies data into treatment and control groups. We introduce the method, analyze the data structures and assumptions needed for identification of causal effects, and discuss the advantages relative to the supply and demand framework. A hypothetical application of each method to aluminum recycling is provided, along with a simulated quantitative example of the Difference-in-Differences technique. Our proposed method will help to better understand, measure, and promote the conditions under which recycling creates environmental benefits.
Postoperative Anastomotic Leak After Low Anterior Resection

The management of an anastomotic leak after low anterior resection is complex but must be mastered by surgeon operating on the rectum. Immediate management varies depending on the clinical situation when the leak is discovered. Long-term successful outcomes are possible via many different techniques. The management of anastomotic strictures and sinuses is discussed.
Transcutaneous CO 2 versus end-tidal CO 2 in neonates and infants undergoing surgery: a prospective study.

Aim: End-tidal CO2 (EtCO2) is the standard in operative care along with pulse oximetry for ventilation assessment. It is known to be less accurate in the infant population than in adults. Many neonatal intensive care units (NICU) have converted to utilizing transcutaneous CO2 (tcPCO2) monitoring. This study aimed to compare perioperative EtCO2 to tcPCO2 in the pediatric perioperative population specifically below 10 kg, which encompasses neonates and some infants. Methods: After IRB approval and parental written informed consent, we enrolled neonates and infants weighing less than 10 kg, who were scheduled for elective surgery with endotracheal tube under general anesthesia. PCO2 was monitored with EtCO2 and with tcPCO2. Venous blood gas (PvCO2) samples were drawn at the end of the anesthetic. We calculated a mean difference of EtCO2 minus PvCO2 (Delta EtCO2), and tcPCO2 minus PvCO2 (Delta tcPCO2) from end-of-case measurements. The mean differences in the NICU and non-NICU patients were compared by t-tests and Bland–Altman analysis. Results: Median age was 10.9 weeks, and median weight was 4.4 kg. NICU (n=6) and non-NICU (n=14) patients did not differ in PvCO2. Relative to the PvCO2, the Delta EtCO2 was much greater in the NICU compared to the non-NICU patients (−28.1 versus −9.8, t=3.912, 18 df, P=0.001). Delta tcPCO2 was close to zero in both groups. Although both measures obtained simultaneously in the same patients agreed moderately with each other (r =0.444, 18 df, P=0.05), Bland–Altman plots indicated that the mean difference (bias) in EtCO2 measurements differed significantly from zero (P<0.05). Conclusions: EtCO2 underestimates PvCO2 values in neonates and infants under general anesthesia. TcPCO2 closely approximates venous blood gas values, in both the NICU and non-NICU samples. We, therefore, conclude that tcPCO2 is a more accurate measure of operative PvCO2 in infants, especially in NICU patients.
HAlCl and AlCl2: A Matrix Isolation ESR Study

Cocondensation of Al atoms and HCl in argon matrices at ∼4 K led to detection by ESR of HAlCl and AlCl2. The ESR spectra observed from the Al/HCl/Argon system are shown; assignments and analyses of the HAlCl and AlCl2 spectra are presented. Both species have a bent form, and the unpaired electron is localized in a nonbonding, sp-hybridized orbital of Al pointing away from the ligand atoms. Ab initio SCF calculations (Gaussian 92) were performed on AlH2, HAlCl, and AlCl2. The structural features and spin density distributions deduced from the observed hyperfine coupling tensors are in good accord with those given by the SCF calculations. The reaction process between HCl and Al was examined by the MNDO molecular orbital method. The MNDO study indicated that Al and HCl would undergo spontaneously either the insertion reaction, HCl + Al → HAlCl, or the displacement reaction, HCl + Al → H + AlCl, depending on the direction of approach.
Fast-track incorporation of the transradial approach in endovascular neurointervention.

Background The transradial approach as a frontline approach is a novel technique in neuroendovascular procedures. In this study we aim to present our early experience with full transition to transradial access as the first-line approach for neuroendovascular procedures. Methods We prospectively collected data on the first 100 consecutive patients who underwent a diagnostic or interventional neuroendovascular procedure using the transradial approach at our institution between March 22 and April 30, 2019. Baseline characteristics were collected in addition to the type of procedure, access site, catheters and wires used, complications, and whether there was crossover to transfemoral access. Results Transradial access was attempted in 121 cases and 91 cases were completed successfully (72 diagnostic procedures and 19 interventional procedures). Mean (SD) age was 56.8 (14.7) years, 54.9% (50/91) underwent the procedure in the outpatient setting, and 60.4% (55/91) were women. Seven patients had minor immediate complications related to the radial access. Interventional procedures successfully performed included aneurysm embolization (ruptured (n=3) and unruptured (n=8)), tumor embolization (n=2), cervical internal carotid artery stenting (n=2), balloon occlusion test (n=1), vertebral artery sacrifice (n=1), and arteriovenous malformation embolization (n=2). Conclusion In this early experience, full transition to the transradial approach as the frontline approach is feasible with a low complication rate for both diagnostic and interventional neuroendovascular procedures.
Taurine administration ablates sepsis induced diaphragm weakness.

Abstract Infection induced diaphragm weakness is a major contributor to death and prolonged mechanical ventilation in critically ill patients. Infection induced muscle dysfunction is associated with activation of muscle proteolytic enzymes, and taurine is known to suppress proteolysis. We therefore postulated that taurine administration may prevent infection induced diaphragm dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to test this hypothesis using a clinically relevant animal model of infection, i.e. cecal ligation puncture induced sepsis (CLP). Studies were performed on (n = 5–7 mice/group): (a) sham operated controls, (b) animals with sepsis induced by CLP, (c) sham operated animals given taurine (75 mg/kg/d, intraperitoneally), and (d) CLP animals given taurine. At intervals after surgery animals were euthanized, diaphragm force generation measured in vitro, and diaphragm calpain, caspase and proteasomal activity determined. CLP elicited a large reduction in diaphragm specific force generation at 24 h (1–150 Hz, p
Length Scales of Hydrological Variability as Inferred from SMAP Soil Moisture Retrievals

AbstractHydrological variability at a given location is characterized in part by a horizontal length scale—a measure of how far one can travel from that location and still see similar time variatio...
Simulierte Direktdemokratie als Kampagneninstrument. Die „Nationalen Konsultationen“ der ungarischen Fidesz-Regierung

Das ungarische Beispiel zeigt, dass Verfahren, die eine direkte Verbindung zwischen Politik und Bevolkerung herstellen, die schleichende Autokratisierung eines politischen Systems unterstutzen konnen, auch wenn sie nur erganzend zur reprasentativ organisierten parlamentarischen Demokratie zum Einsatz kommen. Die Fidesz-Regierung nutzt seit 2010 besonders sogenannte „Nationale Konsultationen“. Der Beitrag stellt die bisherigen Initiativen vor, diskutiert die haufigsten Kritikpunkte gegenuber den Konsultationen und stellt ein Fallbeispiel vor. In der kontextualisierten Analyse kommt er zu dem Schluss, dass die ungarischen Nationalen Konsultationen eher Instrumente kampagnenhafter Regierungskommunikation sind und Direktdemokratie nur nachahmen, wahrend zugleich die Hurden fur nationale Referenden zum Schutz der Politik so hoch geschraubt worden sind, dass substanzielle direktdemokratische Prozesse eher die Ausnahme als die Regel darstellen.
Potential role of platelets in COVID-19: Implications for thrombosis

For the past 150 years, platelets have been recognized as the major blood component that mediates hemostasis and thrombosis. In more recent years, however, we have come to appreciate that platelets also perform profound immune functions during infection with various pathogens. We now recognize that platelets can also mediate a response to various RNA viruses such as influenza and that many viral infections, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), can affect platelet count. Thrombocytopenia and increased coagulation have been independently associated with increased mortality. This article provides a perspective on the potential roles of platelets during coronavirus disease 2019.
Endogenization from diverse viral ancestors is common and widespread in parasitoid wasps

The Ichneumonoidea (Ichneumonidae and Braconidae) is an incredibly diverse superfamily of parasitoid wasps that includes species that produce virus-like entities in their reproductive tracts to promote successful parasitism of host insects. Research on these entities has traditionally focused upon two viral genera Bracovirus (in Braconidae) and Ichnovirus (in Ichneumonidae). These viruses are produced using genes known collectively as endogenous viral elements (EVEs) that represent historical, now heritable viral integration events in wasp genomes. Here, new genome sequence assemblies for eleven species and six publicly available genomes from the Ichneumonoidea were screened with the goal of identifying novel EVEs and characterizing the breadth of species in lineages with known EVEs. Exhaustive similarity searches combined with the identification of ancient core genes revealed sequences from both known and novel EVEs. Two species harbored novel, independently derived EVEs related to a divergent large double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) virus that manipulates behavior in other hymenopteran species. While bracovirus or ichnovirus EVEs were identified as expected in three species, the absence of ichnoviruses in several species suggests that they are independently derived and present in two younger, less widespread lineages than previously thought. Overall, this study presents a novel bioinformatic approach for EVE discovery in genomes and shows that three divergent virus families (nudiviruses, the ancestors of ichnoviruses, and LbFV-like viruses) are recurrently acquired as EVEs in parasitoid wasps. Virus acquisition in the parasitoid wasps is a common process that has occurred in many more than two lineages from a diverse range of arthropod-infecting dsDNA viruses. SignificanceParasitoid wasps are an extremely diverse group of animals that are known to harbor Endogenous Virus Elements (EVEs) that produce virions or virus-like particles of key importance in wasps parasitism success. However, the prevalence and diversity of independently acquired EVEs in parasitoid wasp lineages has remained largely uncharacterized on a widespread scale. This study represents an important first step and hints at the massive, untapped diversity of EVEs in parasitoid wasps via the identification of several novel virus co-option events from diverse groups of double-stranded DNA virus pathogens.