cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hazards of insecticides to the bumble bees Bombus impatiens (Hymenoptera: Apidae) foraging on flowering white clover in turf.

Insecticides used on turf are sometimes applied to areas with flowering weeds that attract honey bees and native pollinators. We tested residual effects of such treatments on colony vitality and behavior of the bumble bees Bombus impatiens Cresson foraging on turf containing white clover, Trifolium repens L. Imidacloprid, a systemic chloronicotinyl used for preventive control of root-feeding grubs, was applied as granules, followed by irrigation, or sprayed as a wettable powder, with or without irrigation. Hives were confined on the plots in large field cages after residues had dried and colony vitality (i.e., numbers of brood, workers, and honey pots, and weights of queens, workers, and whole colonies with hives) was evaluated after 28–30 d. Workers’ foraging activity and defensive response to an aggressive stimulus also were evaluated. In another test, weedy turf was sprayed with chlorpyrifos, carbaryl, or cyfluthrin at labeled rates for surface-feeding pests. Bee colonies were confined on the plots after residues had dried, with effects on colony vitality evaluated after 14 d. Finally, foraging activity of wild bumble bees was monitored on open plots to determine if insecticide-treated areas were avoided. Imidacloprid granules, and imidacloprid sprays applied with posttreatment irrigation, had no effect on colony vitality or workers’ behavior, suggesting that such treatments pose little systemic or residual hazard to bumble bees. In contrast, exposure to dry nonirrigated residues of all of the aforementioned insecticides had severe impact on colony vitality. Foraging workers did not avoid insecticide-treated areas. Means by which turf managers can reduce hazards of insecticide applications to pollinators are discussed.
Muscarinic receptor subtypes in canine trachea

Prejunctional and postjunctional muscarinic receptor subtypes were characterized in canine trachealis muscle strips. In vitro contractile responses of muscle strips to acetylcholine or electric field stimulation were determined in the absence and the presence of gallamine, pirenzepine, and 4-diphenylacetoxy-N-methylpiperidine methiodide (4-DAMP). Gallamine had no effect on the contractile response to acetylcholine but enhanced the contractile response to electric field stimulation. Pirenzepine and 4-DAMP reduced the contractile response to acetylcholine and electric field stimulation. The pA2 value for pirenzepine vs. acetylcholine [7.18 +/- 0.59 (SD)] was consistent with the affinity of pirenzepine for M2 or M3-receptors; whereas the pA2 value for 4-DAMP vs. acetylcholine (8.92 +/- 0.42) and the extremely low affinity of gallamine indicated postjunctional muscarinic receptors of the M3 subtype. The enhancement of the contractile response to electric field stimulation by gallamine suggested the presence of M2-prejunctional receptors.
Incentives Increase the Rate of False but not True Secondary Confessions from Informants with an Allegiance to a Suspect

One hundred ninety-two students participated in an experimental simulation testing whether incentives would reduce the reluctance of informants to implicate a close other. Half of the students were made to feel interpersonally close to a confederate who either admitted to or denied a misdeed. All students were interrogated and encouraged to sign a secondary confession stating that the confederate had confessed to the misdeed; half were offered an incentive to do so. Contrary to expectations, closeness did not induce reluctance. Instead, the offer of incentive increased the number of participants willing to sign a secondary confession implicating a close other. Further analyses revealed that this increase occurred only for false secondary confessions. Implications for interrogation practices are discussed.
Numerical failure analysis of three-point bending on martensitic hat assembly using advanced plasticity and fracture models for complex loading

Abstract A variety of phenomenological models have been developed and validated at a specimen level to simulate plasticity and fracture of metallic materials using finite element analysis. It is both scientifically challenging and crucial for the industry to confirm their applicability at a structural level for the engineering practice. An outwardly simple three-point bending on a hot-stamped martensitic (22MnB5) hat assembly yields complex local loading histories, which eventually creates two symmetric macro-cracks under a semicircular punch. Attempts are made to numerically reproduce the deformed configuration with cracks using the Hosford–Coulomb fracture criterion, recently proposed by Mohr and Marcadet (2015). Two constitutive models of different complexity are compared: pure isotropic hardening with linear damage accumulation and combined isotropic–kinematic hardening with non-linear damage accumulation (Marcadet and Mohr, 2015). The model parameters are identified based on comprehensive mechanical tests. The latter model turns out to predict the location and shape of cracks with great accuracy by considering the dominance of kinematic hardening and enhanced ductility upon loading reversal. The force-punch stroke curves are compared with the experiment. Parametric studies are performed on the friction coefficient and possible anisotropic fracture properties. The deformation sequence is also analyzed.
SELECTION AT TWO LEVELS IN HYBRID POPULATIONS OF MUSCA DOMESTICA.

This study is an account of the genetic changes in a population of houseflies under specified conditions of husbandry. It is an attempt to test and interrelate two generalizations from past studies of ecological genetics. First is the generalization that the dynamics of populations depend on their genetic structure. To our knowledge, strain differences in life histories are evident in every species that has been studied in the laboratory or in sample plots (e.g. Clausen, Keck, and Heisey, 1948; Sullivan and Sokal, 1963; Sokal and Karten, 1964; Birch et al., 1963). Polymorphic populations of Drosophila pseudoobscura show a higher carrying capacity (Beardmore, Dobzhansky, and Pavlovsky, 1960) and a higher intrinsic rate of increase than do monomorphic populations (Dobzhansky, Lewontin, and Pavlovsky, 1964). Also, the outcome of competition between species of Tribolium depends on their genotype (Lerner and Ho, 1961; Park, Leslie, and Mertz, 1964). The second generalization is that gene frequencies usually change in complex ways, indicating widespread frequencydependent selection, interaction between loci, or both. Single locus models of gene frequency change may be useful for their
Uniform Cr2+ doping of physical vapor transport grown CdSxSe1−x crystals

The Cr2+ doped CdS0.8Se0.2 crystals were grown by the vertical, self-seeded, physical vapor transport (PVT) technique. Good quality, crack- and inclusion-free single crystals were grown with an average Cr2+ concentration of 5 × 1018 cm−3. Different source-to-tip distances were used to improve the segregation coefficient (Crcrystal/Crsource) of the grown crystals. It was observed that lowering the source-to-tip distance increases the segregation coefficient dramatically. With a 2-cm source-to-tip distance, good quality crystals were grown with uniform Cr2+ concentration throughout the ingot. The segregation coefficient was found to be ∼0.85. The composition of the crystals was also found to be fairly uniform along the length and across the diameter.
Evaluating 3D printing to solve the sample-to-device interface for LRS and POC diagnostics: example of an interlock meter-mix device for metering and lysing clinical urine samples

This paper evaluates the potential of 3D printing, a semi-automated additive prototyping technology, as a means to design and prototype a sample-to-device interface, amenable to diagnostics in limited-resource settings, where speed, accuracy and user-friendly design are critical components. As a test case, we built and validated an interlock meter-mix device for accurately metering and lysing human urine samples for use in downstream nucleic acid amplification. Two plungers and a multivalve generated and controlled fluid flow through the device and demonstrate the utility of 3D printing to create leak-free seals. Device operation consists of three simple steps that must be performed sequentially, eliminating manual pipetting and vortexing to provide rapid (5 to 10 s) and accurate metering and mixing. Bretherton's prediction was applied, using the bond number to guide a design that prevents potentially biohazardous samples from leaking from the device. We employed multi-material 3D printing technology, which allows composites with rigid and elastomeric properties to be printed as a single part. To validate the meter-mix device with a clinically relevant sample, we used urine spiked with inactivated Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. A downstream nucleic acid amplification by quantitative PCR (qPCR) confirmed there was no statistically significant difference between samples metered and mixed using the standard protocol and those prepared with the meter-mix device, showing the 3D-printed device could accurately meter, mix and dispense a human urine sample without loss of nucleic acids. Although there are some limitations to 3D printing capabilities (e.g. dimension limitations related to support material used in the printing process), the advantages of customizability, modularity and rapid prototyping illustrate the utility of 3D printing for developing sample-to-device interfaces for diagnostics.
Determination of trace epichlorohydrin in water by purge and trap pre-concentration/GC/MS/SIR

Methods:The qualitive and quantitative analysis of trace epichlorohydrin in water was performed with purge and trap pre-concentration followed by GC-MS analysis in selected ion monitoring(SIR)mode.Results:The linear range of epichlorohydrin was 0.22 to 11.0 μg/L(r0.999).When the determination concentrations were 0.55 μg/L and 1.10 μg/L,the relative standard deviations were 4.47% and 3.23%,and the recovery rates with standard addition were 90.0% to 105.5%,respectively.The method detection limit was 0.1 μg/L.Conclusion:The method can be applied to determination of trace epichlorohydrin in drinking water.
High mobility group protein 1: A collaborator in nucleosome dynamics and estrogen-responsive gene expression

High mobility group protein 1 (HMGB1) is a multifunctional protein that interacts with DNA and chromatin to influence the regulation of transcription, DNA replication and repair and recombination. We show that HMGB1 alters the structure and stability of the canonical nucleosome (N) in a nonenzymatic, adenosine triphosphate-independent manner. As a result, the canonical nucleosome is converted to two stable, physically distinct nucleosome conformers. Although estrogen receptor (ER) does not bind to its consensus estrogen response element within a nucleosome, HMGB1 restructures the nucleosome to facilitate strong ER binding. The isolated HMGB1-restructured nucleosomes (N' and N'') remain stable and exhibit a number of characteristics that are distinctly different from the canonical nucleosome. These findings complement previous studies that showed (1) HMGB1 stimulates in vivo transcriptional activation at estrogen response elements and (2) knock down of HMGB1 expression by siRNA precipitously reduced transcriptional activation. The findings indicate that a major facet of the mechanism of HMGB1 action involves a restructuring of aspects of the nucleosome that appear to relax structural constraints within the nucleosome. The findings are extended to reveal the differences between ER and the other steroid hormone receptors. A working proposal outlines mechanisms that highlight the multiple facets that HMGB1 may utilize in restructuring the nucleosome.
American Chemical Society - 240th national meeting - chemistry for preventing and combating disease: part 2

The 240th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, held in Boston, included topics covering new therapeutic research. This conference report highlights selected presentations on (S)-adenosylhomocysteine (AHCY) inhibitors for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, 2,4-diphenyl-1H-imidazole analogs as cannabinoid CB2 agonists for the treatment of pain, checkpoint kinase 1 (Chk1) and Aurora kinase B as therapeutic targets for cancer treatment, pyridylmethylthio derivatives as VEGFR2 inhibitors, and Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) for the treatment of myeloproliferative disorders. Investigational drugs discussed include L-002259713 (Merck & Co), AZD-1480 (AstraZeneca), CYT-387 (YM Biosciences) and ruxolitinib (Incyte).
Chronic K depletion stimulates rat renal brush-border membrane Na-citrate cotransporter.

Chronic K depletion (KD) causes hypocitraturia. In the present studies, the effect of KD, induced by a low-K diet for 14 days (serum [K] 4.1 +- 0.1, control vs. 2.2 +/- 0.1 meq/l, KD, P less than 0.01), on renal cortical brush-border membrane (BBM) Na-citrate cotransporter activity was examined. KD significantly decreased fractional citrate excretion (3.90 +/- 0.68 vs. 0.53 +/- 0.10%, P less than 0.01). This was paralleled by a significant increase in the initial linear rate of BBM Na-dependent citrate transport (81 +/- 4 vs. 141 +/- 6 pmol citrate.5 s-1.mg protein-1, P less than 0.01). Kinetic studies varying extravesicular citrate concentration demonstrated that KD increased the maximal activity (Vmax) (152 +/- 17 vs. 296 +/- 14 pmol citrate.5 s-1.mg protein-1, P less than 0.01) with no difference in citrate affinity (118 +/- 23, control vs. 135 +/- 22 microM citrate, KD). Similarly, when extravesicular Na concentration was varied, KD increased the Vmax (132 +/- 9 vs. 206 +/- 6 pmol citrate.5 s-1.mg protein-1, P less than 0.01) with no difference in Na affinity (29 +/- 3, control vs. 28 +/- 1 mM Na, KD). The effect of KD on Na-citrate cotransport was specific in that KD did not alter Na-glucose (84 +/- 12, control vs. 89 +/- 5 pmol glucose.5 s-1.mg protein-1, KD) or Na-proline (87 +/- 3, control vs. 84 +/- 5 pmol proline.5 s-1.mg protein-1, KD) cotransport. In conclusion, KD increases the Vmax of the proximal tubule apical membrane Na-citrate cotransporter.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The Risks, Challenges, and Benefits of Being Global

The organizations studied in this research are atypical of most businesses as they include some of the largest multinationals in the world. But even they began as purely domestic businesses at one point. This research began by trying to understand the mindset of the globalizers and the risks, benefits, and challenges they see when venturing overseas. From this the foundation is laid for understanding what choices they made when entering foreign markets and how they did it, whether it be through alliances, acquisitions, or greenfield growth.
Conclusion: What We Have Learned and Where We Go Next

Several broad conclusions can be drawn from the articles presented in this volume. First, there are some universals or near universals in terms of the causes of happiness, but there are also influences that seem specific to different cultures. Second, it appears that for emotional well-being, people around the globe tend to be above neutral unless they live in dire circumstances. Third, the measures of well-being are valid across cultures, but there are biases that can lower the validity of measures, and these biases can vary in different cultures. In the following, I review several conclusions that I draw from the literature on well-being and culture.
Beyond the Water Cooler: Reflections on a Junior Faculty Development Program

This article discusses the University of Miami's innovative program to foster junior faculty collegiality and collaboration.
Agency Publicity in the Internet Era

This Report, prepared for the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS), details how federal agencies use modern forms of publicity - including press releases, agency web sites, searchable online databases, and social media - to achieve regulatory ends. It evaluates the benefits and burdens of modern agency publicity practices, using three agencies as case studies: the Food and Drug Administration (FDA); the Federal Trade Commission (FTC); and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Part V recommends a series of largely procedural reforms that balance the need for public disclosure with the need to protect those potentially injured by adverse agency publicity. This Report formed the basis for Administrative Conference Recommendation 2016-1, Consumer Complaint Databases, adopted at the June 10, 2016 Plenary Session. See 81 Fed. Reg. 40249 (Jun. 21, 2016).
The Sūtra on Transforming the Female Form: Unpacking an Early Medieval Chinese Buddhist Text

In this article I seek to show that T564, the Sūtra on Transforming the Female Form (Zhuan nushen jing 轉女身經), is not only a composite text which integrates narrative and doctrinal material from a number of other sūtras, but also that it was likely written in early medieval China. The identification of this text as a Chinese indigenous creation is important for the text has enjoyed a long and rich transmission history across East Asia, and also because it contains a new argument for why a woman needs to become a man in order to become a Buddha. By analyzing and presenting the text in such a way, I wish to reveal the important place that composite, indigenous, and other “spurious” texts have held in the development of radically new doctrines within the Mahāyāna and thus argue for their further inclusion in modern studies of the tradition.
Parallel code-specific CPU simulation with dynamic phase convergence modeling for HW/SW co-design

While SystemC models provide a promising solution to the complex problem of HW/SW co-design within the system-on-chip paradigm, such requires a detailed annotation of transaction level energy and performance data within the model. While this data can be obtained through source code profiling of an application running on the target processor, accomplishing such when the target CPU hardware is not actively available typically requires time-consuming CPU simulation, which is often too slow to practically consider for large programs. Additionally, while the use of SystemC modeling with TLM 2.0 standard is widely adopted for the SoC modeling, the process of transforming C/C++ code to SystemC code with TLM 2.0 functionality remains non-trivial. Herein we propose an automated framework that: 1. Enables high speed code-specific CPU profiling support for both Sniper and gem5 using parallelized dynamic steady state phase convergence modeling, providing automatic annotation of energy and latency within source code. 2. Provides an automated C to SystemC TLM 2.0 code generation flow that utilizes the back-annotated source code to produce a SystemC module for seamless incorporation into the virtual prototype. Maximum speedups obtained using Sniper and gem5 are 105.78× and 562× respectively, while average results obtained speedups of 42.7× and 323.1×. Sniper results maintain an average accuracy of 0.64% for latency and 0.10% for energy, while gem5 achieves average accuracies of 4.16% and 2.87% for latency and energy respectively.
Strobe rearing reduces direction selectivity in area 17 by altering spatiotemporal receptive-field structure.

Humphrey, Allen L. and Alan B. Saul. Strobe rearing reduces direction selectivity in area 17 by altering spatiotemporal receptive-field structure. J. Neurophysiol. 80: 2991–3004, 1998. Direction se...
Genetic Modifiers of Thrombosis in Mice.

Abstract Abstract SCI-44 The genetic factors responsible for the highly variable clinical course of inherited bleeding disorders including von Willebrand disease and hemophilia are largely unknown. Similar factors are also likely to contribute to the variability of common thrombotic disorders, including factor V Leiden. Studies by our lab over the past 10 years have used the power of mouse genetics to identify genes contributing to this variability (referred to as ‘modifier‘ genes). By performing genetic crosses between inbred strains of mice with elevated plasma levels of von Willebrand Factor (VWF) and other strains with low levels, we have mapped a total of 6 genetic factors contributing to the control of murine plasma VWF levels. Similar studies in ADAMTS13-deficient mice are in progress aimed at characterizing genes modifying susceptibility thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. We have also conducted large scale mutagenesis studies in the mouse in an effort to identify larger numbers of genes contributing to thrombosis risk in the setting of Factor V Leiden, and most recently are extending this approach to similar genetic screens in zebrafish. Finally, recent advances in human genetics are expanding the potential opportunities for directly identifying bleeding and thrombosis modifier genes in humans. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Recurrent low grade serous ovarian cancer in a 20 year old woman: A case from the Ohio State University College of Medicine

A 20 year old with recurrent low-grade serous carcinoma (LGSC) is discussed. The differential diagnosis, pathology, epidemiology, treatment options are discussed. Focus on the molecular pathways of LGSC and the implications of the diagnosis on fertility are highlighted.
The two-century journey of Parkinson disease research

The year 2017 marks 200 years since James Parkinson's An Essay on the Shaking Palsy was published. In this Timeline article, Serge Przedborski provides an overview of the various avenues of research into Parkinson disease that have been pursued over these two centuries to better understand this neurodegenerative disorder.
Country of origin, familiarity, the perceived difference and MNC attractiveness

Is MNC's country of origin a factor affecting its attractiveness to potential applicants? Are MNCs from a country with a favourable image more attractive than MNCs from a country with a less favourable image? This study examined whether MNCs' country of origin influences its attractiveness as potential employers. The findings of this study suggest that potential applicants who have positive image towards a country are more likely attracted to apply for MNCs from that country.
Physiological assembly of functionally active 30S ribosomal subunits from in vitro synthesized parts

Synthetic ribosomes in vitro can facilitate engineering translation of novel polymers, identifying ribosome biogenesis central components, and paving the road to constructing replicating systems from defined biochemical components. Here, we report functional synthetic Escherichia coli 30S ribosomal subunits constructed using a defined, purified cell free system under physiological conditions. We test hypotheses about key components of natural ribosome biogenesis pathway as required for efficient function -- including integration of 16S rRNA modification, cofactors facilitated ribosome assembly and protein synthesis in the same compartment in vitro. We observe ~17% efficiency for fully synthetic 30S and ~70% efficiency from in vitro transcribed 16S rRNA assembled with natural proteins. We observe up to 5 fold improvement over previous crude extracts. We suggest extending the minimal list of components required for central-dogma replication from the 151 gene products previously reported to at least 180 to allow the speed and accuracy of macromolecular synthesis to approach native E. coli values.
Ultrasonic Spectroscopy: Applications in Condensed Matter Physics and Materials Science

Ultrasonic spectroscopy is a technique widely used in solid-state physics, materials science, and geology that utilizes acoustic waves to determine fundamental physical properties of materials, such as their elasticity and mechanical energy dissipation. This book provides complete coverage of the main issues relevant to the design, analysis, and interpretation of ultrasonic experiments. Topics including elasticity, acoustic waves in solids, ultrasonic loss, and the relation of elastic constants to thermodynamic potentials are covered in depth. Modern techniques and experimental methods including resonant ultrasound spectroscopy, digital pulse-echo, and picosecond ultrasound are also introduced and reviewed. This self-contained book includes extensive background theory and is accessible to students new to the field of ultrasonic spectroscopy, as well as to graduate students and researchers in physics, engineering, materials science, and geophysics.
Surrogate models for production performance from heterogeneous shales

Abstract Heterogeneity in geologic parameters such as permeability, porosity and formation compressibility is observed in all reservoirs including the ultra-low permeability reservoirs such as shales. Computing requirements for reservoir simulation of these reservoirs are extensive because of the complexity in geologic model. Surrogate models have been used successfully in conventional reservoirs and homogeneous low-permeability reservoirs. In this study, robust surrogate models are developed to evaluate production performance from heterogeneous low-permeability reservoirs. A workflow is presented to create surrogate models from any or all of the properties which affect production. Methods of representing various degrees of heterogeneities in permeability are considered in this paper. The surrogate models are mathematical functions for important outcomes – recoveries, gas oil ratios (GOR) with respect to the heterogeneous property as input. Representing productions at particular time for different permeability distributions requires a unique function. Logarithmic equation for oil recovery and power law equation for cumulative GOR are found to be the most appropriate functions. The developed surrogate models are then utilized to forecast production for any input distribution of permeability using Monte Carlo simulations. Outputs in the form of probability density functions (PDF) of oil recovery and cumulative GOR are generated after statistical analysis. The probabilistic output is then interpreted as deterministic time series by considering mean values along with their uncertainty bands of standard deviations and 5–95% probability ranges. These models are validated against the results from reservoir simulations with a full heterogeneity distribution. The surrogate models work very well in the middle range of permeability (200-1000nD) to predict oil recovery and cumulative GOR for any given input distribution. These models can be utilized to study production forecast and for performing sensitivity studies while retaining the complexity of the heterogeneous reservoir. These surrogate models are also used to study the effect of variability of permeability in the field on production. In other words, two fields with the same mean permeability but different variability can be compared.
Health and Health Behavior Concordance between Spouses in Same-Sex and Different-Sex Marriages:

Research shows that heterosexual spouses are concordant on a variety of health and health behavior outcomes. Yet, little is known about patterns of concordance between spouses in same-sex marriages, or whether concordance patterns differ for spouses in same- and different-sex marriages. Using descriptive techniques, we analyze survey data from both spouses in 121 gay, 168 lesbian, and 122 heterosexual married couples to examine health and health behavior concordance. We find that gay and lesbian couples are more concordant than heterosexual couples on several health and health behavior outcomes. Differences in concordance between gay and lesbian couples are also found. Findings suggest that the pathways through which concordance occurs may differ in important ways for same-sex and different-sex unions.
PLD and PA Take MT1-MMP for a Metastatic Ride

Polarized targeting and deposition of MT1-MMP is pivotal for metastasis. In this issue of Developmental Cell, Wang et al. (2017) reveal that a signaling molecule generated by phospholipase D2 drives deposition of MT1-MMP at the site of invadopodia formation and is critical for metastasis in a transgenic breast cancer model.
Response by Towbin and Jefferies to Letter Regarding Article, "Cardiomyopathies Due to Left Ventricular Noncompaction, Mitochondrial and Storage Diseases, and Inborn Errors of Metabolism".

The Letter to the Editor by Finsterer regarding our article entitled “Cardiomyopathies Due to Left Ventricular Noncompaction, Mitochondrial and Storage Diseases, and Inborn Errors of Metabolism” notes …
Mycotic Pulmonary Artery Aneurysm Mimicking a Rasmussen Aneurysm

Background: Mycotic aneurysms arising from the pulmonary arteries are rare; only a few cases have been reported. Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species are the most common causative pathogens. Mycotic aneurysms are seldom clinically apparent unless as a sequela of adverse procedural complications. They carry high morbidity and mortality if not treated expeditiously. Case Report: We present the case of a 37-year-old male with bacteremia and bronchopneumonia associated with a pulmonary artery mycotic aneurysm. The case was confounded by clinical features mimicking a Rasmussen aneurysm. We discuss distinctive imaging features, disease mechanism, typical presentation, and management. Conclusion: While mycotic aneurysms are uncommon, certain clinical scenarios warrant consideration of the diagnosis, such as a history of intravenous drug use, bacterial endocarditis, and immunocompromise. Rapid identification is critical to prevent life-threatening complications such as vessel rupture. Computed tomography allows for an accurate and timely diagnosis, and interventional embolization is a fast, minimally invasive curative treatment. Given similar risk factors and presentation, a mycotic aneurysm can be indistinguishable from a Rasmussen aneurysm; therefore, appropriate precautions should be taken while adequate microbiologic assessment is performed.
Vaginal douching as a possible risk factor for pelvic inflammatory disease

To prevent pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and its consequences, risk factors must be identified. A review of the literature supports the possibility that vaginal douching may affect the risk factor of PID, and new data are presented on douching practices of women hospitalized with PID. Individual case reports and controlled studies support associations between vaginal douching and both PID and ectopic pregnancy. The prevalence and distribution of douching are also compatible with a possible association. The temporal pattern of PID symptoms may be linked to douching and menses. The nature of the douche solution and the douching technique may be important variables with regard to douching as a PID risk factor. A case-control epidemiologic study is recommended to clarify the relationships between PID and douching.
Procedural Learning in Humans

Procedural learning is a form of nondeclarative memory, which, in contrast to declarative memory, does not rely on conscious memory for how learning occurred. These distinct forms of memory were discovered as intact ability to learn new skills in the face of dense amnesia following damage to the medial temporal lobe. Procedural learning encompasses a wide range of motor, perceptual, and cognitive skills and is commonly measured as improved task performance. Different types of procedural learning involve varying cortical regions, depending on the task domain, whereas the cerebellum and in particular the striatum play general roles in acquisition and expression of learning.
Debye Screening in Classical Coulomb Systems

The standard approach to Coulomb systems in equilibrium classical statistical mechanics (at low density or high temperature) was invented by Debye and Huckel. It may be found under their names in most text books on physical chemistry. Typically one considers a charge fixed in a background sea of other charges which are approxmated by a continuous charge distribution density. The Debye Huckel theory shows that this background charge distribution arranges itself in a spherically symmetric way about the fixed charge so that by Newton’s theorem the view from distance r is equivalent to a single charge at r = 0 whose magnitude equals the total charge of the fixed charge plus that of the “cloud” of radius r about it. Furthermore this total charge behaves as exp(-const × r) so that the charge is “shielded” and its “effective potential” is a Yukawa, exp(−cr)/r.
Comparison of Several Global Mixing Performance Metrics for High-Speed Fuel Injectors

To experimentally assess and compare the mixing performance of high-speed fuel injectors for scramjet engines, quantitative global metrics are needed. The one-dimensional metric most commonly used to assess the degree of mixing completeness at a given downstream station is the mixing efficiency parameter. The experimental determination of the mixing efficiency parameter requires measurement of the spatial distributions of both the fuel mass fraction and the mass flux. Standard in-stream gas sampling techniques can be used to measure the fuel mass fraction distribution, however the mass flux distribution is not easily determined experimentally because it requires the measurement of three independent aerothermodynamic variables in addition to the mixture composition. For this reason, several metrics that can be calculated from the fuel distribution alone are commonly used to assess mixing performance. Because these other metrics do not provide a mass flux-weighted measure of the local degree of mixing completeness, they may not correlate well with the mixing efficiency parameter. Therefore, if the substitute metrics are to be used to compare the mixing performance of candidate fuel injector concepts, it is important to understand their relationships to the mixing efficiency parameter in a representative scramjet combustor flowfield. This work investigates the relationships between the mixing efficiency parameter and several substitute metrics that are able to be measured with the current experimental setup of the Enhanced Injection and Mixing Project at the NASA Langley Research Center for baseline strut and ramp injectors. The results of these comparisons have revealed that it is possible to glean different (i.e., incorrect) conclusions about which injector is the better mixer when the substitute mixing performance metrics are used instead of the mixing efficiency parameter, thereby highlighting the importance of mass flux-weighted mixing performance metrics.
Analysis of Transmission of Infection in Epidemics: Confined Random Walkers in Dimensions Higher Than One.

The process of transmission of infection in epidemics is analyzed by studying a pair of random walkers, the motion of each of which in two dimensions is confined spatially by the action of a quadratic potential centered at different locations for the two walks. The walkers are animals such as rodents in considerations of the Hantavirus epidemic, infected or susceptible. In this reaction–diffusion study, the reaction is the transmission of infection, and the confining potential represents the tendency of the animals to stay in the neighborhood of their home range centers. Calculations are based on a recently developed formalism (Kenkre and Sugaya in Bull Math Biol 76:3016–3027, 2014) structured around analytic solutions of a Smoluchowski equation and one of its aims is the resolution of peculiar but well-known problems of reaction–diffusion theory in two dimensions. The resolution is essential to a realistic application to field observations because the terrain over which the rodents move is best represented as a 2-d landscape. In the present analysis, reaction occurs not at points but in spatial regions of dimensions larger than 0. The analysis uncovers interesting nonintuitive phenomena one of which is similar to that encountered in the one-dimensional analysis given in the quoted article, and another specific to the fact that the reaction region is spatially extended. The analysis additionally provides a realistic description of observations on animals transmitting infection while moving on what is effectively a two-dimensional landscape. Along with the general formalism and explicit one-dimensional analysis given in Kenkre and Sugaya (2014), the present work forms a model calculational tool for the analysis for the transmission of infection in dilute systems.
City Revenue Structure and Unfunded Pension Liabilities

A growing body of research shows that economic, demographic, and institutional factors affect public pension funding. Most of these findings are based on the analysis of complete retirement systems...
The role of VEGF receptor signaling in gastrointestinal carcinoma cell migration

275 Background: The VEGF signaling axis is a key mediator of endothelial cell proliferation, migration and survival, and both normal and pathological angiogenesis. In addition, it has been suggested that autocrine signaling through the VEGF receptors (VEGFR) may play a role in tumor cell survival (Lee et al, PLoS Med. 2007 Jun;4(6):e186), invasion and migration (Fan et al, Oncogene 2005:24:2647-53)The purpose of the present study was to determine the expression of VEGFR family members (VEGFR-1, -2 and -3) and VEGFR ligands (VEGF-A, -C and -D) in a panel of gastrointestinal (GI) carcinoma cells, and to evaluate the effects of potential autocrine signaling on tumor cell migration and proliferation utilizing cediranib (AZD2171), a highly potent inhibitor of all three VEGF receptors Methods and Results: Eight GI carcinoma cell lines (including colorectal, pancreatic and hepatocellular carcinoma lines) were screened for VEGF receptor and ligand expression by RT-PCR, Western blotting, FACS and ELISA. All cell lines expressed VEGFR-3 and VEGF-A, whereas VEGFR-2 was not detected. Expression of VEGFR-1 and VEGF-C was more variable and cell-line dependent. For example, VEGF-C secretion was detected only in SK-Hep1 cells. Tumor cell proliferation and migration was assessed under different growth conditions: 10% FBS, VEGF-A (10 ng/ml), VEGF-B (50 ng/ml), and VEGF-C (50 ng/ml). The effect of cediranib (1-100nM) on tumor cell proliferation and migration was determined. Of the cell lines investigated, only SW480 and SK-Hep1 cells showed migratory activity in all experimental conditions. Tumor cell migration was inhibited by cediranib at doses
Suppressed child pedestrian and bicycle trips as an indicator of safety: Adopting a proactive safety approach

Abstract Traditional pedestrian and bicyclist safety analyses typically examine crashes, injuries, or fatalities. However, this reactive approach only accounts for the places where people are currently walking or biking and those that are doing so. Would a proactive approach – examining areas where pedestrian and bicyclist activity is being suppressed because of safety concerns – illuminate other previously neglected safety issues? The goal of this work is to compare results from reactive and proactive pedestrian and bicyclist safety analyses. To accomplish this, we focus on child pedestrians and bicyclists in Denver, Colorado because of the structured characteristics of their travel behavior regarding trips to school. We complete a reactive crash cluster analysis and a proactive safety analysis that is based on trip suppression due to traffic safety concerns. A parental perception survey informs the mode choice model we create for the proactive safety analysis. Findings suggest that reactive approaches identify downtown Denver and major corridors as unsafe, while the proactive analysis also identifies neighborhoods in west, east, and northeast Denver. Due to an absence of crashes, the majority of these areas would not normally be considered unsafe for pedestrians and bicyclists based on conventional reactive approaches. The fact that they are perceived as unsafe may be limiting usage and thereby limiting the number of crashes. In order to improve safety where children are currently walking and bicycling – as well as where they want to walk or bike – traditional analyses would benefit from augmentation by such a proactive safety approach.
From The Enchantment of Nature to Fashioning a Persuasive Planetary Ethic

72 Normal 0 21 false false false FR-BE X-NONE X-NONE Many discussions surrounding environmental ethics and spirituality revolve around enchantment and place. Such notions are inherently marked by transcendent understandings of “religion” and “nature.” This article suggests that these transcendent understandings could be problematic in an era of globalization marked by movement and change. Using the work of postmodern thinkers to destabilize foundational concepts of “Nature,” as well as the sacred, this article argues for fashioning a planetary ethic that pays attention to aesthetics of movement and change, moving environmental ethics from a discussion about place to a discussion about pace. Muchos debates sobre la etica ambiental y la espiritualidad giran alrededor del encanto y la localizacion. Tales nociones estan intrinsecamente marcadas por la comprension trascendente de "religion" y "naturaleza". En este articulo se sugiere que estas concepciones trascendentes podrian ser problematicas en una epoca de globalizacion caracterizada por el movimiento y el cambio. Utilizando el trabajo de pensadores postmodernos para desestabilizar los conceptos fundacionales de la "Naturaleza", asi como de lo sagrado, este articulo argumenta a favor de la configuracion de una etica planetaria que presta atencion a la estetica de movimiento y cambio, cambiando la etica del medio ambiente de una discusion sobre el lugar a un discusion sobre el ritmo.
Grandparents in Cultural Contexts

Grandparents in Cultural Contexts was written to give readers from across the globe information and insight into the role of grandparents in the lives of families across the world. The roles of gra...
Lymphatic vessels, miRNAs, and CAR T cells in tumor immunology

This special feature contains three review articles that summarize recent advances pertaining to tumor immunobiology. Normalization of antitumor immunity through checkpoint inhibitors has achieved significant clinical success and benefited many cancer patients. However, not all cancer patients respond to these treatments, and among the responders, some may develop resistance and others may suffer autoimmunity that requires intervention. Tumor immunotherapy holds promise for further improving the survival of cancer patients, but deeper understanding of immunological networks that regulate anti- and pro-tumor immunity is needed. The review papers collected in this issue cover a few topics that may stimulate future interest in the relevant research field.
Longitudinal trends in nonmedical prescription opioid use in a cohort of rural Appalachian people who use drugs.

Abstract Rural Appalachia remains an epicenter of the prescription opioid epidemic. In 2008, a cohort study was undertaken to examine longitudinal trends in nonmedical prescription opioid use (NMPOU). Eight waves of data (2008–2020) from the Social Networks among Appalachian People (SNAP) cohort were utilized for the current analysis. Only those who reported recent (past 6-month) NMPOU at baseline are included (n = 498, 99%). Mixed-effects logistic regression was used to model factors associated with NMPOU over time. Recent NMPOU declined significantly over the past decade (p
Linking PFAS partitioning behavior in sewage solids to the solid characteristics, solution chemistry, and treatment processes.

Abstract Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have gained increasing attention due to the potential health risks that they present. Secondary sludge and biosolids are known as notable PFAS emission routes to the environment. In this study, partitioning behavior of 14 PFAS were investigated across four secondary wastewater treatment types (activated sludge, trickling filter, biological nutrient removal, and rotating biological contactor; n = 10) and three sludge stabilization methods (composting, aerobic digestion, and anaerobic digestion; n = 6). Batch experiments were conducted to evaluate how PFAS sorption to secondary sludge and biosolid was affected by various treatment methods, solid properties, and solution chemistry parameters. Insignificant differences in compound-specific partitioning coefficients ( K d ) were observed among the four secondary treatment methods. However, sludge stabilization resulted in significantly different partitioning behavior among biosolid samples, in which anaerobically digested biosolids generally had significantly higher K d values compared to aerobically digested and composted biosolids (anaerobic digestion > aerobic digestion > composting). Multiple linear regression models were developed to explain analyte-specific Kd values across the biosolid samples and identified that solid-specific property significance was as follows: protein fraction > organic matter fraction > lipid fraction. Stabilization generally decreased the PFAS sorption capacity relative to the secondary sludge samples. Furthermore, PFAS K d increased with elevated calcium concentrations and ionic strengths and decreased with increasing pH values in sludge and biosolid samples. These findings could inform the decision-making process to reduce the release of PFAS to the environment.
The multi-optics high-resolution absorption x-ray spectrometer (HiRAXS) for studies of materials under extreme conditions

We report the development of a high-resolution spectrometer for extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) studies of materials under extreme conditions. A curved crystal and detector in the spectrometer are replaceable such that a single body is employed to perform EXAFS measurements at different x-ray energy intervals of interest. Two configurations have been implemented using toroidal crystals with Ge 311 reflection set to provide EXAFS at the Cu K-edge (energy range 8.9–9.8 keV) and Ge 400 reflection set to provide EXAFS at the Ta L3-edge (9.8–10.7 keV). Key performance characteristics of the spectrometer were found to be consistent with design parameters. The data generated at the National Ignition Facility have shown an ≃3 eV spectral resolution for the Cu K-edge configuration and ≃6 eV for the Ta L3-edge configuration.
Predicting leadership perception with large-scale natural language data

Abstract We present a computational method for predicting, and identifying the correlates of, leadership perceptions for prominent individuals. Our approach proxies knowledge representations for these individuals using high-dimensional semantic vectors derived from large-scale news media datasets. It then applies machine learning techniques to build a model that maps these vectors onto participant ratings of leadership effectiveness. This method greatly outperforms other approaches and achieves accuracy rates comparable to human participants in predicting leadership effectiveness judgments. Crucially, it relies on attributes and associations identified by established theories of leadership perception—notably implicit leadership theories—as guiding lay leadership perception. Thus, our model appears to have learnt the same implicit leadership cues as our human participants. In addition, we show that our approach can be used to not only predict leadership effectiveness judgments, but also to identify dimensions that people associate with effective leadership, as well as quantify the extent of this association for each dimension. We illustrate the broad applicability of our method by using it to predict leadership perceptions for over 6000 individuals in the public sphere, and to algorithmically uncover the particular traits, concepts, and attributes that people most strongly associate with effective leaders.