cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transcripts encoding HAND genes are differentially expressed and regulated by BMP4 and GDNF in developing avian gut.

Growth and transcription factors provide important developmental cues to neural crest-derived precursors of enteric neurons. The basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors, HAND2 and HAND1, are expressed in the gastrointestinal tract, but neither the growth factors that induce their expression nor the cell types that express them in the gut are known. We show that transcripts encoding HAND2 are expressed in all segments of the developing gut while those encoding HAND1 are confined to the small intestine and colon. Using in situ hybridization combined with immunostaining using cell type-specific antigens, we demonstrate that transcripts encoding HAND2 are expressed in neurons of both the myenteric and submucoasl ganglia. Transcripts encoding HAND1 are expressed by cells in the epithelial lining of the small intestine and colon. The differential localization of HAND2 and HAND1 is reflected in nonoverlapping patterns of regulation by gut-derived factors. The expression of transcripts encoding HAND2 is increased in neural crest-derived cells when cocultured with E4 gut, suggesting a gut-derived factor regulates expression of HAND genes. Exposure of gut-derived neural crest-derived cells to BMP4 significantly increased the expression of HAND2 in all gut segments. In the esophagus and gizzard, where HAND1 is not normally expressed, treatment with BMP4 induced the expression of transcripts encoding HAND1 in nonneural crest-derived cells. GDNF failed to induce consistent expression of transcripts encoding HAND2 in neural crest cells but did support a modest increase in HAND2 expression in gut-derived crest cells obtained from the esophagus and colon. GDNF had no detectable effect on the expression of transcripts encoding HAND 1. These results suggest; 1) that HAND2 has a function in the development of enteric neurons, and 2) that BMP and GDNF differentially regulate HAND2 and HAND1 gene expression in the developing gastrointestinal tract.
How Can We Manage Hyperlipidemia and Avoid Rhabdomyolysis in Transplant Patients

Joseph M Kahwaji, MD, MPH Ryszard R Dudek, MD Case Summary A 25-year-old man with a history of perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies-associated vasculitis presented to the ambulatory clinic with five days of diffuse myalgias and muscle tenderness. The patient had undergone kidney transplantation three years before presentation and had no post-transplant complications. He was maintained on cyclosporine, prednisone, and mycophenolate mofetil. Simvastatin 20 mg daily was started two months after transplantation for development of post-transplant hyperlipidemia. Three months before presentation, the creatinine concentration was 1.8 mg/dL. Two months before presentation, the simvastatin dosage was increased to 40 mg daily. Results of laboratory studies done at presentation were remarkable for the following: creatine kinase, 25,000 U/L; aspartate aminotransferase, 767 U/L; alanine aminotransferase, 620 U/L; and creatinine, 2.3 mg/dL. Urinalysis revealed 4+ blood and 2+ protein. The cyclosporine concentration, 265 ng/mL, was above the normal range of 100 to 200 ng/mL. A diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis was made on the basis of the symptom of myalgias in the setting of acute renal failure and an elevated creatine kinase concentration. Simvastatin was discontinued, and the patient was instructed to selfhydrate. At one day, five days, and two weeks after initial presentation, follow-up clinical evaluations found that symptoms had eased, and follow-up laboratory studies showed improvement.
Recent advances in hormonal therapy for advanced prostate cancer.

Hormonal treatment of advanced prostate cancer should be considered for patients who have stages C and D1 disease, a high risk of recurrence after local therapy, or prostate-specific antigen–measured recurrence after local treatment. This approach is dependent on most prostate cancer cells being androgen-dependent, but androgen-independent cells may arise after several years of hormonal therapy. Options for androgen blockade primarily include orchiectomy, luteinizing hormone– releasing agonists and antagonists, and nonsteroidal antiandrogens. There is some controversy regarding combined androgen blockade, intermittent androgen blockade, and the question of whether early androgen blockade is superior to delayed therapy. Convincing data do exist for the use of adjuvant/neoadjuvant hormonal therapy with external- beam radiation therapy. Although hormonal therapy is an important treatment modality for advanced prostate cancer, long-term treatment carries significant side effects that need to be considered.
Samuel Huntington, Political Order and the Global System

The purpose of this chapter is to assess a specific work of Samuel Huntington that points to the fundamental difficulties involved in institutionalising and consolidating the democratic form of state for countries in the developing world. In challenging the unilinear model of development associated with modernisation theory, Huntington’s text also serves to question seriously the basic optimism of liberal inter-nationalism’s view of the prospects for democracy worldwide — at the very least in the foreseeable future.
Bar Visibility Numbers for Hypercubes and Outerplanar Digraphs

A t-bar visibility representation of a graph G assigns each vertex a union of at most t horizontal segments ("bars") in the plane so that vertices u and v are adjacent if and only if some bar assigned to u and some bar assigned to v are joined by an unobstructed vertical line of sight having positive width. For an oriented graph G, having an edge uv requires visibility from a bar for u upward to a bar for v. The visibility number of a graph or digraph G, written b(G), is the least t such that G has a t-bar visibility representation. For the n-dimensional hypercube $$Q_n$$Qn, Euler's Formula yields $$b(Q_n)\ge \lceil \frac{n+1}{4}\rceil $$b(Qn)??n+14?. To prove equality, we decompose $$Q_{4k-1}$$Q4k-1 explicitly into k spanning subgraphs whose components have the form [InlineEquation not available: see fulltext.]. When G is an outerplanar oriented graph, always $$b(G)\le 2$$b(G)≤2; we give a forbidden substructure characterization for those with $$b(G)=1$$b(G)=1.
Multi-temporal LiDAR and Landsat quantification of fire-induced changes to forest structure

Abstract Measuring post-fire effects at landscape scales is critical to an ecological understanding of wildfire effects. Predominantly this is accomplished with either multi-spectral remote sensing data or through ground-based field sampling plots. While these methods are important, field data is usually limited to opportunistic post-fire observations, and spectral data often lacks validation with specific variables of change. Additional uncertainty remains regarding how best to account for environmental variables influencing fire effects (e.g., weather) for which observational data cannot easily be acquired, and whether pre-fire agents of change such as bark beetle and timber harvest impact model accuracy. This study quantifies wildfire effects by correlating changes in forest structure derived from multi-temporal Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) acquisitions to multi-temporal spectral changes captured by the Landsat Thematic Mapper and Operational Land Imager for the 2012 Pole Creek Fire in central Oregon. Spatial regression modeling was assessed as a methodology to account for spatial autocorrelation, and model consistency was quantified across areas impacted by pre-fire mountain pine beetle and timber harvest. The strongest relationship (pseudo-r2 = 0.86, p
Amphiregulin as a Novel Serum Marker of Puberty in Girls

Study Objective Amphiregulin is a member of the epidermal growth factor family. In breast tissue, amphiregulin is a mediator of estrogen and progesterone signaling. The objectives were to examine the relationship of amphiregulin levels during peripuberty with estrogen levels. Design, Setting, Participants, Interventions, and Main Outcome Measures The participants in this analysis were a subset from a longitudinal study of pubertal maturation, the Breast Cancer and the Environment Research Program. They were recruited between ages 3 and 7 years. Blood specimens were selected for hormone analysis between 24 months before and 6 months after breast development. Serum amphiregulin levels were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Amphiregulin levels were measured in 188 girls; 8.5% had a maternal history of breast cancer, and 30.9% of samples were below the limit of detection. Amphiregulin levels were greatest at 18 months before the onset of breast development (P < .006), and the rise in estrone levels between −24 and −18 months was correlated with the increase in amphiregulin levels in the same time period (P = .0002). After adjustment for time relative to breast development, amphiregulin levels were associated with maternal breast cancer (P = .024). Tracking of amphiregulin levels was highly significant (P < .0001) within a given individual. Conclusion Amphiregulin levels peaked at 18 months before the onset of breast development, were temporally related to the rise in serum estrone, and were significantly associated with maternal history of breast cancer. Elevated amphiregulin levels at puberty might be a predictor of increased breast cancer risk.
Developing a digital photography-based method for dietary analysis in self-serve dining settings

Current population-based methods for assessing dietary intake, including food frequency questionnaires, food diaries, and 24-h dietary recall, are limited in their ability to objectively measure food intake. Digital photography has been identified as a promising addition to these techniques but has rarely been assessed in self-serve settings. We utilized digital photography to examine university students' food choices and consumption in a self-serve dining hall setting. Research assistants took pre- and post-photos of students' plates during lunch and dinner to assess selection (presence), servings, and consumption of MyPlate food groups. Four coders rated the same set of approximately 180 meals for inter-rater reliability analyses; approximately 50 additional meals were coded twice by each coder to assess intra-rater agreement. Inter-rater agreement on the selection, servings, and consumption of food groups was high at 93.5%; intra-rater agreement was similarly high with an average of 95.6% agreement. Coders achieved the highest rates of agreement in assessing if a food group was present on the plate (95-99% inter-rater agreement, depending on food group) and estimating the servings of food selected (81-98% inter-rater agreement). Estimating consumption, particularly for items such as beans and cheese that were often in mixed dishes, was more challenging (77-94% inter-rater agreement). Results suggest that the digital photography method presented is feasible for large studies in real-world environments and can provide an objective measure of food selection, servings, and consumption with a high degree of agreement between coders; however, to make accurate claims about the state of dietary intake in all-you-can-eat, self-serve settings, researchers will need to account for the possibility of diners taking multiple trips through the serving line.
Unique Structural Features of Membrane-Bound C-Terminal Domain Motifs Modulate Complexin Inhibitory Function

Complexin is a small soluble presynaptic protein that interacts with neuronal SNARE proteins in order to regulate synaptic vesicle exocytosis. While the SNARE-binding central helix of complexin is required for both the inhibition of spontaneous fusion and the facilitation of synchronous fusion, the disordered C-terminal domain (CTD) of complexin is specifically required for its inhibitory function. The CTD of worm complexin binds to membranes via two distinct motifs, one of which undergoes a membrane curvature dependent structural transition that is required for efficient inhibition of neurotransmitter release, but the conformations of the membrane-bound motifs remain poorly characterized. Visualizing these conformations is required to clarify the mechanisms by which complexin-membrane interactions regulate its function. Here we employ optical and magnetic resonance spectroscopy to precisely define the boundaries of the two CTD membrane-binding motifs and to characterize their conformations. We show that the curvature dependent amphipathic helical motif features an irregular element of helical structure, likely a pi-bulge, and that this feature is important for complexin inhibitory function in vivo.
Response to Comment by Rabilloud on 'prevented Mortality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Historical and Projected Nuclear Power'

The critique by Rabilloud-whose only listed professional affiliation is an antinuclear activist groupis grossly biased and contains numerous misleading, hyperbolic, and erroneous claims about our paper2 and about nuclear energy in general. The nature of his comments bears a striking resemblance to the fallacious reasoning commonly employed by climate change deniers to try to undermine public concern about the climate crisis. Specifically, he resorts to cherry-picking of information and diversionary (red herring) arguments, demands unrealistic exactness, and cites untrustworthy sources. None of his claims undermine any of the key results of our paper, most notably our conclusion that nuclear energy has prevented, and can continue to prevent, a very high number of fatalities and very large greenhouse gas emissions due to fossil fuel burning. It follows that, as uncomfortable as it is for many well-intentioned environmentalists to admit, efforts to undermine nuclear energy also undermine mitigation of climate change and air pollution, with a heavy cost in human lives and potentially disastrous future climate change.
Influence of Exchangeable Oxygen on Biogenic Silica Oxygen Isotope Data

Abstract Application of biogenic opal oxygen isotope ratios from fossil and subfossil diatoms to paleoceanographic problems has been hampered by analytical and calibration issues in concert with a lack of experimental data to test fundamental assumptions about sample processing techniques. Here we present experiments where we react purified sediment trap and sediment core diatom samples to waters of different oxygen isotopic composition to quantify oxygen isotope exchange between laboratory processing solutions and δ18Odiatom values. We generate δ18Odiatom data using a microfluorination technique, and present FTIR data for samples both before and after vacuum dehydroxylation in order to investigate the mineralogic behavior of biogenic silica after dehydroxylation occurs. Our data demonstrate that exposure of diatoms to different δ18Oequil. water solutions during sample preparation alters final δ18Odiatom values and this alteration occurs during sample dehydroxylation prior to IRMS analysis. In addition, we present data that show structural diatom hydroxyl is persistent in sediment core samples, but the degree of equilibration with surrounding water decreases with sample age and/or core depth increase. Based on FTIR data, we propose that OH– loss from biogenic silica occurs post depositionally and may occur after heating in the laboratory, producing molecular scale reorganization of the silica tetrahedra within the biogenic opaline structure. Finally, we provide preliminary estimates of the time necessary for complete dehydroxylation of diatom silica, which would result in fully mature biogenic opal. These data suggest that high latitude marine sediments are slow to mature, and that the rate of exchangeable oxygen reduction varies exponentially at the locations we examined. Maturation time estimates require millions of years, and likely vary depending on core location.
The Individual in Psychology, Neuroscience, and Economics

This chapter looks at how psychologists, neuroscientists, and economists think about choice, why their conceptions of it are so narrow, and how this implies an unreasonable degree of cognitive incompetence on the part of individuals. This is important not just for the erosion of the status of the individual it implies, but also for justification for paternalistic government policies it leads to. In contrast, this chapter presents a more elaborate picture of choice based on interests, which are complex, multifaceted, and subjective, and puts the various decision-making flaws identified by the aforementioned scientists and the policies devised to correct them into perspective, restoring some status to the individual as a sound decision-maker in his or her own interests.
A Conceptual Proof of the Kesten-Stigum Theorem for Multi-Type Branching Processes

We give complete proofs of the theorem of convergence of types and the Kesten-Stigum theorem for multi-type branching processes. Very little analysis is used beyond the strong law of large numbers and some basic measure theory.
Gendered images of international research collaboration

Joan Acker's theory on gendered organizations offers important tools for understanding subtler forms of inequalities and gendered practices in the workplace. According to Acker, invisible mechanisms in organizations such as the symbolic and material/structural aspects of organizations reproduce gendered inequalities. My application of Acker's theory demonstrates how imagery itself assigns value to collaborative practices in gender stereotypical ways. In an institutional context that devalues international research collaboration among faculty, gendered images of exploiter, patronizing helper, partner, or friend ultimately serve to construct glass fences ‐ obstacles to international collaborative engagement ‐ particularly for women. The reflection and potential recreation of gendered inequalities among academics simultaneously reconstructs inequalities between the U.S. and abroad, as institutional reward structures attach gendered symbolic and material values that (re)shape (international) collaborations themselves. Together, these processes construct the gendered organization of global science and academia.
The Normal Colon

Embryologically, the colon can be divided into two parts. The right side of the colon and portions of the transverse colon originate from the mid-gut and receive their blood supply from the superior mesenteric artery. The bowel from the distal transverse colon through the rectum originates from the hind-gut and receives much of its blood supply from the inferior mesenteric artery, with some supply to the rectum coming from the internal iliac arteries. The arterial branches pierce the colon at select sites of defects in the muscle layer and end eventually in a capillary plexus.
Compassion Routines: An Instrument Development and Validation Study

Recent research has suggested that organizational structures can support the expression of compassion. We focus on how one type of structure—routines, can become vehicles for the expression of comp...
Probabilistic computation in stochastic pulse neuromime networks

Biological neural networks embody a unique combination of analog, digital and stochastic characteristics that have fueled speculation that the computational power of these networks may exceed that of conventional digital computers. This conjecture is obviously intriguing, yet little work on formal computation theory for biologically relevant, analog stochastic neural networks is taking place. Spurred by this gap, this dissertation presents one framework for interpreting the computational power of biologically relevant, stochastic pulse neuromime (SPN) networks. The approach pursued here begins with the development of noise-driven retarded functional differential equation model for the dynamics of SPN networks. A ternary asynchronous switching network model which symbolically describes the important features of those dynamics is then presented. Analysis tools for these networks are described and applied to several oscillatory SPN networks for illustrative purposes. A nondeterministic SPN network is identified and embedded in a larger network to produce a probabilistic oscillator that functions as a repetitive "coin-flip". This oscillator is generalized to a family SS of probabilistic SPN networks such that the n-th network in the family handles all size n instances of a particular computational problem. Finally, it is shown that the language accepted by SS in polynomial-time, denoted SSP, is PP-complete.
Reappraisal of Failures in Downstaging Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Prior to Liver Transplant-Preliminary Report on the Impact of Underestimations of Tumor Numbers and Tumor Sizes as Measured From Imaging Before Transplant.

Abstract Downstaging treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prior to liver transplant (LT) is an accepted strategy to meet the Milan criteria. However, after transplant surgery, a reality is noted that the number or/and the size of some HCCs measured from the liver explants is different from that measured from the pre-LT imaging. If tumor number or tumor size measured from the liver explants was beyond that measured from pre-LT imaging, we define it as “failed downstaging.” Among 27 patients who received downstaging therapies, there are 11 “number reduction failures” and 6 “size reduction failures.” We attribute the discrepancy to 2 possible reasons; one is that the pre-LT imaging after downstaging could not completely detect all the HCC; the other is that the time interval between the downstaging and LT is long enough to develop new HCCs. After follow-up, 6 patients developed HCC recurrence. The significant factors affecting recurrence include tumor size from postdownstaging imaging (P = .048), tumor number ≥ 2 (P = .007), multiple sessions of downstaging (P = .03), ratio of neutrophil to lymphocyte (P = .047), and tumor number from liver explant (borderline P = .05). Tumor recurrence after LT is significantly higher in those with “size reduction failure” (P = .048). The interval between LT and tumor recurrence is significantly shorter in those with “size reduction failure” (P = .04). To decrease underestimations of HCC, combining various imaging studies including the computed tomographic scan, magnetic resonance imaging, and contrast ultrasonography is needed to increase the accuracy before LT. Repeated imaging studies at short intervals of no more than 3 months are necessary during a long wait. How to minimize the underestimations of HCC to determine the appropriate candidacy for LT is an important goal for transplantation surgeons.
Outfoxing the Eagle: Soviet, East European and Cuban Involvement in Nicaragua in the 1980s:

This paper examines the relations of the Soviet Union, Cuba, and the East European socialist states with Nicaragua from Anastasio Somoza's removal in July 1979 until Violeta Chamorro's election vic...
Heritability and response to selection for carcass weight and growth in the Delta Select strain of channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus

Abstract A population of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), referred to as the Delta Selects, was established in 2006 and has been selected for increased growth and carcass yield as part of the USDA's Warmwater Aquaculture Unit's mission to develop improved catfish germplasm for release to U.S. catfish farmers. The base population was established from catfish collected from 10 commercial farms. Broodfish were spawned in ponds, full-sib families were reared in separate tanks until tagging at 8 to 10 months post-hatch, then fish were reared communally in earthen ponds until 16 to 18 months post-hatch. Fingerling weight, harvest weight and sex were recorded. A sample of males and females from each full-sib family was processed and carcass weight (head and viscera removed) was recorded. Pedigree was determined by assigning offspring to parents based on inheritance of microsatellite alleles. Data was collected on offspring produced in 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2014 and 2015. Various statistical models were compared, and variance components and breeding values were estimated with BLUP F90 software. Selection was based on estimated breeding values for increased harvest weight and carcass yield. Fingerling weight was recorded for 27,000 fish from 945 full-sib families produced by 465 sires and 726 dams; harvest weight was recorded for 27,160 progeny from 954 full-sib families produced by 467 sires and 731 dams; and carcass weight was recorded for 6023 animals from 752 full-sib families produced by 394 sires and 588 dams. Heritabilities estimates were 0.15 for fingerling weight, 0.21 for harvest weight and 0.32 for carcass yield. Genetic correlations were 0.77 for fingerling and harvest weight and 0.20 for carcass yield and harvest weight. Genetic trends, comparison to a randomly bred control line, and correlations between mid-parent EBVs and offspring phenotypes demonstrate positive response to selection for both traits.
Geoacoustic inversion using vector acoustic modal dispersion: a sensitivity study

Geoacoustic inversion is traditionnaly performed using sound pressure data. In this paper, we present a sensitivity study of geoacoustic inversion using particle velocity, as recorded on a single vector sensor. The scope of the study is further restricted to shallow water and low-frequency impulsive sources. If propagating modes can be separated, then four vector acoustic metrics can be formed by coherent combination of pressure and velocity: phase speed, circularity, depth-dependent mode speed of energy, and vertical component of normalized reactive intensity. Each of these vector metric can be used as an input for geoacoustic inversion. Their sensitivity to seabed geoacoustic parameter is illustrated on a simulated scenario that reproduce the Seabed Characterization Experiment (SBCEX) that took place on the New England Mud Patch in 2017. Results are compared with inversion results obtained using group speed as input data. All the vector metrics but phase speed have a better sensitivity to seabed parameters than modal group speeds.
MiMIs: Simple, Efficient, and Fast Bounded-Exhaustive Test Case Generators

Bounded-exhaustive test case generators are important bug-finding tools, epitomized with tools like Korat, UDITA, and SciFe. All such tools are practically limited by scale; a given testing problem may be too large to generate all tests within reasonable time, or prohibitive amounts of memory may be required for this generation. The tools themselves may have lengthy implementations which hide their own bugs, or they may require users to familiarize themselves with many operations. In this paper, we strive to push the boundaries of what test case generators can scale to, while preserving a simple implementation and user interface. To this end, we introduce a novel programming abstraction: Memoized Monadic Iterators (MiMIs). MiMIs combine the disparate ideas of ASTGen’s iterators, LogicT’s additive monad interface, and SciFe’s memoization into a single coherent programming abstraction. Our evaluation shows that MiMIs are typically faster than the state of the art with orders of magnitude less memory used, and that MiMIs overall scale better to big testing problems than any competitor. Thanks to their fundamental design, MiMIs are implemented in under 200 LOC (compared to thousands with most competitors), and require users to familiarize themselves with collectively only 7 operations and types (less than half as many as the state of the art), all without sacrificing generator conciseness.
A distributed frontotemporal network underlies gamma-band synchronization impairments in schizophrenia patients

Synaptic interactions between parvalbumin-positive γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic interneurons and pyramidal neurons evoke cortical gamma oscillations, which are known to be abnormal in schizophrenia. These cortical gamma oscillations can be indexed by the gamma-band auditory steady-state response (ASSR), a robust electroencephalographic (EEG) biomarker that is increasingly used to advance the development of novel therapeutics for schizophrenia, and other related brain disorders. Despite promise of ASSR, the neural substrates of ASSR have not yet been characterized. This study investigated the sources underlying ASSR in healthy subjects and schizophrenia patients. In this study, a novel method for noninvasively characterizing source locations was developed and applied to EEG recordings obtained from 293 healthy subjects and 427 schizophrenia patients who underwent ASSR testing. Results revealed a distributed network of temporal and frontal sources in both healthy subjects and schizophrenia patients. In both groups, primary contributing ASSR sources were identified in the right superior temporal cortex and the orbitofrontal cortex. In conjunction with normal activity in these areas, schizophrenia patients showed significantly reduced source dipole density of gamma-band ASSR (ITC > 0.25) in the left superior temporal cortex, orbitofrontal cortex, and left superior frontal cortex. In conclusion, a distributed network of temporal and frontal brain regions supports gamma phase synchronization. We demonstrated that failure to mount a coherent physiologic response to simple 40-Hz stimulation reflects disorganized network function in schizophrenia patients. Future translational studies are needed to more fully understand the neural mechanisms underlying gamma-band ASSR network abnormalities in schizophrenia.
Slow reading and recovery: tales of educational trauma and transformation

These true tales of educational trauma and transformation pay homage to Pelias, R. J. (2000. The critical life. Communication Education, 49[3], 220–228), in order to share vulnerable, personal stor...
Mutant G2019S-LRRK2 Induces Abnormalities in Arteriolar Cerebral Blood Volume in Mouse Brains: An MRI Study.

Background Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease and the most common movement disorder characterized by motor impairments resulting from midbrain dopamine neuron loss. Abnormalities in small pial arteries and arterioles, which are the primary pathways of local delivery of nutrients and oxygen in brain tissue, have been reported in many neurodegenerative diseases including PD. Mutations in LRRK2 cause genetic PD and contribute to sporadic PD. The most common PD-linked mutation LRRK2 G2019S contributes 20-47% of genetic forms of PD in Caucasian populations. The human LRRK2 G2019S transgenic mouse model displays PD-like movement impairment and was used to identify novel LRRK2 inhibitors, which provides a useful model for studying microvascular abnormalities in PD. Objectives To investigate abnormalities in arteriolar cerebral blood volume (CBVa) in various brain regions using the inflow-based vascular-space occupancy (iVASO) MRI technique in LRRK2 mouse models of PD. Methods Anatomical and iVASO MRI scans were performed in 5 female and 7 male nontransgenic (nTg), 3 female and 4 male wild-type (WT) LRRK2, and 5 female and 7 male G2019S-LRRK2 mice of 9 months of age. CBVa was calculated and compared in the substantia nigra (SN), olfactory cortex, and prefrontal cortex. Results Compared to nTg mice, G2019S-LRRK2 mice showed decreased CBVa in the SN, but increased CBVa in the olfactory and prefrontal cortex in both male and female groups, whereas WT-LRRK2 mice showed no change in CBVa in the SN (male and female), the olfactory (female), and prefrontal (female) cortex, but a slight increase in CBVa in the olfactory and prefrontal cortex in the male group only. Conclusions Alterations in the blood volume of small arteries and arterioles (CBVa) were detected in the G2019S-LRRK2 mouse model of PD. The opposite changes in CBVa in the SN and the cortex indicate that PD pathology may have differential effects in different brain regions. Our results suggest the potential value of CBVa as a marker for clinical PD studies.
Media Coverage and Framing of Oakland's Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Tax, 2016-2019.

Purpose:To describe media coverage and framing of Oakland, California’s, sugar-sweetened beverage tax.Design:Media content analysis.Sample:Media documents (n = 90), published January 1, 2016-August...
Effect of Inhibitor-grafted Montmorillonite on Corrosion Resistance of Epoxy Coatings

Nanocomposite epoxy coatings were prepared with different proportion of epoxy resin and inhibitor- grafted montmorillonite. The effect of the inhibitor- grafted montmorillonite on the corrosion resistance of epoxy coating on hot dip galvanized steel sheet was investigated by using salt spray tests and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy(EIS). The results show that among the coatings tested, the one with 3% of the inhibitor-grafted MMT exhibits the most superior corrosion resistance with water diffusion coefficient of 9.89×10-11cm2/s and porosity of 2.22×10-8respectively; while its impedance values is above 109Ω·cm2during the whole immersion times.
A Fay-Herriot Model for Estimating Subjective Cognitive Decline among Military Veterans.

Although studies have examined the geographic distribution of dementia among the general population in order to develop geographically targeted interventions, no studies have examined the geographic distribution of subjective cognitive decline (SCD) among military veterans specifically. To map the geographic distribution of subjective cognitive decline from 2011–2019 in the United States among military veterans. Cross-sectional. United States. Individuals reporting previous service in the United States Armed Forces. Using 2011 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data, which is last year for which geocoded SCD data is publicly available, we estimated the survey-weighted county-level prevalence of veteran SCD for counties with >30 veterans (43 counties in 7 states). We then developed a Fay-Herriot small area estimation linear model using auxiliary data from the Census, with county-level veteran-specific covariates including % >65 years old, % female, % college educated, and median income. Following model validation, we created beta-weighted predictions of veteran SCD for all USA counties for 2011–2019 using relevant time-specific Census auxiliary data. We provide choropleth maps of our predictions. Results of our model on 43 counties showed that county-level rates of SCD were significantly associated with all auxiliary variables except annual income (F = 1.49, df = 4, 38). Direct survey-weighted rates were correlated with model-predicted rates in 43 counties (Pearson r = 0.32). Regarding predicted rates for the entire USA, the average county-level prevalence rate of veteran SCD in 2011 was 13.83% (SD = 7.35), but 29.13% in 2019 (SD = 14.71) — although variation in these rates were evident across counties. SCD has increased since 2011 among veterans. Veterans Affairs hospitals should implement plans that include cognitive assessments, referral to resources, and monitoring patient progress, especially in rural areas.
Evaluation of risk communication in a mammography patient decision aid.

Abstract Objectives We characterized patients’ comprehension, memory, and impressions of risk communication messages in a patient decision aid (PtDA), Mammopad, and clarified perceived importance of numeric risk information in medical decision making. Methods Participants were 75 women in their forties with average risk factors for breast cancer. We used mixed methods, comprising a risk estimation problem administered within a pretest–posttest design, and semi-structured qualitative interviews with a subsample of 21 women. Results Participants’ positive predictive value estimates of screening mammography improved after using Mammopad. Although risk information was only briefly memorable, through content analysis, we identified themes describing why participants value quantitative risk information, and obstacles to understanding. We describe ways the most complicated graphic was incompletely comprehended. Conclusions Comprehension of risk information following Mammopad use could be improved. Patients valued receiving numeric statistical information, particularly in pictograph format. Obstacles to understanding risk information, including potential for confusion between statistics, should be identified and mitigated in PtDA design. Practice implications Using simple pictographs accompanied by text, PtDAs may enhance a shared decision-making discussion. PtDA designers and providers should be aware of benefits and limitations of graphical risk presentations. Incorporating comprehension checks could help identify and correct misapprehensions of graphically presented statistics
Structural Proteins of Rabies Virus

Purified rabies virions, unlabeled or labeled with radioactive amino acids or d-glucosamine, were dissociated into their polypeptides by treatment with sodium dodecyl sulfate in a reducing environment and fractionated by electroiphoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate-containing polyacrylamide gel. The molecular weights of individual polypeptides were estimated by comparison of their rate of migration with that of protein markers of known molecular weight. Purified viral nucleocapsid and a mixture of envelope components, isolated from virions disrupted by sodium deoxycholate, were analyzed by the same procedure. The number of molecules per virion of each polypeptide was estimated from the proportions of the separated components, the known molecular weight of the viral ribonucleic acid, and the chemical composition of the nucleocapsid. The protein moiety of the nucleocapsid particle was estimated to consist of 1,713 molecules of a major polypeptide (molecular weight, 62,000 daltons) and 76 molecules of a minor polypeptide (molecular weight, 55,000 daltons). In addition to 1,783 molecules of a glycoprotein component (molecular weight, 80,000 daltons), the viral envelope contains 789 and 1,661 molecules, respectively, of two other polypeptides (molecular weight, 40,000 and 25,000 daltons).
Continuous time delta-sigma modulator with an embedded passive low pass filter

This paper presents a methodology to improve filtering in continuous time delta-sigma modulators (CTDSMs). A first order passive low pass filter is incorporated into the delta-sigma loop with a small modification of the existing active RC integrator configuration. The delay associated with the filter is compensated without any additional active components such as opamps. The proposed scheme provides an additional first order filtering to CTDSMs, resulting in an increased immunity to out-of-band blockers. Also, it relaxes the design complexity of the preceding filters. Detailed Cadence and Matlab simulations are provided to prove the operation of the proposed scheme.
IFN-γ and Fas Ligand Are Required for Graft-versus-Tumor Activity against Renal Cell Carcinoma in the Absence of Lethal Graft-versus-Host Disease

To determine the mechanisms of graft-versus-tumor (GVT) activity in the absence of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) against a solid tumor, we established two allogeneic bone marrow transplantation models with a murine renal cell carcinoma (RENCA). The addition of 0.3 × 10 6 donor CD8 + T cells to the allograft increased the survival of tumor-bearing mice without causing GVHD. The analysis of CD8 + T cells deficient in cytotoxic molecules demonstrated that anti-RENCA activity is dependent on IFN-γ and Fas ligand (FasL), but does not require soluble or membrane-bound TNF-α, perforin, or TRAIL. Recipients of IFN-γ −/− CD8 + T cells are unable to reject RENCA compared with recipients of wild-type CD8 + T cells and, importantly, neither group develops severe GVHD. IFN-γ −/− CD8 + T cells derived from transplanted mice are less able to kill RENCA cells in vitro, while pretreatment of RENCA cells with IFN-γ enhances class I and FasL expression and rescues the lytic capacity of IFN-γ −/− CD8 + T cells. These results demonstrate that the addition of low numbers of selected donor CD8 + T cells to the allograft can mediate GVT activity without lethal GVHD against murine renal cell carcinoma, and this GVT activity is dependent on IFN-γ and FasL.
Comparative Studies on Bone Matrix and Osteoid by Histochemical Techniques

In this study a variety of procedures were utilized to examine the histochemical characteristics of cartilage, bone matrix, and osteoid in experimental low-phosphorus, low-calcium, and hypervitaminosis D rickets. The results obtained indicate that each of such tissues exhibits different histochemical properties and that these properties do not vary with the type of rickets induced. Therefore, the data acquired constitute additional evidence that osteoid differs from bone matrix. Interpretation of the observed reactions permits a deduction as to the nature of this difference.
The effects of maternal hyperphenylalaninemia on learning in mature rats

Pregnant rats were given a diet supplemented with 0.5% alpha-methyl-phenylalanine and 3% phenylalanine from the 12th day of gestation to term. Compared to unsupplemented controls, maternal serum phenylalanine was elevated 8-10-fold. Experimental litters did not differ from controls in number of offspring, birth weight, or subsequent growth on an unsupplemented diet. At 8 weeks of age, animals were tested for latent learning on a 4-arm maze, and at 10 weeks, they were tested for observational learning with littermates in a food preference paradigm. In both tests, experimental animals did learn, but significantly less than controls. The data suggest that maternal hyperphenylalaninemia, induced as a model for the inborn error, phenylketonuria, can lead to learning deficits later in the lives of offspring.
Anisotropic strain localization in tensile prestrained sheet steel

Multiple forming operations are often needed to stamp complex shapes out of sheet metal. Large changes in strain path can occur from such operations. This study examined the effects of a particular strain path change, tensile-tensile, on the mechanical properties of an aluminum-killed steel. Large tensile specimens were prestrained various amounts in one direction followed by machining smaller tensile specimens at 0, 45, and/or 90 deg to the prestrain direction. The smaller samples were then pulled to failure. For samples pulled in the same direction as the prestrain, the residual strength and ductility were equivalent to those obtained from an interrupted tensile test. In contrast, both the 45 and the 90 deg prestrained specimens showed a larger than expected flow stress and an abrupt change in the nature of the residual ductility at prestrains of 7.5 pct and larger. At 7.5 pct prestrain, the uniform strain, as measured by the maximum-load point on the load vs elongation tensile curve, decreased abruptly. The decrease was accompanied by a corresponding increase in the post-uniform strain. This unusual behavior is explained in terms of a rapid increase in strain-hardening with strain.
Postnatal Effects of Control Fluids Administered to Gravid Rats

Studies of the effects of drugs and other compounds on animals typically employ injections of the diluting agent to a control group. Diluting agents commonly used are distilled water, saline, and oil. Routes of administration also vary and include the intraperitoneal, subcutaneous, intravenous, and oral. Since previous work in this laboratory has been concerned with the administration of various pharmacologicall agents to pregnant rats and the effects on the behavior of che offspring (Werboff, Gottlieb, Havlena, & Word, 1961; Werboff, Gottlieb, Dembicki, & Havlena, 1961), ic was advisable to invescigate the differences, if any, between the control fluids and routes of administration currently in use. This investigation was undertaken to compare the effects of two control fluids (isotonic saline and distilled water) administered by two different routes (subcucaneous and intraperitoneal) to pregnant rats on the behavior of the offspring.
On the Perception of Crackle in High-Amplitude Jet Noise

DOI: 10.2514/1.26484 Crackle is a phenomenon sometimes found in supersonic jet noise and can comprise an annoying and dominant part of the overall perceived noise. In the past, crackle has been commonly quantified by the skewness of the time waveform. In this investigation, a simulated waveform with a virtually identical probability density function and power spectrum as an actual F/A-18E afterburner recording has been created by nonlinearly transforming a statistically Gaussian waveform. Although the afterburner waveform crackles noticeably, playback of the nonGaussian simulated waveform yields no perception of crackle at all, despite its relatively high skewness. Closer examinationofthetwowaveformsrevealsthatalthoughtheyhavevirtuallyidenticalstatistics,thereareconsiderable differences in their time rates of change in the intense compressive portions of the waveforms. The afterburner waveform is much more shocklike with its more rapid variations in pressure than the non-Gaussian simulated waveform. This results in a significant difference in the probability distributions of the time derivatives of the actual and simulated data and suggests that the perception of crackle in jet noise waveforms may be better quantified with statistics of the time derivative of the waveform, rather than by the skewness of the time waveform itself.
EPR, Electronic, and Vibrational Spectra of the CuCl64- Anion in [tris(2-aminoethyl)amineH4]2[CuCl6]Cl4·2H2O and Crystal Structure of the Complex

The synthesis and crystal structure of [tris(2-aminoethyl)amineH4]2CuCl10·2H2O, C12H48Cl10CuN8O2, are reported. Crystals of the compound are triclinic, P1, with a = 8.317(1) A, b = 9.506(1) A, c = 11.450(1) A, α = 94.43(1)°, β = 103.29(1)°, and γ = 114.04(1)° (Z = 1). The structure contains isolated CuCl64- anions, with Cu−Cl(1) = 2.251(1), Cu−Cl(2) = 2.361(1), and Cu−Cl(3) = 3.105(1)A. The g values obtained from the EPR spectrum of the powder are g1 = 2.05, g2 = 2.08, and g3 = 2.29. These values are consistent with an elongated octahedral symmetry with a slightly rhombic distortion. The vibrational spectra of the CuCl64- anion are assigned in D2h symmetry.
Decreased in vivo virulence and altered gene expression by a Brucella melitensis light-sensing histidine kinase mutant.

Brucella species utilize diverse virulence factors. Previously, Brucella abortus light-sensing histidine kinase was identified as important for cellular infection. Here, we demonstrate that a Brucella melitensis LOV-HK (BM-LOV-HK) mutant strain has strikingly different gene expression than wild type. General stress response genes including the alternative sigma factor rpoE1 and its anti-anti-sigma factor phyR were downregulated, while flagellar, quorum sensing (QS), and type IV secretion system genes were upregulated in the ΔBM-LOV-HK strain vs. wild type. Contextually, expression results agree with other studies of transcriptional regulators involving Δ rpoE1 , Δ phyR , Δ vjbR , and Δ blxR (Δ babR ) Brucella strains. Additionally, deletion of BM-LOV-HK decreases virulence in mice. During C57BL/6 mouse infection, the ΔBM-LOV-HK strain had 2 logs less CFUs in the spleen 3 days postinfection, but similar levels 6 days post infection compared to wild type. Infection of IRF-1−/− mice more specifically define ΔBM-LOV-HK strain attenuation with fewer bacteria in spleens and significantly increased survival of mutant vs. wild-type infected IRF-1−/− mice. Upregulation of flagella, QS, and VirB genes, along with downregulation of rpoE1 and related sigma factor, rpoH2 (BMEI0280) suggest that BM-LOV-HK modulates both QS and general stress response regulatory components to control Brucella gene expression on a global level.