cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A revised Triassic stratigraphic framework for the Arctic Alaska Basin

The Triassic Shublik Formation and the Triassic–Jurassic Otuk Formation are partially age-equivalent lithostratigraphic units that were deposited in the Arctic Alaska Basin (AAB). The Shublik Formation represents proximal deposition within the basin, with episodic siliciclastic input, whereas the Otuk Formation was deposited in the distal part of the basin, with significant intervals of mudstone and chert. Both the Shublik and Otuk Formations have significant intervals of organic-rich mudstone, and the Shublik is a major source rock for northern Alaska hydrocarbon accumulations such as Prudhoe Bay. The revised stratigraphic framework presented herein, based on the integration of lithostratigraphy and biostratigraphy, correlates intervals within these two formations, as well as the Ivishak Formation and the Karen Creek and Sag River Sandstones (which underlie and overlie the Shublik). This stratigraphic framework provides a basis for comparison of proximal and distal parts of the AAB through the Triassic, thus allowing for a more robust understanding of the spatial and temporal variability of lithology and organic richness within this basin. Five transgressive–regressive sequences are defined in the Shublik, based on lithostratigraphy and better age constraints provided by the revised stratigraphic framework. These sequences are age-correlative and recognized in other Arctic basins, implying that they have regional, and perhaps global, significance.
Hamilton and Hardy: Mentoring and Friendship in the Service of Occupational Health.

This article explores the mentoring relationship between Alice Hamilton and Harriet Hardy, two female physician-researchers who had a tremendous impact on the development of the field of occupational health in the United States during the 20th century. The article relies on letters the women wrote to each other. Hamilton, the elder, supported and furthered Hardy’s career by asking her to coauthor the second edition of a seminal occupational health text. After beginning this intellectual collaboration, Hamilton remained a mentor to Hardy, and a decades-long friendship ensued. The article explores their relationship within the historical, political, and social context in which the women worked and made remarkable contributions to public health.
Demographics, Presentation, and Diagnosis

Abstract Chordomas and chondrosarcomas are rare bone cancers that share many clinicoradiological similarities. Nevertheless, they are distinct pathological entities that markedly differ regarding their origin, history, and prognosis. Chordomas represent 3% of primary bone tumors, develop from remnants of the primitive notochord, and may affect the skull base and any part of the spine. Chondrosarcomas represent 7% of primary bone tumors, appear to develop from cartilaginous rests during the process of ossification, and most commonly involve the long bones of the appendicular skeleton, although they may also affect the axial skeleton. Given the importance of distinguishing between these neoplasms for proper management, this chapter will review demographic and clinical data emphasizing their differences.
domino: mobile phones as accessible microcontrollers

As the importance of computational devices grows in today's technology-driven society, tools for teaching computational literacy are becoming more necessary. While microcontrollers have been shown to be an effective way to develop computational literacy in young learners, microcontrollers' accessibility is limited due to their cost. We present domino, a mobile platform that turns the phone into a microcontroller using its inbuilt sensors and actuators. Learners can create their own cause-and-effect apps with the phone's sensors as inputs and existing applications as outputs. In this paper, we reflect on the design aspects of domino that enable learners to use their phones to problem-solve in everyday life, as well as the app's implications for future work in the area of computational literacy.
Identifying Lurking Alligators: An Essay on the Ethical Dimensions of Faculty Development

The literature on ethics in higher education tends to focus primarily on the professor/student relationship. While that relationship is central to academia, there are important ethical dimensions to consider in the work of faculty development. Principles used to gloss the ethics of the professor/student relationship are applicable to the ethics of faculty development as well.
Determination of Wind Turbine Operating Deflection Shapes Using Full-field 3D Point-tracking

The ability to collect operating data at a high number of points to monitor the structural dynamics of rotating structures will lead to a better physical understanding of these structures during operation. Today, however, structural dynamic measurements are typically obtained while the structure is in a static configuration. Differences are likely to exist in the structural dynamic behavior when comparing statically performed tests and the measurements while taken during operation. In order to evaluate a rotating system while in operation, slip-rings are typically used during testing with measurements made at only a few discrete points. Slip-ring configurations can be difficult to instrument, suffer from measurement noise, and the attached sensors can obscure the true dynamic response due to mass loading and aerodynamic effects. In past work, stereophotogrammetry techniques have been shown to measure the in- and out-of-plane motion of rotating structures. To extend these prior efforts, a 46 inch (1.17 m) diameter wind turbine was mounted to a commercial fan motor so controlled rotating conditions could be created in a laboratory environment. Displacements in three dimensions at dozens of measurement points were determined using 3D point-tracking while the turbine was spun at multiple speeds. Operating deflection shapes extracted from these data were compared to other rotating tests and to a static (non-rotating) modal test. The test results indicate a correlation between conventional static and optically measured mode shapes, however some spectral differences exist between the data sets and may be due to the changes in the structural boundary conditions present during operation at different speeds.
Energy requirement for maintenance and growth of Nellore bulls and steers fed high-forage diets.

Data from three comparative slaughter experiments with individually fed Nellore bulls (n = 31) and steers (n = 66) were utilized to determine their NE m and NEg requirements when fed high-forage diets. The experimental design provided ranges in ME intake, BW, and ADG for the development of regression equations to predict NE m and NEg requirements. The Nellore bulls (Trial 1) were divided into two intake levels (ad libitum and 65% of the ad libitum). The steers (Trials 2 and 3) were allocated to three intake levels (ad libitum and 55 and 70% of the ad libitum). In both trials, there were three slaughter groups within each intake level. The three end points for the bulls were different days on treatment (100, 150, and 190 d and 130, 180, and 200 d, respectively, for older and younger animal subgroups). The steers were slaughtered when animals of the ad libitum treatment reached 400, 440, and 480 kg shrunk BW (SBW) on average for the first, second, and third group, respectively. For all body composition determinations, whole empty body components were weighed, ground, and subsampled for chemical analysis. In each of the trials, initial body composition was determined with equations developed from a baseline slaughter group, using SBW and empty BW (EBW), fat (EBF), and protein (EBP) as variables. The NE m was similar for bulls and steers; NE m averaged 77.2 kcal/ kg 0.75 EBW. However, the efficiency of conversion of ME to net energy for maintenance was greater for steers than for bulls (68.8 and 65.6%, respectively), indicating that bulls had a greater ME requirement for maintenance than steers (5.4%; P < 0.05). Our analyses do not support the NRC (2000) conclusion that Nellore, a Bos indicus breed, has a lower net energy requirement for maintenance than Bos taurus breeds. An equation developed with the pooled data to predict retained energy (RE) was similar to the NRC (2000) equation. A second equation was developed to predict RE adjusted for degree of maturity (u): RE = (6.45 - 2.58/u) × EWG × e (0.469 × u) , where u = current EBW/final EBW in which final EBW was 365 kg for steers and younger bulls and 456 kg for older bulls at 22% EBF, respectively.
Adoption Revelation and Communication Issues: Implications for Practice:

Adoption revelation and ongoing communication can be problematic in some adoptive families. The authors examine these issues from a cognitive perspective. Case illustrations are presented from an e...
Religion and youth educational aspirations: a multilevel approach

Previous research has demonstrated that individual religious beliefs and practices are associated with educational outcomes. However, less is known about the manner in which the overall religious c...
Is the λ-transition in liquid sulfur a fragile-to-strong transition?

The abrupt and large increase in the viscosity of liquid sulfur above the λ-transition temperature Tλ corresponds to a reversible structural transformation in the form of a ring-to-chain polymerization reaction. The mechanistic connection between this structural transformation and viscosity is investigated by studying the compositional dependence of the shear relaxation behavior of supercooled SxSe100−x liquids as their structural evolution mimics that of liquid sulfur across the λ-transition. The results of steady and oscillatory shear parallel-plate rheometry indicate that the viscosity of these liquids is controlled by the S/Se–S/Se bond scission/renewal dynamics and the time scale of these dynamics rapidly increases as the relative concentrations of rings and chains in the structure become comparable. The coexistence of these two types of topological units in these liquids lowers the conformational entropy of the chain elements due to a steric hindrance from the ring elements, resulting in a rapid drop in the fragility as S is added to Se. The same topological effect resulting from the ring-to-chain transformation in liquid S renders the highly fragile molecular liquid below Tλ, a strong polymerized liquid above Tλ. Therefore, it is argued that the λ-transition of liquid S corresponds to a fragile-to-strong liquid-liquid transition.The abrupt and large increase in the viscosity of liquid sulfur above the λ-transition temperature Tλ corresponds to a reversible structural transformation in the form of a ring-to-chain polymerization reaction. The mechanistic connection between this structural transformation and viscosity is investigated by studying the compositional dependence of the shear relaxation behavior of supercooled SxSe100−x liquids as their structural evolution mimics that of liquid sulfur across the λ-transition. The results of steady and oscillatory shear parallel-plate rheometry indicate that the viscosity of these liquids is controlled by the S/Se–S/Se bond scission/renewal dynamics and the time scale of these dynamics rapidly increases as the relative concentrations of rings and chains in the structure become comparable. The coexistence of these two types of topological units in these liquids lowers the conformational entropy of the chain elements due to a steric hindrance from the ring elements, resulting in a rapid dro...
Tumors of the Renal Pelvis

Tumors of the renal pelvis are relatively uncommon and account for 5–8% of all renal tumors. Renal pelvic tumors are generally grouped with ureteral tumors together as tumors of the upper urinary tract (UUT). The vast majority of UUT tumors are composed of urothelial carcinoma (UC). UUTUCs are classified as two major groups, noninvasive and invasive UC, using a classification system similar to that for bladder UC. The noninvasive group is divided into papillary neoplasms and flat lesions, which are further classified into several distinct categories. The invasive group includes conventional UC as well as a number of histologic variants. The pathologic and clinical features of these renal pelvic tumors are discussed in this chapter.
Phase I randomized trial of liothyronine for remyelination in multiple sclerosis: A dose-ranging study with assessment of reliability of visual outcomes.

Abstract Background Thyroid hormone promotes remyelination in multiple sclerosis (MS) animal models through a variety of mechanisms. Liothyronine (L-T3) is a short-acting thyroid hormone with demonstrated safety and tolerability for short-term and chronic use in euthyroid adults with other health conditions, but has not been studied in people with MS. The objectives of this single-center, phase I, placebo-controlled, clinical trial were to determine the safety, tolerability, and optimal dosing of L-T3 in people with MS in preparation for a phase 2 remyelination clinical trial. Secondary goals included exploration of the reliability of functional and clinical measurements of myelination in the anterior visual pathway over one week. Methods Groups of six clinically stable people with MS were randomized in a 4:2 ratio to receive L-T3 or placebo. The first group received 50 mcg total daily dose (TDD) of L-T3, with escalating doses of L-T3 in subsequent groups, up to potentially 150 mcg TDD in the final group. Prior to enrollment for the next dose-escalated group, all safety measures for the prior dose were reviewed. The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was considered to be the dose below which two or more participants experienced dose limiting symptoms or one participant experienced a serious adverse event. After the MTD was reached, no further patients were enrolled. Visual evoked potentials (VEP) P100 latency with two different check sizes (17′ and 34′) and Sloan low contrast letter acuity (LCLA) were measured pre- and post-treatment. To determine whether there was a treatment effect, the placebo and L-T3 groups were compared using a clustered bootstrap regression estimation. A linear mixed effects model was used to determine test-retest reliability of VEP and LCLA in all eyes. Results Between May 2016 and November 2016, 15 people with MS were randomized to L-T3 (n = 10) or placebo (n = 5). Subjects were adherent to the study drug and the MTD was 75 mcg TDD. No serious adverse events were observed and the most common adverse events were poor sleep and loose stools. No treatment effect of L-T3 was observed over one week. Therefore, data from patients on L-T3 and placebo were pooled to explore VEP and LCLA reliability. The intraclass correlations of VEP 17′, VEP 34′ and LCLA were 0.836, 0.860, and 0.932, respectively. The mean differences in values between visits 1 and 2 for VEP 17′ and 34′ and LCLA were 1.9 ms/eye (SD 6.5), 0.4 ms/eye (6.3), and 0.8/eye (3.6), respectively. Conclusions This study confirms the short-term safety and tolerability of L-T3 in people with MS, with 75 mcg TDD as the MTD. Our results also support that, despite small variations over one week, VEP with various check sizes and Sloan LCLA are reliable functional and clinical outcome measures that could be used in remyelination clinical trials in MS. A future phase 2 clinical trial to investigate the efficacy of L-T3 as a remyelination therapy may be warranted. This trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02760056).
Genital Injuries: Are They Telling us Something about Sexual Violence?

Genital injury has a forensic relevance after a sexual assault and it has been discussed and investigated among professionals who work in this field. To analyze the studies published in the last decades, the present review examines different factors that may influence this finding, first clarifying terms of the forensic field, such as the peculiarity of the legal medical examination, and the distinction of the terms “legal” and “anatomical” vagina. Finally, it analyses if it is possible that the existence of these injuries in victims explain the lack of consent in sexual contact, and to clarify the meaning of the absence of injuries.
The existential implications of individual differences in religious defensive and growth orientations: fundamentalism, quest religiosity, and intrinsic/extrinsic religiosity

Abstract Religion provides solutions for basic existential concerns that have the potential to arouse fear and anxiety and undermine psychological health. However, many aspects of religion cannot be objectively verified and are frequently challenged, and therefore religiosity involves maintaining faith and commitment. Research indicates that religious individuals vary in their approach to maintaining faith and commitment. Specifically, variation in religious orientation appears to exist along a continuum where one end is characterized by a strict and intolerant fundamentalist approach, the opposite extreme is characterized by a flexible and tolerant approach, and the center is characterized by a secure and genuine internalization of religious values. In this chapter, we review research suggesting that these religious orientations impact whether religious believers use religion to manage existential threat in a defensive or growth-oriented manner. Moreover, we discuss the implications of these religious orientations for existential well-being and intergroup attitudes.
Trunk and shoulder kinematics of rowing displayed by Olympic athletes

The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of stroke rate and sex on trunk and shoulder kinematics of Olympic athletes during rowing on an ergometer. Fifty-eight participants (31 females and 27 males) from the Chinese National Rowing Team were recruited. Trunk (i.e., the pelvis, lumbar and thoracic spine) and shoulder kinematics were measured using an inertial measurement unit system for three stroke rates (18, 26, and 32 strokes/min). Range of motion and angles at the catch and finish were assessed using mixed model ANOVA and correlation analyses with rowing power. Range of motion increased significantly at higher rates for both female and male athletes. This may be a strategy used by athletes when dealing with higher demand for power during training, because a greater range of motion with a longer stroke length could reduce the demand for force generation and possibly delay fatigue. Female rowers exhibited greater range of motion in the lumbar spine, thorax and shoulders than males due to more extended positions at the finish. The sex-related kinematic differences may be attributed to differences in body size, muscle strength and endurance. Practitioners are recommended to consider these factors when developing rowing techniques and providing training suggestions.
The Supreme Court’s Legitimacy Crisis and Constitutional Democracy’s Future

President, Donald Trump has routinely violated longstanding norms that govern and undergird the United States’ constitutional democracy. His disregard for rule of law and other foundational norms—in some instances in violation of the law—has inflicted damage and exposed vulnerabilities throughout government and in the vital supporting institutions of civil society. Special Counsel Robert Mueller documented one high-profile set of violations. His investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election revealed the difficulty of constraining a president willing to flout norms and the law, particularly with prosecution of a sitting President off the table, a divided Congress disinclined to act, and an excessively deferential Supreme Court. In our democratic system, change ultimately depends upon the outcomes of elections. The Twenty-second Amendment guarantees that, notwithstanding any authoritarian tendencies, Trump will leave office no later than January 2025. We cannot yet know whether, as constitutional scholar Jack Balkin predicts, Trump’s presidency represents an end-of-era “disjunctive” presidency (using political scientist Stephen Skowronek’s taxonomy) and the final collapse of Reagan-era conservatism. Balkin holds out promise that “when we get through it—about five to ten years from now—the present will seem like a distant, unhappy nightmare, or an illness from which one has recovered.” Others warn against taking such solace, pointing to signs that Trump instead will prove to be a “reconstructive” president who transforms the terms of debate and expectations for future presidents. Time and future elections will tell. In one vital respect, however, recovery will require more than winning the next election or two. Long after Trump leaves office, those he appoints to the Supreme Court and lower federal courts will continue to serve. The post-Trump courts may be profoundly out of step with the nation for decades to come.
A Novel Mobile App (Heali) for Disease Treatment in Participants With Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial

Background: A diet high in fermentable, oligo-, di-, monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAPs) has been shown to exacerbate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Previous literature reports significant improvement in IBS symptoms with initiation of a low FODMAP diet (LFD) and monitored reintroduction. However, dietary adherence to the LFD is difficult, with patients stating that the information given by health care providers is often generalized and nonspecific, requiring them to search for supplementary information to fit their needs. Objective: The aim of our study was to determine whether Heali, a novel artificial intelligence dietary mobile app can improve adherence to the LFD, IBS symptom severity, and quality of life outcomes in adults with IBS or IBS-like symptoms over a 4-week period. Methods: Participants were randomized into 2 groups: the control group (CON), in which participants received educational materials, and the experimental group (APP), in which participants received access to the mobile app and educational materials. Over the course of this unblinded online trial, all participants completed a battery of 5 questionnaires at baseline and at the end of the trial to document IBS symptoms, quality of life, LFD knowledge, and LFD adherence. Results: We enrolled 58 participants in the study (29 in each group), and 25 participants completed the study in its entirety (11 and 14 for the CON and APP groups, respectively). Final, per-protocol analyses showed greater improvement in quality of life score for the APP group compared to the CON group (31.1 and 11.8, respectively; P=.04). Reduction in total IBS symptom severity score was 24% greater for the APP group versus the CON group. Although this did not achieve significance (–170 vs –138 respectively; P=.37), the reduction in the subscore for bowel habit dissatisfaction was 2-fold greater for the APP group than for the CON group (P=.05). Conclusions: This initial study provides preliminary evidence that Heali may provide therapeutic benefit to its users, specifically improvements in quality of life and bowel habits. Although this study was underpowered, findings from this study warrant further research in a larger sample of participants to test the efficacy of Heali app use to improve outcomes for patients with IBS. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04256551; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04256551
O CASAMENTO DIPLOMÁTICO NAS CARTAS DE AMARNA

Este trabalho visa o estudo a cerca das relacoes diplomaticas verificas entre o Reino Novo do Egito - especialmente durante o fim da XVIII dinastia, entre os reinados dos faraos Amenhotep III e Tutankhamon - com os reinos vizinhos da regiao da Siria- Palestina e Mesopotâmia. Onde, atraves da descoberta das Cartas De Amarna, tornou-se possivel um melhor conhecimento sobre tais relacoes e de que modo estas se realizavam. Com base nisso, o enfoque neste documento historico passa a ser a questao dos intercâmbios matrimoniais, onde faraos, reis e principes acordavam trocas e concessoes de esposas, principalmente ao farao, que exercia o papel hierarquico de maior relevância, enquanto que os demais nobres lhe eram amigos ou apenas vassalos, devedores de favores e bens ao soberano egipcio. Sendo assim, entender o contexto historico e geopolitico deste periodo faz-se necessario para compreender tambem o papel da mulher nessas relacoes politicas e estrategicas, exercendo muitas vezes um papel subserviente, reduzindo-as a meros objetos, instrumentos essenciais no jogo diplomatico realizado pelo farao, ou, em outros casos, um grande presente ofertado ao mesmo por reis e principes aliados.
Non-convex isotonic regression via the Myersonian approach

Abstract Isotonic regression refers to a class of regression models with order constraints. It is widely used in maximum likelihood estimation of ordered parameter, testing of distributions with ordered means, multistage production systems, and machine learning. A vast majority of the literature considers the isotonic regression problems with convex or piece-wise convex objective functions (or those that can be converted to such functions). We connect a class of isotonic regression problems with the so-called ironing problem in mechanism design, by establishing a discrete version of the Myerson’s ironing method. We use such a connection to solve an isotonic regression problem with non-convex objective functions. We also prove the optimality of pool adjacent violator (PAV) algorithm in such a case.
Glycosylation-on-a-chip: a flow-based microfluidic system for cell-free glycoprotein biosynthesis

Abstract In recent years, cell-free synthetic glycobiology technologies have emerged that enable production and remodeling of glycoproteins outside the confines of the cell. However, many of these systems combine multiple synthesis steps into one pot where there can be competing reactions and side products that ultimately lead to low yield of the desired product. In this work, we describe a microfluidic platform that integrates cell-free protein synthesis, glycosylation, and purification of a model glycoprotein in separate compartments where each step can be individually optimized. Microfluidics offer advantages such as reaction compartmentalization, tunable residence time, the ability to tether enzymes for reuse, and the potential for continuous manufacturing. Moreover, it affords an opportunity for spatiotemporal control of glycosylation reactions that is difficult to achieve with existing cell-based and cell-free glycosylation systems. In this work, we demonstrate a flow-based glycoprotein synthesis system that promotes enhanced cell-free protein synthesis, efficient protein glycosylation with an immobilized oligosaccharyltransferase, and enrichment of the protein product from cell-free lysate. Overall, this work represents a first-in-kind glycosylation-on-a-chip prototype that could find use as a laboratory tool for mechanistic dissection of the protein glycosylation process as well as a biomanufacturing platform for small batch, decentralized glycoprotein production.
Bis(isonicotinamide-κN)silver(I) tri­fluoro­methane­sulfonate aceto­nitrile disolvate

The central AgI atom of the title salt, [Ag(INAM)2](CF3SO3)·2CH3CN, where INAM is isonicotinamide (C6H6N2O), is twofold coordinated by the pyridine N atoms of two isonicotinamide ligands creating a slightly distorted linear mol­ecular geometry. The formation of polymeric chains {[Ag(INAM)2]+}n, held together by discrete hydrogen bonds through the amide group of the INAM ligand leaves voids for non-coordinating aceto­nitrile mol­ecules that inter­act the silver metal center via regium bonds.
Studies on the Induction and Repression of Enzymes in Rat Liver V. REGULATION OF THE RATE OF SYNTHESIS AND DEGRADATION OF SERINE DEHYDRATASE BY DIETARY AMINO ACIDS AND GLUCOSE

Abstract The enzyme, serine dehydratase (l-serine hydro-lyase, EC 4.2.1.13), has been purified by a previously unpublished method involving heat denaturation, ammonium sulfate treatment, Sephadex gel filtration, and hydroxylapatite chromatography. Antibodies to the pure enzyme have been prepared in rabbits and have been shown to be antigenically homogeneous. Utilizing the technique of pulse labeling of the enzyme in vivo with 14C-valine, it has been shown that administration of mixtures of amino acids dramatically increases the rate of synthesis of this enzyme in vivo without appreciably enhancing the synthesis of total soluble proteins. The amino acid, l-tryptophan, as well as the hormone, glucagon, also effects an increased rate of synthesis of the enzyme. Administration of glucose results in a complete cessation of enzyme synthesis whether administered from zero time or at a time interval thereafter at which the synthesis of the enzyme is completely resistant to the antibiotic, actinomycin D. Amino acid induction and glucose repression as well as hormonal induction by both glucagon and hydrocortisone occur in adrenalectomized animals. The effects of glucose administration on protein synthesis are not general since serum protein synthesis was not affected by this treatment. By prelabeling the enzyme and administering glucose with and without amino acids, it has been shown that glucose appears to effect primarily a cessation of enzyme synthesis and an increase of degradation of the enzyme. Studies of the composition of amino acid pools in the intact animal have shown that the different rates of synthesis seen in rats fed amino acids with respect to those fed glucose are not the result of differential labeling of the labeled precursor pool. The studies reported here show that the synthesis of rat liver serine dehydratase may be regulated by amino acids and glucose as well as by the hormones, hydrocortisone and glucagon, the latter being the most efficient inducer of the enzyme of those compounds studied. The repression of serine dehydratase synthesis in vivo by glucose appears in a number of ways to be analogous to catabolite repression seen in microorganisms.
BATSE Observations of Galactic Black Hole Candidates

Various arguments indicate that a number of galactic X-ray sources may be binary systems containing a black hole. A dominant characteristic of these sources is their high degree of variability over a wide range of time scales. BATSE (the Compton Burst and Transient Source Experiment) functions as a sensitive all-sky monitor, affording an unprecented opportunity to study the hard X-ray properties of galactic black hole candidates (BHCs). We summarize BATSE observations of the persistent BHCs Cygnus X-1 and GX 339–4 and the transient BHCs X-Nova Muscae 1991 (GRS/GS 1124–68), GRO J0422+32 (X-Nova Persei 1992), GRS 1009–45 (X-Nova Velorum 1993), and GRO J1719–24 (GRS 1716–249≡X-Nova Ophiuchi 1993).
Riparian Plant Isotopes Reflect Anthropogenic Nitrogen Perturbations: Robust Patterns across Land Use Gradients

Riparian plants incorporate nitrogen (N) from aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric sources, and their stable isotope compositions (δ15N) may reflect land use impacts on N sources and transformations over scales of sites to watersheds. We surveyed leaf δ15N values of 11 common riparian tree, shrub, and herbaceous species from 20 streams and rivers spanning three fifth-order watersheds in northern Utah, USA (n = 255 sites and 819 leaf samples). Streams spanned undeveloped montane forests to suburban, urban, and agricultural lands. Mean species-specific differences in leaf δ15N values were relatively small within sites (1.2 ± 2.2‰), although emergent aquatic macrophytes had higher within-site δ15N values than other growth forms. Leaf δ15N values varied significantly across land-use categories, and were lowest in undeveloped montane reaches (0.5 ± 1.9‰; mean and standard deviation), intermediate in suburban and urban reaches (2.3 ± 2.6 and 3.2 ± 3.4‰), and greatest in agricultural reaches (4.1 ± 3.1‰). The substantial variation in leaf δ15N values within a land use category often corresponded with local management differences. In an undeveloped montane canyon permitting off-leash dogs, leaf δ15N values (1.5 ± 1.3‰) exceeded similar canyons that strictly prohibited dogs (δ15N = −0.7 ± 1.1‰). Canyons with cattle grazing had leaf δ15N values enriched by 1.4 and 2.8‰ relative to similar, but un-grazed canyons. Variation in traffic between 0 and 5000 vehicles per day did not significantly affect leaf δ15N values, although a canyon with 50,000 vehicles per day showed a 5.7‰ increase relative to low-trafficked canyons. Urban leaf δ15N values were consistently enriched by 2.5 ± 0.6‰ relative to leaves in un-grazed montane reaches, and leaves in a septic-impacted suburban reach were enriched by 4.6‰ relative to upstream samples. Samples from a sewage-impacted urban river averaged 8.0 ± 4.1‰ and reached 22‰ adjacent to publicly owned treatment works (POTW). Another urban river displayed similar values in the absence of POTWs, implicating leaky sewers. Our results demonstrate the capacity of N isotopes from a diverse riparian plant community to inform our spatial understanding of watershed N-cycling perturbations, and illustrate the impact of human activities on N cycling even within protected watersheds.
In vitro Biosynthesis of Polyhydroxyalkanoates

Introduction Historical Outline Characterization of PHA Synthase Activity Isolation and Activity of Soluble PHA Synthase Properties of PHA Synthases Lag Phase in Polymerization Reaction Elimination of Lag Phase Substrate Specificity Mechanism of Polymerization Reaction In vitro Polymerization of HACoA Monomers Control of Polymer Properties New Types of PHAs Diversity of PHA Synthases CoA Recycling Systems Patents Outlook and Perspectives Keywords: synthase; polymerase; PHA synthase; PHA polymerase; in vitro polymerization; bacterial synthase; enzymatic polymerization; in vitro synthesis of PHA
Freight transport for development toolkit : integrated logistics services

Globalization has imposed entry requirements on developing economies. Countries need to have the ability to synchronize the business processes which take place within local producers with business processes, which take place in the supply chains of their suppliers and their customers. Integrated logistics services are nowadays a critical component of international freight transport systems, but their development and coverage vary widely across countries, in particular in the developing world. This paper explains this important development. It documents the increasingly important role, which third party logistics service providers play in facilitating business process connectivity and thus in integrating producers based in developing countries into the global economy. It provides a look at the global significance of integrated logistics services in a globalized economy, and goes on to review specific examples of establishment of such services in developing countries. These examples in turn suggest a set of specific policy recommendations to help policymakers enable the development of efficient logistics services to serve both their domestic and international markets. The paper describes ways in which integrated logistics services have evolved over the past 20 years. It describes aspects of that development, which have particular significance for accelerating the economic growth of developing economies. From a review of various means, which third party service providers have used to integrate the business processes of their clients into the supply chains of their clients, it attempts to develop some general principles, which can help policy makers to enhance the competitiveness of their own economies. In additional it discusses the interface between public and private sectors and particular ways in which public policy can enhance competitiveness through this important growth leverage. It goes on to discuss appropriate means and modes for regulating an emerging third party logistics industry and, finally, it suggesting specific initiatives and service design initiatives, which can help, accelerate economic development.
Respiratory Viral Infections in Pediatric Solid Organ and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Respiratory viruses are common in children, including pediatric recipients of both solid organ transplantation and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The prevalence and risk factors in each of these groups are reviewed. Furthermore, associated morbidity and mortality in pediatric transplant recipients with respiratory viral infections are addressed. The literature on specific prevention and treatment options for respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, influenza, and other respiratory viruses in pediatric solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients is reported.
Testosterone is required for corticosteroid-binding globulin upregulation by morphine to be fully manifested.

Abstract We previously reported that morphine increases the concentration of corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) in blood of male, but not female, rats. This pronounced sexual dimorphism suggested that CBG upregulation by morphine might be androgen-dependent. In the current studies, we found that castration, whether performed just before or just after puberty or in adulthood, increased the concentration of CBG in adult male rats. Naltrexone did not prevent this increase and, therefore, it does not appear to be attributable to the release of endogenous opioids. Exposure to morphine for 1 week in adulthood increased (≈100%) the concentration of CBG in intact, i.e., sham-castrated, males. The CBG levels of castrated rats treated with morphine did not differ from those of intact rats treated with morphine. However, because castration increased the concentration of CBG, the difference between the placebo and morphine groups decreased with time after castration. At 4 weeks after castration, the difference between the morphine and placebo groups (19%) was no longer statistically significant. Testosterone replacement prevented the rise in CBG levels following castration and maintained the magnitude of the difference between placebo and morphine-treated rats within the normal range. Thus, testosterone appears necessary for morphine effects on CBG to be fully manifested.
Discordant atrial natriuretic peptide and brain natriuretic peptide levels in lone atrial fibrillation

Objectives We sought to characterize natriuretic peptide levels in a cohort of rigorously characterized subjects with lone atrial fibrillation (AF). Background Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) are sensitive biomarkers of cardiac contractile dysfunction. Both peptides have been reported to be elevated in cohorts with AF, but previous studies have included subjects with underlying structural heart disease. We studied these hormones in 150 subjects with lone AF. Methods Study subjects had electrocardiographic evidence of at least one episode of AF and a structurally normal heart on echocardiography. Subjects were excluded if they had a history of a myocardial infarction, rheumatic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, significant valvular disease, hyperthyroidism, or hypertension that preceded the onset of AF. Control subjects were obtained from a healthy outpatient primary care population. Plasma pro-ANP and N-terminal pro-BNP (nt-pro-BNP) levels were determined using commercially available immunoassays. Results A total of 150 serial subjects with lone AF were enrolled and studied, the majority during normal sinus rhythm. Median levels of nt-pro-BNP were significantly elevated in subjects with lone AF as compared with control subjects (166 vs. 133 fmol/ml, p = 0.0003). There was no significant difference in pro-ANP levels between subjects with lone AF and control subjects (1,730 vs. 1,625 fmol/ml, p = 0.90). Conclusions Discordant natriuretic peptide levels were observed in this homogeneous population of subjects with lone AF. This biomarker pattern, which is present even in sinus rhythm, may represent an underlying subclinical predisposition to this common arrhythmia.
Role of Rat Multidrug Resistance Protein 2 in Plasma and Biliary Disposition of Dibromosulfophthalein after Microsomal Enzyme Induction

We have previously demonstrated that microsomal enzyme inducers phenobarbital (PB) and pregnenolone-16alpha-carbonitrile (PCN), but not 3-methylcholanthrene (3-MC) and benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), increase expression and function of rat Multidrug Resistance Protein 2 (Mrp2), a canalicular organic anion transporter. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine whether Mrp2 protein induction alters the biliary and plasma dispositions of dibromosulfophthalein (DBSP). After four daily ip injections of PB, PCN, 3-MC, BaP, or vehicle, DBSP (100 mg/kg) was injected iv and was measured in blood and bile over a 40-min period. PB and PCN significantly enhanced plasma disappearance and biliary excretion of DBSP, whereas 3-MC and BaP did not. To determine whether the enhanced plasma disappearance and biliary excretion was entirely due an increase in Mrp2, PCN was also administered ip daily for 4 days to Mrp2-null Eisai hyperbilirubinemic (EHBR) rats and then injected iv with DBSP. PCN significantly increased plasma DBSP disappearance in EHBR rats during early time intervals (2-20 min), but not at later time intervals (25-40 min). PCN did not increase DBSP biliary excretion in EHBR rats, but actually decreased it at later time intervals. In summary, the increase in Mrp2 protein after microsomal enzyme induction is responsible for increased biliary DBSP excretion. Furthermore, the increase in Mrp2 protein after microsomal enzyme induction is not responsible for the enhanced plasma DBSP disappearance at early time points, yet may influence plasma DBSP disappearance at later time points. This study also demonstrates the importance of compensatory hepatic transporters in eliminating DBSP by alternative pathways other than Mrp2.
Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita: A clinical disorder of varied etiologies: Two cases and a review of immunologic and other reported findings

Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA) is an acquired mechanobullous disorder characterized by traumaticlly induced bullae in skin subjected to frictional injury, i.e., acral extensor surfaces or any point of sufficient mechanical distress. Two new patients with EBA are reported. Histopathologic findings were subepidermal bullae with sparse superficial perivascular mononuclear cell inflammatory infiltrates. The periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)—positive basement membrane zone (BMZ) was split between the floor and roof of the blisters with most attached to the blister roof. Electron microscopy of normal skin from one patient revealed a bandlike zone of granular material within the dermis immediately beneath the basal lamina. Nonbranching filaments were embedded in the granular material. Electron microscopy of normal skin from the second patient revealed a markedly diminished density of anchoring fibrils but no granular material. Immunologic findings in skin biopsies were C′3, IgG, and other immunoglobulins in varying combinations in both cases and in all reported cases. Comparisons of direct immunofluorescent (IF) findings in nine reported cases with 223 cases of bullous pemphigoid (BP) suggest that BMZ deposits of IgG plus IgA and/or IgM occur more frequently in EBA than in BP. Indirect IF studies of patients' sera revealed antibodies to the BMZ in two samples of one of our two cases and in one of seven cases reported by others. While both EBA and BP characteristically yield positive IF findings in the BMZ, clinical, electron microscopic, and some immunopathologic findings indicate that the two diseases are distinct.
Direct Evidence for Surface Plasmon-Mediated Enhanced Light Transmission through Metallic Nanohole Arrays

This paper provides direct evidence for the role of surface plasmons in the enhanced optical transmission of light through metallic nanoscale hole arrays. Near-field optical images directly confirmed the presence of surface plasmons on gold nanohole arrays with interhole spacings larger than the surface plasmon wavelength. A simple interference model provides an intuitive explanation of the two types of fringe wavelengths observed in the near-field optical images. Far-field spectroscopy revealed a surface plasmon band that contributed a factor >8 to the transmission enhancement. Furthermore, silicon nanohole arrays did not exhibit any features in the near-field, which demonstrates that metallic materials are necessary for enhanced light transmission through nanohole arrays.
Do conventional bicycle helmets provide adequate protection in mountain biking

We present two cases of acute injury to the face and head sustained from off-road mountain biking despite the fact that the riders wore bicycle helmets. We reviewed the literature related to this topic and suggest that conventional bicycle helmets may be inappropriate for off-road use. Specifically, they lack an apparatus to protect the face in falls that involve this exposed area. In addition, current standards for bicycle helmets to protect the head were devised for road use and many presumptions are incomplete when applied to off-road use. Recommendations for application toward off-road use of current helmet design are made.
Factors influencing the postweaning reproductive performance of sows on commercial farms

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of various factors, including lactational feed intake, on the reproductive performance of sows in commercial herds. The 4 measures of reproductive performance were weaning-to-first-service interval, weaning-to-conception interval, litter weight at weaning, and subsequent litter size. Parity, farrowing season, lactation length, farrowing-to-conception interval, litter size, and lactation feed intake were investigated as risk factors common to the 4 measures of post-weaning reproductive performance. Using 4 basic multiple regression models for each measure, the least-square means for sets of factors were compared using the GLM procedure of SAS. Parity 1 sows had the longest weaning-to-first-service interval and weaning-to-conception interval, and the lighter litter weight at weaning (P /= 7. Sows farrowing in summer and spring had the longest and second longest weaning-to-conception interval (P 0.10). As lactation length increased, weaning-to-first-service interval and weaning-to-conception interval decreased, and litter weaning weight increased. Longer lactation length and farrowing-to-conception interval were associated with larger subsequent litter size (P < 0.05). Litter size did not affect weaning-to-first-service interval or weaning-to-conception interval. Larger litter sizes were associated with heavier litter weight at weaning. Greater lactation feed intake improved the 4 measures of reproductive performance.
CYTOPLASMIC LABEL FOLLOWING TRITIATED THYMIDINE TREATMENT OF ALLIUM CEPA L. ROOTS : Cytochemical and Electron Microscope Study

Tritiated thymidine routinely labels onion root cytoplasm during most of the cell cycle. One-third of this label could be cytochemically identified as DNA. The balance of the label was not RNA or a lipid, or attributable to labeled impurities in thymidine-3H. In electron microscope radioautographs one-third of the cytoplasmic silver grains was over organelles, presumably mitochondria and plastids. The other two-thirds of the silver grains in electron micrographs was distributed widely, 41% over ground cytoplasm and 10% over cell walls-cell membranes. Snake venom phosphodiesterase (SVDase) extracted a cytoplasmic fraction not degraded by DNase, and did not appear to extract nuclear DNA. The SVDase-extractable fraction may be DNA or a thymidine 5'-phosphoryl group in an ester linkage with another hydroxylic compound. The nature of the nonextractable fraction is considered. Possibilities discussed are: (1) technical problems such as the binding of an acid-labile nuclear DNA in the cytoplasm; (2) non-DNA, such as breakdown products, and thymine compounds other than DNA; (3) DNA, not extractable because of the nature of its binding to other compounds or because it is a "core" resistant to DNase. Until the chemical nature of this nonextractable fraction is known, cytoplasmic label following thymidine-3H treatment cannot necessarily be considered DNA, nor the assumption made that thymidine-3H exclusively labels DNA.