cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Endoscopic Interventions for Necrotizing Pancreatitis

Interventions for necrotizing pancreatitis have undergone a paradigm shift away from open surgical necrosectomy and toward minimally invasive techniques, with endoscopic transmural drainage (ETD) and necrosectomy emerging as principle forms of treatment. Recent multicenter studies, randomized trials, evidence-based guidelines, and consensus statements have endorsed the safety and efficacy of endoscopic and other minimally invasive techniques for the treatment of walled-off necrosis. A comprehensive review of indications, standard and novel approaches, outcomes, complications, and controversies regarding ETD and necrosectomy is presented. Given the inherent challenges and associated risks, endoscopic techniques for the management of necrotizing pancreatitis should be performed at specialized multidisciplinary centers by expert endoscopists well versed in the management of necrotizing pancreatitis.
Lessons of Bhopal for Production Managers

This article looks at the industrial disasters of Bhopal and Mexico City in late 1984, from a production manager's point of view. What errors in production management and safety were made? What can be done to lessen the likelihood of such disasters? What "lessons" should be learned, or reiterated?
Stepping Down Therapy in COPD

Patients with symptomatic chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are commonly treated with inhaled medications that fall into three classes: beta-agonists, muscarinic antagonists, and glucocorticoids. Most patients with moderate-to-severe COPD are receiving one or more inhaled agents; inhaled glucocorticoids and inhaled long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) are more commonly used than are long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs).1–3 However, the track record for inhaled medications in COPD is mixed. All three classes of drugs produce modest improvements in airflow obstruction, provide symptomatic benefit, and reduce the rate of COPD exacerbations.1,2,4,5 But they do not appear to alter the rate of the . . .
Gas Torque Anomaly in Weak Magnetic Fields

When a circular cylinder is immersed in some gases at pressures near 0.05 Torr, application of a weak magnetic field (0.2-200 Oe) parallel to the cylinder axis results in a torque about that axis when a temperature difference exists between the gas and the cylinder surface. This torque is a linear function of the temperature difference. It reverses when either the temperature gradient or the field direction is reversed. At a given pressure the torque exhibits a maximum at a definite value of the magnetic field, and the position of this maximum is a characteristic of the gas involved.
Interrupted SET-LRP of methyl acrylate demonstrates Cu(0) colloidal particles as activating species

To determine how “nascent” Cu(0) colloidal nanoparticles mediate the single electron transfer-living radical polymerization (SET-LRP), two different series of interruption experiments were performed on SET-LRP of methyl acrylate in DMSO with [MA]0/[MBP]0/[Me6-TREN]0 = 222/1/0.1 and hydrazine-activated Cu(0) wire. When the polymerization was interrupted by lifting the Cu(0) wire wrapped around the stirring bar out of the reaction medium with a magnet, leaving colloidal Cu(0) particles, soluble CuBr and CuBr2 formed during the reaction in solution, the polymerization still proceeded, but at a much slower rate. However, by carefully decanting the reaction mixture from one Schlenk tube containing the Cu(0) wire catalyst to a second one without the Cu(0) catalyst, the polymerization reached a complete stop. This decantation experiment demonstrates that soluble CuBr/L cannot be a major contributor to the activation process in SET-LRP. Therefore colloidal Cu(0) particles generated from the disproportionation of CuBr/L are the catalytic species. The presence of the Cu(0) colloidal particles in the reaction medium in the direct lifting setup is most likely responsible for the continued polymerization in the absence of the Cu(0) wire catalyst. Furthermore, SET-LRP was demonstrated to be “immortal” towards catalyst removal. Finally, it was demonstrated that colloidal Cu(0) nanoparticles formed via disproportionation agglomerate into highly visible particles that were immediately consumed upon addition of the methyl 2-bromopropionate initiator, leaving no observable Cu(0) aggregates.
Plasma production of nanodevice-grade semiconductor nanocrystals

Semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) offer new opportunities for optical and electronic devices ranging from single-electron transistors to large-area solar cells. Solution synthesis methods cannot reach the temperatures necessary to produce crystalline nanoparticles of covalently bonded materials, and most gas-phase techniques suffer from particle agglomeration and sintering. Nonthermal plasma synthesis, however, can produce high-quality NCs of key materials such as Si and Ge. In this review, we examine the current state and future challenges of the growing field of plasma-synthesized NCs from a device applications perspective. We identify NC microstructure, morphology, ensemble monodispersity, surface chemistry and doping as being vital to the success of next-generation devices, and we discuss research opportunities to understand and control these properties during plasma synthesis.
A Discrete Cell Cycle Checkpoint in Late G1 That Is Cytoskeleton-Dependent and MAP Kinase (Erk)-Independent

Cell spreading on extracellular matrix and associated changes in the actin cytoskeleton (CSK) are necessary for progression through G1 and entry into S phase of the cell cycle. Pharmacological disruption of CSK integrity inhibits early mitogenic signaling to the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk) subfamily of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and arrests the cell cycle in G1. Here we show that this block of G1 progression is not simply a consequence of inhibition of the MAPK/Erk pathway but instead it reveals the existence of a discrete CSK-sensitive checkpoint. Use of PD98059 to inhibit MAPK/Erk and cytochalasin D (Cyto D) to disrupt the actin CSK at progressive time points in G1 revealed that the requirement for MAPK/Erk activation lasts only to mid-G1, while the actin CSK must remain intact up to late G1 restriction point, R, in order for capillary endothelial cells to enter S phase. Additional analysis using Cyto D pulses defined a narrow time window of 3 h just prior to R in which CSK integrity was shown to be critical for the G1/S transition. Cyto D treatment led to down-regulation of cyclin D1 protein and accumulation of the cdk inhibitor, p27Kip1, independent of cell cycle phase, suggesting that these changes resulted directly from CSK disruption rather than from a general cell cycle block. Together, these data indicate the existence of a distinct time window in late G1 in which signals elicited by the CSK act independently of early MAPK/Erk signals to drive the cell cycle machinery through the G1/S boundary and, hence, promote cell growth.
Auction designs for allocating wind energy leases on the U.S. outer continentalshelf

Abstract The anticipated expansion of offshore wind energy in the U.S. has been the subject of considerable legislative effort. The Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 2005 and the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (OSCLA) detail the criteria the federal government must follow when allocating leases for offshore wind farms. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) provides primary federal oversight to offshore wind in federal waters, and in 2009 they released their formal management guidelines going forward. This research examines lease allocation methods BOEM may use, as well as several promising alternatives, through the lens of the mandated criteria set forth by OSCLA and the EPAct of 2005. We find significant variation between allocation methods in terms of how well they meet each of the criteria. Price-based allocations will have difficulty in meeting criteria while also accounting for the immature status of the offshore wind energy industry. Instead, a multiple factor approach which includes non-monetary considerations may be a more appropriate way to balance federal mandates and industryneeds.
A Dynamic Disequilibrium Model of Residential Location

Operational models of residential location have followed two separate lines of development. The gravity and maximum entropy models are characterized by operational simplicity and adaptability to disaggregated data; they remain, however, descriptive in nature. The theoretical microeconomic models, on the other hand, have delineated the concepts of competitive equilibrium and Pareto optimality in an aggregate and deterministic way. There has been an implicit need, since the development of maximum entropy models by Wilson, to bridge the gap between the descriptive and the theoretical models. As Wilson himself has asserted: “The models will only become significantly better when they are extended to incorporate a detailed knowledge of preference structures and utility functions …” (Wilson, 1969b). The present paper is a development in this direction.
Phase Equilibria in the Iron Oxide‐Cobalt Oxide‐Phosphorus Oxide System

Two novel ternary compounds are noted in the present study of 1000 C solid-state equilibria in the Fe-Co-P-O system's Fe2O3-FePO4-Co3(Po4)2-CoO region: CoFe(PO4)O, which undergoes incongruent melting at 1130 C, and Co3Fe4(PO4)6, whose incongruent melting occurs at 1080 C. The liquidus behavior-related consequences of rapidly solidified cobalt ferrite formation from cobalt ferrite-phosphate melts are discussed with a view to spinel formation. It is suggested that quenching from within the spinel-plus-liquid region may furnish an alternative to quenching a homogeneous melt.
The effects of early and adult social environment on zebrafish (Danio rerio) behavior

Because early social experience can have a profound effect on later mate and social choices, the availability of options and decisions made early in development can have major effects on adult behavior. Herein, we use strain differences among zebrafish, Danio rerio, as an experimental tool to test the effects of social experience on behavior. By manipulating the strain composition of groups in which the subject fish are housed at different ages, we tested (1) whether mixing with dissimilar individuals influenced subsequent behavior, (2) whether prolonged mixing during the juvenile stage had a more pronounced effect than a shorter period of mixing during adulthood and (3) whether mixing had a lasting effect after animals were resorted into groups of same strain animals. We found that social experience had a profound impact on social behavior. Both Nadia and TM1 individuals engaged in more frequent biting after having been in mixed strain groups compared to pure strain groups. This was true of groups mixed as juveniles, as well as adults, indicating that this response was not dependent on exposure during a critical developmental period. Also, TM1 fish (but not Nadia) having recently been housed in mixed-strain groups were more willing to leave the immediate vicinity of a shoal than were TM1 fish raised in pure strain groups. This change was more pronounced in groups mixed as juveniles than as adults. In addition, the observed changes persisted after mixed groups were separated into pure strain groups for a month. Other behavioral measures including Activity Level, Predator Response and Stress Recovery were unaffected by previous social experience.
Electoral system effects and ruling party dominance in Japan: A counterfactual simulation based on adaptive parties

Abstract Japan's electoral system has long been held to be a primary shaper of party success and failure in Japanese politics. This paper offers a counterfactual simulation of electoral outcomes under Japan's long used SNTV/MMD electoral system. Because of features particular to the SNTV/MMD system, we are able to simulate party adaptation to alterations in the system and estimate what features of the system aided the longtime ruling Liberal Democratic Party's (LDP) success. Based on this new analysis, we find that it is an overstatement to hold the electoral system responsible for longtime LDP dominance.
On the use of finite surfaces in the numerical prediction of rough surface scattering

Method of moments (MOM)-based Monte Carlo calculations are widely used in determining the average radar cross section of randomly rough surfaces. It is desirable in these numerical calculations to truncate the scattering surface into as short a length as possible to minimize the solution time. However, truncating the surface tends to change the solution for the surface fields near the truncation points and may alter the scattered far fields. In this paper, these end effect errors are examined for one-dimensional (i.e., grooved or corduroy) surfaces which are Gaussian distributed in height and have either a Gaussian or a Pierson-Moskowitz spectra. In the case of the Pierson-Moskowitz type surface, it is shown that a relatively short surface of 80-120 wavelengths can be used to obtain the average backscattered radar cross section for backscattering angles as large as 60/spl deg/ from normal. For a comparatively smooth Gaussian surface, on the other hand, its is shown that the truncation effects can be very significant at moderate backscattering angles. Also, great care should be taken when examining the scattering from Gaussian surfaces which are dominated by specular scattering. It is shown that in this situation, a very large number of calculations may be needed to obtain a good numerical average.
GLC analysis of thioridazine, mesoridazine, and their metabolites

Abstract A GLC method for measuring thioridazine, mesoridazine, their metabolites, and possibly other phenothiazines was developed. By using this method, seven different phenothiazine derivatives, thioridazine, and six known thioridazine metabolites were extracted and separated. This method was tested by assaying plasma samples from 30 hospitalized psychiatric patients receiving thioridazine or mesoridazine.
Positive Bias in Maintenance of Self-Worth among Children with LD

Despite their significant academic deficits, children with learning disabilities (LD) often maintain favorable feelings of general self-worth. This study examined whether a positive bias in the evaluation of academic work is associated with such feelings. The Self-Perception Profile for Children (SPP-C; Harter, 1985b) was administered to a sample of 84 third graders (42 with LD, 42 normally achieving). During individual interviews a subset of these children explained why they felt they were doing well or poorly. Responses to the interview and to the individual items of the SPP-C showed that most children with LD and normally achieving (NA) children perceived themselves as doing well academically, based largely on feedback on their performance in the classroom. Results support Renick and Harter's (1988) argument that children with LD recognize their specific skill deficits (e.g., forgetfulness and trouble figuring out problems), but do not perceive themselves as being any less smart than their NA peers. Ov...
Some characteristics of word encoding

This paper presents the results of a series of experiments using the release from proactive inhibition technique for identifying the salient encoding attributes of words. The technique uses the Brown-Peterson paradigm, but, after three trials on words of one class, a fourth trial is given with words of another class. The power of the class encoding is inferred from the extent of gain (release from PI) found on the shift trial. The studies reported show a high degree of effectiveness for semantic variables; practically no effectiveness for grammatical variables; a moderate amount for physical variables (i.e., figure-ground shift); and varying amounts for other shifts such as word frequency, imagery, language of the presentation to bilingual Ss. Some evidence is also given for the occurrence of simultaneous multiple encoding.
Fragmented ethics and "bridge bioethics"

The Report's editorial mandate is both to examine issues of current importance and to invite bioethics to broaden the range of issues it probes. Thus along with articles exploring the relationship between patients and doctors, or health policy, or any of the myriad other familiar concerns of ethics in medicine, from time to time the Report has published articles about public health, animal experimentation, or “environmental ethics” broadly construed. The most recent was the special supplement Nature, Polis, Ethics in the November-December (1998) issue. Some, of course, have argued that “bio-ethics” ought always to encompass concern for issues beyond the bedside. When the biologist Van Rensselaer Potter proposed the term bioethics nearly thirty years ago, the field he had in mind lay at the intersection of ethics and the biological sciences in general. In light especially of Nature, Polis, Ethics's call for a substantive “humans-nature ethics” it seems appropriate, therefore, to invite one of the earliest proponents of a generous understanding of bioethics to reflect on the character of the field and the questions with which it should grapple. Below Potter and colleague Peter Whitehouse share their thoughts on this most interdisciplinary of disciplines. —B-JC, GK
Effect of fasting on serum leptin in normal human subjects

We have studied the effect of fasting on serum leptin levels in normal volunteers. Five normal-weight (BMI 28, 2 males/3 females) were fasted (0 Kcal) for 52 h. Mean plasma glucose decreased from 88 +/- 3 to 63 +/- 5 mg/dl, serum insulin from 16 +/- 1 to 10 +/- 1 microU/ml, plasma beta-hydroxybutyrate increased from 0.2 +/- 0.1 to 1.8 +/- 0.4 mumol/ml. Serum leptin levels were higher in the obese than in the normal-weight volunteers (31 +/- 12 vs 11 +/- 3 ng/ml, p < 0.01). In the obese, serum leptin decreased from 31 +/- 10 to 12 +/- 5 ng/ml aft552 h (-72%, p < 0.001); in the normal-weight it decreased from 11 +/- 3 to 4 +/- 0.5 ng/ml (-64%, p < 0.001). Serum leptin correlated positively with serum insulin (r = 0.51, p < 0.001) and with plasma glucose (r = 0.61, p < 0.001). To determine effects of fasting induced decreases in plasma glucose and insulin on serum leptin, four normal subjects (3 males/1 female) were fasted for 72 h while their plasma glucose was clamped at basal levels with a variable rate glucose infusion. In these volunteers, serum leptin and insulin concentrations remained unchanged. In summary, the rapid decrease in serum leptin levels during fasting indicated that leptin release was regulated by factors other than changes in body fat mass. The lack of leptin changes during fasting, when basal insulin and glucose levels were maintained at basal levels, suggested that insulin and/or glucose may play a role in the regulation of leptin release.
Maintaining replication origins in the face of genomic change

Origins of replication present a paradox to evolutionary biologists. As a collection, they are absolutely essential genomic features, but individually are highly redundant and nonessential. It is therefore difficult to predict to what extent and in what regard origins are conserved over evolutionary time. Here, through a comparative genomic analysis of replication origins and chromosomal replication patterns in the budding yeasts Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lachancea waltii, we assess to what extent replication origins survived genomic change produced from 150 million years of evolution. We find that L. waltii origins exhibit a core consensus sequence and nucleosome occupancy pattern highly similar to those of S. cerevisiae origins. We further observe that the overall progression of chromosomal replication is similar between L. waltii and S. cerevisiae. Nevertheless, few origins show evidence of being conserved in location between the two species. Among the conserved origins are those surrounding centromeres and adjacent to histone genes, suggesting that proximity to an origin may be important for their regulation. We conclude that, over evolutionary time, origins maintain sequence, structure, and regulation, but are continually being created and destroyed, with the result that their locations are generally not conserved.
O ATOM PHOTOPRODUCTION DYNAMICS AND REACTIONS IN CRYOGENIC SOLIDS

Abstract The photodissociation of N2O and the resulting production of O atoms have been studied in N2 matrices and in Xe matrices as a function of N2O concentration. A previously developed kinetic model accurately predicts the maximum attainable O atom concentration in dilute and moderately doped Xe matrices but severely overestimates the maximum concentration produced in a highly doped matrix. This deviation is the result of O atom reactions with locally high concentrations of N2O, which are present in highly doped matrices. The reaction products observed subsequent to photolysis of a neat N2O matrix and N2 matrices doped with isotopically labelled N2O confirm the occurrence of O atom chemistry and are compatible with O(1D) as the reactive species. N2O photodissociation is less efficient in more crystalline matrices and there is evidence that this is due to an enhanced cage effect.
Legionnaires' Disease: Clinical Differentiation from Typical and Other Atypical Pneumonias

This article describes the clinical differentiation of legionnaires' disease from typical and other atypical pneumonias, with reference to the history, microbiology, epidemiology, clinical presentation (including radiologic manifestations, clinical extrapulmonary features, nonspecific laboratory findings, clinical syndromic diagnosis, and differential diagnosis), therapy, complications, and prognosis of the disease.
Regulation of Nerve Growth Factor Secretion in Smooth Muscle Cells Cultured from Rat Bladder Body, Base and Urethra

AbstractPurpose: Interest in the regulation of nerve growth factor (NGF) production in the urinary tract derives from its probable involvement in obstructive, inflammatory and developmental disorders. This study examines receptor-mediated stimuli that alter NGF production in cells of the lower urinary tract.Materials and Methods: Cells were isolated and cultured from the bladder body, base and urethra, confirmed as smooth muscle type by alpha-actin expression, and examined for growth rate and NGF secretion in response to autonomic agonists, cytokines, neuropeptides and growth factors. NGF secreted into the culture medium was quantitated via 2-site enzyme-linked immunoassay. Regional tissue contents of NGF and norepinephrine (NE) were also measured. Only statistically significant differences (Student's t test, p <0.05) are reported.Results: Cultured urinary tract cells derived from different regions varied in growth rate and NGF secretory activity. Bladder body secreted less NGF than base, and base less th...
What You Don't Know Won't Hurt Me:Impression Management Functions of Communication Channels in Relationships

This study addresses the implications of interpersonal communication technology use for personal relationships. Elements of an impression management model, which specifies the processes and outcomes of strategic uses of channel and message for self-presentational goals, are tested. Respondents indicated their preference for interpersonal communication channels (telephone, answering machine, electronic mail, letters) in 4 types of episodes involving issues that either supported or threatened their own or their partner’s self-presentation. Findings supported the hypotheses predicting that individuals recognize mediated channels’ capacity to manage ambiguity and clarity in interactional episodes and use those perceptions in forming their channel preferences. The constrictions of mediated channels are often seen as advantageous for interactions that could threaten positive impressions. The results support a functional perspective that views mediated communication channels as a tool for managing self-relevant information in pursuit of self-presentational goals.
Expression, purification and biochemical characterization of Schizosaccharomyces pombe Mcm4, 6 and 7.

Background The hetero-hexamer of the eukaryotic minichromosome maintenance (MCM) proteins plays an essential role in replication of genomic DNA. The ring-shaped Mcm2-7 hexamers comprising one of each subunit show helicase activity in vitro, and form double-hexamers on DNA. The Mcm4/6/7 also forms a hexameric complex with helicase activity in vitro.
Sequential Tests of Statistical Hypotheses

By a sequential test of a statistical hypothesis is meant any statistical test procedure which gives a specific rule, at any stage of the experiment (at the n-th trial for each integral value of n), for making one of the following three decisions: (1) to accept the hypothesis being tested (null hypothesis), (2) to reject the null hypothesis, (3) to continue the experiment by making an additional observation. Thus, such a test procedure is carried out sequentially. On the basis of the first trial, one of the three decisions mentioned above is made. If the first or the second decision is made, the process is terminated. If the third decision is made, a second trial is performed. Again on the basis of the first two trials one of the three decisions is made and if the third decision is reached a third trial is performed, etc. This process is continued until either the first or the second decision is made.
Propagation and radiation characteristics of the tape helix with a conducting core and dielectric substrate

An equation is presented to describe the dispersion characteristics of a tape helix separated from a concentric conducting core by a dielectric substrate. Numerical solutions of the complex-valued propagation constant can be used to obtain the complete k- beta diagram of the helical geometry. The k- beta diagram provides information regarding the real-valued solutions for beta that represent true axial propagation, as well as the complex-valued solutions that represent surface waves and leaky waves. Several different helix geometries are considered. Under the assumption that these same solutions exist on a finite-length structure, the radiation pattern can be obtained for a given mode of propagation. >
Clinical Importance of Transthoracic Echocardiography with Direct Input from Treating Physicians

Background The recent report that appropriately performed echocardiographic examinations result in active changes in management in only one third of patients has challenged the validity of current appropriate use criteria. Limited information exists about the clinical importance of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) to guide management and rule out important alternative pathology. Methods The clinical impact of inpatient TTE performed at the Mayo Clinic over a 20-week period between October 14, 2013, and March 3, 2014, was investigated. Studies were included if they were ordered within 72 hours of admission, and treating physicians participated in a real-time survey regarding the clinical importance of TTE. Appropriate use was determined by two independent investigators, with differences adjudicated by a third investigator. Clinical impact was derived from physicians' survey responses and independently confirmed by chart review. Results Of the 539 transthoracic echocardiographic examinations included in this study, 512 (95%) were appropriate, 16 (3%) may be appropriate and 11 (2%) rarely appropriate. Although only 48% of participating physicians actively changed management on the basis of findings on TTE, 97% responded that TTE answered their clinical questions, and 95% would still order TTE in similar clinical contexts. Conclusions Most early inpatient transthoracic echocardiographic studies at our institution were appropriate and answered specific clinical questions important for management decisions in the opinion of the treating physician. Confirming a plan of care already in place and ruling out alternative pathology may be as important clinically as uncovering new findings or changing management.
Stable Robust Adaptive Impedance Control of a Prosthetic Leg

We propose a nonlinear robust model reference adaptive impedance controller for an active prosthetic leg for transfemoral amputees. We use an adaptive control term to consider the uncertain parameters of the system, and a robust control term so the system trajectories converge to a sliding mode boundary layer and exhibit robustness to variations of ground reaction force (GRF). The boundary layer not only compromises between control chattering and tracking performance, but also bounds the parameter adaptation to prevent unfavorable parameter drift. We also prove the stability of the controller for the robotic system in the case of non-scalar boundary layer trajectories using Lyapunov stability theory and Barbalat’s lemma. The acceleration-free regressor form of the system removes the need to measure the joint accelerations, which would otherwise introduce noise in the system. We use particle swarm optimization (PSO) to optimize the design parameters of the controller and the adaptation law. The PSO cost function is comprised of control signal magnitudes and tracking errors. PSO achieves a 8% improvement in the objective function. Finally, we present simulation results to validate the effectiveness of the controller. We achieve good tracking of joint displacements and velocities for both nominal and perturbed values of the system parameters. Variations of ±30% on the system parameters result in an increase of the cost function by only 3%, which confirms the robustness of the controller.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Prevalence of Hypertension and Risk Factors among Adults in a Rural Community in Qingpu District of Shanghai

[Objective] To investigate hypertension prevalence and related factors among 35-74-year-old residents in a rural community in Qingpu District of Shanghai. [Methods] A cross-sectional survey on hypertension was conducted among 999 local residents of 35-74 years old in a village by a stratified random sampling approach. Physical and biochemical examinations were also conducted. [Results] The prevalence of hypertension was 37.94% among the participants(adjusted prevalence, 34.10%), 38.54%(adjusted prevalence, 35.19%) among male, and 37.38%(adjusted prevalence, 33.15%) among female. The prehypertension prevalence was 35.84%(adjusted prevalence, 36.3%). The proportions of awareness, treatment, and control of clinical hypertensive patients among the participants were 73.88%, 55.15%, and 41.95%, respectively. The results of single factors analysis indicated that the prevalence of hypertension increased with rising age(P 0.01). The prevalence of hypertension was associated with age, education, occupation, marital status, diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance(IGT), overweight or obesity, and central obesity. The results of logistic regression analysis indicated the following potential risk factors: age, diabetes, IGT, overweight or obesity, and central obesity. [Conclusion] A high prevalence rate of hypertension is reported among adults at 35-74 years of age in a rural community in Qingpu District of Shanghai. Various potential risk factors may associate with its occurrence. Therefore, comprehensive prevention and control measures against hypertension should be strengthened and adopted.
Effects of applications of boron with iron and zinc on the contents of pear trees.

Boron (B) is an essential microelement for plants, animals and humans. The present study was conducted to evaluate theeffectiveness of various treatments for the correction of boron (B) with zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) deficiencies in the pear cultivar ʻDeveciʼ in the south eastern Marmara region of Turkey. This work consisted of 4 field experiments that primarly included control, soil and foliar applications of B alone and in combination with Zn and Fe. Soil and foliar applications of borax increased B concentrations in leaves and fruit. However, foliar treatment with B was more effective than the soil application. Foliar applications of boron four times each season appeared to be an appropriate treatment for maintaining a sufficient B level in pear trees. Foliar applications of double and triple combinations of FeSO4.7H2O and ZnSO4.7H2O with borax significantly increased Fe and Zn concentrations in the leaves, as well. Boron concentrations were dramatically higher in the fruit parts (flesh and peel) than in the leaves. These results clearly indicated the translocation of B from soil and treated leaves to the fruits. Therefore, the B concentration in the fruit was more useful for the evaluation of B levels in pear trees.
Biographia Literaria, Sara Coleridge, and Self-Creation

Ferrier’s charges demanded a serious philosophical response. In 1843 Sara threw herself into a systematic study of Schelling, and her subse­quent defence in the Introduction to her edition of Biographia Literaria takes on Ferrier on all points. She could not afford to repeat Hare’s mistake and show herself unprepared or misinformed; she had to know as much about post-Kantian German philosophy as Ferrier. The strong Kantian foundation of preparing her edition of Aids to Reflection, and synthesizing Kant and her father’s religious adaptations of Kant for her essay ‘On Rationalism’, gave her a firm footing and she established her philosophical bona fides from the outset. It is to Sara Coleridge’s great credit that she resisted the appeal of Hare’s ‘shoot the messenger’ strat­egy, and took on the labour that is Schelling’s philosophy so that she might adequately answer Ferrier’s charges by claiming mastery of the ideas necessary to judge this complex set of philosophic relationship, outside the morass of moral recrimination. That is not to say she did not attack Ferrier personally; she was sharp throughout as she expressed surprise that the author often lapsed into moral judgement despite declaring his intention not to do so.
Ethical and Safety Issues in Doing Sex Work Research: Reflections From a Field-Based Ethnographic Study in Kolkata, India:

While much has been said about the risks and safety issues experienced by female sex workers in India, there is a considerable dearth of information about the difficulties and problems that sex wor...
Invasive High-grade Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma in a 14-Year-Old Girl

We present an unusual pediatric case of invasive upper tract urothelial carcinoma with an associated genetic predisposition. A 14-year-old female presented with intermittent right flank pain, and was found to have a poorly functioning hydronephrotic right kidney. Laparoscopic nephrectomy was performed. Pathology demonstrated upper tract urothelial carcinoma, and she subsequently underwent completion ureterectomy. Genetic studies demonstrated a double-hit constitutional deletion of a DNA mismatch repair protein, revealing a rare Lynch syndrome variant known as Constitutional Mismatch Repair Deficiency Syndrome. This disease places her at high risk for multiple malignancies, including upper tract urothelial carcinoma.
Airplane pilot mental health and suicidal thoughts: a cross-sectional descriptive study via anonymous web-based survey

The Germanwings Flight 9525 crash has brought the sensitive subject of airline pilot mental health to the forefront in aviation. Globally, 350 million people suffer from depression–a common mental disorder. This study provides further information on this important topic regarding mental health especially among female airline pilots. This is the first study to describe airline pilot mental health–with a focus on depression and suicidal thoughts–outside of the information derived from aircraft accident investigations, regulated health examinations, or identifiable self-reports, which are records protected by civil aviation authorities and airline companies. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study via an anonymous web-based survey administered between April and December 2015. Pilots were recruited from unions, airline companies, and airports via convenience sampling. Data analysis included calculating absolute number and prevalence of health characteristics and depression scores. One thousand eight hundred thirty seven (52.7%) of the 3485 surveyed pilots completed the survey, with 1866 (53.5%) completing at least half of the survey. 233 (12.6%) of 1848 airline pilots responding to the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9), and 193 (13.5%) of 1430 pilots who reported working as an airline pilot in the last seven days at time of survey, met depression threshold–PHQ-9 total score ≥ 10. Seventy-five participants (4.1%) reported having suicidal thoughts within the past two weeks. We found a significant trend in proportions of depression at higher levels of use of sleep-aid medication (trend test z = 6.74, p < 0.001) and among those experiencing sexual harassment (z = 3.18, p = 0.001) or verbal harassment (z = 6.13, p < 0.001). Hundreds of pilots currently flying are managing depressive symptoms perhaps without the possibility of treatment due to the fear of negative career impacts. This study found 233 (12.6%) airline pilots meeting depression threshold and 75 (4.1%) pilots reporting having suicidal thoughts. Although results have limited generalizability, there are a significant number of active pilots suffering from depressive symptoms. We recommend airline organizations increase support for preventative mental health treatment. Future research will evaluate additional risk factors of depression such as sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances.
Cultural Influences on Women’s Sexual Health

The goal of this chapter is to provide the reader with an analysis of the role of culture on women’s sexuality and sexual health in the United States. Due to the growing diversity of the U.S. population (U.S. Bureau of the Census, 1999) and the epidemiology of sexual health problems, there is a great need for information that can assist public health practitioners in understanding cultural factors that play a role in women’s sexual health.
Less is more: online consumer ratings' format affects purchase intentions and processing

Online customer ratings of products and services are commonplace in e-commerce; however, the format in which these ratings are presented to consumers can vary. Although not anticipated by classical models of decision making, latter models such as prospect theory and feelings-as-information theory suggest that the presentation format of online customer ratings could affect subsequent consumer decision making. In the present research, 3 empirical studies test whether online customer ratings' formats differentially affect consumer purchase intentions. The results offer support for feeling-as-information theory and suggest that online ratings presented in a mean (vs. distribution) format result in higher purchase intentions as a result of increased processing fluency. Implications for the presentation of online consumer ratings in e-commerce, based on these findings, are addressed.
SGK1/Nedd4–2 signaling pathway regulates the activity of human organic anion transporters 3

Human organic anion transporter 3 (hOAT3) is localized at the basolateral membrane of renal proximal tubule cells and facilitates the renal secretion of numerous clinical drugs, including anti-HIV therapeutics, anti-tumor drugs, antibiotics, antihypertension drugs and anti-inflammatories. The present study explored the role of serum and glucocorticoid-inducible kinase 1 (sgk1) in the regulation of hOAT3. It was shown that over-expression of sgk1 in hOAT3-expressing cells stimulated hOAT3 transport activity by enhancing the transporter expression at the plasma membrane, kinetically reflected as an increased maximal transport velocity Vmax without substantial change in the substrate-binding affinity Km . In contrast, treatment of cells with the sgk-specific inhibitor GSK650394 resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of hOAT3 transport activity. Evidence was further provided that sgk1 regulation of hOAT3 activity was mediated by ubiquitin ligase Nedd4-2, an enzyme previously shown to have an inhibitory effect on hOAT3. It was shown that sgk1 phosphorylated Nedd4-2, weakened the association between Nedd4-2 and hOAT3, and decreased hOAT3 ubiquitination. Functionally, the sgk1-stimulated hOAT3 transport activity was attenuated in the presence of a ligase-dead mutant of Nedd4-2. In summary, the investigation established for the first time that sgk1 stimulates hOAT3 transport activity by interfering with the inhibitory effect of Nedd4-2 on the transporter.
Access, Deconstructed: Metajournalistic Discourse and Photojournalism’s Shift Away From Geophysical Access:

This study examines metajournalistic discourse published surrounding the intersection of photojournalism and access. Researchers conducted a textual analysis of metajournalistic discourse published...
“All There Is”: The Reconciliatory Poetics of a Singing Voice

In this article, I argue that popular representations of Tanya Tagaq, an Indigenous Canadian musician, shore up a reconciliatory project by mobilizing voice ideologies within densely poetic texts. I trace how commonly held presuppositions and fantasies about Indigeneity in the Canadian multicultural context emerge through and are reinforced by formal aspects of music-critical discourse. By analyzing how discourse on cultural production figurates reconciliation at various scales, this article contributes to critical understandings of liberal multicultural politics of reconciliation. In so doing, it offers insight into an entanglement of voice, language, and media ideologies in popular journalistic discourse on cultural difference. [voice, reconciliation, semiotics, Indigeneity, Canada]
Oxidation of advanced steam turbine alloys

Advanced or ultra supercritical (USC) steam power plants offer the promise of higher efficiencies and lower emissions. Current goals of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Power Systems Initiatives include coal generation at 60% efficiency, which would require steam temperatures of up to 760°C. This research examines the steamside oxidation of advanced alloys for use in USC systems, with emphasis placed on alloys for high- and intermediate-pressure turbine sections.
Growth Factors in Leydig Cell Function

Leydig cell function is predominantly controlled by gonadotropins. However, a number of intratesticular factors are known to influence Leydig cell steroidogenic function. The presence of growth factors within the testis, their effects on androgen release by the isolated Leydig cells, subnormal reproductive function in animals with disrupted growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor-I secretion, and in acromegalics as well as in Laron syndrome patients clearly indicate that growth factors play an important role in reproduction. It is possible that there might be a concerted effect of intratesticularly produced factors on testosterone secretion. Evidence presented in this chapter indicates that pituitary luteinizing hormone is absolutely essential for Leydig cell endocrine function, but growth factors are required for the full effect of luteinizing hormone on androgen secretion. Also, there are indications that a number of growth factors modify gonadotropin synthesis and release from the pituitary gland. Thus, growth factors can exert endocrine as well as paracrine/autocrine effects in controlling the pituitary and testicular functions in mammals.
“Will Use It, Because I Want to Look Cool” A Comparative Study of Simple Computer Interactions Using Touchscreen and In-Air Hand Gestures

The Xbox Kinect and now the Leap Motion Controller have brought about a paradigm shift in the way we interact with computers by making the recognition of 3D gestures affordable. Interfaces now understand natural user interfaces, integrating gestures, voice and various other kinds of multi-modal input simultaneously. In this paper we attempted to understand in-air gesturing better. The purpose of the study was to understand differences between touchscreen and in-air gesturing for simple human computer interactions. The comparison of the gestures was done in terms of Muscle effort/fatigue and Frustration, Satisfaction and Enjoyment We have also tried to study the learnability of in-air gesturing. In our research we found that in-air gesturing was significantly superior with respect to muscle effort and fatigue when compared with touchscreens. We also found that in-air gesturing was found to be more fun and preferred because of its “coolness factor”. Lastly, in-air gesturing had a rapid learning curve.
Social Allergens and the Reactions That They Produce

Much of the research in our laboratory has focused on the positive aspects of human interaction, such as attraction (Cunningham, Roberts, Barbee, & Druen, 1995), partner selection strategies (Druen, 1995), helpfulness (Cunningham, Shaffer, Barbee, Wolfe, & Kelley, 1990), honesty (Cunningham, Wong, & Barbee, 1994), and socially supportive cheering-up behaviors (Barbee & Cunningham, 1995). Yet, there may be limits to what can be learned about relationship dynamics by focusing solely on the determinants of prosocial actions.
Biochemical and Molecular Characterization of Transferrin from Manduca sexta

While transport of macronutrients in insects (fats, carbohydrates) has received considerable attention, the transport of micronutrients is much less well studied. In the case of those insects that undergo complete metamorphosis, feeding is often limited exclusively or nearly exclusively to the larval stages. These animals must ingest and store virtually all nutrients during the larval stages and then mobilize, transport, and utilize them during pupal and adult stages.
AC Susceptibility Techniques Applied to Thin Film Superconductors

The techniques of ac susceptibility have been used to evaluate several properties of thin films: critical temperature, critical current density, and penetration depth. Two basic approaches have been used. The first I would call “conventional”, in that the sample is mounted in a conventional ac susceptibility apparatus that is normally used to measure bulk samples. Here the drive and receive coils are both large compared to the lateral dimensions of the sample. A second approach is unique to thin films and involves drive and receive coils that are small compared to the lateral dimensions of the sample. These coils are generally designed to couple only to a region near the center of the sample, thus being insensitive to the exact size or details of the outer edge of the film.
Role of Segregation for Variant Discovery in Multiplex Families Ascertained by Probands With Left Sided Cardiovascular Malformations.

Cardiovascular malformations (CVM) are common birth defects (incidence of 2 - 5/100 live births). Although a genetic basis is established, in most cases the cause remains unknown. Analysis of whole exome sequencing (WES) in left sided CVM case and trio series has identified large numbers of potential variants but evidence of causality has remained elusive except in a small percentage of cases. We sought to determine whether variant segregation in families would aid in novel gene discovery. The objective was to compare conventional and co-segregation approaches for WES in multiplex families. WES was performed on 52 individuals from 4 multiplex families ascertained by probands with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). We identified rare variants with informatics support (RVIS, minor allele frequency ≤ 0.01 and Combined Annotation Dependent Depletion score ≥ 20) in probands. Non-RVIS variants did not meet these criteria. Family specific 2 point logarithm of the odds (LOD) scores identified co-segregating variants (C-SV) using a dominant model and 80% penetrance. In families, 702 RVIS in 668 genes were identified, but only 1 RVIS was also a C-SV (LOD ≥ 1). On the other hand, there were 109 non-RVIS variants with LOD ≥ 1. Among 110 C-SV, 97% were common (MAF > 1%). These results suggest that conventional variant identification methods focused on RVIS, miss most C-SV. For diseases such as left sided CVM, which exhibit strong familial transmission, co-segregation can identify novel candidates.