cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genital tuberculosis screening at an academic fertility center in the United States.

Background Infertility is a common presentation of female genital tuberculosis in endemic areas. Female genital tuberculosis–related maternal and neonatal complications have increased in recent years after assisted reproductive technology treatments. Despite rising emigration rates to the United States, guidelines to identify those with latent tuberculosis or female genital tuberculosis in fertility centers do not exist. Objective This study aimed to characterize the prevalence of female genital tuberculosis in infertile patients at our academic fertility center. Study Design This is a prospective cohort study. All patients presenting for infertility evaluation between January 2014 and January 2017 were assessed for risk factors for latent tuberculosis. Patients at risk for latent tuberculosis underwent screening using QuantiFERON-TB Gold serum assay. QuantiFERON-TB Gold–positive patients underwent further testing for female genital tuberculosis consisting of endometrial biopsy with histopathologic examination by a clinical pathologist, polymerase chain reaction for tuberculosis, and culture for acid-fast Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Results Twenty-five of 323 infertility patients (7.7%) screened for latent tuberculosis had positive QuantiFERON-TB Gold results. A greater number of patients with a positive test result for QuantiFERON-TB Gold were foreign born than those with a negative test result for QuantiFERON-TB Gold (92% vs 29%; P Conclusion Although the prevalence of female genital tuberculosis in infertile women in the United States seems to be low, this study indicates that it can be underdiagnosed without utilization of multiple diagnostic modalities including endometrial sampling. Given the potential for serious maternal and neonatal morbidity in affected patients utilizing assisted reproductive technology, we propose that all at-risk women seeking infertility care in the United States be screened for latent tuberculosis. In patients who screen positive, endometrial biopsy should be obtained for evaluation by histology, polymerase chain reaction, and culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis to rule out female genital tuberculosis before infertility treatments are initiated.
Why educated youth inclined toward extremism: A case of higher education institutes of Pakistan:

This article highlights the determinants leading to extremist behavior, i.e. the push and pull factors. The pull factors include: humanitarian causes; radical Islamic ideology; stipulation of a “pu...
Mapping Political Communities: A Statistical Analysis of Lobbying Networks in Legislative Politics

We propose a new methodology for inferring political actors’ latent memberships in communities of collective activity that drive their observable interactions. Unlike existing methods, the proposed Bipartite Link Community Model (biLCM) (1) applies to two groups of actors, (2) takes into account that actors may be members of more than one community, and (3) allows a pair of actors to interact in more than one way. We apply this method to characterize legislative communities of special interest groups and politicians in the 113th U.S. Congress. Previous empirical studies of interest group politics have been limited by the difficulty of observing the ties between interest groups and politicians directly. We therefore first construct an original dataset that connects the politicians who sponsor congressional bills with the interest groups that lobby on those bills based on more than two million textual descriptions of lobbying activities. We then use the biLCM to make quantitative measurements of actors’ community memberships ranging from narrow targeted interactions according to industry interests and jurisdictional committee membership to broad multifaceted connections across multiple policy domains.
From Regression Analysis to Deep Learning: Development of Improved Proxy Measures of State-Level Household Gun Ownership.

Summary In the absence of direct measurements of state-level household gun ownership (GO), the quality and accuracy of proxy measures for this variable are essential for firearm-related research and policy development. In this work, we develop two highly accurate proxy measures of GO using traditional regression analysis and deep learning, the former accounting for non-linearities in the covariates (portion of suicides committed with a firearm [FS/S] and hunting license rates) and their statistical interactions. We subject the proxies to extensive model diagnostics and validation. Both our regression-based and deep-learning proxy measures provide highly accurate models of GO with training R2 of 96% and 98%, respectively, along with other desirable qualities—stark improvements over the prevalent FS/S proxy (R2 = 0.68). Model diagnostics reveal this widely used FS/S proxy is highly biased and inadequate; we recommend that it no longer be used to represent state-level household gun ownership in firearm-related studies.
The imbalance of the Th17/Treg axis following equine ascending placental infection.

Abstract Ascending placentitis is a leading cause of abortion in the horse, but adaptive immune response to this disease is unknown. To evaluate this, sub-acute placentitis was experimentally-induced via trans-cervical inoculation of S. zooepidemicus, and endometrium and chorioallantois was collected 8 days later (n = 6 inoculated/n = 6 control). The expression of transcripts relating to Th1, Th2, Th17, and Treg maturation was assessed via RNASeq. IHC of transcription factors relating to each subtype in the same tissues (Th1: TBX21, Th2: GATA3, Th17: IRF4, Treg: FOXp3). An immunoassay was utilized to assess circulating cytokines (Th1: IFNg, IL-2; Th2: IL-4, IL-5; Th17: IL-17, IL-6; Treg: IL-10, GM-CSF). An increase in Th1 and Th17-related transcripts were noted in the chorioallantois, although no alterations were seen in the endometrium. Th2 and Treg-related transcripts altered in a dysregulated manner, as some transcripts increased in expression while others decreased. Immunolocalization of Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells was increased in diseased chorioallantois, while no Treg cells were noted in the diseased tissue. Secreted cytokines relating to Th1 (IFNg, IL-2), Th17 (IL-6), Th2 (IL-5), and Treg (IL-10) populations increased in maternal circulation eight days after inoculation. In conclusion, the Th1/Th17 response to ascending placentitis occurs primarily in the chorioallantois, indicating the adaptive immune response to occur in fetal derived placental tissue. Additionally, ascending placentitis leads to an increase in the helper T cell populations (Th1/Th17/Th2) while decreasing the Treg response. This increase in Th17-related responses alongside a diminishing Treg-related response may precede or contribute to fetal demise, abortion, or preterm labor.
Abstract S10-04: Disparities in food insecurity among cancer survivors during the U.S. COVID-19 pandemic

Background: Food insecurity can negatively impact adherence to and receipt of high-quality cancer care. The purpose of the study was to (1) compare the prevalence of COVID-19 associated food insecurity among cancer survivors to adults without a history of cancer and (2) examine determinants associated with COVID-19 related food insecurity among cancer survivors. Methods: We used nationally-representative data from the COVID-19 Household Impact Survey (n = 10,760), collected at three time points: April 20-26, May 4-10, and May 30-June 8 of 2020. Our primary exposure was cancer survivor status, based on participant’s self-report of a cancer diagnosis (n=854, 7.1%). Primary outcomes of food insecurity were categorized on how often (response options: often true, sometimes true, never true) participants reported the following: “We worried our food would run out before we got money to buy more” or “The food that we bought just didn9t last, and we didn9t have money to get more”; respondents were categorized as food insecure if they chose often true or sometimes true. We also examined use of food pantry assistance or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits during the pandemic period; respondents were also categorized as food insecure if they received or applied for these benefits. We compared reported food insecurity among cancer survivors to other U.S. adults using Chi-square tests. Multivariable Poisson regression was used to identify demographic determinants of food insecurity among cancer survivors. Results: Thirty-two percent of cancer survivors were food insecure. Cancer survivors aged 30-44 years and those aged ≥60 were more likely to report being food insecure compared to respondents without a history of cancer in the same age categories (30-44 years, 59.9% versus 41.2% p = 0.01, ≥60 years 27.2% versus 20.2%, p = 0.01). Cancer survivors without a high school diploma were more likely to report food insecurity compared to adults without a high school diploma and no history of cancer (87.0% versus 64.1%, p = 0.001). In examining determinants of food insecurity among cancer survivors, adults aged 45-49 years when compared to those ages ≥60 (aPR = 1.54, 95% CI 1.16-2.03), adults with no high school diploma (aPR = 2.63, 95% CI 1.53-4.50) or a high school degree (aPR = 1.94, 95% CI 1.08-3.49) compared to those with a baccalaureate or above, adults with an annual household income Citation Format: Marlene Camacho-Rivera, Jessica Y. Islam, Denise C. Vidot. Disparities in food insecurity among cancer survivors during the U.S. COVID-19 pandemic [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Meeting: COVID-19 and Cancer; 2021 Feb 3-5. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2021;27(6_Suppl):Abstract nr S10-04.
Delivered as Described: A Successful Case of Cognitive Processing Therapy With an Older Woman Veteran With PTSD

Abstract Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is a first-line, evidence-based treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Little is known, however, about the use of CPT for older adults. As the United States population continues to grow and age, an understanding of the utility of CPT for older adults is vital. We present a case study describing the assessment and cognitive treatment of a 74-year-old woman veteran with PTSD secondary to military sexual trauma. CPT was associated with decreased PTSD symptoms as measured before and after treatment. Factors contributing to the veteran’s response, as well as contextual and environmental factors, are discussed. The case demonstrates that CPT may be effective for older adults without major modification.
A revision of Kyllinga Rottb. (Cyperaceae) in Mexico and Central America

A revision based on herbarium study of the six species of Kyllinga occurring in Mexico and Central America is presented. Each species is described and discussed. Distribution maps, a key to the species, and a detailed discussion of taxonomically useful characters in the genus are included.
THE MICROCOMPUTER BASED ENGINE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR THE IIEC-2 CONCEPT CAR

The microcomputer based ignition timing, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and fuel injection control system for the IIEC-2 concept vehicle is described. The techniques used to compensate the fuel delivery for EGR, to minimize response time, and to compensate for engine and injector non-uniformity are emphasized. These measures, in conjunction with limit cycle air/fuel ratio control utilizing feedback from an exhaust gas oxygen sensor, are examined with respect to the effect on three-way catalyst performance.
Heavy lies the crown? How job anxiety affects top executive decision making in gain and loss contexts

Research summary: Despite abundant anecdotal evidence that many top executives experience anxiety in their jobs, the upper echelons literature has remained largely silent on the organizational implications of executive job anxiety. In this study, we theorize that job anxiety will cause executives to (1) create a social buffer against threats by surrounding themselves with supportive decision-making teams, and (2) pursue lower-risk firm strategies. We further argue that these effects will vary depending upon whether strategic decisions occur in gain versus loss contexts. We test our ideas using a novel multisource, multimethod approach that includes data from 84 top executives of large organizations, their decision-making teams, their friends and families, and archival sources. Results from an analysis of 154 major strategic decisions provide general support for our theory. Managerial summary: Although many top executives experience anxiety in their jobs, some struggle more with anxiety than others. Our paper is the first to focus on how job anxiety affects executives' decisions. We analyze 154 major strategic decisions made by 84 top executives of large organizations in a range of industries, collecting data from personal interviews with executives and surveys of their decision-making teams, spouses, and friends. We find that anxious executives take fewer strategic risks, especially when things are going well. We further argue that anxious executives focus more on “buffering” themselves from threats, and find that they surround themselves with close supporters when times are tough. Our results demonstrate a pattern through which anxiety causes top executives to focus more heavily on avoiding potential threats. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Supply side uncertainty and the management of commercial fisheries

Abstract Variations in fish stocks are at the heart of the difficulties in managing commercial fisheries. The Peruvian Anchovetta fishery provides an excellent illustration of the problems posed to the industry and government regulators by wide swings in abundance associated with climatic change. This note gives a quantitative measure of the linkage between the Enso index (El Nino) and stock abundance. In doing so it opens up the question of the relative efficiency of current management techniques, such as ITQ's, as management tools. Finally, it questions the utility of using small pelagics as fish meal.
Isotopic placentography using Cr51-tagged erythrocytes

Abstract Twenty full-term pregnant women were studied by isotopic placentography using Cr 51 -tagged erythrocytes. No failure in the diagnosis of placental site was noted. The technique of the application of this method is fully described and its superiority in accuracy, simplicity, and danger of radiation as compared to the previously applied methods is analyzed and discussed.
A plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 mutant retards diabetic nephropathy in db/db mice by protecting podocytes

PAI-1R, a mutant plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) that reduces endogenous PAI-1 activity has been shown to inhibit albuminuria and reduce glomerulosclerosis in experimental diabetes. The mechanism of albuminuria reduction is unclear. This study sought to determine whether the administration of PAI-1R protected podocyte from injury directly, thereby reducing albuminuria in the db/db mouse, a model of type 2 diabetes. Untreated uninephrectomized db/db mice developed significant mesangial matrix expansion and albuminuria at week 22 of age, associated with segmental podocyte foot process effacement, reduction of renal nephrin, podocin and zonula occludin-1 (ZO-1) production and induction of renal desmin and B7-1 generation. In contrast, treatment with PAI-1R at 0.5 mg/kg BW through peritoneal injection, twice daily from weeks 20 to 22 reduced glomerular matrix accumulation, fibronectin and collagen production and albuminuria by 36%, 62%, 65% and 31% respectively (p<0.05), without affecting blood glucose level or body weight. Podocyte morphology and protein markers were also significantly attenuated by PAI-1R administration. Importantly, recombinant PAI-1 down-regulated nephrin and ZO-1 but increased desmin and B7-1 mRNA expression and protein production by podocytes in vitro, similar to the effects of TGFβ1. These observations provide evidence that PAI-1, in a manner similar to TGFβ, directly induces podocyte injury, particularly in the setting of diabetes where elevated PAI-1 may contribute to the progression of albuminuria. Reducing the increased PAI-1 activity by PAI-1R, in fact, reduces podocyte injury thereby reducing albuminuria. Therefore, PAI-1R provides additional therapeutic effect in slowing the progression of diabetic nephropathy via the protection of podocytes.
Parent - Adolescent Relationship Qualities and Adolescent Adjustment in Two-Parent African American Families.

Using multi-informant data from 134 two-parent African American families, the goals of this study were to (a) describe parent – adolescent warmth and shared time as a function of parent and youth gender and (b) assess links between these indices of relationship quality and adolescent adjustment. Mixed-model ANCOVAs revealed that mothers reported warmer relationships with adolescents than fathers, and both parents reported warmer relationships with younger versus older offspring. Interparental differences in time spent with sons and daughters and older and younger siblings were also found. Tests of multilevel models indicated that greater maternal warmth was associated with fewer depressive symptoms and less risky behavior for sons, and more paternal warmth and shared time with fathers were associated with less risky behavior in youth. Discussion highlights the utility of cultural ecological and family systems perspectives for understanding parent-adolescent relationships and youth adjustment in African American families.
CREACIÓN, IDENTIDAD Y FRONTERA EN EL CONTEXTO DE LA GLOBALIZACIÓN: INCONCILIABLES Y CULTURA MUNDIAL

Resumen es: Bajo la intencion de desarrollar una refl exion en torno de la nocion de frontera en el contexto de los grandes problemas abiertos por la globalizacion, ...
Twenty-six years of operations management research (1985–2010): authorship patterns and research constituents in eleven top rated journals

This paper investigates the research contributions over a 26-year time frame (1985–2010) of academic institutions and individual authors to the field of operations management (OM). We use two measures, shared articles and distributed articles, to assess the research productivity of institutions as well as individual researchers. Further we assess the contribution of institutions based on affiliated author research as well as the research of their PhD graduates. In order to accomplish this, we utilise the published OM research articles in 11 top-rated and well-known academic journals over the time period from 1985 to 2010. In addition to the research, contributions of academic institutions and individual authors, we look at several bibliometric statistics related to this body of published research. These measures indicate that the research constituency is growing as evidenced by increasing numbers of researchers and institutions represented. Lastly, the collaboration between researchers appears to be incre...
Wind-driven freshwater buildup and release in the Beaufort Gyre constrained by mesoscale eddies†

Recently the Beaufort Gyre has accumulated over 20 km3 of freshwater in response to strong anticyclonic atmospheric winds that have prevailed over the gyre for almost two decades. Here, we explore key physical processes affecting the accumulation and release of freshwater within an idealized eddy resolving model of the Beaufort Gyre. We demonstrate that a realistic halocline can be achieved when its deepening tendency due to Ekman pumping is counteracted by the cumulative action of mesoscale eddies. Based on this balance, we derive analytical scalings for the depth of the halocline and its spin-up time scale and emphasize their explicit dependence on eddy dynamics. Our study further suggests that the Beaufort Gyre is currently in a state of high sensitivity to atmospheric winds. However, an intensification of surface stress would inevitably lead to a saturation of the freshwater content – a constraint inherently set by the intricacies of the mesoscale eddy dynamics.
Functional Alcohol Dehydrogenase Mutants of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Conferring Temperature-Conditional Allyl Alcohol Resistance

Selection for allyl alcohol resistance in respiratory incompetent yeast is a highly specific method for isolating functional mutations at ADH1, the gene coding for the cytoplasmic alcohol dehydrogenase, ADHI. Because of the nature of this selection scheme, the ADHI activity of such mutants is retained, but the kinetic characteristics of the enzymes are altered. The high specificity for targeting functional mutations at this locus suggested that selection for enzyme variants with more subtle phenotypic effects might be possible. Here, we describe functional ADHI mutants that are temperature-conditional in their allyl alcohol resistance. Haploid cells of one of these mutants grow well on plates at 10 mM allyl alcohol at 19 degrees, but not at 37 degrees, the restrictive temperature. A second mutant grows well at 10 mM at 37 degrees, but its growth is restricted at 19 degrees. What distinguishes these mutants from other temperature-sensitive mutants is that the temperature-conditional growth phenotypes described here must be due to interactions between allyl alcohol levels and ADHI functional properties and cannot be due to lability of the enzyme at the restrictive temperature. This system shows promise for the investigation of functional enzyme variants that differ by only one or two amino acid residues but have significant temperature- and substrate-conditional effects on growth phenotypes in both the haploids and the diploids.
Effects of sperm ultraviolet irradiation on the embryonic development of Rana pipiens.

Abstract This investigation is concerned with the role played by irradiated sperm in the subsequent embryonic development of the frog Rana pipiens. The ultraviolet irradiation of the sperm was followed by the fertilization of untreated eggs. Determinations included mitotic index, nuclear diameter, chromosomal constitution, and percentage survival. Results show that the low-dose embryos were the most severely affected ones in spite of their diploid constitution. Embryos resulting from higher dosages of sperm irradiation were all haploid but showed less severe growth and cytological abnormalities. It is conjectured that radiation-induced damage to the sperm also involves its protamine moiety since considerable damage can occur without any alteration in the chromosomal constitution of the low-dose embryos.
Metabolism and elimination of benzocaine by rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss.

1. Branchial and urinary elimination of benzocaine residues was evaluated in adult rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, given a single dorsal aortic dose of 14C-benzocaine hydrochloride.2. Branchial elimination of benzocaine residues was rapid and accounted for 59.2% of the dose during the first 3 h after dosing. Renal elimination of radioactivity was considerably slower; the kidney excreted 2.7% dose within 3 h and 9.0% within 24 h. Gallbladder bile contained 2.0% dose 24 h after injection.3. Of the radioactivity in radiochromatograms from water taken 3 min after injection, 87.3% was benzocaine and 12.7% was N-acetylated benzocaine. After 60 min, 32.7% was benzocaine and 67.3% was N-acetylated benzocaine.4. Of the radioactivity in radiochromatograms from urine taken 1 h after dosing, 7.6% was para-aminobenzoic acid, 59.7% was N-acetylated para-aminobenzoic acid, 19.5% was benzocaine, and 8.0% was N-acetylated benzocaine. The proportion of the radioactivity in urine changed with time so that by 20 h, 1.0% ...
An Approach to Improving the Morphology and Reliability of n-SiC Ohmic Contacts to SiC Using Second-Metal Contacts

While nickel ohmic contacts to n-type silicon carbide have good electrical properties, the physical contact, and therefore the reliability, can be poor. An approach is described for using the good electrical properties of Ni ohmic contacts while using another metal for its desired mechanical, thermal and/or chemical properties. In the present work, once the Ni contacts have been annealed forming nickel silicides and achieving low contact resistance, they are etched off. Removing the primary Ni contacts also eliminates the poor morphology, voids, and at least some of the excess carbon produced by the Ni/SiC reaction. The Ni contacts are then replaced by a second contact metal. This second metal displays low contact resistance as-deposited, indicating that the critical feature responsible for the ohmic contact has not been removed by the primary contact etch. Not only does this approach provide more flexibility for optimizing the contact for a given application, it also provides some insight into the ohmic contact formation mechanism.
Analytical and Experimental Studies of 208‐pin Fine Pitch (0·5 mm) Quad Flat Pack Solder‐joint Reliability

The reliability of 0·5 mm pitch, 208‐pin FQFP solder joints has been studied by experimental temperature cycling and 3‐D nonlinear finite element analysis. Temperature cycling results have been presented as a Weibull distribution. Thermal fatigue life of the solder joints has been estimated based on the calculated plastic strain and isothermal fatigue data on solders. A correlation between the experimental and analytical results has also been made.
On the edge-reconstruction of graphs embedded in surfaces IV

In this paper, by applying the discharging method, we give simple proofs that (1) every n-vertex graph with minimum degree at least 3 and girth at least 5 that is embeddable in a surface Σ of Euler characteristic at least -n/8 is edge-reconstructible, and (2) every n-vertex graph with minimum degree at least 4 that is embeddable without faces of length at most 3 in a surface Σ of Euler characteristic at least -n/6 is edge-reconstructible.
Relevance of inoculation route to virulence of three Salmonella spp. strains in mice

The virulence of three Salmonella species strains was compared by the i.p. and i.v. routes in BALB/c mice. Salmonella choleraesuis, SL2824 (serogroup C1, O-6,7), was more virulent by the i.v. than i.p. route. A strain of S. typhimurium, SL1260 (serogroup B; O-1,4,12) was more virulent i.p. than i.v. while another strain, SL3201 (O-4,5,12) was equally virulent i.p. or i.v. The LD50 of each strain by either route correlated with the number of bacteria in the liver and spleen on day one after inoculation and thus seems determined mainly by initial bactericidal mechanisms. The rate of bacterial growth in the liver and spleen was independent of inoculation route but differed between the three strains. Salmonella choleraesuis multiplied faster than either strain of S. typhimurium. Non-virulent aromatic-dependent (aro) derivatives of these strains were tested, instead of their virulent ancestors, for survival within peritoneal macrophages in vitro. Salmonella choleraesuis SL 2824 aro and S. typhimurium SL1260 aro were much more readily killed intracellularly than S. typhimurium SL3201 aro. The data indicate that the survival and multiplication of different Salmonella serotypes or strains in vivo may depend on different critical properties or mechanisms to overcome host defenses.
Activity inhibition on municipal activated sludge by single-walled carbon nanotubes

The objective of this study was to evaluate the respiratory activity inhibition of activated sludge used in a typical wastewater treatment plant by single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with different length and functionality. Four types of SWCNTs were evaluated: short, functionalized short, long, and functionalized long. Based on the effective concentration (EC50) values obtained, we determined that functionalized SWCNTs resulted in a higher microbial respiratory inhibition than non-functionalized nanotubes, and long SWCNTs gave a higher microbial respiratory inhibition than their short counterparts. Among the four types of SWCNTs studied, functionalized long exhibited the highest respiration inhibition. Scanning electron microscopy imaging indicates that the long SWCNTs dispersed more favorably after sonication than the short variety. The findings demonstrated that the toxicity of CNTs (exhibited by respiratory inhibition) is related to their physical properties; the length and functionality of SWCNTs affected the toxicity of SWCNTs in a mixed-cultured biologic system.
Granulomatous Thymoma in Childhood

A granulomatous thymoma was removed from a sevenyear-old girl after she had been anorexic for approximately four months, and had endured generalized pruritis for three months. Thick fibrous septae, epithelial lined cysts, numerous epithelioid cells which formed Hassall's bodies, and the histology and staining characteristics of the Reed-Sternberg-like cells served to distinguish this tumor from Hodgkin's disease involving the thymus.
A continuous spectrophotometric method for ammonia-generating reactions

Abstract A convenient spectrophotometric method for the continuous measurement of ammonia production is described. Its usefulness is demonstrated by measuring ammonia produced by an amidase and by urease.
Effect of cobra neurotoxin on retention of a brightness discrimination in rats.

Abstract In view of some recent evidence that blockade of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors might interfere with memory recall, the possibiity that intracranial injections of purified cobra neurotoxin, an irreversible nicotinic receptor blocker, would produce long-lasting amnesia was explored with a brightness discrimination habit in rats. The results indicate that even the highest tolerable dose of neurotoxin had no detebtable effect on memory recall.
Naturalism and psychological explanation

Abstract This article explores the possibility of naturalized theory of action. It distinguishes ontological naturalism from conceptual naturalism, and asks whether a defensible theory of action can be either ontologically or conceptually naturalistic. The distinction between conditions for an ontology and conditions for a concept receives support from Donald Davidson's identification of two modes of explanation for action: rational and physical causal explanation. Davidson's action theory provides a naturalized ontology for action theory, but not a naturalized concept of intentional action. This article raises doubts about Davidson's basis for such one‐sided naturalism. It examines some conditions for a mode of explanation, in order to clarify whether an intentional mode of explanation might have ontological significance and thus raise problems for ontological naturalism. The article argues for the central role of certain instrumental factors in explanatory strategies, whether naturalistic or intentional...
Closing the Loop: Community-Based Organic Solid Waste Recycling, Urban Gardening, and Land Use Planning in Ghana, West Africa

Accra, Ghana's capital, has solid waste collection and disposal problems that, like most cities in Africa, are concentrated in poor residential neighborhoods. Efforts to improve solid waste managem...
Molecular biology of embryonic development: How far have we come in the last ten years?

The successes of molecular developmental biology over the last ten years have been particularly impressive in those directions favored by its major paradigms. New technologies have both guided and been guided by the progress of the field. I review briefly some of the major insights into embryonic development that have derived from research in four specific areas: early embryogenesis of various forms; “pattern formation”; evolutionary conservation of regulatory elements; and spatial mechanisms of gene regulation. There remain many major problem areas, some of which may require new orientations to solve.
A modular tyrosine kinase deoxyribozyme with discrete aptamer and catalyst domains

We assess the utility of integrating a predetermined aptamer DNA module adjacent to a random catalytic DNA region for identifying new deoxyribozymes by in vitro selection. By placing a known ATP aptamer next to an N40 random region, an explicitly modular DNA catalyst for tyrosine side chain phosphorylation is identified. The results have implications for broader identification of deoxyribozymes that function with small-molecule substrates.
Characterization of three rabbit oral papillomavirus oncogenes

Abstract Rabbit oral papillomavirus (ROPV) induces warts in mucosal tissues, and represents a useful model for understanding host–virus interactions that are reflected in mucosal/HPV infections. ROPV induces benign papillomas that regress in 100% of infected rabbits. We previously reported the complete genome sequence of ROPV. However, the oncogenic potential of this virus is unknown because of immunologically mediated regression. The purpose of this study was to characterize the transforming proteins of E6 , E7 , and E8 genes of ROPV. E6 , E7 , and E8 genes of ROPV were cloned into the expression vector PCR3. Two hybrid CRPV-ROPV E6 genes were also constructed and tested together with the three wild-type ROPV genes. Each construct was transfected into NIH3T3 cells and stable transfected cell lines were established. Transforming properties of ROPV E6 , E7 , and E8 were tested via anchorage-independent growth of cells in agar plates and tumor growth in athymic mice. Cells with ROPV E6 , E7 , or E8 formed colonies in agar and tumors in athymic mice. These observations suggest that ROPV E6 , E7 , and E8 are oncogenic.
Stable model immune complexes produced by bivalent affinity labeling haptens: In-vivo survival

Abstract In order to provide a better model system for studying the properties of immune complexes, we have synthesized a family of bivalent affinity labeling haptens, the p-nitrophenyl (PNP)∗ and 2,4-dinitrophenyl (DNP) esters of dicarboxylic acids. At low protein concentration, these compounds covalently cross-link anti-PNP and anti-DNP antibodies with considerable specificity. The resulting immunoglobulin oligomers can be separated into stable dimers, trimers, and a mixture of heavier oligomers. The in-vivo clearance in rabbits of these oligomers and of oligomers produced by another bivalent affinity labeling hapten [(BADL-pro)2-EDA] and by a non-specific reagent, dimethylsuberimidate, have been studied. The clearance increased with increasing oligomer size with the dicarboxylic ester-linked immunoglobulin. The in vivo behavior of the other oligomers was irregular. These easily synthesized reagents provide a useful model system for studying some biological properties of immune complexes.
A transverse deformation theory of laminated composite plates

Abstract In this paper a first-order shear/fourth-order transverse deformation theory of laminated composite plates is presented. A finite element model with a strain/stress recovery technique is developed in such a way that nonzero surface traction boundary conditions and interlaminar shear stress continuity conditions are all satisfied identically. The rotational degrees of freedom become layer-dependent quantities and the laminate possesses a transverse deformation capability. Numerical results are compared with analytical solutions and other finite element solutions to illustrate the effectiveness of the theory and the computational procedure developed herein.
For Placebo Effects in Medicine, Seeing Is Believing

The gold standard for determining the efficacy of biomedical therapies is the detection of a significant difference between the therapeutic effects of an active pharmacological agent or procedure and a matched inert placebo in a randomized controlled trial. Detecting this difference has become a challenge for medicine, especially for outcomes that are based on patient self-rated scales. Yet factors that contribute to placebo responses have received scant attention. In this issue of Science Translational Medicine, Bingel et al. report on an example of how noninvasive whole-brain imaging contributes to our understanding of brain-based placebo effects. Here we highlight ways in which neuroimaging is catalyzing a revolution in society's perspective of placebo effects by providing a compelling visualization of how brain activities that reflect a person's thoughts, feelings, and past experiences can enhance or antagonize his or her response to a medical treatment.
Preparing for the Next Influenza Pandemic

There are 3 requirements for an influenza virus to cause a pandemic. It must be antigenically novel, cause severe disease, and transmit easily from human to human. Highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses of the H5N1 subtype currently circulating in bird populations in Asia, Africa, and Europe have met 2 of these criteria, and there is significant concern that these viruses will be the cause of the next pandemic. International efforts to prepare for a possible pandemic are underway. Priorities for pandemic planning include surveillance of influenza viruses in wild bird populations and at the avian-human interface, research into factors affecting the pathogenicity of these strains, stockpiling effective antivirals for use as a stopgap until an appropriate vaccine can be developed and distributed, and gaining an improved understanding of the utility of nonpharmaceutical interventions to slow or prevent the spread of these viruses within humans. Although considerable progress has been made in recent years towards readying the world for such an event, there is more work to be done. Physicians and hospitals can begin by educating themselves on the problem and developing a pandemic plan for their own practice or organization.
Rehabilitating a genetic perspective in the study of tobacco and alcohol use.

Despite comparable estimates of ‘heritability’ for tobacco smoking and alcohol drinking, the human genetics of drinking has been a fashionable topic for research, while the human genetics of smoking has been neglected or viewed with suspicion. The differing course of genetic themes in the alcohol and tobacco areas is discussed in relation to (a) different historical pressures which promoted disease models of alcoholism and ‘bad habit’ models of heavy smoking and (b) possible fundamental differences in the nature of cigarette and alcohol use. This topic is further complicated by the substantial co-occurrence of heavy smoking and heavy drinking, so that the genetic determinants may well over-lap. ‘Cross-cultural’ comparison of these contrasting interests in genetics is argued to be an important topic for future research.
Characterization of differentiation factor/leukaemia inhibitory factor effect on lipoprotein lipase activity and mRNA in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Alterations in lipid metabolism characterized in major part by a decrease in lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity in adipose tissue are a central feature of cachexia from chronic infection or malignancy. These metabolic derangements may be mediated in large part through endogenous host proteins produced in response to various pathological stimuli. Differentiation factor/leukaemia inhibitory factor (D-factor) is a cytokine whose functions overlap those of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF), IL-6 and IL-1. Recombinant murine D-factor produced a dose- and time-dependent inhibition of heparin-releasable LPL activity in differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Although 2-10 fold less potent than recombinant murine TNF, D-factor inhibited LPL activity at concentrations of 1-10 ng/ml. When added together, D-factor and TNF produced a synergistic inhibition of LPL activity. Interleukin 6 (IL-6) was 100-fold less potent than D-factor; 0.1 ng/ml of D-factor or 10 ng/ml of IL-6 caused a 50% inhibition of LPL activity. D-factor and TNF increased IL-6 production in 3T3-L1 cells. Ten ng/ml of D-factor or 1.0 ng/ml of TNF stimulated the release of < 1 ng/ml of IL-6 and inhibited LPL activity to 11 +/- 3% and 3 +/- 2% of control, respectively, whereas 50 ng/ml of recombinant IL-6 was required to decrease LPL activity to 24 +/- 19% of control. TNF produced a marked decrease in LPL mRNA, whereas D-factor had minimal or no effect at doses which inhibited LPL activity almost completely. Western blot analysis of cell extracts showed that TNF caused a greater decrease in LPL protein production than D-factor.2+ with TNF, may contribute to the manifestations of cachexia.
Replays as repetitions: Young children's interpretation of television forms☆

Abstract Young children's comprehension of instant replays was examined in two studies. In Study 1, 83 children, ages 4–9 years, viewed six TV bits in which instant replays were inserted. The content of the bits varied from familiar (placing a phone call) to unfamiliar (a baseball play). Children's detection and interpretation of replays were measured. Study 2 replicated the procedures of the first study, with 166 children, ages 4–9 years. The four experimental bits crossed two kinds of content (phone call vs. baseball), with presence or absence of a visual special effect marking the replay. Older children were more likely to detect replays than younger children. There were age and content effects for children's interpretation of instant replays. Young children interpreted the replays as repetitions. When they began to ascribe the replay to the medium, somewhere around first grade (age 6–7), they were more likely to do so for a baseball context than a phone call. Visual markers did not influence detection or interpretation. The findings support the hypothesis that children interpret the forms of television according to the expectations they have derived from their experiences with real people and objects.
The Effect of Prenatal Cocaine Exposure on Myometrial α- andβ-Adrenergic Receptor Kinetics and G-Protein Expression in Guinea Pigs† 1078

Maternal cocaine abuse is associated with increased uterine contractions which may lead to preterm labor and prematurity. One mechanism of cocaine action is through uptake inhibition of norepinephrine (an α- andβ-adrenergic agonist). As adrenergic stimulation plays an important role in uterine contractility, we hypothesized that cocaine exposure during pregnancy alters adrenergic receptor kinetics and its G-protein-mediated transmembrane signal transduction. Therefore, we studied the effect of cocaine exposure on α- and β-adrenergic receptor kinetics and G-protein expression in pregnant guinea pig myometrium. Methods: Pregnant guinea pigs were injected daily with cocaine (5mg/kg SC) or saline (control) throughout the latter half of gestation (term: 65 days). Guinea pigs were killed at 90% gestation, the uteri removed, and membrane protein fraction obtained. Saturation binding assays were performed for β,α1, and α2 adrenergic receptors using the tritiated radioligands DHA, prazosin, and rauwolscine, respectively, to determine receptor concentration, Bmax, in fmol/mg of protein, and affinity, kD, in nmol/mg of protein. Gi α and Gs α subunit expression was determined by immunoblotting techniques. Membrane protein fractions were resolved by SDS-PAGE and probed using a polyclonal antibody against the inhibitory (i) and stimulatory (s) Gα-protein subunits and compared using optical densitometry. Results: Myometrium from cocaine-exposed guinea pigs showed a significant decrease in the concentration of β-adrenergic receptors as compared with the control group (Bmax 78.5±6.97 (cocaine) vs 143±23.1(control), p<0.02) without significant difference in kD (2.58 vs 3.47). There was no significant difference in the concentration or affinity ofα1-adrenergic receptors (Bmax: 98.7(cocaine) vs 91.5(control) and kD: 0.523 (cocaine) vs 2.34 (control) orα2-adrenergic receptors (Bmax: 162 (cocaine) vs 133(control) and kD: 4.06 (cocaine) vs 2.55 (control)). Optical densitometry measurements failed to demonstrate a significant difference in either Giα or Gs α protein subunit expression.Conclusion: This study demonstrates that prenatal cocaine exposure down-regulates myometrial β-adrenergic receptor concentration in pregnant guinea pigs without significant effect on α-adrenergic receptor kinetics or G-protein expression. Decreased β-adrenergic activity may result in unopposed α-adrenergic stimulation and increased uterine contractions. These findings provide a mechanism for the relationship between maternal cocaine abuse and prematurity.
Enhanced interactive datawall: display architecture for data fusion and collaboration in C2 environments

Command and Control (C2) environments require several key decision-makers to visualize, interpret, and analyze voluminous static and dynamic information of varying complexity originating from multiple sources. The challenges in providing a paramount display solution for today's mission planning relies heavily on building a large, high resolution, and collaborative display system which foster better information management, and heightened situational awareness. The Advanced Visualizations and Interactive Displays (AVID) team at the Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate addresses the needs of the present C2 environment, and has designed, developed, and deployed versions of the Interactive DataWall (IDW). The IDW is a contiguous large display solution equipped with multiple methods for application interaction, and the ability to receive numerous sources of data in real time. Fostering a collaborative environment, the IDW architecture enables multiple users to engage simultaneously with the display via camera-tracked laser pointer interaction, in combination with personal digital assistants (PDA). Decision-makers share the large-screen display area together by sending their applications to the IDW, originating locally or remotely. Simultaneous and multiple cursor support are fully functional without requiring any special modifications to the operators' existing applications.
Competitive allies: Rural nurses' and social workers' perceptions of the social work role in the hospital setting.

The domain of social work in healthcare has not been clear, nor exclusive. Recently the social worker's role in hospital, particularly in rural hospitals, has been impacted by economic imperatives and legislative mandates. This article discusses the results of a study of rural hospital nurses' and social workers' perceptions of the domain of the medical social worker. Analyses of the profession identified as being best qualified to perform 15 generic hospital social service tasks revealed areas of clarity and collaboration. Implications include expanding the role and skills of medical social workers to include multi-systemic interventions and multi-disciplinary collaboration.