cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An extraordinary reproductive strategy in freshwater bivalves: prey mimicry to facilitate larval dispersal

SUMMARY 1. Females of the North American freshwater bivalve Lainpsilis perovalis release their larvae, which are obligate parasites on fish, in a discrete mass (superconglutinate) resembling a small fish in shape and coloration. After release, the mass remains tethered to the female by a long, transparent, mucous strand and, in stream currents, displays a darting motion that further mimics a small fish. 2. Release of superconglutinates was observed in March and April at water temperatures of 14-17 "C. However, superconglutinates detached from the parent mussel were observed from March to June at water temperatures of 11-26 "C, indicating that release may occur into the summer. 3. The superconglutinate lure may function to attract a predaceous fish to ingest the mass, ensuring that the larvae are exposed to a suitable host. 4. This reproductive strategy was confirmed recently to occur in a congener, L. subangdata and is suspected to occur in another congener, L. ausfrnlis.
Deformation-induced nanocrystallization : A comparison of two amorphous Al-based alloys

Using conventional and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), the effects of rolling at room temperature on the microstructures of amorphous Al90Fe5Gd5 and Al86.8Ni3.7Y9.5 were compared. In rolled Al90Fe5Gd5, nanocrystallites were observed at shear bands, whereas none were observed in rolled Al86.8Ni3.7Y9.5. When HRTEM was combined with with Fourier transform filtering, nanoscale, low-density defects were imaged. In Al90Fe5Gd5, the shear bands contain few defects, which are concentrated at the boundary zone between the shear bands and undeformed region, whereas in Al86.8Ni3.7Y9.5, the shear bands contain a uniform distribution of defects with a density higher than the undeformed region. The preferential precipitation of nanocrystallites in rolled Al90Fe5Gd5 is attributed to a kinetic effect due to uniformly-distributed excess free volume in the shear bands.
Measurement and application of DDγ, DTγ and D3Heγ reactions at low energy

Abstract The gamma ray branching ratios for the reactions T(d, γ)5He, D(d, γ)4He, 3He(d, γ)5 Li have been measured between center of mass energies of 25 to 100 keV. The branching ratios are observed to be roughly constant over the energy range of the measurements with best values Γdtγ/ Γdtα = (5.4±1.3)× 10−5Γddγ/Γddp= (1.1 ±0.3) × 10−7 and Γd3Heγ/ Γd3Heα = (5.0±1.2) × 10−5. These branching ratios are used to calculate the reactivities for the production of the gamma rays by high temperature plasmas. Specific applications to TFTR plasmas will be presented.
Laser Doppler measurements of skin blood flow before, during, and after lumbar sympathetic blockade in children and young adults with reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome.

Changes in the skin capillary blood flow (SBF) and temperature before, during, and 1 hour after unilateral lumbar paravertebral sympathetic blockade (LSB) were studied simultaneously with laser Doppler flowmetry and thermometry in patients with reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome. The baseline flow measurements in the toes on the affected limb were significantly lower than in the contralateral limb (p<0.01). During LSB, a 10-fold increase in SBF was detected within 4 minutes after injection of a local anesthetic agent when the sympathetic blockade was effective; an increase of more than 1°C in the skin temperature occurred within 11 minutes. Measurements 1 hour after blockade showed an 18-fold (mean) increase in SBF in the toes (p<0.0001) and a 2-fold (mean) increase in SBF in the thighs (p<0.001). There was a significant decrease in the skin blood flow in the contralateral toes after the sympathetic blockade (p<0.01). We conclude that laser Doppler flow measurements can be used to detect immediate onset of sympathetic blockade in patients under general anesthetic or conscious sedation.
Soy Isoflavones and Cancer Prevention

Epidemiological studies have shown a significant difference in cancer incidence among different ethnic groups, which is believed to be partly attributed to dietary habits. The incidences of breast and prostate cancers are much higher in the United States and European countries compared with Asian countries such as Japan and China. One of the major differences in diet between these populations is that the Japanese and the Chinese consume a traditional diet high in soy products. Soy isoflavones have been identified as dietary components having an important role in reducing the incidence of breast and prostate cancers. Genistein, the predominant isoflavones found in soy, has been shown to inhibit the carcinogenesis in animal models. There are growing body of experimental evidence that show the inhibition of human cancer cells by genistein through the modulation of genes that are related to the control of cell cycle and apoptosis. Moreover, it has been shown that genistein inhibits the activation of NF-kappa B and Akt signaling pathways, both of which are known to maintain a homeostatic balance between cell survival and apoptosis. Genistein is commonly known as phytoestrogen, which targets estrogen- and androgen-mediated signaling pathways in the processes of carcinogenesis. Furthermore, genistein has been found to have antioxidant property, and shown to be a potent inhibitor of angiogenesis and metastasis. Taken together, both in vivo and in vitro studies have clearly shown that genistein, one of the major soy isoflavones, is a promising reagent for cancer chemoprevention and/or treatment. In this article, we attempt to provide evidence for these effects of genistein in a succinct manner to provide comprehensive state-of-the-art knowledge of the biological and molecular effects of the isoflavone genistein in cancer cells.
Environmental and performance analysis of SAW-based RFID systems

This paper describes the environmental effects and performance analysis of 2.45 GHz Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) based RFID systems. Piezoelectric materials and their underlying principles are reviewed to describe the nature of SAWs. A performance analysis is conducted to measure the readability and read range for individual tags, compared to multiple tags in a field environment. On the other hand, effects of temperature, humidity, altitude and vibration on the readability and operability of the system are described. Finally, a conclusion is drawn with regards to the performance of SAW-based RFID systems.
Degradation and elemental release rates from phytoplankton debris and their geochemical implications

The diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana was held without nutrients in the dark for 22 d; release rates of carbon and seven metals from the cells were determined with radiotracers. Cellular C was lost faster at 18°C (3.6% d-l) than at 4°C (1 .O% d-l) due to higher microbial activity at 18°C. C loss rates decreased (from 9.7% d-l at 18°C and 2.1% d-l at 4°C) after 7 d. Formalin (24 mM) and HgCl, (0.9 mM) inhibited microbial activity as indicated by 14C0, evolution; NaN, (154 mM) was less effective. Poison-treated cells leached 33-39% of their C (as DOC) and large quantities of Cd, Se, Zn, and Ag. Cd, Se, and Zn, primarily in a soluble fraction in the cells, were released at about the same rate as C and were affected by microbial activity and temperature. In contrast, Ag, Am, Ce, and Co were retained to a much greater extent by the decomposing cells, their release was slower than that of C, and temperature and microbial activity had negligible effects on their retention. The results suggest that Cd, Se, and Zn will be rapidly recycled from planktonic debris in surface waters, while Ce, Am, Ag, and Co will be transported by phytoplankton aggregates sinking from surface waters.
Onset of Addiction: A First Attempt at Prediction

This study attempts to identify predictors of early heroin addiction. Natives of low social class origins are, as predicted by "social structure and anomie theory," more likely to be addicted when young. However, social class has little impact on age of addiction among migrants. Blue-collar migrants are strikingly less likely than blue-collar natives to be addicted when young; a nonsignificant trend in the same direction is found for white-collar respondents. Findings are interpreted in terms of commitment to traditional values. Contrary to expectations based on Moynihan, family intactness is unrelated to age of addiction.
Heavy metal in the intensive care unit: a review of current literature on trace element supplementation in critically ill patients

Trace elements are essential for many physiologic processes. In recent years, supplementation has been studied for a variety of indications, including glycemic control, wound healing, antioxidant effect, and anemia. Critical illness, especially states such as burns, traumas, and septic shock, is associated with inflammatory and oxidative stress, immune dysfunction, and malnutrition. In these patients, enteral and parenteral nutrition or pharmaceutical supplementation is used to provide essential macronutrients, including trace elements. The purpose of this review is to describe trace element supplementation, including iron, copper, chromium, manganese, selenium, and zinc, and highlight their mechanism, pharmacology, outcome data, and adverse effects.
Probing the localized-to-delocalized transition.

Detailed understanding of the transition between localized and delocalized behaviour in mixed valence compounds has been elusive as evidenced by many interpretations of the CreutzTaube ion, [(NH3)5...
Influence of a 1400-gauss magnetic field on the radiosensitivity and recovery of emt6 cells in vitro.

EMT6 mouse mammary tumour cells in vitro were exposed to an almost uniform 1400-gauss magnetic field during or after irradiation with 120 kV X-rays. Exposure of unirradiated control cultures to this field for up to 48 hours did not alter the viability or growth of the cells. Exposure of exponentially-growing cultures to the magnetic field during irradiation did not alter the survival curve. Exposure of exponentially-growing culturesto the magnetic field between two doses of 500 rad of X-rays did not alter significantly the pattern or magnitude of the recovery from sub-lethal damage. Exposure of plateau phase cultures to the magnetic field after irradiation did not alter significantly the pattern or magnitude of recovery from potentially-lethal damage. The effects of a short exposure to an almost uniform magnetic field of this strength on the production and repair of radiation damage appear to be minimal in this system.
Duck Productivity in Restored Species-Rich Native and Species-Poor Non-Native Plantings

Conservation efforts to increase duck production have led the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to restore grasslands with multi-species (3-5) mixtures of introduced cool season vegetation often termed dense nesting cover (DNC). The effectiveness of DNC to increase duck production has been variable, and maintenance of the cover type is expensive. In an effort to decrease the financial and ecological costs (increased carbon emissions from plowing and reseeding) of maintaining DNC and provide a long-term, resilient cover that will support a diversity of grassland fauna, restoration of multi-species (16-32) plantings of native plants has been explored. We investigated the vegetation characteristics, nesting density and nest survival between the 2 aforementioned cover types in the Prairie Pothole Region of North Dakota, USA from 2010–2011 to see if restored-native plantings provide similar benefits to nesting hens as DNC. We searched 14 fields (7 DNC, 271 ha; and 7 restored native, 230 ha) locating 3384 nests (1215 in restored-native vegetation and 2169 in DNC) in 2010-2011. Nest survival was similar between cover types in 2010, while DNC had greater survival than native plantings in 2011. Densities of nests adjusted for detection probability were not different between cover types in either year. We found no structural difference in vegetation between cover types in 2010; however, a difference was detected during the late sampling period in 2011 with DNC having deeper litter and taller vegetation. Our results indicate restored-native plantings are able to support similar nesting density as DNC; however, nest survival is more stable between years in DNC. It appears the annual variation in security between cover types goes undetected by hens as hens selected cover types at similar levels both years.
Brownian Motion of Inert Tracer Macromolecules in Polymerized and Spontaneously Bundled Mixtures of Actin and Filamin

By use of light microscopy and fluorescence photobleaching recovery, we have studied (a) structures that form in a system composed of copolymerized rabbit muscle actin and chicken gizzard filamin and (b) the Brownian motion of inert tracer macromolecules in this matrix. We have used as tracers size-fractionated fluorescein-labeled ficoll and submicron polystyrene latex particles. In F-actin solutions, the relative diffusion coefficient of the tracer was a decreasing function of both tracer size and actin concentration. Also, a percolation transition for latex particle mobility was found to follow a form suggested by Ogston (Ogston, A. G. 1958. Trans. Faraday Soc. 54:1754-1757) for random filament matrices. The inclusion of filamin before polymerization resulted in increased tracer mobility. Below a filamin dimer-to-actin monomer ratio of 1:140, no structural features were observed in the light microscope. At or above this ratio for all actin concentrations tested, a three-dimensional network of filament bundles was clearly discriminated. Latex particles were always excluded from the bundles. By use of a dialysis optical cell in which polymerization could be initiated with very little hydrodynamic stress, we found that filamin can spontaneously bundle F-actin. A simple physical picture explains how dynamics can affect the structural result of coassembly and provides a further hypothesis on the balance between random filament cross-linking and large-scale bundling. Control of this balance may be important in cytoplasmic motile events.
The Methylmercury to Total Mercury Ratio in Selected Marine, Freshwater, and Terrestrial Organisms

Total and methylmercury concentrations were determined in muscle and organ tissue from a wide variety of marine and terrestrial organisms spanning several trophic levels. Sediment and water samples from many of the tissue sampling sites were also analyzed to assess the degree of mercury contamination to which the animals were exposed. The methylmercury to total mercury ratios were examined to determine whether this ratio is indicative of elevated exposure to organic or inorganic mercury and how it varies relative to tissue type and position in the food chain. As an ancillary study, a subset of these tissues was analyzed as 1) wet tissue, and 2) freeze-dried, ball-milled tissue to determine whether the form of sample preparation can adversely affect mercury analysis. Results indicate that the methylmercury to total mercury ratios generally approach unity only in muscle tissue of higher food chain carnivorous fish residing in waters that are relatively uncontaminated with respect to inorganic mercury species. Herbivorous terrestrial mammals and low food chain marine organisms tend to have very low methylmercury to total mercury ratios. Marine animals placed higher on the food chain, such as crabs and lobsters, exhibit somewhat higher methylmercury to total mercury ratios and can exhibit a large variation in this ratio between, organ tissue and muscle tissue of the same animal. The samples analyzed as both wet and freeze-dried, ball-milled tissue indicate that freezedrying and ball-milling in no way result in mercury loss or contamination and, in fact, result in better replicate analyses and create a sample sufficiently stable to be archived for several years without refrigeration.
Poly(alkylene oxide) ionomers VIII.† Synthesis of methyl ω-alkenoates and methyl ω-epoxyalkanoates

ω-Alkenoic acids, either commercially available or synthesized, were esterified to their corresponding methyl esters. They were characterized by their infrared, 1H-, and 13C-NMR spectra. The ω-alkenoates prepared were: propenoate (acrylic acid), butenoate, pentenoate, hexenoate, heptenoate, octenoate, nonenoate, and decenoate. These compounds were epoxidized with m-chloroperoxybenzoic acid to the corresponding methyl ω-epoxyalkanoates. The rate of epoxidation of the double bond is found to increase as the double bond is separated from the carbomethoxy group by increasing numbers of methylene groups. When at least three methylene groups are inserted, the rate of epoxidation becomes constant and is similar to the epoxidation of ω-olefins. The methyl ω-epoxyalkanoates were characterized by their infrared, 1H-, and 13C-NMR spectra. Methyl ω-alkenoates and methyl ω-epoxyalkanoates were prepared and characterized, and their purification was studied in preparation for their investigation as monomers for olefin or epoxide polymerization using corrdination initiators.
High-frequency resistivity of soft magnetic granular films

Co-Zr-O granular films were prepared by reactive sputtering. The films show strong uniaxial in-plane anisotropy as well as good soft magnetic properties and high dc resistivity. In order to confirm their electrical characteristics at high frequency, the frequency and current density dependences of resistivity were investigated. Resistivity was found to be constant over the range measured (up to 18 MHz and 100 MA/m/sup 2/). Furthermore, the films exhibit virtually no hysteresis along the hard-axis direction and have very little anisotropy dispersion. The frequency dependence of the initial permeability was measured and used to predict the power loss expected when granular films are used as high-frequency core materials for film inductors. The power loss is predicted to be lower than that of commercial NiZn ferrite for high-frequency applications.
A high performance continuous data flow filter using sliding discrete Fourier transform (DFT) and one point inverse DFT

This paper presents a high performance frequency domain filter implementation for a moving window-type processing. The computational structure consists of three stages: a sliding discrete Fourier transform (SDFT) for a vectorized updating of the DFT; a frequency domain filter; and a one-point inverse discrete Fourier transform (IDFT). The total computation required for generating one filtered output point is 2/spl times/N multiplications (N is the frequency window length) and 3/spl times/N additions compared to 2/spl times/N/spl times/log/sub 2/N multiplications and additions if using FFT and IFFT. The proposed structure also has the advantage of being parallel in nature and can be used in various real-time frequency processing, continuous data flow, single or multiple channel applications.
Lott Cary: Man of Purchased Freedom

The American Colonization Society was organized in 1816 for the purpose of colonizing the free Negroes of the United States. After a series of difficulties, the society, in 1821, sent to Liberia Lott Cary who provided leadership and direction in this colony until his premature death in 1828. Advocates of African colonization were motivated by various and sometimes divergent ideals. One was the belief that colonization of the American free Negro in Africa would be a means of spreading Christianity and civilization to that continent. Although Cary was not always enthusiastic about the American Colonization Society and its policies, it never sent anyone to Liberia who more nearly fulfilled this ideal. By the time of his death the Liberian colony was firmly planted.
Association between Autoregulation and Pressure Dependency of Renal Vascular Responsiveness in Dogs

We studied the influence of perfusion pressure (arterial pressure minus venous pressure) on the magnitude of responses of renal blood flow to intraarterial injections of acetylcholine, norepinephrine, adenosine, and angiotensin. The left kidney of dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital was denervated, renal arterial flow measured with an electromagnetic flowmeter, and renal perfusion pressure varied by constricting the aorta or renal vein. The percent changes in renal blood flow produced by standardized doses of each vasoactive agent were considered an indication of vascular responsiveness. In kidneys having autoregulation, vascular responsiveness so defined was a function of renal perfusion pressure. In contrast, this correlation was not characteristic of denervated, non-autoregulating canine hindlegs. These experiments do not distinguish between the alternate possibilities that changes in renal vascular responsiveness may have a role in autoregulation or may be a consequence of it.
Temperatures and thermal tolerances for cacti exposed to high temperatures near the soil surface

Abstract Soil surface temperatures in deserts can reach 70 °C, far exceeding the high-temperature tolerance of most vascular plants of about 55 °C. In this study a computer model indicated that the maximum temperatures of small spherical cacti would approach soil surface temperatures, in agreement with measurements on seedlings of Ferocactus acanthodes. Shortwave radiation was the most important environmental variable affecting maximum cactus temperatures: a 70% reduction in shortwave radiation by shading lowered both predicted and measured stem surface temperatures by 17 °C for plants 2 cm in diameter. High-temperature tolerance, measured as the temperature that halved the fraction of cells taking up a vital stain after a 1 h high-temperature treatment, could reach 60 °C for the detached stems of Opuntia bigelovii, which appears crucial for its vegetative reproduction, and 70 °C for O. ficus-indica, apparently the greatest high-temperature tolerance so far reported for higher vascular plants. Two-fold increases in shortwave absorptance from Epithelantha bokei to Mammillaria lasiacantha to Ariocarpus fissuratus led to a 5 °C predicted increase in maximum temperature. However, compensatory differences in high-temperature tolerances occurred for these dwarf cacti, helping to explain their occurrence in the same open habitat in the Chihuahuan Desert. All six species showed acclimation of their high-temperature tolerance as ambient temperatures were increased, including acclimation by the roots of the dwarf cacti, where the greater sensitivity to high temperatures of roots would exclude them from the upper 2 cm of the soil. Using the model, the observed high-temperature acclimation, and the temperatures needed to reduce stain uptake to zero, the three dwarf cacti were predicted to be able to survive soil surface temperatures of up to 74 °C.
Salamander scent marks: site of production and their role in territorial defence

Abstract Abstract. Male red-backed salamanders, Plethodon cinereus, were used to test the hypothesis that the post-cloacal gland produces scents for territorial marking. Experiment 1 tested the reaction of intruders to substrates marked with the products of the post-cloacal gland, those of the granular glands from the thoracic region (sham control), and unmarked substrates. To ensure that only certain glands were capable of marking substrates, glands were blocked by applying a synthetic bilayer. Intruders preferred substrates marked by previous residents with products of the post-cloacal gland and granular glands of the thoracic region over substrates that had not been marked. In experiment 2, observations were made of the interactions of intruders and residents when intruders were introduced into the residents' areas. Residents were blocked so that their substrates could only be marked with products of either the post-cloacal gland or the granular glands from the thoracic region. Residents spent more time in aggressive postures in trials where they had marked the substrate with the products of the post-cloacal gland compared with trials in which they had marked the substrate with products of the granular glands of the thoracic region. In addition, intruders initiated contact for longer periods than residents in both types of trials. The results of these two experiments suggest that the post-cloacal gland produces territorial scent marks and that scent marks do not cause avoidance by conspecifics.
Effects of elevated CO2 on five plant‐aphid interactions

We investigated interactions between five species of phloem-feeding aphids (Homoptera: Aphididae) and their host plants at elevated CO2; Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) on Vicia faba L., Aphis nerii Boyer de Fonscolombe on Asclepias syriaca L., Aphis oenotherae Oestlund on Oenothera biennis L., Aulacorthum solani (Kaltenbach) on Nicotiana sylvestris Speg. & Comes and Myzus persicae (Sulzer) on Solanum dulcamara L. Host plants grown at elevated CO2 generally had greater biomass, leaf area and C:N ratios than those grown at ambient CO2, while plants with aphids had lower biomass and leaf area than those without aphids. The responses of aphid populations to elevated CO2 were species-specific with one species increasing (M. persicae), one decreasing (A. pisum), and the other three being unaffected. CO2 treatment did not affect the proportion of alate individuals produced. In general, aphid abundance was not significantly related to foliar nitrogen concentration. We performed separate analyses to test whether either aphid presence or aphid abundance modified the response of host plants to elevated CO2. In terms of aphid presence, only three of the potential 15 interactions (five aphid species x three plant traits) were significant; A. solani slightly modified the response of the plant biomass to elevated CO2 and M. persicae affected the response of leaf area and allocation. In terms of aphid abundance, only two of the potential 15 interactions were significant with A. nerii modifying the plant response to CO2 in terms of total leaf area and allocation. We conclude that, in contrast to other insect groups such as leaf chewers, populations of most phloem-feeders may not be negatively affected by increased CO2 concentrations in the future. The reasons for this difference include the possibility that aphids may be able to compensate for changes in host plant quality by altering feeding behaviour or by synthesizing amino acids. In addition, there is little evidence that aphid herbivory, even at high levels, will substantially modify the response of plants to elevated CO2.
Comparison of cardiothoracic surgery training in usa and germany

Background Training of cardiothoracic surgeons in Europe and the United States has expanded to incorporate new operative techniques and requirements. The purpose of this study was to compare the current structure of training programs in the United States and Germany.
Health and Living Arrangement Transitions among China’s Oldest-old

This chapter begins with the notion that families in China act altruistically toward the old in that they operate as a single corporate unit, aiming toward the comfortable survival of all members. Coresidence with elders, based on this perspective, more likely occurs when needs are greatest, for instance, when health deteriorates or spouse dies. There is also the possibility of gender variation due to differences in authority and emotional bonds between older women and men and their families. These notions are tested. Cross-sectional and transitional multinomial models link health status measures with living arrangement outcomes. Results show changes in living arrangements occur frequently. Functional limitations are more strongly associated with living arrangements than are other health indicators. Health indicators are more strongly related for those not married. Gender interactions show health change most likely triggers a living arrangement response for women. Implications for a rapidly aging China are discussed.
A data analysis strategy for quality engineering experiments

This paper deals with techniques for analyzing data from quality engineering experiments for optimizing a process with fixed target. We propose a structured data-analytic approach with three phases of analysis: an exploratory phase, a modeling phase, and an optimization phase. We emphasize the use of graphical methods in all three phases to guide the analysis and facilitate interpretation of results. We discuss the role of data transformations and the relationship between an analysis of transformed data and Taguchi's signal-to-noise ratio analysis. Our strategy is presented in a form that can be easily followed by users, and the various steps are illustrated by an example.
Economic Consequences of Conflict: The Rise of Iraq’s Informal Economy

Iraq’s economy has undergone a number of profound changes over the last several decades, many of which have had significant implications for the manner in which the country’s informal economy has evolved. The statist, heavy-handed economic policies of the Ba'athist government concentrated much of Iraq’s productive capacity in nationalized factors, which degraded under the sanctions regime of the 1990s, when both industrial and agricultural production faltered for lack of inputs. When coalition officials arrived in Iraq after the war, they planned on turning Iraq into a free market economy – a model for capitalism in the Middle East (Looney 2003). As part of this plan, they expected private companies, both foreign and domestic, to play a leading role in jump-starting the economy. Free market incentives driven by pentup demand and a massive aid-financed reconstruction program were thought to be sufficient to induce a massive wave of investment and hiring of Iraqi workers (Cha 2004). But violence, crime and uncertainty over the future have undermined investor confidence, preventing market-driven mechanisms from playing their anticipated role. As a result, nominal Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contracted by about 35 percent in 2003. It has recovered little since then, despite the U.S.-led reconstruction efforts. The only part of the economy to have survived both Saddam Hussein and the post-2003 period of instability and insurgency is the country’s informal economy. In fact, there is ample evidence that the country’s informal economy has expanded considerably since Saddam’s overthrow. In this regard, Iraq’s informal economy is following a pattern seen in other parts of the world – the informal economy tends to grow during periods of economic crisis. This phenomenon has occurred on each of the main continents:
Countdown Pedestrian Signals and Low-Vision Pedestrians

The countdown pedestrian signal (CPS) has been shown to be more intuitively understandable than other signals in the way that it communicates the amount of available crossing time at an intersection. The improved comprehension may result in better levels of service to pedestrians at signalized intersections. Survey research has shown that the traditional flashing don’t walk (FDW) signal is poorly understood, with low levels of pedestrian comprehension. By contrast, comprehension of the CPS tends to be much higher: between 86% and 100%. The study reported here examined how well low-vision pedestrians could determine how to respond and when to cross with the use of a CPS alone and with a combination of CPS and FDW at 12-m (40-ft) and 30.5-m (100-ft) crossings. The results showed that low-vision pedestrians often found it difficult to determine the signal phase at a relatively broad crossing, but the removal of the FDW from the display had no negative impact on the decision to cross during the pedestrian cle...
Case study of dino fun world movement and communication data

We present our solution to the VAST 2015 Mini-challenge 1. In our solution we utilized existing visual analytics software and custom tools to analyze the movement and communication data provided for the fictitious Dino Fun World amusement park. Our process focused on collaborative data discovery and the application of analytics procedures. In this paper we outline the techniques we used and highlight both the successes and shortcomings we found in our toolset when applying it to this challenge.
Estimating the distribution of synaptic reliabilities.

Huang, Emily P. and Charles F. Stevens. Estimating the distribution of synaptic reliabilities. J. Neurophysiol. 78: 2870–2880, 1997. Using whole cell recording from CA1 hippocampal pyramidal neuron...
Effect of insulin on maximal rate of renal tubular uptake of glucose in non-diabetic humans.

Summary1. The maximal rate of renal tubular reabsorption of glucose was determined before and after the intravenous administration of 20 units crystalline zinc insulin in a series of 12 non-diabetic male subjects who were free of evidence of cardiovascular or renal disease. Following the administration of insulin, there occurred a slight, but statistically significant, decrease in TmG during the period extending from 12 to 48 minutes after injection. 2. The significance of these findings, with respect to the fundamental action of insulin, is discussed.
Factors Influencing the Activity, Selectivity, and Stability of Rh-Based Supported Ionic Liquid Phase (SILP) Catalysts for Hydroformylation of Propene

An investigation has been carried out on the effects of catalyst preparation on the activity and stability of supported ionic liquid phase (SILP) catalysts for propene hydroformylation. Catalyst activity and stability were found to be strongly influenced by ligand and ionic liquid composition, ligand-to-rhodium ratio, and the surface density of silanol groups on the silica support. Highest activity was achieved using rhodium sulfoxantphos (SX) complexes in the presence of [bmim][OctSO4]. In situ FT-IR and solid-state 31P and 29Si MAS NMR characterization suggest that active Rh centers are not present as homogeneous complexes dissolved in an ionic liquid film, instead are present as HRh(CO)2SX complexes bound to the support by interactions of the sulfonate groups of SX with silanol groups of the support. The function of the ionic liquid is to inhibit undesired interactions of SX ligands, since such interactions render the phosphine groups unavailable for interaction with the Rh+ cations. Catalyst deactivat...
Comparison of traditional chemical method and ion chromatographic determination for four anions in drinking water

Objective:The ion chromatography and the traditional chemical method were compared in the determination of fluoride,chloride,nitrate and sulfate content in drinking water.Methods: Ion chromatography and the traditional chemical method were compared through the analysis of the sample volume and testing time,the recovery rate and precision,accuracy and detection limit.Results: Ion chromatography for simultaneous determination of four kinds of anion is better than the traditional chemical method in detection time,detection limit,the recovery and precision.Conclusion: Ion chromatography is more simple,accurate and sensitive than traditional chemical method,and can simultaneously determine various ions.
Effect of Substitution, Ring Size, and Counterion on the Intermediates Generated in the Gold-Catalyzed Intramolecular Hydroalkoxylation of Allenes

The reaction of 2,2-diphenylhepta-4,5-dien-1-ol (4) with (L)AuOTs [L = P(t-Bu)2o-biphenyl] and the reactions of 2,2-diphenylhepta-5,6-dien-1-ol (10) with either (L)AuOTs or (L)AuCl/AgSbF6 have been investigated. For both substrates, the mono(gold) vinyl complexes generated via C–O bond formation have been independently synthesized, and the protodeauration behavior has been investigated. Analysis of the reaction of 4 with (L)AuOTs supported a mechanism involving rapid and reversible C–O bond formation followed by rate-limiting and stereochemically determining protodeauration. Analysis of the reaction of 10 with (L)AuOTs was in accord with irreversible C–O bond formation followed by rapid auration of the resulting mono(gold) vinyl complex. In comparison, analysis of the reaction of 10 with (L)AuCl/AgSbF6 pointed to a mechanism involving rate-limiting C–O bond formation followed by rapid protodeauration of the resulting mono(gold) vinyl complex without competitive auration.
The Pathology of Human Bladder Cancer

The pathologist plays a key role in the detection and diagnosis of bladder cancer, as well as in the development of strategies for the clinical management of this disease by the urologist. In order to make appropriate decisions, the urologist needs help from the pathologist in determining: 1) whether or not a bladder tumor is present; 2) if present, its histologic type, grade, depth of invasion and evidence of lymphatic or blood vessel invasion; 3) whether or not there are associated neoplastic lesions elsewhere in the bladder -or elsewhere in the lower urinary tract; and 4) if some therapeutic modality has been directed toward the neoplastic tissue, the completeness of tumor removal or destruction. It is recommended that the WHO classification of bladder tumors be used by pathologists in their reports to facilitate communication among pathologists, urologists, radiation therapists, medical oncologists, and others involved in the management of bladder cancer patients. In addition, the pathologist should make a definite statement regarding the presence or absence of muscle tissue in every bladder biopsy specimen containing tumor. After one or more superficial tumors are identified by the urologist and treated by transurethral means, management of the patient will depend not only on the microscopic evaluation of the resected tumor but also on an accurate assessment of the neoplastic potential of the remaining epithelium. The cytopathologic examination of urine samples or bladder washings aids this assessment.
Precision optical edges for a starshade external occulter

The use of a starshade is one technique to perform high contrast imaging with space-based telescopes. The primary function of a starshade is to suppress light from a target star in order to image its orbiting planets. In order to provide the proper apodization function the edges of the starshade must follow a precise in-plane profile. However of equal importance is the issue of light from our own sun scattering off of the edges and entering the telescope. A method to alleviate this problem is to make the edges extremely sharp (< 1 μm terminal radius) such that the area available for scattering is minimized. The combination of these two requirements, along with the need to integrate the edges into a 30-40 m dia. deployable structure, present a number of significant engineering challenges. Substrate etching techniques are used to obtain both the intended profile as well as the edge sharpness. Current efforts implement an isotropic etching process on thin metal substrates. This paper discusses the progress towards producing a sharp optical edge at the coupon level. Samples have been characterized using scanning electron microscopy as well as a custom testbed to assess their scattered-light performance.
Immigrant selectivity, immigrant performance and the macro‐economic context

This study argues for a more nuanced approach to our understanding of the impact of economic conditions on immigration. Without differentiating the reasons why immigrants move, salient variations in temporal arrival patterns, spatial variations in immigrants' settlement patterns upon arrival, and variations in labour market outcomes will remain hidden. With information on the reasons why immigrants came to the US, this study offers a novel look at the associations between immigration and macro-economic conditions. Using data from the March Supplements of the Current Population Surveys from 2000 to 2014, we find: (i) job-related immigration is only pro-cyclical if it is not employer-based, but involves low-skill immigrants in search of employment; (ii) among job-related immigrants, the attraction of gateway states declines as macro-economic conditions worsen; (iii) with respect to labour market outcomes, immigrant characteristics that provide the highest level of immunity to the ups and downs of the economy include a high educational attainment level, residence outside the gateway states, plus the privilege of having a job-in-hand rather than looking for a job upon arrival.
Associations Between Proactive and Reactive Aggression and Risky Sexual Behavior Among Emerging Adults

ABSTRACTThis study examined associations between proactive and reactive aggression and types of risky sexual behavior. Additionally, gender was examined as a moderator of these associations. The sample included emerging adults (N = 232; male = 132) ranging from 18 to 25 years of age. Of the overall sample, 155 individuals (53.5% male) reported engaging in sexual intercourse. Proactive, but not reactive, aggression was uniquely associated with 4 types of risky sexual behavior (i.e., ever engaging in sexual intercourse, number of lifetime sexual partners, number of partners within past 3 months, and frequency of contraception use). Further, associations with number of sexual partners were strongest when levels of reactive aggression were low. With regard to gender differences, proactive aggression was associated with lower likelihood of contraception use in males. Gender also moderated the association between reactive aggression and number of lifetime sexual partners. Implications and future directions are ...
A Map of the Arenavirus Nucleoprotein-Host Protein Interactome Reveals that Junín Virus Selectively Impairs the Antiviral Activity of Double-Stranded RNA-Activated Protein Kinase (PKR).

Arenaviruses are enveloped negative-strand RNA viruses that cause significant human disease. These viruses encode only four proteins to accomplish the viral life cycle, so each arenavirus protein likely plays unappreciated accessory roles during infection. Here we used immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry to identify human proteins that interact with the nucleoproteins (NPs) of the Old World arenavirus lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) and the New World arenavirus Junin virus (JUNV) strain Candid #1. Bioinformatic analysis of the identified protein partners of NP revealed that host translation appears to be a key biological process engaged during infection. In particular, NP associates with the double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-activated protein kinase (PKR), a well-characterized antiviral protein that inhibits cap-dependent protein translation initiation via phosphorylation of eIF2α. JUNV infection leads to increased expression of PKR as well as its redistribution to viral replication and transcription factories. Further, phosphorylation of PKR, which is a prerequisite for its ability to phosphorylate eIF2α, is readily induced by JUNV. However, JUNV prevents this pool of activated PKR from phosphorylating eIF2α, even following exposure to the synthetic dsRNA poly(I·C), a potent PKR agonist. This blockade of PKR function is highly specific, as LCMV is unable to similarly inhibit eIF2α phosphorylation. JUNV's ability to antagonize the antiviral activity of PKR appears to be complete, as silencing of PKR expression has no impact on viral propagation. In summary, we provide a detailed map of the host machinery engaged by arenavirus NPs and identify an antiviral pathway that is subverted by JUNV.IMPORTANCE Arenaviruses are important human pathogens for which FDA-approved vaccines do not exist and effective antiviral therapeutics are needed. Design of antiviral treatment options and elucidation of the mechanistic basis of disease pathogenesis will depend on an increased basic understanding of these viruses and, in particular, their interactions with the host cell machinery. Identifying host proteins critical for the viral life cycle and/or pathogenesis represents a useful strategy to uncover new drug targets. This study reveals, for the first time, the extensive human protein interactome of arenavirus nucleoproteins and uncovers a potent antiviral host protein that is neutralized during Junin virus infection. In so doing, it shows further insight into the interplay between the virus and the host innate immune response and provides an important data set for the field.
The Rokeach Value Survey and Perceived Christian Values

This study was designed to extend the empirical investigation of Christian values. The Rokeach Value Survey with modified instructions was used to measure what subjects viewed to be Christian ideal...
Diastolic Blood Pressure and Adverse Outcomes in the TOPCAT (Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure With an Aldosterone Antagonist) Trial

Background Although diastolic blood pressure (DBP) is independently associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes in the general population, it is unclear if a similar relationship exists in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Methods and Results This analysis included 1703 (mean age, 72±10 years; 50% men; 78% white) patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction enrolled in the TOPCAT (Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure With an Aldosterone Antagonist) Trial from the Americas who were treated for hypertension. Multivariable Cox regression was used to examine the risk of hospitalization for heart failure, death, and cardiovascular death associated with DBP. The relationship between hospitalization for heart failure and DBP was linear, with an increased risk observed with decreasing DBP values (≥90 mm Hg: referent; 80–89 mm Hg: hazard ratio [HR], 1.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.85–2.44; 70–79 mm Hg: HR, 1.18; 95% CI, 0.69–2.01; 60–69 mm Hg: HR, 1.54; 95% CI, 0.90–2.63; P =0.0055 for trend). The associations of DBP with death (≥90 mm Hg: HR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.12–3.06; 80–89 mm Hg: HR, 1.23; 95% CI, 0.89–1.70; 70–79 mm Hg: referent; 60–69 mm Hg: HR, 1.20; 95% CI, 0.90–1.59; Conclusions DBP values ≥90 and
Shock Compression of Lead Fluoride at Room Temperature

Lead difluoride (PbF2) is known to occur in two distinct crystalline forms; namely, fluorite and PbCl2 structures. The fluorite structure has a cubic symmetry (Fm3m - O5 h) ancd PbCl2 has an orthorhomic symmetry (Pbnm — V16). The fluorite and orthorhombic forms of PbF2 are identified as β- and α-PbF2, respectively. The prevalent information about the stability of these two forms of PbF2 may be summarized as follows: (1) α-PbF2 is the stable form of PbF2 at ambient conditions; (2) α-PbF2 transforms to β-PbF2 at 583 ± 1K; (3) The reverse transformation of β;-PbF2 to α-PbF2 has not yet been observed; (4) The crystals of PbF2 grown from its melt are invariably in the form of β;-PbF2; (5) Even though unstable at ambient conditions, β-PbF2 needs to be subjected to a hydrostatic pressure of around 0.4 + 0.1 GPa to transform it into α-PbF2 form. This transformation has also been reported to be rather sluggish; (6) The rate of transformation of β- to α-PbF2 increases with an increase in temperature; (7) The pressure of transformation Pt of β- to α-PbF2 decreases with an increase in temperature T. The magnitude of dPt /dT is approximately -3.6 MPa/K; (8) There is some indication that the β- to α-PbF2 transformation proceeds readily under shearing stress conditions at room temperature.
Variational approach for a new direct-integration form of the virtual crack extension method

A new direct-integration technique for the virtual crack extension method which employs variational theory in the finite element formulation is presented. Similar techniques to derive explicit integral forms of the energy release rate have been introduced by deLorenzi [1] and Haber and Koh [2]; however, the formulation proposed here not only provides accurate results but also is simpler and more general than the earlier forms. Moreover, this method can be extended to derive higher order derivatives of the energy release rate, e.g., the rates of the energy release rate for mixed-mode fracture. With Betti's theorem and the mutual energy concept [3], a simple but effective uncoupling technique for mixed-mode stress intensity factors is also possible. Combined with the higher order derivatives of the energy release rate, this uncoupling technique can be used to derive the first derivatives of the stress intensity factors which in turn can be employed for better prediction of crack stability and rate of propagation.