cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Do differences in skull morphology and bite performance explain dietary specialization in sea otters

Intraspecific studies of morphology and performance are essential for understanding the factors that enable resource partitioning within ecological communities. The sea otter (Enhydra lutris) is one of the few mammal species in which individual-level dietary specialization has been documented, making them an ideal system to investigate the morphological basis of food resource partitioning. Here, we test if differences in food resource use within and between sea otter subspecies can be explained by differences in ecologically relevant metrics of bite performance that are mainly the product of variation in size, cranial morphology, or a combination of these traits. We use geometric morphometrics to evaluate variation in cranium size and morphology, and 2-dimensional models to estimate bite performance differences between 2 sea otter subspecies that differ in dietary ecology: the northern sea otter (Enhydra lutris kenyoni, a facultative generalist) and the southern sea otter (E. l. nereis, a specialist). We found significant differences in cranium shape and size between subspecies and between male and female sea otters. These differences were subtle yet consistent with most subspecies classifications and known sexually dimorphic traits. Cranial morphological differences did not translate into differences in estimated bite force between subspecies or sexes, but dentary strength differed significantly between male and female sea otters. Sea otters have short, blunt crania with pronounced sagittal and lambdoidal crests, and strong mandibles. These traits combine to produce high bite forces for their size. We propose that high bite performance capacity in sea otters enables resource-use variation by widening the diversity of available food resources they can procure from their environment; this allows them to behave as either generalists or specialists within different habitats.
Parental Perspectives on Parent–Child Conflict and Acculturation in Iranian Immigrants in California:

Iranians have settled in a number of areas in the United States, especially Southern California and Texas, and experience substantial prejudice as a result of perceptions of their religion and national origin. This study explored the relationship between Iranian immigrant parents’ acculturation and the level of conflict they experience with their U.S.-born children. A survey was used to collect data from a sample of 100 first-generation Iranian immigrant parents living in Orange County, CA, with children aged 11–22 years. Parent-acculturation levels were expected to predict parent–child conflicts (PCCs) resulting from potential acculturation gaps between children and parents. Results demonstrated a moderate positive relationship between Iranian cultural involvement and PCC and a weak negative relationship between American cultural involvement and PCC. The effects of various demographic variables were also considered. Results show higher PCC levels among lower income families, suggesting a need for support...
Preventative Medicine: Research and Use of Medical Countermeasures During an Outbreak

New viral and bacterial pathogens are continuously emerging; today’s world of increasing interconnectivity and mobility accelerates this shared global risk. As such, emerging infectious diseases will continue to require attentive public health surveillance programs in order to identify these events and allow effective responses and interventions to prevent or slow the spread of these diseases. Research that permits a better understanding of the potential source of infection, and the benefit of public health interventions such as therapeutics, vaccines, and diagnostics are critical components of preparedness. As an example, preparedness of smallpox medical countermeasures enabled a quick response to related monkeypox disease upon its introduction in the U.S. in 2003. In turn, the monkeypox response efforts identified a number of research questions that informed our understanding of monkeypox pathogenesis, and provided an animal model to evaluate smallpox antivirals and next generation vaccines. During the response to the Ebola Zaire virus epidemic in West Africa during 2014–2016, approaches that had been used to contain previous smaller outbreaks in DRC and Uganda proved successful in controlling disease spread and eventually, halted the epidemic. The size of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa provided unique opportunities to understand further how this virus affects the human host, and the persistence of virus in certain areas of the body. Additionally, Ebola medical countermeasures, evaluated later in the response, may have application in ongoing prevention efforts and in diminishing the size of future outbreaks. Evaluation or observational studies carried out during a response are important in that they provide evidence of best practices. This essay, a synopsis of a presentation made in Belgrade in March 2017, will expand on these specific examples of how research can affect the outbreak response, and in turn, how effective evaluation during a response identifies new research questions.
Character and function of specific neurons: a Cajalian perspective.

Publisher Summary The chemical identification of neurons containing various neuroactive substances and calcium-binding proteins, together with modern tracing methods, confirm to a great extent Cajal's views on the target selectivity of particular cell types in various regions. The hippocampal efferents taking the fimbria route to reach the septum correspond to axons of pyramidal cells of the regio inferior (∼CA3-4), whereas those of the regio superior (∼CAl-2) have both, collateral and terminal branches ramifying in the plexi of the strata oriens, radiatum and lacunosum. Chandelier cells are immunoreactive to parvalbumin further characterized this singular short axon cell, in fact, the only type that escaped Cajal's observational powers. Concerning the intrinsic functional polarization of the neuron, Cajal's ideas, as in most instances, evolved in trying to incorporate his ever-increasing amount of observations. Thus, the so-called “law of dynamic polarization” gave way to the law of axipetal polarization, which included the possibility of propagation of the nerve impulse from the soma to the dendrite, as it occurs in the case of the axon originating from a dendrite at a considerable distance from the soma.
Teaching the Bill of Rights in China.

China has changed a great deal over the last few decades, of course. That change continues, and the pace of that change continues to acceler ate. While I was in Nanjing, the government announced China's seventh consecutive quarter of double-digit GDP growth; soon after, PetroChina's IPO produced the world's largest company in market value, double that of the next-largest, Exxon-Mobil. Whether such growth can continue remains to be seen. Whether they can avoid, or even mitigate, their loom ing environmental disaster also remains to be seen. Facing a potentially perilous future, history becomes that much more vital, but the questions I addressed in the course raised a number of issues of relevance not just to historians, but also to those who teach humanities, particularly in a context so distinct from a more customary situation in the West. The course I designed was intended to explore the philosophical background of what drove the North American colonists to declare their independence; what ideas informed the writing of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights; and what models competed in determining the state envisaged. Although my professional
Protein Transport and Post-translational Processing in Photosystem II Biosynthesis and Homeostasis

The biogenesis, repair and homeostasis of Photosystem II (PS II) requires both protein targeting and post-translational modification. The various chloroplast targeting pathways for both nuclear-encoded and chloroplast-encoded proteins are described, with emphasis on the subunits of PS II. Also discussed are three post-translational processing events required for the development of PS II activity—removal of the stromal-targeting transit peptides from nuclear-encoded proteins by the stromal processing protease, removal of the thylakoid lumentargeting signal peptides by the thylakoid processing protease, and trimming of the carboxyl-terminus of the precursor D1 protein by the protease CtpA. Where appropriate, similarities and differences in PS II biogenesis and homeostasis between cyanobacteria and green plants are discussed.
Advanced Optimization Topics

Our final chapter on optimization provides a concrete introduction to several advanced topics. The first vignette describes classical penalty and barrier methods for constrained optimization [22, 37, 45]. Penalty methods operate on the exterior and barrier methods on the interior of the feasible region. Fortunately, it is fairly easy to prove global convergence for both methods under reasonable hypotheses.
A multibeam metamaterial backward wave oscillator

Microwave sources transform the kinetic energy of an electron beam into microwaves through the interaction of electrons with a periodic slow wave structure (SWS). A metamaterial (MTM) waveguide is proposed for use in a microwave oscillator instead of a conventional periodic SWS that has been used for a long time to generate high power microwave radiation. MTMs have interesting properties such as the negative refractive index, low group velocity, and below cutoff propagation, among others. In this work, we study the interaction of a multibeam cathode with a set of MTM structures inside a cylindrical waveguide. We developed a structure comprising a number of MTM metallic plates that have periodicity in the axial direction and are repeated in the azimuthal coordinate. Using eigenmode simulations, we obtained negative dispersion around the operating frequency where the group velocity is negative and extremely small. The fully electromagnetic, relativistic particle-in-cell codes MAGIC and CST Particle Studio and the fully electromagnetic software tool CST Microwave Studio were used to obtain the results in this study.
Preclassic Maya caches in residential contexts: variation and transformation in deposition practices at Ceibal

While Maya public rituals are often assumed to have developed from domestic practices, caches at Ceibal in Guatemala demonstrate the concurrent emergence of distinct domestic and public rituals. During the Middle Preclassic period (c. 1000–350 BC), caches in domestic areas were associated with construction phases—deposited on floors or within construction fills. In the public plaza, however, caches were deposited in intrusive pits. Later, domestic and public ritual practices became more similar. By focusing on deposition processes and deposit context, rather than content, it is possible to recognise distinct ritualised activities that are sometimes obscured by predefined categories such as ‘cache’.
Stories as Social Narratives for Students Identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder

The purpose of this chapter is to identify how stories can be used as a strategy to support students in attaining skills. More specifically, we focus on social stories or brief scenarios that are intentionally developed to address specific skills as a means to facilitate skill development. Social stories are particularly beneficial for visual learners, and thus, are an effective means to support students identified with autism spectrum disorder in developing a variety of skills. Educators can present social stories in a variety of formats such as narratives, comics, power cards, and technology-enhanced methods. In this chapter we present vignettes, highlight various social story formats, identify how to create and effectively implement social stories, and present a variety of print- and web-based resources. All educators can benefit from reading this chapter, and particularly educators who instruct students identified with autism spectrum disorder or other developmental disabilities.
Hedgehog Signaling Pathway Inhibitors for Basal Cell Carcinoma

As the most common cancer in humans, basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) affect approximately 2.8 million people. Depending on the location, size, tumor subtype, and other factors, treatment may include topical therapy with imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil, cryotherapy, radiation, photodynamic therapy, electrodesiccation and curettage, surgical excision, and Mohs micrographic surgery, the latter of which has the lowest 5-year recurrence rate: between 0.7% and 2.4%. BCC is mainly a localized neoplasm, although less commonly, it can become locally advanced or even metastatic (0.0028–0.55%). Locally advanced BCC (laBCC) and metastatic BCC (mBCC) are both considered advanced BCC
Validation of the HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Stigma Scale: Performance of Likert and Semantic Differential Scale Versions

Stigma regarding HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is commonly implicated as a factor limiting the scale-up of this highly effective HIV prevention modality. To quantify and characterize PrEP stigma, we developed and validated a brief HIV PrEP Stigma Scale (HPSS) among a group of 279 men who have sex with men (MSM). Scale development was informed by a theoretical model to enhance content validity. We assessed two scale versions, Semantic Differential and Likert, randomizing the order in which scales were presented to participants. Both scales demonstrated high internal consistency. The Likert scale had substantially better construct validity and was selected as the preferred option. Scale scores demonstrated construct validity through association with constructs of interest: healthcare distrust, HIV knowledge, perceived proportion of friends/partners on PrEP, perceived community evaluation of PrEP, and perceived effectiveness of PrEP. The scale accounted for 25% of the total variance in reported willingness to be on PrEP, indicating the substantial role PrEP stigma may have on decisions to initiate PrEP. Given increased efforts to roll-out PrEP, having a valid tool to determine the level and types of PrEP stigma in individuals, groups, and communities can help direct implementation plans, identify goals for stigma reduction, and monitor progress over time.
Radiation Oncology Strategies to Flatten the Curve During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic: Experience From a Large Tertiary Cancer Center

During the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, minimizing exposure risk for patients with cancer and health care personnel was of utmost importance. Here, we present steps taken to date to flatten the curve at the radiation oncology division of a tertiary cancer center with the goal of mitigating risk of exposure among patients and staff, and optimizing resource utilization. Response to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in this large tertiary referral center included volume reduction, personal protective equipment recommendations, flexible clinic visit interaction types dictated by need and risk reduction, and numerous social distancing strategies. We hope these outlined considerations can assist the wider radiation oncology community as we collectively face this ongoing challenge.
The Blurred ‘Blue line’: a cross-national comparison of the sources of public support for extralegal policing

Prior research addressing extralegal policing has focussed on the types of individuals most affected by these practices (i.e. disadvantaged minorities and police officers) as a means to improve con...
IRES-targeting small molecule inhibits enterovirus 71 replication via allosteric stabilization of a ternary complex

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) poses serious threats to human health, particularly in Southeast Asia, and no drugs or vaccines are available. Previous work identified the stem loop II structure of the EV71 internal ribosomal entry site as vital to viral translation and a potential target. After screening an RNA-biased library using a peptide-displacement assay, we identify DMA-135 as a dose-dependent inhibitor of viral translation and replication with no significant toxicity in cell-based studies. Structural, biophysical, and biochemical characterization support an allosteric mechanism in which DMA-135 induces a conformational change in the RNA structure that stabilizes a ternary complex with the AUF1 protein, thus repressing translation. This mechanism is supported by pull-down experiments in cell culture. These detailed studies establish enterovirus RNA structures as promising drug targets while revealing an approach and mechanism of action that should be broadly applicable to functional RNA targeting. Human enterovirus 71 (EV71) contains an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) that promotes translation of viral RNA. Here the authors show that an antiviral small molecule DMA-135 binds to the EV71 IRES RNA, inducing conformational change and stabilizing a ternary complex to repress translation.
Three-dimensional Relativistic Magnetohydrodynamic Simulations of Magnetized Spine-Sheath Relativistic Jets

Numerical simulations of weakly and strongly magnetized relativistic jets embedded in a weakly magnetized and strongly magnetized stationary or weakly relativistic (v = c/2) sheath have been performed. A magnetic field parallel to the flow is used in these simulations performed by the new general relativistic magnetohydrodynamic numerical code RAISHIN used in its relativistic magnetohydrodynamic (RMHD) configuration. In the numerical simulations, the Lorentz factor ? = 2.5 jet is precessed to break the initial equilibrium configuration. In the simulations, sound speeds are c/ in the weakly magnetized simulations and 0.3c in the strongly magnetized simulations. The Alfv?n wave speed is 0.07c in the weakly magnetized simulations and 0.56c in the strongly magnetized simulations. The results of the numerical simulations are compared to theoretical predictions from a normal mode analysis of the linearized RMHD equations capable of describing a uniform axially magnetized cylindrical relativistic jet embedded in a uniform axially magnetized relativistically moving sheath. The theoretical dispersion relation allows investigation of effects associated with maximum possible sound speeds, Alfv?n wave speeds near light speed, and relativistic sheath speeds. The prediction of increased stability of the weakly magnetized system resulting from c/2 sheath speeds and the stabilization of the strongly magnetized system resulting from c/2 sheath speeds is verified by the numerical simulation results.
Three-Way Multivariate Conjoint Analysis

Three-Way Multivariate Conjoint Analysis is developed as an extension of traditional metric conjoint analysis allowing one to examine several dependent variables simultaneously, as well as individual differences in response. Four nested models are developed to examine the effects of the experimental design, the dependent variables, and individual differences. An illustration concerning the relationship of product characteristics to the importance of various decision-making criteria for industrial purchasing is provided. Finally, extensions of the model(s) to other marketing applications and nonmetric analyses are discussed.
A short, idiosyncratic history of genome editing

Abstract This article reviews some of the early events leading to the development of the first genome editing platform, zinc-finger nucleases. It describes some of the earliest uses of ZFNs and the advent of the more user-friendly platforms, TALENs and CRISPR. Some current applications and their implications are reviewed, followed by a brief look into the future.
Investigating bacterial decolonization for the prevention of radiation dermatitis: A randomized controlled trial and quality of life assessment.

TPS12137Background: Radiation dermatitis (RD) can be therapy-limiting and detrimental to quality of life for cancer patients receiving radiation therapy (RT). Bacteria play an important role in man...
Acute Consumption of Alcohol and Discrete Atrial Fibrillation Events.

BACKGROUND Patients' self-reports suggest that acute alcohol consumption may trigger a discrete atrial fibrillation (AF) event. OBJECTIVE To objectively ascertain whether alcohol consumption heightens risk for an AF episode. DESIGN A prospective, case-crossover analysis. SETTING Ambulatory persons in their natural environments. PARTICIPANTS Consenting patients with paroxysmal AF. MEASUREMENTS Participants were fitted with a continuous electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor and an ankle-worn transdermal ethanol sensor for 4 weeks. Real-time documentation of each alcoholic drink consumed was self-recorded using a button on the ECG recording device. Fingerstick blood tests for phosphatidylethanol (PEth) were used to corroborate ascertainments of drinking events. RESULTS Of 100 participants (mean age, 64 years [SD, 15]; 79% male; 85% White), 56 had at least 1 episode of AF. Results of PEth testing correlated with the number of real-time recorded drinks and with events detected by the transdermal alcohol sensor. An AF episode was associated with 2-fold higher odds of 1 alcoholic drink (odds ratio [OR], 2.02 [95% CI, 1.38 to 3.17]) and greater than 3-fold higher odds of at least 2 drinks (OR, 3.58 [CI, 1.63 to 7.89]) in the preceding 4 hours. Episodes of AF were also associated with higher odds of peak blood alcohol concentration (OR, 1.38 [CI, 1.04 to 1.83] per 0.1% increase in blood alcohol concentration) and the total area under the curve of alcohol exposure (OR, 1.14 [CI, 1.06 to 1.22] per 4.7% increase in alcohol exposure) inferred from the transdermal ethanol sensor in the preceding 12 hours. LIMITATION Confounding by other time-varying exposures that may accompany alcohol consumption cannot be excluded, and the findings from the current study of patients with AF consuming alcohol may not apply to the general population. CONCLUSION Individual AF episodes were associated with higher odds of recent alcohol consumption, providing objective evidence that a modifiable behavior may influence the probability that a discrete AF event will occur. PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
A radiation-derived temperature-index snow routine for the GSSHA hydrologic model

Summary Accurate estimation of snowpack is vital in many parts of the world for both water management and flood prediction. Temperature-index (TI) snowmelt models are commonly used for this purpose due to their simplicity and low data requirements. Although TI models work well within lumped watershed models, their reliance on air temperature (and potentially an assumed lapse rate) as the only external driver of snowmelt limits their ability to accurately simulate the spatial distribution of snowpack and thus the timing of snowmelt. This limitation significantly reduces the utility of the TI approach in distributed hydrologic models because spatial variability within the watershed, including snowpack and snowmelt, is usually the primary reason for selecting a distributed model. In this paper, a new radiation-derived temperature index (RTI) approach is presented that uses a spatially-varying proxy temperature in place of air temperature within the TI model of the fully-distributed Gridded Surface Subsurface Hydrologic Analysis (GSSHA) watershed model. The RTI is derived from a radiation balance and includes spatial heterogeneity in both shortwave and longwave radiation. Thus, the RTI accounts for more local variation in the available energy than air temperature alone. The RTI model in GSSHA is tested at the Senator Beck basin in southwestern Colorado where observations for snow water equivalent (SWE) and LandSat-derived images of snow cover area (SCA) are available. The TI and RTI approaches produce similar SWE estimates at two non-forested and relatively flat sites with SWE observations. However, the two models can produce very different SWE values at sites with forests or topographic slopes, which leads to significant differences in the basin-wide SWE values of the two models. Furthermore, the RTI model provides better basin-wide SCA estimates than the TI model in 75% of the LandSat images analyzed.
Applying Stakeholder Theory to e-Government

According to most scholars in the field, stakeholder theory is not a special theory on a firm’s constituencies but sets out to replace today’s prevailing neoclassical economic concept of the firm. Though stakeholder theory explicitly is a theory on a private sector entity, some scholars apply it to public sector organizations. This paper summarizes stakeholder theory, discusses its premises and justifications, compares its tracks, sheds light on recent attempts to join the two tracks, and discusses the benefits and limits of its practical applicability to the public sector using the case of a recent New York State e-Government initiative.
Economic Perspectives on Service Choice and Optimal Policy: Understanding the Effects of Family Heterogeneity on MR/DD Outcomes*

Publisher Summary To improve child outcomes, service guidelines and best practices must be based on far more than the individual child's disabilities, health, preferences, or other characteristics. Parents' decisions must be understood in the broader context of families' constraints, needs, and choices among competing alternatives. This chapter discusses the ways in which care should be arranged to provide, consistently, the best sets of services customized to the family's circumstances. Economics provides a systematic framework for the decisions across diverse family conditions. Mental retardation and developmental disabilities (MR/DD) use economics to understand the interactions among families, disability and health services, and the short‐ and long‐term outcomes of all involved. Economic studies of actual service choice are important because these expose not only the decisions of the families, but also of the providers. Alternatively, oversubscribed services indicate that rebalancing is needed by the system, whether through greater incentives to existing providers to provide more care, increases in the numbers of providers allowed in the system, changes in prices, or some other mechanism. Whether studying families, providers, or anyone else involved in the care of children with MR/DD, econometric techniques may be translated easily to empirical studies of outcomes and service use.
Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: Design Fundamentals

Introduction to Alternative Vehicles Electric Vehicles Hybrid Electric Vehicles Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Components Vehicle Mass and Performance Electric Motor and Engine Ratings Electric and Hybrid Vehicle History Well-to-Wheel Analysis EV/ICEV Comparison Electric Vehicle Market Vehicle Mechanics Roadway Fundamentals Laws of Motion Vehicle Kinetics Dynamics of Vehicle Motion Propulsion Power Velocity and Acceleration Tire-Road Force Mechanics Propulsion System Design Alternative Vehicle Architectures Electric Vehicles Hybrid Electric Vehicles Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle Powertrain Component Sizing Mass Analysis and Packaging Vehicle Simulation Battery Energy Storage Batteries in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles Battery Basics Battery Parameters Electrochemical Cell Fundamentals Battery Modeling Traction Batteries Battery Pack Management Alternative Energy Storage Fuel Cells Ultracapacitors Compressed Air Storage Flywheels Electric Machines Simple Electric Machines DC Machines Three-Phase AC Machines Induction Machines Permanent Magnet Machines Switched Reluctance Machines Power Electronic Converters Power Electronic Switches DC/DC Converters Cell Balancing Converters Electric Motor Drives Electric Drive Components DC Drives Operating Point Analysis AC Drives SRM Drives Control of AC Machines Vector Control of AC Motors dq Modeling Induction Machine Vector Control PM Machine Vector Control Internal Combustion Engines Internal Combustion Engines BMEP and BSFC Vehicle Fuel Economy Emission Control System Powertrain Components and Brakes Powertrain Components Gears Clutches Differential Transmission Vehicle Brakes Cooling Systems Climate Control System Powertrain Component Cooling System Hybrid Vehicle Control Strategy Vehicle Supervisory Controller Mode Selection Strategy Modal Control Strategies Vehicle Communications OSI Seven-Layer Model In-Vehicle Communications Controller Area Network Index References appear at the end of each chapter. Problems are included at the end of most chapters.
Comparison of passive seat suspension with different configuration of seat pads and active seat suspension

Exposure to vibration induced in and around underground m ine’s exploration is a m ajor concern to vehicles operators. Most of these drivers over time develop serious spinal musculoskeletal and discs problems causing low back injuries. The first purpose of this paper is to analyze the performance and dynamic response of driver/operator when subjected to different levels of vibration due to rough road conditions depicted in a mine field. The second purpose of the paper is to quantify the energy transmission in the presence of seat padding with special characteristics and active suspension. Using experimental testing data collected at NIOSH/PRL (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/ Pittsburgh Research Laboratory) along with model simulation algorithms developed at the University of Illinois at Chicago we investigated how acceleration transfer functions as well as absorbed power affects the different parts of the body. To this end, we used a previously validated human model which includes the head, torso segments and legs. The connective forces between body segments were modeled through modal analysis techniques from previous experimental data at the UIC Vehicle Technology Laboratory. The absorbed power and energy transmitted to the body are used as an index measure to assess the viability of the different seat padding’s and active seat suspension control strategies.
Determinants of gastric emptying and transit in the small intestine

The sections in this article are: 1 Functional Division of Stomach 1.1 Methodological Aspects: Interrelationships Among Parietal Force and Manometric and Electrical Measurements of Gastric Motility 2 Gastrointestinal Motility During Interdigestive Period 2.1 Interdigestive Motor Pattern of Stomach 2.2 Interrelationships Between Gastric Motility, Secretion, and Clearance of Duodenogastric Reflux During Interdigestive Period 3 Gastrointestinal Response to A Meal 3.1 Swallowing 3.2 Early Postcibal Period 3.3 Plateau Phase 3.4 Declining Phase and Transition to Interdigestive Activity 4 Gastric Emptying Profile 5 Relationships among Gastric Emptying, Motility, and Structure: Mechanics of Gastric Emptying 5.1 Preliminary Processing: Antropyloric Grinder 5.2 Emptying Function 6 Effects of Gravity and Body Position on Gastric Emptying 7 Regulation of Gastric Emptying 7.1 Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Meals That Influence their Emptying From Stomach 7.2 Interactions Between Gastric Emptying and Gastric Secretion 8 Intestinal Motility and its Relationship to Luminal Flow and Absorption 9 Physiological Measurement of Transit In Small Bowel 10 Effect of Opiates and Sex Hormones on Intestinal Motility and Transit 11 Control of Gastrointestinal Motility: Physiological and Pathophysiological Implications for Gastric Motility and Intestinal Transit 11.1 Control at Level of Gut Smooth Muscle 11.2 Control at Level of Gut Intrinsic and Extrinsic Nervous Systems 11.3 Hormonal Control 11.4 Control at Cerebral Level
Chapter 13 Adaptive Defense Responses to Pathogens and Insects

Abstract The relative resistance of a plant to pathogens is determined by preformed, constitutive defenses, and the quality and diversity of the induced defenses deployed upon attack. Pathogens have evolved strategies to breach structural barriers and avoid or counter preformed and induced chemical defenses of their host plants. Plants have evolved sensitive mechanisms to perceive bioagressors and innate immune responses are activated when plants encounter non‐adapted microbes, virulent microbes and insects, or when plants engage in a gene-for-gene resistance response. The earliest events in innate immunity are triggered by the perception of the mechanical and chemical signals associated with injury and highly conserved molecules called pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), which signal the presence of a nonself organism (i.e., a microbial or animal aggressor). Using mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, PAMP-triggered immunity integrates with the salicylic acid (SA)-, jasmonic acid (JA)-, and ethylene (ET)-regulated defense pathways. This complex and dynamic network provides effective, inducible defenses to resist pathogens and herbivores. Consistent with the defense arms race of plants and pathogens, these intruders attempt to derail defenses by the strategic deployment of virulence factors or effectors. In this chapter, the similarities and distinctions of the adaptive defense strategies used by pathogens and insect herbivores to recover nutrients and promote their establishment and proliferation on host plants will be emphasized. The role of PAMPs and the distinctive chemical nature of herbivore elicitors and effectors in plant–herbivore interactions are discussed.
Immunologically Cross-Reacting Proteins in Cell Walls of Many Bacteria

Antibodies to a protein present in the cell envelope of Hydrogenomonas facilis agglutinate many gram-negative bacteria and a few gram-positive bacteria. Immunodiffusion studies of extracts from the various organisms tested indicate the presence of components sharing antigenic determinants with the cell envelope protein in all bacteria which can be agglutinated and a few that cannot. Cross-reacting components were not detected in extracts of Mycoplasma laidlawii, Anacystis nidulans, and several eukaryotic organisms.
Abstract 60: Inpatient Statin Use in Intracerebral Hemorrhage is Strongly Associated With Improved Survival

Introduction: Inpatient statin use is associated with improved outcomes after ischemic stroke. The impact of inpatient statin use after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is less clear. Methods: We measured the impact of inpatient and outpatient statin use on 30-day survival among 3,481 patients with a primary discharge diagnosis of ICH over a 10-year period at 19 hospitals in an integrated care delivery system. We used multivariate logistic regression modeling mortality, controlling for patient characteristics, and allowing an interaction between inpatient and outpatient statin use. We also used last prior treatment analysis (LPTA), an instrumental variable reflecting local geographic and temporal treatment environment, to control for potential confounding in probit models. Results: Kaplan-Meier analysis showed significant differences in survival after ICH among statin users before and during hospitalization (n=769), statin non-users before and during hospitalization (n=1,896), and patients who underwent statin withdrawal (n=391) (see Figure). Controlling for patient characteristics including initial severity, inpatient statin use was associated with lower mortality after ICH (odds ratio [OR] = 0.40, 95% C.I. 0.25 - 63, P<0.001) and withdrawal from statins was associated with higher mortality (OR = 2.30, 95% C.I. 1.40 - 3.91, P=0.002). LPTA models confirmed the association of inpatient statins with lower mortality (OR = 0.28, 95% C.I. 0.26 - 0.32, P=0.01). Conclusions: Inpatient statin use is associated with improved survival after ICH, particularly among patients already on a statin as an outpatient at the time of the ICH. ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
Initial experience with topical fluorouracil (5-FU) for treatment of anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) in HIV-positive patients

Background Exposure to certain strains of human papilloma virus (HPV) promotes dysplasia in cells of the anal canal epithelium, leading to AIN, which is in turn a precursor to squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA). Patients with HIV infection who have anoreceptive intercourse are at heightened risk for acquiring HPV, AIN, and SCCA. The use of topical 5-FU to prevent the progression of lower genital tract neoplasia to invasive cervical carcinoma has been studied in both HIV+ and HIV- women. Although intravenous 5-FU is also commonly used for treatment of invasive SCCA, there has been little experience with the use of topical 5-FU as therapy for AIN. Materials and methods We retrospectively reviewed medical records from our anal dysplasia clinic. Our study population comprised 11 HIV+ men with biopsy-proven AIN who were treated with topical 5-FU. All patients were initially instructed to apply a pea-sized amount of topical 5-FU to the anus each night, to wash their hands afterwards, and to wipe away excess 5-FU in the morning. Patients reduced the frequency of application if they experienced undue local irritation. Results
Supporting fathers of handicapped young children: Preliminary findings of program effects

The rationale for and history of an innovative program designed to meet the special needs of fathers of young handicapped children are described. The Supporting Extended Family Members (SEFAM) Father's Program provided fathers with both a regular source of information about their child and access to professional and peer support. The program was evaluated by monitoring changes both of fathers who participated in the program and their wives in the following domains: stress, depression, and support systems. Research measures are described which were designed to assess changes in these targeted domains. Preliminary results indicated that parents who participated in the pilot program reported lower levels of stress and depression and higher levels of satisfaction with social support than parents who were newly enrolled in the program. The findings are discussed in light of possible mediating factors for the observed results. Recommendations are made for improving the quality of data on the effects of early interventions on family members.
Active control of glass panels for reduction of sound transmission through windows

Abstract This paper explores the development of thin glass panels that can be controlled electronically so as to act as transmission preventers that block the propagation of sound. Small rare earth voice coil actuators are used to control glass panel vibrations. The development of the control system is based on the use of a wave separation algorithm that separates incident sound from reflected sound. The incident sound serves the important purpose of providing an acoustic reference that is unaffected by the action of the control system speaker. This reference signal is used in an adaptive feedforward control system to drive the transmitted sound to zero. Detailed experimental results are presented showing the efficacy of the algorithms in achieving real-time control of acoustic transmission. The glass panels are able to effectively block transmission of sound, reducing sound transmission by 20 dB in the case of tonal frequencies and by 10–15 dB in the case of broadband noise. The glass panels can potentially be of great value in the development of noise-blocking glass windows for homes close to airports and noisy highways.
A diffusional model for transient liquid phase bonding

Abstract Transient Liquid Phase (TLP) bonding for the Au/Sn/Au system is discussed in terms of a numerical diffusional model. Results suggest that the bonding process is sensitive to metal thicknesses, the heating rate, and the age of the sample prior to bonding. Simulations for rapidly heating a fresh sample show multiple peaks in the liquid depth vs time curve, each corresponding to a different solid phase composition. These peaks disappear sequentially as either the heating rate is decreased, or the sample age is increased. Results of this study have practical implications regarding the application of TLP bonding in manufacturing.
Use of Thermodynamic Formalism in Generalized Continuum Theories and a Model for Damage Evolution

A technique for setting up generalized continuum theories based on a balance law and nonlocal thermodynamics is suggested. The methodology does not require the introduction of gradients of the internal variable in the free energy, while allowing for its possibility. Elements of a generalized (brittle) damage model with porosity as the internal variable are developed as an example. The notion of a flux of porosity arises, and we distinguish between the physical notion of a flux of voids (with underpinnings of corpuscular transport) and a flux of void volume that can arise merely due to void expansion. A hypothetical, local free energy function with classical limits for the damaged stress and modulus is constructed to show that the model admits a nonlinear diffusion-advection equation with positive diffusivity for the porosity as a governing equation. This equation is shown to be intimately related to Burgers equation of fluid dynamics, and an analytical solution of the corresponding constant-coefficient, s...
Interaction of ovarian steroids and periarterial al-adrenergic receptors in altering uterine blood flow during the estrous cycle of gilts

In vivo exposure to progesterone increases while estrogen decreases in vitro contractility of uterine arteries to nerve stimulation. In addition, uterine blood flow is highly correlated with the estrogen: progesterone ratio in systemic blood throughout the porcine estrous cycle (∼21 days). This study was conducted to compare the function of uterine periarterial sympathetic nerves of eight pigs during the follicular phase, the period of highest uterine blood flow and estrogen: progesterone ratio (days 19 to 21), with eight animals during the luteal phase, the period of lowest uterine blood flow and estrogen: progesterone ratio (day 13). The first day of behavioral estrus was designated as day 0. Uterine arteries from each pig were evaluated for (1) in vitro contractility to nerve stimulation, (2) a,-adrenergic receptor binding with use of the specific ligand 3 H-WB-4101, and (3) concentrations of norepinephrine with use of a radioenzymatic assay. Uterine arterial contractility to nerve stimulation was greater (p 1 -receptor binding (47 ± 6 versus 35 ± 5 fmol/mg of protein) than those from follicular phase pigs. Uterine arterial concentrations of norepinephrine were similar for follicular phase and luteal phase pigs. These results suggest that ovarian steroids alter the function of uterine periarterial sympathetic nerves through changes in α 1 -adrenergic receptor numbers, which may contribute to the marked changes in uterine blood flow observed during the porcine estrous cycle.
The action of ultraviolet rays on amoeba protoplasm

1. By making centrifuge tests on two species of amoeba,Amoeba proteus andAmoeba dubia, it is possible to determine the effects of ultraviolet rays both on the cortical protoplasm or plasmagel and the internal fluid protoplasm or plasmasol. 2. Ultraviolet radiation causes a pronounced liquefaction of the cortex or plasmagel. 3. Removal of calcium has the same effect as radiation on the cortex, and it is believed that the ultraviolet rays cause a breakdown of a calcium-containing compound in the cortex. 4. The plasmasol is gelated by ultraviolet rays. 5. This gelation produced by ultraviolet radiation is prevented by the removal of calcium. Excess of calcium has no effect on it. 6. When, following irradiation, the change in the viscosity of the plasmasol is plotted against time, there is shown to be a preliminary decrease in viscosity before gelation. 7. In view of the fact that calcium in relatively small concentration causes a decrease in protoplasmic viscosity (of the cell interior) and in higher concentration causes a gelation, it is suggested that the changes in the plasmasol are produced by an inrush of calcium. 8. We conclude, therefore, that stimulation of amoeba protoplasm consists first of the breakdown of a calcium gel in the cortex, and second in the entry of this calcium into the interior, where it produces a preliminary liquefaction followed by a gelation. 9. On the basis of this view, one can explain the actual events which are seen to occur when an amoeba is irradiated. 10. The results are also believed to be significant for the general theory of stimulation.
Why are there so many retail stores in Japan

Abstract Japan's large scale store law and its antecedents have long restricted the number of large stores and is frequently cited as a reason for Japan's ubiguity of small stores. Statistical regression shows that prefectures of Japan with fewer department stores (on which the law has had the most impact) do have rather more of other kinds of stores. But this effect is not estimated to be great enough to account for Japan's superabundance of small stores. Indigenous factors in Japan that favor a ubiguity of small stores include high household storage costs and low retailer reorder costs. Japan's peculiar structure of retail trade will persist even if the law restricting large stores is abolished. In carrying out these investigations a new analytic model for explaining the geographic density of retail outlets in an economy is constructed.
Intracellular pH measurements using flow cytometry with 1,4‐diacetoxy‐2,3‐dicyanobenzene

1,4-Diacetoxy-2,3-dicyanobenzene (ADB) has been increasingly used for measurement of intracellular pH by flow cytometry. ADB rapidly enters cells and is cleaved to the fluorescent pH indicator 2,3-dicyano-hydroquinone (DCH). We have analyzed several potential problems that can affect its usefulness as a pH indicator. Hydrolysis of ADB in aqueous solutions reveals the temporary presence of a fluorescent species blue-shifted from DCH at the same pH. The presence of this species with DCH can lead to erroneous pH measurements. Stable pH measurements with ADB depend on the incubation conditions and esterase activity. Heated cells required 20 min for stable measurements, whereas control cells required 5 to 10 min. The reproducibility of pH measurements was excellent, with a resolution of less than or equal to 0.05 pH units in the range of 6.4 to 8.0. Absolute calibration curves of intracellular pH using the ionophore nigericin depended on matching the intracellular K+ concentration with the buffer, but relative measurements of intracellular pH were insensitive to K+. ADB was nontoxic to Chinese hamster ovary cells at up to 20 micrograms/ml. However, when cells loaded with dye were passed through a UV laser beam, concentrations of dye greater than 5 micrograms/ml were highly toxic. Viable cells could be sorted on the basis of intracellular pH if ADB were used at low concentrations.