cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal Gompertzian analysis of cervical cancer mortality in the US, 1962-1987: a method of quantitatively demonstrating changing environmental influences upon deterministic mortality dynamics.

Abstract Age-specific mortality rates for cervical cancer (CC) in the United States from 1962 through 1987 were subjected to longitudinal Gompertzian analysis. Age-specific CC mortality rate distributions for women display two distinct Gompertzian slopes, one between age 20 and 35 years and the other between age 40 and 85 years. These two distinct Gompertzian regions suggest that CC may be clinically and biologically classified into pre- and postmenopausal varieties, similar to breast cancer. Between 1962 and 1987, the annual crude CC mortality rate declined 60.0%. The basis for the decline of CC mortality is shown to be that aggregate environmental (etiopathogenic) influences upon premenopausal CC age-specific mortality rate distributions decreased 57.8%, and upon postmenopausal CC, decreased 28.0%
Self-Affine Fractals and Fractal Dimension

Evaluating a fractal curve's approximate length by walking a compass defines a compass exponent. Long ago, I showed that for a self-similar curve (e.g., a model of coastline), the compass exponent coincides with all the other forms of the fractal dimension, e.g., the similarity, box or mass dimensions. Now walk a compass along a self-affine curve, such as a scalar Brownian record B(t). It will be shown that a full description in terms of fractal dimension is complex. Each version of dimension has a local and a global value, separated by a crossover. First finding: the basic methods of evaluating the global fractal dimension yield 1: globally, a self-affine fractal behaves as it if were not fractal. Second finding: the box and mass dimensions are 1.5, but the compass dimension is D = 2. More generally, for a fractional Bownian record BH(t), (e.g., a model of vertical cuts of relief), the global fractal dimensions are 1, several local fractal dimensions are 2-H, and the compass dimension is 1/H. This 1/H is the fractal dimension of a self-similar fractal trail, whose definition was already implicit in the definition of the record of BH(t).
Oil reservoirs in stem, rhizome, and root of Solidago canadensis (Asteraceae, tribe Astereae).

The anatomy of internal secretory spaces in immature and mature aerial stems, rhizomes, and roots of common goldenrod, Solidago canadensis (Asteraceae, tribe Astereae), was studied from resin-embedded samples cut 1–2 μm thick. Oil-filled cavities of different lengths, each lined by a uniseriate epithelium, form in young stems and rhizomes. Epithelial cells enlarge and elongate, and some continue to divide mitotically. The cavities thereby expand and accommodate themselves to the growing stem and rhizome. Septa are sometimes forced open by this enlargement, which merges adjacent cavities. Oil reservoirs in roots are probably also cavities, but their lack of densely cytoplasmic epithelial cells prevented us from locating the end walls. Cavities in stem, root, and the cortex of rhizomes occur only as one median file located just outside of each phloem strand; in the pith of rhizomes, however, several files of cavities of larger diameter seem randomly distributed. This study extends our earlier findings that the oil reservoirs in leaves of this species are cavities; we have therefore verified that cavities, not ducts, permeate the goldenrod plant.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder: Evidence-based treatments and future directions for research

Over the past three decades, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has moved from an almost untreatable, life-long psychiatric disorder to a highly manageable one. This is a very welcome change to the 1%-3% of children and adults with this disorder as, thanks to advances in both pharmacological and psychological therapies, prognosis for those afflicted with OCD is quite good in the long term, even though most have comorbid disorders that are also problematic. We still have far to go, however, until OCD can be described as either easily treatable or the effective treatments are widely known about among clinicians. This review focuses on the current state of the art in treatment for OCD and where we still are coming up short in our work as a scientific community. For example, while the impact of medications is quite strong for adults in reducing OCD symptoms, current drugs are only somewhat effective for children. In addition, there are unacceptably high relapse rates across both populations when treated with pharmacological alone. Even in the cognitive-behavioral treatments, which show higher effect sizes and lower relapse rates than drug therapies, drop-out rates are at a quarter of those who begin treatment. This means a sizable portion of the OCD population who do obtain effective treatments (which appears to be only a portion of the overall population) are not effectively treated. Suggestions for future avenues of research are also presented. These are primarily focused on (1) increased dissemination of effective therapies; (2) augmentation of treatments for those with residual symptoms, both for psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy; and (3) the impact of comorbid disorders on treatment outcome.
The case of the colorless crystals

I read Dr. Joynt's article with interest.1 I would like to clarify a few points. General Kitchener was the British commander of the expedition against the Mahdist regime …
An early performance analysis of POWER7-IH HPC systems

In this work we present a performance evaluation of the POWER7-IH processor and of integrated systems built from it. We describe the architecture of P7-IH with an emphasis on those characteristics that have a direct impact on the performance for large-scale HPC systems and applications. An important area of emphasis is the memory and communication subsystems and their impact on achievable application performance. The results from a set of micro-benchmarks are presented that include memory, communication and OS-noise characteristics. In addition the results from several production level applications are analyzed and their performance linked to the results of the micro-benchmarks through the use of accurate performance models. The models will also be employed in exploring the achievable performance of these applications on much larger systems.
Primary-care providers' perceived barriers to integration of genetics services: a systematic review of the literature

We aimed to systematically review the literature to identify primary-care providers’ perceived barriers against provision of genetics services. We systematically searched PubMed and ERIC using key and Boolean term combinations for articles published from 2001 to 2012 that met inclusion/exclusion criteria. Specific barriers were identified and aggregated into categories based on topic similarity. These categories were then grouped into themes. Of the 4,174 citations identified by the search, 38 publications met inclusion criteria. There were 311 unique barriers that were classified into 38 categories across 4 themes: knowledge and skills; ethical, legal, and social implications; health-care systems; and scientific evidence. Barriers most frequently mentioned by primary-care providers included a lack of knowledge about genetics and genetic risk assessment, concern for patient anxiety, a lack of access to genetics, and a lack of time. Although studies reported that primary-care providers perceive genetics as being important, barriers to the integration of genetics medicine into routine patient care were identified. The promotion of practical guidelines, point-of-care risk assessment tools, tailored educational tools, and other systems-level strategies will assist primary-care providers in providing genetics services for their patients. Genet Med 17 3, 169–176.
Effects of choice-figure rotation on the visual perception of form

Fifty-six Ss responded in a paper-and-pencil figure-cancellation task to 4-by-4 metric figures. Both random and constrained or “Redundancy-I” figures were used with both rotated and nonrotated choice figures. In terms of speed and accuracy of cancellation, perceptual performance with random figures was better than with constrained, and performance with nonrotated choice figures was better than with rotated. A significant interaction of figure type with rotation indicated that the detrimental effects of choice-figure rotation were especially large when imposed on constrained figures. The effect of choice-figure rotation is interpreted as similar to other “noise” effects that make filtering a necessary part of S’s task.
Development and Philosophy of Data Handling Systems for a Research Dairy Herd

Abstract Computerized systems can be developed which lead to greater accessibility of data with reduced cost and lag time. Large volumes of data are needed to justify increased complexity. All systems should be as simple and straightforward as possible. Advantages, constraints, and alternative approaches to use of the computer, methods of data entry, and methods of data storage are presented. Computer systems developed at Beltsville for recording and handling health and reproduction data, milk and milk composition data, and cow location and assignment data are described.
Cenozoic Calcareous Nannofossils from Klamath, Southern Oregon: ABSTRACT

All four reconnaissance samples, from west to east, of almost vertically dipping turbidites exposed in road cuts along the Rogue River of southern Oregon between Gold Beach and the crest of the Coast Range, contain Tertiary calcareous nannofossils. The first assemblage, taken nearest the Pacific Ocean and located near Tom East Creek, includes Coccolithus pelagicus, Coronocyclus nitiscens, Cyclocargolithus floridanus, Dictyoccoccites abisectus, Discoaster deflandrei, D. cf. druggi, Sphenolithus belemnos, S. capricornutus, S. heteromorphus, S. conicus, S. n. sp., and Triquetrorhabdulus carinatus, indicating NN 2-3 zone. The second sample, from west of the first between Tom East Creek and the town of Agnes is sparser, but contains Coccolithus pelagicus, Cyclocargolithus flor danus, Discoaster deflandrei, D. cf. druggi, Sphenolithus belemnos, s. capricornutus, S. heteromorphus, and Triquetrorhabdulus carinatus, also indicative of NN 2-3. Eastward, the third sample, taken at the bridge across the river near Agnes, is sparse but contains Coccolithus pelagicus, Cyclocargolithus floridanus, and Sphenolithus heteromorphus, indicating an early to mid-Miocene age. The fourth sample, from near the crest of the Coast Range, probably represents the Tyee Formation and contains Discoasteroides keupperi, Helicosphaera seminulum, Lanternithus minutus, S. radians, Zygolithus dubius, and Zygrhablithus bijugatus, suggesting mid-Eocene NP 12-15. These samples represent the first reported occurrence of calcareous nannofossils from the Klamath melange, and more important, the youngest strata yet dated from within the Klamath. Detailed collecting, which will commence shortly, should greatly enhance understanding of the Cenozoic and perhaps Mesozoic history of this tectonically complex area. End_of_Article - Last_Page 644------------
A Financial-Economic von Thünen Model:

The von Thunen model of agricultural land use is reformulated in this paper as an investment decision in which the objectives of farmers range from total risk-aversion to profit-maximization. By means of a variant of the mean-variance model of contemporary portfolio theory, it is demonstrated that individual bid-rent functions depend on the nature of a farmer's utility function. Because farmers' objectives affect their bid-rent functions, the spatial pattern of agricultural production is also affected. The conventional result of the von Thunen model is shown to be a special case of the more general portfolio model.
Educating Reflective Practitioners: Learning to Embrace the Unexpected through Service Learning

Service learning projects are characterized by complex processes of knowledge production, which are contingent on narratives that inform the identities of educators, students, and community members. By encouraging students to critically reflect on their positionality and the social processes that inform such coproduction of knowledge, educators can use service learning to educate reflective practitioners capable of working productively with multiple actors. In a service learning course focusing on environmental justice at the University of Texas at Austin, students worked with a variety of community partners to document children’s knowledge of environmental hazards, reflecting critically on unexpected challenges during their fieldwork.
Osteosarcoma of the meninges in association with glioblastoma

Primary intracranial osteosarcoma not originating in the skull is a distinctly rare tumour, as is post-irradiation sarcoma of short latency. The authors report the case of a 56 year old caucasian male who underwent resection of a glioblastoma of the left temporal region and was subsequently administered partial field external beam radiation therapy (XRT) to a total dose of 5940 cGy. Seven months following the completion of XRT, an enhancing region adjacent to the surgical site was noted on followup magnetic resonance images (MRI), one which increased in size on serial studies. Initial biopsy of the dural lesion adjacent to the temporal resection site revealed a sarcoma with a suggestion of osseous differentiation. Subsequent reoperation with resection of the lesion showed it to be a primary meningeal tumour, and histological evaluation of the lesion demonstrated an osteosarcoma. Immunohistochemical staining for p53 protein performed on both the original glioblastoma and the subsequently resected osteosarcoma showed widespread nuclear positivity. The clinical, radiographic and pathologic features of this unusual case are discussed. Meningeal osteosarcoma should be included among the rare secondary sarcomas of the meninges which may be associated with malignant glioma.
The Philippine Political Party System

The main characteristics of the Philippine political party system since the achievement of Philippine independence in 1946 have been the following:1. It is a two party system. Two major parties, the Nacionalistas and the Liberals, dominate the scene. Their nation-wide combined vote at the six post-war presidential elections held since 1946 averaged 94 per cent of the votes cast. At both the eleven senatorial elections and the six elections for members of the House of Representatives held during the same period, the combined two-party vote was also 94 per cent. At the five gubernatorial elections held since 1947, the corresponding figure was 97 per cent.* In none of these election years did the combined two-party vote for any of these offices fall below 70 per cent.1 While minor parties have appeared from time to time, few have remained active for an extended period of years, and none has seriously threatened to replace either of the two existing major parties as the governing party or as the principal party of the opposition.
On the derivative of the trace of a matrix quadratic form

In the optimisation of linear systems with a random plant gain, the problem of computing the derivative of the trace of a matrix quadratic form is encountered. A derivation of this derivative is presented.
Quantal Determination and Statistical Evaluation of Absolute Foveal Luminosity Thresholds and of Threshold Variability

Foveal luminosity thresholds to 31 stimulus wavelengths of light were obtained from five observers and expressed in radiometric units. The 31 wavelengths ranged from 400 mμ to 700 mμ at intervals of 10 mμ. The flash duration and test patch size were 50 msec and one degree of arc. Each observer sat for ten experimental sessions. One complete luminosity curve based upon five determinations at each stimulus wavelength was determined at each session. Variability values, in terms of coefficients of variation, were computed for each observer, session, and wavelength.The corneal threshold value, at 550 mμ, averaged for all five observers, was approximately 14 600 quanta. The average retinal threshold value, i.e., the corneal value corrected for absorption by ocular media, was approximately 8000 quanta. The latter figure yielded a cone threshold of two quanta for three cones.An analysis of covariance of the standard deviations revealed that wavelength exerted a very significant effect (P<0.001) on these SD’s for three observers; a lesser effect (P<0.02) for one observer; and exerted no effect for the fifth observer. Pearson correlation coefficients, expressing this wavelength-variability relationship, were computed. The results paralleled exactly those of the covariance analysis: the same three observers exhibited a significant negative relationship (P<0.01); the same individual yielded a barely negative relationship (P<0.10); and the fifth displayed no correlation between wavelength and variability.
Time-reversal transcranial ultrasound beam focusing using a k-space method

This paper proposes the use of a k-space method to obtain the correction for transcranial ultrasound beam focusing. Mirroring past approaches, a synthetic point source at the focal point is numerically excited, and propagated through the skull, using acoustic properties acquired from registered computed tomography of the skull being studied. The received data outside the skull contain the correction information and can be phase conjugated (time reversed) and then physically generated to achieve a tight focusing inside the skull, by assuming quasi-plane transmission where shear waves are not present or their contribution can be neglected. Compared with the conventional finite-difference time-domain method for wave propagation simulation, it will be shown that the k-space method is significantly more accurate even for a relatively coarse spatial resolution, leading to a dramatically reduced computation time. Both numerical simulations and experiments conducted on an ex vivo human skull demonstrate that precise focusing can be realized using the k-space method with a spatial resolution as low as only 2.56 grid points per wavelength, thus allowing treatment planning computation on the order of minutes.
Development of a Chemically Defined Medium and Discovery of New Mitogenic Growth Factors for Mouse Hepatocytes: Mitogenic Effects of FGF1/2 and PDGF

Chemically defined serum-free media for rat hepatocytes have been useful in identifying EGFR ligands and HGF/MET signaling as direct mitogenic factors for rat hepatocytes. The absence of such media for mouse hepatocytes has prevented screening for discovery of such mitogens for mouse hepatocytes. We present results obtained by designing such a chemically defined medium for mouse hepatocytes and demonstrate that in addition to EGFR ligands and HGF, the growth factors FGF1 and FGF2 are also important mitogenic factors for mouse hepatocytes. Smaller mitogenic response was also noticed for PDGF AB. Mouse hepatocytes are more likely to enter into spontaneous proliferation in primary culture due to activation of cell cycle pathways resulting from collagenase perfusion. These results demonstrate unanticipated fundamental differences in growth biology of hepatocytes between the two rodent species.
Computer modeling of infinite reaction sequences: A chemical lumping

Abstract A lumping method is presented for modeling a system described by an infinite number of consecutive sequences composed of generally reversible reactions with an irreversible step connecting the sequences. The lumping technique is based on the similarity in molecular structure and reactivity and is not restricted to a specific reaction order or type, representing the reaction mechanism exactly. The lumping also satisfies the Wei and Kuo condition for exactness. The method is illustrated by an example on detailed modeling of soot formation in hydrocarbon pyrolysis. Computer implementation of the technique is simple.
Molecular Conformation of Adenosine 3′,5′-Monophosphonate Monohydrate

ADENOSINE 3′,5′-monophosphate (cyclic AMP) plays a role in many metabolic and genetic processes1. To modify the biological activity of the natural metabolite, various analogues have been synthesized and studied2. For example, the N(6) alkyl analogues possess not only greater but more specific biological activity1 and the isosteric phosphonate analogue, where the 5′ oxygen atom is substituted by a methylene group also possesses biological activity (ref. 2 and J. G. Moffat, private communication). The crystal structure determination of the latter was undertaken to compare its stereochemistry with that of the natural compound, cyclic AMP3.
EFFECT OF INTERMITTENT GAVAGE FEEDS ON THE PULMONARY STATUS OF PRETERM INFANTS. 1118

We studied the pulmonary effects of gavage bolus gastric feeds in preterm infants who had prenatal steroids and no respiratory distress syndrome or, RDS treated with surfactant. Changes in functional residual capacity (FRC), lung compliance (CL), resistance (RT), work of breathing (WOB), tidal volume (VT), frequency (F) and minute ventilation (MV) were measured in 22 neonates (BW 1369±365g, GA 30.9±2.4 wks, study age 3.9±2.9 wks, ≈ 34 wks PCA) pre and post bolus feed: 15 ml/kg by gravity dependent drainage over 20 to 30 min). Also, continuous monitoring of heart rate, pulse oximetry and temperature were done. The mean ± SD data are:Table These data indicate that even though gastric distension leads to a 20% reduction in FRC (*p<0.03), the preterm neonate is able to maintain its minute ventilation with no change in its mechanics or energetics. This reduction in FRC may explain some of the hypoxemia or desaturation associated with feeding. These data are in contrast to the deleterious effects of bolus feeding on pulmonary mechanics and ventilation previously reported by us in the pre-surfactant era. (Blondheim et al, J of Ped 1993). We still recommend that enteral feeds be cautiously and gradually administered to minimize sudden or acute changes in lung volume.
Na+,K+ requiring ATPase. V. Preparation and assay of a solubilized Na+ stimulated ADP-ATP exchange activity.

Abstract Stimulation by Na+ of the ADP-ATP exchange activity is observed in a fraction solubilized from pig-kidney membrane preparations. The solubility of this activity is indicated by the lack of sedimentation of 195 000 × g , and the lack of inhibition by a non-ionic detergent. Addition of serum albumin and a lower pH of the assay for the exchange activity significantly enhanced the Na+-stimulated portion of the exchange. Conditions for solubilizing the fraction and for its dialysis, are crucial in obtaining active fractions. The Na+-stimulated portion of the exchange activity is specific for ATP. Mn2+, but not Ca2+, can replace Mg2+. This Na+-stimulated exchange appears to represent a solubilized fraction from the (Na, +K+)-ATPase.
Security architectures and analysis for content adaptation

Content adaptation has been introduced to tailor the same media content to different derived user contexts to allow end users with different access networks, client devices and/or user profiles to access the same information source. However, content adaptation also introduces security implications in a content distribution food chain. In this paper, we conduct an in-depth investigation into the potential security issues involved in content adaptation in multimedia communication systems. We analyze the security requirements in the context of content adaptation. In particular, we address the issue of where to place the security functions and its implications on the security and content adaptation functionality. The general security architectures for the protection of adapted content are categorized and analyzed. Various rationales and implications of some of the most recent multimedia security technologies are investigated under these architectures. We also discuss some open issues and suggest some future directions. The paper provides the readers with an in-depth analysis, a comprehensive overview, and a better understanding of the security issues in a multimedia communication system where content adaptation is a necessity.
Regulation of bile canalicular network formation and maintenance by AMP-activated protein kinase and LKB1

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a cellular metabolic sensor, is essential in energy regulation and metabolism. Hepatocyte polarization during liver development and regeneration parallels increased metabolism. The current study investigates the effects of AMPK and its upstream activator LKB1 on polarity and bile canalicular network formation and maintenance in collagen sandwich cultures of rat hepatocytes. Immunostaining for the apical protein ABCB1 and the tight junction marker occludin demonstrated that canalicular network formation is sequential and is associated with activation of AMPK and LKB1. AMPK and LKB1 activators accelerated canalicular network formation. Inhibition of AMPK or LKB1 by dominant-negative AMPK or kinase-dead LKB1 constructs blocked canalicular network formation. AICAR and 2-deoxyglucose, which activate AMPK, circumvented the inhibitory effect of kinase-dead LKB1 on canalicular formation, indicating that AMPK directly affects canalicular network formation. After the canalicular network was formed, inhibition of AMPK and LKB1 by dominant-negative AMPK or kinase-dead LKB1 constructs resulted in loss of canalicular network, indicating that AMPK and LKB1 also participate in network maintenance. In addition, activation of AMPK and LKB1 prevented low-Ca2+-mediated disruption of the canalicular network and tight junctions. These studies reveal that AMPK and its upstream kinase, LKB1, regulate canalicular network formation and maintenance.
Products of denitrification by a marine bacterium as revealed by gas chromatography

Gas chromatography was used to analyse the gases released by growing cultures of the denitrifying marine bacterium Pseudomonas perjectomarinus. When nitrate was provided as final oxidant, CO2 was the first detectable gas released. Following the peak rate of release of CO2 at approximately 16 h, N2 liheration began and peaked at 30 h. When N2O was provided as terminal oxidant, CO2 and N2 release began within a few hours and the rate of liberation of both increased for 45 to 50 h before leveling. Cell-free extracts of bacteria from denitrifying cultures of P. perfectomarinus were incubated anaerobically with nitrate, malic acid and electron transfer cofactors provided, and the gases in the atmosphere above the reaction mixtures were analysed. NO was found to be present transiently, and N2O was discerned after prolonged incubation. The applicability of gas chromatography to analyses of marine ecosystems and the need for better means of sampling the atmosphere above enzymatic reaction mixtures were disoussed.
Sumatriptan : treatment across the full spectrum of migraine.

Introduction: Triptans are the first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe migraine headaches. Sumatriptan, the first triptan, is available in different formulations, including subcutaneous (SQ), intranasal, transdermal, oral, and suppository options. Areas covered: Sumatriptan formulations have different pharmacokinetic, efficacy, and adverse event profiles. The fastest and most complete migraine relief occurs with SQ dosing; a needle-free option is available for patients fearful of injections. Oral administration is generally preferred by patients, although variability with absorption limits efficacy, especially for more severe attacks. Intranasal, transdermal, and suppository formulations are options for patients with nausea who do not require or prefer to avoid SQ administration. Transdermal treatment may be limited in some cases by skin irritation. Expert opinion: Patients should use an attack-based treatment approach for their migraine attacks to balance the speed of relief, efficacy, and tolerabili...
Biological characterization of Sorona polymer from corn-derived 1,3-propanediol

The Sorona family of polymers, based on corn-derived 1,3-propanediol, have recently been developed as novel bio-based materials for use in plastics, films, and fibers. In the present study, Sorona polymers were investigated for their effects on cell survival and inflammatory cell activation using in vitro mouse cell cultures. Cytotoxicity of Sorona polymers was evaluated by placing material samples in direct contact with 3T3 fibroblast cells. Both Sorona plastic and Sorona films were non-cytotoxic to fibroblasts. The inflammatory potential of Sorona samples was evaluated by exposing J774 macrophage cells to material samples, and measuring TNF-α release from macrophages. Sorona plastic and Sorona films did not elicit inflammatory TNF-α release from macrophages. These results indicate that Sorona polymers are non-cytotoxic and non-inflammatory. While the 1,3-propanediol component of Sorona 3GT is manufactured in a bacterial fermentation process, the absence of an inflammatory response to Sorona film and Sorona plastic is highly encouraging. The results are significant for the design of materials that utilize bio-based polymers.
The Bender Visual Motor Gestalt Test: Implications for the diagnosis and prediction of reading achievement

Abstract The Bender Visual-Motor Gestalt Test (BG) is a commonly used measure of visual-motor performance and is often used as part of the predictive or diagnostic reading battery. This article reviews 32 published research studies in three areas: the utility of the BG as a predictor of reading; the relationship between the BG and reading achievement measured concurrently; the ability of the BG to differentiate between good and poor readers. The research reviewed suggests that the continued use of the BG (scored using discrete error systems) as part of the predictive or diagnostic reading battery is not warranted.
Separating the effects of number of individuals sampled and competition on species diversity: an experimental and analytic approach

1 Species richness typically increases with the number of individuals sampled, although many ecological processes that influence species richness are also well known to depend on density of individuals. We separated the effects of density on species richness that are due to sampling, from those due to density-dependent ecological processes such as competition or predation, by manipulating the density of an entire community. 2 A seed bank from a community of desert annual plants that occur on semi-stabilized sand dunes in Israel was collected from the field and sown in an experimental garden at a range of densities from 1/16 to eight times the natural density. The species pool observed in the lowest density plots was used as the null community, which was repeatedly sampled to calculate the species richness (and other diversity indices) in higher density plots that would be expected from sampling considerations alone. The significance of deviations of observed diversity from this expected diversity was then evaluated. 3 Both observed and expected number of species increased substantially with the experimental increase in density. However, observed species richness, the Shannon–Wiener diversity index and Simpson's diversity index were often significantly lower than that expected based on sampling considerations. The magnitude of the deviation from expected increased significantly with increasing density for richness and the Shannon–Wiener index. This provides some of the first direct experimental evidence from diverse natural assemblages that increasing competition among all the individuals in a community can lead to competitive exclusion.
Monitoring geomorphic and hydrologic change at mine sites using satellite imagery: The Geita Gold Mine in Tanzania

Abstract Large surface mining operations typically involve not only multiple pits but also the creation of new “mountains” of tailings. These operations dramatically change the local watershed topography and expose downslope agricultural fields and forest to tailings runoff. Given that most mine tailings expose large quantities of surface area to oxidation and transport by water, any heavy metals associated with the deposit are mobilized to move along with the runoff. In Tanzania, the Geita Gold Mine (GGM) area is such a site and the Government of Tanzania has yet to develop a water monitoring network to protect villages adjacent to the mines. As a result, mining company data are the only data available to monitor water supply and quality. Typically in mining and oil sand extraction, geospatial data are used to report and monitor land reclamation at the mining site, and while these efforts are useful, they do not consider hydrologic changes and risks. In this paper we evaluate the use of Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data from the Space shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) and the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) in an effort to identify the changes in local topography and surface hydrology around the GGM and assess the implications these changes have for the potential increased mobility of tailings and their effects upon farmers, village water supplies, and community forests using a hydrologic flow model. Results reveal that over 13 million m 3 of material has been removed from the main mining pits at GGM while over 81 million m 3 of material has been deposited elsewhere in tailings piles and waste dumps. These topographical changes have had a profound influence on the local surface hydrology, with some stream channels shifting up to 3 km from their original paths. Overall, approximately 37 km 2 of cultivated land is within the watersheds associated with potentially polluted streams and that future mining operations could impact up to 63 km 2 of cultivated land.
Précis of Cognition and Commitment in Hume's Philosophy*

Hume's philosophical greatness is widely acknowledged, yet the interpretation of his philosophy is the subject of considerable disagreement and confusion. Cognition and Commitment in Hume's Philosophy is intended to support critical discussion and evaluation of Hume's philosophy by offering more accurate interpretations of his treatments of a number of central philosophical topics. The book has three main strategic goals: to isolate and explain Hume's most fundamental philosophical aims, methods, and principles; to set out and elucidate the content and structure of the arguments he offers on central philosophical topics; and to analyze and explore the meaning of his conclusions and the nature of their interrelations. In pursuit of these strategic goals, I find three tactics especially useful. First, I focus on his views about the nature of understanding and cognitionwhat we would now call cognitive science or cognitive psychology. While such a focus is valuable in the case of almost any philosopher, it is utterly essential in the case of Hume, who consciously understood his own project as the reform of philosophy and the sciences on the basis of an empirical investigation of cognitive psychology. Misunderstandings of his philosophy often result from failures to consider carefully the cognitive psychology on which it is grounded. Second, I outline the most important of Hume's arguments as explicitly and formally as possible, using his own words. Doing so makes it easier to see his intentions and reasons without superimposing pre-conceptions on the text. Third, I focus on interpretive puzzles-apparent contradictions, paradoxes, or other surprising features of the text-that give rise to consternation or dispute among Hume's readers. It is in resolving these puzzles, where possible, that we see most deeply into his own understanding of what his philosophical position permits and what it rules out. The result shows Hume to be a philosopher seeking to employ his native human cognitive processes in order to understand and refine those very processes in such a
US Regionalism and Rationality

Regionalism continues to be proffered as a policy prescription for US metropolitan ills. While many urban scholars discuss the benefits of regional approaches to problem-solving, others question, and sometimes dismiss, the possibility of widespread, comprehensive regionalism. This latter group generally takes one of two perspectives. First, they argue that local autonomy and fragmentation prohibit regional collaboration. Secondly, rational choice theorists claim jurisdiction-centred economic interest spurs intraregional competition and impedes cooperation. Although both perspectives can be criticised as overdeterministic, they appear to be supported by the limited number of examples of comprehensive metropolitan co-operation in the US. This article identifies a theoretical connection and empirical similarity between these views of impediments to regionalism. The author argues that strategies suggested by rational-based collective action theory apply to either the autonomy or competition argument; however,...
Vulvar Dermatoses: A Primer for the Sexual Medicine Clinician

Abstract Introduction Vulvar dermatoses are common dermatological conditions that affect the vulva, and can cause considerable pain, irritation, pruritus, and burning, and have an adverse impact on a woman's sexual function. Aim To provide an overview of the clinical features, etiology, and management options for the common vulvar dermatoses, including lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, lichen simplex, contact dermatitis, and vulvar psoriasis, and briefly describe the impact of vulvar dermatoses on sexual function. Methods The key words “vulvar dermatoses,” “lichen sclerosus,” “lichen planus,” “lichen simplex chronicus,” “vulvar dermatitis,” and “vulvar psoriasis,” were utilized to search Medline and PubMed for articles, with special attention given to those published within the past 5 years. Main Outcome Measure Five hundred thirty-six results were generated from the literature search. Publications that were judged current and relevant to the pathophysiology, evaluation, and treatment of vulvar dermatoses were included in the review. Results Fifty-seven articles were selected for inclusion in this review. Conclusions Vulvar dermatoses can cause chronic pain, itching, and dyspareunia, and can have a profound effect on a woman's sexual expression and comfort. Delay in diagnosis is often due to hesitancy to seek treatment on the part of the patient or delay in biopsy on the part of the provider. This can result in failed prescriptive and self-treatment measures, worsening symptoms, and frustration and sexual dysfunction for the patient, and potentially the development of squamous cell carcinoma. It is imperative for sexual medicine providers, who commonly treat women with vulvar concerns, to be familiar with the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of common vulvar dermatoses and their effect on sexual function. Kellogg Spadt S and Kusturiss E. Vulvar dermatoses: A primer for the sexual medicine clinician. Sex Med Rev 2015;3:126–136.
Earthquake‐triggered avalanche altered glacier flow

Landslides are common in areas with mountain glaciers and could affect the movement of glaciers. Shugar et al. used satellite radar imagery and numerical modeling to investigate the effects of earthquake-triggered avalanches on the Black Rapids Glacier in central Alaska. Three avalanches were triggered there by the 2002 magnitude 7.9 Denali earthquake. The researchers compared prelandslide and postlandslide ice velocities. They found that after the avalanches, ice velocity initially increased by up to 14% in the area above the debris-covered area and by 44% in the debris-covered area. The lower margin of the debris sheet sped up by more than 100%. After several years the ice velocities gradually decreased to their prelandslide values, and the debris-covered part of the glacier moved with a uniform velocity. The authors' numerical model supports their interpretation that the changes in velocity were caused by the landslides. (Journal of Geophysical Research-Earth Surface, doi:10.1029/2011JF002011, 2012)
Characterization and correction of system delays and eddy currents for MR imaging with ultrashort echo-time and time-varying gradients.

Reconstruction of high-quality MR images requires precise knowledge of the dynamic gradient magnetic fields used to perform spatial encoding. System delays and eddy currents can perturb the gradient fields in both time and space and significantly degrade the image quality for acquisitions with an ultrashort echo time or with rapidly varying readout gradient waveforms. A technique for simultaneously characterizing and correcting the system delay and linear- and zero-order eddy currents of an MR system is proposed. A single set of calibration scans were used to compute a set of system constants that describe the effects of system delays and eddy currents to enable accurate reconstruction of data collected before uncorrected eddy currents have decayed. The ability of the proposed technique to reproducibly characterize small fixed delays (<50 μs) and short-time constant (<1 ms) eddy currents is demonstrated. Magn Reson Med, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A Pathway to Freedom: An Evaluation of Screening Tools for the Identification of Trafficking Victims

Objectives Because training residents and faculty to identify human trafficking victims is a major public health priority, the authors review existing assessment tools. Methods PubMed and Google were searched using combinations of search terms including human, trafficking, sex, labor, screening, identification, and tool. Results Nine screening tools that met the inclusion criteria were found. They varied greatly in length, format, target demographic, supporting resources, and other parameters. Only two tools were designed specifically for healthcare providers. Only one tool was formally assessed to be valid and reliable in a pilot project in trafficking victim service organizations, although it has not been validated in the healthcare setting. Conclusions This toolbox should facilitate the education of resident physicians and faculty in screening for trafficking victims, assist educators in assessing screening skills, and promote future research on the identification of trafficking victims.
Interleukin-17 Protects against the Francisella tularensis Live Vaccine Strain but Not against a Virulent F. tularensis Type A Strain

Francisella tularensis is a highly infectious intracellular bacterium that causes the zoonotic infection tularemia. While much literature exists on the host response to F. tularensis infection, the vast majority of work has been conducted using attenuated strains of Francisella that do not cause disease in humans. However, emerging data indicate that the protective immune response against attenuated F. tularensis versus F. tularensis type A differs. Several groups have recently reported that interleukin-17 (IL-17) confers protection against the live vaccine strain (LVS) of Francisella. While we too have found that IL-17Rα(-/-) mice are more susceptible to F. tularensis LVS infection, our studies, using a virulent type A strain of F. tularensis (SchuS4), indicate that IL-17Rα(-/-) mice display organ burdens and pulmonary gamma interferon (IFN-γ) responses similar to those of wild-type mice following infection. In addition, oral LVS vaccination conferred equivalent protection against pulmonary challenge with SchuS4 in both IL-17Rα(-/-) and wild-type mice. While IFN-γ was found to be critically important for survival in a convalescent model of SchuS4 infection, IL-17 neutralization from either wild-type or IFN-γ(-/-) mice had no effect on morbidity or mortality in this model. IL-17 protein levels were also higher in the lungs of mice infected with the LVS rather than F. tularensis type A, while IL-23p19 mRNA expression was found to be caspase-1 dependent in macrophages infected with LVS but not SchuS4. Collectively, these results demonstrate that IL-17 is dispensable for host immunity to type A F. tularensis infection, and that induced and protective immunity differs between attenuated and virulent strains of F. tularensis.
Fast training algorithms for large data sets with application to classification of multispectral images

Two methods of classification and related fast training algorithms are compared with each other and with backpropagation in this paper. The first method is the discriminant neural network (DNN). One hidden node is added at each design stage until the DNN meets the design requirements. The second method uses the radial basis function network (RBF). We modify the RBF by solving a succession of binary classification problems in order to provide fast training. These two classification methods are applied to automatically classify 14 categories of land cover using multispectral aerial images. We find that the training times for the DNN and the modified RBF (MRBF) are much less than the training times for backpropagation or RBF. The performances of DNN (72%) and MRBF (60%) are better than obtained by linear discriminant analysis (LDA) (55%). The resulting structure and computations are simpler for the DNN than for the other methods. >
Case Report: Fulminant Hepatic Failure Involving Duloxetine Hydrochloride

Background & Aims: Duloxetine hydrochloride was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in August 2004 for the treatment of major depressive disorder and diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain. Initial product labeling contained a precaution regarding the risk for increases in liver function test results. Recently, postmarketing research has revealed episodes of cholestatic jaundice and increases in transaminase levels to greater than 20 times normal in patients with chronic liver disease. Methods: In this case report, we describe a patient with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in remission and depression treated with duloxetine and mirtazapine. Results: Approximately 6 weeks after increasing her duloxetine dose from 30 to 60 mg daily, she became jaundiced and presented with fulminant hepatic failure. Liver function tests immediately before initiating duloxetine were not available, although the patient carried no prior history of chronic liver disease. A complete work-up for alternate causes failed to reveal another explanation for the patient’s clinical presentation. A liver biopsy examination showed histologic changes of subacute injury and the patient’s clinical course was consistent with drug-induced liver injury. Despite aggressive measures, the patient’s condition deteriorated and the decision was made to withdraw care. Conclusions: This report shows a case of fulminant hepatic failure and death involving duloxetine use. Given recent reports of severe hepatotoxicity associated with the use of duloxetine in patients with pre-existing liver disease, further investigation into the safety of this compound is warranted.
Performance of a copper-silver alloy as an electromagnetic launcher conductor material

In a previous paper, a copper-silver conductor with a strength/conductivity combination of 600 MPa and 85% IACS was manufactured and characterized. The strength and conductivity combination in the as-cast copper-16% mass percent silver composition made copper-silver alloys attractive materials for consideration as electromagnetic launcher conductors. In this paper, the alloy copper-24% mass percent silver (Cu-24%Ag) is evaluated experimentally by coupon testing in a launcher. Material microstructure change is evaluated by optical stereoscope, optical microscope and scanning electron microscope. Other material properties studied include hardness as well as thermal and electrical conductivity. The changes in material properties are related to the initial state of strain in the test specimen. The results are explained in terms of the relative contributions of strain hardening and substitutional solid-solution strengthening to the overall strength of the conducting copper-silver. Local compressive forces produced plastic flow in softer specimens. Subtle changes in microstructure were observed, and new structures with equivalent properties were observed to develop.
Can Genetically Engineered Crops Become Weeds

Les problemes lies a l'evolution possible des plantes manipulees genetiquement vers un phenotype «mauvaise-herbes», sont abordes. Les caracteristiques genetiques intervenant dans ce processus sont etudiees. Les connaissances obtenues en malherbologie sont utilisees pour essayer de comprendre le processus