cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A market-based approach to software evolution

Software correctness has bedeviled the field of computer science since its inception. Software complexity has increased far more quickly than our ability to control it, reaching sizes that are many orders of magnitude beyond the reach of formal or automated verification techniques.We propose a new paradigm for evaluating "correctness" based on a rich market ecosystem in which coalitions of users bid for features and fixes. Developers, testers, bug reporters, and analysts share in the rewards for responding to those bids. In fact, we suggest that the entire software development process can be driven by a disintermediated market-based mechanism driven by the desires of users and the capabilities of developers.The abstract, unspecifiable, and unknowable notion of absolute correctness is then replaced by quantifiable notions of correctness demand (the sum of bids for bugs) and correctness potential (the sum of the available profit for fixing those bugs). We then sketch the components of a market design intended to identify bugs, elicit demand for fixing bugs, and source workers for fixing bugs. The ultimate goal is to achieve a more appropriate notion of correctness, in which market forces drive software towards a correctness equilibrium in which all bugs for which there is enough value, and with low enough cost to fix, are fixed.
A Primer for Using Meta-Analysis to Consolidate Research

The article provides an introduction to interpreting meta-analysis in the context of synthesizing results of studies that examine the role of culture on drug use behaviors. Topics reviewed include using effect size to indicate the strength of a relationship in a primary study, combining effects in weighted models to yield a summary effect, and understanding how study-level moderators help to explain the heterogeneity in effect dispersion across investigations. The advantages of meta-analytic procedures for consolidating preexisting knowledge are highlighted.
Statistics for the strength and lifetime in creep-rupture of model carbon/epoxy composites

Abstract A theoretical model and experimental data are presented for the strength and lifetime in creep-rupture of unidirectional, carbon fiber/epoxy matrix microcomposites at ambient conditions. The model ‘microcomposites’ consisted of seven parallel carbon fibers (Hercules IM-6) embedded in an epoxy matrix (Dow DER 331 epoxy/No. 26 hardener) and forming an approximately hexagonal array. The results are interpreted by means of the model which involves Weibull distributions for fiber strength, micromechanical stress-redistribution, and power-law, matrix creep around noncatastrophic fiber breaks from which the creep-rupture originates. For the microcomposites, the model yields approximate Weibull strength and lifetime distributions with parameters depending on the various model parameters. Also obtained is a power-law relationship between stress level and lifetime whose exponent depends on the Weibull shape parameter for fiber strength, the creep exponent for the matrix, and the critical cluster size for failed fibers in the microcomposite. The experimental results agree quite well with theoretical predictions though time-dependent debonding appeared to be part of the failure process; this debonding was observed in independent experiments.
Iodine–Potassium Iodate

(I2) [7553-56-2] I2 (MW 253.80) InChI = 1S/I2/c1-2 InChIKey = PNDPGZBMCMUPRI-UHFFFAOYSA-N (KIO3) [7758-05-6] IKO3 (MW 214.00) InChI = 1S/HIO3.K/c2-1(3)4;/h(H,2,3,4);/q;+1/p-1 InChIKey = JLKDVMWYMMLWTI-UHFFFAOYSA-M (conversion of alkenes to iodohydrins;1 iodination of some aromatic molecules;2 the iodohydrins (or iodoacetates) formed are readily converted to cis-diols3) Physical Data: KIO3: mp 560 °C; d 3.930 g cm−3. I2: see Iodine. Solubility: KIO3: sol water: 9.16 g/100 g water at 25 °C and 32.2 g/100 g water at 100 °C.4 In other work, the solubility in water was measured to be: 8.40 g KIO3/100 g water at 25 °C; 13.7 g/100 g at 50 °C; and 24.4 g/100 g at 100 °C.5 It shows some solubility in aqueous dioxane mixtures: 8.472 g/100 g (0% dioxane∶100% water); 5.30 g/100 g (10% dioxane); 3.172 g/100 g (20% dioxane); 1.811 g/100 g (30% dioxane); 0.886 g/100 g (40% dioxane); and 0.471 g/100 g (50% dioxane). KIO3 insol pure dioxane and most common organic solvents. Form Supplied in: the active reagent is generated in situ, as needed. KIO3: colorless monoclinic crystals; commercially available in at least 99.5% purity. Preparative Method: in reactions with alkenes, the following ratio of reactants is typical: alkene∶KIO3∶I2, 4∶1∶2 in acetic acid.3 The iodine and potassium iodate are premixed in acetic acid at ambient temperatures and then treated with the organic substrate and allowed to react at a suitable temperature. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: the reagent should be prepared in solution, as needed, and used in situ. Potassium iodate is an irritant, particularly of the upper respiratory tract. Ingestion causes headache, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, and gastrointestinal irritation. Avoid ingestion, skin contact, and eye contact. Potassium iodate is a powerful oxidant and should not be stored near combustible materials, near flammable materials, or near powdered metals. Mixing with powdered metals can cause an explosion. It should be stored in a separate and tightly closed container. This combination reagent should be handled in a fume hood.
Total Knee Replacement through a Mini-Mid-Vastus Approach

Introduction The results of total knee replacement over the past 30 years have been excellent. The operation has been shown to relieve pain and increase the ability of patients to function and participate in activities of daily living. Over and above this these results have been shown to be longlasting, with many ten and fifteen year follow up studies in the peer reviewed literature [1–3] using a variety of implant designs. Traditionally, these primary total knee replacements have been performed through a median parapatellar incision. The incision extended proximally for several inches into the junction between the rectus tendon and the vastus medialis muscle. The suprapatellar bursa was extensively opened, the knee was hyper-flexed and the patella was everted. All of this was done through a skin incision that normally measured somewhere between 15 and 18 cm in length. Despite our excellent long-term results using this type of surgical exposure we did note, however, that the recuperation was prolonged. Patients often had difficulty regaining flexion. Physical therapy requirements were often intensive with patient’s not able to normally resume their activities of daily living for about three or more months after surgery. Over the past 10 to 15 years, minimally invasive approaches have been used to treat a variety of other surgical conditions including chronic gallbladder disease, torn anterior cruciate ligaments, ruptured ovarian cysts, and median nerve compression in the carpal tunnel. The premise in all of those surgeries had been that by limiting the amount of disruption of the deep tissues during the surgery the recuperative time could be sped up, blood loss could be diminished, and postoperative pain could be decreased. Orthopaedic surgeons conjectured whether similar type outcomes could be obtained if we could perform primary knee replacements to more limited exposures. Could we perform the surgery by not extensively disrupting the quadriceps musculature and suprapatellar pouch and still obtain adequate exposure for proper component position and ligament balancing? Would the results of doing this be less pain at the surgery, a faster recuperation, and possibly less blood loss? Bearing all of this in mind, however, had to still perform the surgery in a manner which enabled us to properly expose the important anatomic features so as to minimize the chance of inadvertent damage to bony capsular, vascular or neurological structures.
A 2.5Gb/s Burst-Mode CDR based on a 1/8 th rate Dual Pulse Ring Oscillator

A 2.5Gb/s burst-mode CDR uses a 1/8th rate ring oscillator with two pulses running simultaneously that are phase independent. One pulse sets the delay of the ring by phase locking it to a reference. The other pulse tracks the phase of the incoming data. Phase acquisition is instantaneous from a single data edge. Run length tolerance is greater than 72 bits. The 0.6mm2 0.13mum CMOS chip includes a CML-to-CMOS input buffer, PLL with on-chip loop filter, PRBS checker, 1:8 demux and 8 output buffers. It has 2.7UIPP jitter tolerance at 100kHz and consumes 42mW from a single 1.2V supply.
Autoimmune Alternating Hypo- and Hyperthyroidism in Children

Two children presented with autoimmune alternating hypo- and hyperthyroidism related to the presence of blocking and stimulating thyroid antibodies. It was difficult to control their thyroid function adequately with an appropriate single drug regimen, and both children underwent total thyroidectomy with subsequent stable management with levothyroxine replacement therapy postsurgically. Although this phenomenon is well described in adults, this report is the first of such occurrence in children. The possible mechanism for the variation in the type of clinical presentation and options for management are discussed.
Changes in cecal composition with Eimeria tenella infection.

Abstract In each of three trials, the wet and dry weights of Eimeria tenella infected ceca were significantly increased compared to the control. The percentage of moisture and lipid in the cecal tissue remained unchanged or slightly increased. These effects were observed for all parasite strains examined and were detectable as early as day 4 postinoculation. Analysis of cecal protein and DNA suggested a uniform increase in cecal tissue rather than the production of a specific protein or component in response to the infection. Histological measurements of infected ceca, compared with the control, showed a twofold increase in both mucosal thickness and muscular thickness.
Migration and Psychological Well-Being Among Older Adults: A Growth Curve Analysis Based on Panel Data From the Health and Retirement Study, 1996-2006

Purpose: A vibrant body of research examines migration among older adults. Existing research, however, grants scarce attention to the implications of later-life migration for the migrants themselves. Our research focuses on the impacts of migration on depressive symptomatology among older U.S. adults. Methods: Our analysis employs six waves of panel data from the Health and Retirement Study, 1996-2006. Growth curve modeling techniques are employed. Results: Net of other stressful life events, migration effects appear to vary significantly across persons. Findings highlight the particularly depressive impact of moves motivated by negative life events or circumstances. Results further suggest that later life moves may be especially stressful for women and as individuals age. Discussion: The stress of moving late in life may depend on social integration at destination. Further research should pursue this issue. Study limitations and additional directions for further research are delineated.
Sums of numbers with small partial quotients

In a paper of James Hlavka it is stated that F(3)+F(2)+F(2) ¬= R. In this manuscript we show that this is false by establishing that F(3) ± F(2)± F(2) = R. We also describe the corresponding products and quotients.
Counselor Acting Out in the Counseling Situation: An Exploratory Analysis

Five categories of counselor acting out are explored. Also several intervention measures are presented as means of preventing or reducing counselor acting out.
Testing the Impact of Message Interactivity on Relationship Management and Organizational Reputation

Assessing Web site interactivity from the contingent message interactivity perspective, this study investigated whether message interactivity of organizational Web sites and blog sites influence perceptions of relationship management and reputation. Guided by interactivity, relationship management, and organizational reputation theories, this study found that regardless of familiarity of the company, people evaluated organizations that responded back to their comments as more trustworthy and committed, and as having better control of mutuality and communal relationships, and higher satisfaction, compared to organizations that did not respond back. Additionally, high contingent message interactivity projected higher organizational reputation compared to low contingent message interactivity, regardless of familiarity.
In-Membrane Chemical Modification (IMCM) for Site-Specific Chromophore Labeling of GPCRs

We present in-membrane chemical modification (IMCM) for obtaining selective chromophore labeling of intracellular surface cysteines in G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) with minimal mutagenesis. This method takes advantage of the natural protection of most cysteines by the membrane environment. Practical use of IMCM is illustrated with the site-specific introduction of chromophores for NMR and fluorescence spectroscopy in the human κ-opioid receptor (KOR) and the human A2A adenosine receptor (A2A AR). IMCM is applicable to a wide range of in vitro studies of GPCRs, including single-molecule spectroscopy, and is a promising platform for in-cell spectroscopy experiments.
A dependability analysis for systems with global spares

Systems with global spares, in which a spare can replace any of multiple identical primary modules, are widely used. We present efficient algorithms for approximating the probability distribution of performance level (number of working modules) in systems with global spares and arbitrary module failure distribution. For nondegradable systems with global spares and arbitrary module failure distribution, our algorithms provide the first efficient solution for reliability. For degradable systems with global spares, our algorithms can be used to produce upper and lower bounds on various dependability measures.
Susceptibility of Agrilus planipennis (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) to Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae.

Abstract The susceptibility of Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) to selected strains of the entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin and Metarhizium anisopliae (Metschnikoff) Sorokin was evaluated through bioassays with direct immersion or foliar exposure under laboratory conditions. Results showed that A. planipennis adults were susceptible to B. bassiana and M. anisoplae. Significant time–mortality response was found for each isolates. Isolate B. bassiana GHA killed A. planipennis adults at a faster rate compared with other isolates tested, with the lowest average time-to-death values. The LC50 values estimated under direct immersion method ranged from 1.7 × 105 to 1.9 × 107, 3.5 × 104 to 5.3 × 105, and 4.1 × 103 to 2.9 × 105 conidia/ml for B. basissiana and from 3.2 × 106 to 1.1 × 107, 4.5 × 103 to 4.5 × 105, and 1.4 × 102 to 1.2 × 105 conidia/ml for M. anisopliae at 4, 5, and 6 d after treatment, respectively. By days 5 and 6, B. bassiana GHA outperformed all...
An FTIR investigation of isocyanate skin absorption using in vitro guinea pig skin

Isocyanates may cause contact dermatitis, sensitization and asthma. Dermal exposure to aliphatic and aromatic isocyanates can occur in various exposure settings. The fate of isocyanates on skin is an important unanswered question. Do they react and bind to the outer layer of skin or do they penetrate through the epidermis as unreacted compounds? Knowing the kinetics of these processes is important in developing dermal exposure sampling or decontamination strategies, as well as understanding potential health implications such exposure may have. In this paper the residence time of model isocyanates on hairless guinea pig skin was investigated in vitro using attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectrometry. Model isocyanates tested were octyl isocyanate, polymeric hexamethylene diisocyanate isocyanurate (pHDI), polymeric isophorone diisocyanate isocyanurate (pIPDI) and methylenediphenyl diisocyanate (MDI). Isocyanates in ethyl acetate (30 μL) were spiked directly on the skin to give 0.2–1.8 μmol NCO cm−2 (NCO = –NCO), and absorbance of the isocyanate group and other chemical groups of the molecule were monitored over time. The ATR-FTIR findings showed that polymeric isocyanates pHDI and pIPDI may remain on the skin as unreacted species for many hours, with only 15–20% of the total isocyanate group disappearing in one hour, while smaller compounds octyl isocyanate and MDI rapidly disappear from the skin surface (80+% in 30 min). Isocyanates most likely leave the skin surface by diffusion predominantly, with minimal reaction with surface proteins. The significance of these findings and their implications for dermal exposure sampling and isocyanate skin decontamination are discussed.
Weighted fuzzy learning vector quantization and weighted fuzzy c-means algorithms

This paper derives a broad variety of weighted fuzzy learning vector quantization algorithms. These algorithms map a set of feature vectors into a set of prototypes by adapting the weight vectors associated with a competitive neural network through an unsupervised learning process. The derivation of the proposed algorithms is accomplished by minimizing the average weighted generalized mean between the feature vectors and the prototypes using gradient descent. The existing fuzzy learning vector quantization algorithms are interpreted as a special case of the proposed algorithms. Weighted fuzzy c-means algorithms result as a special case of the proposed algorithms if the learning rate is selected at each iteration to satisfy a certain condition.
Effects of S-adenosylhomocysteine and Analogs on Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)-Induced Transformation, EBV DNA Methylation and Gene Expression

EBV DNA becomes increasingly methylated with time following cell transformation (1) while hypomethylation has been associated with expression of viral genes (2). S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), a product of the S-adenosylmethionine transmethylation reaction, acts as a competitive inhibitor of DNA methyltransferases (3). In the present study SAH and analogs, sinefungin (SF) and 5′-deoxy-5′-S-isobutyladenosine (SIBA), as well as 5-azacytidine, which inhibits methylation of nascent DNA (4), were utilized in studies to determine the role of DNA methylation in the regulation of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) functions such as transformation of human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) and gene expression in lymphoblastoid cell lines. SF and SIBA, but not SAH, inhibited EBV-induced transformation of human PBLs. Indirect immunofluorescence and flow cytometric analyses revealed a significant increase in viral capsid antigen expression in lymphoblastoid cell lines following exposure to the analogs SF and SIBA, but not SAH.
Alternative Measures of Aggregate Inputs and Productivity in Agriculture

Certain inconsistencies exist in the current measurement of aggregate inputs and productivity in agriculture. These inconsistencies result from an implicit neglect of composition, a phenomenon of aggregate production. An alternative way of measuring the components of aggregate production, which considers composition as a separate component, is proposed. This alternative affords consistent treatment of both measures of aggregate inputs and productivity and places focus on changes in the structure of production as a source of growth.
Polarization selective optical phase conjugation in a Kerr-like medium

Measurements of optical phase-conjugation signals by degenerate four-wave mixing in an isotropic Kerr-like suspension of polystyrene spheres are reported. Polarization discrimination through orthogonally polarized pump beams was used to measure separately the coarse-grating and the fine-grating contributions. Autocorrelation techniques permitted measurement at low power levels. The coarse-grating contribution to χ(3) for a suspension of 0.05-μm-diameter polystyrene spheres in water yielded an effective χ(3) = 2.4 × 10−15 (m/V)2, in good agreement with theory, whereas the fine-grating contribution for the same solution yielded χ(3) = 0.56 × 10−15 (m/V)2, a value 10 times smaller than predicted by theory. Limitations of the theory are discussed.
The Donovan Site (5LO204): An Upper Republican Animal Processing Camp on the High Plains

The Donovan site (5LO204) is a Late Prehistoric animal processing campsite located in northeastern Colorado. The site has been extensively excavated by the University of Wyoming High Plains Archaeology Project since 1992. Containing at least 11 stratified occupation surfaces dating between about A.D. 1000 and 1300, Donovan represents a frequently visited western expansion of the Upper Republican phase of the Central Plains tradition. Material culture includes thousands of fragmented bison bones, lithic debitage, diagnostic ceramics, side-notched projectile points, and bifacial knives. Long thought to represent the activities of either indigenous High Plains occupants or central Plains hunting parties, this site and others on the western High Plains provide evidence for the complex interactions between foraging and farming communities on the Plains.
Rofecoxib-Induced Deleterious Effects Escape Detection by Organismal Performance Assays.

Background: Organismal performance assays (OPAs) are a unique method of toxicity quantification used to assess the safety of potentially toxic compounds such as pharmaceuticals. OPAs utilize genetically diverse wild mice (Mus musculus) housed in large seminatural enclosures wherein exposed individuals compete directly with controls for resources. Previously, OPAs have been successful in detecting adverse effects in mice that were exposed to paroxetine. Here, we further test OPAs' utility in pharmaceutical safety assessment by testing OPAs with rofecoxib, a drug with known adverse effects on humans. Materials and Methods: We exposed mice to rofecoxib (~37.5 mg/kg/day) during gestation and into early adulthood. Exposure ceased when individuals were released into enclosures. Five independent populations were established and rofecoxib-exposed individuals (n = 58) competed directly with control individuals (n = 58) over 28 weeks. Organismal performance was determined by quantifying reproduction, survival, and male competitive ability. Results: In enclosures, rofecoxib-exposed males had equal reproduction, survival, and competitive ability. Rofecoxib-exposed females had equal survival compared to controls but experienced 40% higher reproductive output. Conclusions: The adverse health effects of rofecoxib seen in humans escaped detection by OPAs, just as they had during traditional preclinical assays. These results may be explained by the exposure design (in the enclosures, all animals were on the control diet), the relatively short duration of exposure, species differences, or because the health benefits of the drug negated the side effects. Similar to numerous assays used in preclinical trials, OPAs cannot reveal all maladies, despite their demonstrated sensitivity in detecting cryptic toxicity from numerous exposures.
Construction and experimental validation of a simple, compact, resealable, and reliable Vycor® superleak assembly for use at low temperatures

A new method of constructing a superleak assembly for use in experiments involving 4He or 3He-4He mixtures at very low temperatures is described. Superleaks are made of a porous medium with very small pores and channels. Superleaks are often incorporated in thermomechanical pumps, superfluid magnetic pumps, dilution refrigerators, and superfluid helium transfer systems. We used several cylindrical pieces of Vycor, a permeable glass with average pore diameter of 40 A and porosity of 28%, as a candidate to be used in our superleak assembly. Our design is simple and compact. Our superleak assembly can be disassembled and easily reassembled for reuse. We successfully tested and validated this device at temperatures between 1.4 K and 2.7 K. We experienced no superfluid leaks into the surrounding vacuum. We also report that thermal cycling caused no performance degradation. It is our goal to share the design and construction techniques of this new superleak assembly.
Faddeev–Yakubovsky calculations for A=4 hypernuclear systems

Abstract We present results for the Λ separation energies of the four-body hypernuclei 4ΛHe and 4ΛH based on solutions of the Yakubovsky equations for these systems. Our results show that none of the Nijmegen soft-core models or the Julich A ˜ model correctly binds all four-body hypernuclei states simultaneously. We discuss the possibilities to constrain hyperon–nucleon interactions using the charge-dependence of the four-body Λ separation energies.
Checklist of the broad-headed bugs (Insecta: Hemiptera: Alydidae) of Alabama, United States

The purpose of this project was to investigate the distribution of the insect family Alydidae in the state of Alabama. Eight species and six genera were confirmed to be present, and all are new state records. The genus Hyalymenus and the species Stenocoris furcifera were previously only recorded in Florida, but are distributed well within Alabama. Although North American members of this family are not economically important, destructive species do exist in Asia and Africa. This information, therefore, will be useful in the potential event of an introduction.
More Human Than Human: How Some SF Presents AI's Claims to the Right to Life and Self-Determination

If even the least self-aware human being has the right to life, simply because it exists, then could AI at some point also claim that right? Or can human-created AI, simply because it is human-created, simply never legitimately put forward such a right? The idea that human beings, because they are human, create and become the norm for such decisions is one that it is difficult to overcome, but it is one that philosophers, lawyers, and artists wrestle with. It is also one that we see depicted in many science fiction films and television series. Thus, who defines what personhood is becomes an important question. What happens if AI develops sentience, and emotions? What happens if AI develops personhood? We are only now beginning to consider whether such creations, having equivalent or greater intelligence and abilities than their creators, should have the same, or qualified liberties and privileges. If we do consider that question, what test should we apply to determine whether these artificial beings should have such rights? Some legal regimes, such as the European Union, are already beginning to take such questions seriously.
Serologic Detection of Subtype-specific Antibodies to Influenza A Viruses in Southern Sea Otters (Enhydra Lutris Nereis)

Abstract There are approximately 3,000 southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris nereis) in the nearshore environment along the California coast, US, and the species is classified as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act. We tested sera from 661 necropsied southern sea otters sampled from 1997 to 2015 to determine overall exposure to influenza A viruses (IAVs) and to identify subtype-specific antibody responses. Using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), antibodies to IAV nucleoproteins were detected in 160 (24.2%) otters, with seropositive animals found in every year except 2008. When the ELISA-positive samples were tested by virus microneutralization, antibody responses were detected to avian-origin hemagglutinin subtypes H1, H3, H4, H5, H6, H7, H9, and H11. Strong antibody responses to pandemic H1N1 (pdmH1N1) were also detected, indicating that epizootic transmission of pdmH1N1 occurred among the southern sea otter population after the emergence of this human-origin virus in 2009. We conclude ...
Elemental copper nanoparticle toxicity to anaerobic ammonium oxidation and the influence of ethylene diamine-tetra acetic acid (EDTA) on copper toxicity.

Abstract Soluble ions released by elemental copper nanoparticles (Cu 0 NP) are toxic to key microorganisms of wastewater treatment processes. However, their toxicity to anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) has not yet been studied. Chelating agents occurring in wastewater may decrease copper ions (Cu 2+ ) concentration and consequently, decrease copper toxicity. This study evaluated Cu 0 NP and CuCl 2 toxicity to anammox and the influence of ethylene diamine-tetra acetic acid (EDTA) on copper toxicity. Bioassays were supplemented with Cu 0 NP or CuCl 2 with and without EDTA. Anammox activities were used to calculate inhibition constants ( K i ). Results showed that Cu 0 NP are toxic to anammox. K i constants with respect to added copper were 1.8- and 2.81-fold larger (less toxic) in EDTA-containing assays for Cu 0 NP and CuCl 2, respectively, compared to EDTA-free assays. Additionally, K i constants calculated in EDTA-free assays with respect the measured dissolved copper concentration were 0.023 mM Cu 0 NP and 0.014 mM CuCl 2 . The similarity of these K i constants indicates that Cu 0 NP toxicity to anammox is caused by the release of Cu 2+ . Finally, severe toxicity caused by 0.315 mM and Cu 0 NP 0.118 mM CuCl 2 was attenuated by 88–100% when 0.14 mM EDTA was supplied. Toxicity attenuation likely occurred because EDTA complexed Cu 2+ ions, thus, decreasing their bioavailability. Overall, this study indicates that Cu 0 NP and CuCl 2 are toxic to anammox, and furthermore, that EDTA attenuates Cu 0 NP and CuCl 2 toxicity to anammox by complexing Cu 2+ ions.
Evaluating Commercially Available Antibodies for Rat α7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors

Alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α7 nAChRs) are important drug targets in neurological disorders and inflammation, making their detection and localization by validated antibodies highly desirable. However, tests in knockout animals raised questions about specificity of antibodies to mouse α7 nAChRs. To date, methods for validating antibodies for rat or human α7 nAChR have not been reported. We developed a gel-shift assay for western blots using GH4C1 cells expressing either native rat receptors or α7 nAChR-green fluorescent protein (GFP) chimeras to evaluate seven commercially available α7 nAChR antibodies. Blots with anti-GFP antibody detected GFP or α7 nAChR-GFP expressed in GH4C1 cells, and 125I-α-bungarotoxin binding and RNA analysis demonstrated α7 nAChR expression. Validated samples were used to evaluate α7 nAChR antibodies by western blot and immunofluorescence studies. These methods confirmed that two of seven α7 nAChR antibodies identify gel-shifts for α7 nAChR/nAChR-GFP but only one antibody demonstrated low background and significant immunofluorescence differences between wild-type and α7 nAChR expressing GH4C1 cells. However, that polyclonal antibody displayed lot-to-lot variability. Our findings suggest that careful validation methods are required for all α7 nAChR receptor species and antibody lots and that the gel-shift assay may allow for relatively rapid antibody screening.
A Review Essay of American Spies: Modern Surveillance, Why You Should Care, and What to Do About It by Jennifer Stisa Granick (New York: Cambridge University Press, 2017) & Unwarranted: Policing Without Permission by Barry Friedman (New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2017)

This essay is a joint review of Jennifer Stisa Granick's, American Spies: Modern Surveillance, Why You Should Care, and What To Do About It, and Barry Friedman's, Unwarranted: Policing Without Permission.
Evaluating the Role of Balloon Sinuplasty in the Treatment of Pediatric Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Balloon catheter sinuplasty’s (BCS) role in the treatment algorithm of pediatric chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) continues to evolve. Our review seeks to elucidate how best to use BCS when treating pediatric CRS based on the current literature. BCS as an adjuvant procedure to adenoidectomy or limited functional endoscopic sinus surgery potentially shows greater symptomatic improvements in both validated and non-validated questionnaires. BCS for recalcitrant CRS after adenoidectomy shows promise as well. BCS may not be as efficacious in patients with medical comorbidities or anatomic variants such as a hypoplastic maxillary sinus or Haller cells. BCS as an adjuvant procedure, or as an additional procedure after adenoidectomy failure but before functional endoscopic sinus surgery, shows promising outcomes. Because of the limited evidence thus far, randomized-controlled prospective studies with higher power are needed to further clarify the efficacy of BCS. Further research regarding its role in acute complications of CRS is also needed.
Drowning In It: State Crime and Refugee Deaths in the Borderlands

i Dedication ii Acknowledgments iii List of Tables v List of Figures vi Chapter One Introduction 1 Chapter Two Review of the Literature 6 Chapter Three Methods 23 Chapter Four Results 27 Chapter Five Discussion 35 Chapter Six Conclusion 44 References 48
Can Elastography Differentiate Isolated Fatty Liver from Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis

Ultrasound and magnetic resonance (MR)-based elastography have demonstrated excellent performance for noninvasive staging of fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); however, their ability to differentiate isolated fatty liver from nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is unclear. In this review, the authors provide background on elastography and review the ability of elastography to discriminate between isolated steatosis and NASH. Studies with available data on the diagnosis of NASH histology are limited to vibration-controlled transient elastography and MR elastography. A wide range of optimal cutoffs for the diagnosis of NASH are reported and likely depend on the prevalence of advanced fibrosis in the study population. MR elastography has good performance characteristics for identifying patients with any fibrosis who are at greatest risk of disease-related morbidity. Currently, neither modality can reliably discriminate NASH from simple steatosis. Novel multiparametric MR imaging and elastography are emerging and may help detect presence of NASH in the future.
Resveratrol protects mice against SEB-induced acute lung injury and mortality by miR-193a modulation that targets TGF-β signalling.

Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) is a potent superantigen produced by Staphylococcus aureus that triggers a strong immune response, characterized by cytokine storm, multi-organ failure, and often death. When inhaled, SEB can cause acute lung injury (ALI) and respiratory failure. In this study, we investigated the effect of resveratrol (RES), a phytoallexin, on SEB-driven ALI and mortality in mice. We used a dual-exposure model of SEB in C3H/HeJ mice, which caused 100% mortality within the first 5 days of exposure, and treatment with RES resulted in 100% survival of these mice up to 10 days post-SEB exposure. RES reduced the inflammatory cytokines in the serum and lungs, as well as T cell infiltration into the lungs caused by SEB. Treatment with RES also caused increased production of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) in the blood and lungs. RES altered the miRNA profile in the immune cells isolated from the lungs. Of these, miR-193a was strongly induced by SEB and was down-regulated by RES treatment. Furthermore, transfection studies and pathway analyses revealed that miR-193a targeted several molecules involved in TGF-β signalling (TGFβ2, TGFβR3) and activation of apoptotic pathways death receptor-6 (DR6). Together, our studies suggest that RES can effectively neutralize SEB-mediated lung injury and mortality through potential regulation of miRNA that promote anti-inflammatory activities.
Hypofractionated whole breast irradiation is cost-effective—but is that enough to change practice?

Breast cancer is both the most commonly diagnosed new cancer and the most expensive cancer to treat in the United States (US) (1). It was estimated to account for the largest share of national cancer expenditures in 2010, at $16.5 billion, and is projected to increase to $20.5 billion by 2020 based on US population growth alone (2). In the current climate of unsustainable rising healthcare costs, breast cancer and its treatment present ample opportunities to favorably bend the cost curve while positively benefitting patients.
Indirect cyber attacks by perturbation of environment control: a data driven attack model: poster

When the security of computing infrastructure has been considered, the focus has traditionally been on the infrastructure itself with less thought given to the surrounding systems that affect the operation of the infrastructure. Instead, our indirect attack model targets a super computer by obfuscating the control of a cyber-physical system (CPS) responsible for maintaining the operational environment.
OP0182 Gout and dementia in the elderly: a medicare claims study

Background The pursuit of a link between gout/hyperuricemia and dementia has led to contradictory results. Most observational studies, including population-based studies, showed that hyperuricemia was associated with a higher risk of dementia and less cognitive dysfunction, while a few studies found hyperuricemia to be associated with a lower risk of dementia. Recently, a large French population-based study in the elderly (65 years or older) showed that hyperuricemia was associated with a higher risk of dementia and with MRI changes of ageing in the brain. Objectives To assess whether gout in the elderly is associated with a risk of incident dementia. Methods We used the 5% Medicare claims data for this observational cohort study. We used multivariable-adjusted Cox proportional hazard models to assess the association of gout with incident dementia, adjusting for potential confounders/covariates including demographics (age, race, gender), comorbidities (Charlson-Romano comorbidity index), and medications commonly used for cardiac diseases (statins, beta-blockers, diuretics, and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)-inhibitors) and gout (allopurinol and febuxostat). Results In our cohort of 1.23 million Medicare beneficiaries, 65 324 had incident dementia. The crude incidence rates in people without and with gout were 7.36 and 13.58 per 1000 person-years, respectively. In multivariable-adjusted analyses, gout was independently associated with a significantly higher hazard ratio of incident dementia, with a hazard ratio [HR] of 1.17 (95% CI, 1.13, 1.21); sensitivity analyses confirmed the main findings. Compared to age 65 to Subgroup analyses indicated that gout was significantly associated with dementia in patients without key comorbidities (CAD, hyperlipidemia, CVD, diabetes, hypertension) with HR ranging 1.20–1.57, but not in patients with each of these comorbidities, except CAD, with HR 0.97–1.07 (table 1). Conclusions Gout was independently associated with 17%–20% higher risk of incident dementia in the elderly. Future studies need to understand the pathogenic pathways involved in this increased risk. Acknowledgements This material is the result of work supported by research funds from the Division of Rheumatology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the resources and use of facilities at the Birmingham VA Medical Centre, Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Disclosure of Interest J. Singh Grant/research support from: Takeda, Savient, Consultant for: Savient, Takeda, Regeneron, Merz, Iroko, Bioiberica, Crealta/Horizon and Allergan pharmaceuticals, WebMD, UBM LLC and the American College of Rheumatology, J. Cleveland: None declared
Ancient Cavers in Eastern North America

During the past 5000 years, hundreds of cave dark zones were entered, explored, and used in various ways by Precolumbian people in Eastern North America. In particular, several miles of the world’s longest cave—the Mammoth Cave System, Kentucky—were known prehistorically. Archaeological remains in portions of that cave system are briefly described and discussed with comparative reference to other caves in the Eastern Woodlands of North America.
The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) as a therapeutic target for cystic fibrosis lung disease.

Introduction: Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene that codes for the CFTR anion channel. In...
Functional Response of Generalist Predators to Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) Eggs

The brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stal) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is an invasive agricultural pest in the United States with the potential to become a serious economic threat to Michigan agriculture. As a novel pest in Michigan's agroecosystems, the potential for a biological control program that utilizes existing natural enemies for H. halys is currently unknown. The present study identified potential H. halys egg predators and determined their effectiveness as biological control agents through functional response testing. Four generalist predators were selected based on video surveillance of sentinel egg masses in the field and through preliminary experiments. The predators were Acheta domesticus (L.) (Orthoptera: Gryllidae), Melanoplus femurrubrum (DeGeer) (Orthoptera: Acrididae), Orius insidiosus (Say) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae), and Conocephalus fasciatus (DeGeer) (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae), and each was tested against four densities of H. halys eggs: 26, 52, 78, and 104 eggs. A. domesticus was the only predator tested that exhibited a Type II functional response with non-negative estimates of handling time and attack rate, suggesting the potential to be a density-dependent mortality factor when H. halys egg densities are low. The theoretical maximum predation rates for female A. domesticus were 189 eggs (±95), or roughly seven egg masses. For males, the theoretical maximum was 116 eggs (±35), or 4.5 egg masses. The remaining predators tested exhibited a Type I functional response and are unlikely to be a stabilizing force in H. halys population dynamics.
Potential Impacts of Transportation and Building Electrification on the Grid: A Review of Electrification Projections and Their Effects on Grid Infrastructure, Operation, and Planning

This paper highlights the main impacts of transportation and building electrification on electricity grid infrastructure, operations, and planning. We focus on which electric technologies are expected to grow, how electrification will impact electricity demand and grid activities, and which solutions might improve the integration of these technologies. Recent industry reports show increasing projections of electrification technologies in the coming decades. Studies show that increased demand from electrification will likely require grid capacity expansion and make grid operations and planning more challenging; however, multiple non-wires solutions exist to ensure integration is efficient and cost-effective. Electrification of space heating and especially transportation is expected to have the largest impact on electricity demand in the near future. Uncontrolled electric vehicle charging poses a significant challenge to grid operations, but control strategies create an opportunity for improved efficiency. Other insights include a high level of uncertainty in electrification adoption and potential benefits of combining electrification technologies with renewable generation and energy storage.
Non-Parametric Learning of Gaifman Models.

We consider the problem of structure learning for Gaifman models and learn relational features that can be used to derive feature representations from a knowledge base. These relational features are first-order rules that are then partially grounded and counted over local neighborhoods of a Gaifman model to obtain the feature representations. We propose a method for learning these relational features for a Gaifman model by using relational tree distances. Our empirical evaluation on real data sets demonstrates the superiority of our approach over classical rule-learning.
Soil organic matter links organic farming to enhanced predator evenness

Abstract Balanced communities of natural enemies (i.e., greater evenness) can strengthen biological control. Natural enemy evenness is generally higher on organic than conventional farms, but the reason(s) for this are unclear. One possibility is that applications of composted manure on organic farms provide habitat for predators as well as food for detritus-feeding arthropods that are important supplemental prey. We searched for potential links between soil organic matter and ground beetle biodiversity in 65 broccoli (B. oleracea) fields, spanning the U.S. west coast, on mixed-vegetable farms using organic or conventional management practices. We measured soil organic matter in each field while also collecting predatory ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) and detritus-feeding springtails (Collembola), which are potential alternative prey resources for ground beetles. We found that carabid activity density, species richness, and species evenness were higher on organic than conventional farms. Some organic farms integrated livestock alongside vegetable production, however this did not detectably impact ground beetles, springtails, or organic matter. In a path analysis built from our on-farm data, carabid community evenness correlated with soil organic matter, and subsequently, carabid evenness positively correlated with carabid activity density. However, springtail activity-density had no apparent relationship to soil organic matter, carabid activity, or carabid evenness. It is possible that increasing organic matter improved soil microclimate to the benefit of ground beetles, although we cannot exclude the possibility that carabids on organic farms were responding to other ecological or management practices that differed from those on conventional farms. More broadly, among its myriad soil-health benefits, enhancing organic matter could be one strategy for re-balancing natural enemy densities to increase evenness.
Population Trends for Chinook and Summer Chum Salmon in Two Yukon River Tributaries in Alaska

An essential management objective of the Yukon Delta and Koyukuk National Wildlife Refuges in Alaska is to conserve fish and wildlife populations and habitats in their natural diversity. In keeping...
A new approach to complicated and noisy physiological waveforms analysis: peripheral venous pressure waveform as an example

We introduce a recently developed nonlinear-type time-frequency analysis tool, synchrosqueezing transform (SST), to quantify complicated and noisy physiological waveform that has time-varying amplitude and frequency. We apply it to analyze a peripheral venous pressure (PVP) signal recorded during a seven hours aortic valve replacement procedure. In addition to showing the captured dynamics, we also quantify how accurately we can estimate the instantaneous heart rate from the PVP signal.
Multiple Streptococcal Brain Abscesses in a Patient Taking Secukinumab.

The approval of the interleukin (IL)-17A inhibitor secukinumab (Cosentyx; Novartis International, King of Prussia, PA) was a major advance in psoriasis treatment, with most patients experiencing a 75% reduction in severity.1 Known side effects include an increase in minor infections, but no major infectious adverse events and no nervous system involvement,1-4 leading to broad use and an increase in clinical trials targeting the IL-17 pathway. Here, we describe a patient administered with secukinumab who presented with severe neurologic deficits due to multifocal brain lesions. These were found to be disseminated streptococcal infection and resolved after antibiotic treatment.