cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Amino acid changes in newly inseminated queens of Solenopsis invicta

Abstract The amino acid composition of both free and protein bound amino acids from haemolymph of newly inseminated queens of Solenopsis invicta , the red imported fire ant, was determined at 10-hr intervals following forced copulation. Valine, proline, serine, threonine, arginine, and lysine were found in the highest concentrations while tyrosine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and methionine were present in the smallest quantities. The total amino acid concentration of 2600 mg/100 ml haemolymph was almost equally divided between free and protein bound amino acids. During the first 20 hr following insemination, those amino acids which occur in higher concentration in the flight muscles than haemolymph increased rapidly in the free amino acid fraction of the haemolymph, thus indicating that flight muscle histolysis is initiated immediately following insemination, with the breakdown products being made available for colony founding.
Mechanical properties of discontinuous fiber reinforced thermoplastics. II. Random-in-plane fiber orientation

The mechanical properties are presented for a series of discontinuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites made with random-in-plane fiber orientation. The matrix and fiber materials were chosen to provide a wide range of strength, modulus, ductility and adhesive properties. In many cases strong, rigid, yet tough composites were fabricated. Strength levels of over 20,000 psi and modulus values over 1,000,000 psi were reached in several systems reinforced with short Kevlar-49 and graphite fibers. A strong dependence of composite strength and modulus on fiber strength and modulus was noted indicating good transfer of load from matrix to reinforcement. Fiber efficiency factors for modulus and strength were calculated for the experimental composite systems and averaged 0.19 and 0.11 respectively. Data were analyzed using basic composite theory. Properties of the experimental composites could not be predicted from constituent properties.
Critical heat flux limits for a heated surface impacted by a stream of liquid droplets

An experimental apparatus has been constructed to allow investigation of heat transfer from a horizontal, upward facing, heated surface impacted by streams of monodisperse water droplets of varying size and impact frequency. Droplet diameters between 2.3 and 3.8 mm were used, with drop frequencies varying from 2 to 15 droplets per second. The droplet impact velocity was 1.3 m/s. Critical heat flux, surface superheat, droplet size, and frequency were the primary measured data. Heat fluxes as high as 325 W/cm 2 were achieved with wall superheats of only 24 o C. The liquid film thickness produced upon droplet impact is shown to be a key factor in these experiments, and the importance of investigating the wetted area is highlighted
Yolk testosterone varies with sex in eggs of the lizard, Anolis carolinensis.

In the green anole (Anolis carolinensis), a lizard with genotypic sex determination, yolk testosterone (T) concentration is greater in male-producing than female-producing eggs at oviposition, but the source and potential effects were not clear from previous studies. If yolk T levels are also sex-specific before eggs are laid, a period during which embryonic steroidogenesis is unlikely, it would strongly suggest that the difference in yolk T is maternally derived. We collected yolk samples from eggs shelling within the oviducts of anesthetized females, and then allowed these females to lay the eggs naturally. Eggs were incubated to hatching to determine sex morphologically, and yolk T concentrations were analyzed by radioimmunoassay. As is the case just after they are laid, yolk T is higher in male than female oviductal eggs. To our knowledge, this is the earliest sex difference reported for any yolk steroid. We suggest that maternally derived yolk T levels could influence sex by differentially affecting male- and female-inducing sperm, because fertilization occurs after yolk deposition and ovulation, while the egg is in the oviduct. Our results, together with those of an increasing number of studies, suggest that a relationship between hormones and vertebrate sex determination may be more widespread than generally appreciated. J. Exp. Zool. 295A:206-210, 2003. r 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Characterization of copper slip ring-wire brush electrical contacts

The chemical composition and the electrical and mechanical properties of the interface between a Cu slip ring that rotates in contact with two Cu wire brushes were investigated by Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), contact resistance, and frictional force measurements. The experiments were carried out in an ultra-high vacuum system and in an environment of 1 × 10 −4 torr of wet C0 2 . The contact resistance at both the positive and negative interfaces decreased with increasing number of slip ring revolutions while the frictional force increased. Under the wet 10 −4 torr C0 2 environment the increase in frictional force was smaller than that in high vacuum, which suggests that wet CO 2 has a lubrication effect even at these relatively low pressures. In situ AES measurements showed that the composition of the slip ring surface, which was initially covered by about 50 atm% of carbon, changed drastically during rotation. After many revolutions it approached that of a clean Cu surface (total impurities
Assessment of health-related quality of life 6 years after childhood cochlear implantation

To examine the impact of cochlear implant (CI) intervention on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) assessed by both self- and parent-reported measures. In this national study of children implanted between ages 6 months and 5 years, HRQOL of 129 children 6-year post-CI was compared to 62 internal study (NH1) and 185 external (NH2) samples of hearing children frequency-matched to the CI group on sociodemographic variables. HRQOL ratings of children and their parents in each group, measured using the Child Health and Illness Profile-Child Edition, were compared, and their associations with the Family Stress Scale were investigated. CI children reported overall and domain-specific HRQOL that was comparable to both NH1 and NH2 peers. CI parents reported worse child scores than NH1 parents in Achievement, Resilience, and Global score (p’s < 0.01) but similar or better scores than socioeconomically comparable NH2 parents. Higher family stress was negatively associated with all parent-reported HRQOL outcomes (p’s < 0.01). Parent–child correlations in HRQOL global scores trended higher in CI recipients (r = 0.50) than NH1 (r = 0.42) and NH2 (r = 0.35) controls. CI recipients report HRQOL comparable to NH peers. These results, from both child and parent perspective, lend support to the effectiveness of CI intervention in mitigating the impact of early childhood deafness. Family stress was associated with worse HRQOL, underscoring a potential therapeutic target. Parent–child agreement in HRQOL scores was higher for CI families than NH families, which may reflect higher caregiver insight and involvement related to the CI intervention.
The nitration of 3,5- and 2,6-diphenyl-4-pyrone

3,5-Diphenyl-4-pyrone is nitrated in the phenyl groups under different conditions ortho and/or para to yield the 2′,2″-di-, the 4′,4″-di-, and the 2′,2″,4′,4″-tetranitro derivatives. 2,6-Diphenyl-4-pyrone undergoes meta nitration to give the 3′,3″-dinitro derivative.
Removal of H2O2 and generation of superoxide radical: Role of cytochrome c and NADH

Abstract In cells, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and peroxisomes are the major sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Cytochrome c (cyt c) is known to participate in mitochondrial electron transport and has antioxidant and peroxidase activities. Under oxidative or nitrative stress, the peroxidase activity of Fe3+cyt c is increased. The level of NADH is also increased under pathophysiological conditions such as ischemia and diabetes and a concurrent increase in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production occurs. Studies were performed to understand the related mechanisms of radical generation and NADH oxidation by Fe3+cyt c in the presence of H2O2. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin trapping studies using 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-N-oxide (DMPO) were performed with NADH, Fe3+cyt c, and H2O2 in the presence of methyl-β-cyclodextrin. An EPR spectrum corresponding to the superoxide radical adduct of DMPO encapsulated in methyl-β-cyclodextrin was obtained. This EPR signal was quenched by the addition of the superoxide scavenging enzyme Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase (SOD1). The amount of superoxide radical adduct formed from the oxidation of NADH by the peroxidase activity of Fe3+cyt c increased with NADH and H2O2 concentration. From these results, we propose a mechanism in which the peroxidase activity of Fe3+cyt c oxidizes NADH to NAD•, which in turn donates an electron to O2, resulting in superoxide radical formation. A UV–visible spectroscopic study shows that Fe3+cyt c is reduced in the presence of both NADH and H2O2. Our results suggest that Fe3+cyt c could have a novel role in the deleterious effects of ischemia/reperfusion and diabetes due to increased production of superoxide radical. In addition, Fe3+cyt c may play a key role in the mitochondrial “ROS-induced ROS-release” signaling and in mitochondrial and cellular injury/death. The increased oxidation of NADH and generation of superoxide radical by this mechanism may have implications for the regulation of apoptotic cell death, endothelial dysfunction, and neurological diseases. We also propose an alternative electron transfer pathway, which may protect mitochondria and mitochondrial proteins from oxidative damage.
Constraints on the Strain-Dependence of the UPt3 Superconducting Transition From Longitudinal-Ultrasound Measurements

We present measurements of longitudinal ultrasound in UPt3 along both the a- and c-axis in the region of the two superconducting transitions, Tc+ and Tc*. Using expressions from a model for the double superconducting transition, our measurements constrain the strain-dependences of a number of parameters. In particular, these constraints imply that the observed anisotropy in the stress-dependence of Tc* results from anisotropy in the elastic compliance tensor, rather than anisotropy of the superconducting order parameter. We also report an anomalous lattice softening below 100 mK.
Determination of monomer reactivity ratios using in situ FTIR spectroscopy for maleic anhydride/norbornene-free-radical copolymerization

Monomer reactivity ratios for maleic anhydride (MAH) and norbornene (Nb) free-radical copolymerizations were estimated by using a linear graphical method, which is based upon the terminal model developed by Mayo and Lewis. Reactions were performed by using optimized reaction conditions that were previously determined. MAH/Nb copolymerizations (3 mol % AIBN initiator, 60% solids in THF, 65°C, 24 h). Copolymerization data were collected via in situ FTIR to low degrees of conversion (∼ 10%) for copolymerizations of MAH and Nb. The following five different MAH/Nb comonomer feed molar ratios were analyzed: 40/60, 45/55, 50/50, 55/45, and 60/40. Conversion data that were measured with in situ FTIR were employed in the rearranged copolymer composition equation to estimate MAH and Nb reactivity ratios. Both of the reactivity ratios were determined to be near 0 (rMAH = 0.02, rNb = 0.01), which was indicative of an alternating copolymerization mechanism. The highest observed rate constant for copolymerization was obtained at an equal molar concentration of monomers. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 92: 3240–3246, 2004
A novel mutualistic relationship between a doliolid and a cnidarian, Bythotiara dolioeques sp. nov.

A description of the first known mutualistic interaction between a cnidarian and a pelagic tunicate is presented. Calycopsid anthomedusan polyps, belonging in the genus Bythotiara, were discovered associated with individual zooids of a new doliopsid (Thaliacea: Doliolida: Doliopsidae) collected from the mesopelagic waters of Monterey Bay. One hundred and seventy five polyp-bearing doliopsid colonies have been observed and 43 were collected from 1995 to 2004. Colonies were observed in situ and then brought back to the laboratory and maintained in aquaria. More than 250 individual anthomedusan polyps were removed from positions at the buccal siphon of their doliopsid host zooids and maintained in the laboratory until they released medusae. The morphology and taxonomy of the polyps and medusae are described. A unique tentacle-based asexual reproduction strategy is discussed. The relationship between the doliopsid and the polyp appears to be mutualistic, with the doliolid obtaining both nutrition and protection from the anthomedusan polyps, while the polyps gain access to a mobile, food-rich substrate.
The experience with voluntary genomic data submissions at the FDA and a vision for the future of the voluntary data submission program

Drug developers have been using genomic information in drug development strategies for a number of years, but it was unclear how this information would be reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In order to evaluate the regulatory impact of genomic data in current drug development, a workshop was held in May 2002 to discuss aspects surrounding genomic data submission to the FDA (Figure 1).
Alcohol and Memory: Storage and State Dependency.

Abstract The effects of acute alcohol intoxication on the storage phase of memory were evaluated with two tasks that minimized response retrieval: unpaced paired-associate learning with highly available responses and forced-choice picture recognition. Paired-associate learning was impaired by the high dose of alcohol (1.0 ml/kg), while the placebo and medium dose (0.5 ml/kg) were equivalent. Picture recognition showed a dose-dependent decrement. It was concluded that storage processes are sensitive to disruption by alcohol. Alcohol did not produce decrements in memory for the original material when retention was tested 2 weeks later, and there was no evidence for state dependency.
The role of cryoprotective agents as hydroxyl radical scavengers

Abstract The classic cryoprotective agents dimethylsulfoxide and glycerol are hydroxyl radical scavengers. In addition the cryoprotective agents tetramethylurea, dimethylformide, dimethylurea and monomethylurea act as hydroxyl radical scavengers as shown by the inhibition of ethylene production from methional and the inhibition of methane production from dimethylsulfoxide. Both cryoprotection and scavenger efficiency decrease in the same order within a homologous series: tetramethylurea > dimethylurea > monomethylurea. Urea does not act as a hydroxyl radical scavenger and urea is not a cryoprotective agent. Thus cryoprotection may involve scavengers in the prevention of membrane damage by hydroxyl radicals.
Fast beam studies of N3 photodissociation

Abstract A new fast radical beam apparatus has been used to study the photodissociation cross section of N3 as a function of wavelength. Neutralization of a fast negative ion beam by photodetachment is used to create a beam of cold, mass-selected radicals, with subsequent photodissociation and efficient detection of the neutral fragments. N3 was observed to predissociate throughout the first electronic absorption near 270 nm. High-resolution predissociation spectra were obtained which show rotationally resolved structure. Time-of-flight measurements of the kinetics energy release confirm that the lowest energy dissociation pathway which occurs is the first spin-allowed channel producing (N(2D ) + N2(1Σ+g). The photoelectron spectrum of N−3 was also obtained, yielding an electron affinity of 2.68±0.01 eV for N3.
Scrubbing Stubborn Data: An Evaluation of Counter-Forensic Privacy Tools

An evaluation of six privacy tools highlights significant shortfalls in their methods and implementations. It also raises a question: how much privacy protection we can realistically expect given ever-changing environments and the tremendous resources required to test for both known and unknown threats?
Diagnosis and Management of Urinary Tract Infections in the Outpatient Setting: A Review

Importance Urinary tract infection is among the most common reasons for an outpatient visit and antibiotic use in adult populations. The increasing prevalence of antibacterial resistance among community uropathogens affects the diagnosis and management of this clinical syndrome. Objectives To define the optimal approach for treating acute cystitis in young healthy women and in women with diabetes and men and to define the optimal approach for diagnosing acute cystitis in the outpatient setting. Evidence Review Evidence for optimal treatment regimens was obtained by searching PubMed and the Cochrane database for English-language studies published up to July 21, 2014. Findings Twenty-seven randomized clinical trials (6463 patients), 6 systematic reviews, and 11 observational studies (252 934 patients) were included in our review. Acute uncomplicated cystitis in women can be diagnosed without an office visit or urine culture. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (160/800 mg twice daily for 3 days), nitrofurantoin monohydrate/macrocrystals (100 mg twice daily for 5-7 days), and fosfomycin trometamol (3 g in a single dose) are all appropriate first-line therapies for uncomplicated cystitis. Fluoroquinolones are effective for clinical outcomes but should be reserved for more invasive infections. β-Lactam agents (amoxicillin-clavulanate and cefpodoxime-proxetil) are not as effective as empirical first-line therapies. Immediate antimicrobial therapy is recommended rather than delayed treatment or symptom management with ibuprofen alone. Limited observational studies support 7 to 14 days of therapy for acute urinary tract infection in men. Based on 1 observational study and our expert opinion, women with diabetes without voiding abnormalities presenting with acute cystitis should be treated similarly to women without diabetes. Conclusions and Relevance Immediate antimicrobial therapy with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, nitrofurantoin, or fosfomycin is indicated for acute cystitis in adult women. Increasing resistance rates among uropathogens have complicated treatment of acute cystitis. Individualized assessment of risk factors for resistance and regimen tolerability is needed to choose the optimum empirical regimen.
A Tiling Approach to Network Code Design for Wireless Networks

We describe a new tiling approach for network code design. The proposed method applies dynamic programming to find the best strategy among a restricted collection of network codes. We demonstrate the proposed strategy as a method for efficiently accommodating multiple unicasts in a wireless coding environment on a triangular lattice and discuss its generalization.
Bifurcation, Fragmentation or Integration? The Racial and Geographical Structure of US Metropolitan Segregation, 1990—2000

Racial residential segregation remains a topic of interest due to its impact on broader racial stratification. However, scholarly inquiry into the subject often ignores metropolitan racial diversity and the hierarchical nature of urban space. This paper proposes a multigroup, multilevel framework to assess the shifting racial and geographical structure of segregation in US metropolitan areas. It is found that overall declines in segregation are due almost entirely to the erosion of White/non-White bifurcation within large cities. The divide between the urban core and suburban ring remains a substantial if not defining component of segregation and racial distinctions between suburban communities are increasing. There is less evidence that Black, Latino and Asian metropolitan residents are fragmenting into homogeneous enclaves and segregation among these groups generally accounts for less overall segregation than would be expected given their relative population size. All told, urban and suburban municipali...
Role for a Labor–Management Partnership in Nursing Home Person-Centered Care

Purpose: To investigate how a partnership between labor and management works to change the organization and focus of nursing home frontline work, supporting a transition toward person-centered care (PCC) in participating nursing homes. Design and Methods: Using a participatory research approach, we conducted case studies of 2 nursing homes participating in a partnership between a labor union and a provider coalition. The study was designed to reveal whether and how the labor-management partnership supported PCC and to identify challenges to overcome in the future. Results: The partnership provided training and follow-up support to member homes to implement PCC. Management and worker participants used the partnership as a learning collaborative to acquire PCC knowledge and to share implementation experience. Key elements of the implementation in each nursing home were translation of the larger labor-management partnership to each member nursing home, management innovations that developed and supported PCC, and conduct of union actors in each nursing home that supported PCC while maintaining traditional union protections. Frontline workers exhibited strong engagement in PCC practices. Implications: A partnership between labor and management can foster changes in the organization of frontline work aimed at improving nursing home residents’ quality of life and care.
Hospital admission medication reconciliation in medically complex children: an observational study

Objective To evaluate admission medication reconciliation in children with medically complex conditions (MCC) by determining the availability and accuracy of five information sources and characterising admitting order errors. Design Prospective quality improvement cohort study. Setting Tertiary care free-standing children9s hospital in the Intermountain west, USA. Participants 23 children with MCC identified from 219 admissions between 16 December 2004 and 7 January 2005. Intervention Medication reconciliation at hospital admission using information from five sources. Main outcomes The accuracy of information sources was determined by sensitivity and specificity compared with verified outpatient medication lists. Errors were determined by comparing admitting orders with reconciled inpatient medication lists and categorised by frequency, type and clinical risk. Results Children with MCC averaged 5.3 chronic medications. The reconciliation process took an average of 90 min. Availability/sensitivity/specificity respectively were parents 52%/0.75/0.96, pharmacy 61%/0.64/0.74, primary provider 43%/0.25/0.86, last admission electronic health record 87%/0.74/0.33 and admitting history 65%/0.31/0.94. Thirty-nine errors were identified in 182 admission medications (21%) including 17 omissions, affecting 13 patients (57%). The estimated clinical risk, if an adverse drug event had occurred, was serious or life-threatening in five instances. Conclusions In children with MCC admitted at our institution during the study period, no medication information source was optimally available, sensitive and specific. Admitting order medication errors affected more than half of patients, the most common being omissions. Efforts to improve medication reconciliation at hospital admission in this population must account for availability and accuracy of information sources and medication omissions at the time of hospital admission.
Unleashing Presidential Power: The Politics of Pets in the White House

In this article, we use a multimethod approach to shed light on the strategic use of presidential pets. We draw on primary source materials to demonstrate that pets are an important power center in the White House. Then we turn to presidents' strategic use of their pets in public. We present a theoretical framework and statistical evidence to explore the conditions under which presidents are most likely to trot out their four-legged friends. We show that presidents carefully gauge the best and worst times to conduct a dog and pony show. In times of war or scandal, dogs are welcome public companions, but not so in periods of economic hardship.
Family-based genome-wide association study of frontal theta oscillations identifies potassium channel gene KCNJ6

Event-related oscillations (EROs) represent highly heritable neuroelectric correlates of cognitive processes that manifest deficits in alcoholics and in offspring at high risk to develop alcoholism. Theta ERO to targets in the visual oddball task has been shown to be an endophenotype for alcoholism. A family-based genome-wide association study was performed for the frontal theta ERO phenotype using 634 583 autosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) genotyped in 1560 family members from 117 families densely affected by alcohol use disorders, recruited in the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism. Genome-wide significant association was found with several SNPs on chromosome 21 in KCNJ6 (a potassium inward rectifier channel; KIR3.2/GIRK2), with the most significant SNP at P = 4.7 × 10−10). The same SNPs were also associated with EROs from central and parietal electrodes, but with less significance, suggesting that the association is frontally focused. One imputed synonymous SNP in exon four, highly correlated with our top three SNPs, was significantly associated with the frontal theta ERO phenotype. These results suggest KCNJ6 or its product GIRK2 account for some of the variations in frontal theta band oscillations. GIRK2 receptor activation contributes to slow inhibitory postsynaptic potentials that modulate neuronal excitability, and therefore influence neuronal networks.
Forging Papal Authority: Charters from the Monastery of Montier-en-Der

En contrefaisant les documents du pape a une epoque difficile, les moines benedictins de Montier-en-Der ont cherche a montrer qu'ils avaient des allies puissants qui leur viendraient en aide si les comtes et les eveques locaux ne les aidaient pas. Cette confection de privileges papaux qui constitue une ligne de defense a ete un phenomene nouveau dans la seconde moitie du 11e siecle. L'A. etudie les contrefacons de Der, discute la nature d'un faux et montre qu'ils ont principalement ete crees dans les annees 1060 et 1070. Avec ces faux, les moines ont pu prendre part a l'autorite ecclesiastique a son plus haut degre. Avant, ils avaient ete sporadiquememnt sujets de l'autorite laique arbitraire locale, alors que la ils se sont consideres comme des sujets du pape, proteges par lui. Les faussaires ont imagine un passe dans lequel les papes ont agi en protegeant leurs possessions et ont excommunie leurs ennemis. Pendant deux generations, le passe imaginaire est devenu un present reel grâce aux contrefacons.
Cognitive Vulnerability to Depression in Children: An Idiographic, Longitudinal Examination of Inferential Styles

The present study examined the applicability of the hopelessness theory in children in the third grade. Participants included 206 students (111 boys and 95 girls) whose average age was 8.47 (SD = 0.56) years. Participants completed self-report measures assessing inferential styles at baseline, and negative events and depressive symptoms six times over a 7 weeks period. Results showed that depressogenic inferential styles concerning the self interacted with negative events to predict depressive symptoms during the follow-up, and that depressogenic inferential style for causes did not. These findings are believed to help resolve past controversy concerning inferential styles by suggesting that depressogenic inferential styles predict depressive symptoms even at a young age. Methodological and clinical implications from the present study are discussed.
Growth inhibition and recovery in roots following temporary treatment with auxin

Continuous recording (streak photography) of elongation of roots treated with IAA (10–6–10–7M) showed that removal of IAA from the nutrient solution resulted in a rapid resumption of elongation, unless the IAA treatment was shorter than 60 min. If it was shorter, the recovery was delayed, so that it occurred about 1 hour after the beginning of the treatment, independently of the duration of the treatment, down to 4 min. This behavior of roots was observed in all the species investigated (corn, pea, sunflower, onion), also in response to NAA and 2,4-D. This time lag in recovery of elongation after brief auxin treatment is discussed in connection with the radial concentration gradient of auxin in the root imposed by external auxin. The possible role of a radial gradient of auxin (concentration decreasing with distance from the center) in the control of root elongation is suggested.
Trends and factors associated with the Day 5 embryo transfer, assisted reproductive technology surveillance, USA, 2001–2009

main results and the role of chance: Overall, the proportion of ART cycles using the Day 5 embryo transfer increased from 12% in 2001 to 36% in 2009 (P , 0.0001), while the mean number of embryos transferred decreased from 2.4 to 2.1 (P , 0.0001). Among Day 5 transfers, the rate of the single embryo transfer tripled from 4.5% in 2001 to 14.8% in 2009 (P , 0.0001); and the rate of multiple births decreased from 44.8 to 41.1% (P , 0.0001). In cycles initiated after 2001, maternal age ,35 years, no prior ART cycles, ≥1 prior pregnancies, baseline follicle stimulating hormone ,10 international units and ≥10 oocytes retrieved were associated with the Day 5 embryo transfer. Compared with 2001, in 2009, a broader range of candidates received the Day 5 transfer. bias: Women undergoing multiple ART cycles over time are not linked. confounding factors and other reasons for caution: We ran multivariable logistic regression to lessen the effects of the confounding factors. Cycle cancelation rates by the day of embryo transfer are unknown. generalizability to other populations: Generalizable to ART clinics included in NASS. study funding/competing interests: This study was funded by the Centres for Disease Control. The authors have no competing interests to declare.
Low-cost on-line test for digital filters

A low-cost on-line test scheme for digital filters is proposed. The scheme uses an invariant of the digital filter, the frequency response at specific points, in order to detect possible malfunctioning of the circuit. The analysis performed indicates that 100% fault secureness is possible, if certain design constraints are followed.
Wisdom and Humanity: Remarks Honoring Dr. Bernard Weiner

When I was much younger, and in graduate school, I published my first article. I was proud of it, and ordered reprints — with covers — and presented one to my parents. My mother, whose father had written for the Yiddish papers in Russia was quite proud and praised me. My father, who was a businessman, on the other hand asked me what they paid me for the article. When I replied “nothing,” he asked me: “Then why did you do it?”
Adrenergic mediation of the intestinal antisecretory action of opiates administered into the central nervous system

The antisecretory effects of the stable enkephalin analogs, [D-Ala2-Met5] enkephalinamide (DAMA) and [D-Ala2-D-Leu5] enkephalin, and the opiate drug morphine were evaluated on fluid secretion induced by cholera toxin in isolated loops of the jejunum and proximal and distal ileum in anesthetized rats. Intracerebroventricular administration of DAMA (0.03-3 micrograms) or [D-Ala2-D-Leu5] enkephalin (1.0-10 micrograms) dose-dependently reduced secretion in the jejunum without affecting fluid movement in the other small intestinal segments. Morphine in doses up to 30 micrograms i.c.v. had no significant antisecretory effects. Intravenous administration of DAMA, at doses up to 3000 micrograms/kg, had little effect on intestinal fluid accumulation. The antisecretory action of DAMA (3 micrograms i.c.v.) was completely blocked by pretreatment with the alpha adrenergic antagonist phentolamine and after peripheral sympathectomy induced by guanethidine. In contrast, DAMA activity was preserved in adrenal demedullated rats. DAMA had no significant effects upon mean arterial blood pressure or on blood acid-base balance. These results suggest that the antisecretory effects of opiates are, at least partly, mediated at sites within the central nervous system. These actions are probably a consequence of increased activity in sympathetic nerve fibers innervating the upper small intestine.
More than One Way to Skin a Burmese Python: Multiple Possibilities for Fixing the Invasive Species Problem in the United States

Forget the war on drugs. What the United States needs is a war on invasive species. This thesis will explain the problem of invasive species, examine laws that directly or indirectly regulate invasive species, and then propose several solutions, including a comprehensive Federal statute on non-native species, and a new federal framework on biosecurity, similar to that in New Zealand.Part 1 examines the problems non-native species pose to America. Part 2 looks at the strength and deficiencies of current international, federal, state, and local laws regulating non-native species, such as CITES, the Lacey Act, and Great Lakes Aquatic Nuisance Species Act of 2005. Part 3 explores a variety of statutory and common law mechanisms that are not explicitly for non-native species regulation, but may be applied towards the issue, including the takings clause of the Endangered Species Act, the Clean Water Act, and public nuisance liability. Part 4 explores the question of whether we need a comprehensive statute, and evaluates comprehensive non-native species legislation in other countries, such as New Zealand’s Biosecurity Act. Part 5 examines other possible solutions, such as H.R. 669, the Nonnative Wildlife Invasion Prevention Act, a proposed federal non-native species statute, examining its strengths and weaknesses, and also whether fitting an invasive species center in the context of Homeland Security would be feasible and useful.
Responses of Spinothalamic Lamina I Neurons to Repeated Brief Contact Heat Stimulation in the Cat

It was recently shown that repeated heat stimulation, using brief contacts (<1 s) with a preheated thermode at sufficiently short interstimulus intervals (ISIs <5 s) and high temperatures (≥51°C), ...
Twin Spots on Leaves of Homozygous Cotton Plants

pected yellow and singed spots, and the yellow and the singed single spots occurred from the separation of the linked y and sn genes by somatic crossing over in the four-strand stage. Jones15 reported paired and unpaired spots initol\.ing several genes determining color and texture differences in the triploid aleurone layer of the maize endosperm. T h e aleurone tissue was heterozygous A a a o r A A a , depending on the genotype of the pollen and seed parents for each gene considered. Nondisjunction, deletion, incomplete fertilization, and mutations were given as possible explanations for the occurrence o f single spots. A hypothesis of somatic crossing over appeared t o fit many of the observations o n twin spots, but Jones held some reservations on the acceptance of that explanation. Vig and Paddock" observed apparent somatic recombination a t the Y,, locus in soybeans. Incomplete dominance was expressed by Y,,, in tha t Y , , Y1, was normal green. Y1,?.l, was l ~ g h t green a n d y l , y l , was greenish yellow. Unpaired and paired spots of normal green (YI Y,, I and greenish yellow (y I Iy1 , ) were observed on the two simple leaves and the first compound leaf of a heterozygous Y, , y I , light-green plant. Trea tment with mitomycin C, a chemical known to increase somatic crossing over in a number of organisms, increased both single and twin spots but dispropor-
Study of Turbulent Spray Combustion of N-Dodecane Fuel

Turbulent spray combustion of n-dodecane fuel was studied numerically in current paper. The ignition delay, lift-off length, combustion chamber pressure rise, fuel penetration and vapor mass fraction were compared with experimental data. n-Dodecane kinetic model was studied by using a recently developed mechanism. The combustion chamber pressure rise was modeled and compared with experiments; the result was corrected for speed-of-sound to find the ignition delay timing in comparison with pressure-based ignition delay measurement. Species time histories and reaction paths at low and high temperature combustion are modeled and studied at two conditions, 900 K and 1200 K combustion chamber temperatures. The modeled species mass histories were discussed to define the first-stage and total ignition delay timings. Among all of the studied species in this work, including OH, Hydroperoxyalkyl mass history can be utilized to determine the exact timing of luminosity-based ignition delay. Moreover, n-dodecane vapor penetration can be used to determine the luminosity-based ignition delay.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Thermodynamic Basis of Selectivity in the Interactions of Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinases N-domains with Matrix Metalloproteinases-1, -3, and -14.

The four tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are potent inhibitors of the many matrixins (MMPs), except that TIMP1 weakly inhibits some MMPs, including MMP14. The broad-spectrum inhibition of MMPs by TIMPs and their N-domains (NTIMPs) is consistent with the previous isothermal titration calorimetric finding that their interactions are entropy-driven but differ in contributions from solvent and conformational entropy (ΔSsolv, ΔSconf), estimated using heat capacity changes (ΔCp). Selective engineered NTIMPs have potential applications for treating MMP-related diseases, including cancer and cardiomyopathy. Here we report isothermal titration calorimetric studies of the effects of selectivity-modifying mutations in NTIMP1 and NTIMP2 on the thermodynamics of their interactions with MMP1, MMP3, and MMP14. The weak inhibition of MMP14 by NTIMP1 reflects a large conformational entropy penalty for binding. The T98L mutation, peripheral to the NTIMP1 reactive site, enhances binding by increasing ΔSsolv but also reduces ΔSconf. However, the same mutation increases NTIMP1 binding to MMP3 in an interaction that has an unusual positive ΔCp. This indicates a decrease in solvent entropy compensated by increased conformational entropy, possibly reflecting interactions involving alternative conformers. The NTIMP2 mutant, S2D/S4A is a selective MMP1 inhibitor through electrostatic effects of a unique MMP-1 arginine. Asp-2 increases reactive site polarity, reducing ΔCp, but increases conformational entropy to maintain strong binding to MMP1. There is a strong negative correlation between ΔSsolv and ΔSconf for all characterized interactions, but the data for each MMP have characteristic ranges, reflecting intrinsic differences in the structures and dynamics of their free and inhibitor-bound forms.
A Raspberry PI cluster and Geiger counter supporting random number acquisition in the CS Operating Systems class

Device interaction and file systems design is an important part of the computer science Operating Systems course. The system to be demonstrated in this work interfaces a commercial Geiger counter module with a cluster of Raspberry PI computers running Linux to provide timestamps between background radiation events. These time intervals are acquired and used by students to generate "true" random numbers. Seamlessly networked into the CS department servers, students remotely access the cluster and build their own File Systems in User Space (FUSE) to provide access to both random numbers and background radiation counts. Collectively, the hardware and software provide an inexpensive remote laboratory experience for the computing students.
Preliminary simulations of the groundwater flow within the mountain ranges by MODFLOW

The upper reach of the Daduma River located in the Qilian Mountains was choosen as the study area.The MODFLOW model was applied to simulate the groundwater flow in the mountainous region using the equivalent porous medium based on DEM and some other hydrological data.Considering the complex topography and large fluctuations of groundwater table,we took the rivers as "leaky" boundaries and built two models representing different thickness of the active layer of groundwater.The model was first calibrated qualitatively through the review of literature and the scattered local hydrological data.Preliminary results showed that the ratio of mountain block recharge to the precipitation of model a and model b is 2.76% and0.103% respectively.The ratio of the base flow to the surface runoff of model a and model b is 79.307% and of 77.570% respectively.The evaporation and precipitation recharge of the two models are 36% and 67%.The simulations enabled us to understand the groundwater flow in fractured rock in the data-lacking high elevation mountain watersheds,which can provide a reference for further study.
Thoracic esophageal diverticula; report of three cases.

A review of intrathoracic esophageal diverticula has been presented. Diverticula are considered either epibronchial or epiphrenic by their point of origin in the intrathoracic esophagus. The pathogenesis, symptomatology, complications, and methods of diagnosis of each has been presented. The surgical treatment of epibronchial diverticula is indicated for complications. Small, asymptomatic epiphrenial diverticula are treated conservatively; diverticula that are symptomatic or large and retain barium should be removed surgically. The treatment of choice is a transpleural diverticulectomy. The technical details of this procedure as performed by the authors has been recorded.
Thyroid hormonal responses to intensive interval versus steady-state endurance exercise sessions

To compare the thyroid hormonal responses to high-intensity interval exercise (IE) and steady-state endurance exercise (SEE) in highly trained males (n=15). The IE session consisted of repeated periods of 90-seconds treadmill running at 100–110% VO2max and 90-seconds active recovery at 40% VO2max for 42–47 minutes. The SEE session was a 45-minute run at 60–65% VO2max. Total work output was equal for each session. A 45-minute supine rest control session (CON) was also performed. Pre-session (PRE), immediate post-session (POST), and 12-hours post-session (12POST) blood samples were collected and used to determine free (f) T4, fT3, reverse (r) T3, and cortisol levels. All PRE hormone levels were within clinical norms and did not differ significantly between sessions. All POST IE and SEE hormone levels were significantly elevated compared to POST CON (p<0.001). At 12POST, no significant differences between CON and SEE hormonal levels were observed; however, fT3 was significantly reduced and rT3 was significantly elevated in 12POST IE compared to 12POST SEE and CON (p=0.022). For IE, at 12POST a negative correlation (rs = -0.70, p<0.004) was found between fT3 and rT3. Also, for IE, a positive correlation (rs = 0.74, p<0.002) between cortisol POST and rT3 12POST was noted, and a negative correlation (rs = -0.72, p<0.003) between cortisol POST and fT3 12POST. IE results in a suppressed peripheral conversion of T4 to T3 implying that a longer recovery period is necessary for hormonal levels to return to normal following IE compared to SEE. These findings are useful in the implementation of training regimens relative to recovery needs and prevention of over-reaching -overtraining.
Strong correlations between vacancy and magnetic ordering in superconducting K 0.8 Fe 2 -y Se 2

The coexistence of magnetic and nonmagnetic phases in the superconducting potassium iron selenide, ${\mathrm{K}}_{x}{\mathrm{Fe}}_{2\ensuremath{-}y}{\mathrm{Se}}_{2}$, has been intensely debated. With superconductivity proposed to appear in a stoichiometric, nonmagnetic phase with I4/mmm crystal symmetry, the proposed nonsuperconducting phase is magnetic and has a lower symmetry, I4/m. The latter consists of Fe vacancies that go through a disordered-to-ordered transition in which the partially filled Fe sites create a supercell upon ordering. We show, using neutron scattering on the optimally doped composition, ${\mathrm{K}}_{0.8}{\mathrm{Fe}}_{2\ensuremath{-}y}{\mathrm{Se}}_{2}$, that the absence of magnetism does not signal the presence of superconductivity. Moreover, the degree of vacancy order is coupled to the strength of the magnetic order. Superconductivity coincides with the presence of the magnetic order parameter, albeit the latter is significantly weaker than previously reported, contradicting the current understanding of this $\ensuremath{\sim}30\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K}$ superconductor.
Unexpected Arrivals The Spillover Effects of Mid-Year Entry on Stable Student Achievement in New York City

Across the country and in urban areas in particular, many students change schools during the academic year. While much research documents the impact of changing schools on the academic achievement ...
β-Adrenergic Bronchodilators

There are many useful β -adrenergic bronchodilators available now or soon to be available. Better drugs will be developed as our understanding of mechanisms and methods for clinical study improve to allow for their proper use. Thoughtful utilization of the agents that are available can provide meaningful relief to a great number of patients.
A seat at the table is not enough: understanding women’s substantive representation in peace processes

AbstractWhile the international community stresses the importance of including women at the peace table so peace processes will better represent their needs and interests, it is unclear what specifically this inclusion entails. Do women need to be negotiators, mediators? Do peace agreements adequately represent women’s interests when women are included? This article engages UNSC Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security as a framework through which to assess peace processes and agreements. A woman-focused examination of all civil war peace processes reveals that less than 10% meet women’s inclusion as envisioned in UNSCR 1325. This article focuses on the three conditions accounting for women’s substantive representation in peacebuilding. What emerges are three joint necessities: an explicit women’s agenda; access to the peace process; and advocacy within the process. The final sections problematise how even in all of these positive cases women had to fight to participate.
Preoperative Preparation of the Patient Undergoing Incisional Hernia Repair: Optimizing Chances for Success

Recurrence rates following successful incisional hernia repair are reported to be between 10 and 60 %. Although most recurrences occur within 2 years of repair, they can recur for up to 30 years, with repairs of recurrent hernias having an even higher recurrence rate. Although some causes of hernia recurrences are related to surgical technique, several patient factors contribute profoundly to hernia recurrence by delaying wound healing, or actually causing necrosis or absorption of connective tissue. Modifiable factors, such as smoking, obesity, and hyperglycemia should be addressed and corrected before elective repair, if possible. By eliminating or reducing these factors, one optimizes a patient’s chance of undergoing successful hernia repair without recurrence, post-op infectious complications, or delayed wound healing.
MOS-type ring resonators and lasers on the hybrid IU-V-on-Si platform

We have developed a hybrid metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitor structure for optical application. Extremely high tuning efficiency in MOS-type ring resonators and lasers were achieved by introducing plasma dispersion effect. The wavelength tuning power efficiency in lasers is increased by 7 orders compared with thermal tuning.
Hemostasis Management during Adult Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Shot in the Dark?

1Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, 22 South Greene Street S11C00, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA 2Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, 22 South Greene Street S8D12, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA *Corresponding author Michael Mazzeffi, MD Assistant Professor Department of Anesthesiology School of Medicine University of Maryland 22 South Greene Street S11C00 Baltimore, MD 21201, USA Tel. 410-328-4752 Fax: 410-328-5531 E-mail: mmazzeffi@anes.umm.edu