cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Water from the rock: Ancient aquatic angiosperms flow from the fossil record

The world of 120 million years ago was one of dynamic biological processes. During that time the flowering plants emerged as the dominant global floristic element, a transformative event that ultimately altered the character of the entire planet. Understandably, the rapid rise of angiosperms has intrigued paleoecologists and evolutionary biologists, who have strived to elucidate underlying explanations for their successful radiation. Lamented by Charles Darwin as “an abominable mystery” (1), the abrupt appearance of angiosperms and their sudden burst of diversification in the fossil record continues to captivate contemporary plant systematists, who have sought a solution by incorporating massive amounts of DNA sequence data in comparative phylogenetic studies of extant species. However, despite extensive technological advances in genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics, which have revolutionized plant research over the past decades, our comprehension of life on earth during such ancient times continues to rely primarily on one data source: the fossil record. In PNAS, Gomez et al. (2) uncover an important clue to Darwin’s mystery by their analyses of Monteschia vidalii, an enigmatic plant fossil from Barremian deposits in Spain. Their reinterpretation of these fossils provides a new perspective that allies Monteschia not only with the angiosperms, but specifically with extant members of the order Ceratophyllales, a group of considerable interest in debates concerning the origin of flowering plants. The characterization of these early plants as highly specialized aquatics also offers novel interpretations regarding the ecological characteristics of early angiosperms.
Cellular Commitment to Radiation-Induced Apoptosis

Abstract Almasan, A. Cellular Commitment to Radiation-Induced Apoptosis. The basic elements of the machinery of programmed cell death (apoptosis) are built into all mammalian cells and are conserved evolutionarily from nematodes to humans. The workshop on Commitment to Radiation-Induced Apoptosis at the 11th International Congress of Radiation Research in Dublin, Ireland reviewed recent information regarding the basic molecular mechanisms which are fundamental to the understanding of the process of apoptosis after treatment with ionizing radiation and some other agents.
STEMBORERS ASSOCIATED WITH SMOOTH CORDGRASS, SPARTINA ALTERNIFLORA (POACEAE), IN A NURSERY HABITAT

Abstract Extensive ecological studies have been conducted on insects inhabiting native stands of smooth cordgrass, Spartina alterniflora Loisel; however, this is not the case for insects found in smooth cordgrass in a nursery habitat. We investigated species composition and larval disposition among stemborers (Lepidoptera: Coleophoridae and Crambidae) infesting stems of smooth cordgrass in nursery plots. One thousand and forty stems of smooth cordgrass were randomly selected in 2003 and examined for presence of stemborer larvae. Height of larvae on or within stem, height of stem from ground level to top-visible dewlap, and condition of the leaf-whorl were documented. Stemborers representing six species of Lepidoptera were recovered. These species were Blastobasis graminea Adamski (Lepidoptera: Coleophoridae); a four-species complex comprised of Diatraea saccharalis (F.), Chilo demotellus Walker, Chilo plejadellus Zincken, and Thaumatopsis probably actuella Barnes & McDunnough (Lepidoptera: Crambidae); and...
Dose-Response Relationship Between Arsenic Inhalation Exposure and Risk of Lung Cancer

A curvilinear relationship between cumulative dose of arsenic and the risk of lung cancer death has been observed in three cohorts of smelter workers. In several studies with quantified indices of exposure, the estimated relative risk appears to increase more steeply at low cumulative doses of arsenic than at high doses. Because linearity has frequently served as a default assumption in risk assessment, understanding this concave downward dose-response curve is of critical importance. There are a number of possible explanations for the progressively flatter slope with increasing exposure to arsenic, the most plausible of which include: (1) systematic errors in measurement or assessment of exposure, (2) competing risks from other exposure-related causes of death, (3) a healthy worker effect in which “job leaving” is related to susceptibility to disease, and (4) an exposure-dependent synergism with smoking. The evidence for each of these is discussed, and implications for extrapolating from occupational arsenic exposure to low-level environmental exposure are explored.
Vocal repertoire of the social Mashona mole-rat (Fukomys darlingi) and how it compares with other mole-rats

AbstractVocalizations play a major role in communication of mammals with subterranean lifestyles since other senses are dramatically restricted in the environment of below ground burrows. In our study, we recorded vocalizations of 10 adult males and 10 adult females of a social bathyergid, the Mashona mole-rat (Fukomys darlingi) in different behavioural contexts. Vocalizations were divided into four categories according to behavioural contexts. Similar to other subterranean mammals, the range of Mashona mole-rat calls is shifted towards lower frequencies. We described 10 types of true vocal signals and 2 mechanical sounds. The vocal repertoire of the Mashona mole-rat is less rich compared to other social mole-rats, corresponding with its low mean family size. Interestingly, this species has a higher diversity in contact and distress calls, while using a relatively low number of aggressive signals.
Observation of the surface photoelectric effect of metals: Surface photoyield spectra of aluminum

Surface photoemission spectra of metals have been discussed theoretically since Sommerfeld developed his model of a metal in 1928, the so-called jellium model. The subject is still highly controversial among theorists. A spectroscopic technique — surface photoemission spectroscopy on jellium (SPJ) — which fully exploits the properties of synchrotron radiation, made it possible to separate unambiguously the photoyield caused by the surface photoelectric effect of metals optically excited byp-polarized light from other contributions to the yield. The technique was applied to aluminum and surface photoyield spectra were obtained for the first time. The extreme surface sensitivity, which is implicit in the transition matrix element of the surface photoexcitation process of metals, was experimentally confirmed. The new technique, therefore, provides one of the most powerfull tools for the investigation of the charge distribution and the dielectric response at metal surfaces.
A rapid micro P 50 determination method to ascertain the position of the oxygen dissociation curve of whole blood.

A study of P50 (pO2 at 50% saturation, 37 C., pH 7.4) values determined by classic tonometry methods on blood samples which were studied at the same time by the micromixing technic described indicates that the microtechnic was much more rapidly and easily performed and was of comparable accuracy. One can perform three to six micro P50 determinations in the time it takes to perform one classic tonometry determination using three to four points on the curve.
Drug Therapy of Migraine

Migraine is an episodic headache that is unilateral or bilateral, pulsating in quality, moderate to severe in intensity, and exacerbated by physical activity. Associated symptoms include nausea or vomiting, photophobia, and phonophobia. The disorder is classified as migraine with aura (previously called classic migraine) and migraine without aura (previously called common migraine), according to the presence or absence, respectively, of premonitory neurologic symptoms1. The pathophysiology of migraine is clearly related to disordered brain physiology, although neither the details nor the cause is known. The positive (stimulative) followed by negative (suppressive) neurologic symptoms of the aura and the slow spread . . .
Using in-cell SHAPE-Seq and simulations to probe structure–function design principles of RNA transcriptional regulators

Antisense RNA-mediated transcriptional regulators are powerful tools for controlling gene expression and creating synthetic gene networks. RNA transcriptional repressors derived from natural mechanisms called attenuators are particularly versatile, though their mechanistic complexity has made them difficult to engineer. Here we identify a new structure-function design principle for attenuators that enables the forward engineering of new RNA transcriptional repressors. Using in-cell SHAPE-Seq to characterize the structures of attenuator variants within Escherichia coli, we show that attenuator hairpins that facilitate interaction with antisense RNAs require interior loops for proper function. Molecular dynamics simulations of these attenuator variants suggest these interior loops impart structural flexibility. We further observe hairpin flexibility in the cellular structures of natural RNA mechanisms that use antisense RNA interactions to repress translation, confirming earlier results from in vitro studies. Finally, we design new transcriptional attenuators in silico using an interior loop as a structural requirement and show that they function as desired in vivo. This work establishes interior loops as an important structural element for designing synthetic RNA gene regulators. We anticipate that the coupling of experimental measurement of cellular RNA structure and function with computational modeling will enable rapid discovery of structure-function design principles for a diverse array of natural and synthetic RNA regulators.
498 UNUSUAL MANIFESTATION OF DISSEMINATED COCCIDIODOMYCOSIS IN YOUNG IMMUNOCOMPETENT SUBJECTS WITH RETICULOENDOTHELIAL INVOLVEMENT.

Introduction We present case series with three patients presenting at our institution within this past year with no significant past medical history and no history of immunocompromise presenting with reticuloendothelial involvement from coccidiodomycosis. Case 1 A 24-year-old previously healthy, currently incarcerated African American man presented with a 2-month history of anorexia, 10 lb weight loss, and vomiting. There was no fever or chills. On examination he had hepatosplenomegaly, severe anemia, leukocytosis, and low platelets. CT of the abdomen showed marked splenomegaly. A bone marrow biopsy and culture showed focal granuloma with cocci. On day 14, he had exploratory laparotomy with splenectomy; the liver was enlarged and mottled. The specimens from the spleen and liver showed many cocci spherules. He developed refractory shock and died after 18 days. Case 2 A 39-year-old incarcerated white male presented with fever, abdominal pain, and distention for 1 week. On examination he was febrile and tachycardic. He had ascites with no guarding or rigidity. CT scan of the abdomen showed large amount of ascites and infiltration of mesentery diffusely, with lymphadenopathy suggestive of malignancy. Peritoneal biopsies revealed granulomas and spherules of cocci. Two weeks into the hospital course he improved clinically. Case 3 A previously healthy 31-year-old Hispanic presented with fever, generalized weakness, jaundice, abdominal pain, and 30 lb weight loss for 2 months. On examination she was a febrile and tachycardic. She had scleral icterus. Examination revealed a soft, diffusely tender abdomen with ascites, without rebound. Laboratory tests showed anemia, thrombocytopenia, and coagulopathy. Ferritin was 37,000. CT of the abdomen showed diffuse adenopathy, ascites, and hepatosplenomegaly. The patient expired on day 3. Discussion There are some veterinary case reports of splenic involvement, but cocci affecting spleen giving rise to clinical symptoms has not been reported in the humans. Also, peritoneal infiltration and lymphadenopathy have been reported only once before. Such profound involvent of the reticuloendothelial system is not often described in the literature. This case report should make physicians aware that coccidiodomycosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of obscure presentations in endemic regions, irrespective of race, immune status, or comorbid conditions.
Participatory environmental management:Public participation in urban environment construction projects in Yunnan Province

Participatory environmental management was examined through analysis of the primary stakeholders in urban environment construction projects in Yunnan Province and their key roles in the projects.It is suggested that target groups be involved in the urban environment construction projects,and urban environmental management be carried out through public participation.
A New Model for Evaluating Soil Corrosion of Long-distance Transmission Pipeline

According to those complicated, changeable and not determinable features of corrosive factors for long-distance burying transmission pipelines, this paper puts forward a new model to evaluate the pipeline soil corrosion, i.e., applying grey conjunction to determine the sequence of soil corrosive factors, then using improved analytic hierarchy process to analyze and determine weight of each factor, finally, establishing a subjection function along with fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to evaluate the corrosive conditions of pipeline in service.
Properties of Aviation Kerosene/Pentacyclo[5.4.0.0~(2,6).0~(3,10).0~(5,9)]undecane Blending Fuel

Pentacyclo[5.4.0.0~(2.6).0~(3,6).0~(3,10).0~(5,9)]undecane(PCU) is a compound with potential application in high energy density caged hydrocarbon compounds.PCU as a high-energy additive can enhance the energy level of the liquid hydrocarbon fuel.The results show PCU has a combustion heat 44.5 MJ · kg~(-1) and is insensitive to impact and friction.The physico-chemical properties of blending fuel which is composed of aviation kerosene RP-3 and PCU were studied.Results show that the saturated solution of mass fraction of PCU in kerosene RP-3 at 25 ℃ reaches 44.6%.When mass fraction of PCU in the blending fuel reaches 25%,in comparison with pure aviation kerosene RP-3,the density and volumetric heat content of the blending fuel increase by 7.8%and 9.5%,respectively,the flash point of the blending fuel increases from 48 ℃ to 49 ℃,and the freezing point of the blending fuel decreases from-59 ℃ to-62 ℃.The viscosity of the blending fuel at-40 ℃,is between 6.99 mm~2 · s~(-1) and 13.64 mm~2 · s~(-1).The blending fuel with 10%PCU can perform smooth ignition and stable combustion on a scram jet direct-connect test facility.PCU makes the supersonic combustion pressure of aviation kerosene RP-3 increase from 327 kPa to 339 kPa.
A Multielement Community Medicine Curriculum for the Family Medicine Clerkship.

Abstract Introduction Many medical schools provide opportunities for students to learn about health disparities, social determinants of health, and the role physicians play in promoting health equi...
SU-F-J-141: Real-Time Position Management (RPM) System as a Valuable Tool to Predict Tumor Position Deviation in SBRT Lung and Liver Patients with Breath Hold Using Active Breathing Coordinator (ABC)

Purpose: ABC is a breath-hold technique for SBRT treatments. At our institution, three CTs with ABC are acquired at simulation to check the breath-hold consistency because tumor position may deviate among three scans. The purpose of this study was to determine whether RPM can predict tumor position deviation in SBRT breath-hold treatments with ABC. Methods: Five SBRT lung and five SBRT liver patients were selected. An RPM block was placed on the patients between the xiphoid and the umbilicus. RPM recorded patients’ anterior-posterior skin surface positions during breath holds with ABC. For each patient, three CTs (ABC1, ABC2, ABC3) were acquired at the same breath-hold level. ABC2 and ABC3 CTs were rigidly registered to ABC1 CT. Tumor position deviations were measured on the fused CTs (ABC2 with ABC1, ABC3 with ABC1) and compared to the corresponding RPM position shifts. Linear regression, k-means clustering, and decision tree classifier were used to determine the relationship between RPM position shifts and tumor position deviations. Results: Tumor position deviations were 0.4–8.7 mm for lung patients and 1.6–9.1 mm for liver patients. There were no significant linear correlations between RPM position shifts and tumor position deviations for both lung (R2=0.20) and liver (R2=0.45) patients. In contrast, decision tree classification showed that the RPM position shift of 3.45 mm or more indicated tumor position deviation >5 mm for lower lobe lung tumors and liver tumors that are close to the diaphragm. Conclusion: RPM position shifts are not linearly correlated with tumor position deviations. However, RPM can be used to predict large tumor position deviations (>5 mm) among three ABC CTs in SBRT for lower lobe lung tumors and liver tumors and to validate the breath-hold consistency with the ABC technique. Therefore, RPM has the potential to replace the additional verification CT scans.
Service Learning as the New Lab School: Engaging Pre-service Art Educators Within Local Communities of Art and Knowledge

In this chapter, I share two service-learning collaborations between pre-service art educators and young children within their local community at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Pre-service art educators were not only provided with the opportunity to work with a variety of educational approaches, including the Reggio Emilia approach and choice-based art education, but also to make meaningful connections with the local aesthetic and artistic communities. I will describe each aspect of the collaborations: (1) their structures and how they were integrated in our elementary methods and community-based and museum course, (2) the service-learning components, and (3) the pre-service art educators’ curriculum designs. Those designs included an emphasis on both local artists and art sites. The pre-service educators used the process of pedagogical documentation to document and to reflect upon these experiences and how they might shape their understandings of themselves, learners, and their future educational practice. The benefits of these collaborations for both pre-service art educators and the community include strengthened relationships with community members and stakeholders, increased sense of connection to the local community, awareness of artists and local art forms that might go unnoticed or are not typically included in curriculum, and enriched professional networks. In conclusion, the service-learning experiences have shifted students’ foci from campus-based experiences to the wider communities surrounding them, a necessary and useful movement in their professional preparation.
Impact of a Community Dental Access Program on Emergency Dental Admissions in Rural Maryland.

Objectives. To characterize the expansion of a community dental access program (CDP) in rural Maryland providing urgent dental care to low-income individuals, as well as the CDP’s impact on dental-related visits to a regional emergency department (ED).Methods. We used de-identified CDP and ED claims data to construct a data set of weekly counts of CDP visits and dental-related ED visits among Maryland adults. A time series model examined the association over time between visits to the CDP and ED visits for fiscal years (FYs) 2011 through 2015.Results. The CDP served approximately 1600 unique clients across 2700 visits during FYs 2011 through 2015. The model suggested that if the CDP had not provided services during that time period, about 670 more dental-related visits to the ED would have occurred, resulting in $215 000 more in charges.Conclusions. Effective ED dental diversion programs can result in substantial cost savings to taxpayers, and more appropriate and cost-effective care for the patient.Polic...
Activity of NAD-Dependent Dehydrogenase Enzyme of Lactic Streptococci on Acetaldehyde and n-Hexanal 1.

Alcohol dehydrogenase (alcohol:NAD oxidoreductase, E.C. 1.1.1.1) activity was observed on acetaldehyde and n-hexanal in homogenized cell extract of Steptococcus lactis C2. Substrate inhibition was apparent at levels of n-hexanal above 4.0 mM. Increased centrifugal force from 12.000 × g for 20 min to 350,000 × g for 1 h resulted in increased specific activity in the cell-extract supernatant fluids. Aldehyde dehydrogenase (aldehyde: NAD oxidoreductose; E.C. 1.2.1.3) was not detected in any of the cell extracts. A possible involvement of the enzyme system with flavor modification in lactic-fermented oilseed milk is suggested.
Glucocorticoids: Inflammation and Immunity

Glucocorticoids are universally prescribed as the drug of choice for the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. These stress hormones act through their cognate glucocorticoid receptor to regulate transcription of various target genes. The mechanisms of glucocorticoid action are often cell type dependent and involve the regulation of thousands of genes. Glucocorticoids have a tremendous impact on the immune system during inflammation including effects on the plasticity, survival, and function of immune cells. This chapter highlights the dynamic effects of glucocorticoids in regards to both physiological and pathological conditions during inflammation. We address issues involving classical and alternative mechanisms of glucocorticoid inhibition, the effect on innate and adaptive immunity, glucocorticoid tissue-specific actions, and their role in target immune cells.
The contribution of cell culture to the study of renal diseases.

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on contribution of cell culture to the study of renal diseases. The utilization of cell culture to investigate normal and pathophysiological processes of the renal tubule has increased dramatically in the past decade. Some have used isolated cells simply as a means of obtaining sufficiently separated cell populations to be able to verify that a population contains different cell types. The cultured cells manifest most of the transport properties of the intact kidney. They are uniquely suited to dissection by micromethodology and biochemical techniques, they undergo adaptive modifications and responses to hormonal stimuli, and the different transport characteristics of various cell lines, naturally occurring mutants, and oncogenically transformed mutants can be used to experimental advantage. In addition, cultured cells are particularly suited for studies directed at the genetic regulation of transport processes. The limitations of cellular material available with cultures from microdissected tubule segments have led to the development of macroseparation techniques for the establishment of primary cell cultures. An advantage of established cell lines is the ease with which large amounts of cells can be obtained for experimentation. However, disadvantages, in addition to the existence of multiple cell types, include the lack of expression of the complete phenotype of the cell of origin and the potential for alterations in the phenotypic pattern after multiple passages.
Genetic susceptibility to toxicologic lung responses among inbred mouse strains following exposure to carbon nanotubes and profiling of underlying gene networks

The risk of human exposure to fiber nanoparticles has risen in recent years due to increases in the manufacture and utilization of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). CNTs are present as airborne particulates in occupational settings and their hazard potential has been demonstrated in experimental lung exposure studies using inbred mouse strains. However, it is not known whether different inbred strains differ in lung responses to CNTs by virtue of their genetics. In this work, common inbred strains (BALB/c, C57Bl/6, DBA/2, and C3H/He) were exposed to CNTs via oropharyngeal aspiration and lung histology and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples were evaluated over 28days with the objective of evaluating sensitivity/resistance among strains. C57Bl/6 mice developed significantly more extensive type II pneumocyte (T2P) hyperplasia and alveolar infiltrate compared to DBA/2 mice, which were resistant. Surprisingly, DBA/2 but not C57Bl/6 mice were extremely sensitive to increases in leukocytes recovered in BAL fluid. Underlying global gene expression patterns in the two strains were compared using mRNA sequencing to investigate regulatory networks associated with the different effects. The impact of exposure on gene networks regulating various aspects of immune response and cell survival was limited in DBA/2 mice compared to C57Bl/6. Investigation of B6D2F1 (C57Bl/6×DBA/2 hybrid) mice demonstrated inheritance of sensitivity to CNT exposures in regard to toxicologic lung pathology and BAL leukocyte accumulations. These findings demonstrate a genetic basis of susceptibility to CNT particle exposures and both inform the use of inbred mouse models and suggest the likelihood of differences in genetic susceptibility among humans.
Data Correction Methods

No measurement is ever perfect. Measurement errors and uncertainties are indeed an intrinsic part of the scientific process. Skilled scientists, however, can devise techniques to minimize errors and correct for biases. In this chapter, we discuss the notions of accuracy, precision, and biases, and examine various sources and types of errors in § 12.1. We then present, in § 12.2, a discussion of specific sources of uncertainties arising in the nuclear sciences. Techniques to unfold detection efficiencies and resolution effects in the measurement of spectra and elementary cross sections are presented in § 12.3 while correction techniques relevant for correlation and fluctuation observables are discussed in § 12.4. Experimental Errors An experimental error may be defined as the difference between a measured (observed) value and the true value. This of course assumes the observable of interest is meaningfully defined and in fact has a true value. It should be clear, however, that there can be difficulties with this idea. Certain physical quantities such as temperature are defined only in the context of a large number limit. Indeed, while it is meaningful to speak of the temperature of gas consisting of a very large number of molecules, the notion of temperature becomes meaningless in the presence of only one or two particles. Limitations may also arise because of the quantum nature of phenomena. For instance, there is an intrinsic limitation in simultaneously measuring the instantaneous position and momentum of an elementary particle, although it is perfectly sensible to consider the expectation values (i.e., average) of these two observables. The true value of a physics observable is, of course, unknown a priori otherwise there would be no reason to conduct an experiment. Knowing the error of a measurement is obviously also impossible, and one must then use the language of probability and statistics to estimate both the true value and the error. Properly conducted measurements, with a sound statistical analysis, are thus expected to yield values close to the true value but without guarantee of ever reaching it with infinite precision or accuracy.
Cross-sectional evaluation of visuomotor tracking performance following subconcussive head impacts

Background Repeated mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) has been associated with increased risk of degenerative neurological disorders. While the effects of mTBI and repeated injury are known, studies have only recently started examining repeated subconcussive impacts, impacts that do not result in a clinically diagnosed mTBI. In these studies, repeated subconcussive impacts have been connected to cognitive performance and brain imaging changes. Objective Recent research suggests that performance on a visuomotor tracking (VMT) task may help improve the identification of mTBI. The goal of this study was to investigate if VMT performance is sensitive to the cumulative effect of repeated subconcussive head impacts in collegiate men's lacrosse players. Methods A cross-sectional, prospective study was completed with eleven collegiate men's lacrosse players. Participants wore helmet-mounted sensors and completed VMT and reaction time assessments. The relationship between cumulative impact metrics and VMT metrics were investigated. Results In this study, VMT performance correlated with repeated subconcussive head impacts; individuals approached clinically diagnosed mTBI-like performance as the cumulative rotational velocity they experienced increased. Conclusion This suggests that repeated subconcussive impacts can result in measurable impairments and indicates that visuomotor tracking performance may be a useful tool for monitoring the effects of repeated subconcussive impacts.
Primary care and survival among American Indian patients with diabetes in the Southwest United States: Evaluation of a cohort study at Gallup Indian Medical Center, 2009-2016.

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the role of primary care healthcare delivery on survival for American Indian patients with diabetes in the southwest United States. Methods Data from patients with diabetes admitted to Gallup Indian Medical Center between 2009 and 2016 were analyzed using a log-rank test and Cox Proportional Hazards analyses. Results Of the 2661 patients included in analysis, 286 patients died during the study period. Having visited a primary care provider in the year prior to first admission of the study period was protective against all-cause mortality in unadjusted analysis (HR (95% CI) = 0.47 (0.31, 0.73)), and after adjustment. The log-rank test indicated there is a significant difference in overall survival by primary care engagement history prior to admission (p Conclusions Compared with those who did not see a primary care provider in the year prior to admission, having seen a primary care provider was associated with improved survival after admission.
A Captive Breeding Program for the Giant Amazonian Whip Spider: Making Educational Connections to a Charismatic Arachnid and the Ongoing Sixth Mass Extinction

Heterophrynus batesii (the Giant Amazonian Whip Spider) are often referred to as “whip scorpions” or “whip spiders” because of their very long antenniform legs (i.e., whips), but they are neither scorpions nor spiders. They are amblypygids, a type of harmless charismatic arachnid with an alien-like appearance that students are drawn to. I have developed care and breeding techniques that are effective at getting H. batesii to live and reproduce in captivity. I developed these techniques with other science teachers in mind. These techniques are simple, time efficient, utilize the least expensive materials, and require minimal space—important characteristics since most high school biology teachers are limited by time, money, and space. This article instructs high school biology students (under the guidance of their teacher) how to properly care for and develop a captive breeding program for H. batesii in their high school biology classroom. Topics, resources, and activities are also suggested that allow teachers to make educational connections between the H. batesii captive breeding program, the ongoing sixth mass extinction, and the destruction of the Amazon rainforest.
Introduction to Behavioral Issues in Autism

Although there are many definitions of the autism syndrome (Ritvo & Freeman, 1978; Rutter & Schopler, 1992), all of them consistently identify social, communication, and behavioral peculiarities and deficits. The social deficits are often the most compelling and are the reason why Leo Kanner (1943) chose the term autism to describe this group of children in his seminal paper. Communication deficits typically are the most interesting because of their idiosyncrasies and deviance from normal development. Communication characteristics include such diversity as total muteness, pronoun reversals, echolalia, and repetitive statements. The behavior difficulties in autism are not as easy to characterize or describe. They can be simply humorous and trivial deviations from what we generally expect to see in others, such as enjoying the click of an automobile turn signal or loving to watch the rhythm of a garbage truck picking up its cargo. Characteristic behaviors also can be more extreme—even devastating—such as the self-injurious, destructive behaviors that sometimes dominate the lives of these children and their families. Between these two extremes are a wide range of behavior problems that emerge from frustration over problems with communication, interactions, and understanding.
Elongation factor P is required to maintain proteome homeostasis at high growth rate

Elongation factor P (EF-P) is a universally conserved translation factor that alleviates ribosome pausing at polyproline (PPX) motifs by facilitating peptide bond formation. In the absence of EF-P, PPX peptide bond formation can limit translation rate, leading to pleotropic phenotypes including slowed growth, increased antibiotic sensitivity, and loss of virulence. In this study, we observe that many of these phenotypes are dependent on growth rate. Limiting growth rate suppresses a variety of detrimental phenotypes associated with ribosome pausing at PPX motifs in the absence of EF-P. Polysome levels are also similar to wild-type under slow growth conditions, consistent with global changes in ribosome queuing in cells without EF-P when growth rate is decreased. Inversely, under high protein synthesis demands, we observe that Escherichia coli lacking EF-P have reduced fitness. Our data demonstrate that EF-P-mediated relief of ribosome queuing is required to maintain proteome homeostasis under conditions of high translational demands.
Mixed Total Field/Scattered Field-Based Discontinuous Galerkin Frequency-Domain Method for Subsurface Sensing

To model the responses of electromagnetic surveys for geophysical subsurface sensing, a mixed total field/scattered field-based discontinuous Galerkin frequency-domain (TF/SF DGFD) method is proposed in this paper. The proposed TF/SF DGFD method is implemented at a subdomain level based on the domain decomposition technique. Different subdomains can employ either the TF DGFD framework or the SF DGFD framework, which are then coupled through the Riemann transmission condition. To balance the computation efficiency and accuracy for practical applications, the proposed method prefers to using the SF DGFD framework for subdomains with sources and using the TF DGFD framework for the remaining subdomains. At the interfaces between total field and scattered field subdomains, the Riemann transmission condition is slightly modified by incorporating the background fields due to the physically imposed sources in the background media. In this way, the proposed method only requires surface integrals of the background fields as extra overhead instead of elementwise integration of the scattering objects for the purely scattered field-based method, which can improve the computational efficiency. Also, it is more accurate than the purely TF DGFD method given the same mesh. Numerical examples are studied to examine the performance of the proposed method, which is proven to have better accuracy than the TF DGFD method. The TF/SF DGFD method will facilitate modeling of electromagnetic surveys under complicated geophysical environments for subsurface sensing.
Adapter Proteins for Opposing Motors Interact Simultaneously with Nuclear Pore Protein Nup358

Nup358 is a protein subunit of the nuclear pore complex that recruits the opposing microtubule motors kinesin-1 and dynein [via the dynein adaptor Bicaudal D2 (BicD2)] to the nuclear envelope. This...
Addressing systemic risk using contingent convertible debt – A network analysis

Abstract We construct a balance sheet network model to study the interconnectedness of a banking system. A simulation analysis of the buffer effect of contingent convertible (CoCo) debt in controlling contagion in a theoretical banking network model is followed by calibrating the model using 13F filings. We find that CoCo debt conversion significantly mitigates systemic risk, with a dual-trigger CoCo debt design being more effective in protecting the surviving banks. A two-tranche CoCo debt design combines the benefits of single and dual-trigger CoCo debt. The trade-offs in different designs of CoCo triggers can be evaluated in a network simulation model, as developed in this work.
Role of host excimer formation in the degradation of organic light-emitting devices

Host-guest structures are used in most state-of-the-art organic light-emitting devices, with the host transporting charge and confining excitons on the guest. While the host often plays a critical role in achieving high efficiency and stability, predicting and understanding these effects is a persistent design challenge which slows the discovery of new active materials. Closely related host molecules, which differ only by several functional groups, often show drastically different degradation behavior. Here, we explore this observation for the archetypical carbazole hosts 4′-bis(N-carbazolyl)-1,1′-biphenyl (CBP) and 4,4′-bis(carbazole-9-yl)-2,2′-dimethylbiphenyl (CDBP). While devices based on these hosts show similar efficiencies, CDBP-based devices show a tenfold lower lifetime than CBP devices when paired with phosphorescent or fluorescent emitters. Using optically and electrically pumped degradation tests, mass spectrometry, compositional analysis, and low-temperature phosphorescence spectroscopy, the lifetimes of devices containing CDBP are shown to correlate with the formation of intermolecular triplet excimer states. These findings suggest that candidate host molecules should be screened for excimer formation as host excimers may aggravate device degradation and lower device stability.
Superfine pulverisation pretreatment to enhance crystallinity of cellulose from Lycium barbarum L. leaves

Superfine pulverisation (SFP) pretreatment of Lycium barbarum L. leaves was performed to obtain highly crystalline cellulose. Compared with other common pulverisation methods, SFP enhanced cellulosic crystallinity by 18.3 % and 8.4 %, with and without post-acid treatments, respectively. XRD and solid-state NMR analyses showed that SFP facilitated the exposure of amorphous substances (i.e., hemicellulose and lignin) to NaOH and H2O2. Large amounts of silicon (5.5 %) and aluminium (2.1 %) were found to incorporate into the crystalline regions of SFP-produced cellulose. Further FTIR and thermogravimetric analyses revealed that SFP-produced cellulose contained large amounts of hydroxyl groups, affecting the cellulosic crystallinity and thermal stability. These findings demonstrate the potential for SFP to serve as a green technology for production of highly crystalline and mineral-rich cellulose.
Relationship between Comorbid Drug Use Disorders, Affective Disorders, and Current Smoking.

This study aimed to identify subgroups of adults based on comorbid psychiatric disorders and to examine the relationship with current smoking. Method: The National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol a...
Uncovering process domains in large rivers: Patterns and potential drivers of benthic substrate heterogeneity in two North American riverscapes

Abstract Identifying and understanding functional process domains (sensu Montgomery, 1999 ) in rivers is paramount for linking the physical habitat template to ecosystem structure and function. To date, efforts to do this have been rare, especially in large rivers, as they require appropriate tools for quantifying habitat heterogeneity with fine-scale resolution across broad spatial extents. In this study, we used side-scan sonar technology to map riverbed substrate at six sites in the Yellowstone and Missouri rivers. Substrate maps were then analyzed and visualized using geospatial analysis to relate fine-grained spatial substrate patterns to process domain structure. Our findings revealed two distinct nested domains of substrate patchiness, suggesting that different factors are responsible for shaping patterns of substrate at different scales. Although small-scale patchiness in substrate was likely driven by internal, or autogenic, physical processes, patterns at larger segment extents (>3 km) were often driven by abrupt transitions in habitat related to exogenous factors such as lateral erosion of talus, tributary inputs, and bank armoring. Additionally, we found that heterogeneity in benthic substrate increased with spatial extent at all of our study sites; however, this relationship was lower in the Missouri River, which is altered by impoundment. Our study represents one of the first efforts to relate benthic habitat heterogeneity to nested process domain structure in large riverscapes, and offers a unique perspective for linking landscape processes, geomorphological habitat heterogeneity, and biological structure and function in large rivers.
Recent advances and discoveries in the mechanisms and functions of CAR T cells.

This Review discusses the major advances and changes made over the past 3 years to our understanding of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell efficacy and safety. Recently, the field has gained insight into how various molecular modules of the CAR influence signalling and function. We report on mechanisms of toxicity and resistance as well as novel engineering and pharmaceutical interventions to overcome these challenges. Looking forward, we discuss new targets and indications for CAR T cell therapy expected to reach the clinic in the next 1–2 years. We also consider some new studies that have implications for the future of CAR T cell therapies, including changes to manufacturing, allogeneic products and drug-regulatable CAR T cells. This Review outlines the major advances that have been made to the efficacy and safety of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies over the past 3 years and looks to new findings that will have consequences for the future of this immunotherapy.
Study design and rationale for a randomized controlled trial to assess effectiveness of stochastic vibrotactile mattress stimulation versus standard non-oscillating crib mattress for treating hospitalized opioid-exposed newborns.

The incidence of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) continues to rise and there remains a critical need to develop non-pharmacological interventions for managing opioid withdrawal in newborns. Objective physiologic markers of opioid withdrawal in the newborn remain elusive. Optimal treatment strategies for improving short-term clinical outcomes and promoting healthy neurobehavioral development have yet to be defined. This dual-site randomized controlled trial ({"type":"clinical-trial","attrs":{"text":"NCT02801331","term_id":"NCT02801331"}}NCT02801331) is designed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of stochastic vibrotactile stimulation (SVS) for reducing withdrawal symptoms, pharmacological treatment, and length of hospitalization, and for improving developmental outcomes in opioid-exposed neonates. Hospitalized newborns (n = 230) receiving standard clinical care for prenatal opioid exposure will be randomly assigned within 48-hours of birth to a crib with either: 1) Intervention (SVS) mattress: specially-constructed SVS crib mattress that delivers gentle vibrations (30–60 Hz, ~12 μm RMS surface displacement) at 3-hr intervals; or 2) Control mattress (treatment as usual; TAU): non-oscillating hospital-crib mattress. Infants will be studied throughout their hospitalization and post discharge to 14-months of age. The study will compare clinical measures (i.e., withdrawal scores, cumulative dose and duration of medications, velocity of weight gain) and characteristic progression of physiologic activity (i.e., limb movement, cardio-respiratory, temperature, blood-oxygenation) throughout hospitalization between opioid-exposed infants who receive SVS and those who receive TAU. Developmental outcomes (i.e., physical, social, emotional and cognitive) within the first year of life will be evaluated between the two study groups. Findings from this randomized controlled trial will determine whether SVS reduces in-hospital severity of NAS, improves physiologic function, and promotes healthy development.
Privacy Preserving Misbehavior Detection in IoV Using Federated Machine Learning

Data falsification attack in Vehicular Ad hoc Networks (VANET) for the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) is achieved by corrupting the data exchanged between nodes with false information. Data is the most valuable asset these days from which many analyses and results can be drawn out. But the privacy concern raised by users has become the greatest hindrance in performing data analysis. In IoV, misbehavior detection can be performed by creating a machine learning model from basic safety message (BSM) dataset of vehicles. We propose a privacy-preserving misbehavior detecting system for IoV using Federated Machine Learning. Vehicles in VANET for IoV are given the initial dull model to locally train using their own local data. On doing this we get a collective smart model that can classify Position Falsification attack in VANET using the data generated by each vehicle. All this is done without actually sharing the data with any third party to perform analysis. In this paper, we compare the performance of the attack detection model trained by using a federated and central approach. This training method trains the model on a different kind of position falsification attack by using local BSM data generated on each vehicle.
Better Than Risk-Free: Do Reserve Premiums Crowd out Bank Lending?

When the Federal Reserve first paid interest on excess reserves (IOER) in October 2008, it presented a choice that banks had not previously faced. Banks could invest capital in precautionary excess reserves and earn a risk-free rate "better than" the treasury rate, or lend and earn a higher, but riskier interest rate. One-stage and two-stage panel estimations show "reserve premiums" are associated with a 6% ($601.5B) reduction in bank lending after accounting for increased lending due to QE. Results support the growing importance of policy discretion as IOER inverted interest rate incentives for counter-cyclical lending to that of cyclical lending.
Activity Standards for Ion-Selective Electrodes

Ion-selective electrodes, like the pH glass electrode, are finding growing use in various biomedical studies for monitoring the activities of ions such as Ca2+, Na+, K+, Cl−, F−, etc. As in the case of the pH electrode, standards are also required for the reliable application of these sensors to complex biological fluids. Research is in progress to establish ionic activity scales and reference materials to permit the accurate use of ion-selective electrodes for biological and medical studies. At the present time, these investigations are concerned with aqueous standards and will progress to studies of these ions in mixed electrolyte systems and synthetic and real biologic fluids.
Blind channel estimation for precoded variable bit-rate multiuser systems

The precoder has been shown to be able to provide source diversity and more freedom in design. In this paper we employ precoding techniques for block transmission based on a multirate filterbank structure. To meet multiuser communication requirements for various high data-rates, different filterbanks are used as precoders with corresponding coefficients and up/down sampling rates. However due to high speed communication in the presence of unknown multipath, different interferences exist in the received data such as multiuser interference, intersymbol interference and interblock interference. To estimate the multipath channel for a desired user we generalize the subspace method by employing all signatures associated with this channel in the current system. In this way a better performance for the channel estimate can be achieved. The delay for that user can also be jointly estimated together with channel estimation.
Intercountry inequalities in income and ‘index of net social progress’: Evidence from recent data

Abstract Intercountry income inequality is computed from real GDP data that became available recently from phase IV of International Comparisons Project. Similar inequality measures are also calculated for ‘index of net social progress’ proposed by Estes (1983) and for conventional GNP per capita. Although the three indicators are strongly and positively correlated, intercountry inequality indices derived from these are rather dramatically different.