cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fossil onychophorans from Dominican and Baltic amber: Tertiapatus dominicanus n. g., n. sp. (Tertiapatidae n. fam.) and Succinipatopsis balticus n. g., n. sp. (Succinipatopsidae n. fam.) with a proposed classification of the subphylum Onychophora

. Tertiapatus dominicanus n.g., n.sp. (Tertiapatidae n.fam.) and Succinipatopsis balticus n.gen., n.sp. (Succinipatopsidae n.fam.) (Lobopodia: Onychophora), the first Tertiary fossils of the Lobopodia, are described from Dominican and Baltic amber, respectively. Both families are characterized by the presence of simple legs lacking foot portions with claws and pads. Tertiapatidae is further characterized by soluble body pigments and oral papillae shorter than the legs. Succinipatopsidae is characterized by non-soluble body pigments and oral papillae longer than the legs. Nomenclatural changes include the erection of the class Udeonychophora n. nom. for terrestrial onychophorans with a ventral mouth, the order Ontonychophora n.nom. for extant onychophorans possessing legs with a differentiated “foot” portion, and the family Helenodoridae n.nom. for the genus Helenodora from the Carboniferous. The biogeographical significance of these fossils and their phylogenetic relationship with previously described onychophorans are discussed.
Role of Intracellular pH in the Axolemma‐ and Myelin‐Induced Proliferation of Schwann Cells

In order to provide additional information on the biochemical events that interact to cause Schwann cells to proliferate, we have monitored the intracellular pH of Schwann cells that have been stimulated to divide with myelin-enriched fractions (MEF) or axolemma-enriched fractions (AEF). The intracellular pH of Schwann cells was monitored using 2',7'-bis(carboxymethyl)-5(6)-carboxyfluorescein (BCECF), which displays an increase in fluorescence upon alkalinization. Both AEF and MEF caused dose-dependent increases in the intracellular fluorescence of the Schwann cell cultures. At their maximum doses, AEF and MEF stimulation resulted in a 260 and 300% increase in intracellular fluorescence, respectively. The increase in intracellular fluorescence was abolished when cells were stimulated in Na+-free media, suggesting a role for the Na+/H+ exchanger. Mitotic stimulation required integrity of the Na+/H+ exchanger, as inhibition of the Na+/H+ exchanger for periods up to 1 h after addition of mitogen caused a significant inhibition of subsequent mitosis. Phorbol esters, which can potentiate AEF- and MEF-induced Schwann cell proliferation, increased intracellular fluorescence fivefold, an effect which was also dependent upon the presence of Na+ in the culture media. The specificity of the increase in intracellular pH for AEF and MEF was tested by incubating Schwann cells with liver microsomes and a biologically inactive phorbol alcohol, neither of which is significantly mitogenic for Schwann cells. Neither liver microsomes nor phorbol alcohol had a significant effect on intracellular pH. The implications of the increase in intracellular pH in Schwann cells with respect to inositol phospholipid metabolism, protein kinase C activation, and cellular proliferation are discussed.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The Extended Deterrent Value of Nuclear Weapons

Three questions are addressed in this study: (1) Does a nuclear retaliatory capability contribute to extended deterrence against a nonnuclear power? (2) If so, is the deterrent value of nuclear weapons contingent upon the prior credible threat of conventional armed engagement by the defender? (3) Or, is the deterrent impact of nuclear weapons so potent that the conventional balance of forces has little deterrent impact? Competing hypotheses are formulated and then tested by probit analysis. The empirical findings indicate that (a) nuclear weapons do contribute to extended deterrence success, but (b) that effect is not contingent upon the prior threat of conventional armed conflict, and (c) there is an inverse relationship between the conventional balance of forces and the extended deterrent role of nuclear weapons.
Leptin regulates proinflammatory immune responses

Obesity is associated with an increased incidence of infection, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, which together account for most obesity-related morbidity and mortality. Decreased expression of leptin or of functional leptin receptors results in hyperphagia, decreased energy expenditure, and obesity. It is unclear, however, whether defective leptin-dependent signal transduction directly promotes any of the conditions that frequently complicate obesity. Abnormalities in tumor necrosis factor α expression have been noted in each of the above comorbid conditions, so leptin deficiency could promote these complications if leptin had immunoregulatory activity. Studies of rodents with genetic abnormalities in leptin or leptin receptors revealed obesity-related deficits in macrophage phagocytosis and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines both in vivo and in vitro. Exogenous leptin up-regulated both phagocytosis and the production of proinflammatory cytokines. These results identify an important and nov...
The Dung- and Carrion-Feeding Scarabs (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea) of an Amazonian Blackwater Rainforest: Results of a Continuous, 56-Week, Baited-PitfallTrap Study

Abstract A guild of Neotropical rainforest dung- and carrion-feeding beetles (Scarabaeinae, Aphodiinae, Trogidae) at Reserva Florestal Ducke in Amazonian Brazil was inventoried using baited pitfall traps continuously for 56 weeks during September 1977 to October 1978. The 20 traps were baited with either dung or carrion, and the preservatives in the traps were solutions of either chloral hydrate or picric acid so that all combinations of bait and preservatives were present. A total of 19,416 specimens, 66 species, 20 genera, two subfamilies of Scarabaeidae (Scarabaeinae and Aphodiinae), and two families (Scarabaeidae and Trogidae) were collected during the 56-week study. The by-catch of approximately 300,000 other insects was retained at the Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazonia (INPA) for further studies. In the dung traps, 14,413 specimens were collected (74% of all scarabaeoids collected). In the carrion traps, 5,003 specimens were collected (26% of all scarabaeoids collected). The mean number of...
IFITMs from Mycobacteria Confer Resistance to Influenza Virus When Expressed in Human Cells

Interferon induced transmembrane proteins (IFITMs) found in vertebrates restrict infections by specific viruses. IFITM3 is known to be essential for restriction of influenza virus infections in both mice and humans. Vertebrate IFITMs are hypothesized to have derived from a horizontal gene transfer from bacteria to a primitive unicellular eukaryote. Since bacterial IFITMs share minimal amino acid identity with human IFITM3, we hypothesized that examination of bacterial IFITMs in human cells would provide insight into the essential characteristics necessary for antiviral activity of IFITMs. We examined IFITMs from Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium abscessus for potential antiviral activity. Both of these IFITMs conferred a moderate level of resistance to influenza virus in human cells, identifying them as functional homologues of IFITM3. Analysis of sequence elements shared by bacterial IFITMs and IFITM3 identified two hydrophobic domains, putative S-palmitoylation sites, and conserved phenylalanine residues associated with IFITM3 interactions, which are all necessary for IFITM3 antiviral activity. We observed that, like IFITM3, bacterial IFITMs were S-palmitoylated, albeit to a lesser degree. We also demonstrated the ability of a bacterial IFITM to co-immunoprecipitate with IFITM3 suggesting formation of a complex, and also visualized strong co-localization of bacterial IFITMs with IFITM3. However, the mycobacterial IFITMs lack the endocytic-targeting motif conserved in vertebrate IFITM3. As such, these bacterial proteins, when expressed alone, had diminished colocalization with cathepsin B-positive endolysosomal compartments that are the primary site of IFITM3-dependent influenza virus restriction. Though the precise evolutionary origin of vertebrate IFITMs is not known, our results support a model whereby transfer of a bacterial IFITM gene to eukaryotic cells may have provided a selective advantage against viral infection that was refined through the course of vertebrate evolution to include more robust signals for S-palmitoylation and localization to sites of endocytic virus trafficking.
In Vivo Intravascular Ultrasonic Assessment of Anomalous Right Coronary Artery Arising from Left Coronary Sinus

Anomalous coronary arteries with origins from the contralateral aortic sinus and coursing between the aorta and pulmonary trunk have received much attention because of their association with sudden death. These morphologic features have not been well assessed in vivo. The investigators describe 3 cases of anomalous right coronary arteries arising from the left coronary sinus with intravascular ultrasound findings. In the present patients, characteristic vessel distortion was consistently observed at the ostium of the anomalous right coronary arteries, as well as systolic compression of the intra-arterial segments. In conclusion, the slitlike ostium might be associated with the higher incidence of sudden death under strenuous exercise and exercise-induced myocardial ischemia.
Reflections on Inclusion: Integrating the Disabled Self

In the following essay, I explain how my experience as an included student with cerebral palsy influenced my identity as an individual with disabilities. I also outline how my discovery of disability studies has influenced my role as a teacher, educator, and researcher in special education.
Integrating Murine and Clinical Trials with Cabozantinib to Understand Roles of MET and VEGFR2 as Targets for Growth Inhibition of Prostate Cancer

Purpose: We performed parallel investigations in cabozantinib-treated patients in a Phase 2 trial and simultaneously in Patient-derived Xenograft (PDX) models to better understand the roles of MET and VEGFR-2 as targets for prostate cancer therapy. Experimental Design: In the clinical trial, radiographic imaging and serum markers were examined, as well as molecular markers in tumors from bone biopsies. In mice harboring PDX intrafemurally or subcutaneously, cabozantinib effects on tumor growth, MET, PDX in which MET was silenced, VEGFR-2, bone turnover, angiogenesis and resistance were examined. Results: In responsive patients and PDX, islets of viable, p-MET-positive tumor cells persisted, which rapidly regrew after drug withdrawal. Knockdown of MET in PDX did not affect tumor growth in mice, nor did it affect cabozantinib-induced growth inhibition, but did lead to induction of FGFR-1. Inhibition of VEGFR-2 and MET in endothelial cells reduced the vasculature, leading to necrosis. However, each islet of viable cells surrounded a VEGFR-2-negative vessel. Reduction of bone turnover was observed in both cohorts. Conclusion: Our studies demonstrate that MET in tumor cells is not a persistent therapeutic target for metastatic CRPC, but inhibition of VEGF-R2 and MET in endothelial cells and direct effects on osteoblasts are responsible for cabozantinib-induced tumor inhibition. However, vascular heterogeneity represents one source of primary therapy resistance, whereas induction of FGFR-1 in tumor cells suggests a potential mechanism of acquired resistance. Thus, integrated cross-species investigations demonstrate the power of combining preclinical models with clinical trials to understand mechanisms of activity and resistance of investigational agents.
Hyperthermia exaggerates exercise-induced aggregation of blood platelets

Acute exposure to exertional exercise/heavy physical work often triggers cardiovascular events in which exercise-induced platelet aggregation, blood coagulation, and disruption in fibrinolysis may adversely affect atherothrombotic disease. Elevated body temperature, commonly accompanied with prolonged exercise, was suggested as an auxiliary factor for exercise-induced platelet aggregation [1]. Recent studies also showed platelet hyperaggregation following firefighting activities combining heavy physical work and heat stress [2], [3]. However, the influence of hyperthermia separated from physical exercise impact on platelet aggregation is unclear.
Herbal Medicines and Sleep

There are several herbs that have central depressant effects and have been used for anxiolytic and sedative effects historically. This has been supported by neuropharmacological, animal, and human studies. Kava, valerian, and passionflower have been the best supported by research in this regard, although others show potential. Much work remains to be done in further testing the safety and efficacy of these drugs. However, with further study some of these medicines may prove favorable in the treatment of sleep-related conditions.
Abstract 2023: Isolation of breast tumor initiating cells (TICs) by exogenous delivery of the OCT4 transcription factor

Tumor Initiating cells (TICs) are being extensively studied for their role in tumor etiology, maintenance and resistance to treatment. Herein, we describe a novel approach to generate TICs by transduction of human primary breast cell preparations with exogenous expression of the OCT4 transcription factor. The OCT4 transduced breast colonies (OTBCs) underwent an immortalization process, as reflected by loss of p16 and enhanced telomerase expression. OTBCs exhibited cancer stem cell antigens, such as CD44high/CD24low/-. Consistently, these cells generated subcutaneous tumors in nude mice with colonization capabilities. As little as 1-50 cells were sufficient to induce tumor formation and thereby these cells had TIC properties. Histological analysis of these tumors revealed poorly differentiated breast carcinomas. RNAi-mediated knock-down of OCT4 and downstream embryonic targets of OCT4, resulted in suppression of the self-renewal ability, suggesting that this phenotype was dependent on OCT4. Genome-wide microarray analysis supported the finding that OCT4 over-expression in these clones was molecularly associated with Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) gene signatures and strongly correlated with the claudin-low intrinsic subtype of breast cancer. Our experimental approach provides a novel model system to dissect genes, small RNAs and small molecules that could be used to effectively target breast cancer self-renewal and tumor initiation. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2023. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-2023
Executive-Legislative Power Relationships Perspectives of State Lawmakers

The governor of a state is often seen as the "chief legislator" running rough shod over a helpless legislature. The current research sought to determine if legislators thought there was an imbalance of power between the chief executive and the legislature. The data were gathered from a mail survey of state senators in eleven diverse states. Surprisingly, there was widespread agreement that there was an acceptable balance of power between the legislature and the governor. Selected political and institutional variables were used in an attempt to explain the variations in perceptions but with virtually no success. Our analysis was also unable to detect any single reason for legislators responding as they did. Finally, we conclude that if lawmakers acquiesce or relinquish some of their power to the governor, it may be because they choose to do so.
Development Construction of Screw Drill Detection Device in Coal Mine

The establishment of a simulation test bed screw drill and complete actual condition of performance of screw drill testing of function.The research established for test rig with a small diameter screw drill coal production and application technology to provide the necessary means of detection,so as to further promote china coal mine directional drilling technology,drilling technology and equipment to enhance level laid basis.
Management of Hemorrhoid Complications: Thrombosis, Fissure-in-Ano

External hemorrhoids are located below the dentate line and are covered by anoderm. The typical presentation of a thrombosed external hemorrhoid is that of acute onset of perianal pain and an associated perianal lump. The pain peaks within 48 hours and usually diminishes after the fourth day [1]. Patients usually report an episode of straining, exertion (heavy lifting, exercise), or a long bicycle, car, or plane ride (i.e., prolonged sitting). If no treatment is administered, the thrombus will either spontaneously drain through the overlying skin or will reabsorb in two to four weeks [2]. What remains is an anal skin tag. Treatment is directed toward the patient’s symptoms. If the patient presents early, in acute pain, the treatment of choice is local excision [1, 2, 3]. This is performed with local anesthetic (0.5% lidocaine/0.5% Marcaine with 1:200,000 epinephrine). The patient is placed in the prone jackknife or lateral recumbent position. An elliptical incision is made over the thrombus and the overlying skin and thrombus are excised. Often the thrombus is multiloculated and therefore all clot must be removed. The skin may be left open or closed with absorbable suture (i.e., 5.0 Dexon). We choose to leave the skin open because there is less postoperative pain. The patient is instructed to use sitz baths one to two times a day and after each bowel movement. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents are all that is usually needed for incisional discomfort. If the patient presents later in the course and is not in acute pain, conservative measures are recommended. This is in the form of sitz baths, stool-bulking agents and pain medication. Once the patient is more comfortable, anoscopic and proctoscopic examinations should be performed to assess for any anorectal disease.
Subpixel target detection in hyperspectral images from superpixel background statistics

In the field of subpixel target detection in hyperspectral images, there is well-documented current interest for identifying preferred background covariance matrix estimates, to be used in the formation of matched-filter detectors. In this work, for the first time, we study the case of local background covariance matrix estimation from SLIC-superpixel based coherent regions. Interestingly, our experiments illustrate that the SLIC-based matched-filter detector can attain performance superior to that of contemporary alternatives which employ different, globally or locally estimated, background statistics.
59 EFFECT OF PELLET VOLUME AND THAWING TEMPERATURE ON VITRIFICATION EFFICACY WITH DOMESTIC CAT SEMEN COLLECTED VIA URETHRAL CATHETERIZATION

Historically, semen banking in felids has required sample collection via electroejaculation followed by sperm freezing in straws over LN2 vapor. Recent modifications include urethral catheterization of males treated with α-2 agonists for semen recovery and vitrification of cat sperm by suspension in a sucrose-based cryomedium and direct pelleting into LN2. In combination, these latter methods greatly simplify semen cryopreservation in cats but protocols need to be optimized for applied usage. In the present study, our goal was to assess the effect of 2 variables—pellet volume and thawing temperature—on post-thaw sperm motility, acrosome status, and in vitro fertility. Semen was collected from 3 males (3 ejaculates/male) via urethral catheterization under dexmedetomidine-ketamine anaesthesia. Sperm were diluted in Feline Optimized Culture Medium (FOCM), centrifuged (8 min; 300 × g), and resuspended in a soy-lecithin-based vitrification medium (with 0.2 M sucrose). After a 5-min equilibration, sperm was vitrified in 2 volumes (20 or 30 µL) by direct pipetting into LN2. Sperm pellets were thawed in FOCM at 1 of 2 temperatures (37 or 55°C) and the 4 treatment groups (20 µL-37°C, 20–55, 30–37, 30–55) assessed for percentage of progressively motile and acrosome intact sperm. To assess sperm function, additional 30-µL pellets were thawed at 37 or 55°C, and recovered sperm were used to inseminate in vitro-matured domestic cat oocytes (n = 10–25/ejaculate). At 48 h post-insemination, oocytes and embryos were fixed (1% NBF). Hoechst fluorescent stain (#33342) was used to evaluate embryo cleavage and maturation status of unfertilized ova. Sperm motility and acrosomal integrity percentages were analysed by ANOVA, and oocyte cleavage proportions were analysed by chi-squared. Mean (± SEM) progressive sperm motility post-thaw did not differ (P > 0.05) among treatments (38 ± 8, 34 ± 7, 41 ± 7, 32 ± 7% for 20 µL-37°C; 20–55, 30–37, and 30–55, respectively). Similarly, acrosomal integrity did not differ (P > 0.05) among treatments (26 ± 4, 25 ± 4, 17 ± 3, 17 ± 2% for 20 µL-37°C, 20–55, 30–37, and 30–55, respectively). Oocyte cleavage proportions did not differ (P > 0.05) between thawing temperatures for total inseminated oocytes but, after correcting for oocyte maturation status, was higher (P < 0.01) for samples thawed at 55°C (60%, 67/112) compared with 37°C (39%, 52/133). In summary, although variations in pellet volume and thawing temperature had minimal effect on sperm motility or acrosome status immediately post-thaw, sperm function appeared to be enhanced when vitrified pellets were thawed at a higher temperature. In vitro fertility success (~60% embryo cleavage) is comparable to values reported by our laboratory with conventionally collected and frozen cat semen, suggesting these newer methods may be suitable for applied usage in felids. This study was funded by the Institute of Museums and Library Services.
A sustainability index for small island developing states.

ABSTRACTThis paper proposes a novel approach to measuring the progress of small island developing states (SIDS) towards sustainable development (SD) as set by the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030. Currently, these goals do not provide adequate guidance on how countries might measure their progress towards sustainability. We use these goals and a subset of their targets to develop an index with concrete targets, through the use of pertinent sustainability indicators, that SIDS should aim to achieve a sustainable society. In addition to the three categorical pillars of SD (social, economic and environmental), we included the category Climate Change and Disaster Management (incorporating Disaster Risk Reduction). The basis of our decision is that the UN and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change have both recognized the vulnerability of SIDS to both environmental hazards. Our index scores a total 70 individual indicators for the four categories to track the progress of a SIDS towards a sustainabl...
The Future of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: Emerging Pathophysiological Concepts and Potential New Avenues of Treatment.

Yearly more than 15 million babies are born premature (<37 weeks gestational age), accounting for more than 1 in 10 births worldwide. Lung injury caused by maternal chorioamnionitis or preeclampsia, postnatal ventilation, hyperoxia or inflammation can lead to the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), one of the most common adverse outcomes in these preterm neonates. BPD patients have an arrest in alveolar and microvascular development and more frequently develop asthma and early-onset emphysema as they age. Understanding how the alveoli develop, and repair and regenerate after injury is critical for the development of therapies, as unfortunately there still is no cure for BPD. In this review we aim to provide an overview of emerging new concepts in the understanding of perinatal lung development and injury from a molecular and cellular point of view and how this is paving the way for new therapeutic options to prevent or treat BPD, as well as a reflection on current treatment procedures.
Abnormal Placentation Associated with Infertility as a Marker of Overall Health.

Infertility and fertility treatments utilized are associated with abnormal placentation leading to adverse pregnancy outcomes related to placentation, including preterm birth, low birth weight, placenta accrete, and placenta previa. This may be due to the underlying genetics predisposing to infertility or the epigenetic changes associated with the fertility treatments utilized, as specific disease states leading to infertility are at increased risk of adverse outcomes, including placental abruption, fetal loss, gestational diabetes mellitus, and outcomes related to placentation, as well as the treatments utilized including in vitro fertilization (IVF) and non-IVF fertility treatment. Placentation defects, leading to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes, which are more pronounced in the infertile population, occur due to changes in trophoblast invasion, vascular defects, changes in the environmental milieu, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress. These similar processes are recognized as major contributors to lifelong risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disease for both the mother and her offspring. Thus, abnormal placentation, found to be more prevalent in the infertile population, may be the key to better understand how infertility affects overall and long-term health.
Dietary Fat Intake and Radiographic Progression of Knee Osteoarthritis: Data From the Osteoarthritis Initiative.

Objective Few studies have investigated the role of dietary factors on knee osteoarthritis (OA) progression. We examined the prospective association of dietary fat intake with radiographic progression of knee OA. Methods In the Osteoarthritis Initiative, 2,092 participants with radiographic knee OA and having baseline dietary data were followed at yearly intervals up to 48 months. Dietary intakes of fatty acids were assessed with the Block Brief Food Frequency Questionnaire. To evaluate radiographic progression of knee OA, we used quantitative joint space width (JSW) between the medial femur and tibia of the knee based on fixed-flexion posteroanterior radiographs. Linear mixed models for repeated measures were used to test the association between dietary fat and JSW loss over time. Results We observed significant positive relationships of total fat and saturated fatty acids (SFA) intakes with JSW loss. With increasing quartiles of total fat intake, JSW decreases over 48 months were 0.26 mm, 0.27 mm, 0.31 mm and 0.35 mm, respectively (P = 0.02 for trend). Similar association was observed between SFA intake and JSW loss. In contrast, higher intakes of mono- (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and higher ratio of PUFA to SFA were associated with a reduced JSW loss. Conclusion High intakes of total fat and SFA may be associated with increased structural knee OA progression, while MUFA and PUFA may reduce radiographic progression. Replication of these novel findings in other prospective studies is needed to confirm if reduction in SFA intake and increase in unsaturated fat intake lead to delayed knee OA progression.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling modulates antiviral immune responses: ligand metabolism rather than chemical source is the stronger predictor of outcome.

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) offers a compelling target to modulate the immune system. AHR agonists alter adaptive immune responses, but the consequences differ across studies. We report here the comparison of four agents representing different sources of AHR ligands in mice infected with influenza A virus (IAV): TCDD, prototype exogenous AHR agonist; PCB126, pollutant with documented human exposure; ITE, novel pharmaceutical; and FICZ, degradation product of tryptophan. All four compounds diminished virus-specific IgM levels and increased the proportion of regulatory T cells. TCDD, PCB126 and ITE, but not FICZ, reduced virus-specific IgG levels and CD8+ T cell responses. Similarly, ITE, PCB126, and TCDD reduced Th1 and Tfh cells, whereas FICZ increased their frequency. In Cyp1a1-deficient mice, all compounds, including FICZ, reduced the response to IAV. Conditional Ahr knockout mice revealed that all four compounds require AHR within hematopoietic cells. Thus, differences in the immune response to IAV likely reflect variances in quality, magnitude, and duration of AHR signaling. This indicates that binding affinity and metabolism may be stronger predictors of immune effects than a compound’s source of origin, and that harnessing AHR will require finding a balance between dampening immune-mediated pathologies and maintaining sufficient host defenses against infection.
How Much Terror? Dissidents, Governments, Institutions and the Cross-National Study of Terror Attacks

Our knowledge of the set of concepts that influence the number of terror attacks experienced by different countries is rudimentary. Existing work on the incidence of terror focuses upon the structural characteristics of polities, economies, and societies, and fails to place competition between dissidents and states center stage. This study addresses that shortcoming by proposing a theoretical framework that places competition between dissident groups and government at the center of the analysis, then scour the literature for existing arguments and develop hypotheses by evaluating the implications of those arguments within a dissident--state centered framework. We evaluate the resulting hypotheses using Bayesian statistical techniques and a broad scope of relevant data. The results demonstrate that government and dissident behavior have larger effects on the incidence of terror attacks than the variables that populate existing research.
Chemiluminescent production of CF2 (Ã1B1) following the reaction O(1D)+C2F4

Abstract Emission from CF2 (A 1 B 1 ) was observed following the photolysis of N2O at 210 nm in the presence of C2F4. Wavelength-resolved emission spectra confirm CF2 as the spectral carrier. The emission decay time and intensity varies with the partial pressure of C2F4; the emission is shown to result from the reaction between O( 1 D ) and C2F4. Analysis of the fluorescence decay rate as a function of C2F4 concentration yields a rate coefficient of (2.4±0.3)×1013 cm3/mol-s for the O( 1 D )+C2F4 reaction at 296 K.
Salutary Contributions of Viruses to Medicine and Public Health

Bacteriophages or phages are the viruses of domain Bacteria. Phages played key roles in the development of the fields of molecular biology and ­molecular genetics, plus are essential contributors to bacterial ecology and evolution. A subset of bacteriophages, furthermore, serve as serious public health menaces by encoding bacterial virulence factors. Notwithstanding the latter issue, a substantial fraction of phages are quite safe and phages generally are permissive to genetic manipulation. Consequently, phages may be employed in a number of technologies relevant to medicine and public health. As discussed in this chapter, these technologies include phage use as antibacterial agents (phage therapy); vaccines (both DNA and subunit); selectively cytotoxic complexes, including as anti-cancer agents; gene therapy vectors; bacterial identification and detection agents; and a means of discovery of small-molecule antibacterials. Phages also serve as a source of purified gene ­products for use in numerous tasks including as antibacterial agents (particularly lysins).
Comparative Effectiveness of Smoking Cessation Medications among Schizophrenic Smokers

Objective: To examine which medication could lead to a higher short and long term smoking abstinence in patients with schizophrenia.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using General Electric (GE) medical records database (1995 – 2011). The cohort consisted of adult smokers with diagnosis of schizophrenia newly initiating cessation medication. Short term and long term outcomes of cessation were measured at 3 weeks and 1 year. Descriptive and chi-square analyses were used to determine the frequencies and associations of patient characteristics with the abstinence outcomes. Logistic regression models were carried out to determine the predictors of short term and long term abstinence. Results: The cohort consisted of 3,976 patients. Abstinence rate was highest for Varenicline, followed by Bupropion, NRT, and lastly combination at week 12. At one year, abstinence rate was highest for Varenicline, followed by combination, NRT, and lastly Bupropion. Age, race, household locations and receiving counseling were associated with abstinence. No significant differences were found between cessation medications. Conclusions: There were no statistically significant differences in quitting with type of cessation medication. Predictors of better abstinence identified included older age, white race, western household location. These factors should be considered when designing future interventions for schizophrenic population as this minority population may need more tailored approaches to achieve a successful cessation outcome.
Extreme heterogeneity of population response to climatic variation and the limits of prediction

Certain general facets of biotic response to climate change, such as shifts in phenology and geographic distribution, are well characterized; however, it is not clear whether the observed similarity of responses across taxa will extend to variation in other population-level processes. We examined population response to climatic variation using long-term incidence data (collected over 42 years) encompassing 149 butterfly species and considerable habitat diversity (10 sites along an elevational gradient from sea level to over 2,700 m in California). Population responses were characterized by extreme heterogeneity that was not attributable to differences in species composition among sites. These results indicate that habitat heterogeneity might be a buffer against climate change and highlight important questions about mechanisms maintaining interpopulation differences in responses to weather. Despite overall heterogeneity of response, population dynamics were accurately predicted by our model for many species at each site. However, the overall correlation between observed and predicted incidence in a cross validation analysis was moderate (Pearson's r = 0.23, SE 0.01), and 97% of observed data fell within the predicted 95% credible intervals. Prediction was most successful for more abundant species as well as for sites with lower annual turnover. Population-level heterogeneity in response to climate variation and the limits of our predictive power highlight the challenges for a future of increasing climatic variability.
Effects of simulation-based formative assessments on students' conceptions in physics

Background:The paper presents effects of simulation-based formative assessments on students’ conceptions in physics. In the study, two topics—motion in two dimensions and conservation of energy—were selected to explore students’ conceptions in physics, and related assessment tasks incorporating computer simulations and formative assessment questions were developed.Material and methods:The participant students were first-year college students with majors related to science or engineering. Analytic rubrics were developed to capture the students’ normative and non-normative ideas revealed in their responses, and a holistic rubric was applied to categorize the responses into four response models.Results:The results demonstrated that, overall, students predicted and explained the given scientific phenomena with more valid scientific ideas after experiencing a computer simulation. However, the results also indicated that students’ non-normative ideas were still present even after experiencing computer simulations, especially when they were required to consider an abstract scientific concept such as energy dissipation.Conclusions:The finding can be explained with knowledge-in-piece perspectives (diSessa, 1993), that students’ naive knowledge is fragmented, and thus they do not demonstrate a coherent understanding of abstract science concepts across different situations.
Plastic Deformation at Low Temperatures and Drag Mechanisms

Plastic deformation at low temperatures occurs through the motion of dislocations and this motion of dislocations is resisted by processes involving other defects, lattice vibrations and electrons.(1) In the first of these resistive mechanisms, the dislocation is taken as being stationary, while the second and third resistances involve a viscous drag and, thus, a velocity. At low temperatures the phonon resistance disappears, in the same way as the specific heat, so that the major viscous resistance to dislocation motion will be an electron viscosity. Various attempts have been made to distinguish between barrier (defect) models of resistance to dislocation motion and viscous drag effects, but only recently has it become possible to make some headway on this problem. In order to study the interaction of dislocations with electrons, a method of instantaneously changing the electron drag must be found. Secondly, the velocities of the dislocation must be high if there is to be an interaction with the electronsof the metal. The first condition can be obtained by exploiting the properties of superconductors, (2) i.e. when a metal becomes superconducting, persistent currents are generated and, once these are established, they are not easily destroyed, since the slowing down involves all the electrons at once.
Magnetoactuated Reconfigurable Antennas on Hard-Magnetic Soft Substrates and E-Threads

We report new classes of reconfigurable antennas realized by embedding conductive e-threads inside programmable hard-magnetic soft substrates. Antenna deformations that rely on magnetic actuation are a promising alternative to conventional complicated and labor-intensive reconfiguration approaches due to their design, fabrication, and operation simplicity. However, state-of-the-art magnetoactuated approaches rely on soft-magnetic materials that suffer from stress failure, exhibit limited degrees of freedom, and do not allow programmable polarity deformations. Our work overcomes these challenges. By embedding NdFeB particles in soft silicone and by further coating e-thread antennas with the resulting flexible material, novel prototypes are brought forward that allow programmable polarity, stable magnetic properties, untethered actuation, response speed that could not be captured with high-speed camera (60 frames/s), reversible deformation, light weight, and extreme mechanical/thermal tolerance. In this article, we introduce the operating principle of this new class of antennas, optimize their fabrication, and validate them numerically and experimentally. As a proof-of-concept, validation is carried out for an accordion-based monopole, tunable from 680 to 835 MHz when actuated by a remote magnet. In future, this approach can be leveraged toward diverse reconfigurable antennas in consumer and defense applications.
Estimating Undercoverage Bias of Internet Users.

Introduction In the last decade, response rates to the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) surveys have been declining. Attention has turned to the possibility of using web surveys to complement or replace BRFSS, but web surveys can introduce coverage bias as a result of excluding noninternet users. The objective of this study was to describe undercoverage bias of internet use. Methods We used data from 402,578 respondents who completed BRFSS questions in 2017 on internet use, self-reported health, current smoking, and binge drinking. We examined undercoverage bias of internet use by partitioning it into a product of 2 components: proportion of noninternet use and difference in the prevalences of interest (self-reported health, current smoking, and binge drinking) between internet users and noninternet users. Results Overall, the weighted proportion of noninternet use overall was 15.0%; the proportion increased with an increase in age and a decrease in education and, by race/ethnicity, was lowest among non-Hispanic white respondents. The overall relative bias was -19.2% for self-reported health, -4.0% for current cigarette smoking, and 8.4% for binge drinking. For all 3 variables of interest, we found large biases and relative biases in some demographic subgroups. Conclusion Undercoverage bias of internet use existed in the 3 studied variables. Both proportion of noninternet users and difference in prevalences of studied variables between internet users and noninternet users contributed to the bias to different degrees. These findings have implications on helping health-related behavioral risk factor surveys transition to more cost-effective survey modes than telephone only.
Evaluation of COVID-19 Testing Strategies for Repopulating College and University Campuses: A Decision Tree Analysis.

Abstract Purpose The optimal approach to identify SARS-CoV-2 infection among college students returning to campus is unknown. Recommendations vary from no testing to two tests per student. This research determined the strategy that optimizes the number of true positives and negatives detected and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests needed. Methods A decision tree analysis evaluated five strategies: (1) classifying students with symptoms as having COVID-19, (2) RT-PCR testing for symptomatic students, (3) RT-PCR testing for all students, (4) RT-PCR testing for all students and retesting symptomatic students with a negative first test, and (5) RT-PCR testing for all students and retesting all students with a negative first test. The number of true positives, true negatives, RT-PCR tests, and RT-PCR tests per true positive (TTP) was calculated. Results Strategy 5 detected the most true positives but also required the most tests. The percentage of correctly identified infections was 40.6%, 29.0%, 53.7%, 72.5%, and 86.9% for Strategies 1–5, respectively. All RT-PCR strategies detected more true negatives than the symptom-only strategy. Analysis of TTP demonstrated that the repeat RT-PCR strategies weakly dominated the single RT-PCR strategy and that the thresholds for more intensive RT-PCR testing decreased as the prevalence of infection increased. Conclusion Based on TTP, the single RT-PCR strategy is never preferred. If the cost of RT-PCR testing is of concern, a staged approach involving initial testing of all returning students followed by a repeat testing decision based on the measured prevalence of infection might be considered.
Transcriptomes of Major Proximal Tubule Cell Culture Models.

Background Cultured cell lines are widely used for research in the physiology, pathophysiology, toxicology, and pharmacology of the renal proximal tubule. The lines that are most appropriate for a given use depend upon the genes expressed. New tools for transcriptomic profiling using RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) make it possible to catalog expressed genes in each cell line. Methods Fourteen different proximal tubule cell lines, representing six species, were grown on permeable supports under conditions specific for the respective lines. RNA-Seq followed standard procedures. Results Transcripts expressed in cell lines variably matched transcripts selectively expressed in native proximal tubule. Opossum kidney (OK) cells displayed the highest percentage match (45% of proximal marker genes [TPM threshold =15]), with pig kidney cells (LLC-PK1) close behind (39%). Lower-percentage matches were seen for various human lines, including HK-2 (26%), and lines from rodent kidneys, such as NRK-52E (23%). Nominally, identical OK cells from different sources differed substantially in expression of proximal tubule markers. Mapping cell line transcriptomes to gene sets for various proximal tubule functions (sodium and water transport, protein transport, metabolic functions, endocrine functions) showed that different lines may be optimal for experimentally modeling each function. An online resource (https://esbl.nhlbi.nih.gov/JBrowse/KCT/) has been created to interrogate cell line transcriptome data. Proteomic analysis of NRK-52E cells confirmed low expression of many proximal tubule marker proteins. Conclusions No cell line fully matched the transcriptome of native proximal tubule cells. However, some of the lines tested are suitable for the study of particular metabolic and transport processes seen in the proximal tubule.
Effectiveness of nanoscale delivery systems on improving the bioavailability of lutein in rodent models: a systematic review

Lutein, a potent antioxidant and the main macular pigment that protects the macula from light-initiated oxidative damage, has low bioavailability. Various nanoscale delivery systems have been developed for improving its bioavailability. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of nanoscale delivery systems on improving lutein bioavailability in rodent models. Using EBSCOhost and PubMed, a total of eleven peer-reviewed articles published from 2000 to 2020 were identified. Plasma lutein concentration, pharmacokinetic parameters, including maximum concentration (Cmax), area under curve (AUC), and time to reach the maximum concentration (Tmax), and lutein accumulation in organs were extracted to evaluate the bioavailability of lutein using nanoscale delivery methods as compared with unencapsulated or raw lutein. Various nanoscale delivery systems, including polymer nanoparticles, emulsions, and lutein nanoparticles, significantly improved the bioavailability of lutein, as evidenced by increased plasma lutein concentrations, Cmax, or AUC. Additionally, five out of seven studies observed enhanced accumulation of lutein in the liver and the eyes. Polymer nanoparticles and emulsions improve the dispersibility and stability of lutein, thus lutein might be more accessible in the small intestine. Lutein nanoparticles shortened the Tmax. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the effectiveness of nanoscale delivery systems on improving the functionalities of lutein.
Whole-body magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of children with fever without a focus.

Fever without a focus is defined as a temperature of 38° C or higher as the single presenting symptom. After extensive investigation, a large percentage (12–67%) of cases remain undiagnosed. To assess the diagnostic value of whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (WB-MRI) in children with fever without a focus. A retrospective study was performed to identify children who underwent WB-MRI for fever without a focus. Ninety-two children, 50 boys, with a mean age of 6.1 years were included. A multidisciplinary team of physicians completed in consensus a medical record review that included: 1) immune status, 2) underlying chronic conditions, 3) hospitalization status at onset of fever, and 4) results of tissue, body fluid cultures and biopsies. Original MRI reports were evaluated. WB-MRI studies were categorized into helpful WB-MRI and not helpful WB-MRI. A final diagnosis for the cause of the fever was available for 68/92 cases (73.9%), which were determined to be infectious in 33/68 (48.5%), oncological in 3/68 (4.4%), rheumatological etiologies in 23/68 (33.8%) and miscellaneous in 9/68 (13.2%) cases. WB-MRI was found to be helpful in 62/92 cases (67.4%) and not helpful in 30/92 cases (32.6%). WB-MRI was 10.2 times less likely to be helpful in immunosuppressed children and almost 5.7 times less likely to be helpful in cases of prolonged fever (>3 weeks) at the time of MRI (P≤0.01). WB-MRI provides helpful information in approximately 2/3 of children with fever without a focus. In most cases, it was helpful to exclude the need of further investigation.