cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Life prediction of large lithium-ion battery packs with active and passive balancing

Lithium-ion battery packs take a major part of large-scale stationary energy storage systems. One challenge in reducing battery pack cost is to reduce pack size without compromising pack service performance and lifespan. Prognostic life model can be a powerful tool to handle the state of health (SOH) estimate and enable active life balancing strategy to reduce cell imbalance and extend pack life. This work proposed a life model using both empirical and physical-based approaches. The life model described the compounding effect of different degradations on the entire cell with an empirical model. Then its lower-level submodels considered the complex physical links between testing statistics (state of charge level, C-rate level, duty cycles, etc.) and the degradation reaction rates with respect to specific aging mechanisms. The hybrid approach made the life model generic, robust and stable regardless of battery chemistry and application usage. The model was validated with a custom pack with both passive and active balancing systems implemented, which created four different aging paths in the pack. The life model successfully captured the aging trajectories of all four paths. The life model prediction errors on capacity fade and resistance growth were within ±3% and ±5% of the experiment measurements.
Near-infrared-conjugated humanized anti-carcinoembryonic antigen antibody targets colon cancer in an orthotopic nude-mouse model.

Abstract Background The success of a curative surgery for cancer is dependent on the complete removal of all cancer cells. Tumor visualization by the surgeon can be enhanced through fluorescent-antibody targeting. To further develop such technology, we selected humanized anti-carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) conjugated to a near-infrared dye to target orthotopically-implanted human colon cancer in nude mice. Materials and methods The HT-29 human colon cancer cell line was grown in culture and subcutaneously injected in mice. After 3 wk of growth, tumors were resected and cut into 2 mm3 fragments that were sutured to the cecum of five additional nude mice for orthotopic implantation. The tumors were allowed to grow for 4 wk at which point 3 had successful orthotopic tumor growth and were selected for injection of the humanized anti-CEA antibody conjugated to the near-infrared dye IRDye800CW (anti-CEA-IRDye800CW). The antibody-dye conjugate (75 μg) was administered via tail vein injection. Images were obtained with the Pearl Trilogy Small Animal Imaging System with both 700 and 800 nm channels and evaluated using Image Studio. Results Laparotomy was performed 24 h after labeling the tumors. When imaged through the 800 nm channel, the tumors were observed to be strongly labeled with anti-CEA-IRDye800. At 48 h, laparotomy was repeated which again demonstrated strong labeling of the tumors through the 800 nm channel, but with a lower absolute intensity (in relative units), than at 24 h. Conclusions Humanized anti-CEA-IRDye800CW can rapidly and effectively label CEA-expressing human colon cancer in an orthotopic nude mouse model. Given the ability of this technology to target and label tumors with great specificity, the anti-CEA-IRDye800CW is currently being developed for clinical use in fluorescence-guided surgery.
Osteochondral Graft Size Is Significantly Associated With Increased Force and Decreased Chondrocyte Viability

Background:Insertion force has been shown to significantly reduce chondrocyte viability during osteochondral allograft transplantation. How graft size influences the required insertion force and ch...
Expansion of a urethritis-associated Neisseria meningitidis clade in the United States with concurrent acquisition of N. gonorrhoeae alleles.

Increased reports of Neisseria meningitidis urethritis in multiple U.S. cities during 2015 have been attributed to the emergence of a novel clade of nongroupable N. meningitidis within the ST-11 clonal complex, the “U.S. NmNG urethritis clade”. Genetic recombination with N. gonorrhoeae has been proposed to enable efficient sexual transmission by this clade. To understand the evolutionary origin and diversification of the U.S. NmNG urethritis clade, whole-genome phylogenetic analysis was performed to identify its members among the N. meningitidis strain collection from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including 209 urogenital and rectal N. meningitidis isolates submitted by U.S. public health departments in eleven states starting in 2015. The earliest representatives of the U.S. NmNG urethritis clade were identified from cases of invasive disease that occurred in 2013. Among 209 urogenital and rectal isolates submitted from January 2015 to September 2016, the clade accounted for 189/198 male urogenital isolates, 3/4 female urogenital isolates, and 1/7 rectal isolates. In total, members of the clade were isolated in thirteen states between 2013 and 2016, which evolved from a common ancestor that likely existed during 2011. The ancestor contained N. gonorrhoeae-like alleles in three regions of its genome, two of which may facilitate nitrite-dependent anaerobic growth during colonization of urogenital sites. Additional gonococcal-like alleles were acquired as the clade diversified. Notably, one isolate contained a sequence associated with azithromycin resistance in N. gonorrhoeae, but no other gonococcal antimicrobial resistance determinants were detected. Interspecies genetic recombination contributed to the early evolution and subsequent diversification of the U.S. NmNG urethritis clade. Ongoing acquisition of N. gonorrhoeae alleles by the U.S. NmNG urethritis clade may facilitate the expansion of its ecological niche while also increasing the frequency with which it causes urethritis.
Chapter 5 – Illustrations and Problems in Space-Time Measurements

Lorentz transformations (“boosts”) are illustrated in several problems in relativistic kinematics.
Metabolomics and Isotope Tracing

Great strides have been made over the past decade toward comprehensive study of metabolism. Mass spectrometry (MS) has played a central role by enabling measurement of many metabolites simultaneously. Tracking metabolite labeling from stable isotope tracers can in addition reveal pathway activities. Here, we describe the basics of metabolite measurement by MS, including sample preparation, metabolomic analysis, and data interpretation. In addition, drawing on examples of successful experiments, we highlight the ways in which metabolomics and isotope tracing can illuminate biology.
Endovascular Acute Ischemic Stroke Treatment with FlowGate Balloon Guide Catheter: A Single-Center Observational Study of FlowGate Balloon Guide Catheter Use.

Background Treatment of large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke with mechanical thrombectomy has become the standard of care after recent clinical trials. However, the degree of recanalization with stent retrievers remains very important in overall outcomes. We sought to review the utility of a new balloon guide catheter (BGC) in improving the degree of recanalization in conjunction with mechanical thrombectomy. Methods The medical records of a prospectively collected endovascular ischemic stroke database were reviewed. All consecutive strokes when a FlowGate BGC was used with a thrombectomy stent retriever were identified. Use of a FlowGate BGC, number of passes, final Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) score, trackability, and use of adjunct devices were all collected and analyzed. Results Use of a FlowGate BGC resulted in 64% (33/52) first-pass effect (FPE) of TICI 2b/3, and specifically 46% (24/52) TICI 3 FPE (true FPE). A total of 52/62 (84%) of thrombectomy cases were treated with BGCs. In the remaining 10, the BGC was not inflated or used due to the clot not being visualized or the lesions being distal and BGC use thus not deemed appropriate. Adjunct use of an aspiration catheter was seen in 12% (6/52) of cases. The overall success with FlowGate BGCs with one or more passes of TICI 2b/3 was 94% (49/52). Trackability was achieved in 92% (57/62) of cases. Conclusions Use of the FlowGate BGC as an adjunct to mechanical thrombectomy was associated with good FPE and an overall recanalization of TICI 2b/3 of 94%.
How risk engines could solve a biometric dilemma

Biometric technology is defining a new future for security, both in daily life and in the workplace. Yet its success rests on a number of sometimes contradictory factors: the effectiveness of the technology in bolstering security, its ability to respond to complex business use cases, and end-user comfort in engaging with the technology.
Assessment of forecast technology for flood control operation

Flood control operations require threat detection and assessment, warning, and project operation. This text emphasizes the hydrologic engineering aspects of the flood threat detection and assessment. It discusses project operations for flood control. The flood forecast and project operation are referred to as real-time water control. This is the subject of a major new effort in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers R&D.
Automated Reconstruction of a Basin Thermal History with Integrated Paleothermometry and Genetic Algorithm

Source-rock maturity and the timing and the yield of hydrocarbon generation are key risk factors in many exploration tasks. Therefore, an accurate thermal history model of a source-rock (and thereby the basin) becomes very critical for basins with complex geologic histories.
Detecting Noncoding RNA Expression: From Arrays to Next-Generation Sequencing

Detection and quantification of noncoding(nc) RNA species can present specific challenges as compared to mRNA. Among them, ncRNA sequences are generally less well annotated, can include extraordinarily small species such as miRNA or piRNA, can have repetitive sequences or have high GC content, or even have antisense expression. Despite this, many different traditional technologies have been adapted to measure ncRNAs and include those based on a priori knowledge of sequence such as probe detection (qRT-PCR) and hybridization (arrays), and those where such knowledge is not required (next-generation sequencing). A summary of these experimental techniques is reviewed in this chapter, including the available chemistries, throughput, starting material, and species interrogated. Subsequent focus is on the computational analysis for next-generation sequencing since this technology can not only detect and measure ncRNAs but more excitingly also lead to the discovery of new or isomeric forms.
On the degree of unwinding of the DNA helix by ethidium. II. Studies by electron microscopy.

When a negatively twisted covalently closed DNA is annealed with single-stranded fragments of the same DNA, under proper conditions a loop (or loops) may form by the disruption of a segment (or segments) of base pairs between the complementary strands of the covalently closed DNA, and the formation of base pairs between the strands of the covalently closed DNA and the single-stranded fragments. Since such a process involves essentially no net gain or loss of the number of base pairs, it is driven by the free energy favoring the reduction of the number of superhelical turns. If the fragments are sufficiently long or are present at a sufficiently hig concentration during annealing, the most stable product between a covalently closed DNA and the DNA fragments (under conditions favoring the formation of double-stranded DNA) is a looped molecule devoid of superhelical turns. The size of the looped region or regions, which can be measured by electron microscopy, provides a way to determine the degree of superhelicity of the covalently closed DNA in the absence of the fragments. When this is compared with the degree of superhelicity of the covalently closed DNA determined by titration with the intercalative dye ethidium, the unwinding angle of the DNA double helix due to the intercalation of an ethidium can be calculated. Such measurements were done on two samples of phage PM2 DNA with different extents of supercoiling. The results are in agreement with the value 26 degree obtained recently by alkaline titration of covalently closed PM2 DNA samples in CsC1 density gradients (Wange, J.C., (1974) J. Mol. Biol. 89, 783-801).
James Buchanan and the Return to an Economics of Natural Equals

James Buchanan often argued that fairness is an obligation toward our equals. If Adam Smith is our equal, then we are under obligation to try to understand him. We see this in Buchanan’s attempts to reformat political economy on the basis of natural equals, a world in which Smith’s street porter does indeed have the same capacity as the philosopher. This shows in Buchanan’s excitement over increasing returns models as well as John Rawls’ Theory of Justice both of which he saw a way to make this view operational.
Hypothesized Evolutionary Consequences of the Alternative Oxidase (AOX) in Animal Mitochondria

The environment in which eukaryotes first evolved was drastically different from what they experience today, and one of the key limiting factors was the availability of oxygen for mitochondrial respiration. During the transition to a fully oxygenated Earth, other compounds such as sulfide posed a considerable constraint on using mitochondrial aerobic respiration for energy production. The ancestors of animals, and those that first evolved from the simpler eukaryotes have mitochondrial respiratory components that are absent from later-evolving animals. Specifically, mitochondria of most basal metazoans have a sulfide-resistant alternative oxidase (AOX), which provides a secondary oxidative pathway to the classical cytochrome pathway. In this essay, I argue that because of its resistance to sulfide, AOX respiration was critical to the evolution of animals by enabling oxidative metabolism under otherwise inhibitory conditions. I hypothesize that AOX allowed for metabolic flexibility during the stochastic oxygen environment of early Earth which shaped the evolution of basal metazoans. I briefly describe the known functions of AOX, with a particular focus on the decreased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during stress conditions. Then, I propose three evolutionary consequences of AOX-mediated protection from ROS observed in basal metazoans: 1) adaptation to stressful environments, 2) the persistence of facultative sexual reproduction, and 3) decreased mitochondrial DNA mutation rates. Recognizing the diversity of mitochondrial respiratory systems present in animals may help resolve the mechanisms involved in major evolutionary processes such as adaptation and speciation.
The Rational-Scientific World-View after the Protestant Reformation

The Catholic Church tried to squelch science – Galileo was threatened with death. The Protestant Reformation liberated science. Liebniz, Newton, and a thousand others began the scientific revolution that has totally altered the world. Science, not only creates new technology – like the airplane and internet, which astonish us, but science also creates a rational view of the world – when we look at the sky, we do not see heaven, we see stars, galaxies, solar systems, planets, supernovas, and more. This rational-scientific worldview, with its emphasis on the “laws of nature,” engenders a rational, lawful conception of human society. Legal-rational authority – constitutional law – replaces divine Kingships as the legitimacy structure of modern democratic societies. To be “lawful” is to be rational and law-abiding. This scientific, rational, lawful world orientation reinforces democracy. Of course, dictators fling us back into animal irrationality based on aggression, domination, and submission.
Minocycline microspheres did not significantly improve outcomes after collagenase injection of tendon.

Abstract Background Tetracycline antibiotics inhibit matrix metalloproteinases and pro-inflammatory cytokines implicated in the pathogenesis of tendinopathy, while microsphere formulations allow sustained release of drug contents. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of a local minocycline microsphere injection to restore normal tendon properties in a rat model of collagenase-induced patellar tendinopathy. Methods A total of 22 rats were randomly assigned to the control (n = 11) or minocycline (n = 11) group and received bilateral patellar tendon injections of collagenase. After 7 days, the minocycline group received the minocycline microsphere treatment and the control group received phosphate buffered solution. Pain was assessed via activity monitors and Von Frey filament testing. At 4 weeks post-collagenase injections, animals were euthanized. Results Cage crossings significantly decreased among all rats 2–3 days following each injection period, however, tactile allodynia measures did not reflect this injury response. Biomechanical properties, interleukin-1 beta levels, and glycosaminoglycan content did not differ between groups. While not statistically significant, levels of leukotriene B4 were lower in the minocycline group compared to controls (p = 0.061), suggesting a trend. Conclusions Our study further characterizes the collagenase model of tendinopathy by demonstrating no evidence of central sensitization with collagenase-induced injury. We found no adverse effect of intratendinous injections of minocycline-loaded poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid microspheres, although no therapeutic effect was observed. Future studies involving a more substantial tendon injury with a greater inflammatory component may be necessary to more thoroughly evaluate the effects of minocycline on tendon pathology.
Clusters of Nonmedical Exemptions to Vaccination in Illinois K–12 Schools

Vaccination rates in Illinois schools are decreasing as more parents opt for nonmedical exemptions (NMEs). At the local scale, higher levels of exemptions affect herd immunity levels. Few studies h...
Individual and Social Network Structure Characteristics Associated with Peer Change Agent Engagement and Impact in a PrEP Intervention.

Interventions that utilize the influence of peer change agents (PCAs) have been shown to be effective strategies for engaging key populations in HIV prevention. To date, little is known about the characteristics of PCAs associated with their effectiveness. Drawing on data from a peer leader PrEP intervention for young Black men who have sex with men (YBMSM) (N = 423), we evaluated the effects of experiential (i.e., living with HIV, PrEP awareness, PrEP use), psychographic (i.e., self-perceived leadership, innovativeness), and network (i.e., degree centrality, eigenvector centrality, and brokerage) characteristics on three effectiveness outcomes: (1) recruiting peers into the study; (2) completing “booster” sessions; and (3) linking peers to PrEP care. For each outcome, multivariable regressions were performed. On average, PCAs recruited 0.89 peers, completed 1.99 boosters, and had 1.33 network peers linked to PrEP care. Experiential factors: Prior PrEP awareness was positively associated with booster completion. Network factors: Being a network broker (i.e., connecting otherwise disconnected communities) was positively associated with peer recruitment but negatively associated with linking peers to PrEP, and degree centrality (i.e., the number of network connections someone has) and eigenvector centrality (i.e., being connected to well-connected network associates) were positively associated with linking peers to PrEP. Psychographic characteristics were not associated with any outcome. These findings can be used to inform PCA selection and to identify subpopulations who require additional support to excel as PCAs.
Reaching academic library users during the COVID-19 pandemic: New and adapted approaches in access services

The COVID-19 pandemic, which hit academic libraries in the United States during the spring semester of 2020, forced librarians and staff to redouble their efforts to reach out to users in light of ...
DISASTER IN A ‘PLURAL SOCIETY’: CYCLONES, DECOLONIZATION, AND MODERN AFRO-MAURITIAN IDENTITY

In February of 1960, the most powerful cyclone in Mauritian history, Carol, made landfall. In its wake, the British colonial state embarked on a reconstruction effort that would reshape the island for decades to come. This study examines how Afro-descendant Creole Mauritians understood Carol at the moment of its landfall and produced social meaning in the reconstruction efforts that followed. It sheds light in particular on the construction of cites, ‘cyclone-proof’ housing estates meant to permanently shelter those left homeless, at a moment when questions of racial coexistence defined debates over the end of empire. It shows that the building of the cites and the prospect of home ownership they allowed would become important touchstones in contemporary Afro-Mauritian notions of belonging and permanence in a society structured by racial exclusion. In so doing, this essay emphasizes the importance of the natural world to narratives of diasporic community in the southwest Indian Ocean.
The Role of Rho GTPases During Fibroblast Spreading, Migration, and Myofibroblast Differentiation in 3D Synthetic Fibrous Matrices.

Connective tissue repair and mechanosensing are tightly entwined in vivo and occur within a complex three-dimensional (3D), fibrous extracellular matrix (ECM). Typically driven by activated fibroblasts, wound repair involves well-defined steps of cell spreading, migration, proliferation, and fibrous ECM deposition. While the role of Rho GTPases in regulating these processes has been explored extensively in two-dimensional cell culture models, much less is known about their role in more physiologic, 3D environments. We employed a 3D, fibrous and protease-sensitive hydrogel model of interstitial ECM to study the interplay between Rho GTPases and fibrous matrix cues in fibroblasts during wound healing. Modulating fiber density within protease-sensitive hydrogels, we confirmed previous findings that heightened fiber density promotes fibroblast spreading and proliferation. The presence of matrix fibers furthermore corresponded to increased cell migration speeds and macroscopic hydrogel contraction arising from fibroblast generated forces. During fibroblast spreading, Rac1 and RhoA GTPase activity proved crucial for fiber-mediated cell spreading and contact guidance along matrix fibers, while Cdc42 was dispensable. In contrast, interplay between RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42 contributed to fiber-mediated myofibroblast differentiation and matrix contraction over longer time scales. These observations may provide insights into tissue repair processes in vivo and motivate the incorporation of cell-adhesive fibers within synthetic hydrogels for material-guided wound repair strategies.
Low serum klotho associated with all-cause mortality among a nationally representative sample of American adults.

α-Klotho (klotho) is a protein involved in suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation. In animal models, it is reported to underlie numerous aging phenotypes and longevity. Among a nationally representative sample of adults aged 40 to 79 in the United States, we investigated whether circulating concentrations of klotho is a marker of mortality risk. Serum klotho was measured by ELISA on 10,069 individuals enrolled in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2007-2014. Mortality follow-up data based on the National Death Index were available through December 31, 2015. After a mean follow-up of 58 months (range: 1-108), 616 incident deaths occurred. Using survey-weighted Cox regression models adjusted for age, sex and survey cycle, low serum klotho concentration ( 985 pg/mL, HR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.71, P= 0.05). Associations were consistent for mortality caused by heart disease or cancer. Associations of klotho with all-cause mortality did not appear to differ by most participant characteristics. However, we observed effect modification by physical activity, such that low levels of serum klotho were more strongly associated with mortality among individuals who did not meet recommendation-based physical activity guidelines. Our findings suggest that, among the general population of American adults, circulating levels of klotho may serve as a marker of mortality risk.
Transcaval TAVR—What the Radiologist Needs to Know

Transcaval transcatheter aortic valve replacement is a new approach in performing percutaneous aortic valve replacement in which aortic access is obtained by way of the femoral vein and inferior vena cava. Computed tomographic angiography is used to determine patient suitability and in preprocedural planning. CTA is also part of routine follow-up care to assess for potential caval-aortic access site complications. Postprocedural imaging findings at the caval-aortic site include aortocaval fistula, aortic dissection, retroperitoneal hemorrhage, and pseudoaneurysm. The purpose of this manuscript is to familiarize the reader with the technical aspects of this new procedure and the periprocedural assessment of the caval-aortic access site with CTA.
Nilometers, El Niño, and climate variability

Nilometers have been used for gauging the level of water in the Nile river for more than five millennia. The written records describing some of these measurements represent the longest written records for any hydrological phenomenon. They describe interannual fluctuations in the Nile river flow which are closely associated with El Nino phenomenon. Here, we use information about long-term variability in El Nino occurrences that has been extracted from the Nilometers records to test the significance of the recent trend in the frequency of El Nino years. We show that the observed frequency of El Nino years during the last two decades is rather high compared to the long-term statistics that are computed from about a thousand years of Nilometers data; however similar levels of activity have been observed during the first millennium.
Three-Candidate Spatial Competition When Candidates Have Valence: Asymmetric Voter Density and Plurality Maximization

I study both local and global Nash equilibria of a model of three-candidate unidimensional spatial competition. In the model, candidates may have different non-policy characteristics (valence). Generalizing the base model studied in Evrenk (2009a;b) the model allows for an asymmetric voter density as well as plurality-maximizing candidates. Unlike the standard Hotelling-Downs model of multi-candidate competition, under an asymmetric density with (heterogenous) vote-maximizing candidates a pure strategy Nash equilibrium (PSNE) exists. Further, this PSNE is free from several non-plausible features of PSNE under a symmetric density. When candidates are plurality-maximizers, some of the PSNE are supported by paradoxical candidate behavior. Further, when voter density is asymmetric and candidates are plurality-maximizers, there are several non-monotonicities in the PSNE.
College chemistry students' understanding of potential energy in the context of atomic-molecular interactions

Understanding the energy changes that occur as atoms and molecules interact forms the foundation for understanding the macroscopic energy changes that accompany chemical processes. In order to identify ways to scaffold students' understanding of the connections between atomic–molecular and macroscopic energy perspectives, we conducted a qualitative study of students' conceptualization of potential energy at the atomic–molecular level. We used semi-structured interviews and open-ended surveys to explore how students understand potential energy and use the idea of potential energy to explain atomic–molecular interactions in simple systems. Findings suggest that undergraduate chemistry students may rely on intuitive interpretations of potential energy, incorrect interpretations of curricular definitions (including the idea that potential energy represents stored energy) and heuristics rather than foundational understandings of the relationships between atomic–molecular structure, electrostatic forces and energy. Thus, we suggest that more explicit attention to the nature and role of potential energy in the undergraduate chemistry curriculum may be needed. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 51: 789–808, 2014
Helping Undergraduate Students Learn from Each Other: A Pedagogical Process for in-Class Collaborative Research Projects

Previous research has shown that experiential, active, and collaborative teaching techniques help undergraduate students learn and develop critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills that can help them in future study or work place roles. At the same time, universities are seeking ways to increase the number of students who get training and experience doing original research while undergraduates. This paper reports on a process for a collaborative in-class original research project which can help instructors achieve these goals. This paper first briefly reviews the relevant literature and then describes the course and the collaborative project. The value of the project in facilitating student learning is assessed by a discussion of student work, student evaluations, and student responses to a pedagogical survey. The strengths and weaknesses of the project and ways an instructor could modify it to meet specific goals are also discussed. Keywords: active learning, research methods, collaborative projects, pedagogy, undergraduate courses
Influence of Sample Disturbance on Sand Response to Cyclic Loading

The factors influencing the cyclic liquefaction characteristics of saturated sands are reviewed and shown to be profoundly influenced by the relative density, the sand structure, a prolonged period of pressure application, the past seismic history, and the effects of overconsolidation. A study is described in which the cyclic liquefaction characteristics of samples extracted carefully from a bed of sand having a prior seismic history are determined and compared with the characteristics from an otherwise identical bed having no seismic history. Although the sand beds had characteristics differing by 50%, the characteristics of samples taken from both beds were essentially the same. It is suggested that the effects of many factors affecting the stability of natural deposits of dense clean sand lost during the sampling process and that special care is required to arrive at a reasonable evaluation of the cyclic liquefaction characteristics of such soils.
Implications of Georgia’s 20-Week Abortion Ban

Objectives. We sought to understand more about women affected by a law enacted in January 2013 that led Georgia providers to stop providing abortion services at 24 weeks from a woman’s last menstrual period (LMP), and who would be affected if Georgia enforces the law banning abortions at 22 weeks from LMP.Methods. We obtained data on women obtaining abortions at or after 20 weeks from LMP in 2012 and 2013 from 4 Georgia facilities providing later abortion care. We analyzed data descriptively and with the χ2 test.Results. More than half of the women were Black; one fourth were White. Close to half of the women had education beyond high school and a similar proportion had a previous live birth. Eighty-three percent of women at or after 24 weeks came from the South, 4% from the Northeast, and 13% from the Midwest; 99% of those at 20 to 24 weeks were from the South. One third of women at or after 24 weeks and half at 20 to 24 weeks were Georgia residents.Conclusions. These bans will likely affect women throug...
Statistical characterization of the American sector subauroral polarization stream using incoherent scatter radar

[1] We examine Millstone Hill incoherent scatter radar data collected over two solar cycles between 1979 and 2001 to determine average characteristics and features of storm time ion velocity and flux transport in the American sector midlatitude ionosphere. We use over 1100 radar azimuth scans identified as containing enhanced westward ion velocities associated with the subauroral polarization stream (SAPS), covering the 12–06 magnetic local time (MLT) sector and 50°–68° invariant latitude for weak to moderate disturbance levels with Dst from 50 to −200 nT. We find the magnetic latitude peak location of the SAPS flow channels decreases linearly with both Dst and MLT with a very good degree of correlation. We also examine for the first time SAPS peak westward ion fluxes, which transport material westward with magnitude between 3 × 1013 and 3 × 1014 m−2 s−1 in a manner nearly invariant to activity level. This invariance is maintained by an inverse relationship between electron density and ion velocity magnitudes with increasing Dst. Westward log ion flux and ion velocity are maximum in the dusk sector and decrease linearly with increasing MLT, smoothly varying across the dusk terminator. Finally, velocity distributions show that material in the afternoon SAPS flow is swept westward to earlier MLT values, delivering O+ flux to the cusp region. In contrast, SAPS streams in the post terminator sectors are fixed east-west in the Sun-Earth inertial frame, effectively maintaining entrained ion fluxes at the same MLT.
Mandated Disclosure and Stock Returns: Evidence from the Over-the-Counter Market

Mandated disclosure requirements placed on publicly-traded firms constitute the core of U.S. securities regulation. Despite their importance, few empirical studies have been done on the impact of mandated disclosure requirements on the capital markets. Using a unique database created for this study, this paper examines the impact the 1964 imposition of mandated disclosure requirements had on the over-the-counter market in terms of stock returns, volatility and stock price synchronicity. Despite this being the only fundamental change in the scope of mandated disclosure in the U.S. in the twentieth century - with the exception of the initial securities acts of the 1930s - this regulatory change has never been examined. This study finds that there was a dramatic reduction in the volatility of OTC stock returns associated with the imposition of mandated disclosure. At the same time, there was no change stock price synchronicity associated with mandated disclosure. The evidence on stock returns is consistent with a positive abnormal return associated with the imposition of mandatory disclosure.
Neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists block acute cocaine-induced horizontal locomotion.

Systemic exposure to neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists CP099994 or LY306740 prior to cocaine administration (10 mg/kg i.p.) blocks acute, cocaine-induced horizontal locomotion. CP099994 (30 mg/kg) was delivered i.p. 30 minutes before cocaine exposure, and LY306740 (5 mg/kg) was delivered continuously by osmotic minipump for 12-14 hours before cocaine administration. These results suggest that endogenous substance P acting via neurokinin-1 receptors is necessary for the expression of acute cocaine-induced hyperactivity.
Characterization of a 160 kD Photosystem II reaction center complex isolated from photoinhibited Dunaliella salina thylakoids

Photoinhibition in the green alga Dunaliella salina is accompanied by the formation of inactive Photosystem II reaction centers. In SDS-PAGE analysis, the latter appear as 160 kD complexes. These complexes are structurally stable, enough to withstand re-electrophoresis of excised gel slices from the 160 kD region. Western blot analyses with specific polyclonal antibodies raised against the D1 or D2 reaction center proteins provided evidence for the presence of both of these polypeptides in the re-electrophoresed 160 kD complex. Incubation of excised gel slices from the 160 kD region, under aerobic conditions at 4°C for a prolonged period of time, caused a break-up of the 160 kD complex into a ∽52 kD D1-containing and ∽80 and ∽26 kD D2-containing pieces. Western blot analysis with polyclonal antibodies raised against the apoproteins of CPI (reaction center proteins of PS I) did not show cross-reaction either with the 160 kD complex or with the ∽52, ∽80 and ∽26 kD pieces. The results show the presence of both D1 and D2 in the 160 kD complex and strengthen the notion of a higher molecular weight D1- and D2-containing complex that forms upon disassembly of photodamaged PS II units.
Practical Use of Home Blood Pressure Monitoring in Chronic Kidney Disease

Despite the availability of blood pressure (BP)-lowering medications and dietary education, hypertension is still poorly controlled in the chronic kidney disease (CKD) population. As glomerular filtration rate declines, the number of medications required to achieve BP targets increases, which may lead to reduced patient adherence and therapeutic inertia by the clinician. Home BP monitoring (HBPM) has emerged as a means of improving diagnostic accuracy, risk stratification, patient adherence, and therapeutic intervention. The definition of hypertension by HBPM is an average BP >135/85 mm Hg. Twelve readings over the course of 3-5 days are sufficient for clinical decision making. Diagnostic accuracy is especially important in the CKD population as approximately half of these patients have either white coat hypertension or masked hypertension. Preliminary data suggest that HBPM outperforms office BP monitoring in predicting progression to end-stage renal disease or death. When combined with additional support such as telemonitoring, medication titration, or behavioral therapy, HBPM results in a sustained improvement in BP control. HBPM must be adapted to provide information on the phenomena of nondipping (absence of nocturnal fall in BP) and reverse dipping (paradoxical increase in BP at night). These diurnal patterns are more prevalent in the CKD population and are important cardiovascular risk factors. Ambulatory BP monitoring provides nocturnal BP readings and unlike HBPM may be reimbursed by Medicare when certain criteria are met. Further studies are needed to determine whether HBPM is cost-effective in the current US healthcare system.
Generating Multimode Entangled States of Light by Linear Optics and Photocounting

We develop analytic and numerical schemes for generating multimode photon entangled states using linear optics and projective measurement with applications to linear optical quantum computing and quantum lithography.
Newer concepts of the autonomic system's role derived from reductionist and behavioral studies of various animal species.

Abstract The evolution of newer concepts, many from old precursors, are elaborated. Among the bases for new thought has been the realization that all body tissues receive an autonomic innervation and that this system affects all functions. It is involved in the minutia of reactions studied by the reductionists and in activity of the total organism studied by behaviorists. Newer knowledge suggests that the system's functions can be subdivided into 2 major categories: (1) a role in basic metabolic or vegetative functions. There are 3 realms of such involvements: in energy storage and release; in control of endocrines and neuroendocrine secretions; and in control of exocrine secretion and thus intake, conservation or loss and transformation of energy. The hypothalamus is most highly involved in these autonomic system functions; (2) a role in behavior. The hypothalamus is also highly involved, especially in alerting and defense reactions, concepts relating to Cannon's ideas of emergency function and Selye's concepts of stress. It can be said that the normal, phasic functions of the autonomic system and its involvement in organ and body reactivity are controlled in parallel with the regulation of somatic performances. The several newer interpretative ideas originating from studies of reflexes, reflex patterns and sequences, and of general behavior are the integrative role, the supportive role, the modulatory and finally the anticipatory or determinative role in behavior. The similarity of the role of the autonomic nervous system function in all species, from birds to man, has caught the attention of investigators. This rather than the specializations of the system that are appropriate to the peculiar characteristics of individual species has been emphasized; but species specializations do exist and these should be worthy of future investigation. New concepts of the system's role are evolving from old ideas and new discoveries. Newer concepts of transmitter genesis and tissue receptors are developing that add more detail to our major channels of thought concerning the autonomic system's function. There is a new realization of the system's involvement in pain. Its' directives affect and integrate organ and tissue activity; it determines behavior and expresses the sympathies and judgements of man.
Assessing risk for coronary heart disease: Beyond Framingham

The Framingham Heart Study, initiated over 50 years ago, introduced the concept of risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) and has served as the standard for risk assessment over the years.1-4 Major risk factors identified by the Framingham HeartStudy, in- cluding age, sex, total cholesterol, high-density li- poprotein (HDL) cholesterol,smoking, and systolic blood pressure, have been incorporated into a scoring system thatidentifies subjects at high (>20%), interme- diate (10%–20%), and low ( 80% of the excess population risk for CHD.6-8 Recent clinical trials in high-risk subjectsdemonstrate dramatic reductions in risk (approximately 33%–50% in 5 y) with riskreduction therapies.9 This provides strong support for the concept that CHD and its sequela can be prevented by aggressive medical therapy and therapeutic lifestyle changes.Recent American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines (2002)4 for primary prevention ofcardiovascular disease and stroke recom- mend that risk-factor screening in adults shouldbegin at age 20 and should be repeated at least every 5 years in the absence of risk factors and every 2 years if risk factors are present. This panel recommends that global risk should be estimated in all adults >40 years of age. In this issue of the Journal, Cohn et al10 have proposed a method for risk assessment that focuses on measurements of early vasculardysfunction and disease markers rather than standard risk factors. Studies are ongoing intheir outpatient cardiovascular disease prevention clinic to validate the model by relating risk assessments to disease outcomes over time
A secure hierarchical model for sensor network

In a distributed sensor network, large number of sensors deployed which communicate among themselves to self-organize a wireless ad hoc network. We propose an energy-efficient level-based hierarchical system. We compromise between the energy consumption and shortest path route by utilizing number of neighbors (NBR) of a sensor and its level in the hierarchical clustering. In addition, we design a Secure Routing Protocol for Sensor Networks (SRPSN) to safeguard the data packet passing on the sensor networks under different types of attacks. We build the secure route from the source node to sink node. The sink node is guaranteed to receive correct information using our SRPSN. We also propose a group key management scheme, which contains group communication policies, group membership requirements and an algorithm for generating a distributed group key for secure communication.
Mesenteric lymph nodes in children: what is normal?

Background: Enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) are frequently seen in children with abdominal pain and, in the absence of other disorders, have been attributed to primary mesenteric lymphadenitis. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of enlarged MLN (short axis ≥5 mm) as detected by abdominal CT in children with a low likelihood for mesenteric lymphadenopathy. Materials and methods: During a 14-month period, we identified all non-contrast abdominal CT examinations performed at a tertiary care pediatric hospital for evaluation of suspected or known renal stones. Two radiologists reviewed the examinations and recognized all enlarged MLN, measured the short-axis diameter, and noted the quadrant location. Results: Sixty-one children were identified who met entry criteria; mean age was 10.7 years (range 1.1–17.3 years). Enlarged MLN were found in 33 (54%) of the 61 children; the largest enlarged MLN was most frequently in the right lower quadrant (RLQ) (29 of 33, 88%). Seventeen of the 61 children (28%) had three or more enlarged MLN; all were in the RLQ. The largest short-axis diameter measured was 10 mm. Summary: MLN with a short-axis diameter of >5–10 mm are commonly found on abdominal CT examination of children with a low likelihood for mesenteric lymphadenopathy and should be considered a non-specific finding. A short-axis diameter of 8 mm might better define the upper limit of normal mesenteric lymph node size in children.
Line-frequency doubling of directed self-assembly patterns for single-digit bit pattern media lithography

Directed self-assembly is emerging as a promising technology to define sub-20nm features. However, a straightforward path to scale block copolymer lithography to single-digit fabrication remains challenging given the diverse material properties found in the wide spectrum of self-assembling materials. A vast amount of block copolymer research for industrial applications has been dedicated to polystyrene-b-methyl methacrylate (PS-b-PMMA), a model system that displays multiple properties making it ideal for lithography, but that is limited by a weak interaction parameter that prevents it from scaling to single-digit lithography. Other block copolymer materials have shown scalability to much smaller dimensions, but at the expense of other material properties that could delay their insertion into industrial lithographic processes. We report on a line doubling process applied to block copolymer patterns to double the frequency of PS-b-PMMA line/space features, demonstrating the potential of this technique to reach single-digit lithography. We demonstrate a line-doubling process that starts with directed self-assembly of PS-b-PMMA to define line/space features. This pattern is transferred into an underlying sacrificial hard-mask layer followed by a growth of self-aligned spacers which subsequently serve as hard-masks for transferring the 2x frequency doubled pattern to the underlying substrate. We applied this process to two different block copolymer materials to demonstrate line-space patterns with a half pitch of 11nm and 7nm underscoring the potential to reach single-digit critical dimensions. A subsequent patterning step with perpendicular lines can be used to cut the fine line patterns into a 2-D array of islands suitable for bit patterned media. Several integration challenges such as line width control and line roughness are addressed.
Flexible Slurry–Microsurfacing System for Overlay Preparation: Construction and Seasonal Monitoring at Minnesota Road Research Project

Microsurfacing mixtures are made of high-quality aggregate and asphalt emulsion components. They are produced at the project site by a mobile microsurfacing machine that mixes and places the product. Normal microsurface designs contain approximately 13.5% emulsion and include a performance grade (PG) 64-22 asphalt cement (AC). This study investigates the field performance of softer-AC flexible slurry surfacing mixtures used for preparation and surface courses. A PG 48-34 AC was chosen for flexible slurry–microsurfacing mixtures constructed on four test cells at the Minnesota Road Research Project low-volume road facility near Albertville, Minnesota, in September 2005. This AC was used to produce mixtures for both surface preparation and wear courses. The mixtures used a reduced emulsion percentage for rut filling and an increased emulsion percentage for normal leveling courses. A single surface course mixture with the increased emulsion level was placed over the entire project. Pre- and postconstruction evaluations of cracking, rutting, and smoothness were performed. These evaluations were repeated at 6 months, following one winter of service. At 6 months an overall 71% of transverse cracking had reflected through the microsurface. Reflected distress from longitudinal cracks and patched areas was negligible. The rutting condition at 7 months was found to be similar to that at postconstruction, in which an overall 20% decrease was attributed to microsurfacing. Smoothness was favorably affected by microsurfacing construction. International roughness index values were correlated to the amount of material placed in the surface preparation course.