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Prostanoid receptors (nomenclature as agreed by the NC-IUPHAR Subcommittee on Prostanoid Receptors [701]) are activated by the endogenous ligands prostaglandins PGD2, PGE1, PGE2 , PGF2α, PGH2, prostacyclin [PGI2] and thromboxane A2. Differences and similarities between human and rodent prostanoid receptor orthologues, and their specific roles in pathophysiologic conditions are reviewed in [452]. Measurement of the potency of PGI2 and thromboxane A2 is hampered by their instability in physiological salt solution; they are often replaced by cicaprost and U46619, respectively, in receptor characterization studies.

Determining actinides in urine is vital for occupational exposure monitoring and radiological emergency response because of the toxicity and radiological dose effects of actinides on human health. Traditional radiochemistry analytical methods used to determine actinide concentrations in urine are time-consuming (sample analysis takes several days) and are hindered by a variety of technical and instrumentation-related obstacles. A high-throughput, fully automated, precise, and accurate in-line method was developed for determining five actinides (

The negative impact of lead exposure on young children and those who become pregnant is well documented but is not well known by those at highest risk from this hazard. Scientific evidence suggests that there is no known safe blood lead level (BLL), because even small amounts of lead can be harmful to a child's developing brain (1). In 2012, CDC introduced the population-based blood lead reference value (BLRV) to identify children exposed to more lead than most other children in the United States. The BLRV should be used as a guide to 1) help determine whether medical or environmental follow-up actions should be initiated for an individual child and 2) prioritize communities with the most need for primary prevention of exposure and evaluate the effectiveness of prevention efforts. The BLRV is based on the 97.5th percentile of the blood lead distribution in U.S. children aged 1-5 years from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data. NHANES is a complex, multistage survey designed to provide a nationally representative assessment of health and nutritional status of the noninstitutionalized civilian adult and child populations in the United States (2). The initial BLRV of 5 μg/dL, established in 2012, was based on data from the 2007-2008 and 2009-2010 NHANES cycles. Consistent with recommendations from a former advisory committee, this report updates CDC's BLRV in children to 3.5 μg/dL using NHANES data derived from the 2015-2016 and 2017-2018 cycles and provides helpful information to support adoption by state and local health departments, health care providers (HCPs), clinical laboratories, and others and serves as an opportunity to advance health equity and environmental justice related to preventable lead exposure. CDC recommends that public health and clinical professionals focus screening efforts on populations at high risk based on age of housing and sociodemographic risk factors. Public health and clinical professionals should collaborate to develop screening plans responsive to local conditions using local data. In the absence of such plans, universal BLL testing is recommended. In addition, jurisdictions should follow the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services requirement that all Medicaid-enrolled children be tested at ages 12 and 24 months or at age 24-72 months if they have not previously been screened (3).

Responding to a radiological or nuclear incident may require assessing tens to hundreds of thousands of people for possible radionuclide contamination. The measurement of radioactive Sr is important because of its impact on people’s health. The existing analytical method for urine Sr-90 analysis using crown ethers is laborious and involves possible exposure to concentrated acids; therefore, this work is devoted to the development of the automated Sr-90 separation process, which became possible with the prepFast pre-analytical system (Elemental Scientific, Inc).

Radioactive strontium is a nuclear fission decay product found in industrial products and nuclear waste and is released during nuclear accidents. Current urine radiostrontium separation methods often are based on the use of Sr resin columns or cartridges (Eichrom Technologies). Most of these analytical methods use stable Sr as a tracer, with subsequent Sr recovery. The gravimetric recovery method requires 120 times more stable Sr than does the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method described here. This difference can affect cartridge performance especially with aging cartridges.

Following a radiological or nuclear incident, the National Response Plan has given the Department of Health and Human Services / Centers for Disease Control and Prevention the responsibility for assessing population's contamination with radionuclides. In the public health response to the incident, valuable information could be obtained in a timely and accurate manner by using liquid scintillation counting techniques to determine who has been contaminated above background for alpha and beta emitting radionuclides. The calibration plays a major role in this process therefore, knowing the effect of quench agents on calibration is essential.

A number of errors with potentially significant consequences may be introduced at various points in the analytical process, which result in skewed, erroneous analytical results. Precautionary procedures such as contamination control, following established sample collection protocols, and having a complete understanding of the long-term stability of the elements of interest can minimize or eliminate these errors. Contamination control is critical in the quantification of Cr and Co in human whole blood. Cr and Co levels in most biological samples are low, but these elements occur naturally in the environment and are often found in commercial and consumer products, which increases the risk of contamination. In this paper, we demonstrated that lot screening process in which we pre-screen a sub-set of manufactured lots used in collecting, analyzing and storing blood samples is a critical step in controlling Cr and Co contamination. Stainless steel needles are often utilized in blood collection but are considered as a potential source of introducing metal contamination to the patient sample. We conducted two studies to determine if there is a possibility of Cr or Co leaching into the human whole blood from the needles during blood collection. We analyzed blood collected from 100 donors and blood collected in vitro in the laboratory from designated vessel containing spiked blood with higher levels of Cr and Co. Two blood tubes were consecutively collected through one needle. In both studies, Cr and Co concentration levels in the two consecutively collected tubes were compared. Based on the results from donor and in vitro blood collection studies, we concluded that there was no Cr and Co leaching from the limited sets of stainless steel needles used in these studies. Furthermore, we demonstrated that Cr and Co human whole blood samples are stable for 1 year stored at temperatures of −70, −20 and 4°C and 6 months at room temperature.

Measuring 237Np and 239Pu in urine at low levels is important for both biomonitoring and radiological emergency response. Here we report a newly developed and validated analytical method used to determine 237Np and 239Pu in urine by selective retention of Np and Pu from 2mL of urine directly onto TEVA® resin followed by SF-ICP-MS (coupled to a membrane desolvating introduction system) detection. The method provides solid phase extraction of Np/Pu with observed recovery ratios ranging from 89% to 113% and rapid results with limits of detection well below recommended detection guidelines for children and pregnant women (NCRP 161 reference).

As part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s post-radiological/nuclear incident response mission, we developed rapid bioassay analytical methods to assess possible human exposure to radionuclides and internal contamination. Liquid scintillation counting (LSC) is a valuable analytical tool for the rapid detection and quantification of gross alpha/beta-emitting radionuclides in urine samples. A key characteristic of this type of bioassay method is its detection sensitivity for the priority threat radionuclides. We evaluated the limit of detection of selected LSC instruments to determine which instrument can be used when low-dose measurement is important.

BACKGROUND: Recent reports of lead poisoning suggest that people who use opium may be exposed to high amounts of lead. Here, we investigate the association between opium use and blood lead levels (BLL) in a population-based cohort study. METHODS: In 2017, we studied a random sample of 410 people who currently (both within the past year and the past month) used opium and 104 who did not from participants of the Golestan Cohort Study in northeast Iran. Participants were stratified by sex and tobacco use history, completed a comprehensive opiate and tobacco use questionnaire and provided blood. BLL was measured by Lead Care(®) II Blood Lead Test Kit, validated by inductively coupled plasma triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. BLL was categorized as “

Nuclear industry advancements and growing concerns about environmental contamination and terrorist activity have increased interest in quantifying radioisotopes in environmental and human samples. Increased presence in the environment, ease of entry into the food chain, nuclear medicine applications, and the possibility of radiological terrorism incidents can lead to human intake of these radionuclides (Radionuclides/Radiation Protection/US EPA (2020). https://www.epa.gov/radiation/radionuclides ; Radiation from the Earth (Terrestrial Radiation) (2015) Radiation and Your Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 7 December. https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/radiation/terrestrial.html ). A universal method to screen for and quantify individual radionuclides as well as both levels of alpha and beta emitters would address these concerns.

Prostanoid receptors (nomenclature as agreed by the NC-IUPHAR Subcommittee on Prostanoid Receptors [694]) are activated by the endogenous ligands prostaglandins PGD2, PGE1, PGE2 , PGF2α, PGH2, prostacyclin [PGI2] and thromboxane A2. Differences and similarities between human and rodent prostanoid receptor orthologues, and their specific roles in pathophysiologic conditions are reviewed in [448]. Measurement of the potency of PGI2 and thromboxane A2 is hampered by their instability in physiological salt solution; they are often replaced by cicaprost and U46619, respectively, in receptor characterization studies.

Here we report a new procedure to determine Pu-239 in urine using a custom-made automated pre-analytical processing system (single probe) with Pu-242 as a tracer followed by analysis by SF-ICP-MS. An average Pu-242 recovery rate of 88% was obtained with CF-ThU-1000 columns reused >100 times. Analytical results agree with measurements obtained using the CDC manual method with a R(2) of 0.9994. Results for Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) reference materials (RM) align with target values with a bias range of −3.44% to 3.05%. The limit of detection for this method is 0.63 pg/L, which is comparable to previous manual methods.

The Tennessee–Tombigbee Waterway is among the largest and most expensive environmental engineering projects of the 20ᵗʰ century. The waterway accommodates barge navigation between the Tennessee River Drainage and Mobile River Basin through a series of locks, dams, canals, and dredged and diverted streams. These structures have altered riverine habitat and fragmented lotic habitats resulting in isolated freshwater mussel populations in patches of streams such as the East Fork Tombigbee River, where 42 species were known historically. The first post‐waterway mussel surveys in 1987 and 1988 reported 31 taxa. During 2010 and 2011 surveys, 70 sites were sampled using both timed searches and quadrats and detected 29 extant mussel species. Between 1988 and 2010–2011 the relative abundance of nine mussel taxa decreased, whereas the abundance of 11 taxa increased. The populations of three federally listed species were detected at levels below the detection limits in 1988 as well as three non‐native unionids that appear to have colonized the East Fork Tombigbee River via the Tennessee–Tombigbee Waterway River. Although mussel abundance and total species richness were relatively unchanged, assemblage composition shifted toward animals typical of smaller streams rather than large rivers. This shift suggests that present‐day East Fork Tombigbee River habitats favour smaller‐bodied, thinner shelled taxa that are laterally compressed and lack shell sculpture. These taxa are likely to be better adapted to hydrologically and hydraulically variable habitats than are thick‐shelled, large bodied, and sculptured mussels. The results suggest that mussel assemblages are dynamic and may exhibit predictable responses to changes in hydrology, physical habitat conditions, and stream connectivity. However, examinations over broad (20+ yr) temporal scales are needed to observe these shifts. The data demonstrate the value of regular monitoring of diverse mussel assemblages and the importance of stream connectivity and flow modifications to this long‐lived group of benthic invertebrates.

Background Mercury is toxic to the developing brain, but the lowest concentration associated with the development of behavior problems is unclear. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between very low-level mercury exposure during fetal development and behavior problems in children. Methods We used data from 389 mothers and children in a prospective pregnancy and birth cohort study. We defined mean prenatal mercury concentration as the mean of total whole blood mercury concentrations in maternal samples collected at 16- and 26-weeks of gestation, delivery, and neonatal cord blood samples. We assessed parent-reported child behavior up to five times from two to 8 years of age using the Behavioral Assessment System for Children (BASC-2). At 8 years of age, we assessed self-reported child anxiety using the Spence Children’s Anxiety Scale (SCAS). We used multiple linear mixed models and linear regression models to estimate the association between mean prenatal mercury concentrations and child behavior and anxiety, respectively. Results The median prenatal total blood mercury concentrations was 0.67 μg/L. Overall, we did not find statistically significant associations between mean prenatal mercury concentrations and behavior problems scores, but a 2-fold increase in mercury concentrations at 16-weeks gestation was associated with 0.83 point (95% CI: 0.05, 1.62) higher BASC-2 anxiety scores. Maternal and cord blood mercury concentrations at delivery were associated with parent-reported anxiety at 8 years. Conclusion We found limited evidence of an association between very-low level prenatal mercury exposure and behaviors in children, with an exception of anxiety.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Environmental Health Laboratory uses modified versions of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analytical methods to quantify metals contamination present in items that will come into contact with patient samples during the pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical stages. This lot screening process allows us to reduce the likelihood of introducing contamination which can lead to falsely elevated results. This is particularly important when looking at biomonitoring levels in humans which tend to be near the limit of detection of many methods. The fundamental requirements for a lot screening program in terms of facilities and processes are presented along with a discussion of sample preparation techniques used for lot screening. The criteria used to evaluate the lot screening data to determine the acceptability of a particular manufacturing lot is presented as well. As a result of lot testing, unsuitable manufactured lots are identified and excluded from use.

Purpose Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is the only ingredient approved by the U.S. FDA as a color additive in sunless tanning (self-tanning) products. Consumer sunless tanning products available for retail purchase contain 1% to 15% DHA. Although originally thought to only interact with the stratum corneum, more recent research has shown that DHA penetrates beyond the stratum corneum to living keratinocytes indicating a possible route of exposure in the epidermis. Materials and methods Normal Human Epidermal Keratinocytes (NHEK) were used to determine any potential in vitro toxicological effects of DHA in the epidermis. NHEK cells exposed to DHA concentrations up to 0.90% (100 mM) in dosing media were evaluated for viability, genotoxicity (Comet Assay), and gene expression changes by microarray analysis. Results Cell viability significantly decreased ∼50% after 3-hour exposure to 50 and 100 mM DHA. DNA damage was only found to be significantly increased in cells exposed to cytotoxic DHA concentrations. A subtoxic dose of DHA induced significant gene expression changes. Particularly, expression of cyclin B1, CDK1, and six other genes associated with the G2/M cell cycle checkpoint were significantly decreased which correlates well with a G2/M block reported in existing literature. Advanced Glycation End Product (AGE) formation significantly increased after 24 hours of DHA exposure at and above 10 mM. In summary, these data show that DHA is cytotoxic above 25 mM in primary keratinocytes. Genotoxicity was detected only at cytotoxic concentrations, likely indicative of non-biologically relevant DNA damage, while subtoxic doses induce gene expression changes and glycation. Conclusion DHA treatment had a significant and negative effect on primary keratinocytes consistent with in vitro cultured cell outcomes; however, more information is needed to draw conclusions about the biological effect of DHA in human skin.

Recent state crayfish records, species descriptions, taxonomic revisions, and extensive additional collecting have rendered the previous Mississippi crayfish list, published in 2002, outdated. We compiled 9597 crayfish collection records from multiple sources, georeferencing localities that lacked coordinates. The new state list includes 65 species and possibly 5 subspecies. Thirteen species and 1 subspecies are endemic to the state, and another 21 species occur in only 1 other state. We created species lists by county and 4- and 8-digit hydrologic unit codes (HUCs) and discussed taxa whose presence in the state was recorded but questionable or not recorded but plausible. We coarsely estimated that 175–200 records were necessary to consider a county well-sampled; 18% of counties met that threshold. Finally, we summarized numerous, unresolved taxonomic issues.

In the case of a radiological or nuclear incident, valuable information could be obtained in a timely manner by using liquid scintillation counting (LSC) technique through fast screening of urine samples from potentially contaminated persons. This work describes the optimization of LSC parameters on PerkinElmer (PE) Tri-Carb and Quantulus GCT series instruments to develop a rapid method for screening urine in an emergency response situation.

The Pascagoula map turtle (Graptemys gibbonsi) and Pearl map turtle (Graptemys pearlensis) were first separated from the Alabama map turtle (Graptemys pulchra) in 1992 under the former name and subsequently recognized as 2 separate species in 2010. The possibility that they should be listed under the Endangered Species Act was raised 7 yrs after separation from G. pulchra, when basking surveys showed that at most sites they were considerably less abundant than 2 sympatric congeners listed as threatened: the Pearl River drainage's ringed sawback (Graptemys oculifera, listed in 1986) and the Pascagoula River drainage's yellow-blotched sawback (Graptemys flavimaculata, listed in 1991). Historical data also indicated that the sympatric species pairs may once have been more similar in abundance. Now, more than 2 decades later, G. gibbonsi and G. pearlensis are candidates for listing. From 2015 to 2018, we surveyed basking turtles in point counts and in jon boat and canoe surveys and conducted trapping at several sites to ascertain the status of the 2 candidate species. Data were also combined with similar data collected between 2006 and 2014. Despite their similarity morphologically and in their basic ecology, 3 important differences are pertinent to the question of whether the 2 candidate species should be federally protected. First, their river systems are geomorphically very different. The medium-size to large tributary streams that the 2 species inhabit are a considerably more prominent feature of the Pascagoula drainage than the Pearl drainage and may insulate populations from potential threats on the main stems. Second, G. gibbonsi inhabited 35% more stream reach, had 22% higher catch per unit effort, and were recorded at 44% higher numbers in point counts and 3% higher numbers in basking density surveys than G. pearlensis. Coarse-scale estimates of each species' global populations suggest that G. gibbonsi is ∼ 1.56 times as abundant as G. pearlensis overall. Third, the reasons for the listing of each species' sympatric sawback congener are very different: G. oculifera of the Pearl drainage was listed primarily due to existing and imminent but as-yet-unrealized habitat modification, while G. flavimaculata of the Pascagoula drainage was listed primarily due to perceived low populations, particularly in upper portions of the drainage, and concerns regarding water quality. We conclude that G. pearlensis warrants conservation protection via a listing as threatened, while G. gibbonsi should be listed either as threatened or as threatened by similarity of appearance. For G. gibbonsi, the former option would recognize a long-term historical decline in its relative abundance suggested by trapping data from the 1950s through 1970s, while the latter would recognize its less imperiled status and protect it from the pet trade while focusing recovery efforts on G. pearlensis.

The movement of nonindigenous aquatic species into new river systems has the potential to negatively impact native species and/or their environments. The construction of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway (TTW) in the 1970s and 1980s directly linked 2 evolutionarily distinct aquatic communities, and faunal exchange across the TTW has been documented in both fishes and freshwater mussels. However, to date there have been no recognized exchanges of the turtle fauna between the Tennessee and Tombigbee river systems. Herein we document the exchange of Ouachita map turtles (Graptemys ouachitensis), a native of the Tennessee River system, and Alabama map turtles (Graptemys pulchra), a native of the Tombigbee River system, each occurring outside its native ranges in the opposite river system likely via dispersal in the TTW. For G. ouachitensis, we observed a range displacement of ∼ 55 river kilometers (rkm) south from the nearest specimen records in the Tennessee River system into upper Bay Springs Lake of the Tombigbee River drainage. Graptemys pulchra had a range displacement northward of ∼ 137 rkm from the nearest specimen record in the Tombigbee River system to Pickwick Lake of the Tennessee River drainage. For the latter, it seems most parsimonious that G. pulchra historically occurred farther north than the specimen record suggests. Otherwise, individuals would have had to execute movements through and/or around 4 locks and dams, which seems less probable. We recommend that additional monitoring of nonnative turtles should be conducted to document existing range and potential range expansions (inclusive of Graptemys nigrinoda, blackknobbed sawback) while studies to assess genetic introgression among these closely related species are warranted.

Motilin receptors (provisional nomenclature) are activated by motilin, a 22 amino-acid peptide derived from a precursor (MLN, P12872), which may also generate a motilin-associated peptide. Activation of these receptors by endogenous motilin released from endocrine cells within the mucosa of the duodenum during fasting, induces propulsive phase III movements, part of the gastric migrating motor complex, and promotes the sensation of hunger. Drugs and other non-peptide compounds which activate the motilin receptor may generate a more long-lasting ability to increase cholinergic activity within the upper gut, to promote gastrointestinal motility; this activity is suggested to be responsible for the gastrointestinal prokinetic effects of certain macrolide antibiotics (often called motilides; e.g. erythromycin), although for many of these molecules the evidence is sparse. Relatively high doses of these compounds may induce vomiting and in humans, nausea.

Prostanoid receptors (nomenclature as agreed by the NC-IUPHAR Subcommittee on Prostanoid Receptors [661]) are activated by the endogenous ligands prostaglandins PGD2, PGE1, PGE2 , PGF2α, PGH2, prostacyclin [PGI2] and thromboxane A2. Differences and similarities between human and rodent prostanoid receptor orthologues, and their specific roles in pathophysiologic conditions are reviewed in [423]. Measurement of the potency of PGI2 and thromboxane A2 is hampered by their instability in physiological salt solution; they are often replaced by cicaprost and U46619, respectively, in receptor characterization studies.

Measuring 226Ra in urine at low levels is critical for both biomonitoring and radiological emergency response. Here we report a new analytical method to quantify 226Ra, as developed and validated by a simple dilute-and-shoot procedure, followed by Inductively Coupled Plasma-triple quadrupole-mass spectrometry detection using ‘No Gas MS-MS’ mode. The method provides rapid and accurate results for 226Ra with a limit of detection (LOD) down to 0.007 ng/l (0.26 Bq/l). This LOD is well below the recommended action levels for 226Ra detection in children and pregnant women (C/P) set by the Clinical Decision Guide (NCRP Report #161). Results for 226Ra obtained by this method are within ±7.0% of the target values of standard reference materials spiked in the urine.

We developed an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method using Universal Cell Technology (UCT) with a PerkinElmer NexION ICP-MS, to measure arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), and nickel (Ni) in human urine samples. The advancements of the UCT allowed us to expand the calibration range to make the method applicable for both low concentrations of biomonitoring applications and high concentrations that may be observed from acute exposures and emergency response. Our method analyzes As and Ni in kinetic energy discrimination (KED) mode with helium (He) gas, and Cr in dynamic reaction cell (DRC) mode with ammonia (NH3) gas. The combination of these elements is challenging because a carbon source, ethanol (EtOH), is required for normalization of As ionization in urine samples, which creates a spectral overlap (40Ar12C+) on 52Cr. This method additionally improved lab efficiency by combining elements from two of our previously published methods(Jarrett et al., 2007; Quarles et al., 2014) allowing us to measure Cr and Ni concentrations in urine samples collected as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) beginning with the 2017–2018 survey cycle. We present our rigorous validation of the method selectivity and accuracy using National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Standard Reference Materials (SRM), precision using in-house prepared quality control materials, and a discussion of the use of a modified UCT, a BioUCell, to address an ion transmission phenomenon we observed on the NexION 300 platform when using higher elemental concentrations and high cell gas pressures. The rugged method detection limits, calculated from measurements in more than 60 runs, for As, Cr, and Ni are 0.23 μg L-1, 0.19 μg L-1, and 0.31 μg L-1, respectively.

Measuring (237)Np and (239)Pu in urine at low levels is important for both biomonitoring and radiological emergency response. Here we report a newly developed and validated analytical method used to determine (237)Np and (239)Pu in urine by selective retention of Np and Pu from 2mL of urine directly onto TEVA® resin followed by SF-ICP-MS (coupled to a membrane desolvating introduction system) detection. The method provides solid phase extraction of Np/Pu with observed recovery ratios ranging from 89% to 113% and rapid results with limits of detection well below recommended detection guidelines for children and pregnant women (NCRP 161 reference).

A probing study to establish a reliable and robust method for determining the iodine concentration using the ELAN(®) DRC(™) II ICP-MS was performed in combination with a sample digestion and filtration step. Dairy products from locally available sources were evaluated to help determine the possibility and need for further evaluations in relation to the U.S. population’s iodine intake. Prior to analysis, the samples were aliquoted and digested for 3 hours at 90±3 °C. Dilution and filtration were performed, following the digestion. The sample extract was analyzed, and the results were confirmed with NIST SRM 1549a Whole Milk Powder. Further experimentation will need to be performed to optimize the method for projected sample concentration and throughput.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Environmental Health Laboratory uses modified versions of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analytical methods to quantify metals contamination present in items that will come into contact with patient samples during the pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical stages. This lot screening process allows us to reduce the likelihood of introducing contamination which can lead to falsely elevated results. This is particularly important when looking at biomonitoring levels in humans which tend to be near the limit of detection of many methods. The fundamental requirements for a lot screening program in terms of facilities and processes are presented along with a discussion of sample preparation techniques used for lot screening. The criteria used to evaluate the lot screening data to determine the acceptability of a particular manufacturing lot is presented as well. As a result of lot testing, unsuitable manufactured lots are identified and excluded from use.

This Article summarizes the results of the U.S. News & World Report rankings published in 2020 with respect to the academic reputation scores of law schools. In addition to analyzing the most recent results for the U.S. News rankings, the Article supplements the more extensive longitudinal study published by this author in 2013. The Article also includes updated appendices from the prior study that catalog the U.S. News academic reputation scores for every law school between 1998 and 2020.

Background Comprehensive information on the effect of time and temperature storage on the measurement of elements in human, whole blood (WB) by inductively coupled plasma-dynamic reaction cell-mass spectrometry (ICP-DRC-MS) is lacking, particularly for Mn and Se. Methods Human WB was spiked at 3 concentration levels, dispensed, and then stored at 5 different temperatures: -70 °C, −20 °C, 4 °C, 23 °C, and 37 °C. At 3 and 5 weeks, and at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 36 months, samples were analyzed for Pb, Cd, Mn, Se and total Hg, using ICP-DRC-MS. We used a multiple linear regression model including time and temperature as covariates to fit the data with the measurement value as the outcome. We used an equivalence test using ratios to determine if results from the test storage conditions, warmer temperature and longer time, were comparable to the reference storage condition of 3 weeks storage time at −70 °C. Results Model estimates for all elements in human WB samples stored in polypropylene cryovials at −70 °C were equivalent to estimates from samples stored at 37 °C for up to 2 months, 23 °C up to 10 months, and −20 °C and 4 °C for up to 36 months. Model estimates for samples stored for 3 weeks at −70 °C were equivalent to estimates from samples stored for 2 months at −20 °C, 4 °C, 23 °C and 37 °C; 10 months at −20 °C, 4 °C, and 23 °C; and 36 months at −20 °C and 4 °C. This equivalence was true for all elements and pools except for the low concentration blood pool for Cd. Conclusions Storage temperatures of −20 °C and 4 °C are equivalent to −70 °C for stability of Cd, Mn, Pb, Se, and Hg in human whole blood for at least 36 months when blood is stored in sealed polypropylene vials. Increasing the sample storage temperature from −70 °C to −20 °C or 4 °C can lead to large energy savings. The best analytical results are obtained when storage time at higher temperature conditions (e.g. 23 °C and 37 °C) is minimized because recovery of Se and Hg is reduced. Blood samples stored in polypropylene cryovials also lose volume over time and develop clots at higher temperature conditions (e.g., 23 °C and 37 °C), making them unacceptable for elemental testing after 10 months and 2 months, respectively.

Objective The objective of the current study is to report on urine, blood and serum metal concentrations to characterize exposures to trace elements and micronutrient levels in both pregnant women and women of child-bearing age in the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) years 1999–2016. Methods Urine and blood samples taken from NHANES participants were analyzed for thirteen urine metals, three blood metals, three serum metals, speciated mercury in blood and speciated arsenic in urine. Adjusted and unadjusted least squares geometric means and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for all participants among women aged 15–44 years. Changes in exposure levels over time were also examined. Serum cotinine levels were used to adjust for smoke exposure, as smoking is a source of metal exposure. Results Detection rates for four urine metals from the ATSDR Substance Priority List: arsenic, lead, mercury and cadmium were ~83–99% for both pregnant and non-pregnant women of child bearing age. A majority of metal concentrations were higher in pregnant women compared to non-pregnant women. Pregnant women had higher mean urine total arsenic, urine mercury, and urine lead; however, blood lead and mercury were higher in non-pregnant women. Blood lead, cadmium, mercury, as well as urine antimony, cadmium and lead in women of childbearing age decreased over time, while urine cobalt increased over time. Conclusions Pregnant women in the US have been exposed to several trace metals, with observed concentrations for some trace elements decreasing since 1999.

A probing study to establish a reliable and robust method for determining the iodine concentration using the ELAN® DRC™ II ICP-MS was performed in combination with a sample digestion and filtration step. Dairy products from locally available sources were evaluated to help determine the possibility and need for further evaluations in relation to the U.S. population's iodine intake. Prior to analysis, the samples were aliquoted and digested for 3 hours at 90±3 °C. Dilution and filtration were performed, following the digestion. The sample extract was analyzed, and the results were confirmed with NIST SRM 1549a Whole Milk Powder. Further experimentation will need to be performed to optimize the method for projected sample concentration and throughput.

We report 3 new state crayfish records from the Tennessee River drainage in Tishomingo County, Mississippi: 1 is a re-identification of previously published material, and 2 are from unpublished collections. Faxonius yanahlindus (Spinywrist Crayfish), recently described from the middle Tennessee River drainage in northwest Alabama and southern Tennessee, is closely related to F. spinosus (Coosa River Spiny Crayfish) and F. putnami (Phallic Crayfish). In light of the new species description, we re-examined crayfish collected in southern tributaries of the Tennessee River in northeast Mississippi that were previously identified as F. spinosus or F. putnami. We reassigned the specimens to F. yanahlindus, extending the species' range into northeast Mississippi. We also report new state records of 2 other crayfishes. Faxonius placidus (Bigclaw Crayfish) was collected from Whetstone Branch, a tributary of Pickwick Reservoir on the Tennessee River, and F. erichsonianus (Reticulate Crayfish) was collected from Cedar Creek, a tributary of Bear Creek in the Tennessee River basin.

Effective management of long-lived species requires demographic and life-history data that are best acquired from long-term studies. The ringed sawback (Graptemys oculifera), endemic to the Pearl River watershed of Mississippi and Louisiana, is a species of management concern at both the state and federal levels. Population sizes, trapping success, basking counts, sex ratios, survivorship, and growth of this species were investigated at 5 sites on the Pearl River in Mississippi over a 25-yr period. Estimates of age at maturity were 4.6 yrs for males and 9.1 yrs for females. Mean annual survivorship estimates for males, females, and juveniles were 0.88, 0.93, and 0.69, respectively. Maximum longevity estimates were 48.8 yrs for males and 76.4 yrs for females. Average longevity estimates were 8.5 yrs for males and 13.9 yrs for females. The sex ratio of captured turtles was male-biased before 2000 but unbiased after 2000. Realized population growth estimates indicated that 4 populations were stable over the 25-yr period and 1 population had declined. Population estimates and basking counts trended downward through time at most sites. Trapping success after 2000 for all sites combined declined by 77%, 45%, and 25% for juveniles, males, and females, respectively. Taken together, these data indicate that 1 population of G. oculifera has declined, 3 appear to be in the initial stages of decline, and 1 is relatively stable. Additional monitoring of these populations will be necessary to determine if these trends continue into the future.

CDC designed a rapid HPGe Bioassay Method for 137Cs, 60Co, and 192Ir that is suitable for a public health response to a radiological incident where people may ingest or inhale radionuclides. The method uses a short count time, small sample volume, and a large volume detector and well size. It measures a patient's urine sample collected post-incident. The levels of concern are directly related to the Clinical Decision Guide levels recommended in the National Council of Radiation Protection 161.

Graptemys is one of the least studied turtle genera in North America. Graptemys oculifera (Ringed Sawback) and Graptemys pearlensis (Pearl Map Turtle) are endemic to the Pearl River system of Mississippi and southeastern Louisiana. We studied both species near Columbia, Mississippi, on the Pearl River via a trapping and basking surveys over two years. Additionally, five sites including Columbia were trapped for 27 years to determine long-term trends in capture success and relative abundance (RA). At the Columbia site, body size distribution was bimodal for G. oculifera and atypically unimodal for G. pearlensis; G. pearlensis body lengths were smaller than museum specimens. Population estimates for G. oculifera at the Columbia site indicate a stable population over 25 years. Long-term RA trends indicated that G. pearlensis was less common than G. oculifera in all periods and at all sites from 1988 to 2013. Trends in long-term capture success for G. oculifera and G. pearlensis were negative at all ...

Author(s): Mudan, Anita; Copan, Lori; Wang, Richard; Pugh, Amy; Lebin, Jacob; Barreau, Tracy; Jones, Robert L; Ghosal, Sutapa; Lee, Mai; Albertson, Timothy; Jarrett, Jeffery M; Lee, Jean; Betting, David; Ward, Cynthia D; De Leon Salazar, Alfonsina; Smollin, Craig G; Blanc, Paul D

Prostanoid receptors (nomenclature as agreed by the NC-IUPHAR Subcommittee on Prostanoid Receptors [644]) are activated by the endogenous ligands prostaglandins PGD2, PGE1, PGE2 , PGF2α, PGH2, prostacyclin [PGI2] and thromboxane A2. Measurement of the potency of PGI2 and thromboxane A2 is hampered by their instability in physiological salt solution; they are often replaced by cicaprost and U46619, respectively, in receptor characterization studies.

This essay summarizes the results of the U.S. News & World Report rankings published in 2018 and 2019 with respect to the academic reputation scores of law schools. In addition to analyzing the most recent results for the U.S. News rankings, the essay supplements the more extensive longitudinal study published by this author in 2013. The article also includes updated appendices from the prior study that catalog the U.S. News academic reputation scores for every law school between 1998 and 2019.

Funding for DIB and AL was provided by NE/R018243/1 REBUS (Resolving Enthalpy Budget to Understand Surging), and JJF received funding from the German Research Foundation (DFG) under grant number FU1032/1-1. Analysis of a recent surge of Morsnevbreen, Svalbard, is used to test predictions of the enthalpy balance theory of surging. High-resolution time series of velocities, ice thickness and crevasse distribution allow key elements of the enthalpy (internal energy) budget to be quantified for different stages of the surge cycle. During quiescence (1936-1990), velocities were very low, and geothermal heat slowly built-up enthalpy at the bed. Measurable mass transfer and frictional heating began in 1990-2010, then positive frictional heating-velocity feedbacks caused gradual acceleration from 2010 to 2015. Rapid acceleration occurred in summer 2016, when extensive crevassing and positive air temperatures allowed significant surface to bed drainage. The surge front reached the terminus in October 2016, coincident with a drop in velocities. Ice plumes in the fjord are interpreted as discharge of large volumes of supercooled water from the bed. Surge termination was prolonged, however, indicating persistence of an inefficient drainage system. The observations closely match predictions of the theory, particularly build-up of enthalpy from geothermal and frictional heat, and surface meltwater, and the concomitant changes in ice-surface elevation and velocity. Additional characteristics of the surge reflect spatial processes not represented in the model, but can be explained with respect to enthalpy gradients. Publisher PDF

In 2015–2016, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services led 23 U.S. Government (USG) agencies including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and more than 120 subject matter experts in conducting an in-depth review of the U.S. core public health capacities and evaluation of the country’s compliance with the International Health Regulations using the Joint External Evaluation (JEE) methodology. This two-part process began with a detailed “self-assessment” followed by a comprehensive independent, external evaluation conducted by 15 foreign assessors. In the Radiation Emergencies Technical Area, on a scale from 1-lowest to 5-highest, the assessors concurred with the USG self-assessed score of 3 in both of the relevant indicators. The report identified 5 priority actions recommended to improve the USG capacity to handle large-scale radiation emergencies. CDC is working to implement a post-JEE roadmap to address these priority actions in partnership with national and international partners.