cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Glycogen degradation during migration of presumptive cells types in Dictyostelium discoideum

Abstract During the time course of differentiation in Dictyostelium discoideum , glycogen was found to accumulate from the amoebae stage to the culmination stage of development. Upon sorocarp formation (23 h), glycogen was rapidly degraded. Ultramicrotechniques, utilizing amplification of glycogen by enzymatic cycling, were used to follow glycogen metabolism in pre-stalk and pre-spore cells during the differentiation cycle. Both cell types accumulated glycogen at nearly the same rate. By the pseudoplasmodium stage of development glycogen had accumulated to 50% of its maximum value, and no differences were found between pre-stalk and pre-spore cells. Glycogen was degraded as pre-stalk cells migrated into the position for stalk construction. At the culmination stage of development stalk cells near the base were devoid of glycogen while pre-stalk cells near the apex of the stalk showed no loss of glycogen. The complete loss of glycogen from stalk cells occurred over a distance occupied by approximately 100 cells, and over a time period of approx. 1 h. Pre-spore cells at the culmination stage showed no loss of glycogen even though separated from stalk cells by only a thin cellulose sheath. The degradation of prespore cell glycogen did not commence until stalk construction was completed and the pre-spore mass had reached the apex of the stalk. Pre-spore cells at the culmination stage contained high levels of glycogen while only 2 h later, total degradation had occured.
Statistical approaches for probing single-molecule dynamics photon-by-photon

Abstract The recently developed photon-by-photon approach [H. Yang, X.S. Xie, J. Chem. Phys., 2002 (in press)] for single-molecule fluorescence experiments allows measurements of conformational fluctuation with time resolution on a vast range of time scales. In that method, each photon represents a data point, thereby affording better statistics. Here, we utilize the information carried by each detected photon to better differentiate theoretical models for the underlying dynamical processes—including two- and three-state models, and a diffusive model. We introduce a three-time correlation analysis, which is based on time series analyses, and the Kullback–Liebler distance, which is based on information theory principles [Elements of Information Theory, Wiley, New York, 1991]. The feasibility of and general procedures for applying these methods to single-molecule experiments are examined via computer simulations.
How One Normally Constructs Good Measures

This article describes how following good measurement construction procedures result in normal variables, for which the use of nonparametric statistics would simply be inappropriate.
An analysis of lossy, finite frequency selective surfaces using the resistive boundary condition and an impedance boundary condition model

Using two models, the authors study the effect of adding loss to a finite frequency selective surface (FFSS). In particular, the effect of adding loss to the structure is studied to reduce edge current behavior and quickly return the interior currents to the infinite behavior. The authors use an impedance boundary condition model derived from the nontruncated FSS problem in addition to a spectral domain method of moments (MOMs) method to predict the current behavior on an FFSS. The impedance boundary condition method bypasses the computational burden of the MOM approach. >
Rescue of Infectious Particles from Preassembled Alphavirus Nucleocapsid Cores

Alphaviruses are small, spherical, enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded, RNA viruses responsible for considerable human and animal disease. Using microinjection of preassembled cores as a tool, a system has been established to study the assembly and budding process of Sindbis virus, the type member of the alphaviruses. We demonstrate the release of infectious virus-like particles from cells expressing Sindbis virus envelope glycoproteins following microinjection of Sindbis virus nucleocapsids purified from the cytoplasm of infected cells. Furthermore, it is shown that nucleocapsids assembled in vitro mimic those isolated in the cytoplasm of infected cells with respect to their ability to be incorporated into enveloped virions following microinjection. This system allows for the study of the alphavirus budding process independent of an authentic infection and provides a platform to study viral and host requirements for budding.
Aggregated Nanoparticle Morphology Effects on Membrane Filtration

Nanoparticles are considered potential environmental contaminants because of reported toxicity to biota in the environment. As such, there is interest in understanding how to remove nanoparticles from waters. This study investigated membrane filtration behaviors of 70-nm alumina oxide nanoparticle when aggregated under diffusion limited aggregation and reaction limited aggregation regimes. In this study, nanoparticles were aggregated under conditions of high and low ionic strength to form aggregates of different morphology. Aggregates were filtered using a hydrophilic polyvinylidene fluoride membrane with a pore size of 0.22 µm, 100% nanoparticle removal efficiencies were obtained regardless of aggregation conditions used. Aggregate morphology was quantified by measured fractal dimensions. Fractal structure differences coincided with measured filtration resistance values. Low porosity aggregates provided a filtration resistance 43% greater than high porosity aggregates of the same effective size. Model pr...
Feeding Ecology of northern bearded sakis (Chiropotes sagulatus) in Guyana.

Bearded sakis (genus Chiropotes) are among the most highly specialized primate seed predators. However, long-term studies of the genus in continuous forests, with a full community of sympatric primates, are rare. Here I present data on monthly variation in the diet of Chiropotes sagulatus from a long-term study in a continuous forest in Guyana. Bearded sakis had an extremely diverse diet, exploiting more than 175 species of plants. Consistent with their highly specialized dental morphology for seed eating, seeds made up 75% of the annual diet. Sakis exploited a wide variety of mechanically protected fruits and often exploited the same plant species for more than 3 months. They consumed a high percentage of seeds in all months and seed consumption was significantly correlated with fruit abundance. When fruit became scarcer, sakis consumed a higher percentage of non-seed food items, including insects, mature fruit, and flowers. Insects were especially important during the leanest months, making up almost 40% of feeding time. Bearded saki dietary diversity (in terms of plant species) showed little variability across months. These results confirm sakis to be highly specialized seed predators. Sakis preferentially consume seeds when they are available. However, when seeds become scarce, sakis become generalists, supplementing their diet with mature fruit, insects, and flowers. The ability of bearded sakis to consume a diversity of highly abundant plant species, fruit in several stages of maturity, and a variety of different types of resources buffers them from the detrimental effects of resource scarcity. Am. J. Primatol. 75:568-580, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantum dynamics in continuum for proton transport II: Variational solvent-solute interface.

Proton transport plays an important role in biological energy transduction and sensory systems. Therefore it has attracted much attention in biological science and biomedical engineering in the past few decades. The present work proposes a multiscale/multiphysics model for the understanding of the molecular mechanism of proton transport in transmembrane proteins involving continuum, atomic and quantum descriptions, assisted with the evolution, formation and visualization of membrane channel surfaces. We describe proton dynamics quantum mechanically via a new density functional theory based on the Boltzmann statistics, while implicitly model numerous solvent molecules as a dielectric continuum to reduce the number of degrees of freedom. The density of all other ions in the solvent is assumed to obey the Boltzmann distribution in a dynamic manner. The impact of protein molecular structure and its charge polarization on the proton transport is considered explicitly at the atomic scale. A variational solute-solvent interface is designed to separate the explicit molecule and implicit solvent regions. We formulate a total free energy functional to put proton kinetic and potential energies, the free energy of all other ions, the polar and nonpolar energies of the whole system on an equal footing. The variational principle is employed to derive coupled governing equations for the proton transport system. Generalized Laplace-Beltrami equation, generalized Poisson-Boltzmann equation and generalized Kohn-Sham equation are obtained from the present variational framework. The variational solvent-solute interface is generated and visualized to facilitate the multiscale discrete/continuum/quantum descriptions. Theoretical formulations for the proton density and conductance are constructed based on fundamental laws of physics. A number of mathematical algorithms, including the Dirichlet to Neumann mapping (DNM), matched interface and boundary (MIB) method, Gummel iteration, and Krylov space techniques are utilized to implement the proposed model in a computationally efficient manner. The Gramicidin A (GA) channel is used to validate the performance of the proposed proton transport model and demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed mathematical algorithms. The proton channel conductances are studied over a number of applied voltages and reference concentrations. A comparison with experimental data verifies the present model predictions and confirms the proposed model.
Edge-Punched Cards: A Method for Storing and Retrieving Social Science References

Summary.-This paper has presented a system which will enable social scientists to classify and store references to professional literacure and to accurarely, quickly, completely, and economically retrieve the information when it is needed. The procedure for setting up an edge-punched card system is described. The limitations and advantages of this system, compared with other possible systems, are explored. Social scientists, like other scientists, have in common the problem of keeping useful scientific material organized for further reference, bibliographies, lecture preparation, and so forth. Tho~~gh the problem is universal, the solutions have usually been idiosyncratic. This paper will present a system which should be helpful both for those with existing methods for dealing with references and for chose who have not yet devised a technique. We use edge-punched cards. The principle of such cards is simple (Casey, et a/., 1958). There is one card for each reference. The desired information for any reference is typed or written on this card in full or in code and certain parts of the information are coded into notches along the edges. The coding is designed to permit multiple or cross-indexing of each reference. When either a particular book or paper or all the references on a topic or set of topics are wanted, sorting needles are passed thro~~gh the holes on the edges of the cards which correspond to the codes for the item(s) desired. When the entire file is treated this way, the sought-for cards drop off the sorting needles. The mechanical procedure is easy to learn, cards are simple to prepare (especially when compared with the cask of making a file which is cross-indexed as in a library), and cards need not be filed in any set sequence. The reprints, manuscripts, ecc., themselves must be stored in some systematic fashion using numbers (Broadhurst, 1962) or filed alphabetically by the senior author's last name as in the method to be described below. Although there are many variations on these simple elements, the aims of a system are clear: accurate, quick, complete, and economical classification, storage, and retrieval of the information. An ideal system would also be flexible and expandable enough to meet changes in modes of classification and interests and advance in knowledge. One basic assumption is common to all the efforts we have seen except our
Improved analgesia, sedation, and delirium protocol associated with decreased duration of delirium and mechanical ventilation.

Rationale: Introduction of sedation protocols has been associated with improved patient outcomes. It is not known if an update to an existing high-quality sedation protocol, featuring increased patient assessment and reduced benzodiazepine exposure, is associated with improved patient process and outcome quality metrics.Methods: This was an observational before (n = 703) and after (n = 780) cohort study of mechanically ventilated patients in a 24-bed trauma-surgical intensive care unit (ICU) from 2009 to 2011. The three main protocol updates were: (1) requirement to document Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale (RASS) scores every 4 hours, (2) requirement to document Confusion Assessment Method-ICU (CAM ICU) twice daily, and (3) systematic, protocolized deescalation of excess sedation. Multivariable linear regression was used for the primary analysis. The primary outcome was the duration of mechanical ventilation. Prespecified secondary endpoints included days of delirium; the frequency of patient assessment...
New theories and research findings on the positive influence of music and art on health with ageing

This review is about the latest theories of the underlying mechanisms that explain why music and art promote health and have positive influences on the course of illness with ageing. It is also about the latest findings demonstrating the positive effects that music and the arts in general have on health with ageing; cost savings to society associated with these positive findings will also be discussed. Why would engaging in music and the arts in general have positive effects on health? In the modern world, without a clear understanding of the underlying factors to explain effects or outcomes, science and society become doubtful and dismissive of even positive reported findings. These issues will be reviewed with research examples illustrating how they can be effectively addressed and positively influence societal and scientific perceptions of the value of music, art, and creative engagement in promoting health with ageing.
The Influence of Social and Economic Disadvantage on Racial Patterns in Youth Homicide Over Time

Explanations for the increase in youth homicide in the mid-1980s and early 1990s focus predominantly on crack cocaine markets and related firearms effects. This study examines whether weakened soci...
Authenticated routing for ad hoc networks

Initial work in ad hoc routing has considered only the problem of providing efficient mechanisms for finding paths in very dynamic networks, without considering security. Because of this, there are a number of attacks that can be used to manipulate the routing in an ad hoc network. In this paper, we describe these threats, specifically showing their effects on ad hoc on-demand distance vector and dynamic source routing. Our protocol, named authenticated routing for ad hoc networks (ARAN), uses public-key cryptographic mechanisms to defeat all identified attacks. We detail how ARAN can secure routing in environments where nodes are authorized to participate but untrusted to cooperate, as well as environments where participants do not need to be authorized to participate. Through both simulation and experimentation with our publicly available implementation, we characterize and evaluate ARAN and show that it is able to effectively and efficiently discover secure routes within an ad hoc network.
Effects of Processing Conditions on Single Screw Extrusion of Feed Ingredients Containing DDGS

Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), a feed coproduct from the fuel ethanol industry, has been shown to be a viable potential alternative protein source for aquaculture feeds. To investigate this, three isocaloric (3.5kcal/g) ingredient blends containing 20, 30, and 40% DDGS, with a net protein adjusted to 28% (wet basis, wb), were prepared for use as Nile tilapia feed. Extrusion processing was then conducted using three DDGS contents (20, 30, and 40%, wb), three moisture contents (15, 20, and 25%, wb), three barrel temperature gradients (90–100–100°C, 90–130–130°C, and 90–160–160°C), and five screw speeds (80, 100, 120, 140, and 160rpm) using a single screw laboratory extruder. Several processing parameters, including mass flow rate, net torque required, specific mechanical energy consumption, apparent viscosity, and temperature and pressure of the dough inside the barrel and die, were measured to quantify the extrusion behavior of the DDGS-based blends. For all blends, as the temperature profile increased, mass flow rate exhibited a slight decrease, die pressure decreased, and apparent viscosity exhibited a slight decrease as well. Likewise, the net torque requirement, specific mechanical energy consumption, and apparent viscosity decreased as screw speed increased, but mass flow rate increased. Additionally, as moisture content increased, die pressure decreased. At higher temperatures in the barrel and die, the viscosity of the dough was lower, leading to lower torque and specific mechanical energy requirements. Increasing the DDGS content, on the other hand, resulted in a higher mass flow rate and decreased pressure inside the die. As demonstrated in this study, the selection of suitable temperature and moisture content levels are critical for processing DDGS-based ingredient blends.
Ptolemy¿s Treatment of the Outer Planets

1. an autumn equinox, a spring equinox, and a summer solstice, each of which is combined with an ancient observation to determine the length of the tropical year. Also, the resulting season lengths are used to determine the eccentricity and the direction of apogee for the Sun. 2. a trio of lunar eclipses which determine the lunar parameters at syzygy. Virtually identical lunar parameters result from Ptolemy’s reports of three earlier lunar trios. 3. several lunar elongations are used to determine the parameters of the lunar model away from syzygy. 4. two pairs of observations of Mercury that determine the longitude of apogee in Ptolemy’s time, and six additional ancient observations that determine it some 400 years earlier. 5. two pairs of observations of Venus that determine the longitude of apogee in Ptolemy’s time.
The experimental production of pulmonary hyaline-like membranes with atelectasis

Abstract Although oxygen poisoning will produce hyaline membranes in adult guinea pigs and rats, there is rarely any associated atelectasis. Newborn guinea pigs and rats, however, react to oxygen poisoning with the full picture of hyaline membrane plus atelectasis in the majority of cases. This suggests some special predisposition on the part of the newborn lung to this entity.
Satisfaction and trust in intimate relationships do lesbians and heterosexual women differ

Although satisfaction and trust have received considerable attention in the literature on heterosexual relationships, little is known about lesbian relationships. Because females are socialized differently and acquire a different sexual script than males do, we predicted that lesbians would have similar goals regarding their relationships and, therefore, score higher on satisfaction and trust than heterosexual women. 50 lesbians and 50 heterosexual women were approached during lesbian and heterosexual social activities held at four colleges in the northeast and asked to complete a demographic survey and measures of satisfaction and trust. Findings partially supported our predictions.
An approach to reduce common mode voltage in matrix converter

In this paper, an approach to reduce common-mode voltage at the output of a matrix converter is discussed. A new modulation strategy which reduces the common-mode voltage at the output is presented. The proposed method maintains the active voltage vector and distributes zero vector equally within a sampling period and reduces square RMS of ripple components of input current. Advantages of the scheme include: 34% reduction in the common-mode voltage (peak value); improved harmonic spectrum; reduced switching losses and no more additional switching instants over one sampling period; and simplified implementation via software. Further, the voltage transfer ratio is unaffected by the proposed scheme. Simulation results are shown to demonstrate the advantages of the new pulsewidth modulation approach. Experimental results on a 230-V 3-kVA matrix converter-fed adjustable-speed drive based on a digital signal processor controller are presented.
On the Structure of Thin diamond Films: A 1H and 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Study

The 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) of thin diamond films deposited from naturally abundant (1.1 at.%) as well as 50% and 100% 13C-enriched CH4 heavily diluted in H2is described and discussed. Less than 0.6 at.% of hydrogen is found in the films which contain crystallites up to ~15 μm across. The 1H NMR consists of a broad 50-65 kHz wide Gaussian line attributed to H atoms bonded to carbon and covering the crystallite surfaces. A narrow Lorentzian line was only occasionally observed and found not to be intrinsic to the diamonds. The 13C NMR demonstrates that >99.5% of the C atoms reside in a quaternary diamond-like configuration. The 13C spin-lattice relaxation times T1 are four orders of magnitude shorter than in natural diamond and believed to be due to 13C spin diffusion to paramagnetic centers, presumably carbon dangling bonds. Analysis of T1 indicates that within the 13C spin diffusion length of ~0.05 μm these centers are uniformly distributed in the diamond crystallites, possibly concentrated on the internal surfaces of a relatively dense system of nanovoids.
Plasticity in bundle sheath extensions of heterobaric leaves

in L. styracifl ua , Q. robur , and P. occidentalis leaves but not in leaves of A. saccharum .  Conclusions: We demonstrated that BSE spacing is plastic with respect to irradiance or precipitation and independent from veins, indicating BSE involvement in leaf adaptation to a microenvironment. Plasticity in BSE spacing was correlated with WUE only in some species, not supporting a function in water relations. We discuss a possible link between BSE plasticity and life history, particularly canopy position.
Temporising external fixation of calcaneus fractures prior to definitive plate fixation: a case series

Abstract Introduction Surgical management of calcaneus fractures is technically demanding and has a high risk of wound complications. These fractures are traditionally managed with splinting until swelling has subsided, which can take weeks and leaves the fracture fragments displaced. We describe a novel protocol for the management of displaced intraarticular calcaneus fractures that utilises a temporising external fixator and staged conversion to plate fixation through a sinus tarsi approach. The goal of this technique was to enable earlier treatment with open reduction and internal fixation, minimise the amount of manipulation required at the time of definitive fixation and reduce the wound complication rate seen with the traditional extensile approach. Methods The records of patients with displaced calcaneus fractures from 2010–2014 were reviewed retrospectively. A total of nine patients with 10 calcaneus fractures were treated using this protocol. All patients underwent ankle-spanning medial external fixation within 48 hours after injury. Patients underwent conversion to open plate fixation through a sinus tarsi approach when skin turgor had returned to normal. Time to surgery, infection rate, wound complications, radiographic alignment, and time to radiographic union were recorded. Results The average Bohler's angle improved from 13.2 (range −2 to 34) degrees preoperatively to 34.3 (range 26 to 42) degrees postoperatively. The average time from external fixation to conversion to internal fixation was 4.8 (range 3 to 7) days. There were no immediate post-surgical complications. The average time to weight-bearing was 8.5 weeks. The average time to radiographic union was 9.5 (range 8 to 12) weeks. There were no infections or wound complications at the time of last follow-up. Conclusion Early temporising external fixation for the acute management of displaced calcaneus fractures is a safe and effective method to reduce and stabilise the foot and may decrease the time to definitive fixation. There were no complications related to the use of the external fixator in this series.
Prenatal Discussion of Contraceptive Options in Teenage Pregnancies.

Abstract Objective: To determine if contraceptive options are discussed during prenatal care among pregnant teenagers. Materials and Method: Hospital and outpatient clinical records were reviewed for teenagers between the ages 12 and 19, inclusive, who delivered at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston (UTMB) John Sealy Hospital and received prenatal care at one of the UTMB-affiliated ambulatory clinics. Results: A total of 244 postpartum teenagers were included in this study. The mean age was 17.6 ± 1.2 years. The majority of teenagers were Hispanic (57%), followed by white (34%) and black (9%). Of the patients, 41% had less than 10 prenatal visits. Only 14% of the patients had a discussion about contraception during these prenatal visits, most of which occurred after 29 weeks of gestation. Conclusions: Pregnant teenagers are not frequently counseled about postpartum contraceptives. When counseling does occur, it happens in the third trimester, which may not provide enough time for a teenag...
Naturally Occurring and Iatrogenic Animal Models of Valvular, Infectious, and Arrhythmic Cardiovascular Disease

Most naturally occurring congenital cardiovascular entities found in humans have been identified in one or more species of animals but the utility of these naturally occurring models as research subjects is not well established. Many of the congenital diseases are associated with noncardiovascular defects and some of these may result in infertility, impotence, and other reproductive problems that preclude the breeding of these animals to obtain adequate numbers for research purposes. The advent of sophisticated genetic testing has made the identification of specific genes responsible for specific defects more practical, and this has led to the creation of specific transgenic animal models, knock-ins and knock-outs, that have advanced our understanding of both congenital defects and genetic predisposition for a variety of cardiovascular diseases.
Bryozoa of Floridan Oculina reefs

The deep-water Oculina coral reefs on the continental shelf off the east central coast of Florida are a unique protected marine habitat. A complete inventory of the Oculina-associated fauna is important to support its conservation. This paper provides an inventory of the bryozoans of the Oculina reef area. Unusually, the bryozoan fauna is dominated by encrusting cribrilinid bryozoans. These include two new species of Puellina and three other Floridan-Atlantic shelf Puellina only recently described. Additional cribrilinid species belong to the genera Klugerella and Rosulapelta. Other bryozoans found in the habitat include 38 encrusting cheilostome species, six of them new to science, belonging to the genera Callopora, Parasmittina, Parasmittina, Smittina, Microporella and Stephanollona. Cyclostomes were only sparsely represented, comprising three encrusting taxa.
Is Women’s Empowerment Associated With Help-Seeking for Spousal Violence in India?

Violence against women by their husbands is a problem for women worldwide. However, the majority of women do not seek help. This article presents findings from a national survey in India on empowerment-related correlates of help-seeking behaviors for currently married women who experienced spousal violence. We examined individual-, relationship-, and state-level measures of empowerment on help-seeking from informal and formal sources. Findings indicate that help-seeking is largely not associated with typical measures of empowerment or socio-economic development, whereas state-level indicators of empowerment may influence help-seeking. Although not a target of this study, we also note that injury from violence and the severity of the violence were among the strongest factors related to seeking help. Taken together, the low prevalence of help-seeking and lack of strong individual-level correlates, apart from severe harm, suggests widespread barriers to seeking help. Interventions that affect social norms and reach women and men across social classes in society are needed in addition to any individual-level efforts to promote seeking help for spousal violence.
Robotic-assisted latissimus dorsi harvest in delayed-immediate breast reconstruction

For two-stage, implant-based, delayed-immediate reconstruction of the radiated breast, robotic-assisted latissimus dorsi harvest (RALDH) is a good option for patients who wish to avoid a traditional latissimus dorsi donor-site incision. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes of RALDH and the traditional open technique (TOT) for patients undergoing delayed-immediate breast reconstruction following radiation therapy. A retrospective analysis of a prospective database of all consecutive patients undergoing latissimus dorsi harvest for radiated breast reconstruction between 2009 and 2013 was performed. Indications, surgical technique, complications, and outcomes were assessed. One hundred forty-six pedicled latissimus dorsi muscle flaps were performed for breast reconstruction and 17 were performed robotically during the study period (average follow-up 14.6 ± 7.3 mo). Latissimus dorsi breast reconstruction following radiation was performed in 64 patients using TOT and 12 using RALDH. Surgical complication rates were 37.5% in TOT versus 16.7% in RALDH (p = 0.31) including seroma (8.9% versus 8.3%), infection (14.1 versus 8.3%), delayed wound healing (7.8% versus 0), and capsular contracture (4.7% vs. 0). Robotic-assisted harvest of the latissimus dorsi muscle is associated with a low complication rate and reliable results for delayed reconstruction of the irradiated breast while eliminating the need for a donor-site incision.
Magnetic performance of vacuum annealed soft-magnetic alloy

Good DC magnetic properties of 1J50 soft magnetic alloy can be achieved by using high temperature annealing process in vacuum. Annealing process parameters have some certain influences on soft magnetic properties. 1J50 samples were designed according to national standards of China and a serial of experiments under high temperature annealing in vacuum were conducted. The influences of annealing temperature and socking time on DC magnetic properties and microstructure of the sample were investigated. The results show that annealing process parameters have a nonlinear effect on the development of material microstructure and magnetic properties. But the annealing processes have little influences on mechanical properties. The preliminary models among magnetic property,grain size and process parameters have been built to describe the quantitative interrelationship.
Children's Rights and Digital Technologies: Introduction to the Discourse and Some Meta-Observations

Digital technology plays an important role in the lives of a rapidly growing number of children around the globe. The increased access to and use of digital technologies is associated with a diverse set of risks and opportunities, which in turn interact in important ways with children’s protection, provision, and participation rights. This chapter seeks to provide an introduction to the relatively nascent, but quickly evolving children’s digital rights discourse, and aims to serve as a navigation aid. It starts with an overview of children’s engagement with digital technology, then discusses key perspectives, issues, arenas, and actors, and finally offers a series of meta-observations for further exploration and discussion.
Alzheimer's Disease: Assessing the Role of Spirochetes, Biofilms, the Immune System, and Amyloid-β with Regard to Potential Treatment and Prevention.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an infectious disease caused by spirochetes, and these spirochetes form biofilms, which attract the innate immune system. The innate immune system first responder, Toll-like receptor 2, generates both NF-κB and TNF-α which try to kill the spirochetes in the biofilm, but cannot penetrate the “slime”. NF-κB is also responsible for the generation of amyloid-β (Aβ) which itself is anti-microbial. Aβ cannot penetrate the biofilm either, and its accumulation leads to destruction of the cerebral neurocircuitry. Treatment with penicillin (as in tertiary syphilis, the comparator to AD) is outlined; a biofilm dispersing agent may need to be added to the protocol.
Novel Shank3 Mutant Exhibits Behaviors With Face Validity for Autism and Altered Striatal and Hippocampal Function

Mutations/deletions in the SHANK3 gene are associated with autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability. Here, we present electrophysiological and behavioral consequences in novel heterozygous and homozygous mice with a transcriptional stop cassette inserted upstream of the PDZ domain-coding exons in Shank3 (Shank3E13 ). Insertion of a transcriptional stop cassette prior to exon 13 leads to loss of the two higher molecular weight isoforms of Shank3. Behaviorally, both Shank3E13 heterozygous (HET) and homozygous knockout (KO) mice display increased repetitive grooming, deficits in social interaction tasks, and decreased rearing. Shank3E13 KO mice also display deficits in spatial memory in the Morris water maze task. Baseline hippocampal synaptic transmission and short-term plasticity are preserved in Shank3E13 HET and KO mice, while both HET and KO mice exhibit impaired hippocampal long-term plasticity. Additionally, Shank3E13 HET and KO mice display impaired striatal glutamatergic synaptic transmission. These results demonstrate for the first time in this novel Shank3 mutant that both homozygous and heterozygous mutation of Shank3 lead to behavioral abnormalities with face validity for autism along with widespread synaptic dysfunction. Autism Res 2017, 10: 42-65. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative Effectiveness of Diabetic Oral Medications Among HIV-Infected and HIV-Uninfected Veterans.

OBJECTIVE Type 2 diabetes is increasingly common in HIV-infected individuals. The objective of this study was to compare the glycemic effectiveness of oral diabetic medications among patients with and without HIV infection. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A longitudinal cohort study was conducted among HIV-infected and uninfected veterans with type 2 diabetes initiating diabetic medications between 1999 and 2010. Generalized estimating equations were used to compare changes in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) through the year after medication initiation, adjusting for baseline HbA1c level and clinical covariates. A subanalysis using propensity scores was conducted to account for confounding by indication. RESULTS A total of 2,454 HIV-infected patients and 8,892 HIV-uninfected patients initiated diabetic medications during the study period. The most commonly prescribed medication was metformin (n = 5,647, 50%), followed by a sulfonylurea (n = 5,554, 49%) and a thiazolidinedione (n = 145, 1%). After adjustment for potential confounders, there was no significant difference in the change in HbA1c level among the three groups of new users. HIV infection was not significantly associated with glycemic response (P = 0.24). Black and Hispanic patients had a poorer response to therapy compared with white patients, with a relative increase in HbA1c level of 0.16% (95% CI 0.08, 0.24) [1.7 mmol/mol (0.9, 2.6)] (P CONCLUSIONS We found that glycemic response was independent of the initial class of diabetic medication prescribed among HIV-uninfected and HIV-infected adults with type 2 diabetes. The mechanisms leading to poorer response among black and Hispanic patients, who make up a substantial proportion of those with HIV infection and type 2 diabetes, require further investigation.
Effect of prestretch on modes of shear wave propagation on arteries

Arterial elasticity has gained importance in the past few decades as a predictor of cardiovascular diseases and mortality. The speed of propagation of the pressure wave has been used since the 1920's to estimate the mechanical properties of the artery. There are several disadvantages of this method, two of the major ones are the low temporal resolution (1 sample per second) and the low spatial resolution (carotid-femoral or carotid-radial segments). In this work we present an ultrasound radiation force-based method to generate high frequency local shear waves, which will allow the study of the mechanical properties of short arterial segments within the heart cycle. In this work we present a modal analysis of the waves generated by our method on an excised pig artery. By doing a two-dimensional fast Fourier transform (2D FFT) of the propagating waves, it was possible to differentiate the multiple Lamb-like modes propagating in the wall. In this work we show the effect of transmural pressure and prestretch on the speed and modes of propagation of the mechanical waves generated. We also demonstrate how these changes cause the arteries to get stiffer due to both mechanisms. This study therefore shows the feasibility of a radiation based method for the characterization of propagating modes and elasticity of arterial wall.
MAPPING AMERICAN CRIMINAL LAW Variations Across the 50 States: Ch. 14 Insanity Defense

It is common for criminal law scholars from outside the United States to discuss the “American rule” and compare it to the rule of other countries. As this volume makes clear, however, there is no such thing as an “American rule.” Because each of the states, plus the District of Columbia and the federal system, have their own criminal law, there are fifty-two American criminal codes.American criminal law scholars know this, of course, but they too commonly speak of the “general rule” as if it reflects some consensus or near consensus position among the states. But the truth is that the landscape of American criminal law is one of almost endless diversity, with few, if any, areas in which there is a consensus or near consensus. Even most American criminal law scholars seem to fail to appreciate the enormous diversity and disagreement among the fifty-two American jurisdictions.Unfortunately, there has been little work done to map this enormous diversity among the states, perhaps because it is an extremely burdensome project. Every legal issue requires a major research project investigating the criminal codes and caselaw of all fifty-two American jurisdictions. While the paucity of such diversity research is understandable, it is nonetheless regrettable, for it is the matters of disagreement that often point to the most interesting issues for scholars.In this first-of-its-kind volume, the authors sketch the extremely diverse legal landscape in the United States for a full range of criminal law doctrines. Beyond providing this mountain of research on the most important criminal law rules, the additional goals of the volume are, first, to raise awareness of the enormous diversity among the states and to document that diversity for a wide range of issues, to encourage criminal law scholars to investigate these and the many other points of disagreement that exist among the states, and to encourage legislatures to look to this new diversity scholarship and to the positions taken by other states when they set out to codify or recodify their criminal law (and to encourage judges to do the same in those jurisdictions that continue to allow judicial criminal law making).In each of the chapters, we examine a different area of American criminal law and identify the major groupings among the states on the primary issue in the area. Each chapter provides a map of the United States with each of the states visually coded according to its approach to the issue. The maps then often raise interesting hypotheses about geographic or other state factors that might explain the patterns of agreement and disagreement (red states versus blue states, rural versus urban, rich versus poor, West Coast versus East Coast, etc.). The last two chapters of the book illustrate how this mountain of research and the state groupings for each issue can be used by scholars in many disciplines – political scientists, criminologists, criminal law scholars, and sociologists, among others – to investigate hypotheses about why we see the patterns of agreement and disagreement that we see.
Wrist-based cut-points for moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity for the Actical accelerometer in adults

ABSTRACTWrist-based accelerometers are increasingly used to assess physical activity (PA) in population-based studies; however, cut-points to translate wrist-based accelerometer counts into PA intensity categories are still needed. The purpose of this study was to determine wrist-based cut-points for moderate- and vigorous-intensity ambulatory PA in adults for the Actical accelerometer. Healthy adults (n = 24) completed a four-phase treadmill exercise protocol (1.9, 3.0, 4.0 and 5.2 mph) while wearing an Actical accelerometer on their wrist. Metabolic equivalent of task (MET) levels were assessed by indirect calorimetry. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were generated to determine accelerometer counts that maximised sensitivity and specificity for classification of moderate (≥3 METs) and vigorous (>6 METs) ambulatory activity. The area under the ROC curves to discriminate moderate- and vigorous-intensity ambulatory activity were 0.93 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.90–0.97; P < 0.001) and ...
Impact of Drug Formulation Variables on Silicone Oil Structure and Functionality of Prefilled Syringe System

Use of prefilled syringes to self-administer biologics via subcutaneous administration provides convenience to patients. The barrel interior of prefilled syringes is typically coated with silicone oil for lubrication to aid plunger movement at the time of administration. This study intended to evaluate the impact of formulation variables on the silicone oil on the barrel interior surface. Characterization techniques including syringe glide force, break loose force, Schlieren imaging, contact angle, inductively coupled plasma spectrometry, and thin film interference reflectometry were used in assessing the interactions. Data indicated that formulation variables such as pH, buffer/tonicity agent type and concentration, and surfactant present in the formulation can effect silicone oil lubrication of prefilled syringes, leading to changes in functional properties of the syringe over time. Syringe samples containing acetate and histidine buffers showed an increase in glide force at accelerated storage temperature conditions, but the change was minimal at 5 °C. The samples with the highest glide force correlated with the presence of mannitol in combination with sodium acetate buffer. Sodium chloride had lesser impact on glide force than mannitol. Samples with higher glide force exhibited a substantial change in the silicone oil layer of the syringe, as observed with Schlieren imaging, as well as a significant reduction in surface hydrophobicity, as demonstrated through contact angle measurement. These data indicated that the structure of the siliconized surface can change over time in contact with different formulations. During formulation development of drug products in prefilled syringes, in addition to potential impact on molecule stability, the selection of formulation variables should also be guided by assessing the impact to syringe functionality with the glide force as one of the key parameters. LAY ABSTRACT: Self-administering drug products packaged in prefilled syringes provides convenience to patients. The interior of a prefilled glass syringe is typically lubricated with silicone oil for easy plunger movement during injection. This article discusses the impact of formulation excipients on silicone oil coating inside the syringe. Characterization techniques were used to assess the ease of plunger movement and structure of the silicone coating. Data indicate formulation excipients can affect silicone oil distribution of prefilled syringes, leading to an increase in plunger glide force at accelerated storage temperature conditions. The increase in glide force within a prefilled syringe with or without an auto-injector can have an impact on dose accuracy and user experience. Syringes with a higher plunger glide force appeared to exhibit a change over time in surface energy and structure of the silicone oil layer in contact with particular formulations.
Residue number system arithmetic based on integrated nanophotonics.

The residue number system (RNS) enables dimensionality reduction of an arithmetic problem by representing a large number as a set of smaller integers, where the number is decomposed by prime number factorization. These reduced problem sets can then be processed independently and in parallel, thus improving computational efficiency and speed. Here, we show an optical RNS hardware representation based on integrated nanophotonics. The digit-wise shifting in RNS arithmetic is expressed as spatial routing of an optical signal in 2×2 hybrid photonic-plasmonic switches. Here, the residue is represented by spatially shifting the input waveguides relative to the routers’ outputs, where the moduli are represented by the number of waveguides. By cascading the photonic 2×2 switches, we design a photonic RNS adder and a multiplier forming an all-to-all sparse directional network. The advantage of this photonic arithmetic processor is the short (10’s ps) computational execution time given by the optical propagation delay through the integrated nanophotonic router. Furthermore, we show how photonic processing in-the-network leverages the natural parallelism of optics such as wavelength-division-multiplexing in this RNS processor. A key application for such a photonic RNS engine is the functional analysis of convolutional neural networks.
Designing robust multimodal systems for diverse users and environments.

Multimodal interfaces are being developed that permit our highly skilled and coordinated communicative behavior to control system interactions in a more transparent and flexible interface experience than ever before. The presence of modality choice per se is an important feature and design issue for multimodal interfaces. As applications become more complex, a single modality does not permit varied users to interact effectively across different tasks and environments (Oviatt et al., 2000). While individual input modalities are well suited in some situations, they may be less ideal or even inappropriate in others. However, a flexible multimodal interface offers people the freedom to use a combination of modalities, or to switch to a better-suited modality, depending on the specifics of their abilities and preference, the task at hand, or the usage conditions.
1.5 – Alkylations of Nonstabilized Carbanions

The formation of carbon–carbon bonds is truly one of the cornerstones of organic synthesis. While the early organic chemists had the ability to modify the molecules of nature and to degrade them into simpler components, the possibility that complex molecules could be constructed from simpler precursors appeared inconceivable. The development of methodology for the construction of CC bonds revolutionized that way of thinking, and the field of organic synthesis was born.