cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Status epilepticus and the use of continuous EEG monitoring in the intensive care unit.

Purpose of review Status epilepticus (SE) is one of the major neurologic emergencies. Newer data about the genesis and treatment of this condition are available to help improve our understanding and management. Recent findings Approximately 150,000 cases of generalized convulsive SE occur in the United States each year. Clinically apparent seizures complicate about 8% of intensive care unit admissions, and another 10% of ICU patients suffer electrographic seizures in the course of another critical illness. Some of these cases result from previously under-recognized epileptogenic effects of commonly used drugs, such as cefepime. Continuous EEG (cEEG) recording is necessary for both diagnosis and management in these patients, especially since anticonvulsant drugs may abolish motor activity without stopping seizures. Recent studies have underscored the utility of benzodiazepines as the first-line agents for SE termination. The recently published Rapid Anticonvulsant Medication Prior to Arrival Trial (RAMPART) demonstrates that the more rapidly treatment is administered, the more effective it will be. When SE fails to respond to usual doses of benzodiazepines, it should be considered refractory to conventional anticonvulsants, and a general anesthetic approach is likely to be necessary. Summary While definitions have varied, patients should be managed for SE after 5 minutes of seizure activity. Management of a patient with SE involves three phases: termination of SE, prevention of recurrence, and treatment of complications. The typical anticonvulsants have limited ability to terminate SE; lorazepam is the most useful, controlling SE in 65% of patients experiencing generalized convulsive SE. If the first conventional anticonvulsant fails, others are unlikely to be useful, and one of the newer anticonvulsants or a general anesthetic agent should be considered. EEG is crucial in the diagnosis and classification of potential seizures. cEEG monitoring helps to guide anticonvulsant therapy in patients with SE and those with frequent seizures. In addition, cEEG has the potential for presymptomatic diagnosis of delayed neurologic deterioration in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage and for the differential diagnosis of stroke subtypes, especially when cEEG is subjected to signal processing.
Numerical Simulation of Solidification of Colloidal Suspensions Inside a Differentially-Heated Cavity

Development of the solid-liquid interface, distribution of the particle concentration field, as well as the development of thermo-solutal convection during solidification of colloidal suspensions in a differentially-heated cavity is investigated. The numerical model is based on the one-fluid-mixture approach combined with the single-domain enthalpy-porosity model for phase change. The linear dependence of the liquidus concentration of the nanoparticles was assumed. A colloidal suspension consisting of water and copper, and alumina nanoparticles were considered. In the current investigation, the nanoparticle size selected was 2 nm. The suspension was solidified unidirectionally inside a square differentially-heated cavity that was cooled from the left side. It was found that the solid-liquid interface changed its morphology from a planar shape to a dendritic one as the solidification process proceeds in time, due to the constitutional supercooling that resulted from the increased concentration of particles at the solid-liquid interface rejected from the crystalline phase. Initially, the flow consisted of two vortices rotating in opposite directions. However, at later times only one counter clockwise rotating cell survived. Changing the material of the particle to alumina results in crystallized phase with a higher concentration of particles if it is compared to that of the solid phase resulted from freezing the copper-water colloidal suspension. Decreasing the segregation coefficient destabilize the solid-liquid interface, and increase the intensity of the convection cell with respect to that of the case of no particle rejection. At slow freezing rates, the crystal phase resulted consisted of lower particle content if it is compared to that resulted from higher freezing rate.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
“Comedies for Commodities”: Genre and Early Modern Dramatic Epistles

AbstractTheatrical epistles served to “textualize” or stabilize the open‐ended theatrical possibilities of early modern popular drama. To a great extent, these epistles supplemented the work done by quartos (and later folios) to which they were fixed by disciplining and controlling unruly theatrical performances. Reading prefatory epistles for such plays as The Duchess of Malfi, ’Tis a Pity She's a Whore, Knight of the Burning Pestle, and, most closely, Troilus and Cressida in relation to historical performances and textual editions of the play allows modern readers the opportunity to examine closely the material conditions of early modern drama and to understand better the moment in literary history when plays were becoming literature and playwrights, poets. In short, the function of dramatic prefatory material is to mark the move from stage to page, thus, shedding light on the triangular relationship between authorial self‐fashioning, the material conditions of public drama, and the commodification of p...
Sexual Harassment at Work: Three Explanatory Models

This article explores three models of sexual harassment derived from previous research, court cases and legal defenses: the Natural/Biological Model, the Organizational Model, and the Sociocultural Model. Data from a large (N=20, 083) stratified random sample of the federal workforce are analyzed in relation to these models. No clear-cut support for any one model emerges, and the picture of sexual harassment painted by these data appears to be more complex and varied than earlier, self-selected samples initially suggested. The results are discussed in light of the difficulties of using large-scale survey techniques to investigate complex cultural phenomena, and suggestions are made for future research approaches that could complement survey techniques.
Upper mantle thermal variations beneath the Transantarctic Mountains inferred from teleseismic S‐wave attenuation

[1] This study examines teleseismic S-wave attenuation variations between the Ross Sea in West Antarctica and Vostok Subglacial Highlands in East Antarctica. These analyses indicate that δt* is ∼1 second greater beneath the Ross Sea than East Antarctica, with the transition occurring beneath the Transantarctic Mountains. While the structure is non-unique, low attenuation beneath East Antarctica is consistent with thick subcontinental lithosphere (≥250 km) and negligible asthenosphere. In contrast, the Ross Sea possesses a thin lithosphere underlain by thick, highly anelastic asthenosphere. Independent temperature estimates from velocity and quality factor indicate that the mantle is 200–400°C colder beneath East Antarctica than the Ross Sea between 80 and 220 km depth. The temperature variation beneath the Transantarctic Mountains may have assisted in the asymmetric uplift of the mountains. Attenuation and velocity anomalies within East Antarctica may delineate regions of elevated temperature, representing recently modified sections between older lithospheric blocks.
Recycling of glucose and determination of the Cori Cycle and gluconeogenesis.

We have derived equations, by employing [U-13C]glucose and mass isotopomer analysis, to determine the pathways of glycogen synthesis (J. Katz, W. P. Lee, P. A. Wals, and E. A. Bergner.J. Biol. Chem...
Diethyl N‐Benzylideneaminomethylphosphonate

[50917-73-2] C12H18NO3P (MW 255.25) InChI = 1S/C12H18NO3P/c1-3-15-17(14,16-4-2)11-13-10-12-8-6-5-7-9-12/h5-10H,3-4,11H2,1-2H3 InChIKey = REXOGTNRQYAOQG-UHFFFAOYSA-N (reagent for preparation of β-lactams1 and α-aminophosphonic acids;3 agent for quaternary carbon formation4) Physical Data: bp 145–149 °C/0.05 mmHg. Solubility: sol most organic solvents. Form Supplied in: light yellow oil. Analysis of Reagent Purity: readily ascertained by NMR. Preparative Methods: 1,3,5-tribenzylhexahydro-sec-triazine is reacted with Diethyl Phosphonite at 100 °C to yield N-benzylaminomethylphosphonate. N-Debenzylation with H2–Palladium on Carbon and subsequent Schiff base formation with PhCHO affords the title reagent in virtually quantitative yield.1a Alternatively, the reagent may be prepared from the N,N-bis(TMS)aminomethylphosphonate and PhCHO in the presence of a catalytic amount of Trimethylsilyl Trifluoromethanesulfonate.2 A different approach to the aminomethylphosphonate intermediate starts with conversion of N-hydroxymethylphthalimide to the N-bromomethyl compound followed by an Arbuzov reaction with Triethyl Phosphite. Treatment of the resultant phthalimidomethylphosphonate with Hydrazine yields diethyl aminomethylphosphonate which is then subjected to imine formation with PhCHO.4a Purification: distillation at reduced pressure. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: stable to air and moisture. Conveniently stored under N2 at ambient temperature or lower. Shelf life undetermined.
Automatic Tread Gaging Machine

An automatic tread gaging machine has been developed. It consists of three component systems: (1) a laser gaging head, (2) a tire handling device, and (3) a computer that controls the movement of the tire handling machine, processes the data, and computes the least-squares straight line from which a wear rate may be estimated. Experimental tests show that the machine has good repeatability. In comparisons with measurements obtained by a hand gage, the automatic machine gives smaller average groove depths. The difference before and after a period of wear for both methods of measurement are the same. Wear rates estimated from the slopes of straight lines fitted to both sets of data are not significantly different.
Condiciones de la fuga

Obra poetica. Alvaro Mutis. Arango Editores, Santafe de Bogota, 1993, 284 pags. Celebraciones y otros fantasmas. Una biografia intelectual de Alvaro Mutis. Eduardo Gorda Aguilar. Tercer Mundo Editores, Santafe de Bogota, 1993, 152 pags.
Improved technology mapping using a new approach to Boolean matching

We present an improved method for technology mapping using a new approach to the Boolean matching problem. Signatures computed over OBDDs using a set of specific probability values determine matches between library cells and portions of the netlist. Unlike some previous methods, which may require creation of up to O(n!) OBDDs for all possible permutations of module's inputs, our method requires exactly one OBDD to be created for the portion of the netlist being matched. Some results obtained on ISCAS85 benchmark circuits suggest the viability and validity of our approach. >
Medical Device Regulation and Nanotechnologies: Determining the Role of Patient Safety Concerns in Policymaking

Balancing acceptable risks and early release of products for new treatments in patient care with the rights of patients and the rights of stakeholders—device makers and regulators—is a complex task. With the rapid technological innovations of the last two decades, providing a balanced voice to all participants is essential, but a sense of urgency depends on which side of the aisle one is sitting: on the side of patients, surgeons, regulators, and device makers; or that of providers and scientific advisors. A review of the medical device political economy suggests why patient safety concerns are or should be kept alive throughout the entire regulatory cycle from clinical evaluation and premarket checks to their final use in a huge variety of clinical settings around the globe. The key issue for nano-enhanced devices now is whether the uncertainties and perceived risks can be reduced through more stringent regulatory requirements and proactive measures without stifling innovation and development of new treatments for patients.
An empirical Bayes approach to modeling and control of stochastic systems with time-varying parameters

An empirical Bayes approach is proposed for modeling the dynamics of unknown parameters, which may undergo both regular fluctuations and erratic changes over time, in stochastic regression models and linear stochastic difference equations. A rich and flexible class of empirical Bayes models of parameter dynamics is shown to lead to tractable recursive algorithms for estimating the time-varying parameters with good statistical properties. Applications of these recursive estimators to developing adaptive controllers of certainty-equivalence type are also discussed. >
Magnetic Extraction, Detection, and Isotope Analysis of Metal Ions Using Surface Modified Microspheres for Lab-on-a-Chip Applications

Liquid–liquid extraction and ion-exchange chromatography are efficient methods for sequestration of metal ions, but these methods are poorly suitable for microfluidic miniaturization. Here we examine several methods for rapid extraction, fluorometric detection, and the subsequent isotope analysis of lanthanide ions sequestered on surface modified magnetic microspheres as a versatile platform for chemical manipulation. The assays involve immobilization of a mixed-ligand complex of luminescent lanthanide ions at the surface of polystyrene microspheres. Using the ion-exchange properties of these microspheres, this scheme can be extended to the detection of nonluminescent ions.
Isolation of a mutant Arabidopsis plant that lacks N-acetyl glucosaminyl transferase I and is unable to synthesize Golgi-modified complex N-linked glycans.

The complex asparagine-linked glycans of plant glycoproteins, characterized by the presence of [beta]1->2 xylose and [alpha]1->3 fucose residues, are derived from typical mannose9(N-acetylglucosamine)2 (Man9GlcNAc2) N-linked glycans through the activity of a series of glycosidases and glycosyl transferases in the Golgi apparatus. By screening leaf extracts with an antiserum against complex glycans, we isolated a mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana that is blocked in the conversion of high-manne to complex glycans. In callus tissues derived from the mutant plants, all glycans bind to concanavalin A. These glycans can be released by treatment with endoglycosidase H, and the majority has the same size as Man5GlcNAc1 glycans. In the presence of deoxymannojirimycin, an inhibitor of mannosidase I, the mutant cells synthesize Man9GlcNAc2 and Man8GlcNAc2 glycans, suggesting that the bio-chemical lesion in the mutant is not in the biosynthesis of high-mannose glycans in the endoplasmic reticulum but in their modification in the Golgi. Direct enzyme assays of cell extracts show that the mutant cells lack N-acetyl glucosaminyl transferase I, the first enzyme in the pathway of complex glycan biosynthesis. The mutant plants are able to complete their development normally under several environmental conditions, suggesting that complex glycans are not essential for normal developmental processes. By crossing the complex-glycan-deficient strain of A. thaliana with a transgenic strain that expresses the glycoprotein phytohemagglutinin, we obtained a unique strain that synthesizes phytohemagglutinin with two high-mannose glycans, instead of one high-mannose and one complex glycan.
CORRELATION BETWEEN INTACT SPERM ACROSOME ASSESSED USING THE SPERMAC STAIN AND SPERM FERTILIZING CAPACITY

Accurate determination of sperm acrosomal status is important in fertility studies. The objective was to correlate the percentage of intact acrosome assessed using the new Spermac stain with the capacity of sperm to fertilize oocytes. Sperm specimens were processed either by centrifuge wash, 48:95 Percoll gradient or test yolk buffer (TYB) wash, and tested using the zona-free hamster oocyte assay. The results indicated a correlation between the percentage of sperm with intact acrosome reaction and the percentage of sperm penetrating the oocytes in the TYB-washed group. The data suggest the usefulness of the Spermac stain for assessing the acrosomal status and in predicting the fertilizing capacity of the sperm.
Reflections on collaboration: learning outcomes and information literacy assessment in the business curriculum

Develops a model whereby information literacy competencies are formally adopted as learning outcomes for an undergraduate business curriculum. The information competencies are some of the mission driven competencies developed by a College of Business Administration at a regional university in keeping with the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business standards. In one class, develops an assessment instrument to measure student learning of information literacy competencies tied to the course objectives. The performance measures and learning outcomes in the Association of College and Research Libraries’ Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education were used to plan an information literacy curriculum within an upper division discipline program. Provides an example of how the learning outcomes can offer guidance to course instructors when designing activities and assignments that seek to measure information competence in business courses.
An Architecture-Centric Approach for Acquiring Software-Reliant Systems

Abstract : Because software plays a critical role in nearly every complex Department of Defense acquisition, there is increased emphasis on reducing acquisition risk for software-reliant systems. An architecture-centric acquisition approach has proven to be effective. In this paper, we present the basics of architecture-centric engineering. Then we give a structure for incorporating these practices into the acquisition life cycle, illustrated by an example. We overview how these practices are being implemented in current programs. We conclude by demonstrating how a program can use this approach in synergy with current system engineering practices to achieve an appropriate emphasis on software in a system acquisition.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Clinical Review

Importance Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects 7% to 21% of the general population. It is a chronic condition that can substantially reduce quality of life and work productivity. Objectives To summarize the existing evidence on epidemiology, pathophysiology, and diagnosis of IBS and to provide practical treatment recommendations for generalists and specialists according to the best available evidence. Evidence Review A search of Ovid (MEDLINE) and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews was performed for literature from 2000 to December 2014 for the terms pathophysiology , etiology , pathogenesis , diagnosis , irritable bowel syndrome , and IBS . The range was expanded from 1946 to December 2014 for IBS , irritable bowel syndrome , diet , treatment , and therapy . Findings The database search yielded 1303 articles, of which 139 were selected for inclusion. IBS is not a single disease but rather a symptom cluster resulting from diverse pathologies. Factors important to the development of IBS include alterations in the gut microbiome, intestinal permeability, gut immune function, motility, visceral sensation, brain-gut interactions, and psychosocial status. The diagnosis of IBS relies on symptom-based criteria, exclusion of concerning features (symptom onset after age 50 years, unexplained weight loss, family history of selected organic gastrointestinal diseases, evidence of gastrointestinal blood loss, and unexplained iron-deficiency anemia), and the performance of selected tests (complete blood cell count, C-reactive protein or fecal calprotectin, serologic testing for celiac disease, and age-appropriate colorectal cancer screening) to exclude organic diseases that can mimic IBS. Determining the predominant symptom (IBS with diarrhea, IBS with constipation, or mixed IBS) plays an important role in selection of diagnostic tests and treatments. Various dietary, lifestyle, medical, and behavioral interventions have proven effective in randomized clinical trials. Conclusions and Relevance The diagnosis of IBS relies on the identification of characteristic symptoms and the exclusion of other organic diseases. Management of patients with IBS is optimized by an individualized, holistic approach that embraces dietary, lifestyle, medical, and behavioral interventions.
Sandstone-body dimensions in a lower coastal-plain depositional setting: Lower Williams Fork Formation, Coal Canyon, Piceance Basin, Colorado

This study addresses the field-scale architecture and dimensions of fluvial deposits of the lower Williams Fork Formation through analysis of outcrops in Coal Canyon, Piceance Basin, Colorado. The lower Williams Fork Formation primarily consists of mud rock with numerous isolated, lenticular to channel-form sandstone bodies that were deposited by meandering river systems within a coastal-plain setting. Field descriptions, global positioning system traverses, and a combination of high-resolution aerial light detection and ranging data, digital orthophotography, and ground-based photomosaics were used to map and document the abundance, stratigraphic position, and dimensions of single-story and multistory channel bodies and crevasse splays. The mean thickness and apparent width of the 688 measured sandstone bodies are 12.1 ft (3.7 m) and 364.9 ft (111.2 m), respectively. Single-story sandstone bodies (N = 116) range in thickness from 3.9 to 29.9 ft (1.2 to 9.1 m) and from 44.1 to 1699.8 ft (13.4 to 518.1 m) in apparent width. Multistory sandstone bodies (N = 273) range in thickness from 5.0 to 47.1 ft (1.5 to 14.4 m) and from 53.2 to 2791.1 ft (16.2 to 850.7 m) in apparent width. Crevasse splays (N = 279) range in thickness from 0.5 to 15.0 ft (0.2 to 4.6 m) and from 40.1 to 843.3 ft (12.2 to 257.0 m) in apparent width. These data show that most sandstone bodies are smaller than the distance between wells at 10-ac spacing (660 ft [201 m]). Analyses of interwell sandstone-body connectivity suggest that even at 10-ac spacing, only half of the sandstone bodies are intersected and few are intersected by more than one well.
The Life cycle of Trypanosoma cruzi revisited

The basic features of the life cycle of Trypanosoma cruzi have been known for nearly a century. Various aspects of the life cycle, however, have been elucidated only recently, whilst others remain either controversial or unstudied. Here, we present a revised life cycle influenced by recent findings and specific questions that remain unresolved.
Imaging Electrical Impedance From Acoustic Measurements by Means of Magnetoacoustic Tomography With Magnetic Induction (MAT-MI)

We have conducted computer simulation and experimental studies on magnetoacoustic-tomography with magnetic induction (MAT-MI) for electrical impedance imaging. In MAT-MI, the object to be imaged is placed in a static magnetic field, while pulsed magnetic stimulation is applied in order to induce eddy current in the object. In the static magnetic field, the Lorentz force acts upon the eddy current and causes acoustic vibrations in the object. The propagated acoustic wave is then measured around the object to reconstruct the electrical impedance distribution. In the present simulation study, a two-layer spherical model is used. Parameters of the model such as sample size, conductivity values, strength of the static and pulsed magnetic field, are set to simulate features of biological tissue samples and feasible experimental constraints. In the forward simulation, the electrical potential and current density are solved using Poisson's equation, and the acoustic pressure is calculated as the forward solution. The electrical impedance distribution is then reconstructed from the simulated pressure distribution surrounding the sample. The present computer simulation results suggest that MAT-MI can reconstruct conductivity images of biological tissue with high spatial resolution and high contrast. The feasibility of MAT-MI in providing high spatial resolution images containing impedance-related information has also been demonstrated in a phantom experiment
mRNA metabolism of flowering‐time regulators in wild‐type Arabidopsis revealed by a nuclear cap binding protein mutant, abh1

Summary The precise regulation of RNA metabolism has crucial roles in numerous developmental and physiological processes such as the induction of flowering in plants. Here we report the identification of processes associated with mRNA metabolism of flowering-time regulators in wild-type Arabidopsis plants, which were revealed by an early flowering mutation, abh1, in an Arabidopsis nuclear mRNA cap-binding protein. By using abh1 as an enhancer of mRNA metabolism events, we identify non-coding polyadenylated cis natural antisense transcripts (cis-NATs) at the CONSTANS locus in wild-type plants. Our analyses also reveal a regulatory function of FLC intron 1 during transcript maturation in wild type. Moreover, transcripts encoding the FLM MADS box transcription factor are subject to premature intronic polyadenylation in wild type. In each case, abh1 showed altered patterns in RNA metabolism in these events compared with wild type. Together, abh1 enhances steps in the RNA metabolism that allowed us to identify novel molecular events of three key flowering-time regulators in wild-type plants, delivering important insights for further dissecting RNA-based mechanisms regulating flowering time in Arabidopsis.
A Lightning Multiple Casualty Incident in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Multiple casualty incidents (MCIs) are uncommon in remote wilderness settings. This is a case report of a lightning strike on a Boy Scout troop hiking through Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (SEKI), in which the lightning storm hindered rescue efforts. The purpose of this study was to review the response to a lightning-caused MCI in a wilderness setting, address lightning injury as it relates to field management, and discuss evacuation options in inclement weather incidents occurring in remote locations. An analysis of SEKI search and rescue data and a review of current literature were performed. A lightning strike at 10,600 feet elevation in the Sierra Nevada Mountains affected a party of 5 adults and 7 Boy Scouts (age range 12 to 17 years old). Resources mobilized for the rescue included 5 helicopters, 2 ambulances, 2 hospitals, and 15 field and 14 logistical support personnel. The incident was managed from strike to scene clearance in 4 hours and 20 minutes. There were 2 fatalities, 1 on scene and 1 in the hospital. Storm conditions complicated on-scene communication and evacuation efforts. Exposure to ongoing lightning and a remote wilderness location affected both victims and rescuers in a lightning MCI. Helicopters, the main vehicles of wilderness rescue in SEKI, can be limited by weather, daylight, and terrain. Redundancies in communication systems are vital for episodes of radio failure. Reverse triage should be implemented in lightning injury MCIs. Education of both wilderness travelers and rescuers regarding these issues should be pursued.
The co-occurrence of myocardial dysfunction and peripheral insensate neuropathy in a streptozotocin-induced rat model of diabetes

Background Cardiomyopathy and distal symmetrical polyneuropathy (DSPN), including sensory and autonomic dysfunction, often co-occur in diabetic mellitus (DM) patients. However, the temporal relationship and progression between these two complications has not been investigated. Using a streptozotocin DM animal model that develops insensate neuropathy, our aim was to examine in parallel the development of DSPN and DM-associated changes in cardiac structure and function as well as potential mechanisms, such as autonomic dysfunction, evaluated by changes in urinary and myocardial norepinephrine content and myocardial neuronal markers.
The ultrastructure of the caecal epithelium of the intraredial cercaria of Neophasis lageniformis (Lebour, 1910) (Trematoda, Acanthocolpidae).

The intestinal caeca of the intraredial cercaria of Neophasis lageniformis differ in several aspects from previous descriptions of the intestinal caeca of other digenetic trematodes. The caeca are lined with a single-layered, non-syncytial epithelium with lamellate projections into the lumen. The cells are rich in glycogen particles and contain abundant granular endoplasmic reticulum. The apical cell membrane, which displays a unit membrane structure, is always covered by an external membrane of the same thickness as a unit membrane but showing no double-layered substructure. The external membrane, which is not equivalent to a glycocalyx, may continue from one cell to another. Apically on the projections the external membranes are apparently pushed out forming large, extracellular whorls, which fill up the caecal lumen. In the lumen there are also found crystal-like structures and lipid-like bodies which are suspended in a granular substance. The possible origin and function of the extracellular bodies are discussed.
Changes in Cannabis Potency Over the Last 2 Decades (1995–2014): Analysis of Current Data in the United States

Abstract Background Marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug in the United States and all over the world. Reports indicate that the potency of cannabis preparation has been increasing. This report examines the concentration of cannabinoids in illicit cannabis products seized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration over the last 2 decades, with particular emphasis on Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol. Methods Samples in this report were received over time from materials confiscated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and processed for analysis using a validated gas chromatography with flame ionization detector method. Results Between January 1, 1995, and December 31, 2014, 38,681 samples of cannabis preparations were received and analyzed. The data showed that although the number of marijuana samples seized over the last 4 years has declined, the number of sinsemilla samples has increased. Overall, the potency of illicit cannabis plant material has consistently increased over time since 1995 from ~4% in 1995 to ~12% in 2014. The cannabidiol content has decreased on average from ~.28% in 2001 to 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol to cannabidiol from 14 times in 1995 to ~80 times in 2014. Conclusions There is a shift in the production of illicit cannabis plant material from regular marijuana to sinsemilla. This increase in potency poses higher risk of cannabis use, particularly among adolescents.
Response interpolation and scale sensitivity: evidence against 5-point scales

A series of usability tests was run on two enterprise software applications, followed by verbal administration of the System Usability Scale. The original instrument with its 5-point Likert items was presented, as well as an alternate version modified with 7-point Likert items. Participants in the 5-point scale condition were more likely than those presented with the 7-point scale to interpolate, i.e., attempt a response between two discrete values presented to them. In an applied setting, this implied that electronic radio-button style survey tools using 5-point items might not be accurately measuring participant responses. This finding supported the conclusion that 7-point Likert items provide a more accurate measure of a participant's true evaluation and are more appropriate for electronically-distributed and otherwise unsupervised usability questionnaires.
The induction of cellular interactions in atherogenesis and their modulation.

Interactions between vascular cells and blood cells are central to the development of the atherosclerotic process. Under normal circumstances, blood cells do not associate with the blood vessel; however, in response to atherogenic stimuli, platelets, lymphocytes and mononuclear leukocytes interact with the vessel wall and induce changes in the vascular micro-environment that support atheroma formation. These changes include the enhancement of endothelial permeability, the conversion of the normal endothelium from an anti-thrombotic to a pro-thrombotic phenotype, the induction of endothelial and vascular-smooth-muscle migration, the stimulation of vascular-smooth-muscle-cell replication, and the elaboration of extracellular matrix by the vascular-smooth-muscle cell [ 13. The principal effectors that mediate this dramatic modification of vascular properties are soluble intercellular-signalling molecules that are known as cytokines.
Homoleptic Divalent Dialkyl Lanthanide-Catalyzed Cross-Dehydrocoupling of Silanes and Amines

The rare-earth bis(alkyl) compound Sm{C(SiHMe2)3}2THF2 (1b) is prepared by the reaction of samarium(II) iodide and 2 equiv of KC(SiHMe2)3. This synthesis is similar to that of previously reported Yb{C(SiHMe2)3}2THF2 (1a), and compounds 1a,b are isostructural. Reactions of 1b and 1 or 2 equiv of B(C6F5)3 afford SmC(SiHMe2)3HB(C6F5)3THF2 (2b) or Sm{HB(C6F5)3}2THF2 (3b), respectively, and 1,3-disilacyclobutane {Me2Si-C(SiHMe2)2}2 as a byproduct. Bands from 2300 to 2400 cm–1 assigned to νBH in the IR spectra and highly paramagnetically shifted signals in the 11B NMR spectra of 2b and 3b provided evidence for Sm-coordinated HB(C6F5)3. Compounds 1a,b react with the bulky N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) 1,3-di-tert-butylimidazol-2-ylidene (ImtBu) to displace both THF ligands and give three-coordinate monoadducts Ln{C(SiHMe2)3}2ImtBu (Ln = Yb (4a), Sm (4b)). Complexes 4a,b catalyze cross-dehydrocoupling of organosilanes with primary and secondary amines at room temperature to give silazanes and H2, whereas 1a,b are ...
Neurobiology of Everyday Communication What Have We Learned From Music

Sound is an invisible but powerful force that is central to everyday life. Studies in the neurobiology of everyday communication seek to elucidate the neural mechanisms underlying sound processing, their stability, their plasticity, and their links to language abilities and disabilities. This sound processing lies at the nexus of cognitive, sensorimotor, and reward networks. Music provides a powerful experimental model to understand these biological foundations of communication, especially with regard to auditory learning. We review studies of music training that employ a biological approach to reveal the integrity of sound processing in the brain, the bearing these mechanisms have on everyday communication, and how these processes are shaped by experience. Together, these experiments illustrate that music works in synergistic partnerships with language skills and the ability to make sense of speech in complex, everyday listening environments. The active, repeated engagement with sound demanded by music making augments the neural processing of speech, eventually cascading to listening and language. This generalization from music to everyday communications illustrates both that these auditory brain mechanisms have a profound potential for plasticity and that sound processing is biologically intertwined with listening and language skills. A new wave of studies has pushed neuroscience beyond the traditional laboratory by revealing the effects of community music training in underserved populations. These community-based studies reinforce laboratory work highlight how the auditory system achieves a remarkable balance between stability and flexibility in processing speech. Moreover, these community studies have the potential to inform health care, education, and social policy by lending a neurobiological perspective to their efficacy.
Impact of Small Monetary Incentives on Exercise in University Students.

Objectives Research has demonstrated that health outcomes are significantly improved with the application of financial incentives. However, relatively larger incentives are not typically sustainable and removal of incentives tends to result in attrition of behavior. The feasibility of using relatively smaller incentives to improve physical activity is unclear. The aim of the present study is to determine whether small financial incentives (maximum $5.00 per week) can improve exercise-related energy expenditure of inactive individuals. Methods Twenty-two university students (20 ±1.6 years old) were randomized into incentive or non-incentive conditions. Exercise-related caloric expenditure was tracked over 10 weeks. Results The sample size yielded 62% power. The repeated measures ANCOVA, controlling for body mass index, indicated a main effect of condition (F = 5.50, p =.03) with no significant interaction (F = 2.25, p = .06). Conclusions This pilot study demonstrates initial feasibility in implementing small financial incentives to promote exercise behavior in previously inactive young adults. Due to the small sample size, results should be interpreted with caution and further research is warranted to improve and maintain exercise behavior in response to relatively smaller incentives.
The Tribological Behavior of Tube Supports in Helium Heat Exchangers

A closed-cycle gas turbine plant for high-temperature gas-cooled reactor application contains a number of heat exchangers for low to medium temperatures (up to 500/sup 0/C). The tubes of these heat exchangers are held in multiple spacers. Since thermal expansions lead to relative motions between tubes and spacers, a predictable tribological behavior of this sliding pair is important. The search for a low-cost treatment to achieve good tribological properties has led to manganese phosphate conversion layers on ferritic steel. Laboratory tests in helium with representative tube/spacer configurations have shown very small wear rates, complete absence of scuffing, and moderate and predictable coefficients of friction. Mechanical testing of phosphated tube material did not reveal any detrimental influence from the phosphate treatment. This work was performed under the joint German/Swiss development agreement for the helium high-temperature turbine project, HHT.
High-Throughput Colorimetric Assays for Nucleotide Sugar Formation and Glycosyl Transfer

Glycosyltransferases are ubiquitous in nature, catalyzing glycosidic bond formation in the context of an enormous range of substrates, which include all major classes of biological molecules. Because this wide range of substrates lacks a shared, distinguishable feature that can be altered by glycosyl transfer, general assays for detection of glycosyltransferase activity have long been largely limited to low-throughput methods. Of those high-throughput assays reported in the literature, many are confined to specific glycosyl transfer reactions with modified aglycon acceptors selected for their unique analytical properties. Herein are described a series of protocols centered on the use of 2-chloro-4-nitrophenyl glycoside donors and the reversibility of glycosyltransferase-catalyzed reactions to enable a colorimetric assay for the formation of sugar nucleotides, coupled reaction systems for the glycodiversification of small molecules, and a general colorimetric assay for glycosyltransfer, applicable to drug discovery, protein engineering, and other fundamental sugar nucleotide-dependent investigations.
Civil Shoplifting Statutes by State

Collection of civil shoplifting statutes by state. This collection contains the full text of each states' laws which provide merchants a civil remedy against individuals accused of shoplifting. These statutes operate independently from and in addition to the states' criminal sanctions for shoplifting.
How to Apply the Ideal Observer Theory: The Controversy over Artificial Contraception and Abortion

As we have seen in the last two chapters, theists are right in thinking that God grounds morality. Moreover, as we saw in the last chapter, they are correct in believing that the intuitions of reflective and impartial human moral judges are, for the most part, trustworthy. But I submit that this latter view can, paradoxically, be used to undermine some widespread contemporary theistic beliefs about precisely what it is that God favors and disfavors. The alleged wrongness of artificial contraception and abortion are cases in point.
MIEN1 drives breast tumor cell migration by regulating cytoskeletal-focal adhesion dynamics

// Marilyne Kpetemey 1, * , Pankaj Chaudhary 1, * , Timothy Van Treuren 1 , Jamboor K. Vishwanatha 1 1 Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Institute for Cancer Research, and the Texas Center for Health Disparities, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA * These authors contributed equally to this work Correspondence to: Pankaj Chaudhary, email: PankaJ.Chaudhary@unthsc.edu Keywords: MIEN1, actin polymerization, focal adhesion kinase, cofilin, migration Received: May 23, 2016 Accepted: July 13, 2016 Published: July 23, 2016 ABSTRACT Migration and invasion enhancer 1 (MIEN1) is an important regulator of cell migration and invasion. MIEN1 overexpression represents an oncogenic event that promotes tumor cell dissemination and metastasis. The underlying mechanism by which MIEN1 regulates migration and invasion has yet to be deciphered. Here, we demonstrate that MIEN1 acts as a cytoskeletal-signaling adapter protein to drive breast cancer cell migration. MIEN1 localization is concentrated underneath the actin-enriched protrusive structures of the migrating breast cancer cells. Depletion of MIEN1 led to the loss of actin-protrusive structures whereas the over-expression of MIEN1 resulted in rich and thick membrane extensions. Knockdown of MIEN1 also decreased the cell-substratum adhesion, suggesting a role for MIEN1 in actin cytoskeletal dynamics. Our results show that MIEN1 supports the transition of G-actin to F-actin polymerization and stabilizes F-actin polymers. Additionally, MIEN1 promotes cellular adhesion and actin dynamics by inducing phosphorylation of FAK at Tyr-925 and reducing phosphorylation of cofilin at Ser-3, which results in breast cancer cell migration. Collectively, our data show that MIEN1 plays an essential role in maintaining the plasticity of the dynamic membrane-associated actin cytoskeleton, which leads to an increase in cell motility. Hence, targeting MIEN1 might represent a promising means to prevent breast tumor metastasis.
Effect of Infiltration Modeling Approach on Operational Solutions for Furrow Irrigation

AbstractInfiltration in irrigated furrows depends on the variation of depth of flow and, thus, wetted perimeter along the field and in time. However, the magnitude of the wetted perimeter effect has not been clearly established due to soil variability, erosion and deposition, macropore flow, and other processes that affect the infiltration process. Hence, furrow irrigation models currently offer various alternatives, mostly empirical but some physical, for modeling the infiltration process as a function of wetted perimeter. In principle, the selected modeling approach can have a significant impact on the predicted performance. This is of particular importance for operation and design analyses cases in which performance is examined, respectively, over a wide range of inflow rates and physical configurations. A simulation study was conducted to examine the operational solutions that can be developed with different furrow infiltration models. The analysis was based on the modeling options offered by a softwa...
No Dog Left Behind: A Hedonic Pricing Model for Animal Shelters

Companion animal overpopulation is a growing problem in the United States. In addition to strays, an average of 324,500 nonhuman animals are relinquished to shelters yearly by their caregivers due to family disruption (divorce, death), foreclosure, economic problems, or minor behavioral issues. As a result, estimates of animals in shelters range from 3 million to 8 million, and due to overcrowding, euthanasia is common. This analysis seeks to determine the appropriate pricing mechanisms to clear animal shelters of dogs in the manner most desirable—that is, through adoption. Based on a survey of Michigan residents, it is clear there are a number of correlations between the traits of dogs and the individuals who care for them. Hedonic pricing models indicate that animal shelters need to proactively vary their pricing systems to discount particular traits, specifically for mixed-breed, older, and black dogs. Premiums can be charged for puppies, purebred dogs, and those who have received specific services suc...
Scalable Networked Information Processing Environment (SNIPE)

SNIPE is a metacomputing system that aims to provide a reliable, secure, fault-tolerant environment for long-term distributed computing applications and data stores across the global InterNet. This system combines global naming and replication of both processing and data to support large scale information processing applications leading to better availability and reliability than currently available with typical cluster computing and/or distributed computer environments. To facilitate this the system supports: distributed data collection, distributed computation, distributed control and resource management, distributed output and process migration. The underlying system supports multiple communication paths, media and routing methods to aid performance and robustness across both local and global networks.
CRT-600.07 Head to Head Efficacy of Alirocumab 75 and 150 mg vs Evolocumab 140 mg in Real World Patients

In 107 high-risk patients, 60% with cardiovascular disease (CVD), and with median low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) 149 mg/dL despite maximum tolerated lipid lowering therapy (MTLT), we compared and contrasted efficacy-safety of Alirocumab (ALI 75mg, 150 mg) and Evolocumab (EVO 140 mg). We
We Need a Strong Environmental Protection Agency: It's About Public Health!

An editorial is presented in which the authors discuss the historical aspects of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and public health in America as of 2017. Cholera outbreaks in the 19th century and the Paris Agreement international climate change mitigation deal are examined, along with public health progress in America and the U.S. Clean Air Act. Environmental health is assessed, along with efforts to protect food, water, and air in places such as the U.S.
Critical Community-Engaged Scholarship: Communities and Universities Striving for Racial Justice

The goal of this article is to clarify how current dominant understandings of community-engaged scholarship (CES) can be strengthened to incorporate lessons from critical theory and to focus on justice more explicitly. A prior analysis of how CES is defined across multiple disciplinary literatures revealed that scholars define CES as partnerships between universities and communities that collaboratively develop and apply knowledge to address public issues. Six components of CES were frequently recommended for practice within this scholarship as well. However, neither the goal of CES—to support the “public good”—nor the six recommended CES components consistently included an explicit focus on justice and critical theory. By explicitly naming and defining the goal of justice—as opposed to the “public good” —I aim to highlight the importance of conducting routine analyses in CES of whose interests motivate conceptions of the public good and how dominant cultural structures, values, and traditions negatively ...