cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Committee on additives, beverages, and food process related analytes. Filth and extraneous materials in foods and drugs.

This General Referee (GR) topic was reinstated in response to recent scientific and regulatory developments involving potential health hazards associated with filth and extraneous materials (1). In response, the focus of this GR topic will shift towards the detection and evaluation of potentially hazardous filth and extraneous materials. This includes filth and extraneous materials that represent a potential physical, chemical, or biological hazard as well as filth from vectors such as flies, cockroaches, rodents, and other pests that are intimately associated with the transmission of microbial hazards (2–5). Initially, the GR will develop recommendations for minor revisions to definitions and other introductory material in the topic chapter of the Official Methods of Analysis that will reflect the recognized need for differentiating between hazardous and nonhazardous adulterants. There will be no changes to official analytical methods. Future areas of activity may include collaborative studies for analytical methods to detect hazardous foreign objects and a protocol for micromorphology studies on the evaluation of filth from vectors.
Minilaparotomy-Assisted Transmesenteric-Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt: Comparison with Conventional Transjugular Approach.

Purpose This study was performed to compare the intrahepatic shunt function outcome and procedural complications of minilaparotomy-assisted transmesenteric (MAT)-transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement with the conventional transjugular method.
Current State of Clinical Application

Only a handful of tissue-engineered products have reached clinical reality to date. Most of the clinically tried tissue-engineering therapies thus far have yielded modest to no benefits and only in small, distinct patient populations, if not in purely anecdotal experience. As with most novel medical technologies, many hurdles remain to be overcome in the arduous translation from the laboratory to the bedside. Perhaps this should come as no surprise, in that the field is still relatively young. At the same time, as evidenced in examples discussed in this chapter and others, concrete clinical benefits from this technology have accumulated in the past several years, albeit still at a much slower pace than what we would hope for the future. Whereas tissue engineering continues to develop vigorously in ever more numerous laboratories around the world, much remains to be learned and developed, not only by scientists, clinicians, and entrepreneurs, but also by governmental regulatory agencies. Nevertheless, given its scientific premises, the potential magnitude of its impact to society, and what has been achieved thus far, it is reasonable to anticipate that continued efforts in this vibrant, multidisciplinary field should contribute to ultimately broaden its reach. The purpose of this chapter is to offer a much summarized overview of some of the present state of clinical application of tissue-engineering technology and its challenges for further development.
Abstract 290: Comparison of Lipid Control in Patients with Coronary versus Peripheral Arterial Disease

Objectives: Patients with Peripheral artery disease (PAD) have similar cardiovascular morbidity and mortality as those with established coronary artery disease (CAD). Thus the recommended LDL goal is < 100 mg/dl for both CAD and PAD patients. This study assesses the degree of lipid control and statin drug use in CAD and PAD patients in current clinical practice. Methods: We did a retrospective chart review of patients with a diagnosis of PAD, CAD and both PAD and CAD seen at our institution between Jan 2009 to March 2012. Demographic data, lipid levels and statin use were compared between CAD, PAD and PAD & CAD groups. To enable comparison of the doses of various statins, we used statin potency unit where 1 potency unit = 10mg of Simvastatin. Results: There were a total of 11498 subjects in the chart review (CAD-9879, PAD-623, both PAD & CAD -996). PAD patients were younger with more females & lower BMI compared to CAD and both PAD & CAD groups (Table 1). Mean LDL level in the PAD group was 93.4±35.5 mg/dL, CAD group was 82.7±33.1 mg/dL and both PAD & CAD group was 80.5±31.0 mg/dL. Although all groups had a mean LDL of < 100mg/dL, significantly fewer number of PAD patients achieved target LDL <100 mg/dl and LDL <70 mg/dl, as compared to CAD and combined group (Table 1). The PAD group had significantly higher mean total cholesterol and mean LDL levels as compared to the CAD group and combined PAD & CAD group (Table 1). The mean HDL and mean triglyceride (TG) levels in PAD group were significantly higher than the CAD and combined PAD & CAD group. The PAD patients had significantly greater use of less potent statins than the CAD and PAD & CAD groups which was not compensated for by a higher mean dose of the lower potency statins (Table 1). PAD patients were receiving significantly lower mean potency unit of statins as compared to PAD and combined CAD and PAD group (Table 1). Conclusion: Even though both PAD and CAD groups had mean LDL < 100mg/dL, we found that lipid control assessed by absolute mean lipid levels were significantly better in patients with CAD and combined PAD & CAD group. Thus, our study indicates that physicians tend to be more aggressive with lipid control in patients with a diagnosis of CAD when compared to patients with PAD alone. ![Graphic][1] [1]: /embed/inline-graphic-1.gif
Prevalence and Correlates of Late Initiation of Smokeless Tobacco in US Firefighters

Introduction Prevalence rates of smokeless tobacco (SLT) use and late initiation among firefighters (ie, starting use as an adult after joining the fire service) are remarkably high, 10.5% and 26.0%, respectively. The purpose of this study is to examine characteristics associated with late SLT initiation in a sample comprised of male career firefighters from two large cohort studies. Methods We examined correlates of late SLT initiation in a secondary analysis of data combining the baseline evaluations of two published firefighter health studies with 1474 male career firefighters in the United States. Results Fourteen percent of participants were current SLT users. Among this group, the unadjusted rate of firefighters who initiated SLT use after joining the fire service was 15.9%, while the age-standardized rate was 38.2%; this is substantially higher than the national adjusted late initiation rate among adult males (0.8%). In addition, firefighters demonstrated higher rates of late SLT initiation (15.9% unadjusted; 18.4% age-standardized) when compared to males in the military overall (13.8%). Conclusions The exceptionally high prevalence of SLT use overall and late initiation in the fire service suggest that joining the fire service in the United States is a risk factor for SLT use. There is a need to develop interventions aimed at reducing SLT use in the fire service that are specifically tailored for this occupational group. Implications The high prevalence of late SLT initiation (ie, starting use as an adult after joining the fire service) among firefighters should be addressed by both researchers and fire service organizations given the significant health risks associated with SLT and its impact on occupational readiness. There is a need for developing intervention programs aimed at reducing SLT use in the fire service. Interventions would need to be specifically tailored for this occupational group and their unique culture, given that joining the fire service appears to be a risk factor for SLT initiation among firefighters who did not use tobacco prior to joining the fire service.
A phase I trial of the addition of the CDK 4/6 inhibitor palbociclib to cetuximab in patients with incurable head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

6043 Background: Overexpression of cyclin D1 and inactivation of p16 occur in the majority ( > 90%) of HPV-unrelated HNSCC. Resistance to cetuximab and cisplatin, the two most effective systemic ag...
Interaction of soil zinc, calcium, and pH with zinc toxicity in peanuts

Zinc (Zn) toxicity can be fatal to peanuts (Arachis hypogea L.) grown on high Zn soils, especially those with low pH values. The objectives of this study were to determine the influence of soil pH and soil Zn levels on Zn toxicity of peanuts and to predict the presence of Zn toxicity based on leaf or soil data. A greenhouse study was conducted with ‘Florunner’ peanuts using four soils of varying textures. Dolomitic limestone was applied to establish four pH levels ranging from 4.5-7.0 among soils. Zinc sulfate was applied at rates of 0, 10, 20 and 40 mg Zn kg−1 soil. Lime and zinc treatments were made to all soils in factorial combinations. Leaf and soil samples were taken periodically. Leaf Zn increased with increased soil Zn rates, but leaf Zn declined with increased pH levels. Leaf calcium (Ca) was reduced by soil Zn application in some cases. Leaf Zn and leaf Ca were both significantly correlated with the presence of Zn toxicity symptoms. When soil pH or soil Ca was included in models with soil Zn to predict leaf Zn from soil Zn, R-square values increased dramatically. A table was developed for the determination of target pH levels that should be reached in soils with specific soil Zn concentrations to avoid Zn toxicity problems.
Abstract TP255: Designing a Pre-Arrival Stroke Notification System: Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale versus Clinical Impression

Introduction: Acute stroke pre-arrival notification by emergency medical services (EMS) allows hospital personnel to mobilize resources in advance, thereby improving treatment times and outcomes. H...
Sustained viral suppression with co-administration of oxcarbazepine and dolutegravir:

Co-administration of dolutegravir and oxcarbazepine has been reported to reduce levels of dolutegravir and therefore is contraindicated due to insufficient data to make dosing recommendations. We present eight cases in which patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) inadvertently received oxcarbazepine while concurrently receiving 50 mg of dolutegravir daily as part of their antiretroviral therapy. Upon further evaluation, lab results revealed that despite the risk of decreased levels of dolutegravir due to possible oxcarbazepine enzyme induction, patients maintained at or near virologic suppression (viral load 1200 mg). All patients self-reported complete adherence to oxcarbazepine and dolutegravir. Furthermore, careful review of additional patient medications suggested no other identifiable drug interactions that could have affected their antiretroviral therapy. This case series suggests that despite the well-documented drug interaction, concomitant administration of oxcarbazepine and dolutegravir in the clinical setting did not adversely affect viral suppression in patients with HIV.
Reciprocal regulation of fatty acid release in the brain by GABA and glutamate.

Free fatty acids (FFA) and their metabolites have many effects on neurochemical processes, including altering receptor-effector coupling, modulating the activity of protein kinase C, and changing ion channel conductance in the cell membrane. However, the neurotransmitters and other factors that control the release of FFA in neurons in normal or pathological states are not well defined. The following studies investigate the regulation of FFA release in intact brain, synaptosomes, and isolated neurons in culture in response to drugs that interact at γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate receptors. The results suggest that neuronal excitation via stimulation of glutamate receptors or blockade of GABA receptors causes the activation of FFA release, and that phosphatidylcholine (PC) is a major source of FFA. Conversely, inhibition of neuronal activity reduces FFA release. FFA release occurs via activation of phospholipase A2 and possibly via activation of a PC-specific phospholipase C, followed by diacylglycerol (DG) lipase. The common pathway for these effects may be alterations in intracellular calcium.
Treatment outcome of obsessive compulsive disorder with comorbid social phobia.

Background Treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) with serotonin reuptake blockers has been demonstrated effective in 50% to 60% of patients in open and placebo-controlled studies. However, some reports indicate that comorbid Axis II psychopathology, including avoidant personality disorder, and deficiency of social skills could be predictors of a poor response to treatment in OCD patients. Method A retrospective review elicited 12 patients who met DSM-III-R diagnostic criteria for both OCD and social phobia and were treated in our clinic last year with adequate trials of serotonin reuptake blockers or MAOIs. Results Only 3 (27%) of the 11 patients treated with serotonin reuptake blockers had a substantial improvement of OCD symptoms. Among them, only 1 (11%) of 9 patients with generalized subtype of social phobia versus 2 (100%) of 2 patients with the nongeneralized subtype responded to serotonin reuptake blockers. Four (80%) of 5 patients with comorbid generalized social phobia receiving phenelzine had marked improvement of OCD symptoms. In general, response of social phobia occurred parallel to that of OCD. Conclusion Comorbid generalized social phobia seems to be associated with a poor response to serotonin reuptake blockers in OCD patients. Deficient social skills, as well as distinct biological mechanisms, may be involved. MAOIs might be an effective alternative medication in refractory cases. Larger and controlled studies are needed to define the implications of the association of OCD and social phobia.
In Search of Unique Iberian Ship Design Concepts

Defining 15th- and 16th-century Iberian shipbuilding traditions related to European expansion overseas is a difficult task. Scarce documentary evidence and the systematic destruction of Spanish and Portuguese shipwrecks by those with a purely monetary agenda make the task even more complex. In spite of these obstacles, data suggests that a distinctive shipbuilding tradition existed on the Iberian Peninsula. Through careful mining of the documentary and archaeological evidence, the concepts behind Iberian ship design can be articulated as well as compared and contrasted to other European shipbuilding traditions.
Therapierefraktäre kutane nekrotisierende Vaskulitis : Erfolgreiche Sulfontherapie

The clinical picture in vasculitis varies from few self-limiting symptoms to life-threatening illnesses affecting multiple organs. We describe the course of a woman patient who had had a severe cutaneous necrotizing vasculitis for more than 10 years. Various immunsuppressants, including cyclophosphamide, had failed to improve the clinical course, although adequate doses were given for a sufficient period. Treatment with DADPS (diaminodiphenylsulfone, dapsone), however, finally led to complete remission of the severe and chronic vasculitic ulcerations. Indications for DADPS treatment of inflammatory cutaneous diseases are discussed, and an overview of cutaneous vasculitis is provided.
Perturbations in fixed point algorithms

If the Jacobian of a differentiable function is singular at a zero of the function, any piecewise linear approximation to it may not have a zero, even when the function has one. In this paper we present a technique for perturbing such functions so that the recent fixed point algorithms that trace zeros of piecewise linear homotopies will succeed in finding a zero of such functions. We also show how to unperturb in case the Jacobian is nonsingular at the solution, and thus not impede the super linear convergence attained by these algorithms.
Clinical Use of Digitalis: A State of the Art Review.

The history of digitalis is rich and interesting, with the first use usually attributed to William Withering and his study on the foxglove published in 1785. However, some knowledge of plants with digitalis-like effects used for congestive heart failure (CHF) was in evidence as early as Roman times. The active components of the foxglove (Digitalis purpurea and Digitalis lanata) are classified as cardiac glycosides or cardiotonic steroids and include the well-known digitalis leaf, digitoxin, and digoxin; ouabain is a rapid-acting glycoside usually obtained from Strophanthus gratus. These drugs are potent inhibitors of cellular membrane sodium–potassium adenosine triphosphatase (Na+/K+-ATPase). For most of the twentieth century, digitalis and its derivatives, especially digoxin, were the available standard of care for CHF. However, as the century closed, many doubts, especially regarding safety, were raised about their use as other treatments for CHF, such as decreasing the preload of the left ventricle, were developed. Careful attention is needed to maintain the serum digoxin level at ≤ 1.0 ng/ml because of the very narrow therapeutic window of the medication. Evidence for benefit exists for CHF with reduced ejection fraction (EF), also referred to as heart failure with reduced EF (HFrEF), especially when considering the combination of mortality, morbidity, and decreased hospitalizations. However, the major support for using digoxin is in atrial fibrillation (AF) with a rapid ventricular response when a rate control approach is planned. The strongest support of all for digoxin is for its use in rate control in AF in the presence of a marginal blood pressure, since all other rate control medications contribute to additional hypotension. In summary, these days, digoxin appears to be of most use in HFrEF and in AF with rapid ventricular response for rate control, especially when associated with hypotension. The valuable history of the foxglove continues; it has been modified but not relegated to the garden or the medical history book, as some would advocate.
Predictive Skill and Predictable Patterns of the U.S. Seasonal Precipitation in CFSv2 Reforecasts of 60 Years (1958–2017)

AbstractAnalyzing a set of ensemble seasonal reforecasts for 1958–2017 using CFSv2, we evaluate the predictive skill of the U.S. seasonal mean precipitation and examine its sources of predictabilit...
DOING JUSTICE TO FEMINISM

The relationship between feminism and cultural studies, with particular reference to feminism as a "cultural project".
Notch-tensile behavior of Al0.1CrFeCoNi high entropy alloy

Abstract Notch-tensile behavior of an Al0.1CrFeCoNi high entropy alloy (Al0.1-HEA) was studied using V-notch geometry and with local strain mapping using digital image correlation (DIC). A notch-strength ratio of 1.51 indicated notch strengthening. Further analysis of stress-strain response supplemented with microstructural analysis revealed that, while the presence of notch results in strengthening due to work hardening by twinning induced plasticity, the notch also contributes strongly to geometrical softening in the non-uniform ductility regime, and accounts for the onset of failure. The strain localization behavior of Al0.1-HEA due to the presence of V-notch was compared with three conventional alloys: Inconel 625 nickel-based superalloy, 304 stainless steel and Ti–6Al–4V titanium alloy. The study revealed that the nature of notch widening with increasing strain was dependent on material characteristics. The extent of notch widening impacted the local strain field and stress distribution, thereby influencing the propensity for crack initiation and growth. The experimental results were verified by finite element analysis.
Emerging Technologies in Neuromuscular Ultrasound.

Neuromuscular ultrasound is an accepted and valuable element in the evaluation of peripheral nerve and muscle disease. However, ultrasound has several limitations to consider, including operator dependency and lack of a viable contrast agent. Fortunately, new technological advances show promise in resolving these issues. Ultra-high resolution ultrasound enables imaging of the nerve at the fascicular level. Shear wave elastography imaging can provide measures of tissue stiffness that can act as a surrogate measure of nerve and muscle health. Photoacoustic imaging may overcome neuromuscular ultrasound's current lack of contrast agents to detect inflammation and other functional changes within nerve and muscle, while artificial intelligence stands to address operator dependency and improve diagnostic imaging. The basic principles of each of these technologies are discussed along with current research and potential future applications in neuromuscular imaging.
"On a Positive Path": School Superintendents' Perceptions of and Experiences With Local School Wellness Policy Implementation and Evaluation.

Renewed federal requirements for local school wellness policies highlighted the continued importance of supporting school districts as they implement and evaluate wellness initiatives. Superintende...
Molybdenum (VI)-catalyzed dehydrative construction of CO and CS bonds formation via etherification and thioetherification of alcohols and thiols

Abstract An inexpensive, easily available, environmentally benign, and efficient catalyst molybdenum(VI) dioxo (acetylacetonate)2 was used for the direct oxo- and thioetherification of alcohol. This method endures selective molybdenum catalyzed dehydrative synthesis of symmetrical ethers from benzylic secondary alcohols as well as unsymmetrical ethers from the reaction of benzylic secondary alcohols with primary alcohol. Furthermore, we have been also successful in the synthesis of Aryl thioether by using alcohol and thiols.
Uncovering themes in personalized learning: Using natural language processing to analyze school interviews

Using a natural language processing tool, this study examined participant discourse in personalized learning schools to better understand what personalized learning looks like in practice. Term fre...
In situ temperature profile measurements with high-energy X-rays as a probe of optical floating zone crystal growth environment

The ability of optical floating zone (OFZ) furnaces to rapidly produce large single crystals of complex emerging materials has had a transformative effect on many scientific fields that require samples of this type. However, the crystal growth process within the OFZ furnace is not well understood owing to the challenges involved in monitoring the high-temperature crystal growth process. Novel beamline-compatible optical furnaces that approximate the inhomogeneous growth environment within an OFZ furnace have been fabricated and tested in high-energy synchrotron beamlines. It is demonstrated that temperature profiles can be effectively extracted from powder diffraction data collected on polycrystalline ceramic rods heated at their tip. Furthermore, these measured temperature profiles can be accurately reproduced using a heat-transfer model that accounts for solid-state thermal conduction, partial sample lamp power absorption, convective air cooling and radiative cooling, allowing key thermal parameters such as thermal conductivity to be extracted from experimental data.
Transmission of Images on High-Temperature Nuclear-Grade Metallic Pipe with Ultrasonic Elastic Waves

Transmission of information using elastic ultrasonic waves on existing metallic pipes provides an alternative communication option for a nuclear facility. The advantages of this approach consist of...
Primary Care Providers' Perceptions About Participating in Low-Risk Prostate Cancer Treatment Decisions.

Primary care provider’s (PCP) role in cancer care is expanding and may include supporting patients in their treatment decisions. However, the degree to which PCPs engage in this role for low-risk prostate cancer is unknown. Characterize PCP perceptions regarding their role in low-risk prostate cancer treatment decision-making. Cross-sectional, national survey. For men with low-risk prostate cancer, PCP reports of (1) confidence in treatment decision-making (high vs. low); (2) intended participation in key aspects of active surveillance treatment decision-making (more vs. less). A total of 347 from 741 eligible PCPs responded (adjusted response rate 56%). Half of respondent PCPs (50.3%) reported high confidence about engaging in low-risk prostate cancer treatment decision-making. The odds of PCPs reporting high confidence were greater among those in solo practice (vs working with > 1 PCP) (OR 2.18; 95% CI 1.14–4.17) and with higher volume of prostate cancer patients (> 15 vs. 6–10 in past year) (OR 2.16; 95% CI 1.02–4.61). PCP report of their intended participation in key aspects of active surveillance treatment decision-making varied: discussing worry (62.4%), reviewing benefits (48.5%) and risks (41.8%), and reviewing all treatment options (34.2%). PCPs who reported high confidence had increased odds of more participation in all aspects of active surveillance decision-making: reviewing all treatment options (OR 3.11; 95% CI 1.82–5.32), discussing worry (OR 2.12; 95% CI 1.28–3.51), and reviewing benefits (OR 3.13; 95% CI 1.89–5.16) and risks (OR 3.20; 95% CI 1.91–5.36). The majority of PCPs were confident about engaging with patients in low-risk prostate cancer treatment decision-making, though their intended participation varied widely across four key aspects of active surveillance care. With active surveillance being considered for other low-risk cancers (such as breast and thyroid), understanding factors influencing PCP involvement will be instrumental to supporting team-based cancer care.
The Significance and Impact of Screening Preservation Fluid Cultures in Renal Transplant Recipients.

Introduction Infectious complications can be a major cause of morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant recipients. Preservation fluid is necessary to maintain organ viability but may serve as a vector or infection. The utility of screening preservation fluid routinely for microbial growth and the impact of culture-positive preservation fluid is controversial. Research Question: What is the clinical impact of a culture positive preservation fluid in a kidney transplant recipient? Design This retrospective study was performed to define the incidence of post-operative infection related to PF and examine the negative sequelae of culture-positive PF. One hundred and fifty-two deceased donor renal transplant recipients from January 2015 to December 2017 were included for analysis. Results Overall, 67% of patients (102/152) received an allograft from a culture-positive PF. Nearly 80% of microbial growth was consistent with skin flora, and coagulase-negative staphylococci was the most frequently isolated organism (56%). Sixty-seven percent of patients (68/102) with culture-positive PF received antimicrobial treatment for an average duration of 5 days. There was no difference in the incidence of infection between patients with culture positive PF compared to culture-negative PF. Furthermore, there were no cases of infection related to PF regardless of whether culture-positive PF was treated or untreated. The incidence of subsequent C. difficile infection and multidrug-resistant organisms was similar. Discussion This study suggests antimicrobial treatment for culture positive PF may not be necessary with pathogens that are common contaminants and of low virulence. Interventional studies are needed to validate this strategy.
Emission of electromagnetic waves as a stopping mechanism for nonlinear collisionless ionization waves in a high-β regime.

A high energy density plasma embedded in a neutral gas is able to launch an outward-propagating nonlinear electrostatic ionization wave that traps energetic electrons. The trapping maintains a strong sheath electric field, enabling rapid and long-lasting wave propagation aided by field ionization. Using 1D3V kinetic simulations, we examine the propagation of the ionization wave in the presence of a transverse MG-level magnetic field with the objective to identify qualitative changes in a regime where the initial thermal pressure of the plasma exceeds the pressure of the magnetic field ($\ensuremath{\beta}g1$). Our key finding is that the magnetic field stops the propagation by causing the energetic electrons sustaining the wave to lose their energy by emitting an electromagnetic wave. The emission is accompanied by the magnetic field expulsion from the plasma and an increased electron loss from the trapping wave structure. The described effect provides a mechanism mitigating rapid plasma expansion for those applications that involve an embedded plasma, such as high-flux neutron production from laser-irradiated deuterium gas jets.
Seasonality of Gamete Production of Cyclonaias Species in Central Texas

Reproductive traits, which can impact population health, are important life-history characteristics for freshwater mussels. Little research has been done on the reproductive ecology of mussels, and crucial information is missing for many threatened and endangered species, especially in Texas. The objective of this study was to examine gamete production, parasitic infection rates, and sex ratios of two freshwater mussel species (Cyclonaias petrina and Cyclonaias pustulosa) in the Llano and San Saba rivers in central Texas. Gamete densities and egg diameters of C. petrina in the Llano River varied seasonally, with peak gamete densities occurring in December and February 2017 and being significantly lower from June through September 2017, while the relative abundance of the largest size classes of eggs was highest in February 2018. Few to no differences were detected in gamete production and egg diameter sizes for C. petrina between rivers. Cyclonaias pustulosa had significantly higher sperm densities and smaller egg diameters compared to C. petrina but exhibited similar egg densities in the San Saba River. There were no significant differences in gamete densities between rivers and no significant correlations between shell length and gamete density. Infection rates of parasitic trematodes varied from <1% to 14%, with the highest infection rates occurring in C. petrina in the San Saba River. Sex ratio of C. petrina was slightly skewed toward females in the Llano River and toward males in the San Saba River, with C. pustulosa having a 1:1 sex ratio in the San Saba River. The high percentage of samples without gametes suggests that the reproductive outputs of Cyclonaias appear to be more limited in the San Saba River due to several potential stressors. Further research will need to investigate the relative importance of the various stressors that affect the reproductive ecology of mussels and their persistence.
Late-stage Calcific Aortic Valve Disease Within an Aortic Valve-on-a-chip Model

Objective: Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is a progressive disease ranging from aortic sclerosis to severe aortic stenosis. Current treatments include total valve replacement and drug interve...
Tobacco industry corporate social responsibility activities amid COVID-19 pandemic in India.

In India, nearly 29% of adults (over 42% of men and 14% of women) aged 15 or above use tobacco daily or occasionally.1 Out of 100 million smokers, nearly 40 million smoke cigarettes. ITC (British American Tobacco’s India affiliate) dominates the Indian-manufactured cigarette market with 77% market share,2 while Godfrey Phillips India (Phillip Morris International’s India affiliate) controls 13% of the market.3 In terms of volume, however, bidi (also beedi, a forest tree leaf hand-rolled indigenous cigarillo using sun-cured flaked tobacco) dominates the smoking landscape. In 2014, it is estimated that nearly 550 billion4 bidis were made by women and children in the poorest parts of India.5 In addition, nearly 200 million adults use smokeless tobacco (SLT).1 SLT is the most widely consumed tobacco product in the country that is homemade, largely unregulated, untaxed and sold locally. About 30% of the SLT market consists of commercially manufactured products, where Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group) enjoys a large market share.6 Historically, the Indian tobacco industry has spent large sums in aggressively marketing and advertising its products.7 With the coming into force of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act, 2003 (COTPA), however, all forms of direct and indirect tobacco advertising were prohibited in India.8 In particular, section 5, clause 3, subclause (b) of COTPA prescribed that: > No person, shall, under a contract or otherwise promote or agree to promote the use or consumption of…(b) any trade mark or brand name of cigarettes or any other tobacco product in exchange for a sponsorship, gift, prize or scholarship given or agreed to be given by another person.8 Article 13 of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC)9 considers corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities to be a form of tobacco advertising …
Full speed ahead or floating around? Dynamics of selected circular bioeconomies in Europe

Abstract Measuring the progress of the circular bioeconomy requires quantifying a range of indicators. Contrary to previous studies that analyzed only a few indicators, we devise a method that can accommodate any number of them. Our objective is to empirically investigate whether the circular bioeconomies in ten selected European Union Member States were progressing or regressing over 2006–2016 as measured by 41 indicators. We model the development of the intra-distribution of the indicators using Markov transition matrices. We find that the ten circular bioeconomies mostly progressed. Moreover, research and development quickly progressed in the private sector but regressed in the public sector, suggesting substitution between them. Our cross-country comparison reveals that Germany is the front-runner in the circular bioeconomy, but circular bioeconomies in Slovakia, Poland, and Latvia also developed quickly.
The Role of Eccentric Training and Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) to Improve Quadriceps Muscle Strength, and Function in Post ACL Repair: A Case Report

Background: A 19-year-old man presented with right knee pain while bearing weight on the right leg and difficulty bending the right knee. He was diagnosed with a complete -tear of the anterior cruciate ligament. After ACL reconstruction this individual was referred to physical therapy treatment. Objective: To investigate if neuroscience pain education, and eccentric training, have any therapeutic significance in post-ACL reconstructive patients. Method: After assessment, the first day of the first week, introduced a treatment protocol consisting of basic range of motion (ROM) and isometric exercises for three sets of 10–30 sec hold. From first to fourth week eccentric exercises along with pain neuroscience education (PNE) sessions were given on alternate days, with three sessions for PNE and eccentric exercises until fourth week. Result: As shown in this study, treatment with a combination of PNE and eccentric training results in improved quadriceps muscle strength, range of motion, and overall function. Conclusion: This report suggested that PNE in conjunction with eccentric exercise has clinical merit. Clinical implication of study is examining the effectiveness of this approach should be conducted in the form of well-designed, clinical studies.
Contaminated Forests: Recent Developments in Risk Identification and Future Perspectives

Preface. Acknowledgements. Part 1: Contaminated Forests: Processes, Measurements and Methods. Part 2: Radionuclide Fate and Transport Modeling. Part 3: Remedial Policies and Risk Assessment. Conclusion. List of Participants. Author Index. Subject Index.
Interchangeability supports abstraction and reformulation for multi-dimensional constraint satisfaction

Interchangeability provides a principled approach to abstraction and reformulation of constraint satisfaction problems. Values are interchangeable if exchanging one for the other in any solution produces another solution. Abstracting a problem by simplifying the constraints can increase interchangeability. Multi-dimensional constraint satisfaction problems can provide natural opportunities for this abstraction process. Multi-dimensional problems may involve vectors of values, or conjunctive constraints. Utilizing the interchangeability can permit more efficient solutions of the abstracted problem. These solutions can be expanded into smaller reformulations of the original problem. Solving abstracted and then reformulated problems can be considerably more efficient than solving the original problems. We provide data that demonstrates the potential of this abstraction/reformulation process for multi-dimensional problems, and illuminates how its utility can depend on natural problem parameters.
A Cyber Mission Impact assessment tool

The promise of practicing mission assurance is to be able to leverage an understanding of how mission objectives and outcomes are dependent on supporting cyber resources. This makes it possible to analyze, monitor, and manage your cyber resources in a mission context. In previous work, we demonstrated how process modeling tools can simulate mission systems to allow us to dynamically compute the mission impacts of cyber events. We demonstrated the value of using this approach, but unfortunately practical deployment of our work was hampered by limitations of existing commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) tools for process modeling. To address this deficiency, we have developed our own Cyber Mission Impact Business Process Modeling tool. Although it implements only a functional subset of the business process modeling notation (BPMN), it has, unlike the more generic COTS tools, been specifically designed for the representation of cyber processes, resources, and cyber incident effects. The method and tool are described in this paper.
Uses of Forestland and Motives for Conservation Among Landowners in North-Central Florida

Conservation efforts have been traditionally aimed at publicly owned land in places like state and national parks, state and national forests, and wildlife preserves. However, the majority of ecologically vital land in America is not in public hands; it is owned and managed by private landowners. In Alachua County and Levy County Florida, as much as 76% of forested land is privately owned. To ensure that these private forests remain for future generations, conservation programs, easements and tax incentives have all been implemented to encourage conservation. In order for these initiatives to be more successful in protecting vital areas, it is necessary to understand private landowners’ motivations for keeping their property forested. This survey looked at those private owners of forested land and why they choose to keep their land forested, rather than do something more profitable with the land like agriculture, hardwood logging, or raising cattle. It looked at what owners use their forested land for as well as their motivations for conserving it, both financial and personal. The data from the surveys was analyzed, especially from the perspective of correlating land use and feelings of conservation.
Clinical Case Discussion: Intermediate-risk Prostate Cancer: The Case for Active Surveillance

Active surveillance offers men the opportunity to defer immediate local treatment of low risk prostate cancer while preserving a highly functional quality of life. Novel biomarkers and imaging technology will enable physicians to better identify ideal candidates for this approach beyond traditional clinical characteristics.
Lumbar Motion Response to a Constant Load Velocity Lift

An experiment was performed to evaluate the motions of the lumbar spine during a constant load velocity lift. For the purposes of this study, a constant load velocity refers to the linear vertical velocity of the load. This vertical load velocity was controlled using a modified angular isokinetic dynamometer, which produced linear isokinetic motion during a lift. A lumbar monitor was used to observe the position, velocity, and acceleration changes that occurred in the lumbar spine during the lifting task. The results indicate that under constant load velocity conditions, significant angular accelerations occur at the lumbar level. The nature of these accelerations was found to depend on several variables associated with a lifting task, such as the load velocity and the asymmetry of the lift. The physical significance of these results would be increased spinal loading above that which would be predicted using a static model.
Depression in late life. Special considerations in treatment.

PreviewIn the article beginning on page 143, Dr Zisook discussed the diagnostic aspects of late-life depression, many of them peculiar to old age. Treatment, too, demands special attention in elderly patients because of such factors as age-related differences in drug metabolism and tolerance, drug interactions, and psychosocial needs. In this article, Dr Zisook looks at treatment options and various popular antidepressant medications.
Variations in egg white and egg yolk components of virus and rickettsial vaccines.

Abstract 1.1. Rabbit antisera to chicken egg white and to egg yolk demonstrated common antibody constituents by double diffusion precipitin studies in agar gel with the Ouchterlony technique. Because of impurities in the egg white fractions, the antigen common to egg white and egg yolk could not be definitely identified as ovalbumin and/or conalbumin. 2.2. These antisera were employed in similar precipitin test procedures to detect qualitative egg white and egg yolk components of some virus and rickettsial vaccines of chick and duck embryo origin. 3.3. A wide variation in the number and types of component egg white and egg yolk fractions was found to exist among the vaccines. 4.4. It is suggested that one determinant of allergic reactivity for a vaccine requiring chick embryo culture in its preparation might be the variable presence of that particular protein fraction of egg white and/or yolk for which the recipient may possess clinical sensitivity.
Elevated urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalcin after acute heart failure treatment is associated with worsening renal function and adverse events

Aims Reliable detectors of worsening renal function (WRF) in Emergency Department (ED) patients with acute heart failure (AHF) are limited. We hypothesized that initial urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalcin (NGAL) levels, and changes in urinary NGAL levels after initial ED AHF therapy, would be associated with WRF and adverse events. Methods and results Urinary NGAL upon ED presentation and 12–24 h after ED treatment was measured in a cohort of ED patients with AHF. NGAL was corrected for urinary creatinine (uCr). WRF was defined as RIFLE stages 1, 2, or 3, or a creatinine increase of ≥0.3 mg/dL. Patients were prospectively followed for 5- and 30-day adverse cardiovascular events. The 399 patients had a median age of 63 years, 50% were Caucasian, and 62% were male. Those with WRF at 72–96 h were more likely to have a higher initial NGAL value (71 vs. 32 ng NGAL/mg uCr) (P = 0.005), and a higher NGAL level at 12–24 h after ED therapy (107 vs. 25ng NGAL/mg uCr, P < 0.001). In a multivariable model, NGAL at 12–24 h remained a significant predictor of WRF (P = 0.012). Of all variables available 12–24 h after initial therapy, the only significant predictor of 30-day events was an elevated urinary NGAL level (P = 0.02). Conclusions Urinary NGAL levels determined 12–24 h after ED therapy are significantly associated with both WRF at 72–96 h and 30-day adverse events. This suggests that early management strategies may have an impact on subsequent WRF and outcomes. If confirmed, NGAL may have a role for guiding therapeutic decisions.
A joinings classification and a special case of Raghunathan’s conjecture in positive characteristic (with an appendix by Kevin Wortman)

We prove the classification of joinings for maximal horospherical subgroups acting on homogeneous spaces without any restriction on the characteristic. Using the linearization technique, we deduce a special case of Raghunathan’s orbit closure conjecture. In the appendix, quasi-isometries of higher rank lattices in semisimple algebraic groups over fields of positive characteristic are characterized.
Influence of illumination-collection geometry on fluorescence spectroscopy in multilayer tissue.

Device-tissue interface geometry influences both the intensity of detected fluorescence and the extent of tissue sampled. Previous modelling studies have often investigated fluorescent light propagation using generalised tissue and illumination-collection geometries. However, the implementation of approaches that incorporate a greater degree of realism may provide more accurate estimates of light propagation. In this study, Monte Carlo modelling was performed to predict how illumination-collection parameters affect signal detection in multilayer tissue. Using the geometry and optical properties of normal and atherosclerotic aortas, results for realistic probe designs and a semi-infinite source-detection scheme were generated and compared. As illumination-collection parameters, including single-fibre probe diameter and fibre separation distance in multifibre probes, were varied, the signal origin deviated significantly from that predicted using the semi-infinite geometry. The semi-infinite case under-predicted the fraction of fluorescence originating from the superficial layer by up to 23% for a 0.2 mm diameter single-fibre probe and over-predicted by 10% for a multifibre probe. These results demonstrate the importance of specifying realistic illumination-collection parameters in theoretical studies and indicate that targeting of specific tissue regions may be achievable through customisation of the illumination-collection interface. The device- and tissue-specific approach presented has the potential to facilitate the optimisation of minimally invasive optical systems for a wide variety of applications.
Quantatative determination of pozzolanas in hydrated systems of cement or Ca(OH)2 with fly ash or silica fume

Abstract A selective dissolution method using a slightly modified picric acid-methanol-water solution procedure was found to be adequate for the quantitative determination of unhydrated fly ash and silica fume in hydrated systems of cement-fly ash and cement-silica fume, respectively. The extent of hydration of fly ash and silica fume in various paste mixtures has been calculated. The hydration products and the residue composition were examined by both X-ray diffraction and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis and their morphologies were observed under an SEM.
Non-contact structural damage detection using magnetic admittance approach with circuitry tuning

One limitation of piezoelectric impedance/admittance approach is that the sensor is permanently fixed after it is bonded/embedded into the mechanical structure to be monitored. Recently, the magnetic transducer, which is essentially an electrical coil inserted with a permanent magnet, is explored for impedance/admittance-based damage detection. Since there is no direct contact between the magnetic sensor and the host structure, the magnetic impedance/admittance approach is capable of online health monitoring of structures with complicated geometries and boundaries. Also, the magnetic impedance/admittance sensor is moveable above the structure surface, which may reduce the number of sensors needed to cover a large structural area. In an earlier study a new magnetic impedance sensing scheme with circuitry integration is proposed, which can greatly enhance the signal-to-noise ratio and amplify the damage induced admittance change. In this research, we systematically study the sensor location on the performance of the magnetic impedance/admittance-based damage detection scheme with circuitry integration. By examining the resonant peaks in the circuitry impedance curves, the damage-induced change of circuitry admittance and the two-way magneto-mechanical coupling, the different amplification effects of the magnetic sensor on the dynamical responses around mechanical modes is investigated. The criteria of tuning the capacitance of the tunable capacitor to achieve significantly amplified admittance changes in a wide frequency range are also developed. Correlated numerical and experimental studies are carried out to validate our proposed tuning criteria.