cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Specterless Spirits/Spiritless Specters: Magical Realism's Two Faces

The paper proposes that the narrative functions of magical transformations and the characters’ articulated beliefs in the ways of spirits and ghosts in Alejo Carpentier's The Kingdom of this World and Ben Okri's The Famished Road represent polar extremes in magical realist writing. In the former text, spirits serve as the main measure of responsibility and responsiveness, enabling social actors to plot the ordinarily unimaginable. Spectral bodies transform marvelously in furtherance of the work of freedom and enchanting events proliferate so that the spirit of independence set loose with physical struggles can flourish unhindered. The latter text blurs the borders of spirituality and literality; humans aspire to ghostliness and ghosts compete with humans. Nevertheless, human physical struggles for freedom long for a direction which the story's plentiful, flourishing spirits and ghosts seem unable to provide. The paper concludes that the different functions of spirits and ghosts in these novels reflect fun...
The Japanese Beetle Status in 1923

In the season of 1923 the Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica Newm., increased the area of its distribution from 770 square miles to approximately 2.500square miles. Owing to the increase in area and cost of inspection of farm produce at point of origin, a zone was established to include a large portion of the territory in which locally grown produce was consumed. All produce shipped to points outside the zone was inspected at the point of origin and was then shipped direct to its destination. During the past season growers in the heavily infested territory, who applied sprays according to directions given by the Japanese beetle laboratory, obtained excellent protection of the foliage and fruit on apples, grapes and cherries, also of the foliage of shade trees and ornamental shrubs. Measures of control have been developed whereby the larvae may be destroyed in golf courses and lawns as well as where they occur in the soil about the roots of various plants. In addition various parasitic enemies of the Japanese beetle are being imported in large numbers in order to supplement the various natural agencies which tend to reduce the numbers of the beetle and to serve as a check on the continued increase in concentration of the beetles in the areas which have been longest infested.
Metabolism of Iron and Copper in Anemic Rats

Rats were made anemic by restriction to a diet of cow's milk. This milk was obtained directly in glass bottles from Guernsey cows and contained an average of 0.14 mg. of copper per liter. One group of 5 anemic rats was sacrificed. The stomachs and intestines were removed, and the carcasses were analyzed for iron and copper. Another group of 5 rats received daily supplements of 0.5 mg. of iron as pure ferric chloride. A third group of 6 rats received daily intraperitoneal injections of 0.5 mg. of iron, and a fourth group received 0.5 mg. of iron and 0.025 mg. of copper as copper sulfate each day per os.Hemoglobin determinations were made at intervals on blood samples secured from the tails. In 17 days the animals receiving iron by mouth had increased their hemoglobin from an average concentration of 4.15 gm. to 7.23 gm. per 100 cc. of blood. The rats receiving iron intraperitoneally increased their hemoglobin from 4.03 gm. to 12.92 gm. in the same time, and the rats receiving iron and copper orally increas...
Selective sorption and fixation of cations by clay minerals : A review

Investigations concerning selective sorption and fixation of K and similar cations by clay minerals and soil clays and the mechanisms of these reactions are reviewed. In particular, recent observations on selective sorption of these ions in dilute solutions by weathered micas and vermiculite in relation to the interlayer structures are discussed in detail. Also, implications of the resistance to weathering of small mica particles to cation selectivity by soils are described. Despite the increased understanding of sorption and fixation reactions, the following aspects remain unclear. First, the mechanism of the collapse of alternate layers in vermiculite on K or Cs sorption has not been unequivocally established. Second, factors that impart stability to the central core of mica particles so that K extraction becomes progressively difficult are not known. Third, inability of Ca or Mg ions to expand interlayers of Cs-saturated vermiculite in contrast to K-saturated vermiculite is not completely understood.
Spontaneous expulsive choroidal hemorrhage: CT findings.

Spontaneous expulsive choroidal hemorrhage is a rare ophthalmologic emergency. If the hemorrhage is caused by a malignancy, patient management will be different than if no malignancy is present. In terms of radiologic evaluation, CT has been shown to be an accurate, precise, and noninvasive means of evaluating the eye
Trauma-Associated Coagulopathy

The risk of death following severe injury is four times higher in those with trauma-associated coagulopathy (Brohi et al. 2003; MacLeod et al. 2003; Hess et al. 2009). Trauma-associated coagulopathy is caused by blood loss and dilution, hypothermia and acidosis, and factor consumption and fibrinolysis (Armand and Hess 2003; Hess et al. 2008) and is proportional to injury severity (Brohi et al. 2003) and shock (Brohi et al. 2007). Early recognition and prompt treatment are critical because the median time to death of such patients is 2 h after admission to a level 1 trauma center (Dutton et al. 2010) and the requirement for early correction of coagulopathy requires immediate availability and administration of blood components (Holcomb et al. 2015a, b).
Ossotide promotes cell differentiation of human osteoblasts from osteogenesis imperfecta patients by up-regulating miR-145.

Abstract Ossotide as an effective bone formation compound preparation has been proved to promote osteoblasts differentiation. MiR-145 is significantly decreased in osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) patients, but it is still unknown whether ossotide performed its effect by regulating miR-145. In this study, we investigated the effect of ossotide on regulating miR-145 expression and osteoblasts differentiation. The primary osteoblasts cells were isolated from OI patients and then cultured with different concentrations (0, 25, 50, 100, 200 μg/l) of ossotide. The cell proliferation was detected with CCK-8 Elisa kit after ossotide treatment. The level of miR-145 expression was determined using qRT-PCR. In order to study whether ossotide up regulated miR-145, miR-145 mimic and miR-145 inhibitor were used to up regulate and down regulate the miR-145 levels in osteoblasts. The expressions of Runx2, Osx, β-catenin, TCF-1 were detected using Western blot and qRT-PCR. We observed that miR-145 was up regulated by ossotide treatment in miR-145 mimic or miR-145 inhibitor treated osteoblasts. What’s more, up regulated miR-145 increased the expression of osteoblasts differentiation regulated protein Runx2 and Osx. In addition, Wnt signaling related β-catenin, TCF-1 were activated by up-regulated miR-145 which was induced by ossotide treatment. In summary, ossotide induced cell differentiation and Wnt signaling activation in osteoblasts by up regulating miR-145.
Impact crater relaxation on Dione and Tethys and relation to past heat flow

Abstract Relating relaxation of impact crater topography to past heat flow through the crusts of icy satellites is a technique that has been applied to satellites around Jupiter and Saturn. We use global digital elevation models of the surfaces of Dione and Tethys generated from Cassini data to obtain crater depth/diameter ( d/D ) data. Relaxation is found to affect craters down to smaller diameters on these satellites compared to Rhea. We perform relaxation simulations in order to assess the heat flow necessary to relax craters on Dione and Tethys to their present morphologies. Heat flows exceeding 60 mW m −2 are required to relax several craters on both satellites, and relaxation appears to be subject to geographical controls. On Dione, we define a ‘relaxation dichotomy’ that separates the more relaxed craters in sparsely cratered plains from the less relaxed craters in heavily cratered terrain. The configuration of this dichotomy resembles that of the structural-geological dichotomy on Enceladus, implying that a similar resonance-induced tidal heating mechanism concentrated in the southern hemisphere may have affected both satellites. Defining geographical distribution of relaxation on Tethys is hindered by the presence of the young Odysseus impact and its associated ejecta.
Taking Possession: Rituals, Space and Authority

In early modern Europe authority over communities, both people and spaces, was visualized through ritual gestures and processions. Communities gathered to witness ceremonial entries that drew on accepted forms of gestures and speech identifying individuals and articulating their place in the urban power relationship. Ceremonial entries by rulers, ambassadors, bishops, and other office-holders drew on ritual acts projecting messages of possession in order to establish reputations of prestige and authority. This introductory essay draws on cultural anthropology and recent historiography to build a framework for understanding rituals of possession that went beyond the tradition triumphal entry to incorporate substitutes, new modes of prestigious display, and attend to conflicts. By “taking possession” of communities, offices, and spaces using accepted ritual forms, early moderns initiated conversations about authority and power that were far more flexible in their scope, practice, and participants than expected.
WS2\/Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cells: A CVD Process for the Fabrication of WS2 Films on p-Si Substrates for Photovoltaic and Spectral Responses

With the layer-dependent tunability of their optical band gap in the near-infrared (IR ) to visible spectrum, transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), including molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and tungsten disulfide (WS2), exhibit strong light-matter interactions, making them suitable as absorber layers for optoelectronic devices. Currently, the WS2-based solar cells are fabricated via micromechanical/chemical exfoliation or transfer of two-dimensional (2-D) WS2 layers onto conventional three-dimensional (3-D) bulk semiconductors, which poses a challenge for large-scale integrations and consequent device performances.
Using the cavitation collapse time to indicate the extent of histotripsy-induced tissue fractionation.

Histotripsy is an ultrasonic tissue ablation method based on acoustic cavitation. It has been shown that cavitation dynamics change depending on the mechanical properties of the host medium. During histotripsy treatment, the target-tissue is gradually fractionated and eventually liquefied to acellular homogenate. In this study, the change in the collapse time (t col) of the cavitation bubble cloud over the course of histotripsy treatment is investigated as an indicator for progression of the tissue fractionation process throughout treatment. A 500 kHz histotripsy transducer is used to generate single-location lesions within tissue-mimicking agar phantoms of varying stiffness levels as well as ex vivo bovine liver samples. Cavitation collapse signals are acquired with broadband hydrophones, and cavitation is imaged optically using a high-speed camera in transparent tissue-mimicking phantoms. The high-speed-camera-acquired measurements of t col validate the acoustic hydrophone measurements. Increases in t col are observed both with decreasing phantom stiffness and throughout histotripsy treatment with increasing number of pulses applied. The increasing trend of t col throughout the histotripsy treatment correlates well with the progression of lesion formation generated in tissue-mimicking phantoms (R 2 = 0.87). Finally, the increasing trend of t col over the histotripsy treatment is validated in ex vivo bovine liver.
Differential-algebraic equations of the multicriteria locally optimal trajectory of economic restructuring

This paper introduces a system of differential-algebraic equations with non-negativity constraints that determines a locally optimal trajectory of economic restructuring. It aims to provide the maximum economic growth constrained by the steepest possible decrease in energy consumption and the greenhouse gas emissions. The input–output models (conventional, energy-related, and greenhouse gas emissions related) and factorial models of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions are used as a basis. The goal is achieved by changing the structure of the gross output in the direction of the tangent line to the optimal trajectory. This trajectory may serve as a benchmark for the assessment of the actual structural change resulting from the interplay of market forces and government intervention or as a roadmap for economic development programs. The local optimization property makes the suggested trajectory attractive in situations when the best short-term performance prevails, while the long-term objectives should be taken into account as well.
Adaptive Management and Integrative Assessments

Adaptive management involves the integration of assessments and management actions in order to better plan and manage natural resource systems. It is based on a perception that managed ecosystems are complex, dynamic systems with a large degree of unpredictability. Adaptive management is a learning-based approach that confronts inherent uncertainties and complexities of resource systems by carefully structured actions that are designed to help managers learn and winnow key system uncertainties. It is comprised of integrative assessments to mobilize knowledge and develop hypotheses that are then evaluated through management actions.
Phosphorescence Instrumentation and Techniques

Three parameters of phosphorescence are most frequently measured. These are excitation and emission spectra, relative intensity or quantum yield of phosphorescence, and the lifetime of the triplet state. A fourth measurement—polarization of emission—would be very desirable but is less frequently performed due to technical problems.
Intercultural Collaboration: A Celebration of Commonalties and Differences

This reflective account of early collaborative experiences and the evolution of a collaborative relationship with a German mathematics educator documents a broadening of perspectives and presents a professional growth model of intercultural collaboration. Even though my students had benefited, previous collaboration with fellow teachers had failed to provide me with the anticipated sense of satisfaction and fulfilment. Only after my experience with Hans-Georg Weigand did I understand the missing element. Different patterns of collaborative interaction and an outward spiralling through phases of professional growth marked the evolution of our collaborative relationship. Through analysis of fulfilling co-teaching and co-authoring experiences I realised that the sense of fulfilment that accompanies professional growth is crucial to sustainable integrative collaborative relationships.
Medicaid Eligibility Expansions May Address Gaps In Access To Diabetes Medications

Diabetes is a top contributor to the avoidable burden of disease. Costly diabetes medications, including insulin and drugs from newer medication classes, can be inaccessible to people who lack insu...
A Case-Based Approach to the Identification and Treatment of Sleep Disorders in Neurology Practice

We present a case-based approach to common sleep disorders encountered in the clinic. Sleep disorders are common in neurologic disease and may result from the disease itself or serve as a marker for potential neurologic disease. These include, but are not limited to, rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, restless legs syndrome, obstructive sleep apnea, and insomnia. A review of these disorders and their clinical presentation is presented. Treatment options and ethical considerations based on current research and clinical guidelines are reviewed and discussed. Understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment of sleep disorders in neurologic disease continues to remain somewhat poorly understood. Though recent breakthroughs have helped to guide therapy for these disorders, research in these areas is needed. Consensus guidelines have been developed to help guide the physician and their management of common sleep disorders encountered in the clinic.
Autoregulation of avian renal plasma flow: contribution of the renal portal system

A simplified avian kidney model was used to assess renal plasma flow (RPF) at normal (100–110 mmHg) or unilaterally reduced (40–50 mmHg) renal arterial perfusion pressure (RAPP) in domestic fowl with ambient (AMBIENT group) or restricted (RESTRICTED group) renal portal flow. Direct measurement of para-aminohippuric acid (PAH) extraction efficiencies (EPAH) allowed avian RPF to be calculated from the clearance of PAH (CPAH). EPAH was unaffected by RAPP, thereby validating the use of PAH to estimate RPF during experimental hemodynamic manipulations. CPAH and RPF were unaffected by RAPP in the AMBIENT group (“perfect” autoregulation), but decreased significantly compared with contralateral kidney values during reduction of RAPP in the RESTRICTED group. Urine flow and glomerular filtration rates (GFR) were reduced unilaterally along with RAPP, regardless of the portal perfusion status. The renal portal system contributes to overall RPF autoregulation in domestic fowl, helping to maintain constancy of renal blood flow even after RAPP is reduced well below the GFR autoregulatory limit.
REBT with Religious People

About the use of CBT and REBT with religious clients, theorists have expressed optimism and caution.
Unfulfilled Promise of Educational Meritocracy? Academic Ability and China’s Urban-Rural Gap in Access to Higher Education

Abstract: With the rapid expansion of higher education, educational meritocracy has received both applause and skepticism among scholars, citizens, and policy-makers. Focusing on China’s urban-rura...
Aortic or Pulmonary Valved Homograft Right Ventricle to Pulmonary Artery Conduit in the Norwood Procedure.

Background:Several modifications of the Norwood procedure utilizing valved right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduits have recently been reported. Our group has been using aortic or pulmonary val...
Prevalence, trends, outcomes, and disparities in hospitalizations for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in the United States.

Background As the frequency of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) continues to rise in the United States (US) community, more patients are hospitalized with NAFLD. However, data on the prevalence and outcomes of hospitalizations with NAFLD are lacking. We investigated the prevalence, trends and outcomes of NAFLD hospitalizations in the US. Methods Hospitalizations with NAFLD were identified in the National Inpatient Sample (2007-2014) by their ICD-9-CM codes, and the prevalence and trends over an 8-year period were calculated among different demographic groups. After excluding other causes of liver disease among the NAFLD cohorts (n=210,660), the impact of sex, race and region on outcomes (mortality, discharge disposition, length of stay [LOS], and cost) were computed using generalized estimating equations (SAS 9.4). Results Admissions with NAFLD tripled from 2007-2014 at an average rate of 79/100,000 hospitalizations/year (P<0.0001), with a larger rate of increase among males vs. females (83/100,000 vs. 75/100,000), Hispanics vs. Whites vs. Blacks (107/100,000 vs. 80/100,000 vs. 48/100,000), and government-insured or uninsured patients vs. privately-insured (94/100,000 vs. 74/100,000). Males had higher mortality, LOS, and cost than females. Blacks had longer LOS and poorer discharge destination than Whites; while Hispanics and Asians incurred higher cost than Whites. Uninsured patients had higher mortality, longer LOS, and poorer discharge disposition than the privately-insured. Conclusions Hospitalizations with NAFLD are rapidly increasing in the US, with a disproportionately higher burden among certain demographic groups. Measures are required to arrest this ominous trend and to eliminate the disparities in outcome among patients hospitalized with NAFLD.
Enabling Technologies for Compact Integrated Electric Drives for Automotive Traction Applications

The electric traction drive is the main consumer of the stored energy in an electric vehicle. Therefore, the drive system must perform with high efficiency to maximize the vehicle range for given battery capacity. Since the introduction of hybrid electric vehicles, various innovative traction drive technologies have been implemented in commercially available electric vehicles to increase efficiency and power density. It is expected that the power density and performance of the traction drive unit must improve significantly for future electric vehicles to increase the user space in the vehicle, extend the range and increase market adoption. US Department of Energy (DOE)has recently announced technical targets for light duty electric vehicles. DOE targets to reach a power density target of 33 kW/L for a 100 kW traction drive system by 2025. It is an increment by a factor of 5.5 in comparison to the state-of-the-art. This paper investigates the current trends in commercially available electric drives for light-duty automotive applications, identifies the challenges, and discusses innovative technologies to overcome the power density barrier.
How to study the neural mechanisms of multiple tasks

Most biological and artificial neural systems are capable of completing multiple tasks. However, the neural mechanism by which multiple tasks are accomplished within the same system is largely unclear. We start by discussing how different tasks can be related, and methods to generate large sets of inter-related tasks to study how neural networks and animals perform multiple tasks. We then argue that there are mechanisms that emphasize either specialization or flexibility. We will review two such neural mechanisms underlying multiple tasks at the neuronal level (modularity and mixed selectivity), and discuss how different mechanisms can emerge depending on training methods in neural networks.
SLICR super-voxel algorithm for fast, robust quantification of myocardial blood flow by dynamic computed tomography myocardial perfusion imaging.

We created and evaluated a processing method for dynamic computed tomography myocardial perfusion imaging (CT-MPI) of myocardial blood flow (MBF), which combines a modified simple linear iterative clustering algorithm (SLIC) with robust perfusion quantification, hence the name SLICR. SLICR adaptively segments the myocardium into nonuniform super-voxels with similar perfusion time attenuation curves (TACs). Within each super-voxel, an α-trimmed-median TAC was computed to robustly represent the super-voxel and a robust physiological model (RPM) was implemented to semi-analytically estimate MBF. SLICR processing was compared with another voxel-wise MBF preprocessing approach, which included a spatiotemporal bilateral filter (STBF) for noise reduction prior to perfusion quantification. Image data from a digital CT-MPI phantom and a porcine ischemia model were evaluated. SLICR was ∼ 50 -fold faster than voxel-wise RPM and other model-based methods while retaining sufficient resolution to show clinically relevant features, such as a transmural perfusion gradient. SLICR showed markedly improved accuracy and precision, as compared with other methods. At a simulated MBF of 100 mL/min-100 g and a tube current-time product of 100 mAs (50% of nominal), the MBF estimates were 101 ± 12 , 94 ± 56 , and 54 ± 24 mL / min - 100 g for SLICR, the voxel-wise Johnson-Wilson model, and a singular value decomposition-model independent method with STBF, respectively. SLICR estimated MBF precisely and accurately ( 103 ± 23 mL / min - 100 g ) at 25% nominal dose, while other methods resulted in larger errors. With the porcine model, the SLICR results were consistent with the induced ischemia. SLICR simultaneously accelerated and improved the quality of quantitative perfusion processing without compromising clinically relevant distributions of perfusion characteristics.
Panic Attacks in HYPERALDOSTERONISM.

Objective: This paper sought to review the impact of depression in patients with comorbid medical problems, the importance of bridging the gap between inpatient and outpatient care for medical inpatients with depression (especially for organizations that treat patients in both settings), and the elements necessary to implement a pilot for an outpatient Collaborative Care Management program for patients with depression following medical admissions. Taken into account is the presence of new billing mechanisms and potential cost offsets. Methods: The literature referenced in this paper was identified through a search of online databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar. The data used to analyze cost were drawn from national, publicly available sources, such as the Kaiser Family Foundation, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development. Results: Collaborative care is an evidence-based intervention for depression that can aid with successful transition of care as patients move from the inpatient to the outpatient setting. It can be considered cost-effective when treating a panel of patients that falls below the recommended caseload for a single case manager (i.e., 19-46 billed encounters, depending on the payer mix), particularly when considering the savings from a reduced length of stay associated with well-controlled depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Organizations should consider implementing collaborative care management for patients with depression to improve depression outcomes, reduce costs, and prepare themselves for a health financing environment that rewards value.
How ritual might create religion: A neuropsychological exploration

Several models of the evolution of religion claim that ritual creates “religion” and gives it a positive evolutionary role. Robert Bellah suggests that the evolutionary roots of ritual lay in the p...
Lexical ambiguity and acoustic distance in discrimination

This work presents a perceptual study on how acoustic details and knowledge of the lexicon influence discrimination decisions. English-speaking listeners were less likely to identify phonologically matching items as the same when they differed in vowel duration, but differences in mean F0 did not have an effect. Although both are components of English contrasts, the results only provide evidence for attention to vowel duration as a potentially contrastive cue. Lexical ambiguity was a predictor of response time. Pairs with matching duration were identified more quickly than pairs with distinct duration, but only among lexically ambiguous items, indicating that lexical ambiguity mediates attention to acoustic detail. Lexical ambiguity also interacted with neighborhood density: Among lexically unambiguous words, the proportion of 'same' responses decreased with neighborhood density, but there was no effect among lexically ambiguous words. This interaction suggests that evaluating phonological similarity depends more on lexical information when the items are lexically unambiguous.
Underutilized Technology Solutions for Student Writing

This article provides key considerations and step-by-step procedures useful for any teacher to use when planning to enhance their writing instruction with technology. This includes understanding cu...
Current evidence for transcarotid artery stenting with flow reversal as the preferred carotid artery stenting approach.

Abstract Although the transfemoral approach to carotid artery stenting offers a minimally invasive method for treatment of carotid atherosclerotic disease, this technique for carotid revascularization has unfortunately not led to equivalent overall outcomes of stroke or death compared with endarterectomy in symptomatic or high-risk patients. Transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) with a flow reversal neuroprotection system was designed to reduce the embolic risk associated with the transfemoral approach, but randomized trials have yet to be published comparing transfemoral carotid artery stenting with TCAR. Regardless, many surgeons and interventionalists have already adopted TCAR as the preferred modality for carotid artery stenting, given the accumulating evidence supporting the reduced stroke or death benefits of TCAR over the transfemoral approach.
A Metabolic Bottleneck for Stem Cell Transformation.

Although oncogenic mutations predispose tissue stem cells to tumor initiation, the rate-limiting processes for stem cell immortalization remain unknown. In this issue of Cell, Bonnay et al. identify enhanced electron transport chain activity as a critical determinant of this process, establishing metabolic reprogramming as limiting for tumor initiation.
Syngas molecules as probes for defects in 2D hexagonal boron nitride: their adsorption and vibrations

Single-layer, defect-laden hexagonal boron nitride (dh-BN) is attracting a great deal of attention for its diverse applications: catalysis on the one hand, and single photon emission on the other. As possible probes for identifying some common defects in single-layer h-BN, we present results of ab initio calculations for the adsorption and vibrational characteristics of syngas molecules (H2, CO, CO2) on dh-BN containing one of four types of defects: nitrogen vacancy (VN), boron vacancy (VB), Stone–Wales defect (SW), and nitrogen substituted by boron (BN). Through a comparative examination of adsorption features, charge transfer, electronic structure, and vibrational spectrum, we obtain a deep understanding of the interaction of these molecules with dh-BN and the role of the defect states. We find that while CO, CO2 and atomic hydrogen chemisorb, molecular H2 physisorbs on dh-BN with the four considered defect types. VN and VB show strong affinity for CO and CO2 since the defect states induced by them lie close to the Fermi level. SW does not favor adsorption of these small molecules, as the process for each is endothermic. In the case of BN, CO adsorbs strongly but CO2 only weakly. Vibrational frequencies of notable modes localized at the adsorbed molecules are analyzed and suggested as measures for identification of the defect type. Through a simple comparison of adsorption characteristics of the molecules on these defects, we propose dh-BN with VN to be a good catalyst candidate for CO2 hydrogenation.
A Modest Defense of Geoengineering Research: a Case Study in the Cost of Learning

Recently, research into the possibilities of developing solar radiation management (SRM) and other geoengineering technologies has gained new momentum. Just last year, Cambridge University announced the opening of a “Centre for Climate Repair” as part of the university’s Carbon Neutral Futures Initiative. Recent modeling work gives hope that SRM could confer more benefits than previously thought. But opposition to even conducting research into SRM remains strong. I use the case study of SRM to develop a framework, based on a theorem by I.J. Good, for thinking about the benefits and costs of acquiring new evidence and for thinking about the conditions under which new evidence could be harmful. I argue that the expected benefits of supporting public research in SRM technologies outweigh the expected costs and harms.
Profiling the responsiveness of focal adhesions of human cardiomyocytes to extracellular dynamic nano-topography

Abstract Focal adhesion complexes function as the mediators of cell-extracellular matrix interactions to sense and transmit the extracellular signals. Previous studies have demonstrated that cardiomyocyte focal adhesions can be modulated by surface topographic features. However, the response of focal adhesions to dynamic surface topographic changes remains underexplored. To study this dynamic responsiveness of focal adhesions, we utilized a shape memory polymer-based substrate that can produce a flat-to-wrinkle surface transition triggered by an increase of temperature. Using this dynamic culture system, we analyzed three proteins (paxillin, vinculin and zyxin) from different layers of the focal adhesion complex in response to dynamic extracellular topographic change. Hence, we quantified the dynamic profile of cardiomyocyte focal adhesion in a time-dependent manner, which provides new understanding of dynamic cardiac mechanobiology.
The Supreme Court’s Constitutional 'Bright Line': Preempting Authority of 47 of 50 States

The Supreme Court unanimously stripped 47 of the 50 states of their authority to regulate key commerce. In Hughes v. Talen Energy Marketing, the Court withdrew from state authority the power over law applicable to, and now controlling, what is identified as the second most important invention in history. The transcendent constitutional question is whether this unanimous Supreme Court decision expands constitutional “field preemption” to permanently withhold from 47 states this power, or only employs “conflict preemption” to preempt this one single challenged state regulation. This article examines and esolves that the Court chose “field preemption” to permanently crimp and disable state authority in 47 of the 50 states over critical U.S. technology. This article examines in detail how the Court arrived at its unanimous decision, focusing on how key issues were briefed and presented by both sides and amici. This article analyzes two critical concurring Supreme Court opinions “bracketing” and further defining implied constitutional field preemption.
Nighttime Breastfeeding: An American Cultural Dilemma

List of Illustrations Preface and Acknowledgements Introduction Chapter 1. Embodied Cultural Dilemmas: An Anthropological Approach to the Study of Nighttime Breastfeeding and Sleep Chapter 2. Struggles Over Authoritative Knowledge and "Choice" in Breastfeeding and Infant Sleep in the U.S. Chapter 3. Making Breastfeeding Parents in Childbirth Education Courses Chapter 4. Dispatches from the Moral Minefield of Breastfeeding Chapter 5. Breastfeeding as Men's "Kin Work" Chapter 6. Breastfeeding Babies in the Nest: Producing Children, Kinship, and Moral Imagination in the House Chapter 7. Time to Sleep: Nighttime Breastfeeding and Capitalist Temporal Regimes Conclusion Appendixes Bibliography Index
The Development of a Novel Multi-dimensional Product for Wound Healing Applications

THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NOVEL MULTI-DIMENSIONAL PRODUCT FOR POTENTIAL WOUND HEALING APPLICATIONS By Necrisha N.C. Roach, B.B.A. A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science at Virginia Commonwealth University. Virginia Commonwealth University, 2010. Major Director: Dorne R. Yager Associate Professor and Director of Research, Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery A characteristic feature of chronic wounds is a prolonged inflammatory response as well as susceptibility to infection. Studies have shown that during the inflammatory response, there is a significant increase in the levels of neutrophil-derived enzymes. The purpose of this work was to determine whether the anionic macromolecule polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) and five of its salt forms, namely PSS-calcium, PSS-chlorhexidine, PSSdoxycycline, PSS-glutathione and PSS-silver are able to inhibit the activity of three of the enzymes whose levels are elevated in chronic wounds: elastase, cathepsin G and myeloperoxidase. In addition to the enzyme inhibition study, the various formulations’ antimicrobial properties were analyzed by evaluating their ability to inhibit the growth of three common clinical isolates: Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumanii. It is worthy to note that the structure of PSS makes it a very flexible platform to which other molecules can be added in order to address a variety of “targets” as well as tailor quantitative strength.
Gulf of Mexico hydrocarbon seep communities

Sediment and water samples were collected by submersible in September 1986 at 16 locations on the carbonate cap overlying a conical diapir, which was formed by the upward migration of oil and gas through a subsurface fault on the continental slope off Louisiana, USA (27°47′N; 91°30.4′W). The biological community at the site was photographed quantitatively with still and video cameras. Rigorous spatial sampling indices were maintained so that variation in chemical parameters and in the abundance of photographed organisms could be estimated within the bounds of the study site. Concentrations of extractable organic material (EOM) ranged from 0.24 to 119.26‰ in the sediment samples, while methane concentrations in the water samples were from 0.037 to 66.474 μM. The visible biological community was predominantly composed of the chemosynthetic tube worms (Vestimentifera) Lamellibrachia sp. and Escarpia sp., and an undescribed, methane-oxidizing mussel (Mytilidae: Bathymodiolus-like), as well as diverse non-chemosynthetic organisms. The ranked abundance of tube worms was significantly correlated (p<0.05) with the concentration of EOM in the sediment samples, while the abundance of mussels was significantly correlated (p<0.05) with the concentration of methane in the water samples. Tube worms and mussels both occurred in dense clusters; however, the clusters of mussels had a more restricted distribution within the study site than did clusters of tube worms. Both organisms were most abundant in the vicinity of the subsurface fault.
Asimovian multiagents: applying laws of robotics to teams of humans and agents

In the March 1942 issue of "Astounding Science Fiction", Isaac Asimov for the first time enumerated his three laws of robotics. Decades later, researchers in agents and multiagent systems have begun to examine these laws for providing a useful set of guarantees on deployed agent systems. Motivated by unexpected failures or behavior degradations in complex mixed agent-human teams, this paper for the first time focuses on applying Asimov's first two laws to provide behavioral guarantees in such teams. However, operationalizing these laws in the context of such mixed agent-human teams raises three novel issues. First, while the laws were originally written for interaction of an individual robot and an individual human, clearly, our systems must operate in a team context. Second, key notions in these laws (e.g. causing "harm" to humans) are specified in very abstract terms and must be specified in concrete terms in implemented systems. Third, since removed from science-fiction, agents or humans may not have perfect information about the world, they must act based on these laws despite uncertainty of information. Addressing this uncertainty is a key thrust of this paper, and we illustrate that agents must detect and overcome such states of uncertainty while ensuring adherence to Asimov's laws. We illustrate the results of two different domains that each have different approaches to operationalizing Asimov's laws.
Spontaneous Bleed in a Patient With Thrombocytopenia Due to Multi-System Langerhan’s Histiocytosis

Langerhan’s cell histiocytosis (LCH) is an uncommon disorder that can vary in presentation, ranging from single-system to multi-system organ involvement. Herein is a case of multi-system LCH in a 50-year-old female found to have splenomegaly and severe thrombocytopenia, which resulted in a spontaneous bleed. This rare case highlights the possible occurrences which can occur with such a condition and more importantly focuses on the proper management and treatment modalities which should be available in such conditions. J Med Cases. 2015;6(8):376-377 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jmc2182w
Synthesis of a current source using a formal design methodology

In this paper we present our work on variation-tolerant current source design. The three-transistor-plus-resistor circuit we present, offers more than 2/spl times/ reduction in standard deviation of the output current at reduced circuit complexity (in a 0.18/spl mu/m technology). Moreover, our circuit can be used to mirror a reference current at various locations on the die without incurring mismatches due to process variations while requiring minimum voltage headroom and layout area. The circuit topology itself is derived from a formal methodology presented here.
Lead exposure and cataract risk in men.

1. Fox CS, Sullivan L, D’Agostino RB Sr, Wilson PW. The significant effect of diabetes duration on coronary heart disease mortality: the Framingham Heart Study. Diabetes Care. 2004;27:704-708. 2. Fox CS, Evans JC, Larson MG, Kannel WB, Levy D. Temporal trends in coronary heart disease mortality and sudden cardiac death from 1950 to 1999: the Framingham Heart Study. Circulation. 2004;110:522-527.
An On-line Meteorological Self-briefing System for Glider Pilots

An on-line glider pilot meteorological self-briefing system is operational in Europe at the German Weather Service (DWD). During the 2009 soaring season, as an experiment, the system was expanded to include the East Coast USA and Colorado. The system was validated using data from glider contests and, with a few qualifications, found successful. Consequently, the system was made available to East Coast and Colorado pilots during the 2010 soaring season. Thirty-four pilots chose to use the system and the six evaluations received were enthusiastic. The system was unavailable for the 2011 season and remains unavailable as of this writing because a USA numerical model is needed to replace the DWD model. Therefore, examples are given of useful 2012 predictions made with the European system for isolated convective lift and wave lift.
Adobe Photoshop 5.5 for Photographers: A professional image editor's guide to the creative use of Photoshop for the Macintosh and PC

Master the power of Photoshop CS3 with an internationally renowned photographer by your side.Adobe's Photoshop CS3 comes with powerful new features with huge payoffs. But it can be overwhelming to learn, even for professional photographers, graphic designers, keen amateurs, and others who already have an initial grasp of Photoshop. Acclaimed photographer Martin Evening, who wrote the best-selling previous books, 'Adobe Photoshop for Photographers', makes it easy with this new, thoroughly updated edition. * Illustrated throughout with before-and-after pictures - more than 750 professional, color illustrations!* Practical techniques and real-life assignments* Step-by-step tutorials* Keyboard shortcut reference guideIncludes FREE DVD with:* QuickTime movie tutorials for MAC and PC * Searchable tips on tools, palettes layer styles, and shortcuts * Includes images selected for you to experiment with to get you up to speed with everything in the book, including the new Photoshop CS3 features, fast! * Updated Camera Guide to help you decide which will best suit your needs, plus bonus Digital Capture chapter in printable PDF formatUncover quickly exactly what Adobe's CS3 now offers photographers. New tutorials focus on the key features introduced in CS3. You lose no time in finding out how to put your ideas to work with:* Adobe's Camera Raw 4 plug-in that can now also process TIFFs and JPEGs* New Align controls for combining HDR images; Photomerge; new Clone Stamp; Curves dialog that now incorporates Levels functionality; and improved controls for Brightness/Contrast to match raw image processing controls* The latest on Black and White adjustment, which provides all the black and white conversion tools you need for optimum monochrome conversions* A pro's scoop on choosing from among dozens of Photoshop's image adjustment methods to get the results you want* Tips on Bridge 2.0 and Lightroom - when you should use each* Top tactics for successful composite images, insider guidance on editing shadows and highlight adjustments, and lessons on how to preview and re-edit filter effects as many times as you want - without complex workaroundsGet the preeminent advice from one photographer to another as Martin completely updates you on the core aspects of working with Photoshop, digital workflow, and improving accessibility. Real-life examples, diagrams, illustrations, and step-by-step explanations ensure that you're up to speed with the next generation of digital photography in no time!Foreword by Adobe Systems' key Director of Engineering, Digital Imaging, Marc Pawliger * Over 750 professional, color images make this book stand above the rest * New DVD! Searchable info explains tools, palettes & layer styles, also includes invaluable QuickTime movie tutorials * Master the power of Photoshop CS3 under the instruction of an internationally recognised Photoshop expert & Adobe alpha tester
Simple verifiable elections

Much work has been done in recent decades to apply sophisticated cryptographic techniques to achieve strong end-to-end verifiability in election protocols. The properties of these protocols are much stronger than in any system in general use; however, the complexity of these systems has retarded their adoption. This paper describes a relatively simple but still effective approach to cryptographic elections. Although not as computationally efficient as previously proposed cryptographic approaches, the work presented herein is intended to be more accessible and therefore more suitable for comparison with other voting systems.
What to expect when you're expecting a hepatopancreatobiliary surgeon: self-reported experiences of HPB surgeons from different training pathways.

Background Hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery fellowship training has multiple paths. Prospective trainees and employers must understand the differences between training pathways. This study examines self-reported fellowship experiences and current scope of practice across three pathways.
Possibility of silicon monolithic millimeterwave integrated circuits

Previous work on high-resistivity silicon suggests that microstrip line dielectric losses cease to be significant above 30 GHz. Silicon-germanium heterojunction bipolar transistors now provide a well-behaved three-terminal device capable of operating at microwave frequencies. The tradeoffs available to operate this device at millimeter-wave frequencies are discussed, and calculations indicate that the fabrication of silicon monolithic millimeter-wave integrated circuits is a genuine possibility. >
Annualized implementation data on comprehensive intrastate peace accords, 1989–2012:

This article introduces the Peace Accords Matrix Implementation Dataset (PAM_ID). We present time-series data on the implementation of 51 provisions in 34 comprehensive peace agreements negotiated in civil wars since 1989. We follow the implementation process for up to ten years following the signing of each agreement. The data provide new insights into the types of provisions that are more or less likely to be implemented, how implementation processes unfold over time, how implementation processes relate to one another, and how implementation affects various post-accord outcomes. We outline our coding methodology and case selection, and examine descriptive statistics. We illustrate one potential use of the data by combining eight different provisions into a composite indicator of security sector reform (SSR). A survival analysis finds that implementing security sector reforms contributes to long-term conflict reduction not only between the parties to the accord but also between the government and other n...
ECOSERV Ecotourists' Quality Expectations

Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate the service quality expectations of the ecotourists by developing an adapted version of the SERVQUAL scale named ECOSERV. Factor analysis revealed six service dimensions: eco-tangibles, assurance, reliability, responsiveness, empathy, and tangibles. Ecotourists showed a hierarchy of dimensions relating to ecotourist businesses, the most important being eco-tangibles and the least important tangibles. The findings revealed that ecotourists tend to expect businesses to be environmentally friendly and prefer services that are courteous, informative, and trustworthy. In addition, physical facilities that were environmentally appropriate and equipment that minimizes environmental degradation were found more important to the ecotourists.