cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Investment In An Unstable Tax Environment

While most of the capital budgeting situations are typically micro level problems, the introduction of this dual impact of the corporate tax rate on the project acceptance criterion provides an insight into potential tax regime decisions on long term investments in a given tax jurisdiction. If we understand this dual behavior well enough, it might be possible for a tax regime to manipulate its corporate tax rate without necessarily jeopardizing acceptability status of capital projects to providers of capital. The present paper is an attempt to model this dual impact of the corporate tax rate on the NPV of projects within the tax regime, and study the implications of the results for policy makers and for corporations facing such policy makers.
Anomaly-based intrusion detection of protocol-aware jamming

In this paper, we apply the existing framework of anomaly-based intrusion detection (ABID) to the problem of detecting protocol-aware jammers. These types of jammers target MAC or NET layer control messages in an attempt to increase jamming effectiveness and remain harder to detect. ABID systems detect activities that deviate significantly from the normal profile. Signature recognition is based on storing signatures of known intrusion scenarios, and detecting the presence of these signatures in real-time. By choosing a suitable set of features, a high probability of correct detection can be achieved. Our proposed detection strategy involves tracking the statistics of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and packet type (critical or non-critical). An alternative strategy that only requires information about packet loss is also provided. Through simulation, we show that these types of jammers can be detected in a large portion of scenarios.
Joint Route Discovery and Localization in Heterogeneous Wireless Sensor Networks

Route discovery and node localization are two strongly correlated concepts in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) and many different techniques have been proposed for both challenges. However, many of these solutions assume homogeneous network conditions, e.g., Identical sensor hardware, fixed transmission powers, or uniform node deployment. In heterogeneous networks, where these parameters are allowed to differ or change over time, many of these solutions fail to ensure accurate localization and route discovery that covers the entire network. This paper introduces a new approach that combines both route discovery and sensor node localization into one protocol that considers the heterogeneous nature of many WSNs. The proposed approach does not require any extra hardware and performs both a probabilistic ad-hoc route discovery process (based on sensor transmission ranges) and energy-efficient localization of sensor nodes. The performance of this approach is evaluated in terms of localization accuracy, energy efficiency, and network coverage.
Transverse Single Spin Asymmetries of Forward π0 and Jet-like Events in s = 500 GeV Polarized Proton Collisions at STAR

The large transverse single spin asymmetries (SSA) of high xF inclusive hadrons produced in polarized proton collisions are usually explained by means of collinear twist-3 multi-parton correlations. In this picture these asymmetries can originate from initial-state twist-3 parton distributions in the polarized proton and/or through the coupling between proton transversity and twist-3 fragmentation functions. The measurement of SSA for forward inclusive hadrons produced in pp collisions out to high transverse momentum helps to examine the validity and interplay of these initial- and final-state models. These models can be further explored by investigating the dependence of the SSA on event topologies. We present our latest status on the measurement of SSA for forward inclusive π0 detected within 2.8 < η < 4.0 in s = 500 GeV pp collisions as well as its dependence on event topologies. We will also present our analysis of Sivers and Collins asymmetries for forward jet-like events consisting of multi-photon final states. The measurements are based on the data taken in 2011 with integrated luminosity ∼ 22 pb−1.
Early Exercise and the Valuation of Employee Stock Options

The Financial Accounting Standards Board has recently endorsed a proposal that will require firms to calculate and recognize as a cost of compensation the value of employee stock options at the time those options are granted. Conventional models such as the Black and Scholes or binomial models, however, are not well suited to deal with the issue of early exercise because the employee options are nontransferrable and therefore may be exercised early when an unconstrained investor ordinarily would sell the option. FASB suggest that employee options be valued using a pricing model with the expected time to exercise replacing the stated maturity of the option, which in fact is its maximum possible life. In this paper we propose a model of option valuation that explicitly accounts for the employee's propensity to exercise option early. In our model, early exercise is based on portfolio diversification motives. Because employee options are not tradable, the only way for employees to diversify portfolios that are heavily dependent on the fortunes of the firm is to exercise their options. Our model shows that FASB's proposal to use conventional pricing model to value options is prone to considerable error. Our major results are: (1) Employee stock options are worth much less than would be suggested by conventional models, even using expected terms as low as one-half the stated option life. (2) Employee stock option values are very sensitive to variables that do not appear in conventional stock option valuation models, such as employee risk aversion or the amount of non-option wealth held by the employee. (3) In contrast to the predictions of conventional pricing models for traded options, the values of employee stock options are likely to fall when stock volatility rises. (4) Values of employee options can be less than the so-called minimum option value" that has appeared in the accounting literature.
Automatic Power Plant Startup and Shutdown Control Technology in 1 000 MW Ultra Supercritical Units

The automatic power plant startup and shutdown control(APS) technology for large capacity ultra supercritical units is one of the focus in the research field of I C in electric power plants.Aiming at the key issues and features of the APS technology,this paper proposes a scheme of complete architecture structure and hierarchical control method of APS for 1 000 MW ultra supercritical units,develops a whole-process-control interface software between APS and modulation control system(MCS),optimizes the whole-process-control strategies of feed water system,fuel system,air-flue gas system,bypass system and deaerator water level system,and realizes the whole process control of fuel,feed water and induced draft fan as well as the special automatic control of main steam temperature,boiler dry-wet state transition and hot cleaning.The proposed scheme was successfully implemented on the 2×1 000 MW ultra supercritical unit in Haimen Power Station,and this is the first case in China to realize the whole-process automatic control from boiler ignition to full load on the kind of units,and thus has great value of reference to the APS application to the same kind of units.
Static Behavior of Wire Rope

A method for determing the static response of a wire rope with a cross section consisting of wire strands has been developed. The method is an extension of previous work and requires the bending, torsional, and axial stiffnesses of each thin initially curved strand. Expressions are presented for these stiffnesses and a typical plot is shown of the axial strain of a wire rope as a function of the axial load for various end twisting moments.
Multi Servers, Repeat Service (M/M/k/θ)

This chapter explores a system with multi-servers, infinite capacity, exponential inter-arrival and service times, and where the service may need to be repeated. An example is a warehouse with several order pickers that receive customer orders. When an order is picked incorrectly it must be repeated. The probability on n units in the system is developed. Examples are presented.
Regulation of cytosolic pH of cultured mesangial cells by prostaglandin F2 alpha and thromboxane A2.

Prostaglandins (PG) and thromboxane A2 (TxA2) have marked vasoactive effects on the renal glomerular microcirculation. Exposure of cultured mesangial cells to PGF2 alpha and TxA2 mimetics results i...
Feminism and the Critique of Organizational Communication Studies

(1993). Feminism and the Critique of Organizational Communication Studies. Annals of the International Communication Association: Vol. 16, Communication Yearbook 16, pp. 155-156.
Correlation, Evaluation, and Presentation of Taxonomic Data

Both classification and identification depend upon a certain degree of character correlation and also upon discontinuity in the correlation patterns. Plant identification usually requires the use of only a few of a plant’s more obvious morphological characteristics, and only one or two characteristics are usually considered at any one time as the plant is worked through the key. In plant classification, on the other hand, it is necessary to consider and to evaluate all the pertinent information more or less simultaneously. Up to a point, an experienced taxonomist who has studied his material thoroughly can do this. Experience with a group of plants tends to develop a subconscious “feel” for the entities involved and for their interrelationships, and often this highly subjective evaluation is the basis for taxonomic opinion. So far all plants (and animals) have been classified by this method. This is not to say that the method is perfect or even that it is the best that can be devised. Indeed, as more aspects of biology are brought to bear on problems of relationship it is necessary to devise new ways of presenting larger numbers of variation patterns in such a way that they can be evaluated simultaneously and more objectively. Such methods not only help the taxonomist in his evaluations, but are of tremendous value in showing others how the taxonomist arrived at his conclusions.
The Bio in Aluminum and Silicon Geochemistry

The translocation and transformation of Al and Si are of paramount importance in the processes of primary-mineral weathering, saprolite formation and soil formation. Geochemical mass balance studies of these processes have often not considered the important role of the biota in cycling of these omnipresent soil elements. In the Calhoun Experimental Forest, SC, we found a mean annual biological uptake of Al and Si of 2.28 and 15.8 kg ha−1 yr−1, respectively, with a mean annual accumulation in aboveground biomass of 0.48 and 2.32 kg ha−1 yr −1, respectively. In the case of Al, net soil leaching from 6 m depth is zero, thus biomass accumulation of Al accounts for the only removal from the soil system. There is an additional internal system mobilization of Al of 6.6 kg ha−1 yr−1, in response to biotic inputs of dissolved organic carbon. In the case of Si, net soil leaching to groundwater is 17.26 kg ha−1 yr−1. The accumulation of Si in aboveground biomass, 2.32 kg ha−1 yr−1, and in forest floor organic matter, 11.95 kg ha−1 yr−1, augments the annual weathering release estimate of Si by an additional 82%. The inclusion of biological cycling of both essential and non-essential mineral elements is important for properly evaluating the biogeochemistry of the earth’s crust.
Evaluation of Force Tracking Controller with Soft Exosuit for Hip Extension Assistance

This abstract describes the design and experimental evaluation of a force tracking controller for hip extension assistance utilizing a soft exosuit connected to a tethered off-board actuation system. The new controller aims to improve the force profile tracking capability and demonstrate its advantages over our previously reported work. The controller was evaluated by one healthy participant walking on a treadmill at 1.35 m/s. Results showed that the system can deliver a predefined force profile robustly with a 200 N peak force. The measured peak force value using force controller was 198.7 ± 2.9 N, and the root-mean-squared (RMS) error was 3.4 N (1.7 % of desired peak force). These results indicate that the force control reduces peak force variability and improves force profile tracking capability.
Association of smoking with pulmonary recurrences among women with intermediate- to high-risk early-stage endometrial adenocarcinoma.

5089 Background: While a number of histologic risk factors have been identified in endometrial carcinoma, host factors are less well studied. Our aim was to examine the influence of smoking on the ...
Multi-vessel giant coronary artery aneurysm in an elderly female

Coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) is a rare anomaly. The right coronary artery is the most commonly affected, followed by the left circumflex (LCX), or the left anterior descending artery (LAD). Three-vessel disease or left main (LM) involvement is extremely rare. A giant coronary artery aneurysm (GCAA) has an extremely low incidence and refers to an aneurysm that is 20 mm or greater in size. Most CAAs occur as a consequence of atherosclerosis. Most patients with CAA are males, have three-vessel disease, and a history of myocardial infarction (MI). Thrombosis within the aneurysm can lead to distal embolization and MI. Depending on the severity of coronary stenosis, management of patients with LM CAAs is either surgical or medical.
Poland and EU enlargement: foreign policy in transformation

March 2017 witnessed a Poland–EU relations drama as Poland's governing party, Law and Justice, known for its Euroskepticism, as Poland was the only EU country that opposed the reappointment of a Po...
Companion Signal to Noise Calculation

This chapter provides a detailed signal to noise (SNR) calculation that considers the various instrumental sources of starlight PSF leakage through coronagraphic suppression rather than assuming an ideal instrument. Emphasis is placed on the various instrument tolerances and specifications that must be defined to ensure that instrument leakage is less than or comparable to the fundamental extended source leakage of a coronagraph.
Toxoplasma gondii: Laboratory Maintenance and Growth

Toxoplasma gondii is a highly successful apicomplexan protozoan capable of infecting any warm-blooded animal worldwide. In humans, Toxoplasma infections are life-long, with approximately one-third of the world's population chronically infected. Although normally controlled by the host immune system, T. gondii infection can lead to a variety of clinical outcomes in individuals with immature or suppressed immune systems. After penetrating the intestine, parasites rapidly disseminate throughout the body and stimulate production of the cytokines interleukin (IL)-12, IL-18, and interferon (IFN)-γ by immune cells. These cytokines play a key role in host resistance to T. gondii by promoting a strong Th1 response. Recent reports show that gut commensal bacteria can act as molecular adjuvants during T. gondii infection. Thus, T. gondii is an excellent model system to study host-pathogen interactions. This unit outlines the protocols for in vitro and in vivo maintenance and growth of T. gondii. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Trace Amines and Their Relevance to Neurological Disorders: A Commentary

Abstract Trace amines are structurally and metabolically related to classical monoamine neurotransmitters (dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin) in the mammalian brain. Under physiological conditions, trace amines are found at low concentrations and modulate several physiological processes including aminergic neurotransmission. However, they are present at abnormal levels in many brain diseases, implicating their importance in the pathology of several brain diseases. Trace amines exert their effect by activating a class of G-protein-coupled receptors, so-called trace amine-associated receptors (TAARs). TAAR1 is a protein that is expressed in several mammalian brain areas, and can be activated by endogenous trace amines as well as by dopaminergic, adrenergic, and serotonergic ligands. In vivo studies have shown an inhibitory influence of TAAR1 on dopamine neurotransmission, controlling cognition including movement, suggesting the therapeutic potential of TAAR1. This commentary focuses on the possible link among monoaminergic neurotransmitters, trace amines, and neurological disorders, having a common symptom of depression.
Perfluoroarene–Based Peptide Macrocycles to Enhance Penetration Across the Blood–Brain Barrier

Here we describe the utility of peptide macrocyclization through perfluoroaryl-cysteine SNAr chemistry to improve the ability of peptides to cross the blood-brain barrier. Multiple macrocyclic analogues of the peptide transportan-10 were investigated that displayed increased uptake in two different cell lines and improved proteolytic stability. One of these analogues (M13) exhibited substantially increased delivery across a cellular spheroid model of the blood-brain barrier. Through ex vivo imaging of mouse brains, we demonstrated that this perfluoroarene-based macrocycle of TP10 exhibits increased penetration of the brain parenchyma following intravenous administration in mice. Finally, we evaluated macrocyclic analogues of the BH3 domain of the BIM protein to assess if our approach would be applicable to a peptide of therapeutic interest. We identified a BIM BH3 analogue that showed increased penetration of the brain tissue in mice.
Synthesis and in vitro evaluation of F-18 labeled fluoroalkyl phenylalanine derivatives as potential PET imaging agents

297 Objectives A number of phenylalanine and tyrosine derivatives have proven to be useful tumor imaging agents. In particular, O-(2-[F-18]fluoroethyl)-L-tyrosine (FET) has shown success in imaging brain tumors but limited applicability in imaging peripheral tumors. Our goal is to develop new phenylalanine derivatives with better tumor-avid characteristics than FET. Two new ligands, p-(2-[F-18]fluoroethyl)-L-phenylalanine (FEP) and p-(3-[F-18]fluoropropyl)-L-phenylalanine (FPP) were synthesized and evaluated. Methods Precursors of FEP and FPP were synthesized via triflation, Stille cross-coupling, hydroboration-oxidation and subsequent tosylation reactions from protected L-tyrosine. The F-18 ligands were prepared via nucleophilic substitution with [F-18]KF-K2.2.2 complex or [F-18]TBAF, followed by deprotection with trifluoroacetic acid. The uptake of ligands into 9L rat glioma cells was determined and the results were compared to FET uptake. Results Precursors for labeling were prepared with 34 to 60% yield. Enantiomerically pure FEP and FPP could be obtained using [F-18]TBAF for radiofluorination. Optically pure ligands were synthesized in 100 min with 17-28% yield and an average specific activity of 15 GBq/µmol at the end of synthesis. In vitro studies showed FPP had comparable uptake with FET, while FEP uptake was significantly (40%) higher than FET in 9L cells. Conclusions Initial studies suggest that the new F-18 fluoroalkyl phenylalaine derivatives are potentially useful amino acid tracers for PET imaging and further development of these ligands is warranted
Enteric Viruses Hitch a Ride on the Evolutionary Highway

RNA viruses can recombine their genetic material during co-infection. However, the in vivo frequency of co-infections is unclear. In this issue of Cell Host & Microbe, Erickson et al. (2018) demonstrate that an enteric RNA virus concentrates itself through multi-virion binding to bacteria, thus increasing genetic recombination and virus adaptability.
Use of Experimental Models in the Study of Approaches to Treatment of Colorectal Cancer

Animal tumors have been widely used as models in studies of the etiology, behavior, and treatment of cancer of man. It is the last consideration that is of concern here, i.e., the development of optimal approaches to therapy through the use of experimental models. Many questions of the clinical oncologist cannot be answered from therapeutic trials in man because of the limitations imposed by ethics that preclude the use of certain controls and assay procedures. If, then, a totally empirical approach is to be avoided, the answers to those questions must come through the use of likely relevant animal tumors. Yet relevancy can often be determined only in retrospect. Nevertheless, experimentalists as well as clinicians have already recognized the need for better tumor models. It is hoped that their use will lead to improved therapeutic results as well as a better understanding of the nature of cancer growth and spread.
Post-transplant Relapse

Despite the advances in the field of stem cell transplantation, relapse remains a major source of mortality. CIBMTR data identify relapse as the cause of death in 78% of autologous transplant patients, 34% of related allogeneic transplant patients, and 23% of unrelated transplant patients. With the advent of reduced intensity transplants allowing more patients to proceed with transplant, there have been reports of higher than anticipated relapses. Management of relapse post-transplant requires assessment of multiple host/recipient factors and often is limited by the compromised status of the recipient.
Does Detection of Small-Volume Prostatic Adenocarcinoma by Ultrasound or Magnetic Resonance Imaging Provide Improvement in Disease Control?

The other chapters in this book deal with the problem of microscopic prostatic malignancy, focusing on the biologic course of stage A focal disease.The subject of this chapter allows me to defer discussion on this problem as neither ultrasound nor magnetic resonance imaging is able to detect microscopic foci of prostatic carcinoma, the limits of resolution of detection approximately 1 cm3 of malignancy. Therefore, to argue the topic effectively, I must examine the impact of definitive treatment in stage A and stage B (T1, T2) disease. The hypothesis proposed is that stage A and stage B disease are identical in biologic risk and that the staging classification is an artificial one. The argument is directed to the premise that, in today’s world with new imaging techniques which permit the identification of malignancy in prostates with no digitally palpable abnormality, the stages T1 and T2 should be discarded and replaced by volumetric assessments, perhaps modified by either histopathologic grade or nuclear ploidy. To accomplish this goal, let us first examine the clinical course of patients with stage A prostatic carcinoma treated by radical prostatectomy, then examine the relative clinical outcome of patients with stage A and stage B disease treated by radical prostatectomy, and lastly, compare the outcome of stage A and stage B patients as a function of both volume of disease and histopathologic grade.
Pathogenesis of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis

The study of the pathogenesis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis has advanced significantly over recent years because of scientific achievements on two fronts: sequencing of the genomes of three Aspergillus species and elucidation of the innate immune mechanisms involved in defence against Aspergillus infection. The principal events that lead to invasive aspergillosis take place in the alveolus, where inhaled conidia germinate into invading hyphae that penetrate the respiratory epithelium. Pulmonary innate immunity against Aspergillus infection consists of resident and recruited phagocytes, soluble immune factors, and antimicrobial proteins. Various Aspergillus traits, including the production of pigment, antioxidants, proteases, adhesins, siderophores, and mycotoxins, are implicated as potential virulence factors. The complex interplay amongst these factors, usually in the setting of depressed immunity, forms the basis for this medically important opportunistic mycosis.
Management of cirrhotic ascites.

The pathogenesis and diagnosis of cirrhotic ascites are reviewed, and the treatment options are described, focusing on pharmacologic management. The major theories on the pathogenesis of cirrhotic ascites are the underfill and overflow theories. The underfill theory states that ascites formation results in decreased plasma volume leading to renal sodium and water retention. The overflow theory states that the initial event in ascites formation is renal sodium retention. Evidence suggests that the formation of ascites is a continuum involving both overflow (early) and underfill (late) mechanisms. Although the most frequent cause of ascites is hepatic cirrhosis, analysis of the ascitic fluid is important to exclude other causes (e.g., neoplasm, peritonitis, pancreatitis). Patients who do not respond to treatment with sodium restriction and bed rest require diuretic therapy. Spironolactone is the agent of choice for treatment of the nonazotemic patient with cirrhotic ascites. Combination therapy with spironolactone and furosemide or spironolactone and metolazone may be used in those patients who do not respond to spironolactone. Patients with impaired renal function should not be treated with spironolactone because of the risk of hyperkalemia. Paracentesis with albumin replacement has been used successfully for treatment of patients with tense cirrhotic ascites. Initial management of cirrhotic ascites is conservative, with sodium restriction and bed rest. Spironolactone is a good first-choice drug for treatment of ascites. Daily weight, serum electrolytes, and renal function should be monitored to assess the effectiveness and potential adverse effects of diuretic therapy.
Characterization of glenoid bone remodeling in professional baseball pitchers

To characterize the appearance, location, severity, and prevalence of focal glenoid retroversion on shoulder MRI in professional baseball pitchers versus age-matched controls. In this retrospective review, two musculoskeletal radiologists evaluated shoulder MRI examinations from 40 professional baseball pitchers and 40 age-matched controls. Images were scored for the presence of a focal posterior glenoid convexity and the clock face positions involved. A consensus interpretation was also performed. A third reader identified the presence of additional shoulder abnormalities. After consensus, 60% (24/40) of pitchers were found to have focal glenoid retroversion versus 20% (8/40) of controls (p = 0.001). The most apparent location was posterior or posterior-superior, from 7.75 o’clock to 10.5 o’clock (median, 9.75 o’clock; interquartile range, 9.25–10 o’clock). The median clock angle of involvement was greater in pitchers than in controls (30° vs. 0°; p < 0.001). Interreader agreement regarding the presence or absence of focal glenoid retroversion was moderate (Cohen’s kappa, 0.49). Focal glenoid retroversion was more prevalent among subjects with additional shoulder abnormalities (p = 0.014). Glenoid remodeling occurs in the throwing shoulder of professional baseball pitchers and manifests as focally convex morphology of the posterior or posterior-superior glenoid. This type of remodeling does not appear to be associated with a lower prevalence of injuries related to posterior-superior impingement.
Characterization of Tensorial Second Order Optical Nonlinearity of Epitaxial Barium Titanate Thin Films

The tensorial second order optical nonlinearity of the epitaxial barium titanate (BaTiO3) thin films was characterized by second harmonic generation (SHG). The thin film was prepared by pulsed laser deposition (PLD). From the azimuthal-dependent SHG intensity, the ferroelectric a/c domain fraction ratio was resolved. The high second order optical nonlinearity enables (BaTiOs) thin film for applications in nonlinear integrated photonics.
A Recursive Approach to Partially Blind Calibration of a Pollution Sensor Network

Distributed, low-cost sensor networks have become a widely used tool to aid in the interpolation of atmospheric measurements between regulatory grade monitoring stations, referred to as Golden Standards (GS). However, the quality of the data from these sensor networks can be questioned, especially in poorly correlated environments. Sensors can be individually calibrated in a laboratory environment before deployment of the network, but this approach is unfeasible for large networks. To overcome these shortcomings, we propose a novel online, autonomous approach to sensor calibration, by leveraging the ground truth measurements of the GS to calibrate neighboring nodes of the sensor network using a Recursive Least-Squares technique. Our algorithm percolates this calibration through the network such that every connected node will converge towards its ideal linear calibration. The algorithm outperforms a pre-deployment laboratory calibration and provides good tracking of quickly-changing environmental stimulus, which is known to change the inherent sensor calibration. Experimental results show a 45% improvement in estimated measurement error when compared to measurements corrected using a laboratory calibration.
Food insecurity and dietary intake by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program participation status among mainland US Puerto Rican adults after the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Objective The 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) increased monthly Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and expanded SNAP eligibility, yet limited evidence exists on the potential impact of ARRA on dietary intake among at-risk individuals. We aimed to examine pre-/post-ARRA differences in food insecurity (FI) and dietary intake by SNAP participation status. Design Pre/post analysis. Setting Boston, MA, USA. Participants Data were from the longitudinal Boston Puerto Rican Health Study (2007-2015). The US Department of Agriculture ten-item adult module assessed FI. A validated FFQ assessed dietary intake. Diet quality was assessed using the Alternate Healthy Eating Index-2010 (AHEI-2010). Self-reported pre-/post-ARRA household SNAP participation responses were categorized as: sustained (n 249), new (n 95) or discontinued (n 58). We estimated differences in odds of FI and in mean nutrient intakes and AHEI-2010 scores post-ARRA. Results Compared with pre-ARRA, OR (95 % CI) of FI post-ARRA were lower for all participants (0·69 (0·51, 0·94)), and within sustained (0·63 (0·43, 0·92)) but not within new (0·94 (0·49, 1·80)) or discontinued (0·63 (0·25, 1·56)) participants. Post-ARRA, total carbohydrate intake was higher, and alcohol intake was lower, for sustained and new participants, and dietary fibre was higher for sustained participants, compared with discontinued participants. Scores for AHEI-2010 and its components did not differ post-ARRA, except for lower alcohol intake for sustained v. discontinued participants. Conclusions Post-ARRA, FI decreased for sustained participants and some nutrient intakes were healthier for sustained and new participants. Continuing and expanding SNAP benefits and eligibility likely protects against FI and may improve dietary intake.
Exploring Invisible Disability Disclosure in the Sharing Economy

Sharing economy platforms enable people-including those with disabilities-to engage in flexible work outside of traditional workplaces. Though gender and race have been studied, discrimination against service providers with disabilities has not been explored. In this poster, we conducted a 2 - 3 between-group experiment to study whether disability status and work type would affect perceptions of credibility and hiring. We found mixed results: there is no significant statistical difference on credibility perception of service providers and hiring decisions. In the open-end response analysis, we grouped three important factors impacting customers' hiring decision toward service providers with disabilities, including platform, work-related attributes, and personal traits.
Gymnastics Vault Board Design: A Comparison of Spring Configuration and Style of Spring – Preliminary Study:

The goal of this study is to analyze the gymnastics vault board spring configuration to provide insight for a follow-up study to compare a traditional compression springboard with a new leaf spring...
The Reinvestigation of Vinyl Acetate Emulsion Polymerization (I) -The Rate of Polymerization

The kinetics of the seeded emulsion polymerization of vinyl acetate were investigated thoroughly. The variation of the polymerization rate with changes in particle concentration, type of emulsifier, emulsifier concentration, persulfate concentration, ionic strength, and monomer volume were determined. The rate of polymerization is dependent on the initiator concentration to the 0.6 power, the particle concentration to the 0.12 power, and the vinyl acetate volume to the 0.39 power; however, it is independent of the type of emulsifier, emulsifier concentration, and ionic strength in the emulsion. In all cases, the rate of the polymerization is almost independent of monomer concentration in the particles until 85 or 90% conversion.
Rare-earth pyrosilicate solid-solution environmental-barrier coating ceramics for resistance against attack by molten calcia–magnesia–aluminosilicate (CMAS) glass

High-temperature (1500 °C) interactions of promising environmental-barrier coating (EBC) ceramics in the rare-earth (RE) pyrosilicate system, Yb(2-x)YxSi2O7 (x = 0, 0.2, 1, or 2), with three different calcia–magnesia–aluminosiliate (CMAS) glass compositions, are explored. Only the Ca/Si ratio is varied in the CMAS: 0.76, 0.44, or 0.10. Interaction between the highest Ca/Si CMAS and the EBC ceramic with the lowest x (=0, Yb2Si2O7) promotes no reaction but the formation of “blister” cracks. In contrast, the highest x (=2, Y2Si2O7) promotes the formation of an apatite reaction product, but no “blister” cracks. Observationally, it is found that a decrease in the CMAS Ca/Si ratio (0.76–0.10) and a decrease in Y-content decreases the propensity for reaction crystallization (apatite formation) and “blister” cracks. These results are rationalized based on the relative affinities between Ca2+ in the CMAS and Y3+ or Yb3+ in the EBC ceramics, suggesting a way to tune the CMAS interactions in RE pyrosilicate solid solutions.
Evaluation of nutrient content and caloric density in commercially available foods formulated for senior cats.

Author(s): Summers, Stacie C; Stockman, Jonathan; Larsen, Jennifer A; Sanchez Rodriguez, Anais; Zhang, Lei | Abstract: BackgroundCat foods marketed for senior cats (≥7 years) are available to owners. The variability in the nutritional content of these foods is unknown.ObjectivesTo measure the caloric density and caloric distribution of crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and vitamin D3 in commercially available foods for senior cats and to compare nutrient content with foods for adult cats.SamplesThirty-one senior and 59 adult commercial nontherapeutic cat food products.MethodsDescriptive study. Crude protein, crude fiber, and crude fat were measured using Dumas nitrogen combustion, Ankom filter bag technique, and acid hydrolysis, respectively. Mineral concentrations were measured using inductively coupled argon plasma-optical emission spectroscopy. Vitamin D3 was determined by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Caloric density was calculated using modified Atwater values.ResultsThe evaluated nutrient concentrations in all foods for senior cats met the values of the Association of American Feed Control Officials Cat Food Nutrient Profile for adult maintenance. Foods for senior cats had significantly higher crude fiber content when compared to foods for adult cats (P l .0001). No significant difference in crude protein, crude fat and mineral concentrations was found between foods for senior and adult cats.Conclusions and clinical importanceFoods marketed for senior cats are highly variable in their caloric density and nutrient content and, except for crude fiber, are similar to foods for adult cats. Veterinarians should avoid broad recommendations regarding commercially available foods for senior cats, and dietary recommendations should reflect the patient's individual needs.
“THE GRIZZLY BEAR IS LIKE OUR BROTHER,” IDENTITY IN INTERTRIBAL DISCOURSE

Identity work through traditional metaphorizing in the discourse genre of sermonizing in the context of Amerindian intertribal gatherings is interpreted as to strategies of inclusiveness and reaffirmation of social structures. Article visualizations:
Transcription errors in aging and disease

Abstract Accurate transcription is required for the faithful expression of genetic information. However, little is known about the fidelity of RNA synthesis or the biological consequences of transcription errors in living cells. Here, we review recent developments in massively parallel sequencing technology that allow the fidelity of transcription to be measured with unprecedented accuracy and summarize new observations that provide insight into the role of transcription errors in aging and disease. Taken together, these developments have the potential to change our understanding of mutagenesis itself, and significantly enhance our understanding of the origins of human disease.
Age and Disclosure of Medical, Mental Health, and Learning Differences to Faculty

This study compares experiences of traditional-aged college students (≤ 24) to nontraditional-aged students (≥ 25) in disclosing medical and mental health problems or learning differences to facult...
Pain, Goal Engagement, and Eudaemonic Well-Being: Moderation by Autonomous Motivation.

OBJECTIVES Pain may decrease well-being in older adults by limiting social and leisure activities. However, some activities can exacerbate pain. We hypothesized that autonomously motivated goal engagement could ameliorate negative effects of pain on goal engagement and amplify positive effects of goal engagement on eudaemonic well-being (EWB). METHOD Midlife and older women (N=200) were oversampled for chronic pain. Daily diaries (n=10,697) including goal lists and ratings, pain, and EWB were completed for 7 days every 3 months for 2 years. RESULTS Pain was not a correlate of goal engagement. More engagement was associated with higher EWB when motivation was autonomous. However, more goal engagement correlated with lower EWB the next day and, when not autonomously motivated, higher pain. DISCUSSION Goal engagement can benefit people with or without physical pain, but the motivation behind goal engagement is equally if not more important. Goals motivated by autonomous sources increase EWB and may protect against maladaptive patterns of activity associated with pain.
Accessible block-based programming for k-12 students who are blind or low vision

Block-based programming applications, such as MIT’s Scratch and Blockly Games, are commonly used to teach K-12 students to code. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many K-12 students are attending online coding camps, which teach programming using these block-based applications. However, these applications are not accessible to the Blind/Low Vision (BLV) population since they neither produce audio output nor are screen reader accessible. In this paper, we describe a solution to make block-based programming accessible to BLV students using Google’s latest Keyboard Navigation and present its evaluation with four individuals who are BLV. We distill our findings as recommendations to developers who may want to make their Block-based programming application accessible to individuals who are BLV.
Characterization of Newly Detected Costal Pleura–attached Noncalcified Nodules at Annual Low-Dose CT Screenings

New solid costal pleura–attached noncalcified nodules less than 10 mm with triangular, lentiform, oval, or semicircular shapes and smooth margins at annual screening rounds were all benign; annual ...
Alkaloids of thalictrum—XXIII

Abstract Structures based on physical and chemical methods, are proposed for four new aporphine-ben-zylisoquinoline dimers. Thalirevolutine ( 1 ) and thalirevoline ( 2 ) are related to fetidine ( 5 ), the latter is isomeric with fetidine bearing the phenolic group at C-4″, and the former is O methylfetidine. Thalilutidine ( 3 ) is the C-6' phenolic analogue of thalicarpine ( 6 ), while thalilutine ( 4 ) is the C-3 phenolic analogue of adiantifoline ( 13 ).
Mediterranean diet and emotion regulation

Background Mediterranean dietary patterns have been associated with cardiovascular and psychological health, including positive affect. Emotion regulation has not been linked to this pattern. Objective The present study prospectively examined the relationship between Mediterranean diet and later emotion regulation and whether positive or negative affect mediated any such relationship. Methods Data was derived from the Adventist Health Study-2 (2002-6), and Biopsychosocial Religion and Health Substudy (2006-7; 2010-11). We assessed adherence to Mediterranean diet using the Trichopoulou score at baseline, and responses to Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (2006-7) and Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (2010-11) in 1,699 men and 3,293 women. Statistical analyses were performed using multiple linear regression and Hayes PROCESS SPSS macros. Results Mediterranean dietary adherence scores were inversely related to difficulty with clarity of emotional responses (B =-0.013, p = 0.006, 95% CI [-0.23, -0.004]) but unrelated to difficulty with awareness of emotional responses or lack of access to strategies for regulating emotions. Positive and negative affect fully mediated the diet and clarity relationship by respectively decreasing and increasing difficulty with clarity (effect scores -0.007 [95% CI -0.009, -0.005] and -0.005 [95% CI -0.008, -0.003]). Conclusions Mediterranean diet adherence showed association with emotional clarity via increasing positive and decreasing negative affect.
Steady state ensembles of thermal radiation in a layered media with a constant heat flux

This paper describes steady-state ensembles of thermally excited electromagnetic radiation in nano-scale layered media with a constant non-vanishing heat flux across the layers. It is shown that Planck's law of thermal radiation, the principle of equivalence, and the laws of wave propagation in layered media, imply that in order for the ensemble of thermally excited electromagnetic fields to exist in a medium consisting of a stack of layers between two half-space, the net heat flux across the layers must exceed a certain threshold that is determined by the temperatures of the half spaces and by the reflective properties of the entire structure. The obtained results provide a way for estimating the radiative heat transfer coefficient of nano-scale layered structures.
Popularity and player satisfaction of video games: a case study of Xbox 360

This paper presents a large-scale study of video games by analyzing more than 1800 games published on the Xbox 360. The data was collected from the TrueGaming Network which tracks gamer play, game completion, voting behavior, and user rating. We characterized the game popularity distribution and studied the factors that could possibly contribute to player satisfaction including game difficulty, user voting behavior, and achievement design. From these results, the study suggests a method of achievement design that could help developers improve player satisfaction.
Initial clinical experience with a radiation oncology dedicated open 1.0T MR-simulation.

The purpose of this study was to describe our experience with 1.0T MR-SIM including characterization, quality assurance (QA) program, and features necessary for treatment planning. Staffing, safety, and patient screening procedures were developed. Utilization of an external laser positioning system (ELPS) and MR-compatible couchtop were illustrated. Spatial and volumetric analyses were conducted between CT-SIM and MR-SIM using a stereotactic QA phantom with known landmarks and volumes. Magnetic field inhomogeneity was determined using phase difference analysis. System-related, in-plane distortion was evaluated and temporal changes were assessed. 3D distortion was characterized for regions of interest (ROIs) 5–20 cm away from isocenter. American College of Radiology (ACR) recommended tests and impact of ELPS on image quality were analyzed. Combined ultrashort echotime Dixon (UTE/Dixon) sequence was evaluated. Amplitude-triggered 4D MRI was implemented using a motion phantom (2–10 phases, ~ 2 cm excursion, 3–5 s periods) and a liver cancer patient. Duty cycle, acquisition time, and excursion were evaluated between maximum intensity projection (MIP) datasets. Less than 2% difference from expected was obtained between CT-SIM and MR-SIM volumes, with a mean distance of < 0.2 mm between landmarks. Magnetic field inhomogeneity was < 2 ppm. 2D distortion was < 2 mm over 28.6–33.6 mm of isocenter. Within 5 cm radius of isocenter, mean 3D geometric distortion was 0.59 ± 0.32 mm (maximum = 1.65 mm) and increased 10–15 cm from isocenter (mean = 1.57 ± 1.06 mm, maximum = 6.26 mm). ELPS interference was within the operating frequency of the scanner and was characterized by line patterns and a reduction in signal-to-noise ratio (4.6-12.6% for TE = 50–150 ms). Image quality checks were within ACR recommendations. UTE/Dixon sequences yielded detectability between bone and air. For 4D MRI, faster breathing periods had higher duty cycles than slow (50.4% (3 s) and 39.4% (5 s), p < 0.001) and ~fourfold acquisition time increase was measured for ten-phase versus two-phase. Superior–inferior object extent was underestimated 8% (6 mm) for two-phase as compared to ten-phase MIPs, although < 2% difference was obtained for ≥ 4 phases. 4D MRI for a patient demonstrated acceptable image quality in ~ 7 min. MR-SIM was integrated into our workflow and QA procedures were developed. Clinical applicability was demonstrated for 4D MRI and UTE imaging to support MR-SIM for single modality treatment planning.
Cloning and characterization of the major insulin-responsive glucose transporter expressed in human skeletal muscle and other insulin-responsive tissues

Complementary DNA clones encoding a facilitative glucose transporter-like protein have been isolated from human small intestine and muscle cDNA libraries. This 509-amino acid protein has 65.3, 54.3, and 57.5% identity with the previously described human erythrocyte/HepG2, liver, and fetal muscle glucose transporter/transporter-like proteins, respectively. RNA blotting studies indicate that transcripts encoding this protein are very abundant in adult human skeletal muscle and subcutaneous fat. The adult skeletal muscle glucose transporter-like protein was expressed in vitro by cDNA-directed transcription and cell-free translation of the synthetic mRNA. The in vitro-synthesized protein reacted with a monoclonal antibody, 1F8, which recognizes the insulin-regulatable glucose transporter expressed in rat skeletal muscle, heart, and adipocytes. In contrast, in vitro-synthesized erythrocyte/HepG2 and fetal muscle glucose transporters did not react with 1F8. The high levels in adult skeletal muscle and subcutaneous fat of mRNA encoding the adult skeletal muscle glucose transporter and its specific reactivity with monoclonal antibody 1F8 suggest that this protein is the major insulin-regulatable glucose transporter expressed in skeletal muscle and other insulin-responsive tissues.