cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High-Efficiency Solution-Processed Planar Perovskite Solar Cells with a Polymer Hole Transport Layer

DOI: 10.1002/aenm.201401855 In this work we demonstrate a high-effi ciency solutionprocessed inverted CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 perovskite solar cell, which is free of PEDOT:PSS and high-temperature processed metal oxides ( Figure 1 a). We use poly[ N , N ′-bis(4-butylphenyl)N , N ′bis(phenyl)benzidine] (poly-TPD) as the HTL and electron blocking layer for the perovskite cells. In previous reports, polyTPD was used as an HTL in vacuum deposited perovskite solar cells. [ 14 ] Here, the perovskite fi lm was formed by sequential deposition of lead iodide (PbI 2 ) and methyl ammonium iodide (CH 3 NH 3 I). We found that the resulting fi lm consisted of large crystallites with a complete coverage on the poly-TPD surface, and the average effi ciency of the fi nal devices reach a value of 13.8% and a maximum value as high as 15.3%. To deposit the perovskite fi lm on the poly-TPD surface, a concentrated solution of PbI 2 was fi rst spin-coated and then heated to partially evaporate the solvent and crystallize PbI 2 . Subsequently, a dilute solution of CH 3 NH 3 I is spin-coated on top of the PbI 2 layer and CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 is formed by interdiffusion of the precursors. As shown in Figure 1 b, a composite layer of spin-coated [6,6]-phenyl-C 61 -butyric acid methyl ester (PC 60 BM), and thermally evaporated C 60 and 2,9-dimethyl4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (BCP) is deposited on top of the CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 layer to planarize the surface of the perovskite layer, and to facilitate electron extraction and hole blocking. [ 17 ]
The Effect of Key Behavior Distinctiveness on Generalization and Recall in Behavior Modeling Training

The article focuses on a study which analyzed the effect of key behavior distinctiveness on generalization and recall in behavior modeling training. Subjects were asked to view the videotape chosen...
Clouds from Both Sides

Cloud computing" is the buzzword du jour. Everyone is either doing it or wants to; some technophiles even liken it to the Industrial Revolution. (Admittedly, those of us of a certain technical age have to squint to differentiate it from the time-sharing service bureaus of the 1960s.) But is the cloud "secure"?
Nonreplication in genetic association studies of obesity and diabetes research.

The objective of this article is to provide an overview of the existing literature concerning the identification of genetic markers associated with obesity and diabetes. Specifically, this article will review recent association studies of diabetes and obesity with an emphasis on the need for the replication of findings. Unfortunately, a substantial number of the published associations between genetic markers and phenotypes, including diabetes and obesity, have not been replicated. Literature that addresses the potential reasons for the nonreplication of association studies (population stratification, publication bias, effect heterogeneity, Type I errors and lack of statistical power) is summarized. Recommendations to improve future association studies are presented. J. Nutr. 133:3323-3326, 2003.
Using the ensemble Kalman filter to estimate multiplicative model parameters

This paper proposes a simple approach to estimating multiplicative model parameters using the ensemble square root filter. The basic idea, following previous studies, is to augment the state vector by the model parameters. While some success with this approach has been reported if the model parameters enter as additive terms in the tendency equations, this approach is problematic if the model parameters are multiplied by the state variables. The reason for this difficulty is that multiplicative parameters change the dynamical properties of the model, and in particular can cause the model to become dynamically unstable. This paper shows that model instability can be avoided if the usual persistence model for parameter update is replaced by a temporally smoothed version of the update model. In addition, the augmentation approach can be interpreted as two simultaneously decoupled ensemble Kalman filters for the model state and the parameter state, respectively. Implementation of the parameter estimation does not require changing the data assimilation algorithm—it just has to be supplemented by a parameter estimation step that is similar to the state estimation step. Covariance localization is found to be necessary not only for the model state, but also for augmented model parameters, if they are spatially dependent. The new formulation is illustrated with the Lorenz-96 model and shown to be capable of estimating additive and multiplicative model parameters, as well as the state, under relatively challenging conditions (e.g. using 20 observations to estimate 120 unknown variables).
Normal Lymphocyte Development but Delayed Humoral Immune Response in CD81-null Mice

CD81 is a cell surface molecule expressed on many cell types and associated with the CD19/ CD21/Leu13 signal-transducing complex on B cells. A recent report implies that CD81 expression on thymic stromal cells is important in the maturation of thymocytes from CD4− CD8− to CD4+CD8+. However, we have produced CD81-null mice by gene targeting, and find that they undergo normal development of thymocytes and express normal numbers of T cells. B cells are also found in normal numbers in the spleen, blood, and peritoneal cavity of CD81-null mice, but they express a lower level of CD19 compared to heterozygous littermates. Finally, early antibody responses to the protein antigen ovalbumin are weaker in CD81null mice compared to their heterozygous littermates. This is consistent with the proposed role of the CD19/CD21/CD81-signaling complex in lowering the threshold for B cell responses. These results show that CD81 is not required for maturation of T cells, but is important for optimal expression of CD19 on B cells and optimal stimulation of antibody production.
A compiler for BSP-L, a programming language for the Bulk Synchronous Parallel model

This paper describes a compiler environment for BSP-L, an experimental programming language based on the Bulk Synchronous Parallel model of computation whose goal is to enable the generation of highly efficient, architecture independent software for a wide range of high performance parallel computers. >
Optimal length test sequence generation using distinguishing sequences

The optimization of the length of test sequences for finite state machine based protocol conformance testing is studied. The study focuses on test generation methods, called D-methods, that utilize distinguishing sequences in the construction of test segments. The extent of the optimization of the length of a test sequence is investigated with respect to two cases. The first case establishes the lower bound for the length of test sequences generated by any D-method that overlaps test segments. The second case establishes the lower bound for the length of test sequences generated by any D-method that does not overlap test segments. It is observed that the reduction in the length of test sequences due to overlapping is significant. An efficient algorithm for the generation of test sequences is proposed. This algorithm utilizes a distinguishing sequence and overlaps test segments. Sufficiency conditions are given both for finding a minimum- length test sequence in polynomial time and for constructing the optimal length test sequences by this algorithm. >
Knowledge negotiation in asynchronous learning networks

The negotiation of what is to count as mutually acceptable collaborative knowledge is difficult to conduct when participants cannot interact face-to-face. We review certain related work on negotiation support and develop a concept of "knowledge negotiation " that is appropriate for collaborative learning in ALNs used in school classrooms. This concept is situated within the framework of collaborative knowledge building viewed at the group unit of analysis; it contrasts with negotiation as the reconciliation of multiple personal opinions through voting. We then describe an implementation of support for knowledge negotiation in an ALN that is currently being tested in European schools.
Effect of Extended-Speed, Constant-Power Operation of Electric Drives on the Design and Performance of EV-HEV Propulsion System

Vehicle dynamics requires extended-speed, constantpower operation from the propulsion system in order to meet the vehicle’s operating constraints (e.g., initial acceleration and gradeability) with minimum power. Decrease in power rating will decrease the volume of the energy storage system. However, extending the constant power operating range of the electric drives increases its rated torque, thereby, increasing motor volume and weight. This paper investigates the effect of extended constant power operation on battery driven electric vehicle (BEV) propulsion system taking the change in motor weight and battery volume into account. Five BEV systems with five traction drive having different base speeds are simulated for this study. The performances of the BEVs are obtained using FUDS and HWYFET drive cycles. Two EV-HEV software packages ‘V-ELPH’ developed by Texas A&M University and ‘ADVISOR’ from NREL are used for simulation testing. Based on the simulation results, the paper defines an optimum range of the constant power region for single gear operation.
A Silicon Nitride Based Shallow Trench Isolation with Side-Gate for CMOS Integration with MEMS Components for System-On-Chip Applications

We have developed a hydrofluoric acid (HF) resistant, composite shallow trench isolation (STI) process for MOSFETs utilizing silicon nitride as isolation material for on-chip integration of micro-electro-mechanical (MEMS) resonators and CMOS devices. Peripheral leakage currents in silicon nitride isolated MOSFETs are suppressed by employing an independently controlled polysilicon side-gate, surrounding the active area of the devices. Electrostatic control of the threshold voltage at the device periphery alleviates the need for edge implants, resulting in increased thermal budget. Compatibility with HF release processes and high temperature anneal cycles allows integration of MEMS components in close proximity to CMOS devices for systemon-chip applications. nMOSFET devices fabricated using this composite STI process show excellent device characteristics.
Adenovirus infection increases iNOS and peroxynitrite production in the lung

Host inflammatory and immune responses limit viral gene expression after administration of replication-deficient adenoviruses to the lung. The current study asks whether inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression and peroxynitrite generation accompanied the inflammatory response following intratracheal administration of adenovirus. Pulmonary iNOS mRNA and protein were increased 2, 7, and 14 days following administration of 2 x 10(9) plaque-forming units of recombinant adenovirus (Av1Luc1) to BALB/c mice. Adenovirus infection was associated with a marked increase in nitrotyrosine staining. Intense nitrotyrosine staining was observed in alveolar macrophages, respiratory epithelial cells, conducting airways, and alveolar spaces 2 days postinfection. Two weeks after exposure to adenovirus, nitrotyrosine staining was detected within alveolar macrophages, suggesting adenovirus enhanced the nitration of proteins that were subsequently taken up by alveolar macrophages. Western blot analysis using anti-nitrotyrosine antibody did not demonstrate accumulation of nitrated surfactant protein A (SP-A), although a small fraction of aggregated SP-A comigrated with a nitrotyrosine-positive protein. iNOS expression, peroxynitrite, and nitrotyrosine generation accompany and may contribute to inflammatory responses to adenovirus in the lung.
Overexpression of PAX6(5a) in lens fiber cells results in cataract and upregulation of (alpha)5(beta)1 integrin expression.

The PAX6 gene, a key regulator of eye development, produces two major proteins that differ in paired domain structure: PAX6 and PAX6(5a). It is known that an increase in the PAX6(5a) to PAX6 ratio leads to multiple ocular defects in humans. Here, transgenic mice were created that overexpress human PAX6(5a) in the lens. These mice develop cataracts with abnormalities in fiber cell shape as well as fiber cell/lens capsule and fiber cell/fiber cell interactions. While the structure of the actin cytoskeleton appeared relatively normal, the cataractous lens expresses increased amounts of paxillin and p120(ctn) as well as large aggregates of (alpha)5(beta)1 integrin in the dysgenic fiber cells. The elevated amounts of these proteins in the transgenic lens correlated well with elevated levels of their respective mRNAs. To investigate the role of Pax-6(5a) in the upregulation of these genes, a series of gel shift experiments using truncated proteins and consensus oligonucleotides demonstrated the complexity of Pax-6 and Pax-6(5a) binding to DNA, aiding our identification of potential binding sites in the human (a)5- and (beta)1-integrin promoters. Consequent gel shift analysis demonstrated that these putative regulatory sequences bind Pax-6 and/or Pax-6(5a) in lens nuclear extracts, suggesting that the human (alpha)5 and (beta)1 integrin promoters contain PAX6/PAX6(5a) binding sites and maybe directly regulated by this transcription factor in the transgenic lens. We conclude that these transgenic mice are good models to study a type of human cataract and for identifying batteries of genes that are directly or indirectly regulated by both forms of Pax-6.
The News Norms and Values of Presidential Debate Agendas: An Analysis of Format and Moderator Influence on Question Content

Mediated debates provide audiences with invaluable campaign information, and the public does in fact learn from debate exposure. Debates have undergone format changes over the years, but their ability to attract a mass audience remains constant. The way news media cover U.S. presidential elections has also evolved; increasing commercial pressures drive heightened emphasis on infotainment, soft news, and electoral strategy—often at the expense of hard news and policy content. Yet little is known about the content of agendas that news professionals set in presidential debates. Through a quantitative content analysis, this study examines 20 years of general election debate questions to determine whether the commercial news values common in today's campaign coverage also influence debate agendas. The findings presented herein suggest not only the presence of these news values in debate agendas but that format and moderator also wield a degree of influence over the content of debate questions.
Predation by Fuscuropoda vegetans (Acarina: Uropodidae) on the House Fly (Musca domestica)

Uropodid mites are generally considered to be fungus-feeders (Hughes 1959). However, Rhode (1959) found Fuscuropoda vegetans (De Geer) [= Fuscuropoda marginata (Koch) according to Ryke (1958)] to be a predator of Caloglyphus mycophagus (Megnin) (Acarina: Acaridae). Axtell (1963a) reported that uropodid mites occurred frequently in samples of manure of dairy cattle and chickens collected from inside barns in New York State. The immature stages of the house fly, Musca domestica L., occur frequently in manure, suggesting the possibility that certain uropodids are predaceous on eggs and first-instar larvae of the house fly. Axtell (1961)
TemperatÜRe Measurement by Infrared Transmission for Rapid Thermal Processing Applications

We report a new non-invasive optical technique for the measurement of the absolute temperature of silicon wafers in a rapid thermal processing environment. The method is based on the temperature dependence of the infrared absorption of silicon. Unlike pyrometry, the method can be used with a quartz processing chamber, and it is well-suited to the temperature range of 400 °C to 800 °C. Temperature resolution on the order of one degree can be achieved, and the method can easily be applied to homoepitaxial and certain heteroepitaxial growth cycles.
A Auditoria de Recursos Humanos como instrumento estratégico de mitigação do risco na Gestão das Pessoas

O ambiente concorrencial turbulento e competitivo em que se movem as empresas obriga estas a reequacionarem permanentemente o seu modelo de negocio, bem como a integrar novas filosofias, principios e praticas de gestao, tendentes a aquisicao e manutencao de vantagens competitivas, que as diferencem das suas concorrentes e lhes garantam a sobrevivencia e o sucesso empresarial.Para alem do investimento em Investigacao e Desenvolvimento (I&D), na inovacao tecnologica e no marketing, os decisores de topo investem no fator humano, o qual pela detencao de carateristicas intrinsecamente humanas, garante vantagem face aos concorrentes. Esse investimento, de natureza imaterial, destina-se a atrair, desenvolver e reter uma forca altamente competente, motivada e de elevado desempenho.Por serem altamente disputados pelo mercado de trabalho, estes profissionais dispoem de uma elevada capacidade negocial em relacao aos seus empregadores, pelo que a concecao de politicas, processos e praticas (PPP) de gestao de recursos humanos (GRH), diferenciadas, que contribuam para a manutencao de elevados niveis de desempenho e, sobretudo, para a sua fidelizacao, tornou-se essencial.A concecao e implementacao de PPP de GRH tornaram-se requisitos basicos na utilizacao do fator humano, num contexto de instabilidade e imprevisibilidade em que operam, atualmente, as empresas, independentemente do setor de atividade ou da sua dimensao.A atracao, desenvolvimento e retencao dos colaboradores que detem as core competences constitui um fator determinante da promocao da competitividade empresarial, mas a importância acrescida do fator humano sugere um olhar mais atento e interventivo sobre os modelos de gestao do risco associados ao fator humano.Neste proposito, discute-se a importância da auditoria dos recursos humanos ser reconhecida como um processo organizacional, critico e estrategico, pelo reforco da probabilidade de adequacao e de qualidade dessas PPP.Para o efeito, procedeu-se a uma revisao da literatura recorrendo as principais bases de dados bibliograficas como a B-On, a EBSCO, a JSTOR, entre outras, utilizando como descritores ‘Capital Humano’, ‘Praticas de Gestao de Recursos Humanos’, ‘Competitividade’ e ‘Auditoria de Recursos Humanos’, bem como a artigos publicados em revistas tecnicas da especialidade.Da revisao da literatura ressalta a importância conferida ao fator humano enquanto fator indutor da competitividade empresarial, mas a necessidade das politicas, processos e praticas (PPP) de Gestao dos Recursos Humanos carecerem de ser auditados, tendo em vista estabelecer um fit estrategico entre estas PPP e a satisfacao dos objetivos dos colaboradores, visando a minimizacao do risco associado a gestao das pessoas, com base na implementacao de metricas que afiram a adequabilidade e eficacia dessas PPP. E com este enquadramento que se procede a uma discussao critica.
Renin, noradrenaline and adrenaline responses to simulated altitude.

1. Plasma renin activity, plasma adrenaline and noradrenaline concentrations, and urinary adrenaline and noradrenaline excretion rates were measured in ten subjects during 3 days of exposure to a simulated altitude of 12 000 ft. 2. In both the supine and standing positions, renin activities were suppressed during all 3 days at altitude. 3. Plasma noradrenaline and adrenaline concentrations were significantly increased by the third day at altitude. 4. Urinary adrenaline excretion tended to be increased during the entire 3 days at altitude, with no significant change between the first and third day. Noradrenaline excretion was significantly increased on the third day. 5. The finding of decreased renin levels suggests that the enhanced activity of the sympathetic nervous system at high altitude does not stimulate renin release.
Decreased breast cancer tumor size, stage, and mortality in Rhode Island: an example of a well-screened population.

BackgroundSince the 1980s, Rhode Island has achieved one of the highest mammography screening rates in the nation. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of high mammography rates ...
Mean strain effects on cyclic deformation and fatigue behavior of polyether ether ketone (PEEK)

Abstract The fatigue behavior of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) thermoplastic was investigated under uniaxial strain-controlled cyclic loading condition with various mean strains (Re = 0, 0.2, and 0.25). The mean stress responses of PEEK from all mean strain fatigue tests were found to be fully-relaxed. As a result, minimum mean strain effect on fatigue behavior of PEEK was observed. Fractography analyses utilizing a scanning electron microscope were performed on PEEK specimens under tensile mean strain cyclic loading. Two distinct stages of fatigue, crack initiation and physically small crack growth, were observed on all the fracture surfaces. Moreover, two types of inclusions, unmelted particles and void-like defects, were identified to be the cause of crack initiation. Void-like defects were found to have more detrimental effect on fatigue life of PEEK when compared to particles of similar size. The effect of inclusions on fatigue behavior of PEEK was observed to be more significant than that of the tensile mean strain.
Early use of Tips and Outcomes in Patients with Cirrhosis and Acute Esophageal Varlceal Bleeding: Analysis of the U.S. Nationwide Inpatient Sample Database, 2000-2010

Methods: The nationwide inpatient sample (NIS) database was queried to identify patients with EVB from 2000 to 2010. Only patients with decompensated liver disease by Baveno V classification were included in our analyses because early TIPS is recommended in patients at high-risk of further bleeding and death despite endoscopic and medical therapy. The primary outcome measure was in-hospital death, and secondary outcomes were rebleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, sepsis, and length of hospital stay. Early TIPS was defined by placement within 3 days of hospitalization for acute EVB after one EGD with endoscopic therapy. Rescue TIPS was defined by 2 or more EGDs with endoscopic therapy or one EGD plus a nonendoscopic intervention for control of variceal bleeding (balloon tamponade, interventional radiology or surgery) prior to TIPS. Secular trends in age-adjusted mortality were characterized using Poisson regression models.
Computational Prediction of Turbulence Modification in Gas-Solid Two-Phase Flows

This investigation is concerned with developing a model of the processes involved in turbulence modification in dilute gas-solid turbulent flows. The underlying formulation scheme employs an Eulerian-Lagrangian reference frame, i.e. the carrier phase is considered as a continuum system, while the trajectories of individual particles are calculated using a Lagrangian frame work. A random walk model is used to solve the particle motion equation. The proposed model, along with turbulence modulation models from the literature, is used to simulate a particle-laden vertical pipe flow. The simulation results show that the new model provides improved predictions of the experimental data.
Differential KrasV12 protein levels control a switch regulating lung cancer cell morphology and motility.

Introduction Oncogenic Kras mutations are important drivers of lung cancer development and metastasis. They are known to activate numerous cellular signaling pathways implicated in enhanced proliferation, survival, tumorigenicity and motility during malignant progression. Objectives Most previous studies of Kras in cancer have focused on the comparison of cell states in the absence or presence of oncogenic Kras mutations. Here we show that differential expression of the constitutively active mutation KrasV12 has profound effects on cell morphology and motility that drive metastatic processes. Methods The study relies on lung cancer cell transformation models, patient-derived lung cancer cell lines, and human lung tumor sections combined with molecular biology techniques, live-cell imaging and staining methods. Results Our analysis shows two cell functional states driven by KrasV12 protein levels: a non-motile state associated with high KrasV12 levels and tumorigenicity, and a motile state associated with low KrasV12 levels and cell dissemination. Conversion between the states is conferred by differential activation of a mechano-sensitive double-negative feedback between KrasV12/ERK/Myosin II and matrix-adhesion signaling. KrasV12 expression levels change upon cues such as hypoxia and integrin-mediated cell-matrix adhesion, rendering KrasV12 levels an integrator of micro-environmental signals that translate into cellular function. By live cell imaging of tumor models we observe shedding of mixed high and low KrasV12 expressers forming multi-functional collectives with potentially optimal metastatic properties composed of a highly mobile and a highly tumorigenic unit. Discussion Together these data highlight previously unappreciated roles for the quantitative effects of expression level variation of oncogenic signaling molecules in conferring fundamental alterations in cell function regulation required for cancer progression.
Tofacitinib is not a biologic.

As the Global Medical Aff airs Gastroenterology Lead for tofacitinib at Pfi zer, I read with great interest the review by Dr Ungar and Dr Kopylov entitled “Advances in the development of new biologics in infl ammatory bowel disease (IBD)” [1]. In reading the article, I identifi ed a number of inaccuracies concerning tofacitinib, which I thought should be brought to the attention of the authors and your readers. Th roughout the article tofacitinib is described as being a “biologic”. Although it may be appropriate to compare the effi cacy and safety of tofacitinib to the existing biologic therapies used in IBD, tofacitinib is a synthetic small molecule JAK inhibitor and not a biologic agent. Tofacitinib was introduced along with descriptions of the biologics, including anti-integrins and ustekinumab. It would be more accurate if tofacitinib was split from these biologic agents and instead described in a separate sentence, since antiintegrins and ustekinumab are biologics and tofacitinib is not. In relation to safety events, in place of the current “Th e adverse eff ect profi le for tofacitinib appears to be similar to other biologics...”, it would be more accurate to state that “Th e adverse eff ect profi le for tofacitinib appears to be similar to that of biologics...”, thus separating tofacitinib from the biologic drug class. With respect to the discussion around immunogenicity and tofacitinib, because tofacitinib is a synthetic small molecule JAK inhibitor and not a biologic agent we would not expect there to be any immunogenicity. Hence, no specifi c studies of the immunogenicity of tofacitinib have been performed or are planned at present. Finally, we are nearing completion of a phase 3 development program of tofacitinib in ulcerative colitis [2,3] and we look forward to sharing the results of these studies with the gastroenterological community in the future.
Opportunities for the Social Sciences in Risk Analysis—An Engineer’s Viewpoint

The approach taken by engineers to manage technological risks has been changing in recent years. In the past, engineers dealt with risk as an engineering problem. Engineering safety factors were and still are a basic feature of the design of any structure, and these safety factors were institutionalized into codes and standards. Those risks which remained inherent in engineering designs were considered to be tolerable residuals, and were not explicitly analyzed. The question, “How safe is safe enough?,” was dealt with implicitly through the use of safety factors, and over time, trial-and-error experience provided feedback for the adjustment of safety factors and for the recognition and correction of failure-prone designs.
Low voltage and wide bandwidth III-V electro-optic modulators with series connected arms

Mach-Zehnder electro-optic modulators with MQW cores and series connected arms are fabricated using substrate removal techniques. Under 0 V bias is 1.69 V, device impedance is 57 Ω and bandwidth is 40 GHz. Device can be operated without bias using a directly connected 50 Ω source.
Flavored e-cigarette liquids and cinnamaldehyde impair respiratory innate immune cell function

Innate immune cells of the respiratory tract are the first line of defense against pathogenic and environmental insults. Failure of these cells to perform their immune functions leaves the host susceptible to infection and may contribute to impaired resolution of inflammation. While combustible tobacco cigarettes have been shown to suppress respiratory immune cell function, the effects of flavored electronic cigarette liquids (e-liquids) and individual flavoring agents on respiratory immune cell responses are unknown. We investigated the effects of seven flavored nicotine-free e-liquids on primary human alveolar macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer (NK) cells. Cells were challenged with a range of e-liquid dilutions and assayed for their functional responses to pathogenic stimuli. End points included phagocytic capacity (neutrophils and macrophages), neutrophil extracellular trap formation, proinflammatory cytokine production, and cell-mediated cytotoxic response (NK cells). E-liquids were then analyzed via mass spectrometry to identify individual flavoring components. Three cinnamaldehyde-containing e-liquids exhibited dose-dependent broadly immunosuppressive effects. Quantitative mass spectrometry was used to determine concentrations of cinnamaldehyde in each of the three e-liquids, and cells were subsequently challenged with a range of cinnamaldehyde concentrations. Cinnamaldehyde alone recapitulated the impaired function observed with e-liquid exposures, and cinnamaldehyde-induced suppression of macrophage phagocytosis was reversed by addition of the small-molecule reducing agent 1,4-dithiothreitol. We conclude that cinnamaldehyde has the potential to impair respiratory immune cell function, illustrating an immediate need for further toxicological evaluation of chemical flavoring agents to inform regulation governing their use in e-liquid formulations.
Prothrombin Complex Concentrate Reduces Blood Product Utilization in Heart Transplantation

Background Current practices for the reversal of warfarin before cardiac surgery include the use of vitamin K and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) to reduce the risk of bleeding. Although the 2010 International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation guidelines acknowledge the use of prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC), there is no clear consensus on its efficacy. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of four-factor (4-F) PCC administration in patients requiring warfarin reversal before heart transplantation by determining blood product utilization perioperatively. Methods Twenty-one patients who received 4-F PCC for warfarin reversal before heart transplantation were compared to a similar cohort of 39 patients who did not receive 4-F PCC, from January 2011 to July 2015. Blood product utilization was collected retrospectively for the 24-hour preoperative, intraoperative, and 48-hour postoperative periods. Results Patients receiving 4-F PCC required fewer blood products in all three time periods. In the 24-hour preoperative period, 22 (56%) patients in the control group and 2 (10%) patients in the 4-F PCC groups received blood products (p<0.001). Intraoperatively, all patients received blood products. The 4-F PCC group required fewer units of packed red blood cells (median 3 vs 7 units, p<0.001) and FFP (median 4 vs 9 units, p<0.001). In the 48-hour postoperative period, 20 (51%) patients in the control group and 5 (24%) patients in the 4-F PCC group received blood products (p=0.04). Conclusions 4-F PCC is associated with reduced blood product utilization 24 hours preoperatively and intraoperatively. Historically, the majority of patients require FFP for warfarin reversal preoperatively. In this single-center study, a significant reduction in the need for FFP was demonstrated with the use of 4-F PCC.
Taste Bud Development in Rat Vallate and Foliate Papillae

Numerous studies have evaluated the neurotrophic capacity of axons to support adult mammalian taste buds. The present evidence indicates that degenerated taste buds are only regenerated by chemosensory axons and only re-formed or maintained in gustatory epithelium (reviewed in Oakley, 1985). The neurotrophic maintenance of taste buds is mediated by axonal transport (Sloan et al., 1983). The molecular mechanisms of neurotrophic support remain to be elucidated. The present paper provides an overview of a series of six recent studies from our laboratory on the development of taste buds of the vallate and foliate papillae on the posterior portion of the rat tongue. Our analyses emphasized the postnatal role that taste axons might play in the development of taste buds. The development of rat lingual taste buds is largely a postnatal process. Among mammalian mechanoreceptors with secondary sensory tissue, both muscle spindles (Zelena, 1957) and Pacinian corpuscles (Zelena, 1980) are neurally induced in development, but will survive without neurotrophic support in adults.
A prospective study of marital quality and body weight in midlife

Objective Few studies have gone beyond studying marital status to examine effects of marital quality on body weight. This study examined the association of marital quality with weight change and incident obesity in midlife. It differentiated positive and negative components of marital quality considering overall marital quality, marital support, and marital strain. Method Data are from 2,636 adults from the Midlife in the United States study who participated in 2 waves of data collection 10 years apart. Marital quality was self-reported. Body weight was assessed with self-reported height and weight. Generalized estimating equations examined primary associations also considering potential confounders and mediating factors including sociodemographics, baseline health conditions, and health behaviors. Results Overall marital quality was inversely associated with weight gain (β = -0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-1.38, -0.01]). Marital support was inversely related to both weight gain (β = -1.48, 95% CI [-2.80, -0.16]) and incident obesity (risk ratio = 0.79, 95% CI [0.65, 0.96]). Marital strain was not associated with either weight change or incident obesity. The association between marital support and incident obesity remained when marital strain was simultaneously included in the model. There was evidence that the associations of marital support and marital strain with incident obesity might differ by gender, and were evident only in men. Conclusion This study shows a supportive marital relationship is associated with healthier body weight in midlife. It also indicates marital support may have effects over and beyond the mere absence of marital strain. Findings suggest the potential utility of involving spouses/partners in obesity prevention and treatment. (PsycINFO Database Record
Rendering technical the responsible citizen: implementing citizenship education reform in Kosovo

In the last 20 years, there has been a growing preoccupation with fragile contexts. International development and diplomatic communities have focused on implementing Western-oriented education poli...
A Reexamination of Earnings Persistence on the Incremental Value Relevance of Earnings Levels and Earnings Changes

This study re examine s the role of earnings persistence as to understand the incremental value relevance of earnings levels and earnings changes in explaining stock returns in the stock market of U.S. The results show that earnings levels and earnings changes together provide the higher value relevant information than each earnings variable alone in explaining stock returns. An increase in earnings persistence, approximated by different time-serial and firm-specific measures, puts more (less) value relevant weight on earning changes (levels). However, the complementary value relevance between earnings levels and earnings changes is somehow weak, implying that a possibly deteriorating valuation role for earnings levels and earnings changes may occur in the recent years for the U.S. stock market.
Exploitation Competition and the Evolution of Interference, Cannibalism, and Intraguild Predation in Age/Size-Structured Populations

There is now recognition that a “population” is actually a complex of phenotypes and age groups that vary in their interactions with the environment. For species that grow slowly through a “wide size range” (Polis 1984a), age/size structure is a major feature and determinant of population dynamics. For these species, the type and intensity of intra- and interspecific interactions depend on size. Interactions may range from neutral to predator-prey or competitive as individuals grow and relative size ratios change (e.g., see Fig. 1).
Spatial Distribution of Sound Pressure in the Ear Canal

For many experiments in physiological and psychological acoustics results are reported using, as a reference level, the sound pressure measured at the eardrum. However at higher frequencies there can be rather dramatic variations of sound pressure level within an ear canal and across the tympanic membrane. Different locations of a reference microphone can lead to quite different results, with the introduction of artifacts that relate only to peculiarities of the sound field. As a first step toward understanding this problem, measurements have been made of the spatial variation of sound pressure in scaled replicas of human ear canals and in the ear canals of live cats. The measured pressure distributions can be described reasonably well using a theoretical model that has been developed. This model is an extension of Webster’s horn equation, taking into account the curvature and variable cross section of the ear canal and the absorption of acoustic energy at the eardrum. From both theory and experiment it is clear that variations in sound pressure level of over 20 dB can occur over the surface of the tympanic membrane.
Role of the Noninvasive Vascular Laboratory in Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

The thoracic outlet is an area encompassing the structures above and below the first rib, which provides passage of the axillary and subclavian artery, vein, and brachial plexus as they travel from the neck and chest down the upper arm. An abnormality anywhere along this pathway results in an impingement of blood flow or neurologic transmission, which results in a condition known as thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). Clinical symptoms of TOS can vary depending on the type of structure compressed and therefore is subdivided into two categories: neurogenic and vascular. Vascular TOS can be further divided into venous and arterial disease. In the nonacute stage, the majority of the vascular TOS patients present clinically with the same vague symptoms as the neurogenic TOS group, making diagnosis and delineation of subsequent treatment challenging. With vast improvements in ultrasound equipment, there is considerable emphasis placed on the utility of duplex imaging in the upper extremity. A TOS duplex ultrasound protocol and diagnostic interpretation, with a focus on the anatomic relationship of the upper extremity vessels, normal and abnormal color filling, and velocities with and without maneuvers, is described within this chapter. This ever expanding role of the noninvasive vascular examination, in the confirmation, treatment, and follow-up of the TOS patients has proven to have diagnostic usefulness.
Searching for chirality-flipping interactions in nuclear β decays

We describe a promising way for searching for new physics via the breaking of the chirality rules that govern the basic structure of the Standard Model.
Expanding the injury definition: evidence for the need to include musculoskeletal conditions.

Abstract Objectives The objectives of the study are to quantify the proportion of cumulative microtraumatic overuse injuries in a physically active population, evaluate their impact in terms of lost work time, and link them to precipitating activities to inform prevention initiatives. Study design The study design is retrospective cohort study. Methods For a population of U.S. Army Soldiers, diagnoses from medical records (International Classification of Diseases [ICD]-9 800–999 and selected ICD-9 710–739) were matched with self-reported injury information. Common diagnoses, limited duty days, and activities and mechanisms associated with the injuries were summarized. Results Most self-reported injuries (65%) were classified by providers with diagnoses that described cumulative microtraumatic tissue damage, and these injuries led to a higher incidence of limited duty (85%) than acute traumatic injury diagnoses. Reported mechanisms and activities often indicated repetitive physical training-related onset. Conclusions Because many diagnoses for cumulative microtraumatic musculoskeletal tissue damage are categorized as diseases to the musculoskeletal system in the International Classification of Diseases, they are often not included in definitions of injury. However, reported injury activities and mechanisms in this population provide evidence that cumulative microtraumatic injuries often arise from identifiable and preventable events. This finding confirms that these diagnoses should be classified as injuries in epidemiologic evaluations and surveillance to accurately represent injury burden.
POST-CONCUSSIVE CHANGES IN BALANCE AND POSTURAL STABILITY MEASURED WITH CANESENSE™ AND THE BALANCE ERROR SCORING SYSTEM (BESS) IN DIVISION I COLLEGIATE FOOTBALL PLAYERS: A CASE SERIES.

Introduction Impairments in postural stability have been identified following sports-related concussion. CaneSense™ is a recently developed mobile lower limb motion capture system and mobile application for movement assessment which provides an objective measure of postural stability. One of the components within CaneSense™ is the Post-Concussive Excursion Index (PCEI), a measure of postural stability expressed as a percentage of symmetry between lower limbs. Purpose The purpose of this case series is to examine pre- and post-concussion differences using two separate measures, CaneSense™, and a known test, the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS), in Division I collegiate football players. Methods A convenience sample of eight football players diagnosed with a concussion, were the subjects in this case series. All subjects underwent baseline testing prior to the start of pre-season camp consisting of the single limb stance (SLS) test with CaneSense™ and the BESS test. Twenty-four to 72 hours following their concussion, SLS with CaneSense™ test and the BESS test, were administered. Segmental excursions for the thigh and shank segments for each lower limb were combined into the Post-Concussion Excursion Profile (PCEP), which represents each segment's maximum excursion in the medial-lateral and anterior-posterior direction. The PCEI is a single metric generated to quantify differences within subjects by comparing the PCEP value between lower limbs during SLS where 100% suggests absolute symmetry. Results The PCEI value decreased significantly post-concussion (41.43 ± 15.53% vs. 87.41 ± 6.05%, p < 0.001) demonstrating a 52.6% decrease in inter-limb symmetry when compared to baseline values. There was an unanticipated 36.36% improvement in composite BESS performance post-concussion (10.5 ± 4.87 errors vs. 16.5 ± 8.49 errors, p = 0.10). Conclusions Differences in inter-limb postural stability were found in subjects post-concussion. By assessing postural stability in both lower limbs individually, using the PCEI, impairments were detected that otherwise would have likely gone undiagnosed using the BESS test alone. Levels of Evidence Therapy, Level 4.
Soil-Aquifer Treatment

The term soil-aquifer treatment (SAT) is used to refer to both high-rate domestic wastewater aquifer recharge and recovery (ARR) systems and, more broadly, the process of natural contaminant attenuation that occurs as applied water passes through the vadose zone. As the concept was originally defined, treated wastewater is recharged using infiltration basins and a production well system is designed and operated to recover the recharged water and control its geographic extent in the receiving aquifer. Properly designed SAT system can provide a high-quality renovated water that is directly suitable for most non-potable uses with minimal or no post-treatment. Disinfection may only be required for uses involving public contact. SAT systems are effective in removing pathogens and can also achieve high levels of removal of nutrients, dissolved organic carbon, metals, and many trace organic compounds. Key operational and design issues are optimizing the wetting and drying cycling to maximize water quality improvements and loading rates, and managing clogging.
Demonstrating the Viability of the Tempest-D Cubesat Radiometer for Science Applications

TEMPEST-D is a 6U CubeSat with a payload of a 5-channel millimeter wave cross-track scanning radiometer. It is a technology demonstration mission with requirements of 2 K precision and 4 K absolute calibration. Since its deployment from the International Space Station in July of 2018, the TEMPEST-D team has focused efforts on validating the calibration of the instrument by comparing with similar well-calibrated operational sensors. Such comparisons have shown the instrument to be very well calibrated and stable, with very low noise, well within the requirements. Efforts have subsequently focused on demonstrating that the data can be used for various science applications, including water vapor and cloud water/ice retrievals and data assimilation.
Choroidal Melanoma: Clinical Trials and What Have We Learned from Them

Choroidal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular tumor but its incidence is only around 5 per million. In spite of the rarity of the tumor, well conducted clinical trials have significantly altered the management, improving the overall prognosis. This chapter highlights the key clinical trials that have brought a paradigm shift in the management of choroidal melanoma.
Kinetics and Thermodynamics of Killing a Quantum Dot.

Light-emitting nanocrystal quantum dots (QDs) are of high interest for use as down-conversion phosphors and direct emission sources in bulk solid-state devices and as reliable sources of single pho...