cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis method using deviation bounds in automated manufacturing systems

The authors describe the resource sharing interaction between subprocesses, which frequently appear in automated manufacturing systems, using the deviation bound. The results are used for synthesizing Petri nets in which liveness and boundedness are guaranteed. A shared resource net that can be considered a basic formulation for handling shared resource problems is introduced. A weighted deviation bound is introduced and used to characterize concurrency in generalized Petri nets. >
Statistical Treatment of Remote Sensing Reflectance from Coastal Ocean Water: Proportionality of Reflectance from Multiple Scattering to Source Function b/a

Abstract I treat the reflectance of light from coastal ocean water in terms of diffused volume scattering phase function P(θ) derived from successive products of the normalized volume scattering function β(θ). My results show that the wavelength dependence for backscattering in a multiple scattering process is directly proportional to the angle-independent dimensionless source function b/a, which is the ratio of the total volume scattering coefficient b and the total volume absorption coefficient a. I use this result to produce a statistical formula for remote sensing reflectance (Rrs). The statistical formula shows good agreement with experimental data, and—unlike the standard oceanographic expressions for Rrs given in terms of bb/(a + bb), where bb is the volume backscattering coefficient—the statistical relationship for Rrs accounts for the effects of photon turnaround and reduces to the expected asymptotic limits for diffuse reflectance when a → 0 but bb remains finite and when bb → 0 but a and b rema...
A radar detection philosophy

This paper is an attempt to present a short, unified discussion of the radar detection, parameter estimation, and multiple-signal resolution problems--mostly from a philosophical rather than a detailed mathematical point of view. The purpose is, hopefully, to make it possible in at least some limited sense to reason back from appropriate measures of desired radar performance to specifications of the necessary values of the related radar parameters. Specifically four measures of performance quality are considered: 1.The reliability of detection, 2.The accuracy with which target parameters can be estimated, 3.The extent to which such estimates can be made without ambiguity, 4.The degree to which two or more different target echoes can be separated or resolved. It is argued that the radar synthesis problem can be split into two more-or-less independent phases. First, adjust such parameters as those appearing in the radar equation so that the received signal energy is sufficiently large for the degree of reliability of detection desired. The required value of energy is almost entirely independent of the character of the received echo signal waveform. The second phase is, then, to select the waveform in such a way that accuracy, ambiguity, and resolution requirements are met. The limitations on what can be achieved in terms of these three quality measures are discussed in relation to an uncertainty principle. For purposes of illustration several novel waveforms having unusual and useful properties are described.
The treatment of avoidance behaviour following severe brain injury by satiation through negative practice.

Brain-injured patients may frequently develop behaviour disorders in order to avoid participating in rehabilitation activities. In recent years, the use of behaviour modification techniques, particularly the use of positive reinforcement and time-out, has been increasingly reported in the literature as a means of remediating behaviour disturbance in this population. However, reward- or extinction-based programmes are generally not effective in the treatment of avoidance behaviours as they may be ineffective or, at worst, encourage further avoidance of rehabilitation activities. This paper, describes the use of satiation through negative practice in the successful treatment of a severely brain-injured patient whose behaviour, in the form of prolonged shouting, had previously not responded to the range of behavioural techniques used previously with this population. Two successive treatment programmes that were used in an attempt to satiate shouting are presented. Significant reductions in both the frequency...
A REVISION OF NOVACYSTIS HAWKESI PAUL AND BOLTON 1991 (MIDDLE SILURIAN: GLYPTOCYSTITIDA, ECHINODERMATA) AND THE PHYLOGENY OF EARLY CALLOCYSTITIDS

Abstract A relatively large new specimen of the callocystitid rhombiferan Novacystis hawkesi Paul and Bolton, 1991, is described from the Wenlock (Middle Silurian) Thornloe Formation of east-central Ontario. This new specimen adds to the known morphology of Novacystis hawkesi, including the plating of the thecal side opposite the periproct, the presence of four pectinirhombs in standard callocystitid placements, and brachiole morphology. It also confirms the unusual placement of the periproct previously described for this species. A phylogenetic analysis of Callocystitidae indicates that, as presently defined, Callocystitinae sensu Paul and Bolton is polyphyletic and Apiocystitinae is paraphyletic. Novacystis forms part of a small, relatively primitive echinoderm fauna, probably of middle Wenlock age from the Timiskaming area, suggesting that shallow cratonic areas of the Canadian shield area may have served as refugium for archaic echinoderm taxa.
Prevention of brain trauma by legislation, regulation, and improved technology: a focus on motor vehicles.

More than half of all brain trauma is caused by motor vehicle crashes. Prevention strategies that reduce the likelihood of motor vehicle crashes or injuries to occupants will also prevent trauma. Many effective strategies have yet to be applied on a large scale. Roadway design improvements such as removal of fixed objects from roadsides, widening roadside recovery zones, installing dividers between opposing lanes of traffic, and replacing fixed utility poles with breakaway designs, have been effective in reducing crashes and injuries. Driver measures of documented benefit include the 55 mph speed limit, safety belt use laws, 21 year legal drinking age, administrative license suspension for drinking drivers, and driving curfews and postponement of licensure for teenagers. Motor vehicle safety has improved greatly since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began regulating vehicle design. Significant design requirements include lap and shoulder belts in front seat positions, and, more recently, automatic safety belts or air bags in front seat positions, head restraints in front seat positions, reinforcing side and roof beams, and the center-mounted brake light. The most significant future advance will be the provision of full front seat air bags in all passenger vehicles. As much as one-quarter of brain trauma can be prevented or reduced in severity by this measure alone. Further safety requirements should include head restraints in rear positions, a-pillar, b-pillar, and roof padding, antilock brakes, and a vehicle rollover standard. Language: en
ASSIMILATION AND CONTRAST IN THE PARALLEL LINES ILLUSION

Judgments of 40 undergraduates indicated that the assimilative character of the parallel lines illusion was destroyed at large values of both context line length and separation of context and center line variables. Accommodation of a portion of these results requires a modification of Brigner's (1977) theory of perception of illusory extent.
Quantitative Phosphorus-32 Labeling Method for Analysis of Predators of the Cotton Fleahopper (Hemiptera: Miridae)

A method for the identification and quantitative evaluation of predators of the cotton flea hopper, Pseudatomoscelis seriatus (Reuter), is described. The method may be useful with other phytophagous Hemiptera, most notably Lygus spp. and Cicadellidae (S. O. Homoptera). Cotton flea hoppers are mass labeled by exposing the insects to 100-500 Micro Curie (µCi) phosphorus-32 (as H3PO4) for 1-3 h. After determining the mean CPM (counts, or disintegrations, per minute), a cohort of flea hoppers can be released on host plants in the field. After 24 and 48 h, the host and adjacent plants are sampled for labeled predators. The CPM of the radioactive predators is measured by liquid scintillation counting; an algorithm is provided to determine the number of individual prey items consumed by field captured predators. The algorithm requires species-specific assimilation indexes for the prey and the predator involved in the analysis. An example is furnished of a release of radioactive flea hoppers on cotton in 1987.
Ambient temperature modulates yawning.

Comment on: Eldakar OT, et al. Temperature-dependent variation in self-reported contagious yawning. Adap Hum Behav Physiol 2015; 1:460-6; http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s40750-015-0024-6In humans yawnin...
Analysis of Effect and Cost-benefit on Measles Vaccination in Shenzhen

Objective To analyze the effect and economic benefit of measles vaccination,and to provide scientific basis for eliminating measles in 2012.Methods The data of measles vaccination and immunization monitoring from 1980 to 2004 in Shenzhen were analyzed,and cost-benefit analysis method was used to analyze the economic and social benefits of measles vaccination.Results The results of measles surveillance in 2004 showed that the antibody positive rate was 83.6% in population.Investment cost of measles vaccination from 1983 to 2004 was $55,088,159,product benefit was $395,538,712,net benefit was $340,450,553,and ratio of cost and benefit was 7.18 in Shenzhen.Social benefit analysis showed that 195,376 individuals avoided suffering from measles from 1983 to 2004.Conclusion Measles vaccination can bring enormous economic and social benefit.
Diagnosis, prevalence, and management of thromboembolism in patients with spinal cord injury.

AbstractBackground: Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism (thromboembolism) are frequent causes of morbidity and mortality in patients with spinal cord injury.Diagnosis: Strong clinical suspi...
The Role of Toulmin's Categories of Message Development in Persuasive Communication: Two Experimental Studies on Attitude Change

Two experimental studies tested whether developing a persuasive argument by adding combinations of Toulmin's “second triad” (backing for the warrant, rebuttal, and modal qualifier) produced signifi...
Anticoagulation in dental surgery: Is it rude to interrupt?

hen i was growing up, my mother frequently told me that it was rude to interrupt. Although she was referring to conversations, she may have been onto something bigger. In the nearly three quarters of a century since their discovery, vitamin K antagonist anticoagulant drugs have been used by
Is a left ventricular vent necessary for coronary artery bypass operations performed with cardioplegic arrest

The need for ventricular venting with hypothermic cardioplegic arrest is controversial. We report an evaluation of the need for left ventricular venting in a canine model that closely simulates conditions during routine coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Thirty-five dogs were placed on cardiopulmonary bypass for 60 minutes of hypothermic cardioplegic arrest (18 vented, 17 nonvented) and then reperfused for 30 minutes. Myocardial temperature and left atrial pressure (LAP) were recorded continuously. Before and 30 minutes after hypothermic cardioplegic arrest, left ventricular function curves were generated (six vented, six nonvented), and biopsy specimens of the left ventricle were taken for adenosine triphosphate (ATP) determinations (11 vented, 10 nonvented) and semiquantitative grading of mitochondrial ultrastructure (six vented, six nonvented). LAP in nonvented dogs was 7.4 mm Hg during hypothermic cardioplegic arrest and 5.0 mm Hg during reperfusion. Temperature during hypothermic cardioplegic arrest was 12.3 degrees C in vented dogs and 11.3 degrees C in nonvented dogs (p = 0.5). There were no differences in left ventricular function or preservation of mitochondrial ultrastructure between vented and nonvented dogs. ATP after hypothermic cardioplegic arrest was 96.6% of control (4.30 microM/gm) in vented dogs and 94.6% (4.37 microM/gm) in nonvented dogs (p = 0.7). The absence of left ventricular venting did not lead to ventricular distention or more rapid rewarming. These data in vented dogs and nonvented dogs strongly support the belief that left ventricular venting is not necessary during routine CABG.
Silents in the Empire

The First World War was a watershed in the history of the empire. The contributions of the dominions, colonies, and protectorates demonstrated the remarkable resources of the empire to many in Britain. Victory also encouraged the ambitions of elites in the colonies and dominions, who hoped to leverage their contribution into greater participation in their governance. Throughout the empire the war encouraged political ambitions which boiled over into violence in some places at its conclusion. In Asia, the Caribbean, and throughout Africa the war inspired the ambitions of nationalists. Thus the post-war years were ones of ferment, which the peoples of the empire greeted with a mixture of hope and trepidation.
PROMOTION HEALTH – EVALUATION OF THE LOCUS OF CONTROL OVER HEALTH

Health is a basic prerequisite for the existence and operation of values. Health care enables people to protect or restore health throughout their lives, from birth to death, in accordance with applicable legislation. This paper aims to identify the importance of assessing a locus of control over health using the scale measuring tool, Multidimensional Health Locus of Control (MHCL). In total, 100 respondents participated in the survey, with an average age of 42 years. Statistical analyses were performed using Statistica, version 2007, with significance level of 0.05. Correlations of MHLC and attitudes toward preventive actions showed statistically significant results with readiness to quit smoking. People with high IHLC scores were more willing to stop smoking, change their diet, and reduce body weight. Our assumption in this research was that individuals who believed in internal control of health had a more positive effect regarding preventive actions.
Proxy-based sensor deployment for mobile sensor networks

To provide satisfactory coverage is very important in many sensor network applications such as military surveillance. In order to obtain the required coverage in harsh environments, mobile sensors are helpful since they can move to cover the area not reachable by static sensors. Previous work on mobile sensor deployment is based on a round by round process, where sensors move iteratively until the maximum coverage is reached. Although these solutions can deploy mobile sensors in a distributed way, the mobile sensors may move in a zig-zag way and waste a lot of energy compared to moving directly to the final location. To address this problem, we propose a proxy-based sensor deployment protocol. Instead of moving iteratively, sensors calculate their target locations based on a distributed iterative algorithm, move logically, and exchange new logical locations with their new logical neighbors. Actual movement only occurs when sensors determine their final locations. Simulation results show that the proposed protocol can significantly reduce the energy consumption compared to previous work, while maintaining similar coverage.
On Girard: Mimesis and Cosmic War

Much of what Freud and Girard have said about the function of symbolic violence in religion has been persuasive. Even if one questions, as I do, Girard’s idea that mimetic desire is the sole driving force behind symbols of religious violence, one can still agree that mimesis is a significant factor. One can also agree with the theme that Girard borrows from Freud, that the ritualized acting out of violent acts plays a role in displacing feelings of aggression, thereby allowing the world to be a more peaceful place in which to live. But the critical issue remains as to whether sacrifice should be regarded as the context for viewing all other forms of religious violence, as Girard and Freud have contended.
Microwave-induced Thermoacoustic tomography for subcutaneous vascular imaging

Growing demand for bedside medical imaging with increased ease of access has motivated development of more cost-effective ultrasound systems. Multimodal imaging techniques such as Microwave-induced Thermoacoustic (TA) tomography can simplify system design by providing enhanced imaging contrast. The introduction of continuous-wave (CW) TA has made this technique more cost-effective by reducing device size and power requirements. However, this approach is not suitable for imaging the first few millimeters of tissue such as superficial veins. We propose the use of electrical structures that concentrate pulsed microwave excitation near the dermis combined with conventional antennae that radiate CW deeper into tissue for a complete cost-effective imaging platform. With this approach, we have demonstrate proof-of-concept TA imaging of microcapillaries and plant vasculature using substantially reduced pulsed-excitation power, down to 50 W pk or 42 mW avg , at a resolution of 300 µm using 5000 averages equivalent to about 1 sec image acquisition time with a transducer array.
Impact of High-risk Features and Effect of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Urothelial Cancer Patients with Invasion into the Lamina Propria on Transurethral Resection in the Absence of Deep Muscle Invasion

Abstract Background High-risk non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) that invades into the lamina propria is frequently understaged and is associated with a risk of lymph node metastasis and death. Objective To identify high-risk features (HRFs) for NMIBC that may identify patients with poorer prognosis who may benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) prior to radical cystectomy (RC). Design, setting, and participants We performed a single-center retrospective review of patients who underwent RC for NMIBC with invasion into the lamina propria between 1995 and 2013. HRFs included hydronephrosis, abnormal examination under anesthesia, lymphovascular invasion, or variant histology. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis Pathology at RC, and overall (OS) and disease-specific (DSS) survival were evaluated and analyzed by Fisher's exact test, Student t test, Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, and the Kaplan–Meier method. Results and limitations We identified 336 patients with a median follow-up of 130 mo. Of these, 159 (47%) had no HRF, 140 (41.5%) had one HRF, and 37 (11%) had ≥2 HRFs. At RC, patients with ≥2 HRFs had a significantly higher rate of pathologic T stage upstaging and lymph node metastasis ( p 0.05). Median OS was 139 mo for those with no HRF, 127 mo for those with one HRF, and 56 mo for those with ≥2 HRF ( p =0.0057). HRFs are also associated with a decreased DSS ( p =0.0009). Patients with ≥2 HRFs (11/37) who received NAC showed improved OS (21% vs 55% 5-yr OS, p =0.0353) and trended toward an improvement in DSS (25% vs 56% 5-yr OS, p =0.0716) compared with RC alone. Conclusions The presence of ≥2 HRFs in NMIBC invading the lamina propria is associated with worse pathology at RC and a significant decrease in OS and DSS. NAC appears to provide benefit for these patients. Limitations include retrospective design and limited sample size. Patient summary The presence of high-risk features in urothelial cancer with invasion into the lamina propria has a worse prognosis that may be mitigated by neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Multivariate statistical analyses: cluster analysis, factor analysis, and multidimensional scaling

Market segments are composed of groups of customers who are similar to each other with respect...
Narkose bei Frühgeborenen

Narkosen bei Fruhgeborenen gehoren zu den grosen Herausforderungen der Kinderanasthesie. Anatomie und Physiologie Fruhgeborener unterscheiden sich noch einmal erheblich von der Reifgeborener oder groserer Kinder. Pharmakokinetik und Flussigkeitshaushalt sind schwer abzuschatzen, und spezielle, nur bei Fruhgeborenen vorkommende Risiken, wie z. B. die Retinopathia praematurorum oder die Gefahr intraventrikularer Blutungen, sind zu beachten. Auf diese Besonderheiten wird in diesem Kapitel ebenso eingegangen wie auf Besonderheiten der Narkosefuhrung und des Equipments.
Some Heretical Ideas With Respect to Mathematics and Physics

The paradoxes of Zeno have occupied the minds of many philosophers, mathematicians and scientists and one frequently believed that mathematics could solve the difficulties.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BIOAVAILABILITY OF TRACE METALS AND GEOCHEMICAL PROCESSES IN ESTUARIES

Abstract: Accurate prediction of the biological impact of metallic contaminants in the estuarine environment, including return to man, requires identification and quantification of the ecological processes which control both the flux of metals through estuaries and their availability to biota. The extent of our knowledge has been limited somewhat by the lack of appropriate methods and techniques sufficiently sensitive or selective to measure metals at environmental levels or to distinguish among various chemical forms in water. Recent research both on the bioavailability and estuarine chemistry of metals has led to a better understanding of (1) relative bioavailability of metals partitioned among major reservoirs (sediments, water, and biota); (2) the behavior of metals within various chemical regimes present in estuarine systems, particularly the mixing zone; (3) effect of chemical speciation of trace metals on bioavailability; and (4) environmental variables that control the chemical forms of trace metals in estuaries. It is essential that the type of research information discussed in this paper be considered in the establishment of both water quality criteria needed to protect marine resources and regulatory levels which may be required to protect humans.
Quality Systems and Management: 2000 Where Have We Been and Where Are We Going?

Functioning quality systems are the expected norm of practice in blood centers and transfusion services in the United States (U.S.) in the year 2000 [1]. Beginning in the mid-1980’s when the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations [JCAHO] refocused its vision to the quality of patient care, not just on the processes of providing services [2], quality initiatives have been introduced in all aspects of healthcare. Both governmental and private organizations have endorsed the language of quality and incorporated the assessment of quality activities and outcomes into their accrediting decisions. Along the way, the importance of having qualified personnel who are knowledgeable and committed to the principles of quality has been recognized.
MODIFYING STANCE ALTERS THE PEAK KNEE ADDUCTION MOMENT DURING A GOLF SWING.

Background The knee joint is one of the most frequently injured regions in the game of golf, and the loads experienced by the knee during the golf swing are typically greater than during other activities of daily living. Altering movement patterns is a common strategy that can be used to reduce loading on the knee joint but has received little attention during studies of the golf swing. The primary aim of this study was to examine the effect altering golf stance has on the lead limb peak external knee adduction moment. Study Design Laboratory based, quasi-experimental. Methods Twenty healthy participants were recruited for a 3-dimensional biomechanical analysis wherein participants hit three golf shots with a driver using the following stance conditions: self-selected, bilateral 0 o foot angle, bilateral 30 o foot angle, wide stance width, and narrow stance width. Results Both the 30 o foot angle (0.80 ± 0.51 Nm) and wide stance width (0.89 ± 0.49 Nm) conditions significantly decreased (p < 0.001) the lead limb peak external knee adduction moment compared to the self-selected (1.15 ± 0.58 Nm) golf stance. No significant differences (p = 0.109) in swing speed were found between any of the stance conditions. Conclusion The externally rotated foot position and wider stance width decreased the lead limb peak external knee adduction moment without hindering swing speed. Modifying stance could be a viable option for golfers who wish to continue playing the sport at a high level, while reducing potentially detrimental loads at the knee joint.Levels of Evidence: 2b-Individual cohort study.
Examining English and Welsh Detectives’ Views of Online Crime:

The advancement of the Internet and digital technology has enabled individuals to commit crimes affecting both virtual and real targets at will. Criminological scholarship related to cybercrime and...
Association between degree of exposure to the Hospital Value Based Purchasing Program and 30-day mortality: experience from the first four years of Medicare's pay-for-performance program

The Hospital Value Based Purchasing Program (HVBP) in the United States, announced in 2010 and implemented since 2013 by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), introduced payment penalties and bonuses based on hospital performance on patient 30-day mortality and other indicators. Evidence on the impact of this program is limited and reliant on the choice of program-exempt hospitals as controls. As program-exempt hospitals may have systematic differences with program-participating hospitals, in this study we used an alternative approach wherein program-participating hospitals are stratified by their financial exposure to penalty, and examined changes in hospital performance on 30-day mortality between hospitals with high vs. low financial exposure to penalty. Our study examined all hospitals reimbursed through the Medicare Inpatient Prospective Payment System (IPPS) – which include most community and tertiary acute care hospitals – from 2009 to 2016. A hospital’s financial exposure to HVBP penalties was measured by the share of its annual aggregate inpatient days provided to Medicare patients (“Medicare bed share”). The main outcome measures were annual hospital-level 30-day risk-adjusted mortality rates for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), heart failure (HF) and pneumonia patients. Using difference-in-differences models we estimated the change in the outcomes in high vs. low Medicare bed share hospitals following HVBP. In the study cohort of 1902 US hospitals, average Medicare bed share was 61 and 41% in high (n = 540) and low (n = 1362) Medicare bed share hospitals, respectively. High Medicare bed share hospitals were more likely to have smaller bed size and less likely to be teaching hospitals, but ownership type was similar among both Medicare bed share groups.. Among low Medicare bed share (control) hospitals, baseline (pre-HVBP) 30-day mortality was 16.0% (AMI), 10.9% (HF) and 11.4% (pneumonia). In both high and low Medicare bed share hospitals 30-day mortality experienced a secular decrease for AMI, increase for HF and pneumonia; differences in the pre-post change between the two hospital groups were small (< 0.12%) and not significant across all three conditions. HVBP was not associated with a meaningful change in 30-day mortality across hospitals with differential exposure to the program penalty.
Attitude, Knowledge and Fears Concerning Cancer Among Low-Income Rural Women of Different Religion and Ethnicity

ABSTRACT The low participation level of rural women in cancer screening is a cause of concern especially in India. The role of predisposing knowledge and attitudes concerning cancer in many religious and ethnic groups is not studied well to find out cause of such reluctance in participation. We documented the knowledge and fears concerning such cancer in rural population of women of different ethnicity and religions in West Bengal province of India and how these factors relate to screening behaviour and socio-demographic characteristics. A baseline survey was conducted before the start of a community cancer awareness and screening programme. A total of 2000 rural women of different districts of West Bengal were interviewed in-person about their knowledge, attitudes and Pap smear and mammogram screening practices. Knowledge and attitude about cancer varied with age, education, socioeconomic status, ethnicity and religion. Women in the age range of 40–72 years (median 56 years) and least knowledgeable of cancer-detection methods and screening guidelines were considered for our study. Socio-economic markers were monthly income, literacy, nature of roof, and toilet. About 80% women, who participated, had no toilet facility. Women, who could not read and write, were more unaware of cancer signs and symptoms, risk factors and screening guidelines. However, biggest concern about was poor infrastructural facility for doing cervical examination and women are shy to have elaborate examination and treatment in their private parts in an open camp. Striking finding was full participation and cooperation in awareness and screening of cervical cancer among scheduled tribal women. They had near total participation which was far more than scheduled casts and Muslims. The low screening participation among rural Indian women may be due to their shyness to participate in a comparatively open camp and limited awareness and knowledge about screening examinations. Our study highlights the need for wide-scale cancer screening interventions consistent with prevailing rural belief. Tribal people are most cooperative among all ethnic and religious and socio-economic groups. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.
Impact of Comorbidities on SARS-CoV-2 Viral Entry-Related Genes

Viral entry mechanisms for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are an important aspect of virulence. Proposed mechanisms involve host cell membrane-bound angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), type II transmembrane serine proteases (TTSPs), such as transmembrane serine protease isoform 2 (TMPRSS2), lysosomal endopeptidase Cathepsin L (CTSL), subtilisin-like proprotein peptidase furin (FURIN), and even potentially membrane bound heparan sulfate proteoglycans. The distribution and expression of many of these genes across cell types representing multiple organ systems in healthy individuals has recently been demonstrated. However, comorbidities such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease are highly prevalent in patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and are associated with worse outcomes. Whether these conditions contribute directly to SARS-CoV-2 virulence remains unclear. Here, we show that the expression levels of ACE2, TMPRSS2 and other viral entry-related genes, as well as potential downstream effector genes such as bradykinin receptors, are modulated in the target organs of select disease states. In tissues, such as the heart, which normally express ACE2 but minimal TMPRSS2, we found that TMPRSS2 as well as other TTSPs are elevated in individuals with comorbidities compared to healthy individuals. Additionally, we found the increased expression of viral entry-related genes in the settings of hypertension, cancer, or smoking across target organ systems. Our results demonstrate that common comorbidities may contribute directly to SARS-CoV-2 virulence and we suggest new therapeutic targets to improve outcomes in vulnerable patient populations.
Review Essay: Jason M. Kelly, Philip Scarpino, Helen Berry, James Syvitski, and Michel Meybeck, eds. Oakland, CA: University of California Press, 2018. xxvii and 212 pp., maps, photos, charts, tables, notes, bibliography, index. $35.95 paper (ISBN 978-0-520-29502-5).

The seriousness and extent of the threats from global environmental change differ from place to place, for reasons that extend beyond geography or biology or weather. Entrenched social and economic...
Lipid Signaling through G Proteins.

N-Acylethanolamine (NAE) signaling has received considerable attention in vertebrates as part of the endocannabinoid signaling system, where anandamide acts as a ligand for G protein–coupled cannabinoid receptors. Recent studies indicate that G proteins also are required for some types of NAE signaling in plants. The genetic ablation of the Gβγ dimer or loss of the full set of extra-large G proteins strongly attenuated NAE-induced chloroplast responses in seedlings. Intriguing parallels and distinct differences have emerged between plants and animals in NAE signaling, despite the conserved use of these lipid mediators to modulate cellular processes. Here we compare similarities and differences and identify open questions in a fundamental lipid signaling pathway in eukaryotes with components that are both conserved and diverged in plants.
Game of Privilege: An African American History of Golf

In Game of Privilege, Lane Demas explores the complexities of being an African American in golf by distinctively addressing the traditions and rules of the sport which are intertwined with racial a...
Organizational Strategies for Addressing Burnout and Trauma-Related Employment Stress

In this chapter, we provide an examination of how workplace environments and employers can address professional burnout and trauma-related employment stress. We examine the organizational variables (i.e., work and caseload, organizational bureaucracy, and availability of external supports) associated with these work-related injuries. From this discussion, we conclude the chapter with recommendations for the workplace environment that we judge will help to address the challenges of burnout and TRES.
Identification of Isoprene Oxidation Reaction Products via Anion Photoelectron Spectroscopy

We present a study on the oxidation of isoprene under several different conditions that may model both atmospheric and combustion chemistry. Anions, formed by passing isoprene/oxidant gas mixtures through a pulsed discharge generating a range of species, are separated via mass spectrometry and characterized by anion photoelectron (PE) spectroscopy supported by computations. Specifically, a UV-irradiated isoprene/O2 mixture, which additionally produces O3, and an isoprene/O2/H2 mixture, which generates •OH when passed through the discharge, were sampled. The mass spectra of ions generated under both conditions show the production of intact molecular ions, ion-molecule complexes (e.g., O2-, O4-, and O2-·isoprene), and singly deprotonated species (e.g., deprotonated isoprene, C5H7-). In addition, both smaller and oxidized fragments are observed using both gas mixtures, though relative abundances differ. From the UV-irradiated isoprene/O2 gas mixture, additional intact molecular products of reactions initiated by ozonolysis of isoprene, methylglyoxal, and dimethylglyoxal were observed. Fragmentation and oxidation of isoprene observed in both gas mixtures included species with m/z 39, 53, 67, 69, and 83 that we attribute to a series of alkyl- and alkenoxide-based anions. The coexistence of intact molecules and complexes with fragments and reaction products demonstrates the versatility of this ion source as a simple and efficient anion formation method for studying species that may be relevant in atmospheric and combustion chemistry.
Behavioral health integration in primary care at Brigham and Women׳s Advanced Primary Care Associates, South Huntington

Of the many problems facing the US healthcare system, the shortage of behavioral health providers in outpatient settings is particularly profound. To address this issue, Boston׳s Brigham and Women׳s Hospital identified ways to incorporate behavioral health into primary care when it opened the South Huntington Primary Care clinic in August 2011. When the needs of its patients were more complex than anticipated, the clinic created assessment tools and refined care processes to identify, triage, and monitor patients with mental illness. Key insights from the South Huntington experience include. • Hiring for roles instead of training can decrease costs of implementation. • A process for reflection, assessment, and adaptation is a critical component of innovation. • Innovations must adapt to the specific needs of the local community. • Innovations are most effective when they reflect the capabilities of local providers.
Control of yeast cell type by the mating type locus. II. Genetic interactions between MAT alpha and unlinked alpha-specific STE genes.

Abstract The alleles of the yeast mating type locus, MATα and MATa, determine the yeast cell types, a,α, and a/α. It has been proposed that the MATα2 product negatively regulates expression of unlinked a-specific genes, and that the MATα1 product positively regulates expression of unlinked α-specific genes. The behavior of mutants defective in MATα2, which are deficient in mating and in production of α-factor, can thus be attributed to antagonism between a-specific and α-specific functions expressed simultaneously in matα2− strains. If this view is correct, then elimination by mutation of the specific functions required to mate as α may allow matα2 mutants to mate as a. In order to test this possibility, we examined the interactions between matα2 mutations and various unlinked mutations that cause α cells but not a cells to be mating defective (α-specific STE mutations). Three α-specific mutations (ste3, ste13 and kex2) were found to be non-allelic. Furthermore, although matα2 mutants mate weakly as a, matα2, ste3 double mutants, but not matα2 ste13 or matα2 kex2 double mutants, mate efficiently as a. The ability of matα2 ste3 strains to mate as a supports the view that matα2 mutants express a-specific mating functions, and suggests that a mating functions are expressed constitutively in MATa cells. The mating behaviour of the matα2 ste3 double mutant is consistent with the proposal that STE3 is positively regulated by the MATα1 product.
Rural Kindergarten Teachers' Perceptions of School Readiness: A Comparison with the Carnegie Study

This study examines the construct of school readiness as understood by rural kindergarten teachers. Kindergarten teachers in 11 rural Missouri communities were surveyed to assess their perceptions of the readiness levels of their incoming children. These data were then compared to the results of the national Carnegie study of 7000 kindergarten teachers' perceptions of school readiness. The rural Missouri sample judged their students as generally more ready than did the national sample; they viewed the incoming kindergarten students as having fewer language, social, and physical problems. A greater portion of the rural sample believed that children are more ready now than 5 years ago (36% vs. 25%). They attribute the improvement to high quality early preschool programs. The diversity within the rural sample as well as the rural/urban distinctions are discussed.
GAMMA DOSE RATE NEAR A NEW (252)Cf BRACHYTHERAPY SOURCE

A new generation of medical grade (252)Cf sources was developed in 2002 at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The combination of small size and large activity of (252)Cf makes the new source suitable to be used with the conventional high-dose-rate remote afterloading system for interstitial brachytherapy. A recent in-water calibration experiment showed that the measured gamma dose rates near the new source are slightly greater than the neutron dose rates, contradicting the well established neutron-to-gamma dose ratio of approximately 2:1 at locations near a (252)Cf brachytherapy source. Specifically, the MCNP-predicted gamma dose rate is a factor of two lower than the measured gamma dose rate at the distance of I cm, and the differences between the two results gradually diminish at distances farther away from the source. To resolve this discrepancy, we updated the source gamma spectrum by including in the ORIGEN-S data library the experimentally measured (252)Cf prompt gamma spectrum as well as the true (252)Cf spontaneous fission yield data to explicitly model delayed gamma emissions from fission products. We also investigated the bremsstrahlung X-rays produced by the beta particles emitted from fission product decays. The results show that the discrepancy of gamma dose rates is mainly caused by more » the omission of the bremsstrahlung X-rays in the MCNP runs. By including the bremsstrahlung X-rays, the MCNP results show that the gamma dose rates near a new (252)Cf source agree well with the measured results and that the gamma dose rates are indeed greater than the neutron dose rates. « less
Motivational Foundations of Behavioral Confirmation

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the motivational foundations of behavioral confirmation. Functional analyses have the potential to advance theory and research on social perception and interpersonal behavior. They constitute an explicit recognition of the motivational and purposive agendas that guide and direct human thoughts, feelings, and actions, and they speak directly to the mediational mechanisms and guiding processes involved in the enactment of these motivational agendas. Functionalist perspective possesses considerable explanatory power in diverse domains of human functioning. The chapter emphasizes that functional analysis shares much in common with related treatments of the roles of needs, motives, plans, and goals in understanding cognitive and behavioral processes in the social realm. The diverse approaches to human motivation have their points of individuation. It is the commonalities of these approaches that may provide the most compelling testimony to the power of motivational approaches to understand individual and social function. An analysis of psychological functions in future may help to understand the motivational foundations of the chain of events in behavioral confirmation scenarios; it may also be possible for a functional analysis to provide a motivational perspective on the dynamic interplay of cognitive, behavioral, and interpersonal processes in social interaction and interpersonal relationships.
Central Nervous System Disorders

The central nervous system (CNS) is comprised of the brain and the spinal cord. The spinal cord controls movement and feeling of body regions located below the brain. Because the brain and the spinal cord are connected, the brain also plays a role in movement and feeling. However, the brain controls complex psychological processes such as attention, perception, motivation, emotion, language, cognition, and action. Central nervous system disorders may arise due to brain injury, or may occur as the result of congenital or degenerative neurological conditions.
Minimax games with bandits

One of the earliest online learning games, now commonly known as the hedge setting [Freund and Schapire, 1997], goes as follows. On round t, a Learner chooses a distribution wt over a set of n actions, an Adversary reveals `t ∈ [0, 1], a vector of losses for each action, and the Learner suffers wt · `t = ∑n i=1 wt,i`t,i. Freund and Schapire [1997] showed that a very simple strategy of exponentially weighting the actions according to their cumulative losses provides a near-optimal guarantee. That is, by setting
MicroRNA let‐7e is associated with the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in the regulation of immune responses. There is evidence that miRNAs also participate in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS), but how the miRNAs regulate the pathogenesis of MS is still under investigation. The identification of new members of the miRNA family associated with the pathogenesis of MS could facilitate early diagnosis and treatment. Here we show that the level of miRNA let-7e is significantly upregulated in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of MS using miRNA array and quantitative real-time PCR. The expression of let-7e was mainly in CD4+ T cells and infiltrated mononuclear cells of central nervous system, and highly correlated with the development of EAE. We found that let-7e silencing in vivo inhibited encephalitogenic Th1 and Th17 cells and attenuated EAE, with reciprocal increase of Th2 cells; overexpression of let-7e enhanced Th1 and Th17 cells and aggravated EAE. We also identified IL-10 as one of the functional targets of let-7e. Together, we propose that let-7e is a new miRNA involved in the regulation of encephalitogenic T-cell differentiation and the pathogenesis of EAE.
Effects of sleep deprivation on cognition

Sleep deprivation is commonplace in modern society, but its far-reaching effects on cognitive performance are only beginning to be understood from a scientific perspective. While there is broad consensus that insufficient sleep leads to a general slowing of response speed and increased variability in performance, particularly for simple measures of alertness, attention and vigilance, there is much less agreement about the effects of sleep deprivation on many higher level cognitive capacities, including perception, memory and executive functions. Central to this debate has been the question of whether sleep deprivation affects nearly all cognitive capacities in a global manner through degraded alertness and attention, or whether sleep loss specifically impairs some aspects of cognition more than others. Neuroimaging evidence has implicated the prefrontal cortex as a brain region that may be particularly susceptible to the effects of sleep loss, but perplexingly, executive function tasks that putatively measure prefrontal functioning have yielded inconsistent findings within the context of sleep deprivation. Whereas many convergent and rule-based reasoning, decision making and planning tasks are relatively unaffected by sleep loss, more creative, divergent and innovative aspects of cognition do appear to be degraded by lack of sleep. Emerging evidence suggests that some aspects of higher level cognitive capacities remain degraded by sleep deprivation despite restoration of alertness and vigilance with stimulant countermeasures, suggesting that sleep loss may affect specific cognitive systems above and beyond the effects produced by global cognitive declines or impaired attentional processes. Finally, the role of emotion as a critical facet of cognition has received increasing attention in recent years and mounting evidence suggests that sleep deprivation may particularly affect cognitive systems that rely on emotional data. Thus, the extent to which sleep deprivation affects a particular cognitive process may depend on several factors, including the magnitude of global decline in general alertness and attention, the degree to which the specific cognitive function depends on emotion-processing networks, and the extent to which that cognitive process can draw upon associated cortical regions for compensatory support.
Testing for Vertical Inequity in Property Tax Systems

Models for testing assessor performance have been widely discussed in the literature. Many have been used in practice. The purposes of this study are to evaluate the performance of existing models ...
A Positive Theory of WTO Adjudication

The positive theory of litigation predicts that under certain conditions plaintiffs and defendants achieve an unremarkable and roughly equivalent share of litigation success. This article, grounded in an empirical analysis of WTO adjudication from 1995 through 2007, reveals a high disparity between Complainant and Respondent success rates: Complainants win roughly 90 percent of the disputes. This disparity transcends case type, country identity, income level and other litigant-specific characteristics. After analyzing and discarding standard empirical and theoretical alternative explanations for the systematic disparity in success rates, this study demonstrates that biased rule development explains this disparity through an examination of patterns in WTO adjudicators' notorious decisions. This article then discusses the effect of biased rule development on perceptions of the WTO dispute settlement system's democratic legitimacy and legality.