cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of nitrogen and climate change interactions on ambient air pollution and human health.

Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are important components of ambient and indoor air pollution and are emitted from a range of combustion sources, including on-road mobile sources, electric power generators, and non-road mobile sources. While anthropogenic sources dominate, NOx is also formed by lightning strikes and wildland fires and is also emitted by soil. Reduced nitrogen (e.g., ammonia, NH3) is also emitted by various sources, including fertilizer application and animal waste decomposition. Nitrogen oxides, ozone (O3) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution related to atmospheric emissions of nitrogen (N) and other pollutants can cause premature death and a variety of serious health effects. Climate change is expected to impact how N-related pollutants affect human health. For example, changes in temperature and precipitation patterns are projected to both lengthen the O3 season and intensify high O3 episodes in some areas. Other climate-related changes may increase the atmospheric release of N compounds through impacts on wildfire regimes, soil emissions, and biogenic emissions from terrestrial ecosystems. This paper examines the potential human health implications of climate change and N cycle interactions related to ambient air pollution.
Simulation and Control of a Projectile-Mounted Target Tracking Platform

The nonlinear equations of motion for a projectile-mou nted target tracking platform are developed and simulated on a digital computer. This computer simulation is used to evaluate the performance of the platform control system design. The controller is designed by linearizing the equations of motion and applying linear optimal control techniques. Application of these techniques yielded constant feedback control gains, which when multiplied by the errors of the states produced control signal inputs to the nonlinear equations of motion. The results indicate that linear control techniques can be successfully applied to this nonlinear system and that linear regulator feedback gains can be used for control of certain more general command conditions by use of feedback of the errors between command and state variables. Also indicated is that for the rolling projectile, the tracking error decreases as the projectile becomes more aligned with the target position.
Daytime shelter-seeking behavior in domestic horses

Abstract We examined daytime shelter-seeking behavior (SSB) in domestic horses housed outdoors and studied the relationship of temperature, precipitation, and wind speed with SSB. We studied 50-60 Arabian horses (depending upon time of year) and 3-5 draft horses. Horses were divided among 8 pastures containing sheds. There were 2 study phases. In the first, up to 676 scan samples were taken for each pasture over a 12-month period (total observations=5,025). At each observation, we noted whether or not a shed was being used. In the second phase, randomly selected focal animals were chosen from each pasture and observed twice per week for 16 weeks. Forty-four focal animals were observed (total observations=3930). At each sampling time, we noted weather conditions and recorded whether each subject was standing or lying inside or next to shelters. Shelter usage ranged from a low of 4.9 m/s. When wind was >2.2 m/s, there was a significant effect of rain on shelter usage, that is, more horses used shelters in rainy, breezy conditions ( P 2.2 m/s, there was a significant effect of snow on shelter usage, that is, more horses used shelters in snowy, breezy conditions ( P
Fault-tolerant disk storage and file systems using reflective memory

Most replicated storage and file systems either take a specialized hardware approach or a software-oriented approach to fault tolerance. The paper describes a fault-tolerant disk storage and file system that falls in between the hardware and software categories. The system uses reflective memory to interconnect an array of standard computers comprising a massively parallel system. This architecture provides the basis for high availability replicated file and storage systems with the performance and low overhead expected from specialized hardware while offering the modularity and scalability of a distributed system. We describe the implementation of the fault-tolerant file and storage system to run large scale I/O-intensive applications, such as emulation of a stable storage DASD subsystem. Preliminary performance measurements indicate that selectively broadcasting regions of reflective memory allows for virtually no overhead over conventional systems for supporting replicated, distributed storage and file services. >
Role of Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms in Exacerbations of COPD

Background and aims The impact of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) on exacerbations of COPD has never been evaluated. The aims of this investigation were to determine the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) symptoms in COPD patients and the effect of GER on the rate of exacerbations of COPD per year. Methods A questionnaire-based, cross sectional survey was performed. Subjects were recruited from the outpatient pulmonary clinics at the University of Florida Health Science Center/Jacksonville. Included patients had an established diagnosis of COPD. Exclusion criteria were respiratory disorders other than COPD, known esophageal disease, active peptic ulcer disease, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, mastocytosis, scleroderma, and current alcohol abuse. Those meeting criteria and agreeing to participate were asked to complete the Mayo Clinic GERD questionnaire by either personal/telephone interview. Clinically significant reflux was defined as heartburn and/or acid regurgitation weekly. Other outcome measures noted were frequency and type of COPD exacerbations. Statistical analysis was performed using the Fisher exact test for categorical data and the independent t test for interval data. Results Eighty-six patients were enrolled and interviewed (mean age, 67.5 years). Male patients accounted for 55% of the study group. Overall, 37% of patients reported GER symptoms. The mean FEV1 percentage of predicted was similar in those with or without GER. The rate of exacerbations of COPD was twice as high in patients with GER symptoms compared to those without GER symptoms (3.2/yr vs 1.6/yr, p = 0.02). Conclusions The presence of GER symptoms appears to be associated with increased exacerbations of COPD.
Employee Empowerment: An Integrative Psychological Approach

An integrative psychological approach to employee empowerment was developed based on the premise that the psychological experience of power underlies feelings of empowerment. This research extends existing perspectives on empowerment by incorporating the empowering effect of valued goals, such as those provided by transformational leadership. Goal internalisation was identified as a major component of the psychological experience of empowerment, in addition to the two traditional facets of perceptions of control over the work environment and perceptions of self-efficacy or competence. Standard measure development procedures using a sample of employed individuals from Quebec, Canada and subsequent validation with an organisational sample from Ontario, Canada yielded a three-factor scale of psychological empowerment corresponding to these three dimensions. The implications of defining empowerment as a psychological state and the need for multiple measures of empowerment are also discussed.
Development of Trust in Rural Nonprofit Collaborations

Development of trust among organization leaders and staff is important to the formation of successful organizational collaborations. Nonprofit leaders in two rural regions of southern Illinois and ...
The safety of dental amalgam in children

The safety of mercury-containing dental amalgam has been hotly debated for well over a century. Dental exposures from mercury have been suggested as the cause of numerous diseases including multiple sclerosis, autism and many others. Known health effects of mercury exposure include CNS and renal damage. However, these effects have only been shown at occupational or higher levels of exposure, and have not been conclusively shown to be present at levels of mercury exposure consistent with that from dental amalgam fillings. The use of mercury amalgam fillings remains a state-of-the-art treatment for dental caries throughout the world. Although there have been a small number of peer-reviewed reports examining the health effects of dental mercury in children, only very recently have the only randomised, controlled clinical trials (two) of the safety of mercury amalgam been published. The purpose of this review is to discuss the scientific evidence on the safety of the use of mercury-containing dental amalgam as a treatment for dental caries.
Using self-organizing maps to develop ambient air quality classifications: a time series example.

Background Development of exposure metrics that capture features of the multipollutant environment are needed to investigate health effects of pollutant mixtures. This is a complex problem that requires development of new methodologies.
The RUSH Exam: Rapid Ultrasound in SHock in the Evaluation of the Critically lll

The RUSH exam (Rapid Ultrasound in SHock examination), presented in this article, represents a comprehensive algorithm for the integration of bedside ultrasound into the care of the patient in shock. By focusing on a stepwise evaluation of the shock patient defined here as "Pump, Tank, and Pipes," clinicians will gain crucial anatomic and physiologic data to better care for these patients.
Neuroimaging with magnetoencephalography: A dynamic view of brain pathophysiology.

Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a noninvasive, silent, and totally passive neurophysiological imaging method with excellent temporal resolution (∼1 ms) and good spatial precision (∼3–5 mm). In a typical experiment, MEG data are acquired as healthy controls or patients with neurologic or psychiatric disorders perform a specific cognitive task, or receive sensory stimulation. The resulting data are generally analyzed using standard electrophysiological methods, coupled with advanced image reconstruction algorithms. To date, the total number of MEG instruments and associated users is significantly smaller than comparable human neuroimaging techniques, although this is likely to change in the near future with advances in the technology. Despite this small base, MEG research has made a significant impact on several areas of translational neuroscience, largely through its unique capacity to quantify the oscillatory dynamics of activated brain circuits in humans. This review focuses on the clinical areas where MEG imaging has arguably had the greatest impact in regard to the identification of aberrant neural dynamics at the regional and network level, monitoring of disease progression, determining how efficacious pharmacologic and behavioral interventions modulate neural systems, and the development of neural markers of disease. Specifically, this review covers recent advances in understanding the abnormal neural oscillatory dynamics that underlie Parkinson's disease, autism spectrum disorders, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated neurocognitive disorders, cerebral palsy, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, cognitive aging, and post-traumatic stress disorder. MEG imaging has had a major impact on how clinical neuroscientists understand the brain basis of these disorders, and its translational influence is rapidly expanding with new discoveries and applications emerging continuously.
Homeowner Investments: Are They Shaped by Perceptions of Neighborhood Risk?

This paper explores how perceptions of neighborhood quality and risk shape the investment decisions of homeowners. Using the confidential, geo-coded version of the American Housing Survey, this paper links household perceptions of neighborhood quality to actual measures of neighborhood quality and estimates how these factors influence a households decision to invest in their home. This paper will be the first to include measures of neighborhood level house price appreciation, crime rates, school quality and racial composition in modeling the investment decision of a homeowner. Based on estimates from the 2003 AHS, American households spent approximately $250 billion dollars on home improvements over the course of two years, (Leventis, 2007) compared to $5.6 billion annual investment from CDBG and HOME. This large contribution from homeowners means that the future condition of our housing stock rests on the decisions made by owner-occupiers. Indirectly the future of Americas neighborhoods is also dependent on upkeep by homeowners. When a household decides whether or not to invest in improving their home, they must predict how much of their costs they will be able to recover when they sell their unit. Increased perceptions of neighborhood risk could discourage home improvement if a household believes they will not be able to recoup their financial investment when they sell the house. The household must also predict how much consumption value they will gain from the investment, which will depend on their expected length of stay. Perceptions of neighborhood risk could decrease the likelihood a household will stay in their unit, leading to lower consumption benefits from a renovation. Galster (1987) finds that households which are one unit more pessimistic on a neighborhood expectations scale are expected to spend $542 less annually on upkeep than those who are one unit less pessimistic. This represents 75% of the annual expenditure made on improvements by the average household in 1987. In this paper, I estimate the maintenance decision as a reaction function to the level of neighborhood quality and risk, the householders socioeconomic characteristics, the dwelling unit value, and the socioeconomic characteristics of the households neighbors. First I estimate which factors influence the probability a household will invest in their home, and then I look at the factors associated with the dollar value of the investment. This paper will provide a rich understanding of how perceptions of neighborhood quality and risk factor into a homeowners decision to invest in their property.
Methods for Test and Evaluation of Night Vision Goggle Integrated Helmets

Three Interim Night Integrated Goggle Head Tracking Systems (I-NIGHTS) were evaluated under sustained acceleration in the Dynamic Environment Simulator (DES) centrifuge located at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH. Ten subjects underwent three different high G profiles: a +8Gz maximum profile, a +4Gz maximum profile with mask dangling from the left side of the helmet, and a +4Gz maximum profile with the mask removed from the helmet. Four different helmets were tested; three (A, B, and C) were prototype I-NIGHTS helmets obtained from different manufacturers and the fourth helmet (D) was the standard HGU-55P. Comparisons between helmets A, B, and C revealed that subjects wearing helmet A experienced the greatest amount of image migration for all acceleration profiles. Helmet B was impacted most by “goodness of fit” during the conditions where the mask was either dangling from the helmet, or removed. Of the three I-NIGHTS helmets, helmet C performed the best in terms of helmet and image stability.
Onp-adicL-functions over real quadratic fields

Introduction Let p be a prime number, and let Zp, Qp, and ~p denote the ring of p-adic integers, the field of p-adic numbers, and an algebraic closure ofQp, respectively. Let K be a totally real number field of finite degree over the rational field Q, and M a finite abelian extension of K. Write S for the set of primes of K lying above p, and G for the Galois group of M over K. Suppose we are given a homomorphism Z of G into the multiplicative group of Qv. For each integer n>0, the work of Klingen and Siegel [9] enables us to associate with Z an algebraic number Ls0(, n ) in Qp as follows. By class field theory, we can view X as a ray class character. Let be the conductor of X, 9 = f(P), and R~ the ray class group modulo .q. For each r~Ro, let ~(r , s) be the partial zeta function of r (for the precise definition, see w 1). Klingen and Siegel [9] have proven that ~q(r, n ) is always rational, and we define
Debonding of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Patches from Cracked Steel Elements under Fatigue Loading

AbstractThis paper summarizes the details of a numerical and experimental research program that was conducted to study the debonding of carbon fiber–reinforced polymer (CFRP) patches from cracked steel members under fatigue loading. A preliminary numerical model was developed to investigate the influence of patch debonding on the fatigue life of cracked steel elements. Results indicated that altering the shape and increasing the size of the debonded region could change the calculated crack growth rate by up to 54 times. To validate the model, six steel edge–notched tension coupons were patched with CFRP materials and tested under fatigue loading, while full-field strain distributions were monitored using a digital image correlation (DIC)–based measurement system. Based on the experimental results the numerical model was refined to incorporate the interfacial traction-separation behavior. A parametric study was conducted using the refined numerical model. The results indicate that the size and shape of the...
Voltage-Induced Ca2+ Release in Postganglionic Sympathetic Neurons in Adult Mice.

Recent studies have provided evidence that depolarization in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ can trigger Ca2+ release from internal stores in a variety of neuron subtypes. Here we examine whether postganglionic sympathetic neurons are able to mobilize Ca2+ from intracellular stores in response to depolarization, independent of Ca2+ influx. We measured changes in cytosolic ΔF/F0 in individual fluo-4 –loaded sympathetic ganglion neurons in response to maintained K+ depolarization in the presence (2 mM) and absence of extracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]e). Progressive elevations in extracellular [K+]e caused increasing membrane depolarizations that were of similar magnitude in 0 and 2 mM [Ca2+]e. Peak amplitude of ΔF/F0 transients in 2 mM [Ca2+]e increased in a linear fashion as the membrane become more depolarized. Peak elevations of ΔF/F0 in 0 mM [Ca2+]e were ~5–10% of those evoked at the same membrane potential in 2 mM [Ca2+]e and exhibited an inverse U-shaped dependence on voltage. Both the rise and decay of ΔF/F0 transients in 0 mM [Ca2+]e were slower than those of ΔF/F0 transients evoked in 2 mM [Ca2+]e. Rises in ΔF/F0 evoked by high [K+]e in the absence of extracellular Ca2+ were blocked by thapsigargin, an inhibitor of endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase, or the inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate (IP3) receptor antagonists 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate and xestospongin C, but not by extracellular Cd2+, the dihydropyridine antagonist nifedipine, or by ryanodine at concentrations that caused depletion of ryanodine-sensitive Ca2+ stores. These results support the notion that postganglionic sympathetic neurons possess the ability to release Ca2+ from IP3-sensitive internal stores in response to membrane depolarization, independent of Ca2+ influx.
A New Method to Assess Metastatic Potential of Human Prostate Cancer: Relative Nuclear Roundness

AbstractA new technique has been developed that helped in an accurate prediction of the prognosis of 27 patients with stages B1 and B2 prostatic cancer following radical prostatectomy. This method involves computer-assisted image analysis of histological specimens of the primary lesion removed at the time of radical perineal prostatectomy. On the basis of a nuclear shape factor, known as nuclear roundness, we have been able to distinguish those tumors with a high metastatic potential from tumors that are less aggressive. This technique provides pathologists with quantitative information about the metastatic potential of a tumor, which may aid in the management of the individual patient.
The Management of Patient Complaints and Dissatisfaction

Patient satisfaction is an integral component of the measurement of health care quality. Proper attention to patient complaints is one part of a patient satisfaction management strategy aimed at revealing and alleviating the causes of patient dissatisfaction.
Construction and utilization of carotenoid reporter systems: identification of chromosomal integration sites that support suitable expression of biosynthetic genes and pathways

In order to metabolically engineer microorganisms to produce compounds of interest, it is often desirable to integrate foreign genes into the chromosome of the host. However, the consequences of these genetic alterations are not always predictable. The use of a reporter system can often assist in determining chromosomal locations for optimal expression of foreign biosynthetic genes. The method described here involves the construction and utilization of promoterless carotenoid transposons, which provides a colorimetric screen for identifying the best chromosomal integration sites for the expression of the genes of interest. The transposons (pUTmTn5::392W and pUTmTn5::392) contain the carotenoid genes required for the production of canthaxanthin and astaxanthin, respectively. Thus, when promoterless transposons insert into the host's genome, the color of the colonies will vary based on their chromosomal location. There is a correlation between the color intensity of the colonies and the expression of the carotenoid transposon. The transposon insertion site can be determined via direct chromosomal sequencing. This sequence information is used to guide the site-specific integration of biosynthetic genes and pathways of interest.
Clinical utility of OCT4 in diagnosis of germ cell tumor

原始生殖细胞具有多向分化的潜能,由其发生的肿瘤形态变化多样,种类较多,如精原细胞瘤、无性细胞瘤、生殖细胞瘤和胚胎性癌,然而这些生殖细胞来源的肿瘤容易与一些非生殖细胞来源的肿瘤相混淆。
Evaluation of Diagnostic Tests in the Differential Diagnosis of Primary Aldosteronism: Unilateral Adenoma Versus Bilateral Micronodular Hyperplasia

Effective management of primary aldosteronism is dependent upon correct localization of excessive aldosterone production. We report our results of localization studies in patients with biochemically and pathologically confirmed primary aldosteronism. Retrospective chart review identified 69 patients with unilateral adrenal adenoma and 11 with adrenal hyperplasia. Correct unilateral versus bilateral localization of excessive aldosterone production was predicted in 70% versus 71%, respectively, by adrenal venography, 100% versus 63% by adrenal vein hormone sampling, 46% versus 56% by adrenal nuclear scanning and 69% versus 13% by anomalous postural decline of aldosterone. Adrenal computerized tomography appeared to localize correctly 86% versus 80% of the lesions. Unilateral adrenalectomy normalized blood pressure in 79% of the patients with unilateral adenomas versus only 18% of those with adrenal hyperplasia. Once primary aldosteronism is confirmed, localization by adrenal vein sampling, adrenal venography and adrenal computerized tomography is most effective in directing antihypertensive therapy.
Acute Ischemic Lesions Associated With Impairments in Expression and Recognition of Affective Prosody

Purpose We aimed to: (a) review existing data on the neural basis of affective prosody; (b) test the hypothesis that there are double dissociations in impairments of expression and recognition of a...
High-temperature stability of silver nanoparticles geometrically confined in the nanoscale pore channels of anodized aluminum oxide for SERS in harsh environments

We report the ability of nanoscale pore channels of anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) to endow entrapped silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) within with structural and oxidation stability for potential surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) at elevated temperatures. AAO was prepared via two-step anodization of high purity aluminum foil in phosphoric acid. Ag NPs of controlled size and coverage were obtained via in situ seeded growth from aqueous AgNO3 solution inside the AAO pore channels. The structural and chemical characteristics and the SERS activity of the Ag NPs before and after environmental exposure in air at up to 600 °C for as long as 5 days were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. We show that the Ag NPs entrapped in the AAO pore channels exhibit enhanced structural and oxidation stability and thus retain significant SERS activity upon high-temperature treatment, indicating the intricate role of geometric confinement in retarding Ostwald ripening, evaporation loss, as well as oxidation of Ag NPs.
Carbodiimide stabilizes the ultrasound-pretreated camelina protein structure with improved water resistance

Abstract Camelina protein showed poor water resistance, which restrained its industrial application, such as for adhesives or coatings. In this research, the effect of ultrasound pretreatment and carbodiimide coupling on water resistance of camelina protein isolate (CPI) was discussed. Camelina protein was extracted from defatted camelina meal by alkali solubilization and acid precipitation and treated by high intensity ultrasound. Both CPI and ultrasound-modified CPI (UCPI) were cross-linked by Ethyl-3-(3-dimethyl-aminopropyl-1-carbodiimide) (EDC). The cross-linked CPI exhibited increased molecular weight and particle size due to the amide bond formation between free amino groups and carboxyl groups. Accordingly, microstructures of the coupled protein became rigid and condensed with increased aqueous stability. The crosslink degree of UCPI was higher than CPI, leading to UCPI’s better water resistance, more compact microstructures and larger particle size.
READMISSIONS FOR PATIENTS DISCHARGED WITH ACUTE DECOMPENSATED HEART FAILURE AND REDUCED VERSUS PRESERVED EJECTION FRACTION: THE ATHEROSCLEROSIS RISK IN COMMUNITIES STUDY

Background: Hospital performance is tied to 30 day all-cause readmissions for patients discharged with heart failure (HF). Little is known of readmissions specifically for acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), or whether readmission patterns differ for HF with preserved vs. reduced ejection
When Nonverbal Greetings “Make It or Break It”: The Role of Ethnicity and Gender in the Effect of Handshake on Social Appraisals

Despite previous evidence identifying the role of ethnic and gender differences in nonverbal communication, few studies have comprehensively investigated the role of these factors in the effect of handshake on appraisals of social interactions. Here, 88 young adults (with equal proportions of Caucasians and East Asians, and women and men) observed and evaluated a series of movies illustrating guest–host interactions in a business setting. Each interaction started with a greeting protocol initiated by the host, which, in half of the trials, involved a handshake. The greeting was followed by a display of behaviors either encouraging (approach) or discouraging (avoidance) further interaction. Ethnicity and gender of the hosts were manipulated to depict the same categories represented by participants. First, the effect of handshake on appraisals of social interactions was more positive in Caucasian than in East Asian participants. Second, the effect of handshake on appraisals of social interactions was more positive for male than for female hosts in male participants, whereas such differences were not observed in female participants. Third, appraisals of social interactions involving approach and avoidance behaviors were more positive in Caucasian than in East Asian participants. Finally, appraisals of social interactions involving approach behaviors were more positive in female than in male participants. Overall, these findings shed light on the role of ethnic and gender differences in the appraisal of nonverbal behaviors, and extend our understanding of factors that may lead to successful social interaction in the context of growing diversity in our society.
Relating Task Demand, Mental Effort and Task Difficulty with Physicians’ Performance during Interactions with Electronic Health Records (EHRs)

Objective was to assess the relationship between task demand, mental effort, task difficulty, and performance during physicians’ interaction with electronic health records (EHRs). Seventeen physici...
The Metric Metric on S4

My favorite band is currently Metric. My kids’ favorite band is currently Metric. Our favorite video is “Gimme Sympathy” [1], in which the band members switch instruments several times. Below, we t...
"Diversity, Discrimination, and Decisions About Resource Distributions"

Diversity and discrimination continue to be hot topics in organizations today. Research in this area has continued to flourish; however, there is more work to be done. For instance, although we kno...
Clinical Applications of Treatment

Sexual perversion, as has been discussed throughout this book, is not a unitary phenomenon. It manifests itself in many varieties and degrees of severity. The most crucial distinction from the point of view of treatment is between those perversions that actively present a danger to potential victims and those perversions that are less threatening to other individuals. The former patients are more likely to be referred for treatment through the criminal justice system, whereas the latter are usually referred through more traditional sources of referral in which the presenting complaints may not necessarily be the sexual problem. This referral distinction may not always be operative. That is, the therapist during the course of treatment may discover that the patient is experiencing severe fantasies or urges that are potentially threatening to others, or worse, he is acting on them.
The MMPI-2: Development and Research Issues

Despite the volumes of supporting research its popularity promotes, the MMPI’s prominence quickly converts into disadvantage when discussion turns to the revision of this historic personality inventory. First, there appears to be some inertia where clinical practice and research tradition is concerned. This is true whether or not a particular method of assessment or mode of therapy has a research literature to support it, but is especially pronounced when generations of users fear the destruction of an instrument which has served them well while in the process of “improvement.” Second, among those who agreed that revision of the MMPI was necessary to some degree, there existed nearly as many proposed types of revisions as there were proponents of revisions. Suggestions ranged from the conservative (a simple renorming) to the radical (a complete abandonment of its empirical roots in favor of a more “modern” approach), and vehemence was equally distributed along this continuum. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the decades of “bootstrapping” promoted by the MMPI’s popularity have tied the test’s utility to a particular set of items. There is no a priori construct explication underlying the MMPI scales which permits painless item substitution or revision. Presumably, the further a new instrument strays from the stimulus materials indicated in empirical research, the weaker our confidence in the application of empirical findings to the revised instrument.
Synthesis and characterization of self-assembled ZnO nanoarrays on hybrid structural fibers

Abstract Hybrid carbon fibers with self-assembled and well-aligned zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoarrays can lead to novel structural materials that enable promising applications in multifunctional composites with beneficial properties including enhanced interlaminar mechanical properties and potential load sensing capabilities. In this paper, atomic layer deposition (ALD) and hydrothermal methods were integrated to synthesize ZnO nanoarrays in the shape of aligned nanowires and nanorods on carbon fiber fabrics. The surface morphology of ZnO nanoarrays were controlled by adjusting the reagent concentrations and hydrothermal reaction time. As-synthesized hybrid fibers were characterized to understand their critical properties including nanostructure morphology, crystal structures, ZnO weight concentration, and contact angle between water and ZnO nanoarrays. The results demonstrated that the ZnO nanostructures and morphology can be controlled and optimized for lightweight composite applications.
Minimization of cross-talk between Spindle Assembly Checkpoint silencing and error correction

Accurate chromosome segregation during cell division requires that sister kinetochores attach to microtubules originating from opposite spindle poles. This is ensured by the Spindle Assembly Checkpoint (SAC), which detects unattached kinetochores, and an error correction mechanism that detects and destabilizes incorrect attachment of both sister kinetochores to the same spindle pole. Both these processes are regulated by Protein Phosphatase 1 (PP1). PP1 silences the SAC and stabilizes correct, bipolar kinetochore-microtubule attachments. We show that this dual role of PP1 can be problematic. Premature recruitment of PP1 to the kinetochore for SAC silencing interferes with efficient error correction, because PP1 can then inadvertently stabilize incorrect attachments. The yeast kinetochore mitigates this cross-talk by: (a) using independent sources of PP1 for attachment stabilization and SAC silencing, and (b) delaying PP1 recruitment for SAC silencing until correct attachments are established. Thus, error correction precedes SAC silencing, and ensures accurate chromosome segregation.
Effect of supercritical CO2 on the performance of 740H fusion welds

Abstract The supercritical carbon dioxide Brayton cycle is of significant interest due to the potential for high efficiency and low capital cost compared to Rankine power cycles. Maximum temperature and pressure conditions produce higher efficiencies, leading to the desire for materials with high strength at elevated temperatures, such as INCONEL 740H. This alloy has been found to have good corrosion properties, but the mechanical and weld performance in carbon dioxide has not been studied. This study has attempted to address this issue by testing the mechanical properties in both base material and transverse gas tungsten arc welded samples before and after exposure to supercritical carbon dioxide at 750 °C, 20 MPa for 1000 h. After exposure to CO2, base material showed an increase in strength with a moderate drop in ductility, while welded samples exhibited a decrease in both yield strength and elongation. This matched well with samples which were thermally aged in a neutral environment. Further analysis indicated the CO2 environment had little effect beyond a depth of 5 µm of the surface, and no effect beyond 10–15 µm. The evolution of mechanical properties of 740 H in this environment, therefore, is dominated by the effect of thermal aging, with only trace impact by the CO2 environment. The thermal aging effect was shown to be mechanically detrimental within the fusion zone of the weld due to micro-segregation during the welding process.
SACUBITRIL/VALSARTAN BETTER THAN ANGIOTENSIN-RECEPTOR BLOCKERS FOR HYPERTENSION?

Sacubitril/Valsartan (LCZ696) has progressed to be one of the most promising medication since its approval for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Recent data have suggested a superior blood pressure control with LCZ696. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing efficacy and
Action research communities: professional learning, empowerment, and improvement through action research

Action Research Communities: Professional Learning, Empowerment, and Improvement Through Action Research (Mertler 2018) is a comprehensive blend of theory and practice. By unpacking the use of acti...
1981 Evolution of population stability: Theory

Abstract In 1974 Robert May showed that relatively simple deterministic population growth models can show a wide array of dynamic behavior, from stable points, to cycles all the way to dynamics with seemingly no pattern called chaos. Ecologists initially studied laboratory populations and determined that the large majority seemed to have stable dynamics in the laboratory ( Thomas et al., 1980 ; Mueller and Ayala, 1981a ). This lead Heckel and Roughgarden (1980) and Turelli and Petry (1980) independently to explore whether evolution might naturally favor stable population dynamics.
Analysis of patients who decline treatment for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: National perspective

BACKGROUND To analyze demographic and socioeconomic factors that influence patients' decisions to decline treatment for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). METHODS Retrospective cohort analysis utilizing the National Cancer Data Base of patients with oral cavity/oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal, and laryngeal SCC. RESULTS A total of 166 204 patients were included, of which 689 patients declined all treatment. Among early-stage (I-II) patients, Charlson/Deyo score ≥ 3, hypopharyngeal cancer, and no insurance or Medicare were more likely to decline all recommended treatment (P < .05). Among advanced stage (III-IV) patients, females (odds ratio 1.27, 95% confidence interval 1.05-1.53; P = .013), Charlson Deyo score ≥ 1, non-oral cavity cancers, and closer distance between patient's area of residence from treating facility were more likely to decline all treatment (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS Female patients and patients with no insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid are more likely to decline recommended treatment for SCC of the head and neck. Educational status is not predictive of declining treatment.
Geospatial Information Literacy Instruction: Frameworks, Competency, and Threshold Concepts

As librarians are developing library instruction curricula for map and geography libraries, there are many places where one can find guidance. Instructional frameworks can help organize and teach k...
Seller Curation in Platforms

Abstract This article explores why market platforms do not expel low-quality sellers when screening costs are minimal. I model a platform market with consumer search. The presence of low-quality sellers reduces search intensity, softening competition between sellers and increasing the equilibrium market price. The platform admits some low-quality sellers if competition between sellers is intense. Recommending a high-quality seller and this form of search obfuscation are complementary strategies. The low-quality sellers enable the recommended seller to attract many consumers at a high price and the effect of the recommendation is strengthened as low-quality sellers become more adept at imitating high-quality sellers.
Mitigating reflective cracking in composite pavements through the use of a ductile concrete interlayer

Abstract Reflective cracking of composite pavements refers to the phenomenon that cracks propagate from a deteriorated Portland cement concrete (PCC) slab to the newly constructed hot mix asphalt (HMA) overlay at locations where there are joints and cracks in the underlying PCC pavements. It is one of the predominant failure modes of composite pavements, often resulting in premature failure and limited service life of HMA overlays. To improve the resistance of composite pavements to reflective cracking, in this study, a new ductile concrete interlayer made of Engineered cementitious composite (ECC) was proposed and experimentally evaluated. ECC is a type of high-performance fiber-reinforced cementitious composites that features high tensile ductility, high fracture resistance, and high deformation capacity. It is expected that by constructing a thin ECC interlayer between exisiting PCC pavement and HMA overlay, reflective cracking can be prevented or significantly delayed. In the current paper, small lab-scale sandwich-type composite pavement specimens with and without ECC interlayers were constructed and tested under fatigue loadings that simulates repeated traffic loadings. The experimental result indicated that the ECC interlayer successfully suppressed reflective cracking and altered the failure mode of the composite pavement. As a result, specimens with ECC interlayers exhibited significantly (30 to 47 times) higher fatigue life as compared to the control specimens without interlayers. This result demonstrated that ECC interlayer is effective in reflective cracking mitigation.
Community-Acquired Pneumonia: A Focused Review

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common cause for admission to the hospital and contributes significantly to patient morbidity and healthcare cost. We present a review of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, presentations, risk-stratification, markers, and management of CAP in the United States (US). The overall incidence of CAP is 16 to 23 cases per 1000 persons per year, and the rate increases with age. Some of the risk factors for CAP include comorbidities such as, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and heart failure. CAP symptoms vary, and typically include productive cough, dyspnea, pleuritic pain, abnormal vital signs (e.g., fever, tachycardia), and abnormal lung examination findings. A diagnosis can be made by radiography, which has the additional benefit of helping to identify patterns associated with typical and atypical CAP. There are risk-stratification calculators that can be used routinely by physicians to triage patients, and to determine adequate management. The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and the American Thoracic Society (ATS) developed the Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI) which incorporates 20 risk factors to place patients into 5 classes correlated with mortality risk. In addition, the British Thoracic Society (BTS) established the original severity score CURB (confusion, uremia, respiratory rate, low blood pressure) to identify patients with CAP who may be candidates for outpatient vs. inpatient treatment. Inflammatory markers, such as procalcitonin (PCT), can be used to guide management throughout hospital stay. Antibiotic coverage will vary depending on whether outpatient vs. inpatient management is required.
Abstract P766: Ischemic Injury in a Dmcao Model of Stroke Demonstrates Long-Term Immune Cell Diapedesis Into the Brain Parenchyma

Background: Stroke injury following a middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) induces a rapid migration of leukocytes into the injured brain that lasts for weeks. The current study focuses on wheth...
The Austrian School of Economics: 150 Years

The year 2021 marks the 150th anniversary of Carl Menger’s Principles of Economics, the Austrian School of Economics’ foundational work. This paper looks at the most relevant work this school of thought has produced during the last century and a half. The Austrian School has worked on pressing topics of their time and is well aligned with the work being developed in “mainstream” economics.
Correction: Adsorption of short-chain perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) from water/wastewater

Correction for ‘Adsorption of short-chain perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) from water/wastewater’ by Chi Thanh Vu et al., Environ. Sci.: Water Res. Technol., 2020, 6, 2958–2972, 10.1039/D0EW00468E.
Antimicrobial tolerance, biofilm formation, and molecular characterization of Salmonella isolates from poultry processing equipment

SUMMARY Foodborne pathogens, such as Salmonella are problematic in food processing environments, and understanding the means of persistence is critical in the development of effective control measures. This study determined the antimicrobial tolerance of Salmonella isolates from the processing environment and characterized their biofilm production and antibiotic resistance. Twenty-five Salmonella isolates were previously recovered from poultry processing equipment in commercial production facilities after sanitation. The minimum inhibitory concentration of 2 antimicrobials; chlorine and quaternary ammonium compounds that were frequently used for sanitation was determined for these isolates using the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. Biofilm forming ability was assessed using the crystal violet assay and antibiotic susceptibility was also determined. These isolates were further characterized based on their genes that were responsible for biofilm formation and resistance to sanitizers and antibiotics. Minimum inhibitory concentration values between 500 and 1,000 parts per million for chlorine, or 3 to 25 parts per million for quaternary ammonium compounds were observed amongst these Salmonella isolates. These isolates possessed strong (24%), moderate (28%), and weak (48%) biofilm forming ability. All isolates were resistant to multiple antibiotics, and 64% exhibited resistance to aminoglycosides and β-lactams. Molecular characterization showed that the isolates possessed specific genes for biofilm formation, sanitizer tolerance, and antibiotic resistance. These results suggest that Salmonella isolates with low tolerance to sanitizers may remain on surfaces because of their strong biofilm forming ability.
Leveraging gene co-regulation to identify gene sets enriched for disease heritability

Identifying gene sets that are associated to disease can provide valuable biological knowledge, but a fundamental challenge of gene set analyses of GWAS data is linking disease-associated SNPs to genes. Transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS) can be used to detect associations between the genetically predicted expression of a gene and disease risk, thus implicating candidate disease genes. However, causal disease genes at TWAS-associated loci generally remain unknown due to gene co-regulation, which leads to correlations across genes in predicted expression. We developed a new method, gene co-regulation score (GCSC) regression, to identify gene sets that are enriched for disease heritability explained by the predicted expression of causal disease genes in the gene set. GCSC regresses TWAS chi-square statistics on gene co-regulation scores reflecting correlations in predicted gene expression; GCSC determines that a gene set is enriched for disease heritability if genes with high co-regulation to the gene set have higher TWAS chi-square statistics than genes with low co-regulation to the gene set, beyond what is expected based on co-regulation to all genes. We verified via simulations that GCSC is well-calibrated, and well-powered to identify gene sets that are enriched for disease heritability explained by predicted expression. We applied GCSC to gene expression data from GTEx (48 tissues) and GWAS summary statistics for 43 independent diseases and complex traits (average N =344K), analyzing a broad set of biological pathways and specifically expressed gene sets. We identified many enriched gene sets, recapitulating known biology. For Alzheimers disease, we detected evidence of an immune basis, and specifically a role for antigen presentation, in analyses of both biological pathways and specifically expressed gene sets. Our results highlight the advantages of leveraging gene co-regulation within the TWAS framework to identify gene sets associated to disease.