cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The design of a microstrip antenna array for a UHF space telemetry link

An array of microstrip antenna panels was designed for use on a small instrumented satellite as part of a 400-MHz telemetry link between that satellite and NASA's shuttle spacecraft. A roughly omnidirectional \phi -plane pattern was desired. The 1.4-wavelength diameter of the satellite and the various ports and structures on its surface presented strong constraints on the antenna array design. Eight antennas, each one a quarter-wavelength panel with one radiating and one shorted edge, were chosen. A \phi -plane pattern ripple of 4.4 dB and a gain of at least 0.1 dB relative to a half-wavelength dipole were realized. The design technique used for the individual antenna panels included the study of feed-point location for impedance matching and the effect of losses in the dielectric. A superposition method was used to synthesize the radiation patterns for different numbers and different excitations of antennas on the satellite.
Self-Rated Health and Physical Disability in Elderly Survivors of a Major Medical Event

This article describes change and stability in self-rated health after a major medical event. Using a prospective design, it examines the ability of premorbid and post-illness health perceptions to predict physical disability independently of medical, psychosocial, and behavioral variables. Participants (N=254) were a subsample of the New Haven cohort of the Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies of the Elderly (EPESE) project who had survived hospitalization for stroke, myocardial infarction, or hip fracture. Data came from premorbid EPESE interviews, medical records, and interviews at 6 weeks and at 6 months after hospitalization. Health perceptions did not universally decline after the illness. Self-rated health at 6 weeks predicted disability at 6 months, but premorbid self-rated health did not, suggesting that illness-related changes in health perceptions influenced the recovery process. The effects of 6-week self-rated health on disability were independent of physical inactivity. The mechanisms by which health perceptions influence recovery are unclear.
Race and Referral to Diabetes Education in Primary Care Patients With Prediabetes and Diabetes

PurposeThe purpose of the study was to determine whether there are any race-related disparities in the prevalence of provisions for diabetes education in primary care clinics for patients with diabetes and prediabetes.MethodsA retrospective cross-sectional study of 3967 patients aged 14 to >89 years with prediabetes and diabetes. Medical record data from patient encounters within primary care clinics at a large academic medical health system between July 1, 2008, and July 31, 2013, were used to determine rates of referral for diabetes education by race. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess associations between race and referral to diabetes education. Separate regression models were computed for patients who were prediabetic and diabetic. Adjusted models included age, sex, A1C, health care utilization, smoking, and diagnosis for depression, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, vascular disease, and obesity.ResultsCompared to that of white patients, a significantly higher prevalence of Afric...
A CCD based approach to collimated photon counting imaging for micro-SPECT/CT

Analog summation methods of x-ray imaging have nonlinearity in signal readout and dynamic range limitations. To minimize these limitations, a photon counting CCD-based gamma camera imaging system has been developed and evaluated.
Fluorine-containing linear block terpolymers: Synthesis and self-assembly in solution

In this paper a fluorine-containing monomer, 2-fluroroethyl methacrylate (2FEMA) was used to synthesize the linear triblock terpolymer poly(n-butyl methacrylate)-poly(methyl methacrylate)-poly(2-fluoroethyl methacrylate) (PnBMA-PMMA-P2FEMA). A kinetic study of the homopolymerization of 2FEMA by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization showed that it demonstrates living character and produces well defined polymers with reasonably narrow polydispersities (~1.30). Triblock terpolymers were prepared sequentially using a purified Macro-CTA at 70 oC, resulting in final terpolymers with high Dp for each block (>150) and with polydispersities between 1.6 and 2.1. The structure and molecular weights of the resultant PnBMA-PMMA-P2FEMA triblock terpolymers were characterized via 1H NMR, 19F NMR, and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Self-assembly of these polymers was carried out in a selective solvent and the micellar aggregates (MAs) thereby formed were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). It was confirmed from SEM that these copolymers could directly self-organize into large compound micelles in tetrahydrofuran/methanol with different diameters, depending on polymer composition.
The hardness of iron (N) films sputtered in Ar-N/sub 2/ mixtures

RF sputtered iron films can be significantly hardened from about 13 GPa to about 19 GPa by adding nitrogen to the sputtering atmosphere. The dependencies of hardness on the operating parameters for RF diode sputtering are reported. At a fixed bias the hardness depends only on the ratio of nitrogen partial pressure to iron deposition rate. The hardness correlates well with grain size, increasing for decreasing grain size. >
Screening for hepatitis C virus non-nucleotide resistance mutations in treatment-naive women

Objectives: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) non-nucleoside inhibitors (NNIs) target the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase encoded by the NS5B gene. Several NNIs share a similar allosteric binding site, and their antiviral efficacy is attenuated by a cysteine-to-tyrosine mutation at amino acid 316 (C316Y). In the current study, we assessed NS5B resistance mutations in treatment-naive individuals from a prospective natural history study of viral infections in women. Methods: Partial NS5B sequences from HCV-positive women were amplified by RT‐PCR. Additionally, subcloning was performed to evaluate intrapatient variability in selected samples. Results: HCV NS5B genotypes were 45 genotype 1a (57.0%), 11 genotype 1b (13.9%), 5 genotype 2a (6.3%), 3 genotype 2b (3.8%), 9 genotype 3a (11.4%) and 6 genotype 4a (7.6%). One HCV genotype 1a-infected patient was found to have the C316Y mutation (1.3%). Clonal analysis further revealed that all NS5B sequences from this individual—representing three serum samples collected 4 years apart— contained the C316Y mutation. In contrast, the S282T resistance mutation was not found in any samples. Conclusions: The C316Y polymerase resistance mutation was found in 1.3% of samples from HCVinfected women. The presence of this mutation over time suggests significant replicative fitness of this variant and has implications for development of new specifically targeted antiviral therapies against HCV (STAT-C) targeting this region.
Modeling of gate oxide shorts in MOS transistors

A unified approach is proposed for modeling gate oxide shorts in MOS transistors using lumped-element models. These models take into account the possible structure of gate oxide short and the resulting changes that affect the I-V characteristics of MOS transistors. They can be used with the circuit simulator to predict the performance degradation of the VLSI circuit with gate oxide shorts. Demonstrated examples of models show close agreement with the experimental data. >
Print versus electronic journal use in three sci/tech disciplines: what's going on here?

In 2003, an evaluation of journal use statistics at Washington State University was undertaken to determine if the selection of electronic journals in the Owen Science and Engineering Library was changing student and researchers’ choice of journals. Use statistics showed that most print journals were being used more than they were prior to the advent of electronic journals. Generally, electronic journals were used heavily and the availability of electronic format greatly enhanced the total use of most titles. However, some electronic journals were used little or not at all, and there was a substantial increase in the use of some print titles.
Sampling bias of minnow traps in shallow aquatic habitats on the Eastern Shore of Virginia

This study demonstrated sampling biases of minnow traps in shallow, estuarine locations on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, USA. We exhaustively seined six shallow-water sites (including semi-permanent barrier island ponds, permanent mainland marsh ponds, tidal pools, and tidal rivulets) and compared these collection data to those obtained with minnow traps. The relative frequency of occurrence of fish species was significantly different between the two methods in all cases. Further comparison of the two techniques, at ten additional sites representing a wide variety of habitat types and sizes suggested similar biases inherent to minnow traps. Specifically, minnow traps bias toward collection of a common marsh resident, the mummichog Fundulus heteroclitus, and bias against collection of several other resident species and juveniles of estuarine transient species. Minnow traps can be an effective collection technique for certain nekton species; however, specific biases inherent to the technique preclude their use as a method to accurately describe fish assemblages in shallow-water estuarine habitats.
Motor Control and Biomechanics of Laryngeal and Pharyngeal Muscles

This chapter reviews the laryngeal and pharyngeal muscles that are essential for voice, speech and swallowing in the human. The focus is on the individual and combined effects of muscle contraction and how these are controlled for both reflexive and volitional controlled functions in the human. Knowledge of the neural control systems is limited compared to limb control because of difficulties with the non-invasive study of laryngeal/pharyngeal mechanisms in the human. Human production of voice for speech is learned and cortically driven and and may be unique compared to other mammalian systems. Although functional neuroimaging has been fruitful questions about the accuracy of some cortical studies need further investigation. The integrative study of the complex neural control systems for laryngeal and pharyngeal muscle control for voice, speech and swallowing in the human are of high importance for improving patient care.
Reference Model 2: "Rev 0" Rotor Design

The preliminary design for a three-bladed cross-flow rotor for a reference marine hydrokinetic turbine is presented. A rotor performance design code is described, along with modifications to the code to allow prediction of blade support strut drag as well as interference between two counter-rotating rotors. The rotor is designed to operate in a reference site corresponding to a riverine environment. Basic rotor performance and rigid-body loads calculations are performed to size the rotor elements and select the operating speed range. The preliminary design is verified with a simple finite element model that provides estimates of bending stresses during operation. A concept for joining the blades and support struts is developed and analyzed with a separate finite element analysis. Rotor mass, production costs, and annual energy capture are estimated in order to allow calculations of system cost-of-energy.
Imagery As a Core Process in the Creativity of Successful and Awarded Artists and Scientists and Its Neurobiological Correlates

This perspective paper presents an integration of neuroimaging and phenomenological data obtained in a sample that included highly creative, internationally awarded scientists and/or artists. The cerebral blood flow (CBF) was evaluated during the performance of standardized creativity tasks from the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (TTCT) Verbal Form. The phenomenological data comprised both, their experiences and processes related to their creative careers and their experiences during the performance of the creative thinking tasks during the acquisition of the brain imaging data. Highly creative individuals presented a significantly higher activation of areas involved in motor imagery and described that their creative process is frequently triggered by the spontaneous and often surprising emergence of what is being named here as primordial imagery: a sudden, multimodal, multiintegrative, highly condensed representation that is germinative, unleashing insight and multiple associations and possibilities for meaning. As evidenced in creativity, imagery is a process through which we perceive our own minds, allowing us further symbolization and access to our thoughts, possibly facilitating neural pathways.
Curriculum development for computing education academy to enhance high school students' interest in computing

Addressing the documented shortage of students in the United Sates choosing to enter computing and engineering fields, Computing Education Academy (CEA) was established at Fairfield University in 2013 to expose the high school students to key computing concepts and basic computer programming through hands-on activities and to motivate students to enter post-secondary education and career opportunities in computing. The curriculum of CEA was developed with 24 class modules combined with lectures and lab activities providing basic computing skill development in first semester and Android App development in second semester. Based on the survey results after the completion of CEA in 2013–4, additional class modules combining Arduino circuit design and Android App Development components were added in the first semester CEA curriculum to help students better prepared for second semester. Survey results indicated obtaining higher levels of understanding of computing and mobile development through CEA. Details of CEA curriculum and evaluation results are described and future enhancement is suggested.
Analysis and Reformation on DC Bias in Main Transformer of Guohua Taishan Power Plant

The influences of ground current in HVDC power transmission system on main transformer of Guohua Taishan power plant are researched.The merits and demerits of four measures to eliminate the DC current in neutrals of main transformers in this power plant,such as connecting DC-isolation capacitor in series with the neutral,current restriction by adding small resistance to the neutral,injecting reverse DC current into the neutral and potential compensation,are compared by calculation results;the influences of connecting DC-isolation capacitor in series with neutrals of main transformers No.1 and 2 in Guohua Taishan power plant on configuration and setting of existing protection under summer maximum and minimum operation modes of 220kV and above power networks in Guangdong province are checked and verified,then it is recommended to connect DC-isolation capacitor in series with the neutral to eliminate DC current in neutrals of main transformers of this power plant.
[μ-2,3,5,6-Tetra-kis(2-pyrid-yl)pyrazine-κN,N,N:N,N,N]bis-[diaqua(dihydrogen m-phenylene-diphospho-nato-κO)nickel(II)] dihydrate.

The title compound [Ni2(C6H6O6P2)2(C24H16N6)(H2O)4]·2H2O or [Ni2(tpyprz)(1,3-HO3PC6H4PO3H)2(H2O)4]·2H2O [tpyprz = tetra­kis­(2-pyrid­yl)pyrazine, C24H16N6] is a binuclear complex with a crystallographic inversion center located at the center of the pyrazine ring. The equivalent nickel(II) sites exhibit a distorted {NiO3N3} octa­hedral coordination, with the three nitro­gen donors of each terminus of the tpyprz ligand in a meridional orientation. An aqua ligand occupies the position trans to the pyrazine nitro­gen donor, while the second aqua ligand is trans to the oxygen donor of the dihydrogen-1,3-phenyl­diphospho­nate ligand. The Ni—O and Ni—N bond lengths fall in the range 2.011 (3) to 2.089 (3) A. The protonation sites on the organo­phospho­nate ligand are evident in the significantly longer P—O bonds compared to the unprotonated sites. In the crystal structure, the complex mol­ecules and the solvent water mol­ecules are linked into a three-dimensional hydrogen-bonded framework through O—H⋯O inter­actions between the aqua ligands, the protonated organo­phospho­nate oxygen atoms and the water mol­ecules of crystallization. Intra­molecular π-stacking between the phenyl group of the phospho­nate ligand and a pyridyl group of the tpyprz ligand, at a distance of 3.244 (5) A between ring centroids, is also observed.
Effects of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Mixtures on Degradation, Gene Expression, and Metabolite Production in Four Mycobacterium Species

ABSTRACT Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are widespread environmental contaminants that are hazardous to human health. It has been demonstrated that members of the Mycobacterium genus are among the most effective degraders of PAHs, but few studies have focused on the degradation of PAH mixtures. In this study, single and mixed PAH metabolism was investigated in four phylogenetically distinct Mycobacterium species with respect to (i) parent compound degradation, (ii) bacterial growth, (iii) catabolic gene expression, and (iv) metabolite production. Synergistic and antagonistic effects on four model PAH compounds (benzo[a]pyrene, pyrene, fluoranthene, and phenanthrene) characterized degradation of mixtures in a strain- and mixture-dependent manner. The mixture of pyrene and phenanthrene, in particular, resulted in antagonized degradation by three out of four bacterial species, and further studies were narrowed to investigate the degradation of this mixture. Antagonistic effects persisted over time and were correlated with reduced bacterial growth. Antagonized degradation of PAH was not caused by preferential degradation of secondary PAHs, nor were mixture compounds or concentrations toxic to cells growing on sugars. Reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) studies of the characterized catabolic pathway of phenanthrene showed that in one organism, antagonism of mixture degradation was associated with downregulated gene expression. Metabolite profiling revealed that antagonism in mixture degradation was associated with the shunting of substrate through alternative pathways not used during the degradation of single PAHs. The results of this study demonstrate metabolic differences between single and mixed PAH degradation with consequences for risk assessment and bioremediation of PAH-contaminated sites. IMPORTANCEMycobacterium species are promising organisms for environmental bioremediation because of their ubiquitous presence in soils and their ability to catabolize aromatic compounds. PAHs can be degraded effectively as single compounds, but mixed substrates often are subject to degradative inhibition, which may explain the persistence of these pollutants in soils. Single and mixed PAH degradation by diverse Mycobacterium species was compared, with associated bacterial growth, gene expression, and metabolite production. The results demonstrate that antagonism characterized degradation in a strain- and mixture-dependent manner. One strain that was versatile in its pathway use of single chemicals also efficiently degraded the mixture, whereas antagonism in other the strains was associated with altered metabolic profiles, indicating unusual pathway use. The impacts of this work on risk assessment and bioremediation modeling studies indicate the need to account for mixture-generated intermediates and to recognize mixture degradation as a property distinct from that of PAH substrate range.
Paleontology's chimeras

Scientists who want to reconstruct the past often use presently existing things as models for things that no longer exist. For example, since we cannot observe the social lives of our Pleistocene ancestors, one suggestion is to treat existing hunting and gathering societies as models. Since we cannot observe dinosaurs, we might use living birds and mammals as biomechanical models. Up to now I have been arguing that historical science finds itself at a relative disadvantage, because (a) we cannot manipulate the past, and (b) historical processes destroy information about the past. But maybe these disadvantages are counterbalanced by another special advantage: the ready availability of observable analogues for prehistoric entities and events. THE ANALOGUE ASYMMETRY Although he does not use this terminology, Christian Carman (2005) calls attention to another potentially relevant difference between the past and the tiny. Picking up on an argument from Rom Harre (1986; 1996), Carman suggests that while there are plenty of observable analogues for past things, events and processes, there are few if any observable analogues for microphysical things, events, and processes. The particles and processes described by quantum theory are so wildly different from any of the middle-sized dry goods that we encounter in ordinary life, that scientists cannot safely use observable things and events as a guide to the ontology of the microphysical universe. On the other hand, the plants, animals, and natural processes that we can observe on Earth today are not so radically different from past living things and processes.
The acute effects of intra-articular hydrocortisone on articular cartilage in rabbits.

This study demonstrates the effect of intra-articularly administered hydrocortisone acetate in doses of 0.16 and 1.6 milligrams per kilogram on the incorporation of glycine-H3 into articular cartilage of rabbits. The steroid was injected into one knee joint and, at intervals up to twety-four days, t
Emotion regulation is associated with PTSD and depression among female adolescent survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

Objective Sexual abuse experienced in childhood and adolescence is associated with severity of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive symptoms, and emotion regulation difficulties. The current study examined the relationships among these factors in a sample of adolescents with sexual abuse-related PTSD. It was hypothesized that (a) self-perceived emotion regulation difficulties would predict severity of PTSD and depressive symptoms, and that (b) depressive symptoms would mediate the relationship between emotion regulation difficulties and PTSD. Method Ninety treatment-seeking female adolescents with a history of sexual abuse were evaluated using the Child PTSD Symptom Scale-Interview and completed the Negative Mood Regulation Questionnaire and the Beck Depression Inventory as part of a baseline evaluation. Results Greater emotion regulation difficulties were associated with greater severity of PTSD and depressive symptoms. In addition, the relationship between emotion regulation difficulties and PTSD severity was mediated by depressive symptoms. However, the reverse was also true: the relationship between emotion regulation difficulties and depressive symptoms was mediated by PTSD symptoms. Conclusions Mediation analyses showed that emotion regulation difficulties were associated with both PTSD and depressive symptoms rather than fitting a unidirectional model. These findings are consistent with and extend previous research and highlight the importance of emotion regulation in adolescent survivors of sexual abuse. (PsycINFO Database Record
Absorbable Fixation Materials: A Critical Appraisal

The use of prosthetic material for most hernia repairs is considered standard of care. Current advancements in both material engineering and surgical technique have improved treatment of this complex healthcare problem. The vast array of mesh materials and mesh fixation devices allow for a more individualized hernia repair. Location of hernia, physiologic milieu, and patient comorbidities dictate the type of repair and material, if any, to be implanted. However, the best practice of hernia repair is still elusive, and questions remain regarding the optimal mesh material for particular indications, the ideal technique for operative repair, and the most appropriate fixation method. As we gain a better understanding of the short-term and long-term impact of foreign body implantation within the body, we are challenged to develop new materials and to improve ways to secure mesh in place. The development of absorbable fixation materials has maintained the surgeon’s ability to accomplish the goals of mesh stability and durability of repair while potentially diminishing the impact that a foreign material may have on an individual patient in the long term. This chapter focuses on mesh fixation and specifically new technologies of absorbable fixation.
Study on Search Strategies for Assessing the Worst Case RF-Induced Heating for Multi-Configuration Implant System Under MRI

This paper presents a study on strategies of searching for the worst case configuration of a multi-configuration implantable system under magnetic resonance imaging, which induces the highest radio frequency energy exposure among all possible configurations. The strategies are usually based on parameter search to avoid brutal study of a huge number of possible configurations. Comparison studies of four different searching strategies, i.e., single sequential search, sequential search with the second worst case validations, hotspots-based sequential search, and multi-iteration sequential search, are evaluated. It is found that the initial configuration and sequence of parameter search can significantly affect the searched worst case configuration. For the multi-configuration system considered in this investigation, the simple sequential search strategy leads to a high probability of search failure, which means that the worst case configuration may be easily missed. Single sequential search with the second worst case validations and multi-iteration sequential search can significantly reduce the probability of search failure.
Bipolar TiO2/Pt semiconductor photoelectrodes and multielectrode arrays for unassisted photolytic water splitting

Bipolar TiO/sub 2//Pt photoelectrodes were fabricated by anodization of thin Ti foils onto which Pt had been previously sputter-deposited. These photoelectrodes are capable of a vectorial charge transfer. Current-potential curves were used to predict the behavior of multielectrode arrays. Several different multielectrode cells, utilizing KOH, O/sub 2/ electrolytes, were constructed. In series configuration, the open-circuit voltage V/sub oc/ is proportional to the number of panels used. With five panels in series, a V/sub oc/ in excess of 3.6 V is obtained, permitting unassisted photolytic (Xe lamp) water splitting to produce H/sub 2/ and O/sub 2/.
Immigrants’ access to care under the Affordable Care Act: An examination of California

Background: Welfare provision for noncitizens has been at the center of political debates. Understanding how Californian noncitizens and undocumented immigrants access health care would provide use...
A Clinicopathologic and Molecular Update of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms With a Focus on the New World Health Organization Classification

Context.— According to the 2017 World Health Organization classification, pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PanNENs) include a new category of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, grade 3, which is ...
Effect of Carbon Dioxide on the Degradation of Chemical Warfare Agent Simulant in the Presence of Zr Metal Organic Framework MOF-808

Developing novel and more efficient filters for chemical warfare agent (CWA) decomposition remains an important challenge for modern technology due to the continuous threat those weapons present in...
Coupling IR-MALDESI with Drift Tube Ion Mobility-Mass Spectrometry for High-Throughput Screening and Imaging Applications.

Because of its high degree of selectivity and chemical resolution, mass spectrometry (MS) is rapidly becoming the analytical method of choice for high-throughput evaluations and clinical diagnostic...
Early-Life Stress Induced Epigenetic Changes of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Gene in Anorexic Low Body Weight-Selected Chicks

The expression of neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) were increased when low body weight–selected (LWS) line chicks, which are predisposed to anorexia, were subjected to a combination of nutritional and thermal stressors at hatch. We hypothesized that such changes resulted from epigenetic modifications. We determined global DNA methylation, DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) activity, and methylation near the promoter regions of NPY and CRF, in the hypothalamus of LWS chicks on day 5 post-hatch. Stress exposure at hatch induced global hypermethylation and increased DNMT activity in the ARC but not PVN. In the PVN of stressed LWS chicks, there was decreased methylation of a CpG site located at the core binding domain of methyl cytosine binding domain protein 2 (MBD2), near the CRF gene promoter. We then demonstrated that this was associated with disrupted binding of MBD2. There was also reduced utilization of yolk reserves and lean and fat masses in chicks that were stress-exposed. These findings provide novel insights on molecular mechanisms through which stressful events induce or intensify anorexia in predisposed individuals and a novel molecular target for further studies.
Routledge International Handbook of Human Trafficking: A Multidisciplinary and Applied Approach: edited by Rochelle L. Dalla and Donna Sabella, Oxford, UK, Routledge, 2018, 433 pp., US 245.00 (Hardcover), ISBN 9781138244269

Despite the burgeoning interest, education, research, and advocacy efforts, a pinnacle handbook devoted to human trafficking and modern-day slavery – with a global focus and multidisciplinary scope...
Determination of Optimal Active Vitamin D Levels to Decrease COVID-19 Viral Replication and to Mitigate Its Secondary Inflammation (preprint)

25(OH)D3 is the immediate precursor of active vitamin D and is measured to evaluate vitamin D storage in the body. Unlike other vitamins, active vitamin D is a hormone acting on many receptor sites in the body. Measurement of plasma (serum) 25(OH)D3, levels, (the precursor of active vitamin D) along with the measurement of plasma (serum) calcium and parathyroid hormone levels, have been used successfully in the evaluation of patients with respect to bone health. However, measurement of plasma (serum) 25(OH)D3concentrations may not be adequate to assess other vitamin D hormone functions, including modulation of the immune system. In this paper, a molar balance approach uses vitamin D end metabolites to estimate fluctuating active vitamin D levels (synthesis).The ability to estimate active vitamin D levels(synthesis) in the body may allow determination of active vitamin D levels needed to decrease or suppress Covid-19 virus replication and to mitigate COVID-19 virus stimulation of an immune system inflammatory response. In individuals with acute and sometimes life-threatening Covid-19 infections, these new measured quantities could be used to quickly adjust active vitamin D, 1,25(OH)2D3, levels (synthesis) as well as inactive vitaminD3 storage levels to achieve rapid improvement in immune system function. This new vitamin D molar balance model may also explain why a particular serum 25(OH)D3 storage level may be adequate for good health in one individual but not in another or in one situation in the same individual but not in another.
Palladium-Catalyzed Enantioselective Cycloaddition of Carbonylogous 1,4-Dipoles: Efficient Access to Chiral Cyclohexanones.

A novel palladium-mediated carbonylogous 1,4-dipole was developed by in situ deprotonation. By using our own-developed C2-unsymmetric phosphoramidite as supporting ligand, this dipole was applied to the asymmetric synthesis of chiral cyclohexanones via a catalytic [4+2] cycloaddition. Electron-deficient allylic carbonate was used to generate the highly reactive palladium-mediated dipoles for the first time, and a diverse array of stable dipole precursors was explored for the elaboration of chiral cyclohexanones. A general mechanism for the reaction process and stereochemical outcome was proposed, which can be useful in designing and predicting future transformation.
Successful mitigation of stormwater-driven nutrient, fecal bacteria and suspended solids loading in a recreational beach community

Marine and estuarine waterways adjacent to urban areas are often the final recipient of polluted stormwater runoff. Microbial degradation of coastal water quality is a direct threat to human health through fecal contamination of bathing waters and shellfish, as well as distressing local economies through the loss of waterways to commercial (shellfishing) and recreational use. In coastal waters reduction of nitrogen loading is a key strategy for prevention of noxious and toxic algal blooms. Best management practices (BMPs) can be successful tools for mitigating such pollutants in runoff, but BMPs must be tailored to individual situations for maximum effectiveness. This study examines the efficacy of a set of BMPs installed in the coastal resort Town of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, USA. The BMPs targeted the highly-impervious (90%+) drainage area of two stormwater outfall pipes emptying into recreationally used Banks Channel. Mitigation measures included replacement of impervious pavement with pervious concrete and construction of an infiltration chamber in the parking lot of a local recreational seaside club. Significant reductions were achieved in total stormwater discharge (62%), as well as loading of the fecal indicator bacteria Enterococcus (76%) and total nitrogen (TN - 87% decrease). Additionally, there were reductions in loading of total phosphorous (TP) and total suspended solids (TSS) to estuarine waters following BMP installment. The set of BMPs applied here have wide management applicability to coastal ecosystems, as well as freshwater riparian areas characterized by sandy, porous soils.
T-Shaped Person for the Textile and Apparel Industry? Analysis of Cross-functional Skills

As the fashion industry continues to experience rapid evolution as a result of increased globalization, changing consumer behaviors and innovative technology, industry leaders are calling for fashion professionals to possess more than just technical skills. The industry requires professionals that can thrive in the fast-paced fashion environment through adaptability, collaboration and the willingness to learn. Medical, law, IT and R&D disciplines have been adapting the T-shaped person skills framework to align with those technical and cross-functional skills workers need in order for companies to be competitive in their industries. This study proposes a T-shaped person framework for the fashion industry professional. A content analysis of 450 US fashion job postings resulted in identification of technical and cross-functional skills called for by fashion recruiters across the industry's supply chain. These skills are illustrated in the proposed T-shaped person framework for the fashion professional.
Elevated Intestinal Inflammation in Preterm Infants With Signs and Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Objectives:Reflux is common in infancy; however, persistent signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal distress are often attributed to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In this pilot study, we a...
Complete Genome Sequence of Rhodococcus qingshengii Strain CL-05, Isolated from Concrete

ABSTRACT Here, we report the complete genome sequence of Rhodococcus qingshengii strain CL-05, which was isolated from pavement concrete in Newark, Delaware. The genome consists of a 6.29-Mbp chromosome and one plasmid (123,183 bp), encodes a total of 5,859 predicted proteins, and has a GC content of 62.5%.
Pedagogy vs. Technology: Challenges in Developing Online Courses in Social Work Education

Similar to all academic disciplines, the use of information and communication technology (ICT) in social work has grown exponentially in both scope and volume during recent decades. Until the COVID 19 crisis, main driving forces were the growing demand for higher education, constant evolving of innovative technologies, cost effectiveness, and accessibility that it offers to those who are not able to benefit from traditional face to face classes because of their geographic locations, responsibilities or disabilities. The Covid19 pandemic drove social work education to become almost exclusively and universally taught online. This required a quick conversion of tradition courses and development of new courses to be taught online. This article discusses and illustrates issues, challenges and strategies related to the interaction between the faculty and technology experts in the context of developing online courses and points to directions for future research. © 2021 Taylor & Francis.
Effects of usEPs on DNA, Nuclear, and Subnuclear Compartments

As the largest intracellular structure in mammalian cells, the nucleus, its double phospholipid nuclear envelope, and its chromatin/DNA content were suspected targets for usEPs. Many different methods were used to determine DNA/ nuclear damage including analyses with the comet assay, DNA migration on agarose gels, mitotic indices, and chromatid structures, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). In Jurkat cells exposed to (3.6 × 10−3 Vs/cm), the telomers were displaced from the nucleus, and nuclear membranes were sheared from the nucleus. SV40 fibroblasts did not show this apparent telomer and nuclear membrane damage, indicating cell-type differences., It was also shown as adherent cells were less susceptible to usEP-induced damage. Other studies showed that usEP induced significant physical damage to the nuclear membrane, cytoskeleton, and telomers, which form protein–protein or protein-DNA interactions with the nuclear envelope. Some usEP-induced nuclear/DNA damages were suspected due to effects similar to ionizing radiation caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Other studies using stably transfected cells with fluorescently labeled Histone-2b (H2B), which is tightly wound with DNA, and PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen), which is loosely associated with DNA, indicated that H2B remained in the nucleus. In contrast, translocation of PCNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm showed permeabilization of the nuclear membrane. So, usEPs had relatively severe and seemly rapid effects on nuclear structures. Yet, when phosphorylated Histone 2AX (γH2AX) was used as an early indicator of DNA damage in Jurkat cells, the damage appeared to be related to apoptosis's end stages since it was caspase-dependent. While all these methods are valid indicators of effects on DNA and/or the nucleus, the results between the comet assay and γH2AX under similar conditions with the same cell type are not readily reconcilable. One other study demonstrated that usEP also had effects on nuclear substructures called nuclear speckles, which are part of splicing factors and small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs) that exhibit roles to provide splicing factors at transcription sites. So, there are apparent effects of usEPs on DNA, the nucleus, and subnuclear factors; the full extent of these effects requires additional experimentation.
Imaging detection of endolymphatic sac tumor–associated hydrops

Object To determine if physiologically based MRI sequences can be used to detect endolymphatic sac tumor (ELST)–associated hydrops, the authors performed contrast-enhanced delayed FLAIR imaging in consecutive ELST patients with clinical findings consistent with hydrops. Methods Consecutive patients with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease and clinical findings of endolymphatic hydrops and ELSTs underwent contrast-enhanced delayed FLAIR MRI. Clinical, audiological, operative, and imaging findings were analyzed. Results Three patients (2 male, 1 female) with 4 ELSTs (1 patient had bilateral ELSTs) were identified who had clinical findings consistent with endolymphatic hydrops. Computed tomography and MRI evidence of an ELST was found in all patients. Their mean age at initial evaluation was 39.7 years (range 28–51 years). All patients demonstrated progressive sensorineural hearing loss that was associated with episodic vertigo and tinnitus. Contrast-enhanced delayed FLAIR MRI clearly demonstrated dilation of th...
Pricing policies for a two-part exhaustible resource cartel: The case of OPEC

Abstract This paper examines pricing policies for OPEC under the assumption that the cartel is composed of a block of spender countries with large cash needs and a block of saver countries with little immediate need for cash and a lower rate of discount. The decision problem for the two-part cartel is embodied in a game-theoretic framework and the optimal bargaining solution is computed using results from the theory of cooperative games developed by Nash. The set of feasible bargaining points—and the corresponding Nash solution—is computed under two assumptions on the behavior of output shares: that they are subject to choice and that they are fixed at historical values. Our results suggest that for fixed output shares, there is little room for bargaining, and the price path approximates the optimal monopoly price path. If the shares are subject to control, optimal paths depend significantly on the relative bargaining power of each block.
Communication Media and Mexican Social Issues

This paper examines the association between English-language and U.S.-origin communication media and the perceptions of Mexican social issues held by Mexican border and interior residents. The findings presented in this paper show that: (1) utilization patterns for communication media are associated with a person's place of residence in Mexico-border vs. interior; (2) communication media are not associated with a Mexican person's perception of Mexican social issues; and (3) language of communication media has slight differential effects on the perceptions of border and interior residents for the Mexican government's treatment of national problems.
Identification of a Precursor Pool of Ribosome Protein in Escherichia coli

Antibodies prepared against proteins from 50 S ribosomes of Escherichia coli also reacted with the supernatant proteins of a cell-free extract of E. coli which was ribosome-free. A reaction of immunological identity (Ouchterlony tests) was demonstrated for one of these supernatant proteins and one protein found in 50 S ribosomes. Isotope experiments involving a shift from 14 C-leucine medium to 12 C-leucine medium showed that these proteins are not formed by breakdown of ribosomes during the preparation of cell-free extracts, but instead represent a pool of ribosome protein which is utilized during growth. In shift experiments from 14 C-leucine to 12 C-leucine medium, the kinetics of disappearance of labeled supernatant ribosome proteins (as measured by reaction with antibody) indicated that half the pool is depleted in 0.1 generation time at 37 C in glucose-salts medium. The pool was also depleted under conditions of amino acid starvation of a “relaxed” strain which accumulated “relaxed” particles. Most, if not all, of the protein present in “relaxed” particles was derived from the pool. The pool represented about 3 to 4% of the total soluble proteins in the ribosome-free supernatant fluid of an E. coli extract. Images
Open-endedness, Schemas and Ontological Commitment

Second-order axiomatizations of certain important mathematical theories-such as arithmetic and real analysis—can be shown to be categorical. Categoricity implies semantic completeness, and semantic completeness in turn implies determinacy of truth-value. Second-order axiomatizations are thus appealing to realists as they sometimes seem to offer support for the realist thesis that mathematical statements have determinate truth-values. The status of second-order logic is a controversial issue, however. Worries about ontological commitment have been influential in the debate. Recently, Vann McGee has argued that one can get some of the technical advantages of second-order axiomatizations—categoricity, in particular—while walking free of worries about ontological commitment. In so arguing he appeals to the notion of an open-ended schema—a schema that holds no matter how the language of the relevant theory is extended. Contra McGee, we argue that second-order quantification and open-ended schemas are on a par when it comes to ontological commitment.
On spirit writing: materialities of language and the religious work of transduction

This is a speculative essay in comparative possibilities. It looks at some widely separated religious contexts in which a power-laden relationship across ontological difference – for instance, between living humans and a world of gods or spirits – is mediated by operations on the materiality of the written sign. These operations typically result in either materializing something immaterial or dematerializing something material. But they may also involve other activities that take advantage of specific physical properties of the written word such as being persistent, transportable, perishable, alienable, and so forth. Once divine words are rendered into script, they possess a distinctively material quality and form. They appear on some physical medium, and so are both durable and potentially destructible. Anything that can happen to another artefact can happen to them. The practices I dub ‘spirit writing’ subject the written word to radical transformation, taking advantage of its very materiality in order to dematerialize it, even if only in order to be rematerialized in yet some other form (such as a person's body). Many such practices seek to generate or control religious powers by means of transduction across semiotic modalities, material activities that help render experience-transcending forces realistic or at least readily imaginable.
TCR Vβ Usage by Acetylcholine Receptor-Specific CD4+T Cells in Myasthenia Gravis

In myasthenia gravis the muscle acetylcholine receptor (AChR) is the target of an autoimmune response. AChR epitopes recognized by CD4+ T cells in myasthenic patients have been identified. AChR-specific CD4+ cell lines can be propagated by stimulation of blood lymphocytes with synthetic or biosynthetic AChR sequences. We analysed, using a semi-quantitative PCR assay, the T cell receptor (TCR) V beta usage of 16 anti-AChR polyclonal CD4+ T cell lines of known epitope specificity, propagated from myasthenic patients using pools of overlapping peptides corresponding to the sequence of an AChR subunit, or individual synthetic AChR sequences. Twelve lines had been propagated for less than 2 months, four lines for 3.5-5 months. Most lines had limited V beta usage, but in most cases different V beta regions were used for different epitopes in the same patient, and for the same epitope in different patients. In a few patients, the same V beta regions were used for recognition of different epitopes. The V beta 4 and V beta 6 regions were used most frequently. These findings suggest that the potentially autoimmune T cells that survive clonal deletion have a limited TCR repertoire. Although the present data do allow conclusions on the role of a superantigen in triggering the anti-AChR autoimmune response, the finding that different V beta regions were used in different patients does not support an important role of a superantigen in the maintenance of the CD4+ response in myasthenia gravis.
The impact of pain upon cognition: what have rodent studies told us?

Pain interferes with cognition in humans. Acute pain can distract and interrupt task completion, and chronic pain patients experience trouble with attention, memory, and decision-making [23]. While rodent studies are inherently limited in their translational power to humans, rodents can perform complex behavioral tasks that probe facets of cognitive ability, using brain regions analogous to those utilized in humans [7]. These studies are crucial in pain research for uncovering the underlying cellular, molecular and signaling systems that dictate the effects of pain upon brain function. However, rodent studies of cognition demand a deep and clear understanding and appreciation of the potentials and limitations of rodent behavior, how these relate to ‘normal’ behaviors of the chosen species, and careful interpretation of results to human experience. This review will discuss how researchers investigate the effects of acute and chronic pain on cognitive processing in rodents. We define the term ‘cognitive’ as processing required in higher cortical areas such as the prefrontal cortex (PFC), since modalities such as attention, learning, memory, decision-making and risk-taking, all rely heavily on this region [7].