cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Estimating effective longitudinal dispersion in the Chesapeake Bay

An analysis of Environmental Protection Agency’s Chesapeake Bay Program hydrographic dataset shows that the bay responds coherently to variability in freshwater flux. Mean salinity and salinity stratification both respond to variability in freshwater flux on time scales of roughly 90 days. Stratification is also influenced by local wind forcing but on much shorter (4e5 day) time scales. The volume of available data allows the effective longitudinal dispersion coefficient to be estimated as a function of either time or space. Values for this dispersion coefficient vary between 200 and 1000 m 2 s � 1 , with mean values around 650 m 2 s � 1 . The spatially dependent structure has a maximum roughly 75 km from the head of the estuary, and decreases gradually towards the mouth. The temporally varying effective dispersion varies spatially as the inverse of the estuarine cross-section, and temporally as the cube root of the freshwater flux, and is at least qualitatively consistent with models of estuarine circulation and results of previous field studies. Estimates of the numerical values of the dispersion are useful for better understanding distributions of other tracers within the bay, as well as providing another metric against which numerical models should be measured. 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
The Virginia adventure : Roanoke to James Towne : an archaeological and historical odyssey

In The Virginia Adventure, Noel Hume turns his attention to the two earliest English settlements in Virginia, Roanoke and James Towne, with fascinating results. Combining information gathered through excavations of the sites with contemporary accounts from journals, letters, and official records of the period, the author illuminates the exploits of Sir Walter Raleigh, Captain John Smith, and Powhatan; the life and death of Pocahontas; and the disappearance of the Roanoke colony.
An Explanation of Differences Between Government Offices in Employees' Organizational Citizenship Behaviour

Abstract Organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) includes employees' discretionary actions not explicitly recognized by formal reward systems that in the aggregate promote the effective functioning of the organization (Organ, 1988). The present study was the first group-level investigation of OCB antecedents in governmental organizations using the office or bureau, not the government employee, as the primary unit of analysis. The hypotheses foundational to the investigation posited that aggregate employee perceptions of the importance and challenge of work assigned in an office would predict, in part, the degree of overall job satisfaction, and that all three variables would be associated with the level of OCB reported in an office. The present study was conducted with an organizational survey of all employees in geographically dispersed offices of a state government agency. Altogether 2136 usable questionnaires were returned for an overall response rate of 82 per cent and subsequently partitioned into...
Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy of LiCCH, NaCCH, and KCCH: Quadrupole hyperfine interactions in alkali monoacetylides

Abstract The alkali metal monoacetylides LiCCH, NaCCH, and KCCH and their deuterium isotopologues have been investigated using Fourier transform microwave (FTMW) spectroscopy in the frequency range 5–37 GHz. The molecules were synthesized in a supersonic expansion by the reaction of metal vapor, produced by laser ablation, with acetylene or DCCD. Use of target rods of the pure metal and a DC discharge immediately following the laser interaction region were significant factors in molecule production. Multiple rotational transitions were recorded for all species, except where only the J = 1 → 0 line was accessible (Li species). Quadrupole hyperfine interactions arising from the metal nuclei were resolved in each molecule, as well as those from the deuterium nucleus in the deuterated isotopologues. From a combined analysis with previous millimeter-wave data, refined rotational constants were determined for these species, as well as 7 Li, 23 Na, 39 K, and D eQq parameters. The values of the metal quadrupole coupling constants are comparable to those of the alkali halides and hydroxides, indicating a similar degree of ionic character in the metal–ligand bond.
BRAF and KRAS gene mutations in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm/carcinoma (IPMN/IPMC) of the pancreas

The Raf/MEK/ERK (MAPK) signal transduction is an important mediator of a number of cellular fates including growth, proliferation, and survival. The BRAF gene is activated by oncogenic RAS, leading to cooperative effects in cells responding to growth factor signals. Our study was performed to elucidate a possible role of BRAF in the development of IPMN (Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm) and IPMC (Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Carcinoma) of the pancreas. Mutations of BRAF and KRAS were evaluated in 36 IPMN/IPMC samples and two mucinous cystadenomas by direct genomic sequencing. Exons 1 for KRAS, and 5, 11, and 15 for BRAF were examined. Totally we identified 17 (47%) KRAS mutations in exon 1, codon 12 and one missense mutation (2.7%) within exon 15 of BRAF. The mutations appear to be somatic since the same alterations were not detected in the corresponding normal tissues. Our data provide evidence that oncogenic properties of BRAF contribute to the tumorigenesis of IPMN/IPMC, but at a lower frequency than KRAS.
Antecedents of organizational engagement: exploring vision, mood and perceived organizational support with emotional intelligence as a moderator

As organizational leaders worry about the appalling low percentage of people who feel engaged in their work, academics are trying to understand what causes an increase in engagement. We collected survey data from 231 team members from two organizations. We examined the impact of team members’ emotional intelligence (EI) and their perception of shared personal vision, shared positive mood, and perceived organizational support (POS) on the members’ degree of organizational engagement. We found shared vision, shared mood, and POS have a direct, positive association with engagement. In addition, shared vision and POS interact with EI to positively influence engagement. Besides highlighting the importance of shared personal vision, positive mood, and POS, our study contributes to the emergent understanding of EI by revealing EI’s amplifying effect on shared vision and POS in relation to engagement. We conclude by discussing the research and practical implications of this study.
DDFSeeks same: sexual health-related language in online personal ads for men who have sex with men

The HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1980s fundamentally changed sexual practices of men who have sex with men (MSM) in the U.S., including increased usage of sexual health-related (SHR) language in personal advertisements. Analyzing online personal ads from Craigslist, we found a substantial increase in SHR language, from ~23% in 1988 to over 53% today, echoing continuing concern about rising HIV rates. We argue that SHR language in Craigslist ads can be used as a sensor to provide insight into HIV epidemiology as well as discourse among particular communities. We show a positive significant relationship between prevalence rate of HIV in an ad's location and use of SHR language in that location. Analysis highlights the opportunity for SHR information found in Craigslist personal ads to serve as a data source for HIV prevention research. More broadly, we argue for mining large-scale user-generated content to inform HCI design of health and other systems, and explore use of such data to examine temporal changes in language to facilitate improved user-interface design.
Shared Decision Making A Path Toward Improved Patient-Centered Outcomes

A primary challenge to the American healthcare system is to improve quality by being more evidence based, cost-effective, and patient centered.1,2 The first 2 markers of quality are familiar to physicians and policy makers, wherein disease-specific performance measures and cost data are commonly used to gauge outcomes. The third quality parameter, patient-centered care, has gained increased awareness among the healthcare community but remains elusive to many. Patient-centered outcomes focus on patients’ experiences (eg, symptoms, quality of life) and preferences for these and other outcomes. Thus, the best outcome may be different for different individuals, depending on their priorities, values, and goals. For example, in assessing the outcome of implanting a defibrillator in an 80-year-old patient, we may need to look beyond 1-year mortality and ask whether the decision is consistent with the patient’s values concerning dying and acceptance of potential inappropriate shocks.3 In a patient-centered model, the focus is on high-quality decision making, stemming from the exchange of (1) balanced, evidence-based, disease-specific information; (2) presentation of treatment options and their inherent benefits and tradeoffs; (3) assessment of patient values, priorities, and goals; and (4) alignment of patient values with treatment decisions.4 This process of shared decision making (SDM) has the potential to advance patients’ desired wishes and to achieve better patient-centered outcomes while lowering the costs of care should patients choose less expensive treatment options.5,6 Decision aids are commonly used to facilitate SDM, conveying information about a particular disease and the risks and benefits associated with different treatment strategies, including no treatment at all.7 Decision aids may take the form of a Web-based tool, video, or pamphlet and may be administered in the hospital or office or even independently by patients before their visit. To date, >86 randomized trials have been …
Tropical Cyclone Occurrences in the Vicinity of Hawaii: Are the Differences between El Niño and Non-El Niño Years Significant?*.

Abstract Tropical cyclones in the vicinity of Hawaii are rare. However, when they occurred, they caused enormous property damage. The authors have examined historical records (1949–95) of cyclones and classified them into El Nino and non–El Nino batches. A bootstrap resampling method is used to simulate sampling distributions of the annual mean number of tropical cyclones for the above two batches individually. The statistical characteristics for the non–El Nino batch are very different from the El Nino batch. A two-sample permutation procedure is then applied to conduct statistical tests. Results from the hypothesis testing indicate that the difference in the annual mean number of cyclones between El Nino and non–El Nino batches is statistically significant at the 5% level. Therefore, one may say with statistical confidence that the mean number of cyclones in the vicinity of Hawaii during an El Nino year is higher than that during a non–El Nino year. Likewise, the difference in variances between El Nino ...
Compact beam-scanning x-band FMCW sensor for precise vehicle occupancy identification

An X-band FMCW sensor is developed with beam-scanning capability to reliably detect the vehicles with different shapes. Two-element transmitting antenna array is designed with single phase shifter and an unequal power divider to reduce the cost and achieve compact size of 4.5 cm × 4 cm. Experiments successfully confirm precise identification of the incoming vehicle and its occupancy.
Glycogen Depletion in Rat Skeletal Muscle Fibers During Exercise

Mammalian skeletal muscle is composed of fibers with different contractile, metabolic, and functional characteristics [1]. These properties suggest that the fibers may be used differentially depending upon the nature of the work performed by the muscle. Presently, however, little information exists concerning the participation of the muscle fiber types during work. In the present investigation glycogen depletion patterns in rat muscle fibers were estimated after varying types, durations, and intensities of exercise in an attempt to obtain information about how the different muscle fibers are used.
Changing Age Distribution and Theological Attitudes of Catholic Priests, 1970–1985

A 1985 survey of American Catholic priests replicated a 1970 survey and permitted tests of earlier projections made by Schoenherr and Sorensen regarding the fiuture of the Catholic priesthood. We found that the age distribution shifted toward older ages, as projected, but not quite as drastically as expected. Contrary to the projection, theological attitudes did not shift in the conservative direction; they became more modern, especially regarding faith and authority. The erroneous assumption in the Schoenherr-Sorensen projection was apparently that priests would turn conservative as they got older; this has not happened to any important degree. Also the youngest priests in 1985 were more conservative than their age-counterparts in 1970, and the overall level of morale rose from 1970 to 1985.
Preparation and characterization of antigen and antibody absorbents covalently coupled to an inorganic carrier

Immunoadsorbents were prepared by the use of an inorganic carrier. The proteins were covalently coupled to the carrier through a silane coupling agent. An immunoadsorbent prepared with human γ-globulin was found to complex with specific antibodies. These antibodies could be recovered in high yield and purity from the adsorbent. Similarly, insolubilized antibodies to l-asparaginase were used to isolate and purify the enzyme from crude extracts. These insolubilized antibodies are extremely stable with time and may be reused many times.
Dependence of force, velocity, and O2 consumption on [Ca2+]o in porcine carotid artery

The relationship between extracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]o), isometric force (Fo), unloaded shortening velocity (Vus), and the rate of ATP utilization (JATP) were studied in vascular smooth muscle (VSM) during the steady state of an isometric contraction at 37 degrees C. Experiments were conducted on porcine carotid artery media strip and ring preparations that were stimulated with 109 mM KCl substituted for NaCl. Unloaded shortening velocity was estimated by the "slack" test method. Both Fo and Vus were dependent on [Ca2+]o. Vus at 7.5 mM [Ca2+]o was 1.7 times greater than Vus at 1.6 mM [Ca2+]o. The difference in force at these two Ca2+ concentrations was more variable than Vus, but in general was less than the change in Vus. The rate of ATP utilization was assessed from steady-state measurements of tissue O2 consumption. Increasing [Ca2+]o in the range of 0.15-7.5 mM resulted in an increase in both JATP and Fo. The relation between JATP and Fo was nonlinear with JATP increasing proportionately more than Fo between 1.6 and 7.5 mM Ca2+. The calcium-dependent increase in JATP appears to be primarily related to contractile protein interaction, since the effect of [Ca2+]o on JATP was substantially reduced during stimulation at short muscle lengths (Lmin), where tension development is absent. The economy of tension maintenance was 3.3. times greater when measured in the [Ca2+]o range of 0.15 and 1.6 mM than when measured at 1.6 to 7.5 mM [Ca2+]o. These data indicate that [Ca2+]o may regulate both the number and the rate of cycling of cross bridges in porcine carotid artery.
SELF-CONCEPT IN NEGRO AND WHITE PRE-ADOLESCENT DELINQUENT BOYS

Fifty-five negro and white pre-adolescent delinquent boys were administered a version of the Osgood Semantic Differential Technique designed as an exploratory measure of self.concept. Of the concepts tested, only one attained a significant level of difference between the two groups. "Boys who get into trouble" was perceived by the negro group as generally a more positive concept. The results are discussed in relation to current social forces within the urban negro community.
Change in population characteristics and teen birth rates in 77 community areas: Chicago, Illinois, 1999–2009

Objective. We analyzed community area differences in teen births in Chicago, Illinois, from 1999 to 2009. We analyzed the association between changes in teen birth rates and concurrent measures of community area socioeconomic and demographic change. Methods. Mean annual changes in teen birth rates in 77 Chicago community areas were correlated with concurrent census-based population changes during the decade. Census measures included changes in race/ethnicity, adult high school dropouts, poverty or higher-income households, crowded housing, unemployment, English proficiency, foreign-born residents, or residents who moved in the last five years. We included non-collinear census measures with a p,0.1 bivariate association with change in teen births in a stepwise multiple linear regression model. Results. Teen birth rates in Chicago fell faster than the overall birth rates, from 85 births per 1,000 teens in 1999 to 57 births per 1,000 teens in 2009. There were strong positive associations between increases in the percentage of residents who were black and Hispanic, poor, without a high school diploma, and living in crowded housing, and a negative association with an increase in higher-income households. Population changes in poverty, Hispanic population, and high school dropouts were the only significant measures in the final model, explaining almost half of the variance in teen birth rate changes. Conclusion. The study provides a model of census-based measures that can be used to evaluate predicted vs. observed rates of change in teen births across communities, offering the potential to more appropriately prioritize public health resources for preventing unintended teen pregnancy.
Balancing Art and Science of Landscape Architecture:Hand-drawing in China and Computer-aided Visual Quality Assessment in Michigan

Landscape architecture is a science-based profession,addressing the art of planning and design.This paper describes the balance between science and art by presenting the contents of the seventh lecture given by Dr.Jon Bryan Burley in the Fall of 2007 at Nanjing Forestry University.Dr.Burley presented personal hand-drawing examples of his work in China as well as an example of his recent computer-aided visual quality assessment work in Michigan.He described the differences between art and science,and between normative theories and scientific theories.For the designer,both approaches are necessary.As technology develops and changes,the new methods and techniques are incorporated and adopted by the profession.
Longitudinal split in nail plate of thumb.

A 64-year-old man has a several-year history of a persistent nail dystrophy of the thumb. There is no known preceding trauma to the affected digit, including no self-manipulation of the cuticles. The lesion is asymptomatic, except for occasional pain when he catches the nail plate on clothing, etc.
Promoting Physical Activity beyond Physical Education by Facilitating Student-designed Games

The conceptual role of the physical education specialist has expanded from that of the creator and disseminator of physical education curricula, to that of a comprehensive physical activity coordinator for the school. The coordinator's responsibilities usually include providing increased opportunities for students to be physically active during the school day and also to encourage the students to pursue physical activity when away from the school environment. The authors of this article advocate for educating the students in the use of student-designed games as a means of motivating them to increase physical activity experiences during their “free time” away from school. A rationale for the use of student-designed games is provided, along with a discussion of the basic constructional components of student-designed games. Examples of what student-designed game experiences look like in a teacher-centered learning environment are provided, and the transference to a more student-centered learning environment ...
A Tunable Dynamic Range Digital Single Photon Avalanche Diode

We characterize a digital, tunable dynamic range, single photon avalanche diode (SPAD) pixel fabricated in a standard 0.5 $\mu \text{m}$ , 2-poly, 3-metal CMOS process. The principal sensor used in the pixel is based on the perimeter gated SPAD. The perimeter gate enhances device performance through prevention of premature breakdown, with the added advantage of a tunable dynamic range. Experimental measurements of the signal-to-noise ratio over the visible spectral range show the perimeter gate improves the dynamic range at a small expense of the sensitivity.
INSULATOR/SEMICONDUCTOR INTERFACES

Often the insulator-semiconductor interface is modelled as an abrupt change from a crystalline semiconductor to an amorphorous insulator. For some applications this idealized model is satisfactory but for others it leads to incorrect results. Realistic modeling of the insulator-semiconductor interface requires an understanding of the chemical and structural properties of the interface and how it was formed. In this series of lectures, these properties will be discussed for the Si/SiO2, InP and GaAs/native oxide and the InP/deposited insulator interfaces. These interfaces are both technologically important and typical of the wide variety of possible insulator-semiconductor couples.
The thermodynamic and transport properties of GdCl3 in molten eutectic LiCl-KCl derived from the analysis of cyclic voltammetry signals

Pyroprocessing technology is a promising tool for recycling nuclear fuel and producing high purity gadolinium for industrial applications. An efficient implementation of pyroprocessing entails a careful characterization of the electrochemical and transport properties of lanthanides in high temperature molten salts. In this work, the cyclic voltammetry signals of Gd in molten LiCl-KCl salt were recorded for a combination of three temperatures (723 K, 773 K, and 823 K) and three concentration levels (3 wt. %, 6 wt. %, and 9 wt. %) including concentration levels higher than previously reported and relevant for a realistic application of pyroprocessing for molten salt recycle, and the concentration effects were investigated. Four scan rates (200 mV/s to 500 mV/s) were used for each condition, and the signals were examined using conventional Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) analysis equations and by utilizing a two-plate Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET) model accounting for mass diffusion, kinetics, adsorption, and t...
THE BURDEN AND FUTURE SCOPE FOR IMPORTANT VIRAL ENTERIC PATHOGENS IN AFRICA

Background The burden of viral enteric infections in Africa is enormous, although poorly described. Some, such as rotavirus, are well recognized, whereas others including norovirus or enteric adenovirus (EAd), show high burden which is only now being described. Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a neglected enteric viral infection although is on WHO9s radar screen as an important pathogen which needs further evaluation in Africa and Asia. This presentation will focus on these four enteric viral pathogens describing our current understanding of disease burden and the potential for vaccines as potential interventions. Many countries in Africa have documented the high burden of rotavirus. Almost 30 countries have introduced rotavirus vaccines with or without Gavi support, and recent studies document dramatic reductions in diarrhoeal hospitalizations and diarrhoeal deaths post introduction. Norovirus is a ubiquitous virus causing diarrhoeal disease in all age ranges, although the incidence is highest in young children. Although a common cause of diarrhoea, norovirus is often associated with asymptomatic shedding making it difficult to ascertain the true burden of the disease. Nevertheless, advances towards understanding the epidemiology and diversity of norovirus in Africa are important to inform future vaccine efforts. EAds have recently been described as one of the top 5 pathogens associated with acute severe diarrhoea in young children HEV is associated with water-borne and zoonotic infections, and is reported in large outbreaks. It has high mortality in pregnant women and is associated with high rates of stillbirths. Little is known of the extent of HEV infection in Africa. A Chinese vaccine against HEV has been licensed and WHO has identified gaps in research that are required for future immunization opportunities.
Compliance Audits of U.S. Federal Programs in the Municipalities of the Commonweath of Puerto Rico (Auditorías De Cumplimiento En Los Programas De Fondos Federales De Los Municipios De Puerto Rico)

English Abstract: The municipalities of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico are eligible to receive funds from the federal government of the United States. This study presents a descriptive discussion of the federal funding received by these municipalities during fiscal years 2005 to 2009. The findings of the audits performed in connection with these funds are also discussed. The results indicate that the municipalities in the sample received an average of $8.2 million a year in federal funding. The municipality of San Juan, the capital city of Puerto Rico, received an average of $126.5 million a year and was largest recipient of federal funds during the sample period. The results also indicate that 72.99 percent of the audits disclosed reportable conditions and 31.02 percent disclosed material weaknesses. In addition, auditors issued a qualified opinion report on 33.69 percent of the conducted audits. Lastly, 53.15 percent of all audited funds are associated with programs that disclosed audit findings. Spanish Abstract: Los municipios del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico son elegibles para recibir fondos del gobierno federal de los Estados Unidos. Este estudio presenta una discusion descriptiva de los fondos federales recibidos por estos municipios durante los anos fiscales 2005 al 2009. Tambien se discuten los hallazgos de las auditorias realizadas en conexion a estos fondos. Los resultados revelan que los municipios en la muestra recibieron un promedio de $8.2 millones al ano en fondos federales. El municipio de la ciudad capital de San Juan recibio un promedio de $126.5 millones, convirtiendolo en el mayor beneficiario de estos fondos durante el periodo de estudio. Los resultados tambien indican que 72.99 por ciento de las auditorias revelo deficiencias reportables y 31.02 por ciento de estas revelo deficiencias significativas. Ademas, los auditores independientes emitieron opiniones con salvedades para un 33.69 por ciento de las auditorias realizadas. Finalmente, 53.15 por ciento del total de los fondos auditados proviene de programas con hallazgos de auditoria.
31P NMR Characterization of Tricin and Its Structurally Similar Flavonoids

Abstract: Tricin, a flavonoid metabolite, has been recently identified as a component of lignin in select monocot plants. This finding has initiated consideration on updating the lignin biosynthesis pathway. We here report a rapid method of determination of tricin in corn stover lignin, based on 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy by phosphitylating with 2-chloro-4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaphospholane (TMDP). Nine other flavonoids, with similar structure to tricin, have also been examined using the current method. The application of 31P NMR enables rapid identification of tricin-like flavonoids in the heterogeneous lignin polymer. The well resolved spectroscopic peaks from these derivatized flavonoids and lignin functional groups provide important information for the determination of flavonoids individually or their association with lignin.
Population Control: Cortical Interneurons Modulate Oligodendrogenesis

During central nervous system development, oligodendrocytes must be formed in proportion to the number of neurons requiring their services. In this issue of Neuron, Voronova et al. (2017) show how cortical interneurons modulate oligodendrogenesis through a cytokine-mediated paracrine interaction.
H 2 O activity in albite melts at deep crustal P-T conditions derived from melting experiments in the systems NaAlSi 3 O 8 -H 2 O-CO 2 and NaAlSi 3 O 8 -H 2 O-NaCl

The system NaAlSi3O8 (albite, Ab)-H2O offers a simple and tractable model to study the thermodynamics of the volatile constituent H2O in felsic magmas. Although it has been studied in this context for nearly 100 years, developing a comprehensive model that adequately describes the activity of H2O ( $${a_{{H_2}O}}$$ ) in hydrous albite liquids and vapors has proven challenging. There are several problems. First, $${a_{{H_2}O}}$$ in hydrous liquids relies on melting experiments in the presence of mixed fluids with reduced H2O activity (H2O-CO2 and H2O-NaCl), but models of $${a_{{H_2}O}}$$ in these coexisting fluids have lacked sufficient accuracy. Second, the role of the solubility of albite in H2O has been assumed to be negligible; however, it is important to take solubility into account at pressure (P) above 0.5 GPa because it becomes sufficiently high that H2O activity at the wet solidus is significantly less than 1. Third, the dry melting temperatures and wet solidus temperatures are inconsistent between the datasets. We address these issues by combining previous experimental work on T– $${X_{{H_2}O}}$$ liquidus relations at 0.5–1.5 GPa with accurate activity formulations for H2O in mixed fluids (Aranovich and Newton, 1996, 1999). This yields isobaric T– $${a_{{H_2}O}}$$ sections at 0.5, 0.7, 1.0 and 1.5 GPa. Data at each isobar were fit to cubic equations, which were used to derive the following equation for liquidus T as a function of $${a_{{H_2}O}}$$ and P: $$T\left( {{a_{{H_2}O}},P} \right) = {m_0} + {m_1}{a_{{H_2}O}} + {m_2}a_{{H_2}O}^2 + {{m_3}a_{{H_2}O}^3}^\circ C$$ where T is °C, m 0 = 1119.6 + 112.3P, m 1 =–856.5–578.9P, m 2 = 1004.1 + 952.9P, and m 3 =–477.1–618.0P. The equation is valid at 0.5 < P < 1.5 GPa and T solidus < T < T dry melting. The nonzero solubility of albite in pure H2O is incorporated into the model to give the correct liquidus H2O activity when truncating the model equation in the limiting case where T → T solidus at a given pressure. This model equation reproduces both the liquidus-H2O contents and activities from the solubility measurements of Makhluf et al. (2016) in the binary system Ab-H2O at 1.0 GPa. The model equation also accurately reproduces the liquidus H2O activities from Eggler and Kadik (1979) and Bohlen et al. (1982) when the Aranovich and Newton (1999) activity formulation for CO2–H2O mixed fluids is applied to their datasets.
Natural History, Ecology, and the Conservation and Management of Sea Otters

This chapter introduces key aspects of the life history and ecology of sea otters. History—namely their near extinction from overhunting followed by protection and recovery—provides a context for much of what is known about sea otter ecology as well as an important point of reference for key issues having to do with their management and conservation. The species’ unique form and function led to their value as an economically valuable resource during the fur trade, the keystone role they play in the ecology of coastal marine ecosystems, their often extreme human appeal, and the challenges they face as the world’s smallest fully marine mammal. Although the sea otter is just one of the millions of species that deserve attention in the endeavor of biodiversity conservation, they highlight a number of issues that are central to achieving that goal.
Vapor+Liquid Equilibrium Measurements and Correlation of the Binary Refrigerant Mixtures Difluoromethane (HFC-32)+1,1,1,2,3,3-Hexafluoropropane (HFC-236ea) and Pentafluoroethane (HFC-125)+1,1,1,2,3,3-Hexafluoropropane (HFC-236ea) at 288.6, 303.2, and 318.2 K

Isothermal vapor–liquid equilibria (VLE) for the binary systems of difluoromethane (HFC-32)+1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoropropane (HFC-236ea) and pentafluoroethane (HFC-125)+1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoropropane (HFC-236ea) were measured at 288.6, 303.2, and 318.2 K using an apparatus in which the vapor phase was recirculated through the liquid. The phase composition at equilibrium was measured by gas chromatography, based on calibration using gravimetrically prepared mixtures. Both systems show a slight deviation from Raoult's law. The uncertainties in pressure, temperature, and vapor- and liquid-phase composition measurements were estimated to be no more than ±1 kPa, ±0.02 K, and ±0.002 mol fraction, respectively. The data were analyzed using the Carnahan–Starling–DeSantis equation of state.
Accelerated Loading Performance and Laboratory Characterization of Crumb Rubber Asphalt Pavements

This paper presents the findings of laboratory characterization and field performance evaluation of crumb rubber modified (CRM) asphalt pavements. In this study, a wet process (Wet Rouse) asphalt rubber was used as CRM. Laboratory mixture characterization included the indirect tensile strength (ITS), indirect tensile resilient modulus (MR), indirect tensile creep test, axial creep test, Superpave frequency sweep at constant height (FSCH), simple shear at constant height (SSCH), and repetitive shear at constant height (RSCH) tests. Field accelerated loading (ALF) evaluation included the performance comparison of three different pavement designs that included: (1) conventional structure (no CRM); (2) CRM in the wearing course mix; and (3) CRM in the base course mix. Based on the results of this study, the authors concluded that CRM asphalt mixtures and conventional mixes behaved very similarily in their laboratory characterization. ALF test lane contained CRM asphalt mixtures at base course exhibited significantly smaller rut depth than the test lane containing conventional mixtures, whereas, test lane with CRM mix at surface wearing course had similar rut depth as the lane with conventional mixes. (A)
Acute Kidney Injury Among Older Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography for Acute Myocardial Infarction: The SILVER-AMI Study.

Abstract Background Among older adults (age ≥ 75 years) hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction, acute kidney injury after coronary angiography is common. Aging-related conditions may independently predict acute kidney injury, but have not yet been analyzed in large acute myocardial infarction cohorts. Methods We analyzed data from 2212 participants age ≥ 75 years in the Comprehensive Evaluation of Risk Factors in Older Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction (SILVER-AMI) study who underwent coronary angiography. Acute kidney injury was defined using Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria (serum Cr increase ≥ 0.3 mg/dL from baseline or ≥ 1.5 times baseline). We analyzed the associations of traditional acute kidney injury risk factors and aging-related conditions (activities of daily living impairment, prior falls, cachexia, low physical activity) with acute kidney injury, and then performed logistic regression to identify independent predictors. Results Participants’ mean age was 81.3 years, 45.2% were female, and 9.5% were nonwhite; 421 (19.0%) experienced acute kidney injury. Comorbid diseases and aging-related conditions were both more common among individuals experiencing acute kidney injury. However, after multivariable adjustment, no aging-related conditions were retained. There were 11 risk factors in the final model; the strongest were heart failure on presentation (odds ratio [OR] 1.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.41-2.59), body mass index [BMI] > 30 (vs BMI 18-25: OR 1.75; 95% CI, 1.27-2.42), and nonwhite race (OR 1.65; 95% CI, 1.16-2.33). The final model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.72 and was well calibrated (Hosmer-Lemeshow P = .50). Acute kidney injury was independently associated with 6-month mortality (OR 1.98; 95% CI, 1.36-2.88) but not readmission (OR 1.26; 95% CI, 0.98-1.61). Conclusions Acute kidney injury is common among older adults with acute myocardial infarction undergoing coronary angiography. Predictors largely mirrored those in previous studies of younger individuals, which suggests that geriatric conditions mediate their influence through other risk factors.
Rapid expansion of northern peatlands and doubled estimate of carbon storage

Northern peatlands are an integral part of the global carbon cycle—a strong sink of atmospheric carbon dioxide and source of methane. Increasing anthropogenic carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere are thought to strongly impact these environments, and yet, peatlands are not routinely included in Earth system models. Here we present a quantification of the sink and stock of northern peat carbon from the last glacial period through the pre-industrial period. Additional data and new algorithms for reconstructing the history of peat carbon accumulation and the timing of peatland initiation increased the estimate of total northern peat carbon stocks from 545 Gt to 1,055 Gt of carbon. Further, the post-glacial increases in peatland initiation rate and carbon accumulation rate are more abrupt than previously reported. Peatlands have been a strong carbon sink throughout the Holocene, but the atmospheric partial pressure of carbon dioxide has been relatively stable over this period. While processes such as permafrost thaw and coral reef development probably contributed some additional carbon to the atmosphere, we suggest that deep ocean upwelling was the most important mechanism for balancing the peatland sink and maintaining the observed stability. Northern peatlands are estimated to store more than 1,000 Gt of carbon, almost doubling previous estimates, according to a reconstruction of historical peat carbon accumulation.
Reducing life cycle fossil energy and greenhouse gas emissions for Midwest swine production systems

Abstract Over the last 30 years, the US swine industry has concentrated more animals on fewer farms in the Midwest US corn-belt region to more efficiently produce pork. At the same time, the food industry is beginning to be called upon by consumers to supply products with lower environmental footprints. Swine producers have opportunities to decrease the environmental impacts of their products, but need to know where the most beneficial changes can be incorporated. This study examined the fossil energy consumption and global warming potential (GWP) emissions at Midwestern swine farms using life cycle assessment methodology. Cradle-to-gate swine production scenarios were modeled using a combination of farm productivity survey data and on-farm energy monitoring, with an emphasis on activities related to swine production facilities and their operations. Fossil energy use totaled 10.6 MJ per kg of hog live weight (LW) in the average commercial scenario, 67% of which was used in the grow-finish stage, 11% in the farrowing stage, 12% in the nursery stage, 6% in gestation and 4% in gilt development. Average commercial scenario GWP emissions were 2.41 kg CO2 equiv. per kg hog LW, with 75% emitted during the grow-finish phase, 6% in farrowing, 9% in the nursery phase, 7% in gestation, and 2% in gilt development. Fossil energy required and GWP emissions for facilities and operations were 3.36 MJ and 0.15 kg CO2 per kg hog LW, respectively, and accounted for 32% of the system fossil energy and 6% of emissions in the average commercial scenario. Though fossil energy and GWP impacts resulting from swine production facilities and operations are smaller than those for feed ingredients and manure management, swine producers can directly influence these impacts through management. Heating, cooling, and ventilation are prime areas in facilities and operations where energy efficiency technology could reduce impacts. Lowering facility and operation energy inputs by 30% would decrease fossil fuel use in the system by 10% and slightly decrease GWP emissions. In the future, substituting renewable energy for fossil-based energy and using other efficiency technologies for current electricity and heating fuel needs may be able to eliminate the fossil energy needed for swine facilities and production operations.
Ischemic Stroke Risk in Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation: JACC Review Topic of the Week

The last decade has witnessed remarkable advances in pharmacological and nonpharmacological strategies for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation. However, the currently available clinical stroke risk prediction models do not account for key nonclinical factors (arrhythmia burden, left atrial physiology and anatomy, chemical and electrocardiographic markers) and other competing clinical risks. Hence, their ability to identify patients who will derive the most benefit from pharmacological and mechanical risk prevention strategies remain limited. In this paper, the authors review the current and evolving ischemic stroke risk prediction schemes in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the models, and discuss the unmet needs in this field.
Compact Rapid Capacitor Charger for Mobile Marx Generator Applications

The purpose of this paper is to show the work being performed to develop a compact rapid capacitor charger suitable to charge Marx banks to voltages ranging between 5 kV to 10 kV. The capacitor charger is being constructed with mobility in mind; for this reason it is powered using a series of high current lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries. A brief description of the different system components is presented to familiarize the reader with rapid capacitor chargers. Additionally, a sketch of the proposed system packaging is shown along with a calculation of the proposed system's volumetric density. This figure is of paramount importance in mobile applications. Results of the preliminary tests are discussed outlining the performance achieved while charging test capacitor banks. Future improvements to the system will be discussed.
Diversity as a Compelling Interest: The Logical Application of Grutter v. Bollinger to K-12 Schools

This paper reviews the landmark Supreme Court decision in Grutter v. Bollinger. The author argues that Justice O'Connor's majority opinion in Grutter finding that diversity is a compelling interest can and should be logically applied to K-12 schools in addition to higher education.
Functional Relevance of Citrulline in the Vegetative Tissues of Watermelon During Abiotic Stresses

A non-protein amino acid, citrulline, is a compatible solute involved in the maintenance of cellular osmolarity during abiotic stresses. Despite its significance, a coherent model indicating the role of citrulline during stress conditions has not yet emerged. We have used watermelon, naturally rich in citrulline, as a model to understand its accumulation during drought stress and nitrogen perturbation using transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis. Experiments were performed in the semi-controlled environment, and open field to study the accumulation of drought-induced citrulline in the vegetative tissues of watermelon by monitoring the stress treatments using physiological measurements. The amino acid profiling of leaves and stems in response to drought stress showed up to a 38 and 16-fold increase in citrulline content, respectively. Correlation between amino acids indicated a concomitant activation of a metabolic pathway that included citrulline, its precursor (ornithine), and catabolic product (arginine). Consistent with its accumulation, the gene expression analysis and RNA-Sequencing confirmed activation of citrulline biosynthesis-related genes - Ornithine carbamoyl-transferase (OTC), N-acetylornithine deacetylase (AOD) and Carbamoyl phosphate synthases (CPS), and down-regulation of catabolic genes; Arginosuccinate lyase (ASL) and Arginosuccinate synthases (ASS) in drought-stressed leaf tissues. Based on the relative abundance in the nitrogen-depleted vegetative tissues and down-regulation of genes involved in citrulline biosynthesis, we also demonstrated that the nitrogen status of the plant regulates citrulline. Taken together, these data provide further insights into the metabolic and molecular mechanisms underlying the amino acid metabolism under environmental stress and the significance of non-protein amino acid citrulline in plants.
Occupational falls: interventions for fall detection, prevention and safety promotion

Falls and fall-related injuries are remarkably common in occupational settings. In 2017, 227,760 workers sustained fall-related injuries leading to a loss of working days and 887 workers sustained ...
Addressing Systemic Risk Using Contingent Convertible Debt — A Network Analysis

We construct a balance sheet based network model to study the interconnectedness of US banking system. After a simulation analysis of the buffer effect of contingent convertible (CoCo) debt in controlling contagion in the banking network under a theoretically motivated model, we use 13-F filings made to the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to calibrate the theoretical model. Our results demonstrate that CoCo debt conversion significantly reduces the average number of bank failures, decreases the Delta-CoVaR of the banking system, and thus, mitigates systemic risk. While CoCo debt with dual-trigger is not so efficient as a single trigger design in reducing individual bank failures, the former is more effective at protecting the surviving banks, which leads to improved stability from the perspective of the banking system. Two-tranche CoCo debt can combine the benefits of single trigger and dual trigger CoCo debt. We claim that the different designs of CoCo triggers result in trade-offs for addressing systemic risk, which may be evaluated in a network model developed in this work.
Risk of Gastrointestinal Bleeding With Extended Use of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug Analgesia After Joint Arthroplasty

Abstract Background Chronic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use is associated with gastrointestinal bleeding via inhibition of endogenous mucosal protection and platelet aggregation. This study aimed to determine whether extended NSAIDs after joint arthroplasty is associated with increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Methods This was a retrospective study examining 28,794 adults who underwent joint arthroplasty by one of 50 surgeons from 2016 to 2018. Episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding within 90 days postoperatively were identified prospectively. Postoperative medications were reported directly by patients with electronic questionnaires. The primary analysis was performed using binary logistic regression. Results A total of 74 (0.26%) episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding occurred within 90 days (median 8 days) postoperatively. Of 5086 patients with complete data included in the primary analysis, 59.6% had used NSAIDs with median duration of 2 weeks (interquartile range, 0-6 weeks). Patients with gastrointestinal bleeding were significantly older (71.3 vs 67.0 years), required longer hospitalizations (2.1 vs 1.5 days), and more commonly had a history of peptic ulcers (10.8% vs 0.9%). However, there was no positive association between NSAID use and gastrointestinal bleeding. In fact, the odds of gastrointestinal bleeding were lower in patients taking NSAIDs. Gastrointestinal bleeding was associated with anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, and, to a lesser extent, aspirin. Conclusion NSAIDs were not associated with gastrointestinal bleeding and may be prescribed safely for a majority of patients after joint arthroplasty. The greatest odds of gastrointestinal bleeding occurred in patients with peptic ulcer disease and those who received antiplatelet and anticoagulation agents. Increasing age and bilateral surgery were also associated with gastrointestinal bleeding. Level of Evidence Level III.
ESG investing, or, if you cant beat em, join em

If corporate purpose debates concern whether corporations should operate solely to benefit their shareholders, or if instead they should operate to benefit the community as a whole, “ESG” – or, investing based on “environmental, social, and governance” factors – occupies a middle ground. Its adherents welcome shareholder power within the corporate form and accept that shareholders are the central objects of corporate concern, but argue that shareholders themselves should encourage corporations to operate with due regard for the protection of nonshareholder constituencies. This Chapter, prepared for the Research Handbook on Corporate Purpose and Personhood (Elizabeth Pollman & Robert B. Thompson, eds., Elgar), will explore the theory behind ESG, as well as the barriers to its implementation.