cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Penile Prosthesis Infection

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a major health concern for aging male. For men with severe, medically refractory ED penile prosthesis remains a mainstay of treatment. Penile prosthesis infection is an infrequent, but feared complication. The most common source of penile prosthesis infection is skin flora organisms introduced at the time of surgery. Revision and replacement of penile prosthesis carries a higher risk of infection compared to primary procedure. Other risk factors that have been implicated are increased operative time, preexisting urinary infection, spinal cord injury, and diabetes. Several perioperative measures such as washout technique, preoperative antibiotics, and antibiotic impregnated penile prosthesis have been shown to reduce the rate of implant infection. Frequently, penile prosthesis infections present with chronic pain, erythema, or device erosion. Necrotizing infections occur in a small percentage of the cases, but must be recognized and managed emergently. Regardless of the presentation, the majority of penile prosthesis infections will lead to the removal of the device.
Correction: Gupta, P.M.; et al. Iron, Anemia, and Iron Deficiency Anemia among Young Children in the United States Nutrients 2016, 8, 330

We would like to submit the following correction to our recently published paper [1] due to the error in classification of children as anemic [...]
Room for Manoeuvre: Rethinking the Intersections Between Migration and the Informal Economy in Post-Industrial Economies

Dominant scholarly and policy discourse implicitly connect growth in immigration to growth in the informal economy and negative socio-economic outcomes in post-industrial societies. In this introduction, we highlight some of the broader questions and implications raised by the multidisciplinary work of our contributors that challenge this immigration-informality hypothesis. We argue that existing studies of the informal economy in post-industrial societies underscore the multiscalar economic, social, and political facets and dimensions that shape the intersection between migration and the spread of informal economic practices in the global north. However, this body of work does not adequately connect the ways in which these processes influence immigrants' economic and labour market integration. The contributions to this special issue focus on these dimensions seeking to identify how they are constructed and the opportunities, challenges, and possibilities they present for migrant workers and migrant-receiving societies. Collectively, the contributions challenge dominant narratives surrounding the relationship between migration and the informal economy and contribute to theorise them as co-constituted at multiscalar relational processes. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Metro Environmental: The impact of training HVAC technicians using the SightPros-VirTechs system for remote, wireless, Internet video assistance.

This qualitative study explored the overall impact of training HVAC technicians using the SightPros-VirTechs system for remote, wireless, internet video assistance at a small HVAC company, Metro Environmental. John Thomason, the president/co-owner developed a website and a new SightPros communication tool that allows wireless, one-on-one, just-in-time, high-quality, video-monitored instructions between an expert at one site and a technician at another site. Metro Environmental successfully used the SightPros-VirTechs system to train a new apprentice remotely. The apprentice and expert changed their normal and routine physical activities because the expert worked remotely and the apprentice worked on-site. Within just a few months, the apprentice proved competent enough to go to customer accounts without more experienced technicians nearby. The technicians express excitement about the SightPros communication tool as a way to contact remote experts whenever needed. The customer and business contacts also give good reviews and suggest other benefits. The expert permanently captures the communications so the company can use the saved video for many applications, especially training. The dissertation provides a list of recommendations to trainers/educators for similar applications.
A Man with Heart Failure and Night Sweats

A 72-year-old man was admitted to the cardiology service for elective mechanical aortic valve revision. He had symptomatic, severe aortic regurgitation. For several months, he reported having gradually progressive palpitations, lightheadedness, orthopnea, dyspnea on exertion, and nonproductive cough. On the day of admission, he reported that during the previous 2 weeks, he had had drenching night sweats. He reported an unintentional weight loss of 22 lb over 8 months.
Hemolytic Anemia in Hepatic Disease with Decreased Erythrocyte Adenosine Triphosphate

Erythrocyte adenosine triphosphate (ATP) was assessed in patients with hepatic disease who had developed hemolytic anemia. Erythrocyte ATP was decreased, and this finding documents another cause for hemolytic anemia in patients with hepatic disease. The decreased erythrocyte ATP is secondary to hypophosphatemia, which is a common biochemical abnormality associated with hepatic disease.
Spieleplattformen: Zukunftspotenzial für Jedermann

Spieleentwicklung ist ein Feld vieler Extreme. Zum einen oft als Spielerei abgetan und mild belachelt gibt es derzeit kaum einen Bereich in der IT Branche mit vergleichbaren Wachstumsraten. Auch offenbart sich dem interessierten Beobachter schnell, dass Spieleprogrammierung mitnichten Spielkram ist, vielmehr versteckt sich hinter den spielerischen Produkten harte IT mit oft verbluffend komplexen modernen und anspruchsvollen Aufgabenstellungen.
Improvement of bone mineral density and markers of proximal renal tubular function in chronic hepatitis B patients switched from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate to tenofovir alafenamide.

Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is a novel prodrug that reduces tenofovir plasma levels by 90% compared to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), resulting in decreased bone mineral density (BMD) loss and renal toxicity. We aimed to study changes in BMD and markers of renal function of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients previously treated with TDF who were switched to TAF in as early as 12 weeks. This was a prospective single-arm open-label study of 75 CHB patients treated with TDF 300 mg daily who were switched to TAF 25 mg daily and followed for 24 weeks. All patients had been treated with TDF for at least 12 months and had HBV DNA <21 IU/mL at the time of switch. BMD and markers of renal function were taken on the day of switch and repeated after 12 and 24 weeks of TAF treatment. Hip and spine bone mineral density significantly increased from baseline to week 12 (+12.9% and +2.4%, respectively, P < 0.01). There were significant decreases in urinary beta-2-microglobulin to creatinine and retinol-binding protein to creatinine ratios by week 12 (P < 0.01 for both). Mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) did not change. Tubular reabsorption of phosphate was decreased at week 24 (P < 0.05). In conclusion, CHB patients previously treated with TDF experienced significant improvement in bone density and some markers of renal tubular function and as early as 12 weeks after switching to TAF. Bone density changes associated with TDF may not be entirely related to renal handling of phosphate.
Intragroup xenophobic attitudes, ethnic identity, and substance use among Latinx adolescents.

This study examined intragroup xenophobic attitudes, ethnic identity, and substance use (N = 905). Drawing on cognitive dissonance theory, we hypothesized that intragroup xenophobic attitudes among...
Galectin-3 is essential for IgE-dependent activation of human basophils by A549 lung epithelial cells.

Using novel co-culture model systems, galectin-3 is shown to facilitate basophil secretion of IL-4/IL-13, with implications that this unique mode of activation may be linked to a variety of diseases ranging from asthma to cancer.
Improved survival of glioblastoma patients treated at academic and high-volume facilities: a hospital-based study from the National Cancer Database.

OBJECTIVE The present study was designed to explore the association between facility type (academic center [AC] vs non-AC), facility volume (high-volume facility [HVF] vs low-volume facility [LVF]), and outcomes of glioblastoma (GBM) treatment. METHODS Based on the National Cancer Database (NCDB), GBM patients were categorized by treatment facility type (non-AC vs AC) and volume [4 categories (G1-G4): < 5.0, 5.0-14.9, 15.0-24.9, and ≥ 25.0, cases/year]. HVF was defined based on the 90th percentile of annual GBM cases (≥ 15.0 cases/year). Outcomes include overall survival (OS), the receipt of surgery and adjuvant therapies, 30-day readmission/mortality, 90-day mortality, and prolonged length of inpatient hospital stay (LOS). Kaplan-Meier methods and accelerated failure time (AFT) models were applied for survival analysis, and multivariable logistic regression models were performed to compare differences in the receipt of treatment and related short-term outcomes by facility type and volume. RESULTS A total of 40,256 GBM patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2014 were included. Patients treated at an AC & HVF experienced the longest survival (median OS: 13.3, 11.8, 11.1, and 10.3 months; time ratio [TR]: 1.00 [Ref.], 0.96, 0.92, and 0.89; for AC & HVF, AC & LVF, non-AC & HVF, and non-AC & LVF, respectively), regardless of care transition/treatment referral. Tumor resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were most frequently utilized in AC & HVF. Prolonged LOS, 30-day readmission, and 90-day mortality were decreased by 20%, 22%, and 16% (p ≤ 0.001), respectively, at AC & HVF. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence of superior outcomes when GBM patients are treated at AC and HVF. Standardization of health care across facility type and/or volume and comprehensive neuro-oncological care should be a potential goal in the management of GBM patients.
Intradural Extramedullary Surgical Lysis of an Arachnoid Web of the Spine: 2-Dimensional Operative Video

Arachnoid web of the spine (AWS) is a rare and subtle lesion that can have severe neurological consequences. Patients typically present with progressive myelopathic symptoms and have no more than a slight indentation of spinal cord on imaging, commonly referred to as the "scalpel sign." A unique feature associated with this lesion is the extent of (and sometimes the rapidity of) the recovery that occurs following treatment. In this operative video, we highlight the treatment of a 32-yr-old male with a history of lumbar spondylosis, who, over a 2 wk period, developed progressive spasticity and weakness of the entire left lower extremity and left foot numbness. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a T4-T5 "scalpel sign" and spinal cord compression on computed topography myelogram, which was subsequently taken to the operating theater. The major steps in this video include the following: A) a summary of the patient's presentation and preoperative imaging, B) the technical steps in the surgical lysis of the AWS, and C) his postoperative course. The patient tolerated the procedure well, demonstrating a rapid improvement in symptoms postoperative day 1. At the time of most recent follow-up (4 mo), the patient remains neurologically intact with a full return to his neurologic baseline. Surgical lysis of AWS demonstrated to be a curative procedure with rapid neurological recovery, showing no signs of recurrence or regression. Consent was given by the patient for the use of deidentified images and the intraoperative video for educational purposes at the time consent was obtained for the surgical procedure, in accordance with our institution's policy.
Legacy forest structures in irregular shelterwoods differentially affect regeneration in a temperate hardwood forest

Abstract Foresters are faced with managing forests for a broad variety of societal demands such as wildlife habitat, aesthetics and site stability while still providing monetary value to landowners through timber harvest. Regeneration methods need to be developed that offer alternatives to traditional management for timber to help meet these goals. Regeneration responses in third-growth forest stands, or those following harvest of second-growth stands are not well-studied. Such forests are now widespread across temperate regions and may exhibit growth patterns different than those reported previously for regenerating second growth that originated on land abandoned from agriculture. There is a need for research that can lead to new methods or modification of existing practice. Our study examines legacy trees and the associated regeneration across a 25-year chronosequence of 34 irregular shelterwoods regenerated from second-growth forest in southern New England. We compared regeneration of the three most common regenerating tree species: red maple (Acer rubrum), black birch (Betula lenta), and red oak (Quercus rubra). We used regression analyses to examine changes through time in height growth of the tallest regeneration for each species as well as changes in total abundance. Similarly, regressions for annual height growth of regeneration in relation to legacy overstory basal area were compared for each species. Over time, self-thinning occurred in the regeneration of all focus species, but at different rates. Black birch thinned most dramatically through time, and the saplings that survived retained a high position in the canopy. Red oak self-thinned most slowly, and its tallest stems retained competitive height, although did not surpass black birch. As legacy overstory basal area increased, annual growth of red oak regeneration slowed. Stand dynamics patterns are therefore significantly different from those of second growth forests where oak is a more vigorous competitor in both number and growth as compared black birch and red maple. Our results suggest that resource managers need to both recognize these differences in stand development and consider the tradeoff between increasing legacy trees and decreases in growth rate of oak regeneration, as well as long-term effects of increased structure post-timber harvest.
Very High-Frequency Silicon Carbide Microdisk Resonators With Multimode Responses in Water for Particle Sensing

We report on the first experimental demonstration of silicon carbide (SiC) microdisk resonators operating in water, featuring robust multimode resonances in the high and very high frequency (HF/VHF) bands. Thanks to its excellent mechanical, optical, thermal properties and biocompatibility, SiC is particularly attractive for physical, chemical, and biological applications in liquid. Compared with the prevailing device structures in beams and cantilevers, disk resonators offer larger capturing surfaces at the same length scale and greater flexibility in accessing their richer multimode responses, which can be harnessed for enhancing the mass sensing performance in liquid. In this paper, we design and fabricate SiC microdisks and experimentally characterize their multimode resonances in both air and water. We observe up to 28 flexural modes within ~ 5–200 MHz and quality ( $Q$ ) factors as high as ~ 1050 in air, as well as 12 modes within ~3–190 MHz and $Q\text{s}$ up to ~ 30 in water. These metrics are the highest among the reported flexural-mode micromechanical resonators operating in liquid. We further demonstrate the detection of single microparticle in water using the SiC microdisks and investigate the position-dependent multimode responses by combining laser interferometry and optical tweezering techniques. We observe multimode frequency shifts in response to single silica microbead loading, with mass responsivity up to ~ 120 Hz/fg. This SiC multimode resonator platform may help advance in-liquid particle sensing and biological measurement applications. [2018-0259]
The assessment and management of quality of life of older adults with diabetes mellitus

Introduction: As the population ages, the number of older adults with diabetes mellitus will continue to rise. The burden of diabetes on older adults is significant due to the disease itself, its complications, and its treatments. This is compounded by geriatric syndromes such as frailty and cognitive dysfunction. Consequently, health and diabetes-related quality of life (QoL) are diminished.Areas covered: This article reviews the value of assessing QoL in providing patient-centered care and the associations between QoL measures and health outcomes. The determinants of QoL particular to diabetes and the older population are reviewed, including psychosocial, physical, and cognitive burdens of diabetes and aging and the impact of hypoglycemia on QoL. Strategies are described to alleviate these burdens and improve QoL, and barriers to multidisciplinary patient-centered care are discussed. QoL measurement instruments are reviewed.Expert opinion: The goals of treating diabetes and its complications should be considered carefully along with each patient's capacity to withstand the burdens of treatment. This capacity is reduced by socioeconomic, psychological, cognitive, and physical factors reduces this capacity. Incorporating measurement of HRQoL into clinical practices is possible, but deficiencies in the systems of health-care delivery need to be addressed to facilitate their use.
Mapping Neural Correlates to Language and Biological Motion in School-Age Children with Autism Using HD-DOT

This study demonstrates HD-DOT mapping of differential processing of language and biological motion between adolescents with and without autism, and that HD-DOT measured brain function correlates with social responsiveness in those with autism.
Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli Infection Inhibits Intestinal Ascorbic Acid Uptake via Dysregulation of Its Transporter Expression

Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) infection causes prolonged, watery diarrhea leading to morbidity and mortality. Although EPEC infection impacts nutrient transporter function and expression in intestinal epithelial cells, the effects of EPEC infection on intestinal absorption of ascorbic acid (AA) have not yet been investigated. To investigate the effect of EPEC infection on intestinal AA uptake process and expression of both AA transporters. We used two experimental models: human-derived intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells and mice. 14C-AA uptake assay, Western blot, RT-qPCR, and promoter assay were performed. EPEC (WT) as well as ΔespF and ΔespG/G2 mutant-infected Caco-2 cells showed markedly inhibited AA uptake, while other mutants (ΔescN, ΔespA, ΔespB, and ΔespD) did not affect AA uptake. Infection also reduced protein and mRNA expression levels for both hSVCT1 and hSVCT2. EPEC-infected mice showed marked inhibitory effect on AA uptake and decreased protein and mRNA expression levels for both mSVCT1 and mSVCT2 in jejunum and colon. MicroRNA regulators of SVCT1 and SVCT2 (miR103a, miR141, and miR200a) were upregulated significantly upon EPEC infection in both Caco-2 and mouse jejunum and colon. In addition, expression of the accessory protein glyoxalate reductase/hydroxypyruvate reductase (GRHPR), which regulates SVCT1 function, was markedly decreased by EPEC infection in both models. These findings suggest that EPEC infection causes inhibition in AA uptake through a multifactorial dysregulation of SVCT1 and SVCT2 expression in intestinal epithelial cells.
Optimization Models for HIV/AIDS Resource Allocation: A Systematic Review

Abstract Objective This study reviews optimization models for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) resource allocation. Methods We searched 2 databases for peer-reviewed articles published from January 1985 through August 2019 that describe optimization models for resource allocation in HIV/AIDS. We included models that consider 2 or more competing HIV/AIDS interventions. We extracted data on selected characteristics and identified similarities and differences across models. We also assessed the quality of mathematical disease transmission models based on the best practices identified by a 2010 task force. Results The final qualitative synthesis included 23 articles that used 14 unique optimization models. The articles shared several characteristics, including the use of dynamic transmission modeling to estimate health benefits and the inclusion of specific high-risk groups in the study population. The models explored similar HIV/AIDS interventions that span primary and secondary prevention and antiretroviral treatment. Most articles were focused on sub-Saharan African countries (57%) and the United States (39%). There was notable variation in the types of optimization objectives across the articles; the most common was minimizing HIV incidence or maximizing infections averted (87%). Articles that utilized mathematical modeling of HIV disease and transmission displayed variable quality. Conclusions This systematic review of the literature identified examples of optimization models that have been applied in different settings, many of which displayed similar features. There were similarities in objective functions across optimization models, but they did not align with global HIV/AIDS goals or targets. Future work should be applied in countries facing the largest declines in HIV/AIDS funding.
GATA2 Enhancer Modules Governing Hematopoietic Regeneration

The transcription factor GATA2 is essential for the generation and function of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs), erythroid precursors, and endothelial cells. A conserved intronic GATA2 enhancer, 9.8 kb downstream of the transcriptional start site (+9.5 in the mouse), is mutated in patients with GATA2 deficiency syndrome. Patient mutations within this region include a c.1017+512del28 deletion, removing E-box and GATA motifs, c.1017+532T>A that disrupts the E-box, and, most frequently, C>T in a 3’ Ets motif (c.1017+572C>T) (Soukup and Bresnick, 2020). Homozygous mutation of the Ets motif in mice allows normal developmental and steady-state hematopoiesis but impairs hematopoietic regeneration (Soukup et al., 2019). In addition to HSPCs, GATA2 is expressed in non-hematopoietic cells in the bone marrow niche, e.g. endothelial cells and neurons (Katsumura et al., 2017). As the +9.5(Ets) mutation is not hematopoietic cell-specific, we asked whether regenerative defects of +9.5(Ets)-/- mice reflect disruption of cell-intrinsic or -extrinsic activities. In a competitive transplant assay, +9.5(Ets)-/- HSPCs were 3-fold less effective at long-term reconstitution than WT, and mechanistic studies indicated that the motif functions in hematopoietic cells to promote regeneration (Soukup et al., 2019). We conducted a reciprocal transplant of WT HSPCs into irradiated WT or +9.5(Ets)-/- recipients and quantified reconstitution by peripheral blood counts 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks post-transplant. This analysis revealed no significant differences between WT and mutant recipients. At week 16, donor-derived leukocytes were 92% (+9.5(Ets)-/- recipients) and 96% (WT recipients) of total; the contribution did not differ significantly at any time. After 16 weeks, animals were sacrificed and HSPCs analyzed, confirming no significant alterations in mutant recipients. These results rigorously establish the mutant microenvironment as competent to support WT HSPC functions, emphasizing the critical hematopoietic cell-intrinsic activity of the +9.5 Ets motif. As the +9.5 Ets motif promotes regenerative hematopoiesis, and the +9.5 E-box;GATA is essential for developmental hematopoiesis, we devised a strategy to leverage these activities to innovate new models for GATA2 function in adult HSPCs. We generated compound heterozygous (CH) mice containing a mutant E-box;GATA sequence on one allele and a mutant Ets motif on the other allele. CH mice survived past weaning, with adults exhibiting significant steady-state defects, including a 4.4-fold decrease in GATA2hi megakaryocytes (p To test whether the CH mutations compromise regeneration, we quantified HSPC populations in bone marrow from mice treated with vehicle or 5-fluorouracil (FU) 9- and 10- days post treatment. Steady-state HSC (Lin−Sca1+Kit+CD48-CD150+) levels were unaltered in CH animals. Days 9 and 10 post-FU treatment, WT HSC levels increased 17- (p = 0.0006) and 18-fold (p = 0.0007) relative to vehicle-treated animals. CH HSCs did not expand and were Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Comparison of differential elastic cross sections in $pp$ and $p\bar{p}$ collisions as evidence of the existence of the colourless $C$-odd three-gluon state

We analyze the differences between the $pp$ and $p\bar{p}$ differentia l elastic cross section measurements by the D0 and TOTEM Collaborations at the Tevatron, Fermilab, and the LHC, CERN that lead to a significance larger than 3$\sigma$ of the existence of the colourless $C$-odd three-gluon state, the odderon.
Associations Between Simulated Future Changes in Climate, Air Quality, and Human Health

Importance Future changes in climate are likely to adversely affect human health by affecting concentrations of particulate matter sized less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) and ozone (O3) in many areas. However, the degree to which these outcomes may be mitigated by reducing air pollutant emissions is not well understood. Objective To model the associations between future changes in climate, air quality, and human health for 2 climate models and under 2 air pollutant emission scenarios. Design, Setting, and Participants This modeling study simulated meteorological conditions over the coterminous continental US during a 1995 to 2005 baseline and over the 21st century (2025-2100) by dynamically downscaling representations of a high warming scenario from the Community Earth System Model (CESM) and the Coupled Model version 3 (CM3) global climate models. Using a chemical transport model, PM2.5and O3concentrations were simulated under a 2011 air pollutant emission data set and a 2040 projection. The changes in PM2.5and O3-attributable deaths associated with climate change among the US census-projected population were estimated for 2030, 2050, 2075, and 2095 for each of 2 emission inventories and climate models. Data were analyzed from June 2018 to June 2020. Main Outcomes and Measures The main outcomes were simulated change in summer season means of the maximum daily 8-hour mean O3, annual mean PM2.5, population-weighted exposure, and the number of avoided or incurred deaths associated with these pollutants. Results are reported for 2030, 2050, 2075, and 2095, compared with 2000, for 2 climate models and 2 air pollutant emissions data sets. Results The projected increased maximum daily temperatures through 2095 were up to 7.6 °C for the CESM model and 11.8 °C for the CM3 model. Under each climate model scenario by 2095, compared with 2000, an estimated additional 21 000 (95% CI, 14 000-28 000) PM2.5-attributable deaths and 4100 (95% CI, 2200-6000) O3-attributable deaths were projected to occur. These projections decreased to an estimated 15 000 (95% CI, 10 000-20 000) PM2.5-attributable deaths and 640 (95% CI, 340-940) O3-attributable deaths when simulated using a future emission inventory that accounted for reduced anthropogenic emissions. Conclusions and Relevance These findings suggest that reducing future air pollutant emissions could also reduce the climate-driven increase in deaths associated with air pollution by hundreds to thousands.
Understanding Shared Responsibility Between Special and General Education Teachers in the Rural Classroom

A shared sense of responsibility for the education of students with disabilities can have positive effects on both teachers and students. When special education (SE) and general education (GE) teac...
Multimedia in Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality

Multimedia is one of the key drivers improving virtual reality and augmented reality (VR/AR), which are promising to reform human–computer interaction in the future with lower-cost and all-in-one headsets containing powerful hardware. Advances in multimedia research on video compression and human–computer interfaces have further enhanced the immersion and efficiency of experiences on the platform. However, many VR/AR experiences are still very difficult to build using traditional engineering methods and many available behavioral and biometric data have not been well explored. Further research in the multimedia community is needed to enhance the usefulness of these systems, with potential in affective learning, resource generation, and developer tools.
Structures and Materials in Stretchable Electroluminescent Devices.

Stretchable electroluminescent (EL) devices have been obtained by partitioning a large emission area into areas specifically for stretching and light-emission (island-bridge structure). Buckled and textile structures have also been shown effective to combine the conventional light emitting diode fabrication with elastic substrates for structure-enabled stretchable EL devices. Meanwhile, intrinsically stretchable EL devices which are characterized with uniform stretchability down to microscopic scale are relatively less developed but promise simpler device structure and higher impact resistance. The challenges in fabricating intrinsically stretchable EL devices with high and robust performance are in many facets, including stretchable conductors, emissive materials, and compatible processes. For the stretchable transparent electrode, ionically conductive gel, conductive polymer coating, and conductor network in surface of elastomer have all been proven useful. The stretchable EL materials are currently limited to conjugated polymers, conjugated polymers with surfactants and ionic conductors added to boost stretchability, and phosphor particles embedded in elastomer matrices. These emissive materials operate under different mechanisms, require different electrode materials and fabrication processes, and the corresponding EL devices face distinctive challenges. This review aims to provide a basic understanding of the materials meeting both the mechanical and electronic requirements and important techniques to fabricate the stretchable EL devices. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Cadmium: Organometallic Chemistry

As a large, soft, heavy element, the chemistry of cadmium is marked by relatively weak bonding to carbon and other more electronegative atoms. Organocadmium compounds thus demonstrate diverse reaction chemistry. Furthermore, the large size and low valency of cadmium leads to interesting aggregated compounds. The reactivity and structural importance of organocadmium compounds find applications as nonlinear optical and dielectric materials. Keywords: alkyl; aryl; alkoxide; amide; ketones; synthesis, nonlinear optical materials
Mapping quantitative trait loci

Different alleles at quantitative trait loci (QTL) cause genetic differences between individuals and families for quantitative traits (Bulmer 1980; Falconer 1981). QTL genotypes cannot be determined by inspecting the distributions of trait phenotypes alone. This is one of the fundamental problems of quantitative genetics. Historically important quantitative genetic parameters, e.g., additive genetic variance and heritability, summarize differences between alleles at QTL, but do not shed light on the genetics of QTL. Methods for mapping QTL are needed to achieve this. QTL are mapped by using genetic markers linked to QTL to draw inferences about differences between alleles at QTL.
Indole-2,3-quinodimethanes : Synthesis of selectively protected derivatives of the fused dimeric indole alkaloid staurosporinone

Abstract The imine 1 was converted via an indole-2,3-quinodimethane cyclization to the hexahydroindolocarbazole 7, which was further converted to the N-carbomethoxy derivative of staurosporinone 2.
Processing of the Papain Precursor THE IONIZATION STATE OF A CONSERVED AMINO ACID MOTIF WITHIN THE Pro REGION PARTICIPATES IN THE REGULATION OF INTRAMOLECULAR PROCESSING

The cysteine protease papain is synthesized as a 40-kDa inactive precursor with a 107-amino-acid N-terminal pro region. Although sequence conservation in the pro region is lower than in the mature proteases, a conserved motif (Gly-Xaa-Asn-Xaa-Phe-Xaa-Asp-36, papain precursor numbering) was found within the pro region of cysteine proteases of the papain superfamily. To determinate the function to this conserved motif, we have mutagenized at random each of the 4 residues individually within the pro region of the papain precursor. Precursor mutants were expressed in yeast, screened according to their ability to be processed through either a cis or trans reaction, into mature active papain. Three classes of mutants were found. Non-functional propapain mutants of the first class are completely degraded by subtilisin indicating that they are not folded into a native state. Mutants of the second class were neutral with respect to cis and trans processing. The third class included mutants that mostly accumulated as mature papain in the yeast vacuole. They had mutations that had lost the negatively charged Asp-36 residues and a mutation that probably introduces a positive charge, Phe-38His. The precursor of the Phe-38His mutant could be recovered by expression in a vph1 mutant yeast strain which has a vacuolar pH of about 7. The Phe-38His propapain mutant has an optimum pH of autoactivation about one pH unit higher than the wild type molecule. These results indicate that the electrostatic status of the conserved motif participates in the control of intramolecular processing of the papain precursor.
Photocatalytic production of methanol and hydrogen from methane and water

Abstract Investigation of direct conversion of methane to transportation fuels has been an ongoing effort at PETC for over 10 years. One of our current areas of research is the conversion of methane to methanol, under mild conditions, using light, water, and a semiconductor photocatalyst. Research in our laboratory is directed toward adapting the chemistry developed for photolysis of water to that of methane conversion. The reaction sequence of interest uses visible light, a doped tungsten oxide photocatalyst and an electron transfer molecule to produce a hydroxyl radical. Hydroxyl radical can then react with a methane molecule to produce a methyl radical. In the preferred reaction pathway, the methyl radical then reacts with an additional water molecule to produce methanol and hydrogen.
Judicial Independence: Evidence from a Natural Experiment

In this paper, we directly test the presence of judicial independence by examining judicial recess appointees who have later been confirmed by the Senate to full time Article III judicial positions. Specifically, we compare the votes of recess appointed Courts of Appeals judges during their temporary appointment tenure with a similar period following Senate confirmation. We find substantial differences in pre- and post-confirmation voting, confirming that the structural protections of the Constitution provide judges a certain amount of independence.
3D Model Construction in an Urban Environment from Sparse LiDAR Points and Aerial Photos—a Statistical Approach

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) has become an important data source in urban modelling. Traditional methods of LiDAR data processing for building detection require high spatial resolution data and sophisticated algorithms. The aerial photos, on the other hand, provide continuous spectral information on buildings. However, the accuracy of classified building boundaries from aerial photos is constrained when building roofs and their surroundings share analogous spectral characteristics. This paper develops a statistical approach that can integrate characteristic variables derived from sparse LiDAR points and air photos to detect buildings by estimating object heights and identifying clusters of similar heights. Within this study, the approach chooses a local regression method, namely geographically-weighted regression (GWR), to account for local variations of building surface height. In the GWR model, LiDAR data provide the height information of spatial objects, which is the dependent variable, while th...
Effect of dosing interval on pharmacokinetics of fentanyl pectin nasal spray from a crossover study.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of different dosing intervals on multiple-dose pharmacokinetics, and safety and tolerability of fentanyl pectin nasal spray (FPNS). Methods: This was an open-label study in healthy volunteers. Five FPNS treatments (1 × 100 μg; 2 × 100 μg at 4-, 2-, and 1-hour intervals, and 8 × 100 μg consecutively) were administered to the right nostril, with a ≥ 3-day washout period. Blood samples were collected at predose and up to 1,440 minutes postdose. Plasma fentanyl concentrations were determined. Pharmacokinetic parameters—peak concentration (C max ), time to C max (t max ), and area under the concentration-time curve (AUC)—were derived using noncompartmental method. For the two-dose regimens, pharmacokinetic parameters were compared between doses using a paired t-test with p < 0.05 as statistically significant. Results: Thirteen subjects were enrolled and 10 completed the study. Median t max was 10-15 minutes across five regimens. C max post the second dose significantly increased for 1-hour (p < 0.0001) and 2-hour (p < 0.001) but not 4-hour intervals (p = 0.462). C max and AUC 0-24 following 8 × 100 μg were approximately fivefold of those following 1 × 100 μg. Dizziness (11.9 percent) and somnolence (4.9 percent) were most common adverse events (AEs). 12.9 percent of patients discontinued due to AEs. Conclusions: FPNS exhibited consistently rapid t max . When intervals between two doses were shorter, the difference in C max between the first and second dose was larger. All regimens of FPNS were well tolerated. Exposure reached a plateau after eight consecutive doses, suggesting potential limited absorption through the nasal mucosa.
Bush control : The control of brachystegia boehmii and colophospermum mopane in Rhodesia using a picloram/2,4‐d mixture

Abstract Mature Brachystegia boehmii and Colophospermum mopane trees were treated with Tordon 101 (a 1 : 4 mixture of picloram and 2,4‐D) at five rates and at three different times of the year. The arboricide was applied with a syringe to freshly cut stem tissues, either to cuts in the bark, or to the lower lip of ringbarked trees or (in various ways) to cut stumps. Some treatments were repeated at several sites. Responses to arboricide were not markedly influenced by the method of application. Overall, prising the bark from the wood of cut stumps and placing arboricide in the gap so formed, resulted in the highest percentage kills. Applications were most effective in the growing season (November to March). Medium sized trees were more readily killed than smaller or larger ones. Response to arboricide varied between sites.
In Defense of Phenomenal Concepts

Abstract In recent debates, both physicalist and anti-physicalist philosophers of mind have come to agree that understanding the nature of phenomenal concepts is key to understanding the nature of phenomenal consciousness itself. Recently, however, Derek Ball (2009) and Michael Tye (2009) have argued that there are no such concepts. Their case is especially troubling because they make use of a type of argument that proponents of phenomenal concepts have typically found persuasive in other contexts; namely, arguments much like those that Tyler Burge used to motivate a certain form of externalism about mental content. The goal of this paper is to defend phenomenal concepts against this line of attack. Burge-style arguments, I contend, cannot be successfully used to make the case that there are no phenomenal concepts. As such, phenomenal concepts must remain central to understanding the nature of phenomenal consciousness.
The role of green roof technology in urban agriculture

Urban agriculture is a global and growing pursuit that can contribute to economic development, job creation, food security and community building. It can, however, be limited by competition for space with other forms of urban development, a lack of formalized land use rights and health hazards related to food contamination. The use of green roof technology in urban agriculture has the potential to alleviate some of these problems, without adversely affecting the benefits provided by urban agriculture. It would not only enable the use of land for development and agriculture, but may also facilitate the formation of formal space and water use agreements, and enable redistribution of ground-level resources among urban farmers. This could decrease the use of contaminated land and water at ground level and alleviate health concerns. Before green roof technology can be incorporated into urban agriculture on a larger scale, installation costs must be reduced, roof weight limitations should be assessed, and appropriate management practices should be developed which will ensure that the benefits of green roofs, such as energy savings and storm water management, are still provided to urban communities.
Optimized Findlay Clay analysis for diode side-pumped Nd:YAG lasers

The standard Findlay Clay Analysis cannot be applied to diode side-pumped Nd:YAG lasers because both the pump wavelength as well as the gain change with the diode current and the cooling water temperature. We have developed a modified method which is based on the variation of the cooling water temperature to determine the lowest threshold for each output coupler. We have applied this technique to a 300 Watt class side Nd:YAG rod laser. The resulting Findlay Clay plot exhibits very good linearity and the measured gain and loss were confirmed by comparing measured output power at different cooling water temperatures with theoretical values provided by a Rigrod power model.
Innate immunity in viral encephalitis: role of C5.

The complement system is a critical component of both the innate and acquired immune systems. It is important in host defense against viruses, bacteria, and fungi for opsonization and for lysis of pathogens. However, activated complement can also cause tissue damage. There is compelling evidence that complement factors are presented in the central nervous system (CNS). Complement activation (by any of the three pathways: classical, alternate, and lectin) can lead to inflammation and tissue damage, while at the same time may also restrict certain pathogens in the CNS. C5a is formed by proteolytic cleavage C5. C5a is considered the most potent proinflammatory mediator, often called an anaphylotoxin. In this communication, we examine the roles of C5 (C5a) in vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV)–induced encephalitis. We found that C5a is produced during VSV infection, but C5-deficient mice had similar pathology as their controls. We concluded that C5 is not a critical factor in mediating the host response during ...
Recent advances in the theory of oxide–semiconductor interfaces

Abstract We present a review of recent results of atomic scale modeling of the silicon–oxide interface, including near-interface dielectric properties. The results are segregated into static properties, including such diverse cases as geometric conformation and XPS spectra of the interface and hyperfine interactions at point defects, and dynamic processes, including recent oxidation studies. In each case, we compare the theory with available experiment.
Listening to children's perspectives on play across the lifespan: children's right to inform adults' discussions of contemporary play

For over a decade, researchers, practitioners, and play advocates have documented a decline in children's opportunities to engage in unstructured and outdoor play, a discussion that has been represented through the discourse and perspectives of adults. Given the increasing recognition that children's voices, their perspectives, deserve a more intentional and prominent inclusion in activities and decisions designed to influence them, the current study was designed to interview 98 children (ages 3–17) about their perspectives on children's and adults' play to examine how children's ideas could expand the dialogue on the changing sociocultural contexts of play. Children's emic conceptualizations of the characteristics defining play were consistent with previous research. Children's ideas of fun play and plans for spending a whole day playing emphasized relationships, outdoor play, and interacting with toys, but rarely digital play. The majority of children believed that adults play – with their children, spo...
Investigation and characterization of graphene for optical sensing

We report a strong electron-photon interaction in exfoliated graphene observed at room temperature. Graphene has great potential to optoelectronic applications because of its excellent optical properties. Here, we demonstrate using the graphene-based structure for infrared detection under a zero-bias operation. When infrared light is projected to graphene, the graphene is capable to generate photocurrents. Besides, the electron-hole pairs generation of the graphene-based structure is independent of the direction of the polarized infrared source, and this makes graphene suitable for optical sensing. The device structure consists of graphene contacted with a pair of metal electrodes, which were fabricated using two nanomanipulation processes: dielectrophoresis and atomic force microscopic based nano assembly.
Phosphorylation coupled to oxidation of thiol groups (GSH) by cytochrome c with disulfide (GSSG) as an essential catalyst. IV. Stability of intermediates and possible mechanism of reaction.

Abstract The primary intermediates responsible for energy conservation during GSSG catalyzed electron transfer from GSH to cytochrome c under anaerobic conditions are labile but have a life time of a few minutes. The presence of phosphate results in relatively stable intermediates, presumably by forming a more stable charge transfer complex or phosphorylated form. The formation of 1 ∼ P per cytochrome c reduced requires postulation of a one electron transfer mechanism or a 2 electron transfer mechanism with an unrecognized acceptor for the second electron.
Hysteresis and time dependence of the magnetic properties of a dilute MgYb alloy

Abstract Measurements of the magnetic susceptibility of a dilute MgYb alloy show that the Yb ions are diamagnetic at room temperature but become paramagnetic at low temperature. In addition to this configuration crossover of the Yb ions, hysteresis and time dependence of the magnetic susceptibility were observed.
Extracting Trap Parameters from Picts Spectra in Cadmium Zinc Telluride Radiation Detector Material

We demonstrate that the regularization method due to Weese can resolve closely-spaced peaks in PICTS spectra for cadmium zinc telluride. We also show that electron and hole traps can be distinguished from each other by the bias dependence of the spectrum when using an excitation source that is primarily infrared but which contains a small component of visible light. Lastly we show that there are qualitative differences between PICTS spectra taken with infrared excitation and those taken with visible excitation. We attribute the surface-related levels to diffusion into the detector material of gold from electroless deposition of contacts.