cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Co-optimization of SnS absorber and Zn(O,S) buffer materials for improved solar cells

Thin-film solar cells consisting of earth-abundant and non-toxic materials were made from pulsed chemical vapor deposition (pulsed-CVD) of SnS as the p-type absorber layer and atomic layer deposition (ALD) of Zn(O,S) as the n-type buffer layer. The effects of deposition temperature and annealing conditions of the SnS absorber layer were studied for solar cells with a structure of Mo/SnS/Zn(O,S)/ZnO/ITO. Solar cells were further optimized by varying the stoichiometry of Zn(O,S) and the annealing conditions of SnS. Post-deposition annealing in pure hydrogen sulfide improved crystallinity and increased the carrier mobility by one order of magnitude, and a power conversion efficiency up to 2.9% was achieved. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New Distributional Records for Four Rare Species of Freshwater Mussels (Family: Unionidae) in Southwestern Louisiana

Abstract Recent studies of mussels have documented a gradient of extirpation that extends from Toledo Bend Dam to United States Highway 190 in the lower Sabine River. A similar pattern has been documented for the diversity and abundance of cyprinids. To evaluate whether impacts of the project have extended into nearby tributaries, we assessed the distribution and abundance of threatened species of mussels in Anacoco and Toro bayous, within Vernon and Sabine parishes, respectively. In total, 1,474 live mussels representing 15 species were collected during our survey. Of these, four are considered state-threatened: Fusconaia askewi (Texas pigtoe), Lampsilis satura (sandbank pocketbook), Obovaria jacksoniana (southern hickorynut), and Pleurobema riddellii (Louisiana pigtoe). In general, L. satura, O. jacksoniana, and P. riddellii appear to be rare in Anacoco Bayou and absent from Toro Bayou, whereas F. askewi is more abundant and widely distributed. Effects of backwater related to releases from impoundments,...
BIOCONVERSION OF SHELLFISH CHITIN WASTES: PROCESS CONCEPTION AND SELECTION OF MICROORGANISMS

A process was conceptualized for bioconversion of shellfish chitin wastes to single-cell protein of value in animal or aquaculture feed formulations or to other products. An extracellular chitinase enzyme system obtained by a submerged culture of microorganisms is contacted with the chitin waste, hydrolyzing it to smaller sugar units. The hydrolysate is converted to a marketable product. Experimental results indicate that Serratia marcescens QMB1466 is suitable for use in the proposed process. Hydrolysis of various chitinous waste preparations shows the culture filtrate to be effective in decomposing the substrate. For crude preparations, hydrolysis slows after approximately 40 hr. Colloidal chitin is almost completely dissolved after 60 hr.
Error Analysis for Matrix Factorizations Using Non-Overlapped Localizing Basis Functions

Local-global solution (LOGOS) modes provide a computationally efficient framework for developing error controllable, fast, direct solution methods for electromagnetic simulations. This communication provides an error control analysis for the non-overlapped localizing LOGOS factorization procedure. The error analysis indicates how to control the error in the factored representation of the system matrix. Numerical examples demonstrate that the proposed error control procedure provides factorizations with controllably small errors for a number of PEC scattering problems while maintaining the efficiency of the LOGOS factorization.
Regulating anger and sadness: an exploration of discrete emotions in emotion regulation

Do emotion regulation processes vary as a function of discrete emotions? Focusing on anger and sadness, this study examined: (a) the strategies that men and women use to regulate each emotion, (b) the extent to which strategies differ in their use and effectiveness, and (c) the relationship between effective regulation of these emotions and social functioning. One hundred ninety participants described recent situations that evoked anger and sadness and how they regulated each emotion. Emotion regulation attempts for anger and sadness differed to some extent in both use and effectiveness. In addition, effective regulation of each emotion was associated with different aspects of social functioning. Effective anger regulation was associated with constructive conflict resolution style, and effective sadness regulation was associated with positive social relations. The findings suggest that global approaches to studying emotion regulation may be limited and emphasize the importance of moving toward a discrete emotions framework.
Continuing Injuries of Racism Counseling in a Racist Context

In this reaction article, the authors support and extend Robert T. Carter’s excellent analysis of the impact of racism today on Americans of color. Drawing on their own data, they suggest important extensions of his arguments in regard to the cumulative and long-term effects of racial discrimination and other racial oppression—as well as in regard to the ways in which both the accumulating pain of, and the developed coping strategies for, racial discrimination are passed across several generations of those racially oppressed. The authors argue that a major reality underlying individual coping with racial discrimination is a huge energy loss for individuals, families, and communities. In conclusion, they strongly urge that all educators dealing with the training of clinicians first consider and counter the old and mostly White-generated racist framing of society that is imbedded to some degree in most of the minds of those who seek to join the counseling professions.
E-Speak - An XML Document Interchange Engine

E-Speak is Hewlett-Packard's open source infrastructure for web-based e-services that allows e-services to advertise, discover, and interoperate with each other dynamically and securely (www.e-speak.net). It provides XML interfaces for creating, mediating, and accessing e-services in combination with concepts of vocabularies, name virtualization, dynamic discovery, and visibility control. The paper overviews the E-Speak architecture and its abstractions. Then we describe Web E-Speak, E-Speak's gateway to the Web, and show by examples how Web E-Speak supports the creation, deployment, and discovery of web-based e-services and their interaction.
The Functional Independence Measure for Children (WeeFIM): Conceptual Basis and Pilot Use in Children With Developmental Disabilities

Few tools are available to pediatricians for tracking and monitoring disability status in children. We describe the conceptual basis and pilot use of the Functional Independence Measure for Children (WeeFIM). Our pilot use of this instrument in children with limb deficiency, Down's syndrome, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, and extreme prematurity demonstrates that the WeeFIM is a valid measure for tracking disability in preschool age and middle childhood. The WeeFIM measures the impact of developmental strengths and difficulties on independence at home, in school, and in the community. This allows the pediatrician to prioritize interventions for enhancing comprehensive functional outcomes and supporting families.
Archiving and distribution of 2-D geophysical data using image formats with lossless compression

Certain types of two-dimensional (2-D) numerical remote sensing data can be losslessly and compactly compressed for archiving and distribution using standardized image formats. One common method for archiving and distributing data involves compressing data files using file compression utilities such as gzip and bzip2, which are widely available on UNIX and Linux operating systems. GZIP-compressed files and bzip2-compressed files must first be uncompressed before they can be read by a scientific application (e.g., MATLAB, IDL). Data stored using an image format, on the other hand, can be read directly by a scientific application supporting that format and, therefore, can be stored in compressed form, saving disk space. Moreover, wide use of image formats by data providers and wide support by scientific applications can reduce the need for providers of geophysical data to develop and maintain software customized for each type of dataset and reduce the need for users to develop and maintain or download and install such software. This letter demonstrates the utility of standardized image formats for losslessly compressing, archiving, and distributing 2-D geophysical data by comparing them with the traditional file compression utilities gzip and bzip2 on several types of remote sensing data. The formats studied include TIFF, PNG, lossless JPEG, JPEG-LS, and JPEG2000. PNG and TIFF are widely supported. JPEG2000 and JPEG-LS could become widely supported in the future. It is demonstrated that when the appropriate image format is selected, the compression ratios can be comparable to or better than those resulting from the use of file compression utilities. In particular, PNG, JPEG-LS, and JPEG2000 show promise for the types of data studied.
Converting Capital: The Experiences of Latinas/os in Graduate Health Care Programs

This qualitative study combines critical race theory, cultural capital theory, and counter-storytelling to examine the experiences of Latina/o in graduate health care programs. Community cultural wealth provided the framework to investigate the mechanisms by which students converted their sociocultural assets into the kinds of social, cultural, and educational capital needed to succeed in a graduate program and pursue their career goals. A qualitative content analysis was employed to interpret participants’ conversion experiences. The forms of community cultural wealth described by Yosso – aspirational, linguistic, familial, navigational, social, and resistant – intersected and interacted with one another. Aspirational and linguistic forms of capital were converted into occupational attainment; familial capital was converted into educational and occupational outcomes; navigational and social forms of capital were converted into educational outcomes, and resistant capital was converted into civic engagement. Recommendations for practice and future research are discussed. Keywords: Community Cultural Wealth, Cultural Capital, Content Analysis, Critical Race Theory, Counter-Storytelling The shortage of Latinos in all areas of health professions including medicine, nursing,
Tools and applications for large-scale display walls

Increased processor and storage capacities have supported the computational sciences, but have simultaneously unleashed a data avalanche on the scientific community. As a result, scientific research is limited by data analysis and visualization capabilities. These new bottlenecks have been the driving motivation behind the Princeton scalable display wall project. To create a scalable and easy-to-use large-format display system for collaborative visualization, the authors have developed various techniques, software tools, and applications.
Abstract P5-07-06: Exploring the involvement of TTK kinase in centrosome amplification and Her2+ breast cancer

The centrosome is the cellular organelle responsible for accurate chromosome segregation. In normal cellular function, regulation of the centrosome duplication cycle in concert with the cell cycle is necessary for accurate passage of genetic information. However, when modulators of the cell and/or centrosome duplication cycles are deregulated, this process can result in centrosome amplification (CA, the acquisition of more than two centrosomes), leading to improper segregation of chromosomes and genomic instability. CA generates low-level aneuploidy (which is tolerated) and polyploidy (selected against when checkpoints are present). An integral goal in the field of centrosome biology is to characterize how alterations in modulators of CA influence disease development. In cancer, CA is associated with aggressive tumor types and metastasis and is likely to affect response to treatment. However, the full role of CA in tumorigenesis is poorly understood. Specifically in breast cancer, CA is observed in pre-cancerous lesions, which suggests CA in conjunction with genomic instability is an early contributor to tumorigenesis. In an effort to study mechanisms associated with CA, we are investigating the function of CA in in vitro and in vivo breast cancer models. Our lab and others have detected that TTK (MPS1) kinase, a proposed modulator of centrosome duplication, is overexpressed in Her2+ breast cancer cell lines at the mRNA and protein level compared to non-transformed mammary epithelial cells. We hypothesize that overexpression of TTK leads to CA and that inhibiting TTK expression in cancer cells will prevent active generation of CA and CIN (chromosome instability), leading to suppressed tumorigenic properties and further cancer evolution. Preliminary data shows that transient knockdown of TTK via siRNA attenuates the degree of CA in Her2+ breast cancer cells. Additional preliminary data shows that stable abrogation of TTK via shRNA can inhibit the proliferation of Her2+ breast cancer cells but does not alter expression of some members in the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Ongoing studies will address the impact of altering TTK expression on CA, CIN, downstream centrosomal duplication signaling and tumorigenic properties of breast cancer cells. The results of these studies will address the mechanistic complexities, such as what centrosomal signaling pathways associated with TTK are underlying CA in breast cancer. We believe this work will help discern how deregulated centrosome regulatory molecules influence mammary tumorigenesis and/or responses to treatment. Citation Format: Jamie L King, Harold I Saavedra. Exploring the involvement of TTK kinase in centrosome amplification and Her2+ breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Seventh Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2014 Dec 9-13; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(9 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-07-06.
A structured analysis of material requirements planning systems under combined demand and supply uncertainty

Abstract The effects of the presence of both demand and lead time uncertainties on material requirements planning systems performance are investigated. A simulation model of a multi-level product environment is employed to evaluate the influence of these combined uncertainties in a rolling planning horizon. Their interaction with product structure variables, cost ratios and lot-sizing rules is also explored. Finally, by means of statistical analysis of the simulation output, hypotheses relating to various variables and their interactions are formed and tested. The results highlight the significant differences between uncertain and deterministic environments.
INC model calculation of (π+, p), (\(\bar p\), p) and (K+, p) spectra in the 1GeV/c range, p) and (K+, p) spectra in the 1GeV/c range

The proton inclusive spectra measured with 800MeV/cπ+ beam (BNL) on light nuclei, and the 600MeV/c\(\bar p\) beam (LEAR) on6Li and63Cu have been successfully interpreted in terms of the Intranuclear Cascade (INC) Model. According to the INC model predictions the\(\bar p\) induced reaction results in high pion yield for the light6Li target case. This is attributed to the nonavailability of nucleons to be knocked out by the pions produced following the\(\bar p\) annihilation. While in the case of the heavier63Cu target some of the internally produced pions are subsequently absorbed leading to thermal equilibration of the nuclear medium, resulting in a softer proton spectrum at the high-energy end. Based on the INC model predictions the K+ induced reactions could be studied to search for the «true resonances» beyond 1GeV K+ energy.
Gas trapping in excised rabbit lungs depends on volume history and method of degassing.

Trapped gas volume (Vtg) was obtained after 5 and 10 repeated inflation-deflation cycles between transpulmonary pressure (Ptp) = 0 and 30 cmH2O in 12 experimental groups of freshly excised rabbit lungs. Gas flow rate was 1.0 ml/s except in one group (0.4 ml/s). In lungs degassed by O2 absorption (Dabs), Vtg increased from an initial 12–15% total lung capacity (TLC) (1st cycle) to 40% TLC (10th cycle), whereas in vacuum-degassed lungs (Dvac) the final Vtg was almost unchanged, remaining at less than 20% TLC. However, with the slower flow rate, Vtg in Dvac became 60% TLC. Increased lung water was not found in Dabs and therefore could not account for the above difference. In lungs not degassed after excision, Vtg increased roughly in proportion to the duration of passive collapse at Ptp = 0. However, a single brief exposure to a negative airway pressure (Pao = -10 cmH2O) resulted in a greater rate of increase of Vtg than 15-min collapse. When any of the foregoing groups were vacuum degassed after 5 cycles, t...
Volume Frameworks and Deformation Varieties

A volume framework is a $$d+1$$d+1-uniform hypergraph with real numbers associated to its hyperedges. A realization is given by placing the vertices as points in $${\mathbb {R}}^d$$Rd in such a way that the volumes of the simplices induced by the hyperdges have the assigned values. A framework realization is rigid if its underlying point set is determined locally upi¾źto a volume-preserving transformation, otherwise it is flexible and has a non-trivial deformation space. The study of deformation spaces is a challenging problem requiring techniques from real algebraic geometry. Complementing a previous paper on Realizations of volume frameworks, we study several properties of deformation spaces, including singularities, for families of volume frameworks associated to polygons.
Diagnosis and treatment of amplified musculoskeletal pain in children.

© Copyright CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL RHEUMATOLOGY 2001. A m p l i fied mu s c u l o s keletal pains in children frequently tax the diagnostic and therapeutic skills of the physician. A dd i t i o n a l ly, the long duration of symptoms and fru s t rations at fa i l e d diagnoses and treatments distress and p e rp l ex the child and fa m i ly. Th i s report will outline my experience with over 700 children with these conditions i n cluding my diagnostic ap p ro a ch , treatment, and outcome (1). It is important to remember that pain is a subjective experience; the degree to which it is felt and to which it affects the child’s life (activities of daily livi n g, going to the phy s i c i a n , s chool att e n d a n c e, s p o rts part i c i p at i o n , and play ) is individual. The rep o rt of pain is almost always to be taken at face value (2). The amount of noxious stimu l i does not correlate to the degree of pain; thus, it is imperative not to be judgmental. Children with amplified pain can present with a variety of manifestations. The established nomencl at u re art i ficially divides these conditions into separate groups, whereas it is my experience that children with amplified musculoskeletal pain are on a continuum in which specific syndromes may overlap ( Fi g. 1) (3-6). Neve rt h e l e s s , va ri o u s manifestations include those with overt autonomic signs, those without autonomic signs (with either continuous or i n t e rmittent pain), those with painful points (at sites associated with fibromyalgia in adults), and those who are hy p e rv i gilant. An individual ch i l d ’s presentation may be quite distinct, but there are many children in whom these s y n d romes either co-exist (such as a foot with autonomic signs and a hand without) or occur sequentially during relapses. There are, however, consistent fe at u res to the pre s e n t at i o n , p hy s i c a l examination, treatment, and, perhaps, etiology. The etiology of amplified mu s c u l oskeletal pain in children seems to be c a u s a l ly re l ated to injury, i l l n e s s , o r p s y ch o l ogical distress although age, hormonal, and genetic factors may also play a role (5, 7, 8). Psychological distress is usually significant, either as a cause or effect in most ch i l d re n , a lthough good controlled studies are lacking. Commonly there is a history of minor trauma unlike most adults who have preceding major trauma (which is rare in children). The clinical pre s e n t ation of ch i l d re n with amplified musculoskeletal pain is remarkably consistent and outlined in Table I (1, 9). Most are female (80%) and tend to be of higher socioeconomic status. The mean age of onset is 12 to 13 years and it is unusual under the age of 8 years. As the physician obtains the medical history and examines the patient a characteristic pattern is seen. Initially, most
Origins of Catalytic Specificity in Bacterial Oligosaccharyltransferase

Modification of polypeptides through asparagine (N)-linked glycosylation is involved in a broad range of biological functions. N-linked glycosylation is catalyzed by oligosaccharyltransferase (OST), an endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein, which promotes the formation of an N-glycosidic linkage between the acceptor asparagine and an oligosaccharide donor. Broad polypeptide substrate specificity is characteristic of N-linked glycosylation, resulting from a short consensus sequence: N-X-S/T (where X is any amino acid except P). However, experimental evidence has shown that the N-glycosylation efficiency is affected by the sequence within this consensus motif.We investigated the catalytic specificity of Campylobacter lari OST using molecular dynamics simulations. In OST, a large external loop (EL5) pins the substrate in the binding pocket located between the transmembrane and periplasmic domains while two acidic catalytic residues, E319 and D56 in C. lari, are in position to form hydrogen bonds with the acceptor asparagine and prime it for nucleophilic attack on the oligosaccharide donor. To explore how different substrates affect the efficiency of N-linked glycosylation, four substrates of differing N-glycosylation efficiencies were examined: the optimal consensus sequence (NAT) and three sub-optimal variants (NAS, NFS, and NWS). Our simulations of OST in complex with the optimal substrate (NAT) show a conformational change of EL5 and of the periplasmic domain is necessary to promote optimal hydrogen bond formation between the acceptor asparagine and E319/D56 by restricting side chain motion in the catalytic pocket. In addition, we found that binding of the other three substrates (NAS, NFS, and NWS) affects the structure and dynamics of OST. These changes lower the probability of forming hydrogen bonds with the acceptor asparagine, essential for catalysis, and accelerate substrate release for NFS, providing two mechanisms for modulating the glycosylation efficiency of OST for various consensus sequence substrates.
Refractory Hypotension as an Initial Presentation of Bilateral Subclavian Artery Stenosis

Bilateral subclavian stenosis is a rare clinical condition. An interbrachial pressure difference of 15 mm Hg can raise suspicion for unilateral subclavian artery stenosis, but the diagnosis of bilateral subclavian artery stenosis can be challenging. We present a case of a 75-year-old woman who presented with refractory hypotension after surgery. Initial vitals revealed blood pressure in the 60s/50s mm Hg in both arms. Cardiopulmonary examination was remarkable for diminished pulses in all 4 extremities and audible carotid bruits. She continued to be hypotensive despite aggressive fluid resuscitation. Troponin T peaked at 0.24 ng/mL (reference < 0.04), and an echocardiogram revealed a reduction in ejection fraction (37% from 50%). Left and right heart catheterization demonstrated normal filling pressures and cardiac output. During the procedure, however, it was noted that the patient’s central blood pressure was 70–80 mm Hg higher than cuff pressures obtained in either arm. Selective angiography revealed 90% left subclavian ostial stenosis as well as 70% stenosis of the right subclavian artery.
Markings on a Long Journey

His father’s diary records that Ronald Harry Coase was born at 3.25 p.m. on 29 December 1910 in a flat in the London suburb of Willesden. He was the only child of parents who exhibited a strong interest in the sporting life (his father competed in lawn bowling until his death and his mother played tennis well into her later years), but who showed ‘no interest in academic scholarship’ (Coase, 1991, p.1). As one might expect of an only child, Coase reports that he was a loner, a trait later manifested in an academic career where he did little jointly authored work, spent the last half of his career as an economist who worked in a law school, and engaged in research that in many ways made him an outsider within the economics profession.1
To Tweet or Not to Tweet: The Effects of Social Media Endorsements on Unfamiliar Sport Brands and Athlete Endorsers

Unfamiliar sport brands are consistently searching for ways to gain the interest of consumers and to differentiate the brand’s messages from the huge amount of advertising communications consumers receive on a daily basis. One of the most powerful methods used to distinguish one brand from others is an alliance with athlete endorsers. Companies are actively courting athlete endorsers and their social media accounts to reach consumers. However, little is known about the effects of these alliances. Therefore, two studies were conducted: (1) to explore the effectiveness of Twitter endorsement campaigns for unfamiliar sport brands, and (2) to investigate the influence that Twitter endorsements for unfamiliar sport brands have on athlete endorsers. The study revealed that attitude toward the unfamiliar sport brand was positively influenced by the athlete endorser’s Twitter message and that trustworthiness was the dominant characteristic influencing credibility of an endorser through Twitter.
Internet use and civic engagement

Previous empirical examinations of the relationship between Internet use and civic engagement indicate the potential of both positive and negative directionality of the effects of Internet use on civic engagement activities, from marching in protests to joining clubs and other organizations. Compounding this multitude of possibilities is the fact that civic engagement is no longer something which occurs solely in the offline world, with vast new possibilities for, and forms of, civic activity also existing in the online realm. In order to shed new light on this relationship, the current study will explore the effects of Internet use on both online and offline civic engagement, as well as the interaction between online and offline types of civic engagement. Using survey data, and utilizing a structural equation analysis, the results of this study suggest that certain types of Internet use do indeed relate positively with offline civic engagement, though this relationship is mediated through online civic activities. Findings also suggest cyclical relationships between online and offline forms of civic engagement. The conclusions from this study include practical applications for influencing civic engagement in the digital age, as well as changing the way that both Internet use and civic engagement are measured. We model Internet use and civic engagement using a structural equation approach.Internet use and civic engagement are measured along multiple dimensions.Internet use relates positively with offline civic activities when mediated through online civic activities.Online and offline civic activities form a feedback loop.Total effects of Internet use on offline civic engagement are both positive and negative.
Predation of freshwater fish in environments with elevated carbon dioxide

Carbon dioxide (CO2) in fresh-water environments is poorly understood, yet in marine environments CO2 can affect fish behaviour, including predator–prey relationships. To examine changes in predator success in elevated CO2, we experimented with predatory Micropterus salmoides and Pimephales promelas prey. We used a two-factor fully crossed experimental design; one factor was 4-day (acclimation) CO2 concentration and the second factor CO2 concentration during 20-min predation experiments. Both factors had three treatment levels, including ambient partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2; 0–1000 μatm), low pCO2 (4000–5000 μatm) and high pCO2 (8000–10000 μatm). Micropterus salmoides was exposed to both factors, whereas P. promelas was not exposed to the acclimation factor. In total, 83 of the 96P. promelas were consumed (n=96 trials) and we saw no discernible effect of CO2 on predator success or time to predation. Failed strikes and time between failed strikes were too infrequent to model. Compared with marine systems, our findings are unique in that we not only saw no changes in prey capture success with increasing CO2, but we also used CO2 treatments that were substantially higher than those in past experiments. Our work demonstrated a pronounced resiliency of freshwater predators to elevated CO2 exposure, and a starting point for future work in this area.
Rituals as portals of transcendence in the lives of older adults

ABSTRACTIn our present society in the West, we witness significant change and loss on multiple levels for our diverse older population. It is in this context, as well as that of our increased longevity, that I examine the role of ritual in late life transcendence. Are there rituals performed alone or in relationship, in addition to traditional religious rituals, that increase our sense of aliveness, purpose, and are potentially transformational in our later years? Ritual, in this sense, would be a form of connection that is revisited for its whole-making. I affirm the inner Presence, which supports an organic emergence of ritual that is strengthened by the energy and witness of community. This article includes several examples of this person-centered process at different stages in the late life process and among diverse elders. It includes a description of the Croning Ceremony which I co-led with Patricia Thorne at the 2015 International Conference on Spirituality and Ageing. Drawing on our natural enviro...
Nanotoxicity in Systemic Circulation and Wound Healing

Nanotoxicity of nanomaterials is an important issue in view of their potential applications in systemic circulation and wound healing dressing. This account specifically deals with several characteristic features of different nanomaterials which induce hemolysis and how to make them hemocompatible. The shape, size, and surface functionalities of naked metallic as well as nonmetallic nanoparticles surfaces are responsible for the hemolysis. An appropriate coating of biocompatible molecules dramatically reduces hemolysis and promotes their ability as safe drug delivery vehicles. The use of coated nanomaterials in wound healing dressing opens several new strategies for rapid wound healing processes. Properly designed nanomaterials should be selected to minimize the nanotoxicity in the wound healing process. Future directions need new synthetic methods for engineered nanomaterials for their best use in nanomedicine and nanobiotechnology.
Tackling non-metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer: special considerations in treatment

Prostate cancer (PCa) is currently the second most common cancer affecting men worldwide. Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is the incurable form of PCa, carrying the poorest prognosis, and can develop from non-metastatic CRPC (M0 CRPC). CRPC is defined as progression of the disease with castrate level testosterone levels, achieved with primary androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). M0 CRPC is a highly heterogeneous disease process lacking clear standard of care therapies. Areas covered: In this review, a broad literature search was undertaken to explore data available for therapeutic options and guidelines in the management of M0 CRPC. Expert commentary: While there are compelling data for various therapeutics for the treatment of M0 CRPC, no clear standard of care is apparent at this time. Furthermore, technological advances in imaging may have a significant impact on this future of this disease state.
Detection of Bioluminescent Borrelia burgdorferi from In Vitro Cultivation and During Murine Infection

Borrelia burgdorferi, etiologic agent of Lyme disease, is the leading tick-borne disease in the United States with approximately 300,000 cases diagnosed annually. Disease occurs in stages beginning localized infection at the site of a tick bite and progresses to disseminated infection when antibiotic treatment is not administered in a timely manner. A multi-systemic infection develops following dissemination to numerous immunoprotective tissues, such as the heart, bladder, and joints, resulting in late Lyme disease. B. burgdorferi undergoes dynamic genetic regulation throughout mammalian infection and defining the exact role of virulence genes at distinct stages of disease is challenging. The murine model allows for the characterization of the pathogenic function of genes in B. burgdorferi, but traditional end point studies limit the ability to gather data throughout an infection study and greatly increase the required number of mice. Molecular genetic techniques to evaluate and quantitate B. burgdorferi infection are laborious and costly. To partly circumvent these issues, a codon optimized firefly luciferase, under the control of a constitutive borrelial promoter, was introduced into B. burgdorferi enabling the characterization of mutant or modified strains under in vitro growth conditions and throughout murine infection. The detection of bioluminescent B. burgdorferi is highly sensitive and allows for the repeated real-time quantitative evaluation of borrelial load during murine infection. Furthermore, bioluminescence has also been utilized to evaluate alteration in tissue localization and tissue-specific gene expression of B. burgdorferi. In this chapter, we describe the generation of bioluminescent borrelial strains along with methods for in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo B. burgdorferi studies.
Defects in Ankyrin-Based Protein Targeting Pathways in Human Arrhythmia

Ion channels and transporters regulate transmembrane electrochemical gradients to control cardiomyocyte depolarization/repolarization and cell excitability. Importantly, ion channel and transporter function depends on proper expression and localization within specific cellular membrane domains. Ankyrins are a family of proteins that are widely expressed in vertebrate tissues including heart. Recently, ankyrin-based cellular pathways have been identified as critical for normal ion channel and transporter membrane targeting in ventricular cardiomyocytes and sinoatrial node cells. Moreover, findings in both mice and humans implicate dysfunction in ankyrin-based pathways in excitable cell disease including potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmias and sinus node disease. Specifically, human ANK2 loss-of-function mutations may result in “ankyrin-B-syndrome” (previously called type 4 long QT syndrome). In fact, ankyrin-B syndrome represents a new class of arrhythmia distinct from typical long QT syndromes, notably in its characteristic representing sick sinus syndrome with bradycardia and risk of sudden death. In addition to ANK2-associated cardiac disease, dysfunction in the related ankyrin-G-based cellular pathway for voltage-gated Nav channel targeting has also been implicated in human arrhythmia, notably the Brugada syndrome. This chapter will focus on the cell biology of cardiac ankyrins in human arrhythmias.
Choline and Phosphatidylcholine

Choline is an essential nutrient found in many foods of animal and plant origin. In most animal tissues choline exists mainly as phosphatidylcholine. Although choline is also synthesized endogenously, the established adequate intakes can be met only through dietary intake. Choline is essential for three metabolic processes: acetylcholine synthesis, cell membrane structure and function, and the maintenance of the s-adenosylmethionine pool required for physiological methylation reactions of many substrates (DNA, RNA, proteins, and lipids). Its metabolite betaine contributes to the maintenance of the water balance by kidneys. Choline deficiency has deleterious effects on brain formation and function, and liver metabolism.
Clinical Promise: Clinical Imaging at Ultra High Field

As the race for increased magnetic field strength continues, ultra high field magnetic resonance systems are entering the clinical arena. Human brain imaging at ultra high field (7, 8, and 9.4 Tesla) offers an unprecedented resolution for anatomical imaging that approaches in-vivo microscopy. Results from healthy volunteers and from stroke and tumor studies have demonstrated that high field MRI can visualize microvasculature, details of pathological conditions, and iron deposits with a resolution not obtainable at lower fields. High-resolution maps of brain function and biochemical markers have been obtained at 7 Tesla. Clinical brain imaging is feasible at ultra high magnetic field, but more studies need to be done to determine its diagnostic potential.
The Pharmacogenetics of Vitamin K Antagonist Anticoagulation Drugs

Since the first report on warfarin pharmacogenetics in 1999, genetic ­variants have emerged as an important predictor of warfarin maintenance doses before therapy is initiated, raising expectations of greatly improved clinical outcomes. However, much of the information on warfarin sensitivity conveyed by genetic variants is captured by early international normalized ratio values traditionally used to guide dose titration. Thus, inclusion of early international normalized ratios in prediction models reduces the contribution of genetics. Moreover, in large population cohorts, genetics explained only 20–30% of variance in warfarin doses. Finally, even pharmacogenetic prediction models did not predict doses reliably in the majority of at-risk patients with warfarin requirements at the low or high end of the dose range. Currently, the clinical utility and cost–effectiveness of pharmacogenetic – based dosing are being assessed in large prospective trials in various settings. In the interim, enthusiasm for warfarin pharmacogenetics should not supersede strict adherence to traditional measures used to optimize coumarin anticoagulation.
Understanding the “Difficult” Patient from a Dual Person Perspective

This article examines the concept of the difficult patient from a two person perspective. Patient characteristics and behaviors may be problematic but the degree of difficulty is also related to therapist expectations, affective responses and needs, and capacity for tolerance. Suggestions for enhancing tolerance are offered. The shift from a one person to a two person perspective is illustrated by a case presentation.
Health and Wellness Coaching Implemented by Trainees: Impact in Worksite Wellness:

BackgroundLifestyle change programs have demonstrated encouraging improvements in the overall well-being of participants in clinical, worksite, and university settings. However, the majority of pub...
Ovral® 28 (Wyeth)

This preparation contains 21 active OVRAL tablets and 7 tablets containing inert ingredients so that a tablet is taken every day. The dosage is one (white) OVRAL tablet daily for 21 consecutive days followed by one (pink) inert tablet daily for 7 consecutive days. During the first cycle the patient begins taking the white tablet on the first Sunday after the onset of menstruation. If menstruation begins on a Sunday, the first white tablet is taken that day. (See OVRAL)
Synthesis and thermal rearrangement of pentacyclo[6.5.0.04,12.05,10.09,13]trideca-2,6-diene

Abstract Pentacyclo[6.5.0.0 4,12 .0 5,10 .0 9,13 ]trideca-2,6-diene ( 16 ) has been synthesized in five steps from 1-hydroxyhexacyclo[6.5.0.0 2,6 .0 3,11 .0 5,10 .0 9,12 ]tridecan-7-one ( 10 ). Compound 16 undergoes thermal rearrangement to pentacyclo[7.4.0.0 2,6 .0 3,11 .0 5,10 ]trideca-7,12-diene (i. e., “[2.2.1]triblattadiene”, 19 ). The intermediacy of cis,cisoid,cis -tricyclo[7.4.0.0 2,7 ]trideca-3,5,10,12-tetraene ( 18 ) in the thermal rearrangement of 16 was inferred via analysis of the 1 H NMR spectrum of partially rearranged 16 and subsequently was further established via the results of a trapping experiment (i. e., fluorene was produced when thermal rearrangement of 16 was performed in the presence of 10% Pd/C).
Structural comparisons between Cu(II) and Ni(II) diaza-coupled quasi-aromatic α-amineoxime complexes

Reaction of NioylH and CuoylH with the diazonium salt of sulfanilic acid quantitatively produces diaza complexes by coupling at the C-12 position. X-ray structural study: [Nioyl–N=N–C6H4SO3H]·H2O; C19H28O6N6S1Ni1 M r = 527.23, monoclinic P21/c, a = 12.752(3), b = 10.795(3), c = 16.609(3) A, β = 92.46(3)°, V = 2284.2(9) A3, Z = 4, D x = 1.533(2) mg m−3 [Cuoyl–N=N–C6H4SO3H]· HCl ·3H2O; C19H33O8N6S1Cu1Cl1, M r = 604.56, triclinic, $${P\bar 1}$$ , a = 8.4019(8), b = 11.2266(99), c = 14.9370(20) A, α = 84.264(7), β = 75.309(8), γ = 73.024(8)°, V = 1303.0(2) A3, Z = 2, D x = 1.541(2) mg m−3. The complexes were isolated from about 0.2 M HCl and had different formulas due to differing protonation. The sulfonic acid proton resides on the diaza nitrogen attached to the C6H4 ring and with the copper(II) analogue, protonation also occurs on the intramolecular hydrogen-bond oxygen. Bond distance and angle comparisons are made and related to potential electron delocalization between aromatic rings.
Individual quarantine versus active monitoring of contacts for the mitigation of COVID-19: a modelling study.

Summary Background Voluntary individual quarantine and voluntary active monitoring of contacts are core disease control strategies for emerging infectious diseases such as COVID-19. Given the impact of quarantine on resources and individual liberty, it is vital to assess under what conditions individual quarantine can more effectively control COVID-19 than active monitoring. As an epidemic grows, it is also important to consider when these interventions are no longer feasible and broader mitigation measures must be implemented. Methods To estimate the comparative efficacy of individual quarantine and active monitoring of contacts to control severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), we fit a stochastic branching model to reported parameters for the dynamics of the disease. Specifically, we fit a model to the incubation period distribution (mean 5·2 days) and to two estimates of the serial interval distribution: a shorter one with a mean serial interval of 4·8 days and a longer one with a mean of 7·5 days. To assess variable resource settings, we considered two feasibility settings: a high-feasibility setting with 90% of contacts traced, a half-day average delay in tracing and symptom recognition, and 90% effective isolation; and a low-feasibility setting with 50% of contacts traced, a 2-day average delay, and 50% effective isolation. Findings Model fitting by sequential Monte Carlo resulted in a mean time of infectiousness onset before symptom onset of 0·77 days (95% CI −1·98 to 0·29) for the shorter serial interval, and for the longer serial interval it resulted in a mean time of infectiousness onset after symptom onset of 0·51 days (95% CI −0·77 to 1·50). Individual quarantine in high-feasibility settings, where at least 75% of infected contacts are individually quarantined, contains an outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 with a short serial interval (4·8 days) 84% of the time. However, in settings where the outbreak continues to grow (eg, low-feasibility settings), so too will the burden of the number of contacts traced for active monitoring or quarantine, particularly uninfected contacts (who never develop symptoms). When resources are prioritised for scalable interventions such as physical distancing, we show active monitoring or individual quarantine of high-risk contacts can contribute synergistically to mitigation efforts. Even under the shorter serial interval, if physical distancing reduces the reproductive number to 1·25, active monitoring of 50% of contacts can result in overall outbreak control (ie, effective reproductive number Interpretation Our model highlights the urgent need for more data on the serial interval and the extent of presymptomatic transmission to make data-driven policy decisions regarding the cost–benefit comparisons of individual quarantine versus active monitoring of contacts. To the extent that these interventions can be implemented, they can help mitigate the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Funding National Institute of General Medical Sciences, National Institutes of Health.
Improving 3D water column seismic imaging using the Common Reflection Surface method

Abstract Water column processing has gained attention in recent years since a seismic model of a water column could assist marine data processors to correctly image the sub-seafloor geology, which is the target of primary interest. In addition to seismic processing, water column imaging has gained interest in the physical oceanography community for improved study of oceanographic processes. However, seismic water column processing is challenging since the internal reflections of the ocean are inherently weak and are often masked by noise. In this work, we adopt the common reflection surface stack technique in order to improve the imaging of ocean water layers. The common reflection surface stack is a robust data preconditioning and stacking technique in seismic processing that relies on the kinematic wavefront attributes of seismic waves. The method is applied to a multichannel 3D data set collected for oil and gas exploration in the deep-water Gulf of Mexico. The method greatly improves inline sections but does not significantly enhance crosslines and horizontal slices, which are more sensitive to both the acquisition geometry and the temporal variability of ocean water masses.
Improving Acute Treatment of Pediatric Primary Headache Disorders With a Novel Headache Treatment Center: Retrospective Review of Preliminary Outcomes:

Objective:To determine preliminary outcomes of targeted headache treatments provided at a novel outpatient acute care pediatric headache treatment center.Background:Limitations exist in acute manag...
An Alternative PWM Controlled High Efficient Solution for 60V Electric Vehicle Charging System to Replace Typical Iron Core Charger: Technical Performance Assessment and Comparison of Efficiency

Easy bikes or electric auto-rickshaws are the foremost commonly used electric vehicle in Bangladesh. Mainly, iron core transformer-based bulky chargers with an efficiency of up to 75% are employed to charge quite 1 million easy bikes daily without any smart controls. Implementation of power electronics-based charger ready to operate in additional than 90% efficiency which might reduce the power losses from the utility grid. A high capacity synchronous buck converter based charger with automated charging current controlling topology is proposed during this paper. A high-frequency system makes the circuit compact and light-weight. After the simulation by using PROTEUS software, a light-weight prototype of a straightforward bike charger is build and its performance is evaluated. The efficiency and its maximum rated power are observed and compared with the typical charger.