cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhanced sampling simulation analysis of the structure of lignin in the THF–water miscibility gap

Using temperature replica-exchange molecular dynamics, we characterize a globule-to-coil transition for a softwood-like lignin biopolymer in a tetrahydrofuran (THF)–water cosolvent system at temperatures at which the cosolvent undergoes a de-mixing transition. The lignin is found to be in a coil state, similar to that in the high-temperature miscible region. Analysis of the transition kinetics indicates that THF acts in a surfactant-like fashion. The present study thus suggests that THF–water based pretreatments may efficiently remove lignin from biomass even at relatively low (non-water boiling) temperatures.
Resources Center for Materials Science Education

A variety of educational resources are available in the area of materials science and engineering. These resources are widely dispersed and are often hard to find. Several efforts to collect and categorize the wide variety of educational modules, demonstrations, laboratories and texts have been launched in recent years, but none have been able to incorporate the vast majority of resources. The current effort is funded by NSF and has been collecting information from a variety of sources over the past year. It is being integrated with the Materials Education Library project that has been under way at the University of Michigan since 1997. These projects will result in a fully searchable database, published both on the world wide web and in a print catalog, with the first edition being available by summer 2000. The draft web site may be found at http://msewww.engin.umich.edu/MEL/; a permanent web site will be available by the end of 2000.
Metabolic Adaptation to Alcohol in the Heart

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses metabolic adaptation to alcohol in the heart. In a study described in the chapter, the hemodynamic and metabolic effects of 15% ethanol, 0.1 ml/kg/min, infused systemically for 2 hours, were studied in the intact anesthetized dog. A small transient decline in coronary blood flow was not considered a primary factor in the decline of left ventricular function. Evidence of cardiac tissue injury was observed after 90 minutes, with significant elevations of coronary sinus potassium and phosphate ion concentrations, and of the transaminase enzyme. The myocardial metabolic response to ethanol included an initial shift in the respiratory quotient to that characteristic of predominant carbohydrate oxidation. During this period, left ventricular glucose and lactate extractions were enhanced. Subsequently, the respiratory quotient declined to levels consistent with predominant lipid utilization. Although free fatty acid uptake was significantly diminished, plasma triglyceride became the predominant myocardial substrate through the remaining observation period. Left ventricular triglyceride concentration was found to be enhanced threefold above fasted controls.
Endoscopic Cycloplasty (ECPL) and Lens Extraction in the Treatment of Severe Plateau Iris Syndrome.

PURPOSE To describe the anatomic and clinical results of the treatment of severe plateau iris syndrome with lens extraction and endoscopic cycloplasty (ECPL). A secondary aim was to describe 4 novel ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) measurements for plateau iris syndrome. DESIGN Prospective case series with UBM evaluation. METHODS Included were 12 eyes of 6 patients with plateau iris refractory to laser iridotomy and iridoplasty, miotic and other glaucoma medical treatment, with appositional angle closure in at least 3 quadrants. Treatment consisted of lens extraction and ECPL, an endoscopic diode laser treatment of the ciliary processes in the superior, nasal, and inferior quadrants. UBM measurements were taken in all quadrants before and after surgery. The untreated temporal quadrants were used as controls. Measurement parameters included: anterior chamber depth (ACD), angle opening distance (AOD 500), trabecular ciliary process distance (TCPD), iris ciliary process distance (ICPD), iris depth (ID), iridocorneal angle (ICA), and sulcus angle (SA). Four novel measurements included: ciliary process thickness (CPT), ciliary process width (CPW), ciliary process area (CPA), and iris ciliary process contact length (ICPCL). Visual acuity, intraocular pressure, glaucoma medications, and complications were also followed. RESULTS The ACD, AOD 500, and ICA all increased significantly (P<0.001). ICPD, CPT, CPW, CPA, and ICPL all decreased significantly (P<0.01). Parameters remaining unchanged were: TCPD, ID, and SA. The untreated quadrants showed similar measurements to the preoperative measurements. There were no serious complications noted. DISCUSSION Treating the ciliary processes with diode laser using an endoscopic approach (ECPL) and lens extraction, results in opening of the anterior chamber angle and shrinkage of the ciliary processes in the treated areas. This effect seems to be primarily a result of the laser treatment in combination rather than the lens extraction alone. This effectively reverses the anatomic cause and angle closure of plateau iris syndrome.
An Ant Colony Optimization and Hybrid Metaheuristics Algorithm to Solve the Split Delivery Vehicle Routing Problem

Abstract : Split Delivery Vehicle Routing Problem (SDVRP) is a relaxation of the Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem (CVRP) wherein a customer can be visited by more than one vehicle. Two approaches using, 1) Ant Colony Optimization and 2) hybrid metaheuristics algorithm comprising a combination of ACO, Genetic Algorithm (GA) and heuristics are proposed and tested on benchmark SDVRP problems. The results indicate that the two proposed algorithms are competitive in both solution quality and solution time. In some instances, the best ever solutions have been found for particular problem instances.
An Analysis of Discriminating Criteria in the Financial Service Market

Although previous research has identified the selection criteria used by consumers when choosing among financial institutions, this research has two shortcomings. This paper attempts to overcome these shortcomings by focusing on the need for a particular financial service and by not restricting the consumer’s choice to any one type of financial institution. The findings confirm our expectations with regard to which criteria are the most discriminating when consumers make a decision to estab-lish their largest savings account in a bank, savings and loan, or credit union. Given the nature and the amount of change that has taken place in the financial market, these findings suggest an even greater need to replicate any and all studies that have, in the past, dealt with selection criteria.
A study of sparse detector designs with interpolation for multi-slice spiral CT

In multi-slice spiral CT, z-sampling has a great effect on image quality, dose and speed. In our work, we explore using sparse detectors of various designs in multi-slice spiral CT. These designs have fewer detector elements as compared to a regular detector. Or alternatively, they have the same number of detectors but provide more axial coverage for greater scanning speed of longer objects. The sparser detector elements also affect the reconstruction in a similar manner as z-sampling does. To account for the missing detector elements we interpolate the acquired data to simulate a full detector. We apply both bilinear interpolation and directional interpolation and compare them. We also report the quality of the reconstruction and scan speed for each detector pattern.
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation: assessing the learning curve.

Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the learning curve for the implantation of the percutaneous aortic valve via the transfemoral route. Background Transcutaneous aortic valve insertion is a fundamentally new procedure for the treatment of aortic valve stenosis. The number of cases needed to gain proficiency with concomitant ease and familiarity (i.e., the “learning curve”) with the procedure is unknown. Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of the first 44 consecutive patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation as part of the PARTNER (Placement of Aortic Transcatheter Valves) trial at our institution between November 2008 and May 2011. Results The median age of the patients was 83 years (interquartile range: 77 to 87 years) and a median Society of Thoracic Surgery risk score of 9.6. Pre-procedural assessment of the aortic valve revealed a mean gradient of 53.5 mm Hg, mean aortic valve area of 0.7 mm2, and a median ejection fraction of 59.5%. Patients were divided into tertiles based on sequence. Significant decreases in median contrast volume (180 to 160 to 130 ml, p = 0.003), valvuloplasty to valve deployment time (12.0 to 11.6 to 7.0 min, p Conclusions Experience accumulated over 44 transfemoral aortic valve implantations led to significant decreases in procedural times, radiation, and contrast volumes. Our data show increasing proficiency with evidence of plateau after the first 30 cases. More studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Bile Acid-Induced Liver Injury in Cholestasis

Bile acids are physiological detergent molecules synthesized from cholesterol exclusively in the hepatocytes. Bile acids play important roles in generating bile flow and facilitating intestinal nutrient absorption. Bile acids are endogenous ligands of nuclear receptors and cell surface G protein-coupled receptors, which regulate various biological processes including metabolism, immune response, and cell proliferation. Cholestasis is a pathological condition where bile flow out of the liver is reduced or blocked, leading to accumulation of bile acids, cell death, and inflammation in the liver. Chronic cholestasis leads to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, failure, and carcinogenesis. During cholestasis, bile acid-activated signaling regulates bile acid detoxification mechanisms as well as cell survival and proliferation. The hydrophilic bile acid UDCA has been used as the primary cholestasis therapy for decades. Pharmacological agents targeting the bile acid receptors are being developed as novel therapeutics for cholestasis. This chapter summarizes bile acid biology, mechanism of cholestatic liver injury, and current and future bile acid-based therapeutics for cholestasis.
An ultra low-cost 32-element 28 GHz phased-array transceiver with 41 dBm EIRP and 1.0–1.6 Gbps 16-QAM link at 300 meters

This paper presents a 32-element phased-array architecture suitable for fifth-generation (5G) communication links. A 28–32 GHz silicon core chip is designed with 4 transmit/receive elements each with 14 dB gain control, 6-bit phase control, 4.6 dB measured noise figure (NF) in the RX mode and 10 dBm output 1 dB compression point (OP1dB) in the TX mode. Eight of these chips are flipped on a low-cost printed circuit board (PCB) with integrated antennas and Wilkinson combiners. The 32-element array has a measured EIRP of 41 dBm at P1dB, can scan to ±20° and ±50° in E- and H-planes, and comsumes 4.2 W and 6.4 W in RX and TX modes, respectively. The array is used in a 300 meter wireless link and achieves a data rate of 1.0–1.6 Gbps at 16-QAM for all scan angles with <12% EVM. To our knowledge, this represents state-of-the art in 28 GHz phased-arrays in terms of chip performance and integration level.
Unveiling differences, finding a balance : social gender analysis for designing projects on community-based management of natural resources

Equitable distribution of the costs and benefits associated with conservation is a key issue in natural resource management. Addressing the underlying social, economic and cultural factors shaping social differentiation within and among communities will help reverse social inequities and will also promote more sustainable conservation. This book tries to respond to the need of project managers to understand how gender, poverty and ethnicity relate to each other and how they affect results of conservation projects. It offers guidance and practical tools to respond, in an integrated way, to the different issues related to gender, poverty alleviation and indigenous peoples  key aspects of addressing equity in conservation. It encourages conservation practitioners to use social and gender analysis as a methodology for promoting equitable sharing of the costs and benefits of natural resource management. While it focuses on the design phase of a project, it acknowledges that a similar approach is needed all along the project cycle.
Co/Pt Multilayers for Magneto-Optical Recording

Optical storage technology nowadays plays increasingly important roles in today’s information storage hierarchy, and magneto-optical (MO) recording is currently the dominant rewritable optical storage technology. Like other storage technologies, one of the key thrusts in the optical storage technology is to increase the areal storage density. For MO recording, the major research and development efforts normally aim to accomplish the following: (1) capability to write smaller domains, (2) ability to retain these small domains, (3) sufficiently large signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in reading back these small domains, and (4) good servo controls to locate and focus on these small domains.
Leader Behavior, Group Size, and Member Satisfaction in University Christian Growth Groups:

The relationship of group size, leader consideration behavior, and leader initiating structure behavior with member satisfaction was assessed. Respondents included 57 members of 14 small Christian ...
Teacher in Residence: (Abstract Only)

As CS for All initiatives expand in K-12 districts across the country, there is a need to create ongoing teacher support and training. Cornell Tech's Teacher in Residence program builds computational agency. Agency is often defined as the power to freely act and make choices. The Teacher in Residence program seeks to build the agency of school administrators, teachers, and students to make choices about CS education and to act on them based on a foundation of content knowledge rather than programs bound to specific tools or individuals. The Teacher in Residence program is grounded in evidence-based practices, but has made unique adaptations in order to support teachers who are new to CS content. The writers will share practices, learnings, and preliminary outcomes from the first year and a half of the program. His data includes qualitative measures of teacher confidence, agency, and accuracy as well as initial data on student engagement and generalization. The Teacher in Residence program includes K-8 teachers who are incorporating CS instruction into their classrooms. In this program, a master teacher is embedded in a school community for a limited amount of time to coach teachers, offer professional development, and consult with the administration about implementation. It focuses on three elements: content proficiency, appropriate pedagogy, and giving equitable access to all students. Handouts will be provided.
Influence of governance structure on green stormwater infrastructure investment

Abstract Communities are faced with the challenge of meeting regulatory requirements mandating reductions in water pollution from stormwater and combined sewer overflows (CSO). Green stormwater infrastructure and gray stormwater infrastructure are two types of water management strategies communities can use to address water pollution. In this study, we used long-term control plans from 25 U.S. cities to synthesize: the types of gray and green infrastructure being used by communities to address combined sewer overflows; the types of goals set; biophysical characteristics of each city; and factors associated with the governance of stormwater management. These city characteristics were then used to identify common characteristics of “green leader” cities—those that dedicated >20% of the control plan budget in green infrastructure. Five “green leader” cities were identified: Milwaukee, WI, Philadelphia, PA, Syracuse, NY, New York City, NY, and Buffalo, NY. These five cities had explicit green infrastructure goals targeting the volume of stormwater or percentage of impervious cover managed by green infrastructure. Results suggested that the management scale and complexity of the management system are less important factors than the ability to harness a “policy window” to integrate green infrastructure into control plans. Two case studies—Philadelphia, PA, and Milwaukee, WI—indicated that green leader cities have a long history of building momentum for green infrastructure through a series of phases from experimentation, demonstration, and finally—in the case of Philadelphia—a full transition in the approach used to manage CSOs.
Big impact, small effort: Implementing a low-cost, highly inclusive recognition program with huge results

Like many organizations, the Wayne State University Libraries have historically struggled with a recognition system that had the potential to acknowledge people from all areas of the libraries, especially in a way that everyone felt like part of the process. Over the years, we tried things like recognition toolkits for managers, a dedicated recognition team, and formal awards ceremonies, but none were wholly embraced, and they quickly fizzled out as interest waned. Shrinking budgets added to the challenge, as funding for awards became harder and harder to obtain.
Item Parameter Drift of the Self-Description Questionnaire I

Abstract. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Self-Description Questionnaire I (SDQI) with regard to children’s mathematics self-concept based on the item r...
Right-wing Movements in the United States: Women and Gender

This entry focuses on women's involvement in right-wing movements in the USA, examining both the Old Right of the 1950s as well as the New Right of the 1970s and 1980s. Both the Old Right and the New Right incorporate two distinct strata: religiously motivated social conservatives and a more secular strata committed to economic conservatism (laissez-faire conservatives). In terms of women, these two strata in the New Right are drawn from different sociological pools. They each also have distinct approaches to issues of gender and relations to feminism. While social conservatives believe in a strict division of gender roles and formed a movement opposing feminism and calling for preservation of traditional families and values, laissez-faire women view men and women as similar and align themselves with many feminist issues. Ironically, although laissez-faire women resemble feminists in background and beliefs, gender identity is not central to their involvement while social conservative women are well aware of their interests and act to defend their status as women.
Dietary Fiber Intake of Children and Young Adults: The Bogalusa Heart Study

Abstract Objective To determine dietary fiber intake of children and young adults. Design and setting Cross-sectional surveys of children and young adults in Bogalusa, La. Subjects Twenty-four-hour dietary recalls were collected from 1976 to 1988 on five cohorts of 10-year-olds (n=l,254), two cohorts of 13-year-olds (n=360), and young adults (n=504) 19 to 28 years of age. Statistics Dietary fiber intake data were analyzed for age, race, and gender differences and for secular trends. Descriptive and inferential statistics were calculated where appropriate. Dietary composition and food sources were examined for race-specific and gender-specific quartiles for dietary fiber intake adjusted per 1,000 kcal. Results Even after adjusting for energy intake, total dietary fiber intake remained unchanged from 1976 to 1988, averaging 12 g or 5 g/1,000 kcal. Blacks and males had higher total fiber intakes than whites and females at all ages. Consumption of vegetables and soups and breads and grains accounted for 53% (10-year-olds) to 70% (13-year-olds) of the total fiber consumed. When children were stratified into quartiles on the basis of fiber intake per 1,000 kcal, the percentage of energy from total fat and saturated fat was lower, and the percentage of energy from carbohydrate was higher, in children with higher fiber intakes per 1,000 kcal. Applications Dietary fiber intake of children has remained the same in the past 12 years and is comparable with the intake of young adults, which is well below the recommended level. Children with high fiber intakes (upper quartile) consumed less fat, particularly saturated fat, and more carbohydrate than children with low fiber intakes. Increasing consumption of whole-grain products, fruits, vegetables, and legumes (prepared with minimal added fat) will be necessary to reach the goal of optimal fiber intake and could result in an eating pattern that approaches the current recommendations for dietary fat and saturated fat. J Am Diet Assoc. 1995; 95:209-214.
Cross‐Market Integration and Sabotage

The R & P seminar held at Wing 11 Committee Room, IIM Ahmedabad on March 14, 2018 by Prof. Asoo J. Vakharia, Warrington College of Business Administration, University of Florida on Cross-Market Integration and Sabotage
RBD: Gender Implications

Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (RBD) has a reported male predominance. This gender difference may partially relate to underdiagnosis of RBD in women. Less violent behaviors, decreased numbers of behaviors on sleep studies, genetics, risk of neurodegenerative disorders, age, hormones, and lack of bed partner may contribute to this gender difference. As more evidence accumulates supporting idiopathic RBD as an early manifestation of a neurodegenerative disorder such as Parkinson’s disease, it is imperative to fully recognize RBD in both genders.
Modulation of dynamic mitochondria by epigenetics in diabetic retinopathy

Introduction Mitochondria are highly dynamic, and they continually fuse and divide. Fusion mixes the contents of two mitochondria, and dilutes injured mitochondrial proteins and DNA. Outer membrane fusion is mediated by fusion proteins, mitofusins (Mfn), and Mfn2 itself is sufficient to modulate mitochondrial metabolism. In the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy, mitochondrial structure and DNA are damaged, oxygen consumption is decreased and Mfn2 levels are decreased, and damaged mitochondria accelerates capillary cell apoptosis. Gene expression is also regulated by epigenetic modifications, and these modifications are implicated in the development of diabetic retinopathy. Aim of this study is to investigate the role of epigenetic modifications in the regulation of Mfn2 in diabetic retinopathy. Methods In human retinal endothelial cells, incubated in normal (5mM) or high glucose (20mM) for four days, in the presence/absence of DNA methyltransferase (Dnmt) inhibitors (5-Azacytidine or Dnmt1-siRNA), methylated cytosine (5mC) levels at Mfn2 promoter were quantified by immunecapturing method. Mitochondrial stability was evaluated by measuring membrane permeability, complex-III activity and transcription of mtDNA (cytochrome b, Cytb), and cell apoptosis was quantified by ELISA method using monoclonal antibodies against DNA and histones. Key parameters were evaluated in the retinal microvessels from streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice receiving intravitreal administration of Dnmt1-siRNA. Results Cells exposed to high glucose had increased 5mC levels at Mfn2 promoter. Dnmt inhibition ameliorated increase in 5mC levels, decrease in Mfn2 expression, and protected mitochondrial stability. In the same cells, glucose-induced increase in apoptosis was also ameliorated. Similarly, Dnmt1-siRNA prevented diabetes-induced increase in 5mC at Mfn2 promoter and decrease in its expression. Conclusions DNA methylation of Mfn2 promoter in diabetes, impairs mitochondrial stability, leading to accelerated apoptosis. Thus, targeting Mfn2 DNA methylation could help maintain mitochondrial homeostasis, and halt/retard the development of diabetic retinopathy.
Lexical Development in Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): How ASD May Affect Intake From the Input.

Purpose Most children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have below-age lexical knowledge and lexical representation. Our goal is to examine ways in which difficulties with social communication an...
Indigenous internet: nuances of native american internet use

We investigate Internet traffic logs on rural Native American reservations in California served by a tribally-owned Internet provider. The anonymous user browsing traffic and device preferences create unique failure patterns that reveal where connectivity is not well-served by standard networking technology. Geographical and cultural marginalization has lead to distinctive Internet usage when connectivity is available. For instance, residents commonly visit websites that are not as popular in the wider United States; and mobile devices dominate web request traffic, often with content-heavy video and media downloads, despite sustaining a higher rate of failure than desktop devices. This statistical analysis of passive measurements avoids institutional and cultural biases and ensures continuing research will contribute to a decolonizing narrative of Native American informational practices and values. Based on our analysis, we propose follow-up research angles to better understand the technological and social drivers behind these findings in order to improve user experience in this, and similar, networks.
Marginalized by Choice—Kayenta Pueblo Communities in the Southwest (AD 800–1500)

Abstract Remote and environmentally marginal, the Kayenta region in northeastern Arizona was originally referred to as a provincial backwater when compared to the more architecturally grand ceremonial and political centers that surrounded it. Archeologists suggest that Kayenta was marginalized from these centers because they do not show any of the trappings of exotic trade items, social stratification, or cultural innovations. However, those features that distinguish Kayenta from their contemporaries in other regions may have saved them from nutritional and bacterial diseases, trauma, and warfare. The bioarchaeological data show a generally robust, high-fertility population that was well-adapted and long-lived in the region. By intentionally embracing their marginalized status and inward-focused (but not insular) identity, they were healthier and free from warfare unlike their neighbors.
Language learning in the adult brain: A neuroanatomical meta-analysis of lexical and grammatical learning

Language learning as an adult, though often difficult, is quite common. Nevertheless, the neural substrates of this process remain unclear, even though identifying them should clarify how language is learned and could lead to improved success at this endeavor. We addressed this gap by conducting multiple neuroanatomical meta-analyses to synthesize the functional neuroimaging literature of language learning. We focused on learning lexical and grammatical knowledge, two building blocks of language. Lexical and grammatical learning yielded overlapping activation in frontal (e.g., BA 44/45) and posterior parietal regions. Only lexical learning showed ventral occipito-temporal (ventral stream) activation, while only grammatical learning showed basal ganglia (anterior caudate/putamen) activation. To further elucidate the neurocognition of grammar learning, we also tested specific predictions of the declarative/procedural model of language. Consistent with the model, grammar learning predicted to rely especially on declarative memory (e.g., with explicit training) showed hippocampal involvement, while grammar learning predicted to rely particularly on procedural memory (e.g., with implicit training) showed anterior caudate/putamen involvement. Finally, given the prevalence of research on artificial grammars, we performed separate analyses of artificial grammar and non-artificial grammar (e.g., miniature language) paradigms. These yielded overlapping activation, especially in BA 44, underscoring the validity of artificial grammars as models for grammar learning in natural languages. In sum, the study elucidates the empirical and theoretical landscape of language learning and has applied implications.
Volitional control of the upper esophageal sphincter with high-resolution manometry driven biofeedback.

Author(s): Nativ-Zeltzer, Nogah; Belafsky, Peter C; Bayoumi, Ahmed; Kuhn, Maggie A | Abstract: IntroductionDysfunction of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) is associated with swallow dysfunction and globus pharyngeus. Although volitional augmentation of the UES has been previously documented, the ability of individuals to control UES pressure with high-resolution manometry (HRM) driven biofeedback has not been assessed.PurposeTo evaluate the ability of patient driven HRM biofeedback to control UES basal pressure.MethodsHRM data was collected from 10 patients undergoing esophageal manometry. Participants were trained on real-time HRM-driven biofeedback to both elevate and reduce UES pressure. Measures of baseline UES minimum, mean and maximum pressures (mmHg) were compared to biofeedback-driven volitional increases and decreases in UES pressures. Pre- and post-biofeedback data were compared with paired sample T-tests.ResultsThe mean age (± standard deviation) of the cohort was 68 (±12.7) years. Sixty percent (6/10) were female. The mean UES baseline pressure increased from 30.1 (±15.3) mmHg to 44.8 (±25.03) mmHg (P = .02) with biofeedback-driven UES augmentation (P l .05). Maximum UES pressures were also increased from 63.84 (±24.1) mmHg to 152.4 (±123.7) (P = .04). Although some individuals were able to successfully decrease basal UES tone with the HRM biofeedback, no statistically significant group differences were observed (P g .05).ConclusionVolitional control of UES pressure is possible with HRM-driven biofeedback. Patients vary in their ability to intentionally control UES pressure and some may require further training aimed at lowering UES pressure with HRM-guided biofeedback. These data may have significant implications for the future treatment of UES disorders and warrant further investigation.Level of evidence4.
Thermal migration of an ethynyl group from one benzene ring to another by reversible vinylidene CH insertion

Abstract Evidence is presented for the high temperature opening of a 5-membered ring by extrusion of a carbene (the reverse of a CH bond insertion), which results in the net thermal migration of an ethynyl group from one benzene ring to another.
Evidence of confusion about evidence of causes: comments on the debate about EBP in education

EBP – evidence-based policy and practice – has generated intense controversy. A rough continuum of positions can be discerned: At one pole are “tough-minded” commentators distinguished by their sup...
Controlling swelling and release of hyaluronic acid during aqueous storage by in situ cross-linking during spray drying with alginate

Abstract The success of hyaluronic acid in over-the-counter cosmetics has been limited by its poor storage stability in aqueous environments due to premature swelling and hydrolysis. Here, hyaluronic acid was prepared in dry microparticles, encapsulated by spray-drying in patented in situ calcium cross-linked alginate microcapsules (CLAMs) to minimize swelling and release in aqueous formulations. CLAMs prepared with 61% (d.b.) hyaluronic acid (HA-CLAMs) demonstrated restricted plumping, limited water absorption capacity, and reduced leaching; retaining up to 49 % hyaluronic acid after 2 hrs in water. A new method using chelated soluble calcium resulted in particles with significantly improved hyaluronic acid retention in water. ‘Chelate HA-CLAMs’ exhibited nearly full retention of hyaluronic acid over 2 hr incubation in water, and remained visibly insoluble after 1 year of storage in water at 4°C. Successful hyaluronic acid retention in CLAMs is likely due to the ability of hyaluronic acid to participate in calcium cross-linking.
Reduced parietal alpha power and psychotic symptoms: Test-retest reliability of resting-state magnetoencephalography in schizophrenia and healthy controls.

Abstract Background Despite increased reporting of resting-state magnetoencephalography (MEG), reliability of those measures remains scarce and predominately reported in healthy controls (HC). As such, there is limited knowledge on MEG resting-state reliability in schizophrenia (SZ). Methods To address test-retest reliability in psychosis, a reproducibility study of 26 participants (13-SZ, 13-HC) was performed. We collected eyes open and eyes closed resting-state data during 4 separate instances (2 Visits, 2 runs per visit) to estimate spectral power reliability (power, normalized power, alpha reactivity) across one hour and one week. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated. For source modeling, we applied an anatomically constrained linear estimation inverse model known as dynamic statistical parametric mapping (MNE dSPM) and source-based connectivity using the weighted phase lag index. Results Across one week there was excellent test-retest reliability in global spectral measures in theta-gamma bands (HC ICCAvg = 0.87, SZ ICCAvg = 0.87), regional spectral measures in all bands (HC ICCAvg = 0.86, SZ ICCAvg = 0.80), and parietal alpha measures (HC ICCAvg = 0.90, SZ ICCAvg = 0.84). Conversely, functional connectivity had poor reliability, as did source spectral power across one hour for SZ. Relative to HC, SZ also had reduced parietal alpha normalized power during eyes closed only, reduced alpha reactivity, and an association between higher PANSS positive scores and lower parietal alpha power. Conclusions There was excellent to good test-retest reliability in most MEG spectral measures with a few exceptions in the schizophrenia patient group. Overall, these findings encourage the use of resting-state MEG while emphasizing the importance of determining reliability in clinical populations.
Spectra and Structure of Silicon-Containing Compounds. XXVIII1 Infrared and Raman Spectra, Vibrational Assignment, and Ab Initio Calculations of Vibrational Spectrum and Structural Parameters of Vinyltrichlorosilane

The infrared spectra (3200-50 cm−1) of gaseous and solid vinyltrichlorosilane, CH2=CH-SiCl3, have been recorded. In addition, the Raman spectrum (3200-10 cm−1) of the liquid has been recorded and quantitative depolarization values obtained. The infrared spectrum of the sample dissolved in liquid xenon (−80°C) has also been recorded. Using the experimental data and normal coordinate calculations with scaled ab initio force constants, the complete vibrational assignment is proposed. The torsional mode was observed in the infrared spectrum of the gas at 69 cm−1 and the threefold barrier of internal rotation was calculated to be 500 cm−1 (5.98 kJ/mol). Ab initio calculations have been carried out at the restricted Hartree–Fock level of the theory as well as with full electron correlation by the perturbation method to second order with different basis sets up to 6-311+G(d,p) to obtain the optimized geometries, harmonic force constants, infrared intensities, Raman activities, depolarization ratios, and vibrational frequencies. The ab initio predicted structural parameters are compared with those obtained from a previous electron diffraction study.
Has agricultural intensification impacted maize root traits and rhizosphere interactions related to organic N acquisition

Plant-microbe interactions in the rhizosphere influence rates of organic matter mineralization and nutrient cycling that are critical to sustainable agricultural productivity. Agricultural intensification, particularly the introduction of synthetic fertilizer in the USA, altered the abundance and dominant forms of nitrogen (N), a critical plant nutrient, potentially imposing selection pressure on plant traits and plant-microbe interactions regulating N cycling and acquisition. We hypothesized that maize adaptation to synthetic N fertilization altered root functional traits and rhizosphere microbial nutrient cycling, reducing maize ability to acquire N from organic sources. Six maize genotypes released pre-fertilizer (1936, 1939, 1942) or post-fertilizer (1984, 1994, 2015) were grown in rhizoboxes containing patches of 15N-labelled clover/vetch residue. Multivariate approaches did not identify architectural traits that strongly and consistently predicted rhizosphere processes, though metrics of root morphological plasticity were linked to carbon- and N-cycling enzyme activities. Root traits, potential activities of extracellular enzymes (BG, LAP, NAG, urease), abundances of N-cycling genes (amoA, narG, nirK, nirS, nosZ) and uptake of organic N did not differ between eras of release despite substantial variation among genotypes and replicates. Thus, agricultural intensification does not appear to have impaired N cycling and acquisition from organic sources by modern maize and its rhizobiome. Improved mechanistic understanding of rhizosphere processes and their response to selective pressures will contribute greatly to rhizosphere engineering for sustainable agriculture.
Influences of microwave irradiation on performances of membrane filtration and catalytic degradation of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA).

Abstract Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), one of the common per- and poly fluorinated alkylated substances (PFASs), is increasingly detected in the environment due to the diverse industrial applications and high resistance to degradation processes. This study evaluated degradation of PFOA in microwave-assistant catalytic membrane filtration, a process that integrates microwave catalytic reactions into a ceramic membrane filtration. First, water permeation of the pristine and catalyst-coated membranes were examined under the influence of microwave irradiation to analyse the impacts of the coating layer and water temperature increase on permeate flux, which were well interpreted by the Carman-Kozeny and Hagen-Posieulle (non-slipping and slit-like) models. Then, the PFOA removal was first assessed in a continuous filtration mode with and without microwave irradiation. Our results show that PFOA first adsorbed on membrane and catalyst materials, and then fully penetrated the membrane filter after reaching adsorption equilibrium. Under microwave irradiation (7.2 W·cm−2), approximate 65.9% of PFOA (25 μg·L−1) in the feed solution was degraded within a hydraulic time of 2 min (at the permeate flow rate of 43 LMH) due to the microwave-Fenton like reactions. In addition, low flow rates and moderate catalyst coating densities are critical for optimizing PFOA removal. Finally, potential degradation mechanisms of PFOA were proposed through the analysis of degradation by-products (e.g., PFPeA). The findings may provide new insight into the development of reactive membrane-enabled systems for destruction of refractory PFAS.
Low Static Shear Modulus Along Foliation and Its Influence on the Elastic and Strength Anisotropy of Poorman Schist Rocks, Homestake Mine, South Dakota

We investigate the influence of foliation orientation and fine-scale folding on the static and dynamic elastic properties and unconfined strength of the Poorman schist. Measurements from triaxial and uniaxial laboratory experiments reveal a significant amount of variability in the static and dynamic Young’s modulus depending on the sample orientation relative to the foliation plane. Dynamic P-wave modulus and S-wave modulus are stiffer in the direction parallel to the foliation plane as expected for transversely isotropic mediums with average Thomsen parameters values 0.133 and 0.119 for epsilon and gamma, respectively. Static Young’s modulus varies significantly between 21 and 117 GPa, and a peculiar trend is observed where some foliated sample groups show an anomalous decrease in the static Young’s modulus when the symmetry axis (x3-axis) is oriented obliquely to the direction of loading. Utilizing stress and strain relationships for transversely isotropic medium, we derive the analytical expression for Young’s modulus as a function of the elastic moduli E1, E3, ν31, and G13 and sample orientation to fit the static Young’s modulus measurements. Regression of the equation to the Young’s modulus data reveals that the decrease in static Young’s modulus at oblique symmetry axis orientations is directly influenced by a low shear modulus, G13, which we attribute to shear sliding along foliation planes during static deformation that occurs as soon as the foliation is subject to shear stress. We argue that such difference between dynamic and static anisotropy is a characteristic of near-zero porosity anisotropic rocks. The uniaxial compressive strength also shows significant variability ranging from 21.9 to 194.6 MPa across the five sample locations and is the lowest when the symmetry axis is oriented 45° or 60° from the direction of loading, also a result of shear sliding along foliation planes during static deformation.
Woody-biomass projections and drivers of change in sub-Saharan Africa

Africa’s ecosystems have an important role in global carbon dynamics, yet consensus is lacking regarding the amount of carbon stored in woody vegetation and the potential impacts to carbon storage in response to changes in climate, land use and other Anthropocene risks. In this study, we explore the socioenvironmental conditions that have shaped the contemporary distribution of woody vegetation across sub-Saharan Africa and evaluate ecosystem response to multiple scenarios of climate change, anthropogenic pressures and fire disturbance. Our projections suggest climate change will have a small but negative effect on above-ground woody biomass at the continental scale, and the compounding effects of population growth, increasing human pressures and socioclimatic-driven changes in fire behaviour further exacerbate climate-driven trends. Relatively modest continental-scale trends obscure much larger regional perturbations, with climatic and anthropogenic factors leading to increased carbon storage potential in East Africa, offset by large deficits in West, Central and Southern Africa. The amount of carbon stored in African ecosystems and how climate change will affect this is uncertain. Projections indicate that carbon storage will increase in East Africa, climate change will have an overall negative impact on woody biomass and that other human pressures will amplify the trend.
Feasibility of Race by Sex Intersectionality Research on Suicidality in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study

Intersectional research on childhood suicidality requires studies with a reliable and valid measure of suicidality, as well as a large sample size that shows some variability of suicidality across sex by race intersectional groups. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the feasibility of intersectionality research on childhood suicidality in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. We specifically explored the reliability and validity of the measure, sample size, and variability of suicidality across sex by race intersectional groups. Methods: We used cross-sectional data (wave 1) from the ABCD study, which sampled 9013 non-Hispanic white (NHW) or non-Hispanic black (NHB) children between the ages of 9 and 10 between years 2016 and 2018. Four intersectional groups were built based on race and sex: NHW males (n = 3554), NHW females (n = 3158), NHB males (n = 1164), and NHB females (n = 1137). Outcome measure was the count of suicidality symptoms, reflecting all positive history and symptoms of suicidal ideas, plans, and attempts. To validate our measure, we tested the correlation between our suicidality measure and depression and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) sub-scores. Cronbach alpha was calculated for reliability across each intersectional group. We also compared groups for suicidality. Results: We observed some suicidality history in observed 3.2% (n = 101) of NHW females, 4.9% (n = 175) of NHW males, 5.4% (n = 61) of NHB females, and 5.8% (n = 68) of NHB males. Our measure’s reliability was acceptable in all race by sex groups (Cronbach alpha higher than 0.70+ in all intersectional groups). Our measure was valid in all intersectional groups, documented by a positive correlation with depression and CBCL sub-scores. We could successfully model suicidality across sex by race groups, using multivariable models. Conclusion: Given the high sample size, reliability, and validity of the suicidality measure, variability of suicidality, it is feasible to investigate correlates of suicidality across race by sex intersections in the ABCD study. We also found evidence of higher suicidality in NHB than NHW children in the ABCD study. The ABCD rich data in domains of social context, self-report, schools, parenting, psychopathology, personality, and brain imaging provides a unique opportunity to study intersectional differences in neural circuits associated with youth suicidality.
Web Content: A Case Study of Monetization of an Online Home-Based Business

This case study is for college students in an e-commerce or business strategy class who are interested in studying the role of social media, search engines, Google Analytics, Google AdSense, and mobile technology in building and maintaining a successful conventional website. The aim of the case is to demonstrate the value of Web content as a product and the use of online strategies for the monetization of such content. John Uyi is an online sole proprietor who runs four unrelated websites: Cultureak.com, a cultural website; Mathak.com, a math tutorial website; Animalak.com, a website for farm animals; and Travelak.com, a travel website. He aims to interest his viewers in advertising on the Cultureak website, clicking on the advertisements there, and/or purchasing his books, movies, and motivational and language CDs. Based on his analytics report, John later added a Bible reading program to attract more clickers. Despite John seeing a tremendous increase in page-views for Cultureak, its income has only reached about $350 monthly. John wonders what he needs to do to increase his revenue to about $2000 monthly.
Suitability for Kidney Transplantation in AL Amyloidosis: A Survey Study of Transplant and Amyloidosis Physicians

Background: Historically, kidney transplantation has been considered inappropriate for most patients with AL amyloidosis-associated kidney failure because of concerns about recurrent disease in the allograft and poor long-term survival. With improvements in rates and durability of hematologic responses and survival that have accompanied treatment advances, a greater proportion of patients with AL amyloidosis may be suitable for kidney transplantation. However, there are no widely accepted criteria for kidney transplant eligibility for this patient population. Methods: We administered surveys electronically to transplant nephrologists and amyloidosis experts at a geographically diverse set of academic medical centers in the United States. Questions were designed to elucidate views about suitability and timing of kidney transplantation for patients with AL amyloidosis-associated kidney failure. Results: The survey was completed by 20 (65%) of invited amyloidosis experts and 20 (29%) of invited transplant physicians. Respondents indicated that, for patients with AL amyloidosis, most transplant nephrologists have limited experience with both determining eligibility for and providing care after kidney transplantation. Most transplant nephrologists and amyloidosis experts viewed anticipated patient survival as the most important determinant of suitability for kidney transplantation. Compared with transplant program respondents, amyloidosis program respondents reported a higher degree of confidence in determining suitability for kidney transplantation, were comfortable proceeding with kidney transplantation earlier after patients attained a hematologic response, and, were less concerned about extra-renal amyloid involvement as a barrier to kidney transplantation. In both groups, most respondents indicated that there is a lack of consensus between amyloidosis and kidney transplant physicians about criteria for determining suitability for kidney transplantation. Conclusion: Views about criteria for kidney transplantation for patients with AL amyloidosis-associated kidney failure differed between amyloidosis and transplant nephrology program respondents, with amyloidosis specialists generally favoring a less restrictive approach to transplant eligibility. The findings suggest a need for consensus building across specialties.