cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Melancholia, the Death Drive and Into the Wild

Freud’s notion of melancholia has been stretched and distorted virtually beyond recognition by varying instances of social and postcolonial theory. It has likewise been challenged even from within psychoanalysis. This chapter aims to defend facets of Freud’s original conceptualization via the consideration of fragments of a case history. Crucial here is a sense of the psychotic nature of melancholia; the relation to notions of limbo and death (the experience of a twilight world); the role of redirected aggression; and the role of the death drive and the hated lost object. The chapter tackles these issues via a psychosocial sensibility, offering a series of societal instantiations of the foregoing facets of melancholia.
The Perception of Sexual Attractiveness: Sex Differences in Variability

Results of three independent studies supported predictions derived from evolutionary theory: Men's assessments of sexual attractiveness are determined more by objectively assessable physical attributes; women's assessments are more influenced by perceived ability and willingness to invest (e.g., partners' social status, potential interest in them). Consequently, women's assessments of potential partners' sexual attractiveness and coital acceptability vary more than men's assessments. The proposition that polygamous women's assessments of men's sexual attractiveness vary less than those of monogamous women (because the former allegedly are more influenced by target persons' physical attributes) was also tested. In Study 1 male college students showed more agreement than females in their rankings of the sexual attractiveness of opposite-sex target persons. Target persons' flesh and bodily display enhanced this sex difference. In Study 2 men exhibited less variance than did women in their ratings of target persons' acceptability for dating and sexual relations. Women who viewed models described as having low status showed more variability than did women in the high-status condition. In Study 3 women showed more variability than men did in their ratings of 20 opposite-sex celebrities' sexual attractiveness. Studies 2 and 3 included the Sociosexual Orientation Inventory (SOI)—a measure of polygamous attitudes and behavior. Women's SOI scores did not affect the variability of their assessments in either Study 2 or 3. In Study 3 men with low SOI scores showed less variability than did men with high SOI scores. Alternative explanations of the findings are examined. Theoretical and empirical implications are discussed.
Structure and Dynamics of Many-Particle Systems: Big Data Sets and Data Analysis

In this chapter it is underlined that the structure and dynamics of many-particle systems determine essentially the properties of the systems in solid state physics, materials science and nano-technology. The fundamental description of such systems is based on atoms or molecules that interact with each other. The physical background is discussed in detail. In particular, it is argued that the characteristic features and properties of such systems are already reflected by relatively small parts consisting of 102–107 particles. It is outlined that for all the systems used in solid state physics etc. no reliable analytical models exist and we have to recourse to numerical methods. The procedure is to solve Newton’s equations of motion numerically using the interaction potential as input, and these fundamental equations of motion are expressed by coupled differential equations (molecular dynamics). The essential features of the molecular dynamics method have been discussed. The basic information is very large and we get in such investigations “big data sets”, and this information is normally used for data analysis. For the production of the big data sets and their analysis sufficiently large and fast computers are necessary. Does nature also produce big data sets for its operations? This question is discussed critically.
De-instrumentalizing HCI: Social Psychology, Rapport Formation, and Interactions with Artificial Social Agents

Decisions in designing artificial social interactants to reproduce culturally-specific forms of human sociality evince a range of conceptions of the norms and cognitive processes involved in the human social interactions themselves. Regarding the use of machine learning (ML) in such systems, decisions whether or not to use this approach implicitly presents questions on the nature of the interpersonal adaptation that takes place and indicate a range of conceptions of the values which structure these interactions. In the design of virtual performers of musical free improvisation, several designers assume that the experience of equal partnership between improvisers can only be afforded through deployment of ML in such systems. By contrast, tests of agents not based in ML reveal that human beings experience illusions of “adaptation” in interactions with systems which lack any adaptive capacity. Such results suggest that HCI research with artificial social interactants may be used to raise new questions about the nature of human interaction and interpersonal adaptation in the formation of relationships over time.
Mössbauer and EPR Evidence on the Prosthetic Groups of the MoFe Protein

Spectroscopic evidence strongly suggests the existence of two types of redox centers in the MoFe proteins, designated as the M center and the P cluster. Each MoFe protein was shown to contain two M centers and four P clusters, accounting for 28 of the 30 iron atoms in the molecule. The M center is a spin-coupled complex which contains most probably six irons and one molybdenum atom. It resides in the cofactor and can be stabilized in three oxidation states. The native state MN has a spin S = 3/2 and its ground doublet is EPR active. A one electron oxidation process transforms MN into Mox which is diamagnetic. Under nitrogen fixing conditions, the state MN is reduced into state MR. State MR is not discussed in this manuscript but has been shown to have integer spin S > 0 (1). The P cluster contains four spin-coupled iron atoms, most probably bridged by labile sulfur. Two oxidation states, Pox and PN, have been characterized. The native state PN is diamagnetic. The oxidized state Pox has a half integer spin S ≥ 3/2, and is characterized by a negative zero field parameter D. The nature of the remaining two irons is still nebulous and further investigations are warranted.
Foster Caregiver Experience of Pediatric Hospital-to-Home Transitions: A Qualitative Analysis.

Abstract Objective Children entering foster care after discharge from the hospital are at risk for adverse events associated with the hospital-to-home transition. Education of foster caregivers regarding transitional care needs is key. However, little is known about the unique needs of foster caregivers as they transition from hospital to home with a new foster child or how hospital-based health care teams can better support foster caregivers. We aimed to examine the experiences and preferences of foster caregivers’ regarding hospital-to-home transitions of children newly discharged into their care and to identify opportunities for inpatient providers to improve outcomes for these children. Methods We conducted semistructured telephone interviews of foster caregivers who newly assumed care of a child at the time of hospital discharge between May 2016 and June 2017. Interviews were continued until thematic saturation was reached. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to identify themes using a general inductive approach. Results Fifteen interviews were completed. All subjects were female, 87% were Caucasian, and 73% were first-time foster caregivers. Thirteen themes were identified and grouped into the following domains: 1) knowing the child, 2) medicolegal issues, 3) complexities of multistakeholder communication, and 4) postdischarge preparation and support. Conclusions Caregivers of children newly entering foster care following hospital discharge face unique challenges and may benefit from enhanced care processes to facilitate successful transitions. Hospitalization provides an opportunity for information gathering and sharing, clarification of custodial status, and facilitation of communication among multistakeholders, including child protective services and biological parents.
The young pregnant teenager. Impact of comprehensive prenatal care.

Pregnant teenagers under the age of 15 years are known to be at highest risk for delivering low-birth-weight infants, particularly poor black girls. Sixty-seven inner-city pregnant adolescent girls 15 years or less at the time of delivery were followed in a special Teen Obstetric Clinic staffed by an interdisciplinary team trained in adolescent and prenatal health care. Ninety-three percent of the clinic population was black. The fetal outcomes of these girls were compared with the fetal outcomes of 67 girls who attended the regular obstetric clinic. Girls were matched for age at delivery, race, socioeconomic status, and parity. Only 9.0% of the infants of the teenagers in the Teen Obstetric Clinic group weighed
An exploration of perceptions of Associate of Science in Nursing students related to transcultural nursing experiences

Transcultural nursing theory (Leininger, 1995) goes beyond or transcends cultural boundaries, and examines and cultivates an appreciation of human beings and their cultures, histories, and values. Assessment of values, histories, needs, and expectations assists in providing culturally competent patient care. Transcultural nursing courses are an integral part of nursing education. The qualitative study examines the perceptions of 6 Associate of Science in Nursing students related to transcultural nursing experiences in college and clinical education environments. In addition, this study explores what influence, if any, gender has in their experiences. The interpretive study uses a semistructured interview approach during focus group and two interview meetings. The interviewer solicited responses on behaviors, feelings, opinions, and knowledge related to transcultural nursing concepts. Participants maintained a diary of transcultural nursing experiences for 2 weeks. Thematic development coding techniques are employed to provide detailed descriptions of their experiences. Two themes emerge from the research: self awareness and respect for individuals. perceptions of transcultural nursing experiences.
Smartcard Based Authentication

In the modern electronic world, authentication of a person is an important task in many areas of day-to-day life. Using a biometrics to authenticate a person’s identity has several advantages over the present practices of passwords and/or authentication cards using magnetic stripes or bar codes. However, with the use of a biometrics there is an open issue of misuse of the biometrics for purposes that the owner of the biometrics may not be aware of. In this chapter, we propose a new method of remote authentication that combines the security of a smartcard with the accuracy and convenience of biometrics to authenticate the identity of a person. With this approach, the need to access a large biometrics database is eliminated. The proposed method can be used in many application areas including system security, electronic commerce and access control.
Clinical significance of premature ventricular contraction among adult patients: protocol for a scoping review.

Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are one of the most common arrhythmias detected from electrocardiographic (ECG) monitoring. PVCs were thought to cause lethal arrhythmias and thus were closely monitored and treated. However, in current practice, PVCs generally do not required treatment. There is also concern that PVCs contribute to excessive alarms and lead to alarm fatigue. Practice guidelines for in-hospital monitoring state that monitoring for PVCs may be indicated on some patients but do not recommend continuous ECG monitoring. Despite these recommendations, PVC monitoring practices remain part of routine care, especially in the intensive care unit, for worry of missing potentially significant arrhythmia events. A thorough scoping review of the literature regarding the clinical significance of PVC is imperative, precisely to map out the evidence on the diagnostic and prognostic values of PVCs and to identify research gaps on this issue. The primary question of this review is “what is the clinical significance of PVCs in adults?” Preparation of this scoping review will use the PRISMA-P statement. A scoping review framework by Arksey and O’Malley will be adopted. In identifying relevant studies, the Population-Concept-Context (PCC) framework by the Joanna Briggs Institute will be used. A search strategy will be developed, and four major electronic databases will be searched: CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science Core Collection. Manual searches will also be conducted. The study selection process will adopt the 2009 PRISMA flow diagram. EndNote X8 will be used to manage citations, as well as for duplicates screening in addition to Microsoft Excel 2016. Two independent reviewers will assess potential studies in detail against inclusion criteria. A standardized data extraction form will be developed. Finally, critical appraisal will be conducted using a tool adapted from the Quality Appraisal Checklist by the National Institute for Health Care Excellence (NICE). We believe this scoping review will provide a general foundation of evidence on the potential significance of PVCs concerning its diagnostic and prognostic value among the adult patient population. The findings will allow us to map out research gaps on this topic that could shape future research and ultimately clinical practice. This scoping review has been registered in the Open Science Framework (OSF), DOI: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/GAVT2 .
Pregnancy in two patients with cystic fibrosis treated with lumacaftor/ivacaftor

Introduction: The effect of CFTR modulators on the fecundity of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) is unknown. Good research practice prohibits participation of patients attempting pregnancy in clinical trials, resulting in a lack of safety data. We report two pregnancies in CF-patients on lumacaftor/ivacaftor. Cases: Case 1 is 29 years old, homozygous for F508del, body mass index (BMI) 20,3 kg/m2, FEV1 58,6 % pred. She was on lumacaftor/ivacaftor since Febuary 2016 using hormonal contraceptives unregularly and against medical advice. The CFTR-modulator was discontinued when pregnancy was detected at 8 weeks gestation. FEV1%pred declined to 45,6 at week 32 and weight gain was only 4 kg. After repeated pulmonary exacerbations needing iv-therapy, a caesarean section was performed at 35+2 weeks. The infant needed ventilatory support due to prematurity but was otherwise healthy, birth weight 2690 g. After two months FEV1%pred was 48, BMI 20,1 kg/m2. Case 2 is also 29 years old, homozygous for F508del, BMI 20,6 kg/m2, FEV1%pred 39,2 with CF-diabetes. She had unprotected sexual intercourse for over a decade. After treatment with lumacaftor/ivacaftor for two years, a pregnancy was diagnosed at 20 weeks gestation. The patient decided to continue lumacaftor/ivacaftor. FEV1%pred at 36 weeks was 43,9 and weight gain was 9 kg. She gave birth to a healthy girl, birth weight 2440 g via planned caesarean section at 37 weeks. After two months FEV1%pred was 39,2, BMI 20,3 kg/m2. Conclusions: There might be an effect of CFTR-modulators on fecundity and the course and outcome of pregnancy in CF-patients. More data are needed to support the safety or risk for infants of mothers treated with CFTR-modulators.
Psychometric evaluation of the Brief Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire among treatment-seeking veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder.

Objective: The present study aimed to explore the psychometric properties of the Brief Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire (BEAQ) among veterans seeking treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Given that experiential avoidance (EA) is implicated in the development and maintenance of PTSD, it appears to be a possible clinical target for change across treatment. Method: The BEAQ was administered among two samples of military veterans seeking outpatient (n = 179) and residential (n = 257) treatment for PTSD at a Veterans Affairs specialty clinic. The BEAQ is a 15-item self-report measure intended to assess EA, and additional information regarding its psychometric properties is warranted. Results: Descriptive results of the BEAQ in veteran samples are presented. Confirmatory factor analyses of the BEAQ found poor fit in both samples, indicating the BEAQ is not a unidimensional construct, as has been proposed. Conclusions: Future research should consider whether the current structure of the BEAQ is appropriate for measuring EA in veteran samples. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
Hatch pattern based inherent strain prediction using neural networks for powder bed fusion additive manufacturing

Abstract Additive Manufacturing has recently emerged as an important industrial process that is capable of manufacturing parts with complex geometry. One of the drawbacks of metal additive manufacturing processes is the thermo-mechanical distortion of the parts during and after build due to heat effects. Inherent strain is widely adopted by researchers as the basis to predict part distortions during Metal Powder Bed Fusion Additive Manufacturing (PBFAM) process and is highly dependent on the laser hatch pattern sintering on each layer during the printing process. There is a clear need to predict inherent strains for a given arbitrary hatch pattern for a part model so that hatch patterns can be optimized for achieving part quality. In this paper, we propose a neural network based method to predict inherent strain for any given hatch pattern that is adopted during the part build. The authors assumed that the temperature profile inside the heat affected zone within each layer is the same if the part model is reasonably large. To start with, inherent strains of two hatch pattern pools with different hatch angles were obtained by thermo-mechanical simulation with temperature profiles obtained through translation and rotation of a single layer of simulation. A feedforward backpropagation neural network was created and trained with data obtained from an initial hatch pattern pool for predicting inherent strains. The data from a second hatch pattern pool was then utilized to validate the network and test the efficacy of the prediction of the trained neural network. The results show that the trained neural network is capable of predicting the inherent strain of any arbitrary hatch pattern within an acceptable error. Since the trained neural network can predict inherent strain quickly for any given hatch pattern, this could provide the basis for hatch pattern optimization of any part model to increase part build accuracy and achieve part GD&T callouts.
Formation and sorption of trihalomethanes from cross-linked polyethylene pipes following chlorinated water exposure

In recent years, cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes have become more commonplace in building plumbing. However, their presence can strongly impact water quality by leaching organic carbon and sorbing contaminants, to and from the water supply, respectively. This study assessed how these processes could further impact concentrations of disinfection by-products (DBPs) and specifically trihalomethanes (THMs) when exposed to chlorinated water. One brand of three different PEX types (PEX-a, PEX-b, and PEX-c) were exposed to synthetic water, which was subsequently chlorinated over 120 h under varying water quality conditions (e.g. temperature, pH, bromide concentration, and free chlorine dose). Results indicated that THM formation was fairly modest for all three PEX types at 22 °C but increased by a factor of ∼2 at 55 °C for the PEX-a pipe. Other water quality conditions exhibited more limited effects. Pipe-storage time strongly affected leached organic carbon levels but did not affect THM formation. THM sorption also occurred for all three PEX types and was similarly controlled by temperature. Sorption data fit well to a kinetic adsorption model. Combined effects of THM formation and sorption at 22 °C generated no aqueous phase THMs, although this effect was not similarly examined at 55 °C. These results suggest that sorption may mitigate the effects of THM formation if PEX pipes continue to reside downstream of where formation occurred, but this may not be the case if other pipe types (e.g. metal pipes) are present. Overall, these findings have important regulatory consequences since current THM monitoring may or may not account for building PEX plumbing.
Judaism, Pluralism & Public Reason

Central values of Judaism and the historical experience of Jews are sources of strong Jewish support for democracy, especially in the United States, where Jews did not have to wait for citizenship ...
Dynamic, incremental assertion propagation in end-user programming

End-user programming is growing at a rapid rate, but there has been only a little in the way of tools or environments to improve the correctness of programs created by end users. We describe an approach to dynamic assertions in one of the most widely used end-user programming paradigms—the spreadsheet paradigm. Our approach does not assume any formal knowledge of, or interest in, software engineering practices. Dynamic assertions, which can be entered incrementally, feature deductive propagation from user-entered assertions through spreadsheet formulas. These propagated dynamic assertions can then be compared with other user-entered dynamic assertions and—in the event of a conflict—can alert the user to the possibility of a bug in the spreadsheet formulas. Deductive propagation, however, is not viable in all situations. We present algorithms for propagating dynamic assertions through spreadsheets that obey a particular set of restrictions, and we evaluate these algorithms in regard to four properties: reliability, correctness, responsiveness and usefulness. We present lower bounds on the classification of the propagation problem for the variants where deductive propagation is not viable. As part of our evaluation of the reliability property, we empirically examine the occurrence of these variants in a corpus of real-world spreadsheets, both demonstrating that our approach does improve the reliability of assertion propagation and identifying directions for further research.
Strong anisotropy in the mixed antiferromagnetic system Mn 1 − x Fe x PSe 3

We report the magnetic phase diagram of ${\mathrm{Mn}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Fe}}_{x}{\mathrm{PSe}}_{3}$, which represents a random magnet system of two antiferromagnetic systems with mixed spin, mixed spin anisotropies, mixed nearest-neighbor magnetic interactions, and mixed periodicities in their respective antiferromagnetic structure. Bulk samples of ${\mathrm{Mn}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Fe}}_{x}{\mathrm{PSe}}_{3}$ have been prepared and characterized phase pure by powder x-ray and neutron diffraction and x-ray fluorescence. Nature and extent of magnetically ordered state has been established using powder neutron diffraction, dc magnetic susceptibility, and heat capacity. Long-range magnetic ordering exists between $x=0.0$ and 0.25 (${\mathrm{MnPSe}}_{3}$ type) and between $x=0.875$ and 1 (${\mathrm{FePSe}}_{3}$ type). A short-range magnetic order with the existence of both ${\mathrm{MnPSe}}_{3}$- and ${\mathrm{FePSe}}_{3}$-type nanoclusters has been established between $x=0.25$ and 0.875. Irreversibility in dc magnetization measurements, also characterized by isothermal and thermoremanent magnetization measurements, suggest similarities to magnetic nanoparticles where uncompensated surface spins result in diverging thermoremanent and isothermal remanent magnetization responses, further reinforcing existence of magnetic nanoclusters or domains. A spin-glass state, observed in analogous ${\mathrm{Mn}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Fe}}_{x}{\mathrm{PS}}_{3}$, has been ruled out, and formation of nanoclusters exhibiting both ordering types results from unusually high anisotropy values. The effect of ligand contributions to the spin-orbit interactions has been suggested as a possible explanation for high $D$ values in these compounds.
THE CIRCADIAN CLOCK IN THE RETINAL PIGMENT EPITHELIUM CONTROLS THE DIURNAL RHYTHM OF PHAGOCYTIC ACTIVITY

Abstract The diurnal peak of phagocytosis by the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) of photoreceptor outer segments (POS) is under circadian control, and it is believed that this process involves interactions from both the retina and RPE. Previous studies have demonstrated that a functional circadian clock exists within multiple retinal cell types and RPE cells. Thereby, the aim of the current study was to determine whether the circadian clock in the retina and or RPE controls the diurnal phagocytic peak of photoreceptor outer segments and whether selective disruption of the circadian clock in the RPE would affect RPE cells function and the viability during aging. To that aim, we first generated and validated an RPE tissue-specific KO of the essential clock gene, Bmal1, and then we determined the daily rhythm in phagocytic activity by the RPE in mice lacking a functional circadian clock in the retina or RPE. Then using electroretinography, spectral domain-optical coherence tomography, and optomotor response measurements of visual function we determined the effect of Bmal1 removal in young (6-month old) and old (18-month old) mice. RPE morphology and lipofuscin accumulation was also determined in young and old mice. Our data show that the circadian clock in the RPE controls the daily diurnal phagocytic peak of POS. Surprisingly, the lack of a functional RPE circadian clock or the diurnal phagocytic peak does not result in any detectable age-related degenerative phenotype in the retina or RPE. Thus, our results demonstrate that the loss of the circadian clock in the RPE or the lack of the daily peak in phagocytosis of POS does not result in deterioration of photoreceptors or the RPE during aging.
Using Computational Social Science Techniques to Identify Coordinated Cyber Threats to Smart City Networks

Smart cities are increasingly facing cyber-attacks due to the endeavors they have made in technological advancements. The challenge for smart cities, that utilize complex digital networks to manage city systems and services, is that any device that relies on internet connectivity to function is a potential cyber-attack victim. Smart cities use smart sensors. Online Social Networks (OSNs) act as human sensors offering significant contributions to the amount of data used in smart cities. OSNs can also be used as a coordination and amplification platform for attacks. For instance, aggressors can increase the impact of an attack by causing panic in an area by promoting attacks using OSNs. Public data can help aggressors to determine the best timing for attacks, scheduling attacks, and then using OSNs to coordinate attacks on smart city infrastructure. This convergence of the cyber and physical worlds is known as cybernetics. Quantitative socio-technical methods such as deviant cyber flash mob detection (DCFM) and focal structure analysis (FSA) can provide reconnaissance capabilities that enable cities to look beyond internal data and identify threats based on active events. Assessment of powerful actors using DCFM detection methods can help to identify and prevent attacks. Groups of powerful hackers can be identified through FSA which is a model that uses a degree centrality method at the node-level and spectral modularity at group-level to measure the power of a focal structure (a subset of the network). DCFM and FSA models can help cyber-security experts by providing a better picture of the threat which will help to plan a better response.
Pre-assembly required: Nickel(II) complexes containing a Schiff-base ligand derived from tris(2-aminoethyl)amine and acetylacetone, salicylaldehyde, or ortho-vanillin

Abstract We have prepared and characterized seven new nickel(II) complexes that each incorporate tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (tren) and a deprotonated carbonyl-containing compound, both as two separate ligands and when condensed into a 1:1 Schiff-base ligand. We found the application of an existing literature procedure to be unsuccessful in procuring the Schiff-base variants without first assembling the ligand. IR, UV–VIS, magnetic susceptibility, elemental, and melting point data were obtained for the complexes prepared. Three of these compounds were also characterized through X-ray diffraction, and the resulting crystal structures are presented here for [Ni(acac)(tren)]BPh4 (1), [Ni(trensal)(OH2)]ClO4 (5), and [Ni(trenvan)]BPh4·H2O (7) ([acac]- = acetylacetonate ligand, [trensal]- = deprotonated 1:1 condensation product of tren and salicylaldehyde, [trenvan]- = deprotonated 1:1 condensation product of tren and ortho-vanillin). We also screened a selection of the complexes for biological activity. Two of the complexes, [Ni(trenacac)]BPh4 (4) and [Ni(trensal)]BPh4·½H2O (6) were found to fully inhibit the growth of the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans at the sub-micromolar concentration range ([trenacac]- = deprotonated 1:1 condensation product of tren and acetylacetone).
Evaluation of Two Chute-Side Tests for the Detection of Leukocytes and Bacteria in Semen from Yearling Bulls

The presence of leukocytes in semen causes bulls to potentially be unsatisfactory breeders. Multistix® 10 SG Reagent Strips (Bayer Healthcare, Elkhart, IN) and the Uriscreen™ catalase test (Jant Pharmacal Corporation, Encino, CA) were used to evaluate their possibility to serve as chute-side tests to detect leukospermia and bacteriospermia in yearling bulls. The reagent strips detect esterases produced by granulocytes, whereas the catalase test reportedly detects the presence of somatic cells (> 10 cells per high power field) or bacteria (>5 x 104 CFU/ml).
Prevalence, trends, and demographic characteristics associated with self-reported financial stress among head and neck cancer patients in the United States of America.

Abstract Background Understanding the economic burden imposed by head and neck cancer diagnoses essential to contextualize healthcare decision-making for these patients. Methods A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of the US National Health Interview Survey was performed between 2013 and 2018. Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of adult head and neck cancer patients were analyzed in relation to survey responses related to financial stress factors. Results Among 710 head and neck cancer patients, 21.39% (95% Cl, 17.69%–25.09%) reported difficulty paying medical bills within the previous 12 months. Multivariable logistic regression revealed insurance status [aOR 2.17 (95% CI, 1.15–4.07), p Conclusion A large proportion of HNC patients may experience financial stress related not only to out-of-pocket health care costs, but also exogenous financial challenges. These findings suggest that a significant proportion of HNC patients may experience financial stress related not only to out-of-pocket health care costs, but also exogenous financial challenges. Such barriers may impede patients' ability to access and adhere to treatment or force detrimental tradeoffs between health care and other essential needs.
Microsurgical Resection of Giant Thoraco-Lumbo-Sacral Ependymoma With Hybrid Spinal Reconstruction Using Multilevel Laminoplasty and Up-Front Thoracolumbar Posterior Fixation: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.

Extensive multifocal intradural lesions in children present a formidable challenge. This surgical video illustrates our management of a 14-yr=old boy with two intradural mass lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): one at T2-5 and the other from T12 through the sacral cul-de-sac. In a single procedure, we performed a T2-5 laminectomy and laminoplasty and T12-sacrum laminectomy for tumor resection. For reconstruction, we performed complete laminoplasty at all levels with supplementation at the thoracolumbar junction via T11-L2 posterior spinal fixation and allograft placement for fusion. In this video, we illustrate the microsurgical challenges of intradural tumor resection in both the thoracic cord and amidst the cauda equina. In young patients, prevention of postsurgical spinal deformity is of paramount concern. We discuss considerations for long-segment spinal stabilization in an adolescent and describe our decision-making to perform stabilization at the thoracolumbar junction to supplement laminoplasty while preserving function. The patient and their family consented to the procedure. Image of the article at 0:51 is from McGirt et al, Short-term progressive spinal deformity following laminoplasty versus laminectomy for resection of intradural spinal tumors: analysis of 239 patients, Neurosurgery, 2010, 66(5), 1005-1012, by permission of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons.
Significance of Female Education in Economic Development

Female Education in every sense is one of the basic factors of growth and development of a country. No country can achieve sustainable economic development without significant investment in female education. Education develops people’s understanding of themselves and world. It develops the quality of their lives and leads to social benefits to individuals and society. Female education raises the growth and creativity and encourages entrepreneurship and technical advances. It also plays an important role in economic and social development and improving income allocation. Keywords: Economic Growth and Development, Poverty, Productivity, Education, Technology, Trade, Health.
Chelator-assisted high performance liquid chromatographic separation of trivalent lanthanides and actinides

While lanthanides and actinides are essential to many clean energy technologies, they are at high risk for supply chain disruption. As such, the development of recycling and recovery techniques for lanthanides and actinides is essential to avoid future shortages. Conventional reversed-phase chromatography cannot readily discriminate between the metals, making column modifications, such as adsorption of ion-pair agents, necessary to achieve element separation. In this work, we demonstrate that a siderophore-inspired synthetic derivative, 3,4,3-LI(1,2-HOPO), can be used as an in situ chelating agent, promoting lanthanide and trivalent actinide separation in less than 15 min without column modification. By employing alternative chelating ligands, f-element separations are therefore achievable in chromatographic systems used in analytical laboratories around the world, creating new opportunities for the separation and recovery of these critical materials.
Screening Approaches to Identify Genes Required for DNA Double-Strand Break Damage Signaling in the Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an introduction to the approaches adopted to identify genes required for DNA double-strand break damage signaling in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The double strand breaks (DSB) can appear spontaneously or result from a variety of physical and chemical agents. They can vary markedly, both in structure and in biological responses. They are observed during DNA replication, meiosis, and are intrinsic to mating-type switching in yeast. The simple visual screening of DNA damage sensitive mutants for cell cycle progression defects has been used with great success to identify many checkpoint and/or adaptation mutants. More recently, a damage sensitive mutant screening approach (DSMU) has uncovered a G1/S and S phase checkpoint adaptation defect in diploid ccr4 mutants following irradiation or replication stress induced by hydroxyurea (HU). Signaling defective mutants can be identified through secondary screens with replication mutants. Some temperature sensitive ( ts ) mutants of replication essential genes arrest in late S phase at high temperature. The arrest is due to activation of a checkpoint that detects replication induced lesions. Therefore, mutations in damage sensing checkpoint genes, when combined with ts mutants, should also be defective in replication associated checkpoints (DIRAC). Synthetic lethality genetic screens (SYNL) have further expanded the role of replication factors in checkpoint controls such as the RFC complex ( RFC1-5 ), which is a processivity factor for DNA polymerases 2 and 3 and plays a role in checkpoint signaling. The rfc4-2 mutant is lethal in combination with a mutant ( rfa1-t11 ) of RFA1 that encodes a subunit of the DNA binding protein RPA required for G2/M adaptation.
Anticyclonic and cyclonic eddies near the Somali coast

Infrared analyses from measurements aboard the Nimbus II satellite showed a complex pattern of temperatures near the Somali Coast where upwelling appears during the Southwest monsoon. The patchiness of higher and lower temperatures may be explained by cyclonic and anticyclonic water movements. This statement is confirmed by ship observations.
Cross-talk between ERK-1/2 and STAT-1-alpha pathways in respiratory syncytial virus-induced early gene expression in human epithelial cells

Abstract Rationale NFkappaB and STATs are activated in epithelial cells following exposure to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (Kong et al, BBRC, 2003). However, the roles of other signaling pathways such as ERK-1/2 are poorly understood. The roles of ERK-1/2 in activation of RSV infection and activating other signaling pathways were examined in this study using human epithelial cells. Methods The activation of ERK-1/2 was analyzed by Western blotting. Inhibitors and dominant negative (DN) mutant constructs were used to evaluate cross-talk. Viral replication was measured by quantifying the percentage of infected cells and by plaque assay. Results RSV exposure induced phosphorylation of ERK-1/2 in A549 cells within 5 min, which persisted for 2 h. Heparin, an inhibitor of RSV attachment, abolished the activation of ERK-1/2. Also, A549 cells transfected with the DN-MEK-1 showed a >60% decrease in the number of infected cells compared to the wild type construct (P Conclusions These results demonstrate that ERK-1/2 activation is required in RSV-induced early gene expression and that cross-talk between ERK-1/2 and STAT-1 is critical to RSV-induced expression of proinflammatory molecules and potential exacerbation of asthma.
Transport of perfluorocarbon tracers and carbon dioxide in sediment columns – Evaluating the application of PFC tracers for CO2 leakage detection

Perfluorocarbon compounds (PFCs) have high chemical and thermal stability, low background levels in natural systems, and easy detectability. They are proposed as tracers for monitoring potential CO2 leakage associated with geological carbon sequestration (GCS). The fate of the PFCs in porous media, and in particular, the transport of these compounds relative to CO2 gas in geological formations, has not been thoroughly studied. We conducted column tests to study the transport of perfluoro-methylcyclo-pentane (PMCP), perfluoro-methylcyclo-hexane (PMCH), ortho-perfluoro-dimethylcyclo-hexane (ortho-PDCH), and perfluoro-trimethylcyclo-hexane (PTCH) gas tracers in a variety of porous media. The influence of water content and sediment minerals on the retardation of the tracers was tested. The transport of PFC tracers relative to 13CO2 and the conservative tracer sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) was also investigated. Results show that at high water content, the PFCs and SF6 transported together. In dry and low-water-content sediments, however, the PFCs were retarded relative to SF6 with the degree of retardation increasing with the molecular weight of the PFC. When water was present in the medium, the transport of CO2 was greatly retarded compared to SF6 and the PFC tracers. However, in dry laboratory sediments, the migration of CO2 was slightly faster than all the tracers. The type of minerals in the sediments also had a significant impact on the fate of the tracers. In order to use the PFC tracer data obtained from the ground surface or shallow subsurface in a GCS site to precisely interpret the extent and magnitude of CO2 leakage, the retardation of the tracers and the interaction of CO2 with the reservoir overlying formation water should be carefully quantified.
Effect of the pineal gland on circadian rhythmicity of colony forming units for granulocytes and macrophages (CFU-GM) from rat bone marrow cell cultures

The present study provides evidence that the pineal gland has a physiological role in the proliferation of colony forming units for granulocytes and macrophages (CFU-GM). A biphasic circadian rhythm of CFU-GM proliferation in rat bone marrow cell cultures (BMC) from intact animals peaking at 0600 and 1800 was observed. Pinealectomy (Px) at 1600 obliterated the circadian rhythm patterns of CFU-GM. Afternoon injections of melatonin (1630, 20 micrograms/per day for 10 days) to Px animals restored the rhythmicity. When pinealectomy was done at 0800, the morning peak remained unaltered and the colony number at 1800 was higher than that found in the afternoon Px animals. In conclusion, the pineal gland or its main hormone melatonin seems to have a regulatory role in the proliferation of CFU-GM in rat BMC. Further, the expression of the activity of CFU-GM in rat BMC depends on the time when pinealectomy is done or melatonin is substituted.
Nonstabilized imidate ylides by the desilylation method: a route to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids retronecine and indicine

Synthese a partir de pyrrolidone-2 via la desilylation du methoxy-2 R-3 trimethylsilylmethyl-1 pyrroline-1ium par CsF en methoxy-2 R-3 pyrroline-1iomethanure (R=nitro-2' benzyloxy)
Steroid glycoalkaloids and related compounds as potato quality factors

The steroid glycoalkaloids are triterpenoid derivatives which are found in all tissues of the potato plant including the tubers. The compounds are largely localized in the peel of tubers, but tissue beneath the peel rapidly accumulates the steroid glycoalkaloids to levels equal to or greater than those in the peel as a result of injury or environmental stress. The accumulation is restricted to the outer 1–2 mm of injured or stressed tuber. Potatoes containing over 0.02% steroid glycoalkaloids are considered toxic to man, and at this concentration they would impart a distinctly bitter flavor. The accumulation of steroid glycoalkaloids is suppressed and the accumulation of sesquiterpenoids is elicited in tubers infected by various pathogens and nonpathogens including the late blight pathogen,Phytophthora infestans. Arachidonic acid and eicosapentaenoic acids, two polyunsaturated fatty acids isolated fromP. infestans, are potent inhibitors of steroid glycoalkaloid accumulation. Both acids elicit the localized accumulation of sesquiterpenoids including rishitin, lubimin, phytuberin, phytuberol and solavetivone. Rishitin and lubimin generally comprise 85–90% of the total sesquiterpenoids which accumulate. The steroid glycoalkaloids and sesquiterpenoids appear to have a role in disease resistance to some fungal pathogens. Both groups of compounds are synthesized via the acetate-mevalonate pathway. Arachidonic and eicosapentaenoic acids appear to inhibit steroid glycoalkaloid accumulation at the level of the conversion of farnesyl pyrophosphate to squalene and they activate the biosynthesis of sesquiterpenoids. The reduction of steroid glycoalkaloids in potato foliage and tubers for health and flavor considerations should be considered relative to the ability of tubers and foliage to accumulate sesquiterpenoids in response to infection and its influence on disease and insect resistance.
Double-outlet left ventricle: Diagnosis and management

Double-outlet left ventricle (DOLV) is a rare congenital cardiac malformation in which both great arteries originate entirely or predominantly from the morphologic left ventricle. DOLV occurs most commonly in the form of atrial situs solitus with atrioventricular (AV) concordance. Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is most commonly subaortic, and 90% of these patients have associated pulmonary stenosis. In most cases, there is a right anterior position of the aorta relative to the pulmonary artery. Most patients with DOLV will have pulmonary outflow obstruction and present soon after birth with cyanosis. DOLV with two well-developed ventricles is conventionally treated surgically by VSD closure, closure of the native left ventricle-to-pulmonary outflow, and placement of a right ventricle-to-pulmonary artery extracardiac conduit. However, pulmonary root translocation may be used as an alternative to bi ventricular repair of DOLV. Patients with DOLV and functionally single-ventricle or AV valve atresia will require a Fontan procedure.
A primal-dual trust region algorithm for nonlinear optimization

This paper concerns general (nonconvex) nonlinear optimization when first and second derivatives of the objective and constraint functions are available. The proposed method is based on finding an approximate solution of a sequence of unconstrained subproblems parameterized by a scalar parameter. The objective function of each unconstrained subproblem is an augmented penalty-barrier function that involves both primal and dual variables. Each subproblem is solved using a second-derivative Newton-type method that employs a combined trust region and line search strategy to ensure global convergence. It is shown that the trust-region step can be computed by factorizing a sequence of systems with diagonally-modified primal-dual structure, where the inertia of these systems can be determined without recourse to a special factorization method. This has the benefit that off-the-shelf linear system software can be used at all times, allowing the straightforward extension to large-scale problems. Numerical results are given for problems in the COPS test collection.
Natural course of isolated pulmonary valve stenosis in infants and children utilizing Doppler echocardiography.

Most natural history data regarding pulmonary stenosis (PS) were obtained from cardiac catheterization studies over 15 to 20 years ago. Selection bias in these studies often excluded patients with mild disease and infants. Today, Doppler echocardiography allows accurate serial assessments of stenotic lesions in patients of all ages. This study evaluates the natural history of PS utilizing serial Doppler examinations in the pediatric population. A total of 147 patients with PS and serial echocardiographic data were identified. Age at initial echocardiogram ranged from 2 days to 15 years, with a mean follow-up of 2.4 years. Sixteen of 56 patients (29%) initially evaluated within 1 month had a ≥20 mm Hg increase in their peak systolic pressure gradient. Only 7 of 89 patients (8%) initially evaluated over 1 month had a ≥20 mm Hg increase. Eleven of 40 newborn infants (28%) with mild obstruction had progression to moderate or severe PS compared with 10 of 68 patients (15%) initially evaluated over 1 month. Moderate PS in the newborn was also more likely to progress compared with older children. Of the 16 newborns with ≥20 mm Hg increases, 8 developed the increase in ≤6 months. In contrast, no patient aged >2 years whose initial gradient was <50 mm Hg developed severe PS. Mild PS may not be static, particularly in young infants. Progression in this age group occurs more often and more rapidly than in older infants and children.
Tyrosine Enteroreceptor of Hydra: Its Function in Eliciting a Behavior Modification

Hydra that still contain partially digested food in their gastrovascular cavities, undergo a modified feeding response when they ingest additional prey. A localized constriction is formed just below the sites of tentacle attachment, preventing the loss of gastrovascular contents. This response involves the interaction of an ectodermal receptor system for glutathione and an endodermal receptor system for tyrosine.