cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficient Software Defined Systems Using Common Core Components

With advent of Docker containers, an application deployment using container images gains popularity over scientific communities and major cloud providers to ease building reproducible environments. While a single base image can be imported multiple times from different containers to reduce storage consumption by a sharing technique, copy-on-write, duplicates of package dependencies are often observed over containers. In this paper, we propose new approaches to the container image management for eliminating duplicated dependencies. We create Common Core Components (3C) to share package dependencies by version control system commands, submodules and merge. 3C with submodules provides a collection of required libraries and tools in a separate branch, while keeping their base image same. 3C with merge offers a new base image including domain specific components thereby reducing duplicates in similar base images. Container images built with 3C enable efficient and compact software defined systems and disclose security information for tracking Common Vulnerability and Exposure (CVE). As a result, building application environments with 3C-enabled container images consumes less storage compared to existing Docker images. Dependency information for vulnerability is provided in detail for further developments.
Self-Cleaning and Controlled Adhesion of Gecko Feet and Their Bioinspired Micromanipulators

Bioinspired micromanipulators have been made based on gecko dynamic self-cleaning mechanism. Various particles such as spherical SiO2/polystyrene, and short fibrous glass can be captured, transmitted and dropped on glass substrate with precisely predesigned patterns, by using the micromanipulator with the help of atomic force microscope (AFM). It has been demonstrated that particle-pad interface and particle-substrate interface exhibit diverse adhesion behaviors under different z-piezo retracting speed. The particle-substrate adhesion increases faster than the particle-pad adhesion with increasing the detaching velocity, which makes it possible to manipulate the particles by adjusting the retreating speed only. Probability tests was performed to better choose suitable parameters for picking and dropping operations. This work provides a potential solution to manipulation of micro/nano particles for precise assembly.
Regulation of Mammalian Heme Biosynthesis

Regulation of the heme biosynthetic pathway in mammals occurs via two distinct mechanisms. These mechanisms reflect the fact that while most cells need to closely regulate relatively low levels of intracellular heme, differentiating erythroid cells must produce massive amounts of heme during a short period to satisfy the needs of hemoglobinization. In erythroid precursor cells all pathway enzymes are induced via erythroid-specific promoter elements and the first enzyme, erythroid-specific 5-aminolevulinate synthase (ALAS-2) encoded by a gene on the X chromosome, is also subject to translational regulation due to the presence of an iron-responsive element located in the 5′ end of the mRNA. In nonerythroid cells a house-keeping regulatory scheme exists where most regulation appears to be via transcriptional regulation of a housekeeping 5-aminolevulinate synthase (ALAS-1) that is encoded on human chromosome 3. While the proteins of the mature forms of ALAS-1 and ALAS-2 are highly similar, the regulatory elements that control their expression are distinctly different and only ALAS-2 mRNA possesses an iron-regulatory element. Additional regulatory features exist throughout the pathway, but the major regulation appears to occur at the level of ALAS.
Tissue oxygen saturation predicts response to breast cancer neoadjuvant chemotherapy within 10 days

Non-hypoxic levels of tumor oxygen saturation within 10 days of the first dose of therapy predict pathologic complete response to breast cancer neoadjuvant chemotherapy in a 33-subject clinical trial.
Testing the limits of reverberation room qualification standard AHRI 220

Trane’s acoustic lab recently upgraded measurement equipment which necessitated re-qualification of two reverberation chambers according to AHRI 220. We took this opportunity to test restrictions listed in the standard in relation to source-to-wall spacing and minimum number of fixed microphone positions. Measurements were simultaneously taken using rotating and fixed microphones. It will be shown that the wall proximity limit is overly restrictive, while the minimum fixed microphone requirement is appropriate.Trane’s acoustic lab recently upgraded measurement equipment which necessitated re-qualification of two reverberation chambers according to AHRI 220. We took this opportunity to test restrictions listed in the standard in relation to source-to-wall spacing and minimum number of fixed microphone positions. Measurements were simultaneously taken using rotating and fixed microphones. It will be shown that the wall proximity limit is overly restrictive, while the minimum fixed microphone requirement is appropriate.
Primary Liver Cancer

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequently occurring primary tumor of the liver in adults and the fourth most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. Its rising incidence in the United States and Europe is attributed to the increased incidence of hepatitis C infection. Currently, the optimal treatment for HCC is orthotopic liver transplant or surgical resection for selected patients. However many patients are not able to undergo these radical interventions. Historically, radiotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma has been shown to be poorly tolerated in the cirrhotic liver and has had suboptimal results with standard fractionation. With the introduction of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) techniques, there are emerging data indicating that the use of targeted, highly conformal, hypofractionated ablative radiotherapy can provide results that compare favorably with other ablative procedures for HCC in terms of local control, safety and survival. Therefore, SBRT is gaining interest as an alternative, safe, non-invasive and effective technique for the treatment of appropriately selected patients who are not able to undergo orthotopic liver transplantation.
Impact of new pesticide chemistry on acarine communities in apple orchards

Changes in the acarine community of several apple orchards due to adoption of new arthropod pest control practices were examined over a 4-year period in western North Carolina, USA. At each of nine study sites, a reduced-risk integrated pest management (IPM) program was compared to a conventional IPM plot. In addition to pheromone-based mating disruption, reduced-risk plots also included one or more of the following new insecticides: the nicotinoids imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, acetamiprid, and thiacloprid; the oxadiazine indoxacarb; the biological insecticide spinosad; and the insect growth regulators methoxyfenozide, novaluron, and pyriproxyfen. Conventional plots were treated with broad-spectrum organophosphate, carbamate, and pyrethroid insecticides. The most common phytophagous mite was Panonychus ulmi, and the most prevalent predators were the phytoseiid Neoseiulus fallacis (>99%) and the stigmaeid Agistemus fleschneri. Results showed that phytophagous mite outbreaks did not occur in the reduced-risk plots, and acaricides were applied 15 and 7 times in the conventional and reduced risk treatments, respectively, throughout the four-year study. Phytoseiid and stigmaeid predatory mites were more abundant in reduced-risk vs. conventional plots. High numbers of the mite-eating thrips, Scolothrips sexmaculatus, were noticed in one orchard in 2004 and they were more abundant in reduced-risk vs. conventional plots. In addition, crop protectant aluminum silicate clay (Surround® WP) negatively affected phytoseiid mites compared to a control involving a water spray.
Postpartum Hemorrhage: Management of Massive Transfusion

In women with postpartum hemorrhage, the need to transfuse a large amount of blood products is frequent. The ABCD of massive transfusions-Assessment/Activation, Blood products, Complications, and Drugs-can help manage this complex situation. There needs to be a defined method to activate the massive transfusion protocol and a well-defined means to assess the coagulation status of the patient by either traditional laboratory tests or point of care methods such as thromboelastography. Recent data supports more aggressive use of plasma in the massively transfused patient. Obstetricians need to be vigilant in assessing compilations, especially hypothermia. Given the increased use of antithrombotic drugs in bleeding patients, one needs to consider reversal of these agents. Finally, consideration of the role of other agents such as antifibrinolytic agents in the management of the bleeding patient is important. It is important for every hospital to have a well-defined massive transfusion protocol to streamline the care of postpartum hemorrhage.
Mass Spectrometry Imaging of Cholesterol

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has evolved as a significant tool to map biomolecules in situ without tags. This chapter describes advancements in mass spectrometry imaging technology and applications focused on mapping cholesterol. Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI), and desorption electrospray (DESI) modes are described. These MSI technologies range in spatial resolution, and therefore different levels of mapping ranging from intracellular to whole tissue can be achieved. A variety of technical examples showing methods for cholesterol and cholesterol-derived molecular imaging are provided as well as imaging results from membrane dynamics, and genetic and drug treatment models. This emerging application of MSI for mapping cholesterol in biological specimens provides a new means to gain a deeper understanding of cholesterol distribution, and thereby insights into function.
Changes in mammographic density following bariatric surgery.

Abstract Background Obesity and high breast density both increase breast cancer risk but paradoxically are inversely related. Bariatric surgery decreases breast cancer risk, but its impact on mammographic breast density is not well understood. Objectives We investigated how mammographic density changes after bariatric surgery and whether this change is related to weight loss. Setting University of California, San Francisco Medical Center. Methods We reviewed records from 349 prospectively collected patients who underwent bariatric surgery between 2013 and 2015 and identified 42 women with pre- and postoperative screening mammograms within 1.5 years of surgery. We recorded body mass index (BMI), height and Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System density and calculated BMI loss and total weight loss. Data were analyzed in Stata 14.2. Results Average age was 54.2 years, mean preoperative BMI was 43.8 kg/m2, mean BMI lost was 30.9%, and total weight loss was 31.1% at 1.3 years. Over one-third had a change in mammographic breast density, which increased 93.3% of the time (P Conclusions Most women with a mammographic change had an increase in breast density, despite bariatric surgery being associated with reduced breast cancer risk. Baseline breast density was associated with a density change, but amount of weight loss was not. These findings suggest the metabolic effects of bariatric surgery have an effect on breast parenchyma independent of absolute BMI reduction or weight loss.
Qualitative Exploration of Farm to School Program Adoption and Expansion in Massachusetts Schools

Limited research has examined the rapid growth of farm to school (FTS) programs in the US. Qualitative interviews (n = 24) framed by Diffusion of Innovations theory were used to explore FTS program...
Getting My People

This chapter first defines the book’s subject—white people responding to Black Lives Matter (BLM)—and gives a brief theory of whiteness as a category. It then addresses a common white objection to BLM: that we white people would be able to take BLM seriously if it were more like the Civil Rights Movement, meaning, if it were less divisive or impolite. Putting Martha Nussbaum and Audre Lorde in conversation, Luttrell distinguishes between hate and anger in social movements. As Carol Anderson argues, hate and rage characterized the hostile white reactions to the Civil Rights and African-American social gains. Anger, on the other hand, characterizes parts of both the Civil Rights Movement and BLM. Luttrell disagrees with Nussbaum’s account of anger as necessarily useless. White people need to allow space for black anger and not confuse it with hate.
Blue Phosphorescent trans-N-Heterocyclic Carbene Platinum Acetylides: Dependence on Energy Gap and Conformation

A series of 11 complexes of the type trans-(NHC)2Pt(CC-Ar)2 (where NHC = N-heterocyclic carbene) have been synthesized and their photophysics characterized. The complexes display moderately efficient deep blue to green phosphorescence from a triplet excited state that is localized mainly in the aryl acetylide ligand (CC-Ar). The emission energy varies with the substituent on CC-Ar, with the highest energy emission for Ar = 4-pyridyl. The emission quantum efficiency and lifetime for the series decreases with increasing emission energy (Eem), and the effect is identified as arising from an increase in the nonradiative decay rate (knr) with Eem. Temperature-dependent emission lifetime studies for three complexes give activation energies for the nonradiative decay process ∼1000 cm-1, and the thermally activated decay process is attributed to crossing to a nonemissive metal-centered (d-d) excited state. At a low temperature, two different emission progressions are observed. Density functional theory calculations suggest that the triplet energy varies with the torsion of the aryl acetylide rings relative to the plane defined by the PtC4 unit (where C = the carbon atoms bonded to Pt). The multiple emission is ascribed to emission from complexes differing with respect to the aryl acetylide ring torsion. Ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy reveals a fast relaxation (∼5 ps) that may also be due to aryl acetylide ring torsional relaxation in the triplet excited state.
Myokymia and Neuromyotonia

Myokymia and neuromyotonia are findings commonly seen in syndromes of hyperexcitability of the peripheral axon. In this chapter, the similar etiologies, clinical picture, and electrophysiologic studies are reviewed. The more recent associations with channel disorders are also highlighted.
The Regulatory Vortex for Private Placements

This article addresses the array of regulatory exemptions from federal registration requirements under the Securities Act of 1933. The author briefly describes those exemptions and then discusses what he has identified as the regulatory vortex that drives the overwhelming majority of private placement issuers to utilize the Rule 506(b) exemption. Based on extensive survey data, the author examines the primary factors that leave issuers and their attorneys reluctant to employ the newly created Rule 506(c) exemption. The article concludes that a combination of these reluctance factors dissuade users from relying on Rule 506(c) and instead strengthen the preference for the 506(b) exemption, despite the fanfare with which Congress recently passed the new rule.
Signet Ring Cell Carcinoma with Lymphangitic Carcinomatosis in Pregnancy: A Case Report of an Unexpected Maternal Death and Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND Cancer in pregnancy is extremely rare, and gastric cancers are rarer still. Diagnosis is difficult in pregnancy due to overlapping symptoms with pregnancy such as nausea, pain, anemia, and fatigue. CASE REPORT A 26-year-old G1 woman at 32 weeks gestation with a past medical history of systemic lupus erythematosus presented with new-onset chest pain and shortness of breath. Computed tomography of the chest, electrocardiogram, and echocardiogram were normal. Laboratory evaluation revealed thrombocytopenia, proteinuria of 480 milligrams, and normal complement. She delivered on hospital day 3 due to worsening chest pain. During cesarean delivery, the patient became hypotensive and hypoxic and required intensive care unit admission after a cesarean hysterectomy. On postoperative day 2 she had a pulmonary embolus and was started on therapeutic anticoagulation. She clinically improved until postoperative day 4, when she was found unresponsive with pulseless electrical activity. After 38 minutes of Advanced Cardiac Life Support, death was pronounced. An autopsy was performed and the cause of death found to be complications of multi-organ system involvement of adenocarcinoma with signet ring cell features. Lymphangitic carcinomatosis was noted throughout the lungs. CONCLUSIONS This patient had adenocarcinoma with signet ring cell features and associated lymphangitic carcinomatosis, which led to her postpartum death. Lymphangitic carcinomatosis is associated with an exceedingly poor prognosis, especially in pregnancy.
B c absorption cross sections by ρ mesons

The cross sections of ${B}_{c}$ absorption by $\ensuremath{\rho}$ mesons are calculated using a meson-exchange model based on a hadronic Lagrangian having SU(5) symmetry. Calculated cross sections are found to be in the ranges 0.6--3 and 0.05--0.3 mb for the processes ${B}_{c}^{+}\ensuremath{\rho}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{*}B$ and ${B}_{c}^{+}\ensuremath{\rho}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}D{B}^{*}$, respectively, when the monopole form factor is included. The total ${B}_{c}$ absorption cross section by $\ensuremath{\rho}$ mesons is found to be about three times smaller than the calculated total cross section by pions using the same model. These results could be useful in calculating the production rate of ${B}_{c}$ mesons in relativistic heavy-ion collisions.
Feasibility Study for Calcined Clay Use in the Southeast USA

The Southeast USA contains very large reserves of clay that could be used for supplementary cementitious material (SCM) production. A feasibility study has been performed recently to determine the viability of this clay for use as an SCM. Samples were taken from currently operating mines in Florida and analyzed for clay content, particle size, reactivity, and strength development potential. This paper discusses results with a focus on clay quality, material processing needs for use, and availability.
STRUCTURES OF RESENTMENT: On Feeling—and Being—Left Behind by Health Care Reform

Described by many as an emotional state rooted in having been treated unfairly, resentment has surged over the past decade. Resentment politics troubled the passage and implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA, 2010) in the United States. While some people gained access to health insurance through the ACA, others experienced continued exclusion from affordable coverage. Drawing on ethnographic interviews with poor whites from Florida, Rhode Island, and Texas, we show how uninsured individuals talked about and experienced resentment through contradictory tropes of “us versus them,” deservingness, and personal responsibility. We argue that policies based in resentment, occurring on both national and state levels, structured these individuals’ experiences and amplified their resentment sentiments. Through this case study we argue that resentment is more than an emotion: it is also a force that structures policies and their implementation. Resentment policies in turn create the social, political, and economic circumstances that generate resentment feelings.
A profile of the Simplexa™ Bordetella Direct assay for the detection and differentiation of Bordetella pertussis and Bordetella parapertussis in nasopharyngeal swabs

Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis and to minor extent B. parapertussis. Despite high vaccination coverage, epidemics persist worldwide. Laborator...
Objective and subjective sleep measures are associated with neurocognition in aging adults with and without HIV.

Poor sleep quality is related to worse neurocognition in older adults and in people with HIV (PWH); however, many previous studies have relied only on self-report sleep questionnaires, which are in...
Molecular Hydrogen in the Direction of ζ Orionis A

A spectrum of ζ Ori A over the wavelength interval 950-1150 A recorded by the Interstellar Medium Absorption Profile Spectrograph (IMAPS) on the ORFEUS-SPAS I mission shows Lyman and Werner band absorption features from molecular hydrogen in rotational levels J = 0, 1, 2, 3, and 5. Most of the molecules are found in two distinct velocity components. One is at a heliocentric radial velocity of about -1 km s-1 with log N(H2) = 14.5 and a rotational temperature Trot = 950 K, while the other is at +25 km s-1 with log N(H2) = 15.9 and Trot = 320 K. Some extra H2 exists in a much weaker component [log N(H2) = 14.0] between the two main peaks. The H2 component at -1 km s-1 exhibits profile shapes that become broader and show small displacements toward more negative velocities as J increases. These changes are inconsistent with a simple interpretation that UV optical pumping in an optically thin, uniform medium creates the H2 in excited rotational levels. Differential shielding of the UV radiation at certain velocities does not appear to be a satisfactory explanation for the effect. Evidence from atomic features at other velocities may offer some insight into the origin of this unusual behavior exhibited by the H2 profiles. Absorption features from moderately ionized atoms at -94 km s-1 and more highly ionized species at about -36 km s-1 suggest that along the line of sight to ζ Ori A, there may be a standing bow shock with an initial compression ratio of 2.6. This shock is probably created when a negative-velocity gas flow collides with an obstruction, in this case a neutral cloud at 0 km s-1. If this interpretation is correct, the H2 with the changing profiles may represent molecules forming in the postshock gas that is undergoing further compression as it recombines and cools. We suggest that molecules can form initially by associative detachment of H- in a moving, warm, partly ionized medium behind the front. The H2 in this area is most conspicuous in the higher J levels. Later, when the gas becomes very cool, neutral, and more compressed as it comes nearly to a halt, it is more easily seen in the lowest J levels. In this part of the medium, the principal way of producing H2 should be from reactions on the surfaces of dust grains, as one expects for quiescent interstellar clouds.
2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) inhibits angiogenesis by interfering with N-linked glycosylation

367 Aims: Interference with endothelial glucose metabolism with regard to angiogenesis inhibition has rarely been explored. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of blocking glucose metabolism on angiogenesis, and to characterize glucose dependent molecular pathways critical to tumor neovascularization, specifically N-linked glycosylation. Methods: The effects of 2-DG and other glycolytic inhibitors on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) proliferation, cytotoxicity, and capillary formation in vitro were assessed. Sensitivity of endothelial cells (ECs) and tumor cells to 2-DG was compared. To assess if the inhibitory effects were due to 2-DG’s interference with N-linked glycosylation, mannose rescue experiments were performed. Western blotting for the molecular chaperone proteins Grp78/Bip, Grp94 and GADD153/C/EBP homologous protein (GADD153/CHOP) and caspase-3 cleavage were done from HUVEC lysates treated with 2DG and mannose to detect 2-DG induced unfolded protein response (UPR) and activation of UPR dependent apoptotic pathways, respectively. Results:2-DG inhibited HUVEC proliferation and induced EC cytotoxicity in a dose dependent manner and at lower concentrations than those required to cause cytotoxicity in selected cancer cells. EC tube formation was also significantly inhibited. Importantly, 2-DG treatment did not result in damage of established capillaries in vitro. The EC inhibitory effects of 2-DG were significantly higher than those of other glycolytic inhibitors (2-fluorodeoxy-D-glucose and oxamate) at equimolar concentrations, and were reversed by mannose, the predominant sugar molecule involved in N-linked glycosylation of glycoproteins. Western blot analysis on HUVEC lysates treated with 2-DG demonstrated induction of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress through activation of UPR, resulting in upregulation of GADD153/CHOP and caspase-3 cleavage. Those effects were reversed by mannose treatment, confirming N-linked glycosylation as the predominant mechanism of UPR-mediated apoptosis. Conclusion:2-DG significantly inhibits EC proliferation, in vitro angiogenesis, and induces cytotoxicity at concentrations below those required to affect tumor cells. The inhibitory effects appear to be due to the following sequence: Interference with N-linked glycosylation, induction of UPR, and activation of the UPR specific apoptotic pathway GADD153/CHOP. Our data underscore the importance of glucose metabolism in general and N-linked glycosylation, in particular on neovascularization, and provide a novel strategy for angiogenesis inhibition for the treatment of cancer. Studies assessing the effects of 2-DG on in vivo angiogenesis models are underway.
Environmental Limits on the Spread of Invasive Phragmites australis into Upland Forests with Marine Transgression

Phragmites australis is a cosmopolitan grass that has transformed tidal wetlands in regions where it is invasive. The position of P. australis at the upland margin of tidal wetlands makes it likely to be among the earliest species to colonize uplands in marshes responding to sea-level rise; P. australis has been spreading in step with transgressive forest retreat. Considered a high light demanding species, the forest shade has been thought to keep this prolific species in check. In this study, we surveyed the distribution of P. australis across the marsh-forest ecotone, with particular attention to low-light areas in the forest understory, an environmental setting that has been largely overlooked in investigations of this well-studied species. We found P. australis to be present and well-established in forest canopy cover of up to 87.4%. However, canopy cover was significantly and negatively related to P. australis density in a multivariate model describing the species’ distribution in the ecotone. To test the species’ growth in shade conditions corresponding to the forest understory, we performed a greenhouse shading experiment. While photosynthetic parameters and growth rates were reduced in shade treatments, shade-grown individuals exhibited relatively high rates of photosynthesis in light-response tests, and there was no difference between the species’ performance in partial and deep shade treatments. We conclude that, while P. australis prefers high light conditions, it is able to colonize and survive low-light conditions in closed forest. By colonizing forest understory areas prior to other salt-tolerant species, P. australis is prepositioned to be the dominant species during saltwater intrusion and forest retreat.
An empirical analysis of the early impact of Covid-19 on income-related inequality in household stress

This paper focuses on the early impact of Covid-19 on income-related inequality in the UK. Using a Concentration Index, we investigate whether Covid-19 has differing effects on the stress levels of...
An immersion scanner enabling 10 nm half pitch production and high productivity

Nikon's newly developed immersion scanner, NSR-S630D, provides exceptional performance in product overlay, CD uniformity, and productivity at 10 nm hp node and beyond. Generally, maintaining machine accuracy and productivity at a high level is difficult because they are in a trade-off relationship. The NSR-S630D is equipped with new features including an encoder servo-controlled reticle stage, reticle bending mechanism, optics with enhanced thermal aberration control, and thermally stable wafer stage. These features enable the NSR-S630D to deliver highest accuracy and productivity.
Treacher Collins Syndrome

Treacher Collins syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder with a characteristic pattern of malformations including malformation of the auricle, usually associated with hearing loss secondary to atresia of the external auditory canal and/or malformation of the ossicles of the middle ear, down-slanting palpebral fissures with variable deficiency of the zygomatic arch, coloboma or notching of the lateral portion of the lower eyelid with absence of the eyelashes medial to the notch, and hypoplasia of the facial bones resulting in micrognathia with prominence of the central facial structures. Other manifestations may include choanal atresia or stenosis, pharyngeal hypoplasia, submucous or overt cleft palate, tags of tissue or fistulae on the line between the tragus of the ear and the corner of the mouth, and an aberrant growth of hair extending onto the cheek in front of the ear. Intelligence is normal. Cleft lip with or without cleft palate is rare. Keywords: Treacher Collins syndrome; mandibulofacial dysostosis; malformed auricle; atresia of the external auditory canal; zygomatic arch deficiency; eyelid coloboma; eyelash absence; micrognathia; submucous cleft palate; choanal atresia or stenosis
Double-blind comparison of granisetron, promethazine, or a combination of both for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting in females undergoing outpatient laparoscopies.

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and postdischarge nausea and vomiting (PDNV) are common problems after surgery. Prophylactic combination antiemetic therapy is recommended for patients at high risk for developing PONV and PDNV. Granisetron, a serotonin antagonist, is an effective antiemetic that is devoid of sedative side effect. Although promethazine is effective, commonly used doses are associated with sedation. This study investigates the combination of low doses of granisetron and promethazine for the prevention of PONV. Women undergoing ambulatory gynecological laparoscopy were enrolled. A standard general anesthetic regimen was prescribed. Fifteen minutes before the expected end of surgery, the patients were randomly assigned to receive granisetron 0.1 mg iv, promethazine 6.25 mg iv, or a combination of the two drugs. Prophylaxis with oral promethazine 12.5 mg, granisetron 1 mg, or both was started in the respective groups 12 hr after the end of surgery and continued every 12 hr until postoperative day 3 (a total of five oral doses). The following outcomes were recorded: total response rate (defined as no vomiting, no more than mild nausea, and no use of rescue antiemetic); incidence of nausea, vomiting, and use of rescue antiemetics; severity of nausea; patient activity level; and patient satisfaction with PONV management. Patients in the combination group had a higher total response rate at 6, 24, 48, and 72 hr after surgery compared with those who received promethazine alone (at 24 hr, Combination 69.6%, Promethazine 36.2%, Granisetron 53.3%; P = 0.0079). The maximum nausea scores were also lower in the combination group at 6, 24, 48, and 72 hr (Combination 1.7 ± 2.2, Promethazine 4.0 ± 3.6, Granisetron 3.1 ± 3.2 at 24 hr; P < 0.05). There was no difference in the sedation scores, incidence of drowsiness, patient activity level, and satisfaction with PONV management. Low-dose granisetron and promethazine combination was more effective in reducing PONV and PDNV than promethazine monotherapy. The combination also reduced the severity of nausea.
Chapter 47 Sorting and voting: A review of the literature on urban public finance

Abstract This chapter reviews the literature on the boundary between urban economics and local public finance, defined as research that considers both a housing market and the market for local public services. The first part of the chapter considers positive theories. This part presents the consensus model of the allocation of households to jurisdictions, which is built on bid functions and household sorting, as well as alternative approaches to this issue. It also examines models of local tax and spending decisions, which exhibit no consensus, and reviews research in which both housing and local fiscal variables are endogenous. The second part of the chapter considers empirical research, with a focus on tax and service capitalization, on household heterogeneity within jurisdictions, and on the impact of zoning. The third part considers normative theories about a decentralized system of local governments. This part examines the extent to which such a system leads to an efficient allocation of households to communities or efficient local public service levels, and it discusses the fairness of local public spending. This review shows that the bidding/sorting framework is strongly supported by the evidence and has wide applicability in countries with decentralized governmental systems. In contrast, models of local public service determination depend on institutional detail, and their connections with housing markets have been largely unexplored in empirical work. Ever since Tiebout (1956) , many scholars have argued that decentralized local governments have efficiency advantages over centralized forms. However, a general treatment of this issue identifies four key sources of inefficiency even in a decentralized system: misallocation of households to communities, the property tax, public service capitalization and heterogeneity. Few policies to eliminate these sources of inefficiency have yet been identified. Finally, this review explores the equity implications of household sorting and other features of a decentralized system.
Influencing the fertility of the female white rat by treatments with placental tissue

I T would be a great boon to humanity if it were possible in eertain cases to prevent conception or to retard the further development of the fertilized ovum. With the exception of uncertain and unesthetic contraceptive procedures, the only method which we have to date for utilization in such cases is operative. This is always dangerous and its effects cannot be reversed. Moreover, on account of our defective knowledge as to its dosage, x-ray treatment is scarcely available for this purpose. Consequently, it would be extraordinarily helpful if we could find a method based on biologic principles which would bring about temporary sterility of the female, unattended by the risks of operative procedures and without the unpleasant symptoms which follow castration. During the last few years, considerable attention has been devoted to this possibility of the production of sterilization in the female by the use of spermatoxins (Taylor, Landsteiner, Dunbar, Dittler, Guyer, Savini, Venema, and Cartney), but the results obtained have been neither uniform nor convincing. Most of the authors have based their conclusions upon only a few experiments, so that the results obtained have not been uniform, while the experimental methods employed are open to criticism. There is, however, another biologic mode of approach which we believe is worthy of consideration. According to Abderhalden, certain protective ferments, syncytiolysins, are constantly arising in the blood stream of the pregnant female, which are able to digest and destroy the fetal cells which have access to the circulation. According to Schmorl, such antiferments are produced by the entrance of chorionic cells into the maternal circulation, where they act as foreign protein. The supposition of such parenteral antiferment reaction has been confirmed by the findings of Waldstein and Eckler, who report that in rabbits, a distinct Abderhalden reaction of the testicular protein may be demonstrated shortly after coitus. That some very important alteration of the organism occurs, just at the time the chorionic villi begin to proliferate and to invade the maternal tissue,-a process which affords abundant opportunity for the trans-*Investigation carrid out m3th thv stlgport of the Rockefeller Foundation.
Exploring The Relationship Between Student Engagement And Common Business Knowledge: A Pilot Study

This study examined the extent to which student engagement is associated with a traditional assessment of student knowledge. In this study, ETS Business Major Field Test (MFT) scores were compared to student’s self-reported survey responses to specific questions on the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE). Areas of the NSSE survey such as Level of Academic Challenge, Active and Collaborative Learning, Enriching Educational Experience, Higher-Order Thinking, Integration of Diversity into Coursework were included in the study. Grade Point Average (GPA) was also compared to MFT scores and NSSE items. While the sample size was small from one institution (41 students), a number of measures of student engagement were showing signs of linkages to higher MFT scores.
Disparities in Water and Sewer Services in North Carolina: An Analysis of the Decision-Making Process

Objectives. We examined the factors that affect access to municipal water and sewer service for unincorporated communities relying on wells and septic tanks.Methods. Using a multisite case study design, we conducted in-depth, semistructured interviews with 25 key informants from 3 unincorporated communities in Hoke, New Hanover, and Transylvania counties, North Carolina, July through September 2013. Interviewees included elected officials, health officials, utility providers, and community members. We coded the interviews in ATLAS.ti to identify common themes.Results. Financing for water and sewer service emerged as the predominant factor that influenced decisions to extend these services. Improved health emerged as a minor factor, suggesting that local officials may not place a high emphasis on the health benefits of extending public water and sewer services. Awareness of failed septic systems in communities can prompt city officials to extend sewer service to these areas; however, failed systems are oft...
Renormalized plasma turbulence theory: A quasiparticle picture

A general renormalized statistical theory of Vlasov turbulence is given which proceeds directly from the Vlasov equation and does not assume prior knowledge of sophisticated field-theoretic techniques. Quasiparticles are the linear excitations of the turbulent system away from its instantaneous mean (ensemble-averaged) state or background; the properties of this background state ''dress'' or renormalize the quasiparticle responses. It is shown that all two-point responses (including the dielectric) and all two-point correlation functions can be completely described by the mean distribution function and three fundamental quantities. Two of these are the quasiparticle responses: the propagator and the potential source: which measure, respectively, the separate responses of the mean distribution function and the mean electrostatic potential to functional changes in an external phase-space source added to Vlasov's equation. The third quantity is the two-point correlation function of the incoherent part of the phase-space density which acts as a self-consistent source of quasiparticle and potential fluctuations. This theory explicitly takes into account the self-consistent nature of the electrostatic-field fluctuations which introduces new effects not found in the usual ''test-particle'' theories. Explicit equations for the fundamental quantities are derived in the direct interaction approximation. Special attention is paid to the two-point correlations and themore » relation to theories of phase-space granulation.« less
Trading Style Analysis: A Quantitative Assessment of the Currency Industry

This article offers an insight into the trading styles utilized within the currency industry. It questions whether trend-following techniques still remain the dominant trading style for currency commodity trading advisors (CTAs) and the extent to which the perceived use of fundamental strategies by currency overlay managers can be justified. The results show that over the period in question trend-following was the dominant trading style of currency CTAs. However, the results also show that a surprisingly high proportion of currency overlay managers were also found to be using this technique.
Diffusion Tensor Imaging Analysis of Frontal Lobes in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury

This study examined the use of diffusion tensor imaging in detecting white matter changes in the frontal lobes following pediatric traumatic brain injury. A total of 46 children (ages 8-16 years) with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury and 47 children with orthopedic injury underwent 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 3 months postinjury. Conventional MRI studies were obtained along with diffusion tensor imaging. Diffusion tensor imaging metrics, including fractional anisotropy, apparent diffusion coefficient, and radial diffusivity, were compared between the groups. Significant group differences were identified, implicating frontal white matter alterations in the injury group that were predictive of later Glasgow Outcome Scale ratings; however, focal lesions were not related to the Glasgow Outcome Scale ratings. Injury severity was also significantly associated with diffusion tensor imaging metrics. Diffusion tensor imaging holds great promise as an index of white matter integrity in traumatic brain injury and as a potential biomarker reflective of outcome.
Hypoxemia and Critical Flicker Frequency in Congenital Heart Disease

The relationship between the arterial oxygen saturation level and performance on a centrally mediated task was determined in patients with congenital heart disease. The critical flicker frequency (CFF) of 212 acyanotic and 66 cyanotic patients with congenital heart disease, with arterial oxygen saturation levels below 90%, was determined by a standardized technique. The CFFs of the cyanotic patients as a group were significantly lower than those of the acyanotic patients. Within the cyanotic group, the patients with the lower arterial oxygen saturation level had the lower CFFs. These data support the hypothesis that the hypoxemia associated with cyanotic congenital heart disease does impair central nervous system functioning.
Sarcopenia Exacerbates Obesity-Associated Insulin Resistance and Dysglycemia: Findings from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III

Background Sarcopenia often co-exists with obesity, and may have additive effects on insulin resistance. Sarcopenic obese individuals could be at increased risk for type 2 diabetes. We performed a study to determine whether sarcopenia is associated with impairment in insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis in obese and non-obese individuals. Methodology We performed a cross-sectional analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III data utilizing subjects of 20 years or older, non-pregnant (N = 14,528). Sarcopenia was identified from bioelectrical impedance measurement of muscle mass. Obesity was identified from body mass index. Outcomes were homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA IR), glycosylated hemoglobin level (HbA1C), and prevalence of pre-diabetes (6.0≤ HbA1C<6.5 and not on medication) and type 2 diabetes. Covariates in multiple regression were age, educational level, ethnicity and sex. Principal Findings Sarcopenia was associated with insulin resistance in non-obese (HOMA IR ratio 1.39, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.26 to 1.52) and obese individuals (HOMA-IR ratio 1.16, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.18). Sarcopenia was associated with dysglycemia in obese individuals (HbA1C ratio 1.021, 95% CI 1.011 to 1.043) but not in non-obese individuals. Associations were stronger in those under 60 years of age. We acknowledge that the cross-sectional study design limits our ability to draw causal inferences. Conclusions Sarcopenia, independent of obesity, is associated with adverse glucose metabolism, and the association is strongest in individuals under 60 years of age, which suggests that low muscle mass may be an early predictor of diabetes susceptibility. Given the increasing prevalence of obesity, further research is urgently needed to develop interventions to prevent sarcopenic obesity and its metabolic consequences.
8-Hydroxylquinoline-conjugated porphyrins as broadband light absorbers for dye-sensitized solar cells

Three porphyrin dyes, DPZn-HOQ, PZn-HOQ and DPZn-COOH, were synthesized and characterized for dye-sensitized solar cells. Both DPZn-HOQ and DPZn-COOH exhibited a donor–π–acceptor configuration with N,N-dimethylaniline as a donor and 8-hydroxylquinoline (HOQ) and para-benzoic acid (BZA) as acceptors, respectively. PZn-HOQ is an analogue of DPZn-HOQ without a donor. It was found that DPZn-HOQ exhibited broader and stronger light absorption capability in the red region than DPZn-COOH. Theoretical calculations showed that the electrons were delocalized to the 8-hydroxylquinoline ring in DPZN-HOQ. The DPZn-HOQ-sensitized solar cells exhibited higher energy conversion efficiency (3.09%) than DPZn-COOH-sensitized solar cells (1.76%) under the same conditions. The results were consistent with the incident photon to current conversion efficiency (IPCE) spectra. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies revealed that HOQ-conjugated porphyrin exhibited high electron recombination resistance and a long electron lifetime, which was attributed to the effective shielding of DPZn-HOQ from the electrolyte due to its tilted orientation on the surface of TiO2 nanoparticles. The efficiency of DPZn-HOQ-sensitized solar cells was further increased to 3.41% when a complementary dye BET was used.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Intercalated Poly(ε-Caprolactone)-Montmorillonite Clay Nanocomposites

The structure and energetics of poly(e-caprolactone), PCL, chains confined between two platelets of organo-modified montmorillonite clay, are investigated using molecular dynamics techniques. The amount of PCL in the clay gallery has been systematically varied to assess the influence of the interlayer density on the molecular organization. The structural characteristics are examined in terms of interlayer density profiles, radial distribution functions, and dihedral angle distributions. The results show that the interlayer phase organizes into four layers, along with an enhancement of the proportion of extended zigzag chain conformations, with respect to the amorphous polymer bulk. Calculations of the interaction energies between the various subsystems (the PCL chains, the surfactant molecules, and the clay surfaces) clearly show the formation of polar as well as apolar interactions between PCL and the clay surfaces, which can significantly contribute to the polymer intercalation (in addition to the polym...