cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of COVID-19 vaccine prioritization strategies in the United States

Abstract A critical question in the COVID-19 pandemic is how to optimally allocate the first available vaccinations to maximize health impact. We used a static simulation model with detailed demographic and risk factor stratification to compare the impact of different vaccine prioritization strategies in the United States on key health outcomes, using California as a case example. We calibrated the model to demographic and location data on 28,175 COVID-19 deaths in California up to December 30, 2020, and incorporated variation in risk by occupation and comorbidity status using published estimates. We predicted the proportion of COVID-19 clinical cases, deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) averted over 6 months relative to a scenario of no vaccination for five vaccination strategies that prioritized vaccination by a single risk factor: random allocation; targeting special populations (e.g. incarcerated individuals); targeting older individuals; targeting essential workers; and targeting individuals with comorbidities. Targeting older individuals averted the highest proportion of DALYs (40% for 5 million individuals vaccinated) and deaths (65%) but the lowest proportion of cases (12%). Targeting essential workers averted the lowest proportion of DALYs (25%) and deaths (33%). Allocating vaccinations simultaneously by age and location or by age, sex, race/ethnicity, location, occupation, and comorbidity status averted a significantly higher proportion of DALYs (48% and 56%) than any strategy prioritizing by a single risk factor. Our results corroborate findings of other studies that age targeting is the best single-risk-factor prioritization strategy for averting DALYs, and suggest that targeting by multiple risk factors would provide additional benefit. Significance statement COVID-19 has caused a global pandemic, and a key public health question is who should get the first available vaccinations. Most vaccine prioritization analyses have only considered variation in risk of infection and death by age and occupation. We provide a more granular analysis with stratification by demographics, risk factors, and location. We predict the impact of different prioritization strategies on COVID-19 cases, deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). We find that age-based targeting averts the most deaths and DALYs of strategies targeting by a single risk factor, but that targeting by two or more risk factors simultaneously would avert significantly more deaths and DALYs. Our findings highlight the potential value of multiple-risk-factor targeting of vaccination when supply is limited.
Looking Back, Looking Ahead:

This article briefly chronicles the author’s history with ICHRIE and offers insight into what the future may hold for this dynamic organization.
Investigating effect of mixed alcohols and in-situ initiator on magnesium alkoxide for Ziegler–Natta catalyst and polypropylene improvement

Magnesium alkoxide (MGA) is important class of precursor used for commercial Ziegler-Natta (ZN) catalyst. Controlling morphology of MGA and its ZN catalyst to achieve optimum balance of particle size and bulk density of polypropylene is challenge in industrial scale. In this study, we synthesized MGA in lab scale and demo pilot scale by reaction of magnesium with 2 or 4 wt.% methanol in ethanol using in-situ generated HCl initiator. Synthesized precursors were evaluated for physico-chemical properties to understand the effect of methanol on precursor characteristics. These precursors were used to synthesize ZN catalyst for propylene polymerization. Remarkably, ZN catalyst from MGA precursor with 2 wt% methanol showed good propylene polymerization activity with combination of uniform morphology and optimum bulk density of PP than other two precursors (pure ethanol, 4% methanol). This study suggests that optimized concentration of alcohol mixture during precursor synthesis is critical to achieve improved ZN catalyst and PP resin characteristics highly important from polypropylene commercial manufacturing perspective.
Evaluation of electrical current production in microbial electrolysis cells fed with animal rendering wastewater.

Abstract Anode-respiring bacteria (ARB) generate electrical current from the oxidation of short chain fatty acids (SCFA), primarily acetate, in microbial electrolysis cells (MECs). Animal rendering wastewater (RW) has high fat content, which under anaerobic conditions can yield acetate, making RW a potential feed for MECs. Yet, excess intermediate long chain fatty acids (LCFA) may limit conversion of LCFA and SCFA, and impact ARB activity. Here, we evaluated electrical current production in single-chamber MECs fed with RW. In RW-fed MECs, 34.26 ± 2.69% of the COD provided was converted to electrical current in an 80-day batch cycle. LCFA accumulated in RW-fed MECs, during which conversion of acetate to electrical current was limited. Diverse sulfate-reducing microorganisms were present in the anode biofilm in RW-fed MECs, whereas the genus Geobacter dominated in inoculum-only control MECs. Detection of H2-utilizing homoacetogens suggested some internal cycling of H2 produced at the cathode. Overall, this study shows that current production is possible from RW, but to be a viable process for RW treatment, further improvement in rates of COD conversion and current production is necessary along with identifying configurations and/or conditions in which the inhibitory effect of LCFA is reduced.
Lessons Learned From a Pilot Project on Telemedicine Advance Care Planning in an Urban Geriatric Primary Care Office.

Purpose:There is a dearth of literature regarding the documentation of advance care planning (ACP) in the geriatric population, despite the controversial, yet well-studied need for ACP. The purpose...
A note on cost comparisons method for the EOQ and EPQ problems

In the last two decades, a number of papers have appeared in the literature regarding solving the Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) and the Economic Production Quantity (EPQ) problems with and without ...
External aerodynamic investigation over Ahmed body for optimal topology selection between upper and under bodywork using ANN approach

Aerodynamic improvements primarily result in decreased fuel usage and carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere. Numerous governments support ongoing aerodynamics development initiatives as a me...
Semisimple Lie Algebras

In this chapter, we will consider a class of Lie algebras (the complex semisimple ones) that are sufficiently similar to sl(3; ℂ) that their representations can be described, similarly to sl(3; ℂ), by a “theorem of the highest weight.” We will not come to the representations themselves until the next chapter; in this chapter, we develop the structures needed to state the theorem of the highest weight. Although this chapter could be understood simply as a description of the structure of semisimple Lie algebras, without any mention of representation theory, I think it is helpful to have the representations in mind. The representation theory, especially in light of our experience with sl(3; ℂ), motivates the notions of Cartan subalgebras, roots, and the Weyl group.
Improved distributed model for capacitors in high-performance packages

Time-domain and frequency-domain measurements show that a simple lumped RLC model for a multilayer ceramic capacitor is inadequate, overestimating high-frequency impedance by a factor of five. A lossy transmission-line model works better, and is improved by placing incremental resistance in series with the incremental capacitance. Refinements of this model are developed based on time-domain step-response measurements and on frequency-domain impedance measurements. Better packaging to reduce series inductance is discussed.
Organizing Home Health‐Care Workers

The author argues that building social movement unionism is critical to organizing low-wage public-sector workers in an era of government austerity and industrial restructuring.
Double Marginalization in Two-Sided Markets

Should banks (through Visa) be allowed to own debit clearing networks? This problem combines the classic Cournot (1838)-Spengler (1950) double marginalization problem with the more recent literature on two-sided markets (Rochet and Tirole, 2003). Because both the double marginalization (Weyl, 2008a) and two-sided markets (Weyl, 2008b) problems depend crucially on the pass-through rate, the analysis is natural and leads to strong over-identification given simple assumptions. Vertical integration does not generally erode (and often enhances) platform mark-ups. Therefore its (price level benefits) are more robust than those of competition in two-sided markets.
Maintaining surrogate data for query acceleration in multilevel secure database systems

Various models have been developed for classified data management in a multilevel secure database system. While concurrency control policies have been the focus of these models, the PRISM model was developed to solve the query delay problem in such systems. In order to accelerate multilevel queries, the PRISM model maintains surrogate data in different relations, as opposed to the actual data values, that result in higher record density in a page, thus requiring less number of page I/Os. In order to establish mapping between the surrogate values and the actual data values some auxiliary data structures are maintained. This paper presents the cost of maintaining such surrogate values and corresponding data structures in the model. The result is compared with the maintenance cost of the relations in the SeaView model that has been used as the base model for the PRISM model.
A Revision of the Genus Crossomitrium (Musci: Hookeriaceae)

Crossomitrium is a genus of neotropical, essentially epiphyllous mosses. The genus consists of six species that are distributed in two sections: section Crossomitrium ( C. acuminatum , C. patrisiae , and C. scabrisetum ) and section Cormophila ( C. epiphyllum , C. saprophilum , and C. sintenisii) . Section Crossomitrium is characterized by 1. plants nearly always on leaves or twigs, 2. lateral leaves oblongacuminate and widest below the middle, 3. leaves when dry that arch from an erect base downward to the substrate and, 4. the presence of specialized brood branches that are closely adnate to the substrate and have tightly imbricate leaves. Section Cormophila is characterized by 1. plants growing on rocks and tree trunks as well as on leaves, 2. lateral leaves oval to obovate, acute to apiculate and widest above the middle, 3. leaves when dry flattened to the substrate and, 4. the presence of erect, specialized brood branches that have leaves spreading on all sides. Crossomitrium is placed in the Hookeriaceae (sensu Whittemore & Allen, 1989) on the basis of its branched stems, ecostate leaves, straight, unbranched rhizoids that are tightly clustered just posterior to the leaf bases, 2-celled axillary hairs and weakly pigmented stem cortex. Within the Hookeriaceae Crossomitrium is considered close to the genus Lepidopilum by virtue of 1. its peristome which is hydrocastique and has a high basal membrane, 2. the spinose setae of C.acuminatum and C. scabrisetum , 3. the irregular subdivision of its stomatal guard cells (including the presence of stomates at the base of raised pustules), 4. leaves doubly serrulate by the projecting ends of contiguous marginal cells, 6. absence of a stem central strand. It differs from Lepidopilum in its 1. symmetric, ecostate leaves, 2. calyptra fimbriate by downward projecting, multicellular hairs that arise from the margins of the calyptra, 3. collenchymatous exothecial cells, 4. the presence of broodbodies on specialized brood branches as well as in clusters just below the junction of the leaf with the stem.
Periodontal complication during orthodontic therapy

Occasionally periodontal complications arise during adult orthodontic therapy, although conditions may also occur in adolescent patients. This case report describes the periodontal condition that developed during orthodontic treatment of an adolescent girl. Eleven months after the start of treatment, an unusual hyperplastic soft-tissue lesion developed that did not respond to conservative treatment. The case history, orthodontic treatment, periodontal treatment, histopathology, and follow-up are described. Suggestions for prevention and early diagnosis of similar problems are reviewed since particular periodontal infections may progress subclinically.
Association of antineoplastic drug handling with acute adverse effects in pharmacy personnel

The relationship between occupational exposure to antineoplastic drugs and the presence of acute symptoms of exposure was investigated by questionnaire. Data were derived from a questionnaire distributed to 8566 pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, nurses, and nurse aids at 57 member institutions of the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project nationwide. Of the 4659 respondents (54%), 1057 were pharmacists or pharmacy technicians; after exclusions, the sample size was 738. Data were collected on four handling activities: mixing of antineoplastic drugs, administering these drugs, cleaning up spills, and handling patient excreta. Information on mixing was divided into dose, duration, use of protection, and reported skin contact. Respondents indicated which of 27 acute symptoms they had experienced during the past three months. Handling of antineoplastics was associated with a small but significant increase in the number of symptoms compared with controls; reported skin contact was the most important predictor of symptoms. The number of doses handled and the extent of protection were significantly associated with the number of symptoms, but their effect was not independent of that of skin contact. Body mass was significantly associated with the number of symptoms in women but not men. Pharmacists and technicians who handle antineoplastic drugs reported more symptoms associated with exposure than did those who do not handle such agents. All available protective measures should be used.
Agricultural Use‐Value Property Tax Assessment: Estimation and Policy Issues

This paper provides an overview of the theory and methods used to implement use-value property tax assessment for agricultural land in the United States. After a critical review of the methods used by various states in their application of use-value statutes for agricultural land, the paper examines several policy issues related to the estimation and application of use-value assessment methods. Five state case studies are included, providing an overview of methods used in use-value assessment, and suggestions are provided regarding several ways in which use-value assessment methods need to be improved.
Gold-coated scanning probes for direct `write`of sub-micron metallic structures

The fabrication and application of new gold-coated scanning probes (SPs) for direct ‘write’ of sub-micron metallic structures are reported. The SP consists of a base structure made of silicon nitride and a thin gold coating. The tip profile and radius of curvature are tightly controlled in the probe fabrication to ensure a predictable tip–substrate contact. By scanning a fabricated probe on a single crystal silicon surface in an ambient environment, sub-micron gold lines were formed as a result of direct gold material transfer from the SP tip onto the silicon surface, which is believed to be induced by the friction and wear associated with the probe scanning.
Dark Adaptation and Visual Pigment Regeneration in Human Cones

Foveal threshold elevation and red-green cone pigment regeneration have been studied in the dark after a wide range of bleaches in normal man with a view to probing the limits of the application of the Dowling-Rushton relation: i.e., the direct proportionality between log threshold elevation and fraction of unregenerated pigment. Cone pigment regeneration (and threshold recovery) is much faster after short bleaches than expected from the kinetics of a simple monomolecular reaction. Recovery is faster after a fixed (short) duration bleach the weaker it is. Except for the first 30 s after relatively weak bleaches and the entire recovery after a very brief (<0.001 s) saturating bright flash which bleaches a little more than 50%, the results are accurately fit by the Dowling-Rushton relation over the entire range tested with only one arbitrary constant (the proportionality factor). Theory predicts too low threshold in comparison with what is obtained, for both of these exceptions
Tunable Ferromagnetism accompanied by Morphology Control in Li-doped Zn0.97Ni0.03O

We report morphological and ferromagnetic property control in ZnO nanorod structures by an optimum doping of Ni and Li. Nanostructures of Zn0.97-xNi0.03LixO (x = 0, 0.03, 0.05, 0.08, and 0.10) are prepared by a solvothermal method. High aspect ratio (5−15) ZnO nanorods transform to particles (with 1−3 aspect ratio) influenced by 3 at. % Ni substitution in ZnO (Zn0.97Ni0.03O). It is remarkable to note that the Zn0.97Ni0.03O particles completely retain the nanorod shape with significantly increased aspect ratio (15−30) when 3 at.% Li ions are codoped in Zn0.97Ni0.03O (Zn0.94Li0.03Ni0.03O). Li substitution also enhances ferromagnetism with largest magnetization (0.8 emu·g−1) observed for Zn0.94Li0.03Ni0.03O. For Li concentration >3 at.%, the aspect ratio as well as the magnetization decreased considerably. These experimental observations are explained by first-principles modeling. At low Li-on-Zn acceptor concentrations, the total magnetization is increased by lower Ni d-state populations, whereas at higher ...
Least Squares Galvanostatic Intermittent Titration Technique (LS-GITT) for Accurate Solid Phase Diffusivity Measurement

Solid phase diffusivity Ds is a key parameter in Lithium-Ion cell models because solid phase diffusion typically dominates the voltage transients. The Galvanostatic Intermittent Titration Technique (GITT) is easy to implement and universally accepted as the standard for diffusivity measurement, but the accuracy of GITT diffusivity measurement is unknown. This paper develops a Least Squares GITT (LS-GITT) that uses all of the voltage data from a GITT test to optimally tune the diffusivity in a reduced order solid phase diffusion model. The accuracies of the GITT and LS-GITT diffusivity measurements are evaluated using the RMS error between the model predicted and experimentally measured voltages. Based on experimental results from a NCM half cell, LS-GITT is more accurate than GITT, often by an order of magnitude. The GITT test overestimates Ds because the underlying model neglects the effects of bulk capacity on the voltage transients. LS-GITT gives results accurate to 1 mV RMS from 15%–100% SOC where GITT provides the same level of accuracy over less than half that SOC range. Neither technique provides accurate Ds measurements below 10% SOC.
A rational approach to the diagnosis of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis: Do the results match the claims?

The currently accepted premise that the diagnosis of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS) should be made on clinical grounds, with ultrasound (US) and upper gastrointestinal series (UGIS) reserved for those with a negative clinical examination, was tested. Variable clinical skills of initial examiners, including pediatric surgeons, made abdominal palpation no more sensitive or specific than US or UGIS. For those with a negative clinical examination, proceeding directly to a UGIS will result in monetary savings, especially if good clinical performance decreases the probability of HPS among those without palpable pyloric "tumors." The benefits of a "US first" approach (no radiation, better patient and parent acceptance, no contrast medium) are less apparent but no less important and increase as clinical experience declines and performance of US improves. Criteria for the clinical or sonographic diagnosis of HPS should be kept strict to avoid false-positive results; false-negatives and other causes of vomiting should be identified by UGIS.
Evaluating Walleye Length Limits in the Face of Population Variability: Case Histories from Western Minnesota

Abstract Population and fishery responses to the implementation of minimum length limits (356 and 381 mm total length) for walleyes Sander vitreus were evaluated for two Minnesota populations (Big Stone Lake and Lac Qui Parle) and were compared with population trends observed in a single reference lake (Lake Traverse) between 1991 and 2004. High variation in walleye recruitment (coefficient of variation (CV = 100 × SD/mean) in mean gill-net catch per unit effort of age-2 walleyes > 98%) was observed in all study populations and also in recruitment indices from 20 populations across North America (mean CV = 112%), indicating that high variability in recruitment is common. Walleye growth rates were also variable; mean length at age 3 varied by more than 120 mm among year-classes in all three study populations. Observed trends in population age- and size-structure indices estimated from gill nets appeared to be largely related to growth and recruitment patterns both before and after the regulations were in p...
Similar effects of treatment with desipramine and electroconvulsive shock on 5-tiydroxytryptamine1A receptors in rat brain

The effect of chronic and acute treatment with desipramine (DMI) and electroconvulsive shock (ECS) on 5-hydroxytryptamine1A (5-HT1A) receptors was determined in the cortex and the hippocampus brain regions of rats. We observed that chronic treatment with both DMI and ECS significantly decreased 5-HT1A receptors, as determined by [3H]8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin ([3H]8-OH-DPAT) binding, in the cortex but not in the hippocampus. Acute treatment with DMI or ECS did not significantly alter the 5-HT1A receptors in the cortex. Neither chronic nor acute treatment influenced KD of [3H)8-OH-DPAT binding in the cortex or hippocampus. These results thus suggest that in contrast to the effects on 5-HT2 receptors, tricyclics as well as ECS produce similar effects on 5-HT1A receptors, suggesting that this site may represent a common site of action for antidepressant treatment.
Mathematical models and simulation for project portfolios optimization

Summary form only given. Most organizations do not have sufficient resources to meet all of their obligations; selecting which projects should be funded is not just ranking projects and funding them 'top-down' until resources are depleted. Organizations need to balance the benefits that project portfolios provide with their respective constraints and they need to do so in a meaningful way. To address this problem, we propose using enterprise portfolio analysis to reach the optimal projects mix and maximize the collective benefits, while balancing other factors such as risk, dependency and budget etc. Three extended mathematical models and revised dynamic programming algorithms together with simulation optimization are proposed based on solution of standard knapsack problem. Specifically, the proposed models and algorithms are illustrated using an example from practices.
A framework for propagation of uncertainty contributed by parameterization, input data, model structure, and calibration/validation data in watershed modeling

Failure to consider major sources of uncertainty may bias model predictions in simulating watershed behavior. A framework entitled the Integrated Parameter Estimation and Uncertainty Analysis Tool (IPEAT), was developed utilizing Bayesian inferences, an input error model and modified goodness-of-fit statistics to incorporate uncertainty in parameter, model structure, input data, and calibration/validation data in watershed modeling. Applications of the framework at the Eagle Creek Watershed in Indiana shows that watershed behavior was more realistically represented when the four uncertainty sources were considered jointly without having to embed watershed behavior constraints in auto-calibration. Accounting for the major sources of uncertainty associated with watershed modeling produces more realistic predictions, improves the quality of calibrated solutions, and consequently reduces predictive uncertainty. IPEAT is an innovative tool to investigate and explore the significance of uncertainty sources, which enhances watershed modeling by improved characterization and assessment of predictive uncertainty.
Sustained attention in normal and in reading-disabled youngsters with and without ADDH.

Three groups of children — one normal, one reading-disabled, and one reading-disabled with an additional diagnosis of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity (ADDH)-were administered the Continuous Performance Test and compared on correct detections and three types of commission errors. All three groups showed a decline in sustained attention over the course of the task but not differentially according to diagnostic group. When younger and older subgroups were compared, the reading-disabled children were found to make significantly more correct detections with increased age, but not when the reading disability was accompanied by ADDH. The latter group of children also were differentiated by a type of commission error, previously associated with impulsive responding, that remained prominent in the older subgroup of dually diagnosed children. Reading-disabled children were differentiated by a second type of commission error which possibly was associated with inattention or short-term memory deficit and which diminished with age.
Spotlight on Plasmon Lasers

Lasers are the workhorse of the information age, sending massive amounts of light packets through vast networks of optic fibers. Demands for ever-increasing speed and functionalities call for scaling down of photonic devices, similar to the trend in electronics. However, photonic devices face the fundamental challenge of the diffraction limit of light—a limitation that prevents squeezing light into spaces smaller than half of its wavelength. This barrier limits traditional optical components to sizes that are hundreds of times larger than that of their electronic counterparts. Surface plasmons are collective electronic oscillations on a metal-dielectric interface with a much smaller wavelength than the excitation or emitted photons, and have emerged as a promising solution to overcome such a barrier ( 1 ). In 2003, the surface plasmon laser or “spaser” was theoretically proposed. The idea was to tightly confine light in the form of localized plasmons into deep subwavelength dimensions overlapping with a gain medium to achieve stimulated emission and light amplification or lasing, creating a coherent light source at the nanometer scale ( 2 ). That proposal is now being realized with several plasmonics-based design approaches being used to fabricate nanometer-scale coherent light sources.
Ancient crustal components in the Fra Mauro breccias

Texturally pristine clasts preserve primary petrographic relationships and mineral compositions, yielding insights into igneous processes of the early lunar crust that cannot be gained from highly shocked and brecciated 'chemically pristine' samples. The use of texture as a prime criterion allows for expansion of the data base derived solely from chemical criteria, and provides complementary data. Texturally pristine clasts from the Apollo 14 site studied here include anorthosite, troctolites, gabbronorites, and basalts. Alkali anorthosites are plagioclase orthocumulates and may form by flotation in Mg-suite plutons. Ferroan anorthosite was cataclastically deformed and metamorphosed to granulite facies. Troctolites include both 01 + Plg and 01 + En + Plg cumulates. Major and trace element analyses of two troctolites reveal 'eastern' geochemical affinities that contrast other 'western' troctolites. Gabbronorites are Pig + Plg + or - Sp cumulates whose parent magmas may range from high-Al to intermediate-Ti mare basalt. At least three varieties of mare basalt are found at Apollo 14: high-Al, low-Ti; low-Al, intermediate-Ti; and low-Al, Ti VHK basalt. VHK (Very High Potassium) basalt is a new variety indigenous to Apollo 14.
Demo: lehigh explorer augmented campus tour (LACT)

Augmented reality technologies allow 3D rendering of media-rich contents which can further be embedded within users' view of the world around them. In this demo, we present our Lehigh Explorer Augmented Campus Tour application which uses new content centric network features we designed. Users submit keyword-based queries to retrieve relevant multimedia contents of campus buildings they are interested in exploring remotely or while visiting the campus in person. Our demo will be presented using Android devices supporting Android version 4.2 and above.
Excitation of the low-energy octupole resonance in /sup 90/Zr by 0. 8 GeV proton inelastic scattering

Analysis of 0.8 GeV proton inelastic scattering by /sup 90/Zr has yielded the angular distribution of a broad peak located at 32 A/sup -1/3/ MeV with a width of approximately 2.2 MeV. The angular distribution, extending from 1.0 to 3.2 fm/sup -1/, agrees well with L = 3 collective distorted-wave Born-approximation calculations. A deformation length ..beta..R of 0.80 fm is obtained. The isoscalar energy weighted sum rule fraction exhausted by an octupole excitation at 7.2 MeV in /sup 90/Zr with this deformation length is 23%. The 3/sup -/ state at 2.75 MeV in /sup 90/Zr is found to exhaust 8% of the isoscalar energy weighted sum rule. These results are in excellent agreement with recent (..cap alpha..,..cap alpha..') work which established the existence of the low-energy octupole resonance.
Development of a questionnaire and a database for assessing dietary d-limonene intake.

Objective:Increasing recognition of the potential importance of phytochemicals in the aetiology of cancer and heart diseases has highlighted the need for methods to measure individual phytochemical consumption that are sufficiently simple to be used in large epidemiological studies and whose reproducibility and accuracy have been quantified. D-Limonene is a natural component of a variety of foods and beverages and is found mainly in citrus fruits. However, D-limonene is not assessed by any nationally available analysis database.Design:We designed our study to assess the D-limonene content of different citrus juices and beverages and to develop a dietary assessment instrument to measure consumption of citrus foods (fruit, juice and peel) and D-limonene intake and test it for reliability.Subjects and methods:A total of 120 citrus juice samples were analysed and used to develop the preliminary D-limonene database. A self-administered citrus food-frequency questionnaire was developed and administered twice to participants, separated by a 2-month interval. The questionnaire was tested for reproducibility of estimates of citrus food consumption and D-limonene intake among 120 participants.Results:Correlation coefficients between the two administrations of the questionnaire ranged from 0.50 for citrus peel use to 0.82 for orange juice. Mean intakes (range) of D-limonene from citrus juices among consumers were 13.0 (0.24–141.9) mg day−1 and 13.2 (0.07–83.9) mg day−1 (r = 0.60, P < 0.001).Conclusion:The citrus frequency questionnaire developed in this study provided highly reproducible estimates of citrus foods, citrus peel and D-limonene intakes. This instrument may be a useful tool in studies of the associations between citrus peel use, D-limonene intake and risk for chronic disease.
Meiotic drive influences the outcome of sexually antagonistic selection at a linked locus

Most meiotic drivers, such as the t-haplotype in Mus and the segregation distorter (SD) in Drosophila, act in a sex-specific manner, gaining a transmission advantage through one sex although suffering only the fitness costs associated with the driver in the other. Their inheritance is thus more likely through one of the two sexes, a property they share with sexually antagonistic alleles. Previous theory has shown that pairs of linked loci segregating for sexually antagonistic alleles are more likely to remain polymorphic and that linkage disequilibrium accrues between them. I probe this similarity between drive and sexual antagonism and examine the evolution of chromosomes experiencing these selection pressures simultaneously. Reminiscent of previous theory, I find that: the opportunity for polymorphism increases for a sexually antagonistic locus that is physically linked to a driving locus; the opportunity for polymorphism at a driving locus also increases when linked to a sexually antagonistic locus; and stable linkage disequilibrium accompanies any polymorphic equilibrium. Additionally, I find that drive at a linked locus favours the fixation of sexually antagonistic alleles that benefit the sex in which drive occurs. Further, I show that under certain conditions reduced recombination between these two loci is selectively favoured. These theoretical results provide clear, testable predictions about the nature of sexually antagonistic variation on driving chromosomes and have implications for the evolution of genomic architecture.
It is Time to Delink Psychodynamic Theory from the Definition of Clinical Social Work

The language used by the National Association of Social Workers in defining the practice of clinical social work explicitly states that psychodynamic theory (PT) is an intrinsic component of the field. While PT does remain an important influence within the field, the majority of practice theories, models and perspectives now employed by clinical social workers are not based on PT. Asserting that this one approach is somehow a required element of contemporary clinical social work practice in effect disenfranchises large segments of the profession. The NASW definitions of clinical social work and descriptions within its clinical social work credentials program should drop its present inclusion of PT as a required feature of practice. The epistemological privileging of one form of theoretical knowledge over another is unjustified, and reflects a socially unjust exercise of empowerment of one element of the profession over another.
Assessment of contrast‐enhanced computed tomography for imaging of cartilage during fracture healing

Assessment of the early stages of fracture healing via X-rays and computed tomography is limited by the low radio-opacity of cartilage. We validated a method of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) for non-destructive identification of cartilage within a healing fracture callus. Closed, stabilized fractures in femora of C57BL/6 mice were harvested on post-operative day 9.5 and imaged ex vivo with micro-computed tomography (µCT) before and after incubation in a cationic contrast agent that preferentially accumulates in cartilage due to the high concentration of sulfated glycosaminoglycans in the tissue. Co-registration of the pre- and post-incubation images, followed by image subtraction, enabled two- and three-dimensional delineation of mineralized tissue, soft callus, and cartilage. The areas of cartilage and callus identified with CECT were compared to those identified with the gold-standard method of histomorphometry. No difference was found between the areas of cartilage measured by the two methods (p = 0.999). Callus area measured by CECT was smaller than, but strongly predictive of (R(2) = 0.80, p < 0.001), the corresponding histomorphometric measurements. CECT also enabled qualitative identification of mineralized cartilage. These findings indicate that the CECT method provides accurate, quantitative, and non-destructive visualization of the shape and composition of the fracture callus, even during the early stages of repair when little mineralized tissue is present. The non-destructive nature of this method would allow subsequent analyses, such as mechanical testing, to be performed on the callus, thus enabling higher-throughput, comprehensive investigations of bone healing.
Role of the thymus in pediatric HIV-1 infection.

Summary: Several lines of evidence suggest that HIV-1 is present in the thymus during HIV-1 infection. Precursors to mature CD4+ T lymphocytes develop in the thymus, which suggests that thymic infection may play a role in the CD4+ T-cell decline observed during the course of pediatric HIV-1 infection. We illustrate, through mathematical modeling, the potential effects of thymic infection on the course of pediatric AIDS disease progression. We find that infection in the thymus not only can supplement peripheral infection but can help explain the faster progression in pediatric cases, as well as the early and high viral burden.
Discussion: wrestling with the beast

Criminology is but one of what Abbott refers to as “sociologies archipelago of particular subject matters.” I discuss the papers in this issue of Crime, Law and Social Change as “fractals” of disciplines that contribute to knowledge in criminology.
Temperature-correlated force and structure development in elastomeric polypeptides: the Ile1 analog of the polypentapeptide of elastin.

The Ile1 analog of the polypentapeptide of elastin, (L · Ile1-L · Pro2-Gly3-L · Val4-Gly5)n, abbreviated as Ile1-PPP, was synthesized with n > 100 to determine the effect of the increased hydrophobicity of the pentamer resulting from Val1 replacement by Ile1 on the previously characterized inverse temperature transition of the polypentapeptide of elastin (PPP). Ile1-PPP, dissolved in water at 4°C, was found to aggregate, forming a viscoelastic coacervate on raising the temperature. The onset of aggregation was 8°C for Ile1-PPP, as compared to 24°C for PPP. Characterization by CD demonstrated an increase in intramolecular order on raising the temperature from 8°C to 25°C, and demonstrated similar conformations for PPP and Ile1-PPP before and after their respective transitions. The CD-characterized transition also occurred at a temperature some 15°C lower than that of PPP. By means of 20-Mrad γ-irradiation cross-linking of the Ile1-PPP coacervate, an elastomeric matrix was formed with an elastic modulus, similar to that of 20-Mrad cross-linked PPP. The temperature dependence of elastomeric force of cross-linked Ile1-PPP showed an abrupt increase from essentially zero at 8°C to three-quarters of full force at 10°C and essentially full force by 20–25°C. This development of elastomeric force for the more hydrophobic Ile1-PPP matrix, which parallels the increase in intramolecular order characterized by the CD studies, also occurs at a temperature some 15°C lower than that for the PPP matrix. Thus, in these elastomeric polypeptides, development of elastomeric force is coupled to an inverse temperature transition, the temperature of which depends inversely on the hydrophobicity of the constituent pentamer. It appears that a series of elastomeric polypeptide biomaterials are possible in which the temperature over which elastomeric force develops can be varied.
The correlation between the activation state of B cells and their capacity for in vitro propagation of immunologic memory.

Abstract The B-cell population responsible for in vitro antigen-mediated proliferation and expansion of the memory B-cell population is a large activated blast. Such cells predominate early after antigen priming and can be regenerated by adjuvant ( Bordetella pertussis ) stimulation in vivo . Although these cells are proliferating in vivo , additional stimuli are needed for expansion of the memory population in vitro . These triggering requirements include specific antigen (DNP-OVA) and the assistance of adherent accessory cells. Although T cells are present in the culture, their role in the propagation of memory is not completely clear. Using the unrelated antigen, sheep erythrocytes, we have shown that “bystander” T-cell help can mediate differentiation of these memory B-cell blasts to AFC, but it cannot induce expansion of the memory-cell population. However, the fact that the TI-2 antigen DNP-Ficoll is a relatively ineffective inducer of memory-cell propagation (inducing an expanded response which is less than 10% ofthat induced by the T-cell-dependent antigen, DNP-OVA) suggests that T cells may be involved, possibly via production of B-cell growth factor. Thus, the minimal requirements for triggering the propagation of B-cell memory include (i) a blastogenic signal which can be mediated by adjuvant, (ii) specific antigen, and (iii) adherent accessory-cell help.
Complement does not exhibit abnormal sensitivity to activation via the classical, alternative, or lectin pathway in subjects with asthma

Abstract Rationale Studies using mouse models of asthma suggest that complement-derived fragments C3a and C5a play an important role in susceptibility to airway hyperresponsiveness and asthma. Therefore we investigated whether complement might participate in susceptibility to asthma in humans through an intrinsic abnormality in its activation mechanism that results in abnormal generation of C3a and C5a. Methods All study participants underwent identical screening, including allergen skin testing, spirometry and bronchoreversibility and/or methacholine challenge. Plasma from atopic asthmatics and age-matched non-atopic controls was used for studies of complement activation via the classical, alternative, and lectin pathways. These pathways were activated with human IgM, S. typhosa lipopolysaccharide, and mannan, respectively, bound to microtiter plastic wells. The propensity of complement to undergo activation was determined by quantitation of C3a and C5a production in the supernatants and C3 deposition to the microtiter plate using ELISA. Results Basal plasma levels of C3a and C5a were similar in asthmatic and control subjects. We also found similar amounts of C3a and C5a generation as well as C3 fragment deposition in vitro in both groups for each distinct complement activation pathway. The asthmatic group had moderately elevated levels of mannan binding lectin (P=0.18). Conclusions These data suggest that, if complement plays a role in asthma susceptibility, this role would be due to mechanisms other than abnormal sensitivity of complement to activation. Instead, it could be due to an abnormal cellular response of the innate immune system to C3a or C5a that may result in susceptibility to asthma.
The thin-film adsorber hemoperfusion device: detailed mass transfer and flow characteristics.

: Further testing and evaluation of the thin-film adsorber (TFA) type of hemoperfusion device is Reported here to complement an earlier paper describing the development of these devices and clearance test's performed with them. The present paper describes the results of pressure drop tests, flow uniformity tests, and detailed studies of the mass transfer characteristics of the components of the TFA units. The TFA units consist of powdered activated charcoal embedded in thin films of cellulose nitrate. These films are sprinkled with small particles of granular charcoal and then wound into spools, which are then placed in a plastic housing. The use of powdered charcoal exploits the enormous rate-of-uptake advantage of powdered charcoal over the granular sorbents used in other hemoperfusion devices. The present tests showed that the pressure drops in the TFA devices are intrinsically low, but that their priming volumes are only marginally acceptable. Significant flow nonunifor-mities also exist. Despite this, the overall mass transfer resistance values for the TFA devices are lower than those for available commercial hemoperfusion units. Measurements of diffusion coefficients in the carbon and in the carbonloaded polymer film showed that in the carbon-loaded film, the slowest diffusion step involves the carbon particles themselves. Other tests disclosed that the liquid external to the film (i.e., in the flow spaces) offers even greater mass transfer resistance than does the carbon-loaded film. Further evaluations of the TFA type of device are suggested, particularly concerning its thrombogenic properties.
Effect of decreasing dietary cation anion difference on feedlot performance, carcass characteristics, and beef tenderness.

The manipulation of acid-base balance has been extensively investigated as a means of manipulating Ca homeostasis and managing milk fever in dairy cows. A low dietary cation anion difference (DCAD) increases urinary Ca, blood-ionized Ca, and responsiveness to Ca-homeostatic hormones. Very little attention has been focused on the possibility of using a low dietary DCAD to increase muscle Ca availability, calpain activity, and meat tenderness of beef cattle. Thus, 90 Angus × Simmental crossbred steers were allotted by weight (590.1 ± 2.4 kg) and breed composition (% Simmental) to 3 treatments (6 pens/treatment, 5 steers/pen) to evaluate the effects of DCAD on beef tenderness. Treatments were initiated 2 wk before slaughter and consisted of 3 DCAD (mEq/100 g) treatments: -16, 0, and +16. Basal diets (DM basis) were 62 to 64% corn, 6 to 9% soybean meal, and 20% corn silage, and were formulated to contain similar concentrations of protein, energy (NEm; NEg), and minerals, with the exception of sodium and chlorine. A commercial chloride ion supplement (PASTURChlor, West Central, Ralston, IA) was added to diets to decrease DCAD and sodium bicarbonate was added to diets to increase DCAD. Performance before initiation of the study did not differ among treatments (P > 0.22). Urine pH did not differ at the initiation of the study (P > 0.57), but did increase at a decreasing rate on d 7 (6.37, 7.69, 8.13) and d 14 (5.68, 7.66, 8.03) of the study as DCAD increased from -16 to 0 to +16, respectively (quadratic, P 0.16). In addition, DCAD did not affect Warner-Bratzler shear force among treatments after 7 and 21 d of aging (P > 0.23). Although urine pH was decreased by feeding a -16 DCAD diet, Ca influx into the LM and beef tenderness were not affected by altering the DCAD in finishing beef cattle diets.
In Honor of Ruth C. Carter

(2007). In Honor of Ruth C. Carter. Cataloging & Classification Quarterly: Vol. 44, Cataloger, Editor, and Scholar: Essays in Honor of Ruth C. Carter (Part I), pp. 53-54.
Large PAHs detected in fine particulate matter emitted from light-duty gasoline vehicles

Abstract Emission factors of large PAHs with 6–8 aromatic rings with molecular weights (MW) of 300–374 were measured from 16 light-duty gasoline-powered vehicles (LDGV) and one heavy-duty diesel-powered vehicle (HDDV) operated under realistic driving conditions. LDGVs emitted PAH isomers of MW 302, 326, 350, and 374, while the HDDV did not emit these compounds. This suggests that large PAHs may be useful tracers for the source apportionment of gasoline-powered motor vehicle exhaust in the atmosphere. Emission rates of MW 302, 326, and 350 isomers from LDGVs equipped with three-way catalysts (TWCs) ranged from 2 to 10 (μg L −1 fuel burned), while emissions from LDGVs classified as low emission vehicles (LEVs) were almost a factor of 10 lower. MW 374 PAH isomers were not quantified due to the lack of a quantification-grade standard. The reduced emissions associated with the LEVs are likely attributable to improved vapor recovery during the “cold-start” phase of the Federal Test Procedure (FTP) driving cycle before the catalyst reaches operating temperature. Approximately 2 (μg g −1 PM) of MW 326 and 350 PAH isomer groups were found in the National Institute of Standards and Technology standard reference material (SRM)#1649 (Urban Dust). The pattern of the MW 302, 326, and 350 isomers detected in SRM#1649 qualitatively matched the ratio of these compounds detected in the exhaust of TWC LDGVs suggesting that each gram of Urban Dust SRM contained 5–10 mg of PM originally emitted from gasoline-powered motor vehicles. Large PAHs made up 24% of the total LEV PAH emissions and 39% of the TWC PAH emissions released from gasoline-powered motor vehicles. Recent studies have shown certain large PAH isomers have greater toxicity than benzo[ a ]pyrene. Even though the specific toxicity measurements on PAHs with MW >302 have yet to be performed, the detection of significant amounts of MW 326 and 350 PAHs in motor vehicle exhaust in the current study suggests that these compounds may pose a significant public health risk.