cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intron features of key functional genes mediating nitrogen metabolism in marine phytoplankton

Introns are widespread and variable in eukaryotic genomes. Although their histories and functions, or even whether all of them have any function, remain largely unknown, analysis of intron sequences and genomic contexts may shed light on the evolutionary history of genes and organisms. The number and frequency of introns vary widely in the small number of published genomes of protists and algae suggesting that the same is true of the vast diversity of protists and algae that remain uncultivated. The objective of this study were to investigate introns in sequences of functional genes of phytoplankton, both in published genomes and in sequences obtained from environmental clone libraries. We examined the introns of the genes involved in nitrogen uptake and assimilation pathways in the genome sequences of cultivated phytoplankton as well as in environmental clone libraries of nitrate reductases (NR), nitrite reductase (NiR), nitrate transporter (Nrt2) and ammonium transporter (AMT) genes constructed from pelagic phytoplankton communities in Monterey Bay (CA, USA) and Onslow Bay (NC, USA). Here we describe the most extensive set to date of intron sequences from uncultivated marine algae and report important differences for diatom vs. non-diatom sequences. The majority of the introns in NR, NiR, Nrt2 and AMT from cultured phytoplankton and environmental libraries showed canonical splice patterns. Introns found in diatom-like NR environmental libraries had lower GC content than the respective exons. The green algal-like NR and Nrt2 environmental sequences had introns and exons of much more similar GC content, and both higher than in diatoms. These patterns suggest a different evolutionary history and recent acquisition of diatom introns compared to other algae.
The design of a marker passing architecture for knowledge processing

Knowledge processing is very demanding on computer architectures. Knowledge processing generates subcomputation paths at an exponential rate. It is memory intensive and has high communication requirements. Marker passing architectures are good candidates to solve knowledge processing problems. In this paper, we justify the design decisions made for the Semantic Network Array Processor (SNAP). Important aspects of SNAP are: the instruction set, markers, relations, propagation rules, interconnection network, and granularity. These features are compared to those in NETL and the Connection Machine.
Botulinum Toxin for Palliative Treatment of Epiphora in a Patient with Canalicular Obstruction

Objective To describe the use of botulinum toxin injection of the lacrimal gland for palliative treatment of epiphora secondary to canalicular obstruction from docetaxel therapy. Design Case report. Intervention A 50-year-old female with bilateral canalicular obstruction secondary to docetaxel therapy received botulinum toxin injections (5 units each) into the lacrimal glands of both eyes. Results Symptomatic epiphora of the affected eyes was reduced after 2 weeks. No side effects were observed. Conclusions Botulinum toxin injection of the lacrimal gland is an effective palliative treatment for epiphora secondary to canalicular obstruction from docetaxel therapy.
Characterization of the Inflammatory Microenvironment and Identification of Potential Therapeutic Targets in Wilms Tumors

The role of inflammation in cancer has been reported in various adult malignant neoplasms. By contrast, its role in pediatric tumors has not been as well studied. In this study, we have identified and characterized the infiltration of various inflammatory immune cells as well as inflammatory markers in Wilms tumor (WT), the most common renal malignancy in children. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded blocks from tumors and autologous normal kidneys were immunostained for inflammatory immune cells (T cells, B cells, macrophages, neutrophils, and mast cells) and inflammatory markers such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, phosphorylated STAT3, phosphorylated extracellular signal–related kinases 1 and 2, inducible nitric oxide synthase, nitrotyrosine, and vascular endothelial growth factor expression. Overall, we found that there was predominant infiltration of tumor-associated macrophages in the tumor stroma where COX-2 was robustly expressed. The other tumor-associated inflammatory markers were also mostly localized to tumor stroma. Hence, we speculate that COX-2–mediated inflammatory microenvironment may be important in WT growth and potential therapies targeting this pathway may be beneficial and should be tested in clinical settings for the treatment of WTs in children.
Antiviral Drug Resistance: Mechanisms and Clinical Implications

Antiviral drug resistance is an increasing concern in immunocompromised patient populations, where ongoing viral replication and prolonged drug exposure lead to the selection of resistant strains. Rapid diagnosis of resistance can be made by associating characteristic viral mutations with resistance to various drugs as determined by phenotypic assays. Management of drug resistance includes optimization of host factors and drug delivery, selection of alternative therapies based on knowledge of mechanisms of resistance, and the development of new antivirals. This article discusses drug resistance in herpesviruses and hepatitis B.
Software environment for tactical training with trajectory planning through multiple moving targets

This paper describes a simulation environment for training naval officers and presents details of one of its main functions, planning a secure trajectory through moving targets. For this function we applied the well-known A* search to determine the shortest possible path from our current position to the destination without entering the hazardous zone of the targets. We approximate the circular shapes of radar surveillance areas as N-vertex polygons, which significantly reduces computational complexity by limiting the number of possible waypoints. The experiments conducted show that our method can find the optimal solution sufficiently fast such that it can be applied in real-time situations where target platforms continuously change their direction of movement and/or speed.
Conformational effects on excitonic interactions in a prototypical H-bonded bichromophore: bis(2-hydroxyphenyl)methane.

Laser-induced fluorescence, single-vibronic level fluorescence (SVLF), UV hole burning, and fluorescence dip infrared (FDIR) spectroscopy have been carried out on bis-(2-hydroxyphenyl)methane in order to characterize the ground-state and first excited-state vibronic spectroscopy of this model flexible bichromophore. These studies identified the presence of two conformational isomers. The FDIR spectra in the OH-stretch region determine that conformer A is an OH ··· O H-bonded conformer, while conformer B is a doubly OH ··· π H-bonded conformer with C2 symmetry. High-resolution ultraviolet spectra (∼50 MHz resolution) of a series of vibronic bands of both conformers confirm and refine these assignments. The transition dipole moment (TDM) direction in conformer A is consistent with electronic excitation that is primarily localized on the donor phenol ring. A tentative assignment of the S2 origin is made to a set of transitions ∼400 cm -1 above S1. In conformer B, the TDM direction firmly establishes C2 symmetry for the conformer in its S1 state and establishes the electronic excitation as delocalized over the two rings, as the lower member of an excitonic pair. The S2 state has not been clearly identified in the spectrum. Based on CIS calculations, the S2 state is postulated to be several times weaker than S1, making it difficult to identify, especially in the midst of overlap from vibronic bands due to conformer A. SVLF spectra show highly unusual vibronic intensity patterns, particularly in conformer B, which cannot be understood by simple harmonic Franck-Condon models, even in the presence of Duschinsky mixing. We postulate that these model flexible bichromophores have TDMs that are extraordinarily sensitive to the distance and orientation of the two aromatic rings, highlighting the need to map out the TDM surface and its dependence on the (up to) five torsional and bending coordinates in order to understand the observations.
Opportunity Recognition as the Detection of Meaningful Patterns: Evidence from Comparisons of Novice and Experienced Entrepreneurs

It is suggested that the recognition of new business opportunities often involves pattern recognition---the cognitive process through which individuals identify meaningful patterns in complex arrays of events or trends. Basic research on pattern recognition indicates that cognitive frameworks acquired through experience (e.g., prototypes) play a central role in this process. Such frameworks provide individuals with a basis for noticing connections between seemingly independent events or trends (e.g., advances in technology, shifts in markets, changes in government policies, etc.), and for detecting meaningful patterns in these connections. We propose that ideas for new products or services often emerge from the perception of such patterns. New business opportunities are identified when entrepreneurs, using relevant cognitive frameworks, “connect the dots” between seemingly unrelated events or trends and then detect patterns in these connections suggestive of new products or services. To obtain evidence on these proposals, we compared the “business opportunity” prototypes of novice (first-time) and repeat (experienced) entrepreneurs---their cognitive representations of the essential nature of opportunities. As predicted, the prototypes of experienced entrepreneurs were more clearly defined, richer in content, and more concerned with factors and conditions related to actually starting and running a new venture (e.g., generation of positive cash flow) than the prototypes of novice entrepreneurs. These findings offer support for the view that pattern recognition is a key component of opportunity recognition.
N-soliton interactions in an extended Schrödinger equation with higher order of nonlinearities

Abstract We investigate the existence of N-solitons in an extended general nonlinear Schrodinger equation with third and fourth order dispersive terms that is most important for applications, such as the dynamics of a general class of anisotropic Heisenberg ferromagnetic spin chain with different magnetic interactions, the alpha helical proteins, and in media that offer interactions in biophysics. We have transformed the model to a homogeneous model that is utilized to show the existence of interactions of N-soliton solutions. We analyzed, and gave specific forms of these new class of N-solitons in a new simple form and discussed the interactions of these N-solitons. We have shown the existence of three types of head-on collisions, head-on collisions with or without over-taking or splitting into two solitons.
Dimensions of time experiences.

The purpose in the present study was to examine the dimensions common and specific to 16 measures dealing with attitudes toward and experiences of time so that further insight might be gained regarding their psychological meaning. Scores for 76 participants from 4 inventories were submitted to a principal components analysis. Six factors were rotated to a varimax solution. A factor, expected on the basis of the notions underlying 5 of the measures, clearly emerged. Two other factors shared variance with scores derived from at least 2 inventories, and the remaining 3 factors were unique to one inventory. Factors were discussed in terms of their psychological meaning and a possible artifact of one inventory.
Estimation-based approaches to rhythm analysis in electrocardiograms

In this paper we provide an overview of research aimed at applying estimation methods to the problem of classifying rhythms and detecting arrhythmias in electrocardiograms. In particular we describe earlier work which produced a system which is quite successful in achieving its somewhat modest goals. We then describe our ongoing research which has as its goal a system capable of far finer interpretation. This research involves so-called hybrid estimation structures which arise in numerous complex signal and systems problems.
Grain Growth in Polycrystalline Silicon Films

Experimental observations of recrystallization, normal grain growth and secondary grain growth in silicon films are reviewed. Normal grain growth leads to grain sizes which are approximately equal to the film thickness. Secondary grain growth can lead to larger grains with restricted crystallographic textures. These procesess are affected by the as-deposited or as-crystallized grain structures and orientations. The rate of grain growth has been shown to be higher in phosphorous or arsenic doped films. Ion bombardment, oxidation, and interactions with silicides also lead to increased grain growth rates. Grain growth enhancement has been related to increased point defect concentrations or dopant redistribution.
Hepatic metabolism of 1-14C octanoic and 1-14C margaric acids.

The hepatic metabolism of 1−14C octanoic acid was compared with that of 1−14C palmitic acid in male rats which were fed. After intraportal injection only 1/6 to 1/18 as much octanoic acid as palmitic acid was incorporated into hepatic lipids. In contrast, octanoic acid yielded two to four times as much water-soluble product as did palmitic acid. Similar, but even more impressive, differences between the incorporation of these fatty acids into hepatic lipids were observed in liver slices incubated with14C octanoate and14C palmitate. The oxidation of octanoate to CO2 was more than 10 times as great as that of palmitate. With both substrates, triglycerides comprised almost half the labeled lipid recovered. However octanoate yielded a higher proportion of labeled, unesterified fatty acids and a lower proportion of labeled phospholipid and monoglycerides than did palmitate. Most of the14C recovered in hepatic lipids after incubation with 1−14C octanoate was found in the carboxyl groups of long-chain fatty acids, suggesting that the latter had been synthesized from 2-carbon fragments formed from the oxidation of octanoate. In contrast, only a small fraction of the palmitate was elongated.
284 CARBAPENEM-RESISTANT STRAIN OF KLEBSIELLA PNEUMONIAE HARBORING ONE COPY OF THE SERINE CARBAPENEMASE KPC-2 AND TWO COPIES OF A TEM-TYPE EXTENDED-SPECTRUM β-LACTAMASE GENE.

Background Strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae with multiple determinants of drug resistance present a serious management problem. The determinants that confer resistance to cephalosporins and carbapenems are of particular interest since these drugs are frequently used in the treatment of Enterobacteriaceae infections. Extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), in general, hydrolyze third-generation cephalosporins and aztreonam (a monobactam). The TEM, SHV, and CTX-M families are the most prominent ESBLs. Carbapenem-hydrolyzing β-lactamases (carbapenemases) hydrolyze the substrates of ESBLs and the carbapenems; ertapenem, imipenem, and meropenem. Two types of carbapenemases can be described: serine carbapenemases, which possess a serine moiety and can be inhibited by β-lactamase inhibitors (ie, clavulanate and tazobactam) and metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs), which require divalent cations, usually zinc, for enzyme activity and thus can be inhibited by EDTA and similar divalent cation chelators. The most prominent serine carbapenemases are those of the KPC (group A), Amp-C (group C), and OXA (group D) families and the most prominent MBLs belong to the IMP, VIM, and SPM families (group B). Study Design and Methods Using a combination of susceptibility testing, PCR targeting, and DNA sequencing, we characterized the phenotype and genotype of a carbapenem-resistant strain of K. pneumoniae (KpM) recovered from a pediatric patient in Seattle, Washington. Results KPC and TEM and the integron-related structures Int1, Int3, and Sul3 were amplified from KpM. Transformation of laboratory strains of Escherichia coli with KpM plasmid DNA yielded two daughter strains: KpM(KPC), which displays the carbapenemase phenotype, and KpM(TEM), which demonstrates the ESBL phenotype. KPC-2 and a TEM-type gene were amplified from KpM(KPC) and a TEM-type gene and Int3 were amplified from KpM(TEM). Conclusion These results (1) classified the genes responsible for the resistance pattern of KpM and (2) demonstrated that the resistance determinants were plasmid- and possibly integron-borne.
Dynamic Analysis of Topological Structure State Based on GSPA-BN

The application status and advantages of Bayesian network are introduced,the node state analysis model of bayesian network topology based on GSPA is proposed,the state of the node connectivity and the expression method of its important degree are discussed and the node trend concept of the Bayesian network topology is also put forward. Application results show that the important degree rankings of all the root nodes are obtained in the Bayesian network topological structure of the boiler water boil dry event; the state connection of the leaf node and the intermediate node and its trend level are obtained and the change of the intermediate state will have some certain impact on the corresponding node situation and the node level,even the situation is reversed,which provides the theoretical analysis basis for the dynamic development situation of node state of Bayesian network topology.
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF BLOCK COPOLYMERS OF STYRENE AND 2 VINYLPYRIDINE

A series of diblock copolymers of styrene and 2 vinylpyridine have been synthesized successfully via sequential anionic polymerization.The results of GPC,FTIR,1H NMR and 13C NMR show that the products are diblock copolymers with high molecular weight 415×104 to 10 6×104 and narrow molecular weight distribution 1 19～1 66.The two phase structure of the copolymers is proved by the information obtained from DMA and DTA.
Teacher Workforce Developments: Recent Changes in Academic Competitiveness and Job Satisfaction of New Teachers

Abstract Policy makers and school leaders are perennially concerned with the capacity of the nation's public schools to recruit and retain highly skilled teachers. Over the past two decades, policy strategies including the federal No Child Left Behind Act and alternative pathways to teaching, as well as changes in the broader labor market, have altered the context in which academically skilled college graduates choose whether to enter teaching, and, if so, where to teach. Using data from 1993 to 2008, we find that schools nationwide are recruiting a greater share of academically skilled college graduates into teaching, and that increases in teachers' academic skills are especially large in urban school districts that serve predominantly non-white students. On the other hand, the increase in the share of academically skilled teachers coincides with the lower likelihood of non-white teachers being employed. Once teaching, non-white teachers report substantially lower job satisfaction than other teachers. Th...
Shear instability of plastically-deforming metals in high-velocity impact welding

High-speed oblique impact of two metal plates results in the development of an intense shear region at their interface leading to interfacial profile distortion and interatomic bonding. If the relative velocity is sufficient, a distinct wavy morphology with a well-defined amplitude and wavelength is observed. Emergence of this morphology below the melting point of the metal plates is usually taken as evidence of a successful weld. Amongvarious proposed mechanisms, instability owing to large tangential velocity variations near the interface has received significant attention. With one exception, the few quantitative stability analyses of this proposed mechanism have treated an anti-symmetric/shear-layer base profile (i.e., a Kelvin-Helmholtz configuration) and employed an inviscid or Newtonian viscous fluid constitutive relation. The former stipulation implies the energy source for the instability is the presumed relative shearing motion of the two plates, while the latter is appropriate only if melting occurs locally near the interface. In this study, these restrictions, which are at odds with the conditions realized in high-velocity impact welding, are relaxed. A quantitative temporal linear stability analysis is performed to investigate whether the interfacial wave morphology could be the signature of a shear-driven high strain-rate instability of a perfectly plastic material undergoing a jet-like deformation near the interface. The resulting partial differential eigenvalue problem is solved numerically using a spectral collocation method in which customized boundary conditions near the interface are implemented to properly treat the singularity arising from the vanishing of the base flow strain-rate at the symmetry plane of the jet. The solution of the eigenvalue problem yields the wavelength and growth rate of the dominant wave-like disturbances along the interface and confirms that a shear instability of a plastically-deforming material is compatible with the emergent wavy interfacial morphology.
COMPARISON OF CA2+ CURRENTS OF PEPTIDERGIC NEURONS DEVELOPING DIFFERING MORPHOLOGY WITH TIME IN CULTURE

The whole-cell patch-clamp technique was used to examine Ca2+ currents (ICa) in mature neurons cultured in defined medium and derived from the principal neurosecretory system of decapod crustaceans, the X-organ-sinus gland. After 1 day in culture, X-organ neurons of the crab Cardisoma carnifex showed vigorous outgrowth characterized either by the production of broad lamellipodia (veils) or, from smaller somata, a branching morphology. The neurons developing veils (veilers) had a large ICa (approximately 650 pA) and ICa current density (approximately 5 microA cm-2) while other types of neuron had little or no ICa. This distinction between the two types was still present after 5-6 days in culture. However, morphologies observed after additional outgrowth, when correlated with the ICa responses, allowed four groups to be distinguished: (1) veilers and (2) branching veilers, which developed from veilers and had a similar ICa density (approximately 3 microA cm-2); and, developing from the 1 day branchers, (3) spiny branchers or (4) small cells (ICa density approximately 0.8 microA cm-2). Immunoreactivity indicative of the presence of crustacean hyperglycemic hormone was found in all veilers and branching veilers tested, while moltinhibiting hormone reactivity, when observed, was seen in cells having a robust ICa density (> or = 1.2 microA cm-2). Normalized average current-voltage curves for each morphological group were examined for changes with increasing time in culture. The curves were consistent with the ICa being produced by a population of high-voltage-activated Ca2+ channels whose properties are biophysically indistinguishable and unaffected by time in culture. The averaged peak current did not change, despite an increase in neuronal surface area as outgrowth proceeded, and this resulted in a reduction of ICa density. This indicated that net addition of Ca2+ channels did not match the addition of new membrane under our culturing conditions.
Thermal conductivity switch: Optimal semiconductor/metal melting transition

Scrutinizing distinct solid/liquid ($s/l$) and solid/solid ($s/s$) phase transitions (passive transitions) for large change in bulk (and homogenous) thermal conductivity, we find the $s/l$ semiconductor/metal (S/M) transition produces the largest dimensionless thermal conductivity switch (TCS) figure of merit ${Z}_{\text{TCS}}$ (change in thermal conductivity divided by smaller conductivity). At melting temperature, the solid phonon and liquid molecular thermal conductivities are comparable and generally small, so the TCS requires localized electron solid and delocalized electron liquid states. For cyclic phase reversibility, the congruent phase transition (no change in composition) is as important as the thermal transport. We identify $X\mathrm{Sb}$ and $X\mathrm{As}$ ($X=\text{Al}$, Cd, Ga, In, Zn) and describe atomic-structural metrics for large ${Z}_{\text{TCS}}$, then show the superiority of S/M phonon- to electron-dominated transport melting transition. We use existing experimental results and theoretical and ab initio calculations of the related properties for both phases (including the Kubo-Greenwood and Bridgman formulations of liquid conductivities). The $5p$ orbital of Sb contributes to the semiconductor behavior in the solid-phase band gap and upon disorder and bond-length changes in the liquid phase this changes to metallic, creating the large contrast in thermal conductivity. The charge density distribution, electronic localization function, and electron density of states are used to mark this S/M transition. For optimal TCS, we examine the elemental selection from the transition, basic, and semimetals and semiconductor groups. For CdSb, addition of residual Ag suppresses the bipolar conductivity and its ${Z}_{\text{TCS}}$ is over 7, and for ${\mathrm{Zn}}_{3}{\mathrm{Sb}}_{2}$ it is expected to be over 14, based on the structure and transport properties of the better-known $\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{-}{\mathrm{Zn}}_{4}{\mathrm{Sb}}_{3}$. This is the highest ${Z}_{\text{TCS}}$ identified. In addition to the metallic melting, the high ${Z}_{\text{TCS}}$ is due to the electron-poor nature of II-V semiconductors, leading to the significantly low phonon conductivity.
Regional Blockade of the Brachial Plexus: Approaches and Outcome

T presentation was designed to give an overview of brachial plexus anesthesia and analgesia, including anatomy, approaches, and outcomes of the most common techniques for blockade of the plexus. Anatomy and approaches to the brachial plexus will be reviewed, including interscalene block, supraclavicular block, infraclavicular block and axillary block. The lecture will present the current literature regarding upper extremity anesthesia and analgesia to help guide evidence-based practice. The criteria for assessing the quality of studies were based on the Jadad score and a grade recommendation was assigned based on the US Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, which uses the quality and number of studies supporting individual outcomes to determine the grade. Randomized controlled trials were reviewed that compared the neurostimulation technique to ultrasound-guided brachial plexus blockade. Good evidence supported higher success rate with ultrasound-guided blocks. There was good evidence that supported faster onset of sensory blockade with ultrasound. There was fair evidence that supported improved performance time with ultrasound. There was no evidence that showed any difference in major complications when comparing the neurostimulation technique to ultrasound-guided blockade of the brachial plexus. Randomized controlled trials were reviewed that compared the supraclavicular, infraclavicular and axillary approaches. The supraclavicular block had a lower success rate due to failure to anesthetize the lower trunk of the brachial plexus. In addition, the supraclavicular block had a higher incidence of Horner’s syndrome and hemidiaphragmatic paresis when compared to the infraclavicular and axillary approaches to brachial plexus blockade.
Current Trends in the Management of Ballistic Fractures of the Hand and Wrist: Experiences of a High-Volume Level I Trauma Center.

Background: Ballistic fractures of the carpus and hand are routinely treated in large urban centers. These injuries can be challenging due to many factors. Various treatment options exist for these...
Nematoda of Eleven Species of Ranid Frogs (Anura: Ranidae) from Southeast Asia

Abstract: Eleven species of ranid frogs (N = 42) from Southeast Asia were examined for gastrointestinal helminths: Amolops torrentis, Chalcorana labialis, Hylarana erythraea, Hylarana taipehensis, Indosylvirana milleti, Pulchrana banjarana, Pulchrana baramica, Pulchrana glandulosa, Pulchrana picturata, Sylvirana cubitalis, Sylvirana mortensi. The helminth community consisted of eight species of Nematoda, represented by Aplectana macintoshii, Cosmocerca ornata, Cosmocercoides pulcher, Icosiella innominata, Meteterakis japonica, Seuratascaris numidica, Abbreviata sp., and a species of Acuariidae. Ranid frogs from Southeast Asia are infected by generalist helminths that also infect other frogs. Twenty new host records are reported.
Apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with left ventricular apical aneurysm: Importance of multi‐modality imaging

Apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an uncommon variant of HCM characterized by apical hypertrophy without the septal predominance seen in the majority of HCM cases. In 2% of patients, a concomitant left ventricular apical aneurysm is observed, which increases the risk of sudden death and adverse HCM-related events. Multimodality imaging is helpful for appropriate identification of this particular morphologic pattern. Herein, we present a case of apical HCM with a left ventricular apical aneurysm, exemplifying the utility of a multimodality approach from resting electrocardiogram, transthoracic echocardiogram, left ventriculography, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, for proper risk stratification and treatment planning.
Comparison of the performance of dye sensitized solar cells fabricated with ruthenium based dye sensitizers: Di-tetrabutylammonium cis-bis(isothiocyanato)bis(2,2′-bipyridyl-4,4′-dicarboxylato)ruthenium(II) (N719) and tris(bipyridine)ruthenium(II) chloride (Ru-BPY)

Abstract Two ruthenium-based dyes were used as sensitizers for dye sensitized solar cells: one with anchoring groups – Di-tetrabutylammonium cis-bis(isothiocyanato)bis(2,2′-bipyridyl-4,4′-dicarboxylato)Ruthenium(II), (N719) – and the other without any anchoring group, Tris(bipyridine)Ruthenium(II) chloride (Ru-BPY) were studied to assess the effect of anchoring groups on the performance of dye sensitized solar cells. N719 dye has carboxyl groups that bind to the surface of mesoporous TiO2 whereas Ru-BPY contains no such anchoring groups capable of binding to the surface of TiO2 nanoparticles. The dyes were characterized using absorption spectroscopy, emission measurements and lifetime measurements. The wavelength of maximum absorption for the N719 was 525 nm but this was blue shifted to 516 nm upon attachment to the titanium dioxide substrate. The wavelength of maximum absorption for the Ru-BPY was 450 nm before and after application of the dye to titanium dioxide indicating that the interaction of the anchoring groups with the TiO2 nanoparticles had an effect on the absorption band of the N719. The N719 dye sensitized solar cell yielded a solar-to-electrical energy conversion efficiency of 1.35%, which was much higher than that of Ru-BPY (0.09%), thus indicating that anchoring groups on dye sensitizers greatly increase the efficiency of dye sensitized solar cell.
Meridional Gulf Stream shifts can influence wintertime variability in the North Atlantic storm track and Greenland blocking.

Author Posting. © American Geophysical Union, 2019. This article is posted here by permission of American Geophysical Union for personal use, not for redistribution. The definitive version was published in Geophysical Research Letters 46(3), (2019):1702-1708. doi:10.1029/2018GL081087.
Establishing a new quality of life (QL) / patient reported outcome (PRO) / symptom scale in advanced cancer: Content validity for the “CSS” based on input from 3860 patients.

9623 Background: Preserving or improving QL while managing symptoms are major goals in cancer care. To achieve these ends, the input of patients (pts) is mandatory as these are true PROs. The CSS (...
Improvements in the synthesis of adamantane-2,6-dione and preparation of the novel adamantane-2,6-dione mono-ketal

Abstract A facile seven-step synthesis of adamantane-2,6-dione is presented that involves minimal purification, provides multigram quantities of product, and proceeds in an overall yield of 21%. The mono -ketal of adamantane-2,6-dione is obtained in 18% overall yield.
Diagnostic accuracy and clarity of steady-state free precession imaging of cardiac valve morphology in congenital heart disease

Purpose: Evaluation of cardiac valve morphology has not been considered an indication for cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) due to suboptimal imaging quality. Our study aims to evaluate cine of cardiac magnetic resonance-steady-state free precession (CMR-SSFP) imaging quality and diagnostic accuracy in the assessment of cardiac valve morphology for congenital heart disease. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed consecutive pediatric/congenital cardiac MRI cases. A 5-grade diagnostic clarity score was assigned to the aortic valve annulus and leaflets, tricuspid valve and mitral valve annuli, leaflets, chordae, and papillary muscles by examination of standard cine CMR-SSFP imaging. Among patients with aortic valve imaging, we compared morphologic diagnosis by CMR-SSFP to echocardiography. High-quality diagnostic imaging was defined as a clarity score of 1 or 2. Results: There were a total of 234 cardiac MRI studies evaluated with a total of 1892 valve components. The majority of valve annuli, leaflets, and papillary muscles had high diagnostic clarity score 64%–80% of the time – the tricuspid valve papillary muscles had a high diagnostic clarity score 53% of the time. Among the 39 cases with aortic valve imaging, CMR-SSFP correctly identified the aortic valve morphology including the affected commissure. Conclusions: CMR-SSFP produces high diagnostic quality imaging of cardiac valve morphology in congenital/pediatric cardiac MRI. The valve components with the highest diagnostic clarity score are tricuspid and mitral valve annuli, leaflets and papillary muscles, and aortic valve annuli and leaflets. Aortic valve morphology can be diagnosed with a high degree of reliability.
Sepsis outcomes in solid organ transplant recipients.

BACKGROUND We present data on a cohort of patients diagnosed with sepsis over a 10-year period comparing outcomes in solid organ transplant (SOT) and non-solid organ transplant (non-SOT) recipients. METHODS This is a retrospective single-center study of patients with diagnosis of sepsis from 1/1/06 to 6/30/16. Cases and controls were matched by year of sepsis diagnosis with propensity score matching. Conditional logistic regression and repeated measurement models were performed for binary outcomes. Trends over time for in-hospital mortality were determined using the Cochran-Armitage test. A gamma-distributed model was performed on the continuous variables. RESULTS Overall, there were 18 632 admission encounters with a discharge diagnosis of sepsis in 14 780 unique patients. Of those admissions, 1689 were SOT recipients. After 1:1 matching by year, there were three thousand three hundred and forty patients (1670 cases; 1670 controls) diagnosed with sepsis. There was a decreasing trend for in-hospital mortality for sepsis over time in SOT patients and non-SOT patients (P < .05) due to early sepsis recognition and improved standard of care. Despite higher comorbidities in the SOT group, conditional logistic regression showed that in-hospital mortality for sepsis in SOT patients was similar compared with non-SOT patients (odds ratio [OR] =1.14 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 0.95-1.37], P = .161). However, heart and lung SOT subgroups had higher odds of dying compared with the non-SOT group (OR = 1.83 [95% CI, 1.30-2.57], P < .001 and OR = 1.77 [95% CI, 1.34-2.34], P < .001). On average, SOT patients had 2 days longer hospital length of stay compared with non-SOT admissions (17.00 ± 19.54 vs 15.23 ± 17.07, P < .05). Additionally, SOT patients had higher odds of hospital readmission within 30 days (OR = 1.25 [95% CI, 1.06-1.51], P = .020), and higher odds for DIC compared with non-SOT patients (OR = 1.76 [95% CI, 1.10-2.86], P = .021). CONCLUSION Sepsis in solid organ transplants and non-solid organ transplant patients have similar mortality; however, the subset of heart and lung transplant recipients with sepsis has a higher rate of mortality compared with the non-solid organ transplant recipients. SOT with sepsis as a group has a higher hospital readmission rate compared with non-transplant sepsis patients.
Learning Virtual Grasp with Failed Demonstrations via Bayesian Inverse Reinforcement Learning

We propose Bayesian Inverse Reinforcement Learning with Failure (BIRLF), which makes use of failed demonstrations that were often ignored or filtered in previous methods due to the difficulties to incorporate them in addition to the successful ones. Specifically, we leverage halfspaces derived from policy optimality conditions to incorporate failed demonstrations under Bayesian Inverse Reinforcement Learning (BIRL) framework. Under the continuous control setting, the reward function and policy are learned in an alternative manner, both of which are estimated by function approximators to guarantee the learning ability. Our approach is formulated as a model-free Inverse Reinforcement Learning (IRL) method that naturally accommodates more complex environments with continuous state and action spaces. In experiments, we demonstrate the proposed method in a virtual grasping task, achieving a significant performance boost compared to existing methods.
What Goes On: The Beatles, Their Music, and Their Time: by Walter Everett and Tim Riley, New York, NY, Oxford University Press, 2019, 320 pp., $39.95 (paper), ISBN 978-0-19-021317-6

As the academic study of rock and other popular music styles becomes more common, a divide is sometimes formed between serious scholars and casual music fans. In What Goes On: The Beatles, Their Mu...
The IPUMS Approach to Harmonizing the World’s Population Census Data

IPUMS integrates census microdata from around the world into one consistent database, harmonizing variable codes across countries over a 60 year period. The variables in the files provided by National Statistical Offices utilize a wide variety of classification schemes. To enable comparative research requires coping with this empirical reality of pre-classified microdata. The aim is to impose order while minimizing loss of detail. This paper describes the general principles IPUMS follows in the harmonization process. It discusses the challenge of applying international standards to demographic data produced over a long period of time by dozens of statistical offices. The preferred strategy involves the use of composite codes in which leading digits for a variable apply generally across countries and trailing digits retain details not universally available. That approach is not always viable, however, and the paper describes a number of other strategies to cope with the variety of challenges posed by international population data harmonization.
Microscopic Calculation of Fission Fragment Distributions in Actinides

The simulation of independent and cumulative yields requires precise knowledge of the initial conditions of the fission fragments immediately after scission. In this paper, we use a quantum-mechanical description of fission dynamics to extract the initial mass distribution of fission fragments for the neutron-induced fission of the two major actinides 239 Pu and 235 U, both for thermal fission and as a function of the incident neutron energy.
An online neutron activation analysis database (NAADB)

An online computer program for an interactive database was specifically developed for neutron activation analysis (NAA). The software written in Java includes gamma-ray catalog, neutron activation calculator for activity calculations and decay schemes. For the novice, expert and educator this program can greatly reduce needed information in NAA.
(Don’t) lean on me: the micropolitics of caring educational leadership

Recent studies of caring school leadership have focused on the way that caring leaders support teachers and influence the school environment. Though caring is understood improve educational outcome...
A review of adopted colorectal patients: a parent’s perspective

After treating many adopted patients with congenital colorectal conditions, our goal was to understand if parents were properly counseled about their child’s medical needs before adoption. A comprehensive questionnaire was developed. Recruitment occurred by social media and colorectal database. 48 parents participated. Adopted children were primarily male (60%), internationally adopted (75%), and a median age of 2.5 years (range newborn-13yo). While 96% of parents received medical records, 41% had incorrect/missing information. Most patients had an anorectal malformation (83%, Table 1), and a third had the primary pull-through prior to adoption (16). Nearly all required a surgical procedure after adoption (87%), including a redo pull-through (19%). Children were frequently incontinent of stool (83%) and urine (46%). In some families, the medical condition negatively affected the relationship between the parent and adopted child (12.5%), parent and other siblings (40.5%), and adopted child and other siblings (19%). 58% of parents state managing their child’s medical condition was more difficult than anticipated. Family, friends, and the medical team was noted as the most helpful support systems. We strongly recommend putting support systems in place, obtaining as much medical information as possible, preparing for possible lifelong management, and consulting with a specialized colorectal team before adoption.
Intracavity spatial mode conversion by mean of holographic phase masks

The engineering of spatial modes via conventional methods of phase transformation can only be efficiently achieved at a specific wavelength due to the monochromatic nature of a complex phase profile. Nevertheless, holographic phase masks – i.e. complex phase structures coupled with the transmissive volume Bragg grating, possess a high degree of tunability and achromatism. Such complex phase elements, holographically recorded in the volume of photo-thermo-refractive glass, allow them to withstand high average-power operating conditions uniquely suited for intra-cavity mode conversion. Here we demonstrate a linear, wavelength-tunable, continuous-wave Yb3+:KYW laser capable of emitting customizable spatial modes by mean of holographic phase masks.
Building orientation-structure-property in laser powder bed fusion of NiTi shape memory alloy

Abstract This study is the first study on the compressive and tensile stress-strain revealing the deformation anisotropy among laser powder bed fusion NiTi parts fabricated with the same process conditions. We investigated the effects of building orientation on the microstructure and the resulting shape memory properties. To this end, three orientations were selected, namely 0, 45, and 90-degree, measured from the build plate and fabricated with the same process parameters. A strong (001) texture was formed along the building direction for all of the samples; a different texture could however be observed along the loading direction (LD). Samples fabricated with 45-degree showed a texture of (110) along the LD, as confirmed through X-ray diffraction and backscattered diffraction while 0 and 90 samples still had the (001) texture along with the LD. These texture variations created anisotropic compression-tension behaviors with deformation patterns consistent with single crystals. The (001) -textured parts showed higher strength and lower transformation strain (2.87% @ 200 MPa in tension for 0 ) while the (110) samples showed higher transformation strain at lower stresses (5.31% @ 150 MPa in tension for 45 ).
In silico analysis of synthetic multispecies biofilms for cellobiose-to-isobutanol conversion reveals design principles for stable and productive communities

Abstract Efficient, large-scale conversion of plant-derived feedstocks to commodity chemicals remains a substantial technological challenge with enormous potential for societal benefits. Most research efforts have focused on metabolic engineering of model organisms for planktonic cell cultures in well-mixed suspension bioreactors. We utilized in silico metabolic modeling to explore the potential benefits of an alternative design strategy based on combining bacterial strains with complementary metabolic functions within high density, multispecies biofilms. We simulated four alternative system designs, each of which consisted of an anaerobic cellulolytic bacterium which degraded cellobiose to glucose, an aerobic Escherichia coli strain engineered for glucose-to-isobutanol conversion, and an aerobic or anaerobic byproduct consumer for metabolizing growth-inhibiting organic acids such as acetate secreted by the other two strains. Our simulations predicted dramatically different cellobiose-to-isobutanol conversion capabilities depending on the metabolic compatibility of the three bacteria. Important design considerations included glucose competition between the cellulolytic and isobutanol-producing bacteria, O2 competition between the isobutanol-producing and byproduct-consuming bacteria, organic acid matching between the cellulolytic and byproduct-consuming bacteria and the degree of metabolic redundancy between the community members. We believe that these design principles will be widely applicable to synthetic biofilm communities engineered to perform other bioconversion tasks.
Writing the Deep History of Human Economy

In archaeology, a New Materialism has developed. Archaeological promoters of this theory reject Marxism out of hand. These archaeologists equate the relational dialectic with oppositional thinking and declare Marxism as dead. A refutation of the New Materialism’s critique of the dialectic leaves open the question of why archaeologists should embrace Marxism, which is a theory of Capitalism, to archaeologically study the deep history of human economy? My simple answer is twofold: (1) if we wish to transform capitalism we must demonstrate that people created Capitalism in the past and that people can therefore transform it for the future, and (2) Marxism offers archaeologists an intellectual tool kit to study the ancient past.
Venice: History of the Floating City

This book is a sweeping historical portrait of the floating city of Venice from its foundations to the present day. Joanne M. Ferraro considers Venice's unique construction within an amphibious environment and identifies the Asian, European and North African exchange networks that made it a vibrant and ethnically diverse Mediterranean cultural centre. Incorporating recent scholarly insights, the author discusses key themes related to the city's social, cultural, religious and environmental history, as well as its politics and economy. A refuge and a pilgrim stop; an international emporium and centre of manufacture; a mecca of spectacle, theatre, music, gambling and sexual experimentation; and an artistic and architectural marvel, Venice's allure springs eternal in every phase of the city's fascinating history.
Application of Conformal Mapping to Scattering and Diffraction Problems.

Plane wave scattered and diffracted fields for infinite cylinder of arbitrary cross section solved by boundary perturbation method and conformal mapping