cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neurally mediated cardiac effects of forskolin in conscious dogs

Because major cardiovascular disease states are characterized by defects in adenylyl cyclase regulation, it becomes important to understand the mechanisms by which adenylyl cyclase activators affect inotropy and chronotropy in intact conscious animals. Accordingly, we examined the inotropic and chronotropic responses to forskolin in 11 normal conscious, chronically instrumented dogs and 3 dogs with ventricular denervation (VD). Left ventricular first derivative of pressure (LV dP/dt) increased by 96 +/- 7%, P < 0.05, in response to forskolin (50 nmol.kg-1.min-1) in normal dogs and by significantly less, 52 +/- 14%, in VD dogs. Circulating norepinephrine (NE) levels increased similarly in both groups (from 226 +/- 18 to 389 +/- 33 pg/ml in normal dogs, from 177 +/- 23 to 329 +/- 71 pg/ml in VD dogs). In the presence of ganglionic blockade, the increase in LV dP/dt in response to forskolin was reduced (+62 +/- 4%) in normal dogs but was unchanged in VD dogs (+52 +/- 12%). Ganglionic blockade abolished the increase in circulating NE levels in both groups. Increases in heart rate in the presence of ganglionic blockade (+54 +/- 6 beats/min) were less than in the presence of atropine alone (+92 +/- 10 beats/min). Notably, the LV dP/dt and heart rate responses to forskolin were further attenuated by beta-adrenergic receptor blockade in the presence and absence of ganglionic blockade. Morphine also attenuated the increases in both LV dP/dt and plasma NE in response to forskolin. Increases in LV dP/dt in response to NKH-477 (30 micrograms/kg), a water-soluble forskolin derivative, were similar before and after ganglionic blockade (+63 +/- 8 and +51 +/- 10%, respectively). However, in vitro experiments in LV sarcolemmal membrane preparations demonstrated that stimulation of adenylyl cyclase by forskolin and NKH-477 was not affected by beta-adrenergic receptor blockade. These results indicate that in conscious dogs, inotropic and chronotropic effects of forskolin are not only due to direct activation of adenylyl cyclase, but the effects also are mediated by neural mechanisms and potentiated by the prevailing level of sympathetic tone.
Ubiquinone System Analysis of Sporothrix Schenckii by HPLC Assay

Objective To establish a new chemotaxonomic method of fungi,to analyse ubiquinone system of different clinical isolates of Sporothrix schenckii.Method After incubation with YMB medium,the mycelia of Sporothrix schenckii were autoclaved,saponified,and then extracted with n hexane for getting the crude ubiquinone of Sporothrix schenckii.The Q 6 and Q 10 of it were analysed by HPLC assay.Results Extraction of ubiquinone by n hexane was a simple,rapid method.All 7 clinical isolates of Sporothrix schenckii contained Q 10,only 2 isolated had a little Q 6.Conclusion Extraction of ubiquinone with n hexane and analysis by HPLC is an rapid,simple method,Q 10 is the main component of Sporothrix schenckii.
Seismological measurements and measurement error

Abstract A seismological measurement, such as arrival time or, less directly origin time, is an example of a measurement variable which can be considered as the sum of a parameter—the quantity being measured—and an error variable. Optimal methods for the estimation of this parameter vary with the probability distribution of the error variable. In particular, estimation in the presence of bias or of gross errors is discussed, together with the related problem of precision versus accuracy of the estimate. Errors in estimates of arrival times, origin times and hypocentral location contribute to variation in travel-time estimates; these are analyzed separately. Each of these, with the exception of focal depth, has a distribution which can be fitted to a mixture of a normal distribution and some contamination. The degree of contamination varies; methods for truncation are suggested. The presence of possible, often undetectable, bias in locations and travel times may make confidence statements about these parameters unreliable.
The Maryland Orthopaedic Registry (MOR): Design and baseline characteristics of a prospective registry

Abstract Background Utilization of patient-reported outcome tools allows a more accurate assessment of the efficacy of treatment, which is critical to comparative effectiveness research. Objectives The Maryland Orthopaedic Registry (MOR) was established to assess post-surgical outcomes related to patients’ pain, functional status, met expectations, and satisfaction using an electronic data collection system. Secondary aims of the registry include assessment of patient expectations of treatment, activity level, and general health status. Methods Adult patients enrolled in this prospective observational study completed self-report measures assessing pre-operative pain, function, treatment expectations, and activity levels during the perioperative period. MOR utilizes the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS ® )‘computer adaptive testing for physical function, pain interference, fatigue, social satisfaction, anxiety, and depression. Perioperative data is extracted from the medical record. Results 300 patients (40% of eligible) have been enrolled into the initial cohort. Most patients (94.1%) were aged 18–65, and 57% were male. Fifty-seven percent of enrollees were White, 33% Black, and 4% Asian. PROMIS physical function and social satisfaction were both more than half a standard deviation below the population mean. Participants reported PROMIS anxiety scores that were half a standard deviation above the population mean and pain interference scores that were more than a standard deviation above the mean. Physical function scores were significantly worse among participants with lower extremity orthopaedic issues, but scores on other measures were similar between participants undergoing lower or upper extremity surgery. Conclusions MOR provides a comprehensive assessment of patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery. The utilization of electronic clinical assessment tools as well as computer adaptive testing allows for time-efficient data collection. The diverse population is a particular strength of MOR.
Intelligence, Income, and Education as Potential Influences on a Child's Home Environment: A (Maternal) Sibling-Comparison Design.

The quality of the home environment, as a predictor, is related to health, education, and emotion outcomes. However, factors influencing the quality of the home environment, as an outcome, have been understudied-particularly how children construct their own environments. Further, most previous research on family processes and outcomes has implemented between-family designs, which limit claims of causality. The present study uses kinship data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth to construct a maternal sibling-comparison design to investigate how maternal and child traits predict the quality of home environment. Using a standard between-family analysis, we first replicate previous research showing a relationship between maternal intelligence and the quality of the home environment. Then, we reevaluate the link between maternal intelligence and the home environment using differences between maternal sisters on several characteristics to explain differences between home environments for their children. Following, we evaluate whether child intelligence differences are related to home environment differences in the presence of maternal characteristics. Results are compared with those from the between-family analysis. Past causal interpretations are challenged by our findings, and the role of child intelligence in the construction of the home environment emerges as a critical contributor that increases in importance with development. (PsycINFO Database Record
Transmission of Morse Code by Electrocutaneous Stimulation

Two Morse code operators who could receive code at the rate of 20 words per minute or faster were given training in the reception of 4 and 5 member groups of Morse code characters, presented by means of electrical stimulation of the skin. Near the end of the training, one S demonstrated the ability to receive 10 five-character groups per minute with an accuracy of 96%. Results are promising enough to justify further exploration.
Targeted cellular immunotherapy for T cell malignancies.

In a recent study, Maciocia et al. develop a novel T cell receptor beta (TCRB) constant C1-chain-directed cellular immunotherapy for the treatment of T cell malignancies.
Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology of the Grey Wolf (Canis lupus).

Skulls from 392 grey wolves (Canis lupus) were examined macroscopically according to predefined criteria. Two hundred and seven skulls were included in this study, comprised of 124 young adults (59.9%) and 83 adults (40.1%); of these, 65 (31.4%) specimens were from male wolves and 104 (50.3%) were from females, with 38 (18.4%) of unknown sex. Out of 8,694 possible teeth, 8,339 (95.9%) were present for evaluation. Fifty-five teeth (15.5%) were absent congenitally, 30 (8.5%) were lost during life and 270 (76.1%) were lost artefactually post mortem. Skeletal or dental malocclusion was present in 37 specimens (17.9%), with level bite being the most commonly encountered malocclusion. Enamel hypoplasia was present in five skulls (2.4%), affecting eight teeth (0.1%) in total. An abnormal number of roots was found on 23 teeth (0.3%) on 13 skulls (6.3%). Persistent deciduous teeth occurred in two (1.0%) specimens, affecting one (0.01%) tooth each. Fenestration or dehiscence was found associated with 203 teeth (2.4%) in 72 skulls (34.8%). Periodontitis was noted on 115 skulls (55.6%) and 1,000 teeth (11.5%), affecting significantly more adults (n = 63, 75.0%) than young adults (n = 52, 41.9%; P <0.0001). One hundred and sixty-one skulls (77.8%) showed signs of endodontal disease, including attrition or abrasion on 144 skulls (69.6%) and 2,522 teeth (30.2%) and 424 fractured teeth (5.1%) on 103 skulls (49.8%). Both lesions affected significantly more adults than young adults. Overt periapical disease was associated with six teeth (0.1%) distributed across five skulls (2.4%). A carious lesion was present on one tooth (0.01%) of one specimen (0.5%). Lesions consistent with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis were found in 24 specimens (11.6%), affecting 38 joints (9.2%). Trauma to the skull, such as bite marks, bullet holes or blunt trauma, was noted in 44 skulls (21.2%). The grey wolf and the domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) share common dental diseases; however, the proportion and severity may vary. Although the clinical significance of dental and TMJ pathology in the grey wolf remains unknown, based on the impact of these disorders on the domestic dog, the occurrence and severity of these lesions are likely to play an important role in the morbidity and mortality of this wild canid species.
Integrated heterogeneous silicon/III–V mode-locked lasers

The mode-locked laser diode has emerged as a promising candidate as a signal source for photonic radar systems, wireless data transmission, and frequency comb spectroscopy. They have the advantages of small size, low cost, high reliability, and low power consumption, thanks to semiconductor technology. Mode-locked lasers based on silicon photonics advance these qualities by the use of highly advanced silicon manufacturing technology. This paper will begin by giving an overview of mode-locked laser diode literature, and then focus on mode-locked lasers on silicon. The dependence of mode-locked laser performance on design details is presented.
A study of optimal cost-skew tradeoff and remaining suboptimality in interconnect tree constructions

Cost and skew are among the most fundamental objectives for interconnect tree synthesis. The cost-skew tradeoff is particularly important in buffered clock tree construction, where clock subnets are an important "sweet spot" for balancing on-chip variation-aware analysis, skew, power and other factors. In advanced nodes, where both performance and power are critical to IC products, there is a renewed challenge of minimizing wirelength while controlling skew. In this work, we formulate the minimum-cost bounded skew spanning and Steiner tree problems as flow-based integer linear programs, and give the first-ever study of optimal cost-skew tradeoffs. We also assess heuristics (notably, Bounded-Skew DME (BST-DME), Steiner shallow-light tree (SALT), and Prim-Dijkstra (PD)) that are currently available for trading off cost and skew. Experimental results demonstrate that BST-DME has suboptimality ∼ 10% in cost at iso-skew and ∼ 50% in skew at iso-cost. In addition, SALT and PD shows suboptimality in terms of skew by up to ∼ 3x.
Intracranial Hemorrhage Associated With Primary and Secondary Tumors

Intracranial hemorrhages are a recognized but relatively uncommon complication of brain tumors. Metastatic tumors are more often associated with hemorrhages than are primary tumors. The types of hemorrhages found include intraparenchymal, subarachnoid, subdural, and epidural. Treatment must be directed at both the hemorrhage and the underlying tumor.
Metalevel Interval Arithmetic and Verifiable Constraint Solving.

CLIP is an implementation of CLP(Intervals) which has been designed to be verifiably correct in the sense that the answers it returns are mathematically correct solutions to the underlying arithmetic constraints. This fundamental design criteria affects many aspects of the implementation from the input and output of decimal constants to the design of the interval arithmetic libraries and the constraint solving algorithms. In particular, to enhance verifiability, CLIP employs the simplest model of constraint solving in which constraints are decomposed into sets of primitive constraints which are then solved using a library of primitive constraint contractors. This approach results in a simple constraint solver whose correctness is relatively straightforward to verify, but the solver is only able to solve relatively simple constraints. In this paper, we present the syntax, semantics, and implementation of CLIP, and we show how to use metalevel techniques to enhance the power of the CLIP constraint solver while preserving the simple structure of the system. In particular, we demonstrate that several of the box-narrowing algorithms from the Newton and Numerica systems can be easily implemented in CLIP. The principal advantages of this approach are (1) the resulting solvers are relatively easy to prove correct, (2) new solvers can be rapidly prototyped since the code is more concise and declarative than for imperative languages, and (3) contractors can be implemented directly from mathematical formulae without having to first prove results about interval arithmetic operators. Finally, the source code for the system is publicly available, which is a clear prerequisite for public, independent verifiability.
2D/3D Endovaginal and Endoanal Instrumentation and Techniques

A thorough understanding of the ultrasound instrumentation and techniques along with better understanding of the capabilities and limitations of ultrasound equipment will enable the operator to perform meaningful two- and three-dimensional (2D/3D) endovaginal and endoanal imaging. In this chapter we will introduce the reader to basic ultrasound instrumentation and techniques. The ultrasound machine combines image production (2D/3D imaging) with Doppler assessment. These distinct technologies can be used independently or in combination to provide the examiner with the ability to make accurate and comprehensive diagnoses and guide therapeutic intervention.
Stress Echo in Valvular Heart Disease

Over the last two decades, stress echocardiography has become an established method for evaluating patients with coronary artery disease [1, 2]. While Doppler echocardiography is the method of choice for assessing severity of valvular disease, the role of stress echocardiography has recently expanded to include assessment of hemodynamic consequences of valvular lesions during stress [3–5]. In a number of clinical conditions, particularly in patients with low-gradient, low-flow aortic stenosis, the use of stress echocardiography in the decision-making process has significantly modified the clinical outcome.
A model for development of cortical lateral connectivities using motion information

We present a prediction optimization model inspired by classical conditioning for learning to predict the visual stimuli in the next time frame. The learning process operates on VI-simple cell type filter outputs of gray scale real image sequences capturing moving objects as retinal input. The learning results in development of an iso-orientation connectivity pattern as well as a gating mechanism based on motion information. The network learns to predict the response of the orientation selective cells for both the moving portion and the background of the scene. We argue that learning object independent visual transformations, such as translation in our model, can occur prior to learning of complex object features in the visual system.
The Value Approach to Pricing: Demand Influence

In this chapter we reverse direction, turning away from cost-influenced supply to value-influenced demand. The market, which reflects consumer preferences, gauges demand. Demand for energy is both direct and derived. Natural gas, for example, is desired for its heating ability alone, a direct demand, and also for its use as a fuel in industrial processing, an indirect demand depending upon the market for the product being processed. Important to the forecasting of energy demand is price elasticity, the responsiveness of the market to changes in price. Ignoring the impact of price changes can have a disastrous affect upon the quantities of energy required. Price differences between products having the same or similar costs can encourage price differentiation, a permissible result, or monopoly pricing, prohibited under the anti-trust statues. The theory of class price establishes reasonable distinctions.
Sustainable flame-retardant polyurethanes using renewable resources

Abstract Renewable bio resources such as soybean, orange peel, and castor along with a novel phosphorous based polyol were used to prepare highly flame-retardant polyurethane foams. Diethyl allyl phosphonate (DEAP) and thioglycerol (TG) were used to synthesize phosphorous (P) based flame retardant polyol (DEAP-TG). Polyurethane (PU) foams having a various weight percentage of phosphorous were prepared using a varying amount of DEAP-TG (as a phosphorous source) and other bio-based polyols. Use of DEAP-TG polyol in polyurethane foams showed improved compressive strength without affecting closed cell content and morphology of the foams. The horizontal burning test showed a drastic reduction in self-extinguishing time and weight loss for the PU foams containing DEAP-TG polyol. For example, castor oil and DEAP-TG based PU foam which contains 1.5 wt% P showed significant reduction in self-extinguishing time (from 94s to 1.7s) and weight loss (from 48.5% to 3%) compared to neat castor oil based foams. Cone calorimeter data also showed a significant reduction in peak heat release rate, total heat release, total smoke release, and overall smoke production rate for the foam containing 1.5 wt% P compared to 0 wt% P in the foam. The improved flame retardancy was due to the formation of a protective char layer over the surface of the foam due to decomposition of a phosphorus compound. Our research provides a green alternative to prepare industrial grade flame-retardant polyurethane foams.
17 Signal Processing

The objective in signal processing involves the encoding of information for the purpose of transmission of information or decoding the information at the receiving end of the transmission. The standard method most commonly used for this involves filters that exploit some separation of the signal and noise in the frequency domain. To this end, it is useful to use frequency-domain tools such as the Fourier transform and the Laplace transform in designing and analyzing various filters. Linear filters apply frequency-specific gains to a signal. Four common filters are low pass, high pass, bandpass, and band reject. Basic linear digital filters are of two types: those that have a finite response to an impulse, or FIR, and those that have an infinite response to an impulse (IIR). Though it is possible to design non-real-time, noncausal IIR filters that are phase shift distortionless, in general, IIR filters produce some phase shift distortion. Keywords: analog filters; digital filter; frequency-domain analysis; infinite response to an impulse (IIR); phase analysis; phase shift distortion; signal processing
The Existence Theory of Optimal Control Systems

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews a few of the principal existence theorems of current interest in the field of optimal control theory and describes a few of the techniques employed in proving them. It focuses on the role of existence theorems, including a few of the technical problems involved in their applications. The chapter describes the physical phenomena whose states are governed (in general) by nonlinear ordinary differential equations. It presents an existence theorem for nonlinear systems. The chapter describes the nature of the hypothesis made in nearly all the preceding optimal-control existence theorems—that there is at least one admissible control that transfers the initial point to the target set.
Aerodynamic Load Control for Multi-Element Airfoils Using Surface-Normal Trailing-Edge Blowing

The feasibility of using surface-normal jets near the flap trailing edge as active aerodynamic load control on the two-element airfoil NLR-7301 at a high-lift condition was explored. Using structur...
Digital content delivery in a pharmacy technician training program in a health system

PURPOSE Development and implementation of a pharmacy technician training program are described. SUMMARY As key members of the healthcare team, pharmacy technicians are integral to a pharmacy's operation. Training programs allow technicians to assume roles that support pharmacists practicing "at the top of their license," assist in providing optimal patient care, and serve as an important tool for retaining trained pharmacy technicians. Duke University Health System (DUHS) launched its Pharmacy Technology Training Program (DUHS-PTTP) within the department of pharmacy at Duke University Hospital in April 2018 to assist in meeting current and future pharmacy technician demand. Candidates are provided with the tools to become certified pharmacy technicians through the completion of an affordable accredited program incorporating didactic, simulation-based, and experiential education. The program's partnership with a digital content provider enables accelerated start-up, minimizes investment in content creation and maintenance, enables automated record keeping, and provides flexibility for program participants to complete didactic content outside of the traditional classroom setting. Implementation of this program aims to support students both internal and external to the institution. Students are trained to begin a career as a pharmacy technician with the intent of producing graduates well equipped and eligible for certification by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. CONCLUSION Implementation of a pharmacy technician training program is a logical extension of the demonstrated core training competency of health-system pharmacy departments.
Chapter 3 – Carl Jung

Carl Jung expansively wrote about the importance of religion/spirituality in peoples’ lives. Through the process of individuation, of the painful discovery of their unique selves, people may experience numinosity, a religious experience. Life is a process of allowing the archetypes of the collective unconscious to be integrated with other aspects of the self. Life is striving toward a sense of balance. Even though he used mandalas as representation of the self, he did not appear to limit his writings to only Eastern religions. He considered his greatest book to be his interpretation of the book of Job from the Old Testament. Jung met quantum physicist Wolfgang Pauli in psychoanalytic therapy. They became friends and coauthored a book. There is current research which suggests that archetypes could have an impact on behavior and, ultimately, personality. There is current research to support Jung’s conception of synchronicity, events unexplainably occurring simultaneously.
Movement, home range, and depredation of invasive lionfish revealed by fine-scale acoustic telemetry in the northern Gulf of Mexico

Fine-scale movement dynamics of adult invasive lionfish may inform the spatial scale of negative impacts to local food webs, the design and efficacy of ongoing removal efforts, and the speed at which lionfish may spread into new habitats, but have not previously been characterized. An acoustic Vemco positioning system (VPS) was used to track fine-scale (<10 m) movements of adult lionfish (288–395 mm total length; n = 20) tagged in situ at artificial reefs off Destin, Florida (USA). We estimated the spatial scale of movement, activity patterns, and individual home ranges, as well as whether these variables were affected by lionfish size or density. Lionfish were tracked up to 89 days and had 95% kernel utilization distribution (KUD) home ranges between 158 and 4051 m2. Daily distances moved (range 93–807 m) exceeded previous estimates, and 40% of tagged lionfish were tracked moving to reefs up to 2 km from initial tagging locations. Movement pattern and velocity data revealed two (10%) tagged lionfish were consumed by fast-moving predators, while another two emigrated outside the array. Acoustic detection of the remaining tagged fish ended prematurely following two hurricanes that passed over the array, which may implicate the storms in displacing tagged fish, causing tag loss, or contributing to lionfish mortality. Overall, results suggest invasive lionfish have larger home ranges and display greater movement than reported previously which has important implications for artificial reef management in Florida, and elsewhere, in response to the lionfish invasion.
DECREASING THE RATE OF UNPLANNED EXTUBATION IN THE Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Background: Unplanned extubation (UE) is the fourth most common preventable adverse event in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). It results from many factors and leads to patient harm. There is limited evidence in identifying contributing factors of UE and more is needed to develop targeted UE prevention methods. Methods: A multidisciplinary work group performed post-event debriefings or mini root cause analysis (RCA) after each UE in the NICU from February 1st, 2016 through September 30th, 2016 and identified contributing factors. Based on these factors, the work …
Learning Negotiation Skills: Four Models of Knowledge Creation and Transfer

Our review of the learning and training literature revealed four common methods for training people to be more effective negotiators: didactic learning, learning via information revelation, analogical learning, and observational learning. We tested each of these methods experimentally in an experiential context and found that observational learning and analogical learning led to negotiated outcomes that were more favorable for both parties, compared to a baseline condition of learning through experience alone. Information revelation and didactic learning were not significantly different from any other condition. Process measures revealed that negotiators' schemas about the task (reflected in open-ended essays) were strong predictors of performance in the analogical learning condition, but were poor predictors of performance in the remaining conditions. Interestingly, negotiators in the observation group showed the largest increase in performance, but the least ability to articulate the learning principles that helped them improve, suggesting that they had acquired tacit knowledge that they were unable to articulate.
Euro Area Monetary Policy in Uncharted Waters

We analyze the European Central Bank's (ECB's) response to the global financial crisis. Our results suggest that even during the crisis, the core part of ECB's monetary policy transmission-from policy rates to market rates-has continued to operate, but at a decreased efficiency. We also find some evidence that the ECB's non-standard measures, namely the lengthening of the maturity of monetary policy operations and the provision of funds at the fixed rate, reduced money market term spreads, facilitating the pass-through from policy to market rates. Furthermore, the results imply that the substantial increase in the ECB's balance sheet may have contributed to a reduction in government bond term spreads.
Robust gait design for a compass gait biped on slippery surfaces

Abstract Most current bipedal robots were modeled with an assumption that there is no slip between the stance foot and ground. This paper relaxes that assumption and undertakes a comprehensive study of the compass gait biped on slippery ground. It presents in detail the control of a biped that allows for foot slipping, and shows that feasible gaits fail on slippery ground for two causes: falling backward or requiring negative contact force which cannot be provided by the ground. To characterize a robust gait on slippery ground, three safety factors are proposed to measure the robustness: slip friction, falling friction and tolerance ability of slipping without falling. This study thus uses these factors to investigate independent influence of gait speed and step length on the robustness of the gait, and shows that gaits with small step length and moderate speed are robust and preferable on slippery surfaces. In contrast, gaits with large step length generally require large friction to maintain stable walking on slippery surfaces. Moreover, gaits with a backward swing foot velocity relative to the ground just before touch down are generally more robust than ones with a forward velocity. It is further shown that only one parameter in gait design determines the swing-backward feature, which can help design robust gaits. Models with varying physical parameters such as mass, leg length and position of center of mass (CoM) in each leg, are also studied to validate the universality of this result.
Did Cyclic Metaphosphates Have a Role in the Origin of Life

How life began still eludes science life, the initial progenote in the context presented herein, being a chemical aggregate of primordial inorganic and organic molecules capable of self-replication and evolution into ever increasingly complex forms and functions. Presented is a hypothesis that a mineral scaffold generated by geological processes and containing polymerized phosphate units was present in primordial seas that provided the initiating factor responsible for the sequestration and organization of primordial life’s constituents. Unlike previous hypotheses proposing phosphates as the essential initiating factor, the key phosphate described here is not a polynucleotide or just any condensed phosphate but a large (in the range of at least 1 kilo-phosphate subunits), water soluble, cyclic metaphosphate, which is a closed loop chain of polymerized inorganic phosphate residues containing only phosphate middle groups. The chain forms an intrinsic 4-phosphate helix analogous to its structure in Na Kurrol’s salt, and as with DNA, very large metaphosphates may fold into hairpin structures. Using a Holliday-junction-like scrambling mechanism, also analogous to DNA, rings may be manipulated (increased, decreased, exchanged) easily with little to no need for additional energy, the reaction being essentially an isomerization. A literature review is presented describing findings that support the above hypothesis. Reviewed is condensed phosphate inorganic chemistry including its geological origins, biological occurrence, enzymes and their genetics through eukaryotes, polyphosphate functions, circular polynucleotides and the role of the Holliday junction, previous biogenesis hypotheses, and an Eoarchean Era timeline.
Momentum extrapolation prediction-based asynchronous distributed optimization for power systems

Abstract Iterative distributed optimization algorithms usually need synchronization of subproblems at each iteration. An iteration index is defined, and subproblems are solved once at each iteration. This degrades distributed optimization scalability and computational resource under-utilization, particularly if subproblems are heterogeneous. To address these limitations for solving optimal power flow, this paper proposes a prediction-correction-based asynchronous alternating direction method of multipliers (A-ADMM). At the end of each iteration, an OPF subproblem no longer needs to wait for its neighbors’ most updated shared variable information. A momentum-based extrapolation method is developed to predict shared variable values. A correction step is designed using momentum to prevent predicted values from becoming far from the possible solution and avoid divergence. These predictions are integrated into distributed optimization to allow subproblems to be solved continuously with no need for synchronization at each iteration. The proposed A-ADMM reduces the unproductive time and computational resource under-utilization if subproblems are computationally heterogeneous. A-ADMM potentially enhances the solution speed even if subproblems are homogeneous as every iteration k is carried out using a good forecast of shared variable values in iteration k + 1 . Numerical results show the promising performance of the proposed algorithm.
Foundations for Success: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of a Statewide, Cross-Sector Early Childhood Collaborative

The need for cross-sector collaborations to implement system-level improvements in early childhood care and education brings increased demand for comprehensive and practicable means of evaluating such collaborations. This mixed-methods study evaluates a statewide collaboration formed to develop a strategic plan for a comprehensive mixed-delivery system serving children birth to age 5 using instruments appropriate to an early-stage collaboration and adding a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). All collaboration members were asked to complete the Collaborative Vitality Survey and a random subsample of members with high rates of participation completed phone interviews. Survey data were summarized across six dimensions: participation, community, productivity, communication, accountability, and synergy. Using thematic analysis and frequencies, qualitative interviews were coded along these dimensions and DEI, incorporating an appreciative inquiry approach identifying barriers, supports, and hopes for the future. Overall, collaborative participation was high. Across methods, respondents reported they, overall, were pleased with collaborative functioning. Qualitative interviews suggest the collaboration domains of community and participation were most salient. Concrete recommendations from participants can be put into practice and inform the collaboration as state-level work continues. The early stage of collaboration is fundamental to success and defined by building cohesion, norms, and roles. This study highlights key weaknesses and strengths that influence collaborative functioning at this stage and illustrates the significance of defining and manifesting DEI in collaboration efficacy. This study demonstrates the importance of evaluating collaboration in an ongoing manner to ensure effectiveness and inform improvements in functioning over time.
New Approaches to Diagnosis: the Role of Neurobehavioral Disorder associated with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (ND-PAE)

Neurobehavioral disorder associated with prenatal alcohol exposure (ND_PAE) was proposed to capture the full range of mental health problems found in individuals who have been adversely impacted by their prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). The disorder can be used with individuals who both have and do not have the physical symptoms of PAE. Specific symptoms of the disorder are described and the psychometric characteristics of the disorder are reviewed. Although there is substantial evidence to support the validity of the symptoms in individuals with a history of PAE, the unique formulation of these symptoms as currently proposed in the American Psychiatric Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, fifth edition (DSM-5), may need modification.
Screening for intimate partner violence in healthcare settings: An implementation-oriented systematic review

BackgroundIntimate partner violence (IPV) is a population health problem affecting millions of women worldwide. Screening for IPV within healthcare settings can identify women who experience IPV an...
Just Right Challenge Feeding Protocol: Case-Report for Guiding Clinical Reasoning and Future Research in Food Selectivity Treatment.

Food selectivity impacts health and quality of life for children with developmental disabilities. Best practice protocols are still in development and use of escape extinction, systematic desensitization and parent education are elements that may be part of effective multi-component treatment. The Just Right Challenge Feeding Protocol (JRCFP) includes each of these elements to drive changes in food acceptance for children with developmental disabilities. This case-report provides detailed information about how a group of children progress through treatment. Children in this case-report had 15 or less foods in their food inventory and profiles indicating the presence of sensory over-responsivity. Every 5-10 weeks, each child moved up one step in the Food Interaction Hierarchy (e.g. touch, taste, eat). Significant increases in vegetable and fruit acceptance and mealtime quality are noted and parent compliance on home program assignments is described. This information is valuable for guiding clinical reasoning and future research of treatment for food selectivity.
Synergistic activity of endochitinase and exochitinase from Trichoderma atroviride (T. harzianum) against the pathogenic fungus (Venturia inaequalis) in transgenic apple plants

Genes from the biocontrol fungus Trichoderma atroviride encoding the antifungal proteins endochitinase or exochitinase (N-acetyl-β-D-hexosaminidase) were inserted into ‘Marshall McIntosh’ apple singly and in combination. The genes were driven by a modified CaMV35S promoter. The resulting plants were screened for resistance to Venturia inaequalis, the causal agent of apple scab, and for effects of enzyme expression on growth. Disease resistance was correlated with the level of expression of either enzyme when expressed alone but exochitinase was less effective than endochitinase. The level of expression of endochitinase was negatively correlated with plant growth while exochitinase had no consistent effect on this character. Plants expressing both enzymes simultaneously were more resistant than plants expressing either single enzyme at the same level; analyses indicated that the two enzymes acted synergistically to reduce disease. Selected lines, especially one expressing low levels of endochitinase activity and moderate levels of exochitinase activity, were highly resistant in growth chamber trials and had negligible reduction in vigor relative to control plants. We believe that this is the first report of resistance in plants induced by expression of an N-acetylhexosaminidase and is the first report of in planta synergy between an exochitinase and an endochitinase.
Querying complex graphs

This paper presents a powerful language for querying complex graphs and a method for generating efficient implementations that can answer queries with complexity guarantees. The graphs may have edge labels that may have parameters, and easily and naturally capture complex interrelated objects in object-oriented systems and XML data. The language is built on extended regular path expressions with variables and scoping, and can express queries more easily and clearly than previous query languages.The method for implementation first transforms queries into Datalog with limited extensions. It then extends a previous method to generate specialized algorithms and complexity formulas from Datalog with these extensions.
DIETARY SODIUM RESTRICTION ALTERS POSTPRANDIAL GHRELIN: IMPLICATIONS FOR RACE DIFFERENCES IN OBESITY

Objectives: To examine the effect of sodium restriction on the appetite-stimulating hormone, ghrelin, as a function of race, salt sensitivity, and obesity. Design: Participants completed two 4-day outpatient dietary interventions (moderate vs low sodium), and blood samples were drawn two hours after a controlled test meal under both conditions. Setting: A university research laboratory and affiliated General Clinical Research Center. Participants: 37 women (18 Black, 19 White) and 18 men (9 Black, 9 White), aged 36– 63 years. Measures: Cardiovascular function (blood pressure, heart rate, impedance-derived indices of cardiac output and peripheral resistance) was measured after a 20-minute rest before each test meal. Blood was drawn by intravenous forearm catheter two hours after each test meal and later assayed for ghrelin, leptin, and norepinephrine. Results: After four days of sodium restriction, postprandial ghrelin increased in White men and women and Black men but decreased in Black women. Salt sensitivity, but not obesity, was also related to ghrelin response during sodium restriction; postprandial ghrelin tended to increase among salt-sensitive subjects during salt restriction but decrease among salt-resistant subjects during salt restriction. Conclusions: Satiety hormone dysregulation may play a role in: 1) the heightened obesity related morbidity among Black women, in particular; 2) adherence to sodium-restricted diets; and 3) race differences in behavioral weight-loss interventions that include sodium restriction.
Mercurio en la minería del oro: impacto en las fuentes hídricas destinadas para consumo humano

In regions affected by artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), the inhalation of mercury vapor and the ingestion of fish contaminated with this metal constitute the main sources of mercury contamination that affect human health. Nevertheless, according to the World Health Organization, another source of contamination is polluted water. Although mercury in freshwater is usually found in very low concentrations because it is swiftly consumed by aquatic microorganisms, evidence shows that under specific circumstances its concentration in water can reach high levels, even surpassing the 2.0 μg/L stipulated by Colombian legislation for use as a domestic water supply. Mercury concentrations above 3.0 μg/L have been found in some Colombian municipalities, and above 8.0 μg/L in other regions around the world. Even though mercury consumption via water is a minor concern, along with other alimentary sources this low mercury concentration contributes to the total burden that affects human health.
Basics of Euclidean Geometry

In affine geometry it is possible to deal with ratios of vectors and barycenters of points, but there is no way to express the notion of length of a line segment or to talk about orthogonality of vectors. A Euclidean structure allows us to deal with metric notions such as orthogonality and length (or distance).
Basic Image Analysis and Manipulation in ImageJ

Image analysis methods have been developed to provide quantitative assessment of microscopy data. In this unit, basic aspects of image analysis are outlined, including software installation, data import, image processing functions, and analytical tools that can be used to extract information from microscopy data using ImageJ. Step-by-step protocols for analyzing objects in a fluorescence image and extracting information from two-color tissue images collected by bright-field microscopy are included.
Neurobehavioral perspectives on the distinction between fear and anxiety

In this review, we discuss the usefulness of the distinction between fear and anxiety. The clinical use of the labels is ambiguous, often defining one in terms of the other. We first consider what a useful, objective, and scientifically valid definition would entail and then evaluate several fear/anxiety distinctions that have been made in the neurobiological literature. A strong distinction should specify the difference in conditions that lead to fear versus anxiety. Additionally, fear and anxiety should generate distinct sets of behaviors. Ideally, the two states should be supported by distinguishable neuroanatomical circuits. Such a conceptualization would be consistent with the National Institute of Mental Health's Research Domain Criteria (RDoc). The majority of neurobiological approaches to the fear versus anxiety distinction fail to differentiate the two states in terms of behavior, often using the exact same behavioral measures as indicators. Of the two that do, only Predatory Imminence Theory provides a distinction both in terms of cause and effect. Indeed, that approach provides a ready distinction of anxiety, fear, and panic in terms of both antecedent conditions and response selection rules. Additionally, it appeals to distinct neural circuits to generate these modes of action.
Making Marketing Work for Your Library Blog

Library blogs offer a compelling means of reaching out to patrons and engaging them in conversation. However, even the most well-written blog can suffer for lack of an audience if not marketed properly. The marketing concept and the related marketing mix provide useful frameworks for planning and implementing blog projects to give them the best chances of being read by the intended patrons. This article will describe the marketing concept and marketing mix and explain how these ideas can be successfully applied to any library blog endeavor.
Ipsilateral synkinesia involves the supplementary motor area

The supplementary motor area coordinates movements. Synkinesia is a rare disorder in which an involuntary movement occurs coordinated with a voluntary movement. Here, we test the hypothesis that the supplementary motor area is involved in involuntary coordination of movement. We collected functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data from two patients with ipsilateral hand-foot synkinesia and two control participants while they performed rhythmic tasks. In synkinesia patients, both the supplementary motor area and the foot motor cortex were significantly activated during the hand motor task. This pattern was not seen in controls. Our findings suggest that the supplementary motor area plays a central role in involuntary coordination observed in synkinesia, and provides insight into how the supplementary motor area orchestrates movements.
Optical absorption of carbon and hydrocarbon species from shock heated acetylene and methane in the 135-220 nm wavelength range

Absorption spectroscopy of carbon and hydrocarbon species has been performed in a shock tube at an incident shock condition for a wavelength range of 135-220 nm, in order to obtain information needed for calculating radiation blockage ahead of a planetary probe. Instrumentation consisted of high frequency response pressure transducers, thin-film heat transfer gages, or photomultipliers coupled by light pipes. Two test-gas mixtures, one with acetylene and the other with methane, both diluted with argon, were used to provide a reliable variation of C3 and C2H concentration ratio. Comparison of tests results of the two mixtures, in the temperature range of 3750 + or - 100 K, showed the main absorbing species to be C3. The wavelength for maximum absorption agrees well with the theoretical values of 7.68 eV and 8.03 eV for the vertical excitation energy, and a value of 0.90 for the electronic oscillator strength, obtained from the measured absorption band, is also in good agreement with the predicted value of 0.92.