cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Computer Program for Use in the Evaluation of Multichannel Laboratory Instruments

A computer program was devised for the purpose of performing a simultaneous comparative evaluation of the Model S Coulter Counter and the Technicon SMA-7A. The computer assistance made it possible to examine the results from 500 patient specimens grouped in ranges of values for each of seven blood parameters. Details of the computer program are given and some of the findings of the evaluation are presented. It is hoped that more generalized computer utilization in instrumental evaluation will provide laboratory directors with complete assessments of the performance of individual instruments in a shorter period of time than is now possible.
Design of a Myoelectric Transhumeral Prosthesis

This paper describes a transhumeral prosthesis prototype intended for the purpose of experimentally investigating design features and control strategies for the control of transhumeral prostheses. This paper specifically focuses on the design and performance characterization of a powered wrist rotator and powered elbow joint, in addition to the embedded system that controls them. In addition to outlining design objectives associated with the wrist and elbow joints, this paper describes the design of both joints, and the embedded system that provides control of them and the arm system. Experimental data are presented that characterizes the performance characteristics of both joints, including data associated with electrical power consumption and audible noise. The arm prosthesis described here is intended to be used with a multigrasp hand prosthesis, previously published by the authors.
Internal Condensing Flows Inside a Vertical Pipe: Experimental/Computational Investigations of Effects of Constrained and Natural Exit Conditions

The flow and heat transfer rates inside a condenser depend on the specification of inlet, wall, and exit conditions. For steady/quasi-steady internal condensing flows (that involve compressible vapor at low Mach Numbers), the vapor’s ability to change its density — and hence interfacial mass transfer rates and associated locations of the interface — allows the flow to have a rather significant dependence on exit conditions. Both experimental and direct computational simulation results presented here show that this is indeed the case for flows of pure vapor experiencing film condensation on the inside walls of a vertical tube. In applications, the totality of boundary conditions are determined not only by the condenser; but also by the flow-loop (or the system) — of which the condenser is only a part. Therefore, the results outlined here should contribute towards a better understanding of the behavior (particularly the extent to which vapor compressibility effects affect the flow regimes of operation — i.e. annular, plug/churn, etc.) and response (transients due to start-up, system instabilities, etc.) of condensers in application systems (e.g. Rankine Cycle power plants, Capillary Pumped Loops, Looped Heat Pipes, etc.). In this connection, an experimental example of a relevant system instability is presented here. In summary, the experimental results presented here, and computational results presented elsewhere, reinforce the fact that there exist multiple steady solutions (with different heat transfer rates) for different exit conditions and that there also exists a “natural” steady solution for straight vertical condensers (circular and rectangular cross-sections).© 2005 ASME
Rapid assessment on impacts of heavy hazy episode on daily life and health of citizens in Shenyang city

Objective To assess acute effects of continuous and heavy hazy weather occurred in December 2012 and January 2013 on daily life and health of the citizens in Shenyang city. Methods A telephone investigation was conducted during February 4- 7,2013 among 439 citizens aged over 18 years selected with simple random sampling in Shenyang city. Demographic information,the influences of hazy weather on daily life,irritating symptoms,hospital visit and / or drug administration for respiratory and / or cardiovascular diseases,and measures taken to cope with the bad weather were investigated. Results The response rate of the telephone investigation was 71. 0%. Of the citizens,78. 5% felt smoky,58. 8% reported depressive mood,57. 9% reduced outdoor activity or exercise,and 55. 6% reported dusty smell in the air,respectively. There were 36. 4%,26. 2%,and 31. 2% of the citizens reporting throat pain,eye irritating,and cough. We found significantly positive correlations between the scores of daily life influence,irritating symptoms and hospital visit and / or drug administration score for respiratory or cardiovascular diseases after adjustments for age,gender,education,smoking,and disease history,with the correlation coefficients of from 0. 140 to 0. 382( P 0. 01 for all).Conclusion The heavy hazy episode significantly increased the incidence of respiratory and other mucosa irritating symptoms and reduced the daily life quality of the citizens,and the patients with respiratory or cardiovascular diseases may more likely to be influenced by the heavy air pollution.
Separation and properties determination of an acid resistant yeast

Acid resistance yeast was isolated from solid fermentation substrate of Shanxi extra aged vinegar.It was identified belonging to Saccharomyces spp.by experiments of biochemistry and microscopic examination.By means of adjusting acidity in substrate,it was confirmed that this yeast has both fermenting power and esterfying power in condition of lower pH value,which is suitable for production.
Ratios of Sensed Segments (RS)

This chapter proves two classical theorems of geometry, due to Menelaus of Alexandria (c. 70–140) and to Giovanni Ceva (1647–1734). The proofs use the machinery of ratios of sensed segments.
Dependence of SV40 large T-antigen cell cycle regulation on T-antigen expression levels.

Simian virus 40 (SV40) large T antigen (Tag) expression results in reduced percentages of G1-phase cells and increased percentages of S- and G2+M-phase cells in exponentially growing fibroblast populations as compared with identical cell populations not expressing Tag. This effect is the result of reduced G1 and increased G2+M cell cycle phase durations caused by Tag [Sladek, T.L. & Jacobberger, J.W. (1992). J. Virol., 66, 1059-1065]. Using recombinant retroviruses to manipulate Tag expression over a 25-fold range, it is shown here that the magnitude of this cell cycle phenotype increases as a function of increasing intracellular Tag concentration. This effect of Tag on the cell cycle is not independent of negative regulation by cellular mechanisms since exponentially growing cell populations producing high and increasing levels of Tag, increase the fraction of cells residing in G1 and decrease the fraction in S and G2+M as a function of cell density. Therefore, the data in this paper show, first, that Tag is a concentration-dependent, positive cell cycle regulator in exponentially proliferating cells and, second, that endogenous cellular mechanisms negatively regulating the cell cycle in response to cell density override the effect of Tag.
Towards scanning probe lithography-based 4D nanoprinting by advancing surface chemistry, nanopatterning strategies, and characterization protocols

Biointerfaces direct some of the most complex biological events, including cell differentiation, hierarchical organization, and disease progression, or are responsible for the remarkable optical, electronic, and biological behavior of natural materials. Chemical information encoded within the 4D nanostructure of biointerfaces - comprised of the three Cartesian coordinates (x, y, z), and chemical composition of each molecule within a given volume - dominates their interfacial properties. As such, there is a strong interest in creating printing platforms that can emulate the 4D nanostructure - including both the chemical composition and architectural complexity - of biointerfaces. Current nanolithography technologies are unable to recreate 4D nanostructures with the chemical or architectural complexity of their biological counterparts because of their inability to position organic molecules in three dimensions and with sub-1 micrometer resolution. Achieving this level of control over the interfacial structure requires transformational advances in three complementary research disciplines: (1) the scope of organic reactions that can be successfully carried out on surfaces must be increased, (2) lithography tools are needed that are capable of positioning soft organic and biologically active materials with sub-1 micrometer resolution over feature diameter, feature-to-feature spacing, and height, and (3) new techniques for characterizing the 4D structure of interfaces should be developed and validated. This review will discuss recent advances in these three areas, and how their convergence is leading to a revolution in 4D nanomanufacturing.
Abstract 934: Tributyltin-induced dysregulation of inflammatory cytokine levels in human and mouse immune cells

Proceedings: AACR 107th Annual Meeting 2016; April 16-20, 2016; New Orleans, LA The effects of Tributyltin (TBT), a widespread environmental contaminant, on the induction of in vivo and ex vivo cytokine production and secretion were investigated. Human monocyte-depleted peripheral blood mononuclear cells and different groups of Balb/C mice were stimulated with desired concentrations of TBT (200-2.5 nM for human studies and 200-25 nM for mouse studies). The quantitative determination of IFNγ, TNFα and IL-1β was performed in mouse sera by MagPix analysis and western blot. The levels of these cytokines were measured at different time points: 6, 12, 24 and 48 h after injection. Analysis of IFNγ and TNFα in human cells were conducted by ELISA and western blot. MAPK and NF-κB pathways were inhibited to determine TBT-induced dysregulation of IFNγ and TNFα. Inhibition of the p38 and p44/42 pathways blocked the TBT-induced elevation of IFNγ, while the inhibition of the p38 pathway blocked the TBT-induced elevation of TNFα. Results showed that TBT increased the levels of IFNγ, TNFα and IL-1β in the sera of mice. IFNγ and TNFα secretion from human monocyte-depleted peripheral blood mononuclear cells also increased, showing striking agreement in the response to TBT between the mouse and human systems. These data suggest that TBT exposure can result in an inflammatory environment, which could predispose the host to various immunopathologies. Grant U54CA163066 from the National Institute of Health Citation Format: Shanieek Lawrence, Samuel T. Pellom, Anil Shanker, Margaret Whalen. Tributyltin-induced dysregulation of inflammatory cytokine levels in human and mouse immune cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 934.
The Impact of Integrated Psychological Services in a Safety Net Primary Care Clinic on Medical Utilization.

Objective The integration of psychological and behavioral health services into safety net primary care clinics has been viewed as a step toward reducing disparities in mental health treatment and addressing behavioral factors in chronic diseases. Though it is posited that integrated behavioral health (IBH) reduces preventable medical costs, this premise has yet to be tested in a safety net primary care clinic. Method Retrospective pre- and posttreatment analysis with quasi-experimental control group was constructed using propensity score matching. Participants included 1,440 adult patients at a safety net primary care clinic, 720 of whom received IBH services, and 720 of whom received medical treatment only. Results Analysis showed that rates of preventable inpatient utilization decreased significantly among IBH-treated patients compared to no change among control patients. Conclusion IBH was associated with decreased rates of preventable inpatient visits. IBH may present opportunities to deliver improved holistic patient care while reducing unnecessary inpatient medical utilization.
Policy Initiatives That Steer Terrorism: A Case Study of L. Paul Bremer’s De-Ba’athification of the Iraqi Army

A key objective of the U.S. invasion of Iraq was to bring democracy to Iraq by severing all links with Saddam Hussein’s toppled regime. As we’ve now discovered however, this “de-Ba’athization” policy was terribly shortsighted and led to horrific sectarian fighting in Iraq, attacks on U.S. troops when they were occupying the country, and eventually the rise of ISIS and other terrorist groups that are wreaking havoc on the region today. We will delve into the complicated political, ethnic, and religious dynamics that exist in Iraq to examine why, rather than leading to peace, the dismantling of the Ba’ath infrastructure instead unleashed instability on the Iraqi people soon followed by utter chaos and incalculable suffering for the population of Iraq (and even outside its borders) that continues to this day. We all know the famous Santayana quote that those who fail to learn from the lessons of history are doomed to repeat it. The question is do we have the political will and wherewithal to put that wise advice to practical use in our current and future foreign policy.
Comparative Analysis of Islet Development

The pancreatic islet plays a critical role in glucose homeostasis. The islet is a highly vascularized micro-organ embedded in the exocrine pancreas, which mainly consists of endocrine hormone-secreting cells: beta cells (insulin), alpha cells (glucagon), delta cells (somatostatin), pancreatic polypeptide (PP) cells, and epsilon cells (ghrelin). In this chapter, we review fetal endocrine pancreatic cell development in various species, providing a glimpse of the evolutionary changes followed by a molecular hierarchy of genes involved in pancreas development and a model of islet formation that recent technological advances have made possible. Considering current concerns, species differences between humans and rodents will be discussed in detail.
Laboratory Confirmation of the Stinkpot Turtle, Sternotherus odoratus, as a Host of Placobdella ornata (Verrill, 1872) (Hirudinida: Glossiphoniidae)

ABSTRACT: Although there is a large literature base reporting Placobdella ornata utilizing numerous turtle host species, those reports are all based on misidentifications of the leech resulting from taxonomic confusion in the literature and are thus invalid. In the original description of Clepsine phalera (junior synonym of P. ornata), it was suggested that the stinkpot turtle, Sternotherus odoratus, is a host of P. ornata. Nevertheless, no host has been definitively documented for P. ornata. When introduced to S. odoratus in the laboratory, individuals of P. ornata readily attached and fed. Duration of feeding was short, less than 24 hr. Individuals of P. ornata did not feed on various amphibians, fish, or a human.
Ionization and Deionization of Electron Beam Disturbed Air

An air plasma generated by the passage of a pulsed electron beam is a discharge which is not in equilibrium. Where the electron Te, the vibrational Tv, and the gas Tg temperatures are not equal. The interaction of the beam electrons with the air molecules generates a conductivity and a density channel which exemplifies the disturbed air phenomena. The formation of these channels and their relaxation depend on 1,2 a host of atomic and molecular processes which ensue in air, during and after the passage of the beam. These processes, stated briefly, proceed as follows. The beam and secondary electrons ionize, dissociate, excite the internal modes of N2 and O2 and produce the bulk of the plasma electrons during the passage of the beam. The beam also heats the channel through direct atomic processes and by ohmic heating of the plasma electrons which in turn heat the ions and neutrals by elastic collisions. The evolution of the conductivity and the density channel proceed, after the passage of the beam, by dissociative recombination, charge exchange, quenching of electronic states, clustering, ion-ion recombination, neutral atomic recombination, vibrational-translation energy exchange and channel expansion.
Advancing Research on Speaking and Writing: Pedagogical Possibilities

Rosalind Horowitz introduces this special issue of Writing and Pedagogy on "Orality and Literacy in the 21st Century: Prospects for Writing Pedagogy".
Operando Sum-Frequency Generation Detection of Electrolyte Redox Products at Active Si Nanoparticle Li-Ion Battery Interfaces

For the first time on nanoparticle-based Si electrodes, we monitor electrochemical reduction products of ethylene carbonate (EC) and fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) using interface-sensitive operando spectroelectrochemical sum-frequency generation (SFG). We observe SFG signatures that suggest carbon monoxide (CO) evolution on nano-Si proceeds at distinct lithiation potentials for different electrolyte solvents. EC reduction to yield CO-associated species occurs at potentials associated with silicon’s most highly lithiated state (10 mV), whereas FEC is reduced to CO-associated species at 10 mV and 500 mV (vs Li/Li+). These results suggest that EC reduction is more sensitive than FEC to the lithiation state, validating previous computational predictions describing the reduction of both solvents. Our results suggest that low molecular weight oligomers that readily diffuse from the interface are formed during cycling, leading to SEI instability and an absence of SFG signal. Only upon prolonged EC reduction at ...
Neighborhood and Network Characteristics and the HIV Care Continuum among Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men

In order for treatment as prevention to work as a national strategy to contain the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the United States (US), the HIV care continuum must become more robust, retaining more individuals at each step. The majority of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in the US are gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM). Within this population, there are distinct race- and ethnicity-based disparities in rates of HIV infection, engagement, and retention in HIV care, and viral suppression. Compared with White MSM, HIV-infected Black MSM are less likely to be on anti-retroviral therapy (ART), adhere to ART, and achieve viral suppression. Among MSM living in urban areas, falling off the continuum may be influenced by factors beyond the individual level, with new research identifying key roles for network- and neighborhood-level characteristics. To inform multi-level and multi-component interventions, particularly to support Black MSM living in urban areas, a clearer understanding of the pathways of influence among factors at various levels of the social ecology is required. Here, we review and apply the empirical literature and relevant theoretical perspectives to develop a series of potential pathways of influence that may be further evaluated. Results of research based on these pathways may provide insights into the design of interventions, urban planning efforts, and assessments of program implementation, resulting in increased retention in care, ART adherence, and viral suppression among urban-dwelling, HIV-infected MSM.
Transformation of Nitric, Sulfuric, and Organic Acids on the Bickford Reservoir Watershed

The acid-base balance of Bickford Reservoir watershed in central Massachusetts is dominated by atmospheric mineral acid additions, mineral weathering, sulfur and nitrogen transport and transformation, and endogenous organic acids. Bickford surface water nitrate concentrations rarely exceed 1–2 μeq 1–1; annual neutralization of nitric acid in precipitation exceeds 97%, and no nitric acid peak has been observed. In contrast, the annual watershed sulfate budget indicates that twice as much sulfate leaves in streamwater than is measured in bulk collectors; the Bickford sulfate deficit of 608 eq ha-1 yr-1 is higher than any value found in the literature. Charge balance analysis of water samples has inferred the presence and dominance of organic acids (up to 100 μeq 1–1) in one Bickford tributary during the growing season. Long-term assessment of the effects of acid deposition on surface water alkalinity should consider, in addition to mineral weathering, possible biotic nitrogen and sulfur transformations and organic acid production within a receptor watershed.
What role do pacemakers play in the generation of respiratory rhythm

The pacemaker hypothesis that specialized neurons with conditional oscillatory- bursting properties are obligatory for respiratory rhythm generation in vitro has gained widespread acceptance, despite lack of direct proof. Here we critique the pacemaker hypothesis and provide an alternative explanation for rhythmogenesis based on emergent network properties. Pacemaker neurons in the preBotC depend on either persistent Na + current I NaP or Ca 2+ -activated nonspecific cationic current (I CAN ). Activity in slice preparations and synaptically- isolated pacemaker neurons undergo similar frequency modulation by perturbations including hypoxia and changes in external K + . These data have been used to argue that pacemaker cells must be rhythmogenic, but may simply reflect the action of these perturbations on intrinsic membrane properties throughout the preBotC and does not constitute proof that pacemakers necessarily drive the rhythm with synaptic coupling in place. Likewise, bath-applied drugs, such as riluzole (RIL) and flufenamic acid (FFA), attenuate I NaP and I CAN , respectively, throughout the slice. Thus, when these drugs stop the rhythm, a widespread depression of excitability is likely the underlying cause, not selective blockade of bursting-pacemaker activity. We propose that rhythmogenesis is an emergent network property, wherein recurrent synaptic excitation initiates a positive feedback cycle among interneurons and that intrinsic currents like I CAN and I NaP promote inspiratory burst generation by augmenting synaptic excitation in the context of network activity. In this group-pacemaker framework, individual pacemaker neurons can be embedded but play the same role as every other network constituent.
The effects of nutrient pulsing on the threatened, floodplain species, Boltonia decurrens

Prior to anthropogenic disturbance, the floodplains of the Illinois River (USA) experienced moderate, cyclical flooding; a phenomenon termed a 'flood pulse'. Significant changes in the hydrology of the Illinois River caused by human alteration of the river channel resulted in a decline in populations of Boltonia decurrens, a native, herbaceous floodplain species of the Illinois River Valley and the demography of the species and underlying mechanisms causing the severe decline of B. decurrens are currently being studied. One component of the river flood pulse is the increased availability of nutrients in floodplain soils. We studied the effects of increased nutrient availability on growth and reproduction of B. decurrens and Aster pilosus, a species replacing B. decurrens in the floodplain. In this study, we examined the effects of a spring nutrient pulse and a late summer nutrient pulse, as compared to a control treatment, on rosettes of B. decurrens and A. pilosus grown in three soil types: sandy loam, silty loam and clay. Biomass, plant height, inflorescences per plant, seed production, and seed mass were measured and compared. Individuals of B. decurrens grown in sandy loam, the predominant soil type of the Illinois River Valley, had thegreatest increase in growth and fecundity in response to nutrient pulsing. Total biomass and inflorescences per plant were significantly greater than the control regardless of the timing of the nutrient pulse. Aster pilosus did not exhibit a clear pattern of increased growth and fecundity in a specific soil type or pulse treatment. The early pulse treatment appeared to have a greater effect across the range of soil types than the late pulse treatment; however, it did not seem to influence any particular variable(s) that we measured. A pulse of nutrients benefits B. decurrens more than A. pilosus, particularly in sandy loam. The increased vigor and fecundity of B. decurrens with a nutrient pulse could be a factor contributing to population survival during the period between disturbance events.
Computational Analysis of Inorganic and Bioinorganic Nickel Complexes

The idea of using a mathematical model, based on the ball and spring concept, to describe the geometry of molecules, as is done in molecular mechanics (MM), has been in the literature for more than 50 years. However its use was fairly rare until the advent of relatively inexpensive workstations which has led to a large proliferation of MM programs and to the everyday use and acceptance of MM methods, especially in organic and bioorganic chemistry. Bioinorganic and inorganic MM calculations are less common and their use has been limited by a number of factors.
Laryngeal Botulinum Toxin Injection for Vocal Tremor: Utility of Concurrent Strap Muscle Injection.

Objectives/hypothesis Vocal tremor is a neurologic disorder that can be treated with laryngeal botulinum toxin injections (LBTX). We sought to describe our experience with thyroarytenoid and concurrent strap muscle injection. Study design Retrospective chart review. Methods A chart review was performed of all patients with a primary diagnosis of vocal tremor treated with LBTX from 2012 through 2017. Results Twenty-one patients were included (mean age 69 years, 100% female). Thirteen patients (62%) had a minor component of spasmodic dysphonia in addition to their tremor. Fourteen patients had vertical and horizontal components to their tremor, and two had horizontal tremor alone. The remaining five patients did not have clear characterization of their tremor. A total of 49 injections were reviewed (25 thyroarytenoid [TA], 24 thyroarytenoid and strap muscle [TA+S]), and patients reported subjective voice benefit with 48 (96%) of these (92% TA, 100% TA+S). When available, the postprocedural change from baseline Voice Handicap Index-10 and Consensus Auditory Perceptual Evaluation of Voice scores were calculated (mean overall: -1.9, -7.8; TA: -2.7, -3.5; TA+S: -1.4, -10.3, respectively). Subjective patient improvement ratings (scale 0%-100%) were obtained for 46 injections, with a mean of 70% improvement per injection. Of patients with both horizontal and vertical tremor, outcomes were improved with TA+S injection versus TA alone (mean improvement 74% vs. 35%, P Conclusions There is utility in the characterization of vertical and horizontal components of vocal tremor. Patients with both appear to have increased benefit with injection of strap muscles in addition to thyroarytenoid muscles. Level of evidence 4 Laryngoscope, 129:1433-1437, 2019.
Galaxy properties as revealed by MaNGA - I. Constraints on IMF and M * /L gradients in ellipticals

We estimate ages, metallicities, $\alpha$-element abundance ratios and stellar initial mass functions of elliptical (E) and S0 galaxies from the MaNGA-DR15 survey. We stack spectra and use a variety of single stellar population synthesis models to interpret the absorption line strengths in these spectra. We quantify how these properties vary across the population, as well as with galactocentric distance. This paper is the first of a series and is based on a sample of pure elliptical galaxies at z $\le$ 0.08. We show that the properties of the inner regions of Es with the largest luminosity (L$_r$) and central velocity dispersion ($\sigma_0$) are consistent with those associated with the commonly used Salpeter IMF, whereas a Kroupa-like IMF is a better description at $\sim$ 0.8R/Re (assuming [Ti/Fe] variations are limited). For these galaxies the stellar mass-to-light ratio decreases at most by a factor of 2 from the central regions to Re. In contrast, for lower L$_r$ and $\sigma_0$ galaxies, the IMF is shallower and M$_{*}$/L$_r$ in the central regions is similar to the outskirts. Although a factor of 2 is smaller than previous reports based on a handful of galaxies, it is still large enough to matter for dynamical mass estimates. Accounting self-consistently for these gradients when estimating both M$_{*}$ and M$_{dyn}$ brings the two into good agreement: gradients reduce M$_{dyn}$ by $\sim$ 0.2 dex while only slightly increasing the M$_{*}$ inferred using a Kroupa IMF. This is a different resolution of the M$_{*}$-M$_{dyn}$ discrepancy than has been followed in the recent literature where M$_{*}$ of massive galaxies is increased by adopting a Salpeter IMF while leaving Mdyn unchanged. A companion paper discusses how stellar population differences are even more pronounced if one separates slow from fast rotators.
Case report of a neuroendocrine tumor of the thyroid gland with limited calcitonin expression: a diagnostic challenge

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a malignant tumor of the parafollicular cells, which produce calcitonin. As a result, calcitonin is an important tool for diagnosing MTC. When there is focal or no calcitonin staining, diagnosis of MTC can be challenging as this may suggest differences in cell origin and in prognosis and recurrence of the disease. The prognosis and guidelines for management and follow up for MTC remain inconclusive. Here, we present a case of primary neuroendocrine tumor of the thyroid gland with only focal calcitonin staining on immunohistochemistry and low serum calcitonin level despite a tumor size of almost 4 cm. The assumption of C-cell origin was made from positive staining for carcinoembryonic agent (CEA), thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF-1) and paired box 8 (PAX8) without expression of thyroglobulin (Tg). The patient underwent thyroid lobectomy and follow-up monitoring with ultrasound and measurements of calcitonin and CEA levels, without any further surgical intervention. Few cases of neuroendocrine tumors with limited calcitonin expression have been published and the etiology and prognosis are still unknown. Our case suggests that limited calcitonin expression cannot completely exclude the diagnosis of MTC. This rare type of MTC should be differentiated from the typical presentation of MTC. Treatment and post-operative surveillance should be tailored based on the individual.
On SITE, in sound: performance geographies in América Latina

“You can’t have a revolution without songs” – Kirstie A. Dorr’s On SITE, In Sound: Performance Geographies in America Latina opens with these words that invoke the power of music for social change ...
Milestones in Sports Broadcasting

In the early 1920s it was called visual listening, audiovision, telectroscopy, telephonoscope, raduo, electric vision, and radiovision. Finally, television seemed to be the name everyone accepted. The name television comes from “tele” (far off) and “vision” (to see).
Nitrogen doped char from anaerobically digested fiber for phosphate removal in aqueous solutions

Abstract This study explores the use of an engineered char produced from the pyrolysis of anaerobically digested fiber (ADF) to adsorb phosphate from aqueous solutions. Two series of engineered chars were produced. The first series was a CO2 activated (CA) char produced via slow pyrolysis between 350 and 750 °C. The second series was a nitrogen doped (ND) char activated in the presence of ammonia at comparable temperatures. Proximate analysis, elemental composition, gas physisorption, Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) techniques were used to characterize properties of resulting products. The surface area of the carbon product increased after nitrogen doping through ammonization (166.6–463.1 m2/g) compared to CO2 activated chars (156.5–413.1 m2/g). Phosphate adsorption isotherms for both CO2 activated and nitrogen doped chars can be described by the Langmuir- Freundlich and Redlich Peterson adsorption models. Nitrogen doped carbon phosphate sorption capacity in aqueous solutions was twice compared to CO2 activated carbons. As carbonization/activation temperature increased the sorption capacity increased from 3.4 to 33.3 mg g-1 for CA char and 6.3–63.1 mg g-1 for nitrogen doped char.
Empirical search and consideration sets

Abstract This chapter provides an overview of the recent and growing econometric literature studying how consumers search for products. We begin with a brief review of theoretical models of search that have been influential in guiding empirical work. We then discuss the marketing literature on consideration sets and early econometric literature on consumer search, leading up to more recent work that combines the two approaches by formulating search as the process through which consumers form consideration sets. The recent literature also offers econometric tests between search methods. We conclude with a discussion of current and potential future directions for work in this area, which we expect to be greatly enriched by the availability of large data sets containing granular information on consumer search behavior across a variety of online and offline contexts.
Low-Frequency Scattering from Heterogeneous Sea Beds

Abstract : The long term scientific objective of this research is to improve our understanding the physics and mechanisms of acoustic bottom interaction and reverberation, including acoustic penetration, propagation, attenuation and scattering in elastic heterogeneous rough sea beds at low and mid frequencies. The specific goal of this research is to develop a model of sea bed scattering due to volume heterogeneity consistent with existing propagation models and therefore to provide a self-consistent theoretical basis for improving and upgrading current bottom interaction codes (such as GABIM).
Expression profiles of genes encoding arginine vasotocin and isotocin receptors and the leucyl-cystinyl aminopeptidase (LNPEP) nonapeptide degradation enzyme in blue tilapia (Oreochromis aureus) during high salinity acclimation

The nonapeptide hormone arginine vasotocin (VT) regulates osmotic balance in fishes by modulating ion and water transport. While VT’s osmoregulatory effects arise in part via changes in VT secretio...
Effects of Neuronic Shutter Observed in the EEG Alpha Rhythm.

The posterior alpha rhythm, seen in human electroencephalogram (EEG), is posited to originate from cycling inhibitory/excitatory states of visual relay cells in the thalamus. These cycling states are thought to lead to oscillating visual sensitivity levels termed the “neuronic shutter effect.” If true, perceptual performance should be predictable by observed alpha phase (of cycling inhibitory/excitatory states) relative to the timeline of afferentiation onto the visual cortex. Here, we tested this hypothesis by presenting contrast changes at near perceptual threshold intensity through closed eyelids to 20 participants (balanced for gender) during times of spontaneous alpha oscillations. To more accurately and rigorously test the shutter hypothesis than ever before, alpha rhythm phase and amplitude were calculated relative to each individual’s retina-to-V1 conduction delay, estimated from the individual’s C1 visual-evoked potential latency. Our results show that stimulus observation rates are greater at a trough than a peak of the posterior alpha rhythm when phase is measured at the individual’s conduction delay relative to stimulus onset. Specifically, the optimal phase for stimulus observation was found to be 272.41°, where observation rates are 20.96% greater than the opposing phase of 92.41°. The perception-phase relationship is modulated by alpha rhythm amplitude and is not observed at lower amplitude oscillations. Collectively, these results provide support to the “neuronic shutter” hypothesis and demonstrate a phase and timing relationship consistent with the theory that cycling excitability in the thalamic relay cells underly posterior alpha oscillations. Significance Statement After accounting for neural conduction delays, we found that threshold intensity stimuli are observed at higher rates when the alpha wave is at a trough phase than at a peak phase, but only when alpha amplitude is high. Our results were derived using methods consistent with a specific hypothesis about a mechanism of visual perception, considering the structure, physiology, and transmission delays in the visual system. The results of this rigorous study design add support to the neuronic shutter hypothesis and are consistent with the theory that posterior alpha reflects cycling excitability in thalamic relay cells, thereby gating the flow of visual information.
Comments on “Architectural Evolution of Integrated M-Phase High-Q Bandpass Filters”

The frequency-domain analysis method by Mirzaei et al. (2012) offers a systematic way to analyze the RF input impedance of $M$ -phase bandpass high-Q filters. The article also provides the mathematical expressions of the RF input impedance for $M$ -phase filters in both single-ended and differential realizations. However, the expression for the differential RF input impedance is off by a factor of two compared to simulations. In this article, we derive the corrected expression.
Modeling consumer engagement on social networking sites: Roles of attitudinal and motivational factors

Abstract This paper reports on a study that seeks to assess an extended typology of consumer social networking engagement behaviors. Drawing on uses and gratifications theory, this study assesses consumer engagement with social media, where consumer engagement incorporates consumer responses to marketing communications. The paper argues that certain motivations for social media use serve as antecedents to general attitudes toward social networking sites, which subsequently affects attitudes toward marketers' social networking sites. These attitudes then influence subsequent consumer engagement behaviors. The results show that social facilitation motivation, participating and socializing motivation, and information motivation positively influence consumers' general attitudes toward social networking sites, which had a strong effect on their attitude toward marketers' social networking sites. The relationship between attitudes toward social networking sites and engagement with social networking sites was mediated by attitudes toward marketers’ social networking sites also mediated. The current study brings together the online advertising perspective and the consumer motivation/gratifications perspective of using social media in branding and marketing into a conceptual model that holds up to empirical testing. The paper ends with a discussion of some limitations of the study and proposes avenues for future research.
Racial disparities in low-value surgical care and time to surgery in high-volume hospitals.

Background The objective of this study is to examine racial differences in receipt of low-value surgical care and time to surgery (TTS) among women receiving treatment at high-volume hospitals. Methods Stage I-III non-Hispanic Black (NHB) and Non-Hispanic White (NHW) breast cancer patients were identified in the National Cancer Database. Low-value care included (1) sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) among T1N0 patients age ≥70 with hormone receptor-positive cancers, (2) axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in patients meeting ACOSOG Z0011 criteria, and (3) contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) with unilateral cancer. TTS was days from biopsy to surgery. Bivariate and logistic regression analyses were used to compare the groups. Results Compared to NHWs, NHBs had lower rates of SLNB among women age ≥70 with small hormone-positive cancers (NHB 58.5% vs. NHW 62.2% p 60 days were higher among NHBs (odds ratio, 1.77; 95% confidence interval, 1.64-1.91; NHW ref). Conclusions NHBs treated at high-volume hospitals have higher rates of surgical delay but are less likely to undergo low-value surgical procedures compared to NHW women.
Dexterity of the Less Affected Hand in Children With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy.

Background:To determine if the “unaffected” hand in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP) is truly unaffected.Methods:We performed a retrospective review of manual dexterity as measured by t...
Self-Qualities and Self-Leadership as Pathways Linking Childhood Maltreatment to Depression and Relationship Quality

Among adults, childhood maltreatment is widely known to increase depressive symptoms and reduce quality of adult’s intimate relationships. Considering the association between childhood maltreatment and adult depression and relationship quality from systemic theories may help clinicians conceptualize and intervene with their clients. Internal Family Systems is an evidenced based psychotherapy and is a trauma-informed model. Self is one of the core concepts of the Internal Family Systems model and it is theorized to reduce mental health problems such as depression and strengthen adult romantic relationships. Despite this theoretical proposition there is no supporting empirical research. To address this gap, the current study examined Self, specifically the qualities of Self (e.g., compassion) and Self-Leadership (e.g., staying calm in face of distress) as pathways linking childhood maltreatment to depression and relationship quality. Using a sample of adults in a romantic relationship, the current study examined Self-Qualities and Self-Leadership as mediators linking retrospective reports of child maltreatment to current depressive symptoms and relationship quality. Results indicate that the indirect (mediating) effects from childhood maltreatment to depressive symptoms and relationship quality were significant through Self-Qualities, but not Self-Leadership. Findings suggest that childhood maltreatment is associated with less frequent access to the qualities of Self, such as compassion and confidence which, in turn, were associated with fewer depressive symptoms and higher levels of relationship quality. For clinicians, the use of IFS and specifically helping clients increase the Self-Qualities may reduce depressive symptoms and strengthen romantic relationships.
Photovoice as a tool to improve patient-Provider communication in inflammatory bowel disease clinic: A feasibility study.

Background The emotional health of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is critical to self-management, but has been difficult to elucidate in routine care. Patients are often unsure how to communicate their preferences and concerns to their providers in ways that could directly inform shared decision making. Photovoice is an established research methodology used to give vulnerable patients a voice through photographic expression, but has not been previously used in gastroenterology or in IBD. Objective To determine the acceptability and feasibility of using Photovoice in an IBD clinic. Patient involvement Patients with IBD took photos in response to open-ended prompts, participated in a focus group, and brainstormed ways to share their experience with clinicians. Methods Enrolled IBD patients received a digital camera, training on basic usage and 10 open-ended prompts related to management of their IBD. Participants completed one-hour in-depth interviews about their photos, which were audio-recorded and professionally transcribed. Three analysts coded transcripts for themes using qualitative analysis software QSR NVivo 11. A subset of patients participated in a focus group about their Photovoice experience. Gastroenterologists were interviewed, using patient photos as prompts, to evaluate feasibility of using Photovoice in the clinic. Results Eleven patients completed the interviews, with five participating in the focus group. Patients shared and discussed a total of 118 photographs. We identified two major themes: disease burden and patient - provider communication. Five IBD physicians reviewed select patient photos and suggested ways to incorporate Photovoice into clinical practice. Discussion Photovoice may be a feasible methodology for patients with IBD and acceptable for providers to use in a clinical setting. Practical value Photovoice may help providers identify patient concerns and make their communication more patient-centred.
Risk Factors of SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Global Epidemiological Study.

Background Since the first recognition of the pandemic characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 infection, and before substantial case fatality data were available worldwide, public health agencies warned the public about the increased dangers of SARS-CoV-2 to persons with a variety of underlying physical conditions, many of which are more commonly found in persons over 50 years of age or in certain ethnic groups. Objective To investigate the statistical rather than the physiological basis in support of the abovementioned warnings, this study examines correlations globally on a nation-by-nation basis between the statistical data concerning COVID-19 fatalities and the statistics of potential comorbidities that may influence the severity of infection. Methods This study considers the statistics describing the populations of the 99 countries with the greatest numbers of SARS-CoV-2 infections at the time of the data cutoff. As national compilations of direct measures of immune system strength are not publicly available, the frequency of fatalities in those countries due to a variety of serious diseases is used as a proxy for the susceptibility of those populations to those same diseases. Results The analysis produces plots and calculations of correlations and cross-correlations of COVID-19 case fatality rates and the risks of other potential cofactors. It exposes some reasons that may underlie the degree to which advanced age increases the risk of mortality of infection with SARS-CoV-2. In contrast with the strong influences of comorbidities on the seriousness of consequences of influenzas and their associated pneumonias, the correlations of the same set of risk factors with SARS-CoV-2 infection are considerably weaker. The general characteristics of the observed correlations strengthened through 3 cycles of analysis, starting in September 2020. The strongest correlations were with chronic kidney disease and coronary disease (approximately 0.28 and 0.20, respectively). Conclusions This study confirms early clinical observations that infection with SARS-CoV-2 presents an increased risk to persons over the age of 65 years. It does not support the suggestions presented by government agencies early in the pandemic that the risks are much greater for persons with certain common potential comorbidities.
From States to Transitions: Improving Translation of LTL Formulae to Büchi Automata

Model checking is an automated technique for checking that a system satisfies a set of required properties. With explicit-state model checkers, properties are typically defined in linear-time temporal logic (LTL), and are translated into Buchi automata in order to be checked. This paper describes how, by labeling automata transitions rather than states, we significantly reduce the size of automata generated by existing tableau-based translation algorithms. Our optimizations apply to the core of the translation process, where generalized Buchi automata are constructed. These automata are subsequently transformed in a single efficient step into Buchi automata as used by model checkers. The tool that implements the work described here is released as part of the Java Path-Finder software (JPF), an explicit state model checker of Java programs under development at the NASA Ames Research Center.
Principles of Constitutional Design

1. Constitutionalism - an initial overview and introduction 2. Sovereignty 3. Popular sovereignty 4. The separation of powers 5. Analyzing the interaction between popular control and separation of powers in the amendment process 6. Matching a government to a people 7. An overview of the constitutional design project 8. An underlying constitutional logic - rational actors?