cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nebulised hypertonic saline does not reduce hospital length of stay in acute bronchiolitis

Commentary on : Everard ML, Hind D, Ugonna K, et al. SABRE: a multicenter randomized control trial of nebulised hypertonic saline in infants hospitalised with acute bronchiolitis. Thorax 2014;69:1105–12[OpenUrl][1][Abstract/FREE Full Text][2]. Acute bronchiolitis is the most frequent lower respiratory infection in infancy, yet no therapy has shown consistent benefit.1 Although initially promising, there is now conflicting evidence regarding the efficacy of nebulised 3% hypertonic saline (HS). In 2013, a Cochrane meta-analysis concluded that HS may significantly reduce the hospital length of stay among infants hospitalised with mild-to-moderate bronchiolitis and also improve clinical severity scores.2 Other studies suggest that HS has no effect on length of stay.3 ,4 This study was a multicentre, parallel-group, open-label randomised trial comparing 4 mL of nebulised HS administered every 6 h to standard supportive care in infants aged <1 year hospitalised at 1 of 10 hospitals in the … [1]: {openurl}?query=rft.jtitle%253DThorax%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Adoi%252F10.1136%252Fthoraxjnl-2014-205953%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Apmid%252F25389139%26rft.genre%253Darticle%26rft_val_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Ajournal%26ctx_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ctx_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Actx [2]: /lookup/ijlink?linkType=ABST&journalCode=thoraxjnl&resid=69/12/1105&atom=%2Febmed%2F20%2F3%2F106.atom
Effects of UV-A (320 to 399 Nanometers) on Grazing Pressure of a Marine Heterotrophic Nanoflagellate on Strains of the Unicellular Cyanobacteria Synechococcus spp.

In the open ocean, where turbidity is very low, UV radiation may be an important factor regulating interactions among planktonic microorganisms. The effect of exposure to UV radiation on grazing by a commonly isolated marine heterotrophic nanoflagellate, Paraphysomonas bandaiensis, on two strains of the cyanobacteria Synechococcus spp. was investigated. Laboratory cultures were exposed to a range of irradiances of artificially produced UV-B (290 to 319 nm) and UV-A (320 to 399 nm) for up to 10 h. At a UV-B irradiance of 0.19 W m−2, but not 0.12 W m−2, grazing mortality of Synechococcus spp. and nanoflagellate-specific grazing rates were reduced compared to mortality and grazing rates with UV-A treatment. Within 6 h of exposure, UV-A alone suppressed grazing mortality at irradiances as low as 3.02 W m−2. The extent to which grazing mortality and nanoflagellate-specific grazing rates were suppressed by UV-A increased with both irradiance and duration of exposure. Over a 6-h exposure period, differences in grazing mortality were largely attributable to differential survival of nanoflagellates. Over a longer period of exposure, there was impairment by UV-A alone of nanoflagellate-specific grazing rates. Rates of primary productivity of Synechococcus spp. were also reduced by UV-A. The extent to which Synechococcus productivity was reduced, compared to the reduction in Synechococcus grazing mortality, depended on the duration of UV-A exposure. These results support the hypothesis that UV-A alone influences the composition and biomass of marine microbial communities by affecting predator-prey interactions and primary production.
Analysis of pressure gradient across aortic stenosis with massively parallel computational simulations

Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is one of the most common congenital heart defects in the United States, and despite treatment, patients have a decrease in life expectancy. Computational fluid dynamics simulations can provide the physician with a non-invasive method to measure the pressure gradient. With HARVEY, a massively parallel hemodynamics application, patient specific simulations can be conducted of large regions of the vasculature. The pressure across the stenosis is impacted by flow from nearby vessels. The purpose of this study was to study the impact of including these distal vessels in the simulation on the resulting pressure measurements. Computational fluid dynamic simulations were conducted in three subsets of one patient's vasculature. We demonstrate up to a 29% difference in calculated pressure gradient based on the number of vessels included in the simulation. These initial results are positive but need to be substantiated with further patient studies.
It's Social, Not Parasocial: Understanding the Impact of the Internet on Building Community Among Bruce Springsteen Fans

The literature on studies that deal with the influence of the Internet on parasocial relationships is growing rapidly, and, with digital devices providing a connection to an endless stream of information, a closer look at the influence of the Internet on parasocial interactions is important to gain a better understanding of the level of impact online media may have on parasocial relationships. Utilizing a modified version of the Parasocial Interaction Scale, this pilot investigation examines a specific group of people—Bruce Springsteen fans—to determine how the Internet influences their parasocial relationship with the “Boss.” One hundred seventy-six Springsteen fans completed a 28-item survey about their use of websites that feature Springsteen. The results reveal a lack of parasocial interaction, even suggesting fans' weak desire to engage in a parasocial relationship with Springsteen. From a uses and gratifications perspective, the findings do indicate that Springsteen fans utilize the Internet to deve...
Afrotropical-North American Disjunct Distribution of Minanga (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) with the Description of a New Species and First Record for the New World

Previously known only from seven Afrotropical species, this article describes a new species of Minanga from northern Mexico. Speculations are made on the biogeographic history of the genus. Specialized glands on the vertex of the head and modified setae on the hind tibia are illustrated with high magnification scanning electron micrographs.
Physics of Interfacial Heat Transfer Events in Flow Boiling of FC-72 Liquid in Microchannels

This work examines the microscale physics of heat transfer processes in flow boiling of FC-72 in a single microchannel. Experimental results discussed in this paper provide new physical insight on the nature of heat transfer events. The study is enabled through development of a device with a composite substrate that consists of a high thermal conductivity material coated by a thin layer of a low thermal conductivity material with embedded temperature sensors. This novel arrangement enables measurement of local heat flux with a spatial resolution of 40–65 μm and a temporal resolution of 50 μs. The device generates isolated bubbles from a 300 nm in diameter artificial cavity fabricated at the center of a pulsed function micro-heater. Analysis of the temperature and heat flux data along with synchronized images of bubbles show that four mechanisms of heat transfer are active as a bubble grows and flows through the channel. These mechanisms of heat transfer are 1) microlayer evaporation, 2) interline evaporation, 3) transient conduction, and 4) micro-convection. The magnitude and time period of activation of these mechanisms of heat transfer are determined and their characteristics are discussed in details.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Economic impact of applying high strength steels in hydrogen gas pipelines

Abstract Steel pipelines will likely be employed extensively to transport gaseous hydrogen in support of a future clean energy economy. To date, a hydrogen-specific cost analysis of pipeline installation has not been produced. This paper performs several cost analyses in order to quantify cost differentials associated with hydrogen pipeline installation relative to (a) natural gas pipeline installation, (b) use of different pipe diameters and operating pressures, (c) use of X70 pipeline steel, and (d) use of X70 pipeline steel given a potential change in governing design code. The analysis concluded that there is a sizeable cost increase between natural gas and hydrogen pipeline installation (as much as 68%, depending upon conditions). Furthermore, the analysis concludes that considerable cost savings can be realized if the hydrogen pipeline design/engineering code were modified to allow the use of X70 steel without penalty. Cost saving on the order of 32% may be realized, relative to use of X52 designed to the current code.
Computational thinking outreach: reaching across the K-12 curriculum

Recruiting a precollege audience into computing disciplines can be challenging. One approach is to engage those that have a strong influence with the precollege students, K-12 teachers [16]. To engage these teachers, we held a Google-sponsored Computer Science for High School (CS4HS) workshop at our small university. The workshop, scheduled over a two day period, included presentations on the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) K-12 computer science curriculum standards, recruiting woman into computing disciplines, and careers in technology. Additionally, there were hands-on sessions with Scratch programming, FIRST robotics, computer hardware, programming in Excel, and CS Unplugged. A unique aspect of this workshop was that high school, middle school, and elementary school teachers, both in and out of technology-related disciplines, were invited to attend. Another unique aspect of our workshop was the inclusion of several sessions with activities for participants to create action plans for incorporating computational thinking components into the curriculum at their respective schools. This included a presentation from a former school superintendent on how to work with school districts in considering computer science as a component in the curriculum and several small-group working sessions to develop the action plans. Discussions with the attendees and subsequent surveys revealed some surprising information about perceptions that K-12 teachers had surrounding computer science and technology. This paper describes our experience with the workshop.
Are Risk Indices Derived From CGM Interchangeable With SMBG-Based Indices?

Background:The risk of hypo- and hyperglycemia has been assessed for years by computing the well-known low blood glucose index (LBGI) and high blood glucose index (HBGI) on sparse self-monitoring b...
Distributed hypermedia

There are a rich set of unresolved technical challenges for delivering multimedia information on computer architectures, but, from an information delivery perspective, there is a compelling argument that the greatest challenge is not to have existing television or stereo capability on a computer but rather to have the computer to manage video and audio data. This is a subtle shift in orientation that significantly enhances the value of hypermedia technology as a delivery mechanism and it has contributed to the tremendous growth of hypermedia systems. They have come almost full circle from conceptual frameworks for global information, to narrowly focused proprietary application engines, to widely available general purpose tools. In fact, several systems come very close to what early researchers envisioned as grand schemes for universal authoring, exchange and discovery of information. This paper outlines key concepts of a distributed hypermedia based system and identifies open issues for deploying and utilizing these systems.
Evolutionary fuzzy neural networks for hybrid financial prediction

In this paper, an evolutionary fuzzy neural network using fuzzy logic, neural networks (NNs), and genetic algorithms (GAs) is proposed for financial prediction with hybrid input data sets from different financial domains. A new hybrid iterative evolutionary learning algorithm initializes all parameters and weights in the five-layer fuzzy NN, then uses GA to optimize these parameters, and finally applies the gradient descent learning algorithm to continue the optimization of the parameters. Importantly, GA and the gradient descent learning algorithm are used alternatively in an iterative manner to adjust the parameters until the error is less than the required value. Unlike traditional methods, we not only consider the data of the prediction factor, but also consider the hybrid factors related to the prediction factor. Bank prime loan rate, federal funds rate and discount rate are used as hybrid factors to predict future financial values. The simulation results indicate that hybrid iterative evolutionary learning combining both GA and the gradient descent learning algorithm is more powerful than the previous separate sequential training algorithm described in.
A dynamically reconfigurable architecture system for time-varying image constraints (DRASTIC) for motion JPEG

We propose a dynamically reconfigurable system for time-varying image constraints (DRASTIC) for applications in video communications. DRASTIC defines a framework for both joint and independent optimization of dynamic power, image quality, and bitrate subject to different constraint scenarios. We demonstrate DRASTIC for intra-mode video encoding for MJPEG. However, since the DCT is critical component of most video coding standards, our approach can be extended to modern standards such as AVC (H.264), and emerging standards such as HEVC (H.265), and VP9. Based on a hardware–software co-design approach, we define a family of scalable 2D DCT hardware modules that are jointly optimized with the quality factor (in software). We generate a total of 1,280 configurations of which 841 were found to be Pareto optimal. For full 2D DCT calculation, the results indicate that the proposed method is DRASTIC mode implementation at least as good or significantly better than any previously published implementation. A scalable, real-time controller is used for selecting an appropriate configuration so as to meet time-varying constraints. The real-time controller is shown to satisfy the constraints of different communications modes (e.g., minimum dynamic power, maximum image quality, etc.) as well as to adapt to mode changes. Empirically, we have found that the DRASTIC controller adapts to meet the new constraints within five video frames of a mode change. Overall, the proposed approach yields significant savings over the use of comparable static architectures.
Molecular Imaging and Analysis of Branching Topology in Polyacrylates by Atomic Force Microscopy

Molecular imaging by AFM provides direct and quantitative information about branching topology including length and distribution of branches, not accessible by other methods. In this paper, we report the analysis of branching in linear acrylate-based macromolecules synthesized via free radical polymerization (FRP) and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). The branched structures are formed from chain transfer reactions, specifically transfer to polymer. Quantitative analysis showed that both methods produced branched species, with FRP having degree of branching of 0.035 ± 0.003% and ATRP having a degree of branching of 0.025 ± 0.002%, when measured per backbone repeat unit. The observed lower branching density in ATRP compared to FRP is consistent with a recent 13C NMR study, which also found that controlled radical methods, such as ATRP give lower degrees of branching than FRP. The absolute fraction of long chain branches measured by AFM is significantly lower than the total amount of branches eva...
A Cognitive Systems Engineering Evaluation of a Tool to Aid Imagery Analysts

A cognitive systems engineering evaluation of an imagery analysis system was conducted to capture baseline performance and workload and compare it to performance with advanced filtering capabilities. Experienced Imagery Analysts searched for and annotated targets of interest in full-motion video in Army- relevant scenarios. Measures of performance included percent of primary targets found, time to find primary target, total targets found, and interactions with the system (via mouse clicks). Performance metrics were augmented with continuous physiological and behavioral measurements in order to capture more accurate cognitive state fluctuations during human-system interaction. The findings suggest that in time-pressured situations, analysts were able to identify more targets with the advanced filter capabilities than in the baseline condition. The findings were used to suggest specific design changes to address workflow deficiencies. The study also developed and implemented a multi-aspect approach to estim...
Investigation and analysis on residents health behavior formation in Suzhou

Objective To understand the truth status of health behavior formation in residents of Suzhou,and preliminary discussion on the differences between different behavior and investigation method.Methods Combining multi-stage cluster random sampling,simple random sampling and KISH table sample were used to extract subjects;by face-to-face questionnaire in-home survey and indoor observation to obtain data;using random sampling method to direct observe the outdoor health behavior.Results Residents' overall indoor health behavior formation rate was 68.65%,outdoor observation of health behavior formation rate was 85.60% in Suzhou;difference was shown on health behavior formation rate between the face to face inhome survey and indoor direct observation(P=0.00).Conclusion Different investigation methods were associated with great differences on health behavior formation results.So unified standard investigation method should be established.
Analysis and Treatment of Drum Level Regulation Abnormality

In view of the drum level regulation abnormality of a 300 MW unit,the abnormal phenomena of drum level control,total feed water flow control,water pump inlet flow control and motor-driven pump speed adjustment are analysed.It is confirmed that the drum level control abnormality is caused by the excessive regulation of feed water flow regulator.Accordingly,the integral time of proportional-integral-derivative(PID) regulator of total feed water flow is amended from 30 s to 2 min to solve the problem of drum level regulation abnormality.Proposals for improving the control stability of multi-stage cascade system are offered as well.
Abstract 3745: Tumor fibroblast targeting via uPAR retargeted measles virus:In vitroandin vivoeffects

Tumor stromal cell components, in particular cancer associated fibroblasts, play an important role in cancer progression. Few studies have focused on stromal fibroblast targeting by oncolytic viruses. The urokinase receptor (uPAR) is a clinically and biologically validated target, which is overexpressed in tumor and stromal cells compared to non-cancer tissues. MV-h-uPA and MV-m-uPA are fully retargeted oncolytic measles viruses directed against human and murine uPAR, respectively, which have shown in vitro and in vivo safety and antitumor effects. Species specific retargeted viral vectors allow to dissect the specific effects of the viruses on murine vs. human tissues in xenograft models. Our aim is to characterize the in vitro and in vivo effects of stromal targeting by oncolytic measles virus via uPAR, with a focus on tumor fibroblasts. In vitro, MV-h-uPA and MV-m-uPA preferentially infected and induced cytotoxicity in human cancer associated fibroblasts (CAF 19, CAF 23) as well as murine fibroblasts (3T3), compared to non-tumorigenic fibroblasts. Murine-murine and human-human fibroblast to cancer cell viral transfer via heterofusion was observed after fibroblast infection by species specific MV-uPA, in breast, colon and renal cancer models, while no viral transfer was observed between cells of different species. In vivo, systemic administration of the murine uPA retargeted virus (MV-m-uPA) significantly decreased tumor progression and prolonged survival in a human breast cancer xenograft model (MDA-MD231), where the host stroma expresses murine uPAR (target of MV-m-uPA). Tumor studies revealed induction of apoptosis (TUNEL assay), while no significant effects on cancer cell proliferation was observed. Dual staining for measles virus nucleocapsid proteins and fibroblasts markers demonstrated viral infection of fibroblasts in treated tumors. Gene expression studies using murine as well as human specific arrays were performed to characterize the effects of stromal targeting by the murine retargeted virus on murine stroma as well as the indirect effects on human cancer cells in vivo. In conclusion, for the first time our results show feasibility and antitumor effects of stromal fibroblast targeting by oncolytic measles virus via uPAR and demonstrate that stromal fibroblasts are viable targets for oncolytic virotherapy. Studies characterizing other stromal cell components and evaluation of the molecular changes in the tumor stroma as result of viral infection are underway. Citation Format: Yuqi Jing, Julia Zaias, Jaime Merchan. Tumor fibroblast targeting via uPAR retargeted measles virus: In vitro and in vivo effects. [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 3745.
Brown Séquard Syndrome Associated with Sprengel’s Deformity

Sprengel’s deformity (SD) is a congenital condition in which there is failure of the scapular descent during intra-uterine growth. The neurological syndrome was due to spina bifida of C4–6 and defect of posterior arch of the fifth cervical vertebra and the presence of an ectopic bone on the left side of the spina bifida. There was an omovertebral bridge attached to cervical spine. The congenital anomalies lead to Brown Sequard syndrome in the case described by Hauman et al.
Paradox Regained: Information Systems in the Age of Globality

I take as my text for this keynote presentation, the above quote from Mahatma Gandhi. I shall attempt to apply Gandhi’s sentiment to the field of Information Systems - a field that I perceive to be quintessentially global in its reach and traditions, and quintessentially trans-disciplinary in its nature - and, importantly, for its future well-being. I find it paradoxical that the field has its adherents who wish to focus our attention solely on the information technology artefact itself, often seeing the field purely in design terms; I find it equally paradoxical that the field’s gate keepers often view quality research from a limited, parochial perspective.
Nitrogen source and concentration affect utilization of glucose by mixed ruminal microbes in vitro.

ABSTRACT The availability of rumen-degradable protein (RDP) changes the use of carbohydrates by ruminal microbes. However, the effects of RDP on the simultaneous use of carbohydrate and formation of microbial products are not well described, although such information is needed to understand the potential effect on nutrient supplies for ruminants. The objective of this in vitro study was to compare the effects of different levels of RDP (0.15, 0.31, 0.46 g of N/L) from tryptone (Tryp) or urea (Ur) on product formation from glucose in fermentations with mixed ruminal microbes. The study had a randomized complete block design with 2 replicated fermentation runs and destructive sampling at 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 h. All rates given are first-order rate constants. Glucose disappearance rates and organic acid carbon (C) production rates tended to be or were greater for Tryp (0.64 and 0.58 h −1 ) than for Ur (0.51 and 0.22 h −1 ), respectively, but did not differ by N level. Maximum detected microbial N production was 67% greater for Tryp (2.35 mg) than for Ur (1.41 mg), which did not differ from the basal medium (1.47 mg). The pattern of glycogen accumulation over time tended to differ between Tryp and Ur: glycogen peaked and declined earlier in the fermentations with Tryp, resulting in less glycogen remaining at 5 h with Tryp (7.2 mg) than with Ur (11.0 mg). At the point of maximum microbial N accumulation, Tryp and Ur did not differ in the amount of glucose C used (29.4 and 28.9 mg), but did differ in the amounts of cell C (10.1 and 6.0 mg), organic acid C (17.4 and 13.8 mg), glycogen C (3.81 and 6.07 mg), and total microbial product C (35.4 and 29.6 mg) present. This resulted in increased efficiency for Tryp compared with Ur for cell C produced per used glucose C, corrected for glycogen C (0.40 and 0.27 mg/mg), and it resulted in a tendency for increased yield of cell C per organic acid C (0.59 and 0.44 mg/mg). Total product C exceeded used glucose C for Tryp, likely because of incorporation or fermentation of C from the provided AA. Overall, RDP source altered the temporal patterns of glucose use and the patterns and amounts of microbial product formation.
Cranial Nerve VII: Facial

The seventh cranial nerve, also known as the facial nerve (CN VII), arises from the inferior pons just in front of the vestibulocochlear nerve, reaching straight out to the internal auditory canal. Its anatomical course, function, pathology and major clinical syndromes are illustrated for quick reference.
Complicated Grief Among Military Service Members and Veterans Who Served After September 11, 2001.

Minimal research is available on the prevalence and impact of complicated grief (CG) in military service members and veterans, despite high reported rates of loss in this population. The present study aimed to examine prevalence rates of CG in a sample of treatment-seeking military service and members and veterans who served after September 11, 2001. Additionally, the study aimed to examine characteristics associated with CG as well as the association between CG and quality of life. In a sample of 622 military service members and veterans who served after September 11, 2001, 502 reported a significant loss (80.7%). Usable data were available for a total of 468 participants. Of these 468 participants, 30.3% (n = 142) met diagnostic criteria for CG, as defined by a score of 30 or more on the Inventory of Complicated Grief (ICG; Prigerson et al., 1995). We conducted a series of t tests and chi-square tests to examine the differences between individuals who met criteria for CG and those who did not. The presence of CG was associated with worse PTSD, d = 0.68, p < .001; depression, d = -1.10, p < .001; anxiety, d = -1.02, p < .001; stress, d = 0.99, p < .001; and quality of life, d = 0.76, p < .001. Multiple regression analyses examined the independent impact of CG on quality of life. Complicated grief was associated with poorer quality of life above and beyond PTSD, β = -.12, p = .017. In addition, in a separate regression, CG was associated with poorer quality of life above and beyond depression, β = -.13, p < .001. Overall, our findings highlight the impact of CG on this population, and have implications for assessment and treatment.
Following pesticide labels: A continued journey toward user comprehension and safe use

Abstract Judicious pesticide use positively impacts the lives of billions of people globally, and pesticide labels are designed to guide users as they make applications so adverse effects on human health and the environment are minimal. However, lack of understanding of pesticide labels diminishes their effectiveness and, ultimately, safe use of pesticides. This literature review focuses on studies published 2015–2017 and finds that label characteristics; regulatory systems; and user demographics, perceptions and lived experience, technical knowledge, training and education on pesticides, and trusted sources of pesticide information all impact how users follow a label. Based on these findings, recommendations are made on ways to improve user understanding. Opportunities are highlighted for pesticides stakeholders—industry, government, academia, and, importantly, the user—to work together to improve safe use of pesticidal tools.
Cholinergic activation of enteric glia is a physiological mechanism that contributes to the regulation of gastrointestinal motility

Enteric glia are emerging as novel regulators of enteric reflex circuits, but little is still known regarding the effects of specific transmitter pathways on glia and the resulting consequences on ...
The Challenges of Digitisation and Data Analysis in the Maritime Domain

The volume of collected and synthesised data available to governmental leaders assessing the maritime domain has increased rapidly over recent years. Analogue data has given way to digital data, wh...
EFFECTS OF IN VIVO EXPOSURE OF CRASSOSTREA VIRGINICA TO HEAVY METALS ON HEMOCYTE VIABILITY AND ACTIVITY LEVELS OF LYSOSOMAL ENZYMES

ABSTRACT: Immunity in bivalves is comprised of cell-mediated and humoral mechanisms. Since marine bivalves, which are not only ectotherms but also possess open circulatory systems, are continuously exposed to fluctuating environmental factors and additives, a series of studies has been conducted to ascertain if in vivo exposure of the American oyster, Crassostrea virginica , to 1 ppm of Cu 2+ or Cd 2+ would influence several aspects of its cell-mediated and humoral immunity. Reported herein are the findings that Cu 2+ is more cidal to oyster hemocytes than Cd 2+ , Cd 2+ inhibits the release of lysozyme from granulocytes into serum, and Cu 2+ inhibits the release of acid phosphatase from cells into serum. Since the viability of oyster hemocytes is directly correlated with their ability to phagocytose invading agents and since the release of lysosomal hydrolases from cells into serum represents one aspect of humoral defense in antigenically challenged molluscs, it may be concluded that in vivo exposure to 1 ppm of Cu 2+ or Cd 2+ can reduce the immunologic competence of C. virginica.
Slave flights and runaway communities in Angola (17th-19th centuries)

This article explores slave resistance in Angola by focusing on slave flights and the formation of runaway communities during the era of the transatlantic slave trade from the seventeenth to the nineteenth centuries. It argues that slave flights and runaways communities were integral to societies under Portuguese influence in coastal and internal Angola. It demonstrates that flights occurred due to a wide variety of reasons, including opposition to shipment to Brazil, mistreatments by slave owners, and the influence of African social institutions and customs. Runaways’ fate depended on the willingness of African rulers to taken them as fugitives, and many became part of gangs that disrupted the trade between coastal Angola and slave markets in the interior. The article argues that slave flights and runaway communities became more numerous in the nineteenth century, as the transatlantic slave trade declined and commercial agriculture was established in the Luanda hinterland.
Recollections of outdoor recreation experiences: a psychophysiological perspective.

A laboratory experiment to examine psychophysiological responses associated with the recollections of outdoor recreation experiences was conducted. Forty-four subjects (41% female, mean age of tota...
Nuclear Structure and Heavy-Ion Reactions

The observation of prominent structures in the excitation functions for some heavy-ion induced reactions suggests that simple features of nuclear structure are manifesting themselves at high excitation energies and, presumably, high angular momentum. The purpose of these lectures is to review the framework in which such structures (resonances) are treated in reaction theory, a formalism which had been formulated for light particle reactions a third of a century ago.1,2 Then, the somewhat more subjective criteria of when a structure is “simple” and when it is not will be presented. Finally, the experimental data are reviewed with particular attention to surface-transparent nuclei which seem to show features that may be susceptible to resonance analysis, and a case in which such a quantitative analysis has been carried out will be discussed.
Clay-Mediated Reactions of HCN Oligomers. The Effect of the Oxidation State of the Clay

Montmorillonite clays which contain Fe(III) inhibit the oligomerization of aqueous solutions of HCN. The inhibitory effect is due to the rapid oxidation of DAMN, a key intermediate in HCN oligomerization, by the Fe(III) incorporated into the aluminosilicate lattice of the clay. The Fe(III) oxidizes DAMN to diiminosuccinonitrile (DISN), a compound which is rapidly hydrolyzed to HCN and oxalic acid derivatives. DAMN is not oxidized when Fe(III) in the montmorillonite is reduced with hydrazine. The oxidation state of the clay is an important variable in experiments designed to simulate clay catalysis on the primitive earth.
Formal Series on Cylinders and Their Radon Transform

We define and study spaces of formal Fourier–Laplace series both in $\mathbb {R}^{n}$ and in the cylinder $\mathbb {S}^{n-1}\times \mathbb {R}$ . We show how such spaces of formal series appear in the study of the Radon transform.
A double blind-placebo controlled trial of IVIG in the treatment of AAG: Results, Implications and Lessons Learned (S12.003)

Objective: To determine the utility of IVIG for the treatment of autonomic dysfunction in autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy (AAG). Background: AAG is a rare disease with no established evidence-based treatment. Design/Methods: Subjects underwent a 6-week double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of IVIG for AAG, with a 6 week single blind extension. Comprehensive autonomic assessment was performed before and after treatment. Results: Recruitment for the study was challenging and only 5 subjects completed the study: 2 received IVIG and 3 received placebo. Due to small numbers of participants, the results were not statistically significant. The treated group had a mean systolic blood pressure improvement in orthostatic hypotension of 33+/−29 mmHg compared to the placebo treated group that had a 5.5+/−4.5 mmHg worsening in orthostatic hypotension. There was a modest improvement in autonomic symptom score (COMPASS) in the IVIG group of 3.3+/−2.8 points, and an improvement in the placebo group of 0.5+/−5.1 points. There was no change in sudomotor or parasympathetic function during the trial in either group. The CASS score was 9–10 at baseline and did not change with IVIG or placebo despite the change in orthostatic hypotension. Conclusions: Although this treatment trial did not meet targeted enrollment, a number of important lessons were learned. IVIG improved orthostatic hypotension, the primary endpoint of treatment, and modestly improved autonomic symptoms. Despite this, there was no difference in CASS scores. This may be a reflection of the effects of this specific intervention on parasympathetic and sympathetic cholinergic function, the assay sensitivity of CASS in severe autonomic failure and/or the lack of power in the study. These findings should be considered in the design of future trials. Study Supported by: Study supported by NIH U54 NS065736. Disclosure: Dr. Gibbons has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Lundbeck Inc. Dr. Rajan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Garcia Perez has nothing to disclose. Dr. Robertson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Biaggioni has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Lundbeck Inc. Dr. Kaufmann has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for Lundbeck Inc. Dr Peltier has nothing to disclose. Dr. Vernino has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Lundbeck, Quest. Dr. Low has nothing to disclose. Dr. Freeman has nothing to disclose.
Chimeric antigen receptor T cells for acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) modified T cells targeted to CD19 have resulted in unprecedented remission rates for adult and pediatric patients with relapsed and refractory B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). With regulatory approval for tisagenlecleucel and many other agents under active investigation, the use of CAR T cells for ALL continues to expand. While some remissions from anti-CD19 CAR T cells are durable without a consolidative allogeneic stem cell transplantation, CD19 positive and negative relapses remain a significant concern fueling investigations into the biology of CAR T cell persistence and the development of CARTs that target more than 1 antigen. The treatment related toxicities of cytokine release syndrome and neurologic events are potentially life threatening but recent advances have improved understanding and management strategies. This review summarizes outcomes for patients with ALL treated with CD19-CAR T cells while exploring the field's challenges and future directions.
Daptomycin Plus β-Lactam Combination Therapy for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus Bloodstream Infections: A Retrospective, Comparative Cohort Study

Background Mounting evidence suggests the addition of a β-lactam (BL) to daptomycin (DAP) results in synergistic in vitro activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and bolsters the innate immune response to infection. This study's objective was to provide clinical translation to these experimental data and determine if DAP+BL combination therapy results in improved clinical outcomes compared with treatment with DAP alone in patients with MRSA bloodstream infections (BSIs). Methods This was a retrospective, comparative cohort study conducted at 2 academic medical centers between 2008 and 2018. Adults with MRSA BSI treated with DAP for ≥72 hours and initiated ≤5 days of culture collection were included. Patients who received a BL for ≥24 hours and initiated ≤24 hours of DAP comprised the DAP+BL group. The primary outcome was composite clinical failure (60-day all-cause mortality and/or 60-day recurrence). Analyses were adjusted for confounding using inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). Results A total of 229 patients were included (72 DAP+BL and 157 DAP). In unadjusted and IPTW-adjusted analyses, DAP+BL was associated with significantly reduced odds of clinical failure (odds ratio [OR], 0.362; 95% confidence interval [CI], .164-.801; adjusted OR, 0.386; 95% CI, .175-.853). Adjusted analyses restricted to prespecified subgroups based on infection complexity and baseline health status were consistent with the main analysis. Conclusions The addition of a BL to DAP was associated with improved clinical outcomes in patients with MRSA BSI. This study provides support to ongoing and future studies evaluating the impact of combination therapy for invasive MRSA infections.Patients treated with daptomycin plus a β-lactam for MRSA bloodstream infection had lower odds of composite clinical failure defined as 60-day all-cause mortality and/or 60-day recurrence compared with patients treated with daptomycin monotherapy after adjusting for confounding variables using inverse probability of treatment weighting.
A case-control study examining the role of recent chemotherapy in causing Clostridium difficile infection among cancer patients

19563 Background: Clostridium difficle infection is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. The recent use of cancer chemotherapy agents is a frequently cited risk factor...
A nuclear perspective on endemism in northern flying squirrels ( Glaucomys sabrinus ) of the Alexander Archipelago, Alaska

We used microsatellites to examine populationstructure and genetic diversity in northernflying squirrels in the Alexander Archipelagoof Southeast Alaska, with an emphasis on theendemic Prince of Wales flying squirrel(Glaucomys sabrinus griseifrons). Previouswork showed this subspecific designationcoincided with a distinct mitochondrial lineageon eleven islands (the Prince of Wales [POW]complex). To obtain a nuclear perspective onthis lineage and to further investigate geneticdiversity among insular populations, weexamined six microsatellite loci in 233 flyingsquirrels representing eight populations inSoutheast Alaska and a population from interiorAlaska (seven island and two mainlandlocalities). Island populations have lowerheterozygosity and allelic diversity thanmainland populations. Overall, populationpairs show a pattern of isolation by distance,indicating there is little long-distance geneflow across the archipelago. Analyses ofmicrosatellite allele frequencies revealsignificant differences between the POW complexpopulations and others we examined, a findingcongruent with the mitochondrial data. Thepopulation from Mitkof Island, a non-POWcomplex island, also differs significantly fromother populations in allele frequencies. Thesix POW complex populations are geneticallyvery similar, suggesting current or recent geneflow among these islands, while there seems tobe no gene flow between the POW complex andother populations in Southeast Alaska. Ourdata corroborate mitochondrial DNA resultsindicating that G. s. griseifrons isgenetically distinct and suggest a generalpattern of isolation of insular flyingsquirrels in Southeast Alaska.
On the Positive Spectrum of Schrödinger Operators with Long Range Potentials

We are concerned with solutions of the equation Δu + p(x)u = 0 in an unbounded domain in Ω ⊂ R n which contains the exterior of a sphere. The principal theorem gives sufficient conditions on p(x) to ensure the nonexistence of nontrivial L 2 (at infinity) solutions. The principal application is to the determination of upper bounds for positive eigenvalues of Schrodinger operators. Our results include a result of Kato and of Agmon as a special case. Furthermore our potentials need not be radially symmetric.
Superexplanations for counterfactual knowledge

I discuss several problems for Williamson’s counterfactual-theory of modal knowledge and argue that they have a common source, in that the theory neglects to elucidate the proper constraints on modal reasoning. Williamson puts forward an empirical hypothesis that rests on the role of counterfactual reasoning for modal knowledge. But he overlooks central questions of normative modal epistemology. In order for counterfactual reasoning to yield correct beliefs about modality, it needs to be suitably constrained. I argue that what is needed is, specifically, information concerning the nature or essence of things. By integrating this information, essentialist deduction arguably provides a better account of our knowledge of modality. Furthermore, I argue that essences have distinctive causal and explanatory powers—indeed, essences are superexplanatory for how things are. Compared to Williamson’s counterfactual-theory, superexplanatory essentialism clarifies what the proper constraints on modal reasoning are, and why they have such a special status.
A Twist of the Coronavirus Privacy Crisis: New Lows in Privacy

I problematize Coronavirus’ shattering effects on the ‘social space’ in everyday context of privacy—that evolves on one’s unequal social positions. I argue that the banality of home intrusion is emblematic of a new threat and offers us a glimpse of future worlds where virtual selves are only traces of our existence in social interaction.
What are the roles of antibodies versus a durable, high quality T-cell response in protective immunity against SARS-CoV2?

Abstract The first SARS-CoV2 vaccine(s) will likely be licensed based on neutralizing antibodies in Phase 2 trials, but there are significant concerns about using antibody response in coronavirus infections as a sole metric of protective immunity. Antibody response is often a poor marker of prior coronavirus infection, particularly in mild infections, and is shorter-lived than virus-reactive T-cells; strong antibody response correlates with more severe clinical disease while T-cell response is correlated with less severe disease; and antibody-dependent enhancement of pathology and clinical severity has been described. Indeed, it is unclear whether antibody production is protective or pathogenic in coronavirus infections. Early data with SARS-CoV2 support these findings. Data from coronavirus infections in animals and humans emphasize the generation of a high-quality T cell response in protective immunity. Yellow Fever and smallpox vaccines are excellent benchmarks for primary immune response to viral vaccination and induce long-lived virus-reactive CD8 T-cells, which are measurable within 1-4 months of vaccination. Progress in laboratory markers for SARS-CoV2 has been made with identification of epitopes on CD4 and CD8 T-cells in convalescent blood. These are much less dominated by spike protein than in previous coronavirus infections. Although most vaccine candidates are focusing on spike protein as antigen, natural infection by SARS-CoV-2 induces broad epitope coverage, cross-reactive with other betacoronviruses. It will be important to understand the relation between breadth, functionality and durability of T-cell responses and resulting protective immunity. It would be a public health and general trust-in-medicine nightmare - including a boost to anti-vaccine forces - if immune protection wears off or new disease patterns develop among the immunized. Data correlating clinical outcomes with laboratory markers of cell-mediated immunity, not only with antibody response, after SARS-CoV2 natural infection and vaccines may prove critically valuable if protective immunity fades or if new patterns of disease emerge.
Securities and Derivatives Exchanges in the United States: Market and Ownership Structures

This chapter, which is to be published in Jens-Hinrich Binder & Paolo Saguato (eds), Financial Market Infrastructure: Law and Regulation (OUP, forthcoming 2021), discusses the role of securities and derivatives exchanges in US national market structure, in light of their historical development, their core regulatory responsibilities, and the competing interests of exchange constituencies. The chapter discusses several policy questions raised by the path-dependent evolution of US exchanges: What continues to distinguish exchanges and other self-regulatory market centers from private trading venues, such as alternative trading systems and market maker trading systems? Are the continuing privileges exercised by registered exchanges justified by the public obligations they undertake? Are the membership and governance structures of exchanges and their affiliates adequate to ensure that the exchanges’ exercise of regulatory authority is responsive to issuers, market participants and the public interest?
Changing CPU Frequency in CoMD Proxy Application Offloaded to Intel Xeon Phi Co-processors

Abstract Obtaining exascale performance is a challenge. Although the technology of today features hardware with very high levels of concurrency, exascale performance is primarily limited by energy consumption. This limitation has lead to the use of GPUs and specialized hardware such as many integrated core (MIC) co-processors and FPGAs for computation acceleration. The Intel Xeon Phi co-processor, built upon the MIC architecture, features many low frequency, energy efficient cores. Applications, even those which do not saturate the large vector processing unit in each core, may benefit from the energy-efficient hardware and software of the Xeon Phi. This work explores the energy savings of applications which have not been optimized for the co-processor. Dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS) is often used to reduce energy consumption during portions of the execution where performance is least likely to be affected. This work investigates the impact on energy and performance when DVFS is applied to the CPU during MIC-offloaded sections (i.e., code segments to be processed on the co-processor). Experiments, conducted on the molecular dynamics proxy application CoMD, show that as much as 14% energy may be saved if two Xeon Phi's are used. When DVFS is applied to the host CPU frequency, energy savings of as high as 9% are obtained in addition to the 8% saved from reducing link-cell count.