cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Origin(s) of the diploid hybrid species Helianthus deserticola (Asteraceae).

Homoploid hybrid speciation has traditionally been considered a rare event, dependent on the establishment of both a novel, balanced genotype and reproductive isolating barriers between the new species and its progenitors. However, more recent studies have shown that synthetic hybrids converge toward the chromosomal structure of natural hybrids after only a few generations, suggesting that this phenomenon may be more frequent than previously assumed. Here, the possibility that the diploid hybrid species Helianthus deserticola arose from more than one hybrid speciation event was investigated using patterns of variation from cpDNA, 18 nuclear microsatellite loci, and population interfertility. Helianthus deserticola contains cpDNA haplotypes characteristic of both parental species, is polyphyletic with one parental species based on nine microsatellite loci, and has a high degree of interfertility among populations. The data are consistent with either a single origin followed by introgression with the parental species or multiple origins. Analysis of microsatellite variation places the origin of H. deserticola between 170 000 and 63 000 years before present, making it unlikely that anthropogenic disturbances influenced its origin. Finally, the hybrid species generally has lower levels of genetic diversity but higher levels of differentiation among populations than either parental species. Hybridization plays an important creative role in plant evolution, contributing to both intraspecific variation through introgression (Anderson, 1948) and to the establishment of new lineages through homoploid or polyploid hybrid speciation (Stebbins, 1950; Grant, 1971). The formation of a sexually reproducing species via either of these two mechanisms is largely dependent on two events: the hybrid lineage must become reproductively isolated from the parents (in parapatry or sympatry), and it must achieve a stable, fertile genotype. When fulfilled through allopolyploidy, these requirements are met by genome duplication in hybrids. Homoploid hybrid speciation is evolutionarily more difficult, but can be achieved through ecological reproductive isolating barriers or chromosomal rearrangements in the hybrid and will result in a new species with the same ploidy as the parents (Smith and Daly, 1959; Grant, 1966a, b, 1971; Gallez and Gottlieb, 1982; Buerkle et al., 2000). Although both modes of speciation are known to have generated stable and reproductively isolated hybrid lineages in nature, more is presently known about the frequency and evolutionary significance of allopolyploidy (reviewed in Otto and Whitton, 2000) than of homoploid hybrid speciation. Botanists have long recognized the importance of polyploid hybrid speciation in plant evolution (Stebbins, 1950), and recent models demonstrate the ease with which new allopolyploid species can arise and become established (Rodriguez, 1996). Allopolyploidy also represents the most rapid kind of speciation known, since reproductive isolation is an instanta
Experimental emulation of air-to-space laser communication links

We demonstrate an experimental emulator for evaluating pointing, acquisition, and tracking performance of laser communication systems. Results show the ability to assess the performance impact from a wide range of impairments relevant to air-to-space links.
Multitasking and eavesdropping in cotton rats foraging under predation risk

Acquiring information regarding resource patchiness can reduce uncertainty in foraging decisions. However, information on patch quality may come at a cost if, when foraging within a risky (micro)environment, foragers allocate more attention to predator detection and consequently allocate less attention to assessing resource patchiness, that is, the cost of multitasking. Foragers may also benefit from alternative means of assessing predation risk that may not entirely conflict with foraging (e.g., vigilance postures are often incompatible with foraging and thus patch assessment). In particular, prey may eavesdrop on the alarm calls of heterospecifics that provide public information about the presence of a potential predator. To investigate these 2 effects, multitasking and eavesdropping, we used giving-up densities (GUDs) to quantify the ability of cotton rats (Sigmodon hispidus) to assess resource heterogeneity (patchiness) under different regimes of predation risk. GUDs were collected over a distance from burrow gradient representing increasing predation risk and provide evidence that risk affected cotton rats' patch assessment abilities in 2 ways. First, under greater risk, cotton rats reduced their foraging time (i.e., higher GUDs) and hence time available for patch assessment. Second, when the effects of foraging time are removed, cotton rats still showed poorer patch assessment (i.e., ability to equalized GUDs between resource patches) in riskier habitats, that is, the cost of multitasking. In the second experiment, we demonstrate that cotton rats eavesdrop on the alarm vocalizations of blue jays and increase their perceived risk of predation during jay alarms, while simultaneously compromising their patch assessment performance. Copyright 2010, Oxford University Press.
The MNOS bipolar transistor

Charge-storage effects in MNOS structures have been investigated with regard to application in programmable read-only semiconductor memories utilizing the insulated-gate field-effect transistor as the active circuit component. The surface-potential dependence of both base and collector current in a suitably designed bipolar transistor, however, can be combined with the charge storage effects of the MNOS gate to provide a programmable bipolar transistor. By means of the stored charge in an MNOS gate over the emitter-base junction of a bipolar transistor, the base surface beneath the gate can be stably shifted from accumulation to inversion with the inversion layer beneath the gate of a suitably designed transistor acting as an efficient extention of the emitter junction. This results in a designable increase in collector cmrent at fixed forward emitter-base bias. Examples of both n-p-n and p-n-p transistors performing in this manner are given. The principal advantage of this type of device over conventional MNOS devices lies in its inherent higher transconductance. Performance comparisons between the read speed of conventional MNOS devices and that of the bipolar MNOS will be presented.
Chemical Dynamics of a Laser Microprobe Vapor Plume in a Controlled Atmosphere

The vapor plume produced by the action of a focused laser beam on a solid sample of an aluminum alloy or zirconium was studied in a controlled atmosphere. The formation of binary compounds by chemical reaction between the vapor plume and the atmosphere was followed with the use of emission, absorption, and fluorescence detection methods. Most experiments were performed at 150 Torr in 100% O2, 50% O2/ 50% Ar, and 100% Ar. Both spatially and temporally resolved profiles of the metal monoxide formed in the plume were recorded. The experimental data are compared to kinetic calculations for the formation of AlO and AlO2. The initial concentration of the atmospheric gas in the region of the plume was found to be less than the average bulk concentration in the sample chamber. A "piston" mechanism of plume expansion is proposed to account for this. Complete mixing of the plume with the atmosphere took at least 100 μs. A significant quantity of metal monoxide was formed in an atmosphere containing only trace amounts of oxygen. The sample is believed to be the source of oxygen.
Molecular detection of Salmonella species in bovine fecal samples

A study was performed to assess the validity of the BAX automated polymerase chain reaction system (DuPont Nutrition & Health, Wilmington, Delaware) to detect the shedding of Salmonella species in bovine fecal samples. A total of 133 bovine fecal samples that were submitted to the Cornell University Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory for Salmonella culture were also tested in the BAX system with a modified version of the manufacturer's enrichment protocol. Using culture as the gold standard test, the BAX system was found to have a sensitivity of 85.7% and a specificity of 90.5%. There was excellent agreement (κ = 0.71, standard error = 0.072) and no significant differences between the 2 methods (McNemar χ(2) = 0.180).
The Federal Home Loan Banks and Commercial Bank Risk Taking: An Overstated Moral Hazard?

Recent attention has been focused on how Federal Home Loan Bank lending to commercial banks may create a new significant risk exposure to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. This concern is prompted by the potential moral hazard created by the FHLBank policy of lending at one rate, its government sponsored enterprise status, and its preferential rights as a secured creditor in receiverships, often referred to as the "super-lien." We argue, however, that this moral hazard is overstated because the Federal Home Loan Banks have an incentive to carefully monitor their borrowers based on their rights as a secured lender under the Uniform Commercial Code - that are not mitigated by the super lien. Consequently, the FHLBanks carefully underwrite advances and make adjustments to pricing based on risk - often through collateral valuation that effectively prices credit risk for FHLBank borrowers. We provide empirical evidence to support the claim that ex-ante and ex-post members are no riskier than non-members.
Blood–spinal cord barrier permeability in experimental spinal cord injury: dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI

After a primary traumatic injury, spinal cord tissue undergoes a series of pathobiological changes, including compromised blood-spinal cord barrier (BSCB) integrity. These vascular changes occur over both time and space. In an experimental model of spinal cord injury (SCI), longitudinal dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) studies were performed up to 56 days after SCI to quantify spatial and temporal changes in the BSCB permeability in tissue that did not show any visible enhancement on the post-contrast MRI (non-enhancing tissue). DCE-MRI data were analyzed using a two-compartment pharmacokinetic model. These studies demonstrate gradual restoration of BSCB with post-SCI time. However, on the basis of DCE-MRI, and confirmed by immunohistochemistry, the BSCB remained compromised even at 56 days after SCI. In addition, open-field locomotion was evaluated using the 21-point Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan scale. A significant correlation between decreased BSCB permeability and improved locomotor recovery was observed.
Laboratory Aspects of Management of Chronic Pulmonary Infections in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

In 1994, the U.S. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation sponsored a consensus conference ([33][1]) on microbiology and infectious disease in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), a homozygous recessive disease in individuals of Caucasian descent. The organization of that conference followed the recognition that
Effect of β-Naphthoflavone on Calf Liver Metabolism of Aflatoxin B1

Abstract Eight male Holstein calves were raised to 6 wk of age on whole milk at 8% of body weight and calf starter ration (15% crude protein) free choice. For each of 2 days prior to sacrifice, four of the calves were selected at random and administered the mixed function oxidase inducer β-napththoflavone by bolus in starch carrier at .005% of metabolic body weight. After sacrifice, 10,000×g postmitochondrial supernatant preparations were made from the excised livers and incubated with a 50- μ g challenge of aflatoxin B 1 . Although there was no significant difference in total percent of the challenge metabolized, there was a large increase in aflatoxin M 1 production by liver preparations from calves administered the flavone inducer. If the flavone family of inducers could alter the metabolic profile for aflatoxin in the adult lactating bovine, aflatoxin M 1 excretion rates could be increased and pathways for production of mutagenic metabolites could be enhanced.
Similarly Expanded Bilateral Temporal Lobe Volumes in Female and Male Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is more prevalent in male than female individuals. Very few studies have examined sex modulations of brain anatomical differences between individuals with ASD and typically developing (TD) individuals, especially in children. The current study aimed to identify sex-dependent and/or sex-independent neuroanatomical mechanisms underlying ASD. Methods Magnetic resonance imaging data were acquired from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange. A 2 (diagnosis) × 2 (sex) design was used. Subjects whose ages were between 6 and 20 years were included for analysis, with matched full-scale IQ between groups for each dataset. The resulting effective numbers of subjects were 36 female subjects with ASD, 54 TD female subjects, 182 male subjects with ASD, and 172 TD male subjects. Twenty independent gray matter (GM) and 20 white matter (WM) volume sources were estimated using source-based morphometry. Results Among all the independent GM and WM sources, none of them showed a significant diagnosis by sex interaction. One GM source of the bilateral inferior and middle temporal lobe showed a significantly larger volume in ASD than TD individuals and in male than in female subjects. This diagnosis effect was age sensitive and was present only in participants between 8 and 14 years of age. Conclusions Only sex-independent, large-scale neuroanatomical alterations could be observed in children with ASD. The directionality of bilateral temporal GM alterations was in line with the prediction of the extreme male brain hypothesis, supporting the view that similar neurobiological mechanisms may drive sexual dimorphism and the onset of ASD.
An Essay, Taking Antitrust to Patent School: The Instance of Pay-for-Delay Settlements

The essay develops a new approach for antitrust analysis of pay-for-delay settlements in pharmaceutical patent infringement cases, an approach that shows them to be presumptively prohibited agreements in restraint of competition. The issue is timely in light of the Watson v FTC case now pending before the Supreme Court; the decision below is one in a line of antitrust cases concluding that the settlement agreements are legal per se so long as their pay-for-delay provisions fall “within the scope of the patent.” The essay explains why proper antitrust analysis calls for separate attention to the scope of the injunction remedy and then shows how antitrust approval of pay-for-delay provisions entails satisfaction of the Supreme Court’s traditional test for the injunction remedy in patent infringement cases set out in the landmark eBay decision. Along the way, the essay briefly describes how the economics of patent law, rightly understood, supports the eBay test’s application in the antitrust analysis of cases like Watson.
E-069 Validation of a New Modified Capillary Index Score Angiographic Real Time Assessment of Dead vs Salvable Tissue

Background The original capillary index score publication only included patients that had full digital subtraction angiograms (DSA) before stroke intervention. This CIS was a single center publication with no external validation. Many centers do not perform a full DSA to assess all collaterals before intervention. Hypothesis A modified capillary index score (mCIS) using only the ICA injection can predict outcome in MCA occlusions (only MCA occlusions included). Objective Validate the utility and use of a modified capillary index score (mCIS) to assess outcomes and improvement in acute stroke patients. Methods mCIS was assessed on all consecutive patients with an MCA occlusion with complete database information. NIHSS, recanalization (mTICI), and mRS before and after treatment were assessed. mCIS of 2–3 was considered favorable as per original publication. Correlation between favorable CIS, NIHSS improvement, and mRS (0–3 good) were assessed. Results 33 patients with MCA occlusion with complete data sets where assessed. 63.6% (21/33) had a favorable mCIS (2–3) and 36.4% had a poor mCIS(0–1). Recanalization of TICI 2b or greater was achieved in 42.9% (9/21) of patients with favorable mCIS and 58.3% (7/12) of patients with poor mCIS. Of those with favorable mCIS 28.6% (6/21) had a good mRS of ≤3 at discharge vs those with poor mCIS while those with a poor mCIS 33.3% had a good mRS at discharge. However, mortality was lower in favorable mCIS vs. poor mCIS (9.5 vs. 33.35, p = 0.09). Conclusions A modified CIS is did not predict the functional outcome but may be predictor of mortality. Small sample size, lack of long-term follow up, or the lower rate of recanalization of those with favorable mCIS could have contributed to the negative outcome. A prospective or larger study with long term follow up is needed for validation. References Al-Ali F, Jefferson A, Barrow T, et al . The capillary index score: rethinking the acute ischemic stroke treatment algorithm. Results from the Borgess Medical Center Acute Ischemic Stroke Registry. J Neurointerv Surg. 2013 ; 5 (2):139–143. doi:10.1136/neurintsurg-2011-010146 Capillary Index Score, Baseline Characteristics and OutcomesFavorable mCIS Unfavorable mCIS P ValueBaseline NIHSS 14 + /-6.9 18.3 + /-3.9 0.051Age 64.3 + /-16.6 68.8 + /-4.9 0.453Good Recanalization (2b-3) 42.9% (9/21) 58.3% (7/12) 0.391NIHSS at Discharge 10.8 + /-7.5 15 + /-2.5 0.099NIHSS at Discharge in TICI 2b and higher 5.8 + /-4.2 13.4 + /-13.7 0.067Mortality 2/21 (9.5%) 4/12 (33.33%) 0.093Good Outcome (mRS Disclosures M. Teleb: None. M. Noufal: None. A. Sattar: None. W. Wazni: None. M. Issa: None. K. Asif: None. A. Gheith: None. A. Castonguay: None. O. Zaidat: 2; C; Penumbra, Stryker, Covidie. 3; C; Penumbra, Stryker, Covidien.
Update on Mechanical Ventilatory Strategies

Mechanical ventilation is essential for survival of many extremely premature infants, but all forms of positive pressure ventilation are to some degree injurious to the lungs. A variety of sophisticated devices are used to provide respiratory support, yet substantial uncertainty remains regarding the optimal ways in which these tools can be used to minimize ventilator-associated lung injury. A good understanding of the unique aspects of respiratory physiology of extremely preterm infants is key to obtaining the greatest benefit from modern ventilator technology. Early lung volume recruitment with adequate end-expiratory pressure, avoidance of volutrauma during the immediate postnatal period, and noninvasive respiratory support as the initial strategy are now accepted as important factors in minimizing lung injury. Volume-targeted ventilation combined with optimal lung volume strategies to ensure that the tidal volume is evenly distributed throughout an open lung seems to be the best approach to lower the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
Microstructures of Chemically Polymerized Ultrathin Polypyrrole Films

The microstructures of chemically polymerized polypyrrole 100 to 800 A films were studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The fibers are embedded in an amorphous matrix which forms a self-reinforced composite. The shape of the fibers ranged from thin rods to ellipsoids depending on the preparation conditions. The density and size of the fibers were affected by the polymerization time and the concentration ratio of pyrrole and oxidants. Polypyrrole fibers were aligned along the thin film plane and were randomly oriented in the plane. The two-dimensional orientation of the crystalline fibers produced strongly anisotropic electrical properties in the thin films. It has been found that by properly adjusting the polymerization condition, it is possible to obtain the polypyrrole conducting ultra thin films with improved mechanic and electric properties.
A Review of Studies on the Teaching Modes of Confucius Institutes

Studies on the teaching modes of Confucius Institute have been reviewed in the following four subjects:Special Studies on the Teaching Mode of Confucius Institute,Studies on Teaching Chinese as a Second Language,Studies on Second Language Teaching,and Studies on Teaching Modes.The result shows that studies on the first subject are rare,almost zero;studies on the second subject is little,especially in inter-disciplinary studies and empirical studies;studies on the third subject is mainly focused on English as the Second Language,but few is about Chinese as the Second Language;studies on the fourth subject are mainly syntheses of theories rather than constructive suggestions.
DETECTING CHANGE USING PSEUDO POWER SIGNATURES

Abstract The problem considered here is that of detecting events from the analysis of sensing signals. Our approach is based on the continuous wavelet transform and defines pseudo power signatures , as functions of the resolution and characterizing the power distribution of an event. Detection of their presence can be used to identify an event. These pseudo power signatures are, ideally independent of the duration of the event and can be therefore used to provide fast detection of changes as required, for example, in fault detection problems. The paper gives an overview of the concept of pseudo power signatures and their application to signal classification problems, focusing in fault detection. The paper also introduces new computational algorithms that are much more efficient than those previously available.
Aircraft Conceptual Layout

The chapter presents information intended to help the designer justify the selection of a specific aircraft configuration. First, in a section aimed at the student of aircraft design, the reader is introduced to various aircraft components. This is intended to improve the basic appreciation for the complexity of aircraft structures and systems. Then, the chapter details the pros and cons of a number of configuration styles. Among those are wing position and shape, landing gear style, fuselage and cabin type, engine type and location, as well as tail configuration is discussed. The chapter is intended to help the designer develop a keener eye for the implications of selecting a particular configuration to increase awareness that can avoid costly mistakes for any company designing a new aircraft. Finally, a weighted down-selection matrix method is presented as one way to select a particular configuration. It is aimed at those designers who want to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed configuration selection.
The Reconstruction of Christian Belief

The christian theologian starts within a continuing society called the church and within an inherited set of ideas called christian theology.
O18-4 Applying biomarker-based approach to investigate the role of inflammation in disease risk among minnesota iron mining workers

The taconite (iron ore) worker population of northeastern Minnesota, USA, is at higher risk of mesothelioma, lung cancer, and heart disease than the rest of the state population. Occupational exposures to the components of dust from taconite operations, which includes nonasbestiform amphibole elongate mineral paraticles, silica and cleavage fragments, may play an important role in the observed morbidity and mortality rates in this cohort. We hypothesised that oxidative stress and inflammation, induced by the dust from taconite operations and mediated by iron exposure, are important contributors to the development of cancer and cardiovascular disease in taconite workers. In support of this hypothesis, our preliminary analyses in a group of workers (N = 25) demonstrated that the levels of 3-(2-deoxy-β-D-erythro-pentafuranosyl)pyrimido[1,2-α]purin-10 (3 H)-one deoxyguanosine (M 1 dG), a DNA adduct formed through the oxidative stress-induced lipid peroxidation, are higher in the blood of taconite workers with high estimated occupational exposures as compared to workers with low estimated exposures. We further expanded this research by analysing a wide panel of circulating cytokines and chemokines, M 1 dG in blood DNA, as well as plasma iron levels, in 129 workers with variable estimated levels of occupational exposure to taconite dust and iron. The results of these analyses will be presented, and the relationship of biomarker levels with the available measures of occupational exposures will be discussed. The overall goal of this research is to identify inflammatory biomarker signatures that are associated with unique occupational exposures and are predictive of lung cancer and cardiovascular disease risk in taconite workers.
Analysis of the Dynamics among Tutors in an After-School Tutoring Program in a Homeless Shelter for Families.

Researchers of after-school tutoring primarily focus on educational outcomes with little attention to the social dynamics of such programs. In our qualitative case study, we examined the nature of interactions among tutors in a tutoring program at a homeless shelter for families. Employing Bourdieu’s concepts of social capital and field, we found that the dynamics between tutors were complex, with tutors jockeying for position amid contestations over the rules and organization of the tutoring sessions. The implications include the significant impact that the dynamics among tutors can have on the overall program.
Evolution of the upper-level thermal structure in tropical cyclones

Tropical cyclones (TCs) are associated with tropopause-level cooling above tropospheric warming. We collect temperature retrievals from 2007 to 2014 near worldwide hurricane-strength TCs using three remote sensing platforms: the Constellation Observing System for Meteorology, Ionosphere, and Climate (COSMIC), the Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit-A (AMSU-A), and geostationary infrared (IR) imagery. These retrievals are composited about the lifetime maximum intensity (LMI) to examine the evolution of the fine-scale temperature structure within TCs. The convective structure evolves highly asymmetrically about LMI, while intensity evolution shows a much weaker degree of asymmetry. Relative to the far-field structure, tropopause-level cooling occurs before a tropospheric warm core is established. We speculate that the associated convective destabilization exerts a positive feedback on TC development by increasing the depth of existing convection. Tropopause-level cold anomalies move away from the storm after LMI, potentially increasing the near-surface horizontal pressure gradient toward the storm center and increasing the maximum winds.
Sustained Economic Hardship and Cognitive Function: The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study.

Introduction The relationship between low income and worse health outcomes is evident, yet its association with cognitive outcomes is less explored. Most studies have measured income at one time and none have examined how sustained exposure to low income influences cognition in a relatively young cohort. This study examined the effect of sustained poverty and perceived financial difficulty on cognitive function in midlife. Methods Income data were collected six times between 1985 and 2010 for 3,383 adults from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults prospective cohort study. Sustained poverty was defined by the percentage of time participants' household income was Results In demographic-adjusted linear regression models, individuals with all-time poverty performed significantly worse than individuals never in poverty: 0.92 points worse on verbal memory (z-score, −0.28; 95% CI=−0.43, −0.13), 11.60 points worse on processing speed (z-score, −0.72; 95% CI=−0.85, −0.58), and 3.50 points worse on executive function (z-score, −0.32; 95% CI=−0.47, −0.17). Similar results were observed with perceived financial difficulty. Findings were robust when restricted to highly educated participants, suggesting little evidence for reverse causation. Conclusions Cumulative exposure to low income over 2 decades was strongly associated with worse cognitive function of a relatively young cohort. Poverty and perceived hardship may be important contributors to premature aging among disadvantaged populations.
Data-processing strategies for crossed-strip gamma-ray detectors

Crossed-strip gamma-ray detectors are an attractive option for small-animal SPECT imagers due to their high space-bandwidth product. In systems with independent triggering of the two sides of the detector, advanced data-processing techniques are required to accurately determine gamma-ray interaction locations and energy deposition. Optimal detector operation further relies on rigorous detector characterization in order to achieve detector triggering uniformity and best timing resolution and to permit position and energy estimation with maximum-likelihood methods. We describe algorithms and methods developed for calibrating and characterizing a recently fabricated system based on 1024-strips-per-side 1-mm-thick silicon detectors.
Laparoscopic-Assisted Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Placement in Children Younger Than the Age of 1 Year.

Objectives To analyze the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic-assisted ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) insertion in children younger than the age of 1 year and weighing less than 5 kg. Methods We performed a retrospective review of children receiving laparoscopic-assisted VPS. Patient characteristics, complications, operation and hospitalization time, blood loss, and conversion to the standard approach were noted and analyzed. Results Laparoscopic-assisted VPS was performed in 25 children. Mean age was 32 months (range 19 days to 18 years); 16 patients (64%) were younger than the age of 1 year and 10 patients (38%) weighed less than 5 kg at the time of surgery. In all cases laparoscopic insertion was possible without the need to convert to the standard approach. No intraoperative laparoscopy-associated complications occurred. Mean estimated blood volume lost was 4.52%, showing no significant difference between patients younger and older than 1 year. Mean operation time was 75.44 minutes (range 45–121 minutes), and mean hospitalization time was 37.1 days (range 4–142 days, median: 22 days). Patients younger than the age of 1 year showed significant shorter operation time ( P P = 0.04). Complication rate within 30 days was 24% ( n = 6), and overall complication rate was 36% ( n = 9), whereas none were related to the abdominal placement of the catheter, and showed no difference between the 2 age groups. Conclusions Laparoscopic-assisted VPS insertion in children seems to be safe and feasible leading to very good results even in patients under the age of 1 and weighing less than 5 kg.
Borderline personality features, interpersonal correlates, and blood pressure response to social stressors: Implications for cardiovascular risk

Abstract Borderline personality disorder (BPD) confers risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). The present study used the interpersonal perspective to investigate potential mechanisms underlying this association. In two undergraduate samples (N = 293; N = 188) in Study 1, we replicated and extended research by demonstrating that BPD features were associated with hostile and somewhat submissive interpersonal behavior. Further, BPD features were associated with low social support and high levels of interpersonal conflict, two well-established risk factors for CVD. Also, hostile-submissive behavior contributed to the association of BPD features with low social support. In Study 2, we examined associations of BPD features with blood pressure (BP) responses to two interpersonal stressors implicated in models of the effects of stress on CVD, specifically by using laboratory tasks involving interpersonal conflict and evaluative threat in a third undergraduate sample (N = 143). BPD features predicted elevated BP reactivity to conflict but not evaluative threat, and such heightened reactivity previously has been found to predict the development of CVD. The interpersonal perspective may be useful for investigating mechanisms linking BPD to CVD risk, and processes that undermine otherwise protective social support or heighten exposure and reactivity to interpersonal conflict may be relevant in this regard.
RACK1 is necessary for the formation of point contacts and regulates axon growth

Receptor for activated C kinase 1 (RACK1) is a multifunctional ribosomal scaffolding protein that can interact with multiple signaling molecules concurrently through its seven WD40 repeats. We recently found that RACK1 is localized to mammalian growth cones, prompting an investigation into its role during neural development. Here, we show for the first time that RACK1 localizes to point contacts within mouse cortical growth cones. Point contacts are adhesion sites that link the actin network within growth cones to the extracellular matrix, and are necessary for appropriate axon guidance. Our experiments show that RACK1 is necessary for point contact formation. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) stimulates an increase in point contact density, which was eliminated by RACK1 shRNA or overexpression of a nonphosphorylatable mutant form of RACK1. We also found that axonal growth requires both RACK1 expression and phosphorylation. We have previously shown that the local translation of β-actin mRNA within growth cones is necessary for appropriate axon guidance and is dependent on RACK1. Thus, we examined the location of members of the local translation complex relative to point contacts. Indeed, both β-actin mRNA and RACK1 colocalize with point contacts, and this colocalization increases following BDNF stimulation. This implies the novel finding that local translation is regulated at point contacts. Taken together, these data suggest that point contacts are a targeted site of local translation within growth cones, and RACK1 is a critical member of the point contact complex and necessary for appropriate neural development. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 1038-1056, 2017.
Agiotensin II induced cardiac hypertrophy in vivo is inhibited by cyclosporin A in adult rats

Recently, the calcium‐calmodulin‐dependent calcineurin pathway has been defined as a central pathway for the induction of cardiac hypertrophy. The purpose of this study was to determine if cardiac hypertrophy in animals chronically treated with angiotensin II (AngII), could be prevented by blocking this pathway with cyclosporin A (CsA). Female Wistar rats were treated with AngII by subcutaneous infusion and injected twice a day with CsA (25 mg/kg) for 7 days. In the AngII treated group there was a 30% increase in the heart/body weight ratio (p < 0.05 vs. control). The increase in heart weight was blocked with CsA. Substantial increases in ANF and βMHC gene expression were detected in the AngII treated animals, which were either attenuated or blocked with CsA treatment. Thus, this study demonstrates that CsA does prevent the development of cardiac hypertrophy in Ang II treated rats, suggesting that the calcium‐calmodulin‐dependent calcineurin pathway is associated with angiotensin II induced hypertrophy in vivo.
Who's in and Who's Out? The Politics of Religious Norms

What are the boundaries for discussing a candidate's religion? In the 2008 and the 2012 presidential campaigns, the religious beliefs and practices of at least one of the candidates became a subject of intense scrutiny from the media and the public. To ascertain the limits of social discourse for religious out-group, we conducted a survey experiment on the 2012 CCES survey. We find strong evidence that norms of social discourse do not apply to all religions equally. Furthermore, the application of norms differs by political party because Democrats and Republicans express concerns about different religious groups. Overall, there is a large difference for Muslims when it comes to social discourse. Finally, individuals have internalized the norms because most of them are willing to sanction those who violate them, even if the norms on social discourse are not applied equally among American voters.
Sizing and location identification for an electrical energy storage system in a renewable microgrid

Microgrids are proving themselves viable to address the need for more reliable renewable power systems. They can improve the resilience of the overall system in case of abnormal conditions. The city of Spokane in Washington, is considering establishing a microgrid using existing transmission and distribution infrastructure. This microgrid will be supplied solely from the existing hydroelectric generators and proposed photovoltaic installations. One of the challenges to overcome in a renewable microgrid is the availability of the renewable energy resources. As the hydro generation capability varies seasonally, solar energy varies both seasonally and over the course of a day, it is advantageous to include an energy storage system in the microgrid. This can compensate for variations, and improve the reliability of the microgrid. The main objective of this paper is to identify the energy storage system suitable for this specific microgrid and estimate its size while finding an ideal location to place it in the microgrid. The study system was simulated using Powerworld. Different techniques were evaluated to determine the size and location of the energy storage system.
Apnea in Older Adults

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a highly prevalent chronic disease in older adults. A growing body of evidence demonstrates that SDB in older adults is linked to many adverse cardiovascular, neurocognitive, and metabolic sequelae. However, several unanswered questions remain regarding the diagnosis, consequences, and treatment of SDB in older adults. This review presents the current evidence pertaining to the management of SDB in older adults and identifies crucial gaps in knowledge that need further investigation.
Synergistic Bathochromic and Hyperchromic Shifts of Anthocyanin Spectra Observed Following Complexation with Iron Salts and Chondroitin Sulfate

Grape anthocyanins are not traditionally used on complexation studies, as the main compounds lack a catechol group. In this study, concomitant metal complexation (Fe2+ and/or Fe3+) and co-pigmentation with chondroitin sulfate (CHS) were shown to synergistically affect the color spectra of grape anthocyanins at varying pHs. In general, the addition of iron salts resulted in small reductions in maximum absorbance at pH 3 and a bathochromic shift at pH 4 and 5. On the other hand, CHS resulted in hypochromic shifts at pH 3 and 4. When combined, these compounds broadened the peak at higher wavelengths associated with blue color, and resulted in significantly higher (p < 0.05) area under the curve at these wavelengths even at pH 3. Interestingly, this synergistic effect seemed to work only at low pH. All observed effects were achieved using low concentrations of metals and CHS. The results should interest those aiming to achieve anthocyanin color modulation through metal complexation at modest loadings.
Ode to numbers: poems, by Sarah Glaz

I choose a placeaccording to the qualityof light– from “Luminy Light”How do we choose our pursuits, our passions? And what if two apparently mutually exclusive vocations pull us in opposite directi...
Financialization and the returns to commodity investments

Abstract Commodity futures investment grew rapidly after their popularity exploded—along with commodity prices—in the mid-2000s. Numerous individuals and institutions embraced alternative investments for their purported diversification benefits and equity-like returns. We investigate whether the “financialization” of commodity futures markets reduced the risk premiums available to long-only investors in commodities. While energy futures markets generally exhibit a decline in risk premiums after 2004, premiums in all but one non-energy futures market actually increased over the same time period. Overall, the average unconditional return to individual commodity futures markets is approximately equal to zero before and after financialization.
Basic Principles of MRI and MR Angiography

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a very versatile and useful imaging modality. It is capable of providing a wealth of diagnostic information, including information regarding blood flow. Magnetic resonance methods that provide images of the arteries are referred to as magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) methods. A variety of MRA methods exist. These methods can be categorized as noncontrast-enhanced and contrast-enhanced methods. The noncontrast-enhanced methods rely on the motion of blood (phase-contrast MRA, time-of-flight (TOF) MRA) or the magnetic properties of blood (steady-state free precession MRA) to differentiate signals from blood and stationary tissues, whereas contrast-enhanced methods require the intravenous injection of a contrast material to differentiate signals from blood and stationary tissues.
Character Instruction in Protestant Education Throughout History

This chapter addresses character instruction was central to American schooling for nearly 350 years and it was the focus for Western education for thousands of years before then. The author traces the roots of character education all the way back to Abraham (b1991 BC?). He then highlights the centrality of virtue as expressed in qualities such as love and humility, which Christ asserted were the most important qualities that one could have. This emphasis is reinforced in Protestantism because Martin Luther asserted that intellectual development had a spiritual base and therefore character based on salvation in Christ was at the core of the Christian life. The author then summarizes the history of the practice of character instruction in American Protestant education. The author traces Bible-based character education beginning with the Puritans, and continuing through the 1600s, 1700s, 1800s, and 1900s. The author addresses contributions made by Noah Webster, charity schools, Horace Mann, common schools, and William McGuffey. The author also examines long overlooked speeches and writings by Thomas Jefferson. The significance of these historical trends is discussed.
Effectiveness of mental health first aid training for underserved Latinx and Asian American immigrant communities

Abstract Introduction Community collaboration is essential to achieving integrated care and improving mental health among immigrants in the United States This uncontrolled pilot study evaluated the effectiveness of the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) USA training program when administrated to advocates who serve Latinx and Asian American immigrant communities, with the goal of creating frontline workers to help immigrants with mental health challenges. Methods A total of 89 participants completed the 8-h MHFA training program. Assessments were conducted before and after the program to measure the impact of MHFA training. Both qualitative and quantitative assessments were used, including the Mental Health Literacy Scale and the Opening Minds Scale for Healthcare Providers. Results The findings revealed a significant improvement in participants’ mental health literacy and anti-stigma levels, following the training. In addition, participants expressed more positive attitudes toward people with mental illness and held less-extreme views of social distance from them. Conclusion Through this interactive training, participants built new knowledge, skills, and confidence to apply to their work of assisting community members who may be at risk of developing mental health or substance abuse problems.
The Interaction of Amiodarone and LVAD in Severe Primary Graft Dysfunction

Purpose Pre-transplant amiodarone and left ventricular assist device (LVAD) has been shown to be independently associated with severe PGD; however, the interaction between both exposures has not been examined. We evaluated the relationship of pre-transplant amiodarone, left ventricular assist device and severe PGD. Methods Single center, retrospective cohort, adult (age > 18) OHT patients between 2006-2018. Severe PGD was defined as left or right or biventricular failure requiring mechanical circulatory support within 24 hours of OHT. Pre-transplant amiodarone use was within 3 months preceding OHT. Patients were grouped by presence (denoted +) or absence (denoted -) of LVAD and amiodarone. Results A total of 257 patients were transplanted during the study period, mean age 53.8 years, 73 (28.4%) females, 162 (63%) BTT and 90 (35%) patients had amiodarone use. There were 21 (8.2%) patients with severe PGD. The prevalence of severe PGD was highest in LVAD+/Amiodarone+ group (20.3%), followed by LVAD+/Amiodarone - (6.8%), LVAD-/Amiodarone+ (3.2%) and LVAD-/Amiodarone- (1.6%), p=0.0008 (Figure 1). Multivariate logistic regression analysis of pre-operative risk factors revealed LVAD (OR 5.95; 95% CI 1.23-28.52; p=0.03), amiodarone (OR 3.52; 95% CI 1.26-9.87; p=0.02), recipient diabetes (OR 3.36; 95% CI 1.11-10.21; p=0.03) and recipient hypertension (OR 0.22; 95% CI 0.08-0.61; p=0.04) were independently associated with severe PGD. Additive interaction analysis of amiodarone and LVAD was inconclusive due to the small sample size [relative excess risk due to interaction 8.13; 95% CI -10.37-26.2; p=0.39, attributable proportion 0.66; 95% CI 0.19-1.13; p=0.01 and synergy index 3.61; 95%CI 0.49-26.32; p=0.21]. Conclusion LVAD and amiodarone are associated with severe PGD, however the interaction of both exposures requires further analysis with a larger cohort.
Pediatric Hospitalists Improving Patient Care Through Quality Improvement

This article reviews the industrial underpinnings of the quality improvement (QI) movement and describes how QI became integrated within the larger health care landscape, including hospital medicine. QI methodologies and a framework for using them are described. Key components that make up a successful QI clinical project are outlined, with a focus on the essential role of pediatric hospitalists and practical professional tips to be successful. QI training opportunities are reviewed with opportunities for hospitalists to get involved in QI on a national level. National QI networks are showcased, with multiple examples of advanced improvement projects that have significantly improved patient outcomes highlighted.
Exploring Urban Dynamics from Bluetooth Tracking Data: A Case Study of Austin, Texas

Abstract. In recent decades, the growing availability of location-aware devices, such as Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers and smart phones, has provided new challenges and opportunities for policy makers to analyze, model, and predict human mobility patterns. However, previous studies on Bluetooth technologies have mainly focused on applying Bluetooth data to analyzing traffic and optimizing transportation networks or deploying new Bluetooth devices in civil engineering. The use of such datasets in understanding urban dynamics and real-time land use patterns is rather limited. This study develops an extendable workflow to explore urban dynamics from Bluetooth data based on a case study in Austin, Texas. We identified similar mobility patterns in different areas of Austin during various study periods, including the Memorial Day long weekend in 2016 and a national musical festival (South by Southwest). Our main goal is to prove the efficacy of this specific workflow and methodology to understand urban dynamics based on real-time Bluetooth data. The hypothesis is that Bluetooth data is sensitive to the daily patterns of human interactions and movements on the individual level, therefore it can capture detailed dynamic patterns. The proposed research also validates new concepts such as “human sensing” and “social sensing” in the field of geography and spatial sciences, which introduces new opportunities to monitor the human aspects of social life.
Irrevocable: A Philosophy of Mortality

Irrevocable: A Philosophy of Mortality is a book that draws upon a vast and diverse set of locations, cultures, and themes in order to reflect upon what of existence and experience escapes ordinary...