cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Receiver designs for Alamouti coded OFDM systems in fast fading channels

In this paper, receiver designs for orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) systems that exploit the Alamouti transmit diversity technique are addressed. In Alamouti space-time coded OFDM systems, the simple Alamouti decoding at the receiver relies on the assumption that the channels do not change over an Alamouti codeword period (two consecutive OFDM symbol periods). Unfortunately, when the channel is fast fading, the assumption is not met, resulting in severe performance degradation. In this paper, a sequential decision feedback sequence estimation (SDFSE) scheme with an adaptive threshold (AT), a traditionally single-carrier equalization technique, is used to mitigate the performance degradation. A new method to set the threshold value is proposed. For small signal constellations like BPSK and QPSK, the SDFSE with an AT requires much lower complexity than a previous minimum mean square error approach at the cost of a small performance degradation. Furthermore, we show that the performance difference becomes smaller when channel estimation error is included. An adaptive effort sequence estimation (AESE) scheme is also proposed to furthur reduce the average complexity of the SDFSE scheme with an AT. The AESE scheme is based on the observation that a high Doppler frequency does not necessarily mean significant instantaneous channel variation. Simulations show the efficacy of the proposed SDFSE with an AT and the AESE.
Irreducible Representations of the 4-Dimensional Sklyanin Algebra at Points of Infinite Order

Abstract In 1982 Sklyanin (Funct. Anal. Appl.16 (1982), 27-34) defined a family of graded algebras A(E, τ), depending on an elliptic curve E and a point τ ∈ E which is not 4-torsion. Basic properties of these algebras were established in Smith and Stafford (Compositio Math.83 (1992), 259-289) and a study of their representation theory was begun in Levasseur and Smith (Bull. Soc. Math. France121 (1993), 35-90). The present paper classifies the finite dimensional simple A-modules when τ is a point of infinite order. Sklyanin (Funct. Anal. Appl.17 (1983), 273-284) defines for each k ∈ N a representation of A in a certain k-dimensional subspace of theta functions of order 2(k − 1). We prove that these are irreducible representations, and that any other simple module is obtained by twisting one of these by an automorphism of A. The automorphism group of A is explicitly computed. The method of proof relies on results in Levasseur and Smith. In particular, it is proved that every finite dimensional simple module is a quotient of a line module. An important part of the analysis is a determination of the 1-critical A-modules, and the fact that such a module is (equivalent to) a quotient of a line module by a shifted line module.
Laparoscopic unroofing of a renal cyst via a mesocolonic window: a different approach.

ABSTRACT We report a case of an elective laparoscopic transperitoneal removal of a large renal cyst by dividing the colonic mesentery without mobilizing the colon to gain access to the kidney. This...
Identification of the Serotonin-Synthesizing Endocrine Cells in the Rat Stomach by Electron Microscopic Radioautography and Amine Fluorescence

At least five morphological types of endocrine cells can be identified by electron microscopy in the rat stomach, most of which can decarboxylate 5-hydroxytryptophan to serotonin. To identify which o f these cells can synthesize 5-hydroxytryptamine from l-tryptophan, the physiological precursor of 5-hydroxytryptamine biosynthesis, pieces of rat stomach were incubated in organ culture with l-[ 3 H]tryptophan, with and without inhibitors, and were processed for light microscopic and electron microscopic radioautography. l-[ 3 H]tryptophan labeled all EC cells heavily, but labeled other endocrine cells-ECL, A-like, G, and D-only lightly. The labeling of EC cells was markedly reduced when 5-hydroxytryptamine synthesis was inhibited by either p-chlorophenylalanine or carbidopa, but was not appreciably reduced when protein synthesis was inhibited with cycloheximide. The labeling of Alike, G, and D cells by l-[ 3 H]tryptophan was similar to that produced by l-[ 3 H]leucine and was almost abolished by cycloheximide. The labeling of ECL cells by l-[ 3 H]tryptophan was shown by grain counts to be greater than the labeling of A-like and parietal cells, to persist after incubations with cycloheximide, but to be inhibited by p-chlorophenylalanine or carbidopa. Amine-fluorescence studies also indicated that ECL cells could synthesize some 5-hydroxytryptamine, and biochemical studies showed that the oxyntic mucosa could synthesize 5-hydroxytryptamine. Incubations of mucosa with 5-[ 3 H]hydroxytryptamine usually produced little or no labeling of endocrine cells. Thus, this study demonstrates that all EC cells can readily synthesize 5-hydroxytryptamine from tryptophan and therefore, as previously suggested from topographical and cytochemical studies, probably represent the argentaffin cells of light microscopy. This study also suggests that ECL cells can also synthesize and store some 5-hydroxytryptamine, but presumably not enough normally to be detected by conventional argentaffin, chromaffin, or amine-fluorescent techniques, which usually demonstrate few reactive cells in oxyntic glands, were ECL cells abound.
Race-of-interviewer effects and survey questions about police violence

ABSTRACTThis research uses binary logistic regression to test for a connection between the race of interviewer and race of respondent on five questions in the General Social Survey about the use of physical force by the police. Results indicate two instances of race-of-interviewer effect: (1) black respondents were more likely to voice disapproval about whether the police can strike a citizen trying to escape when speaking to a black interviewer, and (2) white respondents were less likely to voice approval of police striking an adult male citizen in the presence of a black interviewer. Secondary findings indicate that education is consistently significant regardless of race of respondent and the survey question, while social class, sex, age, and region are significant in only limited scenarios.
Notes on the Psychology of Frogs and Toads

(1945). Notes on the Psychology of Frogs and Toads. The Journal of General Psychology: Vol. 32, No. 1, pp. 27-37.
Quanta Image Sensor (QIS): Early Research Progress

Early research progress in the realization of the Quanta Image Sensor is reported. Simulation of binary data acquisition and image formation was performed. Initial analysis and simulation of a readout signal chain has been performed and bounds on power dissipation established. Photodetector device concepts have been explored using TCAD.
IR studies of carbons—I: IR photothermal beam deflection spectroscopy

Abstract IR spectroscopic measurements of carbons are briefly reviewed. The new technique of IR photothermal beam deflection Fourier transform spectroscopy (IR-PDS) is outlined and the applications of IR-PDS to carbon materials is described. IR-PDS can be used to examine carbons routinely under the rigorously-controlled conditions required for surface studies.
The management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting

This paper reviews one of the major side-effects of chemotherapy, emesis. Included are patient and treatment factors that can affect the control of nausea and vomiting as well as a summary of the management of chemotherapy-induced emesis.
Differential Expression of Inflammatory Cytokines and Stress Genes in Male and Female Mice in Response to a Lipopolysaccharide Challenge.

Background Sex plays a key role in an individual’s immune response against pathogenic challenges such that females fare better when infected with certain pathogens. It is thought that sex hormones impact gene expression in immune cells and lead to sexually dimorphic responses to pathogens. We predicted that, in the presence of E. coli gram-negative lipopolysaccharide (LPS), there would be a sexually dimorphic response in proinflammatory cytokine production and acute phase stress gene expression and that these responses might vary among different mouse strains and times in a pattern opposite to that of body temperature associated with LPS-induced shock.
Research and Application of Megawatt Scale Lithium-ion Battery Energy Storage Station and Key Technology

Large-capacity battery energy storage technology is an all-new means of power system regulation capable of working in various scenarios of power grid.This paper is concerned with the megawatt scale peak load shifting Li-ion battery energy storage station in Shenzhen,which has been in operation since January 23,2011.The first phase of this project is 4 MW/ 16MW.h,the primary function of which is peak load shift while the auxiliary functions are frequency regulation,voltage regulation,back-up power source,black start,etc.Different technical routes are arranged in the field test for comparative research on the battery energy storage system.It is shown by demonstrative engineering operation that the energy storage station is capable of realizing multiple grid functions on the grid side such as peak clipping and valley filling,frequency and voltage regulation,and island operation.
The nebbish in popular culture or, how the underdog can win

ABSTRACTThis essay uses an exploration of the history of the nebbish, one of Yiddish literature’s most enduring comic stock characters, to discuss how and why this stereotype has evolved, and even been reclaimed, in contemporary popular culture. The nebbish is an interesting case study because it began as a negative, often anti-Semitic stereotype and evolved into an Everyman character with whom the audience can, and even wants to, identify. Furthermore, the contemporary nebbish is complicated by two shifts in the depiction of the character. First, nebbishness has moved from being an explicitly Jewish characteristic to a general attribute that anyone can possess. Second, all the Yiddish stock types started out as male characters, but most of them have been able to encompass women in their contemporary manifestations. The nebbish, however, has remained almost exclusively male. Women who are treated in a nebbish-like way become tragic figures, not comic relief. This essay briefly investigates some examples o...
Managing uncertainty in soil carbon feedbacks to climate change

Climate change may accelerate decomposition of soil carbon leading to a reinforcing cycle of further warming and soil carbon loss. This Review considers the uncertainties and modelling challenges involved in projecting soil responses to warming.
Design and Implementation of an Integrated Course to Teach Immunology and Infectious Disease to First Year Medical Students

The preclinical curriculum of the Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine was designed to provide students with a strong basic science foundation to support clinical reasoning and decision making. Courses were collaboratively developed by teams of basic science and clinical faculty to maximize integration across disciplines and across time in order to support synthesis and learning in context. Here we describe the design and implementation of Foundations of Immunology and Infectious Disease, a five-week course for first year medical students that integrates immunology, microbiology, and core concepts of infectious disease. Within this framework, relevant aspects of pharmacology, anatomy, histology, pathology, genetics, and medical ethics are embedded to promote learner synthesis, application, and retention of material.
The Paston Family in the Fifteenth Century

The Pastons of Paston, Norfolk, are famous for the collection of letters and papers which bear their name. In particular 'the Paston Letters' have been well known since the time of Horace Walpole, although until now they have never been used systematically by historians of fifteenth-century England: they are both immensely attractive to read and fiendishly difficult to use as source material from which to write history. This volume describes, in lively and original style, the beginnings of the family's gentility and sets out some of the major themes of their history between 1400 and 1500. Many of the themes are common to all gentry families of the later Middle Ages, a period critical in the formation of the English polity. It might also be said that the Pastons epitomize a class which since the later Middle Ages has dominated the English state, English society and English culture.
Correlation Between Hip Arthroscopy Outcomes and Preoperative Anesthetic Hip Joint Injections, MR Arthrogram Imaging Findings, and Patient Demographic Characteristics

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the preoperative response to intraarticular hip anesthetic injection correlates with the outcome of hip arthroscopy. A secondary aim is to determine whether the outcome of arthroscopy correlates with intraarticular pathologic findings or patient demographic characteristics. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Ninety-three patients who underwent MR arthrography (MRA), preoperative injections of anesthetic into the hip joint (with pain scores documented), and subsequent hip arthroscopy (with a modified Harris Hip Score [mHHS] determined at 1 year after arthroscopy) were included in the study. MRA images and surgery reports were retrospectively reviewed to identify information about labral tear type and size and cartilage damage grade. The correlation between the response to hip anesthetic injection (defined as poor [0–30% improvement], moderate [31–60% improvement], or good [61–100% improvement]) and the surgical outcome (poor, fair, or good, as determined on ...
Lateral p-i-n photodetectors with 18 GHz bandwidth at 1.3 mu m wavelength and small bias voltages

Simultaneous n-type and p-type diffusion, compositional mixing, and formation of ohmic contacts have been used in the fabrication of lateral p-i-n photodetectors for short (0.85 mu m) and long (1.3 mu m and 1.5 mu m) wavelengths. Zinc-doped tungsten and MoGe/sub 2/ are used for the p-type and n-type contacts, doping, and compositional mixing using rapid thermal processing at approximately=750 degrees C. With structures utilizing GaAs and Ga/sub 0.47/In/sub 0.53/As active regions, 3 dB bandwidths exceeding 7.5 GHz and 18.0 GHz, respectively, have been achieved at bias voltages of approximately=5 V. The corresponding dark currents are sub-100 pA and sub-10 nA and the devices exhibit a large dynamic range, near-ideal responsivity, and a high sensitivity. The performance, ease of fabrication, and process compatibility make these devices suitable for integration in digital circuits using FET. >
Effect of Biochemical and Physiological Response to Salt Stress in Camelina sativa

ABSTRACTCamelina sativa is a promising low-input, high yielding biodiesel crop that can be suitable to grow on marginal lands and is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. The objective of the study was to compare the rate of growth in different varieties of C. sativa in response to salt stress. Three biological replicates were collected from three varieties of C. sativa grown in vitro in a controlled growth room. The Blaine Creek, Cheyenne and Suneson varieties of C. sativa were analyzed for their physiological and biochemical response to salt stress using the following criteria: germination rates, measurement of length, dry weights, fresh weights, and stomatal size. The biochemical measurements focused on proline, chlorophyll, and flow cytometry analysis. Blaine Creek’s growth during salt stress was overall the most affected, while Suneson and Cheyenne generated higher amounts of biomass, thus indicating that C. sativa can be grown on saline soils.
Recreational Sport Participant Attitudes Toward Lesbians and Gay Men: An Exploratory Study of Participation, Religion, Socioeconomic Status, and Sexual Identity

This exploratory study investigated attitudes toward gay men and lesbians among the general student population of a midsized university, paying special attention to differences in demographic measures and attitudes across campus recreational sport participants and nonparticipants. Specifically, the study sought to investigate differences in attitudes toward gay men and lesbians among the following groups: campus recreational sporting participants/nonparticipants, differing religious affiliations, socioeconomic status classifications, and participant self-identified sexual orientation. This study used a modified version of the Attitudes Toward Lesbians and Gay Men scale administered in person to acquire attitudinal scores and demographics of respondents. Multivariate analysis of variance statistical testing procedures were used, revealing significant differences in attitudes of campus recreational sport participants based on religion, and sexual orientation. Overall, participants who identified as Evangeli...
Warm-hot gas in X-ray bright galaxy clusters and the H i-deficient circumgalactic medium in dense environments

We analyze the intracluster medium (ICM) and circumgalactic medium (CGM) in 7 X-ray detected galaxy clusters using spectra of background QSOs (HST-COS/STIS), optical spectroscopy of the cluster galaxies (MMT/Hectospec and SDSS), and X-ray imaging/spectroscopy (XMM-Newton and Chandra). First, we report a very low covering fraction of H I absorption in the CGM of these cluster galaxies, f_c = 25% +25%/-15%, to stringent detection limits (log N(H I) 10^7 K X-ray emitting phase. Residing at high relative velocities, these features may trace pre-shocked material outside the cluster. Comparing gaseous galaxy halos from the low-density 'field' to galaxy groups and high-density clusters, we find that the CGM is progressively depleted of H I with increasing environmental density, and the CGM is most severely transformed in galaxy clusters. This CGM transformation may play a key role in environmental galaxy quenching.
DSP methods for correcting dispersion and pulse width effects during pulsed wire measurements

Abstract Measuring a magnetic field by applying electric current to a wire in a magnetic field for a short duration and recording the resulting travelling wave is referred to as the pulsed wire method. This technique is beneficial when other methods for acquiring magnetic field data are not feasible, e.g. small aperture limit of a Hall probe to measure an insertion device, or it can be used as a complement to other techniques. Data collected during pulsed wire measurements require corrections due to dispersion of the travelling wave and averaging effects of the current pulse duration. A flexible method for correcting dispersion has been developed using all pass digital filtering techniques and deconvolution is used to correct for pulse width averaging. Implementing the correction method is described along with the results of measuring a reference magnet and a 2.4-meter long undulator.
Identification of Conserved Amino Acid Substitutions During Serial Infection of Pregnant Cattle and Sheep With Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is an economically important pathogen of cattle that can also infect a wide range of domestic and wild species including sheep, goats, deer, camelids, and pigs. BVDV isolates are genetically highly diverse and previous work demonstrated that many substitutions were introduced in the viral genome during acute infections in cattle. In contrast, only limited information exists regarding changes occurring during BVDV infections in species other than cattle. The purpose of this study was to determine the changes introduced in the open reading frame (ORF) of the BVDV genome during serial infection of pregnant cattle and sheep with an isolate of bovine origin. Serial experimental inoculations were performed in six pregnant heifers and six pregnant ewes using BVDV-1b isolate AU526 in the first heifer and ewe, and serum from the preceding acutely infected dam thereafter. Complete ORF sequences were determined for 23 BVDV-1b isolates including AU526, one isolate from each pregnant dam, and one isolate from each BVDV-positive offspring born to these dams. Sequence comparison revealed that greater numbers of substitutions occurred during serial infection of pregnant sheep than of pregnant cattle. Furthermore, multiple host-specific amino acid changes were gradually introduced and conserved. These changes were more abundant in ovine isolates and occurred primarily in the E2 coding region. These results suggest that BVDV infections in heterologous species may serve as a significant source of viral genetic diversity and may be associated with adaptive changes.
Silencing the expression of CTRP5/C1QTNF5 and ELOVL4 genes by small interfering RNA.

Two monogenic macular degenerations, the stargardt-like macular degeneration (STGD3) and the late-onset retinal dystrophy (L-ORD), are caused due to mutations in the genes elongation of very long chain fatty acid-4 (ELOVL4) and C1Q tumor necrosis factor-related protein-5 (CTRP5/C1QTNF5) genes, respectively. It has been shown that disease-causing mutations alter the trafficking of these proteins and exert dominant-negative effect. Selective elimination of these mutant proteins may facilitate restoring the normal function of retinal tissue. In this study, we describe characterization of small interfering RNA (siRNA) probes that selectively and effectively knock down the expression of the wild-type and mutant ELOVL4 and the wild-type CTRP5 genes in Cos-7 cells. These probes will be valuable in studying the function of wild-type ELOVL4 and CTRP5 genes, affect of mutant proteins and the potential use of gene silencing in treating STGD3 and L-ORD.
High-Dose Methotrexate Treatment in a Breastfeeding Mother with Placenta Accreta: A Case Report.

Abstract Background: Morbidly placenta accreta as a cause of postpartum morbidity is increasing in incidence. One conservative option is use of methotrexate as an adjuvant therapy for the managemen...
The Role of Specific Antibodies of Different Immunoglobulin Classes in the Rapid Diagnosis of Systemic Mycotic Infections

Antibodies represent a major effector mechanism of the immunologic response. Many function to opsonize the tissue-form cells of pathogenic fungi for phagocytosis. IgA, IgE, IgG, and IgM class antibodies are known to react with fungal antigens. The most frequently detected specific antibodies are of the IgG class. These antibodies have both diagnostic and prognostic value. IgM-specific antibodies playa more restricted diagnostic role. They are particularly useful for the early detection of candidiasis, coccidioidomycosis, and histoplasmosis. Circulatory IgG and IgM antibodies are elicited by specific fungal antigens in individuals with such symptomatic systemic fungal infections as aspergillosis, blastomycosis, candidiasis, coccidioidomycosis, cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, and paracoccidioidomycosis. These antibodies are detected by a variety of old and new serologic tests. They do not appear to playa major protective role in host immunity, in contrast to the T-lymphocytes, which are of paramount importance in protecting the host against systemic mycotic infections. I will appraise the value of these antibodies, describe their sequence of occurrence during the course of infection, and where possible, characterize the immunoglobulin classes associated with them.
Does Power Corrupt? An Empirical Study of Power, Accountability, and Performance Triangle in Public Administration

Foundational work in public administration has considered the relationship between administrative power, accountability, and performance in public organizations. Even with the vast literature addre...
An exploratory factor analysis of the procedural coping questionnaire

The current study seeks to examine the factor structure of the Procedural Coping Questionnaire (PCQ) in a sample of healthy children. In addition, the relation between the PCQ, a measure of medical...
Ethics in sport

Over the past decade, there has been a comparatively high value placed on the philosophy of sport, with an explosion of articles focusing in particular on the ethics of sport. It is consequently no...
cPLA2 activation contributes to lysosomal defects leading to impairment of autophagy after spinal cord injury.

The autophagy–lysosomal pathway plays an essential role in cellular homeostasis as well as a protective function against a variety of diseases including neurodegeneration. Conversely, inhibition of autophagy, for example due to lysosomal dysfunction, can lead to pathological accumulation of dysfunctional autophagosomes and consequent neuronal cell death. We previously reported that autophagy is inhibited and contributes to neuronal cell death following spinal cord injury (SCI). In this study, we examined lysosomal function and explored the mechanism of lysosomal defects following SCI. Our data demonstrated that expression levels and processing of the lysosomal enzyme cathepsin D (CTSD) are decreased by 2 h after SCI. Enzymatic activity levels of CTSD and another lysosomal enzyme, N-acetyl-alpha-glucosaminidase, are both decreased 24 h post injury, indicating general lysosomal dysfunction. Subcellular fractionation and immunohistochemistry analysis demonstrated that this dysfunction is due to lysosomal membrane permeabilization and leakage of lysosomal contents into the cytosol. To directly assess extent and mechanisms of damage to lysosomal membranes, we performed mass spectrometry-based lipidomic analysis of lysosomes purified from SCI and control spinal cord. At 2 h post injury our data demonstrated increase in several classes of lysosophospholipids, the products of phospholipases (PLAs), as well as accumulation of PLA activators, ceramides. Phospholipase cPLA2, the main PLA species expressed in the CNS, has been previously implicated in mediation of secondary injury after SCI, but the mechanisms of its involvement remain unclear. Our data demonstrate that cPLA2 is activated within 2 h after SCI preferentially in the lysosomal fraction, where it colocalizes with lysosomal-associated membrane protein 2 in neurons. Inhibition of cPLA2 in vivo decreased lysosomal damage, restored autophagy flux, and reduced neuronal cell damage. Taken together our data implicate lysosomal defects in pathophysiology of SCI and for the first time indicate that cPLA2 activation leads to lysosomal damage causing neuronal autophagosome accumulation associated with neuronal cell death.
Helping athletes cope with minority stress in sport

AbstractAlthough everyone experiences stress, researchers have repeatedly found that traditionally marginalized community members experience stressors that members from privileged groups do not exp...
Impacts of deletion and ichthyosis prematurity syndrome-associated mutations in fatty acid transport protein 4 on the function of RPE65

The retinal pigment epithelium-specific 65 kDa (RPE65) isomerase plays a pivotal role in photoreceptor survival and function. RPE65-catalyzed synthesis of 11-cis-retinol from all-trans-retinyl esters in the visual cycle is negatively regulated, through a heretofore unknown mechanism, by the fatty acid transport protein FATP4, mutations in which are associated with ichthyosis prematurity syndrome (IPS). Here, we analyzed the interaction between deletion mutants of FATP4 and RPE65 and the impacts of IPS-associated FATP4 mutations on RPE65 expression, 11-cis-retinol synthesis, and all-trans-retinyl ester synthesis. Our results suggest that the interaction between FATP4 and RPE65 contributes to the inhibition of RPE65 function and that IPS-associated nonsense and missense mutations in FATP4 have different effects on the visual cycle.
Monitoring vegetative treatment system performance for open beef feedlot runoff control

iii 1: Introduction 1 2: Literature Review and Objectives 3 2.1 Literature Review 3 2.2 Objectives 8 3: Methods and Materials 10 3.1 Site Descriptions 10 3.2 IDNR VTS Design and Siting Criteria 17 3.3 NPDES Permit Requirements 18 3.4 Monitoring System Description 24 3.5 Data Collection 27 3.6 Data Analysis 31 3.7 The VTS and ELG Models 34 3.7.1 The VTS Models 34 3.7.2 The ELG Model 36 4: Results and Discussion 38 4.1 Performance Evaluation of the Vegetative Treatment Systems 38 4.1.1 Performance Evaluation of the Central IA 1 VTS 43 4.1.2 Performance Evaluation of the Central IA 2 VTS 55 4.1.3 Performance Evaluation of the Northwest IA 1 VTS 69 4.1.4 Performance Evaluation of the Northwest IA 2 VTS 79 4.2 Comparison of Measured and Modeled VTS Performance 89 4.3 System Cost 97 5: Summary and Conclusions 99 References 111 Appendix 115 Acknowledgements 121
Endotracheal Tube Replacement in a Neonate Using an Airway Exchange Catheter.

Traditional tracheal intubation is carried out using direct laryngoscopy. Devices to facilitate tracheal intubation have been developed, the first of which was the gum elastic bougie by McIntosh. (1) Since then, tracheal introducer devices such as intubating stylets, bougies, and airway exchange catheters (AECs) have been developed to facilitate tracheal intubation under varying conditions, particularly in patients with a difficult airway and during emergent airway management. (2) Although stylets and bougies are more rigid and solid, AECs have a hollow lumen (Fig 1A) and a side opening at the distal tip. Figure 1. A. An airway exchange catheter (AEC) is a hollow tube. B. Rapi-fit adapter (left) and adapter for jet ventilation (right). C. Rapi-fit adapter attached to AEC. D. Distal tip showing side port opening. Endotracheal tubes (ETTs) sometimes require replacement in patients in intensive care units or during surgery. In children and adults, ETTs can be replaced without resorting to direct laryngoscopy using flexible bronchoscopes, over bougies or using flexible AECs. AECs are part of the armamentarium for the management of a difficult airway in children and adults. They are recommended by the Difficult Airway Society to facilitate intubations as well as to decrease extubation failures. (3) For the latter, AECs are left in situ as a tracheal conduit to allow airway rescue, as well as a means to provide oxygenation. (3)(4)(5) AECs have been used in intensive care units, in trauma, and during surgeries to either facilitate intubations or replace ETTs. They can be used as a guidewire for replacing an ETT or mounted over a flexible bronchoscope to facilitate tracheal intubation under direct visualization. Other clinicians have used AECs for exchanging a double lumen ETT for a single lumen ETT and as educational tools to guide tracheal intubation via supraglottic airway devices such as …
THE COMPOSITION OF INTERSTELLAR GRAINS TOWARD ζ OPHIUCHI: CONSTRAINING THE ELEMENTAL BUDGET NEAR THE DIFFUSE-DENSE CLOUD TRANSITION

We investigate the composition of interstellar grains along the line of sight toward ? Ophiuchi, a well-studied environment near the diffuse-dense cloud transition. A spectral decomposition analysis of the solid-state absorbers is performed using archival spectroscopic observations from the Spitzer Space Telescope and Infrared Space Observatory. We find strong evidence for the presence of sub-micron-sized amorphous silicate grains, principally comprised of olivine-like composition, with no convincing evidence of H2O ice mantles. However, tentative evidence for thick H2O ice mantles on large (a 2.8 ?m) grains is presented. Solid-state abundances of elemental Mg, Si, Fe, and O are inferred from our analysis and compared to standard reference abundances. We find that nearly all of the Mg and Si atoms along the line of sight reside in amorphous silicate grains, while a substantial fraction of the elemental Fe resides in compounds other than silicates. Moreover, we find that the total abundance of elemental O is largely inconsistent with the adopted reference abundances, indicating that as much as ~156 ppm of interstellar O is missing along the line of sight. After taking into account additional limits on the abundance of elemental O in other O-bearing solids, we conclude that any missing reservoir of elemental O must reside on large grains that are nearly opaque to infrared radiation.
Educational intervention to improve palliative care knowledge among informal caregivers of cognitively impaired older adults.

Objective Lack of palliative care knowledge among caregivers may pose an access barrier for cognitively impaired older adults, who may benefit from the specialized care. Therefore, this study aims to examine the effectiveness of an educational intervention in improving palliative care knowledge among informal caregivers of cognitively impaired older adults. Method Using a one-group, pre- and post-test intervention design, this study implemented an individual, face-to-face educational intervention with an informational brochure for 43 informal caregivers of chronically or seriously ill older adults (50+) with cognitive impairment, recruited from communities in West Alabama. Their level of knowledge about palliative care was assessed by the Palliative Care Knowledge Scale (PaCKS). The pre- and post-test scores were compared by the Wilcoxon signed-ranks test, and the racial subgroup (Whites vs. Blacks) comparison was made by the Mann–Whitney U test. Results There was a statistically significant difference between the pre- and post-test scores (z = 5.38, p 0.05), suggesting that the amount of increased PaCKS scores were significantly greater for Blacks (Mdn = 9.50) than for Whites (Mdn = 4.00, U = 130.50, p < 0.05). Significance of results This study demonstrated that a one-time educational intervention can improve the level of palliative care knowledge among informal caregivers of chronically or seriously ill older adults with cognitive impairment, particularly among Black caregivers. Therefore, further educational efforts can be made to promote palliative care knowledge and reduce racial disparities in palliative care knowledge and its use.
Lacunes, Microinfarcts, and Vascular Dysfunction in Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy

Objective To analyze the relationship of lacunes with cortical cerebral microinfarcts (CMIs), to assess their association with vascular dysfunction, and to evaluate their effect on the risk of incident intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). Methods The count and topography of lacunes (deep/lobar), CMIs, and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volume were retrospectively analyzed in a prospectively enrolled CAA cohort that underwent high-resolution research MRIs. The relationship of lacunes with CMIs and other CAA-related markers including time to peak (TTP) of blood oxygen level–dependent signal, an established measure of vascular dysfunction, was evaluated in multivariate models. Adjusted Cox regression models were used to investigate the relationship between lacunes and incident ICH. Results The cohort consisted of 122 patients with probable CAA without dementia (mean age, 69.4 ± 7.6 years). Lacunes were present in 31 patients (25.4%); all but one were located in lobar regions. Cortical CMIs were more common in patients with lacunes compared to patients without lacunes (51.6% vs 20.9%, p = 0.002). TTP was not associated with either lacunes or CMIs (both p > 0.2) but longer TTP response independently correlated with higher WMH volume (p = 0.001). Lacunes were associated with increased ICH risk in univariate and multivariate Cox regression models (p = 0.048 and p = 0.026, respectively). Conclusions Our findings show a high prevalence of lobar lacunes, frequently coexisting with CMIs in CAA, suggesting that these 2 lesion types may be part of a common spectrum of CAA-related infarcts. Lacunes were not related to vascular dysfunction but predicted incident ICH, favoring severe focal vessel involvement rather than global ischemia as their mechanism.
Gender Differences in Milestone Ratings and Medical Knowledge Examination Scores Among Internal Medicine Residents.

PURPOSE To examine whether there are group differences in milestone ratings submitted by program directors working with clinical competency committees (CCCs) based on gender for internal medicine (IM) residents and whether women and men rated similarly on milestones perform comparably on subsequent in-training and certification examinations. METHOD This national retrospective study examined end-of-year medical knowledge (MK) and patient care (PC) milestone ratings and IM In-Training Examination (IM-ITE) and IM Certification Examination (IM-CE) scores for 2 cohorts (2014-2017, 2015-2018) of U.S. IM residents at ACGME-accredited programs. It included 20,098/21,440 (94%) residents, with 9,424 women (47%) and 10,674 men (53%). Descriptive statistics and differential prediction techniques using hierarchical linear models were performed. RESULTS For MK milestone ratings in PGY-1, men and women showed no statistical difference at a significance level of .01 (P = .02). In PGY-2 and PGY-3, men received statistically higher average MK ratings than women (P = .002 and P < .001, respectively). In contrast, men and women received equivalent average PC ratings in each PGY (P = .47, P = .72, and P = .80, for PGY-1, PGY-2, and PGY-3, respectively). Men slightly outperformed women with similar MK or PC ratings in PGY-1 and PGY-2 on the IM-ITE by about 1.7 and 1.5 percentage points, respectively, after adjusting for covariates. For PGY-3 ratings, women and men with similar milestone ratings performed equivalently on the IM-CE. CONCLUSIONS Milestone ratings were largely similar for women and men. Generally, women and men with similar MK or PC milestone ratings performed similarly on future examinations. Although there were small differences favoring men on earlier examinations, these differences disappeared by the final training year. It is questionable whether these small differences are educationally or clinically meaningful. The findings suggest fair, unbiased milestone ratings generated by program directors and CCCs assessing residents.
Characterization of biomass-degrading enzymes using neutron diffraction and scattering

Efficient enzymatic degradation of cellulose is essential to the low-cost production of cellulosic ethanol and high-value-added chemicals. Fungal lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs), which ...
Industry Self-Regulation and Adverse Selection: A Comparison Across Four Trade Association Programs

In an attempt to avoid costly regulation and liability as a result of externalities, a number of trade associations have promoted industry self-regulation -- the voluntary association of firms to control their collective behavior. However, previous studies have found that without explicit sanctions for malfeasance, such self-regulatory programs are likely to attract more polluting firms. In this paper, we examine four environmental self-regulatory programs in the chemical, textile, and pulp and paper industries. Using a sample of over 4000 firms within these industries, we find evidence that, in at least one program, more polluting firms tended to join, while in another, cleaner firms were more likely to join. We propose that differences in the structure of the programs drive the appearance of this form of adverse selection. In particular, we speculate that only when self-regulatory programs have explicit sanctions for malfeasance may they avoid adverse selection problems.
Ivermectin: an assessment of its pharmacology, microbiology and safety.

Ivermectin (IVM) is the drug of choice for a variety of parasitic diseases due to its broad spectrum of activity and wide margin of safety. More than 18 million people are treated with IVM each year. Delivery modes include oral, topical, and s.c. injections. Its anti-parasitic activity depends upon species and developmental stages. Although IVM is believed to act mainly through interactions with invertebrate glutamate-gated chloride (GluCl) channel, other targets such as spleen cells and aminobutyric acid receptors may play important roles in the anti-parasitic activity of IVM. As several organisms have evolved resistance to IVM through mutations in p-glycoproteins and/or the GluCl channel itself, research continues on improvement of IVM either through mode of administration or the feasibility of alternative macrolides. An understanding of IVM's pharmacology is essential before improved therapeutics are created.
The perceived characteristics of irresolvable, resolvable and resolved intimate conflicts: Is there evidence of intractability?

Purpose – The paper seeks to investigate the characteristics of irresolvable interpersonal conflicts by comparing irresolvable conflicts to resolvable and resolved conflicts on each of Coleman's common social psychological factors associated with intractable conflicts.Design/methodology/approach – Undergraduate students were randomly assigned to complete questionnaires about an irresolvable conflict, a resolvable conflict, or a resolved conflict. Participants reported on conflicts in romantic or parental relationships.Findings – Three of Coleman's factors distinguished irresolvable interpersonal conflicts: length of conflict; hopelessness; and resistance to resolution. Three factors did not: issue centrality; conflict pervasiveness; and motivation to harm.Research limitations/implications – The participants in this study were college undergraduates. Because we asked participants to report on conflicts in romantic or parental relationships, this study does not include irresolvable conflicts that might occu...
Property Rights and Development

There is a strong consensus that secure property rights are critical for economic development, but tricky issues about the direction of causation and measurement have made it difficult to demonstrate this relationship empirically. In recent years, scholars have made progress on these issues. In the future, scholars can profitably turn their attention to four issues: (i) why privatization is so unpopular, (ii) how politics shapes property rights, (iii) the distributional consequences of property rights, and (iv) the impact of violence on property rights and economic development. Keywords: property rights; institutions; violence; transaction costs
The Entropy Condition of GodunovSPH

A new version of GodunovSPH (hereafter GSPH) has been implemented and tested. The numerical volume and the continuity equation have been emphasized to make ensure the entropy condition. A test has been performed to check the new GSPH.
Prostaglandin E1: Administration implications for the care provider in the treatment of neonatal ductal dependent congenital heart disease

Abstract According to McCance et al. (2010), "congenital heart disease is the leading cause of death, excluding prematurity, during the first year of life. It is estimated that as many as 35% of deaths caused by congenital heart defect occur in the first year of life" (p. 1213). Prostaglandin E1 has been successfully used as the primary temporary treatment for ductal-dependent heart defects in the neonate since the mid 1970's. This drug takes effect rapidly and has a short half life so requires continuous intravenous infusion for successful treatment. Although Prostaglandin E1 does not generally interact with other drugs, it does enhance the effects of some drugs which can in turn increase the risk for adverse side effects in the neonatal population. Prostaglandin E1 does have some significant adverse effects that could be potentially dangerous for the neonate if not treated. It is imperative that the caregivers who are managing these infants are well educated on Prostaglandin E1 and particularly on its side effects. This literature review explores Prostaglandins E1, its use and effects, side effects and prescriber considerations when managing an infant who is receiving the medication. The articles and studies retrieved during this search revealed that there is a short-coming of recent research on Prostaglandin E1 administration and dosing to support what is now seen in our local tertiary NICU's. Dosing in infants whose ductus arteriosus is open and systemic circulation is not compromised are often started on PGE1 at a much lower dose of 0.0125 mcg/kg/min. These lower initial doses appear to lower the risk of adverse effects such as apnea. There currently is no literature found in this review that supports this change in PGE1 dosing suggesting that more research is needed to support evidence-based practice.
Effect of acetazolamide on normoxic and hypoxic exercise in humans at sea level

Acetazolamide (A) is a potent inhibitor of carbonic anhydrase. It has been shown to be efficacious in preventing acute mountain sickness as well as decreasing the O2 desaturation that occurs during sleep in individuals with chronic mountain sickness who live at altitude. Very little data, however, are available about its effect on exercise. We studied six healthy males in a double-blind cross-over design using acetazolamide and placebo (P) during normoxic and hypoxic (fractional inspired O2 = 0.118) progressive work exercise to exhaustion on a bicycle ergometer. A metabolic acidosis was documented in all subjects on A (P less than 0.045). Before exercise, subjects on A had 2.0 and 3.5 l/min increase in minute ventilation (VE) during normoxia (P = not significant) and hypoxia (P less than 0.005), respectively, and a 2.2% increase in arterialized O2 hemoglobin saturation (SaO2) during hypoxia. During normoxic and hypoxic exercise, VE/kpm and SaO2/kpm were significantly higher while the respiratory exchange ratio (R) was significantly lower on A. These effects were greater on hypoxia. During normoxia, maximal O2 consumption (1/min) was lower on A [3.1 +/- 0.4 (A) vs. 3.8 +/- 0.2 (P), P less than 0.025] and higher during hypoxia on A[2.6 +/- 0.7 (A) vs. 2.4 +/- 0.1 (P), P less than 0.05]. The increase in exercise VE on A may result in an increased alveolar and subsequent arterial O2 tension which may be important for exercise at altitude. Carbonic anhydrase inhibition may also affect CO2 transport in the lung, which may explain the lower R.
Hereditary elliptocytosis associated with increased hemolysis.

Three cases of hereditary elliptocytosis have been presented. The criteria for diagnosis have been (1) the presence of a high percentage of elongated cells in stained smears and wet preparations, and (2) the finding of elongated cells in other members of the family including one parent in each case. All 3 children had a marked anemia when first seen. Case 1 had an outspoken hemolytic anemia at 2 months of age. His hemoglobin is now practically normal, but he still has a slight but persistent reticulocyte increase. Cases 2 and 3 were first thought to be due to iron deficiency anemia. While iron deficiency may have been responsible for the degree of anemia that brought the cases under observation, a slight but persistent elevation in both reticulocyte count and stool urobilin concentration indicated the presence of increased hemolysis. The findings of a shortened erythrocyte life span in Case 3 supports this conclusion. A review of the literature makes it clear that hereditary elliptocytosis is a potentially hemolytic disease. However, in the great majority of the cases the elliptocytosis appears as a harmless anomaly without pathological significance. In a certain number, to which considerable attention is now being paid, there may be a hemolytic anemia sometimes of a severity sufficient to require splenectomy. Between these 2 extremes there lies an indeterminate group in which there is evidence of hemolysis if one looks for it, in which there may or may not be anemia, and in which it is not always easy to know if the patient9s symptoms are part of the disease. It is to this group that our patients belong.