cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Directional emission from dye-functionalized plasmonic DNA superlattice microcavities

Three-dimensional plasmonic superlattice microcavities, made from programmable atom equivalents comprising gold nanoparticles functionalized with DNA, are used as a testbed to study directional light emission. DNA-guided nanoparticle colloidal crystallization allows for the formation of micrometer-scale single-crystal body-centered cubic gold nanoparticle superlattices, with dye molecules coupled to the DNA strands that link the particles together, in the form of a rhombic dodecahedron. Encapsulation in silica allows one to create robust architectures with the plasmonically active particles and dye molecules fixed in space. At the micrometer scale, the anisotropic rhombic dodecahedron crystal habit couples with photonic modes to give directional light emission. At the nanoscale, the interaction between the dye dipoles and surface plasmons can be finely tuned by coupling the dye molecules to specific sites of the DNA particle-linker strands, thereby modulating dye–nanoparticle distance (three different positions are studied). The ability to control dye position with subnanometer precision allows one to systematically tune plasmon–excition interaction strength and decay lifetime, the results of which have been supported by electrodynamics calculations that span length scales from nanometers to micrometers. The unique ability to control surface plasmon/exciton interactions within such superlattice microcavities will catalyze studies involving quantum optics, plasmon laser physics, strong coupling, and nonlinear phenomena.
Chronic IVC Occlusion Predisposing to Acute Lower Extremity DVT in Children

Abstract Congenital atresia of the inferior vena cava (IVC) is a known risk factor for spontaneous lower extremity thrombosis in adults. However, little is known about the incidence of IVC occlusion and its relationship to spontaneous lower extremity thrombosis in children. We reviewed the medical records of consecutive patients with IVC occlusion and lower extremity DVT who presented to our institution between 2008 and 2015. Data were reviewed for risk factors for thrombosis, treatment, and outcomes including recurrent thrombosis, bleeding complications, and post-thrombotic syndrome. This represents the largest reported analysis of previously healthy pediatric patients with occult chronic IVC occlusion presenting with unprovoked acute lower extremity thrombosis. Ten patients aged 13 to 18 years (median age 16.5yrs, 90% male) presenting with acute lower extremity thrombosis were found to have chronic occlusion of the IVC. One patient presented with pulmonary embolism. Seven patients underwent site-directed thrombolysis, and 3 patients received anticoagulation alone. All patients had persistent IVC occlusion regardless of treatment. Two patients had recurrent thrombosis while on anticoagulation. There were no provoking factors identified that preceded the presentation of acute lower extremity thrombosis, and none had predisposing risk factors that could explain the IVC occlusion. Four patients had a negative thrombophilia work up. Five had mild thrombotic risk factors such as heterozygosity for Factor V Leiden or elevated factor VIII levels. Only one patient had a significant thrombophilic risk factor, familial mild protein C deficiency. Five patients had post thrombotic syndrome based on standardized scoring tools. All patients remain on indefinite anticoagulation. This case series suggests that chronic IVC occlusion increases the risk of unprovoked lower extremity thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in healthy children with resultant long-term complications. It also highlights the importance of imaging the IVC in young patients with unprovoked or minimally provoked iliofemoral DVT. Indefinite anticoagulation in patients presenting with unprovoked thrombosis secondary to IVC occlusion should be considered. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
PLCs: Key PD component in learning transfer for teachers of English learners

Abstract As part of a two-year long professional development program for in-service teachers leading to endorsement in English as a Second Language (ESL), this investigation examined teachers' perceptions of the role of professional learning communities on their professional development experience, particularly on their sharing and transfer of learning into their instructional practice. Results from this mixed-methods research indicated that teachers perceived their professional learning communities, especially the reflective dialogue enacted during their weekly Try It Out discussion based on peers’ strategy implementations, as the most relevant component of their professional development program to their transferring of learning into their instructional practice.
Documentation and Treatment of Intraoperative Hypotension: Electronic Anesthesia Records versus Paper Anesthesia Records

In this study, we examined anesthetic records before and after the implementation of an electronic anesthetic record documentation (AIMS) in a single surgical population. The purpose of this study was to identify any inconsistencies in anesthetic care based on handwritten documentation (paper) or AIMS. We hypothesized that the type of anesthetic record (paper or AIMS) would lead to differences in the documentation and management of hypotension. Consecutive patients who underwent esophageal surgery between 2009 and 2014 by a single surgeon were eligible for the study. Patients were grouped in to `paper' or `AIMS' based on the type of anesthetic record identified in the chart. Pertinent patient identifiers were removed and data collated after collection. Predetermined preoperative and intraoperative data variables were reviewed. Consecutive esophageal surgery patients (N = 189) between 2009 and 2014 were evaluated. 92 patients had an anesthetic record documented on paper and 97 using AIMS. The median number of unique blood pressure recordings was lower in the AIMS group (median (Q1,Q3) AIMS 30.0 (24.0, 39.0) vs. Paper 35.0 (28.5, 43.5), p < 0.01). However, the median number of hypotensive events (HTEs) was higher in the AIMS group (median (Q1,Q3) 8.0 (4.0, 18.0) vs. 4.0 (1.0, 10.5), p < 0.001), and the percentage of HTEs per blood pressure recording was higher in the AIMS group (30.4 ((Q1, Q3) (9.5, 60.9)% vs. 12.5 (2.4, 27.5)%), p < 0.01). Multivariable regression analysis identified independent predictors of HTEs. The incidence of HTEs was found to increase with AIMS (IRR = 1.88, p < 0.01). Preoperative systolic blood pressure, increased blood loss, and phenylephrine. A phenylephrine infusion was negatively associated with hypotensive events (IRR = 0.99, p = 0.03). We noted an increased incidence of HTEs associated with the institution of an AIMS. Despite this increase, no change in medical therapy for hypotension was seen. AIMS did not appear to have an effect on the management of intraoperative hypotension in this patient population.
Obstetric clinicians' experiences and educational preparation for caring for pregnant women with physical disabilities: A qualitative study.

Abstract Background Women with physical disabilities (WPD) experience major barriers to care during pregnancy. Lack of education about disability in health professionals' education is a pervasive barrier to quality care. In an effort to explore this issue, this study examined the issue from the perspective of obstetric clinicians who provide care to WPD. Objective This qualitative descriptive study explored perspectives of obstetric clinicians who provide perinatal care for WPD to inform the educational preparation of clinicians to care for women with disabilities. Method We contacted 33 obstetric clinicians who care for pregnant WPD. Thirteen obstetricians and one nurse midwife participated in semi-structured telephone interviews. Interview transcriptions were content analyzed to identify initial themes. Investigators discussed and revised the themes as additional transcripts were reviewed and new themes were identified. Results Themes identified from transcript analyses included: lack of education at any level including during postgraduate residency and fellowship on care of pregnant WPD, unplanned career pathway, educating other clinicians, and positive and negative experiences providing obstetrical care to women with physical disability. Several clinicians provided this care because of requests from other clinicians and did not begin their careers with the goal of providing obstetric care to women with physical disabilities. None had received formal education or training including during their residencies or fellowships. The clinicians described very rewarding experiences caring for WPD. Conclusions The experiences reported by this study's participants suggest the need to include disability in undergraduate and postgraduate education and training to improve obstetric care to WPD.
Combination chemoprevention of HER2/neu-induced breast cancer using a COX-2 inhibitor and an RXR-selective retinoid

The inducible prostaglandin synthase isoform cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is overexpressed in ~40% of human breast carcinomas, and in precancerous breast lesions, particularly in association with overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2/neu). Experimental breast cancer can be suppressed by pharmacological inhibition or genetic ablation of Cox-2, suggesting potential clinical utility of COX-2 inhibitors with respect to breast cancer. Importantly, several clinical trials have found reduced colorectal adenoma formation in individuals administered selective COX-2 inhibitors. However, such trials also identified increased cardiovascular risk associated with COX-2 inhibitor use. The goal of this research was to test whether improved chemopreventive efficacy could be achieved by combining submaximal doses of a selective COX-2 inhibitor and a retinoid X receptor-selective retinoid (rexinoid). The rate of HER2/neu-induced mammary tumor formation was substantially delayed by coadministration of the COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib (500 ppm in diet) and the rexinoid LGD1069 (10 mg/kg body weight; oral gavage) to MMTV/neu mice. Median time to tumor formation was increased from 304 days to >600 days (P<0.0001). The combination was substantially more effective than either drug individually. Similarly, potent suppression of aromatase activity was observed in mammary tissues from the combination cohort (44% of control; P<0.001). Regulation of aromatase expression and activity by COX-derived prostaglandins is well established. Interestingly however, single agent LGD1069 significantly reduced mammary aromatase activity (71% of control; P<0.001) without modulating eicosanoid levels. Our data demonstrate that simultaneous blockade of COX/prostaglandin signaling and retinoid X receptordependent transcription confers potent anticancer efficacy, suggesting a novel avenue for clinical evaluation.
Fibronectin Containing Extra Domain A Induces Plaque Destabilization in the Innominate Artery of Aged Apolipoprotein E–Deficient Mice

Objective— Fibronectin containing extra domain A (Fn-EDA) is an endogenous ligand of TLR4 (toll-like receptor 4) and is abundant in the extracellular matrix of advanced atherosclerotic lesions in human and mice. Irrespective of sex, deletion of Fn-EDA reduces early atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E–deficient (Apoe −/− ) mice. However, the contribution of Fn-EDA in advanced atherosclerosis remains poorly characterized. We determined the contribution of Fn-EDA in advanced atherosclerotic lesions of aged (1-year-old) Apoe −/− mice. Approach and Results— Plaque composition was determined in the innominate artery, a plaque instability site that is known to mimic several histological features of vulnerable human plaques. Female Apoe −/− , Fn-EDA −/− Apoe −/− , TLR4 −/− Apoe −/− , and Fn-EDA −/− TLR4 −/− Apoe −/− mice were fed a high-fat Western diet for 44 weeks. Fn-EDA −/− Apoe −/− mice exhibited reduced plaque size characterized by smaller necrotic cores, thick fibrous caps containing abundant vascular smooth muscle cells and collagen, reduced CD68/MMP9-positive content, less accumulation of MMP-cleaved extracellular matrix aggrecan, and decreased vascular smooth muscle cell and macrophage apoptosis ( P −/− mice). Together these findings suggest that Fn-EDA induces plaque destabilization. Deletion of TLR4 reduced histological features of plaque instability in Apoe −/− mice but did not further reduce features of plaque destabilization in Fn-EDA −/− Apoe −/− mice, suggesting that TLR4 may contribute to Fn-EDA–induced plaque destabilization. Fn-EDA potentiated TLR4-dependent MMP9 expression in bone marrow–derived macrophages, suggesting that macrophage TLR4 may contribute to Fn-EDA–mediated plaque instability. Conclusions— Fn-EDA induces histological features of plaque instability in established lesions of aged Apoe −/− mice. The abundance of Fn-EDA in advanced atherosclerotic lesions may increase the risk of plaque destabilization.
Evaluating the Sum of the Series

(1989). Evaluating the Sum of the Series . The College Mathematics Journal: Vol. 20, No. 4, pp. 329-331.
Synthesizing water quality indicators from standardized geospatial information to remedy water security challenges: A review.

Abstract Water is vital not only for food, energy and sanitation but also for ecosystem functioning, human health, socio-economic progress and poverty reduction. Water security exists when all people have physical and economical access to sufficient, safe, and clean water that meets basic needs. However, water security is threatened by growing human population, episodic environmental disasters, indiscriminate land management practices, contaminants, and escalation in geopolitical conflicts.
The Effects of a Can’t-Answer Response Option and Instructions on Stimulus Equivalence

Two interlocking conditional discriminations were established in a paper-and-pencil match-to-sample format by written rule-like instructions to 104 college students-specifically, “When A is the sample, circle 1” (not 2); “when B is the sample, circle 2” (not 1); when 1 is the sample, circle X” (not V); “when 2 is the sample, circle Y” (not X). Some subjects always found a CAN’T-ANSWER response option among the comparison stimuli in the match-to-sample format; other subjects never did. All subjects had the same discriminations established repeatedly under different instructional conditions: Baseline: no instructions beyond those establishing the format; then restrictive instructions, cautioning all subjects not to go beyond the information presented in their rule-like instructions; and finally nonrestrictive instructions, urging all subjects to look for relations implicit in their rule-like instructions. Performance of these discriminations was probed in the same format to reveal the extent to which they functioned as equivalence relations; these probes were intermixed with the ongoing performance of the instructed discriminations. The display of symmetry, transitivity, and symmetric transitivity, definitive of equivalence relations, was seen at best in about 70% of the subjects. Its emergence was greatly reduced by the presence of the frequently chosen CAN’T-ANSWER option among the comparison stimuli available to one group but not to the other group; and it was considerably reduced in both groups by the restrictive instructions to answer the probes in a rule-bound manner.
Growth of radish (Raphanus sativus) seedlings in magnetic fields

Radish seedlings were grown in asymmetric magnetic fields. The number of seeds germinated and the dry weight of the plants were the two criteria by which possible effects were examined. Two experiments were done; in the first the plants were grown for an average of 7.7 days and in the second for 14.1 days. A statistical analysis of the results failed to reveal any significant difference between control plants grown in dummy magnets and those subjected to the magnetic influence.
ROLE OF LYMPHOTOXINS IN NATURAL CYTOTOXICITY

Publisher Summary This chapter examines the role of lymphotoxins in natural cytotoxicity. Lymphotoxin are cytostatic or cytotoxic glycoproeins produced in vitro by activated lymphocytes. In a study described in the chapter, human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) were obtained from defibrinated peripheral blood by the Ficoll–Hypaque technique. The PBL were then cultured at a cell density of 2 × 10 6 cells/ml in RPMI-1640 medium supplemented with 10% FCS (RPMI-10%) at 37°C for 5 to 7 days. At the end of the 5 to 7 days of culture, the cPBL were then used in either a direct cell killing assay or restimulated with 10 μg of Con A/ml at a cell density of 2 × 10 6 cells/ml in fresh RPMI-10% for 5 h at 37°C. The effector cells generated by this method caused significant lysis of the NK-sensitive target cells K-562 and MOLT-4F and little or no significant lysis of the continuous B cell lines Jy or RPMI-1788.
A Pictorial Key to the Species of Aedes (Mucidus) (Diptera: Culicidae) in the Afrotropical Region

Six species of the subgenus Mucidus Theobald, genus Aedes Meigen, in the Afrotropical Region are treated in a pictorial key based on diagnostic morphological features of female and male adults. These are Ae. (Muc.) scatophagoides, Ae. (Muc.) sudanensis, Ae. (Muc.) mucidus, Ae. (Muc.) grahamii, Ae. (Muc.) nigerrimus and Ae. (Muc.) lucianus. Images of the diagnostic morphological structures of the adult head, legs and wings are included.
Self-Reported Pain Intensity and Depressive Symptoms Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders

Older adults with schizophrenia have some of the highest rates of both medical and psychiatric comorbidities. Despite this, little is known about comorbid pain and depressive symptoms in schizophrenia research. This study aimed to examine the associations between levels of pain intensity and depressive symptoms among community-dwelling adults aged 50 years and older with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Recruited from U.S. community mental health centers, participants reported on pain and depressive symptoms at the onset of the Helping Older People Experience Success (HOPES) study. Unadjusted and adjusted regression analyses were conducted. Higher pain intensity was associated with elevated depressive symptoms in all analyses, which is consistent with other studies in the general population. Given the widespread efforts to manage pain and related mental health complications in older adults without serious mental illnesses, it is likewise important that community-based mental health professionals monitor and address intense pain and related depressive symptoms among older adults with schizophrenia.
Abstract 3501: Entinostat enhances the efficacy of olaparib in preclinical models of ovarian cancer

Introduction: Ovarian cancer is a rare but often fatal disease and a leading cause of gynecologic cancer death, in the United States. Poly ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) are promising new drugs that are most effective in patients with tumors with altered homologous recombination (HR) DNA repair genes, particularly BRCA1/2. To expand their clinical utility, PARPi are being tested in combination with other drugs. Our group has published that histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) sensitize HR proficient BRCA wild-type ovarian cancer cells to PARPi. We have developed an investigator-initiated phase 1/2 clinical trial of the PARPi olaparib combined with the HDACi entinostat in patients with recurrent, HR proficient/BRCA wild-type ovarian cancer. Objective: To test the effects of a novel combination of olaparib and entinostat in preclinical models of BRCA wild-type ovarian cancer. Methods: HR proficient BRCA wild-type SKOV3 and ID8 ovarian cells were treated with Entinostat followed by Olaparib alone or the combination of Entinostat and Olaparib. Treated and control cells were analyzed for cell proliferation by sulforhodamine B assays, clonogenicity, and DNA damage by Comet assays. SKOV-3-luciferase cells were injected intraperitoneally into NOD-SCID mice. Mice were randomized into 4 treatment groups and treated with vehicle, entinostat, olaparib, or the combination. The mice were monitored for toxicity and by bioluminescence imaging (BLI). At sacrifice, tumor burden was quantified. Results: In cell culture assays, entinostat significantly enhanced the sensitivity of SKOV3 and ID8 cells to Olaparib. Entinostat combined with olaparib led to synergistic reductions in cell proliferation and clonogenicity in SKOV-3 and ID8 ovarian cancer cells, compared to each drug alone. Evidence of DNA damage was enhanced by the drug combination. In the SKOV3-luc xenograft mouse model, a significant reduction in tumor burden in the group of mice treated with the combination of entinostat and olaparib, compared to each drug alone. There was no significant toxicity with drug treatment. Conclusion: Entinostat sensitizes ovarian cancer cells to Olaparib in vitro and in vivo. Experiments in ID-luciferase and patient-derived xenograft models are ongoing. These preclinical models are powerful tools that will be used to discover markers and mechanisms of sensitivity and resistance to inform the parallel clinical trial. Citation Format: Vijayalaxmi G. Gupta, Yoskaly Lazo Fernandez, Katherine Roby, Harsh Pathak, Jeff Hirst, Andrew J. Wilson, Andrew Godwin, Dineo Khabele. Entinostat enhances the efficacy of olaparib in preclinical models of ovarian cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3501.
Normative shortages and the limits of rationing by price

Abstract Textbook models of demand and supply overlook the potential for market shortages at equilibrium prices and obscure the dependence of demand on income. The use of a step demand function and the delineation of “wants” and “needs” results in different conclusions about the size of market shortages, the role of price in eliminating shortages, and the meaning of normative shortages. The existence of market and normative shortages at equilibrium prices suggests that more attention should be given to optimal rationing of consumer goods when price rationing fails to achieve socially efficient outcomes. This analysis is illustrated using the market for N95 protective masks in the spring of 2020 and includes suggestions for classroom use.
The Effects of Multiple Companions on the Efficiency of the SIM Planet Searches

The Space Interferometry Mission (SIM) is expected to make precise astrometric measurements that can be used to detect low mass planets around nearby stars. Since most nearby stars are members of multiple star systems, many stars will have a measurable acceleration due to their companion, which must be included when solving for astrometric parameters and searching for planetary perturbations. Additionally, many of the stars with one radial velocity planet show indications of additional planets. Therefore, astrometric surveys like SIM must be capable of detecting planets and measuring orbital parameters in systems with multiple stellar and/or planetary companions. We have conducted Monte Carlo simulations to investigate how the presence of multiple companions affects the sensitivity of an astrometric survey such as SIM. We find that the detection efficiency for planets in wide binary systems is relatively unaffected by the presence of a binary companion, if the planetary orbital period is less than half the duration of the astrometric survey. For longer orbital periods, there are significant reductions in the sensitivity of an astrometric survey. Additionally, we find that the signal required to detect a planet can be increased significantly due to the presence of an additional planet orbiting the same star. Fortunately, adding a modest number of precision radial velocity observations significantly improves the sensitivity for many multiple planet systems. Thus, the combination of radial velocity observations and astrometric observations by SIM will be a particularly valuable for studying multiple planet systems.
Review of "The Tiger Flu," by Larissa Lai

Larissa Lai’s The Tiger Flu is a novel set in the Pacific Northwest after an ecological disaster. What humans are left, experience waves of epidemic flu. In the farthest quarantine rings outside Saltwater City is the Grist Village, populated by a group of humans that were mutated generations ago and were exiled from Saltwater City.
Overview of Quality and Six Sigma

As an introduction, this chapter first discusses basic characteristics of Six Sigma philosophy, quality definitions using four approaches, six dimensions of quality definition, and “value” term in quality definition. Quality definitions are categorized into four managerial perspectives: (1) the product-based approach, (2) the manufacturing-based approach, (3) the value-based approach, and (4) the user-based approach. Then, the contributions of quality gurus to quality and Six Sigma literature are discussed in detail. These quality gurus are Walter Shewhart, W. Edwards Deming, Joseph M. Juran, Armand V. Feigenbaum, Kaoru Ishikawa, Taiichi Ohno, Shigeo Shingo, Genichi Taguchi, Philip Crosby, David Garvin, and Douglas Montgomery. Historical background of Six Sigma, standards developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) on Six Sigma, types of costs of quality, and performance metrics used in quality cost calculations are detailed in this chapter. Costs of quality are grouped into two main categories: costs of good quality and costs of poor quality. Costs of good quality comprises of prevention costs and appraisal costs, while costs of poor quality contain internal failure costs and external failure costs.
Evaluation of the bacterial populations present in Spring Mix salad and their impact on the behavior of Escherichia coli O157:H7

Abstract The native bacterial populations present in three brands of Spring Mix salads (brands A, B, and C) were analyzed by plating and 16S rRNA gene sequencing during 15 days of storage at 4 °C. While the traditional plating method did not show significant differences among three brands or between before and after storage, 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that the “brand” factor significantly impacted the diversity and abundance of native bacterial populations. In order to evaluate the interaction between native bacteria and Escherichia coli O157:H7 (ECO157), day-0 and day-15 salad homogenates were inoculated with ECO157 (a final concentration of 5.5 log CFU/ml). Inoculated samples were stored at 4 °C for additional 15 days and the behavior of inoculated ECO157 was monitored by plating samples on CHROMagar™ O157 agar on days 0, 5, 10 and 15. The top four phyla of bacteria present in all three brands of salad were Proteobacteria, Bacterioidetes, Actinobacteria, and Firmicutes. Changes in the relative abundance and diversity of bacterial populations were significantly altered by inoculation of ECO157. The inoculation remarkably decreased the beta diversity (Jaccard distance) of the bacterial populations (P = 0.005). During the additional 15-day storage, culturable ECO157 cells decreased over the entire storage time. However, fluctuations of culturable ECO157 cells were observed on days 5 and 10. In day-0 brand A and day-15 brands A and C, culturable ECO157 cells were significantly higher on day 10 than on day 5. Microbiome analysis results showed that the relative abundance of Planomicrobium, Aeromonas, Carnobacterium, and Fusobacterium were negatively correlated with the decreasing numbers of culturable ECO157 cells from day 5 to day 10 after inoculation and the relative abundance of genera Methylotenera, Yersinia, Shewanella, Dyadobacter, and Brochothrix were positively correlated with the increasing numbers of culturable ECO157 cells from day 5 to day 10. This study provides in-depth information on the microbiome changes in bagged salad and their impact on food safety, which can assist with the risk assessment of produce products of different shelf life and facilitate the development of new intervention strategies for protecting the microbial safety of fresh produce.
State infrastructure and productive performance

Recent research on productivity growth has focused on public infrastructure and its impact on economic growth and productivity. The authors construct a model of firms' technology and behavior, taking advantage of the analytical framework provided in the cost-function-based applied production-theory literature, and apply it to state-level data for U.S. manufacturing. They find that infrastructure investment provides a significant return to manufacturing firms and augments productivity growth. The net benefits of infrastructure investment may or may not be positive, depending upon the social costs of infrastructure investment and the relative growth rates of output and infrastructure. Copyright 1996 by American Economic Association.
Implementation of Specialist Palliative Care and Outcomes for Hospitalized Patients with Dementia

BACKGROUND In patients with serious illness, use of specialist palliative care may result in improved quality of life, patient and caregiver satisfaction and advance care planning, as well as lower health care utilization. However, evidence of efficacy is limited for patients with dementia, particularly in the setting of an acute hospitalization. OBJECTIVE To determine whether implementation of hospital-based specialist palliative care was associated with differences in treatment intensity outcomes for hospitalized patients with dementia. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Fifty-one hospitals in New York State that either did or did not implement a palliative care program between 2008 and 2014. Hospitals that consistently had a palliative care program during the study period were excluded. PARTICIPANTS Hospitalized patients with dementia. MEASUREMENTS The primary outcome of this study was discharge to hospice from an acute hospitalization. Secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay, use of mechanical ventilation and dialysis, and days in intensive care. Difference-in-difference analyses were performed using multilevel regression to assess the association between implementing a palliative care program and outcomes, while adjusting for patient and hospital characteristics and time trends. RESULTS During the study period, 82,118 patients with dementia (mean (SD) age, 83.04 (10.04), 51,170 (62.21%) female) underwent an acute hospitalization, of which 41,227 (50.27%) received care in hospitals that implemented a palliative care program. In comparison to patients who received care in hospitals without palliative care, patients with dementia who received care in hospitals after the implementation of palliative care were more 35% likely to be discharged to hospice (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.35 (1.19-1.51), P < .001). No meaningful differences in secondary outcomes were observed. CONCLUSION Implementation of a specialist palliative care program was associated with an increase in discharge to hospice following acute hospitalization in patients with dementia.
Retrolabyrinthine transsigmoid approach to complex parabrainstem tumors in the posterior fossa

Objective The surgical management of large and complex tumors of the posterior fossa poses a formidable challenge in neurosurgery. The standard retrosigmoid craniotomy approach has been performed at most neurosurgical centers; however, the retrosigmoid approach may not provide enough working space without significant retraction of the cerebellum. The transsigmoid approach provides wider and shallower surgical fields; however, there have been few clinical and no cadaveric studies on its usefulness. In the present study, the authors describe the transsigmoid approach in clinical cases and cadaveric specimens. Methods For the clinical study, the authors retrospectively reviewed the medical records and operative charts of patients who had been surgically treated for parabrainstem tumors using the transsigmoid approach between 1997 and 2019. They analyzed patient demographic and clinical data, as well as surgical and clinical outcomes. In the cadaveric study, they compared the surgical views obtained in different approaches (retrosigmoid, presigmoid, retrolabyrinthine, and transsigmoid) and measured the sigmoid sinus width at the level of the endolymphatic sac and the distance between the anterior edge of the sigmoid sinus and the endolymphatic sac on 35 sides in 19 cadaveric specimens. Results A total of 21 patients (6 males and 15 females) with a mean age of 42.2 (range 15-67) years were included in the clinical study. Eleven patients had meningioma, 7 had vestibular schwannoma, 2 had hemangioblastoma, and 1 had epidermoid cyst. Gross-total, near-total, and subtotal removal were achieved in 7 (33.3%), 3 (14.3%), and 11 (52.4%) patients, respectively. In the cadaveric study, 19 cadaveric specimens were used. The sigmoid sinus was cut in the middle, and the incision was extended from the retrosigmoid to the presigmoid dura. The dura was then retracted upward and downward like opening a door. The results indicated that this technique can widen the operative field anteriorly by approximately 2 cm as compared to the retrosigmoid approach and provides a better view anterior to the brainstem. Conclusions The transsigmoid approach is useful for complex parabrainstem tumors in the posterior fossa because it provides a wider and shallower operative view with less retraction of the cerebellum. This enables safer tumor removal with less damage to important structures in the posterior fossa, resulting in better operative and clinical outcomes.
The Restorative Justice Attitudes Scale: Development and Initial Psychometric Evaluation:

Restorative justice as an applied and theoretical construct has received growing public attention; yet, little research on restorative justice has been conducted within psychology, including counse...
Intraoperative Monitoring of Somatosensory Evoked Potentials

ABSTRACT.Intraoperative monitoring differs from determination of SEP in the laboratory in technique, interpretation and expectations of the technician. In this article, the operating room environment, OR monitoring techniques and interpretation of intraoperative SEP changes will be discussed. Representative cases will be presented which emphasize the importance of rapid and accurate diagnosis. These cases will demonstrate examples of injury to peripheral nerve, brachial plexus, spinal cord, brainstem and cerebral hemisphere which were demonstrated by SEP monitoring.
Intrahippocampal administration of amyloid-β(1-42) oligomers acutely impairs spatial working memory, insulin signaling, and hippocampal metabolism.

Abstract Increasing evidence suggests that abnormal brain accumulation of amyloid-β(1-42) (Aβ(1-42)) oligomers plays a causal role in Alzheimer's disease (AD), and in particular may cause the cognitive deficits that are the hallmark of AD. In vitro, Aβ(1-42) oligomers impair insulin signaling and suppress neural functioning. We previously showed that endogenous insulin signaling is an obligatory component of normal hippocampal function, and that disrupting this signaling led to a rapid impairment of spatial working memory, while delivery of exogenous insulin to the hippocampus enhanced both memory and metabolism; diet-induced insulin resistance both impaired spatial memory and prevented insulin from increasing metabolism or cognitive function. Hence, we tested the hypothesis that Aβ(1-42) oligomers could acutely impair hippocampal metabolic and cognitive processes in vivo in the rat. Our findings support this hypothesis: Aβ(1-42) oligomers impaired spontaneous alternation behavior while preventing the task-associated dip in hippocampal ECF glucose observed in control animals. In addition, Aβ(1-42) oligomers decreased plasma membrane translocation of the insulin-sensitive glucose transporter 4 (GluT4), and impaired insulin signaling as measured by phosphorylation of Akt. These data show in vivo that Aβ(1-42) oligomers can rapidly impair hippocampal cognitive and metabolic processes, and provide support for the hypothesis that elevated Aβ(1-42) leads to cognitive impairment via interference with hippocampal insulin signaling.
New cancers arising in 1,563 patients with carcinoma of the cervix treated by irradiation

Abstract This report is concerned with the incidence of multiple primary cancers developing in 1,563 patients treated for invasive carcinoma of the cervix. They were all treated by radium and/or external irradiation. Follow-up was complete with the exception of 69 patients (4.4 per cent). Total person years of observation was 8,323. Thirty second primaries of different organs and of different cell type were found. Skin cancers and multicentric squamous-celled cancers were excluded as were synchronous cancers. The observed number of second primary cancers (30) was compared to the expected number (29.2) derived from the Connecticut Cancer Registry, with the use of age- and site-specific incidence rates. No increased incidence of second cancer was found among the patients studied.
Spectroscopic studies of $z \sim5.7$ and $z\sim6.5$ galaxies: implications for reionisation

The recent development of large, complete samples which identify high-redshift galax- ies at z � 5.7 and z � 6.5 from deep, wide-field surveys provides detailed information on the earliest galaxies, their numbers, spatial and kinematic distributions, and implications for early reionization of the IGM. In this contribution we present results of spectroscopic studies of z � 5.7 and z � 6.5 galaxies identified from our deep, Lyman alpha narrowband and multicolor surveys conducted with the SuprimeCam mosaic CCD camera on the 8.3-m Subaru telescope and ob- served with the DEIMOS multi-object spectrograph on Keck. The luminosity function of the z � 6.5 galaxies is shown to be similar to the luminosity function of the z � 5.7 galaxy samples, suggesting that a substantial star-forming population is already in place at z � 6.5. Comparisons of both individual and stacked spectra of galaxies in these two samples show that the Lyman alpha emission profiles, equivalent widths, and continuum break strengths do not substantially change over this redshift interval. The wide-field nature of the surveys also permits mapping the large-scale distribution of the high-redshift galaxies in spatial structures extending across individual SuprimeCam fields (� 60 Mpc). Field-to-field variations in the number of objects at z � 6.5 may shortly be able to place constraints on the porosity of the reionization boundary.
Exploring the effects of learners' cultural and social histories on the practices of learning scientists

Research on how learner's cultural and social histories mediates opportunities to learn with computer-based learning tools is seriously under-conceptualized in the field of learning sciences. I argue, that in order for learning scientists to create theories of learning and/or learning tools that provide equitable opportunities to learn for all learners, the field needs to rethink how learners' social and cultural histories impact the conceptualization of questions we explore, the population of users upon which we study the phenomena we are exploring, our process of design and or methods of analyzing the effectiveness of our designs. All facets of our research process need to be reexamined to ensure that our theories and designs are inclusive of the nuances of human experiences influenced by learners' social and cultural histories.Some people believe it possible to draw on aspects of cultural experience to facilitate some form of teaching and learning. When we try to do this, however, it's a shot in the dark. We don't really understand what that nexus is about. It would be incredibly important to have a kind of cultural analysis, a linguistic analysis, even collaboration from the worlds of entertainment and design, to help us think about how to design systems that make meaningful contact to cultural experience so that people learn better. (Louis Gomez in an address to the National Science Foundation)
Mailpiece Manipulation on the Basis of Partial Shape Information

We present a data-driven technique for the manipulation of mailpieces in the absence of a priori shape models. Object properties relevant to manipulation such as centroids and moments are derived from partial 3-D range data by segmenting the scene into surface patches, and extrapolating the data by hypothesizing additional patches. Next, using a model of the manipulator, we examine the application and projection of contact forces to determine the subsequent motion and the degree of force/torque control that can be imparted to the mailpiece.
Epigenetic inheritance in plants

The function of plant genomes depends on chromatin marks such as the methylation of DNA and the post-translational modification of histones. Techniques for studying model plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana have enabled researchers to begin to uncover the pathways that establish and maintain chromatin modifications, and genomic studies are allowing the mapping of modifications such as DNA methylation on a genome-wide scale. Small RNAs seem to be important in determining the distribution of chromatin modifications, and RNA might also underlie the complex epigenetic interactions that occur between homologous sequences. Plants use these epigenetic silencing mechanisms extensively to control development and parent-of-origin imprinted gene expression.
Predictors of Identifying as a Barebacker among High-Risk New England HIV Seronegative Men Who Have Sex with Men

Studies have found that between 14% and 46% of US men who have sex with men (MSM) consistently report “barebacking” behavior (i.e., intentional unprotected anal intercourse) with other men. This is of public health significance because MSM continue to constitute more than 50% of new HIV infections in the USA. Men who self-identify as barebackers may represent a different and unique subset of MSM with distinct HIV prevention needs. In 2007, 227 HIV seronegative MSM recruited through modified respondent-driven sampling completed an interviewer-administered survey which assessed barebacker identity (i.e., personally identifying with the barebacker scene), demographics, sexual risk behaviors, psychosocial variables, and drug/alcohol use. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression procedures were used to examine predictors of barebacker identity in relation to HIV risk behavior. Overall, 31% of participants identified as a barebacker. In bivariate analyses, lower education (OR = 1.76; 95% CI = 0.99–3.13; p < 0.05), a current drinking problem (OR = 2.34, 95% CI = 1.29–4.23; p < 0.01), higher levels of HIV treatment optimism (OR = 1.06; 95% CI = 1.01–1.12; p < 0.05), meeting sexual partners at private sex parties (OR = 2.47; 95% CI = 1.28–4.74; p < 0.01) or at bars/cubs (OR = 1.97; 95% CI = 1.10–3.52; p < 0.05), and engaging in serodiscordant unprotected insertive anal sex (OR = 3.42; 95% CI = 1.27–9.21; p < 0.01) significantly predicted barebacker identification compared to those with no barebacker identification. In a multivariable model, barebackers were more likely to screen in for alcohol abuse (adjusted OR = 2.16; 95% CI = 1.09–4.27; p < 0.05) and engage in serodiscordant unprotected insertive anal sex (adjusted OR = 3.17; 95% CI = 1.09–9.20; p < 0.05) compared to their non-barebacker counterparts. No significant differences were found in serodiscordant unprotected receptive anal sex between barebackers and non-barebackers. These findings suggest that barebacker identity is related to intentional HIV sexual risk taking and alcohol abuse. Furthermore, strategic positioning (i.e., engaging in insertive rather than receptive sex) might be associated with barebacker identification and may indicate a harm-reduction strategy being used among some HIV-uninfected MSM to reduce their risk of becoming infected. Additional research is warranted to understand the social identity of barebacking among MSM in order to develop more nuanced prevention strategies.
Electrochemical sensing of hydrogen peroxide using a cobalt(III) complex supported on carbonaceous nanomaterials

Abstract Hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) detection was electrochemically performed using a non-enzymatic cobalt(III) complex ( 2 ) of an amidomacrocyclic ligand ( 1 ). We have characterized the metal complex using analytical techniques such as 1 H NMR and ESI-MS and the composite material of the catalyst supported on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with XPS and TEM. Using different carbonaceous nanomaterials, varying catalyst:nanomaterial ratio and changing the pendant groups on the ligand moiety of the complex, we found that a dichloro substituent ( 2a ) supported on MWCNTs as the most effective H 2 O 2 sensor. From these studies, a low detection limit (5.0 × 10 −8 M) and a wide detection range was obtained. Electrochemical studies indicated 2a and MWCNTs worked synergistically to detect the presence of H 2 O 2 . UV/Vis of 2a showed the disappearance of a peak at 500 nm and the emergence of a peak at 395 nm after the addition of H 2 O 2 to 2a indicating formation of an intermediate species. 2a was also able to electrochemically determine the concentration of H 2 O 2 present in several commercial products. Hence, 2a shows promising application as a non-enzymatic H 2 O 2 sensor.
Segregation of heterogeneous rDNA segments during demagnification of a Neurospora crassa strain possessing a double nucleolar organizer.

We have produced a duplication strain of Neurospora crassa, DpAR33-PR-6, which contains two cytologically visible nucleoli (a DNO or double nucleolar organizer strain). When freshly generated, this strain has approximately twice the number of rRNA cistrons found in the parental (single nucleolar organizer) strains. After several serial propagations, there is a marked reduction in rRNA cistron number, approximating that of the SNO parental strains. This reduction in rRNA cistrons (“demagnification”) was not achieved by breakdown of the VL→IVL translocation used to generate the duplication, as rDNA from the two parents can be distinguished by the size of the non-transcribed spacer region in the rDNA repeat unit of each strain. rDNA characteristic of both parents is present even after demagnification, in approximately equal amounts, suggesting the rRNA cistrons are lost randomly and non-preferentially from each homologous chromatid. In addition, the steady-state growth rate appears to be affected by rRNA cistron number, decreasing in freshly generated DNO strains relative to the parental strains, and returning to parental levels after demagnification.