cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Framework for developing process-based technologies at a very early stage

After the development of a new chemical process, innovative entrepreneurs must turn this new intellectual property into a value proposition for the new company. Early in the product development process, management should begin to ask and answer the question, "What is the product?" After an initial discussion of the traditional product development process, this paper concludes that there are system-level issues to be considered when the product is a chemical process rather than a manufactured good. One important distinction is that super-system issues such as the following must be considered: economy and access to financing; regional/national support and stability; regulatory regime;protection of intellectual property/rights; human capital; industry structure; industry value propositions. A series of industry value propositions for different "products" (supply of manufactured goods, process design & equipment, equipment only, equipment & parts, sector-limited licenses, use of equipment) is presented. This paper provides a framework to evaluate these system-level aspects.
Alteration of the intestinal microbiome: fecal microbiota transplant and probiotics for Clostridium difficile and beyond

Clostridium difficile infection is increasingly common with a high risk of recurrence despite antibiotic treatment. In cases of recurrent C. difficile infection, fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) is a highly effective treatment option promoting the restoration of normal gut microbiota. Furthermore, preliminary uncontrolled evidence demonstrates possible benefit of FMT in the management of some cases of inflammatory bowel disease and chronic constipation. In addition to presenting an overview of FMT, we discuss the role of probiotics, a more common approach to modifying the intestinal microbiome. Probiotics have been utilized broadly for many disease processes, including gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and allergic disease settings, although with limited and inconsistent results. Multiple potential areas for research are also identified.
The Rise and Decline of Unions

Union membership, as a percentage of the private sector workforce, has been in decline for 50 years. The cause of this unrelenting decline is a single, fundamental factor: the change in the United States economy from a corporatist-regulated economy to one based on free competition. Unions are central to a corporatist regime and are peripheral in a liberal pluralist regime.
Polysynchronous stochastic circuits

Clock distribution networks (CDNs) are costly in high-performance ASICs. This paper proposes a new approach: splitting clock domains at a very fine level, down to the level of a handful of gates. Each domain is synchronized with an inexpensive clock signal, generated locally. This is possible by adopting the paradigm of stochastic computation, where signal values are encoded as random bit streams. The design method is illustrated with the synthesis of circuits for applications in signal and image processing.
Detection Of Pitot-Static Icing At High Altitudes

The detection of pitot-static tube icing due to impact with existing ice particles in the vicinity of severe tropical storms is discussed for aircraft cruising above 30,000 feet. Detection is achieved by instrumenting the pitot-static tube for three measurements: the temperature, the thermal conductivity and the electrical impedance versus frequency variation of the unknown material adhering to and collecting in the pitot-static tube. A semi- circular shaped trace in complex dielectric space, only exhibited by ice, is used to identify the adhering material as ice.
Risk factors of cluster cases of hand,foot and mouth disease in kindergartens in Hefei City

Objective To understand the epidemic characteristics of HFMD cluster cases in Hefei,explore the risk factors,and provide evidence for further prevention and control measures.Methods Randomly selected 60 childcare agencies with HFMD cluster cases and 60 childcare agencies without HFMD cluster cases,compare related factors between two groups.Results A total of 220 HFMD cluster cases were reported in Hefei in 2012.210 of which were happened in kindergartens and 10 of which were happened in family and community.Cluster cases were not isolate promptly,more outdoor combined toys,inadequate living space and poor awareness rate of HFMD were risk factors of HFMD outbreak.Early prevention and control measures could decrease HFMD incidence rate.Conclusion Comprehensive prevention and control measures can postpone,decrease,and even stop the spread of HFMD in childcare agencies.
COMPLEX OXIDE SYSTEMS OF THE ACTINIDES

ABSTRACT This article reviews recent research on the structural, thermodynamic, magnetic, and spectroscopic properties of ternary and other complex oxides containing actinide ions. Since complex oxides often exhibit unusual coordination sites and oxidation states for transition elements, the unique properties of complex oxides are emphasized. For completeness, a brief summary of properties of the binary oxides is also given. Properties of isostruetural and isoelectronic series of oxides are compared in terms of structure-stability relationships, magnetochemistry, spectroscopy (photoelectron, Mossbauer, vibrational, and electronic), and synthetic procedures.
From Tourist to Friend: Vulnerability and Accountability in Short-Term International Peacemaking Delegations

This chapter explores the nature and aims of short-term international peacemaking delegations, defined as group trips of one to two weeks in length, which bring visitors from other countries or regions into a situation of violent conflict, with the intent of supporting the local peacemakers, human rights activists, and civilian populations enduring and resisting the conflict. After framing such delegations within the context of third-party nonviolent intervention, particularly as embodied by practitioners of faith, the chapter examines how these delegations fit within the rubric of tourism, as well as how they may exceed that rubric, becoming expressions of peacemaking solidarity. What most distinguish delegations from other forms of tourism, giving them their peacemaking potential, are the vulnerability and accountability delegations are intended to foster among participants, through an emphasis on hospitality, action, and being part of a larger movement for social change.
Screening for Intimate Partner Violence in the Pediatric Emergency Department

Abstract Intimate partner violence (IPV) and teen dating violence (TDV) are widespread, preventable public health problems in the United States. Children exposed to IPV between their caregivers and adolescent victims of TDV suffer not only immediate risks to their physical safety, but also long-term health sequelae. The emergency department presents a unique opportunity for physicians to screen for various forms of family violence and intervene on behalf of the victims. Screening for IPV and TDV is widely recommended by national health organizations including the American College of Emergency Physicians. Effective screening protocols require a multidisciplinary approach informed by knowledge of local community resources.
Research of benefit evaluation method in distribution automation Planning

To evaluate the effect of distribution automation, and to support distribution automation planning, a benefit evaluation method of distribution automation is proposed. The method makes clear the aim of evaluation and boundary conditions, applies failure mode and effect analysis and enumeration to calculate the automation effect. The method applies differential evolution algorithm to improve the applicability of the method. The method could quantitatively evaluate the result of distribution automation planning. Finally, application the method in a city, the results show that the proposed evaluation method is available, and could support for the implementation of distribution automation decision-making.
In Vitro Derivation of ARA-C Resistant BXH-2 AML Cell Lines: Association of RAS/MAPK and P53-Regulated Pathways with Chemoresistance.

Chemotherapy resistance in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is proposed to be due to insufficient intracellular concentration of nucleoside analog triphosphates, inability to achieve sufficient alterations in DNA strands or dNTP pools, or defective induction of apoptosis. Mouse AML models could be used to study mechanisms of AML chemoresistance and feature isogenic backgrounds, the availability of genetic manipulation, controlled conditions of disease induction and treatment regimens, and the possibility of using forward genetic screens for treatment resistance. The BXH-2 mouse strain has a high incidence of AML caused via chronic infection by a B-ecotropic murine leukemia virus, which has been used a molecular tag to identify AML-associated genes. Nine BXH-2 derived AML cell lines were assayed for responses to Ara-C. Expression levels of multi-drug resistance gene family members showed no correlation to Ara-C response. However, in general, cell lines with Nf1 tumor suppressor gene loss, and concomitant ERK hyperactivation, were more Ara-C resistant. Furthermore, U0126 treatment, which was shown to inhibit ERK activity in these cells, partially sensitized Nf1-defective AML cells to Ara-C, but did not have this effect in Nf1 wild-type cells. These data suggest that upregulated ERK activity represents one mechanisms of de novo Ara-C resistance and that inhibition of ERK in leukemic cells may partially overcome chemoresistance. To study mechanisms of acquired chemoresistance, we have derived eight Ara-C resistant subpopulations from two of the BXH-2 AML cell lines via in vitro consecutive selection with increasing doses of drug per selection cycle. This resulted in derivative lines with an IC50 about 800-fold higher than the parental lines. Although we could not detect a difference in activation of ERK, p21Cip was dramatically downregulated in one of the selected Ara-C resistant lines. Interestingly p21Cip is not expressed in one of the de novo Ara-C resistant cell lines. Also, Ara-C induction of p53, a well-known upstream activator of p21Cip, was decreased in all resistant lines tested. Examination of one resistant line by RT-PCR and DNA sequencing showed that repeated Ara-C treatment selects for a subpopulation of cells that harbor a 66-bp genomic deletion of the splice acceptor of exon 4 of the p53 gene, resulting in production of an mRNA encoding a deletion mutant lacking parts of both the transactivation and DNA-binding domains. Retroviral transduction of a dominant-negative p53 cDNA rendered the parental cells more resistant to Ara-C treatment. These data indicate that p53 loss-of-function could explain at least partly the acquired resistance to Ara-C. Recent work shows that primary BXH-2 AML growing in histocompatible mice can be suppressed for several weeks by high dose Ara-C treatment of mice. This model will be used to test candidate genetic pathways for Ara-C responsiveness in vivo. This work was sponsored by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of America (LLS 7019-04, Specialized Center of Research).
Patterns of marijuana use among psychiatry patients with depression and its impact on recovery.

Abstract Background Depression is associated with substance-related problems that worsen depression-related disability. Marijuana is frequently used by those with depression, yet whether its use contributes to significant barriers to recovery in this population has been understudied. Method Participants were 307 psychiatry outpatients with depression; assessed at baseline, 3-, and 6-months on symptom (PHQ-9 and GAD-7), functioning (SF-12) and past-month marijuana use for a substance use intervention trial. Longitudinal growth models examined patterns and predictors of marijuana use and its impact on symptom and functional outcomes. Results A considerable number of (40.7%; n=125) patients used marijuana within 30-days of baseline. Over 6-months, marijuana use decreased (B=−1.20, p Limitations Participants were psychiatry outpatients, limiting generalizability. Conclusions Marijuana use is common and associated with poor recovery among psychiatry outpatients with depression. Assessing for marijuana use and considering its use in light of its impact on depression recovery may help improve outcomes.
Urodynamic studies in enuresis and the nonneurogenic neurogenic bladder

AbstractWe studied urodynamically 55 patients with enuresis. The severity of urinary incontinence ranged from occasional nocturnal episodes to daytime and nighttime wetting associated with radiographic abnormalities of the bladder and upper urinary tract.Despite differences in symptoms, urodynamic findings of poor cerebral appreciation of the degree of bladder filling and sudden unanticipated detrusor contractility were common in 50 of the 55 patients. Volitional detrusor sphincter discoordination also was common and appeared to be related to uncontrolled bladder contractility rather than a primary problem.
Supporting Participation for Children With Sensory Processing Needs and Their Families: Community-Based Action Research.

Objective This qualitative study was part of efforts to develop and analyze specialized sensory-friendly, community-based programming at a local museum for families with children or young adults with sensory processing issues. Method A qualitative, descriptive framework was used, aimed at uncovering the experience of families in attendance. Using convenience sampling, 46 participants were recruited from six separate cohorts of parents across a 1.5-yr period, using a community-based action research approach. Results Survey and interview data suggest that specialized programs with appropriate modifications in place improved the quality and the duration of museum visits for families with children or young adults with sensory processing needs, promoting both participation and well-being. Conclusion Adapted community events that increase participation in context may be a promising intervention to support well-being for people with disabilities and their families.
Carbon stars as planetary nebula progenitors.

Molecular line observations show that some planetary nebulae are still only partially ionized and are surrounded by the remains of the mass loss envelope shed by the preceding AGB star. The mass loss rates and outflow velocities of these envelopes are similar to those of the cool winds from luminous AGB stars. Both the kinematics of carbon stars and observations of the molecular envelopes around young planetaries show that the carbon star progenitors have a wide range of ages and of mass loss rates. There is increasing evidence that a significant fraction of AGB stars are carbon stars and that these provide a substantial contribution to the total mass returned to the interstellar medium.
Hunger and Eating, Neural Basis of

This article is a revision of the previous edition article by E.M. Stricker, volume 10, pp. 7074–7078, © 2001, Elsevier Ltd.
Learning Analytics Explained

The field of learning analytics in higher education becomes more and more complex with each passing day – just like the algorithms many employ in an effort to identify and analyse data that can hel...
Modeling of hydraulic fracture closure on proppants with proppant settling

Abstract The placement of proppants in a hydraulic fracture is governed by slurry flow, proppant transport and settlement. The proppant distribution can significantly affect the conductivity of the hydraulic fracture, and hence will impact the productivity of hydraulic fractured wells. Past studies have investigated fracture closure on proppants by envisioning hydraulic fractures as two parallel plates with uniformly distributed proppants. However, in reality, hydraulically induced fractures are wider in the middle and narrower near the fracture edges. In addition, a proppant dune is likely to be accumulated at the bottom of the fracture because of proppant settling. As a result, fracture closure on proppants is controlled by both fracture geometry and the distribution of proppant in the fracture. This is a dynamic process where fracture geometry and the proppant pack will evolve as a function of pressure, and the associated surface contact problem is notoriously challenging to solve because of its nonlinear and nonlocal nature. In this study, we proposed a general approach to model hydraulic fracture closure. The residual fracture width profile for both propped and un-propped sections can be obtained at different drawdown pressures for rocks with different clay content. The maximum stress acting on proppants can be calculated to guide the selection of proppants with appropriate strength. Most importantly, the effect of stress concentration and stress amplification can be quantified when a proppant dune or bank is formed. We also show that the traditional method of estimating the maximum stress on a proppant pack is an underestimation.
Literature Review and Experiential Observations

Patnaik explores and reviews literature from five broad academic disciplines: organizational theory, sociology, psychology, economics and political science. The chapter is divided into three parts—first, basic definitions of institutions in various schools of thought and academic disciplines, why and how they perpetuate, and a copious description of various institutional arrangements in an Indian village. The second part examines various power relationships and dynamics in Indian villages, while the third part dwells on institutional theory and institutional change. Identifying power, trust, values, symbols, myths and belief systems among the most significant variables in the rural ecosystem, Patnaik analyses institutional change through the lens of ‘power’ and ‘power asymmetry’ in Indian villages drawing on literature from authors like Di Maggio, Dorado, Battilana, Srinivas and Dube.
Electromagnetic Responses from Planar Arrays of Dielectric Nano-Disks at Overlapping Dipolar Resonances

Periodic arrays of dielectric nano-disk resonators are investigated to clarify the nature of their electromagnetic responses, in particular, the relation of light transmission to Kerker's conditions at overlapping dipolar resonances. It is concluded that periodicity and inter-resonator coupling define the observed responses.
Effective management of scarce resources: a case study of American collegiate sport clubs

Voluntary, non-profit sport clubs are considered an important sport provider for communities across the world, with management effectiveness of great importance to promote long-term organizational ...
Letter to the Editor concerning "High-heeled-related alterations in the static sagittal profile of the spino-pelvic structure in young women" by Min Dai et al. [Eur Spine J (2015); DOI 10.1007/s00586-015-3857-6].

I read with some interest the recent article in European Spine Journal by Dai et al. [1], High-heeled-related alterations in the static sagittal profile of the spino-pelvic structure in young women. I think there are interesting aspects of the study but that it also has some problems. I wish to comment on a couple of points involving the effect of high-heeled shoes on lumbar lordosis. When Dai et al. make the statement that ‘‘Some studies have shown that high heels increase lumbar lordosis...’’ they cited Cowley’s 2009 review article [2]. Note that Cowley’s article was not a ‘‘study’’, but rather a review of the literature. In fact, not only did Cowley NOT conclude that high-heeled shoes increase lordosis, she cited studies by de Lateur and Snow showing no significant difference in lordosis for different heel heights [3, 4], and a study by Franklin [5] that found decreased lordosis. Dai et al. themselves incorrectly cite Snow [4] as having found increased lordosis. The authors did not mention several other studies of highheeled shoes and lordosis and, therefore, failed to show they have a familiarity with the previous research on the topic—something which would not have been a difficult task, as they only needed to read about a dozen articles. I believe European Spine Journal’s peer reviewers did not do an adequate job of screening the references. My main complaint, though, is their conclusion that their findings of increased lumbar lordosis ‘‘...may help explain why some women complain that wearing highheeled shoes causes them to experience low back pain.’’ No, their findings do not do that at all. Dai et al. studied teenagers with little or no experience in wearing highheeled shoes, beyond the 1-h adaptation in the study. Female patients with low back pain, however, are typically adult women in the range of, say, 30–50 years, who may wear high-heeled shoes often, for many hours per day, and for many years. Dai et al. may have missed the part of Cowley’s article that cited Opila-Correia [6], who found increased spinal lumbar lordosis in inexperienced wearers of high heels, an effect ‘‘not evident in experienced wearers, indicating the potential habituation in experienced wearers of high heels’’ [2], and perhaps overlooked the implications of that statement for their own study. Their future research does not simply need a larger sample size— it needs a sample more representative of a population with back pain. The major problem is that most people will only read the conclusion. Internet media outlets will perhaps pick it up and reinforce the urban myth of high-heeled shoes increasing lumbar lordosis. If so, Dai et al. have undone decades of research that mostly, for the general population, contradicts their findings. Their study might have been sound from a pure science approach but has little external validity. It is my opinion that the above points should be revised for a final publication version of the article.
Getting what you want

It is commonly accepted that if an agent wants p, then she has a desire that is satisfied in exactly the worlds where p is true. Call this the ‘Satisfaction-is-Truth Principle’. We argue that this principle is false: an agent may want p without having a desire that is satisfied when p obtains in any old way. For example, Millie wants to drink milk but does not have a desire that is satisfied when she drinks spoiled milk. Millie has a desire whose satisfaction conditions are what we call ways-specific. Fara (Philos Perspect 17(1):141–163, 2003, Nous 47(2):250–272, 2013) and Lycan (Philos Perspect 26(1):201–215, 2012, In what sense is desire a propositional attitude?, Unpublished manuscript) have also argued for this conclusion, but their claims about desire satisfaction rest solely on contested intuitions about when agents get what they want. We set these intuitions to one side, instead arguing that desire satisfaction is ways-specific by appealing to the dispositional role of desire. Because agents are disposed to satisfy their desires, dispositions provide important evidence about desire satisfaction. Our argument also provides new insight on the dispositional role of desire satisfaction.
Smoke and Mirrors: Generic Manipulation and Doubling in Dancing to “Almendra”

This paper explores Mayra Montero’s novel Dancing to “Almendra” as a specifically postcolonial revision of the classic detective novel. Through an examination of the novel’s generic characteristics, I argue that elements that might be at first considered mere postmodern play—the conflation of the real and the performed or the illusion, anachronistic film references, the implantation of historical figures and cinematic personas alike into an otherwise fictional detective narrative—serves the novel’s socially committed, political critique. The doubling and smoke and mirrors that structure the novel ultimately serve to show the truth more clearly, as the postmodern play of performance, smoke, and mirrors breaks down only when confronted with the mutilated body and, by extension, Havana’s political landscape on the brink of revolution.
Heat Shock Proteins (HSP) in Stress-Related Inflammatory Diseases

When first observed nearly 56 years ago, the existence of heat shock proteins was thought to be an anomaly. Since then, heat shock proteins have been shown to play an important role in protecting and preserving protein structure and function in response to various stressors. An estimated 57 million people in the US alone suffer from stress-related disorders. Twice as many women as men suffer from these conditions, which range from autoimmune disorders, anxiety and depression to gastrointestinal and reproductive disorders. In 1936, Hans Selye defined stress as “the non-specific response of the body to any demand of change”. Thus, stress is a broad term encompassing psychological, physical, and cellular stress in response to exposure to traumatic experiences, temperature changes, environmental factors, chemicals, and toxins. Exposure to stress can result in inflammatory responses, activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, and alterations in expression of various heat shock proteins (HSP). The roles of HSP70 and HSP90 remain best characterized in the normal functioning of cells and during diseased state. In this chapter, we will review the role of various heat shock proteins in stress-related inflammatory pathophysiologies of the gastrointestinal tract and the female reproductive system.
The m4 3D printer: A multi-material multi-method additive manufacturing platform for future 3D printed structures

Abstract The advent of additive manufacturing (AM), also often referred to as 3D printing, has enabled the rapid production of parts with complex geometries that are either labor-intensive or unrealizable by traditional manufacturing methods. Many existing 3D printing technologies, however, only allow one material to be printed at one time, while many applications require the integration of different materials, which sometimes cannot be printed by one AM technology. In this paper, a novel multi-material multi-method (m4) 3D printer comprised of multiple AM technologies is presented as a solution to the current limitations. This printer fosters the advancement of AM by combining materials traditionally unable to be printed concurrently while adding functionality to printed parts. The m4 3D printer integrates four AM technologies and two complementary technologies onto one single platform, including inkjet (IJ), fused filament fabrication (FFF), direct ink writing (DIW), and aerosol jetting (AJ), along with robotic arms for pick-and-place (PnP) and photonic curing for intense pulsed light (IPL) sintering. The integration of these AM technologies and PnP into a single platform allows for rapid fabrication of complex devices, providing a wide range of functionalities with applications ranging from soft robotics and flexible electronics to medical devices.
Adult-Type Rhabdomyoma of the Omohyoid Muscle

Rhabdomyomas are benign tumors composed of mesenchymal tissue and having a histologic appearance similar to skeletal muscle. Extracardiac rhabdomyomas are rare, and the majority of the adult subtype occur in the head and neck (H&N) region. Diagnosis can be challenging due to fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and core needle biopsy being suspicious for sampling error from surrounding muscle or concerning for rhabdomyosarcoma. We present a case of a slowly enlarging left neck mass in the strap musculature of a 45-year-old Hispanic male. Multiple FNA and core biopsies failed to establish a diagnosis, and excisional biopsy was pursued revealing a hypertrophied left inferior belly of the omohyoid muscle. Histological analysis was diagnostic of an adult-type extracardiac rhabdomyoma, with complete surgical excision being the gold standard treatment for these tumors. The patient had an uneventful recovery. Skeletal muscle tumors of the H&N are uncommon, and benign extracardiac rhabdomyoma must be considered in the differential diagnosis to prevent unnecessarily aggressive intervention and appropriate patient counseling before and after surgery.
Identifying priorities for primary care investment in Ireland through a population-based analysis of avoidable hospital admissions for ambulatory care sensitive conditions (ACSC).

Background In 2016, the Irish acute hospital system operated well above internationally recommended occupancy targets. Investment in primary care can prevent hospital admissions of ambulatory care sensitive conditions (ACSCs). Objective To measure the impact of ACSCs on acute hospital capacity in the Irish public system and identify specific care areas for enhanced primary care provision. Design National Hospital In-patient Enquiry System data were used to calculate 2011–2016 standardised bed day rates for selected ACSC conditions. A prioritisation exercise was undertaken to identify the most significant contributors to bed days within our hospital system. Poisson regression was used to determine change over time using incidence rate ratios (IRR). Results In 2016 ACSCs accounted for almost 20% of acute public hospital beds (n=871 328 bed days) with adults over 65 representing 69.1% (n=602 392) of these. Vaccine preventable conditions represented 39.1% of ACSCs. Influenza and pneumonia were responsible for 99.8% of these, increasing by 8.2% (IRR: 1.02; 95% CI 1.02 to 1.03) from 2011 to 2016. Pyelonephritis represented 47.6% of acute ACSC bed days, increasing by 46.5% (IRR: 1.07; 95% CI 1.06 to 1.08) over the 5 years examined. Conclusions Prioritisation for targeted investment in integrated care programmes is enabled through analysis of ACSC’s in terms of acute hospital bed days. This analysis demonstrates that primary care investment in integrated care programmes for respiratory ACSC’s from prevention to rehabilitation at scale could assist with bed capacity in acute hospitals in Ireland. In adults 65 years and over, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients, the current analysis supports targeting community based pulmonary rehabilitation including pneumococcal and influenza vaccination programmes in order to reduce the burden of infection and hospitalisations. Further exploration of pyelonephritis is necessary in order to ascertain patient profile and appropriateness of admissions.
Perspectives on and preferences for on-demand and long-acting PrEP among sexual and gender minority adolescents assigned male at birth

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) adolescents assigned male at birth who have sex with male partners are at increased risk for HIV. Daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is available for minor adolescents in the United States, who may have difficulty with adherence. Adolescents’ perspectives toward emerging PrEP delivery methods that would not require daily pill-taking have not been well-explored. We conducted online surveys and focus groups in November 2018–February 2019 with 59 SGM adolescents assigned male at birth who reported sex with or attraction to male partners. Questions assessed their perspectives on and preferences for biomedical (on-demand, injection, implant) and non-biomedical HIV prevention options (condoms). Data were analyzed thematically. Of all prevention options, the implant and condoms were rated highest, and participants preferred the implant over other biomedical options. Convenience, duration, and ease of access played important roles in adolescents’ preferences. Parents were viewed as a barrier to taking PrEP regardless of delivery method due to their role in adolescents’ ability to access healthcare. SGM adolescents are interested in long-acting PrEP, yet also perceive substantial obstacles to using biomedical prevention that reflect adolescents’ developmental contexts. State laws expanding adolescents’ access to HIV preventive services, sex education inclusive of PrEP information, and parent- and provider-initiated PrEP conversations can reduce barriers regardless of PrEP delivery method. Research to accelerate the availability of long-acting implants for adolescents is needed.
Changes in disordered eating behaviors over 10 or more years: A meta‐analysis

Objective The present meta-analysis evaluated changes in individuals' risk of engaging in distinct disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) in the long-term. Method Longitudinal studies assessing changes in DEBs via ≥2 assessments with a time lag of ≥10 years were included. Risk ratios were calculated for baseline to 10-14.9-year (M = 11.04) follow-up and baseline to ≥15-year (M = 18.62) follow-up changes in the use of binge eating, multiple purging, self-induced vomiting, laxatives, diuretics, diet pills, compensatory exercising, fasting/dieting, and multiple DEBs; Cohen's d was used for continuous binge-eating plus purging variable changes. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses tested whether eating disorder (ED) clinical sample versus nonclinical sample status, female versus male sex/gender, higher versus lower study bias, and baseline mean age and body mass index influenced overall effect magnitude for analyses with sufficient data. Results Seventeen studies (26 [sub]samples) were included. Overall, individuals' risk of engaging in various restrictive eating and other compensatory behaviors decreased over time and the magnitudes of risk reductions for the use of certain compensatory DEBs were larger over longer follow-up durations. Specifically, for significant DEB change models, risk reductions spanned from 20.0-39.8% for 10-year follow-up and 24.7-74.8% for ≥15-year follow-up. However, nuances were found in the nature of these DEB changes as a function of DEB type, follow-up length, ED versus nonclinical sample composition, and baseline mean age. Conclusions These findings provide important information that can help identify treatment priorities and suggest that targeted and tailored preventative ED treatments warrant consistent implementation at the community-level, particularly for youth.
Block copolymer directed self-assembly defect modes induced by localized errors in chemoepitaxial guiding underlayers: A molecular simulation study

Block copolymer (BCP) directed self-assembly (DSA) has been presented as a potential economically attractive enhancement to extend the capabilities of optical lithography for semiconductor manufacturing. One concern in DSA is the level of defectivity that can be achieved in such a process. Although entropic effects will always lead to some degree of defectivity, highly ordered structures with a low theoretical equilibrium defect density can be produced by guiding the ordering and placement of the BCP domains using a patterned underlayer. Recent experimental studies have shown that while DSA processes can significantly reduce the observed defect density, defectivity levels are generally still higher than allowable for high-volume manufacturing and higher than what would be anticipated from free energy estimates of the observed defect modes. In particular, bridge defects are one of the most commonly observed defect modes in experimental DSA studies. A number of hypotheses have been proposed to explain the origins of these defects. One hypothesis is that so-called affinity defects present in the underlayer can spawn bridge defects in the overlying BCP film. The goal of the work reported here was to investigate the extent to which bridge defects can be generated or further reinforced in lamellae-forming block copolymer films due to affinity defects in the underlayer pattern. Coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations were used to simulate the chemoepitaxial DSA of monodisperse block copolymer films atop underlayers with varying affinity defect sizes. Affinity defects were simulated by creating circular regions of a single polymer block type (which is the opposite block type of that used to pattern the underlayer guiding stripes) in the nominally neutral background region of the underlayer. These affinity defects were positioned in regions of the underlayer where they were the incorrect type to match the overlying block copolymer pattern. It was observed that the presence of an affinity defect in the neutral region of the underlayer caused the energetically preferential polymer block to wet the affinity defect, thus creating the nucleus of what could potentially become a bridge defect—even when the affinity defects were very small. As the radius of the underlayer affinity defect (RoD) increased, the amount of block copolymer of incorrect type (with respect to a perfectly assembled copolymer pattern) that assembled above the affinity defect increased; but, in general, the thickness of the wetting layer in contact with the affinity defect was only roughly one polymer chain thick. These data suggest that an affinity defect in the underlayer alone is unlikely to be noticeably enhanced by significant bridge defect formation in a monodisperse block copolymer film.
Isolated echogenic intracardiac foci and the role of cell-free fetal DNA: A cost-effectiveness analysis.

Objectives Cell-free fetal DNA (cfDNA) has been increasingly incorporated into prenatal aneuploidy screening paradigms given its relatively high sensitivity for Down syndrome (DS). This is often the case when fetal ultrasonographic soft markers are present, such as the relatively common echogenic intracardiac focus (EIF). We sought to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a screening strategy that included cfDNA screening when an isolated EIF is identified in a low-risk population with prior aneuploidy screening. Methods A decision-analytic model was constructed using TreeAge software with probabilities derived from the literature. Our model compared cfDNA screening following isolated EIF detection in women less than 35 years with prior reassuring first trimester screen compared to a strategy of no further aneuploidy screening. Strategies were compared to generate an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio with a threshold of $100 000/quality-adjusted life year (QALY) and applied to a theoretical cohort. Results The cfDNA strategy resulted in 21 fewer DS births and 52 additional QALYs, however, increased costs by $51.3 million. This yielded an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $986 503; therefore, it was not a cost-effective strategy. Conclusion In a low-risk population with prior reassuring aneuploidy screening, it is not cost effective to offer cfDNA after identification of an isolated EIF.
Invited Review Paper in Commemoration of Over 50 Years of Oxidation of Metals: Addressing the Role of Water Vapor on Long-Term Stainless Steel Oxidation Behavior

In the past 20 years, it has become clear that the long-term exposure of chromia-forming austenitic stainless steels to air containing ~ 10 vol% water vapor at 650–800 °C significantly increases the Cr consumption rate compared to laboratory air. However, a similar acceleration does not occur in 100% steam because O2 is not available to form volatile CrO2(OH)2. This accelerated Cr loss is particularly important for thin-walled components like gas turbine recuperators. Typically, conventional austenitic stainless steels exhibit accelerated attack (i.e., rapid formation of Fe-rich oxide nodules), while higher alloyed steels resist this type of degradation until the alloy surface becomes Cr depleted. The development of strategies and solutions for this issue are reviewed. Model Fe–Cr–Ni alloys have been used to study composition effects on this behavior. For example, increasing the Mn content up to ~ 4 wt% was not beneficial, but increasing the Ni content improved oxidation resistance in this environment. However, at 650–700 °C even highly alloyed steels showed surface Cr depletion at alloy grain boundaries resulting in Fe-rich oxide nodule formation. The path forward for this issue will require more refined mechanistic understanding and increased used of modeling to develop better application-specific lifetime models to identify the most cost-effective alloy solutions.
Flip it and reverse it: Reasonable changes in designated controls can flip synergisms to antagonisms

Ecological systems are subjected to multiple stressors that can interact in complex ways resulting in "ecological surprises". We examine the pivotal role of 'control' assignment in the categorization of stressors into five classes: additive, +synergistic, -synergistic, +antagonistic, and -antagonistic. We demonstrate if an alternate treatment can reasonably be considered the experimental control, nonlinear interaction classifications change, both in sign (+/-) and in direction (synergistic/antagonistic). Further, switching of interaction classifications is not predictable as changing control can result in multiple possible alternate nonlinear classifications. To explore the magnitude of this problem, we evaluate publications gathered for a recent meta-analysis to 1) explore rationales for choice of controls and 2) quantify how frequently it is reasonable to reassign the control. We found controls were designated with a variety of implicit and explicit justifications, with two overall rationales: 1) controls based on 'natural' conditions (historic, current, or future); 2) controls based on direction of impact, such that stressors always have negative impacts. We reasoned that control re-assignment was justified if an alternate treatment met one of these rationales. Of the 844 interactions classified in the meta-analysis, we determined >95% could be reassigned. Based on these findings, we recommend a new approach to meta-analyses, where the 'control' is strictly and consistently defined by the authors of the meta-analysis. These controls should be based on their broader question, rather than following the common practice of defaulting to controls assigned by the authors of each study, as we found these rationales vary broadly based on the specific questions of each study. Consistent control designation within the ecological or toxicological framework of each meta-analysis may provide deeper and more consistent insight into the nature of interactive effects between multiple stressors. Gaining this insight is crucial because stressor interactions are certain to increase in the Anthropocene.
Characterizing modifier genes of cardiac fibrosis phenotype in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Abstract Background Clinical phenotypes of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) vary greatly even among patients with the same gene mutations. This variability is largely regulated by unidentified modifier loci. The purpose of the study is to identify modifier genes for cardiac fibrosis—a major phenotype of HCM—using the BXD family, a murine cohort. Methods The relative severity of cardiac fibrosis was estimated by quantitation of cardiac collagen volume fraction (CCVF) across 66 members of the BXD family. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping for cardiac fibrosis was done using GeneNetwork. Candidate modifier loci and genes associated with fibrosis were prioritized based on an explicit scoring system. Networks of correlation between fibrosis and cardiac transcriptomes were evaluated to generate causal models of disease susceptibility. Results CCVF levels varied greatly within this family. Interval mapping identified a significant CCVF-related QTL on chromosome (Chr) 2 in males, and a significant QTL on Chr 4 Mb in females. The scoring system highlighted two strong candidate genes in the Chr 2 locus—Nek6 and Nr6a1. Both genes are highly expressed in the heart. Cardiac Nek6 mRNA levels are significantly correlated with CCVF. Nipsnap3b and Fktn are lead candidate genes for the Chr 4 locus, and both are also highly expressed in heart. Cardiac Nipsnap3b gene expression correlates well with CCVF. Conclusion Our study demonstrated that candidate modifier genes of cardiac fibrosis phenotype in HCM are different in males and females. Nek6 and Nr6a1 are strong candidates in males, while Nipsnap3b and Fktn are top candidates in females.
Mitochondrial Permeability Transition: A Pore Intertwines Brain Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease

Advanced age is the greatest risk factor for aging-related brain disorders including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the detailed mechanisms that mechanistically link aging and AD remain elusive. In recent years, a mitochondrial hypothesis of brain aging and AD has been accentuated. Mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) is a mitochondrial response to intramitochondrial and intracellular stresses. mPTP overactivation has been implicated in mitochondrial dysfunction in aging and AD brains. This review summarizes the up-to-date progress in the study of mPTP in aging and AD and attempts to establish a link between brain aging and AD from a perspective of mPTP-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction.
THE IMPACT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE EXPENDITURE ON GROWTH OF ECONOMY IN SRI LANKA

This study aims to analyze the relationship between defense expenditure and growth of the economy in Sri Lanka applying annual data during the period between 1990-2019 by engaging the ARDL bounds test and the Granger causality test. Economic growth is considered as a dependent variable whereas; defense expenditure, broad money supply, capital investment and exchange rate are considered as independent variables for this study. The findings revealed that defense spending has a significant and positive effect on economic growth in the long- run. Exchange rate, capital investment and broad money supply have a significant and positive influence in the short-run and long-run. Further, the output of the Granger causality confirms the one-way association between the growth of the economy and defense expenditure. The study suggests that government should concentrate more on human capital development rather than spending on defense.
Network Meta-Analysis: Noninvasive Imaging Modalities for Identifying Clinically Significant Portal Hypertension

Although measurement of the hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) is the current reference standard for obtaining portal venous pressures, several noninvasive imaging-based modalities have been proposed as alternatives. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the diagnostic accuracy of noninvasive imaging approaches for identifying clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH). Two independent reviewers conducted a literature search of PubMed, SCOPUS, and the Cochrane Library from inception until January 5, 2021. The following imaging modalities were compared to HVPG: computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic resonance elastography, ultrasound, transient elastography (TE), shear wave elastography (SWE), acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) imaging, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), and subharmonic-aided pressure estimation (SHAPE). Sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and area under the curve (AUC) for summary receiver operating characteristic were calculated using both frequentist random effects and Bayesian network meta-analytic approaches. We analyzed 45 studies of 5678 patients. A broad overlapping confidence interval (CI) of DOR was observed among different imaging modalities: ARFI (30.5; 95% CI 12.7–73.3), CEUS and SHAPE (21.1; 95% CI 6.4–69.8), TE of liver stiffness (21.1; 95% CI 13.3–33.5), CT and MRI (13.7; 95% CI 7.40–25.4), SWE of liver stiffness (10.5; 95% CI 5.2–21.1), and ultrasound (9.5; 95% CI 4.9–18.4). The AUC of all imaging methods exceeded 0.8, indicating very good performance. At a cutoff of 80% specificity, TE, CEUS, and SHAPE exceeded 80% sensitivity. Overall, noninvasive imaging modalities perform well for identifying CSPH. Clinicians should consider these noninvasive and cost-efficient tests when diagnosing CSPH.