cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
“C’era una volta un gufo”: incanto e disincanto in “The Brown Owl” di Ford Madox Ford

Although The Brown Owl was a successful fairy tale when first published in 1891, it has since been unjustly forgotten. The Brown Owl was Ford’s first work, written for his sister Juliet to reassure her after the saddest event of their life: their father’s death and the division of their family. The “fairy story” as Ford calls it, seems to follow the scheme of popular fairy tales but it was born out of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, which Ford frequented in those years and carries most of the features of the late Victorian literary aestheticism. Art for art’s sake, irony, disenchantment, longing for evasion, are among them. Ford himself later belittled his fairy tales defining them as “twaddle”, but fairy tale motifs peep out throughout his prose and seem to play an important role in his view of the world.
Nutrient-Based ecological considerations for stormwater management basins: Ponds and wetlands

The effects of stormwater pond and wetland best management practice (BMP) designs on phosphorus and nitrogen concentrations in effluent was considered using extant data and experimental observations from pond and wetland mesocosms. Relative difference between BMP types were evaluated with respect to several nutrient forms and in relation to untreated stormwater runoff. The mesocosms allowed for direct measurement of time integrated nutrient influent and effluent mass loading. Based on an extended effluent monitoring protocol, these BMP treatments tended to have little effect on total nutrient mass differences between influent and effluent loads. However, significant nitrate removal from BMP influent was observed and appeared to be controlled by influent concentration. The observed nutrient concentrations in BMP effluent could be explained by the reservoir of exchangeable nutrient in basin pore water and the nature of primary production within a BMP type; phytoplankton vs. macrophyte dominance. For example, wetlands tended toward lower effluent phosphorus loading than ponds, which coincided with lower pore water soluble phosphorus pools that were driven by sequestration in macrophyte tissues. Ponds showed a greater potential for effluent nutrient loading than wetlands, which was partly a function of the lower runoff volume to permanent pool volume ratios (Vr:Vb) in pond design. Overall the data suggest little potential for sustained total nutrient removal in these basins at influent loads typical of urban stormwater runoff. Due to the nature of nutrient cycling in mature pond and wetland systems, we suggest a refocusing toward temporallyextended BMP effluent monitoring for better estimation of their effects on nutrient load quantity and quality for TMDLs.
A Tonometer for Measurement of Tissue Turgor in the Human Finger Tip

ConclusionsThe application of a simple and accurate tonometer to the study of the tissues of the finger tip disclosed findings which may he used to follow the course of certain physiologic and pathologic states.
Parhippolyte Cavernicola, New Species (Decapoda: Caridea: Hippolytidae) from the Tropical Eastern Pacific, with Taxonomic Remarks on the Genera Somersiella and Koror

ABSTRACT A new species of cave shrimp, Parhippolyte cavernicola, is described from the Gulf of California, Mexico. This new species closely resembles Somersiella sterreri from the Caribbean and western Atlantic, but is smaller in total length and has a shorter curved rostrum with fewer teeth. Specimens of the new species and S. sterreri from the Bahamas possess a podobranch on the second maxilliped, as well as an epipod. These features supposedly are absent in the genus Somersiella, and have been used to distinguish it from the related genus Parhippolyte. No other consistent distinguishing features of habitat, morphology, or color have been noted. Because of the lack of distinguishing features, the genus Somersiella Hart and Manning is considered to be a junior synonym of Parhippolyte Borradaile. Koror misticius Clark, considered to belong to a separate genus allied to Parhippolyte and Somersiella, lacks any unique characteristics that can be used to distinguish it as a genus.
Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy for Patients Suffering from an Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

A 24-year-old female college junior came to the psychiatry clinic complaining of an inability to make up her mind whether or not to go to Japan and visit other countries in the Far East with her boyfriend who invited her to accompany him on a business trip. She put it as follows: As soon as he mentioned the trip, I became very interested to hear all about his plans, but when I heard that he was inviting me to go along, I felt anxious all of a sudden. Actually, that is not absolutely correct because I also felt very thrilled at the thought of accompanying him, but my anxiety increased, I became panicky, and I started to have doubts. Questions came to my mind: “Is he good enough for me?” “Would I be happy with him?” “Will I get bored?” “Would I become attracted to someone else?” “Would I want to have sex with someone else?” “Is he as good a lover as I think?” I went on thinking all these thoughts and my doubts increased. I felt paralyzed. Although I know that all these questions were absurd, because I like Bill and we are thinking of living together, nevertheless I could not get rid of these repetitive thoughts from my mind. In addition, I find myself doing ridiculous acts such as knocking on wood many times. What is so silly about it is the need to knock on wood extra times. I know that I love him; yet I go on performing these foolish acts, and I keep on thinking these idiotic thoughts.
Analyses of knowledge、attitude、behaviorand demand on AIDS IN train workers

Objective To understand the AIDS knowledge,attitude,behavior(KAP)and demand situation of workers(the train crew、the train examiners and the railway police)on the passenger train,in order to provide scientific evidences for health education and intervention measures.Methods A self-administered questionnaire survey on KAP related to AIDS was conducted through cluster random sampling method among 890 train workers.Results In 863 valid questionnaires,the rate of raiway workers who knew AIDS transmission route was 86.21%,but the rate of knowing non- transmission route was lower. The rate of correct knowledge of condom use was 88.64%.The rate of knowing treatment on AIDS was lower than 50%.The correct rate of attitude on AIDS increased with the educational levels(P0.01).Over 90%subjects expressed demands for knowledge on AIDS,especially the demand for preventive measures. The train broadcast was favorite propaganda way.Conclusion The cognitive level on AIDS knowledge in train workers was lower,and it was suggested to enhance the health education about AIDS knowledge、attitude and behavior according to the group characteristic.
Evaluating the Potential of a Direct-Injection Constant-Volume Combustion Chamber as a Tool to Validate Chemical-Kinetic Models for Liquid Fuels

ABSTRACTChemical-kinetic mechanisms for low-volatility hydrocarbons and alternative fuels are mostly scarce or not validated, primarily due to the lack of a convenient experimental platform to investigate fundamental ignition and combustion behavior for such fuels. This work reports experimental measurements of ignition delays and related combustion behavior of n-heptane in a direct-injection constant-volume combustion chamber, for pressures ranging from 0.2 MPa to 1.0 MPa and temperatures ranging from approximately 390°C to 500°C while holding the global equivalence ratio constant at 0.62. Results showed clear two-stage ignition and negative temperature coefficient behavior, and data at higher pressures agreed closely with predictions from a perfectly-stirred-reactor model. At lower pressures, impingement of liquid fuel on the chamber wall likely caused experimental data to deviate significantly from model predictions. Overall, this work strongly suggests that this experimental platform can be used to va...
Fabrication and Testing of Single Crystalline 3C-SiC Piezoresistive Pressure Sensors

This paper presents the development of a single crystalline 3C-SiC piezoresistive pressure sensor using wafer bonding and bulk micromachining techniques. The wafer used to fabricate this pressure sensor consisted of a 3C-SiC/SiO2/Si structure that was obtained by wafer bonding and etchback. The pressure sensors were tested at temperatures up to 385°C and exhibited a sensitivity of 101.5 µV/V*psi at room temperature and 53.4 µV/V*psi at 385°C. The estimated gauge factor of the 3C-SiC piezoresistors is about −18.
Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT)

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an immune response whereby antibodies are formed to the complex of platelet factor 4, a protein released upon platelet activation, and heparin. This is a complex syndrome that requires immediate and knowledgeable medical management to avoid serious adverse outcomes. Neurological complications in patients with HIT are not uncommon and there should be heightened stroke awareness for at least 2 weeks following a diagnosis of HIT. HIT patients with stroke experience poorer outcomes and increased mortality. HIT should also be considered in the differential diagnosis when thrombotic stroke occurs. The diagnosis of HIT is heavily dependent on the clinical evaluation. Scoring systems aid in the clinical diagnosis and the decision to perform laboratory testing. There are two types of laboratory tests for HIT, immunoassays and platelet function assays, both of which provide different information needed for an accurate diagnosis. Removal of heparin alone is not sufficient to halt the pathology of HIT. A potent intravenous thrombin inhibitor (argatroban, bivalirudin) is used to treat HIT thrombosis. Other non-heparin anticoagulants are used to manage patients suspected of HIT for the prevention of thrombosis. The expanded use of low molecular weight heparins and non-heparin anticoagulants over heparin, strategies to reduce exposure to heparin, and strategies to reduce platelet activation will reduce the frequency of the occurrence of HIT.
Robust Visualization and Discrimination of Nanoparticles by Interferometric Imaging

Single-molecule and single-nanoparticle biosensors are a growing frontier in diagnostics. Digital biosensors are those which enumerate all specifically immobilized biomolecules or biological nanoparticles, and thereby achieve limits of detection usually beyond the reach of ensemble measurements. Here, we review modern optical techniques for single nanoparticle detection and describe the single-particle interferometric reflectance imaging sensor (SP-IRIS). We present challenges associated with reliably detecting faint nanoparticles with SP-IRIS, and describe image acquisition processes and software modifications to address them. Specifically, we describe an image acquisition processing method for the discrimination and accurate counting of nanoparticles that greatly reduce both the number of false positives and false negatives. These engineering improvements are critical steps in the translation of SP-IRIS toward applications in medical diagnostics.
Closing the Professional Gap Between Journalism and Civic Engagement Using the Culture-Centered Approach:

With the need to promote the ideals of democracy in the journalism field as a whole, increased focus on the preparation of future upcoming professionals is required. This article proposes and tests...
Exogenous reference gene normalization for real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis under dynamic endogenous transcription.

Quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is widely used to investigate transcriptional changes following experimental manipulations to the nervous system. Despite the widespread utilization of qPCR, the interpretation of results is marred by the lack of a suitable reference gene due to the dynamic nature of endogenous transcription. To address this inherent deficiency, we investigated the use of an exogenous spike-in mRNA, luciferase, as an internal reference gene for the 2-ΔΔCt normalization method. To induce dynamic transcription, we systemically administered capsaicin, a neurotoxin selective for C-type sensory neurons expressing the TRPV-1 receptor, to adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. We later isolated nodose ganglia for qPCR analysis with the reference being either exogenous luciferase mRNA or the commonly used endogenous reference β-III tubulin. The exogenous luciferase mRNA reference clearly demonstrated the dynamic expression of the endogenous reference. Furthermore, variability of the endogenous reference would lead to misinterpretation of other genes of interest. In conclusion, traditional reference genes are often unstable under physiologically normal situations, and certainly unstable following the damage to the nervous system. The use of exogenous spike-in reference provides a consistent and easily implemented alternative for the analysis of qPCR data. Abbreviations qPCR, quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction; GADPH, glyceraldehydes-3-phospate dehydrogenase; Tubb3, β-III Tubulin; NG, nodose ganglia
Insights for management among non-gaming industries: Employees’ dissonance in a casino dominant economy

Abstract This study examined 290 full-time employees among non-gaming industries at Macau, where the economy was mainly dominated by the revenue from casinos. It clarified that work satisfaction was fairly low for employees in non-gaming industries, and dissonance was generated due to the discrepancy between employees’ work satisfaction and affective commitment. Organizational variables – management ethics and distributive justice –, a socio-emotional variable – family emotional support –, as well as personality variables – conscientiousness and neuroticism – were assessed in relation to work satisfaction and affective commitment. Regressions found distributive justice to be the most powerful and positive predictor that, together with management ethics and family emotional support, were the positive predictors of both work satisfaction and affective commitment. In addition, conscientiousness was a positive predictor, while neuroticism was a negative predictor of work satisfaction. Results were interpreted in relation to management, and implications for human resource management practice in non-gaming industries were discussed.
Principles for Sound Scientific Writing

Scientific writing is the communication of a new idea that will alter or enlarge the reader's understanding of the subject of the article. Scientific writing follows a standard template defined by ...
Intradialytic Cognitive and Exercise Training May Preserve Cognitive Function

Introduction Cognitive decline is common and increases mortality risk in hemodialysis patients. Intradialytic interventions like cognitive training (CT) and exercise training (ET) may preserve cognitive function. Methods We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial of 20 hemodialysis patients to study the impact of 3 months of intradialytic CT (tablet-based brain games) (n = 7), ET (foot peddlers) (n = 6), or standard of care (SC) (n = 7) on cognitive function. Global cognitive function was measured by the Modified Mini Mental Status Exam (3MS), psychomotor speed was measured by Trail Making Tests A and B (TMTA and TMTB), and executive function was assessed by subtracting (TMTB − TMTA). Lower 3MS scores and slower TMTA and TMTB times reflected worse cognitive function. P values for differences were generated using analysis of variance, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and P values were generated from linear regression. Results Patients with SC experienced a decrease in psychomotor speed and executive function by 3 months (TMTA: 15 seconds; P = 0.055; TMTB: 47.4 seconds; P = 0.006; TMTB − TMTA; 31.7 seconds; P = 0.052); this decline was not seen among those with CT or ET (all P > 0.05). Compared with SC, the difference in the mean change in 3MS score was −3.29 points (95% CI: −11.70 to 5.12; P = 0.42) for CT and 4.48 points (95% CI: −4.27 to 13.22; P = 0.30) for ET. Compared with SC, the difference in mean change for TMTA was −15.13 seconds (95% CI: −37.64 to 7.39; P = 0.17) for CT and −17.48 seconds (95% CI: −41.18 to 6.22; P = 0.14) for ET, for TMTB, the difference was −46.72 seconds (95% CI: −91.12 to −2.31; P = 0.04) for CT and −56.21 seconds (95% CI: −105.86 to −6.56; P = 0.03) for ET, and for TMTB – TMTA, the difference was −30.88 seconds (95% CI: −76.05 to 14.28; P = 0.16) for CT and −34.93 seconds (95% CI: −85.43 to 15.56; P = 0.16) for ET. Discussion Preliminary findings of our pilot study suggested that cognitive decline in psychomotor speed and executive function is possibly prevented by intradialytic CT and ET. These preliminary pilot findings should be replicated.
Dispositional Properties of Metaphor: The Predictive Power of the Sweet Taste Metaphor for Trait and Daily Prosociality

Abstract. Metaphors often characterize prosocial actions and people as sweet. Three studies sought to explore whether conceptual metaphors of this type can provide insights into the prosocial trait of agreeableness and into daily life prosociality. Study 1 (n = 698) examined relationships between agreeableness and food taste preferences. Studies 2 (n = 66) and 3 (n = 132) utilized daily diary protocols. In Study 1, more agreeable people liked sweet foods to a greater extent. In Study 2, greater sweet food preferences predicted a stronger positive relationship between daily prosocial behaviors and positive affect, a pattern consistent with prosocial motivation. Finally, Study 3 found that daily prosocial feelings and behaviors varied positively with sweet food consumption in a manner that could not be ascribed to positive affect or self-control. Altogether, the findings encourage further efforts to extend conceptual metaphor theory to the domain of personality processes, in part by building on balance-rela...
The hallmarks of mitochondrial dysfunction in chronic kidney disease

Recent advances have led to a greater appreciation of how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to diverse acute and chronic pathologies. Indeed, mitochondria have received increasing attention as a therapeutic target in a variety of diseases because they serve as key regulatory hubs uniquely situated at crossroads between multiple cellular processes. This review provides an overview of the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in chronic kidney disease, with special emphasis on its role in the development of diabetic nephropathy. We examine the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms that cause mitochondrial dysfunction in the kidney and describe the impact of mitochondrial damage on kidney function. The new concept that mitochondrial shape and structure are closely linked with its function in the kidneys is discussed. Furthermore, the mechanisms that translate cellular cues and demands into mitochondrial remodeling and cellular damage, including the role of microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs, are examined with the final goal of identifying mitochondrial targets to improve treatment of patients with chronic kidney diseases.
Soft errors: Reliability challenges in energy-constrained ULP body sensor networks applications

Aggressive technology and supply voltage scaling has led to increasing concern for reliability. Optimizing power and energy with sub-threshold (sub-V T ) operation exponentially increases the occurrences of both static and dynamic failures. With smaller node capacitances with each technology and supply scaling node, radiation-induced Single Event Upset (SEU) has become a critical design metric for Ultra-Low-Power (ULP) applications. In this paper, we explore the impact of radiation-induced soft errors on sub-threshold SRAM implemented in a Body Sensory Node (BSN) as an ULP application. We also demonstrate an exponential reduction in the critical charge (Qcrit) of a storage node with supply in near- and sub-V T design, resulting in a significant design consideration for the low-power applications. The huge process variation in sub-V T results in 3X Q crit variation. Finally, we compare the trend of technology scaling and supply voltage scaling on Q crit .
Evaluation of the effect of errors in the sorting of pigs for market on financial loss at a range of marketing ages

ABSTRACT The BW growth curves for twenty-five 4,000-head finishing barns were simulated to evaluate the effect of 2 types of market pig sorting errors on the sort loss at different mean carcass weights (CW). Two types of errors were evaluated: BW estimation error (BWEE) and percentage of pigs not visually evaluated (PNVE). Four levels of BWEE with SD of 0, 4, 6, and 8% of BW and 4 levels of PNVE (0, 8, 16, and 24%) were simulated. Sort loss was calculated using a market value system for a United States pork processor. Pigs were initially marketed in 3 marketing cuts, 25% at 169, 25% at 179, and the remaining 50% at 193 d of age. Then the marketing ages for the pigs were shifted in weekly intervals with mean ages of 155.5 to 211.5 d. The number of pigs with sort loss and mean sort loss per pig were fitted to a model including the fixed effects of level of marketing age (AGE), BWEE, PNVE, and their interactions and random effect of replicate barn. The effects of AGE, BWEE, and PNVE, and AGE × PNVE, AGE × BWEE, and AGE × BWEE × PNVE interactions affected both variables (P
Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty for Periprosthetic Joint Infection Is Associated With Increased Postoperative Morbidity and Mortality Relative to Noninfectious Revisions

Abstract Background Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a devastating complication. The short-term morbidity profile of revision TKA performed for PJI relative to non-PJI revisions is poorly characterized. The purpose of this study is to determine 30-day postoperative outcomes after revision TKA for PJI, relative to primary TKA and aseptic revision TKA. Methods The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program from 2005 to 2015 was queried for primary and revision TKA cases. Revision TKA cases were categorized into PJI and non-PJI cohorts. Differences in 30-day outcomes including postoperative complications, readmissions, operative time, and length of stay were compared using bivariate and multivariate analyses. Results In total, 175,761 TKAs were included in this study, with 162,981 (92.7%) primary TKAs and 12,780 (7.3%) revision TKAs, of which 2196 (17.2%) revisions were performed for PJI. When compared to aseptic revision TKA, multivariate analysis demonstrated that PJI revisions had a significantly higher risk of major early postoperative complications including death (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 3.25) and sepsis (OR 8.73). In addition, nonhome discharge (OR 1.75), readmissions (OR 1.67), and length of stay (+2.1 days) were all greater relative to non-PJI revisions. Conclusion Utilizing a large, prospectively collected, national database, we found that revision TKA for PJI has a greater risk of short-term morbidity and mortality and requires a higher utilization of healthcare resources. These results have implications for patient counseling and alternative payment models that may eventually include revision TKA.
Process and Outcomes of DDR

This chapter provides a detailed account of the process and outcomes of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of Maoist ex-combatants in Nepal. It also critically analyses tensions surrounding verification of ex-combatants and discharge and rehabilitation of verified minors and late recruits (VMLR). The chapter also examines the role of external actors with a particular focus on the role of UNMIN, which had become somewhat controversial towards the end of its term. The chapter further provides a detailed account of why a cash-based scheme was more popular among the ex-combatants and how the use of cash created an environment for corruption and embezzlement of funds disbursed to manage the cantonments sites.
Elucidating the inhibition of peptidoglycan biosynthesis in Staphylococcus aureus by albocycline, a macrolactone isolated from Streptomyces maizeus.

Abstract Antibiotic resistance is a serious threat to global public health, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a poignant example. The macrolactone natural product albocycline, derived from various Streptomyces strains, was recently identified as a promising antibiotic candidate for the treatment of both MRSA and vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA), which is another clinically relevant and antibiotic resistant strain. Moreover, it was hypothesized that albocycline’s antimicrobial activity was derived from the inhibition of peptidoglycan (i.e., bacterial cell wall) biosynthesis. Herein, preliminary mechanistic studies are performed to test the hypothesis that albocycline inhibits MurA, the enzyme that catalyzes the first step of peptidoglycan biosynthesis, using a combination of biological assays alongside molecular modeling and simulation studies. Computational modeling suggests albocycline exists as two conformations in solution, and computational docking of these conformations to an ensemble of simulated receptor structures correctly predicted preferential binding to S. aureus MurA—the enzyme that catalyzes the first step of peptidoglycan biosynthesis—over Escherichia coli ( E. coli ) MurA. Albocycline isolated from the producing organism ( Streptomyces maizeus ) weakly inhibited S. aureus MurA (IC 50 of 480 μM) but did not inhibit E. coli MurA. The antimicrobial activity of albocycline against resistant S. aureus strains was superior to that of vancomycin, preferentially inhibiting Gram-positive organisms. Albocycline was not toxic to human HepG2 cells in MTT assays. While these studies demonstrate that albocycline is a promising lead candidate against resistant S. aureus , taken together they suggest that MurA is not the primary target, and further work is necessary to identify the major biological target.
Effect of antioxidants on the papilloma response and liver glutathione modulation mediated by arsenic in Tg.AC transgenic mice

Publisher Summary Arsenic (As) is a human carcinogen and its exposure via drinking water is linked to skin cancer, hyperkeratosis, and pigmentation abnormalities. Epidemiological studies indicate that inorganic arsenicals produce various skin lesions as well as skin, lung, bladder, liver, prostate, and renal cancer. Several theories have been proposed to explain the mechanism of As carcinogenesis, including alterations in DNA methylation, DNA repair, chromosome structure/number, cell proliferation, and free-radical/oxidative stress generation. Free-radical generation induced by As is associated with cellular stress, DNA damage, chromosomal aberrations, and protein expression alterations, and it influences inflammatory events involved in carcinogenesis.
A Model of Factors Affecting the Growth of Retailing on the Internet

We propose a model that links factors affecting the growth of retailing on the Internet (the Net). Specifically, we examine the roles of the following factors: product-related (risk, efforts, and information intensity); medium-related (interactivity, variety of channels, logical capability, and underlying communication model); consumer-related (preference for home-based shopping, technical orientation, and access to the Net); firm-related (information intensity and expertise in direct marketing), and environment-related (critical mass of consumers and retailers online). We examine how at each stage of the consumption process, Net-based retailing affects value delivery to consumers. Managerial implications of the model are discussed.
Endothelial Cell — Extracellular Matrix Interactions: Modulation of Vascular Cell Phenotype by Matrix Components and Soluble Factors

The vessel wall is comprised of several different cell populations residing in and on a complex extracellular matrix. Each of the resident cell types has diverse functions and morphologies and each has a role in repair processes following injury. Responses to injury vary depending upon the extent and type of the injury and the vascular beds affected. Briefly, large vessel endothelial cells respond to denudation injury by sheet migration and proliferation. This is in contrast to the invasion into and migration through soft tissues and tube formation with lumen formation exhibited by microvascular endothelial cells in response to injury. Vascular smooth muscle cells of larger vessels respond to intimai injury by migration from the arterial media into the intima, followed by proliferation and matrix biosynthesis, ultimately giving rise to intimai thickening. Microvascular pericyte response to injury is less well-documented. Specifically, responses to injury by these vascular cell types appears to be modulated, in part, by the composition and organization of the surrounding matrix as well as by the various platelet factors and cytokines found at sites of injury. These observations suggest that extracellular matrix and soluble factors modulate each other’s effects on local vascular cell populations following injury.
A Survey of Geometric Reasoning Using Algebraic Methods

In the past decade highly successful algebraic methods for mechanical geometry theorem proving have been developed. The first step in these methods is to assign coordinates to key points and to translate the hypotheses and conclusion of a geometry statement into multivariate polynomial equations and inequalities. The second step is to prove the corresponding algebraic statements using various algebraic techniques. To date the most practically successful algebraic techniques have been Ritt-Wu’s characteristic set (CS) method and the Grobner basis (GB) method. Also Collins’ method, a quantifier elimination method for real closed fields of Tarski’s type, has been practically improved to such an extent that many non-trivial geometry problems can now be solved by computer programs based on this method.
Case IX: Trauma 2

A 19-year-old male suffered a gunshot wound to the right arm a month ago. He comes with a wrist drop. Examination of the right arm: brachioradialis 0, supination 4 and weaker with elbow extension, wrist extension 0, MPJ extension 0, IPJ extension of digits 2–5 is normal, thumb extension 0. The remaining muscles are normal. There is sensory loss over the dorsum of the first web space on the right.
Facility type and surgical specialty are associated with suboptimal surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis practice patterns: a multi-center, retrospective cohort study.

Guidelines recommend discontinuation of antimicrobial prophylaxis within 24 h after incision closure in uninfected patients. However, how facility and surgical specialty factors affect the implementation of these evidence-based surgical prophylaxis guidelines in outpatient surgery is unknown. Thus, we sought to measure how facility complexity, including ambulatory surgical center (ASC) status and availability of ancillary services, impact adherence to guidelines for timely discontinuation of antimicrobial prophylaxis after outpatient surgery. A secondary aim was to measure the association between surgical specialty and guideline compliance. A multi-center, national Veterans Health Administration retrospective cohort from 10/1/2015–9/30/2017 including any Veteran undergoing an outpatient surgical procedure in any of five specialties (general surgery, urology, ophthalmology, ENT, orthopedics) was created. The primary outcome was the association between facility complexity and proportion of surgeries not compliant with discontinuation of antimicrobials within 24 h of incision closure. Data were analyzed using logistic regression with adjustments for patient and procedural factors. Among 153,097 outpatient surgeries, 7712 (5.0%) received antimicrobial prophylaxis lasting > 24 h after surgery; rates ranged from 0.4% (eye surgeries) to 13.7% (genitourinary surgeries). Cystoscopies and cystoureteroscopy with lithotripsy procedures had the highest rates (16 and 20%), while hernia repair, cataract surgeries, and laparoscopic cholecystectomies had the lowest (0.2–0.3%). In an adjusted logistic regression model, lower complexity ASC and hospital outpatient departments had higher odds of prolonged antimicrobial prophylaxis compared to complex hospitals (OR ASC, 1.3, 95% CI: 1.2–1.5). Patient factors associated with higher odds of noncompliance with antimicrobial discontinuation included younger age, female sex, and white race. Genitourinary and ear/nose/throat surgeries were associated with the highest odds of prolonged antimicrobial prophylaxis. Facility complexity appears to play a role in adherence to surgical infection prevention guidelines. Lower complexity facilities with limited infection prevention and antimicrobial stewardship resources may be important targets for quality improvement. Such interventions may be especially useful for genitourinary and ear/nose/throat surgical subspecialties. Increasing pharmacy, antimicrobial stewardship and/or infection prevention resources to promote more evidence-based care may support surgical providers in lower complexity ambulatory surgery centers and hospital outpatient departments in their efforts to improve this facet of patient safety.
The RNA Polymerase II Core Promoter in Drosophila

Transcription by RNA polymerase II initiates at the core promoter, which is sometimes referred to as the "gateway to transcription." Here, we describe the properties of the RNA polymerase II core promoter in Drosophila The core promoter is at a strategic position in the expression of genes, as it is the site of convergence of the signals that lead to transcriptional activation. Importantly, core promoters are diverse in terms of their structure and function. They are composed of various combinations of sequence motifs such as the TATA box, initiator (Inr), and downstream core promoter element (DPE). Different types of core promoters are transcribed via distinct mechanisms. Moreover, some transcriptional enhancers exhibit specificity for particular types of core promoters. These findings indicate that the core promoter is a central component of the transcriptional apparatus that regulates gene expression.
The post-stroke upper limb improvement effort survey (IMPETUS): a survey of individuals with chronic stroke.

Background: There is a considerable literature on arm/hand dysfunction post stroke, but little information on the participants’ opinions about perceived and desired arm/hand strength, recovery, and...
Spatial power profiling method using visual information in reactors with optically transparent coolants

Abstract The purpose of this study is to develop a method of power profile reconstruction based on visual instrumentation in nuclear reactors with optically transparent coolants. The detection of visible light produced by Cerenkov radiation at points outside of the active core region of a TRIGA reactor is correlated to the spatial power profile within the reactor core using a response function. A detailed MCNP model of the core is used to tally electron fluxes within coolant channels, which then use the response function to produce a 2D map of the Cerenkov radiation above the core. The potential use for this method is demonstrated by modelling various reactor perturbations at constant core power and showing the ability of the method to provide information about what change occurred. Some analysis of the applicability of this method to different reactor designs is performed, with recommendations as to where and how it could be implemented.
Addressing age related hearing loss through engineering accessible and affordable hearing technology

Hearing Aids have dominated the audiological market for decades. While the costs of the electronic components have reduced substantially, the cost of a hearing aid has risen steadily to the point that it has become unaffordable for the vast majority of the population with Age Related Hearing Loss (ARHL). Here, we present an ultra-low-cost, affordable and accessible hearing aid device (‘LoCHAid’), specifically targeted for ARHL in elderly patients. The LoCHAid costs only 98 cents (
HEALTH INSURANCE TRANSITIONS AND USE OF FRINGE BANKS: EVIDENCE FROM THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) increased health insurance enrollment, potentially improving financial security. We test whether this insurance increase relates to changes in use of “fringe banks” (e.g., payday lenders, check cashers, and pawn shops). Using the panel structure of the Current Population Survey (CPS), we link 5 years of a Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)‐sponsored supplement to March CPS data. We find declines in fringe bank use, specifically fringe credit (e.g., pawn loans), associated with new insurance coverage with larger declines for households affected by the ACA's Medicaid expansion. These results suggest that health insurance reduces reliance on these controversial financial products.
Technical Considerations of Endoscopic Kambin's Triangle Lumbar Interbody Fusion.

The performance of transforaminal endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion through a Kambin’s triangle approach requires significant modifications when compared to a traditional transforaminal discectomy. Indeed, due to the inherently limited field of view, small working corridor, and need to deploy an adequately sized interbody graft, there are several important technical adaptations which can help improve the efficacy of this approach. In this manuscript, the technical aspects of a percutaneous, endoscopic interbody fusion are discussed in detail.
Loneliness Among College Students: The Influence of Targeted Messages on Befriending.

The objective of the current research was to examine the influence of targeted messages in increasing helping behaviors towards lonely individuals. Previous research on loneliness interventions typ...
Ambidexterity in Cross-Sector Collaborations Involving Public Organizations

This article extends the concept of organizational ambidexterity to encompass knowledge exploration and exploitation in cross-sector collaborations. Collaborations are frequently charged to devise ...
Orbiting configurable artificial star multi-wavelength laser payload

We establish a viable laser payload design for the Orbiting Configurable Artificial Star (ORCAS) mission. We share observational considerations and derive the engineering requirements for the laser payload. Developed by general Atomics Electromagnetic Systems, the dual-wavelength laser will operate at 1064 nm and can be frequency-doubled to 532 nm, with two possible beam divergence modes and tunable power. The laser payload can be operated at pulse repetition rates greater than 10 kHz to enable compatibility with Adaptive Optics systems and to maintain pointing requirements. We show that such a laser payload can be constructed based upon a high-TRL amplified fiber laser Communication Terminal modified to meet the mission requirements.
Ancestral chromosomes for the Peronosporaceae inferred from a telomere-to-telomere genome assembly of Peronospora effusa

Abstract We report the first telomere-to-telomere genome assembly for an oomycete. This assembly has extensive synteny with less complete genome assemblies of other oomycetes and will therefore serve as a reference genome for this taxon. Downy mildew disease of spinach, caused by the oomycete Peronospora effusa, causes major losses to spinach production. The 17 chromosomes of P. effusa were assembled telomere-to-telomere using Pacific Biosciences High Fidelity reads. Sixteen chromosomes are complete and gapless; Chromosome 15 contains one gap bridging the nucleolus organizer region. Putative centromeres were identified on all chromosomes. This new assembly enables a re-evaluation of the genomic composition of Peronospora spp.; the assembly was almost double the size and contained more repeat sequences than previously reported for any Peronospora spp. Genome fragments consistently under-represented in six previously reported assemblies of P. effusa typically encoded repeats. Some genes annotated as encoding effectors were organized into multigene clusters on several chromosomes. At least two effector-encoding genes were annotated on every chromosome. The intergenic distances between annotated genes were consistent with the two-speed genome hypothesis, with some effectors located in gene-sparse regions. The near-gapless assembly revealed apparent horizontal gene transfer from Ascomycete fungi. Gene order was highly conserved between P. effusa and the genetically oriented assembly of the oomycete Bremia lactucae. High levels of synteny were also detected with Phytophthora sojae. Many oomycete species may have similar chromosome organization; therefore, this genome assembly provides the foundation for genomic analyses of diverse oomycetes.
Image-Guided Percutaneous Lung Needle Biopsy: How we do it.

Image-guided lung needle biopsy allows for minimally invasive diagnosis of lung pathology. In the setting of suspected malignancy, the biopsy not only confirms the diagnosis but also allows for molecular profiling, a requisite for tailored systemic therapy. Needle biopsy can also characterize non-neoplastic entities such as infections not responding to treatment and other inflammatory processes. A successful and safe lung needle biopsy starts with lesion and patient selection and careful pre-procedural evaluation. Here we review the indications and contraindications, diagnostic alternatives, approach planning and sequential procedural steps with the goal of maximizing both yield and patient safety. We discuss technical tips for preventing complications such as pleural anesthesia, the saline seal, the blood patch, the banana bend, hydro dissection, and the rapid needle out/patient rollover maneuver. We also review how to manage complications, avoid non-diagnostic biopsies, and provide recommendations for post-procedural observation and imaging follow-up.
Foreign investment and economic growth: Characterization of a second-best policy for welfare gains

Abstract This paper prescribes corrective taxes for immiserizing growth and customs union formation (growth through removal of trade barriers) when the home country and the rest of the world are financially linked through foreign investment and ownership of assets. An always-feasible policy which generates Pareto welfare gains for home country residents (and union countries' residents) is found. With foreign ownership the policy generally requires a specific profits tax in addition to the usual taxes on traded goods and factors. The policy does not harm residents in the rest of the world; growth is Pareto non-inferior from the world point of view.
Educational Philosophy for the Teaching of Business Associations, Corporate Governance, Energy, Entrepreneurship, Ethics, Finance and Capital Markets, Law, Leadership, Management, Securities Law, Strategy, and Venture Capital

This essay presents my educational philosophy for the teaching of business associations, corporate governance, energy, entrepreneurship, ethics, finance and capital markets, law, leadership, management, securities law, strategy, and venture capital. Any treatment of this topic can easily span hundreds of pages. The challenge is to reduce my thoughts into just a few.The first section discusses goals for student learning. At a very minimum, the goal of every educator should be to successfully transmit a clear understanding of the core body of knowledge and competencies germane to any scholarly discipline. My desire is to assist students in developing meaningful skills having life-long application and to foster and encourage creative thinking. Presented second are goal enactment, assessment, and an explanation of various devices used to foster student engagement, along with active and enthusiastic participation. The key to classroom learning is to engineer by design a high degree of emotional investment and involvement by creating an interactive environment that is interesting and fun. Third, I discuss the importance of bringing my career experiences to the classroom to illustrate and enrich my teaching. A discussion of the importance of respecting and incorporating diverse views and cultures into the classroom is presented. Use of the Socratic Method to promote student involvement and develop critical thinking follows. Finally, I’ve included a few words about why I teach and why I believe educating future generations is so important.
The hare and the tortoise: the network structure of exploration and exploitation

Whether as team members brainstorming, or policy experts sharing best-practices, problem solvers communicate and share ideas. This paper examines the how the structure of these communication networks can affect outcomes. We present simulation results demonstrating that more efficient communication networks can actually lower performance in the long run. This effect is manifest in complex (e.g. rugged) problem spaces, where extensive searches are expensive for the individual. When actors can communicate easily or quickly, average performance improves rapidly improves initially, but harder-to-find optimal solutions are less likely to be discovered.
Analysis of Hedgehog Signaling in Mouse Intraflagellar Transport Mutants

Intraflagellar transport (IFT) has been studied for decades in model systems such as Chlamydomonas and Caenorhabditis elegans. More recently, IFT has been investigated using genetic approaches in mammals using the mouse as a model system. Through such studies, a new appreciation of the importance of IFT and cilia in mammalian signal transduction has emerged. Specifically, IFT has been shown to play a key role in controlling signaling by Sonic and Indian Hedgehog (Hh) ligands. The effects of mutations in IFT components on Sonic Hh signaling in the embryo are complex and differ depending on the nature of the components, alleles, and tissues examined. For this reason, we provide a basis for analyzing the phenotype as a guide for those investigators who study IFT in cell culture or use invertebrate systems and wish to extend their studies to include development of the mouse embryo. We provide an overview of Sonic Hh-dependent tissue patterning in the developing neural tube and limb buds, the two systems in which it has been studied most extensively, and we show examples of how this patterning is disrupted by mutations in mouse IFT components.
Longitudinal and Shear Mode Ultrasound Propagation in Human Skull Bone

Recent studies have attempted to dispel the idea of the longitudinal mode being the only significant mode of ultrasound energy transport through the skull bone. The inclusion of shear waves in propagation models has been largely ignored because of an assumption that shear mode conversions from the skull interfaces to the surrounding media rendered the resulting acoustic field insignificant in amplitude and overly distorted. Experimental investigations with isotropic phantom materials and ex vivo human skulls demonstrated that in certain cases, a shear mode propagation scenario not only can be less distorted, but at times allowed for a substantial (as much as 36% of the longitudinal pressure amplitude) transmission of energy. The phase speed of 1.0‐MHz shear mode propagation through ex vivo human skull specimens has been measured to be nearly half of that of the longitudinal mode (shear sound speed = 1500±140 m/s, longitudinal sound speed = 2820±40 m/s), demonstrating that a closer match in impedance can be achieved between the skull and surrounding soft tissues with shear mode transmission. By comparing propagation model results with measurements of transcranial ultrasound transmission obtained by a radiation force method, the attenuation coefficients for the longitudinal mode of propagation was determined to between 14 Np/m and 70 Np/m for the frequency range studied while the same for shear waves were found to be between 94 Np/m and 213 Np/m. This study was performed within the frequency range of 0.2–0.9 MHz.