cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Combined Surface/volume Scattering Retracking Algorithm for Ice Sheet Satellite Altimetry

An algorithm that is based upon a combined surface-volume scattering model is developed. It can be used to retrack individual altimeter waveforms over ice sheets. An iterative least-squares procedure is used to fit the combined model to the return waveforms. The retracking algorithm comprises two distinct sections. The first generates initial model parameter estimates from a filtered altimeter waveform. The second uses the initial estimates, the theoretical model, and the waveform data to generate corrected parameter estimates. This retracking algorithm can be used to assess the accuracy of elevations produced from current retracking algorithms when subsurface volume scattering is present. This is extremely important so that repeated altimeter elevation measurements can be used to accurately detect changes in the mass balance of the ice sheets. By analyzing the distribution of the model parameters over large portions of the ice sheet, regional and seasonal variations in the near-surface properties of the snowpack can be quantified.
PEROMYSCUS LEUCOPUS ABUNDANCE AND ACORN MAST: POPULATION FLUCTUATION PATTERNS OVER 20 YEARS

Summer abundance of white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) fluctuated periodically during 20 years (1983‐ 2002) at the Holt Research Forest, Maine, USA, a pine-oak forest within 125 km of the northern edge of this species’ range. The oscillation period of the series was 4.0 years, with fluctuations greater than in P. leucopus populations in Indiana, Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Abundance always increased after a low population phase coupled with a large acorn (Quercus) crop, but in 3 summers population declines followed population peaks despite large acorn crops. We used linear autoregression to identify periodicity after accounting for the relationship between mice and acorn mast. Among 3 candidate models, a 2nd-order lagged abundance (AR[2]) model fit the data better and had greater predictive value (total r 2 ¼ 0.69) than either a 1st-order (AR[1]) or an acorns-only model. The AR(2) term could represent unknown limiting factors, such as response of predators.
Left ventricle thrombus after tranexamic acid for spine surgery in an HIV-positive patient.

Abstract Background Context Our case highlights the underappreciated thrombotic risks of tranexamic acid (TXA) use in non-cardiac surgery and emphasizes the need to elucidate these risks with appropriate clinical trials. Purpose The use of TXA in non-cardiac surgery has significantly expanded in the past 5 years, especially after the 2010 publication of the CRASH-2 Trial. We submit a case with the intent to highlight the thrombotic risk of TXA use during non-cardiac surgery and discuss the need for careful risk stratification before the use of TXA in this context. Study Design A 66-year-old man with long-standing HIV infection, hypertension, and no history of coronary artery disease (CAD) presented for revision spinal fusion surgery with the use of TXA is presented. Methods To limit perioperative blood loss, the case patient received TXA intraoperatively. His operative course was uneventful. Results During the first 12 hours postoperatively the patient was noted to have persistent tachycardia and ST-elevation on electrocardiogram. Echocardiography showed a new apical wall motion abnormality and a left ventricle thrombus; cardiac catheterization confirmed two-vessel CAD, treated with a bare-metal stent and anticoagulation. Conclusions The thrombotic risks of TXA use in non-cardiac surgery have yet to be adequately studied in clinical trials. Hence, TXA use in this context is still an area of uncertainty, and its thrombogenic risks have yet to be studied as a primary outcome in any large prospective trial to date. Patients with any hypercoagulable risk factors, including HIV infection or any prior thrombotic history in which TXA use is being considered, should prompt a discussion among the perioperative physicians involved.
Predetermination of Ovulation Timing by Luteinizing Hormone Assay

A modified, rapid, solid-phase radioimmunoassay for serum luteinizing hormone requiring only 1½ hours of incubation is presented. The method has been used to predetermine the time of ovulation in six infertile patients. Its advantages are presented in these cases. The simplicity and accuracy of the method make it practical, and it can serve well in the management of infertility.
Numerical Investigation of Shock Wave Refraction Patterns at Multimaterial Interfaces

Interactions of weak and strong shock waves with gas-gas and gas-liquid interfaces (under both slow-fast and fast-slow congurations) are systematically studied using the recently developed Adaptive Characteristics-Based Matching (ACBM) method for capturing interface boundary conditions in compressible multimaterial media. First, the results of numerical simulations are compared to a generalized von Neumann’s theory and available experimental data for a shock wave refraction at gas-gas interfaces. The focus is placed on fast-slow interfaces, for which no previous numerical studies are available. Our numerical simulations are found to be consistent with both theory and experiments. Then, the method is applied to investigate shock refractions at gas-liquid interfaces. Due to challenging problems for experimental visualization and numerical treatment of highacoustic impedance mismatch interfaces in gas-liquid o ws, the previously available data on a shock refraction are limited. Our computational results reveal some similarities between shock refraction at a gas-gas and a gas-liquid interfaces. There are some dierences, associated with a stiness of the equation of state for a liquid. We discuss the sources for these dierences, as well as implications and requirements for a numerical treatment of high acoustic impedance mismatch gas-liquid interfaces.
Clinical and laboratory studies of live cytomegalovirus vaccine Ad-169.

SummaryLive strain Ad-169 vaccine was prepared in human diploid cell strain WI-38 and studied clinically in 43 adult male priests and seminarians. All seronegative persons who were vaccinated developed antibody, and the immune adherence and neutralizing antibodies persisted at high levels for at least one year. Clinical reactions were minor consisting mainly of soreness, induration, and erythema at the injection site and mild systemic reaction including headache, chills, fatigue, myalgia, and fever in a few persons. It was not possible to recover virus from the peripheral leukocytes, urine, or throat of seronegative persons who were vaccinated. Susceptible persons who were in contact with the vaccinated persons failed both to excrete virus and to develop antibody indicating lack of contagious spread of the vaccine virus. Continuing investigations to measure the safety and efficacy of the vaccine seem highly justified in view of the importance of the virus in fetal damage, transfusion disease, and organ tr...
Integrating CUSP and TRIP to Improve Patient Safety

Despite increased awareness of the risks to patients within the health care system, there has been little improvement in patient safety, with 1 in 7 patients experiencing an adverse event during hospitalization. Patients are exposed to harm not only through medical errors but also by physicians' failure to adhere to evidence-based best practices, as patients receive recommended therapies only half of the time. Although much research has been devoted to developing new therapies, little time has been spent investigating the science of health care delivery. We developed 2 models for improving health care delivery that have been successfully utilized in the Michigan Keystone Project to eliminate catheter-related bloodstream infections. The first is the Comprehensive Unit-Based Safety Program (CUSP), which is aimed at changing the culture of safety and provides a framework for addressing patient safety issues at a local level. CUSP takes advantage of local wisdom to identify potential patient harms and create individualized solutions. The second is the Translating Evidence Into Practice (TRIP) model, which evaluates best practices at a hospital or hospital system level, and then creates strategies for implementation at a local level. TRIP seeks to identify barriers to implementation of best-practice medicine and standardize care over multiple care units. Components of the 2 programs are not mutually exclusive and both can be used to mitigate potential patient harms.
Alloy substituents for cost reduction in soft magnetic materials

Amorphous and nanocrystalline soft magnets have been investigated extensively in the past two decades. Many materials with attractive soft magnetic properties contain boron, which improves the glass formability, thermal stability and prevents undesirable grain growth. The high price of boron, however, makes the development of new soft magnetic materials and alternative synthesis routes important. We report here a synthesis of cobalt-rich alloys by substituting boron carbide for elemental boron to achieve significantly lower cost. Ribbons produced with and without boron carbide substitution were observed to exhibit comparable soft magnetic properties while the former results in 31–48% cost reduction. Extrapolating this idea to commercial VITROVAC 6025 and 6150, the cost reductions were calculated to be 56 and 50%, respectively, while both synthesis routes produced ribbons of similar soft magnetic properties. Our work here provides an attractive route to reduce the cost and increase the market competitiveness of soft magnets.
Chromosome-Wide Impacts on the Expression of Incompatibilities in Hybrids of Tigriopus californicus.

Chromosome rearrangements such as inversions have been recognized previously as contributing to reproductive isolation by maintaining alleles together that jointly contribute to deleterious genetic interactions and postzygotic reproductive isolation. In this study, an impact of potential incompatibilities merely residing on the same chromosome was found in crosses of populations of the copepod Tigriopus californicus. When genetically divergent populations of this copepod are crossed, hybrids show reduced fitness, and deviations from expected genotypic ratios can be used to determine regions of the genome involved in deleterious interactions. In this study, a set of markers was genotyped for a cross of two populations of T. californicus, and these markers show widespread deviations from Mendelian expectations, with entire chromosomes showing marked skew. Despite the importance of mtDNA/nuclear interactions in incompatibilities in this system in previous studies, in these crosses the expected patterns stemming from these interactions are not widely apparent. Females lack recombination in this species, and a striking difference is observed between male and female backcrosses. This suggests that the maintenance of multiple loci on individual chromosomes can enable some incompatibilities, perhaps playing a similar role in the initial rounds of hybridization to chromosomal rearrangements in preserving sets of alleles together that contribute to incompatibilities. Finally, it was observed that candidate pairs of incompatibility regions are not consistently interacting across replicates or subsets of these crosses, despite the repeatability of the deviations at many of the single loci themselves, suggesting that more complicated models of Dobzhansky-Muller incompatibilities may need to be considered.
The Treatment of Outstanding Employee Stock Options in Mergers and Acquisitions

This technical note summarizes the tax treatment of alternative methods available to the acquirer to compensate owners of the target's employee stock options. The summary includes changes in the tax law as of 2005.
Propantheline as a Diagnostic Tool – A Serious Complication

Propantheline bromide is a synthetic quaternary ammonium compound widely used in urologic patients to block the action of acetylcholine at the postganglionic nerve endings of the bladder's parasympathetic innervation. It is used clinically in a wide range of doses in ambulatory outpatients as well as hospitalized patients. To document its effects on the bladder, test doses are given with a cystometrogram documenting the dynamic changes. Herein we report a case of serious cardiac toxicity from a diagnostic test dose.
Pulsatile reperfusion does not modify global myocardial ischemic injury

In an attempt to arbitrate the reputed clinical efficacy of pulsatile flow during reperfusion in minimizing ischemic injury, 32 mongrel dogs supported by normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass were subjected to 30 minutes (Groups IC and IP) or 60 minutes (Groups IIC and IIP) of global myocardial ischemia. The effect of pulsatile flow (P) initiated during 30 minutes of reperfusion on the recovery of myocardial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and creatine phosphate (CP) stores, coronary blood flow, and myocardial water content (MWC) was compared to the effect of linear reperfusion (C) in another group of animals. ATP stores, which significantly decreased to 43% and 53% of preischemic levels (Groups IC and IP, respectively, p
Using routing information to improve mac performance in multi-hop wireless networks

As wireless communication technology becomes increasingly available, multi-hop wireless networks such as wireless sensor networks and wireless mesh networks are receiving substantial attention from both academic and industrial efforts. However, traditional contention-based wireless MAC protocols such as IEEE 802.11 DCF are designed for single-hop wireless networks and do not perform well in multi-hop scenarios due to inefficiency in their medium reservation mechanisms. In this thesis, a new general mechanism, utilizing a new Pioneer (PION) scheduling frame, is introduced to improve the efficiency in wireless medium reservation for multi-hop wireless networks. With the help of limited routing information at the MAC layer, this new mechanism enables multiple stations along a delivery path to cooperate. In particular, the PION control frame can travel across multiple hops and make medium reservations along the route for the upcoming data frame transmissions. This cooperation across multiple hops at the MAC layer can therefore greatly improve the medium reservation efficiency. This thesis introduces the PION mechanism and illustrates its use through application in two different types of MAC protocols. First, in the energy-constrained sensor network environment, I develop a new a duty-cycle based MAC protocol, called RMAC. Comparing against S-MAC, a classic duty-cycle MAC protocol, RMAC shows significant performance improvement in both packet delivery latency and network throughput, with even better energy efficiency. Second, the new PION mechanism is then applied to the general case of multi-hop wireless networks in the design of a MAC protocol called EMAC. Simulation results under various scenarios and traffic loads have shown the potential of EMAC over IEEE 802.11, including throughput improvement and decrease in packet relaying time.
Rainfall-Runoff Characteristics for a Mountainous Watershed in the Northeast United States

A 112 square kilometer research watershed was instrumented to study basic hydrologic processes in the mountainous areas of the Northeastern United States. Within this area the rainfall-runoff relationships are characterized by fast response but relatively low volumes of runoff. There is very little evidence of surface runoff and the partial-area hydrology concept appears to describe the runoff process. A partial area storm runoff process has been described and experimentally verified for an extremely small area in this watershed. This process attributes storm runoff to channel and near channel areas where surface runoff is generated because the groundwater or perched water table has intersected the surface and there is no resulting infiltration. Storm data for nine watersheds have been analyzed and the results demonstrate that the partial area concept can be generalized to large areas. Other data relating to the general hydrology and water balance of this watershed are also described.
Epilepsy, Temporal Lobe Sclerosis and Tumors

Sixteen of 48 children undergoing temporal lobectomy for temporal lobe epilepsy at the Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, were found to have tumors (12 patients), vascular malformations (3), and arachnoid cyst (1).
Prospects for energy recovery during hydrothermal and biological processing of waste biomass

Thermochemical and biological processes represent promising technologies for converting wet biomasses, such as animal manure, organic waste, or algae, to energy. To convert biomass to energy and bio-chemicals in an economical manner, internal energy recovery should be maximized to reduce the use of external heat and power. In this study, two conversion pathways that couple hydrothermal liquefaction with anaerobic digestion or catalytic hydrothermal gasification were compared. Each of these platforms is followed by two alternative processes for gas utilization: 1) combined heat and power; and 2) combustion in a boiler. Pinch analysis was applied to integrate thermal streams among unit processes and improve the overall system efficiency. A techno-economic analysis was conducted to compare the feasibility of the four modeled scenarios under different market conditions. Our results show that a systems approach designed to recover internal heat and power can reduce external energy demands and increase the overall process sustainability.
Health Care Engagement Among LGBT Older Adults: The Role of Depression Diagnosis and Symptomatology.

Purpose of the study Optimal engagement in health care plays a critical role in the success of disease prevention and treatment, particularly for older adults who are often in greater need of health care services. However, to date, there is still limited knowledge about the relationship between depression and health care engagement among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) older adults. Design and methods This study utilized data from Aging with Pride: National Health, Aging, Sexuality/Gender Study, from the 2014 survey with 2,450 LGBT adults 50 years old and older. Multiple-variable regression was utilized to evaluate relationships between three indicators of health care engagement and four depression groups after controlling for background characteristics and discrimination in health care. Health care engagement indicators were "not using preventive care," "not seeking care when needed," and "difficulty in adhering to treatments." Depression groups were defined by depression diagnosis and symptomatology, including Diagnosed-Symptomatic group (Diag-Sympt), Diagnosed-Nonsymptomatic group (Diag-NoSympt), Nondiagnosed-Symptomatic group (NoDiag-Sympt), and Nondiagnosed-Nonsymptomatic group (NoDiag-NoSympt). Results Depression groups displayed different patterns and levels of health care engagement. The Diag-Sympt group displayed the highest "difficulty in adhering to treatments." Diag-NoSympt group displayed the lowest "not using preventive care." The NoDiag-Sympt group reported the highest "not using preventive care" and "not seeking care when needed." The NoDiag-NoSympt group had the lowest "not seeking care when needed" and "difficulty in adhering to treatments." Implications Depression diagnosis and symptomatology are jointly associated with health care engagement among LGBT older adults. Interventions aiming to promote health care engagement among this population should simultaneously consider both depression diagnosis and symptomatology.
Managed Speech: The Roberts Court's First Amendment

In Managed Speech: The Roberts Court’s First Amendment, First Amendment scholar Gregory Magarian explores and critiques how the present U.S. Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice John Roberts, has reshaped and degraded the law of expressive freedom. This timely book shows how the Roberts Court’s free speech decisions embody a version of expressive freedom that Professor Magarian calls “managed speech.” Managed speech empowers stable, responsible institutions, both government and private, to manage public discussion; disfavors First Amendment claims from social and political outsiders; and, above all, promotes social and political stability. Professor Magarian examines all of the more than forty free speech decisions the Supreme Court handed down between Chief Justice Roberts’ ascent in 2005 and Justice Antonin Scalia’s death in 2016. Those decisions, taken together, aggressively advance stability at a steep cost to robust public debate. Professor Magarian proposes a theoretical alternative to managed speech, one that would aim to increase the range of ideas and voices in public discussion: dynamic diversity. A First Amendment doctrine based on dynamic diversity would prioritize political dissent and the rights of journalists, allow for reasonable regulations of money in politics, and work to broaden opportunities for speakers to be heard. Managed Speech: The Roberts Court’s First Amendment offers a fresh, critical perspective on the crucial question of what the First Amendment should mean and do.
Calcipotriene betamethasone dipropionate aerosol foam in the treatment of plaque psoriasis: a review of the literature

Psoriasis is a common chronic immune-mediated skin disease which has a significant impact on patients’ quality of life, and is associated with numerous comorbidities (i.e., psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease and cardiovascular disease). A greater understanding of its immunopathogenesis has guided the development of novel, more targeted therapies. Nonetheless, traditional treatment with topical agents, phototherapy and systemic medications is used in the management of the majority of psoriasis patients. Mainstay topical treatments include corticosteroids and vitamin D derivatives. Calcipotriene/betamethasone dipropionate aerosol foam is a novel single product combination, which seeks to provide superior therapeutic efficacy in addition to enhanced cosmetic properties. This article reviews the literature on the pharmacology and clinical data in terms of safety, efficacy and patient satisfaction of this topical medication.
The Intersection of Organizational Agility and Transformational Leadership: A Literature Review

The study of organizational agility has recently gained interest due to a perceived increase in the need for organizations to quickly react to changing external environments. Organizational agility...
Critical ethnic studies: a reader

This volume is divided in five sections of five chapters each, and written in the spirit of the 2011 conference of the Critical Ethnic Studies (CESA). The authors write in the introduction that the...
Characterization of monoclonal antibodies raised to Streptococcus mutans

Monoclonal antibodies (MAb) to whole cells ofStreptococcus mutants P-4 (serotype e) were generated. Of the four MAb used in this investigation, three were found to cross-react with mouse heart tissue (MAb-HT) in the solid-phase ELISA, while the remaining MAb was found to be specific forS. mutants only (MAb-SM). Serotypic characterization has shown that MAb-SM as well as MAb-HT recognize strains ofS. mutans representing all of the eight currently known serological groups. In addition, MAb-HT showed reactivity withStreptococcus pyogenes, a Lancefield group-A streptococcus frequently implicated in rheumatic fever. Western blot analysis has shown that MAb-SM recognizes a 14,000-dalton component present in a partially purified membrane fraction recovered following glass-bead breakage ofS. mutans P-4 cells. Two of the MAb-HT were found to react with a 35,000-dalton component from this same preparation.
Photothermoelastic investigation of stresses in a composite model

The authors claim to have developed a technique for observing thermal-s t ress concentrat ions around inclusions. T h e y do not seem to be aware of a large number of papers published in var ious scientific journals by Sampson, Rhine and the discusser, on the same subject (including analysis of s teady twoand three-dimensional s ta tes of stress and t rans ient two-dimensional s ta te of stress). The problem they have studied is somet imes referred to as " res t ra ined shr inkage" and presents several features of technique and in terpre ta t ion which are dealt with in the above-ment ioned papers. 1 The s tudy of some phases of this problem has also been the object of a chapte r in a book. 2 The mos t impor t an t comment on the authors ' work is t ha t the "p inch ing" effect will, in most cases, inval idate their results.
Assistive technology in US higher education: the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater experience

The advent of the personal computer age has significant implications for the lives of individuals who happen to have disabilities. It also has significant implications for the system of service delivery of computers and other assistive technology. New paradigms of service delivery may be needed to take full advantage of the power of technology systems. It is suggested that the introduction, training and use of computers is most effective when it is part of a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary team approach and based on the philosophies of human development and independent living.
Prüfung und Abnahme in der Werkstatt

Die Abnahme der Konstruktionen in der Werkstatt wird entweder von den Ingenieuren oder sonstigen Beauftragten des Bestellers vorgenommen, auserdem geht der Abnahme noch eine Prufung seitens eines hierfur besonders angestellten Aufsichtsbeamten der Werkstatt voraus. Diese beiderseitige Prufung soll das gleiche Ergebnis haben. Als Richtschnur fur diese Prufung, gelten die nachstehend zusammengestellten „Anweisungen fur die Werkstattprufung“, die fur den Abnahmebeamten, sowie fur die mit der Prufung der Konstruktion seitens des Werkes beauftragten Ingenieure bestimmt sind.
Outcomes associated with a transcarotid artery revascularization-centered protocol in high-risk carotid revascularizations using the ENROUTE neuroprotection system.

Abstract Objective This investigation describes the perioperative and early follow-up results associated with transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) in patients not participating in the Safety and Efficacy Study for Reverse Flow Used During Carotid Artery Stenting Procedure II (ROADSTER-2) registry using the ENROUTE neuroprotection system (ENPS; Silk Road Medical, Sunnyvale, Calif). Methods A retrospective review was performed capturing all TCAR/ENPS procedures in patients deemed to be at high risk for complications after traditional carotid endarterectomy. All patients enrolled in the ROADSTER-2 registry were excluded, leaving only those treated outside trial regulations for analysis. Preoperative demographics, intraoperative variables, and perioperative and follow-up outcomes were abstracted and reported herein. Results From December 2015 to January 2018, there were 75 carotid arteries treated at our institution. All interventions were performed on carotid arteries that were symptomatic with ≥50% stenosis (46.7%) or asymptomatic with ≥80% stenosis (53.3%) by duplex ultrasound and computed tomography angiography. Technical success in our series was 97.3% (73/75), with treatment failures attributed to one case of common carotid artery dissection and another secondary to stent maldeployment in the external carotid artery. Perioperative (30-day) ipsilateral stroke rate was 2.7% (n = 2), myocardial infarction incidence was 0%, and mortality rate was 2.7% (n = 2). We did not observe any cranial nerve injuries. After a mean follow-up of 8.0 ± 6.7 months, no carotid stents required reintervention. However, we noted one instance of minor ( Conclusions We report that dynamic reverse-flow TCAR using the ENPS continues to be safe, feasible, and efficacious with minimal risks of postoperative stroke, myocardial infarction, and mortality outside of ROADSTER-2 regulations.
BET 2: Missed diagnosis of ischaemic stroke in the emergency department

A short cut review was carried out to establish the rate and clinical characteristics of missed diagnosis of acute ischaemic stroke in the emergency department (ED). Two papers presented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these papers are shown in table 1 It is concluded that acute ischaemic stroke is missed in approximately 9%-14% of patients with this diagnosis who present to the ED. This is especially true in patients presenting with non-specific complaints such as dizziness, nausea/vomiting or altered level of consciousness.
Randomized trial of nicotine inhaler for pregnant smokers

Background Smoking during pregnancy is a serious public health problem in need of better treatments. Nicotine replacement treatment (patch or gum) has not been shown in randomized, placebo-controlled trials to be efficacious for smoking cessation during pregnancy. However, the nicotine inhaler may have advantages over other nicotine replacement treatments because it replicates some of the sensory effects of smoking. Objective The purpose of the study was to examine the efficacy and safety of the nicotine inhaler for smoking cessation during pregnancy. We hypothesized that the nicotine inhaler compared with placebo would increase quit rates and reduce smoking during treatment and at the end of pregnancy, result in a higher birthweight and gestational age in the offspring, and reduce the incidence of preterm birth and low birthweight infants. Study Design We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of the nicotine inhaler for smoking cessation during pregnancy. Pregnant women who smoked ≥5 cigarettes daily received behavioral counseling and random assignment to a 6 week treatment with nicotine or placebo inhaler, followed by a 6 week taper period. Throughout treatment, we assessed tobacco exposure biomarkers, cessation rates, and adverse events. We also obtained information on birth outcomes. The primary outcome was smoking cessation at 32–34 weeks’ gestation; secondary outcomes were smoking reduction, birthweight and gestational age, and the incidence of preterm birth or low-birthweight infants. We compared treatment groups on these measures using Student t tests, Fisher exact tests, and multivariate linear and logistic regression. Results Participants in the placebo (n = 67) and nicotine (n = 70) groups were comparable on baseline characteristics, although women in the placebo group reported a higher motivation to quit (P = .016). Biochemically validated smoking cessation rates were similar with nicotine and placebo (after 6 weeks of treatment: 4% [3 of 70] vs 3% [2 of 67], respectively, P Conclusion Although the nicotine inhaler group did not have a higher quit rate during pregnancy than the placebo group, the outcome of preterm delivery occurred less frequently in the nicotine group.
New experimental observations of the behavior of sodium ions in saturated rock samples

Abstract 1H NMR relaxometry of saturated rock samples has become a useful tool for the characterization of porosity and transport phenomena of enclosed fluids. The pore size can be measured using the difference between inverse relaxation values of protons absorbed by the saturated rock and that present in the bulk fluids. These experiments are usually performed at low magnetic fields to reduce the influence of the diffusion on the relaxation values in the presence of Internal Gradient Fields. Recently, sodium ions have become objects of investigation. The main advantage of sodium ions over protons as measured spins in the Petrophysic NMR experiments is their presence in water and not other phases like oil and gas. However unlike protons, sodium ions can have slow motion properties like appearance of the bi-exponential relaxation and residual quadrupolar distribution, which can lead to complex behavior of spins inside the pores. Here, we describe eight 23Na NMR experiments at 9.39 T external magnetic field, in which we have investigated the behavior of sodium ions in 4 saturated rock samples: Berea 500, Fontainebleau 1, Bentheimer sandstones, and Austin chalk. We show that the reduction of spin-spin relaxation is caused by anisotropic motion and not diffusion in the presence of Internal Gradient Fields. There can be a link between free diffusional and motional averaging regimes regardless of the size of environment in which the measured spin ions are. Using different NMR sequences, we reveal and quantitatively describe bi-exponentially relaxing spins and spins with residual quadrupolar coupling. This work demonstrates unique model for the behavior of ions inside porous media, which is different than known models (Brownstein-Tarr model and “agarose gel model”).
Immediate Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction in Suboptimal Patients Using an Air-filled Spacer.

Introduction Immediate prepectoral breast reconstruction offers excellent aesthetic results with less pain and elimination of animation deformity due to avoidance of pectoralis dissection and subpectoral implant placement. Concerns about the effects of prostheses on flap perfusion have limited use of the technique to highly selected patients. We present a series of "suboptimal" patients that have undergone immediate prepectoral breast reconstruction utilizing an air-filled "spacer" implant. Methods A single surgeon's experience with immediate, single-stage prepectoral breast reconstruction using a Spectrum implant was retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics, adjuvant therapies, risk factors for threatened flaps, and complications, including those that required subsequent intervention, were evaluated. Results Twenty-five patients (39 breasts) underwent immediate prepectoral reconstruction with a Spectrum implant. Ten patients had minor complications, 6 of whom required intervention with successful correction. There was a single case of implant loss in the series; this patient had prior radiation. Conclusions Utilizing the spacer concept, immediate single-stage prepectoral breast reconstruction is a viable alternative to subpectoral implant placement or delay procedures. The technique delivers aesthetic results with less postoperative pain, quicker operative times, and avoidance of animation deformity. It can be considered for any patient, including high-risk patients such as those with radiation exposure, thin/threatened skin flaps, significant ptosis, and obesity.
Transimpedance Amplifier Graphical Design Technique

A transimpedance amplifier (TIA) graphical design technique including transimpedance gain, signal bandwidth, feedback loop stability, and noise performance is presented. The proposed graphical method allows for a more extensive design tradeoff analysis and is applicable to both compensated and decompensated opamps. The method is validated with Spice simulation and contrasted with published experimental results.
Comparative transcriptome analysis of hESC- and iPSC-derived lentoid bodies

The ocular lens serves as an excellent system to investigate the intricate details of development and differentiation. Generation of lentoid bodies or lens-like structures using pluripotent stem cells is important for understanding the processes critical for lens morphogenesis and the mechanism of cataractogenesis. We previously reported the generation of peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC)-originated, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Here, we report generation of lentoid bodies from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and (PBMC)-originated, iPSCs employing the “fried egg” method with brief modifications. The ultrastructure analysis of hESC- and iPSC-derived lentoid bodies identified closely packed lens epithelial- and differentiating fiber-like cells. In addition, we performed RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) based transcriptome profiling of hESC- and iPSC-derived lentoid bodies at differentiation day 25. Next-generation RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) of hESC- and iPSC-derived lentoid bodies detected expression (≥0.659 RPKM) of 13,975 and 14,003 genes, respectively. Comparative transcriptome analysis of hESC- and iPSC-derived lentoid bodies revealed 13,563 (>96%) genes common in both datasets. Among the genes common in both transcriptome datasets, 12,856 (~95%) exhibited a quantitatively similar expression profile. Next, we compared the mouse lens epithelial and fiber cell transcriptomes with hESC- and iPSC-derived lentoid bodies transcriptomes and identified > 96% overlap with lentoid body transcriptomes. In conclusion, we report first-time comparative transcriptome analysis of hESC- and iPSC-derived lentoid bodies at differentiation day 25.
Alterations in chloride transporter activity in stress and depression

Abstract Stress and depression are intimately associated. Stress can trigger symptoms of depression and has been shown to be a risk factor for depression. Further, hypercortisolism is a hallmark feature of major depression. Beyond symptomology, stress has been implicated in the underlying neurobiology of depression. Recent evidence suggests that stress induces alterations in chloride homeostasis, impairing GABAergic inhibition, in many brain regions, including many limbic regions, which may impact affective behaviors. This chapter will review the evidence of stress-induced changes in chloride homeostasis and its potential relevance to depression. Chloride homeostasis is required for effective GABAergic transmission and these findings will be reviewed in light of the GABAergic hypothesis of major depression, in which deficits in GABAergic inhibition are thought to contribute to the pathophysiology of major depression. However, the exact mechanism(s), whereby stress-induced alterations of chloride homeostasis and compromised GABAergic signaling contribute to major depression remain unclear. One potential mechanism involves altered chloride homeostasis in corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) that govern the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and, thereby, the neuroendocrine response to stress, which is under tight GABAergic control. This chapter will focus on the role for chloride homeostasis in mediating HPA axis dysregulation in major depression, postpartum depression, and in the comorbidity of epilepsy and depression.
Year-End Actions by Plan Administrators

This article discusses actions and decisions that were required by or around the end of 2008 to ensure (1) compliance with the final regulations under Internal Revenue Code section 403(b), (2) compliance with Code section 409A, and (3) that qualified plan documents are timely amended to comply with new laws and regulations.
Structure of blood coagulation factor VIII in complex with an anti-C1 domain pathogenic antibody inhibitor.

Antibody inhibitor development in hemophilia A represents the most significant complication resulting from factor VIII (fVIII) replacement therapy. Recent studies have demonstrated that epitopes present in the C1 domain contribute to a pathogenic inhibitor response. In this study, we report the structure of a group A anti-C1 domain inhibitor, termed 2A9, in complex with a B domain-deleted, bioengineered fVIII construct (ET3i). The 2A9 epitope forms direct contacts to the C1 domain at 3 different surface loops consisting of Lys2065-Trp2070, Arg2150-Tyr2156, and Lys2110-Trp2112. Additional contacts are observed between 2A9 and the A3 domain, including the Phe1743-Tyr1748 loop and the N-linked glycosylation at Asn1810. Most of the C1 domain loops in the 2A9 epitope also represent a putative interface between fVIII and von Willebrand factor. Lastly, the C2 domain in the ET3i:2A9 complex adopts a large, novel conformational change, translocating outward from the structure of fVIII by 20 A. This study reports the first structure of an anti-C1 domain antibody inhibitor and the first fVIII:inhibitor complex with a therapeutically active fVIII construct. Further structural understanding of fVIII immunogenicity may result in the development of more effective and safe fVIII replacement therapies.
Grit and successful aging in older adults.

Grit is a noncognitive trait that has been shown to increase monotonically throughout adulthood and predict late-life cognitive performance. Less is known about the relation between grit and succes...
The Holy Month of Ramadan: Mass-Gathering Event Implications for Hospital Surge Capacity Planning in Saudi Arabia.

Objectives: The goal of this study is to determine the impact of the Holy Month of Ramadan on emergency department (ED) and hospital resource utilization in comparison to the time of Hajj and the rest of the year, so as to better define future resource needs of hospitals responding to events of this large size and duration. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of electronic medical records, ED visits, and hospital admissions during Ramadan, Hajj, and all other months over a three-year period on the Hijra calendar (1438-1440) or Gregorian (2016-2019). Primary outcomes were the change in the number of ED visits, hospital admissions, and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions during Ramadan in comparison to during Hajj and other months. Secondary outcomes included mortality; number of surgeries by specialty; and admissions to cardiac, respiratory, orthopedic, and neurosurgery wards. Results: During the three years, ED visits increased during Ramadan by 83.0%, 74.8%, and 40.3%, respectively, when compared to non-Hajj, non-Ramadan months. Hospital admissions rose by 21.05%, 50.96% and 48.22%. Combined ED and in-hospital mortality rose by 15.21%, 21.47%, and 1.39%. While there was a large increase in ICU admissions during Ramadan of 1440 (May 2019), this was not a trend seen in other years. Despite there only being two years of data for comparison, there was a trend towards increased admissions to all specialty wards. There was an average 46.69% increase in admissions to the general surgery ward during Ramadan months compared to other months, a 31.06% increase in admissions to the orthopedic surgery ward, and a 44.05% increase in admissions to the cardiac care unit. Conclusions: Ramadan is associated with a significant increase in the population of Makkah (Mecca), Saudi Arabia. Despite this study only focusing on a three-year period, and some variables with only two years of data available, it demonstrates a significant increase in ED visits, hospital admissions, and mortality during Ramadan compared to non-Hajj/non-Ramadan months. During mass gatherings of this size, it would benefit local and regional hospital systems to devote increased resources to patient care, especially to the ED, to prevent morbidity and mortality.
Histopathology and Classification of T-Cell Lymphomas

This chapter is an overview of epidemiologic, diagnostic, and prognostic features of mature NK- and T-cell lymphomas. In the introduction, there is a brief presentation of the epidemiology of these neoplasms and of the factors that may impact their geographical distribution. The discussion of the general principles of the 2008 World Health Organization classification of lymphoid tumors is followed by a review of specimen handling that ideally should allow a reliable diagnosis. The bulk of the chapter consists of the presentation of each type of lymphoma, with an emphasis on the morphologic, immunophenotypic, molecular, and genetic characteristics of each diagnostic category.
Basics of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Systems

With the recent advances in wireless communications, Radio frequency Identification (RFID) technology is becoming more of a reality in terms of their widespread use in various applications. Although RFID provides a general capability for tagging and tracking of objects, and has been in use for decades, no RFID system fits all applications. Therefore, it’s important to start this introductory chapter with an overview of the technology in general terms and continue in the later chapters with more detailed discussions on various techniques that can make RFIDs more adaptable to some specialized applications that face challenges with conventional RFID techniques.
Bourgeois Dignity: Why Economics Can't Explain the Modern World

The big economic story of our times is not the Great Recession. It is how China and India began to embrace neoliberal ideas of economics and attributed a sense of dignity and liberty to the bourgeoisie they had denied for so long. The result was an explosion in economic growth and proof that economic change depends less on foreign trade, investment, or material causes, and a whole lot more on ideas and what people believe. Or so says Deirdre N. McCloskey in "Bourgeois Dignity", a fiercely contrarian history that wages a similar argument about economics in the West. Here she turns her attention to seventeenth- and eighteenth-century Europe to reconsider the birth of the Industrial Revolution and the rise of capitalism. According to McCloskey, our modern world was not the product of new markets, but rather the result of shifting opinions about them. An utterly fascinating sequel to her critically acclaimed book "The Bourgeois Virtues", "Bourgeois Dignity" is a feast of intellectual riches from one of our most spirited and ambitious historians.
Phospholipid Metabolism in T4 Bacteriophage-infected Escherichia coli K-12 (λ)

Infection of Escherichia coli K-12 (lambda) by bacteriophage results in an altered labeling pattern of phospholipids in the host cell. Although the overall incorporation of (32)P(i) into phospholipids is decreased by infection, the relative amounts of phosphatidylglycerol and cardiolipin are increased. Phospholipid changes occurring at later stages in the lytic cycle of infected bacteria are more prominent than those at earlier time intervals. The uptake of (32)P(i) into phospholipids of cells infected with T4Bs and endolysin-negative mutants was similar to that observed with the wild-type phage, suggesting that the development of resistance to lysis from without and the repair of mucopeptides are not responsible for the phospholipid changes. The metabolism of phospholipids in uninfected cells treated with cyanide was similar to that of infected cells, indicating that part of the phage-induced alterations may be a consequence of impaired respiration.
High-performance sub-wavelength Si plasmonic modulators

This paper reviews the emerging field of sub-wavelength scale electro optic modulators for integration into a Silicon platform. On a physical level a key aspect is to enhance the interaction between light and matter.
Latinos and Immigrants

In this symposium essay, I consider whether Latinos should embrace or resist the close correlation of Latino political identity with the immigration question. Do Latinos qua Latinos define themselves as perpetual outsiders and elide more important community interests when they highlight immigration as a core Latino concern, or is this focus required to secure the status of Latinos in the American political community? I conclude that the general public's tendency to draw a strong correlation between Latinos and immigrants is inescapable, whether individual Latinos prefer to divorce themselves from their immigrant ancestry, or from the immigration circumstances of Latinos with national origins distinct from their own. The immigration issue must be embraced as a Latino issue, because the interests of U.S. Latinos and Latin American immigrants are intertwined. The value of promoting Latino group solidarity and advancing new civil rights agendas also could be invoked to support Latino focus on the immigration debate. But even for those who are not exercised by such objectives, self interest requires engaging the immigration question. Accordingly, Latinos and their allies must approach immigration-related politics from a perspective that prioritizes immigrant integration and what I call the "normalization" of immigrant identity into mainstream American political identity.