cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Total Syntheses of Vancomycin

A total synthesis of the vancomycin aglycon 1 has eluded synthetic chemists for so many years that the preparation of this molecule has become a vendetta for some groups. Finally, and almost simultaneously, research teams led by Evans and by Nicolaou have succeeded. Similarities and differences in their synthetic approaches are highlighted herein.
Penetration and Reaction Depths of Vapor Deposited Ag, Mg, Al, and Ca on Oligothiophene Thin Films

Physical vapor deposition of metal contacts onto thin film organic functional materials is widely used in organic electronic technologies. Using the oligothiophenes (OTs) α-sexithiophene (α-6T) and...
Multimorbidity, functional limitations, and outcomes: Interactions in a population-based cohort of older adults.

Objective:To understand the interaction of multimorbidity and functional limitations in determining health-care utilization and survival in older adults.Methods:Olmsted County, Minnesota, residents...
A Machine Learning Approach to the Estimation of Near-Optimal Electrostatic Force in Micro Energy-Harvesters

Wearable medical sensors are one of the key components of remote health monitoring systems which allow patients to stay under continuous medical supervision away from the hospital environment. These sensors are typically powered by small batteries which allow the device to operate for a limited time. Any disruption in the battery power could lead to temporary loss of vital data. Kinetic-based micro-energy-harvesting is a technology that could prolong the battery lifetime or equivalently reduce the frequency of recharge or battery replacement. Focusing on a Coulomb-Force Parametric Generator (CFPG) micro harvesting architecture, several machine learning approaches are presented in this paper to optimally tune the electrostatic force parameter; and therefore, maximize the harvested power.
To Test or Not to Test: A Retrospective Review of Infant Car Seat Tolerance Screening at a Single Institution

OBJECTIVES: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends all neonates born at <37 weeks gestational age (GA), and all infants at risk for cardiorespiratory compromise while seated in a semi-reclined position, undergo Car Seat Tolerance Screening (CSTS) prior to discharge. This test requires significant staff time and resources to complete, and there is tremendous variation in not only criteria and methodology for testing, but also for what constitutes passage or failure. To inform best-practice recommendations, we examined CSTS outcomes among infants tested over a 33-month period at a …
Pain interference and quality of life in combat veterans: Examining the roles of posttraumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and sleep quality.

OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to examine the associations among posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), sleep quality, pain interference, and quality of life in combat veterans. METHOD Veterans (N = 289, 86.51% male) completed the Mid-Atlantic MIRECC Assessment of Traumatic Brain Injury, the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5, and measures of sleep quality, pain interference, and quality of life. RESULTS Hierarchical linear regressions evaluated associations between PTSD severity, deployment TBI severity, sleep quality, and the outcomes of pain interference and quality of life after adjusting for demographic variables and the number of nondeployment TBIs. PTSD severity, B = 0.15, SE B = 0.04, deployment TBI severity, B = 3.98, SE B = 1.01, and sleep quality, B = 0.74, SE B = 0.13, were significantly associated with pain interference, p < .001. PTSD severity, B = -0.57, SE B = 0.07, and pain interference, B = -0.45, SE B = 0.11, were significantly, independently associated with quality of life,p < .001. However, pain interference, B = -0.24, SE B = 0.11, was no longer significantly associated with quality of life when sleep quality, B = -1.56, SE B = 0.25, was included in the model. There was no significant association between deployment TBI severity and quality of life. Interactions among the studied variables were not significant for either of the outcome variables. CONCLUSIONS PTSD symptom severity, deployment TBI history, and sleep quality may be important to consider in treatment planning for veterans experiencing pain-related functional interference. For veterans with numerous conditions comorbid with pain, treatment plans may include interventions targeting sleep and PTSD to maximize quality of life improvements. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
Analytical evaluation of third and fourth virial coefficients for hard disk fluids in narrow channels and equation of state

Abstract The third and fourth virial coefficients of hard disks in narrow channels have been evaluated as a series in powers of the channel width deviations from the one dimensional limit. We have obtained analytically the coefficients of the power series to very high order. These virial coefficients are used in truncated virial series to provide approximate analytical equation of state (EOS). The EOS is shown to accurately describe Monte Carlo simulations over a wide range of pressures and densities near the one dimensional limit. Explicit expressions for the free energy, chemical potential, compressibility and EOS as a function of the channel widths are given. These results represent progress toward understanding the long standing problem of the thermodynamic crossover from a one dimensional to quasi one dimensional fluid. They are also useful in a number of applications. We mention the examples of thermodynamic perturbation theory and stochastic dynamic mobility in anomalous single-file diffusion.
I Want to Be a Diversity Thug

This performative essay explores the author/performer’s desire to be a “diversity thug.” A person who persistently uses voice and identity-presence with an insistence of recognition and protest for...
The Modulational Instability for a Generalized Korteweg–de Vries Equation

We study the spectral stability of a family of periodic standing wave solutions to the generalized Korteweg–de Vries in a neighborhood of the origin in the spectral plane using what amounts to a rigorous Whitham modulation theory calculation. In particular we are interested in understanding the role played by the null directions of the linearized operator in the stability of the traveling wave to perturbations of long wavelength. A study of the normal form of the characteristic polynomial of the monodromy map (the periodic Evans function) in a neighborhood of the origin in the spectral plane leads to two different instability indices. The first, an orientation index, counts modulo 2 the total number of periodic eigenvalues on the real axis. This index is a generalization of the one which governs the stability of the solitary wave. The second, a modulational instability index, provides a necessary and sufficient condition for the existence of a long-wavelength instability. This index is essentially the quantity calculated by Hǎrǎgus and Kapitula in the small amplitude limit. Both of these quantities can be expressed in terms of the map between the constants of integration for the ordinary differential equation defining the traveling waves and the conserved quantities of the partial differential equation. These two indices together provide a good deal of information about the spectrum of the linearized operator. We sketch the connection of this calculation to a study of the linearized operator—in particular we perform a perturbation calculation in terms of the Floquet parameter. This suggests a geometric interpretation attached to the vanishing of the orientation index previously mentioned.
Challenges to HIV service delivery and the impacts on patient care during COVID-19: perspective of HIV care providers in Guangxi, China

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought immense challenges on the health system including HIV care service. Based on online survey data of 1,029 HIV care providers in Guangxi, China, we assessed their perspectives on the challenges for HIV service delivery and perceived impacts of such challenges on patient care during the COVID-19 outbreak. Multivariate regression analysis was conducted to test the association between specific challenges and patient care outcomes controlling for socio-demographics of HIV care providers. The prominent impacts of COVID-19 on patient care outcomes included "not being able to make follow-up visits on time", "not being able to get ARV refills timely", and "compromised ART adherence". Patient care outcome was significantly associated with "not being able to go to work due to quarantine and traffic restriction", "no overall arrangement", "no guideline for HIV service", "conflicts between HIV care and response to COVID-19", and "clinics were overwhelmed by COVID-19 care". In response to dual epidemics of COVID-19 and HIV, policy makers may consider the potential impact of large-scale preventive strategies (e.g., lockdowns) on HIV care, assist healthcare providers to navigate shifting tasks and resetting priorities effectively, and develop clear guidelines and clinic-level arrangements to best serve both COVID-19 and HIV patients.
Nonlinearities of Tungsten-Nickel Point-Contact Diodes: Are we Close to an Understanding of these Puzzling Devices?

The inherent nonlinearity of high speed tungsten-nickel point-contact diodes employed in harmonic-frequency mixing and frequency measurements in the infrared has been ascribed to electronic tunnelling through the insulating oxide barrier. The requirements necessary for these devices to be used as harmonic generators and mixers in the 2 to 200 THz region are deduced from the available experimental data.
Multimodal Chemical Nano-imaging and Spectroscopy through Peak Force Infrared Microscopy

Abbe’s diffraction limit prevents straightforwardly resolving the micro/nanoscale heterogeneous materials with mid infrared light. In this presentation, I will describe our invention on peak force infrared (PFIR) microscopy . The PFIR microscopy utilizes temporal domain mechanical detection of the tip-enhanced infrared photothermal response of the sample with a nanoscopic atomic force microscope (AFM) tip. The PFIR works in both air phase and liquid phase. We have demonstrated the imaging capability of PFIR on a wide range of materials from block copolymer, amyloid fibril, cellular structures to secondary organic aerosols, oil shale source rock, and two-dimensional polaritonic materials. A spatial resolution of 6 nm is demonstrated across different types of samples. In addition, we have integrated the PFIR microscopy with other modalities of chemical measurement and imaging, including mechanical property measurement and surface potential mapping.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Gender Inequality: A Study on Cross-Sector Inequality in the US

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in substantial employment losses in the US. To understand how this impact fell on male and female workers unevenly, I empirically investigate the impacts of COVID-19 on the gender inequality in labor markets and analyze the variation in effects across sectors. I find that the COVID-19 pandemic influences all sectors to different degrees, with the tertiary (service) sector hit the hardest. The pandemic has also exacerbated gender inequality in certain sectors, but not all: women working in the tertiary sector are most economically harmed, while sectors that rely mostly on knowledge and technology tend to work remotely and generally have the least impact in working hours from the pandemic. The intersectionality of race, gender, and educational attainment also contributes to the disparities in labor markets across all sectors. Results also show that marriage benefits employment, and that having children under the age of five could slightly disadvantage workers in the labor markets.
Determinants of affinity and mode of DNA binding at the carboxy terminus of the bacteriophage SPO1-encoded type II DNA-binding protein, TF1.

Abstract The role of the carboxy-terminal amino acids of the bacteriophage SPO1-encoded type II DNA-binding protein, TF1, in DNA binding was analyzed. Chain-terminating mutations truncating the normally 99-amino-acid TF1 at amino acids 96, 97, and 98 were constructed, as were missense mutations substituting cysteine, arginine, and serine for phenylalanine at amino acid 97 and tryptophan for lysine at amino acid 99. The binding of the resulting proteins to a synthetic 44-bp binding site in 5-(hydroxymethyl)uracil DNA, to binding sites in larger SPO1 [5-(hydroxymethyl)uracil-containing] DNA fragments, and to thymine-containing homologous DNA was analyzed by gel retardation and also by DNase I and hydroxy radical footprinting. We conclude that the C tail up to and including phenylalanine at amino acid 97 is essential for DNA binding and that the two C-terminal amino acids, 98 and 99, are involved in protein-protein interactions between TF1 dimers bound to DNA.
An Experiment to Evaluate Drama as a Method for Teaching Social Work Research.

Abstract The usefulness of drama for teaching social research methods is suggested by theories related to conditioning, modeling, and andragogy. This study describes and evaluates the use of a play entitled The Experiment as a teaching tool in social work research. A randomized factorial experimental design compares groups receiving materials in the form of a lecture or a play, each presented by two different professors. Students receiving the play acquired more knowledge than those in the lecture group when tested immediately after the presentations, but this difference was not indicated one week later. The lecture and play groups were initially equivalent in their attitudes toward the educational experience, but one week later students in the play group had significantly more positive attitudes.
ESTIMATING THE IMPORTANCE OF SHELF SPACE CONFIGURATION ON RETAILER'S PROFIT

Retail shelf space allocation remains a central issue in grocery retailing. A literature review produced many studies on retail shelf space allocation, but none which evaluated shelf space allocation using three major factors at once: space, vertical height, and price. In this study, shelf space allocation was modeled from the perspective of a retailer maximizing profit using space, vertical height, and price. Using benchmarking, the results show how shelf configuration affects consumer demand and retailer profit. Parameters for the model were based on experience-based intuition. Although the initial results are not valuable at this point, the method and results create a rationale and motivation to gather primary data. Once primary data is collected, this methodology has important applications. First, it develops an understanding of which parameters are important in determining optimal shelf space configuration. Second, a properly specified model would determine retailer's profit for specific shelf level configurations.
A study of the DVD content scrambling system (CSS) algorithm

The CSS algorithm used to encode DVDs is not a strong encryption method. There are many weaknesses and many possible attacks are possible due to those weaknesses. However this is not important to the movie makers, what is important is that there are some speed bumps in copying DVDs, which makes it easier to prosecute movie piracy. Since there are so many laws against piracy, the algorithm need not be updated. In essence the algorithm was not intended to be strong.
Experiencing work as a daily challenge: The case of scleroderma

OBJECTIVE: Little is known about the physical and discretionary aspects of work that people with scleroderma (SSc) find difficult. This article describes the findings from a study that explored the challenges and adaptations made by individuals with SSc to continue to work. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty-two employed individuals with SSc participated. Participants were predominantly women (82%), white (79%), and well educated (M = 16.9 years). The average age was 47.3 years, and 60.6% were married. Mean disease duration was 9.7 years, and 56.2% had diffuse SSc. Mean years on the job was 10.2 (SD ± 8.8), and 71.9% worked at least 35 hours per week. METHODS: Participants engaged in a single structured interview about work-related challenges and adaptations. Content and thematic analysis was used to identify key themes across the interviews. RESULTS: Employees with SSc experienced Work as a daily challenge. This central theme described the general work experience for most participants. Three subthemes described their specific experiences: The work environment: Opportunities, challenges, and accommodations; Career planning; and Supportive others. CONCLUSIONS: The participants were anxious to find scenarios that allowed them to continue to work. Worksite accommodations and flexibility in scheduling can make the difference between working and disability.
Populus tremuloides stands continue to deteriorate after drought-incited sudden aspen decline

Reports of forest damage have increased with the frequency of climatic extremes, but longer term impacts of such events on population dynamics of forest trees are generally unknown. Incited by the turn-of-the-century drought, sudden aspen decline (SAD) damaged 535 000 ha of Populus tremuloides Michx. in the Southern Rockies ecoregion of western North America. Although spread of the disease stopped in about 2009, most of the affected stands continued to deteriorate. Remeasurement of plots in southwestern Colorado showed that, since the peak of the epidemic, live basal area in sick plots decreased by an additional 28% to only 38% of that in healthy plots. Sick plots had much more recent damage than healthy plots, with almost three times as much recently dead basal area, over twice the density of recently dead trees, and almost four times as much recent crown loss. The important contributing agents in SAD were still active in sick stands in 2013. Density of small regeneration showed opposite trends, increasi...
Soiling Mechanisms and Performance of Anti-Soiling Surface Coatings

Physical examination of surfaces undergoing natural outdoor soiling suggests that soil matter accumulates in up to three distinct layers. The first layer involves strong chemical attachment or strong chemisorption of soil matter on the primary surface. The second layer is physical, consisting of a highly organized arrangement of soil creating a gradation in surface energy from a high associated with the energetic first layer to the lowest possible state on the outer surface of the second layer. The lowest possible surface energy state is dictated by the chemical and physical nature of the regional atmospheric soiling materials. These first two layers are resistant to removal by rain. The third layer constitutes a settling of loose soil matter, accumulating in dry periods and being removed during rainy periods.
Structural and Functional Models of the Dimanganese Catalase Enzymes. 2. Structure, Electrochemical, Redox, and EPR Properties

Catalysts which functionally mimic the bacterial dimanganese catalase enzymes have been synthesized and their structure, electrochemical, redox, and EPR spectra have been compared to the enzyme. These compounds are formulated as [LMn 2 II,II X] Y 2 , μ-X=CH 3 CO 2 , ClCH 2 CO 2 ; Y=ClO 4 , BPh 4 , CH 3 CO 2 , possessing a bridging μ-alkoxide from the ligand, HL=N,N,N',N'-tetrakis(2-methylenebenzimidazole)- 1,3-diaminopropan-2-ol. An X-ray diffraction structure of [LMn 2 (CH 3 CO 2 )(butanol)] (ClO 4 ) 2 .H 2 O, in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/c, confirmed the anticipated N 6 O septadentate coordination of the HL ligand, the bridging μ-acetate, and revealed both five- and six-coordinate Mn ions; the latter arising from a butanol solvent molecule
Schnauzer: scalable profiling for likely security bug sites

Software bugs comprise the greatest threat to computer security today. Though enormous effort has been expended on eliminating security exploits, contemporary testing techniques are insufficient to deliver software free of security vulnerabilities. In this paper we propose a novel approach to security vulnerability analysis: dynamic control frontier profiling. Security exploits are often buried in rarely executed code paths hidden just beyond the path space explored by end-users. Therefore, we develop Schnauzer, a distributed sampling technology to discover the dynamic control frontier, which forms the line of demarcation between dynamically executed and unseen paths. This frontier may then be used to direct tools (such as white-box fuzz testers) to attain a level of testing coverage currently unachievable. We further demonstrate that the dynamic control frontier paths are a rich source of security bugs, sensitizing many known security exploits.
Increased prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus nasal colonization in household contacts of children with community acquired disease

Background To measure Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) nasal colonization prevalence in household contacts of children with current community associated (CA)-MRSA infections (study group) in comparison with a group of household contacts of children without suspected Staphylococcus aureus infection (a control group).
Packing densities of more 2-block patterns

Abstract In this paper, we generalize the inductive techniques used in a previous paper [D. Warren, Optimal packing behavior of some 2-block patterns, Ann. Combin. 8 (2) (2004) 355–367] to prove a general result by which we may calculate the packing density of a 2-block pattern given the packing behavior of a smaller pattern having the same ratio of block sizes. We apply this result to compute the packing densities of patterns having layer sequences of the form ( 1 α , β ) in the case that β ⩾ α ⩾ 2 and α | 2 β . Necessary unimodality and maximality results are proven as we need them.
High Definition Optical System for Microsurgical Heterotopic Heart Transplantation in Rats

Abstract Background Clinical and experimental cardiovascular surgery as well as other surgical disciplines may require visualization and manipulation of small anatomic structures. A high-definition optical system was developed for magnification and illumination as an alternative to surgical loupes or a traditional operating microscope. Materials and Methods A video telescopic optical imaging system that provided a high-definition and magnification of the surgical field was used for visualization of small anatomic structures and as an aid to the performance of small vessel anastomoses in a series of 10 heterotopic heart transplants (HHTx) in rats. Results The video telescopic optical system was easy to manipulate and comfortable to use, and provided high-definition images for magnification of anatomic structures while performing microvascular cardiac surgery in a small animal model of HHTx in rats. Fatigue and neck problems for the surgeon were reduced. Conclusions The video telescopic imaging system provided high definition and magnification of the surgical field, and was used for visualization of small anatomic structures and as an aid to the performance of small vessel anastomoses. The system is an alternative to surgical loupes or a traditional operating microscope, and was used for the first time in microvascular cardiac surgery in a rat HHTx model.
The AMPAR subunit GluR2: still front and center-stage.

Abstract Abnormal influx of Ca2+ through AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) is thought to contribute to the neuronal death associated with a number of brain disorders. AMPARs exist as both Ca2+-impermeable and Ca2+-permeable channels. AMPARs are encoded by four genes designated GluR1 (GluR-A) through GluR4 (GluR-D). The presence of the GluR2 subunit renders heteromeric AMPA receptor assemblies Ca2+-impermeable. Molecular diversity of AMPARs under physiological and pathological conditions is generated by differential spatio-temporal patterns of GluR expression, by alternative RNA splicing and editing and by targeting and trafficking of receptor subunits at dendritic spines. The GluR2 gene is under transcriptional control by the RE1 element specific transcription factor, a gene silencing factor which renders it neuron-specific. GluR2 transcripts are edited by ADAR2 (double-stranded RNA-specific editase 1). AMPAR targeting and trafficking to spines are regulated by synaptic activity and are critical to synaptic plasticity. Recent studies involving animal models of transient forebrain ischemia and epilepsy show that GluR2 mRNA and GluR2 subunit expression are downregulated in vulnerable neurons prior to cell death. Ca2+ imaging and electrical recording from individual pyramidal neurons in hippocampal slices reveal changes in AMPAR functional properties after ischemia. In slices from post-ischemia animals, CA1 neurons with robust action potentials exhibit greatly enhanced AMPA-elicited rises in intracellular Ca2+. Excitatory postsynaptic currents in post-ischemic CA1 exhibit an enhanced Ca2+-dependent component that appears to be mediated by Ca2+-permeable AMPARs. These studies provide evidence for Ca2+ influx through AMPARs in neurons destined to die. To examine whether acute GluR2 downregulation, even in the absence of a neurological insult, can induce neuronal death, we performed knockdown experiments in rats and gerbils with antisense oligonucleotides targeted to GluR2 mRNA. GluR2 antisense oligonucleotide induced neuronal cell death of pyramidal neurons and enhanced pathogenicity of brief ischemic episodes. These observations provide evidence for Ca2+ influx through AMPARs in neurons destined to die and implicate Ca2+-permeable AMPARs in the pathogenesis of ischemia-induced neuronal death.
Mechanisms of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase Activating Polypeptide (PACAP)-Induced Depolarization of Sympathetic Superior Cervical Ganglion (SCG) Neuronsa

Our understanding of PACAP expression and regulation of sympathetic neuronal function has been augmented considerably over the last few years. Among the three major VIP/PACAP receptor subtypes, the SCG appears to express preferentially one particular variant of the PACAP-selective PACAP1 receptor coupled to multiple intracellular signaling cascades. The in situ histochemical hybridization and immunocytochemical studies of PACAP1 receptor mRNA and protein are in good agreement; nearly all of the SCG neurons express the PACAP-selective receptor, suggesting that most of the sympathetic neurons are under PACAP neuromodulation. In accord with that possibility, several independent studies have now demonstrated PACAP peptide expression in the IML sympathetic preganglionic neurons and fibers, including those projecting to the SCG, further emphasizing the significance of PACAP peptides as a preganglionic noncholinergic mediator of sympathetic function. Given the high potency of PACAP on any of a number of cellular responses, the functional relevance of PACAP peptides on SCG neurons is considerable. We have previously demonstrated the potency and efficacy of both PACAP27 and PACAP38 on sympathetic neuron neurotransmitter/neuropeptide production and secretion; the ability of these peptides to stimulate neuronal second messenger activation was also in the nanomolar range. These results are congruous with our current electrophysiological studies, which were driven to further define the dynamic sympathetic responses to PACAP. In line with the morphological studies, for example, more than 90% of the sympathetic neurons responded to PACAP. In agreement with previous neuropharmacological data, the PACAP-induced depolarizations were elicited at physiologically relevant peptide concentrations at high affinity PACAP-selective receptors. The effects were direct and the alterations in postganglionic neuronal membrane properties appeared to be mediated by several ionic mechanisms. If these studies were analogous to pieces in a puzzle to understand the effects of PACAP in sympathetic development and function, the picture of late has been more completely assembled. But several important challenges still remain. What are the signal transduction mechanisms that mediate the PACAP-induced changes in sympathetic membrane properties? How do the resulting alterations impact the acute and more long-term responses of sympathetic neurons? Does the coupling of PACAP1 receptors to intracellular signaling pathways differ during development, resulting in a transition from the neurotrophic properties of PACAP in neuroblasts to neuromodulatory roles of the peptides in postmitotic neurons? By looking at these issues in one distinct neuronal system, we enlarge our understanding and appreciation of peptides, and PACAP in particular, in the molecular and cellular events guiding neuronal development, function, and plasticity.
Improved differentiating filter function for computing line spread functions in MTF calculations

MTF computations based on a "knife edge" scan, which is a numerical representation of the so-called edge spread function (ESF), require computation of the derivative of this function, thus yielding the line spread function ([SF) whose Fourier transform (FT) is the MTF. Since direct numerical differentiation is often inaccurate, the differentiation is usually accomplished by convolution with the derivative of a filter function, typically the derivative of the sinc function, sin( nf χ)/ nf χ. But, since the sinc function is itself the FT of a rectangular filter, the subsequent FT of the [SF obtained by this procedure behaves as if the LSF had been abruptly truncated (set equal to zero) at the cutoff frequency, f, so that the resulting LSF is often subject to rapid oscillations (ringing). A new filter function based on the FT of a more gradually decreasing Hann function has been derived in closed form. Convolutions with the derivative of the new function yield smooth, non-oscillating LSF's. Examples of theoretical and experimental LSF's obtained by this method are presented and the qualitative limits within which this procedure is applicable are discussed.
Electron-phonon coupling in transition metals and resonant scattering☆

Abstract An explicit formula is derived for the electron-phonon coupling of transition metals in terms of parameters that are used in first principle transition metal band structure calculations. Its relevance and systematics are discussed.
Thoracic skeletal morphology and high-altitude hypoxia in Andean prehistory.

Living humans from the highland Andes exhibit antero-posteriorly and medio-laterally enlarged chests in response to high-altitude hypoxia. This study hypothesizes that morphological responses to high-altitude hypoxia should also be evident in pre-Contact Andean groups. Thoracic skeletal morphology in four groups of human skeletons (N = 347) are compared: two groups from coastal regions (Ancon, Peru, n = 79 and Arica, Chile, n = 123) and two groups from high altitudes (San Pedro de Atacama, Chile, n = 102 and Machu Picchu and Cuzco, Peru, n = 43). Osteometric variables that represent proportions of chest width and depth include sternal and clavicular lengths and breadths and rib length, curvature, and area. Each variable was measured relative to body size, transformed into logarithmic indices, and compared across sex-specific groups using ANOVA and Tukey multiple comparison tests. Atacama highlanders have the largest sternal and clavicular proportions and ribs with the greatest area and least amount of curvature, features that suggest an antero-posteriorly deep and mediolaterally wide thoracic skeleton. Ancon lowlanders exhibit proportions indicating narrower and shallower chests. Machu Picchu and Cuzco males cluster with the other highland group in rib curvature and area at the superior levels of the thorax, whereas chest proportions in Machu Picchu and Cuzco females resemble those of lowlanders. The variation in Machu Picchu and Cuzco males and females is interpreted as the result of population migrations. The presence of morphological traits indicative of enlarged chests in some highland individuals suggests that high-altitude hypoxia was an environmental stressor shaping the biology of highland Andean groups during the pre-Contact period.
Toward an Explanation of the Racial Liberalism of American Jews

Jews are more likely to be liberal on racial-political issues than non- Jewish whites, even after controlling for factors such as educational achievement and ideology. Propositions derived from att...
Noncovalent functionalization of carbon nanotubes with molecular anchors using supercritical fluids

In this article we describe a facile and effective method for the modification of multi wall carbon nanotubes with molecular anchor molecules using supercritical fluids. Through choice of deposition conditions the degree of loading in these nanotube-anchor structures can be controlled to achieve sub-monolayer, monolayer, or greater-than-monolayer coverage. This level of control represents a potential advantage of supercritical fluids over liquid solvents for anchor deposition. Employment of the described technique is expected to enable the direct addition of desired chemical functionality to many carbon nanotube structures for a variety of applications.
Vitiligo treatment demystified: A flowchart for stratified treatment approaches

The recent publication by Anbar et al. in the April issue of this journal, delineating and prioritizing treatment options for vitiligo, is both timely and significant. First and foremost, this work brings to the forefront the important message that vitiligo truly is a treatable disease. All too often, patients refrain from seeking treatment as public opinion dictates that vitiligo is not an important disease, there are no effective treatments available, and insurance will not cover attempts to treat. By providing clear guidelines of treatments to be considered, practicing physicians seeing an occasional vitiligo patient will be more readily inclined to explore the possibilities currently available for enhancing the quality of life of this patient group.
A computer program for estimating the re-transformed mean in heteroscedastic two-part models

The population of health care costs is typically skewed, heteroscedastic, and may include zero costs. Without proper accounting for these special distributional features, resulting prediction may be biased, and wrong inferences about the distribution of patients' health care costs may be made. Welsh and Zhou [A.H. Welsh, X.H. Zhou, Estimating the retransformed mean in a heteroscedastic two-part model, J. Stat. Plan. Inference 136 (2006) 860-881] proposed a semi-parametric regression model, which addressed these special features. In this paper we developed a software program to implement this statistical method, which would provide better prediction of health care costs for clinical researchers. Our program computed two mean estimators, their asymptotical standard deviation, confidence interval, and optional bootstrap confidence interval. Our program included user-friendly interactive mode and more efficient and flexible batch mode. It was written in free statistical computing language R and could be run on a wide variety of platforms.
RF-related heating assessment of extracranial neurosurgical implants at 7T.

Abstract Purpose The purpose was to evaluate radiofrequency (RF)-related heating of commonly used extracranial neurosurgical implants in 7-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and methods Experiments were performed using a 7-T MR system equipped with a transmit/receive RF head coil. Four commonly used titanium neurosurgical implants were studied using a test procedure adapted from the American Society for Testing and Materials Standard F2182-11a. Implants (n = 4) were tested with an MRI turbo spin echo pulse sequence designed to achieve maximum RF exposure [specific absorption rate (SAR) level = 9.9 W/kg], which was further validated by performing calorimetry. Maximum temperature increases near each implant's surface were measured using fiberoptic temperature probes in a gelled-saline-filled phantom that mimicked the conductive properties of soft tissue. Measurement results were compared to literature data for patient safety. Results The highest achievable phantom averaged SAR was determined by calorimetry to be 2.0 ± 0.1 W/kg due to the highly conservative SAR estimation model used by this 7-T MR system. The maximum temperature increase at this SAR level was below 1.0 °C for all extracranial neurosurgical implants that underwent testing. Conclusion The findings indicated that RF-related heating under the conditions used in this investigation is not a significant safety concern for patients with the particular extracranial neurosurgical implants evaluated in this study.
Changing Activities of the Crustacean Epidermis during the Molting Cycle

The criteria established by Drach for subdividing the molting cycle into stages are reviewed, and a suggestion is made for improving the uniformity of postmolt staging of different species. Changes in the epidermis during the molting cycle of the crayfish Orconectes obscurus and O. sanborni are described. Epidermal DNA content was measured throughout the cycle and found to drop sharply at stage D and to rise sharply at stage A. Protein content declined during postmolt and rose during premolt, as expected. Protein synthesis remained more or less constant during postmolt, rose during premolt, and dropped to the postmolt level at ecdysis. Chitin synthesis appeared to follow two different curves depending upon whether labelled glucose or acetylglucosamine was used as precursor. This, and the presence of a separate enzyme capable of phosphorylating acetylglucosamine and not glucose, suggests that acetylglucosamine may be utilized directly without prior conversion to glucose. Actinomycin D was found to prevent increases in rate of chitin biosynthesis during premolt but not to inhibit chitin biosynthesis already underway. During the same period, actinomycin stimulated general protein biosynthesis. By utilizing the molt staging criteria described, we were able to detect induction of premolt by ecdysone.
Problems in the estimation of equations containing perpetual inventory measured capital

Abstract The empirical production literature continues to utilize the perpetual inventory method of capital measurement. However, replacement is an economic choice dependent upon other variables, including relative factor prices, technology, tax rates, etc. The implications of rational replacement behavior for production function estimation have not been examined. The traditional constant replacement rate assumption produces systematic non-random errors in the measured capital variable which are correlated with the other independent variables, causing ordinary least squares estimators to be biased and inconsistent. These problems are not easily overcome with instrumental variables. The severity of the problem is examined with a simple Monte Carlo experiment.
Structure of chi hotspots of generalized recombination

Chi recombinational hotspots are sites around which the rate of Rec-promoted recombination in bacteriophage lambda is elevated. Examination of a derivative of lambda into which the plasmid pBR322 was inserted reveals that pBR322 lacks Chi sites. Using this lambda-pBR322 hybrid, we obtained mutations creating Chi sites at three widely separated loci within pBR322. Nucleotide sequence analysis reveals that the mutations are single base-pair changes creating the octamer 5' GCTGGTGG 3'. This sequence is present at three previously analyzed Chi sites in lambda, and all analyzed mutations creating or inactivating these Chi sites occur within this octamer. We conclude that Chi is 5' GCTGGTGG 3', or its complement, or both.
Geometric Analysis of Charged Dislocations in the Fluorite Structure

Various dislocation configurations are examined in the fluorite structure for the presence of long-range electrostatic charge assuming slip systems of the {001} 〈110〉 type. It is concluded that neither pure edge or screw dislocations nor jogs and kinks on edge or screw dislocations need necessarily give rise to long-range charge, although adsorption or desorption of anions and cations could give rise to such charge. Based on these results and existing experimental data, facility of dislocation glide and likelihood of charge transport by dislocations are assessed. Verschiedene Versetzungsanordnungen wurden in der Fluoridstruktur auf die Anwesenheit von elektrostatischen Fernordnungsladungen untersucht, wobei Gleitsysteme vom {001} 〈110〉-Typ angenommen wurden. Es wird gezeigt, das weder reine Kanten- oder Schraubenversetzungen noch Sprunge oder Knicke an Kanten- oder Schraubenversetzungen notwendigerweise Anlas zu Fernordnungsladungen geben, obwohl Adsorption oder Desorption von Anionen und Kationen Anlas zu solchen Ladungen geben konnen. Auf der Grundlage dieser Ergebnisse und existierender experimenteller Werte, werden die Erleichterung fur Versetzungsleitung und die Wahrscheinlichkeit fur Ladungstransport durch Versetzungen abgeschatzt.
Replication of a type I avian adenovirus (CELO) mutant in the chicken embryo.

Replication of a CELO large plaque (LP) mutant and that of its wild type small plaque (SP) parent was studied in the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and in the amnion of 11-day-old embryos. Although both strains produced essentially the same amount of virus in the tissue fluids, they differed in their rates of replication. Replication of the SP parent was maximal in the CAM 24 to 48 hours before that of the LP mutant. Whereas inclusions were observed in SP inoculated CAM 48 hours PI and were present during the course of study; LP inclusions were rare at 72 hours PI and thereafter; LP inclusions were seen at 72 hours PI. Fewer SP than LP particles were required to produce inclusions. No inclusions were seen in sections of the trachea and liver removed at 96 hours PI from embryos inoculated via the amniotic sac with LP and SP virus.
Stock Repurchase as a Takeover Defense

We develop a model in which stock repurchases serve as a defense against takeovers by signaling the manager's private information about the value of the firm. The manager repurchases shares to block a takeover only if the cost of doing so is not too high. Since the cost is inversely related to the value of the firm under his management, a repurchase signals that the value of the stock is high, blocking a takeover. While a repurchase increases the expected value of the stock, it also makes the stock riskier. The model also implies that there are toofew takeoversfor efficiency.
Cigarette Smoking in Same-Sex and Different-Sex Unions: The Role of Socioeconomic and Psychological Factors

Cigarette smoking has long been a target of public health intervention because it substantially contributes to morbidity and mortality. Individuals in different-sex marriages have lower smoking risk (i.e., prevalence and frequency) than different-sex cohabiters. However, little is known about the smoking risk of individuals in same-sex cohabiting unions. We compare the smoking risk of individuals in different-sex marriages, same-sex cohabiting unions, and different-sex cohabiting unions using pooled cross-sectional data from the 1997–2010 National Health Interview Surveys (N = 168,514). We further examine the role of socioeconomic status (SES) and psychological distress in the relationship between union status and smoking. Estimates from multinomial logistic regression models reveal that same-sex and different-sex cohabiters experience similar smoking risk when compared to one another, and higher smoking risk when compared to the different-sex married. Results suggest that SES and psychological distress factors cannot fully explain smoking differences between the different-sex married and same-sex and different-sex cohabiting groups. Moreover, without same-sex cohabiter’s education advantage, same-sex cohabiters would experience even greater smoking risk relative to the different-sex married. Policy recommendations to reduce smoking disparities among same-sex and different-sex cohabiters are discussed.
Modeling of tritium transport in a fusion reactor pin-type solid breeder blanket using the diffuse code

A pin-type fusion reactor blanket is designed using γ -LiAlO 2 solid tritium breeder. Tritium transport and diffusive inventory are modeled using the DIFFUSE code. Two approaches are used to obtain characteristic LiAlO 2 grain temperatures. DIFFUSE provides intragranular diffusive inventories which scale up to blanket size. These results compare well with a numerical analysis, giving a steady-state blanket tritium inventory of 13 g. Start-up transient inventories are modeled using DIFFUSE for both full and restricted coolant flow. Full flow gives rapid inventory buildup while restricted flow prevents this buildup. Inventories after shutdown are modeled: reduced cooling is found to have little effect on removing tritium, but preheating rapidly purges inventory. DIFFUSE provides parametric modeling of solid breeder density, radiation, and surface effects. 100% dense pins are found to give massive inventory and marginal tritium release. Only large trapping energies and concentrations significantly increase inventory. Diatomic surface recombination is only significant at high temperatures.
In Situ Auger Spectroscopy Investigation of InP Surfaces Treated in RF Hydrogen and Hydrogen/Methane/Argon Plasmas

We have used in situ Auger spectroscopic analysis to investigate the composition of InP surfaces cleaned in rf H2 plasmas and etched in rf H2/CH4/Ar plasmas. In general agreement with previous results, hydrogen plasma treatment is found to remove surface carbon and oxygen impurities but also leads to substantial surface phosphorus depletion if not carefully controlled. Low plasma exposure times and rf power settings minimize both phosphorus depletion and surface roughening. Surfaces etched in H2/CH4/Ar plasmas can show severe phosphorus depletion in high density plasmas leading to etch rates of ∼ 700 A/min, but this effect is greatly reduced in lower density plasmas that produce etch rates of 30–400 A/min.
Risk Stratification of Patients With Barrett’s Esophagus and Low-grade Dysplasia or Indefinite for Dysplasia

Background & Aims In patients with Barrett's esophagus (BE), low-grade dysplasia (LGD) is a risk factor for esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), progressing at variable rates. Patients at higher risk for progression could benefit from intervention. We assessed rates of progression of LGD and indefinite for dysplasia (IND) and risk factors for progression to high-grade dysplasia (HGD) and EAC. Methods We analyzed data from Cleveland Clinic Barrett's Registry on patients with BE and LGD or IND at least 1 year of follow-up from January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2012. Prevalent cases were those diagnosed at or within 1 year of the first endoscopy, and the rest were incident cases. Results Among 299 patients with BE and LGD or IND, there were 32 cases of HGD and 10 cases of EAC during a follow-up period of 1577.4 patient-years. The annual incidence rates were 2.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.7%–3.3%) for HGD, 0.6% (95% CI, 0.3%–1.2%) for EAC, and 2.7% (95% CI, 1.9%–3.6%) for HGD or EAC. The rates were higher in men than in women with BE and LGD or IND. Prevalent cases were 3-fold more likely to progress than incident cases. Multifocality and nodules were associated with higher risk of progression to HGD or EAC. None of the patients with IND at index biopsy developed EAC. For every 5-year increase in age, chance of regression increased by 7% ( P = .04). Also, for every 1-cm increase in BE length, probability of regression decreased by 6% ( P = .016). LGD at index biopsy was associated with 56% lower chance of regression compared with IND ( P Conclusions On the basis of a database analysis of patients with BE, prevalent LGD, male sex, multifocality, and nodules were associated with higher risk for progression to EAC. Older age at LGD diagnosis, IND at index biopsy, and shorter BE length were associated with regression. These findings help in risk stratification of patients with BE and LGD or IND.