cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Glucoprivation counteracts effects of testosterone on daily torpor in Siberian hamsters

We tested whether 1) glucose availability is a signal for initiation of torpor in male hamsters and 2) glucoprivation can override the inhibitory effects of androgens on daily torpor. Male hamsters maintained at ambient temperatures of 8-16 degrees C were injected with 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG), a glucose analogue that interferes with cellular glucose oxidation. 2DG (2,000-2,500 mg/kg body mass) induced torpor within 1 h of treatment in normal adult males in reproductive condition and in those bearing testosterone (T)-filled capsules that produced supraphysiological blood T concentrations; body temperatures were reduced from 37 to 25 degrees C for several hours. Latency to torpor was increased and duration of torpor was decreased in the T-treated hamsters. Food intake decreased substantially both on the day of torpor and on the succeeding day. Glucoprivation appears to counteract the potent inhibitory effect of androgens on torpor and induces a hypometabolic state that results in overall energy savings.
Trends in Emergency Department Visits for Nonfatal Violence-Related Injuries Among Adolescents in the United States, 2009–2013

Abstract Purpose Violence-related injuries are a major cause of death and disability among adolescents in the United States. The objective of this study was to examine trends in adolescent violence-related injuries between 2009 and 2013. Methods This study examined data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System–All Injury Program for years 2009–2013. Linear regression was used to assess trends in rates of violence-related injuries among adolescents aged between 10 and 19 years. Results We found overall rates of nonfatal violence-related injuries among all adolescents did not change significantly across the study years ( p = .502). However, self-harm injury rates have significantly increased among female and younger adolescents during the period ( p = .001 and .011, respectively). Conclusions Our results indicate that the overall intentional injury rates in adolescents have been stable; however, rates of self-injury have significantly increased in younger adolescents and females. Future research should focus on exploring causes of increases in self-harm injuries in these subpopulations.
Vector potential of Phlebotomus duboscqi and P. papatasi: a comparison of feeding behaviour, reproductive capacity and experimental infection with Leishmania major.

Phlebotomus duboscqi and P. papatasi are the incriminated vectors of Leishmania major, the causative agent of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) in various parts of the world. Factors contributing to the vector potential of these two species were investigated in the laboratory. It was found that 90.1% of the P. duboscqi females tested completed feeding in 1 h and they could complete up to eight gonotrophic cycles in their maximum adult life-span in the laboratory of almost 2 months. In contrast, only 70.3% of the female P. papatasi took bloodmeals within 1 h and they could only complete a maximum of four gonotrophic cycles in the maximum adult life-span of just 1 month. Biting habit (proportion feeding/day of the gonotrophic cycle), survival (proportion surviving first oviposition), gonotrophic discordance (proportion refeeding on blood before first oviposition) and experimental infection (proportion of flies offcred a bloodmeal containing L. major which became infected) were all higher for P. duboscqi (0.18, 0.91, 0.50 and 0.65, respectively) than for P. papatasi (0.14, 0.71, 0.12 and 0.56, respectively). It therefore seems likely that P. duboscqi is a much more effective vector of L. major than P. papatasi in several endemic foci of ZCL.
The Relation of Host Physiology to Development of the Braconid Parasite, Chelonus Annulipes Wesmael

During several years' observations at Arlington, Mass., and Toledo, Ohio, on Chelonus annulipes Wesm., particularly in relation to its use as a parasite of the European corn borer {Pyrausta nubilalis Hbn.), an opportunity was presented to note its biological reaction when reared on several different hosts. The parasite has been reared on both the multiple- and single-generation strains of Pyrausta nubilalis, on Pyrausta penitalis Grote, and on Ephestia kuehniella Zeller.
A Multi-Component Treatment to Reduce Packing in Children With Feeding and Autism Spectrum Disorders:

Despite the high prevalence and potential negative consequences of feeding disorders in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), there are surprisingly few studies that examine the efficacy of treatment exclusively with these children. Children with feeding disorders also frequently exhibit packing (holding or pocketing food without swallowing). Investigators have evaluated procedures in the general pediatric population to treat packing, and some have shown that procedures need to be combined to form an effective treatment. Although investigators have evaluated the efficacy of re-distribution, swallow facilitation, and a chaser, these procedures have not been evaluated specifically with children with ASD. Prior to the current investigation, we successfully used nonremoval procedures to increase acceptance of pureed foods and liquids and decrease the inappropriate mealtime behavior of two children diagnosed with ASD and feeding problems; however, in each case, packing emerged during initial treatment. We then used different combinations of re-distribution, swallow facilitation, and chaser treatments to decrease packing for both children.
Seawater chemistry driven by supercontinent assembly, breakup, and dispersal: COMMENT

[Muller et al. (2013)][1] present an interesting hypothesis that quantifies a relationship between temporal changes in the ratio of Mg and Ca in seawater and global hydrothermal flux through oceanic crust. The relationship is quantified through estimates of the area of oceanic crust <65 m.y. old
An Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis of Volcanic Rock Artifacts from the Manzanita Mountains, New Mexico

www.escholarship.org/uc/item/4qk8j274 LETTER REPORT Department of Anthropology 232 Kroeber Hall University of California Berkeley, CA 94720-3710 AN ENERGY-DISPERSIVE X-RAY FLUORESCENCE ANALYSIS OF VOLCANIC ROCK ARTIFACTS FROM THE MANZANITA MOUNTAINS, NEW MEXICO 5 January 2012 Dr. James Gallison HDR Environmental 2155 Louisiana Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM 87110 Dear Jim, As we discussed at the lab, the two obsidian artifacts were produced from the Cerro Toledo Rhyolite obsidian source located in Valles Caldera, Jemez Mountains, northern New Mexico, and the one volcanic rock artifact is a trachyandesite with no known provenance (Shackley 1995, 2005, 2011; Tables 1 and 2, and Figure 1 here). Cerro Toledo obsidian is available in Rio Grande Quaternary sediments to Chihuahua, but nodules large enough to produce these large bifaces probably not in secondary contexts, although nodules up to 10 cm have been recovered as far south as Albuquerque (Church 2000; Shackley 2010). The samples were analyzed using a Thermo Scientific Quant’X EDXRF spectrometer in the Archaeological XRF Laboratory, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Source assignments were made by comparison to published source standard data and the source standard collection at this laboratory (Shackley 1995, 2005). Instrumental methods can be found at http://www.swxrflab.net/anlysis.htm. Analysis of the USGS RGM-1 standard indicates high machine precision for the elements of interest (Govindaraju 1994; Table 1 here). Sincerely, M. Steven Shackley Professor Emeritus, and Director VOICE: (510) 393-3931 E-mail: shackley@berkeley.edu http://www.swxrflab.net/
Treponema pallidum in Gel Microdroplets: A Method for Topological Analysis of BamA (TP0326) and Localization of Rare Outer Membrane Proteins

The noncultivable spirochete Treponema pallidum subspecies pallidum (T. pallidum) is the etiological agent of venereal syphilis. In contrast to the outer membranes (OMs) of gram-negative bacteria, the OM of T. pallidum lacks lipopolysaccharide, contains a paucity of integral membrane proteins, and is extremely labile. The lability of the T. pallidum OM greatly hinders efforts to localize the bacterium's rare outer membrane proteins (OMPs). To circumvent this problem, we developed the gel microdroplet method in which treponemes are encapsulated in porous agarose beads and then probed with specific antibodies in the absence or presence of low concentrations of the non-ionic detergent Triton X-100. To demonstrate the general utility of this method for surface localization of any T. pallidum antigen, herein we describe a protocol for immunolabeling of encapsulated treponemes using antibodies directed against the β-barrel and POTRA domains of TP0326, the spirochete's BamA ortholog.
Integrated Studies of Au@Pt and Ru@Pt Core-Shell Nanoparticles by In Situ Electrochemical NMR, ATR-SEIRAS, and SERS

In-situ electrochemical spectroscopic methods, such as solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), attenuated-total-reflection surface-enhanced IR reflection adsorption spectroscopy (ATR-SEIRAS) and surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopy (SERS), offer complementary atomic and molecular scale information on the electronic, structural, and molecular properties of nanoparticle electrocatalysts and mechanism(s) of surface reactions. In situ electrochemical (EC) 195Pt and 13CO NMR enables measurements of s- and d-like metal surface local density of states at the Fermi level (E f -LDOS) and 5σ- and 2π*-like E f -LDOS at the probing CO. Such quantitative, electronic-orbital-specific (EOS) information makes it possible to relate electronic properties of the electrocatalysts with surface reaction mechanism(s) that can be monitored by vibrational spectroscopy, i.e. ATR-SEIRAS and SERS. In this chapter, we discuss integrated in situ EC-NMR, -SEIRAS and -SERS studies of CO and methanol oxidation reactions on core-shell Ru@Pt and Au@Pt nanoparicles (NPs) through which we intend to demonstrate that the integrated approach makes “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts”.
A Community of Prostitutes in Campus Polverel

In a suburb of Montpellier on the road to the sea, one finds a community of prostitutes who rented rooms and owned houses in several streets in the neighborhood of Campus Polverel. Many of them were immigrants to Montpellier. They were connected to urban officials, auctioneers, who owned houses in Campus Polverel as well and rented them rooms. These women supported each other, bought chests and clothing from each other and the auctioneers, and seemingly made a living. This is a marginal community that was legitimate in Montpellier, where prostitution was regulated but tolerated in the later Middle Ages. The last chapter suggests a link between elite women like Agnes and these same prostitutes.
Second-order coherence measurement of a metallic coaxial nanolaser

The second-order coherence function is measured for a metallic coaxial nanolaser using a modified Hanbury Brown-Twiss technique. The results indicate that such nanoscale lasers can indeed generate coherent radiation.
Fiction, Memory, and Music

Proust offers no tidy resolution to the problem of art and transcendence; to read the Recherche is to be led to skepticism about the vision of esthetics and redemption that it purports to uphold. Music, rather than freeing us from temporality, ties us to it, but modern listening proposes an alternative to linear temporality and leads to a new understanding of esthetic experience as dependent on temporality. Music, like memory, depends upon interpretation in order to be meaningful; in both, earlier experiences depend on later ones in order to make them meaningful. Music and literature both participate in this process. Proust helps us see music as meaningful because it is not an ineffable other, but is conjoined to literature in ways that reshape our understanding of both.
Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Regulator Modulators: Implications for the Management of Depression and Anxiety in Cystic Fibrosis.

Background Individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) are at high risk for depression and anxiety, which are associated with worse medical outcomes. Novel therapies for CF hold great promise for improving physical health, but the effects of these therapies on mental health remain poorly understood. Objective This review aims to familiarize psychiatrists with the potential effect of novel CF therapies on depression and anxiety. Methods We discuss novel therapies that directly target the mutant CF protein, the CF transmembrane regulator (CFTR), which are called CFTR modulators. We summarize depression and anxiety screening and treatment guidelines under implementation in accredited CF centers. Case vignettes highlight the complexities of caring for individuals with CF with comorbid depression and anxiety, including patients experiencing worsening depression and anxiety proximate to initiation of CFTR modulator therapy, and management of drug-drug interactions. Conclusions Although CFTR modulator therapies provide hope for improving clinical outcomes, worsening depression and anxiety occurs in some patients when starting these novel agents. This phenomenon may be multifactorial, with hypothesized contributions from CFTR modulator-psychotropic medication interactions, direct effects of CFTR modulators on central nervous system function, the psychologic effect of starting a potentially life-altering drug, and typical triggers of depression and anxiety such as stress, pain, and inflammation. The medical and psychiatric complexity of many individuals with CF warrants more direct involvement of mental health specialists on the multidisciplinary CF team. Inclusion of mental health variables in patients with CF registries will facilitate further examination at an epidemiologic level.
Carcinoma del ovario después de histerectomía vaginal

During the years 1969 - 1982, 369 patients with ovarian carcinoma were surgically explored Hospital Medical Center of the University of Miami. Eight patients (2.1%) had previous vaginal hysterectomy for benign disease. All patients had undergone hysterectomy 40 years at the time of vaginal surgery. Survival and results of second laparotomy for ovarian carcinoma in these 8 patients were affected by the presence of ascites, surgical stage and the presence of residual tumor after cytoreductive surgery. Based on our experience, our technique is presented for vaginal prophylactic salpingo-oophorectomy.
1.16 – Metalloenamines

The β-hydroxycarbonyl and α,β-unsaturated carbonyl functional arrays constitute important structural subunits present in a variety of synthetic targets of natural or unnatural origin and in key intermediates leading thereto. The aldol and related reactions stand as highly useful, classical methods for constructing such bifunctional moieties (Scheme 1).1 One important variant of this reaction features the refunctionalization of the carbonyl group of the aldehyde or ketone (1) to the corresponding imine (2). Subsequent regioselective deprotonation of this imine with a suitable, nonnucleophilic base followed by the reaction of the intermediate imine anion (metalloenamine; 3) with a carbonyl partner yields a β-hydroxyimine (4), which may be transformed by hydrolysis into the corresponding β-hydroxy aldehyde or ketone (5) or by hydrolysis and dehydration into the corresponding α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compound (6).2 This overall process results in the two-carbon homologation3 of the carbonyl group of the electrophilic partner R4R5CO to provide a structurally more complex product that may be further elaborated. Although an extra step is required for the conversion of the carbonyl function of the starting material into the corresponding imine, the enhanced nucleophilicity coupled with a low propensity to suffer proton transfer of the resulting imine anions relative to the corresponding enolates often justifies the additional steps required. Moreover, the low electrophilicity of the azomethine group ensures that there will be no side reactions involving nucleophilic additions of the intermediate imine anions to either starting or product imines.
Microtopographic control on the ground thermal regime in ice wedge polygons

Abstract. The goal of this research is to constrain the influence of ice wedge polygon microtopography on near-surface ground temperatures. Ice wedge polygon microtopography is prone to rapid deformation in a changing climate, and cracking in the ice wedge depends on thermal conditions at the top of the permafrost; therefore, feedbacks between microtopography and ground temperature can shed light on the potential for future ice wedge cracking in the Arctic. We first report on a year of sub-daily ground temperature observations at 5 depths and 9 locations throughout a cluster of low-centered polygons near Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, and demonstrate that the rims become the coldest zone of the polygon during winter, due to thinner snowpack. We then calibrate a polygon-scale numerical model of coupled thermal and hydrologic processes against this dataset, achieving an RMSE of less than 1.1 ∘ C between observed and simulated ground temperature. Finally, we conduct a sensitivity analysis of the model by systematically manipulating the height of the rims and the depth of the troughs and tracking the effects on ice wedge temperature. The results indicate that winter temperatures in the ice wedge are sensitive to both rim height and trough depth, but more sensitive to rim height. Rims act as preferential outlets of subsurface heat; increasing rim size decreases winter temperatures in the ice wedge. Deeper troughs lead to increased snow entrapment, promoting insulation of the ice wedge. The potential for ice wedge cracking is therefore reduced if rims are destroyed or if troughs subside, due to warmer conditions in the ice wedge. These findings can help explain the origins of secondary ice wedges in modern and ancient polygons. The findings also imply that the potential for re-establishing rims in modern thermokarst-affected terrain will be limited by reduced cracking activity in the ice wedges, even if regional air temperatures stabilize.
Retinal Prostheses: Patient Selection and Screening

The Argus II surgeon must ensure that the patient selected for device implantation meets all of the eligibility criteria contained in the product label, there are no contraindications to device placement, the patient’s level of residual vision contributes to a favorable risk/benefit profile, and the patient’s motivations, expectations, cognitive and communication skills, and physical abilities are likely to contribute to receiving benefit from the device. Screening typically involves a standardized survey, patient interview, and complete eye exam with biometry to determine axial length, B-scan ultrasonography to rule out a staphyloma, and macular optical coherence tomography to evaluate inner retinal anatomy.
Sanctification and Therapy: The Model of Dante Alighieri:

The Christian experience called “dying to self” and involvement in secular psychotherapy have been described in some religious circles as mutually exclusive if not antagonistic. The present article...
Additional palmaroproximal–palmarodistal oblique radiographic projections improve accuracy of detection and characterization of equine flexor cortical lysis

Radiographic flexor cortical lysis indicates advanced degenerative change and its earlier recognition may improve case outcome. Aims of this prospective, diagnostic accuracy study were to determine effects of radiographic beam angle and observer on accuracy of lesion detection. The sample included 36 limbs from 31 horses. Palmaroproximal-palmarodistal oblique (skyline) radiographs were acquired at standard (n = 38) and more shallow (alternate) angles (n = 58). Images were independently reviewed by four experience levels of five observers each (n = 20) for the presence and severity of flexor cortical lysis. Observers also reported their confidence in these answers. Responses were compared based on seeing a standard skyline or multiple projections. The definitive presence (or absence) and severity of lysis was based upon radiologist consensus agreement. When assessed by observer, the identification of lysis and the assessment of its severity was most similar to that of radiologists when observers of all levels of experience were able to view multiple skyline projections (P = 0.399, P = 0.174). Using multiple views to detect lysis resulted in improved sensitivity (85.3% vs. 97.2%, P < 0.001), decreased specificity (82.8% vs. 74.5%, P = 0.03), and improved interobserver agreement (86.0% vs. 90.2%, P = 0.21). On average, observers of all levels of experience became more confident viewing multiple projections (P < 0.001). Skyline radiographs using a flatter angle of incidence improve radiographic detection and characterization of flexor cortical lysis severity, may allow the beam to be tangential to the more distal portion of the navicular bone, and are recommended when flexor cortical lysis is suspected.
Reactive oxygen species production by brain mitochondria depends linearly on oxygen level

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are by-products of physiological mitochondrial metabolism involved in several cellular signaling pathways and pathophysiological processes, including brain ischemia-reperfusion injury. The mitochondrial respiratory chain is considered a major source of ROS; however, there is a lack of agreement on how ROS release depends on oxygen concentration. We determined how the rate of H2O2 release by intact mouse brain mitochondria oxidizing different substrates depends on oxygen concentrations. The highest rate of H2O2 release occurs in conditions of reverse electron transfer, with complex I flavin as a major source of ROS generation. Our data indicate that the rate of H2O2 release by respiring mitochondria is linearly dependent on oxygen concentration. We also found that complex II can significantly contribute to ROS generation when the quinone pool is reduced even in the absence of its substrate succinate. Our results underscore the critical importance of reverse electron transfer in brain, where a significant accumulation of succinate during ischemia favors a backflow of electrons to complex I at the early stages of reperfusion. Our study also demonstrates that in brain tissue mitochondria ROS generation under hypoxic conditions is lower than in normoxia.
Human scleral permeability. Effects of age, cryotherapy, transscleral diode laser, and surgical thinning.

Purpose. To determine the in vitro permeability of human sclera to compounds varying in molecular weight. To evaluate the effects of age, cryotherapy, transscleral diode laser, and surgical thinning on scleral permeability. Methods. Scleral tissue from 97 human eye bank eyes was tested individually in a two-chamber Ussing apparatus with the following hydrophilic radiolabeled compounds on one side of the chamber : 5-fluorouracil, sucrose, dexamethasone, methotrexate, inulin, and three separate dextran polymers (MWt = 10,000, 40,000, and 70,000). Scleral hydration levels were obtained on 20 more scleral specimens. Additional groups of scleral specimens were treated with either a cryotherapy probe, a transscleral diode laser retinopexy probe, or partial thickness lamellar dissection, and specimens were mounted in the Ussing chambers for testing. Scleral tissue was digested to measure the amount of radioactivity present. Scleral sections were examined with electron microscopy. Results. Scleral hydration was maintained during the perfusion. The mean scleral permeability (cm/second X 10 -6 ± SD) was established for each of the above compounds. Age, cryotherapy, or diode laser treatment did not alter permeability or ultrastructure of the sclera. Surgical thinning significantly increased the scleral permeability to dexamethasone (P = 0.011) and methotrexate (P = 0.037). Conclusion. This study establishes baseline human scleral permeability to a series of hydrophilic compounds with various molecular weights. Age, cryotherapy, and diode laser treatment do not alter the permeability or ultrastructure of the sclera, whereas surgical thinning significantly increases permeability. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 1995 ;36 :1893-1903.
The relationship between learning, memory and neuronal responses in the primate basal forebrain.

The purpose of this chapter is twofold: to describe the response properties of a class of reinforcement-related neurons (RRNs) in the basal forebrain of the monkey, and to provide a perspective on how processes of learning and memory influence these particular neurons. The basal forebrain is a complex region whose anatomical definition is being refined (see articles by Alheid, and Heimer in this book). In the context of this chapter, the term basal forebrain is restricted to the substantia innominata, the diagonal band of Broca, and a periventricular region adjacent to the walls of the third ventricle and anterior to the thalamus. These three regions share several common features: they contain cells that project to the cerebral cortex (Kievet and Kuypers, 1975; Mesulam et al., 1983), they receive afferent inputs from parahmbic regions of the cerebral cortex (Mesulam and Mufson, 1984; Russchen et al, 1985; Wilson and Rolls, 1990 a), and neurons with reinforcement-related activity are found throughout these three regions.
Inter- and Intra-Granular Flux Pinning Properties in Ba(Fe_{0.91}Co_{0.09})_{2}As_{2} Superconductor in AC and DC Magnetic Fields

Flux pinning dynamics are studied in a Ba(Fe\(_{0.91}\)Co\(_{0.09})_{2}\)As\(_{2}\) (\(T_\mathrm{{c}}=25.3\) K) bulk samples via ac susceptibility measurements. Ac susceptibility curves shift to higher temperatures as the frequency of small ac fields is increased from 75 to 1997 Hz in all magnetic fields ranging from 0 to 18 T. The temperature profile of the ac susceptibility curves shows narrower ac loss distribution in temperature for higher frequencies and gradually narrowing frequency shift as the temperature sweeps the full range from 2 K to the upper critical field temperature. The frequency (\(f)\) shift of the susceptibility curves is modeled by the Anderson–Kim Arrhenius law \(f = f_{0} \mathrm {exp}(- {E}_\mathrm{{a}} /kT)\) to determine flux activation energy \(E_\mathrm{{a}}/k\) as a function of magnetic field. Extensive mapping of the irreversibility lines shows broad dependence on the magnitude and the frequency of the ac field, in addition to the dc magnetic field. The irreversibility lines were just below the upper critical field \(H_\mathrm{{c2}}\) lines at 0 T in the \(H-T\) plane, but they moved significantly below the \(H_\mathrm{{c2}}\) line at higher magnetic fields, placing constraints on the use of these materials at higher magnetic fields such as 10 T and above.
Photoluminescent Carbon Nanomaterials: Properties and Potential Applications

Carbon nanoparticles and nanotubes upon surface passivation or modification via chemical functionalization exhibit strong photoluminescence in the visible and into the near-IR. In this Chapter, the general features and related optical characteristics of the photoluminescence are highlighted, mechanistic issues discussed, and their potential material and biomedical applications explored. For single-walled carbon nanotubes, the similarities and differences between the defect-derived emission and the band-gap fluorescence (emission from individualized single-walled carbon nanotubes) are also discussed.
USING MATHEMATICS FOR INTRODUCING SYSTEMS THINKING TO CHILDREN

How well can children of different ages comprehend and utilize systems concepts? This paper describes the author’s one and a half years of experiences in trying to teach systems concepts to children on a one-to-one-basis during math tutoring lessons. Preliminary observations indicate that the mathematical language might offer some unexplored possibilities for formally and effectively introducing systems concepts to elementary and highschool children.
Analysis of Polymeric Hydrocarbon Materials by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (Maldi) Mass Spectrometry

There are a number of analytical techniques available for the analysis of hydrocarbon polymeric materials. The most common and useful techniques include pyrolysis, chromatography, thermal analysis, spectroscopy (NMR, ER & Raman) and mass spectrometry.1 The growth of mass spectrometry for the analysis of synthetic polymers has nearly doubled in eight years (as measured by ASMS abstracts) as noted by the editor of the journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry (ASMS) in 1998.2 Among the many mass spectrometry techniques available, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) applications are constantly increasing. The MALDI technique was initially developed for biological molecules, mainly proteins and peptides,3,4 but was eventually utilized for other analytes including synthetic polymers 5. Although MALDI is quite successful for the analysis of polar polymers, it has not worked as well for nonpolar analytes such as hydrocarbon materials. This limitation is attributed to lack of proper understanding of some fundamental issues related to this technique such as the desorption/ionization mechanism and the role of the matrix in the MALDI process. In this chapter, MALDI-MS analytical approaches for the analysis of hydrocarbon polymeric materials are discussed.
Education, lifelong learning and self-rated health in later life in the USA

Objective:This study examined the mediating effects of lifelong learning on the association between self-rated health and educational attainment among a nationally representative sample of US resid...
The Effect of Big Data on the Quality of Decision-Making in Abu Dhabi Government Organisations

One of the important research topics and areas that is attracting significant interest and attention globally is ‘big data’. While big data contribute towards the quality of decision-making, it also assists in the development of and extending the knowledge in this area by harnessing available technology. This research presents and discusses the literature related to the quality of big data and its impact on the quality of decision-making. A descriptive methodology approach was also adopted by reviewing the literature of published and unpublished scientific research along with a survey in the form of a questionnaire involving participants from Abu Dhabi Police Agencies to collect their views and opinions in this area. The results from the literature review and survey led to proposing a theoretical, conceptual model according to the quantitative and numerical methodology. The findings of this research have revealed that the quality of big data predicts the quality of decision-making and that the quality of big data in Abu Dhabi Governmental Organisations (ADGO) plays a significant role in the quality of decision-making.
Concept Validation for a Novel Stick-and-Slip, Light-Powered, Mobile Micro-Crawler

In this paper we present recent research results aimed at creating mobile micro-robotic agents powered by light energy. The SolarPede is a second-generation, cm-scale micro-crawler equipped with a legged locomotion system and an electronic backpack, targeting micro-factory applications. This novel micro-robot is an advancement in functionality and design over its decade-old predecessor, the ARRIpede, and includes technological advancements such as Bluetooth wireless communication, light power, and omnidirectional mobility on a flat substrate. The robot body consists of Micro Electro Mechanical System (MEMS) electrothermal actuators and micro-assembled vertical legs. Attached to the body is an electronic backpack realized using a custom-made Printed Circuit Board and interfaced to the body via a wire-bonded package. A simulation model for the SolarPede was created to predict system behavior and dynamic operation, and to serve as a design tool. Simulation results of leg motion were compared with experimental displacement measurements and the model was extended to the operation of the micro-robot in “belly-up” conveyor mode. Finally, optical microscopy was employed to experimentally measure the omni-directional motion of the SolarPede, and the robot power balance under a Solar simulator lamp was experimentally confirmed, thus validating the concept. Results suggest that continuous velocities of 15 µm/s can be achieved by the micro-robot in untethered operation.
I Live Alone but Don't Feel Alone: Social Isolation and Loneliness From the Patient Perspective

A growing homebound population may be at risk for social isolation and loneliness. Health-related social needs play a contributing role in these conditions. Research shows social isolation and loneliness are drivers of health outcomes. This pilot feasibility study seeks to explore patient-centered insight into perceptions of social isolation and loneliness in a homebound population. Eight participants were recruited from a home-based primary care practice within a family medicine residency program. One 30-minute semi-structured interview was completed in participants' homes. The interview focused on loneliness and social isolation, using the 6-item De Jong Gerveld loneliness scale. Three qualitative analysts open-coded transcriptions independently. Themes were defined using thematic analysis, then triangulated around a consensus of themes. Patients denied loneliness, but most described social isolation, highlighting the potential need for more targeted documentation and intervention in this arena. The most reported barrier affecting social isolation in our study population was mobility issues. The patient perspective is useful to focus the target of approach. Based on this pilot, additional research with a larger sample size across multiple sites is warranted to further explore homebound patients' experience of loneliness and social isolation in order to better guide assessment and interventions for these common problems.
Conversion from Sleeve Gastrectomy to RYGB

Several bariatric surgery procedures have been shown to result in rapid weight loss and improvement of comorbidities. Currently, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the most popular bariatric procedure worldwide and has surpassed laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) in popularity. Although LSG is considered a technically simple operation, several postoperative complications have been reported. In addition, there is a lack of consensus regarding the technique for primary LSG and for its revisional options. Currently, the LRYGB is the most commonly performed conversion from LSG. This chapter focuses on the evaluation, treatment, and outcomes of the conversion of LSG to RYGB.
Chapter 53 – 1980 Dispersal

Young animals leave their parents’ habitat in search of unoccupied habitat, more productive habitat, or mating opportunities with unrelated animals. The age and sex of dispersing animals is predictable based on mating system and life history characteristics.
Comparison of curative effect of invasive and noninvasive ventilation in I ～ III level in premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome

Objective To compare the effect of noninvasive ventilation (nasal continuous positive airway pressure ventilation,-NCPAP) and nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation,-NIPPV) and invasive ventilation (i.e.,mechanical ventilation,CMV) combined with pulmonary surfactant (PS) in the treatment of Ⅰ ～ Ⅲ level in premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS).Methods 81 cases with Ⅰ ～ Ⅲ level in NRDS were selected.40 cases in invasive group was given CMV combined with PS therapy.41 cases in noninvasive group was given noninvasive ventilation combined with PS therapy.The changes of blood gas,cure rate,complications,duration of oxygen therapy,hospitalization expenses and time were compared between the two groups.Results 1 hour after treatment,clinical symptoms were obviously improved in the two groups.6 hours,12 hours,weaning of blood gas analysis of two groups to maintain arterial oxygen partial pressure (PaO2) better and showed an upward trend,arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) was decreased,while the two groups before and after treatment had no significant differences (P ＞ 0.05).The cure rate of noninvasive group was 95.0％,that in invasive group was 92.5 ％,the difference between the two groups was not significant (P ＞ 0.05).Compared with the invasive group,the infection rate of lung,the incidence rate of chronic lung disease in noninvasive group were significantly lower (22.0％ vs 65.0％、14.6％ vs 37.5 ％,x2 =6.243,6.021,all P ＜ 0.01),the duration of oxygen therapy,time of hospitalization in the noninvasive group were significantly shorter (t =3.092,3.070,P ＜ 0.05),and the hospital costs was relatively low (t =3.791,P ＜ 0.05).Conclusion Noninvasive ventilation combined with PS in the treatment of Ⅰ ～ Ⅲ level NRDS is safe,efficient,relative economic,it is worthy of popularization,especially in primary hospital. Key words: Continuous positive airway pressure; Intermittent positive-pressure ventilation; Ventilators, mechanical ; Pulmonary surfactant-associated proteins; Respiratory distress syndrome, newborn
A standardized labor induction protocol: impact on racial disparities in obstetrical outcomes

Background There are marked disparities between black and nonblack women in the United States in birth outcomes. Yet, there are little data on methods to reduce these disparities. Although the cause of racial disparities in health is multifactorial, implicit bias is thought to play a contributing role. To target differential management, studies in nonobstetrical populations have demonstrated disparity reduction through care standardization. With wide variation by site and provider, labor management practices are the ideal target for standardization. Objective In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of a standardized induction of labor protocol on racial disparities in cesarean delivery rate and maternal and neonatal morbidity. Study Design We performed a prospective cohort study of women undergoing an induction from 2013 to 2015. Full-term (≥37 weeks’ gestation) women carrying a singleton pregnancy with intact membranes and an unfavorable cervix (dilation ≤2 cm, Bishop score of ≤6) were included. We compared the cesarean delivery rate and maternal and neonatal morbidity between 2 groups stratified by race (black vs nonblack) as follows: (1) women induced in a randomized trial (n=491) that utilized an induction protocol with standardized recommendations for interventions such as oxytocin and amniotomy at particular time points and (2) women in an observational arm (n=364) enrolled at the same time whose induction and labor management occurred at provider discretion. Regression modeling was used to test an interaction between the induction protocol and race. Results A significant reduction in cesarean delivery rate in black women managed with the induction protocol was noted when compared with those in the observational group (25.7% vs 34.2%; P=.02), whereas there was no difference in cesarean delivery rate in nonblack women (34.6% vs 29.9%; P=.41). The induction protocol reduced the racial disparity in cesarean delivery rate (interaction term, P=.04), even when controlling for parity, body mass index, indication for labor induction, and Bishop score at induction start. In addition, a significant reduction in neonatal morbidity was found in black women managed with the induction protocol (2.9% vs 8.9%; P=.001), with no difference in nonblack women (3.6% vs 5.5%; P=.55). The induction protocol did not significantly affect maternal morbidity for either race. Conclusion A standardized induction protocol is associated with reduced cesarean delivery rate and neonatal morbidity in black women undergoing induction. Further studies should determine whether implementation of induction protocols in diverse settings could reduce national racial disparities in obstetrical outcomes.
Strain and Surface Warping Detection of Interconnect Microstructures via Laser Diffraction

As 2.5D/3D interconnect technologies continue to advance, the microstructure environment of a package becoming increasing complex, with structures consisting of different materials packed into regions only a few microns in size. Under such conditions, sub-micron mechanical strain induced by thermal loading must be well understood to prevent failures. Today, the two most common in situ methods of measuring strain fields in microelectronic packages are Digital Image Correlation (DIC) and Moire Interferometry. A calibrated DIC tool is capable of measuring image displacements of approximately 0.1 pixels. However, its use in the sub-micron regime requires a quality speckle pattern on the sample surface which is often difficult to fabricate. Additionally, the pattern must be resolved at high magnification, limiting the view field. Moire Interferometry provides a wider view field than DIC, however displacement resolution is on the order of λ/2, where λ is the wavelength of laser light used to generate a Moire pattern. Due to these limitations, we explore the use of laser diffraction to precisely measure pitch of Au diffraction gratings bonded to a TSV at various temperatures. Improvements to our setup show a tenfold increase in pitch mapping speed and resolution, with the ability to measure surface angle/warpage.
Outstanding Performance of Transition-Metal-Decorated Single-Layer Graphene-like BC6N Nanosheets for Disease Biomarker Detection in Human Breath

In the present work, we report highly sensitive and selective nanosensors constructed with metal-decorated graphene-like BC6N employing nonequilibrium Green's function (NEGF) formalism combined by density functional theory (DFT) toward multiple inorganic and sulfur-containing gas molecules (NO, NO2, NH3, CO, CO2, H2S, and SO2) as disease biomarkers from human breath. Monolayer sheets of pristine BC6N and Pd-decorated BC6N were evaluated for their gas adsorption properties, electronic property changes, sensitivity, and selectivity toward disease biomarkers. The pristine BC6N nanosheets exhibited sharp drops in the bandgap when interacted with gases such as NO2 while barely affected by other gases. However, the nanosecond recovery time and low adsorption energies limit the gas sensing applications of the pristine BC6N sheet. On the other hand, the Pd-decorated BC6N-based sensor underwent a semiconductor to metal transition upon the adsorption of NO x gas molecules. The conductance change of the sensor's material in terms of I-V characteristics revealed that the Pd-decorated BC6N sensor is highly sensitive (98.6-134%) and selective (12.3-74.4 times) toward NO x gas molecules with a recovery time of 270 s under UV radiation at 498 K while weakly interacting with interfering gases in exhaled breath such as CO2 and H2O. The gas adsorption behavior suggests that metal-decorated BC6N sensors are excellent candidates for analyzing pulmonary disease and cardiovascular biomarkers, among other ailments of the stomach, kidney, and intestine.
A Meta-Analysis of Traumatic Orbital Apex Syndrome and the Effectiveness of Surgical and Clinical Treatments.

PURPOSE Traumatic orbital apex syndrome (TOAS) commonly occurs secondary to trauma and irreversible ischemic optic neuropathy occurs as early as 2 hours after injury. Multiple treatment options have been described, however, there is a lack of consensus regarding the optimal treatment of these patients. METHODS A systematic review of the PubMed Database from 1970 to 2020 was conducted, using the search terms "orbital apex," "syndrome," and "traumatic" with the Boolean operators "AND" or "OR." Papers that did not describe TOAS, describe patient outcomes or treatments, and those without available full English text were excluded. Patients were clustered and compared based on treatment received with the primary outcomes of improvement in vision or ophthalmoplegia. RESULTS Three hundred forty-seven papers were identified, of which 22 were included, representing 117 patients with TOAS. A total of 75.9% patients underwent decompressive surgery, 82.6% received steroids, and 72.2% received nerve growth factors. Fewer than 20% of patients were treated with antibiotics, diuretics, hormones, or hyperbaric oxygen. Overall, 51.7% of patients experienced improvement in vision and 85.2% in ophthalmoplegia at 6 months. Patients treated with surgical decompression (66.7% versus 16.7%, P < 0.01) or steroids (60.0% versus 0%; P < 0.01) were more likely to have improvement in vision than those without treatment. Nerve growth factors did not improve vision. Ophthalmoplegia did not improve with any treatment. CONCLUSIONS Outcomes of TOAS tend to be poor, with overall low recovery of vision, though surgical decompression or steroid treatment did suggest improved visual outcomes. Further standardized patient data is needed to elucidate the comparative effectiveness of these interventions.
Biological dinitrogen (N2) fixation: introduction and nonsymbiotic

Abstract In this chapter you will be introduced to some of the fundamentals of the process of biological N2 fixation and the nature of the enzyme complex, nitrogenase, which mediates the conversion of N2 to NH3. The process is unique in that, so far as is known, only prokaryotic microbes possess this enzyme system. Despite the cumbersome nature of the nitrogenase enzyme complex, about one half–two thirds of the global supply of fixed N comes through biological N2 fixation. Nitrogen fixation occurs in a wide range of habitats wherever sufficient energy supplies and appropriate environmental conditions exist.
Improving the Perception of Patient-Centered Wellness in a Virtual Population During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Background Perceived health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is fundamental to well-being and is a meaningful way to measure physical and mental health. Local problem No standard method exists for measuring perceived HRQOL during the COVID-19 pandemic in participants as they attempt to improve their self-determined wellness goals. An implementation plan that considers the social distancing limitations imposed can be used to predict an individual's likelihood of long-term success. Methods During the four, 2-week plan-do-study-act (PDSA) cycles, the Social Cognitive Theory model informed the implementation of the four core interventions. To guide iterative changes, the data was analyzed through Excel and run charts. Interventions The four core interventions were the shared decision-making tool (SDMT), health mobile app tool (HMAT), wellness tracker tool (WTT), and the team engagement plan. Results Among 28 participants, perceived quality of life increased by 70%, engagement in shared decision-making increased to 82%, app use and confidence increased to 85%, and goal attainment reached 81%. Conclusions The SDMT, health app, and wellness tracker created a methodical plan of accountability for increasing participant wellness. The contextual barrier of the COVID-19 pandemic added a negative wellness burden which was mitigated by creating a patient-centered culture of wellness.
Demystifying Maximum Power Transfer Methodologies for Charge Pumps: An Analytical Approach

This paper provides a detailed analysis of minimum power loss (MPL) and maximum power transfer (MPT) methodologies for regulated and unregulated Charge pumps (CPs). Using a modified transformer model, we show analytically that MPL and MPT can be achieved independently using switching frequency and stage modulation, respectively. In contrast, MPL and MPT in regulated CP are dependent on each other, which requires an iterative approach. SPICE simulation shows that our analytical approach accurately predicts the MPL and MPT points, which will help researchers design CPs in an accurate and fast manner.