cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Covering art in a crisis: Bankruptcy, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and moral orders in the news:

On 3 December 2013, a federal judge approved the bankruptcy filing for Detroit, MI, the largest municipality to seek such protection in US history. The bankruptcy forced those overseeing the city t...
Changes in Exposure to Flood Hazards in the United States

This article conducts a national, county-based assessment of the changes in population and urban areas in high-risk flood zones from 2001 to 2011 in the contiguous United States. The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) 100-year flood maps, land cover data, and census data were used to extract the proportion of developed (urban) land in flood zones by county at the two time points, and indexes of difference were calculated. Local Moran's I statistic was applied to identify hot spots of increase in urban area in flood zones, and geographically weighted regression was used to estimate the population in flood zones from the land cover data. Results show that in 2011, an estimate of about 25.3 million people (8.3 percent of the total population) lived in high-risk flood zones. Nationally, the ratio of urban development in flood zones is less than the ratio of land in flood zones, implying that Americans were responsive to flood hazards by avoiding development in flood zones. This trend varied fro...
Comparison of Complications Following Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Gastrostomy Placements.

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) and laparoscopic gastrostomy (LG) placements provide enteral access to patients unable to tolerate oral feeds. Limited data comparing PEG and LG outcomes is available in adults. This study compares complications between PEG and LG placements. A retrospective chart review was completed for patients undergoing PEG or LG placement at a single academic center between 2007 and 2014. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) were compared. Logistic regression was utilized to identify independent predictors for complication. Two hundred and twenty-four patients (164 PEGs and 60 LGs) were evaluated. Patients undergoing LG had a higher incidence of prior surgery (42 vs 20%; P < 0.01) and age-adjusted CCI (5 vs 4; P = 0.01). Return to the OR was more common following PEG than LG (5.5 vs 0%) but did not achieve significance (P = 0.12). There were no differences in 30-day mortality; however, age-adjusted CCI was predictive of 30-day mortality (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1–1.6). Despite increased comorbidities, LG tubes are at least as safe as PEGs. Research should focus on identifying predictive factors associated with post-operative complications to identify which patients would have superior outcomes with LG placement.
Age‐associated microRNA expression in human peripheral blood is associated with all‐cause mortality and age‐related traits

Recent studies provide evidence of correlations of DNA methylation and expression of protein‐coding genes with human aging. The relations of microRNA expression with age and age‐related clinical outcomes have not been characterized thoroughly. We explored associations of age with whole‐blood microRNA expression in 5221 adults and identified 127 microRNAs that were differentially expressed by age at P < 3.3 × 10−4 (Bonferroni‐corrected). Most microRNAs were underexpressed in older individuals. Integrative analysis of microRNA and mRNA expression revealed changes in age‐associated mRNA expression possibly driven by age‐associated microRNAs in pathways that involve RNA processing, translation, and immune function. We fitted a linear model to predict ‘microRNA age’ that incorporated expression levels of 80 microRNAs. MicroRNA age correlated modestly with predicted age from DNA methylation (r = 0.3) and mRNA expression (r = 0.2), suggesting that microRNA age may complement mRNA and epigenetic age prediction models. We used the difference between microRNA age and chronological age as a biomarker of accelerated aging (Δage) and found that Δage was associated with all‐cause mortality (hazards ratio 1.1 per year difference, P = 4.2 × 10−5 adjusted for sex and chronological age). Additionally, Δage was associated with coronary heart disease, hypertension, blood pressure, and glucose levels. In conclusion, we constructed a microRNA age prediction model based on whole‐blood microRNA expression profiling. Age‐associated microRNAs and their targets have potential utility to detect accelerated aging and to predict risks for age‐related diseases.
Simian retroviral infections in human beings

Nathan Wolfe and colleagues’ report on infection of human beings with simian foamy viruses (Mar 20, p 932) has relaunched the discussion about simian retrovirus infections as zoonoses. This concept was generated by tracing HIVs to simian sources in Africa. Although the simian origin of HIV, human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV), and now foamy viruses is acknowledged, the hypothesis that retroviral infections are zoonoses is not supported by current knowledge and must be questioned. In striking contrast to such discussions, studies indicate thus far that simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) does not cause AIDS-related zoonosis. These arguments have combined two issues: the origin of HIV and the origin of AIDS. They are different questions. Despite frequent human exposure to SIV-infected monkeys in Africa, only 10 known cross-species transmissions to
Dynamic Analysis of a Bi-stable Buckled Structure for Vibration Energy Harvester

Vibration energy harvesting offers a viable alternative to batteries for powering sensors in remote locations. In the past decade, the energy harvesting community has turned to nonlinear structures as an effective means for creating high-performance devices. In particular, researchers have used buckled structures to improve vibration scavenging power production at low frequencies (<100 Hz) and to broaden device operational bandwidths. To achieve these ends, accurate structural models are needed. These models are critical for carrying out a systematic and quantitative device design process. Specifically, the models enable the user to optimize device geometries, arrive at meaningful estimates of power production, and estimate device lifetimes, etc. This work focuses on the dynamic behavior of a bi-stable switching energy harvester made from a buckled beam structure, coupled to two cantilever beams with tip masses via a torsional rod. Results from experimental testing of the energy harvesting structure under different forced vibration conditions are compared with a nonlinear model created of the structure. For the model, linear equations of motion for free vibration of each component have been derived using Hamilton’s principle, and shape functions for each individual component are determined by applying boundary conditions for the linear vibration. Nonlinear dynamic behavior effects are integrated through consideration of large deformation of the main beam. The effects of different parameters on the vibrational system, including the geometry of the structure, buckling load and natural frequency of the cantilever arms, have been investigated. These parameters can play an important role in the optimization process of energy harvesters. Finally, parametric results obtained from the presented method are compared with the experimental data in different aspects.
Extracellular matrix proteins and carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecules characterize pancreatic duct fluid exosomes in patients with pancreatic cancer.

Abstract Background Exosomes are nanovesicles that have been shown to mediate carcinogenesis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Given the direct communication of pancreatic duct fluid with the tumor and its relative accessibility, we aimed to determine the feasibility of isolating and characterizing exosomes from pancreatic duct fluid. Methods Pancreatic duct fluid was collected from 26 patients with PDAC (n = 13), intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) (n = 8) and other benign pancreatic diseases (n = 5) at resection. Exosomes were isolated by serial ultracentrifugation, proteins were identified by mass spectrometry, and their expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Results Exosomes were isolated from all specimens with a mean concentration of 5.9 ± 1 × 108 particles/mL and most frequent size of 138 ± 9 nm. Among the top 35 proteins that were significantly associated with PDAC, multiple carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecules (CEACAMs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins were identified. Interestingly, CEACAM 1/5 expression by immunohistochemistry was seen only on tumor epithelia whereas tenascin C positivity was restricted to stroma, suggesting that both tumor and stromal cells contributed to exosomes. Conclusion This is the first study showing that exosome isolation is feasible from pancreatic duct fluid, and that exosomal proteins may be utilized to diagnose patients with PDAC.
Global Security Risks, Emerging Markets and Firm Responses: Assessing the Impact of Terrorism

The purpose of this chapter is to elucidate the various resiliency toolkits that emerging market multinational enterprises (EMNEs ) possess. As terrorism threats continue to proliferate globally, it is critical that scholars and practitioners identify ways to bolster resilience and enhance organisational performance. It is essential to foster a dialogue between the IB and resilience communities, because businesses are a primary target of terrorism. Perhaps surprisingly, there is scant empirical or theoretical work on firm responses to terrorism. This chapter offers a meaningful contribution by highlighting the strategies that EMNEs use to augment resilience to terrorism. We discuss firm responses to terrorism in the context of Mexican multinationals and in doing so, we provide insight into how EMNEs from dangerous locations manage to survive and perform.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Biaryl Atropisomers via the Addition of Thiophenols into Aryl-Naphthoquinones

We report a cinchona alkaloid catalyzed addition of thiophenol into rapidly interconverting aryl-naphthoquinones, resulting in stable biaryl atropisomers upon reductive methylation. An array of thiophenols and naphthoquinone substrates were evaluated, and we observed selectivities up to 98.5:1.5 e.r. Control of the quinone redox properties allowed us to study the stereochemical stabilities of each oxidation state of the substrates. The resulting enantioenriched products can also be moved on via an SNAr-like reaction sequence to arrive at stable derivatives with excellent enantioretention.
Natural History of Plasmodium odocoilei Malaria Infection in Farmed White-Tailed Deer.

ABSTRACT White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), an ecologically and economically important species, are the most widely distributed large animals in North America. A recent study indicated that up to 25% of all white-tailed deer may be infected with Plasmodium odocoilei, a malaria parasite belonging to the distinct clade of ungulate-infecting Plasmodium spp. Because the clinical impact of P. odocoilei on deer health and survival is unknown, we undertook a retrospective longitudinal study of farmed Floridian O. virginianus fawns. We found that a substantial proportion (21%) of fawns acquire malaria infection during the first 8 months of life. Some animals naturally clear P. odocoilei infection, while other animals remain persistently positive. Importantly, we found that animals that acquire malaria parasites very early in life have poor survival compared to animals that remain uninfected. Our report thus provides the first evidence of a clinically significant impact of malaria infection in young deer. IMPORTANCE Malaria parasites of the genus Plasmodium are known to infect a variety of vertebrate hosts, including ungulates (hoofed mammals). A recent study found that up to a quarter of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in North America are infected with the parasite Plasmodium odocoilei. In addition to occupying an important ecological niche, white-tailed deer are popular game animals and deer farming represents a rapidly growing industry. However, the effect of P. odocoilei infection in this ecologically and economically important ungulate species is unknown. Our work is significant because (i) we identified a high prevalence of P. odocoilei in farmed deer and (ii) we found evidence for both cleared and persistent infection, as well as an association with decreased survival of young fawns.
Defective Replication Stress Response Is Inherently Linked to the Cancer Stem Cell Phenotype.

Summary Extensive spontaneous DNA damage from oncogene-induced replication stress is ubiquitous in precancerous lesions. While this damage induces differentiation, senescence, or apoptosis in normal cells, defects in DNA replication stress response (RSR) allow cells to continue proliferating, ultimately leading to early tumorigenesis. Using systems-level approaches, we developed a replication stress response defect gene signature that predicted risk of cancer development from hyperplastic lesions. Intriguingly, we found that replication stress response defects rewire non-malignant cells into a cancer stem cell (CSC)-like state, and analysis of CSCs indicated that they inherently harbor replication stress response defects. High-throughput drug screening to elucidate molecules required for survival of replication stress response defective cells identified a dependence on MEK/ERK signaling. Inhibition of this signaling cascade restored oncogene-induced senescence through a p53-independent MDM2/p21 axis. Moreover, MEK/ERK inhibition also depleted CSC populations. Together, these findings provide insights into the role of replication stress response defects in CSCs and an actionable pathway for therapeutic targeting.
A longitudinal examination of the causes and effects of burnout based on the job demands-resources model

The purpose of this study is to longitudinally examine the job demands-resources model of corporate burnout, as well as the effects of burnout on intentions to quit. To achieve this goal, this study adopts a latent-growth model using panel data collected by the Work, Family, and Health Study. The results suggest that psychological job demands and work-to-family conflict, as well as control over working hours/schedule, decision-making authority, and role clarity, have significant effects on burnout. Psychological job demands, work-to-family conflict, and role clarity particularly affect burnout, and burnout and its trajectory are shown to influence intentions to quit.
Software Provenance: Track the Reality Not the Virtual Machine

The growing use of computers and massive storage by individuals is driving interest in digital preservation. The scientific method demands accountability through digital reproducibility, adding another strong motivation for preservation. However, data alone can become obsolete if the interactivity of software required to interpret the data is lost. Virtual machines (VMs) may preserve interactivity however do so at the cost of obscuring the nature of what lies within. Occam, instead, builds VMs on-the-fly while storing and distributing well-described software packages. Thus, the system can track the exact components inside VMs without storing the machines themselves, allowing software to be repeatably built and executed. For Occam to recreate VMs, it needs to know exactly what software was used within. Through this tracking, such software can even be modified and rebuilt. Occam keeps track of all such components in manifests, allowing anybody to know exactly what is in each VM, and the origins of each component.
On the Function of Dedications in Early Modern Scientific Books

Historians of science have studied book dedications mostly as an expression of patronage relationships, but this was not their only reason of existence. In the first part of the article, the general functions of book dedications are analyzed. As a starting-point, the article uses one specific, fairly homogenous genre, the academic disputation. Dedicatees fall into three broad categories: parents and relatives, regents and nobles, and professors. The corresponding functions can be defined as: maintaining an existing relationship, asking for specific favors, and enhancing the author’s credibility. The same functions can be recognized in other genres, although with many exceptions and deviations. In the second part of the article, two concrete examples are analyzed in detail, Rheticus’ Narratio prima and Galileo’s Sidereus Nuncius. As it appears, rather than follow a consistent strategy, their authors had to navigate between conflicting demands and considerations.
Financial performance and capacity analysis for the MICE industry in Las Vegas and the United States

The meetings, incentive travel, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) industry is comparatively young and diverse. As a result, there has been limited research conducted in this field, especially from the financial performance and capacity management perspective. The purpose of this study is to fill the gap by analyzing the MICE capacity optimization issue in Las Vegas, a leading MICE destination, and in the U.S., a leading MICE country in the world. The findings and results of this study should help industry practitioners better understand the current status of the U.S. MICE industry in terms of assets efficiency, operational costs, and profitability. The findings of the financial performance analysis indicate that the MICE industry in Las Vegas and the United States has high operating expenses and intensive capital investment which affect its profitability. Moreover, the results of the capacity optimization analysis show that the MICE industry will continuously experience severe over-capacity over the next five years. This study recommends solutions to the capacity problems. Academically, this study should make a good contribution to capacity optimization literature by applying the theoretical model to the MICE industry.
Medical therapy of peripheral arterial occlusive disease

Lowering the overall morbidity rate of peripheral vascular disease requires a systematic approach to the patient with atheroscle-rosis. This includes comprehensive assessments of risk factors, appropriate modifications of diet and lifestyle as well as an effective and sustaining exercise regimen. The role of new pharmacologic agents is discussed.
Symposium Summary and Concluding Remarks

Because of my very keen interest in design optimization generally, and structural optimization in particular, it gives me special pleasure to see what used to be a hardy little band of optimists growing into a real force such as we see represented here. I want to commend General Motors for organizing this outstanding symposium. I have been impressed by the vigor, candor and constructive character of the discussions evoked by the papers. While there is really very little that I can add to what has already been said here, I am going to share with you what I see as the lessons learned and issues raised by this symposium.
Using audio introductions to improve programming and oral skills in CS0 students

Introductory computer science students are often overwhelmed by the constant demand to learn new programming concepts, so they often do not have an easy way to step back and summarize what they have learned. These students also characteristically do not have well-developed verbal skills. This study uses Instructure's Canvas™ LMS (which is freely available to all instructors, whether or not it is the endorsed LMS at their specific institutions) to deliver an intervention which requires the students in one section of an introductory computer science course to produce audio introductions to their submitted programming assignments. Though the study is in its pilot phase, the survey data and audio introduction content are producing promising results. In the survey, all of the students indicated that producing the audio introductions was helpful to their learning and with practice they were growing more comfortable with the process. This paper reports upon the progress these students are making, and also provides a methodology for replicating the intervention in other institutions. It concludes with some areas for further study, as a way to facilitate a conversation about how these emerging technologies can enhance teaching and learning in the computer science classroom.
2215. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for Detection of Vertically Acquired Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Infection in Early Infancy

Background Many children born to HCV-infected mothers in the U.S. never receive recommended anti-HCV antibody (Ab) screening at age ≥ 18 months. Earlier testing by HCV-RNA PCR might facilitate increased screening, though prior studies using older PCR assays reported unacceptably low sensitivity of one-time PCR testing in infants. We hypothesized that testing at age 2–6 months using modern blood HCV-RNA PCR platforms with enhanced analytical sensitivity and reliability will adequately detect infected infants.
Functionalized Cellulose Nanocrystal Nanocomposite Membranes with Controlled Interfacial Transport for Improved Reverse Osmosis Performance

Thin-film nanocomposite membranes (TFNs) are a recent class of materials that use nanoparticles to provide improvements over traditional thin-film composite (TFC) reverse osmosis membranes by addressing various design challenges, e.g., low flux for brackish water sources, biofouling, etc. In this study, TFNs were produced using as-received cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and 2,2,6,6-Tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO)-oxidized cellulose nanocrystals (TOCNs) as nanoparticle additives. Cellulose nanocrystals are broadly interesting due to their high aspect ratios, low cost, sustainability, and potential for surface modification. Two methods of membrane fabrication were used in order to study the effects of nanoparticle dispersion on membrane flux and salt rejection: a vacuum filtration method and a monomer dispersion method. In both cases, various quantities of CNCs and TOCNs were incorporated into a polyamide TFC membrane via in-situ interfacial polymerization. The flux and rejection performance of the resulting membranes was evaluated, and the membranes were characterized via attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The vacuum filtration method resulted in inconsistent TFN formation with poor nanocrystal dispersion in the polymer. In contrast, the dispersion method resulted in more consistent TFN formation with improvements in both water flux and salt rejection observed. The best improvement was obtained via the monomer dispersion method at 0.5 wt% TOCN loading resulting in a 260% increase in water flux and an increase in salt rejection to 98.98 ± 0.41% compared to 97.53 ± 0.31% for the plain polyamide membrane. The increased flux is attributed to the formation of nanochannels at the interface between the high aspect ratio nanocrystals and the polyamide matrix. These nanochannels serve as rapid transport pathways through the membrane, and can be used to tune selectivity via control of particle/polymer interactions.
Using wave runup modeling to inform coastal species management: An example application for sea turtle nest relocation

Abstract The inundation of foreshore and backshore coastal environments caused by wave runup or groundwater intrusion can be extremely detrimental for beach-dwelling organisms. For beach-nesting species, whose eggs require sufficient gas exchange with the surrounding environment for proper embryonic development, inundation for prolonged periods can result in embryonic mortality. Management strategies such as the relocation of nests high on the beach to avoid wave action have been applied for some species, though this strategy may result in unnecessary nest manipulation. To improve the identification of beach locations potentially exposed to inundation caused by wave wash-over which may require management action, wave runup models were tested in Fort Morgan, Alabama, USA for the 2016 sea turtle nesting season. The potential exposure of sea turtle nesting sites to wave wash-over was determined by comparing observed nest elevations to the predicted combined elevation of wave runup, tide, and surge (i.e., total water level). Total water level was calculated using three different definitions of beach slope: foreshore, nest, and dune-to-water (DTW), and two LiDAR-derived elevation estimates: the most recent survey from 2016 and a time-averaged digital elevation model (DEM). Models using the time-averaged DEM performed as well as, or better than, those using the 2016 LiDAR survey in the majority of comparisons. Wash-over state was correctly identified for up to 83.3% of sites when using nest slope in the wave runup calculation. However, DTW slope performed the best when predicting the wash-over frequency of a site. Mapping of the predicted 98th percentile of wave runup indicated that only 11.2% of nesting sites were exposed to wave wash-over, in contrast to the 21.3% of nests which were relocated. Wave runup models have not previously been used to inform sea turtle conservation actions; however, it holds promise for improved targeted management interventions and can assist other species (e.g., shorebirds, beach mice), which rely on dry beach habitat for nesting, feeding, and migratory rest stops. Wave runup models can also be used to investigate past storm events, forecast approaching storm impacts, and supplement sea level rise scenarios for coastal species management at multiple spatial scales.
Podcast Highlights: Targeted Educational Videos From Repurposed Lecture-capture Footage

Using instructional videos - either as supplemental content or in a flipped classroom - has become increasingly popular among students and instructors in higher education CS courses. However, producing or finding appropriate videos can be expensive and time-consuming. This experience report describes a novel, relatively low-cost approach to creating customized video resources that requires very little instructor time. This approach leverages widely available screen capture and podcasting technologies to produce a suite of 2-5 minute "podcast highlights" videos from full-length live lecture footage. Podcast highlights distill lecture concepts into short segments, and supplementary annotations help illustrate these concepts further. Podcast highlights can be created quickly by undergraduates with just a small amount of instructor supervision. We created podcast highlights videos for four undergraduate CS courses. In a pilot study with two of these classes, many students used the highlights videos regularly and praised their usefulness for both previewing and reviewing class concepts. This report presents the podcast highlights production process, student reaction to and use of podcast highlights videos, and best practices for creation and deployment of these customized educational videos.
MISCLASSIFICATION OF MYOCARDIAL INJURY AS TYPE 2 MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION AND IMPLICATIONS FOR 30-DAY OUTCOMES

Type 2 myocardial infarction (T2MI) patients are included in value-based programs such as the Hospital Readmission Reduction Program (HRRP). Little is known about 30-day readmission and mortality rates for T2MI. Furthermore, if patients with myocardial injury are misdiagnosed as T2MI, this may have
Application of a label-free and domain-specific free thiol method in monoclonal antibody characterization

Characterization of free thiol variants in antibody therapeutics is important for biopharmaceutical development, as the presence of free thiols may have an impact on aggregate formation, structural and thermal stability, as well as antigen-binding potency of monoclonal antibodies. Most current methods for free thiol quantification involve labeling of free thiol groups by different tagging molecules followed by UV, fluorescence or mass spectrometry (MS) detection. Here, we optimized a label-free liquid chromatography (LC)-UV/MS method for free thiol quantification at a subunit level and compared this method with two orthogonal and conventional approaches, Ellman's assay and peptide mapping with differential alkylation. This subunit unit approach was demonstrated to be able to provide domain-specific free thiol quantification and comparable results with labeling approaches, using a relatively simple and efficient workflow.
Window of opportunity trials in head and neck cancer.

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has a large global burden of disease and poor survival outcomes. Recent targeted therapies and immunotherapies have been explored in HNSCC, but there has been limited translation to clinical practice outside of recurrent or metastatic cases. Window of opportunity settings, where novel agents are administered between cancer diagnosis and planned definitive therapy, have begun to be employed in HNSCC. Tumor tissue biopsies are obtained at diagnosis and after the investigation treatment, along with other biospecimens and radiographic exams. Thus, this study design can characterize the safety profiles, pharmacodynamics, and initial tumor responses to novel therapies in a treatment-naive subject. Early window studies have also identified potential biomarkers to predict sensitivity or resistance to treatments. However, these early investigations have revealed multiple challenges associated with this trial design. In this review, we discuss recent window of opportunity trials in HNSCC and how they inform design considerations for future studies.
You `Might' Be Affected: An Empirical Analysis of Readability and Usability Issues in Data Breach Notifications

Data breaches place affected individuals at significant risk of identity theft. Yet, prior studies have shown that many consumers do not take protective actions after receiving a data breach notification from a company. We analyzed 161 data breach notifications sent to consumers with respect to their readability, structure, risk communication, and presentation of potential actions. We find that notifications are long and require advanced reading skills. Many companies downplay or obscure the likelihood of the receiver being affected by the breach and associated risks. Moreover, potential actions and offered compensations are frequently described in lengthy paragraphs instead of clearly listed. Little information is provided regarding an action's urgency and effectiveness; little guidance is provided on which actions to prioritize. Based on our findings, we provide recommendations for designing more usable and informative data breach notifications that could help consumers better mitigate the consequences of being affected by a data breach.
The Missed Opportunities of a Forgotten Peace

A reader of Forgotten Peace might be forgiven for forgetting (pun intended) that Robert Karl’s meticulously researched book is a work of history – and not only because the book’s intimate portraits...
Cartographies of belonging: mapping nomadic narratives of first-year students

In this work, we explore first-year students’ experiences of belonging through the theoretical and methodological lens of nomadism. Specifically, we problematize conceptions of belonging subjects a...
Confessing Tawhid and the Trinity: Towards a Christian–Muslim Theology of Liberation

This chapter argues that a greater need exists today to develop a universal or interreligious liberation theology that speaks from multiple religious traditions and caters to a larger number of poor and oppressed people. This chapter attempts to construct such a theology by demonstrating how Christian and Muslim theologians may utilize the Qur’anic concept of God’s oneness (tawhid) and the Christian doctrine of the Trinity to construct ethical, universal criteria that address the challenges of globalization. This chapter—which demonstrates how Christian and Muslim theologians will indeed benefit by drawing from the sources of the other—builds on Theodor Damian’s attempts to relate globalization to fundamental Christian doctrines such as the Trinity. This chapter expands on this relation to include fundamental Islamic doctrines as it seeks to demonstrate that the oneness of God expressed in both the Islamic tawhid and the Christian Trinity is an affirmation of our ontological connection to God and His justice.
COVID-19 and Acute Kidney Injury requiring Kidney Replacement Therapy: A Bad Prognostic Sign

Abstract The development of acute kidney injury in patients with COVID-19 is estimated to about 0.5% from earlier studies from China. The incidence of AKI in patients with COIVID-19 in the largest inpatient series in the United States is 22.2%3. Development of AKI requiring kidney replacement therapy in hospitalized patients is a bad prognostic sign. Out of Fifty patients admitted to our hospital with COVID-19 13/50(26%) developed AKI. All patients required hospitalization in intensive care unit care and 12/13 required initiation of kidney replacement therapy. The median age was 41 years (31-85 years) and 50% were men. Common comorbidities were obesity (83%), diabetes (42%), and hypertension (25%). 10/12 (83%) patients were hypoxemic and required oxygen therapy. 11/12 (92%) patients required invasive ventilation. Majority of patients had elevated neutrophils counts (81.8%) and low lymphocyte counts (81.8%). All patients had chest x-ray findings suggestive of pneumonia. 11/12(91.6%) developed septic shock requiring vasopressors. Review of UA showed all patient (9/9) had active urine sediments with blood but 7/9 of them have sterile pyuria. At the end of study period, 1 patient remained hospitalized. 10/11(90%) patients died and one patient was discharged home with resolution of AKI. Median length of stay was 13 days. The exact mechanism of AKI is not well understood in COVID-19 but can be due to acute tubular necrosis due to septic shock because of cytokine storm in severe COVID-19 or direct invasion by SARS-CoV-2 on podocytes and proximal renal tubular cells. Our findings suggest poor prognosis despite continuous kidney replacement therapies in patients who develop AKI with COVID-19.
Drying cellulose-based materials containing copper nanoparticles

Carboxymethyl cellulose and TEMPO nanofibrillated cellulose were used as substrates to synthesize copper nanoparticles from copper sulfate and they were subsequently dried using spray-, freeze- and modified freeze-drying processes. Morphological characterization, particle size distribution, copper quantification and the oxidation state of copper were evaluated. The morphology and the size distribution of the dried particles were characterized using scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy; particle size distribution was evaluated using laser diffraction; copper content was determined by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy; and finally, the oxidation state of copper was determined using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Plate-like structures of cellulose and cellulose-copper nanoparticles were formed after the freeze-drying process, with length and width over hundreds of microns. Most of the spray dried particles exhibited spherical shapes with the particle size ranging from around 300 nm to several microns. The spray drying process caused more copper loss compared with freeze drying, most probably because of the additional steps required to perform the spray drying. XPS results showed that the state of oxidation of the final dried material depends on the specific substrate. CMC surfaces exhibit mostly Cu0 and/or Cu+. On the contrary TNFC surfaces present mostly Cu2+. Solvent exchange process using ethanol and butanol creates more porous structures on the CMC substrates. A solvent exchange process using ethanol and tert-butanol sequence facilitates the formation of a more porous structure on TEMPO nanofibrillated cellulose.
Signalling credibility? The IMF and catalytic finance

International Monetary Fund (IMF) programmes are thought to function as a seal of approval to international markets although evidence suggests that Fund programmes do not attract capital inflows. Existing studies fail to address the effects of selection into IMF programmes, which raises questions about the robustness of the findings. Correcting for selection bias, I find that states under Fund programmes experience significant outflows of portfolio investment, which is a ‘most likely case’ for catalytic effects. The source of this capital flight is the ‘medicine’ (the Fund programme), not the ‘disease’ (the economic downturn necessitating the IMF programme). I argue that austerity deters portfolio inflows through its effects on future returns. These findings confirm previous studies and have broader implications for both the influence of IMF programmes and the politics of economic reform.
Automatic roller path tracking and mapping for pavement compaction using infrared thermography

Abstract Compaction is an important task in asphalt pavement construction. It ensures high quality of the pavement to provide required long‐term performance. Intelligent compaction (IC) integrated ...
The divergence of nearby trajectories in soft-sphere DEM

Abstract The n-body instability is investigated with the soft-sphere discrete element method. The divergence of nearby trajectories is quantified by the dynamical memory time. Using the inverse proportionality between the dynamical memory time and the largest Lyapunov exponent, the soft-sphere discrete element method results are compared to previous hard-sphere molecular dynamics data for the first time. Good agreement is observed at low concentrations and the degree of instability is shown to increase asymptotically with increasing spring stiffness. At particle concentrations above 30%, the soft-sphere Lyapunov exponents increase faster than the corresponding hard-sphere data. This paper concludes with a demonstration of how this case study may be used in conjunction with regression testing and code verification activities.
Distinct influences of nicotine and sensorimotor stimuli on reducing cravings to smoke and vape among dual users.

Abstract Introduction When considering the clinical efficacy of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation, non-pharmacologic influences, such as conditioned reinforcers (e.g. sensorimotor stimuli), must be considered in addition to nicotine. The present study parsed the influences of nicotine delivery and sensorimotor stimuli (i.e, similarity to smoking) on cravings and other immediate outcomes of e-cigarette use. Method Participants (N = 127 dual users) completed an experimental ad-lib vaping session in one of 4 conditions: Drug (open label nicotine vs non-nicotine e-cigarettes) crossed with delivery apparatus (normal e-cigarette vs altered sensorimotor apparatus). It was hypothesized that participants who were deprived of the usual vaping stimuli would report less craving reduction via vaping. Nicotine was hypothesized to enhance physiological outcomes. Results Moderate effects emerged for nicotine, whereas smaller effects were observed for the sensorimotor manipulation upon both cravings to smoke and cravings to vape. Contrary to the hypothesis, participants who vaped using the altered sensorimotor apparatus reported greater craving reduction compared to those who used normal e-cigarettes. Nicotine delivery also had moderate effects on psychological reward. Main effects were not moderated by gender, withdrawal, or dependence. Conclusions Findings support the role of nicotine in reducing cravings via vaping. They also suggest that sensorimotor similarities to smoking may be less important among experienced vapers or dual users. Indeed, in this sample, the altered sensorimotor apparatus may have reduced craving via distraction or other mechanisms.
Real-World Effectiveness of COVID-19 Vaccines: the Diverging Pattern of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in Countries with High Vaccination Rates

Vaccines have played an important role in minimizing COVID-19 cases and deaths. Clinical trials of vaccines have suggested high efficacy against the SARS‑CoV‑2 virus. Here we evaluate the real-world efficacy of inactivated virus, viral vector, and mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. For our analysis, we chose 7 countries with a population > 1 million that have partially vaccinated ≥ 50% of their population by May 30, 2021. In some countries, the number of cases and deaths have declined significantly, whereas in others they have increased compared to the pre-vaccination levels. The data suggest that countries using mRNA-based vaccines have been the most effective in reducing the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths. The observed patterns could be due to the higher efficacy of mRNA-based vaccines. Additionally, the large difference in real-world and clinical trials for some of the vaccines can be attributed to the non-representative population sampling during clinical trials.
Experimental Comparison of Relational and NoSQL Document Systems: The Case of Decision Support.

We design and implement an experimental analysis comparing a relational system (PostgreSQL) and two document-based NoSQL systems (MongoDB and Couchbase) on a single server, Decision Support (DSS) scenario. We argue that DSS is becoming an important case study for NoSQL. We experiment with several database designs and several query formulations in order to investigate the effect of physical design and query optimization in document-based stores. Our results show that design is very important for document stores performance, and that query optimization over documents is less sophisticated than in relational systems and needs to improve. Our results offer some guidance in this area.
Determination of conjugated compounds by liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection using post-column hydrolysis

Abstract This report describes a post-column hydrolysis technique for the determination of dopamine-3-O-sulfate and dopamine-4-O-sulfate. The dopamine-sulfate isomers are separated by reversed-phase ion-pair liquid chromatography. Dopamine-3-O-sulfate and dopamine-4-O-sulfate are each hydrolyzed to free dopamine shortly after elution from the liquid chromatography column. Each isomer is then detected as free dopamine by electrochemical detection. Use of the technique results in a fifteen-fold increase in the signal-to-noise ratio for each of the dopamine-sulfate isomers when compared to a previous detection method utilizing ultraviolet detection.
Data storage IC technology

This paper focuses on the evolution and present trends of disk drive read channel implementations. This segment of the data storage IC industry is under tremendous performance and price pressure to meet the demands of the ever increasing computational and storage capacity requirements of now widely available computer platforms. These requirements have fueled the appearance of more and more sophisticated read channel processors. Classical peak detector channels have ruled disk drives for 30 years before giving way to discrete time read channel processors. A plethora of new channel architectures and suppliers have entered the market. Understanding the merits and the performance potentials of the various approaches is important for everybody who is involved in this industry.
Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic analysis of α-keto acid quinoxalinol derivatives

A rapid, sensitive and selective method to quantify α-keto acids in natural samples is described. The basis of this method is the reaction of α-keto acids with o-phenylenediamine to form highly fluorescent quinoxalinol derivatives. These derivatives are separated by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and dtected fluorometrically. Information is provided concerning optimal derivatization and chromatographic conditions. Sample cleanup steps that are usually required prior to RP-HPLC analysis are eliminated. The method is reproducible (±1.90% at the 11 pmole level) and the fluorescent response is linearly related to α-keto acid concentration at both the μM and the nM level. Complete recoveries are obtained (⩾98%) at the μM level. The detection limit is in the pmole to fmole range per injected acid. Applications to physiological and environmental samples are illustrated.
Managing large scale energy storage units to mitigate high wind penetration challenges

Due to its intermittent nature, high wind penetration requires more flexibility in the electric power grid to provide the balance. Large scale energy storage is one such option that allows the intermittency to be absorbed in real time. Two types of large scale energy storage technologies including Sodium Sulpher (NaS) battery and compressed air energy storage (CAES) are studied in this paper. In this paper CAES is modeled and evaluated as a large-scale mechanical energy storage unit highlighting its various operational characteristics. This paper focuses on how to maximize the wind energy penetration level while satisfying all the system constraints including wind spill energy constraint and power balance equations. This problem is solved considering different combinations of CAES and NaS battery scenarios. The problem is formulated as a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) solved by CPLEX. To showcase the applicability of the proposed approach, a simulation case study based on a real-world 15-minute interval wind data from Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) in 2013 is presented.
Flexural Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete Beams Using Fasteners and Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Strips

Existing methods of flexural strengthening of reinforced concrete beams (RCBs) with fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) strips require time-consuming and often difficult preparation to yield adequate bond strength between the FRP strip and the concrete substrate. This research presents a feasibility study of an alternative method of attaching FRP strips to RCBs. Off-the-shelf powder actuated fasteners are used to attach pultruded FRP strips to the concrete. Small-sized RCBs strengthened with this method were tested, and the results were compared with those from beams strengthened with conventional bonding methods and to results from control beams. Small-size RCBs strengthened using powder actuated fasteners achieved 65-70% of the increase in capacity of the beams strengthened using the conventional bonding method; however, the fastening method is extremely rapid and the failure modes of the beams strengthened by the fastening method were more ductile than those using the bonded method.
Drosophila uses two distinct neuropeptide amidating enzymes, dPAL1 and dPAL2.

Neuropeptide α-amidation is a common C-terminal modification of secretory peptides, frequently required for biological activity. In mammals, amidation is catalyzed by the sequential actions of two enzymes [peptidylglycine-α-hydroxylating monooxygenase (PHM) and peptidyl-α-hydroxyglycine α-amidating lyase (PAL)] that are co-synthesized within a single bifunctional precursor. The Drosophila genome predicts expression of one monofunctional PHM gene and two monofunctional PAL genes. Drosophila PHM encodes an active enzyme that is required for peptide amidation in vivo. Here we initiate studies of the two Drosophila PAL genes. dPAL1 has two predicted transmembrane domains, whereas dPAL2 is predicted to be soluble and secreted. dPAL2 expressed in heterologous cells is secreted readily and co-localized with hormone. In contrast, dPAL1 is secreted poorly, even when expressed with a cleaved signal replacing the predicted transmembrane domains; the majority of dPAL1 stays in the endoplasmic reticulum. Both proteins display PAL enzymatic activity. Compared to the catalytic core of rat PAL, the two Drosophila lyases have higher Km values, higher pH optima and similarly broad divalent metal ion requirements. Antibodies to dPAL1 and dPAL2 reveal co-expression in many identified neuroendocrine neurons. Although dPAL1 is broadly expressed, dPAL2 is found in only a limited subset of neurons. dPAL1 expression is highly correlated with the non-amidated peptide proctolin. Tissue immunostaining demonstrates that dPAL1 is largely localized to the cell soma, whereas dPAL2 is distributed throughout neuronal processes.