cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hybrid finite element/volume method for shallow water equations

A hybrid numerical scheme based on finite element and finite volume methods is developed to solve shallow water equations. In the recent past, we introduced a series of hybrid methods to solve incompressible low and high Reynolds number flows for single and two-fluid flow problems. The present work extends the application of hybrid method to shallow water equations. In our hybrid shallow water flow solver, we write the governing equations in non-conservation form and solve the non-linear wave equation using finite element method with linear interpolation functions in space. On the other hand, the momentum equation is solved with highly accurate cell-center finite volume method. Our hybrid numerical scheme is truly a segregated method with primitive variables stored and solved at both node and element centers. To enhance the stability of the hybrid method around discontinuities, we introduce a new shock capturing which will act only around sharp interfaces without sacrificing the accuracy elsewhere. Matrix-free GMRES iterative solvers are used to solve both the wave and momentum equations in finite element and finite volume schemes. Several test problems are presented to demonstrate the robustness and applicability of the numerical method. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Monochromatic ocular wavefront aberrations in the awake-behaving cat.

Measurement of wavefront aberrations in human eyes has become a reliable, quantitative way of assessing the optical impact of experimental and corrective ocular manipulations. Wavefront measures have also been performed in several other species, but never in cats, an animal model of choice for many ocular studies. Our goal in this study was to measure wavefront aberrations reliably in live, awake-behaving cats in a manner that is directly comparable to that used in human subjects. Six adult cats (felis cattus) were trained to fixate small targets on a computer screen. A compact Shack–Hartmann wavefront sensor was aligned with each animal’s pupil center and line of sight during fixation. Wavefront images were then collected from which the cats’ ocular aberrations were measured up to tenth order Zernike polynomials over a 6 mm pupil. Results show that cat and human ocular wave aberrations were very similar. Second order Zernike modes accounted for more than 90% of the total wave aberration. In agreement with our observation that cat ocular optics were comparable with those of humans, the half height width of both the cat and human higher order point spread function was about 0.95� . These results form a solid basis for future wavefront sensing studies aiming to quantify the effects of ocular manipulations in experimental animals. � 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
FGF signaling inhibits the proliferation of human myeloma cells and reduces c-myc expression.

Background Multiple myeloma is a cancer of antibody producing plasma cells whose etiology is unknown. FGF signaling has been implicated in myeloma pathogenesis but its precise role remains unclear.
Homeostasis of Eye Growth and the Question of Myopia

As with other organs, the eye's growth is regulated by homeostatic control mechanisms. Unlike other organs, the eye relies on vision as a principal input to guide growth. In this review, we consider several implications of this visual guidance. First, we compare the regulation of eye growth to that of other organs. Second, we ask how the visual system derives signals that distinguish the blur of an eye too large from one too small. Third, we ask what cascade of chemical signals constitutes this growth control system. Finally, if the match between the length and optics of the eye is under homeostatic control, why do children so commonly develop myopia, and why does the myopia not limit itself? Long-neglected studies may provide an answer to this last question.
The role of lipolysis in mediating the proinflammatory effects of very low density lipoproteins in mouse peritoneal macrophages

Hypertriglyceridemia is an important risk factor for atherosclerosis, especially in obesity. Macrophages are one of the primary cell types involved in atherogenesis and are thought to contribute to lesion formation through both lipid accumulation and proinflammatory gene expression. In this study, we sought to determine the direct impact of triglyceride (TG)-rich VLDL-induced lipid accumulation on macrophage proinflammatory processes. Incubation of mouse peritoneal macrophages with 100 microg/ml VLDL for 6 h led to 2.8- and 3.7-fold increases in intracellular TGs and FFAs, respectively (P < 0.05). The inflammatory proteins tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1beta, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3), and macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha (MIP-1alpha) were all upregulated by at least 2-fold (P < 0.05) in a dose-dependent manner in VLDL-treated macrophages. The increase in inflammatory gene expression coincided with the phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway members extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase, and p38 MAPK and was ameliorated by U0126, an inhibitor of ERK1/2. Inhibition of extracellular TG hydrolysis with tetrahydrolipstatin (Orlistat) resulted in the absence of intracellular TG and FFA accumulation and was accompanied by the amelioration of ERK1/2 phosphorylation and MIP-1alpha gene expression. These data indicate that VLDL hydrolysis, and the subsequent accumulation of intracellular FFAs and TGs, plays a substantive role in mediating the proinflammatory effects of VLDL. These data have important implications for the direct proatherogenic effects of VLDL on macrophage-driven atherosclerosis.
Temperature measurements in high thermal gradients: I. The effects of conduction

Abstract Two temperature probes (a fluoroptic sensor and a metallic thermistor), which are both suitable for stereotaxic implantation, were used in comparative thermometry studies during interstitial microwave heating of the brain in vivo . Thermal distributions having large temperature gradients (5–10°C/cm) were routinely observed. The temperature differentials (ΔT) between the 2 probes were position dependent within the thermal field. The maximum difference in temperatures measured, using the 2 probes along identical tracks without a catheter, ranged between 0.5°C and 1.8°C. Near the brain/air surface, the thermistor measured lower temperatures than the optical probe; however, medial to the antenna, the thermistor temperatures were higher than the optic sensor. The measured temperature discrepancies are the result of smearing due to thermal conduction along the axial length of the metallic thermistor probe. These effects are significantly accentuated when the temperature probes are tracked in catheters. Experiments performed in a nonperfused phantom, heated with the interstitial microwave antenna, demonstrated similar conductive effects. Studies in a nonelectromagnetic environment (flow cell-thermal step gradient) additionally confirmed that thermal conductive artifacts were the major source of temperature error.
The GOMS family of user interface analysis techniques: comparison and contrast

Sine the publication of The Psychology of Human-Computer Interaction, the GOMS model has been one of the most widely known theoretical concepts in HCI. This concept has produced severval GOMS analysis techniques that differ in appearance and form, underlying architectural assumptions, and predictive power. This article compares and contrasts four popular variantsof the GOMS family (the Keystroke-Level Model, the original GOMS formulation, NGOMSL, and CPM-GOMS) by applying them to a single task example.
What Do We Do With This Jesus? A Reading of Matthew 15:21–28 through the Lens of Psychoanalytic Theory

This paper interprets the story of the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15 using the lens of psychoanalytic theory—Winnicott’s concept of True Self and Stolorow/Atwood’s model of intersubjectivity—arguing that, for modern readers, the Canaanite woman and Jesus suggest new possibilities for being human. This full humanity results from both of them moving from False Self to True Self and from the mutuality that characterizes their interaction. This reader-response interpretation leads to new understandings of: (1) loving self—seeing ourselves as empowered, refusing compliance as a response to oppression; (2) loving other—overturning the self/other paradigm to regard all individuals in terms of their humanity; and (3) loving God—learning to be in mutual and authentic relationship with God.
FINESSE: a financial information spreadsheet

We outline a spreadsheet-based system for visualization of real-time financial information. Our system permits the user to define arithmetic and presentation relationships amongst the various cells of the spreadsheet. The cells contain primitives that can be numbers, text, images, functions and graphics. Presenting financial information in this format allows its intended clients, the financial analysts, to work in the familiar environment of a spreadsheet and allows them the flexibility afforded by the powerful interface of the spreadsheet paradigm. In addition, our system permits real-time visualization of the financial data stream allowing its user to visually trade the changing market trends in two and three dimensions.
Fistula-in-ano: when to cut, tie, plug, or sew.

Introduction Management of fistula-in-ano requires understanding of both perianal and rectal anatomy, as well as the surgical approaches available to ensure the highest possible postoperative continence and wound healing. Further, high rates of recurrence with medical management commonly bring these patients under the care of the colorectal surgeon after variable periods of failed conservative management. Novel techniques provide surgeons with tools to treat increasingly complex fistulas with a focus on maintaining sphincteric functionality and limiting recurrence.
The Escherichia coli histone-like protein HU has a role in stationary phase adaptive mutation.

Stationary phase adaptive mutation in Escherichia coli is thought to be a mechanism by which mutation rates are increased during stressful conditions, increasing the possibility that fitness-enhancing mutations arise. Here we present data showing that the histone-like protein, HU, has a role in the molecular pathway by which adaptive Lac+ mutants arise in E. coli strain FC40. Adaptive Lac+ mutations are largely but not entirely due to error-prone DNA polymerase IV (Pol IV). Mutations in either of the HU subunits, HUα or HUβ, decrease adaptive mutation to Lac+ by both Pol IV-dependent and Pol IV-independent pathways. Additionally, HU mutations inhibit growth-dependent mutations without a reduction in the level of Pol IV. These effects of HU mutations on adaptive mutation and on growth-dependent mutations reveal novel functions for HU in mutagenesis.
The Prospects Of Replacing GAAP With IFRS In The United States

Historically, each country developed its own Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) for financial accounting and reporting and there was no uniformity among the GAAPs of different countries. Comparison of financial statements issued by business firms from different countries has become difficult leading toward suboptimal capital allocation across countries in the world. Gradually, there emerged a global demand for convergence of GAAP of different countries into a single set uniform accounting standards applicable to all countries. As a result, the International Accounting Standards Committee (IASC) was established in 1973. The IASC formed International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) in 2001 which began issuing International Financial Accounting Standards (IFRS). At this point about 100 countries have adopted IFRS for their financial reporting purposes. In 2010, the US Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) stated that it would be able to make a decision on the adoption of the IFRS in the United States within that year and would allow a five-year period for complete transition, if it is decided to incorporate the IFRS into the U S reporting standards. An intense debate ensued for and against incorporation of IFRS into the US GAAP. Four alternative processes are suggested for the transition - outright adoption, convergence, endorsement, and co-endorsement. This paper presents details of each of these suggested alternatives and future perspective of the adoption of IFRS into the U S accounting and reporting system.
Compressive spinal epidural mass caused by Propionibacterium acnes.

Abstract Background Context Propionibacterium acnes is a gram-positive and facultative anaerobe bacillus that is found within sebaceous follicles of the human skin and recognized as a cause of infections after spinal surgery. To our knowledge, there has been no previously reported case of symptomatic compressive chronic inflammatory epidural mass caused by P. acnes in a patient with no prior spinal procedures. Purpose This study aimed to describe a case of primary spinal infection by P. acnes . Study Design This study is a case report of a condition not previously described in the literature. Methods We present the history, physical examination, laboratory, radiographic, and histopathologic findings of a chronic inflammatory epidural mass caused by P. acnes in an immunocompetent adult male with no history of spinal surgery. Results A 51-year-old man presented to our clinic with sudden onset bilateral lower extremity weakness, inability to ambulate, and urinary retention. His past clinical history was remarkable only for hernia and left knee surgery but no spinal surgery. A year earlier, he had an infected draining abscess of the right axilla that was successfully managed medically. At presentation, his serum erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein were moderately elevated. Pan-spine magnetic resonance imaging was notable for a circumferential epidural mass from C5 to T6. He underwent emergent decompression; the mass was removed and sent for culture and pathologic evaluation. Cultures from all three specimens collected during surgery grew P. acnes , and the patient was successfully managed on intravenous ceftriaxone, while pathology revealed a chronic inflammatory reactive process. Conclusions This is the first reported case of a primary spinal mass with chronic inflammatory features caused by P. acnes . In cases of epidural mass of unknown origin, both pathologic specimens and cultures should be obtained as slow-growing organisms may mimic oncologic processes.
Adsorption Dynamics of CO on Silica Supported CuOx Clusters: Utilizing Electron Beam Lithography To Study Methanol Synthesis Model Systems

Electron beam lithography was used to nanofabricate 12 and 63 nm Cu clusters supported on silica (model nanoarray catalysts). The Cu clusters could reversibly be oxidized and reduced at ultrahigh v...
Serologic tests in rheumatic diseases.

Tests for rheumatoid factor (latex fixation and sheep cell agglutination) are positive in most rheumatoid arthritic patients; however, other diseases also can give positive results. In systemic lupus erythematosus, the indirect fluorescent antibody test is positive in patients with clinical disease even when the LE cell preparation is negative. Antistreptolysin-O titers remain the most commonly used procedure for rheumatic fever.
The Girl Is Mine: Reframing Intimate Partner Violence and Sex Work as Intersectional Spaces of Gender-Based Violence

Intimate partner violence (IPV) and sex work have been primarily constructed as mutually exclusive phenomena within scholarly literature, though both can be situated under the umbrella of gender-based violence and traced to male sexual proprietariness. Specialized research has resulted in deeper understanding of nuanced categorizations of sub-phenomena within both IPV and sex work, with parallel constructions along a spectrum of increasing danger. However, the scholarly construction of these continua as parallel-and thus unrelated-disguises the systemic nature of each form of violence and potentially pits victims against each other in the struggle for legitimacy. We propose a more systemic approach to understanding and researching IPV and sex work and provide examples of research already moving in this direction.
Analysis on influenza surveillance in Futian district of Shenzhen in 2009-2011

Objective To analyze the surveillance data of influenza in Futian district of Shenzhen,to understand the endemic situation of influenza.Methods Throat swab specimens were collected for virus isolation and identification.Results A total of 1035 samples were collected,from which 330 virus strains were isolated and identified to be influenza viruses,with a virus isolation rate of 31.88%.There were 202,89 and 39 strains isolated in 2009,2010 and 2011 with isolation rate of 42%,32.48% and 13.93% respectively.1684 cases had been reported during three years and 552 virus strains were isolated via cell culture,with a isolation rate of 32.78%.52.78% of virus strains for patients aged 15 to 24 years.Conclusions The isolation rate of influenza virus in Futian district goes down annually,suggesting that the prevalence of influenza virus becomes weaker.
Numerical Simulation Study on Impact of Changing Burnt-out Air Volume Proportion on Furnace Combustion of 660 MW Supercritical Before and After Hedge Pulverized Coal-fired Boiler

By using ANSYS FLUENT 14.0 software,this paper proceeds numerical simulation study on impact of changing burnt-out air volume proportion on NOx generation law of 660 MW supercritical vortex pulverized coal combustion boiler of some power plant.Result of numerical simulation is coincided with locale physical truth which verifies effectiveness of numerical simulation.Main conclusions are as follows: when total secondary air volume is invariant,change of burnt-out air volume may have great impact on furnace temperature field distribution while less impact on hearth exit gas temperature;change of burnt-out air volume may have great impact on furnace NOx density;with increase of burnt-out air volume,the average volume fraction of hearth exit CO may gradually increase,furnace combustion chemical incomplete heat loss may gradually enlarge while thermal efficiency of the boiler may reduce;when comprehensively considering safety,thermal efficiency and NOx discharge value of the boiler,proportion of burnt-out air volume should be controlled at 23%~30%.
The Role of Self-esteem and Optimism in Job Satisfaction among Teachers of Private Universities in Bangladesh

The objective of this study was to investigate the role of self- esteem and optimism in job satisfaction among teachers of private universities in Bangladesh. The measuring instruments used in this study were: 1. Self-Esteem Scale (SES) (Rosenberg’s, 1965) for measuring self-esteem. 2. Life Orientation Test (LOT) (Scheier& Carver, 1985) for measuring Optimism. 3. Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS) (Spector, 1985) for measuring job satisfaction. According to the objective of the present study the obtain data were analysed using Pearson product moment correlation. The survey results revealed that self-esteem and optimism is significantly positively correlated with teacher’s job satisfaction.
Prevalence and Biological Control of Bacteriocin-Producing Psychrotrophic Leuconostocs Associated with Spoilage of Vacuum-Packaged Processed Meats.

Low heat-processed vacuum-packaged commercial meat products are expected to have a relatively long shelf life at refrigerated temperature. However, temperature abuse often occurs and spoilage of these products is not uncommon. One common lype of spoilage is characterized by accumulation of gas and purge in the package wilh products having sour lo off odor. Although laclic acid bacteria as well as several nonlaclic acid bacteria are pre- dominant microflora in the fresh products, we isolated predominantly Leuconostoc camosum and Leuconostoc mesenteroides from the spoiled products. Many of these isolales produced bacteriocins lo which the predominanl gram-posilive bacteria normally found in these products are sensilive. As the leuconoslocs grew al low lemperalure and produce bacleriocins, they inhibiled growlh of associaled sensitive bacleria. Since they are helerofermenlalive, they produced CO2 (resulting in accumulalion of gas in the package) and acids (resulting in reduclion in pH, accumulalion of purge (liquid), and sour and off-odor). The bacleriocinogenic isolales were sensilive lo nisin or a bacteriocin (probably nisin) produced by Lactococcus UW1. An approach in which either nisin or a similar bacteriocin was added to the product formulation could be effective to control growth of the leuconostocs in the products. Alternately, a low level of homofermentative lactic acid bacteria, that can produce nisin or similar bacteriocin at low temperature (such as Lactococcus UW1) could be incorporated in the package to control heterofermentative leuconostocs associated with spoilage of the meat products.
Promoting STEM to young students by renewable energy applications

The Math-Science-Engineering Technology in Iowa on Applied Renewable Energy Areas (MSETI — AREA) project aimed to provide area middle school teachers with an applied mathematics and science curriculum package based on PhotoVoltaic (PV), wind power, and hydrogen fuel-cell fundamentals. The MSETI — AREA project has established a partnership between the university and selected area middle schools for the improvement of students' mathematical and scientific skill sets, improve their technological literacy by creating an environment where they must understand and figure out relationships among basic mathematics, science and engineering technology applied to renewable energy fields in order to mentor and manage effectively, and to give them a professional skill-set for successfully applying mathematics and science to technical projects with diverse teams throughout their careers. The use of a number of renewable energy and energy efficiency based hands-on projects such as nationwide solar electric project promote mathematics and science for middle school teachers and students. The objectives of this paper are listed as follows; to show how an eco-friendly applied research project is adapted for the undergraduate teaching and research curriculum, to gain community and state support for funding, and to illustrate how student design projects can serve as an excellent marketing tool to promote science and engineering technology among high school students.
Fabrication and hydrogen permeation through novel BaZr0.9Y0.1O3−δ – Cu composite ceramic-metallic membranes

Abstract This study is the first report of a dense BaZr0.9Y0.1O3−δ – Cu (BZY–Cu) ceramic-metallic (cermet) composite membrane for high-temperature hydrogen separation. BZY serves as a proton conductor, while Cu provides electronic conductivity for charge compensation. A novel molten-copper infiltration technique is used to form a dense cermet membrane by infiltrating a porous BZY substrate. A porous BZY “skeleton” is fabricated from a spray-dried powder provided by CoorsTek, consisting of the pre-cursor oxides BaSO4, ZrO2, and Y2O3. The powder is dry pressed into pellets. These pellets then undergo solid-state reaction and sintering in one step at 1650 °C for 10 h to form the porous ceramic skeleton. Cu and CuO powders are mixed to form a powder containing 8 at.% O. This powder is uniaxially pressed into a pellet, that is placed on top of the BZY skeleton. The skeleton and Cu–CuO pellet are placed into a controlled-atmosphere furnace, and heated to 1200 °C in a 330 ppm oxygen environment (balance argon). Under these conditions, the liquid Cu–O spontaneously infiltrates the BZY skeleton. While dwelling at 1200 °C, the gas environment is changed to a 10 mol.% hydrogen environment (balance argon) for 12 h. Then the sample is cooled to 450 °C and annealed for 24 h to reduce residual stresses within the membrane. Electron micrographs of the resulting membranes reveal that the cermet is nearly fully dense. Hydrogen permeation through a 1.90 mm thick BZY–Cu membrane was measured as a function of temperature and hydrogen partial pressure gradient. A maximum flux of 2.42 × 10−3 mLSTP cm−2 min−1 was observed at 882 °C with a 1.0 atm hydrogen partial pressure gradient. The contribution of hydrogen evolution due to water-splitting at the sweep surface was examined by varying the humidification of the feed and sweep gas streams. Degradation of performance was not observed over the course of 30 days of testing; rather, a slight increase was seen. Electron micrographs of the BZY–Cu membrane after testing do not reveal porosity or cracking through the bulk thickness of the membrane. However morphological changes were observed at the surfaces. On the feed surface (highly reducing environment), Cu has left the BZY skeleton and formed Cu spheres on the surface. On the sweep surface, this de-wetting is more pronounced. Copper has also left the BZY skeleton and formed a nearly dense, non-hermetic layer of pure Cu. These changes effectively reduce the membrane thickness while also increasing surface roughness and the area of the gas–solid interface. This may explain the apparent increase in performance over time.
Chemoimmunotherapy with a Modified Hyper-CVAD and Rituximab Regimen Improves Outcome for Patients with De Novo Philadelphia Negative Precursor B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL).

Abstract 836 The hyper-CVAD regimen is an effective frontline program for de novo adult ALL and LL [Kantarjian, JCO 18:547, 2000; Kantarjian, Cancer 101:2788, 2004, Thomas, Blood 104:1624, 2004]. Intensive chemotherapy with hyper-CVAD (fractionated cyclophosphamide, vincristine [VCR], doxorubicin, dexamethasone) alternates with high dose methotrexate (MTX) and cytarabine every 21 days for 8 courses, followed by maintenance therapy with POMP (6-mercaptopurine, MTX, VCR, prednisone). Historical CR rate was 92% with 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) rate of 38%. The regimen was modified in 1999. Induction chemotherapy was given in a protective environment owing to higher mortality in patients (pts) aged 60 years or older (17% vs 3%). Course 2 of liposomal daunorubicin and cytarabine was incorporated owing to reports suggesting benefit of early anthracycline intensification. Rituximab 375 mg/m2 (days 1 & 11 of hyper-CVAD, days 1 & 8 of methotrexate-cytarabine) was given if CD20 expression was 20% or greater due to its association with disease recurrence [Thomas, Blood 113:6330, 2009]. The maintenance phase was extended to 30 months with additional intensifications owing to late relapses after completion of POMP therapy. Newly diagnosed or primary refractory (1 course only) pts with ALL (n=204) or LL (n=27) were treated on the two sequential studies. Burkitt-type leukemia/lymphoma (BLL) and Philadelphia positive ALL were treated on alternative protocols. From May 2000 to December 2001, 69 pts were treated with modified hyper-CVAD with anthracycline intensification (9 induction-consolidation courses). Course 2 was then eliminated from the regimen (8 courses), with an additional 162 pts treated to date (pts age 30 years or less are now treated with augmented BFM). Median age was 43 yrs (range, 15–83). CD20 expression was noted in 49%. Overall CR rate of the evaluable group (n=225) was 93%; 7 pts achieved PR (LL with residual disease), five failed to respond, and 4 died during the induction phase. Three-yr CRD and OS rates were 70% and 62%, respectively after a median follow-up of 50 months (range, 2–106+). In the younger CD20 positive precursor B-cell ALL subset (n=99), rituximab improved outcome compared to historical experience with hyper-CVAD alone (n=127), with 3-yr CRD rates (75% vs 45%, p Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Age-related reductions in the strength of the femur tested in a fall-loading configuration

To assess age-related changes in femoral strength as a component in the risk of fracture of the hip, we compared the loads at fracture of the proximal aspects of femora from the cadavera of older and younger individuals, as tested in a fall-loading configuration. To provide a basis for non-invasive in vivo estimates of femoral strength, we also determined the correlations between variables measured with dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and these loads. Femora from the cadavera of eight older individuals (mean age, seventy-four years) and nine younger individuals (mean age, thirty-three years) were scanned with a Hologic QDR-2000 densitometer to obtain densitometric and geometric information. The femora were then tested mechanically in a loading configuration that simulated a fall on the greater trochanter. The femora from the older group were half as strong as those from the younger group (p < 0.001), and they absorbed one-third as much energy (p < 0.001). The area bone-mineral density of the femoral neck correlated strongly with the load at fracture (r2 = 0.92). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The prevalence of fracture of the hip increases exponentially with age. 90 percent of those fractures are the result of a simple fall from a standing height.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Investigation of Tacticity and Living Characteristics of Photoredox‐Mediated Metal‐Free Ring‐Opening Metathesis Polymerization

This study investigated the microstructures of polymers produced via photoredox-mediated metal-free ring-opening metathesis polymerization. Polynorbornene, poly(exo-dihydrodicyclopentadiene), and poly(endo-dicyclopentadiene) were found to have cis olefin contents of 23%, 24%, and 28%, respectively. Additionally, the cis/trans ratio remained consistent during the course of norbornene polymerization. Polymer tacticity was evaluated by quantitative 13 C NMR spectroscopy, which revealed each polymer to be largely atactic. Specifically, the three polymers were estimated to be 33%, 58%, and 55% syndiotactic, respectively. In parallel, this study also explored the ability to produce diblock copolymers from norbornene and exo-dihydrodicyclopentadiene. Successful diblock copolymerization was achieved using either monomer order. In each case, however, the results suggested to us that chain-chain coupling (increased molecular weight) and irreversible termination (dead chains observed during attempted chain extension) occurred when reaction times were extended.
Enantioselective Palladium-Catalyzed Carbene Insertion into the N−H Bonds of Aromatic Heterocycles

C3-substituted indoles and carbazoles react with α-aryl-α-diazoesters under palladium catalysis to form α-(N-indolyl)-α-arylesters and α-(N-carbazolyl)-α-arylesters. The products result from insertion of a palladium-carbene ligand into the N−H bond of the aromatic N-heterocycles. Enantioselection was achieved using a chiral bis(oxazoline) ligand, in many cases with high enantioselectivity (up to 99 % ee). The method was applied to synthesize the core of a bioactive carbazole derivative in a concise manner.
Evaluation of CD73 in lung cancer.

e14525Background: Immunotherapy has shown promising results in multiple forms of cancer including lung cancer patients. Treatment targeting alternative immune checkpoints may demonstrate value for ...
Expression of tabersonine 16-hydroxylase and 16-hydroxytabersonine-O-methyltransferase in Catharanthus roseus hairy roots.

The monoterpene indole alkaloids vindoline and catharanthine, which are exclusively synthesized in the medicinal plant Catharanthus roseus, are the two important precursors for the production of pharmaceutically important anti-cancer medicines vinblastine and vincristine. Hairy root culture is an ideal platform for alkaloids production due to its industrial scalability, genetic and chemical stability, and availability of genetic engineering tools. However, C. roseus hairy roots do not produce vindoline due to the lack of expression of the seven-step pathway from tabersonine to vindoline [Murata & De Luca (2015) Plant Journal, 44, 581-594]. The present study describes the genetic engineering of the first two genes tabersonine 16-hydroxylase (T16H) and 16-O-methyl transferase (16OMT) in the missing vindoline pathway under the control of a glucocorticoid-inducible promoter to direct tabersonine toward vindoline biosynthesis in C. roseus hairy roots. In two transgenic hairy roots, the induced overexpression of T16H and 16OMT resulted in the accumulation of vindoline pathway metabolites 16-hydroxytabersonine and 16-methoxytabersonine. The levels of root-specific alkaloids, including lochnericine, 19-hydroxytabersonine and horhammericine, significantly decreased in the induced hairy roots in comparison to the uninduced control lines. This suggests tabersonine was successfully channeled to the vindoline pathway away from the roots competing pathway based on the overexpression. Interestingly, another two new metabolites were detected in the induced hairy roots and proposed to be the epoxidized-16-hydroxytabersonine and lochnerinine. Thus, the introduction of vindoline pathway genes in hairy roots can cause unexpected terpenoid indole alkaloids (TIA) profile alterations. Furthermore, we observed complex transcriptional changes in TIA genes and regulators detected by RT-qPCR which highlight the tight regulation of the TIA pathway in response to T16H and 16OMT engineering in C. roseus hairy roots.
Blowing polar skyrmion bubbles in oxide superlattices

Abstract Particle-like topological structures such as skyrmions and vortices have garnered ever-increasing interests due to their rich physical insights and potential broad applications in spintronics. Here we discover the reversible switching between polar skyrmion bubbles and ordered vortex arrays in ferroelectric superlattices under an electric field, reminiscent of the Plateau-Raleigh instability in fluid mechanics. An electric field phase diagram is constructed, showing a wide stability window for the observed polar skyrmions. A “volcano”-like pontryagin density distribution is formed, indicating the formation of a smooth circular skyrmion. The topological charge Q at different applied field is calculated, verifying the field-driven topological transition between Q = 0 and Q = ±1 states. This study is a demonstration for the computational design of field-induced topological phase transitions, giving promise for the design of next-generation nanoelectronic devices.
The Middle-Aged Brain: Biological sex and sex hormones shape memory circuitry.

Over the last quarter century, a staggering number of brain imaging studies have probed the neural basis of age-related cognitive decline. Using multimodal brain imaging tools, we now have a clearer understanding of the morphological, neurochemical, and neurophysiological changes that accompany age-related declines in working memory, selective attention, inhibitory control, episodic memory and more (for review, see Cabeza, Nyberg & Park, 2016). These studies generally target adults over the age of 65, a historical precedent rooted in the average retirement age of U.S. wage-earners. An unintended consequence of this adopted standard is that it overlooks one of the most significant neuroendocrine changes in a woman’s life – the transition to menopause. In turn, it obscures our understanding of sex-dependent pathways that may shape the brain early in the aging process. The median age of menopause is 52.4 years (Gold et al., 2001). The time between the first clinical appearance of decreased ovarian function (i.e. shorter inter-menstrual time periods) to menstrual irregularity and final amenorrhea is variable and protracted, occurring over several years. The menopausal transition is marked by a decline in ovarian hormone production and is a time when many women report changes in memory and attention (e.g. “menopause fog”). Two decades of rodent and nonhuman primate studies have established the role of sex hormones in the synaptic organization of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC), and their impact on memory function (Frick et al., 2017, Hara et al. 2015). A parallel literature has emerged within the human cognitive neuroscience field to identify the role of sex hormones in memory circuitry in the human brain. In this review, we summarize recent studies of the neural and cognitive changes that unfold in the middle decade of life (ages 45–60), as a function of sex, reproductive stage, and sex steroid hormones. As the ‘cognitive neuroscience of aging’ field evolves, applying a sex dependent lens to the study of the aging brain will enhance the translation of these findings for both sexes and ensure that men and women get the full benefit of our research efforts. By ignoring the midlife window, we risk missing critical clues that could reveal sex-dependent risk factors of future neurodegenerative disease.
Merging Satellite Measurement with Ground-Based Air Quality Monitoring Data to Assess Health Effects of Fine Particulate Matter Pollution

Geospatial technologies have been widely used in environmental health research, including air pollution and human health. This chapter demonstrates the potential of integrating satellite air quality measurement with ground-based PM2.5 data to explore health effects of fine particulate air pollution. This study assesses the association of estimated PM2.5 concentration with chronic coronary heart disease (CCHD) mortality. Years 2003 and 2004 daily MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer) Level 2 AOD images were collated with US EPA PM2.5 data covering the conterminous USA. Pearson’s correlation analysis and geographically weighted regression (GWR) found that the relationship between PM2.5 and AOD is not spatially consistent across the conterminous states. GWR predicts well in the east and poorly in the west. The GWR model was used to derive a PM2.5 grid surface for the eastern US (RMSE = 1.67 μg/m3). A Bayesian hierarchical model found that areas with higher values of PM2.5 show high rates of CCHD mortality: \(\beta _{{\textrm{PM}}_{2.5} } \)= 0.802, posterior 95% Bayesian credible interval (CI) = (0.386, 1.225). Aerosol remote sensing and GIS spatial analyses and modelling could help fill pervasive data gaps in ground-based air quality monitoring that impede efforts to study air pollution and protect public health.
Designing Interiors to Mitigate Physical and Cognitive Deficits Related to Aging and to Promote Longevity in Older Adults: A Review.

Background: With the increasing global population of older adults, there is a need for environmental interventions that directly affect their physical, psychological, and emotional well-being to help them maintain or regain their independence and autonomy – all of which promote longevity. Methods: To better understand potential opportunities and challenges associated with interior design and “future homes” that may promote well-being, aging in place, and independent living in older adults, the authors reviewed relevant literature and included their own expert opinions from a multidisciplinary point of view including interior design, wellness, and engineering. Results: After summarizing existing environmental interventions for the aging population and their effectiveness, this review reveals knowledge gaps in interior design for the well-being and longevity of older adults followed by a discussion of opportunities for future research that may fill these gaps. Some of these opportunities include finding habilitative design strategies that identify and address unique situational needs of each user, advancing multidisciplinary fields such as environmental gerontology that recreate security and independence for older adults even outside of their homes, implementing technically advanced design strategies, which are flexible and adaptive to individual needs; and integrating the Internet of things (IoT) into living environments, including voice-activated command technologies to improve seniors’ central role in enabling an optimized healthcare ecosystem. Conclusions: Knowledge of current evidence regarding the impact of different environmental factors may hasten adaptation of well-designed innovations that can provide optimal healing and living environments for the aging population. By effectively addressing older adults’ unique and specialized needs, design practitioners can become an indispensable part of their medical, social, and environmental team. One of the rapidly developing infrastructures promising to revolutionize the design of “future homes” is the IoT. While it is at an early stage of development, ultimately we envisage a connected home using voice-controlled technology and Bluetooth-radio-connected add-ons, to augment much of what home health does today. Bringing these approaches together into an effective strategy for a model of effective geriatric care is important and needs to become an integral part of both design education and practice.
Puberty onset and pediatric multiple sclerosis activity in boys.

Abstract Objectives To determine the association of age of onset and puberty with relapse rate in boys with pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS). Background While sex steroid hormones have been shown to have immune effects, it is not known how age or puberty influence disease course in boys with MS. We have previously shown an association in girls with menarche and risk of relapse. Methods Patients from the UCSF Regional Pediatric MS Center were included in this retrospective study. Age of disease onset was used to stratify patients into three groups approximating pubertal stage: age less than 11 years, between 11–14 years, and greater than 14 years, corresponding to pre-, peri-, and post-puberty, respectively. Negative binomial regression was used to determine the association between pubertal status at disease onset with relapse rate. Results 58 male pediatric patients with onset of relapsing-remitting MS before 18 years of age participated to the analyses ( 14 onset, n = 16). 60% of patients identified as White, and 43% as Hispanic. Median follow-up was 3.17 years (IQR 1.42–5.35). Univariate negative binomial regression models demonstrated a 2.4 fold increased relapse rate for boys with disease onset in the peri-puberty age group compared to the post-puberty age group (IRR = 2.43, 95% CI 1.33–4.47, p = 0.004). Adjustments for race, ethnicity, and use of disease-modifying therapy did not change these results (IRR = 2.39, 95% CI 1.20–4.79, p = 0.014). No differences in relapse rate between the pre-pubertal onset group and post-pubertal onset group were found. Conclusions Pubertal onset of MS may be associated with increased relapses in boys. Further investigation is indicated to understand the intersection of pubertal effects and MS pathophysiology.
The Rise of Capitalism and Socialism

How did various institutions emerge? Are they unintended consequences of the gradual evolution of human knowledge and technology or intended consequences of social engineering? Are they predictable outcomes of the laws of history? A review of the history and development of capitalism and socialism addresses a number of those issues.
Numerical solution of the Haïssinski equation for the equilibrium state of a stored electron beam

A practical algorithm for solving the Haissinski equation with examples of applications and a review of the alternatives.
Teacher Self-Efficacy for Teaching Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Associations with Stress, Teacher Engagement, and Student IEP Outcomes Following COMPASS Consultation:

Although teachers reporting high teaching self-efficacy demonstrate positive teaching behaviors, minimal stress, and superior classroom management techniques, surprisingly few studies have demonstr...
Efficient Catalytic Deoxygenation of Epoxides Using [Tris(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)hydridoborato]rhenium Oxides

In situ reduction of Tp‘ReO3 (Tp‘ = tris(3,5-dimethylpyrazolyl)hydridoborate) using triphenylphosphine or triethyl phosphite allows generation of a reduced rhenium species that catalyzes efficient O atom transfer from epoxides to the stoichiometric phosphorus reductant at 75−105 °C. The reaction is stereospecific and proceeds most rapidly with cis- vs trans-alkenes. The choice of ligand is shown to impart advantages to design of the catalytic cycle.
EM counterparts of structured jets from 3D GRMHD simulations

GW170817/GRB170817A has offered unprecedented insight into binary neutron star post-merger systems. Its Prompt and afterglow emission imply the presence of a tightly collimated relativistic jet with a smooth transverse structure. However, it remains unclear whether and how the central engine can produce such structured jets. Here, we utilize 3D GRMHD simulations starting with a black hole surrounded by a magnetized torus with properties typically expected of a post-merger system. We follow the jet, as it is self-consistently launched, from the scale of the compact object out to more than 3 orders of magnitude in distance. We find that this naturally results in a structured jet, which is collimated by the disk wind into a half-opening angle of roughly 10 degrees, its emission can explain features of both the prompt and afterglow emission of GRB170817A for a 30 degree observing angle. Our work is the first to compute the afterglow, in the context of a binary merger, from a relativistic magnetized jet self-consistently generated by an accreting black hole, with the jet's transverse structure determined by the accretion physics and not prescribed at any point.
To Understand Is to Forgive: Learning a Simple Model of Appraisal Leads to Emotion Knowledge Transfer and Enhances Emotional Acceptance and Empathy.

Social emotional learning (SEL) is an increasingly important area of study that aims to develop skills critical for healthy social functioning. Despite SEL’s growing ubiquity, little attention has ...
Driving the discussion about the greater propensity for doing better with neoadjuvant chemotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer.

One of the most challenging aspects of care in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is determining the optimal multimodal strategy to fight advanced disease at the time of presentation. The barrage of chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and now immunotherapy may be beginning to mitigate the impact of locoregionally advanced disease on patient outcomes in NSCLC.
African Christian Immigrants

The latent functions of African immigration are often overlooked. Over the years, these functions have produced scenarios worth researching. Many people migrate from Africa to the West looking for ...
The State of Press Freedom in Uganda

The press-freedom landscape in Uganda is one of unique contradictions. On one hand, Uganda is said to have one of the most free and active media landscapes in Central and East Africa, and courts regularly rule in favor of journalists’ rights. On the other hand, an array of legal and extralegal mechanisms continues to limit free expression. In-depth interviews with Ugandan journalists revealed that journalists face dangers if they report critically about the president or his inner circle, but they simultaneously play a role in the limited press freedom. Findings from this study suggest that the actions of journalists have not been sufficiently factored into media development theory and propose that while the political science framework of the safety valve may be at play, Uganda is undergoing the process of journalistic domestication.
Reduced Graphene Oxide/Mesoporous Silica Nanocarriers for pH-Triggered Drug Release and Photothermal Therapy

A sandwich structured bifunctional nanocarrier (rGO@msilica) composed of an inner layer of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and an outer layer of mesoporous silica (msilica) was developed for synergist...
Morice’s Africa Voyages: An Annotated List

Drawing on Humphry Morice’s extensive surviving papers, this annotated voyage-by-voyage listing of the vital statistics for all 103 of his Africa ventures updates the information contained in the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database.