cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Development of potent in vivo mutagenesis plasmids with broad mutational spectra

Methods to enhance random mutagenesis in cells offer advantages over in vitro mutagenesis, but current in vivo methods suffer from a lack of control, genomic instability, low efficiency and narrow mutational spectra. Using a mechanism-driven approach, we created a potent, inducible, broad-spectrum and vector-based mutagenesis system in E. coli that enhances mutation 322,000-fold over basal levels, surpassing the mutational efficiency and spectra of widely used in vivo and in vitro methods. We demonstrate that this system can be used to evolve antibiotic resistance in wild-type E. coli in <24 h, outperforming chemical mutagens, ultraviolet light and the mutator strain XL1-Red under similar conditions. This system also enables the continuous evolution of T7 RNA polymerase variants capable of initiating transcription using the T3 promoter in <10 h. Our findings enable broad-spectrum mutagenesis of chromosomes, episomes and viruses in vivo, and are applicable to both bacterial and bacteriophage-mediated laboratory evolution platforms.
Nanoporous polysulfone membranes via a degradable block copolymer precursor for redox flow batteries

Nanoporous polysulfone (PSU) membranes were fabricated via post-hydrolysis of polylactide (PLA) from PLA–PSU–PLA triblock copolymer membranes. The PSU scaffold was thermally crosslinked before sacrificing PLA blocks. The resulting nanopore surface was chemically modified with sulfonic acid moieties. The membranes were analyzed and evaluated as separators for vanadium redox flow batteries. Nanoporous PSU membranes prepared by this new method and further chemically modified to a slight degree exhibited unique behavior with respect to their ionic conductivity when exposed to solutions of increasing acid concentration.
Design of Constrained Layer Damping Topologies

The aim of this research is to determine the optimal topologies for viscoelastic lamina used for vibration damping. The optimization objective is to maximize the system loss factor for the first resonance frequency of a base structure. Previous optimal design studies examining viscoelastic lamina have been size or shape optimization studies, assuming a certain topology for the damping treatment. In this study, the topology is optimized to maximize vibration damping levels. The loss factor is computed using the Modal Strain Energy method in the optimization process. For the initial and optimal topologies, the loss factor results are validated by using the half-power bandwidth method, which requires obtaining the forced response of the structure. The ABAQUS finite element code is used to model the structure with two-dimensional, plane stress, continuum elements. The optimization code uses a Sequential Quadratic Programming algorithm. This study extends the results of a previous study by Lumsdaine (2002) by examining the effects of a number of parameters on the optimal damping levels and the optimal topologies. The parameters examined include the total elastic and viscoelastic material fractions and the base beam thickness. Results show that significant improvements in damping performance, over 300% in some cases, are obtained by optimizing the constrained damping layer topology.© 2003 ASME
Volunteering and Reemployment Status in Unemployed Emerging Adults: A Time-Worthy Investment?

Given the alarming unemployment rates among emerging adults in the United States, this study investigates the relationships among volunteering, length of unemployment, likelihood/quality of reemplo...
The Politics of Modern Reason: Politics, Anti-Politics and Norms in Continental Philosophy

Se proposant de definir l'orientation substantielle et normative de la philosophie continentale, l'A. montre que l'opposition entre politique et anti-politique qui caracterise la pensee de Marx et Heidegger souleve une double problematique : celle, normative, du role de la raison moderne dans le monde historique et social; celle, empirique, de la place qu'accordent la societe et l'etat a une pratique de la raison qui ne se reduit pas a une lutte strategique pour le pouvoir. Adoptant une approche anti-sceptique concernant les roles destructif et contructif de la raison, l'A. montre que la theorie critique et constructiviste de la societe moderne, qui offre une alternative au pretendu scepticisme de la philosophie continentale, ouvre la voie a l'ideal democratique et deliberatif defendu par Rawls, Habermas et Derrida, en proposant de nouvelles possibilites pour l'usage public de la raison.
Photoionization and Photofragmentation of BxNy Clusters Produced by Photoablation of Boron Nitride Followed by Supersonic Expansion Cooling

Photoablation of isotopically pure boron metal and hexagonal boron nitride with a 532 nm laser, followed by supersonic expansion cooling, produces a variety of B x , and B x N y , clusters, which are detected by photoionization of the neutral clusters with a 194 nm laser, followed by time-of-flight (TOF) mass spectrometry. Under certain experimental conditions, the mass spectrum derived from boron nitride shows resolved peaks corresponding to the clusters B x +1 N y + . Under different experimental conditions, the mass spectrum shows an unresolved region corresponding to clusters ranging from atomic mass unit 100–1000 as well as resolved peaks, corresponding to B x + clusters for x = 2 − 100. These resolved peaks grow with increasing photoionization fluence, while the envelope of the unresolved region changes shape and grows with a diminished dependence on fluence. These data are interpreted as evidence that the unresolved clusters are being photofragmented as well as photoionizated by the 194 nm radiation, and the products of such photofragmentation are the aforementioned B x + clusters.
An Analysis of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Hand Muscle EMG for Improved Pattern Recognition Control

Pattern recognition control combined with surface electromyography (EMG) from the extrinsic hand muscles has shown great promise for control of multiple prosthetic functions for transradial amputees. There is, however, a need to adapt this control method when implemented for partial-hand amputees, who possess both a functional wrist and information-rich residual intrinsic hand muscles. We demonstrate that combining EMG data from both intrinsic and extrinsic hand muscles to classify hand grasps and finger motions allows up to 19 classes of hand grasps and individual finger motions to be decoded, with an accuracy of 96% for non-amputees and 85% for partial-hand amputees. We evaluated real-time pattern recognition control of three hand motions in seven different wrist positions. We found that a system trained with both intrinsic and extrinsic muscle EMG data, collected while statically and dynamically varying wrist position increased completion rates from 73% to 96% for partial-hand amputees and from 88% to 100% for non-amputees when compared to a system trained with only extrinsic muscle EMG data collected in a neutral wrist position. Our study shows that incorporating intrinsic muscle EMG data and wrist motion can significantly improve the robustness of pattern recognition control for application to partial-hand prosthetic control.
Toxicological Risks of Agrochemical Spray Adjuvants: Organosilicone Surfactants May Not Be Safe.

Agrochemical risk assessment that takes into account only pesticide active ingredients without the spray adjuvants commonly used in their application will miss important toxicity outcomes detrimental to non-target species including humans. Lack of disclosure of adjuvant and formulation ingredients coupled with a lack of adequate analytical methods constrains the assessment of total chemical load on beneficial organisms and the environment. Adjuvants generally enhance the pesticidal efficacy and inadvertently the non-target effects of the active ingredient. Spray adjuvants are largely assumed to be biologically inert and are not registered by the USA EPA, leaving their regulation and monitoring to individual states. Organosilicone surfactants are the most potent adjuvants and super-penetrants available to growers. Based on the California Department of Pesticide Regulation data for agrochemical applications to almonds, there has been increasing use of adjuvants, particularly organosilicone surfactants, during bloom when two-thirds of USA honey bee colonies are present. Increased tank-mixing of these with ergosterol biosynthesis inhibitors and other fungicides, and with insect growth regulator insecticides may be associated with recent USA honey bee declines. This database archives every application of a spray tank adjuvant with detail that is unprecedented globally. Organosilicone surfactants are good stand alone pesticides, toxic to bees, and also present in drug and personal care products, particularly shampoos, and thus represent an important component of the chemical landscape to which pollinators as well as humans are exposed. This mini review is the first to possibly link spray adjuvant use with declining health of honey bee populations.
The Weakness of God in Cormac McCarthy’s Blood Meridian

ABSTRACTThis essay enlists John D. Caputo’s notion of the weakness of God to support a hopeful interpretation of Cormac McCarthy’s Blood Meridian, a novel often read as nihilistic due to its relentless violence. Although the sovereign God of traditional theism is nowhere to be found in this dark work, McCarthy’s cryptic religious imagery maintains the faint promise of the sacred. Sharing McCarthy’s distrust of metaphysical absolutes, Caputo’s weak theology centers on divine potential rather than presence. I use this postmodern reimagining of God as a weak force to illuminate the redemptive possibilities of Blood Meridian’s central conflict: the kid’s passive resistance to the tyrannical judge.
Beyond the Double Game: Lessons from Pakistan’s Approach to Islamist Militancy

ABSTRACTStates commonly take one of three approaches to militant groups on their soil: collaboration; benign neglect; or belligerence. All three approaches are present in Pakistan, where some groups also move back and forth among these categories. I employ the term “coopetition” to capture this fluidity. The dynamic nature of militancy in Pakistan makes the country an excellent laboratory for exploring a state’s assessment of the utility an Islamist militant group offers, and the threat it poses relative to other threats informs the state’s treatment of that group. In this article, I put forward a typology that situates Islamist militants in Pakistan in one of the above four categories. I also illustrate how a group’s identity, objectives, and alliances inform assessments of its utility and threat relative to other threats. In addition to enhancing our understanding of militant–state dynamics, this taxonomy builds on and helps to unify earlier typologies of Pakistani militancy.
Hemodynamic and ultrastructural evaluation of experimental myocardial infarctectomy.

Infarcts were created in 16 pigs by ligating main branches of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD). Two animals died immediately; 14, in shock, were supported for 1 hour by intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation (IABCP). Infarctectomy was performed. Aortic flow and left ventricular pressure were improved by this procedure (8/14). Some animals (6/14) survived until they were put to death to obtain samples of the myocardium. Analysis of oxidative metabolism of mitochondria in the infarcted, marginal, and normal myocardium was carried out by measuring respiratory control index (RCI), adenosine diphosphate added/oxygen consumed (ADP/O), and rate of respiration (QO2) indices. Electron microscopic studies were made in the same samples. Mitochondria exhibited marked depression in oxidative metabolism, not only in the infarcted area but also in the marginal portion. This finding suggests that the damaged area is larger than the frankly infarcted, cyanotic wall.
Threshold-Optimal DSA/ECDSA Signatures and an Application to Bitcoin Wallet Security

While threshold signature schemes have been presented before, there has never been an optimal threshold signature algorithm for DSA. The properties of DSA make it quite challenging to build a threshold version. In this paper, we present a threshold DSA scheme that is efficient and optimal. We also present a compelling application to use our scheme: securing Bitcoin wallets. Bitcoin thefts are on the rise, and threshold DSA is necessary to secure Bitcoin wallets. Our scheme is the first general threshold DSA scheme that does not require an honest majority and is useful for securing Bitcoin wallets.
LMP1, LMP2A and CD40 Are All Essential for EBV-Associated Lymphoma Cell Survival.

LMP1, LMP2A and CD40 induce signals that lead to activation of the transcription factor NF-kB. Since inhibition of NF-kB leads to the apoptosis of EBV-infected lymphoblastoid and lymphoma cell lines, we sought to determine whether elimination of one or more of these signals is sufficient to induce apoptosis of lymphoma cells expressing this proteins. We developed and tested siRNA targeting LMP1 and LMP2A, which were transfected into two EBV positive (Type III)-lymphoma cell lines (IBL-1 and BCKN1) and two lymphoblastoid cell lines (RPMI-8402 and LCL-9001). LMP1 or LMP2A suppression with siRNA resulted in inhibition of basal NF-kB by approximately 75% in the Type III cell lines tested, indicating that a significant proportion of the constitutive NF-kB activity is being induced by both LMP1 and LMP2A. Simultaneous elimination of both LMP1 and LMP2A showed no significant additive or synergistic effect. Elimination of LMP1 and or LMP2A was sufficient to induce apoptosis of EBV infected cells, as evaluated by flow cytometry for Annexin V after suppression of these proteins. No effect was seen in LMP1 negative controls. Simultaneous suppression of both proteins resulted in similar levels of apoptosis, with no additive or synergistic effect. As EBV+ lymphoma cell lines express CD40, as well as CD154 (CD40 ligand) causing an autocrine loop, we hypothesized that inhibition of CD40 signaling may enhance the apoptotic effect induced by suppression of LMP1 and LMP2A. Treatment with blocking antibody to CD154 (CD40 ligand) in conjunction with LMP1 or LMP2A suppression increased apoptosis by approximately 20%. These data indicate that CD40, LMP-1 and LMP2A are critical for survival of EBV-infected lymphoma cells expressing these proteins. Thus CD40 represents a potential cellular target, and LMP1 and LMP2A may be useful viral targets for the treatment of EBV-associated lymphomas.
MRI-Guided Prostate Biopsy

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is rapidly being established as the modality of choice for evaluating the prostate and surrounding anatomy and for radiologically detecting prostate cancer. As is often the case for diagnostic MRI, this trend results from the integration of multiple soft-tissue contrast mechanisms, such as T2- and T1-weighted imaging and functional imaging techniques, such as diffusion, dynamic contrast enhancement, and spectroscopy. Similar to the evolution of biopsy in breast cancer, this appears to be leading to a workflow in which some patients may be better served by undergoing an MRI-guided biopsy of the prostate as opposed to a conventional multi-core, transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy. In response to this, integrated hardware and software solutions for performing MRI-guided biopsies in the prostate are being developed, validated, and commercialized. Although it is early in clinical adoption, this technology shows promise in increasing the sensitivity and positive predictive value of prostate biopsy in the future.
Epidermal Microfluidic Electrochemical Detection System: Enhanced Sweat Sampling and Metabolite Detection

Despite tremendous recent efforts, noninvasive sweat monitoring is still far from delivering its early analytical promise. Here, we describe a flexible epidermal microfluidic detection platform fabricated through hybridization of lithographic and screen-printed technologies, for efficient and fast sweat sampling and continuous, real-time electrochemical monitoring of glucose and lactate levels. This soft, skin-mounted device judiciously merges lab-on-a-chip and electrochemical detection technologies, integrated with a miniaturized flexible electronic board for real-time wireless data transmission to a mobile device. Modeling of the device design and sweat flow conditions allowed optimization of the sampling process and the microchannel layout for achieving attractive fluid dynamics and rapid filling of the detection reservoir (within 8 min from starting exercise). The wearable microdevice thus enabled efficient natural sweat pumping to the electrochemical detection chamber containing the enzyme-modified e...
Clinical Characteristics and Ancillary Test Results Among Patients With Botulism-United States, 2002-2015.

Background Botulism is classically described as a bilateral, symmetric, descending flaccid paralysis in an afebrile and alert patient without sensory findings. We describe the reported spectrum of clinical findings among persons >12 months of age in the United States during 2002-2015. Methods The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention collects clinical findings reported by physicians treating suspected cases of botulism nationwide. We analyzed symptoms and signs, and neuroimaging and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) results. A case was defined as illness compatible with botulism with laboratory confirmation or epidemiologic link to a confirmed case, and presence or absence of at least 1 sign or symptom recorded. Physicians' differential diagnoses were evaluated. Results Clinical information was evaluated for 332 botulism cases; data quality and completeness were variable. Most had no fever (99%), descending paralysis (93%), no mental status change (91%), at least 1 ocular weakness finding (84%), and neuroimaging without acute changes (82%). Some had paresthesias (17%), elevated CSF protein level (13%), and other features sometimes considered indicative of alternative diagnoses. Five of 71 (7%) cases with sufficient information were reported to have atypical findings (eg, at least 1 cranial nerve finding that was unilateral or ascending paralysis). Illnesses on the physician differential included Guillain-Barre syndrome (99 cases) and myasthenia gravis (76 cases) and, rarely, gastrointestinal-related illness (5 cases), multiple sclerosis (3 cases), sepsis (3 cases), and Lyme disease (2 cases). Conclusions Our analysis illustrates that classic symptoms and signs were common among patients with botulism but that features considered atypical were reported by some physicians. Diagnosis can be challenging, as illustrated by the broad range of illnesses on physician differentials.
Learning about issues of equity in secondary mathematics teacher education programs

Understanding how mathematics preservice teachers (M-PSTs) learn about issues of equity is essential to addressing the inequities that persist in mathematics education. In this article, we use (Gutierrez, in: Herbel-Eisenmann, Choppin, Wagner, Pimm (eds) Equity in discourse for mathematics education: theories, practices, and policies, Springer, New York, 2012a) aspects of equity (i.e., access, achievement, identity, and power) to describe the reported opportunities to learn about equity (Equity OTLs) in five purposefully chosen secondary mathematics teacher education programs. Data included interviews with M-PSTs and instructors from four types of courses—mathematics content, mathematics for teachers, mathematics education, and general education—in each program. The mathematics- and algebra-specific Equity OTLs were most frequently related to issues of access and achievement, whereas the Equity OTLs reported in general education courses were more often related to issues of power and identity. In addition, the two programs housed in universities with more diverse populations had a relatively greater reported emphasis on equity. Implications for teacher education and future research are discussed.
Teaching Parallel and Distributed Computing with MPI on Raspberry Pi Clusters: (Abstract Only)

CS2013 brings parallel and distributed computing (PDC) into the CS curricular mainstream. The Message Passing Interface (MPI) is a platform independent, industry-standard library for parallel and distributed computing. The MPI standard includes support for C, C++, and Fortran; third parties have created implementations for Python and Java. This hands-on workshop introduces MPI basics and applications in C/C++ using Raspberry Pi single-board computers, as an inexpensive and engaging hardware platform for studying PDC. The workshop includes: (i) personal experience with the Raspberry Pi (units provided) accessed via participant laptops (Windows, Mac, or Linux); (ii) assembly of Beowulf clusters of Raspberry Pis quickly in the classroom; (iii) self-paced hands-on experimentation with the working MPI programs; and (iv) a discussion of how such clusters can be used to engage students in and out of the classroom. Participants will experience how to teach distributed computing essentials with MPI by means of reusable, effective "parallel programming patterns," including single program multiple data (SPMD) execution, send-receive message passing, the master-worker, parallel loop, and other common patterns. Participants will then explore more in-depth "exemplar" applications, such as drug design and epidemiology. All materials including the Raspberry Pi software system setup from this workshop will be freely available from CSinParallel.org. No prior experience with MPI, PDC, or the Raspberry Pi is required. Windows, Mac, or Linux laptop required.
Summary: Water Supply, People, and the Future

At this point in time, there is no question as to whether freshwater inflow is important to coastal ecosystems. Rather, the important questions are how, when, where, and in what quantities inflow should be used for environmental purposes.
The Zeta Sedimentation Ratio

The zeta sedimentation ratio (ZSR) is a measurement similar to the determination of the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) but possesses sevaral advantages. It is unaffected by anemia and responds in a linear manner to increase in fibrinogen and/or gamma globulin. The normal range is identical for males and females. A blood sample, contained within a vertically oriented capillary tube, is subjected to four cycles of dispersion and compaction. At the conclusion of this process, the hematocrit of the blood in the red cell-containing portion of the capillary tube is measured. This hematocrit, a measure of the closeness with which red cells will approach each other under a standardized stress, is the ZSR.
Evolution of the Intermetallic Particle Distribution in Thixomolded Magnesium Alloys

The spatial distribution of intermetallic particles in magnesium alloys is critical to achieve a favorable combination of mechanical properties. The initial microstructure of Thixomolded alloys, with a fine homogeneous grain structure and intermetallic particle distribution, results in particularly favorable behavior. However, the as-molded microstructure is far from equilibrium. In this manuscript, the Thixomolded structure is characterized before and after heat treatment using electron microscopy.
Experimental effective metal oxides to enhance boron combustion

Abstract Thermite reactions between metal fuels and oxide oxidizers are highly exothermic and self-sustaining, so they find wide applications in the explosion, pyrotechnics, thermal batteries, micro-actuator, and material synthesis and process. Compared to the well-studied aluminum (Al)-based thermites, boron (B)-based thermites are thermodynamically attractive due to boron's higher volumetric and gravimetric energy densities and they received limited attention. Previous studies have compared the effect of metal oxide on the reaction onset temperature of B-based thermites and identified that B/Bi2O3 and B/CuO thermites have lower reaction onset temperatures than other B/metal oxides. Nevertheless, there is no systematic study on the effect of metal oxide on both ignition and combustion of B-based thermite. In addition, no study has investigated the effect of binary metal oxide mixtures for B-based thermite. Herein, we experimentally tested five common metal oxides (CuO, Bi2O3, MoO3, Co3O4, and Fe2O3) on the ignition and combustion characteristics of sub-micron sized B particles using Xenon flash ignition, constant-volume pressure vessel and bomb calorimeter experiments. We observed that Bi2O3 and CuO are the most effective oxidizer for ignition and combustion of boron, respectively. We further identified that the binary oxide mixture (75 wt% B–CuO + 25 wt% B–Bi2O3) is more effective than all the single metal oxide for the ignition and combustion of boron particles. The results suggest that mixed oxides are potentially beneficial for ignition and combustion of other metal fuels as well.
Predicted functions, subcellular localizations, and expression patterns of genes encoding secretory proteins associated with pine pollen germination

Pollen germination represents the transition from mature to germinated pollen, which is a critical event in seed plant reproduction. Cell wall–related processes represent many of the cellular activities during this transition but information on the genes involved is limited, particularly in gymnosperms. Yeast secretion trap (YST) is employed in the current study to isolate cDNAs encoding secretory proteins associated with in vitro germinated pollen of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda). YST is a functional screen and when coupled with computational prediction provides insights on the diversity of populations, subcellular localizations, and functions of the encoded proteins. Based on 100 confirmed YST clones, our results identified 21 known, 4 unknown, and 10 hypothetical genes encoding secretory proteins, which are mostly predicted to be localized in the plasma membrane or extracellular space. Based on the known sequences, pollen germination involves genes associated with cell wall degradation, biosynthesis and remodeling, stress and defense responses, signaling, and protein processing. This study characterizes further 10 highly expressed cDNAs based on their temporal (mature pollen vs germinated pollen) and spatial (germinated pollen, young stem, and needle tissue) expression patterns, as well as sequence features such as the presence of transmembrane α-helix, glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor, and conserved domains. It appears that pine pollen germination involves genes with static and dynamic expression profiles including those with germination-specific expressions. This study confirms the distinct expression profiles of mature and germinated pollen, and expands our understanding of the likely molecular players and processes associated with pine pollen germination, particularly pollen tube wall formation.
The O-O Bonding and Hydrogen Storage in the Pyrite-type PtO2.

We have synthesized pyrite-type PtO2 (py-PtO2) at 50–60 GPa and successfully recovered it at 1 bar. The observed O–O stretching vibration in Raman spectra provides direct evidence for inter-oxygen ...
A Qualitative Pilot Study of the Perceptions in Older Adults with End-Stage Kidney Disease on Hemodialysis.

Background Little is known about the perceptions of older adults with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) on chronic hemodialysis (HD) even though this could potentially influence how treatment is received. This study explores the perceptions of older adults with ESKD on HD, specifically their decision to initiate HD, preconceptions and expectations of HD, perceived difficulties with HD, and coping strategies. Design: Cross–sectional Setting: Outpatient chronic dialysis units Participants: Older adults with ESKD on HD Intervention: Open-ended interviews were conducted with 15 participants. Inclusion criteria were age 60 years and older, HD duration of at least three months, and ability to consent and participate in the interview process. Results: We report on four identified domains: decision to initiate HD; preconceptions and expectations of HD; drawback of HD; and coping strategies. All participants were reluctant to initiate HD, but made the decision on advice from their physicians for varying reasons. Trust in physicians’ opinions also played a role for some. Some participants had positive preconceptions of HD, while a few had negative preconceptions or unrealistic expectations. Even though the majority of participants identified several difficulties with being on HD, they also had positive coping strategies, and the majority indicated that they would make the same decision to initiate HD. Conclusion: As clinicians are turning more to patient-centered medicine, understanding patients’ perceptions of HD is of crucial importance. Our study highlights the importance of improving pre-hemodialysis education to ensure that patients’ expectations are realistic, as well as identifying individualized coping strategies by patients.
Microscopic dynamics in room-temperature ionic liquids confined in materials for supercapacitor applications

The performance of electrical double layer capacitors (EDLCs), also known as supercapacitors, which are composed of porous electrodes and ionic liquid electrolytes, depends largely on the structure and dynamics of molecules/ions at the electrode–electrolyte interfaces. Immobilization of ions on the electrode surface and diffusivity of ions in the middle of the pores are two important phenomena influencing the performance of supercapacitors. In recent years, porous carbon or metal carbide derived electrodes and ionic liquid electrolytes, either in the neat state or mixed with organic solvents, were used to improve the energy and power density of supercapacitors. The molecular/ionic level predictive understanding of ion immobilization and movement inside the pores can be achieved, in principle, using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. This calls for experimental techniques capable of validating MD predictions and providing directions for future MD studies. Neutron scattering techniques, particularly quasi-elastic neutron scattering (QENS), uniquely provide information directly comparable with MD simulation results. This includes electrolytes confined in electrode materials, due to high penetrative power of neutrons and their high sensitivity to hydrogen-bearing species. This paper reviews recent research where QENS, together with electrochemical measurements and molecular dynamics simulations, has been employed to explore complex electrode/electrolyte systems, which is critical for developing predictive understanding of the charge storage mechanism in supercapacitors.
A method for constructing demographic profiles in Sus scrofa using Logarithm Size Index scaling

Abstract Demographic profiling of archaeological assemblages offers a window into the shifting exploitation strategies practiced by ancient societies. High resolution sex-specific age profiles, in particular, have yielded new insights into the evolution of early management practices taken during the initial stages of animal domestication (Zeder, 2001). This paper is the third in a series seeking to develop a method for constructing demographic profiles for Sus scrofa — one of the earliest major livestock species noteworthy for being independently domesticated in both Southwest and East Asia. The first paper in this series (Lemoine et al., 2014) presented a new system for constructing high resolution age profiles using patterns of dental eruption and wear. The second (Zeder et al., 2015) presented a new method for computing high resolution age profiles based on long bone fusion. Both papers used a reference assemblage of modern Eurasian wild boar for developing these new aging schemes, which were then applied to the large assemblage of S. scrofa remains from the Early Holocene age site of Hallan Cemi (c. 11,600 cal. BP) in southeastern Anatolia — an assemblage that previous researchers claimed provided evidence for early steps toward management (Redding, 2005). Here we focus on a subset of this modern reference collection consisting of 34 wild boar skeletons from Turkey, Iran, and Iraq. We employ a Logarithm Size Index scaling (LSI) technique to examine the effect of factors such as age, locality, and, sex on body size in modern wild boar. We find that even though both age and locality have an impact on body size, LSI values derived from select measurements of various different post-cranial elements can be used to classify individual osteological specimens as belonging to immature animals, and, for animals older than about eight months of age, as female or male. We test the reliability of these classifications by comparing the known demographic profiles of the modern reference population against those derived from the LSI classifications. Finally, we apply this new method to the Hallan Cemi assemblage and propose a method for adjusting LSI values to account for temporal size differences encountered between the modern and ancient populations. We also present methods for assessing the reliability of these classifications in the ancient population. We conclude by offering guidelines for the application of this new method to other archaeological assemblages of S. scrofa and other ungulate species that demonstrate strong degrees of sexual dimorphism.
Short Hospice Length of Service in a Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Background: The benefits of hospice for patients with advanced cancer are well established. Short hospice length of service (LOS) is a marker of poor quality care and patient and family dissatisfaction. Interventions based on behavioral science might reduce suboptimal hospice use. Objective: To assess effects of peer comparisons on rates of short hospice LOS for cancer patients at a tertiary comprehensive cancer center. Design: Pre-post design utilizing a peer-comparison feedback intervention comparing individual oncologist hospice data. Setting: Urban, academic, comprehensive cancer center in Maryland. Measurements: Hospice enrollment rate. Median hospice LOS and percentage short hospice LOS (defined as ≤7 days). Results: Sixty oncologists received the intervention. Before the intervention, 394 patients enrolled in hospice for a period of 21 months (18.76 enrollments per month). Median hospice LOS was 14.5 days. After the intervention, 418 patients enrolled in hospice for 14 months (29.85 enrollments per month). Median hospice LOS was nine days. The percentage of patients experiencing a short hospice LOS increased from 33.3% to 43.5%. Conclusions: The methods are not sufficient to conclude that the intervention does not improve hospice use. A substantial number of patients with cancer who used hospice had LOS ≤7 days, a marker of poor quality. Using peer comparison in combination with additional behavioral interventions should be considered to improve end-of-life care.
Psychological contributors to the frail phenotype: The association between resilience and frailty in patients with cirrhosis.

We examined whether a key psychological trait-resilience, defined as one's ability to recover quickly from difficulties-contributes to the frail phenotype in patients with cirrhosis. Included were 300 adult patients with cirrhosis who underwent outpatient physical frailty testing using the Liver Frailty Index and resilience testing using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). The Liver Frailty Index was categorized as robust, prefrail-robust, prefrail-frail, and frail; CD-RISC was categorized using population norms as: least, less, more, and most resilient. Linear regression was used to assess factors associated with frailty (by the Liver Frailty Index per 0.1 unit change). Among the most resilient, only 10% were frail; among the least resilient, 29% were frail. In univariable analysis, resilience was strongly associated with the Liver Frailty Index (coef=-0.13 per point increase; 95% CI, -0.20- -0.60; p<0.001) and remained significantly associated with frailty in multivariable adjustment (coef= -0.13, 95% CI -0.19- -0.07; p<0.001). Low resilience is strongly associated with the frail phenotype in patients with cirrhosis. Given that resilience is modifiable, our data suggest that effective interventions to mitigate frailty should include strategies to build resilience in patients with low baseline resilience.
Studying visual literacy: Research methods and the use of visual evidence:

The proliferation of images and their increased use in academic and everyday information practices has sparked an interest in visual literacy as an area of research and library instruction. Teachin...
EXHUMING DEAD PERSONS: Forensic Science and the Making of Post‐fascist Publics in Spain

Four decades after the fall of its dictator, Spain still refuses to undertake its legal and moral responsibilities to locate the disappeared. This essay examines how Spanish activists use forensic exhumations to transform the political status of Franco’s victims. Departing from popular and scholarly depictions of forensic science, I show that, in post-fascist Spain, the impact of exhumations has little to do with their ability to extract historical information directly from the bones of the exhumed. Instead, I argue that exhumations transform the disappeared into dead persons, thereby reincorporating them as integral participants in a democratic public sphere. For memory activists, the project of securing Spain’s democratic future depends on recognizing the personhood of long-excluded victims of fascist violence. Absent any official legal framework, I show how Spanish activists train laypersons to recognize the inherent dignity of the dead and see them as potential participants in an alternative democratic public. Resumen Cuatro decadas despues de la caida del dictador Francisco Franco, Espana aun rechaza su responsabilidad legal y moral de localizar a los desaparecidos. Este ensayo examina como los activistas espanoles transforman el estatus politico de las victimas del franquismo a traves de las exhumaciones forenses. Partiendo de representaciones academicas y populares de la ciencia forense, demuestro que el impacto de las exhumaciones en la Espana posfascista tiene poco que ver con la capacidad de extraer los hechos historicos directamente de los huesos exhumados. En lugar de ello, sostengo que los desaparecidos se transforman en personas muertas a traves de las exhumaciones y, de esa manera, son reincorporados como participantes integrales en la esfera publica democratica. Para los activistas por la memoria, el proyecto de asegurar el futuro democratico de Espana depende de que las victimas de la violencia fascista, excluidas por largo tiempo, sean por fin reconocidas como personas. A falta de marco juridico, demuestro como los activistas espanoles entrenan a las personas no expertas a reconocer la dignidad de los muertos y considerarlos como participantes potenciales en una esfera publica democratica y alternativa.
Parameterization of Respiratory Physiology and Pathophysiology for Real-Time Simulation

We have refactored the Pulse Physiology Engine respiratory software with enhanced parameterization for improved simulation functionality and results. Realistic patient variability can be applied using discretized lumped-parameters that define lung volumes, compliances, and resistances. A new sigmoid compliance waveform helps meet validation of compartment pressures, flows, volumes, and substance values. Further parameterization and enhanced logic for the application of pathophysiology allows for more accurate modeling of both restrictive and obstructive diseases for mild, moderate, and severe cases.Clinical Relevance— This free and open model provides a well-validated respiratory system for integration with medical simulations and research. It improves the Pulse modeling software and allows for new, low-cost training and in silico testing use-cases. Applications include virtual/augmented environments, manikin-based simulations, and clinical explorations.
Multiple measures of muscle function influence Sorensen Test performance in individuals with recurrent low back pain.

Background Sorensen Test time-to-task-failure (TTF) predicts several low back pain (LBP) clinical outcomes, including recurrence. Because the test is described as a measure of trunk extensor (TE) muscle endurance, LBP rehabilitation programs often emphasize endurance training, but the direct role of TE muscle function on Sorensen Test-TTF remains unclear. Objective To assess the discriminative and associative properties of multiple markers of isolated TE performance with regard to Sorensen Test-TTF in individuals with recurrent LBP. Method Secondary analysis of baseline measures from participants in a registered (NCT02308189) trial (10 men; 20 women) was performed. Participants were classified by Sorensen Test-TTF as high, moderate or low risk for subsequent LBP episodes, and compared to determine if classification could discriminate differences in TE function. Correlations between Sorensen Test-TTF and isolated TE performance, anthropometrics and disability were investigated. Results Individuals at risk of subsequent LBP episodes had greater perceived disability and fat mass/TE strength ratios (P⩽ 0.05) than those not at risk. Modest, significant (r= 0.36-0.42, P⩽ 0.05) associations were found between Sorensen Test-TTF, TE endurance and fat mass/TE strength. Exploratory analyses suggested possible sex-specific differences related to Sorensen Test-TTF. Conclusions Isolated TE muscle endurance is only one of several factors with similar influence on Sorensen Test-TFF, thus LBP rehabilitation strategies should consider other factors, including TE strength, anthropometrics and perceived disability.
Unilateral nipple discharge in a man without a palpable mass diagnosed as breast cancer.

A 69-year-old man without a family history of breast cancer presented to his primary care physician with a 1-year history of clear, unilateral nipple discharge (ND) without an associated palpable breast mass. His laboratory findings were significant for hyperprolactinaemia at 28 ng/mL. Diagnostic work up including mammography, ultrasound and core needle biopsy ultimately revealed a ductal carcinoma in situ and a rare papillary variant of invasive ductal carcinoma. The patient was referred to a multidisciplinary oncology team and underwent a right total mastectomy followed by adjuvant hormonal therapy. The patient made a good postoperative recovery and remains without evidence of recurrence 6 months from surgery. Male breast cancer is rare, but its incidence is increasing. Male breast cancer presenting as ND without a palpable mass is uncommon. Early recognition of breast symptoms in men can lead to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes.
Different Breast Cancer Subtypes Show Different Metastatic Patterns: A Study from A Large Public Database.

Background Receptor status in breast cancer is known to be related to survival. However, the relationship between breast cancer subtype, preferential sites of metastasis, and overall survival is not clear. Methods A total of 414,528 patients from the National Cancer Database (2010-2013) were examined. All patients received surgery and systemic treatments. Breast cancer was subtyped based on hormonal receptor (HR) and HER2 status. Results HR-/HER2+ breast cancer patients had the highest overall rate of metastasis while HR+/HER2- had the lowest. HR+/HER2+ cancer had the most frequent metastasis to the bone, and HR-/HER2+ to brain, liver, lung and multiple sites. Generally, patients with brain or multiple metastasis had the worst overall survival (OS) across different subtypes. Patients with bone oligometastasis tend to have better OS than patients with metastasis to other site but significantly worse OS than patients without any metastasis. Conclusions This large study exhibits how breast cancer subtype plays a role in the rate and site of metastasis as well as in overall survival. Surveillance and treatment strategies should be tailored on the risk and potential site of metastases based upon receptor subtype.
Turnpike Horizons for Production Planning

A quadratic model for production-inventory planning was made famous by Holt, Modigliani, Muth, and Simon in 1960 in [3], especially for its application to a paint factory. A discrete control version of a related quadratic production-inventory model was studied by Kleindorfer, Kriebel, Thompson, and Kleindorfer in [4]. In the present paper we solve a continuous version of the model in [4] in complete detail. The reason we are able to obtain a complete solution (which can rarely be done in control models) is that the linear decision rule, which is optimal here as in other quadratic models, permits the elimination of the adjoint function from the state variable equation after one differentiation of the latter. Thus the difficult two-point boundary value problem which usually arises in control problems is converted into an ordinary second order differential equation, which is readily solved. One advantage of having a complete solution to the problem is that it is possible to determine turnpike horizon points. These correspond to zeros of the adjoint function, and have the property that if they are known exactly, then a production-inventory plan which is optimal up to the next horizon point also forms part of the overall optimal plan. In the case of cyclic demand these turnpike horizon points usually occur every half cycle. Similar horizons are likely to exist in real production-inventory problems. A planning procedure for a real problem which extends only as far as a suspected horizon has a good chance of producing an optimal or near optimal solution for that period of time. A second advantage of having the complete solution available is that it is possible to develop a practical production-inventory system which intermingles a prediction procedure (such as the use of a finite Fourier series) with the solution procedure so that a comparison between predicted and actual inventories can be made continuously. Whenever the discrepancy between these two becomes sufficiently large, the model suggests proper corrective actions to be taken.
Constitutive Model for Describing the Fully Coupled Hydromechanical Behavior of Unsaturated Soils

Abstract Many constitutive models have been developed to describe hydromechanical characteristics of unsaturated soils. However, most models lack the capability to adequately simulate the change of...
Mamalu Poepoe: Enhancing Hawaii's Biosecurity Through Interagency Collaboration

Hawaii's role as a hub for travel, commerce, and military transport is a major contributor to its vulnerability to invasive species incursions. Ports of entry, airports, and seaports, besides being important invasive species pathways are also sites that present the first opportunity for early detection and rapid response. Mamalu Poepoe is an interagency program to enhance invasive species detection at Hawaii's main airports. The program brings together multiple state agencies including the Hawaii Departments of Transportation, Agriculture, Health, Land and Natural Resources, and the University of Hawaii. The program also collaborates with several projects under the University of Hawaii system such as the Hawaii Ant Lab and the Invasive Species Committees statewide. Priority target species in the program include: mosquitoes, the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB: Oryctes rhinoceros Linnaeus), Africanized honeybees (AHB: Apis mellifera scutellate Lepeletier), and invasive ants. Mamalu Poepoe fills an important gap in surveillance at Hawaii's airports and enhances the state's ability for early detection and rapid response of species that can severely affect human health, our environment, and the economy through collaborative efforts.