cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Increases from 2002 to 2015 in prescription opioid overdose deaths in combination with other substances.

Abstract Background Prescription opioid (PO) overdose deaths increased sharply over the last decade. Changes in PO deaths in combination with other psychoactive substances may provide a partial explanation. Methods PO deaths from the National Multiple-Cause-of-Death Files for 2002–03 (N = 15,973) and 2014–15 (N = 41,491) were analyzed. We calculated (1) changes in proportions of deaths in combination with benzodiazepines, antidepressants, heroin, alcohol, cocaine between the two periods, and (2) proportions of increase in deaths attributable to each substance among PO and synthetic opioids other than methadone (SO-M) deaths, by age, gender, race/ethnicity. Results Between 2002–03 and 2014–15, PO deaths increased 2.6 times; SO-M deaths 5.6 times, especially for ages 18–34, males, African-Americans. For PO deaths, most frequent combinations at both periods were with benzodiazepines; for SO-M, benzodiazepines, antidepressants in 2002–03, heroin, benzodiazepines in 2014–15. The largest increases occurred in combination with heroin among all PO (4.6% to 15.4%, change ratio = 3.3[95%CI = 3.1–3.6]), but especially SO-M deaths (1.2% to 24.5%, change ratio = 21.3[95%CI = 15.0–30.3]). Deaths involving cocaine decreased among PO, increased among SO-M deaths. One-fifth of increased PO or SO-M deaths were attributable to any of the five substances. Increased PO deaths were equally attributable to benzodiazepines and heroin; deaths attributable to heroin were higher among ages 18–49, males, and non-Hispanic whites. Increased SO-M deaths were attributable mostly to heroin among all groups. Conclusions Increased PO overdose deaths over the last decade may be partially explained by increased deaths in combination with other psychoactive substances. Use of other substances should be considered in efforts toward reducing prescription opioid overdoses.
Stoichiometric effects of O2 on CdS

Abstract By observing the electrical conductivity of single crystalline CdS, a simple test for deviations from stoichiometry of undoped CdS is obtained. This test is used to demonstrate the fact that O 2 acts as a reducing agent for bulk, single crystalline CdS. Thermodynamic calculations indicate that for a closed system of CdS + O 2 , the resulting partial pressure of Cd varies very little over a wide range of the initial O 2 pressure and that a normal air firing probably acts as a “stoichiometric buffer”.
(μ-1,4,7,10-Tetra-oxacyclo-dodeca-ne)bis-[(1,4,7,10-tetra-oxacyclo-dodeca-ne)lithium] bis-(perchlorate).

12-Crown-4 ether (12C4) and LiClO4 combine to form the ionic title compound, [Li2(C8H16O4)3](ClO4)2, which is com­posed of discrete Li/12C4 cations and perchlorate anions. In the [Li2(12C4)3]2+ cation there are two peripheral 12C4 ligands, which each form four Li—O bonds with only one Li+ atom. Additionally there is a central 12C4 in which diagonal O atoms form one Li—O bond each with both Li+ atoms. Therefore each Li+ atom is penta­coordinated in a distorted square-pyramidal geometry, forming four longer bonds to the O atoms on the peripheral 12C4 and one shorter bond to an O atom of the central 12C4. The cation occupies a crystallographic inversion centre located at the center of the ring of the central 12C4 ligand. The Li+ atom lies above the cavity of the peripheral 12C4 by 0.815 (2) A because it is too large to fit in the cavity.
Measurement error correction in the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator model when validation data are available

Measurement of serum biomarkers by multiplex assays may be more variable as compared to single biomarker assays. Measurement error in these data may bias parameter estimates in regression analysis, which could mask true associations of serum biomarkers with an outcome. The Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) can be used for variable selection in these high-dimensional data. Furthermore, when the distribution of measurement error is assumed to be known or estimated with replication data, a simple measurement error correction method can be applied to the LASSO method. However, in practice the distribution of the measurement error is unknown and is expensive to estimate through replication both in monetary cost and need for greater amount of sample which is often limited in quantity. We adapt an existing bias correction approach by estimating the measurement error using validation data in which a subset of serum biomarkers are re-measured on a random subset of the study sample. We evaluate this method using simulated data and data from the Tucson Epidemiological Study of Airway Obstructive Disease (TESAOD). We show that the bias in parameter estimation is reduced and variable selection is improved.
Nurse perceptions of facilitators and barriers to effective delivery room neonatal resuscitations: a comparison between Zimbabwean and US settings

Abstract Background Most babies transition to life outside the uterus with little intervention at the time of birth; however, 4–10% will require some assistance with establishing respirations. Delivery room neonatal resuscitations require prompt, well-coordinated interventions for optimal outcomes. While the importance of timeliness is well documented in the literature, evidence suggests that most delivery room resuscitations do not occur in accordance with the recommended timeline. The purpose of this research was to examine the facilitators for, and barriers to, neonatal resuscitation from the contexts of nurses working in a rural clinic in Zimbabwe and in a hospital in the USA to identify potential areas for improvement that may be similar across resource settings. Methods Between March 1, 2015, and Feb 1, 2016, nurses working in the Kutama Clinic in the Zvimba District in Zimbabwe and the Virtua Health hospital in Voorhees, NJ, USA were interviewed to explore perceptions of facilitators for, and barriers to, effective neonatal resuscitations in delivery settings. Individual semi-structured interviews using an interview guide were conducted. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim for analysis. Data were analysed using qualitative description with a direct content analysis approach. Findings We interviewed three nurses from Zimbabwe and 12 nurses from the USA. Contextual barriers specific to each setting seemed to affect delivery room neonatal resuscitations. Resources in the Zimbabwe setting were the most prominent barrier, while resuscitation skills for delivery room nurses were identified as the most prominent barrier for nurses working in the USA. Additionally, similarities were identified across settings such as a need for improved competency in neonatal resuscitation, ongoing continuing education, and frequent skills review. Nurses in the Zimbabwean setting use simulation to reinforce neonatal resuscitation skills on a regular basis—a practice that may be useful for skill reinforcement for nurses in the US setting. Interpretation Targeted bag-mask ventilation training with frequent practice outside of routine training may improve nurse comfort with the crucial skill of positive pressure ventilation and may improve neonatal outcomes across settings. Funding None.
The DCF Approach to Capital Budgeting Decision-Making

Publisher Summary In the capital budgeting process, management must decide which long-term and, often times, high dollar assets the firm is going to acquire. Such decisions are based both on the firm's strategic plan and expectations as well as the resulting asset valuations and risk assessments. The assets management decides to acquire may be purchased intact from other firms for a price or they may be manufactured in-house for a building cost. Finance academicians have long proposed that corporate managers use a Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) approach for making capital budgeting decisions. This traditional valuation framework ties directly to finance theory, where the objective of corporate management decision-making is stated to be maximize the value of the firm; and focuses on what finance considers to be the most, maybe even the only, important valuation factor—the Present Value (PV) of expected cash flows. The DCF approach to capital budgeting is mathematically relatively straightforward and results in determining the net value of a project, in today's dollars, adjusted for risk. A six-step DCF valuation process is also described in the chapter very briefly.
A Non-Holonomic Dynamic Interpolation Problem

The tracking problem in which certain dynamic variables of a control system are forced to follow a desired path, is a major problem in theory and practice. Another way of attaching the problem is to specify the trajectory in terms of a discrete, ordered set of points through which the dynamic variables must pass. It is natural to impose smoothness constraints on the trajectories. We call this the dynamic interpolation problem. A number of authors have considered the problem, in conjunction with applications to flight paths of aircraft, [6], [7], [8], and path planning for robots [3], [15]. The main emphasis in this work has been to satisfy the many constraints on the state variables to be met in these applications, whilst minimizing natural costs associated with the control. However, the underlying geometry of the resulting trajectories is obscured and not dealt with specifically.
Distributed Bregman-Distance Algorithms for Min-Max Optimization

We consider a min-max optimization problem over a time-varying network of computational agents, where each agent in the network has its local convex cost function which is a private knowledge of the agent. The agents want to jointly minimize the maximum cost incurred by any agent in the network, while maintaining the privacy of their objective functions. To solve the problem, we consider subgradient algorithms where each agent computes its own estimates of an optimal point based on its own cost function, and it communicates these estimates to its neighbors in the network. The algorithms employ techniques from convex optimization, stochastic approximation and averaging protocols (typically used to ensure a proper information diffusion over a network), which allow time-varying network structure. We discuss two algorithms, one based on exact-penalty approach and the other based on primal-dual Lagrangian approach, where both approaches utilize Bregman-distance functions.We establish convergence of the algorithms (with probability one) for a diminishing step-size, and demonstrate the applicability of the algorithms by considering a power allocation problem in a cellular network.
REPUBLIC IN EXILE ͵ POLITICAL LIFE OF POLISH EMIGRATION IN UNITED KINGDOM AFTER SECOND WORLD WAR

The aim of article is to introduce to political life of polish emigration in United Kingdom in the years 1945-1990. In this paper I intend to present the history of polish emigres in Great Britain, which were forming Republic in exile - Poland beyond Poland. In the post-war period polish emigres were developing polish political scene basing on principles expressed in the Constitution of 1935. The main entities which shaping the emigration policy were President and the Government in exile, as well as the Parliament's substitute in the form of National Councils. Moreover, pre-war political parties were also important in polish political life in United Kingdom. They shaped the identity of emigration. The main goal of the Republic in exile was realized - centre of power in exile has retained a deposit of legality and continuity of the state. It became a symbol of independent Poland, which lasted despite the fact that the whole world turned away from it.
Mitochondrial mRNA translation initiation contributes to oxidative metabolism in the myocardia of aged, obese mice.

Abstract Being both advanced in age and obese each contribute to cardiac hypertrophy in a unique manner. Electron transport complexes I and IV are implicated in deficient electron transport during cardiomyopathies and contain the majority of protein subunits that are transcribed and translated by machinery localized within the mitochondria. Purpose To assess myocardial mt-mRNA translation factors in relation to mitochondrial content and mtDNA-encoded protein using a mouse model of aged obesity and to test the relationship of mt-mRNA translation initiation factor 2 (mtIF2) to oxidative capacity and the cellular oxidation-reduction (redox) state in cardiomyocytes. Methods Male C56BL/6 J mice fed lean or high fat diet were aged to either ~3 months or ~22 months, the heart was excised and analyzed using immunoblot and qPCR to assess differences in mitochondrial mRNA translation machinery. Using H9c2 cardiomyocytes, mtIF2 was knocked-down and oxidative metabolic characteristics assessed including oxidation/reduction state, bioenergetic flux, and hypoxic resistance was tested. Results Aged, obese mouse hearts were ~40% larger than young, lean controls and contained ~50% less mtIF2 protein alongside ~25–50% lower content of Cytb, a protein encoded by mtDNA. Reducing the level of mtIF2 by shRNA is associated with ~15–20% lower content of OXPHOS complex I and IV, ~30% lower optical redox ratio, ~40% oxygen reserve capacity, and ~20% less cell survival following hypoxia. Conclusion We present evidence of altered mt-mRNA translation during cardiac hypertrophy in aged obesity. We build on these results by demonstrating the necessity of mtIF2 in maintaining oxidative characteristics of cardiac muscle cells.
AAV-Mediated Neurotrophin Gene Therapy Promotes Improved Survival of Cochlear Spiral Ganglion Neurons in Neonatally Deafened Cats: Comparison of AAV2-hBDNF and AAV5-hGDNF

Outcomes with contemporary cochlear implants (CI) depend partly upon the survival and condition of the cochlear spiral ganglion (SG) neurons. Previous studies indicate that CI stimulation can ameliorate SG neural degeneration after deafness, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) delivered by an osmotic pump can further improve neural survival. However, direct infusion of BDNF elicits undesirable side effects, and osmotic pumps are impractical for clinical application. In this study, we explored the potential for two adeno-associated viral vectors (AAV) to elicit targeted neurotrophic factor expression in the cochlea and promote improved SG and radial nerve fiber survival. Juvenile cats were deafened prior to hearing onset by systemic aminoglycoside injections. Auditory brainstem responses showed profound hearing loss by 16–18 days postnatal. At ~ 4 weeks of age, AAV2-GFP (green fluorescent protein), AAV5-GFP, AAV2-hBDNF, or AAV5-hGDNF (glial-derived neurotrophic factor) was injected through the round window unilaterally. For GFP immunofluorescence, animals were studied ~ 4 weeks post-injection to assess cell types transfected and their distributions. AAV2-GFP immunofluorescence demonstrated strong expression of the GFP reporter gene in residual inner (IHCs), outer hair cells (OHCs), inner pillar cells, and in some SG neurons throughout the cochlea. AAV5-GFP elicited robust transduction of IHCs and some SG neurons, but few OHCs and supporting cells. After AAV-neurotrophic factor injections, animals were studied ~ 3 months post-injection to evaluate neural survival. AAV5-hGDNF elicited a modest neurotrophic effect, with 6 % higher SG density, but had no trophic effect on radial nerve fiber survival, and undesirable ectopic fiber sprouting occurred. AAV2-hBDNF elicited a similar 6 % increase in SG survival, but also resulted in greatly improved radial nerve fiber survival, with no ectopic fiber sprouting. A further study assessed whether AAV2-hBDNF neurotrophic effects would persist over longer post-injection periods. Animals examined 6 months after virus injection showed substantial neurotrophic effects, with 14 % higher SG density and greatly improved radial nerve fiber survival. Our results suggest that AAV-neurotrophin gene therapy can elicit expression of physiological concentrations of neurotrophins in the cochlea, supporting improved SG neuronal and radial nerve fiber survival while avoiding undesirable side effects. These studies also demonstrate the potential for application of cochlear gene therapy in a large mammalian cochlea comparable to the human cochlea and in an animal model of congenital/early acquired deafness.
ATYPICAL RADIOGRAPHIC PRESENTATION OF OSSIFYING FIBROMA

Background History: A 21-year-old female presented with a 1-year history of pain in the mandibular right premolar region. Radiographic findings: The multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) images showed a 5 × 1.7 cm radiolucent lesion of the mandible extending from the left canine, across the midline, to the right second molar. There was thinning of the buccal and lingual cortices, with displacement of the buccal cortex. There was evidence of thin trabeculae in the buccal cortical area. There was displacement of the first and second premolars in the region, with evidence of resorption of the roots of the incisors and right first and second molars. The inferior alveolar canal was not visualized within the region of the lesion, and it was difficult to determine if there was displacement or destruction of the canal. Differential Interpretation: The differential interpretation included giant cell lesion, ameloblastoma, odontogenic keratocyst, and odontogenic myxoma. Microscopic Description: Microscopic examination revealed multiple, small, round to ovoid islands of demineralized osteoid and acellular basophilic material, scattered amidst a dense fibrocollagenous connective tissue, populated with bland, occasionally stellate, fibroblasts. Discussion/Conclusions The lesion was diagnosed as benign fibro-osseous lesion consistent with a cemento-ossifying fibroma. The MDCT images provided a challenging interpretation in this case. On the basis of the images, the more obvious diagnosis was toward a benign cyst or tumor, such as a giant cell lesion, with differential diagnoses of ameloblastoma, odontogenic keratocyst, or odontogenic myxoma. However, we should not rule out aggressive ossifying fibromas among the differential diagnoses as this case clearly proves with such typical features.
Surgical Correction of Obstructed Defecation Syndrome

Video Objective Obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) is a form of colonic constipation in which stool cannot effectively be evacuated from the rectum. ODS is usually caused by a combination of behavioral, functional, and anatomic factors. While many women with ODS can experience improvement with aggressive medical management, the anatomic contribution what we term a “posterior” enterocele to defecation obstruction can be significant. Setting We present a video description of anterior rectopexy at the time of sacrocolpopexy with obliteration of the rectovaginal space to address posterior compartment prolapse as a cause of outlet constipation. Interventions To date, we have completed 12 procedures with resolution of ODS in all subjects. With 6-12 months of post-operative follow up, there have been no operative complications and no recurrent posterior enterocele. One subject had recurrent rectal mucosal prolapse. Prospective data collection is still ongoing. Conclusion The modification to sacrocolpopexy presented in this video seeks to address ODS by obliterating the rectovaginal space. Traditional sacrocolpopexy does not effectively address this defect and small bowel continues to herniate behind the posterior vaginal mesh.
Optimal Pancreatic Surgery: Are We Making Progress in North America?

OBJECTIVE Our aims were to assess North American trends in the management of patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) and distal pancreatectomy (DP), and to quantify the delivery of optimal pancreatic surgery. BACKGROUND Morbidity after pancreatectomy remains unacceptably high. Recent literature suggests that composite measures may more accurately define surgical quality. METHODS The 2013 to 2017 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Participant Use Files were queried to identify patients undergoing PD (N = 16,222) and DP (N = 7946). Patient, process, procedure, and 30-day postoperative outcome variables were analyzed over time. Optimal pancreatic surgery was defined as the absence of postoperative mortality, serious morbidity, percutaneous drainage, and reoperation while achieving a length of stay equal to or less than the 75th percentile (12 days for PD and 7 days for DP) with no readmissions. Risk-adjusted time-trend analyses were performed using logistic regression, and the threshold for statistical significance was P ≤ 0.05. RESULTS The use of minimally invasive PD did not change over time, but robotic PD increased (2.5 to 4.2%; P < 0.001) and laparoscopic PD decreased (5.8% to 4.3%; P < 0.02). Operative times decreased (P < 0.05) and fewer transfusions were administered (P < 0.001). The percentage of patients with a drain fluid amylase checked on postoperative day 1 increased (P < 0.001), and a greater percentage of surgical drains were removed by postoperative day 3 (P < 0.001). Overall morbidity (P < 0.02), mortality (P < 0.05), and postoperative length of stay (P = 0.002) decreased. Finally, the rate of optimal pancreatic surgery increased for PD (53.7% to 56.9%; P < 0.01) and DP (53.3% to 58.5%; P < 0.001), and alspo for patients with pancreatic cancer (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS From 2013 to 2017, pre, intra, and perioperative pancreatectomy processes have evolved, and multiple postoperative outcomes have improved. Thus, in 4 years, optimal pancreatic surgery in North America has increased by 3% to 5%.
Accurate Inductance Models of Mounted Two-Terminal Decoupling Capacitors

The inductance associated with a decoupling capacitor is typically represented with a constant equivalent series inductance (ESL). In reality, this inductance depends on how the capacitor is mounted and on coupling to closely located structures, including the traces and vias connecting the capacitor to the power and return planes. Here, a method is proposed to quickly and accurately compute the inductance associated with decoupling capacitors and their connections to the power planes. We call this equivalent inductance ${\boldsymbol{L}_{\boldsymbol{above,decap}}}$ . It is calculated by partitioning the geometry into sub-models for the connections to the power and return planes and for the mounted capacitor and pads. The accuracy of the partitioning approach is demonstrated in simulation and experiments using two common decoupling capacitor layouts. Simulations are performed using the finite element method (FEM) and the partial element equivalent circuit (PEEC) method. The partitioning approach estimates the overall inductance associated with the decoupling capacitor and its connections to the power bus within 16% if the distance between the capacitor and reference plane (dielectric thickness) is not more than 6 mils. A simplified PEEC model was further developed which allows a user to estimate the inductance associated with the capacitor using closed-form expressions. This simplified model estimates the capacitor's inductance within 14% of the results found using FEM. The models presented in this work should help both the power distribution network tool designer as well as the design engineer to obtain more accurate inductance estimates than is possible using the manufacturer's ESL value.
Psychogenic stridor: an overlooked cause of acute stridor in the acute medical unit?

Acute onset stridor is an alarming presentation for acute physicians, leading to high suspicion of organic pathology with immediate management directed towards the suspected diagnosis. One of the uncommon and overlooked causes of stridor in younger people is a vocal cord dysfunction, also called
Division of Housework, Communication, and Couples’ Relationship Satisfaction:

The gendered division of housework is an important predictor of relationship satisfaction, but the mechanisms linking these variables remain poorly understood. Using data on N = 487 couples from th...
Measurement of Water Content in Metal Powders

It is recognized that humidity affects the properties of metallic powders (e.g., flowability, density, composition). Although standards exist to evaluate the water content in various materials, there is presently no standard method validated or specifically adapted for the evaluation of the water content in metallic powders. This article evaluates the water content in titanium powders using different techniques (gravimetry, Karl Fischer titration, quantification of volatiles with a relative humidity sensor). The effect of measurement conditions, particle size, and types of powder were investigated. The results showed that the adsorption of water is a function of the relative humidity in the environment and the characteristics of the powders. The relative humidity in the laboratory has, however, limited effect if the exposure of the powder to the environment is limited prior to the measurements. Water adsorption/desorption is a function of the surface area of the powder. The measured values were underestimated as the methods used (i.e., heating at temperature lower than 275°C) did not allow recovering all the water from the powders (i.e., chemisorb water is strongly bonded to the surface and cannot be completely desorbed at temperatures lower than 275°C). Although some variability has been observed, the measurement of volatiles with the relative humidity sensor allowed discriminating powders with water contents ranging from 0 to 108 ppm. The amount of water measured using the gravimetric technique was not sensitive enough to precisely monitor the small amount of water adsorb/desorb on the powders investigated in this study. Additional studies are needed to assess the variability and reproducibility of the results and evaluate the techniques on other types of metallic powders.
Reengineering the Discharge Management of Heart Failure Patients Discharged to Skilled Nursing Facilities Utilizing a Multidisciplinary Team Approach Reduces 30-day Readmission Rate

Introduction Value Based Purchasing (VBP) Initiatives were developed by Medicare in an effort to reduce expenditures while preserving quality of care. The challenge is the large volume of hospitalized Heart Failure (HF) patients (4,000/year) with a historically high 30-day readmission rate (27%). HF patients discharged to Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF) (23%) were at higher risk of readmission, p-value Hypothesis Development of a designated multidisciplinary HF Team (NP, PharmD, Case manager and SNF leadership) approach that integrates a standardized comprehensive pre/post discharge multidisciplinary management plan will decrease 30-Day readmission rates. Methods January 15 - April 1, 2019 was the implementation phase of the SNF Heart Failure Readmission Reduction Initiative (SNF -HFRRI) Pilot Project which included generation of a daily patient list with Primary HF (ICD-10) and HF anticipated discharge list from case management. Daily HF Team morning rounds were conducted to review patient/family education, appropriate medication/adherence, and discharge readiness. HF patients identified to be discharged to a SNF were flagged for further in-depth pre-discharge HF NP consult/PharmD counsel and to develop a warm handoff to SNF leadership. Post discharge HF weekly telephone assessment with SNF senior RN leadership and attendings were conducted. Retrospective review of prospectively collected data was analyzed based on age, gender, NYHA, ACC stage, LOS, Unit of discharge and 30-Day Readmission and included Pre-SNF-HFRRI (June 1, 2018 - January 15, 2019); Implementation Phase (January 15, 2019 -March 31, 2019); Post SNF-HFRRI (April 1, 2019 November 15, 2019). Results We identified 182 HF patients (88-Pre-SNF-HFRRI and 94 Post SNF-HFRRI). Continuous variables (age, LOS) and categorical variables (gender, NYHA, LVEF, ACC stage, reason for readmission, hospital unit discharged and 30-day readmission) were summarized; pre/post groups were compared using Wilcoxon rank, chi square and Fisher's exact test. The groups were comparable to age, LOS, LVEF, ACC class, units discharged. A structured weekly post discharge phone assessment incorporating Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy was statistically significant, p Conclusion Our newly integrated multidisciplinary HF team approach that incorporates a structured post-discharge collaborative approach can prevent avoidable 30-day readmissions and improve discharge preparedness.
Bostock v. Clayton County on LGBT Employment Discrimination

These cases ask whether Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 outlaws employment discrimination against LGBT citizens. One case focuses on a private company who fired an employee for being gay; a second case on a public employer doing the same; and the third case a private company firing a transgender employee. The debate revolves around the meaning of the word “sex” in Title VII, originally intended in 1964 to outlaw employment discrimination against women. Over fifty years later, does the same phrase encompass sexual orientation and identity, or does such a change require an explicit act of Congress? The chapter discusses the role of textualism in the interpretation of congressional laws and the implications for LGBT rights
Effect of clustering and correlation of belief systems on infectious disease outbreaks

Abstract Contact between people with similar opinions and characteristics occurs at a higher rate than among other people, a phenomenon known as homophily. The presence of clusters of unvaccinated people has been associated with increased incidence of infectious disease outbreaks despite high vaccination coverage. The epidemiological consequences of homophily regarding other beliefs and correlations among belief systems are however poorly understood. Here, we use a simple compartmental disease model as well as a more complex COVID-19 model to study how homophily and correlation of belief systems in a social interaction network affect the probability of disease outbreak and COVID-19-related mortality. We find that the current social context, characterized by the presence of homophily and correlations between who vaccinates, who engages in risk reduction, and individual risk status, corresponds to a situation with substantially worse disease burden than in the absence of heterogeneities. In the presence of an effective vaccine, relative effects of homophily and correlation of belief systems become stronger. Further, the optimal vaccination strategy depends on the degree of homophily regarding vaccination status as well as the relative level of risk mitigation high- and low-risk individuals practice. The developed methods are broadly applicable to any investigation in which node attributes in a graph might reasonably be expected to cluster or exhibit correlations.
Explainable Artificial Intelligence for Workflow Verification in Visual IoT/Robotics Programming Language Environment

Teaching students the concepts behind computational thinking is a difficult task, often gated by the inherent difficulty of programming languages. In the classroom, teaching assistants may be required to interact with students to help them learn the material. Time spent in grading and offering feedback on assignments removes from this time to help students directly. As such, we offer a framework for developing an explainable artificial intelligence that performs automated analysis of student code while offering feedback and partial credit. The creation of this system is dependent on three core components. Those components are a knowledge base, a set of conditions to be analyzed, and a formal set of inference rules. In this paper, we develop such a system for our own language by employing π-calculus and Hoare logic. Our detailed system can also perform self-learning of rules. Given solution files, the system is able to extract the important aspects of the program and develop feedback that explicitly details the errors students make when they veer away from these aspects. The level of detail and expected precision can be easily modified through parameter tuning and variety in sample solutions.
Mid-wave infrared transmittance filters in suspended GaAs subwavelength gratings

The high-Q resonances observed in subwavelength gratings support many applications, including optical phase arrays, refractive index sensing, enhancement of nonlinear effects, and spectral filtering. Integrating these functions with active devices opens new possibilities for microscale optical systems. GaAs high-contrast gratings (HCGs) simplify the integration of resonant structures with active III–V semiconductor devices. These structures are particularly useful in the mid-wave infrared (5–7 μm), overcoming several limitations of the material systems presented in previous works. By selectively removing an underlying AlGaAs layer, a high index contrast is introduced between suspended GaAs gratings and air without using an exotic low-index substrate. Furthermore, epitaxial growth enables precise device thickness. In this work, we demonstrate GaAs/air HCG transmittance filters for operation in the mid-wave infrared. A numerical study investigates the dependence of filter performance on substrate proximity. We fabricate experimental filters using an HBr-based plasma etch and a selective wet etch. Optical characterization demonstrates quality factors >50 and transmittance peak efficiency >50%. The observed filter performance is comparable to other mid-wave infrared subwavelength grating filters. This work concludes with discussion of experimental nonidealities, emphasizing the considerable influence of grating size and optical measurement conditions. The suspended GaAs HCG filters show potential for direct integration with active devices such as photodetectors and lasers.
Characterization of physicochemical, packing and microstructural properties of beet, blueberry, carrot and cranberry powders: The effect of drying methods

Abstract Physicochemical, packing and microstructural properties of beet, blueberry, carrot, and cranberry powders produced by hot-air drying (HAD), freeze drying (FD), and a film drying method (InfriDri® Process (IFD)) were evaluated. Higher bulk and tapped densities were recorded in the IFD powders than other powders. The IFD powders had a lower Hausner ratio and compressibility index, a higher wettability index, and were less hygroscopic compared to other powders. The IFD powders had a smooth and flaky appearance while other powders exhibited a more irregular and porous morphology. Total phenolic content (TPC) of the IFD beet and carrot powders was 20.95% and 30.43% higher than that produced by HAD, and 3.42% and 7.96% higher than those from FD, respectively. Similarly, the beet and carrot powders from IFD exhibited an antioxidant activity 21.45% and 11.52% higher than that from the HAD method, and 14.84% and 14.43% higher than the FD counterparts, respectively.
Localized Soft Subspace Pattern Classification

Subspace classifiers assume that different output classes primarily lie in different subspaces of the original feature space. Hence, associated with each output class is a projection subspace. The class discriminant function is then the projected distance of a given input vector onto these subspaces (each subspace can be uniquely specified by a projection matrix), the input vector being assigned to the class on whose subspace it has the maximal projection. Earlier, we had proposed the Regional Subspace Classifier (RSC) which allows different sub manifolds to be associated with a single class [1]. The design process in the RSC involved minimizing a cost function which allowed determination of these sub manifolds for different clusters by a supervised clustering of the training patterns. In this paper we extend the RSC and allow the training patterns to be shared in a soft fashion between the different clusters and develop the Soft Regional Subspace Classifier (S-RSC). Simulation results show that the proposed method allows for better classification accuracy.
Is Big Data Postmodern

Presented here is a research prospectus to approach a relatively new phenomenon of big data from a philosophical angle. With a preliminary groundwork completed, this research is in its planning stage. Recognizing that big data, although a novelty at the present moment, will soon become a mature technology, and also that it is an enabling technology to serve as a means to enhancing business performance through better analytics, it is necessary to have a philosophical discussion about the nature of big data, its promises, limitations, potential pitfalls, and some antidotes in case the society neglects such pitfalls. There will be two main contributions of this project. First, it will be a first comprehensive treatment of big data from a philosophical perspective. Second, given the methodological choice, it could produce a serious critical discourse about big data, delineating the hypes from the credible and persuasive rhetoric in the big data literature.
Retirement Concerns of the Baby Boomer Women

The purpose of this research study was to gather information to assist United States women, as well as women worldwide, prepare for their retirement years. A written questionnaire was developed and mailed to a random sample of 3000 women born between 1946 and 1964 across the United States. This study focused on the concerns of women during retirement, post-retirement activities/hobbies and the things the women would have done differently. The findings of the survey revealed the baby boomers in the United States had various financial concerns, health issues, marital regrets, lacked confidence in the US government and wished they had obtained more education.
Empiric Auto-Titrating CPAP in People with Suspected Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Objective:Efficient diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can be difficult because of time delays imposed by clinic visits and serial overnight polysomnography. In some cases, it...
Edige: A Karakalpak Oral Epic

Reviewed Medium: book Year: 2007 Pages: 498 Publisher: Academia Scientiarum Fennica/Suomalainen Tiedeakatemia ISBN: 978-951-41-1012-2 (hard cover).
Cloning and sequencing of the cyclodiene insecticide resistance gene from the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti: Conservation of the gene and resistance associated mutation with Drosophila

In order to examine the conservation of the mechanism of cyclodiene insecticide resistance between species we cloned a cDNA from the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti homologous to the resistance gene Rdl in Drosophila. In D. melanogaster, resistance to cyclodienes and picrotoxinin is caused by a single amino acid substitution (alanine to serine) in the putative channel lining of a γ-aminobutyic acid gated chloride ion channel. We report that the mosquito gene not only shows high homology to that of Drosophila but also that resistant strains display substitution of the same amino acid. The significance of this result in relation to the evolution of pesticide resistance, the use of Drosophila as a model insect for resistance studies and the potential use of this gene as a selectable marker in the genetic transformation of non-Drosophilids is discussed.
Characterization of Fatigue Behavior of Composite Sandwich Structures at Sub-Zero Temperatures

This chapter summarizes recent studies of the flexural fatigue characteristics of foam core carbon/epoxy and glass/epoxy composite sandwich beams over the temperature range from 22°C to −60°C. Core shear was found to be the dominant fatigue failure mode for the test specimens over this temperature range. Significant increases in the useful fatigue life with brittle type core shear failure were observed at low temperatures by comparison with the corresponding room temperature behavior. Fatigue failure at the subzero temperatures was catastrophic and without any significant early warning, but the corresponding failures at room temperature were preceded by relatively slow but steadily increasing losses of stiffness. Two different approaches were used to investigate stiffness reductions during fatigue tests, and both approaches led to the same conclusions. Static finite element analyses confirmed the experimentally observed locations of fatigue crack initiation.
Pedigree demonstrating a sex-linked recessive condition characterized by draining ears, eczematoid dermatitis and bloody diarrhea.

Genetic analysis of the family of an individual suffering from what appeared to be secondary thrombocytopenic purpura indictated that: 1. Sixteen of 40 male infants died. 2. Ten of these, including the proband, were known to have suffered from draining ears, eczematoid dermatitis and bloody diarrhea. 3. The pattern of deaths agrees with the assumption that a sex-linked recessive gene is responsible for the primary deviation which leads to the death of these infants.
Display Viewing Distance Preferences for Two Structural Configurations

This investigation was conducted to more fully define the physical characteristics of individuals engaged in ordinary reading tasks. Eye to display viewing distances were measured for subjects reading from both a handheld configuration and from a structurally fixed configuration which approximated an electronic display. Estimates of each subject's resting point accommodation were also obtained and compared to observed viewing distances. Findings revealed significant differences between handheld and fixed configuration displays. Relationships between display viewing distance and resting point accommodation were not apparent. The resting posture of accommodation and seated posture are discussed as potential contributors to determination of viewing distance preferences.
Progressive chromatin condensation and H3K9 methylation regulate the differentiation of embryonic and hematopoietic stem cells

Epigenetic regulation serves as the basis for stem cell differentiation into distinct cell types, but it is unclear how global epigenetic changes are regulated during this process. Here, we tested the hypothesis that global chromatin organization affects the lineage potential of stem cells and that manipulation of chromatin dynamics influences stem cell function. Using nuclease sensitivity assays, we found a progressive decrease in chromatin digestion among pluripotent embryonic stem cells (ESCs), multipotent hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), and mature hematopoietic cells. Quantitative high-resolution microscopy revealed that ESCs contain significantly more euchromatin than HSCs, with a further reduction in mature cells. Increased cellular maturation also led to heterochromatin localization to the nuclear periphery. Functionally, prevention of heterochromatin formation by inhibition of the histone methyltransferase G9A resulted in delayed HSC differentiation. Our results demonstrate global chromatin rearrangements during stem cell differentiation and that heterochromatin formation by H3K9 methylation regulates HSC differentiation.
The Human Body and Ideology: Concepts of the Ancient Nahuas

The Human Body and Ideology: Concepts of the Ancient Nahuas. Alfredo Lopez Austin (translated by Thelma Ortiz de Montellano and Bernard Ortiz de Montellano). Salt Lake City: University of Utah Press, 1988. Volume 1,449 pp. Volume II, 315 pp., tables, illustrations, endnotes, bibliography. $65.00 (cloth). ISBN 0-87480-260-1.
Surgical rehabilitation of the open globe injury patient

Purpose To describe the long-term surgical course of patients with open globe injury. Design Retrospective case series. Methods Patients with open globe injuries (848 in total) treated surgically at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary between 2000 and 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. Data from presentation, initial repair, and follow-up surgery were analyzed. Results Among 848 injuries, 1415 surgical procedures were performed. The mean follow-up time was 19.7 months, including 6017 visits. On average, patients required 1.7 surgeries and 7.1 follow-up visits. Factors predicting follow-up surgery included more severe ocular trauma score, worse prerepair visual acuity, retinal hemorrhage, anterior vitrectomy at primary repair, pars plana vitrectomy at primary repair, and lensectomy at primary repair. Patients with zone II injury, hemorrhagic choroidal detachment, and a history of previous ocular surgery tended to require follow-up surgery less frequently. Patients requiring a second surgery tended to have worse visual acuity at presentation and postrepair. Postoperative visual outcomes were worse for patients who underwent vitreoretinal follow-up surgery, likely because of mechanism of injury. Variables associated with inferior visual outcome were worse prerepair visual acuity, postoperative afferent pupillary defect (APD), old age, scleral laceration, and retinal detachment. Conclusion Open globe injuries require significant surgical follow-up. Patients requiring multiple operations tended to have worse postoperative visual acuity. Patients who underwent vitreoretinal surgery had overall worse visual outcomes. While the first year of surveillance appears to be pivotal in the course of an open globe injury, these patients can expect long-term care from comprehensive and subspecialty ophthalmologists.
HEPATIC ABSCESSES IN 13 DOGS: A REVIEW OF THE ULTRASONOGRAPHIC FINDINGS, CLINICAL DATA AND THERAPEUTIC OPTIONS

Historical, physical examination, clinicopathologic, radiographic and ultrasonographic findings of 13 dogs with hepatic abscesses were reviewed. Liver abscessation was characterized by number, size, shape, echogenicity and location. Solitary lesions greater than 3 cm were more common than multiple ones. The abscesses were mainly poorly echogenic lesions, often with central cavitation. The shape of the lesion ranged from round to oval or irregular. Enhancement artifact, abdominal effusion, regional lymphadenopathy and hyperechoic perihepatic fat, were identified in several dogs. Ultrasound-guided aspiration was performed in 10 of 13 dogs, and confirmed abscessation with cytologic and microbiologic evaluation. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous drainage of abscesses was performed as an adjunct to medical management in four dogs.
Metabolic syndrome and quality of life in the elderly: age and gender differences

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is highly prevalent in Western older populations. MetS is an intriguing entity, because it includes potentially reversible risk factors. Some studies have suggested an inverse correlation between MetS and health-related quality of life (HRQoL), but data regarding older subjects are scanty and conflicting. The aim of this study was to assess the association between HRQoL and MetS in older, unselected community-dwelling subjects. We analyzed data of 356 subjects aged 75+ living in Tuscania (Italy). HRQoL was assessed using the Health Utilities Index, Mark 3. Diagnosis of MetS was defined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program’s ATP-III criteria. MetS was reported by 137 (38%) participants. According to linear regression analysis, MetS was associated with significantly better HRQoL in men (B = 0.19 95% CI = 0.06–0.32; p = 0.006), but not in women. Also, when the regression model was analyzed in men, MetS was associated with better HRQoL (B = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.01–0.32; p = 0.035) only among participants aged 80+. No significant associations were found in men between HRQoL and any of the single components of MetS. MetS is not associated with worse HRQoL among community-dwelling elderly; it is associated with significantly better HRQoL among the oldest men.
Cyclopropanes from 1°-alkyl chlorides by α-elimination

Abstract The reaction of appropriate primary alkyl chlorides with sodium or potassium gives cyclopropanes, in addition to previously observed hydrocarbons. Through the use of tritium and deuterium, it was proved that isobutyl chloride produces methylcyclopropane by a mechanism involving α-elimination to a carbene and insertion into a carbon-hydrogen bond. Isobutylene is formed by α- and β-elimination. No α-elimination (as reflected by cyclopropane production) is found with s-butyl chloride, methyl isobutyl ether or with methyl isobutyl sulfide.
Moving Past “Right” or "Wrong” Toward a Continuum of Young Children’s Semantic Knowledge

Vocabulary development is a critical goal for early childhood education. However, it is difficult for researchers and teachers to determine whether this goal is being met, given the limitations of ...