cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Let the Market Pick the Winners

In October 1997, Citibank and Chase Manhattan Bank, New York City’s two largest banks, working with Visa and Mastercard, the world’s two largest credit card companies, launched a joint trial to test the viability of ‘smart cards’ in US retail consumer markets. The two banks issued reloadable stored value cards to approximately 100 000 people living on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. The cards functioned as electronic purses: customers could transfer up to $100 to the cards from their bank accounts using automated teller machines and could use the cards to make purchases from 600 participating local merchants. The banks hoped that customers eventually would be willing to pay $1.00–$1.50 monthly to use the cards and that merchants would be willing to pay fees to accept them, just as they already paid fees to accept traditional magnetic strip credit cards.
Interpersonal Communication and Political Campaigns

Interpersonal communication has always played an essential role within politics and political campaigns. Conversations occurring between individuals, whether in person or through technology, often serve to moderate or mediate political messages from both campaigns and news sources, with opinion leaders playing a particularly important role in influencing the attitudes and behaviors of others within the social network. Much of the research on interpersonal communication dynamics within politics has been led by scholars from political science and mass communication, often through a media effects theoretical perspective. Recent research has begun to more fully explore the complexities of interpersonal communication, including personal motivations and social factors that drive individuals to engage in conversations about politics. Future research will need to examine how past theories of interpersonal communication apply to modern political campaign environments in which many conversations occur exclusively online via social networking platforms. Keywords: interpersonal communication; mass communication theory; mass media; political communication; political media content
Pain Medication: Time to First Dose in Sickle Cell Acute Care in Two Settings of a Large Urban Hospital

Abstract Abstract 4693 Time to first dose (TTFD) of pain medication is one of the important measures of quality care in sickle cell disease (SCD), according to a new expert consensus (Wang et al., 2011). It is well documented that treatment of pain crises in an acute care center with immediate and aggressive treatment can dramatically reduce admission rates for pain (Benjamin, Swinson, & Nagel., 2000; AHRQ, 2012). The University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center is one of the largest in the United States. The volume of acute medical care is very high in this urban hospital with an enrollment of approximately 750 patients, pediatric and adult. For fiscal year 2012 clinic volume for pediatrics and adults was 2566, in-patient volume was 886 and adult ED visits for pain were 867. To improve medical treatment, outcomes and satisfaction of sickle cell patients, the University Of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center opened its Acute Care Center (ACC) in 2009. One measure of the ACC’s effectiveness is the TTFD of analgesic from patient’s arrival to the ACC. Using the American Pain Society as a resource a target of 90% of patients’ TTFD Challenges for the ACC to meet its goal include timely registration of patients into the system by the admitting department and intravenous access. Challenges for the ED were the lack of awareness of TTFD goal, bed availability, triage speed and appropriate level of urgency. Results from a retrospective analysis in pediatric ED patients with sickle cell disease revealed average TTFD of 4 hours in 181 patients, however educating staff of TTFD goal in the pediatric ED resulted in lowering average TTFD to 1.5 hours in 16 patients. In conclusion, exploration of TTFD as a quality measure revealed several areas for possible improvement in healthcare delivery for SCD. TTFD is quite new for some areas such as our ED, but as our preliminary data revealed that educating staff can cut TTFD by 50%. In addition, an analysis of hospital systems e.g. admitting registration processes is warranted, as well as exploring alternatives in addressing IV access. Nonetheless, the ACC is a preferable alternative to the use of conventional ED for the treatment of sickle cell pain because of its dedication to the management of sickle cell pain and subsequent reduction in hospital admissions. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Cerebral disorders of calves.

Neurologic diseases of the cerebrum are relatively common in cattle. In calves, the primary cerebral disorders are polioencephalomalacia, meningitis, and sodium toxicity. Because diagnostic testing is not always readily available, the practitioner must often decide on a course of treatment based on knowledge of the likely disease, as well as his or her own clinical experience. This is particularly true with neurologic diseases in which the prognosis is often poor and euthanasia may be the most humane outcome. This article reviews the most common diseases affecting the cerebrum of calves with a focus on pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment.
An institutional analysis of unplanned return to the operating room to identify areas for quality improvement.

Abstract Background Unplanned return to the operating room (uROR) has been suggested as a hospital quality indicator. The purpose of this study was to determine reasons for uROR to identify opportunities for patient care improvement. Methods uROR reported by our institution's American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program underwent secondary review. Results The uROR rate reported by clinical reviewers was 4.3%. Secondary review re-categorized 64.7% as “true uROR” with the most common reasons for uROR being infection (30.9%) and bleeding (23.6%). Remaining cases were categorized as “false uROR” with the most common reasons being inadequate documentation (60.0%) and not directly related to index procedure (16.7%). Conclusions Strict adherence to NSQIP definitions results in misidentification of true uROR. This raises concerns for using NSQIP-identified uROR as a hospital quality metric. Improved processes of care to prevent infection and hemorrhage at our institution could reduce the rate of true uROR.
Career interest and perceptions of nephrology: A repeated cross-sectional survey of internal medicine residents

Background Interest in nephrology careers among internal medicine residents in the United States is declining. Our objective was to assess the impact of the presence of a nephrology fellowship training program on perceptions and career interest in nephrology among internal medicine residents. A secondary objective was to identify commonly endorsed negative perceptions of nephrology among internal medicine residents. Methods This was a repeated cross-sectional survey of internal medicine residents before (Group 1) and 3 years after (Group 2) the establishment of nephrology fellowship programs at two institutions. The primary outcome was the percentage of residents indicating nephrology as a career interest in Group 1 vs. Group 2. Secondary outcomes included the frequency that residents agreed with negative statements about nephrology. Results 131 (80.9%) of 162 residents completed the survey. 19 (14.8%) residents indicated interest in a nephrology career, with 8 (6.3%) indicating nephrology as their first choice. There was no difference in career interest in nephrology between residents who were exposed to nephrology fellows during residency training (Group 2) and residents who were not (Group 1). The most commonly endorsed negative perceptions of nephrology were: nephrology fellows have long hours/burdensome call (36 [28.1%] of residents agreed or strongly agreed), practicing nephrologists must take frequent/difficult call (35 [27.6%] agreed or strongly agreed), and nephrology has few opportunities for procedures (35 [27.3%] agreed or strongly agreed). More residents in Group 2 agreed that nephrology is poorly paid (8.9% in Group 1 vs. 20.8% in Group 2, P = 0.04), whereas more residents in Group 1 agreed that nephrologists must take frequent/difficult call (40.0% in Group 1 vs. 18.1% in Group 2, P = 0.02). Conclusions The initiation of a nephrology fellowship program was not associated with an increase in internal medicine residents’ interest in nephrology careers. Residents endorsed several negative perceptions of nephrology, which may affect career choice.
Effects of User Interactions on Online Social Recommender Systems

We analyze online social data to model social interactions of users in recommender systems: i) Rating prediction, and ii) detecting spammers and abnormal user rating behaviors. We propose a social trust model using matrix factorization method to estimate users taste by incorporating user-item matrix. The effect of users friends tastes is modeled based on centrality metrics and similarity algorithms between users. The proposed method is validated using Epinions Dataset. To identify abnormal users in social recommender systems, we propose a classification approach. We define attributes to provide likelihood of a user having a profile of that of an attacker. Using user-item rating matrix and user-connection matrix, we find if the ratings are abnormal and if connections are random. We use k-means clustering to categorize users into authentic users and attackers. We use Epinions dataset to test the profile injection attacks.
Base Excess as a Predictor of Complications in Cytoreductive Surgery with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy.

Base excess is important in assessing metabolic status. Postoperative management in patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for peritoneal malignancies can be a challenge, and we therefore sought to investigate perioperative predictors of overall morbidity in CRS/HIPEC patients at our institution. Patients who underwent CRS/HIPEC from 2012 to 2016 were identified retrospectively from a prospectively collected institutional database. Patient demographics and perioperative variables were obtained and the comprehensive complication index (CCI) was calculated for each patient in order to assess perioperative morbidity. Stepwise linear regression analyses were performed, with CCI as the outcome variable. A total of 72 CRS/HIPEC patients had recorded base excesses in the first 48 h postoperatively. Mean immediate postoperative base excess was −6.0 mmol/L (interquartile range [IQR] −8 to −4.1), mean delta base excess at 48 h was +4.3 mmol/L (IQR +2.1 to +6.2), and mean CCI was 25.2 (IQR 8.7–36.7). On multivariate analysis, delta base excess was the only significant predictor of CCI, demonstrating a protective effect (p = 0.001). In patients who experienced less than the mean delta base excess of +4.3 mmol/L, lower delta base excess was an independent predictor of complications (p < 0.001). Delta base excess is an independent predictor of morbidity in patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC. A delta base excess of greater than +4.3 mmol/L at 48 h may be an appropriate goal for resuscitation of CRS/HIPEC patients in the immediate postoperative period. Standardized protocols to correct the base deficit in CRS/HIPEC patients during the early postoperative period can potentially help mitigate perioperative morbidity.
Free Radicals in Coal Conversion

It is generally accepted that free radicals are key reactive intermediates in thermal coal chemistry. This view is supported by the general observation that free-radical reactions control the pyrolysis chemistry of most organic substances. General kinetic features of coal liquefaction have also been used to support this view.(1)
Characterization and mechanical testing of polydopamine-adhered electroless copper films

Abstract Self-assembling polydopamine has shown great versatility as a multifunctional surface coating. This study investigates the adhesive properties of polydopamine used to bind electroless copper films to several polymer substrates widely used for commercial applications, including polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and nylon 6,6. Each substrate was coated in a similar manner resulting in continuous copper films of 52 ± 12 nm in thickness. Transmission electron microscopy revealed a non-preferential polycrystalline microstructure of copper grains averaging 53 ± 17 nm in diameter with a range of 21 nm to 123 nm, indicating there is some overlap of grains in the film. Peel testing, tensile tests, and tribological oscillating wear tests were used to characterize the mechanical performance of the adhered copper films. The nylon substrate had the highest peel strength, 49 ± 5 mN/mm, while the remaining substrates ranged from 5 to 13 mN/mm on average. Coated substrates were strained up to 20% tensile strain to investigate film delamination, buckling, and rupture. Transverse buckling of the films relative to the direction of strain was observed due to Poisson's effect during tension. Films on nylon substrates resisted buckling and rupture up to 20% strain, whereas buckling, delamination, and rupture was observed in the other substrates below 20% strain. Tribological testing revealed that the coefficient of friction was governed by the polymer substrate and was not dependent upon the polydopamine or copper films. As a demonstration of the robust nature of this method, a nylon suture was coated with polydopamine-adhered copper film and tied in a knot to show a large complex deformation state without showing signs of delamination.
Zooplankton Community Dynamics in a Western Mid-Atlantic Lagoonal Estuary

ABSTRACT Howson, U.A.; Buchanan, G.A., and Nickels, J.A., 2017. Zooplankton community dynamics in a western mid-Atlantic lagoonal estuary. In: Buchanan, G.A.; Belton, T.J., and Paudel, B. (eds.), A Comprehensive Assessment of Barnegat Bay-Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey. Zooplankton are an integral component of the food web in estuarine ecosystems. The most recent studies of zooplankton in Barnegat Bay, New Jersey, occurred almost 40 years ago. Since then, this coastal lagoon estuary has been affected by anthropogenic impacts that threaten its ecological integrity, including nutrient enrichment, algal blooms, alterations of freshwater inputs, and extensive development around the bay and its watershed. Assessing the zooplankton community in this ecosystem provided updated information on the status of this important component of the bay's living resources. Zooplankton samples were collected from the upper meter of the water column with horizontal surface net tows using bongo plankton nets monthly during the w...
Higher plasma leptin levels are associated with reduced left ventricular mass and left ventricular diastolic stiffness in black women: insights from the Genetic Epidemiology Network of Arteriopathy (GENOA) study.

Our previous experimental animal data suggest a beneficial effect of leptin on LV structure and function. We hypothesized that leptin levels are associated with lower LV mass and myocardial stiffness which are important risk factors for the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). We evaluated 1172 blacks, in which the prevalence of HFpEF is quite high, with preserved LV ejection fraction (EF > 50%) from the Genetic Epidemiology Network of Arteriopathy Study (mean age 62.9 years, 72% women), a community-based study to identify genes influencing blood pressure and target organ damage due to hypertension. Associations between leptin levels and indices of LV structure and function were evaluated using generalized estimating equations accounting for clustering in siblings. LV myocardial stiffness was evaluated using diastolic wall strain (DWS) measured by echocardiography. Analyses were stratified by sex because leptin levels were three times higher in women than men (p < 0.001). After adjustment for confounders, higher leptin levels were associated with lower LV mass (coefficient for 1 s.d. increase of leptin level: -5.825 g, 95% CI: -9.755 to -1.895 g, P = 0.004) and higher DWS (lower LV stiffness) (coefficient for 1 s.d. increase of leptin level: 0.009, 95% CI: 0.002-0.015, P = 0.007) in women. There were no statistically significant associations in men. In women, there were interactions between leptin levels and body mass index quartiles on LV mass and stiffness (p < 0.05 for both). Higher leptin levels were associated with lower LV mass and stiffness in obese but not lean black women.
Do the Carotid Bodies Modulate Hypoglycemic Counterregulation and Baroreflex Control of Blood Pressure In Humans

Peripheral chemoreceptors in the carotid body regulate respiration, sympathetic outflow, and blood pressure in response to hypoxia. The carotid bodies play a role in the counterregulatory response to hypoglycemia in animal models and may interact with the arterial baroreflex. We hypothesized that desensitization of the carotid bodies by hyperoxia in humans would blunt hypoglycemic counterregulation and baroreflex control of blood pressure during hypoglycemia. Seven healthy adults (age 26.7 ± 0.39, BMI 25 ± 0.32, M/4, F/3) each underwent two 180 min hyperinsulinemic (2 mU/kg FFM/min), hypoglycemic (3.33 mmol/L) clamps 1 week apart, randomized to either normoxia (arterial PO2 (PaO2) 111 ± 6.3 mmHg) or hyperoxia (PaO2 345 ± 80.6 mmHg) (p < 0.05). Plasma glucose concentrations were similar during normoxia and hyperoxia at baseline and during the clamp. The glucose infusion rate was 44.2 ± 3.5% higher (p < 0.01) during hyperoxia than normoxia during the clamp. Area under the curve values (expressed as % normoxia response) for counterregulatory hormones during hypoglycemia were significantly suppressed by hyperoxia. In addition, mean blood pressure during hypoglycemia was significantly lower with hyperoxia than with normoxia (delta reduction from baseline: −5.4 ± 3.4 mmHg normoxia vs. −13.8 ± 1.9 mmHg hyperoxia, p < 0.05). The typical baroreflex-mediated rise in heart rate and sympathetic activity with lower blood pressure did not occur when the CB were silenced. These data support the idea that the carotid bodies play a role in the counterregulatory response to hypoglycemia and in baroreflex control of blood pressure in humans.
Putting Parenting in Perspective: A Discussion of the Contextual Factors That Shape Parenting Practices

Child and family researchers have long recognized parenting as making an important contribution to child development. However, little is known about the factors that shape parenting itself, particularly factors outside the family. This article examines the literature on variables that comprise the context in which parenting occurs, and summarizes what is known about how three contextual factors (ethnicity/culture, family socioeconomic status, and neighborhood/community) influence parenting practices. Implications for future research on parenting, clinical interventions designed to improve parenting, and policy decisions affecting parenting are discussed.
Blood-Brain Barrier In Vitro Model Utilizing Immortalized Cell Lines

The interest in using blood-brain barrier (BBB) in vitro culture assays in early safety assessment of drugs is growing [1]. This study evaluated the feasibility of using commercially available immortalized cell lines instead of primary cell lines in building in vitro models for BBB. Immortalized mouse endothelial cells from yolk sac and rat astrocytes from 1-day old rat purchased from American Type Culture Collections (ATCC) were used in the assessment to build the BBB co-culture in vitro model. Acellular extracellular matrix (aECM) derived from a confluent layer of astrocytes was introduced in the experiment providing a novel biomimetic basement membrane scaffold for endothelial cells. Experimental data shown in this paper were based on experiments with at least three set of replications. The BBB in vitro co-culture model with aECM is promising in terms of demonstrating higher daily transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) values, and better inhibition of solute transport of different compounds than endothelial cells cultured alone as well as traditional co-cultured models. Immunofluorescence study and Western Blot analysis also verified higher expression level of occludin, one of the tight junction proteins in the co-cultured model with aECM than any other sample setups. Our novel approach using immortalized cell lines with the addition of aECM was testified to be a cost and labor effective, feasible and repeatable alternative for BBB in vitro model building in drug delivery studies.
Anion-Induced Electron Transfer.

ConspectusAs counterintuitive as it might seem, in aprotic media, electron transfer (ET) from strong Lewis basic anions, particularly F–, OH–, and CN–, to certain π-acids (πA) is not only spectroscopically evident from the formation of paramagnetic πA•– radical anions and πA2– dianions, but also thermodynamically justified because these anions’ highest occupied molecular orbitals (HOMOs) lie above the π-acids’ lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals (LUMOs) creating negative free energy changes (ΔG°ET < 0). Depending on the relative HOMO and LUMO energies of participating anions and π-acids, respectively, the anion-induced ET (AIET) events take place either in the ground state or upon photosensitization of the π-acids. The mild basic and charge-diffuse anions with lower HOMO levels fail to trigger ET, but they often form charge transfer (CT) and anion−π complexes. Owing to their high HOMO levels in aprotic environments, strong Lewis basic anions, such as F– enjoy much greater ET driving force (ΔG°ET) than mi...
Evaluation of the estrogen receptor alpha as a possible target of bifenthrin effects in the estrogenic and dopaminergic signaling pathways in zebrafish embryos.

Abstract Bifenthrin (BF) is a pyrethroid insecticide widely used in urban and agricultural applications. Previous studies in embryos of zebrafish have shown that BF can affect estradiol biosynthesis and the dopaminergic system. To examine the role of the estrogen receptor (ER) in the endocrine effects of BF, embryos were exposed for 96 h to a mixture of 0.15 and 1.5 μg/L BF and an ER agonist (17α-ethynylestradiol – EE2) at 0.09 μg/L. Transcripts related to estrogenic (vitellogenin VTG) and dopaminergic (tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), dopamine receptor 1 (DR1), monoamine oxidase (MAO), and catechol-O-methyltransferase b (COMTb)) signaling pathways were investigated by qRT-PCR. Dopamine (DA) and its metabolites (homovanillic acid (HVA) and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC)) were also measured. There was a significant increase in VTG, DR1, MAO and COMTb mRNA levels and HVA-DA ratios within all zebrafish embryos exposed to EE2, including EE2 alone, 0.15 μg/L BF + EE2 and 1.5 μg/L BF + EE2. A significant decrease in homogenate concentrations of DA was observed within all zebrafish embryos exposed to EE2, which included EE2 alone, 0.15 μg/L BF + EE2 and 1.5 μg/L BF + EE2. Co-exposure of BF with EE2 failed to diminish estrogenic or dopaminergic signaling in embryos. Additionally, embryos with diminished ERα expression by morpholino injection were exposed to 0.15 μg/L BF, 1.5 μg/L BF and 0.09 μg/L EE2, with subsequent gene expression measurements. ERα knockdown did not prevent the effects of BF, indicating ERα may have a limited role in the estrogenic and dopaminergic effects caused by BF in zebrafish embryos.
Lumpers And Splitters: Different Approaches To Understanding Variations Research

The latest work of John Wennberg and colleagues represents an important ad- vance over earlier work by targeting different domains of clinical care at a more specific level. The findings have clear implications for those interested in constraining Medicare costs and may even point a way forward for lasting reform of purchasing practices in both the public and the private sectors. Nonetheless, the latest findings and proposals leave un- resolved important research and policy questions, including those involving the basic rela- tionship between spending and outcomes and payment reforms that would promote care of more uniform quality.
Adolescent Relationship Aggression Perpetration and Victimization in the Context of Neighborhood Gender Equality

Abstract Adolescent relationship aggression (ARA) is a serious and common public health problem with many associated adverse health outcomes. Research on risk factors for ARA and resulting programm...
Indoor Pursuit-Evasion with Hybrid Hierarchical Partially Observable Markov Decision Processes for Multi-robot Systems

In this paper, we examine a pursuit-evasion problem where more than one pursuer may search for one evader in indoor environments. Partially Observable Markov Decision Processes (POMDPs) provide a framework to model the uncertainty arisen from the unknown location of the evader. However, the approach is intractable even with a single pursuer and an evader. Therefore, we propose a Hybrid Hierarchical POMDP structure for improved scalability and efficiency. The structure consists of (i) the base MDPs for the cases where the evader is visible to the pursuers, (ii) the abstract POMDPs for the evader states that are not directly observable, and (iii) the transition states bridging between the base MDPs and abstract POMDPs. This hybrid approach significantly reduces the number of states expanded in the policy tree to solve the problem by abstracting environment structures. Experimental results show that our method expands only 5% of nodes generated from a standard POMDP solution.
E-cigarettes: Tobacco policy and regulation.

The purpose of this review is to describe current trends in e-cigarette use, provide an overview of the potential health risks and benefits, and discuss tobacco policy and regulatory considerations. E-cigarette use is popular among youth and adults, despite limited evidence about the long-term risks or benefits. Internationally, there is wide variability in how e-cigarettes are classified, which has also led to large differences in regulations on these products. Regulatory policies that strike a balance between the potential benefit of these devices for adult smokers who are trying to quit smoking with reducing the appeal and addictive potential for youth are critically needed. Continued research on the health effects and consequences of e-cigarette use will be essential to inform e-cigarette product standards and tobacco regulatory policies as scientific research strives to keep pace with the ever-changing landscape of e-cigarette technology.
Fully resolved lineshape measurement of a seeded and unseeded optical parametric oscillator using a virtually imaged phased array spectrometer.

Mode-resolved characterization of a nanosecond pulsed optical parametric oscillator (OPO) has been performed with a cross-dispersed virtually imaged phased array (VIPA) spectrometer during both free-running and partially injection-seeded operation. The spectrometer is designed around a 0.5 cm−1 VIPA element with a measured spectral resolution of 220 MHz and a range of over 60 cm−1. Full high-resolution lineshape measurements are obtained covering over 600 oscillating cavity modes on a commercial type I beta barium borate OPO during operation of the signal beam near 632.8 nm. Mean and fluctuating mode intensities are found to agree with previous studies of ultra-short OPO resonators. Furthermore, modulation of the broadband output due to the etalon characteristics of the nonlinear crystal produces clear fringes on the output lineshape, which have been observed for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. Future application of VIPA spectrometers to pulsed OPOs will allow previously unattainable characterization of the entire OPO lineshape and enable monitoring and optimization of OPO spectral purity.
Techniques for collecting, handling germinating, and storing of pollen of the filbert (Corylus spp.)

Temperature and humidity immediately before dehiscence were important in maintaining viability and germination of filbert pollen. Air temperatures at or above 23°C during dehiscence and pollen storage resulted in nonviability after 8–24 h. Cut branches bearing elongating catkins when exposed to temperatures of 18°±2°C during dehiscence yielded viable pollen. Manganese and boron added to the medium did not significantly increase germination, while 10–100 p.p.m. boron appeared to inhibit it. Storage tests indicated that filbert pollen viability may be maintained at 92% relative humidity and −18°C for at least 12 months.
Role of mesenchymal stem cells in diabetic wound healing

Abstract The recognition of dysregulated immunity and abnormal healing processes in diabetes has driven a growth in research on novel therapeutics for the treatment of diabetic skin wounds. Two targets of interest include mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and microRNA (miRNA). MSCs are multipotent cells with tissue regeneration capabilities that influence wound healing through multiple pathways, including through correction of dysregulated miRNA expression in inflammatory conditions like diabetes. MiRNA are small molecules that regulate various cellular processes, including ones critical to wound healing. In this chapter, we will summarize how MSCs play a role in wound healing, how miRNA are dysregulated in diabetic wounds, and how MSCs correct miRNA dysregulation.
Death with Dignity for the Dying and the Damned

A troubling philosophical incongruity exists in the perception of end-of-life decisions by the terminally ill and by the convicted. When a member of the former faction accepts his imminent fate and embraces death via physician-assisted suicide, others inevitably attempt to dissuade him. However, the same concerns evaporate when a death row inmate abandons his remaining appeals and ‘volunteers’ to die. No bystander asks whether the years in solitary confinement compelled the inmate to abandon his appeals. No physician questions whether he possesses adequate faculties to effectuate a state-sponsored death. Often, no friend asks him to stay. The disproportionality in procedural safeguards and assessments of competency among the two groups illuminates a stark dichotomy in the valuation of existing human life. While the terminally ill frequently face endless bureaucratic hurdles in the pursuit of medical autonomy, many death row inmates choose death by abandoning remaining appeals, usually without satisfactory oversight or meaningful judicial review. Operating under the premise that volunteerism comprises a form of assisted suicide, this article urges the application of heightened judicial scrutiny in cases of abandoned death row appeals. This article also proposes a universal right to physician-assisted suicide for competent, terminally-ill patients. Compelling state interests in the protection of existing human life should not depend upon circumstance: if purely moralistic convictions must seep into legislative construction, they must be observed with impartiality.
Improving Quality With Emergency Department Throughput in a Critical Access Hospital.

Objective The study objective was to determine the impact of specific measures to reduce the length of stay (LOS) in an emergency department (ED) in a critical access hospital (CAH). Background Despite mandates to reduce bottlenecks by increasing throughput, many EDs are not successful. Strategies available to larger hospitals may not be feasible for resource-limited CAHs. Methods Interventions were implemented to decrease ED LOS in a rural CAH. Through retrospective chart reviews from time periods both preimplementation and postimplementation, the LOS was determined and compared using 2-sample t tests. Results Significant decreases were found between the groups in mean LOS times, as well as specific time intervals within the overall LOS time for nursing-centric activities and incidence of patients leaving prior to treatment completion. Conclusions A significant decrease in LOS resulted from numerous actions taken to improve patient flow. Results may be used to enhance patient flow and decrease LOS in other CAHs, improving quality and access to care.
Professionalism 101 for Black Physicians.

Professionalism 101 for Black Physicians For a Black physician, “professionalism” can be exhausting, back-breaking. It often means suppressing her rage, biting her tongue, wiping her tears over rac...
Probing Membrane Degradation with Varying Catalyst Layer Thickness and Carbon Support

Understanding membrane degradation continues to be of significant importance when studying fuel cell durability. Fuel cell performance and durability depends heavily on the membrane's chemical and mechanical integrity. In Nafion® membranes, hydroxyl radicals are the primary cause of chemical membrane degradation as they attack the membrane's polymer structure. Radical formation can ensue via peroxide decomposition at the cathode or gases reacting on Pt particles within the membrane. A previous research effort on membrane degradation as a function of ultra-low Pt loadings (≤ 0.1 mgPt cm-2) showed the degradation rate increases with Pt loading. This is most likely due to more heterogenous sites for radical formation. Manufacturing MEAs with ultra-low Pt loadings can yield thin, non-uniform catalyst layers. In this research effort we studied membrane degradation with ultra-low Pt loadings while varying catalyst layer thickness, I/C ratio, and types of carbon support.
A new solution to the curved Ewald sphere problem for 3D image reconstruction in electron microscopy.

Abstract We develop an algorithm capable of imaging a three-dimensional object given a collection of two-dimensional images of that object that are significantly influenced by the curvature of the Ewald sphere. These two-dimensional images cannot be approximated as projections of the object. Such an algorithm is useful in cryo-electron microscopy where larger samples, higher resolution, or lower energy electron beams are desired, all of which contribute to the significance of Ewald curvature.
Is the classical limit “singular”?

Abstract We argue against claims that the classical ℏ → 0 limit is “singular” in a way that frustrates an eliminative reduction of classical to quantum physics. We show one precise sense in which quantum mechanics and scaling behavior can be used to recover classical mechanics exactly, without making prior reference to the classical theory. To do so, we use the tools of strict deformation quantization, which provides a rigorous way to capture the ℏ → 0 limit. We then use the tools of category theory to demonstrate one way that this reduction is explanatory: it illustrates a sense in which the structure of quantum mechanics determines that of classical mechanics.
The predicted stem-loop structure in the 3'-end of the human norovirus antigenomic sequence is required for its genomic RNA synthesis by its RdRp.

The norovirus genome consists of a single positive-stranded RNA. The mechanism by which this single-stranded RNA genome is replicated is not well understood. To reveal the mechanism underlying the initiation of the norovirus genomic RNA synthesis by its RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), we used an in vitro assay to detect the complementary RNA synthesis activity. Results showed that the purified recombinant RdRp was able to synthesize the complementary positive-sense RNA from a 100-nt template corresponding to the 3′-end of the viral antisense genome sequence, but that the RdRp could not synthesize the antisense genomic RNA from the template corresponding to the 5′-end of the positive-sense genome sequence. We also predicted that the 31 nt region at the 3′-end of the RNA antisense template forms a stem-loop structure. Deletion of this sequence resulted in the loss of complementary RNA synthesis by the RdRp, and connection of the 31 nt to the 3′-end of the inactive positive-sense RNA template resulted in the gain of complementary RNA synthesis by the RdRp. Similarly, an electrophoretic mobility shift assay further revealed that the RdRp bound to the antisense RNA specifically, but was dependent on the 31 nt at the 3′-end. Therefore, based on this observation and further deletion and mutation analyses, we concluded that the predicted stem-loop structure in the 31 nt end and the region close to the antisense viral genomic stem sequences are both important for initiating the positive-sense human norovirus genomic RNA synthesis by its RdRp.
Chapter 2 Fourier Transform Ion Mobility Spectrometry for Detection After SFC

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses Fourier transform ion mobility spectrometry (FTIMS) for detection after supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC). It is one of the simplest of the hyphenated techniques and it is the only analytical method in which qualitative information can be obtained from ionization processes at atmosphere pressure. Based on gas phase atmospheric pressure electrophoretic separation of ions, IMS serves as a complementary technique to UV/Vis absorption and fluorescence methods of detection. The multifarious nature of IMS makes it difficult to discuss concisely the analytical figures of merit (FOM) for all operating conditions. Additionally, multiple mobile phase options may also alter response characteristics. Presently, a fully optimized FTIMS instrument for SFC has not been produced and questions concerning detector design and engineering as well as fundamental questions of ion mobility and chemical reactions remain unanswered. Nevertheless, the current state of the art of FTIMS offers considerable advantage for detection after SFC. Detection limits, mobile phase compatibility, and response versatility exceed most inexpensive detection methods available for SFC. Moreover, ion mobility data can be used to suggest unknown identities and when matched with chromatographic and ion mobility data from standards, confirmation of identifications can be achieved.
Let's Set the Record Straight

(1977). Let's Set the Record Straight. Journal of Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 48, No. 3, pp. 40-44.
Developing a Measure of Individual Differences in Organizational Revenge

The purpose of this research was to develop a measurement of the individual differences that contribute to acts of organizational revenge and aggression. This scale was designed to achieve three goals: (a) to minimize demand characteristics so that the scale may be useful for personnel selection, (b) to represent a wide range of possible behavioral reactions to organizational injustice, and (c) to represent a range of trust violations committed by organizations that can lead to revenge. Two studies were conducted to reduce the initial 168 items into a 50-item scale containing two conceptually distinct subscales, a 19-item Constructive subscale and a 31-item Destructive subscale. Study 2 provides evidence for the internal reliability of the overall scale and its subscales and also provides some evidence for the construct validity of the final scale. The utility of this instrument for use in personnel selection and for research on workplace aggression is discussed, along with suggestions for additional efforts to demonstrate the validity of this instrument.
Robust inversion-based learning control for nonminimum phase systems

This paper introduces a new robust inversion-based learning algorithm for the repetitive tracking control of a class of unstable nonminimum phase systems. After each repetitive trial, the least-squares method is used to estimate the system parameters. The output tracking error and the identified system model are used through stable inversion to find the feed forward input, together with the desired state trajectories, for the next trial. A robust controller is used in each trial to ensure the stability of the systems and the output tracking error convergence. Sufficient conditions for learning control convergence are provided. Simulation studies on the systems with gain uncertainty and time constant uncertainty are also presented. In addition, simulation results demonstrate that the proposed learning control scheme is very effective in reproducing the desired trajectories.
The role of inositol phosphates in intracellular calcium mobilization.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the evidence that the hydrolysis of plasma membrane polyphosphoinositides in response to receptor–agonist interaction produces a second messenger molecule, IP 3 , which triggers the release of a burst of intracellular sequestered Ca 2+ into the cytosol. Phosphatidylinositol (PI) synthesis, like that of most phospholipids, occurs almost entirely in the endoplasmic reticulum. The location of PI kinase appears is diverse because this enzyme is enriched not only in plasma membrane, but also, at least in liver, is largely concentrated in the Golgi apparatus and lysosomes as well. Phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PIP) kinase was originally reported to be a largely cytosolic enzyme in the brain, but recently it was found in liver to be nearly exclusively confined to the plasma membrane. Thus, the possibility must be considered that PIP kinase, at least in some tissues, is a loosely bound membrane enzyme that is readily displaced during cell fractionation.
Cryptococcal Heat Shock Protein 70 Homolog Ssa1 Contributes to Pulmonary Expansion of Cryptococcus neoformans during the Afferent Phase of the Immune Response by Promoting Macrophage M2 Polarization

Numerous virulence factors expressed by Cryptococcus neoformans modulate host defenses by promoting nonprotective Th2-biased adaptive immune responses. Prior studies demonstrate that the heat shock protein 70 homolog, Ssa1, significantly contributes to serotype D C. neoformans virulence through the induction of laccase, a Th2-skewing and CNS tropic factor. In the present study, we sought to determine whether Ssa1 modulates host defenses in mice infected with a highly virulent serotype A strain of C. neoformans (H99). To investigate this, we assessed pulmonary fungal growth, CNS dissemination, and survival in mice infected with either H99, an SSA1-deleted H99 strain (Δssa1), and a complement strain with restored SSA1 expression (Δssa1::SSA1). Mice infected with the Δssa1 strain displayed substantial reductions in lung fungal burden during the innate phase (days 3 and 7) of the host response, whereas less pronounced reductions were observed during the adaptive phase (day 14) and mouse survival increased only by 5 d. Surprisingly, laccase activity assays revealed that Δssa1 was not laccase deficient, demonstrating that H99 does not require Ssa1 for laccase expression, which explains the CNS tropism we still observed in the Ssa1-deficient strain. Lastly, our immunophenotyping studies showed that Ssa1 directly promotes early M2 skewing of lung mononuclear phagocytes during the innate phase, but not the adaptive phase, of the immune response. We conclude that Ssa1's virulence mechanism in H99 is distinct and laccase-independent. Ssa1 directly interferes with early macrophage polarization, limiting innate control of C. neoformans, but ultimately has no effect on cryptococcal control by adaptive immunity.
Age-dependent poliomyelitis of mice: expression of endogenous retrovirus correlates with cytocidal replication of lactate dehydrogenase-elevating virus in motor neurons.

Abstract The widespread presence of endogenous retroviruses in the genomes of animals and humans has suggested that these viruses may be involved in both normal and abnormal developmental processes. Previous studies have indicated the involvement of endogenous ecotropic murine leukemia virus (MuLV) in the development of age-dependent poliomyelitis caused by infection of old C58 or AKR mice by lactate dehydrogenase-elevating virus (LDV). The only genetic components which segregate with susceptibility to LDV-induced paralytic disease are multiple proviral copies of ecotropic MuLV and the permissive allele, at the Fv-1 locus, for N-tropic, ecotropic virus replication (Fv-1n/n). Using in situ hybridization and Northern (RNA) blot hybridization, we have correlated the expression of the endogenous MuLV, both temporally and spatially, with LDV infection of anterior horn motor neurons and the development of paralysis. Our data indicate that treatment of 6- to 7-month-old C58/M mice with cyclophosphamide, which renders these mice susceptible to LDV-induced paralytic disease, results in transient increases in ecotropic MuLV RNA levels in motor neurons throughout the spinal cord. Peripheral inoculation of C58/M mice with LDV, at the time of elevated MuLV RNA levels, results in a rapid spread of LDV to some spinal cord motor neurons. LDV infections then spread slowly but progressively throughout the spinal cord, involving an increasing number of motor neurons. LDV replication is cytocidal and results in neuron destruction and paralysis of the infected animals 2 to 3 weeks postinfection. The slow replication of LDV in the spinal cord contrasts sharply with the rapid replication of LDV in macrophages, the normal host cells for LDV, during the acute phase of infection. The data indicate that the interaction between the endogenous MuLV with the generally nonpathogenic murine togavirus LDV occurs at the level of the motor neuron. We discuss potential mechanisms for the novel dual-virus etiology of age-dependent poliomyelitis of mice.
The action of digitonin on rat liver mitochondria. The effects on enzyme content

1. The effects of repetitive treatment of rat liver mitochondria with digitonin were examined. The first treatment results in the removal of the outer membrane. Almost all the NADH–cytochrome c reductase (rotenone-insensitive) is lost whereas the major portions of the soluble and bound enzymes are retained. One exception appears to be the cytochromes, which undergo somewhat larger losses. The resulting inner-membrane complex carries out oxidative phosphorylation and Pi–ATP exchange. 2. The properties of the inner-membrane complex are affected by the osmoticity of the medium. When it is suspended in water little protein is lost but there is a marked loss of phosphorylation. If after the suspension in water the particulate fraction is reisolated by centrifugation and treated with digitonin, or if the aqueous suspension is treated directly with digitonin and the particulate fraction then reisolated, the phosphorylation is largely restored. 3. Additional treatment of the inner mitochondrial complex with digitonin results in the formation of a particulate fraction that contains approx. 8% of the initial mitochondrial protein, no outer membrane, no soluble mitochondrial enzymes and is still capable of coupled oxidative phosphorylation and Pi–ATP exchange. These effects cannot be reproduced by treatment with water. 4. The rat liver mitochondria and all of the resulting preparations obtained after digitonin treatment may be stored for long periods in dimethyl sulphoxide with little change of activity.
The ancient Red Sea port of Adulis and the Eritrean coastal region: previous investigations and museum collections

Eritrea has a remarkable, but understudied, archaeological past. During the first millennium AD, urban centres on the southern Red Sea coast of Africa developed ties to far-flung powers like Rome a...