cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A developmental analysis of communication between mothers and infants with Down's syndrome

LTHOUGH RESEARCH indicates that > mother s contribut e to th proces of lan-guage acquisition by reducing the complexity of their language input to a level that is commensurate with their children's language competence and by responding appropriately to selected parameters of their children's speech (Cross, 1977; Furrow, Nelson, & Bene-dict, 1979), it has not been definitively estab-lished that maternal speech patterns are cau-sally related to children's rate of language development. However, the universality of this phenomenon as well as the apparent didactic value of maternal speech patterns have led to a general consensus that this is one of several critical factors that influence chil-dren's acquisition of language (Cross, 1978; Moerk, 1976). This article is a longitudinal investigation of the quality of the language with which two mothers addressed their Down's syndrome children during the second year of life.
Tb-doped Aluminosilicate Oxyfluoride Scintillating Glass and Glass-ceramic

Two aluminosilicate oxyfluoride glass systems, a lead-cadmium-aluminosilicate oxyfluoride and a lithium-lanthanum-aluminosilicate oxyfluoride, doped with different TbF 3 concentrations, have been fabricated and investigated. By appropriate heat treatment of the as-prepared glasses above, transparent glass-ceramics (TGC) were obtained. The glass-ceramics contain Tb:Pb(Cd)F 2 or Tb:LaF 3 nano-crystals in the glass-matrix. Differential scanning calorimetry, Raman scattering, and luminescence under both UV and β-particle excitation have been investigated on as-prepared glasses and glass-ceramics. It has been found that the terbium-doped lithium-lanthanum-aluminosilicate oxyfluoride glass exhibits good UV excited luminescence and β-induced luminescence. The luminescence yield increases for glass-ceramic compared to that of the as-prepared glass. The including of LaF 3 in the glass-matrix is beneficial for a higher Tb-doping concentration and a high light yield. The light yield of lithium-lanthanum-aluminosilicate oxyfluoride glass and glass-ceramic is comparable to that of Schott IQI-301 product. However, the terbium-doped lead-cadmium-aluminosilicate oxyfluoride glass and glass-ceramic have a detrimental luminescence performance. The lead cations in the glass-matrix may create non-bridging oxygen defects, which are a strong source of charge traps, and correlated to a strong Raman “Boson” peak.
Quantifying the incidence and burden of postinfectious enteric sequelae.

ABSTRACTBackground: Evidence continues to reveal that travelers' diarrhea (TD) may be associated with several chronic conditions. We quantified the burden of these TD sequelae (TDS) and compared it to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), both well-appreciated long-term health outcomes (LTHO) of deployment. Methods: A systematic review of outcome-specific incidence and disability was conducted to estimate years lived with disability (YLDs) allowing for comparisons of disease burden across outcomes. Results: Estimates varied within outcomes across publication year, study design, and data source. YLD estimates showed that although PTSD results in the highest overall disability (1,225 per 100,000), the impact of TDS is similarly elevated with the greatest burden associated with irritable bowel syndrome (627 per 100,000) followed by reactive arthritis (139). Conclusion: Given the significant impact of the acute effects of TD on troop readiness and the growing appreciati...
The 19-Nation Survey; Genetics and Ethics Around the World

Medical or clinical genetics is “the aspect of human genetics that is concerned with the relation between heredity and disease” [14]. This growing medical specialty is concerned with all aspects of genetic disorders, including research, diagnosis, counseling, and treatment. The scientific basis for medical genetics is developing rapidly. Demonstration that DNA is the genetic material has led to a firm definition of the gene and to new diagnostic tests based on the DNA concept.
Analyzing Uncertainty: Probability Distributions and Simulation

This note introduces simulation as a tool to analyze uncertainty in business decisions. It first observes the limitations of single point or simple range estimates of key uncertainties, thereby motivating the need to create a risk profile for any alternative that characterizes the full range of possible outcomes and their relative likelihoods. A simple example involving both a discrete and a continuous (triangle) distribution is used. The note is simulation-software independent, although output from Crystal Ball is displayed.
The Properties of Topological Network Connectivity Measures and Their Application to U.S. Urban Freeway Networks

The mathematical concepts of graph theory were introduced into geography in the early 1960s, providing a means of conceptualizing transport networks as made up of nodes and links. Among the contributions were several measures of topological network connectivity known as α (alpha), β (beta), and γ (gamma). These ratio measures identified the level of connectivity present in a network. These measures attracted considerable attention before fading from view, although they have recently returned to prominence in several applications. Despite this renewed attention, the basic mathematical properties of these measures remain largely unexamined. This research investigates the properties of these three simple ratio measures and explores values and properties that might be typical in urban freeway networks. Although simple correlation reveals little relationship between connectivity and freeway structure, they can be used to identify several groups of freeway networks as well as identifying important details about...
STUDIES ON THE POPULATION BIOLOGY OF THE GENUS VIOLA. II. THE EFFECT OF PLANT SIZE ON FITNESS IN VIOLA SORORIA.

Populations of plants are generally formed by individuals of different sizes. Studies with monocultures at different densities (Kira et al., 1953; Yoda et al., 1963; White and Harper, 1970) indicate that populations converge in time towards a similar biomass per unit area, provided density is high enough for competition for resources to be taking place. This means that average individual plant dry weight and average size change with density in a predictable way. The relationship can be expressed mathematically as follows:
Detection of Human Cytomegalovirus and Epstein-Barr Virus in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells With DNA Probes

Screening for CMV-negative blood for transfusions is routinely done by serological methods. DNA probe kits can detect viral DNA and represent a method for detection of infectious blood. The correlation between serological methods and DNA hybridization is weak.
Simulation and Actual Measurement Based Analysis on Harmonic Characteristic of 750 kV Magnetically Controlled Shunt Reactor

Based on the system commissioning of controllable high voltage shunt reactor connected to the bus of Yuqia substation, which belongs to the second power transmission channel project interconnecting Xinjiang power grid with Northwest power grid, the simulation and actual measurement based analysis on harmonic characteristic of 750 kV magnetically controlled shunt reactor(MCSR) is performed. A detailed electromagnetic transient model of MCSR is established to simulate and calculate the harmonics caused by steady state operation and energizing no-load transmission line, and the results of simulation and calculation are compared with on-site measured waveforms and comparison results are analyzed. During the steady state operation of MCSR the current at grid side mainly contains odd harmonics such as the 3-th, the 5-th and the 7-th harmonics and so on; the amplitude of inrush current due to energizing no-load MCSR under pre-excitation is higher than that without pre-excitation, and the produced harmonic is mainly the second harmonic component, and the attenuation trend of harmonics relates to the shift of the working point of MCSR. The results of this research clarify the harmonic characteristic of MCSR and are available for reference to the analysis on the interaction effect between MCSR and power grid.
A multi-state analysis of postpartum readmissions in the United States

Background Readmission rates are used as a quality metric in medical and surgical specialties; however, little is known about obstetrics readmissions. Objective Our goals for this study were to describe the trends in postpartum readmissions over time; to characterize the common indications and associated diagnoses for readmissions; and to determine maternal, delivery, and hospital characteristics that may be associated with readmission. Study Design Postpartum readmissions occurring within the first 6 weeks after delivery in California, Florida, and New York were identified between 2004 and 2011 in State Inpatient Databases. Of the 5,949,739 eligible deliveries identified, 114,748 women were readmitted over the 8-year period. We calculated the rates of readmissions and their indications by state and over time. The characteristics of the readmission stay, including day readmitted, length of readmission, and charge for readmission, were compared among the diagnoses. Odds ratios were calculated using a multivariate logistic regression to determine the predictors of readmission. Results The readmission rate increased from 1.72% in 2004 to 2.16% in 2011. Readmitted patients were more likely to be publicly insured (54.3% vs 42.0%, P P P P P Conclusion Postpartum readmission rates have risen over the last 8 years. Understanding the risk factors, etiologies, and cause-specific timing for postpartum readmissions may aid in the development of new quality metrics in obstetrics and targeted strategies to curb the rising rate of postpartum readmissions in the United States.
Cognitive Human–Robot Interaction

A key research challenge in robotics is to design robotic systems with the cognitive capabilities necessary to support human–robot interaction. These systems will need to have appropriate representations of the world; the task at hand; the capabilities, expectations, and actions of their human counterparts; and how their own actions might affect the world, their task, and their human partners. Cognitive human–robot interaction is a research area that considers human(s), robot(s), and their joint actions as a cognitive system and seeks to create models, algorithms, and design guidelines to enable the design of such systems. Core research activities in this area include the development of representations and actions that allow robots to participate in joint activities with people; a deeper understanding of human expectations and cognitive responses to robot actions; and, models of joint activity for human–robot interaction. This chapter surveys these research activities by drawing on research questions and advances from a wide range of fields including computer science, cognitive science, linguistics, and robotics.
Ecology and Conservation of the Endangered Legume Crotalaria avonensis in Florida Scrub

We collected data from 1998 to 2014 to describe the ecology of the highly endangered Florida scrub plant Crotalaria avonensis (Avon Park Harebells), and herein address several hypotheses based on what was known of its biology and the biology of co-occurring species. This perennial herbaceous legume occurs at 3 sites and prefers microsites with more cover by bare sand than vegetation. The population at an unprotected site has declined in size, but dynamics have been more stable at the 2 protected sites. Marked plants have shown high survival, slow and inconsistent growth, and occasional plant dormancy (usually 1–2 years). Avon Park Harebells is reproductively challenged, with very low rates of fruit set and infrequent visitation by required pollinators. The hardseeded fruits germinated at a rate of 13–56%; the germination speed seemed to increase after scarification, though the overall rate was less than for unscarified seeds. Unscarified seeds remained viable in the seed bank for at least 3 years. Seedlings recruited rarely, had moderate survival, began flowering at 4 years of age or later, and reached the size of median adult plants in 6–8 years. Herbivores affected 7–53% of plants in a given year, but plants showed rapid compensatory resprouting. Caging plants reduced herbivory and increased survival, growth, and flowering. Plants resprouted after fire and mechanical disturbance and exhibited high survival and growth, but repeated disturbances by vehicles caused increased mortality. Avon Park Harebells remains extremely endangered due to its limited range, small population sizes, and poor seedling recruitment. To help this species recover, we recommend fire management, protection from herbivory, introductions and augmentations, and further study of its pollination biology.
Homogeneous Deformation of Multi-Agent Systems Communication

In this chapter, it is shown how a multi-agent system (MAS) can acquire a desired homogeneous deformation in \(\mathbb{R}^{n}\) (prescribed by n + 1 leaders) through local communication. For this purpose, two communication protocols are developed. The first protocol, that is called minimum communication, allows each follower to communicate only with n + 1 local agents. Under this protocol, communication weights
Management of Asta-Ja System

About a decade ago, I founded the Asta-Ja Framework which identifies Eight Ja—the Nepali letter “Ja,”—meaning Jal (water), Jamin (land), Jungle (forest), Jadibuti (medicinal and aromatic plants), Janashakti (manpower), Janawar (animlas), Jarajuri (crop plants), and Jalabayu (climate), and proposes their sustainable conservation, development, and utilization for fast-paced socio-economic transformation of Nepal. It is a scientific, holistic, systematic, self-reliance, and multidisciplinary grassroots-based framework for conservation, development and utilization of Asta-Ja resources. For its practical application, I proposed eight principles: 1) community awareness, 2) policy decision making, 3) community capacity-building, 4) interrelationships and linkages, 5) comprehensive assessment, 6) sustainable technologies and practices, 7) institutions, trade and governance, and 8) sustainable community development and socio-economic transformation. The first decade of its implementation in Nepal characterized with a vigorous community outreach, strong membership drive, sound policy advocacy, heavy engagement of high-level government officials and dignitaries, community capacity-building, disaster relief works, and cutting-edge research and development. Future direction for its effective implementation include: 1) institutional strengthening, 2) coordination with governmental agencies and other stakeholders in planning and management of Asta-Ja resources, 3) expedited research and development on Asta-Ja resources, 5) formation of Asta-Ja Consortium, 6) development of a comprehensive Asta-Ja Data Portal, and 7) the establishment of Asta-Ja Think Tank.
Deterrence of Cyber Attackers in a Three-Player Behavioral Game

This study describes a three-player cyber security game involving an attacker, a defender, and a user. An attacker must choose to attack the defender or the user or to forego an attack altogether. Conversely, defender (e.g., system administrator) and user (e.g., individual system user) must choose between either a “standard” or “enhanced” security level. Deterrence is operationalized as a decision by an attacker to forego an attack. We conducted two behavioral experiments in which players were assigned to the cyber attacker role over multiple rounds of a security game and were incentivized based on their performance. The defender and user’s decisions were based on a joint probability distribution over their two options known to the attacker. Coordination between the defender and user is manipulated via the joint probability distribution. Results indicate that attacker deterrence is influenced by coordination between defender and user.
Effects of Quercetin, Kaempferol, and Exogenous Glutathione on Phospho- and Total-AKT in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes.

Obesity has been reported to be a risk factor for some types of cancer, such as prostate and lung. The AKT or PI3K-AKT is a signal transduction pathway that promotes survival and growth in response...
Comparing the Acute Effects of Intermittent and Continuous Whole-Body Vibration Exposure on Neuromuscular and Functional Measures in Sarcopenia and Nonsarcopenic Elderly Women:

This investigation examined the acute effects of continuous whole-body vibration (CWBV) and intermittent whole-body vibration (IWBV) on neuromuscular and functional measures in women with sarcopenia and nonsarcopenic women. Continuous whole-body vibration was one 6-minute exposure, while IWBV consisted of six 60-second exposures to rest intervals (30 Hz, 2-4 mm amplitude). Factorial analyses revealed group × exposure × time interactions for jump height (JH; F = 10.8, P = .002), grip strength (GS; F = 15.5, P < .001), timed up and go test (F = 11.7, P = .002), and sit and reach test (SR F = 9.7, P = .004). Both JH and GS significantly improved post-WBV in women with sarcopenia (P < .001), with post-IWBV significantly greater (P < .001) than post-CWBV. Timed up and go test and S&R significantly improved post-IWBV in both the groups (P < .001) with post-IWBV significantly better than post-CWBV (P < .001). Bench press power at 20% one repetition maximum (1RM) revealed an exposure × time interaction (F = 4.6, P = .04) illuminating that IWBV significantly improved muscular power (P < .001). Bench press power at 40% 1RM revealed group × exposure (F = 6.4, P = .016) and exposure × time interactions (F = 5.8, P = .022). Individuals with sarcopenia significantly increased power output (P < .001) post-IWBV which was significantly greater than post-CWBV (P = .037). Bench press power at 60% 1RM revealed an exposure × time interaction (F = 8.6, P = .006), indicating that power was significantly improved post-IWBV (P = .027) and decreased post-CWBV. Berg Balance scale revealed a time main effect (F = 6.64, P = .015), and pain discomfort was significantly lower post-IWBV. These data indicate IWBV may provide a more efficacious exposure pattern in older women when compared to CWBV.
Di-niobium gold clusters: Multiply-bonded Nb2 dimer coordinated equatorially by Au atoms

Abstract We report a joint experimental and theoretical investigation on the structures and bonding of a series of di-niobium gold clusters, Nb2Aux− (x = 2–5), using photoelectron spectroscopy and density functional calculations. Well-resolved spectral features are observed for the Nb2Aux− clusters at different photon energies. Global minimum searches coupled with density functional calculations are performed to find the low-lying structures of the bimetallic clusters. Vertical detachment energies are calculated and compared with the experimental spectra to determine the global minimum structures. The Nb2Aux− (x = 2–5) clusters are found to feature a multiply-bonded Nb2 dimer coordinated equatorially by the Au atoms with Dxh symmetries for x = 2–5, respectively. Each Au atom interacts with the Nb2 dimer via a 3-center delocalized σ bond, while there are no Au…Au interactions. The Nb Nb bond length is found to increase as the number of gold atoms increases in the Nb2Aux− (x = 2–5) clusters, as a result of the decrease of the bond order for the Nb2 moiety from x = 2 to 5.
NEO212, a conjugate of temozolomide and perillyl alcohol, blocks the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in tumor-associated brain endothelial cells in glioblastoma

Abstract As the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) supports the pro-angiogenic and invasive characteristics of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), blocking this process would be a promising approach to inhibit tumor progression and recurrence. Here, we demonstrate that glioma stem cells (GSC) induce EndMT in brain endothelial cells (BEC). TGF-β signaling is necessary, but not sufficient to induce this EndMT process. Cell-to-cell contact and the contribution of Notch signaling are also required. NEO212, a conjugate of temozolomide and perillyl alcohol, blocks EndMT induction and reverts the mesenchymal phenotype of tumor-associated BEC (TuBEC) by blocking TGF-β and Notch pathways. Consequently, NEO212 reduces the invasiveness and pro-angiogenic properties associated with TuBEC, without affecting control BEC. Intracranial co-implantation of BEC and GSC in athymic mice showed that EndMT occurs in vivo, and can be blocked by NEO212, supporting the potential clinical value of NEO212 for the treatment of GBM.
Reframing understandings of cultural influences on learning science

This review essay addresses issues raised in Valerie Frede’s paper entitled: Comprehension of the nightandday cycle among French and Cameroonian children aged 7–8 years.
“‘I Was Gonna Go Off, but My Best Friend is White.”: Hispanic Students’ Co-Cultural Reasoning in a Hispanic Serving Institution

The researchers engaged in a qualitative analysis (using journaling and focus group methodology) of the communicative behaviors of Hispanic students with White institutional members at a medium-siz...
Extended Oral Antibiotic Prophylaxis in High-Risk Patients Substantially Reduces Primary Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty 90-Day Infection Rate.

Background:Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) episodic payment models shift risk and cost of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) to surgeons and hospitals, causing some to avoid treating high-risk patients. Furthermore, there are little data to support optimization of host factors preoperatively to dec
Coulombic and non-Coulombic effects in charge-regulating electric double layers

The charge and potential distributions in an electric double layer result from various chemical and physical interactions between an interface and the adjacent electrolyte solution. The charge typically originates from a chemical equilibrium between the reactive surface and certain potential determining ions in the solution (i.e., surface charge regulation). This surface chemistry however, is strongly dependent on the wide variety of interactions between all species in the solution, as well as with the interface. These interactions could be Coulombic and non-Coulombic, and are system-specific. The focus of this study is on the ion valency and its effect on the Coulombic interactions, their interplay with the molecular excluded volume, and attraction in the fluid phase, as well as with the electric double layer interface.
Modular Synthesis of DOTA-Metal-Based PSMA-Targeted Imaging Agents for MRI and PET of Prostate Cancer

A practical, convergent synthesis of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) targeted imaging agents for MRI, PET, and SPECT of prostate cancer has been developed. In this approach, metals chelated to 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) were placed on the side chains of lysine early in the synthesis to form imaging modules. These are coupled to targeting modules, in this case consisting of the PSMA-binding urea DCL, bonded to an activated linker. The modular approach to targeted molecular imaging agents (TMIAs) offers distinct advantages. By chelating the MRI contrast metal Gd early, it doubles as a protecting group for DOTA. Standard coupling and deprotection steps may be utilized to assemble the modules into peptides, and the need for tri-tert-butyl protection of DOTA requiring removal by strong acid is averted. This enables mild conjugation of the imaging module to a wide variety of targeting agents in the final step. It was further discovered that two labile metals, La3+ or Ce3+ , can be used as placeholders in DOTA during the synthesis, then transmetalated in mild acid by Cu2+ , Ga3+ , In3+ , and Y3+ , metals used in PET/SPECT. This enables the efficient synthesis of nonradioactive analogues of targeted molecular imaging agents that may be transported or stored until needed. A simple and mild two-step transmetalation, involving de-metalation in dilute acid, followed by rapid chelation of the radioactive metal, may be conveniently performed later at the clinic to provide the TMIAs for PET or SPECT.
Development of Ultrasonic Models for Hard-Alpha Inclusions in Titanium Alloys

This paper describes research directed towards modeling ultrasonic signals from hard-alpha inclusions in titanium alloys. The modeling effort has been made difficult by the complicated morphology of such inclusions which can include voids, cracks, core and diffusion zones. Fortunately, a large portion of hard-alpha inclusions are acoustically weak scatterers in nature, and advantage can be taken of simplifications as afforded by Born approximation and some ad-hoc interface conditions. Models along these lines have been previously developed and their validations on synthetic hard-alpha inclusions of cylindrical shape at normal incidence have been reported [1]. Extensive use of these ultrasonic models were also presented in the development of a statistical methodology for estimating the probability of detection [2,3]. In current work, we extend the model capability to include arbitrary flaw orientation and oblique incidence. Model predictions are compared with experimental data collected from titanium specimens for different beam angles, focal depths, inclusion sizes and orientations. The range of the model applicabilities and their possible extensions will be presented. Morphological modeling of the three-dimensional, naturally-occurring inclusions based on stacks of two-dimensional metallographic measurements are also described.
Blameworthiness and constitutive control

According to “voluntarists,” voluntary control is a necessary precondition on being blameworthy. According to “non-voluntarists,” it isn’t. I argue here that we ought to take seriously a type of voluntary control that both camps have tended to overlook. In addition to “direct” control over our behavior, and “indirect” control over some of the consequences of our behavior, we also possess “constitutive” control: the capacity to govern some of our attitudes and character traits by making choices about what to do that constitute those attitudes and traits. Taking this sort of control seriously, I argue, ultimately tips the scale towards voluntarism. First, I address a non-voluntarist case in which an agent is putatively made blameworthy by the reasons for which she acts, even though the particular reasons for which she acts aren’t up to her. I argue that this case looks compelling only if we overlook constitutive control, and thereby miss how the agent’s motivating reasons are under her voluntary control even though non-voluntarists think they are not. I then use the notion of constitutive control to diffuse some of the best putative counterexamples to voluntarism: cases in which subjects are blameworthy either for caring inadequately about others or for wishing them ill.
Effort-based decision making varies by smoking status

A reduced willingness to perform effort based on the magnitude and probability of potential rewards has been associated with diminished dopamine function and may be relevant to chronic drug use. Here, we investigated the influence of smoking status on effort-based decisions. We hypothesized that smokers would make fewer high-effort selections than ex-smokers and never-smokers. Current smokers (n = 25), ex-smokers (≥ 1 year quit, n = 23), and never-smokers (n = 19) completed the Effort Expenditure for Rewards Task in which participants select between low-effort and high-effort options to receive monetary rewards at varying levels of reward magnitude, probability and expected value. Overall, participants selected more high-effort options as potential reward magnitude and expected value increased. Smokers did not make fewer high-effort selections overall, but smokers were less sensitive to the changes in magnitude, probability, and expected value compared to never-smokers. Smokers were also less sensitive to the changes in probability and expected value, but not magnitude, compared to ex-smokers. Among smokers and ex-smokers, less nicotine dependence was associated with an increased likelihood of high-effort selections. These results demonstrate the relevance of smoking status to effort-based decisions and suggest that smokers have diminished sensitivity to nondrug reward value. Among ex-smokers, greater pre-existing sensitivity to reward value may have been conducive to smoking cessation, or sensitivity was improved by smoking cessation. Future prospective studies can investigate whether effort-related decision making is predictive of smoking initiation or cessation success. Willingness to perform effort to achieve a goal and sensitivity to changes in reward value are important aspects of motivation. These results showed that smokers have decreased sensitivity to changes in effort-related reward probability and expected value compared to ex-smokers and never-smokers. Potentially, improved sensitivity to rewards among ex-smokers may be a cause or consequence of smoking cessation. These findings may help explain why some smokers are able to achieve long-term abstinence.
Distal Impact Ejecta Layers: Recognition, Confirmation, Dating, and Determining Source Craters

Discovery of a possible distal impact ejecta layer may begin in the field with recognition of a relatively thin (<1 m) lithologic layer that seems out of place or with the discovery of spherules in a well-defined layer, or in the laboratory with the discovery of a geochemical anomaly (e.g., high Ir) that suggests the presence of a meteoritic component.
PURE: A Framework for Analyzing Proximity-based Contact Tracing Protocols.

Many proximity-based tracing (PCT) protocols have been proposed and deployed to combat the spreading of COVID-19. In this paper, we take a systematic approach to analyze PCT protocols. We identify a list of desired properties of a contact tracing design from the four aspects of Privacy, Utility, Resiliency, and Efficiency (PURE). We also identify two main design choices for PCT protocols: what information patients report to the server, and which party performs the matching. These two choices determine most of the PURE properties and enable us to conduct a comprehensive analysis and comparison of the existing protocols.
Geographically-targeted COVID-19 vaccination is more equitable than age-based thresholds alone

COVID-19 mortality increases dramatically with age and is also substantially higher among Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) populations in the United States. These two facts can have conflicting implications because BIPOC populations are younger than white populations. In analyses of California and Minnesota--demographically divergent states--we show that COVID vaccination schedules based solely on age benefit the older white populations at the expense of younger BIPOC populations with higher risk of death from COVID-19. We find that strategies that prioritize high-risk geographic areas for vaccination at all ages better target mortality risk than age-based strategies alone, although they do not always perform as well as direct prioritization of high-risk racial/ethnic groups. Vaccination schemas directly implicate equitability of access, both domestically and globally.
Selective retinal ganglion cell loss and optic neuropathy in a humanized mouse model of familial dysautonomia

Abstract Familial dysautonomia (FD) is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disease caused by a splicing mutation in the gene encoding Elongator complex protein 1 (ELP1, also known as IKBKAP). This mutation results in tissue-specific skipping of exon 20 with a corresponding reduction of ELP1 protein, predominantly in the central and peripheral nervous system. Although FD patients have a complex neurological phenotype caused by continuous depletion of sensory and autonomic neurons, progressive visual decline leading to blindness is one of the most problematic aspect of the disease, as it severely affects their quality of life. To better understand the disease mechanism as well as to test the in vivo efficacy of targeted therapies for FD, we have recently generated a novel phenotypic mouse model, TgFD9; Elp1∆20/flox. This mouse exhibits most of the clinical features of the disease and accurately recapitulates the tissue-specific splicing defect observed in FD patients. Driven by the dire need to develop therapies targeting retinal degeneration in FD, herein, we comprehensively characterized the progression of the retinal phenotype in this mouse, and we demonstrated that it is possible to correct ELP1 splicing defect in the retina using the splicing modulator compound (SMC) BPN-15477.
Polarizable Water Potential Derived from a Model Electron Density

A new empirical potential for efficient, large scale molecular dynamics simulation of water is presented. The HIPPO (Hydrogen-like Intermolecular Polarizable POtential) force field is based upon the model electron density of a hydrogen-like atom. This framework is used to derive and parametrize individual terms describing charge penetration damped permanent electrostatics, damped polarization, charge transfer, anisotropic Pauli repulsion, and damped dispersion interactions. Initial parameter values were fit to Symmetry Adapted Perturbation Theory (SAPT) energy components for ten water dimer configurations, as well as the radial and angular dependence of the canonical dimer. The SAPT-based parameters were then systematically refined to extend the treatment to water bulk phases. The final HIPPO water model provides a balanced representation of a wide variety of properties of gas phase clusters, liquid water, and ice polymorphs, across a range of temperatures and pressures. This water potential yields a rationalization of water structure, dynamics, and thermodynamics explicitly correlated with an ab initio energy decomposition, while providing a level of accuracy comparable or superior to previous polarizable atomic multipole force fields. The HIPPO water model serves as a cornerstone around which similarly detailed physics-based models can be developed for additional molecular species.
Abundance of N 2 O in the Atmosphere

High-resolution measurements made on the 200–000 telluric band of N2O at 3.9 μ yielded integrated absorption coefficients for individual band lines. When these measurements are combined with laboratory-calibration spectral measurements, 2.0 ± 0.3 mm path N.T.P. is obtained for the amount of N2O present in a standard earth’s air mass.
Cell-Permeable Scavengers of Superoxide Prevent Long-Term Potentiation in Hippocampal Area CA1

Klann, Eric. Cell-permeable scavengers of superoxide prevent long-term potentiation in hippocampal area CA1. J. Neurophysiol. 80: 452–457, 1998. Long-term potentiation (LTP) in hippocampal area CA1...
Globalization and the (Foreign Affairs) Constitution

This article asserts the consequentiality of global context for the development of constitutional law, past and future. The article offers an account of the differential doctrines of foreign relations law in which they are contingent on the historical architecture of international relations, and explains why these doctrines may no longer be sustainable against the increased institutionalization of interstate relations, the disaggregation of the nation-state, and heightened international economic competition. Insofar as these elements of globalization lower the risk of catastrophic interstate conflict and take account of actors outside of the traditional diplomatic apparatus, differential foreign relations doctrines departing from baseline norms of judicial review, federalism, and individual rights are appropriately contested. These doctrines, the article argues, were once dictated by a hostile, unstable international system and the threats that it posed to the nation; all should be reexamined in globalization's wake, the events of September 11 notwithstanding. In this respect, the article parts ways with other voices in current foreign relations law debates that deploy standard, domestically-oriented metrics of constitutional discourse. The article also sketches, though only suggestively, the possibility that global context may come to determine constitutional norms beyond the traditional foreign relations law canon.
Direct binding to antigen-coated beads refines the specificity and cross-reactivity of four monoclonal antibodies that recognize polymorphic epitopes of HLA class I molecules.

Monoclonal antibodies with specificity for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I determinants of HLA were originally characterized using serological assays in which the targets were cells expressing three to six HLA class I variants. Because of this complexity, the specificities of the antibodies were defined indirectly by correlation. Here we use a direct binding assay, in which the targets are synthetic beads coated with 1 of 111 HLA class I variants, representing the full range of HLA-A, -B and -C variation. We studied one monoclonal antibody with monomorphic specificity (W6/32) and four with polymorphic specificity (MA2.1, PA2.1, BB7.2 and BB7.1) and compared the results with those obtained previously. W6/32 reacted with all HLA class I variants. MA2.1 not only exhibits high specificity for HLA-A*02, -B*57 and -B*58, but also exhibited cross-reactivity with HLA-A*11 and -B*15:16. At low concentration (1 µg/ml), PA2.1 and BB7.2 were both specific for HLA-A*02 and -A*69, and at high concentration (50 µg/ml) exhibited significant cross-reactions with HLA-A*68, -A*23 and -A*24. BB7.1 exhibits specificity for HLA-B*07 and -B*42, as previously described, but reacts equally well with HLA-B*81, a rare allotype defined some 16 years after the description of BB7.1. The results obtained with cell-based and bead-based assays are consistent and, in combination with amino acid sequence comparison, increase understanding of the polymorphic epitopes recognized by the MA2.1, PA2.1, BB7.2 and BB7.1 antibodies. Comparison of two overlapping but distinctive bead sets from two sources gave similar results, but the overall levels of binding were significantly different. Several weaker reactions were observed with only one of the bead sets.
Factors affecting pesticide occurrence and transport in a large midwestern river basin

: Several factors affect the occurrence and transport of pesticides in surface waters of the 29,400 km2 White River Basin in Indiana. A relationship was found between pesticide use and the average annual concentration of that pesticide in the White River, although this relationship varies for different classes of pesticides. About one percent of the mass applied of each of the commonly used agricultural herbicides was transported from the basin via the White River. Peak pesticide concentrations were typically highest in late spring or early summer and were associated with periods of runoff following application. Concentrations of diazinon were higher in an urban basin than in two agricultural basins, corresponding to the common use of this insecticide on lawns and gardens in urban areas. Concentrations of atrazine, a corn herbicide widely used in the White River Basin, were higher in an agricultural basin with permeable, well-drained soils, than in an agricultural basin with less permeable, more poorly drained soils. Although use of butylate and cyanazine was comparable in the White River Basin between 1992 and 1994, concentrations in the White River of butylate, which is incorporated into soil, were substantially less than for cyanazine, which is typically applied to the soil surface.
Real-time pretreatment review limits unacceptable deviations on a cooperative group radiation therapy technique trial: quality assurance results of RTOG 0933.

Purpose RTOG 0933 was a phase II trial of hippocampal avoidance during whole brain radiation therapy for patients with brain metastases. The results demonstrated improvement in short-term memory decline, as compared with historical control individuals, and preservation of quality of life. Integral to the conduct of this trial were quality assurance processes inclusive of pre-enrollment credentialing and pretreatment centralized review of enrolled patients. Methods and Materials Before enrolling patients, all treating physicians and sites were required to successfully complete a “dry-run” credentialing test. The treating physicians were credentialed based on accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging–computed tomography image fusion and hippocampal and normal tissue contouring, and the sites were credentialed based on protocol-specified dosimetric criteria. Using the same criteria, pretreatment centralized review of enrolled patients was conducted. Physicians enrolling 3 consecutive patients without unacceptable deviations were permitted to enroll further patients without pretreatment review, although their cases were reviewed after treatment. Results In all, 113 physicians and 84 sites were credentialed. Eight physicians (6.8%) failed hippocampal contouring on the first attempt; 3 were approved on the second attempt. Eight sites (9.5%) failed intensity modulated radiation therapy planning on the first attempt; all were approved on the second attempt. One hundred thirteen patients were enrolled in RTOG 0933; 100 were analyzable. Eighty-seven cases were reviewed before treatment; 5 (5.7%) violated the eligibility criteria, and 21 (24%) had unacceptable deviations. With feedback, 18 cases were approved on the second attempt and 2 cases on the third attempt. One patient was treated off protocol. Twenty-two cases were reviewed after treatment; 1 (4.5%) violated the eligibility criteria, and 5 (23%) had unacceptable deviations. Conclusions Although >95% of the cases passed the pre-enrollment credentialing, the pretreatment centralized review disqualified 5.7% of reviewed cases, prevented unacceptable deviations in 24% of reviewed cases, and limited the final unacceptable deviation rate to 5%. Thus, pretreatment review is deemed necessary in future hippocampal avoidance trials and is potentially useful in other similarly challenging radiation therapy technique trials.
Binding of human liver β-galactosidases to plant lectins insolubilized on agarose

Summary More than 95% of human liver acid β-galactosidases A and B (E.C. 3.2.1.23) are bound by Concanavalin A insolubilized on agarose. A novel feature of acid β-galactosidase elution from Con A-agarose is an optimum in competitor sugar concentration and marked temperature dependence. Wheat-germ agglutinnin binds specifically to 60% of total acid β-galactosidase. Negligible specific binding occurs to L. tetraglobinus L-fucose binding protein. Ganglioside GM 1 β-galactosidase, asialofetuin β-galactosidase and acid 4-methylumbelliferyl β-galactosidase coelute from Con A columns. These enzymes differ from neutral β-galactosidase (β-glucosidase) which is not bound by Con A. These findings suggest the presence of residues resembling α-D-mannose and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine in the acid β-galactosidases.
Evaluation of Antibiotic Usage: A Comprehensive Look at Alternative Approaches

Current problems related to the use of antibiotics in the United States are summarized. In 1979, pharmaceutical manufacturers shipped +1.55 billion worth of anti-infective drugs. It is estimated that in approximately one-half of all cases that involve administration of antibiotics in the hospital, either the medical condition does not require antibiotic treatment, the most effective and least expensive drug is not chosen, or the correct dosage or duration of therapy is not prescribed. Much of the high cost of antibiotic therapy can be attributed to the use of expensive antibiotics of the cephalosporin and aminoglycoside groups and to the excessive duration of antibiotic prophylaxis in surgery. This review presents methods that assess the magnitude of the problem by audit and analyzes the corrective approaches that have been suggested. The major issues of concern related to the use of antibiotics are the complex series of considerations that lead physicians to prescribe antibiotics and the problem of patient expectation and compliance. Excessive usage of antibiotics must be viewed as part of the problem of overusage of all drugs and laboratory procedures.
25-Hydroxycholesterols in innate and adaptive immunity

Cholesterol and components of the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway have fundamental roles in all mammalian cells. Hydroxylated forms of cholesterol are now emerging as important regulators of immune function. This involves effects on the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway and cell membrane properties, which can have antiviral and anti-inflammatory influences. In addition, a dihydroxylated form of cholesterol functions as an immune cell guidance cue by engaging the G protein-coupled receptor EBI2, and it is required for mounting adaptive immune responses. In this Review, we summarize the current understanding of the closely related oxysterols 25-hydroxycholesterol and 7α,25-dihydroxycholesterol, and the growing evidence that they have wide-ranging influences on innate and adaptive immunity.
Univariate and Multivariate Analyses of the Mental Status Examination

Investigators have reported poor recognition of dementia by primary physicians. For this reason, mental status examinations were performed on 72 demented and 144 nondemented medical inpatients to assess the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of components of this examination in the diagnosis of dementia. Sensitivity of individual level-of-orientation items was low (15.3 to 56.9%), though specificity was high (91.7 to 100%). Sensitivity of several nonorientation items was high (80.6 to 100%), though specificity was low. A multivariate discriminant equation using both orientation and nonorientation items achieved high sensitivity (89.6% test cases, 87.5% validation cases) and specificity (78.1% test cases, 87.5% validation cases). Adding the easily obtained patient characteristic of age to the equation further increased sensitivity (95.8%, 91.3%), while maintaining specificity (82.3%, 85.4%). From these results, it is concluded that the level-of-orientation screening examination used by clinicians to detect dementia is unacceptably insensitive. In contrast, a composite decision rule including nonorientation items achieves high sensitivity with relatively high specificity.
Single- and double-photoionization cross sections of atomic nitrogen from threshold to 31 Å

The relative photoionization cross section of atomic nitrogen for the production of singly and doubly charged ions has been measured from 44.3 to 275 A and from 520 to 852 A. The results have been made absolute by normalization to one-half of the molecular nitrogen cross section at short wavelengths. The smoothed atomic nitrogen cross sections sigma can be accurately represented, at short wavelengths, by the equation sigma(Mb) = 36,700 x (E exp-2.3) as a function of the photon energy E (eV), thereby allowing the cross sections to be extrapolated to the nitrogen K edge at 31 A.