cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Viscosity and origin of meconium in meconium ileus.

Summary1) Meconium from a patient with meconium ileus has been studied electrophoretically, revealing presence of albumin and of smaller amounts of other proteins with mobilities corresponding to α and β globulin. The identity of albumin was established by immunochemical and physical methods. Semi-micro Kjeldahl analyses of the abnormal meconium indicate 50.2% of dry weight of meconium to be water soluble, TCA-precipitable protein. Addition of human serum albumin to lyophilized pooled samples of meconium from normal infants results in meconium grossly indistinguishable from abnormal meconium. 2) The electrophoretic pattern of human amniotic fluid is identical with that of meconium ileus meconium and it is suggested that amniotic fluid is the source of protein present in meconium from patients with meconium ileus.
Comparison of Measures of Moral Reasoning and Development of a New Objective Measure.

An objective instrument for assessing moral reasoning, the Ethical Reasoning Inventory (ERI), was derived from Kohlberg's Scoring Manual and compared with two other objective measures. Kohlberg's interview was administered to a group of college freshmen and sophomores along with the objective instruments. The ERI showed a higher correlation with the Kohlberg interview and demonstrated a higher internal consistency than either of the other two objective measures. Data obtained from a second sample showed the ERI to have a test-retest reliability which compared favorably with published data on the other objective instruments and showed an expected negative correlation with the California F-scale.
An Evaluation of Shared Multicast Trees with Multiple Cores

Native multicast routing protocols have been built and deployed using two basic types of trees: single-source, shortest-path trees and shared, core-based trees. Core-based multicast trees use less routing state compared to shortest-path trees, but generally have higher end-to-end delay and poor fault tolerance. In this paper we consider a new type of shared multicast structure that uses multiple, independent, simultaneously-active cores. Our design provides for low end-to-end delay, improved fault tolerance, and low source discovery delay, while balancing bandwidth cost and routing state. These results indicate that shared trees with multiple active cores are a viable alternative to shortest-path trees.
Implantable insulin infusion pumps: a case presentation.

A case is presented of a young woman implanted with a program mable implantable medication system (PIMS). Implanted insulin pumps have been the subject of research for over a decade but have encountered a series of obstacles ranging from design problems to insulin aggregation to catheter blocking from omental tissue. Many of these problems, but not all, have been overcome. Implanted insulin pumps are still in a developmental phase. Glucose sensing is not yet available. Nevertheless, PIMS has demonstrated in this case that it can safely and effectively control insulin-dependent diabetes for over 1. 5 years.
Multilingual Subjectivity and Sentiment Analysis

Subjectivity and sentiment analysis focuses on the automatic identification of private states, such as opinions, emotions, sentiments, evaluations, beliefs, and speculations in natural language. While subjectivity classification labels text as either subjective or objective, sentiment classification adds an additional level of granularity, by further classifying subjective text as either positive, negative or neutral. While much of the research work in this area has been applied to English, research on other languages is growing, including Japanese, Chinese, German, Spanish, Romanian. While most of the researchers in the field are familiar with the methods applied on English, few of them have closely looked at the original research carried out in other languages. For example, in languages such as Chinese, researchers have been looking at the ability of characters to carry sentiment information (Ku et al., 2005; Xiang, 2011). In Romanian, due to markers of politeness and additional verbal modes embedded in the language, experiments have hinted that subjectivity detection may be easier to achieve (Banea et al., 2008). These additional sources of information may not be available across all languages, yet, various articles have pointed out that by investigating a synergistic approach for detecting subjectivity and sentiment in multiple languages at the same time, improvements can be achieved not only in other languages, but in English as well. The development and interest in these methods is also highly motivated by the fact that only 27% of Internet users speak English (www.internetworldstats.com/stats.htm, Oct 11, 2011), and that number diminishes further every year, as more people across the globe gain Internet access. The aim of this tutorial is to familiarize the attendees with the subjectivity and sentiment research carried out on languages other than English in order to enable and promote cross-fertilization. Specifically, we will review work along three main directions. First, we will present methods where the resources and tools have been specifically developed for a given target language. In this category, we will also briefly overview the main methods that have been proposed for English, but which can be easily ported to other languages. Second, we will describe cross-lingual approaches, including several methods that have been proposed to leverage on the resources and tools available in English by using cross-lingual projections. Finally, third, we will show how the expression of opinions and polarity pervades language boundaries, and thus methods that holistically explore multiple languages at the same time can be effectively considered.
Paleoenvironmental Reconstruction of A Late Cretaceous, Muddy, River-Dominated Polar Deltaic System: Schrader Bluff–Prince Creek Formation Transition, Shivugak Bluffs, North Slope of Alaska, U.S.A.

Abstract Upper Cretaceous (Santonian to late Campanian) strata from the upper 196 m at Shivugak Bluffs along the Colville River of northern Alaska preserve a paleopolar, fluvial–deltaic succession deposited along a prograding paleo–Arctic Ocean coastline. The uppermost lower Schrader Bluff Formation is best classified as a river-dominated delta based on muddy prodelta and delta-front deposits that contain abundant hyperpycnites, subaqueous terminal distributary channels, interdistributary bays, and mouth bars. This deltaic succession is overlain by distal distributaries and a braided fluvial system of the Prince Creek Formation. Channel measurements and paleo-discharge calculations from Prince Creek Formation distributaries indicate that rivers were the appropriate size and had the appropriate discharge to regularly produce hyperpycnites. Delta front and interdistributary bays transitioned into lakes and floodbasins on the lower delta plain, alongside distributary channels during delta lobe reorganization and abandonment. These floodbasins were subsequently transgressed and are overlain by proximal shelf and prodelta muds containing Phycosiphon. Overlying strata containing delta front, interdistributary bay, terminal distributary channel, distributary mouth bar, and distributary channel deposits signaled the reactivation of the delta lobe. Ultimately, these deltaic environments were incised into and became overlain by braided channel deposits during a marked drop in relative sea level and progradation of the fluvial system. Combining ichnologic and sedimentologic observations was critical to identify eleven distinct deltaic and continental paleoenvironments. This study documents the architecture and evolution of an ancient, high-latitude, muddy, river-dominated deltaic system and highlights the autogenic and allogenic processes preserved in the system.
Effect of Various Activities on Whole Blood Viscosity

Abstract Two hundred and thirty-eight unconditioned subjects were tested to determine to what extent whole blood viscosity was related to speed and endurance in swimming and running, strength exercises, extra water intake, and smoking. No evidence was found of an increase in blood viscosity after swimming 30 yd., running 50 yd., or smoking a cigarette. Group averages on whole blood viscosity were increased after performances in swimming 180 yd., running 440 yd., and performing strength activities. The mean average of the blood viscosity of the subjects decreased significantly after water intake. The high speed groups in swimming and running did not differ significantly, as far as blood viscosity was concerned, from the low speed groups in swimming and running. Wide variability in the effect of various activities on whole blood viscosity was found among the different groups of subjects.
Analysis of Organic Anionic Surfactants in Fine and Coarse Fractions of Freshly Emitted Sea Spray Aerosol

The inclusion of organic compounds in freshly emitted sea spray aerosol (SSA) has been shown to be size-dependent, with an increasing organic fraction in smaller particles. Here we have used electrospray ionization-high resolution mass spectrometry in negative ion mode to identify organic compounds in nascent sea spray collected throughout a 25 day mesocosm experiment. Over 280 organic compounds from ten major homologous series were tentatively identified, including saturated (C8–C24) and unsaturated (C12–C22) fatty acids, fatty acid derivatives (including saturated oxo-fatty acids (C5–C18) and saturated hydroxy-fatty acids (C5–C18), organosulfates (C2–C7, C12–C17) and sulfonates (C16–C22). During the mesocosm, the distributions of molecules within some homologous series responded to variations among the levels of phytoplankton and bacteria in the seawater. The average molecular weight and carbon preference index of saturated fatty acids significantly decreased within fine SSA during the progression of th...
Consumption Tax Proposals in the International Setting

Attention has been given to the international aspects of income taxation, allowing for both equity and efficiency concerns. Some of the recent debate over tax reform, especially in the United States, proposes to depart from the traditional combination of personal income and corporation profits tax that has dominated tax systems since World War II. The proposed shifts include (1) replacement of the personalized income tax with a value-added tax, (2) exclusion of capital income from the income-tax base leaving in effect a wage-income tax, and (3) a personalized tax on consumption. The comparative merits of these schemes as would arise in a closed economy setting have been discussed at length, but relatively little attention has been given to their consequences in an open economy setting. This article examines this aspect, including implications for both internation equity and efficiency.
A novel Kalman filter based video image processing scheme for two-photon fluorescence microscopy

Two-photon fluorescence microscopy (TPFM) is a perfect optical imaging equipment to monitor the interaction between fast moving viruses and hosts. However, due to strong unavoidable background noises from the culture, videos obtained by this technique are too noisy to elaborate this fast infection process without video image processing. In this study, we developed a novel scheme to eliminate background noises, recover background bacteria images and improve video qualities. In our scheme, we modified and implemented the following methods for both host and virus videos: correlation method, round identification method, tree-structured nonlinear filters, Kalman filters, and cell tracking method. After these procedures, most of noises were eliminated and host images were recovered with their moving directions and speed highlighted in the videos. From the analysis of the processed videos, 93% bacteria and 98% viruses were correctly detected in each frame on average.
Probing the Influence of a 4,6-O-Acetal on the Reactivity of Galactopyranosyl Donors: Verification of the Disarming Influence of the trans–gauche Conformation of C5–C6 Bonds

The effect of a 4,6-O-alkylidene acetal on the rate of acid-catalyzed hydrolysis of methyl galactopyranosides and of spontaneous hydrolysis of 2,4-dinitrophenyl galactopyranosides has been studied through the synthesis and hydrolysis of analogs in which O6 is replaced by a methoxymethylene unit in which the methoxy group adopts either an equatorial or an axial position according to the configuration. Consistent with earlier studies under both acid-catalyzed and spontaneous hydrolysis conditions, the alkylidene acetal, or its 7-carba analog, retards hydrolysis with respect to comparable systems lacking the cyclic protecting group. The configuration at C6 in the 7-carba analogs does not influence the rate of acid-catalyzed hydrolysis but has a minor influence on the rate of spontaneous hydrolysis of the 2,4-dinitrophenyl galactosides, confirming earlier studies on the role played by the hydroxymethyl group conformation on glycoside reactivity. The benzylidene acetal is found to stabilize the α-anomer of gal...
Structural and superconducting features of Tl-1223 prepared at ambient pressure

This study provides an account of the bulk preparation of TlBa2Ca2Cu3O9−δ (Tl-1223) superconductor at ambient pressure, and the critical temperature (T c) features under thermal-annealing conditions. The 'as-prepared' Tl-1223 (T c = 106 K) presents a significantly higher T c = 125 K after annealing the polycrystalline material in either flowing Ar + 4% H2, or N2 gases. In order to understand the fundamental reasons for a particular T c, we refined the average bulk structures using powder x-ray diffraction data. Although Ar + 4%H2 annealed Tl-1223 shows an increased 'c' lattice parameter, it shrinks by 0.03% (approximately unchanged) upon N2 anneal. Due to such indeterminate conclusions on the average structural changes, local structures were investigated at using aberration-corrected scanning-transmission electron microscopy technique. Similar compositional changes in the atomic arrangements of both annealed-samples of Tl-1223 were detected in which the plane containing a Ca atomic layer gives a non-uniform contrast, due to substitution of some heavier Tl. In this report, extensive bulk properties are summarized through temperature-dependent resistivity, and shielding and Meissner fractions of magnetic susceptibility results; the bulk and local structures are investigated to correlate to properties.
Analysis of Rocky Mountain mesoscale convective system initiation location clusters in the Arkansas-Red River Basin

Mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) are the largest precipitation producers in terms of total accumulated precipitation and are, therefore, the focus of this study. For this analysis, the MCSs forming within the Rocky Mountain portion of the Arkansas-Red River Basin were studied in April through September in 1996–2006. Once variables favourable for the initiation were determined, statistical analyses were performed on the variables. Presented are the general results of an analysis of the multiple linear regressions and principal component analyses showing that in each area where MCSs initiate, the most favourable conditions for initiation are unique.
Solving A Nonlinear Equation

In this chapter one of the more common mathematical problems is studied, which is to find the solution, or solutions, of an equation of the form f(x) = 0. To illustrate the situation, we begin with a few examples.
Exchange and correlation energies in silicene illuminated by circularly polarized light

AbstractBoth the exchange and correlation energies due to Coulomb and spin-orbit interactions in a monolayer silicene with a buckled honeycomb lattice are calculated. We use Lindhard formalism for the polarizability. Many-body effects in such Dirac-like materials are studied with an emphasis on the influence of on-site potential difference Δz between two sublattices. Our calculations have shown that the presence of an energy bandgap Δσ,ξ=|σξΔSO-Δz| leads to a reduced exchange energy, which has some potential applications, such as, tunability of entanglement of electrons for quantum information devices. Since silicene acquires two energy gaps associated with up- and down-pseudospin, we can adjust its electronic properties in a wider range by varying these two bandgaps as compared to graphene. Another way to tune silicene electronic properties is through impurity doping. Our numerical results demonstrate the dependence of exchange and correlation energies on the energy bandgaps, doping and temperature under...
Questions with Narrative Answers

This chapter contains questions from across medical disciplines. Each question is followed by five possible answers, a narrative explanation of the question, and the correct answer. The narrative explanations are intended to help the learner understand applications of the fundamental principles of professionalism and ethics in medicine set forth in Part I. The learner may refer back to the relevant chapter in Part I for the conceptual framework.
Intravascular Ultrasound Imaging

Intravascular ultrasound imaging is a useful and promising modality that is capable of demonstrating the structure of blood vessel walls. It also provides a quantitative assessment of the amount of atheroma present that cannot be visualized by angiography. This article reviews the basic principles of intravascular ultrasound imaging and describes the clinical studies after balloon angioplasty evaluated by intravascular ultrasound imaging.
Below the 12-vertex: 10-vertex carborane anions as non-corrosive, halide free, electrolytes for rechargeable Mg batteries

The development of practical Mg based batteries is limited by the lack of a library of suitable electrolytes. Recently a 12-vertex closo-carborane anion based electrolyte has been shown to be the first electrolyte for Mg based batteries, which is both non-corrosive and has high electrochemical stability (+3.5 V vs. Mg0/2+). Herein we show that smaller 10-vertex closo-carborane anions also enable electrolytes for Mg batteries. Reduction of the trimethylammonium cation of [HNMe31+][HCB9H91-] with elemental Mg yields the novel magnesium electrolyte [Mg2+][HCB9H91-]2. The electrolyte displays excellent electrochemical stability, is non-nucleophilic, reversibly deposits and strips Mg, and is halide free. This discovery paves the way for the development of libraries of Mg electrolytes based on more cost effective 10-vertex closo-carborane anions.
Chapter one - Microwave Magnetic Materials

Abstract Microwave materials are ubiquitous in systems that send, receive, and manipulate electromagnetic signals across very high frequency to quasi-optical frequency bands. In this chapter, modern microwave materials are reviewed including spinel, garnet, and hexaferrite systems as thin and thick films, powders and compacts, and metamaterials. Their fundamental properties and utility are examined in the context of high-frequency applications ranging from the VHF to mm-wave bands. Both perspective and outlook of advances in theory, processing, and devices occurring in the science and engineering communities since the year 2000 are presented and discussed.
The Student Levels Project

Employing students is critical to our success in offering service to our campus community. Students comprise the majority of our workforce at our Information Technology Service Desk and we rely on them greatly. However, we were faced with the problem of training our students in a consistent, effective manner with clear expectations and measurable outcomes. Our remedy is the Student Levels Project.The Student Levels Project guides students to gain knowledge and develop the skills necessary to be successful at the IT Service Desk and to be able to take those same skills with them into the marketplace when they graduate. Through a tiered system, students complete training modules to earn badges. Each level, achieved by earning the associated number of badges, is accompanied by a significant raise and clearly identifiable new skills.This paper will discuss the development and implementation of the Student Levels Project and review the results a year into using the new system and its effect on our overall service.
Evaluation of the reproducibility of a serological test for antibodies to Chlamydia trachomatis pgp3: A potential surveillance tool for trachoma programs.

Abstract Purpose Serological testing for antibodies to Chlamydia trachomatis pgp3 is being evaluated as a tool to use for trachoma surveillance. There are limited data on the reproducibility of the test results using a multiplex platform. Methods We tested the reproducibility of a serologic test for C. trachomatis pgp3 in 6 dried blood spots collected from a random sample of 45 children from a trachoma endemic area. The spots were tested on a multiplex bead array platform, using one bead set twice, using another bead set at the same time as the first, and using the same bead set twice on different days separated by several months. Seropositivity was defined using ROC analyses from the same external controls for both bead sets. We compared the mean fluorescent intensity unit minus background (MFI-BG) results using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and analyzed the concordance of seropositivity designation using the kappa statistic. Results The tests using the same bead set were highly correlated, ICC = 0.997 (0.995–1.00). Even tested months apart, the slight loss of signal was not statistically significant (p = 0.06). The test of the two different bead sets showed high correlation, but the differences in MFI-BG was statistically significant. However, the serostatus of the children was unchanged comparing the seropositivity using one bead set compared to a second bead set. Conclusion The reproducibility of the multiplex bead array for serological testing of antibodies to Chlamydia trachomatis pgp3 is high when the same bead set is used for testing.
An objective-based experimental design framework for signal processing in the context of canonical expansions

This work presents an objective-based experimental design framework for uncertainty reduction in filtering and signal processing when the underlying random processes are expressed in terms of canonical expansions. Canonical expansions are convenient representations for random processes that facilitate finding closed-form solutions for operators (filters). In the proposed experimental design framework, uncertainty is quantified based on the concept of mean objective cost of uncertainty, which measures uncertainty by taking into account the ultimate modeling objective, which is optimal filtering.
Prison and Immigration Industrial Complexes: The Ethnodistillation of People of Color and Immigrants as Economic, Political, and Demographic Threats to US Hegemony

Abstract: This paper compares the sociohistorical trends that led to the development of the Prison and Immigration Industrial Complexes by demonstrating their deep roots in American public, racial, political, and penology history, and to show how these industries were used as armaments in the low intensity conflict war to keep blacks â€œin their placeâ€ in the post-Civil Rights Movement era, and now against Latino immigrants in a last ditch effort to preserve a dissipating white hegemonic order as the looming Browning of America unfurls. This study specifically compares the black experience in the Prison Industrial Complex, and how local policies fuel that industry, to the immigrant experience and how the Immigration Industrial Complex lucratively thrives from federal and regional antiimmigrant policies that have fueled its expansion along the border, thereby escalating the â€œWar on Drugsâ€ to the â€œWar on the Border.â€ Scholars have argued that the Prison Industrial Complex ultimately serves to â€œdisappearâ€ people of color from society. I extend that contention to the Immigration Industrial Complex, by arguing that the white ruling class has benefitted the most because countless whites have escaped the wrath of these industries, which is coupled by its motivation to â€œpurify and refineâ€ society, more specifically to â€œdistillâ€ it of the â€œhypercriminalizedâ€ class theoretically composed of people of color in a process previously established as ethnodistillation, which have served to maintain the USâ€™ white subjugated social order.
Geriatrics and Chronic Pain

Chronic pain affects almost one-third of the elderly. Risk of musculoskeletal pain syndromes increases with aging, and includes arthritis, osteoporosis with fractures, and lumbar stenosis. Migraine becomes less prevalent with aging. Headache beginning after age 50 should be fully evaluated to rule out important causes of secondary headache, including giant-cell (temporal) arteritis, intracranial tumor, subdural hematoma, and cervical spine disease. Pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapies used in younger patients are effective in older patients, although drug selection and dosage must be adjusted to minimize adverse events and drug interactions.
Light emitting diode-based detectors: Absorbance, fluorescence and spectroelectrochemical measurements in a planar flow-through cell

Abstract Light emitting diodes (LEDs) were first used for chemical analysis three decades ago. They are finally making their appearance in commercial analytical systems and dedicated detectors. LEDs are the most energy-efficient means of producing monochromatic light, and provide a concentrated small cool emitter ideal for miniature analytical devices. Although they rank behind fluorescent and halogen discharge lamps in total conversion efficiency (lm/W), new efficiency records are being set every year such that by next decade broadband (white) LED sources are not only likely in analytical instrumentation, but for general illumination. This paper begins with a review of analytical use of LEDs that has been advanced in the last decade. LED-based absorbance measurement and its use in pedagogy, titrations, in providing immunity to refractive index and turbidity effects, in field and process analysis, in capillary electrophoresis (CE), in liquid–liquid extraction systems, in film and drop-based analytical systems and with liquid core waveguides (LCWs) are discussed. LED-based fluorescence and spectroelectrochemical detection follows next. Multipurpose LED-based analytical instrumentation and special analytical applications and general applications are discussed. A listing of (mostly web-based) resources for fabricating LED-based detectors is then provided. Detector circuits and available components are considered and different modes of driving LEDs are compared. The temperature dependence of LED characteristics and strategies to ameliorate this problem are discussed. The review and general resource material is followed with the construction details, operation and performance observed for a simple-to-fabricate multipurpose cell that allows simultaneous multiwavelength absorbance, fluorescence and spectroelectrochemical detection.
Low Noise, High Gain-Bandwidth Photodetectors Using Cycling Exciting Process (CEP) as Amplification Mechanism

We report a new physical mechanism, cycling excitation process (CEP), that produces intrinsic gain for photocurrent. The CEP process has shown much greater efficiency and lower noise than the impact ionization process, the mechanism for avalanche photodetectors. Using the CEP process, we have obtained detectors of low excess noise and a record high gain-bandwidth product of over 2 THz. Above all, such performance was obtained from a thin (30nm) layer of amorphous silicon as the gain medium.
CARDIOVASCULAR RISK SCORES TO PREDICT PERIOPERATIVE STROKE IN NON-CARDIAC SURGERY

Perioperative stroke is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Conventional cardiovascular risk scores have not been validated to predict acute stroke after non-cardiac surgery. Patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery between 2009-2011 were identified from the United States National
Persistent pit viper envenomation in three dogs.

Abstract Introduction North Central Florida is the home to several venomous snakes. The most clinically significant pit vipers include the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, the Water Moccasin, and less commonly the Timber Rattlesnake. Many of the dogs and cats that become envenomated by these particular snakes have moderate to severe clinical signs requiring the use of antivenom in doses that can range from 1 to 20 vials with the average case requiring two vials. Oftentimes, the pet owners’ financial limitations restrict the amount of antivenom that can be administered initially to severely envenomed cases. Most of these patients will become clinically stable after the first 48 hours of treatment, but there are rare instances where some patients will follow this same initial course, and then revert back to the initial signs of envenomation associated with delayed absorption of redistributed venom from other tissue sites in addition to the bite site. This report describes three dogs that showed signs of persistent and/or recurrent envenomation requiring additional doses of antivenom. Methods The medical records of three dogs showing signs of persistent envenomation were reviewed by the author who was available and provided assistance during the course of the dogs' respective hospitalizations. The dog's signalment, time of year of the envenomation, clinical signs, treatment, and outcome are provided in each case. Results Each of these three dogs showed severe signs of envenomation characterized by marked mental depression, prostration, hemorrhagic lymphedema, and evidence of prolonged coagulation times. Initial treatment in each consisted of intravenous crystalloid solution and polyvalent crotalid antivenom that exceeded the usual average dose as reported in the literature. After the coagulation test normalized during the first three days, all of them reverted to abnormal prolonged clotting times with signs of clinical deterioration requiring additional doses of antivenom. Clinical stability was eventually reached and all dogs survived to be discharged. Conclusions The clinical course of the three dogs described in this study showed that veterinary patients can experience persistent envenomation in a similar manner as described in humans. It behooves the veterinary practitioner to be aware of this complication and to be prepared to extend antivenom treatment as deemed necessary.
Impact of shear on crystallization behavior of sorbitol

Abstract Shear has the ability to promote crystallization through increasing the rate of primary and secondary nucleation as well as accelerate the formation of more stable polymorphs. Understanding the impact of shear on crystallization in systems that contain sorbitol as the primary bulk sweetener is essential for efficient process design as well as controlling texture and stability. By manipulating relevant formulation (0–10% seed crystals, 4–10% moisture content) and processing variables (40–60 °C temperature), this study aims to quantify their effects on sorbitol crystal growth and structure in sorbitol syrups subjected to shear. It was determined that moisture content, temperature, and seed crystals all had a significant impact on crystallization onset time (α = 0.05), and that increased supersaturation resulted in decreased onset time. Additionally, shear was shown to promote the formation of more stable polymorphs and torque rheology was determined to be a suitable way to measure effects of formulation changes on crystallization kinetics in sorbitol syrups.
Web‐based stimulus preference assessment and reinforcer assessment for videos

This study replicated and extended the use of a web-based multiple-stimulus-without-replacement preference assessment (Curiel, Curiel, Li, Deochand, & Poling, 2018) by adding a web-based single-operant reinforcer assessment. Five adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder participated in this study. The web-based program identified preference hierarchies for 4 of the 5 participants, and the single-operant reinforcer assessment confirmed that the highly preferred videos functioned as reinforcers. Advantages of computer-based stimulus preference and reinforcer assessments are discussed.
Waning of Influenza Vaccine Protection: Exploring the Trade-offs of Changes in Vaccination Timing Among Older Adults

Background In recent studies of influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE), lower effectiveness with increasing time since vaccination was observed, raising the question of optimal vaccination timing. We sought to evaluate the estimated number of influenza-associated hospitalizations among older adults due to potential changes in vaccination timing. Methods Using empirical data and a health state transition model, we estimated change in influenza-associated hospitalizations predicted to occur among the US population aged ≥65 years if vaccination were delayed until October 1. We assumed the vaccination timing, coverage, and effectiveness observed in 2012-2013 as a prototypical influenza season, approximately 7% monthly waning of VE, and that between 0% and 50% of individuals who usually get vaccinated earlier than October failed to get vaccinated. We also assessed change in influenza-associated hospitalizations if vaccination uptake shifted substantially toward August and September. Results In a typical season, delaying vaccination until October increased influenza hospitalizations if more than 14% of older adults usually vaccinated in August and September failed to get vaccinated. The consequences of delayed vaccination depended heavily on influenza season timing, rate of waning, and overall VE. A shift toward vaccination in August and September led to, on average, an increase in influenza-associated hospitalizations, but this result was also sensitive to influenza season timing. Conclusions Consequences of delayed vaccination varied widely. Uncertainties about vaccine waning and effects of a delay on vaccine coverage suggest it is premature to change current vaccine recommendations, although it may be prudent to prevent a substantial shift toward early vaccination.
Tavares, Maria. No Country for Nonconforming Women: Feminine Conceptions of Lusophone Africa. Legenda, 2018

Maria Tavares's first monograph poses an immediate question: Are nonconforming women dispossessed from a country, any country? The provocative title sets in motion a study based on the comparative analysis of three female authors from Lusophone Africa, namely Dina Salustio from Cape Verde, Paulina Chiziane from Mozambique, and the Angolan Rosaria da Silva. Tavares takes as her point of departure the fact that, despite their differences, all three were the first female writers to publish in the context of their respective independent nations.
Cattle grazing effects on the environment: Greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint

Abstract Perennial pastures are an important component of beef cattle production for cow–calf operations in the Southeastern United States. Greenhouse gas emissions are dominated by enteric methane (CH4), accounting for ~60% of total emissions from beef production. With significant N fertilization of pastures, nitrous oxide (N2O) emission is often the second most important greenhouse gas, accounting for ~30% of total emissions from beef production. Region-specific data on greenhouse gas emissions from beef production are lacking, and yet these data are essential to design Southern pastures for improved resource efficiency. Forages with high nutritive value can reduce CH4 emissions by grazing cattle, as a consequence of greater feed efficiency and shorter time to gain maturity. In addition, forages with significant tannins, saponins, and other biochemical components may have the potential to mitigate against enteric CH4 emission. Nitrogen fertilization of pastures often leads to greater soil N2O emission. Establishing and maintaining legumes in pastures can limit the need for external N inputs. Forage production systems that rely on farm-derived nutrients (e.g., precision litter decomposition with management-intensive grazing, application of additional manure sources, and composts), keeping brood cows healthy and productive, and getting calves to finishing weight faster are keys to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from Southern pastures. Also, significant soil organic C sequestration should be a focus to reduce the overall C footprint of animal agriculture in the region.
Macrophage miR-34a Is a Key Regulator of Cholesterol Efflux and Atherosclerosis.

Macrophages play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, but the molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here we show that microRNA-34a (miR-34a) is a key regulator of macrophage cholesterol efflux and reverse cholesterol transport by modulating ATP-binding cassette transporters ATP-binding cassette subfamily A member 1 (ABCA1) and ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 1 (ABCG1). miR-34a also regulates M1 and M2 macrophage polarization via liver X receptor α. Furthermore, global loss of miR-34a reduces intestinal cholesterol or fat absorption by inhibiting cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP7A1 and sterol 12α-hydroxylase (CYP8B1). Consistent with these findings, macrophage-selective or global ablation of miR-34a markedly inhibits the development of atherosclerosis. Finally, therapeutic inhibition of miR-34a promotes atherosclerosis regression and reverses diet-induced metabolic disorders. Our studies outline a central role of miR-34a in regulating macrophage cholesterol efflux, inflammation, and atherosclerosis, suggesting that miR-34a is a promising target for treatment of cardiometabolic diseases.
Synthesis of Chromium(II) Complexes with Chelating Bis(alkoxide) Ligand and Their Reactions with Organoazides and Diazoalkanes

Synthesis of new chromium(II) complexes with chelating bis(alkoxide) ligand [OO]Ph (H2[OO]Ph = [1,1':4',1''-terphenyl]-2,2''-diylbis(diphenylmethanol)) and their subsequent reactivity in the context of catalytic production of carbodiimides from azides and isocyanides are described. Two different Cr(II) complexes are obtained, as a function of the crystallization solvent: mononuclear Cr[OO]Ph(THF)2 (in toluene/THF, THF = tetrahydrofuran) and dinuclear Cr2([OO]Ph)2 (in CH2Cl2/THF). The electronic structure and bonding in Cr[OO]Ph(THF)2 were probed by density functional theory calculations. Isolated Cr2([OO]Ph)2 undergoes facile reaction with 4-MeC6H4N3, 4-MeOC6H4N3, or 3,5-Me2C6H3N3 to yield diamagnetic Cr(VI) bis(imido) complexes; a structure of Cr[OO]Ph(N(4-MeC6H4))2 was confirmed by X-ray crystallography. The reaction of Cr2([OO]Ph)2 with bulkier azides N3R (MesN3, AdN3) forms paramagnetic products, formulated as Cr[OO]Ph(NR). The attempted formation of a Cr-alkylidene complex (using N2CPh2) instead forms chromium(VI) bis(diphenylmethylenehydrazido) complex Cr[OO]Ph(NNCPh2)2. Catalytic formation of carbodiimides was investigated for the azide/isocyanide mixtures containing various aryl azides and isocyanides. The formation of carbodiimides was found to depend on the nature of organoazide: whereas bulky mesitylazide led to the formation of carbodiimides with all isocyanides, no carbodiimide formation was observed for 3,5-dimethylphenylazide or 4-methylphenylazide. Treatment of Cr2([OO]Ph)2 or H2[OO]Ph with NO+ leads to the formation of [1,2-b]-dihydroindenofluorene, likely obtained via carbocation-mediated cyclization of the ligand.
In Defense of Mercy

Though it is legally permissible to kill combatants in war, unless they are rendered hors de combat, the existence of “Naked Soldiers” raises an important moral question: should combatants kill vul...
Insights into pathogenesis of fatal COVID-19 pneumonia from histopathology with immunohistochemical and viral RNA studies.

INTRODUCTION: We describe post-mortem pulmonary histopathologic findings of COVID-19 pneumonia in patients with a spectrum of disease course, from rapid demise to prolonged hospitalisation. METHODS AND RESULTS: Histopathologic findings in post-mortem lung tissue from eight patients who died from COVID-19 pneumonia were reviewed. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) were performed to detect virus. Diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) was seen in all cases with a spectrum of acute phase and/or organising phase. IHC with monoclonal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 viral nucleoprotein and spike protein detected virus in areas of acute but not organising DAD, with intracellular viral antigen and RNA expression seen predominantly in patients with duration of illness less than 10 days. Major vascular findings included thrombi in medium- and large-calibre vessels, platelet microthrombi detected by CD61 IHC and fibrin microthrombi. CONCLUSIONS: Presence of SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA by NGS early in the disease course and expression of viral antigen by IHC exclusively in the acute, but not in the organising phase of DAD, suggests that the virus may play a major role in initiating the acute lung injury of DAD, but when DAD progresses to the organising phase the virus may have been cleared from the lung by the patient's immune response. These findings suggest the possibility of a major change during the disease course of COVID-19 pneumonia that may have therapeutic implications. Frequent thrombi and microthrombi may also present potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
Opioid prescription for pain after osmotic dilator placement in abortion care: A randomized controlled trial.

Abstract Objective To compare the overnight maximum pain scores after osmotic dilator placement prior to a dilation and evacuation (DE scale 0–10) at the following time points: Baseline, dilator placement, 2 and 6 hours, and preoperatively, where we also asked participants their maximum pain score. The primary outcome was mean individual NRS pain score change from baseline to maximum pain score. Results Maximum mean pain score (change from baseline) was 4.7 ± 2.9 in the ibuprofen group, and 6.5 ± 2.5 in the ibuprofen plus oxycodone group (p Conclusions Compared to participants randomized to receive a prescription for ibuprofen, those randomized to receive a prescription for ibuprofen plus oxycodone reported higher maximum overnight pain scores. Implications Participants receiving a prescription for ibuprofen alone had lower maximum overnight pain scores following osmotic dilator placement. Given that opioid prescriptions did not appear to reduce overnight pain, minimizing these prescriptions would avoid opioid exposure for patients undergoing D&E.
Peroxisomal-derived ether phospholipids link nucleotides to respirasome assembly

The protein complexes of the mitochondrial electron transport chain exist in isolation and in higher order assemblies termed supercomplexes (SCs) or respirasomes (SC I+III2+IV). The association of complexes I, III and IV into the respirasome is regulated by unknown mechanisms. Here, we designed a nanoluciferase complementation reporter for complex III and IV proximity to determine in vivo respirasome levels. In a chemical screen, we found that inhibitors of the de novo pyrimidine synthesis enzyme dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) potently increased respirasome assembly and activity. By-passing DHODH inhibition via uridine supplementation decreases SC assembly by altering mitochondrial phospholipid composition, specifically elevated peroxisomal-derived ether phospholipids. Cell growth rates upon DHODH inhibition depend on ether lipid synthesis and SC assembly. These data reveal that nucleotide pools signal to peroxisomes to modulate synthesis and transport of ether phospholipids to mitochondria for SC assembly, which are necessary for optimal cell growth in conditions of nucleotide limitation. A chemical screen identifies DHODH inhibitors as robust activators of mitochondrial respirasome assembly. Lipidomics reveal that peroxisomal-derived ether phospholipids accumulate in mitochondria during nucleotide deprivation to drive proliferation.
Public Perceptions of Police Agency Fairness and the Willingness to Call Police

Police leaders strive to improve interactions and practices relating to residents’ perceptions of police fairness and their willingness to report crimes. Research suggests that strengthening commun...
An Overview of Substance Abuse in Older American Adults

In recent years, the number of older adults in the USA has been increased dramatically. This demographic is frequently referred to as “baby boomers” and it is estimated that by the year 2030 older adults will be composed of approximately of 20% of the U.S. population. This aging population will bring several challenges to the healthcare system. One of the concerns is substance abuse, particularly alcohol and prescription drugs. This paper presents an overview of substance abuse in older American adults. The prevalence of the problem as well as an association of the health risks and comorbidity are addressed. Furthermore, the challenges of screening and diagnosis among older adult is discussed. Finally, recommended treatments for substance abuse are presented.
Designing power amplifiers for spectral compliance using spectral mask load-pull measurements

This paper demonstrates power amplifier design using load-pull measurements to determine spectral mask compliance as a function of load impedance. In most cases demonstrated in the open literature, the spectral spreading of the device is indirectly assessed by a metric such as the adjacent-channel power ratio or third-order intermodulation product. In the present paper, a spectral mask compliance metric is introduced that is less than or equal to zero for compliant spectra and positive for noncompliant spectra. The paper first examines the load-pull measurement for the spectral mask compliance metric, including the use of averaging to smooth the contours. Direct, dual-objective design of power amplifiers for spectral mask compliance and efficiency is then demonstrated by choosing the load impedance that provides the highest measured power-added efficiency while maintaining spectral compliance. With the device terminated in the chosen optimum impedance, measurement of the output spectrum and comparison with a spectral mask are performed to demonstrate spectral compliance at the selected design impedance.
Latest Eocene-earliest Miocene Sr isotopic reference section, Site 522, eastern South Atlantic

[1] We present a revised calibration of Sr isotopes to the geomagnetic polarity timescale (GPTS) using closely spaced (∼0.15 m.y. resolution) samples from the classic uppermost Eocene through lowermost Miocene section at Site 522, eastern South Atlantic. The Sr isotopic data are fit with two linear segments with a sharp change in slope at circa 27.5 Ma from 0.000038/m.y. (27.5 to 34.4 Ma) to 0.000051/m.y. (23.8 to 27.5 Ma). Regression analysis indicates that stratigraphic resolution ranges from ±1 m.y. (for one analysis) to ±0.6 m.y. (for three analyses) for the younger interval and ±1.2 m.y. (for one analysis) to ±0.7 m.y. (for three analyses) for the older interval, representing an increase in resolution from previous studies of ±1–2 m.y. The paleoceanographic significance of this change in slope is unclear. It occurs during an interval of intermittent Antarctic glaciation, between the Oi2a and Oi2b glaciations. The subsequent interval from circa 27 to 24 Ma appears to be an interval of minimal glaciation. Thus this observation does not support previous suggestions that increases in rates of Sr isotopic change are directly associated with the frequency of Antarctic glaciations. Rather, the increase in slope may be related to increased weathering associated with the “mid-Oligocene” glaciation.