cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A defence of the potential future of value theory

In this issue of the journal Mark Brown has offered a new argument against my potential future of value theory. I argue that even though the premises of this new argument are far more defensible than the premises of his old argument, the new argument does not show that the potential future of value theory of the wrongness of killing is false. If the considerations to which Brown appeals are used, not to show that the potential future of value theory is false, but to show that abortion is morally permissible, they are also unsuccessful. I also argue that Brown's clarified self-represented future of value account and Simon Parsons's account of the wrongness of killing are both subject to major difficulties. Finally, I show, in an appendix, that Brown's assertion that my discussion of his views suffers from major logical errors is false.
A ‘channel’ design using single, semiconductor nanocrystals for efficient (opto)electronic devices

Abstract An architecture in which n- and p-type materials alternate laterally in the active film of a device with a spatial period of about a carrier diffusion length would lead to efficient (opto)electronic devices for photovoltaic energy conversion and switching, among others. Such an architecture, although difficult to achieve with conventional silicon-based schemes, is within reach using semiconductor nanocrystals, whose intrinsic size can be varied on a nanometer scale. A photovoltaic device whose active film contains single semiconductor n-type nanocrystals embedded in a conjugated polymer p-type phase would be one realization of the channel architecture. An npn transistor, where a single, semiconductor nanocrystal serves as emitter and collector (n-type) separated by p-type material, could exhibit significantly higher switching speeds than is possible with conventional devices. The channel architecture is particularly useful for devices which rely on low-mobility materials.
Investigating the Applicability of Error Correction Ensembles of Satellite Rainfall Products in River Flow Simulations

This study uses a stochastic ensemble-based representation of satellite rainfall error to predict the propagation in flood simulation of three quasi-global-scale satellite rainfall products across a range of basin scales. The study is conducted on the Tar-Pamlico River basin in the southeastern United States based on 2 years of data (2004 and 2006). The NWS Multisensor Precipitation Estimator (MPE) dataset is used as the reference for evaluating three satellite rainfall products: the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) real-time 3B42 product (3B42RT), the Climate Prediction Center morphing technique (CMORPH), and the Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Imagery Using Artificial Neural Networks‐Cloud Classification System (PERSIANN-CCS). Both ground-measured runoff and streamflow simulations, derived from the NWS Research Distributed Hydrologic Model forced with the MPE dataset, are used as benchmarks to evaluateensemblestreamflowsimulationsobtainedbyforcingthemodelwithsatelliterainfallcorrectedusing stochastic error simulations from a two-dimensional satellite rainfall error model (SREM2D). The ability of the SREM2D ensemble error corrections to improve satellite rainfall-driven runoff simulations and to characterize the error variability of those simulations is evaluated. It is shown that by applying the SREM2D error ensemble to satellite rainfall, the simulated runoff ensemble is able to envelope both the reference runoff simulation and observed streamflow. The best (uncorrected) product is 3B42RT, but after applying SREM2D, CMORPH becomes the most accurate of the three products in the prediction of runoff variability. The impact of spatial resolution on the rainfall-to-runoff error propagation is also evaluated for a cascade of basin scales (500‐5000km 2 ). Results show a doubling in the bias from rainfall to runoff at all basin scales. Significant dependency to catchment area is exhibited for the random error propagation component.
Mi-Mediated Resistance Against the Potato Aphid Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Hemiptera: Aphididae) Limits Sieve Element Ingestion

The effect of the tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Miller) resistance gene, Mi, on the feeding behavior of the potato aphid, Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas), was studied using an AC electronic monitoring system. Aphids were monitored for at least 16 h on nearly isogenic tomato lines, and we observed waveforms corresponding to the stylet pathway phase, sieve element and nonphloem phase. The time to the first probe was not significantly different between resistant and susceptible tomato lines, indicating that leaf surface components were not involved in the resistance. Also, time to the first sieve element contact, as indicated by the sieve element phase waveform, was not significantly different, indicating that aphids were able to locate the sieve element equally well on resistant and susceptible lines. However, the duration of the sieve element phase was 7- to 10-fold longer on susceptible plants than on resistant plants. The insect also made more frequent and briefer probes on resistant tomato than on susceptible tomato. These results indicate that the mechanism of resistance mediated by Mi involves limitation of the duration of the sieve element phase, and salivation and ingestion of phloem fluids associated with it.
Distribution of hepatitis C virus genotypes, hepatic steatosis and their correlation with clinical and virological factors in Pakistan

Background: Due to the inherently unstable nature of HCV, various genotypes have been identified. Steatosis is a histological feature in the progression of HCV-associated liver disease and has been shown to alter the host lipid metabolism. Objective: Assess the distribution of HCV genotypes in the two provinces of Pakistan, and determine the association of hepatic steatosis with altered clinical and virological factors in chronic HCV patients. Methods: One hundred twenty six chronic HCV patients (steatosis in 49 patients) were enrolled for qualitative analysis by PCR. Out of 126 ELISA and PCR positive samples, 119 (48 with hepatic steatosis) chronic HCV patients (mean age 42.0±13.3 years, mean body mass index (BMI) 24.2±4.1) were proved positive after PCR-based detection. Biochemical and virological factors such as HCV genotype, or glucose, in 119 CHC patients were determined and compared between patients with and without hepatic steatosis. Results: Out of 126 samples, 119 were HCV positive, where 58 (48.7%) were genotype 3a, 24 (20.2%) were 3b, 12 (10.1%) were 1a, eight (6.7%) were 2a, six (5.0%) were 1b, and one (0.8%) was 4. Furthermore, seven (5.9%) had a co-infection and three (2.5%) were untypable. BMI (p=0.004), genotype 3a (p<0.001), and triglycerides (p=0.002) were significantly associated with steatosis. It is noteworthy that cholesterol (p=0.281), glucose (p=0.305), lowdensity lipoprotein (p=0.101), high-density lipoprotein (p=0.129), alanine amino transferase (p=0.099), aspartate transaminase (p=0.177), bilirubin (p= 0.882), and age (p=0.846) showed non-significant association. Conclusion: Genotype 3a is the predominant genotype in Pakistan. Hepatic steatosis is quite frequent feature in HCV patients and strongly correlates with BMI, genotype 3a, and triglyceride contents in patients infected with HCV.
Iterative exponential growth of stereo- and sequence-controlled polymers

Chemists have long sought sequence-controlled synthetic polymers that mimic nature's biopolymers, but a practical synthetic route that enables absolute control over polymer sequence and structure remains a key challenge. Here, we report an iterative exponential growth plus side-chain functionalization (IEG+) strategy that begins with enantiopure epoxides and facilitates the efficient synthesis of a family of uniform >3 kDa macromolecules of varying sequence and stereoconfiguration that are coupled to produce unimolecular polymers (>6 kDa) with sequences and structures that cannot be obtained using traditional polymerization techniques. Selective side-chain deprotection of three hexadecamers is also demonstrated, which imbues each compound with the ability to dissolve in water. We anticipate that these new macromolecules and the general IEG+ strategy will find broad application as a versatile platform for the scalable synthesis of sequence-controlled polymers.
Embedding common factors in a path model

In models containing unobservable variables with multiple indicators--common factors, true scores--it seems to be common practice not to allow, except in special cases, nonzero covariances of residuals of indicators of the common factors and other variables in the model. Indeed, those models, such as LISREL and LISCOMP, that separate a “measurement” model from a “structural” model, exclude these by their defining matrix structure. Yet it is not at all obvious that such covariances should not be allowed, and it seems desirable to look for some explicit principles to apply to such cases, rather than settle the matter by default. This question will be examined in the context of the reticular action model. The following section sets out some necessary preliminaries from the case of path models without common factors, then section 3 treats the problem of embedding a block of common factors in a path model. Section 4 gives a numerical example.
No Sirve Continued: Mexico Modifies its Declarations to the Hague Service Convention

This paper is a brief follow-up to No Sirve: The Invalidity of Service of Process Abroad by mail or Private process Server on Parties in Mexico Under the Hague Service Convention, 19 Minn. J. Int'l L. 107 (2010). It reports on Mexico's 2010 modifications to its declarations to the Hague Service Convention.Most significantly, Mexico is modifying its declaration with respect to alternative methods of service under Article 10 of the Convention to state that Mexico "declares its opposition to the use within its territory of methods of transmission pursuant to Article 10." This modification underscores Mexico's opposition to alternative methods of service under Article 10.
The effect of sodium and calcium on renin release in vitro.

SummaryA preparation of dog renal cortical slices suitable for the study of renin release was utilized to study the effect of sodium and calcium ions on the release of this enzyme. An inverse relationship was found between renin release and sodium concentration in the incubation medium. When calcium ion concentration in the incubation medium was the only variable renin release increased with calcium and reached optimal level at around 2.5 mM calcium. The omission of calcium markedly inhibited renin release. The results suggest that both sodium and calcium ions may play a role in the release of renin at the cellular level.
NOVEL HETEROCYCLES. SYNTHESIS OF THE 2,4,3-BENZODIAZAPHOSPHEPINE RING SYSTEM

Novel alkyl (1,2,4,5-tetrahydro-3H-2,4,3-benzodiazaphosphepin-3-yl)carbamate-P-oxides (7) were synthesized by cyclization of the corresponding dichlorophosphinylcarbamates (5) with α,α'-diamino-o-xylene (6). A steric limitation in the synthesis of analogs is discussed.
Analysis of aluminum contamination of food in Wanzhou

Objective:To understood the food market in Wanzhou District of aluminum content,for the future and a plan to address the problem of food hygiene supervision and monitoring work in accordance.Methods:To the area of jurisdiction in the part market bread flour,the cakes and Arrange(oil cake),the steamed bun and puffs food sampling examination,examination method according to national standards GB5009.182-2003 execution,namely chromium azure S color method;The hygiene appraisal the pollutant limits the quantity GB2762-2005 according to food in(in surface system food aluminum to limit the quantity target) to carry on.Results:In the spot-check market surface and the surface product,puffs in food,the bread flour,the cakes and pastries aluminum content conforms to the national health standard,extruded aluminum food complies with the national health standard of 80%,buns aluminum complies with the national health standard of 60%,arrange(oil cake) aluminum complies with the national health standard is only 40%;sampling the food content of aluminum 12.5 mg/kg~404 mg/kg,arrange with the highest content of aluminum,detection of its greatest value of 404 mg/kg.Conclusion:Aluminum content in foods and food production exceeding processing aluminum leavening agent(such as alum),excessive use,departments should pay great attention,Strengthening of the use of aluminum-containing leavening agent monitoring.
MC-MPSK Method of Long-Range Underwater Acoustic Communication

The transmission of sound wave is complex in long-range underwater acoustic(UWA) channel that is multi-path,time-variant and with strong background noise.In addition,communication distance and data rate will restrict each other due to low frequency carrier and band limit.Therefore,the difficulty in acoustic communication lies in the enlargement of the communication distance with a high data rate.Based on the oceanic experiments in 80km range communication,a novel method of MC-MPSK modulation and demodulation is presented in this paper,which is suitable for high-speed long-range UWA communication.The method of MC-MPSK is that the signals are MPSK modulated with multi carrier frequencies.The information is transmitted by both frequencies and phases of signals.It can enlarge the communication distance with a high data rate if combining with the comb equalizer for MC-MPSK.The performance simulation for bit error rate with different SNR is conducted in different multi-path channel models with the relative motive speeds 10m/s to show the efficiency of MC-MPSK.The simulation results indicate that MC-MPSK is useful in long-range multi-path underwater acoustic communication with a high data rate.The experimental results in the lake show the correctness and efficiency of the MC-MPSK method.
Typhoid toxin provides a window into typhoid fever and the biology of Salmonella Typhi

Salmonella Typhi is the cause of typhoid fever, a disease that has challenged humans throughout history and continues to be a major public health concern. Unlike infections with most other Salmonellae, which result in self-limiting gastroenteritis, typhoid fever is a life-threatening systemic disease. Furthermore, in contrast to most Salmonellae, which can infect a broad range of hosts, S. Typhi is a strict human pathogen. The unique features of S. Typhi pathogenesis and its stringent host specificity have been a long-standing puzzle. The discovery of typhoid toxin not only has provided major insight into these questions but also has offered unique opportunities to develop novel therapeutic and prevention strategies to combat typhoid fever.
Peak Car Travel in the United States: Two-Decade-Long Phenomenon at the State Level

Peak car travel is an international phenomenon that became evident in the United States on a national scale in 2004. Potentially related to peak car travel is the decoupling of economic growth from driving levels. A wealth of research has addressed these phenomena on a national scale in the United States and other developed countries. Yet few studies have been undertaken on other geographic scales, especially the statewide scale in the United States. This study investigated U.S. state-level driving and economic patterns from 1980 to 2011 to understand occurring changes. The research results showed that peak car travel first occurred at the state level as early as 1992 in Washington State, whereas another 10 states peaked in 2000. By 2011, 48 of the 50 states had peaked. The longevity of this phenomenon at the state level provided evidence that peak car travel in the United States was a more permanent phenomenon than previously thought. In addition, the decoupling of economic growth from driving was eviden...
In vivo analysis of intestinal permeability following hemorrhagic shock.

AIM: To determine the time course of intestinal permeability changes to proteolytically-derived bowel peptides in experimental hemorrhagic shock. METHODS: We injected fluorescently-conjugated casein protein into the small bowel of anesthetized Wistar rats prior to induction of experimental hemorrhagic shock. These molecules, which fluoresce when proteolytically cleaved, were used as markers for the ability of proteolytically cleaved intestinal products to access the central circulation. Blood was serially sampled to quantify the relative change in concentration of proteolytically-cleaved particles in the systemic circulation. To provide spatial resolution of their location, particles in the mesenteric microvasculature were imaged using in vivo intravital fluorescent microscopy. The experiments were then repeated using an alternate measurement technique, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled dextrans 20, to semi-quantitatively verify the ability of bowel-derived low-molecular weight molecules (< 20 kD) to access the central circulation. RESULTS: Results demonstrate a significant increase in systemic permeability to gut-derived peptides within 20 min after induction of hemorrhage (1.11 ± 0.19 vs 0.86 ± 0.07, P < 0.05) compared to control animals. Reperfusion resulted in a second, sustained increase in systemic permeability to gut-derived peptides in hemorrhaged animals compared to controls (1.2 ± 0.18 vs 0.97 ± 0.1, P < 0.05). Intravital microscopy of the mesentery also showed marked accumulation of fluorescent particles in the microcirculation of hemorrhaged animals compared to controls. These results were replicated using FITC dextrans 20 [10.85 ± 6.52 vs 3.38 ± 1.11 fluorescent intensity units (× 105, P < 0.05, hemorrhagic shock vs controls)], confirming that small bowel ischemia in response to experimental hemorrhagic shock results in marked and early increases in gut membrane permeability. CONCLUSION: Increased small bowel permeability in hemorrhagic shock may allow for systemic absorption of otherwise retained proteolytically-generated peptides, with consequent hemodynamic instability and remote organ failure.
A study on evaluation of ductile crack initiation using strain hardening exponent for steels

Abstract Evaluation method of ductile crack initiation limit without depending on materials was investigated. Ductile crack initiation behaviors were experimentally and analytically comprehended using aluminum alloy as non-ferrous metal in addition to two different steels. It was found that their limit characteristics of ductile crack initiation for materials used were different in the case of using a conventional method based on stress triaxiality factor and equivalent plastic strain. It is considered that from cross section observations, ductile crack initiation for steels is caused by shear fracture between grown voids at the center of specimen. Therefore, Mohr-Coulomb fracture criterion, which is related to normal stress and shear stress, was applied to the evaluation of steels. As a result, it was found that strain hardening exponent of the materials could be a new parameter. Using strain hardening exponent in addition to stress triaxiality factor and equivalent plastic strain, ductile crack initiation limit of different steels whose fracture mechanisms are similar, can be evaluated with a master curve.
Delayed tree mortality and Chinese tallow (Triadica sebifera) population explosion in a Louisiana bottomland hardwood forest following Hurricane Katrina

Abstract Assessing long-term effects of hurricane damage in bottomland hardwood forests is important to detect any permanent, long lasting changes to the forest. Two 75 × 75 m plots were established in a Louisiana bottomland hardwood forest in 2004 and all adult trees were measured. The plots were resurveyed in 2006 after Hurricane Katrina passed over the plots in 2005, and in 2011, to gain an understanding of mortality over time. Species composition, mortality and biomass change were assessed over the study period from 2004 to 2011. Sweetgum, water oak, and laurel oak were the most important overstory species in 2004, and American holly and American hornbeam were the most important understory species. In the more damaged plot, there was a shift in dominant species as 63 new Chinese tallow individuals recruited into the adult class (>10 cm) between 2004 and 2011. Chinese tallow is an invasive tree species that often out-competes native species in bottomland hardwood forests. Annual mortality in the bottomland hardwood forest plots between 2004 and 2011 was 6% per year, 11% per year from 2004 to 2006 (representing direct hurricane mortality), and 5% between 2006 and 2011 (delayed tree mortality). Approximately 53% of the total biomass (188,000 kg) was lost between 2004 and 2011. A plot in a cypress tupelo forest was added in 2006 and very little damage or mortality was observed. This study revealed that delayed mortality to hurricane-damaged trees is a significant factor in the long-term dynamics of bottomland hardwood forests and represents an amplification of the effects of the hurricane over time. The fact that direct and delayed mortality is different by species indicates that the measurement only of direct mortality can lead to false conclusions about which species are resistant to hurricanes. Hurricane damage opened up new habitat for invasion by Chinese tallow which grew prolifically in highly damaged, low elevation, wet areas, indicating that large disturbances are an important factor in accelerating the population expansion of this invasive species. The high mortality and low recruitment of some species into the sapling and adult layers and the corresponding expansion of Chinese tallow indicates that species composition will differ from pre-hurricane composition for some time in the future.
When is intracardiac electrophysiologic evaluation indicated in the older or very elderly patient?: Complications rates and data

The use of invasive EPS and catheter ablation is well established for many cardiac rhythm disorders. Because of the high prevalence of arrhythmias, which often are tolerated poorly in the elderly, and the increased frequency of adverse effects of pharmacologic therapy in this population, the potential for benefit from invasive EPS and catheter ablation is great. The notion that elderly patients are at increased risk of complications from invasive EPS is not borne out by available data. Therefore, the suitability of this form of diagnostic and therapeutic approach should be based on the assessment of the individual patient and the clinical context, while taking into consideration patient-specific risks, goals, and expectations in adopting an invasive strategy.
Gas-phase broadband spectroscopy using active sources: progress, status, and applications.

Broadband spectroscopy is an invaluable tool for measuring multiple gas-phase species simultaneously. In this work we review basic techniques, implementations, and current applications for broadband spectroscopy. We discuss components of broadband spectroscopy including light sources, absorption cells, and detection methods and then discuss specific combinations of these components in commonly used techniques. We finish this review by discussing potential future advances in techniques and applications of broadband spectroscopy.
Environmentally Sustainable Practices Among College Outdoor Programs and Their Association With Organizational Support Structures

Sustainability has gained increasing importance amongst both academic research and organizational practice over the past two decades (Davis & Challenger, 2014). The primary purpose of this study was to examine environmentally sustainable practices among college outdoor programs, while also examining how college level policy and infrastructural support may be associated with such practices. Of additional interest was to examine how environmental policies established at the programmatic level may differentially influence practice versus policies at the institutional level. College and university outdoor program directors were sampled in 2014 concerning their engagement in various pro-environment practices and perceptions of institutional support. The findings revealed the organizational culture and infrastructural support at responding institutions does make a positive difference in outdoor program sustainable practices, as does the level environmental policy is established at. Future research efforts should consider a more systemic and systematic approach to studying this topic given its increasing importance and visibility on college campuses. Subscribe to JOREL
An Ergonomic Evaluation of Preoperative and Postoperative Workspaces in Ambulatory Surgery Centers

Healthcare organizations are faced with the challenge of renovating existing infrastructure or building new facilities to enable the inclusion of computer workstations and address growing technological demands. The majority of existing ergonomic tools for evaluating computer workstations primarily focus on the interface between the care provider and the computer. This paper describes the development and application of an expanded ergonomic evaluation framework that focuses on the work system versus the workstation. The tool was tested and refined through visits to five facilities where the ergonomic evaluation tool was used to assess five preoperative and seven postoperative rooms/bays in surgical suites with varying spatial configurations and types of workstations. The comparative evaluation showed that all workstations met most of the basic checklist requirements, but there were significant differences related to the location of the workstation and adjacencies to other zones in how effectively the workstations were integrated into the space.
Derivation and validation of a two-biomarker panel for diagnosis of ARDS in patients with severe traumatic injuries.

Background Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is common after severe traumatic injuries but is underdiagnosed and undertreated. We hypothesized that a panel of plasma biomarkers could be used to diagnose ARDS in severe trauma. To test this hypothesis, we derived and validated a biomarker panel in three independent cohorts and compared the diagnostic performance to clinician recognition of ARDS. Methods Eleven plasma biomarkers of inflammation, lung epithelial and endothelial injury were measured in a derivation cohort of 439 severe trauma patients. ARDS status was analyzed by two-investigator consensus, and cases were required to meet Berlin criteria on intensive care unit (ICU) day 1. Controls were subjects without ARDS during the first 4 days of study enrollment. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to generate probabilities for ARDS. A reduced model with the top two performing markers was then tested in two independent validation cohorts. To assess clinical diagnosis of ARDS, medical records in the derivation cohort were systematically searched for documentation of ARDS diagnosis made by a clinical provider. Results Among 11 biomarkers, the combination of the endothelial injury marker angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2) and the lung epithelial injury marker receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE) provided good discrimination for ARDS in the derivation cohort (area under the curve (AUC)=0.74 (95% CI 0.67 to 0.80). In the validation cohorts, the AUCs for this model were 0.70 (0.61 to 0.77) and 0.78 (0.71 to 0.84). In contrast, provider assessment demonstrated poor diagnostic accuracy for ARDS, with AUC of 0.55 (0.51 to 0.60). Discussion A two-biomarker panel consisting of Ang-2 and RAGE performed well across multiple patient cohorts and outperformed clinical providers for diagnosing ARDS in severe trauma. Clinical application of this model could improve both diagnosis and treatment of ARDS in patients with severe trauma. Level of evidence Diagnostic study, level II.
The Effect of Discontinuous and Unpredictable Environmental Change on the Use of Management Accounting during Organizational Decline: A Field Study

This paper investigates whether and how organizations use management accounting during decline. Based on interviews and observation in five private sector organizations and one in the public sector, I employ a theoretical lens distinguishing the continuity and predictability of environmental change. I find that members in organizations facing decline due to a discontinuous and unpredictable environmental change leverage management accounting during decline. In contrast, members in organizations facing decline due to a continuous and predictable environmental change question the truth and value of their management accounting practices and, as a result, do not change their use of management accounting to manage decline. For those organizations that do leverage management accounting to manage decline, I employ a theoretical lens based on theory and research relating to the process of organizational learning. I find that organizational members first engage in a comprehensive review of their management accounting systems and reports to convince themselves that they can be relied upon. Following this process, they use accounting to understand the past, develop metrics intended to reach all employees, and institute various forms of accountability to support the management of decline. These uses of management accounting align with the information processing, interpretation, and dissemination activities of organizational learning, which enables organizations to find a new language for understanding and managing decline. My findings contribute to research and practice.
Redox Transformations of As and Se at the Surfaces of Natural and Synthetic Ferric Nontronites: Role of Structural and Adsorbed Fe(II)

Adsorption and redox transformations on clay mineral surfaces are prevalent in surface environments. We examined the redox reactivity of iron Fe(II)/Fe(III) associated with natural and synthetic ferric nontronites. Specifically, we assessed how Fe(II) residing in the octahedral sheets, or Fe(II) adsorbed at the edge sites alters redox activity of nontronites. To probe the redox activity we used arsenic (As) and selenium (Se). Activation of both synthetic and natural ferric nontronites was observed following the introduction of Fe(II) into predominantly-Fe(III) octahedral sheets or through the adsorption of Fe(II) onto the mineral surface. The oxidation of As(III) to As(V) was observed via catalytic (oxic conditions) and, to a lesser degree, via direct (anoxic conditions) pathways. We provide experimental evidence for electron transfer from As(III) to Fe(III) at the natural and synthetic nontronite surfaces, and illustrate that only a fraction of structural Fe(III) is accessible for redox transformations. ...
The solid-state synchronous vs. conventional fluorescence spectroscopy and complementary methods to study the interactions of aluminum metal-organic framework Basolite A100 with dimethyl sulfoxide

Abstract We report, for the first time, an experimental study of interaction of metal-organic framework (MOF) with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Adsorption of DMSO on aluminum MOF Basolite A100 results in formation of the stoichiometric complex [A100]2[DMSO]3. The solid-state synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy allows observation of the following major excitation/emission transitions in Basolite A100 and its adsorption complex [A100]2[DMSO]3 which are not well-resolved in “conventional” fluorescence spectra: 1) narrow resonance of the isolated BDC linker, 2) excitation across optical bandgap, and 3) excimers. In the adsorption complex [A100]2[DMSO]3, the DMSO molecules interact with the μ2-OH group of Basolite A100 and with its BDC linker through the π-π system. We present, for the first time, the new variety of the solid-state synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy, which we denote as the solid-state enhanced-resolution synchronous fluorescence (excitation) spectroscopy. The accurate measurements of small changes in the optical bandgap of the adsorption complex [A100]2[DMSO]3 and Basolite A100 are described by the solid-state enhanced-resolution synchronous fluorescence (excitation) spectroscopy.
Risk-taking during wayfinding is modulated by external stressors and personality traits

Two experiments examined cue reliance and risk-taking during desktop virtual wayfinding, and how they might be modulated by personality traits and external stressors. Participants navigated a serie...
Knowledge Engine for Robots Using Ontology

In this research we develop a knowledge engine to give robots better understanding of human commands. The architecture uses ontology to determine how to hold an object in which orientation and makes robot understand the natural language command with spatial intelligence. In our approach, at first, the input command given in natural language is parsed using IBM Natural Language Understanding service, which identifies the action, subject and object. Then the system matches action and pattern with the list of skills available for the robot. The robot has a model database and a list of objects remaining in front from its sensors. From that list it will able to find the subject and object positions. From the model database it can find the object type and from the ontology the robot can check whether the subject can be put on top of the object. If it is not valid then robot will inform the user that the command cannot be performed. If it is valid then, the robot will perform the put operation.
Customer perception of retro marketing in its practical application

This paper presents the outcomes of study that focused on the perception of retro packaging of products, which are also available in modern packages. The main research has three phases, and this paper introduces results of the second phase which aims at customers' perception of retro packaging. Data based on a wide questionnaire survey were analysed and relations were tested by Spearman's rank correlations and by non-parametric t-test. Results show that customer perception differs according to age groups. For retro marketing, the group of 35 years and older is an interesting segment as far as nostalgia is concerned. Also, quality and taste expectations differ by age categories. On the other side, the connections with tradition are widely inbuilt in customers' minds within all age categories.
Procalcitonin utilization in the real world: An observational study of antibiotic prescribing practices.

OBJECTIVES This study aims to better understand and describe antibiotic prescribing practices and adherence to a procalcitonin (PCT)-guided algorithm in patients undergoing serum PCT testing in adult hospitalized patients. METHODS We performed an observational, retrospective study of 201 randomly selected patients who are aged ≥18 years, admitted to the general medicine floors or step-down unit between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017, and had serum PCT testing. Physician adherence to a PCT-guided algorithm was assessed through chart review. RESULTS We found an overall adherence of 64.7%. Adherence was highest for PCT values above 0.25 ng/mL (82.8% for 0.25-0.50 ng/mL and 83.6% for >0.50 ng/mL). Adherence was lower for PCT values less than 0.25 ng/mL (59% for <0.1 ng/mL and 38% for 0.1-0.24 ng/mL). Serial testing was performed in 10% of patients. CONCLUSIONS Hospital-based providers are more likely to overrule the algorithm and either initiate or continue antibiotics when guidelines encourage discontinuing antibiotics. These findings have important implications for antimicrobial stewardship and patient care and suggest that hospital-based providers may benefit from targeted didactics regarding the interpretation of the serum PCT assay.
Higher lymph node harvest in patients with a pathologic complete response after neoadjuvant therapy for esophageal cancer is associated with improved survival.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Lymph node harvest during esophagectomy has been associated with improved survival for esophageal cancer but the value of enhanced lymph node harvest following complete pathologic response (pCR) is debated. This study investigated if increasing lymph node harvest in esophageal cancer patients with a pCR after neoadjuvant therapy and esophagectomy is associated with improved survival. METHODS We queried the National Cancer Data Base for patients with esophageal cancer between 2004 and 2014 who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiation therapy followed by esophagectomy found to have pCR. Multivariable Cox modeling was utilized to evaluate the impact of increasing lymph node counts on overall survival (OS). RESULTS A total of 1373 patients met inclusion criteria. A National Comprehensive Cancer Network compliant lymphadenectomy of ≥15 nodes was associated with improved survival (66.7% vs 51.1%; P < .001). Cox modeling showed that the first node cutoff to demonstrate a statistically significant improvement in OS was ≥7 nodes (hazard ratio [HR], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.81, 0.68-0.97; 5-year OS: 54.2%) with a trend of decreasing and statistically significant HRs until ≥25 nodes (HR, 95% CI: 0.52, 0.37-0.72; 5-year OS: 68.4%). CONCLUSIONS High negative node counts after neoadjuvant therapy and esophagectomy are associated with improved survival in patients with pCR.
SOLVUS BEHAVIOR OF THE VANADIUM–HYDROGEN AND DEUTERIUM SYSTEMS

The solvus data for V-H and V-D exhibit an extended region of linearity when plotted as In Za against T−1 where Za = [a/(β − a)] where a is the H(D)-to-V, atom ratio, at the solvus composition and β is the number of available interstices per metal atom. This behavior contrasts with the Ta-H system which exhibits considerable curvature in the solvus plot over the same temperature range. It is shown that the linearity results from the opposing influences of nonideality and the variation of the solvus enthalpy and entropy with temperature; the latter is due to the occupation of octahedral and tetrahedral interstices in the hydride and dilute phases, respectively. In contrast to the Ta-H(D) system, there is a solvus isotope effect in the V-H and V-D systems and this is explained in terms of the occupation of different interstices in the two coexisting phases.
Data Visualization for Wireless Sensor Networks Using ThingsBoard

A data visualization proposition for wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is presented in this paper. WSNs play a pivotal role in the composition of Internet of Things (IoT) systems. In an IoT system, the data accumulated by nodes with distinct sensors can be used to monitor environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. With this data, efforts can be taken to improve the comfort of people in these environments. There exist circumstances where directly connecting the data collected in the WSNs to the Internet may not always be economic efficient. Moreover, we propose a scheme that utilizes both open source hardware and software for data collection at the nodes of a WSN where it is visualized using an online IoT platform known as ThingsBoard.
Group Dissertations as Leadership Learning

This article shares rationales for group dissertations and offers practical descriptions of how they transpire in one Doctor of Education (EdD) program. Drawing on program experiences and data, it ...
Welcome to the Matrix: Intersecting Physical Education and Technology Standards

This article will provide specific examples at the intersection of all physical education and technology standards, providing educators with ideas for enhancement of physical education instruction ...
Effects of purposeful soccer heading on circulating small extracellular vesicle concentration and cargo.

Background Considering the potential cumulative effects of repetitive head impact exposure, we need sensitive biomarkers to track short- and long-term effects. Circulating small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) ( Methods Healthy adult (age 18-35 years) soccer players were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: the head impact (HI) group performed 10 standing headers, the leg impact (LI) group performed 10 soccer ball trapping maneuvers over 10 min, and the control (CON) group did not participate in any soccer drills. Plasma was collected before testing and 24 h afterward, and sEVs were isolated and characterized via nanoparticle tracking analysis. Next-generation sequencing was utilized to identify candidate microRNAs isolated from sEVs, and candidate microRNAs were analyzed via quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). In silico target prediction was performed using TargetScan and miRWalk programs, and target validation was performed using luciferase reporter vectors with a miR-7844-5p mimic in HEK293 cells. Results Plasma sEV concentration and size were not affected across time and group following repetitive head impact exposure. After 24 h, the HI read count from next-generation sequencing showed a 4-fold or greater increase in miR-92b-5p, miR-423-5p, and miR-24-3p and a 3-fold or greater decrease in miR-7844-5p, miR-144-5p, miR-221-5p, and miR-22-3p. Analysis of qPCR revealed LI did not alter candidate microRNA levels. To our knowledge, miR-7844-5p is a previously unknown microRNA. We identified 8 miR-7844-5p mRNA targets: PPP1R1B, LIMS1, ATG12, MAP1LC3B, ITGA1, MAPK1, GSK3B, and MAPK8. Conclusion Collectively, these data indicate repetitive head impact exposure alters plasma sEV microRNA content, but not sEV size or number. Furthermore, for the first time we demonstrate that previously unknown miR-7844-5p targets mRNAs known to be involved in mitochondrial apoptosis, autophagy regulation, mood disorders, and neurodegenerative disease.
Border Orientation in a Globalizing World

Border politics are a salient component of high international politics. States are increasingly building infrastructure to ‘secure’ their borders. We introduce the concept of border orientation to describe the extent to which the State is committed to the spatial display of capacities to control the terms of penetration of its national borders. Border orientation provides a lens through which to analyze resistance to globalization, growing populism, and the consequences of intensified border politics. We measure border orientation using novel, geo-spatial data on the built environment along the world’s borders and theorize that real and perceived pressures of globalization have resulted in more controlling forms of border governance. Empirical evidence supports this claim: states build more along their borders when faced with economic, cultural, and security-based anxieties. Border orientation enhances the study of border politics, complementing the politics of territorial division with a richer politics of liminal securitization and its consequences.
An assessment of temporal variability in mast seeding of North American Pinaceae.

Our overall objective is to synthesize mast-seeding data on North American Pinaceae to detect characteristic features of reproduction (i.e. development cycle length, serotiny, dispersal agents), an...
Hypogammaglobulinemia after Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy: characteristics, management, and future directions.

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a dynamic therapy of engineered T-cells targeting neoplastic cells, which offers impressive long-term remissions for aggressive relapsed/refractory hematologic malignancies. However, side effects including severe infections can be life-threatening. Multiple factors, including cytokine release syndrome, B-cell aplasia, and hypogammaglobulinemia, contribute to infection risk. B-cell aplasia is an expected on-target, off-tumor effect of CD19+-targeted CAR T-cells and leads to hypogammaglobulinemia. We review hypogammaglobulinemia observed in the five currently FDA-approved CAR T-cell therapies and other CAR T-cell products evaluated in clinical trials, and discuss hypogammaglobulinemia onset, duration, and immune recovery. We review associations between hypogammaglobulinemia and infections, with a discussion informed by other known B-cell depleting contexts. Differences in hypogammaglobinemia between children and adults are identified. We integrate management strategies for evaluation and immunoglobulin replacement from clinical studies, expert recommendations, and organizational guidelines. Notably, our review also highlights newer CAR T-cell products targeting different B-cell antigens - including BCMA, SLAMF7, and κ light chains. Finally, we identify key areas for future study to mitigate and treat hypogammaglobulinemia resulting from this transformative therapy.
The Emergence of a Dual-System of Primary Schooling in Ethiopia and Its Impact

Over the last twenty years, in quantitative terms, Ethiopia has expanded and universalized the enrolment of school aged children in primary schools in line the International Covenant of Economic, Social, and Cultural rights in order to minimize the irregularities that have existed over the years. However, when the existing primary schooling is visualized in terms of quality and equity, it is sad to observe that privately run-ultra-modern primary schools seem to be mushrooming in Ethiopia in order to serve the sons and daughters of a newly emerging privileged class. On the other hand, the sons and daughters of the poor and disadvantaged are confined to over crowded classes manned by semi-qualified teachers and equipped with inadequate teaching materials. Stated differently, it is unbelievable to observe that primary schools in Ethiopia are sliding into a class-based education. Thus, if the government believes in equity and fairness, it needs to completely redesign and better equip the public primary school.
A Second Look at the Validityl of Readability Formulas

In this paper major factors interacting with readability measures in validity studies are identified and described. The basis for the analysis presented are thirty-six experimental studies of the e...
Abstract T P210: Splenectomy Attenuates Sex Differences in Infarct Volume Following Experimental Stroke in Mice

It is now increasingly clear that human stroke can have other serious consequences besides brain damage that can impact on patient survival and recovery. For example, many stroke patients succumb to CNS injury-induced immunodepression and fatal infections. Our prior work suggests that evolving cerebral ischemic injury elicits a cycle of injury from brain-to-spleen-to-brain that is strongly influenced by sex. We determined if splenic immunocytes are important in contributing to sex differences in post-ischemic brain injury. Male and female C57BL/6J mice were splenectomized 14 days before experimental stroke. Male and female mice with or without splenectomy (n=9-10 per group) then underwent 60 min of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) via intraluminal filament. Laser-Doppler flowmetry (LDF) was used to monitor cortical perfusion. All mice were euthanized and brains collected at 96 hours of reperfusion. Infarct volume (% corrected contralateral structure) was determined by image analysis of coronal brain slices stained with 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride. Mean arterial blood pressure (MABP), blood gases (pH, PaO2, PaCO2), and blood glucose were measured at 30 min MCAO and at 15 min of reperfusion in separate groups of male and female mice with or without splenectomy (n=5 per group). Relative LDF changes (% baseline), MABP, blood gases, and blood glucose during and after MCAO were comparable among the experimental groups. We observed that infarct volume in females (cortex, 41±4%; striatum, 55±6%) was smaller ( P <0.05) compared to males (cortex, 52±3%; striatum, 75±3%) at 96 hours of reperfusion. However, no differences (cortex, P =0.313; striatum, P =0.601) in infarct volume were seen between splenectomized male (cortex, 43±4%; striatum, 51±7%) and female (cortex, 38±4%; striatum, 46±5%) mice. Our data suggest that removal of all splenocyte lineages via splenectomy attenuates sex differences in post-ischemic brain injury. Future studies will evaluate the role of different splenic immunocyte subsets, such as T or B lymphocytes, on male vs. female ischemic brain outcomes. This study was supported by National Institutes of Health grant NS076013.