cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Helium Interaction with Y2Ti2O7: A First Principles Study

Helium embrittlement poses a great threat to materials used in both fusion and fissionreactor systems due to (n,α) transmutation reactions. Because of this, materials capable of moderating the helium content reaching grain boundaries and voids must be developed and improved to prevent catastrophic failure of reactor materials. Nanostructured ferritic alloys (NFAs) have shown great promise in preventing helium embrittlement due to the large number density of nanoscale precipitates acting as trapping sites for helium clusters and helium bubbles. In this study, we present density functional theory calculations on the interaction of helium with nanoscale precipitates found in NFAs as a preliminary study to furthering our understanding of the energetic mechanisms causing the precipitates to act as trapping sites for helium.
A DOUBLE SERMOCINATIO AND A RESOLVED DILEMMA IN CICERO'S PRO PLANCIO

In the litigious world of ancient Rome patroni were often torn between conflicting bonds of loyalty, and this is the dilemma that Cicero laments in the exordium of the Pro Plancio (5). Both the prosecutor, Laterensis, and the accused, Plancius, were personal friends, and Cicero bemoans the quandary: either upsetting Laterensis by comparing him unfavourably with Plancius, or letting down his client. A second problem for Cicero was that the prosecution also took the opportunity to impugn him as the creature of Pompey and Caesar, so that Cicero had to defend himself as much as his client. Two examples of sermocinatio (an imaginary dialogue with a personified entity) helped him to face these challenges: these sermocinationes are Cicero's main strategy for getting out of the conundrum but, in spite of their relevance to his line of argument, they have received very little attention. In this article, after a brief historical contextualization, I analyse each sermocinatio, arguing that Cicero cunningly sets aside the dilemma of comparing two friends by constructing an alternative comparison between Laterensis and himself, and that such a comparison, which is highly selective, re-establishes his own positive public image. The two sermocinationes, moreover, also display some meaningful textual references which have remained unnoticed: in the final part of this paper I set them against the backdrop of Plato's Crito and of Cicero's letter to Lentulus (Fam. 1.9), arguing that the reference to the Crito supports Cicero's strategy of contrasting himself with Laterensis and that comparison with Fam. 1.9 illuminates the connection between the Pro Plancio and Cicero's broader post reditum self-defence.
Remote failure testing and intelligent diagnosis processing research based on combination network

In view of the remote equipments under the atrocious circumstance,a plan and design of remote failure testing and intelligent diagnosis processing base on combination network is proposed and its key question is researched and discussed.Though make use of the multi-agents alliance method,a versatile platform is built which can process and test the remote equipment' failures.The key question such as data processing,data compression and failure synthesis processing in this system is also given its solution.
Effects of soybean isoflavones on bone metabolism in ovariectomized rats

[Objective] To study the preventive effects of soybean isoflavones on reduction of bone mass in ovariectomized rats. [Methods] Ovariectomized rats were given soybean isoflavones to protect them from bone mass loss.Meantime the sham operation group and model control group were established.Bone mineral density(BMD),calcium content and bone metabolism-associated biochemical markers were measured in 3 month. [Results] Soybean isoflavones increased BMD and calcium content of femur in the ovariectomized rats.The activities of serum alkaline phosphatase(AKP) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase(TRACP)were lower in the isoflavones-fed rats compared with model control group. [Conclusion] Soybean isoflavones might exert estrogen-like effect in ovariectomized rats,isoflavones was effective in preventing bone mass loss induced by ovariectomy.Our findings suggest that the effects of isoflavones may be partly by slowing down the ovariectomy-induced higher rates of bone turnover.
Scrotal Island Flap Urethroplasty in the Management of Bulbar Urethral Strictures

We describe our experience with 20 patients undergoing 1-stage scrotal island flap urethroplasty for severe bulbomembranous stricture disease. While 16 patients achieved satisfactory results, 4 required revision for recurrent stricture, diverticulum or fistula. Use of hairless skin and aggressive tailoring of the flap are stressed to avoid the common complications of diverticulum, hair ball and stone formation. This highly vascularized pedicle represents a reasonable alternative to staged repair when local tissue scarring is great and free full thickness skin graft viability is questionable.
The Representation of Plants in Hohokam Pottery Design

The Hohokam, a pre-Columbian people of the Sonoran Desert turned out a myriad of intricately designed ceramics. They were known to depict many aspects of their natural environment including animals, insects, birds and people. However, aside from vessels shaped like gourds or pumpkins and possibly datura seed pods, only a few clear representations of plants have been identified, most of which are obvious flower designs. Plants held great importance to the Hohokam as evidenced by botanical remains and irrigation canals. It is possible that the geometric design elements on Hohokam pottery also represent plants that were crucial to Hohokam subsistence. The comparison of designs from five site/site areas with actual plants as well as historic uses and traditions revolving around plant use support the hypothesis that Hohokam artisans were strongly influenced by the plants in their environment and depicted these plants on their pottery design.
Superior Lower Extremity Vein Graft Bypass Patency among Married Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease.

Background Outcome disparities associated with lower extremity bypass (LEB) for peripheral artery disease (PAD) have been identified but are poorly understood. Marital status may affect outcomes through factors related to health risk behaviors, adherence, and access to care but has not been characterized as a predictor of surgical outcomes and is often omitted from administrative data sets. We evaluated associations between marital status and vein graft patency following LEB using multivariable models adjusting for established risk factors. Methods Consecutive patients undergoing autogenous LEB for PAD were identified and analyzed. Survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate patency stratified by marital status (married versus single, divorced, or widow[er]) adjusting for demographic, comorbidity, and anatomic factors in multivariable models. Results Seventy-three participants who underwent 79 autogenous vein LEB had complete data and were analyzed. Forty-three patients (58.9%) were married, and 30 (41.1%) were unmarried. Compared with unmarried patients, married patients were older at the time of their bypass procedure (67.3 ± 10.8 years vs. 62.2 ± 10.6 years; P = 0.05). Married patients also had a lower prevalence of female gender (11.6% vs. 33.3%; P = 0.02). Diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and smoking were common among both married and unmarried patients. Minimum great saphenous vein conduit diameters were larger in married versus unmarried patients (2.82 ± 0.57 mm vs. 2.52 ± 0.65 mm; P = 0.04). Twenty-four-month primary patency was 66% for married versus 38% for unmarried patients. In a multivariable proportional hazards model adjusting for proximal and distal graft inflow/outflow, medications, gender, age, race, smoking, diabetes, and minimum vein graft diameter, married status was associated with superior primary patency (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.33; 95% confidence limits [0.11, 0.99]; P = 0.05); other predictive covariates included preoperative antiplatelet therapy (HR = 0.27; 95% confidence limits [0.10, 0.74]; P = 0.01) and diabetes (HR = 2.56; 95% confidence limits [0.93–7.04]; P = 0.07). Conclusions Marital status is associated with vein graft patency following LEB. Further investigation into the mechanistic explanation for improved patency among married patients may provide insight into social or behavioral factors influencing other disparities associated with LEB outcomes.
Abstract 022: Higher Baseline Progenitor Cell Counts in Familial Hypercholesterolemic Patients Compared to Healthy Controls

Background: Endothelial injury from exposure to cardiovascular risk factors leads to atherosclerosis, however, an endogenous response to vascular injury characterized by circulating progenitor cells (CPCs) contributes to endothelial repair and regeneration. Although CPCs are known to be inversely related to cardiovascular risk, it is uncertain whether these risk factors are also a stimulus for CPC mobilization. We measured the number of CPCs in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and compared them to patients with hyperlipidemia and healthy controls, with the hypothesis that CPC levels would be modulated by FH. Methods: Eight patients with FH on statin therapy (mean age, 48 ± 17 years) were compared with 16 age- and gender-matched hyperlipidemic patients on statin therapy, and 16 healthy volunteers. CPCs were analyzed using flow cytometry (BD FACS Canto II) for mononuclear cell (CD45dim) surface expression of CD34 and a combination of VEGF2R, CD133, and CXCR4 epitopes. Results are expressed as means ± SD or as proportions, and analysis of variance was used to detect differences between the three groups. Results: FH patients had higher circulating numbers of CD34+/CD133+ cells compared to hyperlipidemic (1.49 ± 1.01 vs. 0.88 ± 0.52 cells/µL, p = 0.04, respectively) and healthy counterparts (0.97 ± 0.61 cells/µL, p = 0.08). Similarly, FH subjects also had higher circulating levels of CD34+/CD133+/CXCR4+ cells compared to both the hyperlipidemic (0.68 ± 0.36 vs. 0.30 ± 0.22 cells/µL, p = 0.002, respectively) and healthy group (0.32 ± 0.25 cells/µL, p = 0.003). Conclusions: CPC counts, particularly of early CPCs characterized by CD133, and also those expressing the homing receptor, CXCR4, are higher in FH patients compared to age- and gender-matched healthy controls and patients with hyperlipidemia, independent of statins. This suggests an activation of reparative and regenerative reserve in FH subjects. The increased level of CPCs in FH subjects compared to hyperlipidemic patients may be a collective result of a higher level of lipid burden, lower therapeutic response to anti-hyperlipidemic pharmacotherapy, and chronic immune-activation due to ongoing subclinical endothelial injury in FH patients.
FDA Approval of Extended-Release Oxycodone for Children with Severe Pain: A Step Forward.

Dear Editor, We read with interest the article by Yang and colleagues [1] entitled “FDA Approval of Extended-Release Oxycodone for Children with Severe Pain”, published in Pediatrics . The authors comment on the approval of extended-release (ER) oxycodone for use by children between 11 and 16 years old when alternative treatment options are inadequate. Yang et al. state that for the first time doctors are provided specific dosing guidance for pediatric patients. With this decision, there now is effectively on-label prescribing of ER oxycodone to children [1]. Bazzano and colleagues [2] examined the frequency of off-label prescribing to children at US outpatient visits and determined how drug class, patient age, and physician specialty have related to off-label prescribing. The authors found that 62% of outpatient pediatric visits included off-label prescribing. Approximately 96% of cardiovascular-renal, 86% of pain, 80% of gastrointestinal, and 67% of pulmonary, and 67% of dermatologic medication prescriptions were off-label. Bazzano et al. concluded that despite recent studies and labeling changes of pediatric medications, the majority of pediatric outpatient visits involve off-label prescribing across all medication categories. Further, off-label prescribing is more frequent for younger children and those receiving care from specialist pediatricians [2]. The Policy Statement of the American Academy …
Discussion of the testing technology for protection device used in digital substation

The protection relays used in digital substation (called digital protection device) are different from traditional micr-computer based relays in both hardware and signal processing, and traditional relay testing methods are no ever adaptable to such new type of relays. This article analyzed the testing requirement of digital protection devices and several available testing schemes, introduced the function test method and the conformance test method of digital protection devices in laboratory. At the same time, the configuration method and testing schemes of digital relay testing instrument are introduced in detail based on engineering test practice of digital protection devices, and the deficiency in nowadays test methods was also analyzed. This paper proposed an idea that laboratory test method combined with engineering test method in relays testing, and which was a valuable exploration on the development of digital protection testing technology.
People Who Inject Drugs and Have Mood Disorders-A Brief Assessment of Health Risk Behaviors.

ABSTRACTBackground: People who inject drugs have a greater risk of infectious disease and mortality than other substance abusers and nondrug users. Variation in risk behavior among people who inject drugs is likely associated with comorbid mental health disorders. Objectives: Examine the association between a history of mood disorder and recent risk behavior among people who inject drugs. Methods: With baseline data from a behavioral HIV prevention clinical trial in a population of people who inject drugs, we used logistic regression models to compare the risk behaviors of people who report a past diagnosis of bipolar disorder (n = 113) or depression (n = 237) to a comparison group with no history of diagnosed mental illness (n = 446). We also assessed differences between groups before and after adjusting for demographic characteristics and current depressive symptoms. Results: While there were no differences between groups in frequency of drug use, people who inject drugs who report a history of mood dis...
Reduction and temporary stabilization of Tile C pelvic ring injuries using a posteriorly based external fixation system

Tile C pelvic ring injuries are challenging to manage even in the most experienced hands. The majority of such injuries can be managed using percutaneous reduction techniques, and the posterior ring can be stabilized using percutaneous transiliac-transsacral screw fixation. However, a subgroup of patients present with inadequate bony corridors, significant sacral zone 2 comminution or significant lateral/vertical displacement of the hemipelvis through a complete sacral fracture. Percutaneous strategies in such circumstances can be dangerous. Those patients may benefit from prone positioning and open reduction of the sacral fracture with fixation through tension band plating or lumbo-pelvic fixation. Soft tissue handling is critical, and direct reduction techniques around the sacrum can be difficult due to the complex anatomy and the fragile nature of the sacrum making clamp placement and tightening a challenge. In this paper, we propose a mini-invasive technique of indirect reduction and temporary stabilization, which is soft tissue friendly and permits maintenance of reduction during definitive fixation surgical.
Micro bump height derivation control with dynamic sizing patterning

Ubump is the key element for die-to-die stacking. However, the adoption of ubump will encounter higher cold joint risk than flip chip bump due to less solder volume and symmetry ubump pattern of stacking dies. In this study, the phenomenon of ubump height distribution across the die is analyzed. The mechanism of ubump height variation is discussed, and the approach for cold joint risk mitigation is demonstrated. The experiment result indicated 20% ubump height variation is achieved with dynamic sizing patterning.
Economic Analysis of a Geographically Defined Cohort of Hospitalized Patients Who Smoke

Abstract Objective To compare the indications for hospital admission between current, former, and never smokers and to compare their costs per hospital admission, testing the hypothesis that the cost per hospital admission would be higher for smokers than for former and never smokers. Patients and Methods This study used a retrospective nested cohort design, with cohort membership determined by cigarette smoking status (current, former, or never). Propensity score–matching techniques were used to control for differences between groups other than smoking status. Participants were admitted to Mayo Clinic Hospital, Rochester, Minnesota, between May 5, 2012, and August 10, 2014, and lived in the areas covered by postal codes included in Olmsted County, Minnesota. Results Compared with never smokers, a significantly higher proportion of admissions in current smokers were for diseases of the respiratory system, diseases of the circulatory system, infectious and parasitic diseases, mental illness, and injury or poisoning (P Conclusion There is no evidence that the cost of hospital admission is higher in current smokers than in never or former smokers, even when controlling for admission indication, in a general population of medical and surgical patients. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01575145.
REPLACEMENT MANAGEMENT IN CATTLE | Growth Standards and Nutrient Requirements

The two most important factors determining the value of a heifer are the age at which she conceived and her body weight at calving. The principles of targeted growth should be used to determine growth standards regardless of the breed. Heifers should weigh 55% of expected mature weight at first breeding and 82% of expected mature weight at first calving. Nutrient requirements can be estimated by knowing the expected mature weight, the current weight and age and desired age at first calving, the chemical composition of feeds, and the ration dry matter intake of the heifer. Environmental conditions have a considerable impact upon nutrient requirements for maintenance and, therefore, the nutrients available to support growth.
Triangulating abuse liability assessment for flavoured cigar products using physiological, behavioural economic and subjective assessments: a within-subjects clinical laboratory protocol.

Introduction In the USA, Food and Drug Administration regulations prohibit the sale of flavoured cigarettes, with menthol being the exception. However, the manufacture, advertisement and sale of flavoured cigar products are permitted. Such flavourings influence positive perceptions of tobacco products and are linked to increased use. Flavourings may mask the taste of tobacco and enhance smoke inhalation, influencing toxicant exposure and abuse liability among novice tobacco users. Using clinical laboratory methods, this study investigates how flavour availability affects measures of abuse liability in young adult cigarette smokers. The specific aims are to evaluate the effect of cigar flavours on nicotine exposure, and behavioural and subjective measures of abuse liability. Methods and analyses Participants (projected n=25) are healthy smokers of five or more cigarettes per day over the past 3 months, 18–25 years old, naive to cigar use (lifetime use of 50 or fewer cigar products and no more than 10 cigars smoked in the past 30 days) and without a desire to quit cigarette smoking in the next 30 days. Participants complete five laboratory sessions in a Latin square design with either their own brand cigarette or a session-specific Black & Mild cigar differing in flavour (apple, cream, original and wine). Participants are single-blinded to cigar flavours. Each session consists of two 10-puff smoking bouts (30 s interpuff interval) separated by 1 hour. Primary outcomes include saliva nicotine concentration, behavioural economic task performance and response to various questionnaire items assessing subjective effects predictive of abuse liability. Differences in outcomes across own brand cigarette and flavoured cigar conditions will be tested using linear mixed models. Ethics and dissemination The Virginia Commonwealth University Institutional Review Board approved the study (VCU IRB: HM20007848). Dissemination channels for study findings include scientific journals, scientific meetings, and policy briefs. Trial registration number NCT02937051.
Rationalized authenticity and the transnational spread of intangible cultural heritage

Abstract The 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage was adopted by UNESCO to enshrine and preserve exemplars of the intangible heritage of humanity – practices, traditions, and cultural expressions – on a global register. In our view, this convention highlights a tension between the valorization of cultural diversity on one hand and the universal relevance and value of masterpieces of intangible heritage to all humankind on the other. We introduce the term rationalized authenticity to refer to processes by which this tension is mitigated through simultaneous 1) fostering of a diversity of ways that heritage may be expressed or understood and 2) translation into rationalized forms that demonstrate the transnational relevance of cultural heritage. Based on a comparative analysis of three diverse examples of heritage on UNESCO’s list from outside the core of the cultural world system – tango from Argentina and Uruguay, acupuncture and moxibustion from China, and the Kodaly concept from Hungary – we show how rationalized authenticity encourages the adoption of alternative definitions of cultural heritage and also facilitates the transnational spread and transformation of select masterpieces of intangible heritage.
Reversible Structure Formation of Aluminum Trihydroxide (ATH) Dispersions in Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS).

Aluminum trihydroxide/polydimethylsiloxane (ATH/PDMS) systems are often used as potting compounds in electronic assemblies to guard the electronics from shock, vibration, corrosive agents, and moisture. In this study, we use dynamic rheology and confocal/optical microscopy to understand the dramatic effects miniscule levels of water have on the microstructure and corresponding rheological behavior of PDMS filled with ATH. In the absence of water, PDMS containing 20 wt % ATH readily flows, exhibiting viscoelastic behavior with some weak particle flocculation. However, the addition of only 0.045 wt % water to the system results in the formation of a sample-spanning, self-supporting physical gel that exhibits an elastic modulus (G′) five orders of magnitude higher than the water-free system. A structure formation mechanism consisting of hydration layer formation followed by interparticle water bridging has been proposed to explain the observed behavior. Recovery of the original viscoelastic fluid is demonstr...
Percutaneous irreversible electroporation (IRE) in the management of pancreatic cancer.

e15249 Background: IRE is a new non-thermal ablative technology that uses high voltage direct current to create permanent pores in the cell membrane leading to cell death. A retrospective review of...
Wnt Signaling Is Required for the Maintenance of Human Limbal Stem/Progenitor Cells In Vitro.

Author(s): Gonzalez, Sheyla; Oh, Denise; Baclagon, Elfren R; Zheng, Jie J; Deng, Sophie X | Abstract: PurposeA chemical approach to examine the role of Wnt signaling in maintaining the stemness and/or proliferation of limbal stem/progenitor cells (LSCs).MethodsLSCs were isolated from human donor eyes and cultured as single cells for 12 to 14 days with the following small molecules: IIIC3, an antagonist of the Wnt signaling inhibitor Dickkopf (DKK), and IC15, a Wnt signaling inhibitor. Proliferation of LSCs in the presence of IIIC3 and IC15 was determined by the number of cells and colonies established. Maintenance of stemness was determined by p63α, cytokeratin (K)12, and K14 expression.ResultsActivation of Wnt, through IIIC3-mediated DKK inhibition, resulted in similar colony forming efficiency (CFE) as in the untreated LSCs, but significantly increased the number of cultivated cells 7.21% with 5 μM. Inhibition of Wnt with IC15 significantly reduced the CFE (P ≤ 0.01) and the number of cultivated cells by 16% to 29%. Percentage of cells expressing high levels of p63α (p63αbright) and quantity of small cells (≤12 μm), which contain the LSCs, increased 4.71% and 11.26% (both P l 0.05), respectively, with 5 μM IIIC3. All concentrations of IIIC3 and IC15 retained the K14 undifferentiated marker (97%), while differentiation, as detected by expression of K12, was found in up to 2% of cells in 1 μM IIIC3, 1 μM IC15, or 5 μM IIIC3.ConclusionsWnt signaling is required in LSC proliferation and maintenance of an undifferentiated state. The current study is a proof of concept that the Wnt pathway could be modulated in LSCs to enhance or decrease the efficiency of human LSC expansion.
Prenatal Hormones Organize Sex Differences of the Neuroendocrine Reproductive System: Observations on Guinea Pigs and Nonhuman Primates

1. The central nervous systems (CNS) of males and females differ in the control mechanisms for the release of gonadotropins from the anterior pituitary gland as well as the capacity to display sex specific behaviors. 2. In guinea pigs and monkeys, these differences are organized through the actions of prenatal androgens secreted by the fetal testes. In both males and females androgen receptors have been identified within the brain during the period in development in which organization of the CNS occurs. Sex differences between the ratio of cytosolic and nuclear androgen receptors are due to the amount of endogenous androgen present in the circulation of the developing fetus. Thus, at least part of the biochemical machinery necessary for androgen action resides in the CNS during the period of sexual differentiation. 3. In addition to the physiological differences that have been observed, morphological differences that are androgen dependent have been found in the medial preoptic nucleus and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis of the guinea pig. The location of these sex differences in brain morphology coincides roughly with the location of steroid binding neurons. 4. In some species the in situ conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by the 5 alpha-reductases or to estradiol-17 beta by cytochrome P450 aromatase mediates testosterone's action. The gonadotropin surge mechanism of adult guinea pigs exposed to a 5a-reductase inhibitor in utero during the critical period for sexual differentiation was unaffected in either males or females even though the development of the external organs of reproduction of males was feminized by the treatment. Likewise, the gonadotropin surge mechanism of subjects exposed to an aromatase inhibitor in utero during the critical period for sexual differentiation was unaffected by this treatment. 5. The mechanism controlling negative feedback, however, was affected in both males and females. Subjects that were exposed to an aromatase inhibitor while developing in utero could not respond to the negative feedback actions of estrogen on gonadotropin release in adulthood. 6. The surge mechanism for the control of gonadotropin secretion in nonhuman primates is not sexually differentiated as it is in rodents. Castrated male monkeys release surge amounts of LH in response to an estrogen challenge. Both infant and adult dimorphic behaviors of rhesus monkeys are organized by the prenatal actions of androgen.
Zero-Shot Visual Imitation

Imitating expert demonstration is a powerful mechanism for learning to perform tasks from raw sensory observations. The current dominant paradigm in learning from demonstration (LfD) [3,16,19,20] requires the expert to either manually move the robot joints (i.e., kinesthetic teaching) or teleoperate the robot to execute the desired task. The expert typically provides multiple demonstrations of a task at training time, and this generates data in the form of observation-action pairs from the agent's point of view. The agent then distills this data into a policy for performing the task of interest. Such a heavily supervised approach, where it is necessary to provide demonstrations by controlling the robot, is incredibly tedious for the human expert. Moreover, for every new task that the robot needs to execute, the expert is required to provide a new set of demonstrations.
The Effects of Psychological Empowerment on Performance in Open Source Software Projects: An Exploratory Study

An enduring issue that intrigues researchers and practitioners in open-source software (OSS) development is what motivates individuals to participate and make contributions, given the lack of numerating mechanisms. Amidst several end-state-focused motives advocated by prior studies (such as improved programming skills and future career growth), we add that an important contributing factor is empowerment, the positive feelings derived from task assessments in OSS projects. Through survey data collected from 233 OSS participants, we assess how components of psychological empowerment (i.e., autonomy, competence, meaningfulness, and impact) derived from OSS tasks may affect the work output of participants. In particular, we demonstrate that competence and impact have a positive influence on OSS participants’ performance, while autonomy and meaningfulness have a slightly negative influence on performance. In addition, empowerment’s effects on performance can be mediated by effort expended. Theoretical contributions and managerial implications of this study are discussed.
Contamination of Common Area and Rehabilitation Gym Environment with Multidrug-Resistant Organisms.

Objectives To quantify the multidrug-resistant organism (MDRO) burden of high-touch common area and rehabilitation gym surfaces, and to assess microorganism transfer potential during rehabilitation sessions. Design Prospective study of environmental contamination. Setting Nursing home (NH). Participants Six Michigan NHs. Measurements Monthly samples from common area surfaces (eg, living room), rehabilitation equipment, and rehabilitation personnel hands were screened for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), and resistant gram-negative bacilli (R-GNB). To assess microorganism transfer potential, we conducted an in-depth assessment of microorganism transfer during 10 rehabilitation sessions. Microorganism transfer was defined as the identification of a microorganism on a destination surface that was uncontaminated before the rehabilitation session. Patient frequency of common area usage was also assessed qualitatively. Results We obtained 1338 common area specimens from 180 monthly facility visits, of which 13.4% (179/1338) were MDRO positive: MRSA, 3.8%; VRE, 5.8%; and R-GNB, 5.1%. A total of 64% (116/180) of sampling visits had at least one MDRO-positive common area specimen. Within rehabilitation gyms, we obtained 521 equipment and 190 personnel hand specimens during 60 monthly visits. Of the equipment specimens collected, 7.7% (40/521) were MDRO positive: MRSA, 2.5%; VRE, 4.0%; and R-GNB, 1.9%. Of the 190 rehabilitation personnel hand specimens collected, 3.7% (7/190) were MDRO positive. Overall, 55% (33/60) of rehabilitation gym visits had at least one MDRO-positive specimen. Microorganism transfer assessment during 10 rehabilitation sessions revealed 35 opportunities for transfer during which microorganism transfer occurred in 17.1% (6/35) of opportunities. Conclusion NH common areas and rehabilitation gyms are MDRO reservoirs that may contribute to the transmission of healthcare-associated pathogens. Because NHs accommodate the increasing short-stay patient population, developing effective interventions that reduce MDRO transmission in the common area and rehabilitation gym environment should be considered an infection prevention priority. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:478-485, 2020.
Dual functions of insect wings in an odor-guided aeronautic navigation

Insects can detect and locate distant odor sources (food, mate, etc.) by tracking odor plumes, which is key to their survival. During an odor-guided navigation, flapping wings have been speculated to actively draw odorants to the antennae and enhance olfactory sensitivity. Utilizing an in-house computational fluid dynamics solver, we have quantified the odor plume structures of a fruit fly in a forward flight motion and have confirmed that the flapping wings induce a strong vortex flow over the insect's head, thereby enhancing the odor mass flux around the antennae (by ~1.8 times). To further understand the function of different wing area in terms of aerodynamics and olfaction, we designed an altered fruit fly wing by removing its trailing-edge portion; subsequent simulations showed that this altered wing has an improved lift production but with significantly reduction of the induced odor mass flux. Contrary to the common belief that the wing shapes of an insect are optimized only for aerodynamic performance, our results suggest that, because both aerodynamic and olfactory functions are indispensable during the odor-guided navigation, insects may sacrifice some aerodynamic potential to enhance olfactory detection; and the shape and size of the wing may be a balance between the two functions. Furthermore, we found that higher wing beat frequency and wing reversal phase induce higher odor mass flux, while lower beat frequency and downstroke phase produce better lift coefficient, which indicates another balance between the two functions.
Quick, Community-Specific Learning: How Distinctive Toxicity Norms Are Maintained in Political Subreddits.

Online communities about similar topics may maintain very different norms of interaction. Past research identifies many processes that contribute to maintaining stable norms, including self-selection, pre-entry learning, post-entry learning, and retention. We analyzed political subreddits that had distinctive, stable levels of toxic comments on Reddit, in order to identify the relative contribution of these four processes. Surprisingly, we find that the largest source of norm stability is pre-entry learning. That is, newcomers' first comments in these distinctive subreddits differ from those same people's prior behavior in other subreddits. Through this adjustment, they nearly match the toxicity level of the subreddit they are joining. We also show that behavior adjustments are community-specific and not broadly transformative. That is, people continue to post toxic comments at their previous rates in other political subreddits. Thus, we conclude that in political subreddits, compatible newcomers are neither born nor made– they make local adjustments on their own.
Comparing Google Classroom and D2L Brightspace Using the Technology Acceptance Model

Learning management systems (LMSs) have been widely adopted in K-12 and higher education to support online and blended learning (Black et al. 2007; Graham 2005). One relatively new and untested LMS is Google Classroom, which has received widespread adoption in K-12 learning, but not in higher education (Fenton 2017; Hill 2018). In the current study, Google classroom is compared with Brightspace using a survey instrument based on the Technology Acceptance Model (Davis et al. 1989; Shroff et al. 2011). Both LMSs were implemented in blended learning situations as a support for online activities that occurred in conjunction with face-to-face course activities. Findings indicate a general preference for the Brightspace LMS for its productivity tools, and attitude toward usage and usability. Participant comments and instructor observations of both LMSs are also presented. Findings may help inform higher education personnel who are considering adopting the new and free Google Classroom LMS.
A Filtered Version of the Bipolar Theorem of Brannath and Schachermayer

We extend the Bipolar Theorem of Kramkov and Schachermayer(12) to the space of nonnegative cadlag supermartingales on a filtered probability space. We formulate the notion of fork-convexity as an analogue to convexity in this setting. As an intermediate step in the proof of our main result we establish a conditional version of the Bipolar theorem. In an application to mathematical finance we describe the structure of the set of dual processes of the utility maximization problem of Kramkov and Schachermayer(12) and give a budget-constraint characterization of admissible consumption processes in an incomplete semimartingale market.
[18F]-Fluciclovine PET discrimination of recurrent intracranial metastatic disease from radiation necrosis.

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is often the primary treatment modality for patients with intracranial metastatic disease. Despite advances in magnetic resonance imaging, including use of perfusion and diffusion sequences and molecular imaging, distinguishing radiation necrosis from progressive tumor remains a diagnostic and clinical challenge. We investigated the sensitivity and specificity of 18F-fluciclovine PET to accurately distinguish radiation necrosis from recurrent intracranial metastatic disease in patients who had previously undergone SRS. Fluciclovine PET imaging was performed in 8 patients with a total of 15 lesions that had previously undergone SRS and had subsequent MRI and clinical features suspicious for recurrent disease. The SUVmax of each lesion and the contralateral normal brain parenchyma were summated and evaluated at four different time points (5 min, 10 min, 30 min, and 55 min). Lesions were characterized as either recurrent disease (11 of 15 lesions) or radiation necrosis (4 of 15 lesions) and confirmed with histopathological correlation (7 lesions) or through serial MRI studies (8 lesions). Time activity curve analysis found statistically greater radiotracer accumulation for all lesions, including radiation necrosis, when compared to contralateral normal brain. While the mean and median SUVmax for recurrent disease were statistically greater than those of radiation necrosis at all time points, the difference was more significant at the earlier time points (p = 0.004 at 5 min–0.025 at 55 min). Using a SUVmax threshold of ≥ 1.3, fluciclovine PET demonstrated a 100% accuracy in distinguishing recurrent disease from radiation necrosis up to 30 min after injection and an accuracy of 87% (sensitivity = 0.91, specificity = 0.75) at the last time point of 55 min. However, tumor-to-background ratios (TBRmax) were not significantly different between recurrent disease and radiation necrosis at any time point due to variable levels of fluciclovine uptake in the background brain parenchyma. Fluciclovine PET may play an important role in distinguishing active intracranial metastatic lesions from radiation necrosis in patients previously treated with SRS but needs to be validated in larger studies.
Building the supply of demand: Experiments in mini-grid demand stimulation

Abstract Solar mini-grids are a key element in strategies to achieve universal access to modern energy by 2030. In many settings mini-grids offer a combination of affordability, reliability, and capacity for productive use of power, moreso than most solar home systems and some central grids. Yet the economic sustainability of mini-grids relies on achieving target usage levels, and consumption data to date suggest that they may be commercially unsustainable due to consistently low demand for power once installed—and that newly-connected recipients cannot take full advantage of access. Using a uniquely fine-grained data set spanning 29 villages in East Africa, we test whether credit constraints and the cost of electricity hinder demand growth among mini-grid-connected households. We find that households that purchased appliances under a financing program increased consumption by up to 66 percent compared to matched controls, though a sensitivity analysis suggests this estimate is rather sensitive to bias from unobservable characteristics, and the increase is not sustained. While most customers in the program do not repay loans in full, we find that on average, customers repay about 78 percent of the loan amount. When we analyze developers’ return on investment, we find that the profitability of appliance financing programs at a market cost of capital, similar to those evaluated in this study, depends substantially on the types of appliances on offer. With a limited sample size, the tariff subsidy program indicated that lowering the cost of electricity by up to 75 percent substantially increased consumption, albeit with mixed signals for whether overall revenue could be maintained at a lower tariff, therefore calling for further research to find the optimal balance of affordable tariffs and profitable business models for mini-grids in settings like East Africa.
Of Cabbages and Kings: A Review of 'Our Undemocratic Constitution' By Sanford Levinson

Professor Levinson hopes that by publishing his concise, 181-page book, Our Undemocratic Constitution: Where the Constitution Goes Wrong (and How We the People Can Correct It), he will generate thought and action in support of a referendum by Americans requesting Congress to call a Constitutional Convention empowered to draft a new constitution for submission to the electorate. He has constructed an extensive critique of many constitutional provisions that were drafted by the framers to implement the Preamble's stated goals, but which, he says, are unfit for our government today. He expresses this in his subtitle: "Where the Constitution Goes Wrong (and How We the People Can Correct It)." For the Constitution to comply with his basic principle, Levinson says, it would be necessary to repair many clauses of the Constitution so that: (1)If bicameralism is continued, the allocation of power in the Senate would take better account of population; (2) Age, duration of citizenship, and residence are altered or removed as qualifications for members of Congress; (3)The electoral college is abandoned in favor of nationwide direct voting for the President;(4) A newly elected President takes office shortly after the election; (5)Presidential power is more limited, and it is easier to remove an incompetent President, but the limit on two terms should be removed, as should the "natural born" requirement; (6) Life tenure for Supreme Court Justices is abandoned; (7) The amending process is simplified to make it easier to change the Constitution; and (8)Provisions are added to deal with the problem of the continuity of government following a catastrophic terrorist attack. This review of his book is divided into three main parts. First, assuming the wisdom of Professor Levinson's basic principle that the goal should be to promote democracy, as Levinson defines it, and ignoring any real-world problems with adoption of his proposals in practice, Professor Levinson's proposals are examined on their own terms. Second, consideration is given to the likely, or unlikely, probability that Levinson's proposals for constitutional change will be adopted in practice. Third, the wisdom of Professor Levinson's goal to promote democracy, as he defines it, is discussed.
The βγ subunit of heterotrimeric G proteins interacts with actin filaments during neuronal differentiation.

Abstract The βγ subunit of heterotrimeric G proteins, a key molecule in the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) signaling pathway, has been shown to be an important factor in the modulation of the microtubule cytoskeleton. Gβγ has been shown to bind to tubulin, stimulate microtubule assembly, and promote neurite outgrowth of PC12 cells. In this study, we demonstrate that in addition to microtubules, Gβγ also interacts with actin filaments, and this interaction increases during NGF-induced neuronal differentiation of PC12 cells. We further demonstrate that the Gβγ-actin interaction occurs independently of microtubules as nocodazole, a well-known microtubule depolymerizing agent did not inhibit Gβγ-actin complex formation in PC12 cells. A confocal microscopic analysis of NGF-treated PC12 cells revealed that Gβγ co-localizes with both actin and microtubule cytoskeleton along neurites, with specific co-localization of Gβγ with actin at the distal end of these neuronal processes. Furthermore, we show that Gβγ interacts with the actin cytoskeleton in primary hippocampal and cerebellar rat neurons. Our results indicate that Gβγ serves as an important modulator of the neuronal cytoskeleton by interacting with both microtubules and actin filaments, and is likely to participate in various aspects of neuronal differentiation including axon and growth cone formation.
The Sordid Business of Education

This essay examines the institutional corruption at the heart of the education system. It argues that Students and faculty need to be on alert, exercise independent thought, and ask hard questions about the legitimacy of programs, relationships with the private sector, and representations made to secure funding. It further argues that regulators must make compliance enforcement a continued priority and search out new schemes. The essay concludes that restoring integrity to our educational institutions and using compliance to set examples is essential to instilling an appreciation for ethical conduct in the generations to come.
The rise of the modern state: IV. The expansion of civilian scope

Chapter 11 identifies two sea changes in the development of the state. The first, lasting through the eighteenth century to 1815, saw great expansion in the state's size, due almost entirely to its geopolitical militarism. Earlier chapters show this greatly politicized social life intensifying the development of classes and nations. The second sea change is the concern of this chapter. Beginning about 1870, it greatly expanded not only size but civilian scope within the state as well. While retaining (a reduced) militarism plus traditional judicial and charitable functions, states acquired three new civilian functions, around which, as Chapter 13 shows, bureaucratization also centered: All states massively extended infrastructures of material and symbolic communication: roads, canals, railways, postal service, telegraphy, and mass education. Some states went into direct ownership of material infrastructures and productive industries. Just before the end of the period, states began to extend their charity into more general welfare programs, embryonic forms of Marshall's “social citizenship.” Thus states increasingly penetrated social life. Despite a reduction in fiscal pain, civil society was further politicized. People could not return to their normal historical practice of ignoring the state. Class-national caging continued, if more quietly, with less world-historical drama. Social life was becoming more “naturalized,” and states were becoming more “powerful” – but in what sense? Were autonomous states “intervening” more despotically in civil society, aided by greater infrastructural powers, as envisaged by elitist-managerialist state theory?
Agent-based Architecture for Flexible Lean Cell Design, Analysis and Evaluation

We present an agent architecture in support of lean operations across manufacturing supply chains. Our architecture addresses the issue of heterogeneous information management, the need for analyzing mixed manufacturing approaches, and efficiency and accuracy tradeoffs of analysis methods. We propose five distinct layers to address these requirements: an XML/RDF/DAMLInformation Access Layer, a Resource Vector Representation Layer, an Analysis Layer, a Coordination Layer, and a Visualization Layer. Our successful results in developing agent systems in support of lean manufacturing cell and supply chain management validate our layered approach.