cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Masking release in children and adults with hearing loss when using amplification

Purpose This study compared masking release for adults and children with normal hearing and hearing loss. For the participants with hearing loss, masking release using simulated hearing aid amplification with 2 different compression speeds (slow, fast) was compared. Method Sentence recognition in unmodulated noise was compared with recognition in modulated noise (masking release). Recognition was measured for participants with hearing loss using individualized amplification via the hearing-aid simulator. Results Adults with hearing loss showed greater masking release than the children with hearing loss. Average masking release was small (1 dB) and did not depend on hearing status. Masking release was comparable for slow and fast compression. Conclusions The use of amplification in this study contrasts with previous studies that did not use amplification. The results suggest that when differences in audibility are reduced, participants with hearing loss may be able to take advantage of dips in the noise le...
A Provocative View of the Evolutionary Process

Early in his long scientific career, Richard Goldschmidt perceived that the young science of genetics was destined to become the core of a new biology. Indeed, he was one of the chief architects of that biology, infusing a genetic perspective particularly into classical cytology and embryology. Eventually his attention became focused on the genetics of the evolutionary process.
Mahatma Gandhi and the Pro-Israeli Lobby in the US

The recent forced resignation of Gandhi's grandson, Arun Gandhi from the M K Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence in New York brings to mind the Zionist lobby's bitter criticism of Mahatma Gandhi from a Jewish fundamentalist perspective in the 1980s.
Unveiling Assumptions: Photography, Word Politics, and the Hijab

Geopolitical events shape the lenses through which we view the world around us. Following the Iranian Revolution of 1979 and the World Trade Center attacks of 11 September 2001, the Western world has observed the Middle East, and particularly the Islamic religion, with increasing distrust, disapproval, and fear. This ongoing shift in cultural and religious identifications is accompanied by the appropriation of foreign cultural and religious symbols, specifically the hijab. Theoretically grounded in the works of Edward Said, Sharon Crowley, and John Berger, this essay examines the hegemonic discourses that inform photographic representations of the hijab and considers how photography could instead inspire purposeful conversations and the positive negotiation of differences
The P/NP Problem

Mathematicians are always interested in problems and their solutions. In this chapter we will be interested specifically in problems that can be solved using an algorithm, that is, by a step-by-step procedure.
Clinical Problem Solving: Back to the Basics.

Annals. 3 Second, a previously well child who presents with symptoms and signs of peritonitis requires at least a laparoscopy. Other investigative procedures, particularly minimally focused echography, and indeed a computed tomography scan with its attendant radiation effects, risk delaying therapeutic intervention. In the case cited, the amount of free intraperitoneal fluid had clearly increased within a 24-hour period of observation, but it was only until respiratory distress had supervened that definitive action was taken. The message is that the signs of abdominal catastrophe in a child may not always be obvious, and it is wiser to look and see than to wait and see, before potentially irremediable effects of sepsis supervene.
Analyzing the relationship of high liabilities structure and the unreasonable structure of capital

Capital structure refers to the proportionate relationship of rights and interests capital and debt capital. The key issue of capital structure is the issue of debt. The structure of capital is a dynamic concept, so we can't judge whether capital structure is rational or not only from the height in debt, and we should analyze it synthetically weighting the factors of various fields. . In theory, high liabilities structure is not equal to the unreasonable capital structure, but as for our country, there is a special relationship between them. In order to change the realistic states of the high liabilities of the state-owned enterprise , the main measures taken at present are increasing capital、reducing debt﹑transferring debt to share、transforming shareholding system and so on. But these measures can only work in a short time, not on long terms.
Decision-making for sustainable location of a cement plant in the state of Florida

Site selection is a typical strategic decision for many industries that deals with specifying the most appropriate location for a facility. In the context of sustainable development, site selection decisions need to be improved by adopting environmental, economic and social requirements. This study aims to frame sustainable location decisions by conducting a case study of siting a new cement plant in the state of Florida. As a part of the study, a wide range of technical and sustainability criteria has developed. These criteria can help decision-makers in the cement industry evaluate the selection of a location with the requirements of sustainable development. The sustainability characteristics of alternative sites in the state of Florida are evaluated based on the criteria to identify the most appropriate ones. The analytical hierarchy processand geographic information system techniques are utilized to weight the criteria and evaluate the characteristics of site candidates.
Immunologic homology of human blood group glycosyltransferases and genetic background of blood group (ABO) determination

Abstract The human blood groups (ABO) are known to be determined by the terminal carbohydrate residues attached to common carbohydrate chains of the red cell surface. Specific transferases, i.e., N-acetylgalacto-saminyltransferase (A enzyme) in blood group A persons and galactosyltransferase (B enzyme) in blood group B persons, are responsible for transferring the carbohydrates to the terminal galactose of the H-substance of the O red cell surface, with both enzymes absent in blood group O persons. It has not been clear whether the expression of these transferases is related to allelic structural genes or is under regulatory control. The activities of A and B enzymes were completely neutralized by the anti-A-enzyme antibody, which was obtained from a rabbit immunized with purified A enzyme. When pretreated with a protein component obtained from blood group O plasma, the antibody had no capacity for neutralization of the two enzymes. If the transferases are under regulatory control, no immunologically cross-reactive protein should be produced in blood type O persons. The existence of an immunologically active component in blood group O plasma proves that the genes for A enzyme, B enzyme, and the immunologically cross-reactive protein in O plasma are allelic and excludes the possibility of involvement of regulatory control in blood group expression.
The role of PECAM in leukocyte emigration

The process of leukocyte emigration into a site of inflammation involves a number of sequential and coordinated adhesive interactions between the leukocyte and underlying endothelium. As has been made clear in previous chapters, emigration can be dissected into the steps of tethering, rolling, activation, firm adhesion, and transendothelial migration. These interactions typically involve distinct families of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs). It is our ability to block the actions of these molecules by specific monoclonal antibodies (mAb), soluble recombinant CAMs or their ligands, or genetic disruption that has identified these as distinct steps [1,2].
A Posteriori Error Estimates for Conservative Local Discontinuous GalerkinMethods for the Generalized Korteweg-de Vries Equation

We construct and analyze conservative local discontinuous Galerkin (LDG) methods for the Generalized Korteweg-de-Vries equation. LDG methods are designed by writing the equation as a system and performing separate approximations to the spatial derivatives. The main focus is on the development of conservative methods which can preserve discrete versions of the first two invariants of the continuous solution, and a posteriori error estimates for a fully discrete approximation that is based on the idea of dispersive reconstruction. Numerical experiments are provided to verify the theoretical estimates.
Ligand-Sensitized Lanthanide Nanocrystals: Merging Solid-State Photophysics and Molecular Solution Chemistry

To date, the breadth of scientific research that has been devoted to investigating the photochemical and photophysical behavior of the lanthanide elements has generally fallen into one of two camps: solution studies of luminescent lanthanide metal–ligand complexes or investigations of solid-state nanoparticles, composed primarily of, or doped with, lanthanide lumiphores. In the latter case, most research of lanthanide nanocolloids has precluded any investigations regarding the use of organic ligands to overcome the difficulties associated with f–f excitation of lanthanides. Instead, most work on condensed-phase lanthanide luminescence has centered on strategies such as d–f charge separation in divalent lanthanides and the sensitization of lanthanide excited states using quantum dots. Current work now aims at bridging the camps of condensed-phase lanthanide photophysics and the solution chemistry of ligand–lanthanide molecular complexes. Recent efforts have partly focused on the fundamental characterizatio...
Christodemocracy Paradoxically Embraces Populist Faith and Strict Hierarchical Authority

Democracies are premised on authority resting within its citizenry. Christodemocracy empowers its citizens with a strong, shared identity based in faith. Conversely this reliance on faith yields authority to interpreters of scripture. Groups that reject the sovereignty of scripture threaten the interpreters’ authority. So participation is encouraged while illegitimate identities are stymied.
Comparison of Scatter/Primary Measurements with GATE Simulations for X-Ray Spectra in Cone Beam CT Mammography

It is commonly understood that scattered radiation in CT degrades the reconstructed image. Scatter correction relies on precise measurements or Monte Carlo simulation results in experimental conditions. Previous studies on both experimental measurements and Monte Carlo simulations have been reported in diagnostic radiology and conventional mammography. Rapidly developed cone beam CT mammography significantly differs from conventional mammography in breast shape, geometry, etc. aspects, which are amongst the most important factors that impact the scatter fraction. The Geant4 based Monte Carlo simulation package GATE has been successful in the application of PET and SPECT with its implemented precise modeling of various physics processes. However, there exist little reports in the literature about the GATE application in X-ray CT. We present some preliminary results on the experimental measurements of the scatter to primary ratios in cone beam CT mammography setting using the beam stop and aperture methods. The measurements were used to compare and validate the performance of the GATE simulations by choosing the low energy or standard physics models for electromagnetic processes including Compton and Rayleigh scatterings. Aided by precise GATE simulations, we discovered a significant scatter component from sources other than the studied object in scatter measurement using conventional methods. We developed a new strategy of measurement to subtract this background scatter.
Integrated/coordinated control of aircraft gas turbine engine and electrical power system: Towards large electrical load handling

The paper considers a problem of integrated thrust and electrical power management for an aircraft. An advanced configuration of the aircraft electrical power system consisting of two generators driven by the gas turbine engine is considered. A Model Predictive Controller is designed to respond to thrust and electrical load commands while maintaining system operation at high efficiency setpoints and satisfying the input and state constraints, including surge margin limits. The design steps are described and closed-loop simulation results are reported based on the nonlinear system model.
The Relationship Between Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) and Academic Performance in Medical Schools

This study examines how the timing of Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) administration affects scores on the 10 LASSI subscales, and whether or not there is a difference in the strength of association between subscale scores and student performance. The LASSI instrument was administered to 128 students during orientation at the beginning of the first and second years of medical school (M1and M2 years) for two classes. A paired t test was used to compare differences between the two administrations. To measure the strength of association between LASSI subscale scores and performance on overall biomedical sciences, National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) Comprehensive Basic Sciences Exams (CBSE), and United States Medical Licensing Examination (USLME) Step 1, Pearson product-moment correlation analyses were performed. There is a significant difference between LASSI subscale scores at the beginning of M1 and at the beginning of M2. There were more significant correlations between LASSI subscale scores at the beginning of M2 with performance on overall biomedical sciences, NBME CBSE, and USMLE Step 1 exam. Significant associations were observed between LASSI subscales Anxiety, Selecting Main Ideas, and Test Strategies with students’ performance on overall biomedical sciences, NBME CBSE, and USLME Step 1. Information Processing was also correlated with NBME CBSE and USMLE Step 1. Assessing medical students’ learning and study-strategy skills is more accurate after a medical school experience than at the start of medical school. Anxiety, Selecting Main Ideas, and Test Strategies are correlated with students’ performance on both internal and external performance measures.
Closomers: Versatile Monodisperse Molecular Nanoparticles

This review is dedicated to a relatively new, but nevertheless very quickly evolving field of chemistry - closomer chemistry. Closomers are complex organoelement molecules built on a [B12]2- icosahedral platform that have the combined benefits of the symmetry and stability of polyhedral boranes and the diversity of organic chemistry. On a material level, closomers can be considered as monodisperse molecular nanoparticles because of their size, spherical symmetry, and ease of adjusting the arm length. The ease of twelvefold side-chain functionalization and the possibility of heterosubstitution makes closomers very useful medical tools for targeted and traceable imaging and drug delivery applications.
Edge Computing

Edge computing is a new computing paradigm in which substantial compute and storage resources are placed at the edge of the Internet, in close proximity to mobile devices, sensors, end users, and Internet of Things devices. This physical proximity improves latency, bandwidth, trust, and survivability.
Harmonization of blood-based indicators of iron status: making the hard work matter

Blood-based indicators that are used in the assessment of iron status are assumed to be accurate. In practice, inaccuracies in these measurements exist and stem from bias and variability. For example, the analytic variability of serum ferritin measurements across laboratories is very high (>15%), which increases the rate of misclassification in clinical and epidemiologic studies. The procedures that are used in laboratory medicine to minimize bias and variability could be used effectively in clinical research studies, particularly in the evaluation of iron deficiency and its associated anemia in pregnancy and early childhood and in characterizing states of iron repletion and excess. The harmonization and standardization of traditional and novel bioindicators of iron status will allow results from clinical studies to be more meaningfully translated into clinical practice by providing a firm foundation for clinical laboratories to set appropriate cutoffs. In addition, proficiency testing monitors the performance of the methods over time. It is important that measures of iron status be evaluated, validated, and performed in a manner that is consistent with standard procedures in laboratory medicine.
The Storage and Preservation of Meat: II—Nonthermal Technologies

Abstract In this chapter, methods of meat preservation that discourage microbial growth through the creation of unfavorable environments in the meat are considered. These involve action more directly inhibitory or lethal to molds and bacteria. This chapter discusses the principles, physical and biochemical aspects, antimicrobial aspects, quality aspects, and organoleptic aspects of nonthermal technologies, including freeze dehydration, ionizing radiation, and high pressure as the tools for the storage and preservation of meat.
Live-Cell Imaging of Chromatin Condensation Dynamics by CRISPR

The spatiotemporal organization of chromatin plays central roles in cellular function. The ribosomal DNA (rDNA) chromatin undergoes dynamic structural changes during mitosis and stress. Here, we developed a CRISPR-based imaging system and tracked the condensation dynamics of rDNA chromatin in live yeast cells under glucose starvation. We found that acute glucose starvation triggers rapid condensation of rDNA. Time-lapse microscopy revealed two stages for rDNA condensation: a "primary stage," when relaxed rDNA chromatin forms higher order loops or rings, and a "secondary stage," wehen the rDNA rings further condense into compact clusters. Twisting of rDNA rings accompanies the secondary stage. The condensin complex, but not the cohesin complex, is required for efficient rDNA condensation in response to glucose starvation. Furthermore, we found that the DNA helicase Sgs1 is essential for the survival of cells expressing rDNA-bound dCas9, suggesting a role for helicases in facilitating DNA replication at dCas9-binding sites.
Developing a Spatial Transferability Platform to Analyze National-Level Impacts of Connected Automated Vehicles

A recent application of the spatial transferability approach is to assess the potential impacts of the emerging connected automated mobility technology on people’s travel behavior at the national level. While there are a few transportation simulation frameworks which can account for potential impacts of this technology in a simulated geographical context, there is yet to be any literature documenting disaggregated estimates of large-scale impacts of connected automated vehicles (CAVs) on travel behavior at the national level. Therefore, in order to provide a platform to assess national-level impacts of CAVs, this study develops a methodological framework based on transferability techniques, which uses data and models from a smaller geographical area—the POLARIS simulation results for the CAVs scenario in the Chicago metropolitan area—to generate disaggregate travel data at the national level. Comparison of the distributions of the transferred variables at the regional and the national contexts indicates that the platform is capable of transferring travel behavior indices to the national level with high level of accuracy.
Reducing Severe Behavior Problems among Persons with Dual Sensory Impairments: An Evaluation of a Technical Assistance Model

A consultation model to provide technical assistance for the treatment of severe behavior problems exhibited by persons with severe/profound retardation and dual sensory impairments (deaf/blind) is evaluated. Technical assistance was provided to two programs in the areas of behavior management and curriculum design. During visits to these programs, we: (a) identified problem behaviors and possible controlling variables, (b) identified curriculum needs and made recommendations for changes, (c) videotaped clients and staff and established staff-implemented data collection procedures, (d) trained staff and intervened with each client using functional communication training, and (e) conducted follow-up observations. A “correlated probe” design combining staff-collected and consultant-collected data was used to evaluate the results of the technical assistance. Data from five individuals who engaged in behaviors such as severe aggression, self-injury, and tantrums are presented. Clients with dual sensory impair...
Bilirubin oxidation products (BOXes): synthesis, stability and chemical characteristics.

Bilirubin oxidation products (BOXes) have been a subject of interest in neurosurgery because they are purported to be involved in subarachnoid hemorrhage induced cerebral vasospasm. There is a growing body of information concerning their putative role in vasospasm; however, there is a dearth of information concerning the chemical and biochemical characteristics of BOXes. A clearer understanding of the synthesis, stability and characteristics of BOXes will be important for a better understanding of the role of BOXes post subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Direct and maternal genetic effects for carcass traits in beef cattle.

Carcass measurements were taken on 1,537 steers produced over four generations in a rotational crossbreeding study. Breed direct and maternal additive and heterotic genetic effects were estimated for hot carcass weight (HCWT), retail yield (RYI, longissimus muscle area (LM), fat thickness (FT), marbling score (MS), and Warner- Bratzler shear force CWBS). Angus (A), Brahman (B1, Charolais (C1, and Hereford (HI breeds were involved in straightbred, first-cross, and two-, three-, and four-breed rotational crossbred mat- ings with each crossbred combination including the B. Breed direct (Igl and maternal (Mg) additive genetic effects and direct (Ih1 and maternal (Mhl heterotic genetic effects were estimated using a multiple-regression model. The Ig and Mg effects were expressed as deviations from the overall mean. The IgC effects (Ig for C breed) were significant for HCWT, RY, and LM and resulted in leaner, heavier carcasses. The IgA and IgH effects were, in general, negative (P < .05) for HCWT, RY, LM, and WBS, and positive (P < .011 for FT and MS. The IgB effects were large and undesirable for HCWT, RY, LM, MS, and WBS (P < .011. The majority of Ih effects were beneficial (P e .05) for HCWT, RY, LM, and WBS. The Ih effects ex hibited by B combinations were of greater (P < .051 magnitude with positive influences for HCWT, RY, and LM and desirable effects for WBS. The maternal additive and heterotic effects were of lesser importance than the direct additive and heterotic effects for the carcass traits studied.
W∞ algebras in the quantum Hall effect

Abstract We show that a large class of incompressible quantum Hall states correspond to different representations of the W ∞ algebra by explicit construction of the second-quantized generators of the algebra in terms of fermion and vortex operators. These are parametrized by a set of integers which are related to the filling fraction. The class of states we consider includes multilayer Hall states and the states proposed by Jain to explain the hierarchical filling fractions. The corresponding second-quantized order parameters are also given.
Does haste always make waste? Service quantity, service quality, and incentives in speed-intensive service firms

Research demonstrates a tradeoff between service quantity and service quality that creates a tension for firms who wish to incentivize both aspects of service performance. We propose a category of speed-intensive services in which prompt responsiveness is the primary driver of service quality. In these firms, service quantity and quality should exhibit a positive interrelationship. Daily data on service quantity and quality performance were collected for 24 months, for a total of 1414 observations, from a telephone directory service firm, an affiliate of major telecommunication firm in an Asian country. We use a generalized method of moments (GMM) estimation to test their interrelationship and the effect of financial incentives on service performance. Contrary to the typical tradeoff effect, the results reveal that service quantity positively affects service quality performance and vice versa. In addition, we surprisingly find that incentives have no effect on service quantity performance and decrease service quality performance, and that overall performance declines with employee experience. This suggests that these firms do not face a tradeoff between service quantity and quality, but may face a long-term tradeoff between customer satisfaction and employee satisfaction.
Psychology and legal change

From its inception, research in “law and psychology” has had an explicitly applied focus. In large part, psychologists have studied legal issues and participated as experts in the legal process in order to improve law and enhance the quality of its justice. This article examines whether and how this can be done. A taxonomy of relationships between the two disciplines is presented which characterizes law and psychology research in terms of its potential for legal change. The use of psychology of effect legal change requires a bringing together of both psychological and legal paradigms. But important differences exist between the styles and methods of reasoning, proff, and justfication in psychology and law. The implications of those differences for the use of psychological data in legal change efforts are developed, as are other aspects of “legalism” that may hinder or impede the effectiveness of psychologically oriented law reform. Finally, limitations of a “factual jurisprudence” that derived from the nature of psychological data are examined.
A Novel Prefabricated Grid for Guided Endodontic Microsurgery

Abstract Introduction This study aimed to introduce a novel method using cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging and prefabricated grids to guide apical access during endodontic microsurgery and to compare its accuracy with that of the nonguided method. Methods Forty-two roots from human cadaver jaws were selected. Twenty-one were randomly assigned to the experimental group (grid based) and their contralateral counterparts to the control group (nonguided). Preoperative CBCT images were used to design a drill path that intended to reach the palatal/lingual aspect of the roots without attempting to complete the osteotomy or to resect the entire root end. In the experimental group, prefabricated metal grids used during imaging and surgery acted as a reference in the design and drilling. Postoperative CBCT volumes were superimposed on the preoperative volumes, and the distances between the actual drill paths and the target points were measured. A dichotomized outcome of success versus failure was also recorded and compared. Statistical analysis was performed using the paired t test and Fisher exact test. Results The mean deviation of the drill paths from the target points was 0.66 mm ± 0.54 mm (mean ± standard deviation) for grid-based drilling and 1.92 mm ± 1.05 mm (mean ± standard deviation) for nonguided drilling (P Conclusions The proposed method of guided osteotomy and root-end resection using prefabricated grids was more accurate than the nonguided method.
Transfer of knowledge as a mediating tool for learning: Benefits and challenges for ESL writing instruction

Abstract By tracking two Korean ESL students' learning trajectories from their freshman ESL writing course to discipline-specific writing courses in the U.S. college context, the present study investigates what prompts transfer of learning outcomes for such students, as well as how knowledge acquired in the first-year course transfers to other writing tasks that come later and bear little resemblance to those initial tasks. A range of qualitative data was examined: the students’ writing, course materials, and interviews with the students and their instructors. Findings show that the degree to which students recognize the difference between previous and new writing practices influences how learning transfer occurs: Automatic Transfer, Expansion, Matching, and Manipulation. The students either use prior knowledge based on perceived similarity (e.g., Automatic Transfer and Matching), or they develop or complicate it based on perceived difference (e.g., Expansion and Manipulation). It is also found that learning transfer is triggered not only by macro-level similarity in genre and task demands, but also by micro-level similarity in specific skills and concepts. Based on the findings, the study discusses implications for teaching and research in second language writing.
The causal interpretation of estimated associations in regression models

A common causal identification strategy in political science is selection on observables. This strategy assumes one observes a set of covariates that is, after statistical adjustment, sufficient to make treatment status as-if random. Under adjustment methods such as matching or inverse probability weighting, coefficients for control variables are treated as nuisance parameters and are not directly estimated. This is in direct contrast to regression approaches where estimated parameters are obtained for all covariates. Analysts often find it tempting to give a causal interpretation to all the parameters in such regression models—indeed, such interpretations are often central to the proposed research design. In this paper, we ask when we can justify interpreting two or more coefficients in a regression model as causal parameters. We demonstrate that analysts must appeal to causal identification assumptions to give estimates causal interpretations. Under selection on observables, this task is complicated by the fact that more than one causal effect might be identified. We show how causal graphs provide a framework for clearly delineating which effects are presumed to be identified and thus merit a causal interpretation, and which are not. We conclude with a set of recommendations for how researchers should interpret estimates from regression models when causal inference is the goal.
Abstract 061: Cell Fate Changes During Tubular Damage and Regeneration in the Mouse Kidney

Tubular degeneration, loss of renal tubules and interstitial fibrosis due to kidney injury lead to chronic renal disease and hypertension. Using a partial unilateral ureteral obstruction (pUUO) mod...
Nano-enabled agriculture: from nanoparticles to smart nanodelivery systems

Environmental context Nano-enabled agriculture holds the promise of enhancing crop production while reducing the environmental impacts of agrochemicals. We review recent developments in the use of nano-fertilisers, nano-additives, nano-pesticides, nano-sensors, nano-cleansers and nano-delivery systems in agriculture. The review highlights the need for systematic studies on nanotoxicity and the development of cost-effective and eco-friendly nanomaterials for future applications. Abstract To keep pace with the ever-increasing demand of world population (nearly 9.8 billion), worldwide food production will need to increase by 50 % by 2050. Nanotechnology innovations show great promise for combating this challenge by delivering a more sustainable, efficient and resilient agricultural system, while promoting food security. Further exploration of nanotechnology applications in agriculture is necessary to realise its potential in manufacturing innovative agrochemicals and novel delivery platforms to enhance crop production and quality. Here, we review the fundamentals of nanotechnology and focus on its potential in agricultural applications. Progress has been made in the development of nano-fertilisers, nano-additives, nano-pesticides, nano-herbicides, nano-bactericides, nano-cleansers and nano-sensors to improve agrochemical efficiency, reduce runoff, enhance plant growth, and diagnose plant nutrition deficiencies and diseases. In addition, nano-delivery systems have been designed to deliver effective components to targeted sites within a plant to provide potential solutions to some devastating crop diseases which cannot be effectively managed with conventional methods. However, nano-enabled agriculture is still in its infancy and its applications are mostly theoretical. Therefore, more research is needed to develop biodegradable, cost-effective and safe nanomaterials for future application. Moreover, systematic studies are crucial to safeguard our food production system, while making efforts to raise public awareness of nanotechnology.
SPL Linewidth Control

The current-controlled scanning probe lithography (SPL) systems that we developed (described in Chapter 3) can reliably pattern uniform features in organic resists with dimensions below 100 nm. In this chapter, we compare electron exposures made by SPL to those made by electron beam lithography (EBL). This comparison highlights the advantages and limitations of a low-energy electron lithography technique such as SPL.
Prevalence and correlates of obstructive sleep apnea in urban-dwelling, low-income, predominantly African-American women.

Abstract Study objectives The current study examined the prevalence and correlates of obstructive sleep apnea in a sample of low-income, predominantly African-American women using two waves of data. Methods Participants were adults from two urban neighborhoods who enrolled in the PHRESH Zzz Study (N = 828; Pittsburgh Hill/Homewood Research on Neighborhoods, Sleep, and Health). A subsample who reported never receiving OSA diagnosis completed home sleep apnea testing in 2016 (n = 269, mean age 55.0 years, 79.6% female) and again in 2018 (n = 135). Correlates of OSA tested included demographic and anthropometric variables, health behavior/conditions, psychological distress and general health, smoking status, actigraphy-measured sleep, and neighborhood factors measured at baseline. Results 18.0% of all 2016 participants reported receiving physician diagnoses of OSA. Among those who completed in–home assessment, 19.3% had AHI ≥15 and 33.8% had AHI ≥5 plus one or more sleep symptoms. Estimates of the prevalence of OSA in all 2016 participants were 33.8%–45.7% based on physician diagnoses and AHI results, depending on the criteria used. Age, gender, BMI, blood pressure, habitual snoring, neighborhood walkability, actigraphy-measured sleep characteristics, and smoking were concurrently associated with OSA in 2016. Changes in AHI categories from 2016 to 2018 were documented. Conclusions Low-income African Americans, including women, are a high-risk group for OSA, but remain under-diagnosed and under-treated. The current findings show a high prevalence of OSA in African-American women and are among the first to demonstrate that both individual and neighborhood factors are implicated in OSA prevalence.
Aromastoffe aus dem säurekatalysierten Abbau von Citral

Die Aromastoffe, die bei der Lagerung (4 Tage bei 40 °C) einer Emulsion von Citral (Mischung von Geranial und Neral) in wasriger 5%-iger Citronensdure (pH 1,8) entstehen, wurden durch Capillar-Gaschromatographie und Abriechen des Tragergasstromes analysiert. α,p-Dimethylstyrol, p-Cymen-8-ol, p-Methylacetophenon, o- und p-Kresol wurden als Aromastoffe identifiziert, die aus dem Citral hervorgehen. Im Gaschromatogramm trat auserdem noch p-Cymen auf, das aber nicht im „Sniffing-port” wahrgenommen wurde. p-Methylacetophenon, o- und p-Kresol zeigten wesentlich niedrigere Geruchsschwellen (2,7-10,8; 0,7-2,7; 0,3-1,0 ng/l Luft) als α,p-Dimethylstyrol (665-2660 ng/l Luft). Die Reaktionen, die zum p-Methylacetophenon fuhren, werden diskutiert.
The blunt pole is not a source of more salient recognition cues than the sharp pole for the rejection of model eggs by American robins (Turdus migratorius)

Hosts of obligate avian brood parasites can reduce the costs of raising parasitic offspring by rejecting foreign eggs from their nests. Rejecter hosts use various visual and tactile cues to discriminate between own and foreign eggs. The blunt pole hypothesis specifically states that avian-perceivable visual information at and around the broader pole of the eggshell contains more salient recognition cues than does the sharp pole of the same egg. The directional prediction is, therefore, that eggs painted non-mimetically on their blunt pole should more likely be rejected relative to those similarly painted on their sharp pole. This hypothesis had been experimentally tested and its predictions supported solely in mimetic avian host-parasite systems, with hosts producing denser and more variable eggshell maculation patterns at the blunt pole, and in one species with immaculate eggs but still with distinctly discernible blunt-pole specific colouration. Here we aimed to expand upon these previous works and assessed whether the blunt pole of model eggs contains more salient egg rejection cues, relative to the sharp pole, for the American robin (Turdus migratorius), a robust rejecter of non-mimetic brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater) eggs. In this system host eggs are uniformly immaculate whereas the brood parasitic shell is maculated. We painted model cowbird-sized eggs on either the blunt or the sharp half to mimic the immaculate robin egg colours and the other half to resemble non-mimetic egg colours and patterns. There was no statistical support for the predicted outcomes of the blunt pole hypothesis in our trials as rejection rates were similar regardless of whether eggs were painted with non-mimetic colours on the blunt or sharp poles. Future work should test the role of asymmetrical signalling content for anti-parasitic rejection of eggs in additional host species, especially those with both immaculate own and mimetic parasitic eggs.
Editorial: It was the best of times; it was the worst of times: the impact of the SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19) pandemic on reproductive endocrinology.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review the impact that COVID-19 has had on the practice of reproductive endocrinology and infertility. RECENT FINDINGS: As in all areas of medicine, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused profound changes in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. However, the pandemic has encouraged providers and systems to change approaches and unmasked many opportunities that may have actually improved care. The pandemic also forced the field to provide society with fact-based information even as data was constantly emerging and evolving and to do so rapidly.Combating misinformation became an equally important effort and led to increased participation of providers using traditional and social media to provide the most reliable and up to date information. A return to status quo ante bellum is unlikely.
Field-stepped direct detection electron paramagnetic resonance

The widest scan that had been demonstrated previously for rapid scan EPR was a 155G sinusoidal scan. As the scan width increases, the voltage requirement across the resonating capacitor and scan coils increases dramatically and the background signal induced by the rapidly changing field increases. An alternate approach is needed to achieve wider scans. A field-stepped direct detection EPR method that is based on rapid-scan technology is now reported, and scan widths up to 6200G have been demonstrated. A linear scan frequency of 5.12kHz was generated with the scan driver described previously. The field was stepped at intervals of 0.01 to 1G, depending on the linewidths in the spectra. At each field data for triangular scans with widths up to 11.5G were acquired. Data from the triangular scans were combined by matching DC offsets for overlapping regions of successive scans. This approach has the following advantages relative to CW, several of which are similar to the advantages of rapid scan. (i) In CW if the modulation amplitude is too large, the signal is broadened. In direct detection field modulation is not used. (ii) In CW the small modulation amplitude detects only a small fraction of the signal amplitude. In direct detection each scan detects a larger fraction of the signal, which improves the signal-to-noise ratio. (iii) If the scan rate is fast enough to cause rapid scan oscillations, the slow scan spectrum can be recovered by deconvolution after the combination of segments. (iv) The data are acquired with quadrature detection, which permits phase correction in the post processing. (v) In the direct detection method the signal typically is oversampled in the field direction. The number of points to be averaged, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio, is determined in post processing based on the desired field resolution. A degased lithium phthalocyanine sample was used to demonstrate that the linear deconvolution procedure can be employed with field-stepped direct detection EPR signals. Field-stepped direct detection EPR spectra were obtained for Cu(2+) doped in Ni(diethyldithiocarbamate)2, Cu(2+) doped in Zn tetratolylporphyrin, perdeuterated tempone in sucrose octaacetate, vanadyl ion doped in a parasubstituted Zn tetratolylporphyrin, Mn(2+) impurity in CaO, and an oriented crystal of Mn(2+) doped in Mg(acetylacetonate)2(H2O)2.
Penicillins, Cephalosporins, Other Beta-Lactam Antibiotics and Tetracyclines

Abstract The Side Effects of Drugs Annuals forms a series of volumes in which the adverse effects of drugs and adverse reactions to them are surveyed. The series supplements the contents of Meyler's Side Effects of Drugs: the International Encyclopedia of Adverse Drug Reactions and Interactions. This review of the January 2012 to June 2013 publications on penicillins, cephalosporins, other beta-lactam antibiotics and tetracyclines covers carbapenems (imipenem and meropenem), cephalosporins (cefazolin, cefditoren, cefepime, cefixime, cefoperazone, cefoxitin, ceftobiprole, ceftriaxone and cephalexin), the monobactam aztreonam, penicillins (amoxicillin, ampicillin, phenoxymethylpenicillin and piperacillin + tazobactam), tetracyclines and glycylcyclines (doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline and tigecycline).
H2 metabolism in photosynthetic organisms. II. Light-dependent H2 evolution by preparations from Chlamydomonas, Scenedesmus and spinach.

Abstract Light-dependent H 2 evolution from dithiothreitol as electron donor was observed with cell-free preparations of anaerobically adapted Chlamydomonas reinhardii, Scenedesmus obliquus and from spinach chloroplasts mixed with Chlamydomonas hydrogenase. NADH substituted for dithiothreitol as electron donor only in the Chlarmydomonas preparation. Dibromothymoquinone, an antagonist of plastoquinone, selectively inhibited H 2 photoevolution from NADH. These results are interpreted as indicating that 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethyl urea insensitive H 2 photoevolution by algae containing hydrogenase is due to the capability of NADH to reduce plastoquinone in the electron transport chain, and to evolve H 2 by a low redox potential carrier of photosystem I.
A stability property for linear groups

For suitable rings of integers R, we show that the mod p group cohomology for GL n+3p-5 (R) comes from GL∞(R) when restricted to the diagonal matrices D n (R) for all ranks n > 2.
On the mechanism of acetylcholine receptor accumulation at newly formed synapses on chick myotubes

We have examined the specificity and the mechanism of acetylcholine receptor (AChR) accumulation at embryonic chick nerve-muscle contacts that form in culture. Spinal cord motoneurons were identified in vitro after labeling them in vivo with Lucifer Yellow-wheat germ agglutinin conjugates. All of their processes induced receptor clusters on contacted myotubes; after 24 to 48 hr of co-culture, the incidence of neurite-associated receptor patches (NARPs) was approximately 1.2/100 microns of contact. In contrast, NARPs were rarely associated with spinal cord interneurons (approximately 0.1/100 microns of contact). Neurons dissociated from ciliary ganglia induce NARPS to the same extent as motoneurons. The relative contribution to NARPs of AChRs present in the membrane prior to plating ciliary ganglion neurons and of “new” AChRs inserted 8, 11, or 17 hr after addition of neurons was assessed with two fluorescent receptor probes. Rhodamine-conjugated alpha-bungarotoxin was used to label either old or new receptors; a monoclonal, anti-receptor antibody visualized with fluorescein-second antibody was used to label all (new and old) receptors. Analysis of digitized fluorescence images showed that NARPs contained both new and old receptors but that within the first 24 hr of co-culture the majority (60 to 80%) were new. We estimate that cholinergic neurites increase the rate of receptor insertion 4- to 5-fold during the first 8 hr of NARP formation. The contribution of new receptors to NARPs declines with time. After 3 days of co-culture, receptors inserted over an 8-hr interval comprised only 20% of the total NARP complement.
Silicosis and chronic renal disease

Background Silica has been associated with end stage kidney disease and kidney dysfunction. Methods Calculated glomerular filtration rate, history of kidney disease or chronic dialysis, elevated serum creatinine, and stages of chronic kidney disease among silicotics identified in Michigan's Silicosis Surveillance System from 1987 to 2009 were reviewed to determine the prevalence of kidney disease in confirmed cases of silicosis. Results Twenty-four percent of 1,072 silicotics had a measure of kidney dysfunction (32.3% if diabetes or hypertension present vs. 20.2% if not). Sixty-nine percent of silicotics had Stage I or greater chronic kidney dysfunction versus 38.8% of the U.S. general population ≥60 years. No association was found between kidney function and measures of silica exposure. Conclusions Individuals with silicosis have an increased prevalence of kidney disease. More work to define the pathological changes associated with silica exposure is needed to understand the cause of silica's adverse effect on the kidney. Am. J. Ind. Med. 58:730–736, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fusaric acid and modification of the subchronic toxicity to rats of fumonisins in F. moniliforme culture material.

Abstract Fumonisins and fusaric acid (FA) are mycotoxins produced by Fusarium moniliforme and other Fusarium which grow on corn. Fumonisins cause animal toxicities associated with F. moniliforme and, like F. moniliforme, they are suspected human oesophageal carcinogens. Toxic synergism was obtained by simultaneous administration of FA and fumonisin B 1 to chicks in ovo . To determine the effect of FA on in vivo toxicity of F. moniliforme culture material (CM), male rats (12 groups, n=5/group) were fed diets containing 0.025, 0.10 or 2.5% CM (providing dietary levels of 3.4, 18.4 or 437 ppm fumonisins, respectively) to which, at each CM level, 0, 20, 100 or 400 ppm FA were added. Additionally, an FA control group was fed 400 ppm FA only and an untreated control group was given neither FA nor culture material. Apoptosis and other effects consistent with those caused by fumonisins were present in the kidneys of animals fed 0.025% or more CM and in the livers of animals fed 2.5% CM. FA was without effect. No differences between the untreated and FA control groups were noted and no differences among the four groups (0–400 ppm FA) fed 0.025% CM, the four groups fed 0.10% CM or the four groups fed 2.5% CM were apparent. Thus, FA exerted no synergistic, additive or antagonistic effects on the subchronic in vivo toxicity of fumonisin-producing F. moniliforme .