cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ultrasonic Degradation of Aspirin in Mixed Solvent Systems

The effect of ultrasonic energy on the degradation of aspirin in ethanol-water, diethyl ether-water, and diethylene glycol-water solvent systems at various concentrations and temperatures was studied. It was found that the application of ultrasound to a system undergoing degradation would cause an increase in the rate, but would maintain the same kinetic order as in the control system. The heat of activation seems to be lowered by the mechanical vibrations of the ultrasonic energy. It is postulated that the ultrasonic vibration increases molecular collisions and the movement of the products away from each other, thereby producing a change in the overall rate of reaction. As the concentration ratio was increased in the diethylene glycol system, the subsequent increase in viscosity had a damping effect on the ultrasonic vibration.
THE FINE STRUCTURE OF SYMPATHETIC NEURONS IN X-IRRADIATED FROGS

The effects of whole body x-irradiation on the fine structure of sympathetic neurons were studied in 15 unanesthetized adult frogs (Rana pipiens), as seen at intervals ranging from 1 hour to 2 weeks after single exposures to 1000 r and 2000 r. Using standard procedures, the lumbar sympathetic ganglia of experimental and 20 control animals were prepared for electron microscope examination. Radiation produced conspicuous but irregular and variable deterioration, swelling, and clearing of neuronal lysosomes. These changes may have been due to an increased permeability of lysosomal membranes, causing the entry of fluid into lysosomes and their swelling and deterioration, but a pronounced escape of lysosomal enzymes into the cytoplasm was questionable. Less frequent were the dilatation and the parallel layering or complete fusion and tight packing of the rough-edged endoplasmic reticulum. The number of vacuoles, probably derived from Golgi cisternae, was somewhat increased. These vacuoles were conjectured to serve the "sequestration" of damaged cytoplasmic areas. Abnormal amounts of presumptive glycogen granules occupied some axons of myelinated and unmyelinated fibers, especially of presynaptic nerve fibers. This was assumed to be due to a decreased breakdown of glycogen and probably caused the interruption of the transmission of nerve impulses in presynaptic fibers. The maximal incidence of these alterations seemingly occurred 8 days after exposure to 1000 r, and 1 hour after x-irradiation with 2000 r. Signs of recovery appeared 2 weeks after exposure to 2000 r.
Metformin Attenuates 131I-Induced Decrease in Peripheral Blood Cells in Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Cancer

Background: 131I treatment (tx) of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) is associated with hematopoietic toxicity. It was hypothesized that metformin could have radioprotective effects on bone-marrow function. The objective was to determine whether metformin prevents 131I-induced changes in complete blood counts (CBC) in patients with DTC. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed of CBC values in DTC patients who were (40 patients: metformin group) or were not taking metformin (39 patients: control group) at the time of administration of 131I. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used for the analysis of the differences in the averages of CBC that were documented at baseline and at 1, 6, and 12 months post 131I tx. Results: The groups were comparable in terms of age, sex, stage of DTC, 131I dose administered, and baseline CBC values. In the control group, the decrease in white blood cells (WBC) was 35.8% (p < 0.0001) at one month, 21.8% (p < 0.0001) at six months, and 19.4% (p < 0.0001) at 12 ...
Statistical correlation of low‐altitude ENA emissions with geomagnetic activity from IMAGE/MENA observations

Plasma sheet particles transported Earthward during times of active magnetospheric convection can interact with exospheric/thermospheric neutrals through charge exchange. The resulting Energetic Neutral Atoms (ENAs) are free to leave the influence of the magnetosphere and can be remotely detected. ENAs associated with low-altitude (300-800 km) ion precipitation in the high-latitude atmosphere/ionosphere are termed low-altitude emissions (LAEs). Remotely observed LAEs are highly nonisotropic in velocity space such that the pitch angle distribution at the time of charge exchange is near 90deg. The Geomagnetic Emission Cone of LAEs can be mapped spatially, showing where proton energy is deposited during times of varying geomagnetic activity. In this study we present a statistical look at the correlation between LAE flux (intensity and location) and geomagnetic activity. The LAE data are from the MENA imager on the IMAGE satellite over the declining phase of solar cycle 23 (2000-2005). The SYM-H, AE, and Kp indices are used to describe geomagnetic activity. The goal of the study is to evaluate properties of LAEs in ENA images and determine if those images can be used to infer properties of ion precipitation. Results indicate a general positive correlation to LAE flux for all three indices, with the SYM-H showing the greatest sensitivity. The magnetic local time distribution of LAEs is centered about midnight and spreads with increasing activity. The invariant latitude for all indices has a slightly negative correlation. The combined results indicate LAE behavior similar to that of ion precipitation.
Can We Talk? The Underdeveloped Dialogue between Teacher Education and Disability Studies.

Despite the possibility for mutual benefit, it seems that the fields of Disability Studies (DS) and teacher education have not communicated and collaborated in deep and meaningful ways. This exploratory study utilized an e-survey of 32 teacher education faculty members in the state of California to investigate how, if at all, teacher educators were utilizing DS in their curriculum. Results suggested that some teacher educators confuse DS with special education or rehabilitation. Furthermore, many teacher educators in general education teacher preparation programs indicated that disability issues were only covered in one course. The results of this study suggest the need for further meaningful collaboration and communication between the fields of DS and teacher education.
Development of the Pfizer Integrated Research Data System Socrates

This paper describes the development of SOCRATES, a state-of-the-art user-oriented interactive research data management system in regular use in Pfizer Central Research, Sandwich. The chief attribute of SOCRATES is a high degree of integration of both data and functionality, achieved primarily through the exploitation of a database management system, System 1032, and the effective use of bit screen arrays. These technical features are described and illustrated with examples of SOCRATES in use.
Long-term time-lapse video provides near complete records of floral visitation

Accurate records of floral visitors are critical for understanding plant pollinator interactions. However, to date, sampling methods are constrained to short sampling periods and may be subject to observer interference. Thus, complete records without sampling bias are rare. We use a portable time-lapse digital video camera to capture near-complete records of visitors to flowers over their entire blooming period. We show the broad applicability of this method by filming a wide variety of flowers of different shapes and inflorescence types. We test the importance of long-term records by studying visitors to Cornus canadensis (bunchberry dogwood). Visitors to C. canadensis filmed simultaneously at four different sites show variation (both in rates and taxa) between inflorescences, between sites, throughout the day, and throughout the season. For C. canadensis our films also provide a record of pollen placement (an indirect measure of male fitness) and fruit set (female fitness). This technique provides near complete records of floral visitors, is likely to capture rare events, and allows simultaneous long-term filming. These results emphasize the importance of both long-term data collection and simultaneous recording at multiple sites for pollination studies. NOTE: Supporting information to this article may be found in the left menu.
Replacement Nutrition Management

This article reviews a variety of topics involved with the nutrition of dairy heifers. Areas covered include the physiology of the animal as it relates to nutrition, nutrient requirements, feeding of various age groups of heifers, and other nutrition management related topics. Specific recommended forage types for the various agle groups of heifers are given as well as the grain specifications that are needed given the various forages that may be fed to comprise well-balanced rations for growing dairy heifers
Characteristics of Different Types of Nicotine Sprays: II. Codling Moth Control

In evaluating representative types of nicotine sprays for field control of codling moth it was intended to design an experiment that would answer the following questions, and at the same time, permit the residue studies described in the previous paper of this series.
Enhanced Lithiation Cycle Stability of ALD-Coated Confined a-Si Microstructures Determined Using In Situ AFM

Microfabricated amorphous silicon (a-Si) pits ∼4 μm in diameter and 100 nm thick were fabricated to be partially confined in a nickel (Ni) current collector. Corresponding unconfined pillars were also fabricated. The samples were coated with 1.5, 3, or 6 nm of Al2O3 ALD. These samples were tested in electrolytes of 3:7 by weight ethylene carbonate:ethyl methyl carbonate (EC:EMC) with 1.2 M LiPF6 salt with and without 2% fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) and in a pure FEC electrolyte with 10 wt % LiPF6. The samples were imaged with an atomic force microscope during electrochemical cycling to evaluate morphology evolution and solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation. The partially confined a-Si structures had superior cycle efficiency relative to the unconfined a-Si pillars. Additionally, samples with 3 nm of ALD achieved higher charge capacity and enhanced cycle life compared to samples without ALD, demonstrated thinner SEI formation, and after 10 cycles at a 1 C rate remained mostly intact and had actual...
Synthesis of [(Me3SiNCH2CH2)3N]3- and [(C6F5NCH2CH2)3N]3- Complexes of Molybdenum and Tungsten That Contain CO, Isocyanides, or Ethylene

Paramagnetic complexes of the type [N3N]MoL ([N3N]3- = [(Me3SiNCH2CH2)3N]3-; L = CO, RNC, C2H4) have been prepared by displacing dinitrogen from [N3N]Mo(N2). [N3N]Mo(CO) was reduced by magnesium powder in the presence of Me3SiCl to yield the diamagnetic oxycarbyne complex [N3N]Mo⋮COSiMe3, while oxidation of [N3N]Mo(CN-t-Bu) with [Cp2Fe]OTf yielded {[N3N]Mo(CN-t-Bu)}OTf. Thermolysis of [N3N]Mo(CN-t-Bu) resulted in loss of a t-Bu radical to yield [N3N]Mo(CN), which was structurally characterized. [N3NF]ML ([N3NF]3- = [(C6F5NCH2CH2)3N]3-; M = Mo, W; L = CO, RNC) complexes have been prepared by one-electron reduction of [N3NF]M(OTf) in the presence of L. An X-ray study of [N3NF]W(CN-t-Bu) showed it to contain a bent isocyanide ligand. Anionic CO complexes were prepared by the two-electron reduction of [N3NF]M(OTf) in the presence of CO. An X-ray study of {[N3NF]W(CO)2}Na(ether)3 revealed it to have a pseudo-octahedral structure in which sodium is bound to the CO trans to the amine donor atom. Treatment of {[N...
Home care. A shifting of ethical responsibilities.

The rise in home care of traditionally hospitalized patients raises ethical questions with regard to transferring the ill from professional medical care to other members of the family. The author believes that responsibility can be shifted ethically if certain conditions are met: these include well-defined criteria for patient selection, education programs for home care providers, criteria for both care givers and environment, continued research into the adequacy of therapy, and participation of health care professionals in the social process of assessing and reassessing the institutional structures of medical treatment.
Non-Urologic Flank Pain: A Diagnostic Approach

Abstract Pain typical of that from the diseased reno-ureteral unit can emanate from any adjacent organ or any organ with the same innervation. It may also be the result of, or be exacerbated by, mental illness. Case examples of herniated thoracic disk, T12 neuralgia and short leg syndrome, costovertebral joint arthritis, metastatic carcinoma, myofascial syndrome and pancreatitis demonstrated the need for an orderly approach to the problem. Currently, patient screening with the Cornell medical index and the urology questionnaire allows direction of the physical examination, special radiographic and laboratory studies and psychiatric evaluations. An orderly evaluation of flank pain will prove rewarding and may prevent unnecessary urologic operations.
Evaluation of surface markers on normal human lymphocytes containing parallel tubular arrays: a quantitative ultrastructural study.

Normal lymphocytes from the peripheral circulation represent a heterogenous population of cells with different surface markers and different functions. Some of these lymphocytes contain cytoplasmic inclusions called parallel tubular arrays (PTA), which can only be identified with certainty under the electron microscope. It is not known whether this ultrastructurally defined lymphocyte constitutes the major cell type of the T-lymphocyte population, B-lymphocyte population, or third population of lymphocytes (i.e., K cells, L cells, M cells, null cells), or is unrelated to any of these immunologically defined lymphocyte subpopulations. The purpose of this study was to determine if this morphologically identifiable lymphocyte constitutes the major cell type of any of these three lymphocyte subpopulations. A quantitative ultrastructural analysis of PTA-lymphocytes was performed on a lymphocyte-enriched fraction using three surface marker assays commonly used to identify the three major populations. Spontaneous rosettes formed with sheep erythrocytes (E-rosettes) were used as a marker for T lymphocytes. Sheep erythrocytes sensitized with rabbit IgM antibody and coated with mouse complement (EAC-rosettes) were used as a marker for B lymphocytes. Human group O, type R1R2 erythrocytes sensitized with Ripley anti-CD serum to identify the Fc receptors (EAhu-rosettes) were used as a marker for the third population of lymphocytes. Light microscopic examination of the preparations obtained from five healthy subjects revealed the following mean percentage of reacted lymphocytes: 79.2% E-rosettes, 8.8% EAC rosettes, and 16% EAhu-rosettes. Ultrastructural examination of 178 EAhu-rosettes from the five subjects revealed that 89% of the central rosette-forming lymphocyte cross-sections contained PTA. In one subject, 96% of the central rosette-forming lymphocyte cross-sections contained PTA. In contrast, examination of 369 E-rosettes obtained from five healthy subjects revealed that only 3.4% of the central rosette-forming lymphocyte cross-sections contained PTA, and examination of 151 EAC-rosettes from four healthy subjects revealed that only 11.5% of the central rosette-forming lymphocyte cross-sections contained PTA. It was concluded that parallel tubular arrays are a morphological marker for a population of lymphocytes bearing Fc receptors for cytophilic antibody identified by the EAhu-rosette assay and that the lymphocyte containing these inclusions constitutes the major cell type of the third population of lymphocytes. The possible inclusion of the PTA-lymphocyte within other lymphocyte populations and within the monocyte population is discussed.
A Novel Approach to Journal Club Designed to Immerse Trainees in a Peer-Review Process to Critically Evaluate Oncology Manuscripts

While journal club remains integral to graduate medical education, there is scant literature regarding optimal structure. Herein, we describe a novel format to address the educational objectives of oncology fellows planning a career in academic medicine that is applicable to a variety of health professions educational settings.
The creative empowerment of body positivity in the cosplay community

In a case study about the cosplay community in relation to creative empowerment of identity and body positivity, I created a blog ( http://cosplaycasestudy.tumblr.com/ ) and devised a survey that allowed cosplayers whom I met online and in person to discuss what cosplay meant to them as individuals. Using a combination of qualitative, arts-based research and journalism, I used online documentation to record the ways cosplayers see the community changing, noting themes such as body policing, social media, and sexual harassment.
A fuzzy find matching tool for image text analysis

In this paper, we present a study based on the effect of using a fuzzy find matching technique with the objective of increasing the precision of textual information retrieval for image analysis while allowing for mismatches. This technique is very helpful for searching those areas of interest where chances of misspelling are more likely, for example retrieving text information from an image. The technique we propose can be used as an embedded component or a post-processing tool for image analysis resulting in a faster retrieval of corresponding information from images with given keywords. In the case of no hits, our technique outcome would suggest few close matches that can be further searched in keywords to get a closer match with improved speed of searching.
Dielectric Losses in SiC at Millimeter Wavelengths

Dielectric loss measurements were performed on high purity semi-insulating SiC wafers of various grades. Analysis of experimental data would provide insight into the nature of loss mechanisms in this material and into its potential as an alternate material for gyrotron window applications. Experimental results will be presented.
Urinalysis findings are not predictive of positive urine culture in patients with indwelling stents.

Introduction Indwelling stents produce symptoms and urinalysis findings mimicking urinary tract infection (UTI). In this study, we investigated the correlation of urinalysis findings with urine culture in patients with indwelling ureteral stents. Materials and methods All patients with ureteral stents who underwent stent removal in urology clinic from July 2013 to January 2015 and had urine culture available immediately prior to stent removal were included in this study. Urine culture results as well as age, gender, duration of indwelling stent, and reason for stent placement were collected. Results A total of 122 patients were included in this study. The two most common reasons for ureteral stent placement included urolithiasis (65.6%) and renal transplant (22.1%). Red blood cell (RBC), leukocytes and nitrite were positive in 92.9%, 70.2% and 17.9% of urine samples respectively. Only 17 patients (13.9%) had positive urine culture. Although renal transplant patients had significantly longer duration of stent retention, no statistically significant difference was noted in rate of positive urine culture compared to urolithiasis patients (p = 1.0). Among patients with positive urine culture, 62.5% had resistant bacteria to common antibiotic treatments and two patients had yeast in urine culture (12.5%). The duration of stent retention did not correlate with bacterial resistance. Multivariate analysis failed to show significant correlation of gender, reason for stent, stent duration, RBC and nitrite with positive urine culture. Conclusions Positive findings on urinalysis in patients with indwelling ureteral stent have poor correlation to positive urine culture and therefore the use of urine culture to diagnose UTI is warranted.
Some Fundamental Aspects of Photochemistry and Photochemical Air Pollution

The purpose of the following notes is to present in general form some principles of photochemistry and discuss some examples of photochemistry and discuss some examples of their applications to the problem of photochemical air pollution. Literature references are to be found at the end of these notes.
Utilization of Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping for Direct Targeting of the Subthalamic Nucleus During Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery.

Background Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) has demonstrated efficacy in improving motor disability in Parkinson's disease. The recently developed quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) technique, which can accurately map iron deposits in deep brain nuclei, promises precise targeting of the STN. Objective To demonstrate the use of QSM to target STN effectively by correlating with classical physiological-based targeting measures in a prospective study. Methods The precision and accuracy of direct targeting with QSM was examined in a total of 25 Parkinson's disease patients between 2013 and 2015 at our institution. QSM was utilized as the primary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) method to perform direct STN targeting on a stereotactic planning station utilizing computed tomography/MR fusion. Intraoperative microelectrode recordings (MER) were obtained to confirm appropriate trajectory through the sensorimotor STN. Results Estimations of STN thickness between the MER and QSM methods appeared to be correlated. Mean STN thickness was 5.3 mm. Kinesthetic responsive cells were found in > 90% of electrode runs. The mean radial error (±SEM) was 0.54 ± 0.1 mm. Satisfactory clinical response as determined by Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS III) was seen at 12 mo after surgery. Conclusion Direct targeting of the sensorimotor STN using QSM demonstrates MER correlation and can be safely used for deep brain stimulation lead placement with satisfactory clinical response. These results imply that targeting based on QSM signaling alone is sufficient to obtain reliable and reproducible outcomes in the absence of physiological recordings.
Proto-Jacobinism in the Dutch Republic

This paper may be a disappointment to anyone expecting a piece of Soboulatry, or even just of Brintonism. The study of the Jacobin phenomenon during the French Revolution has been focused for many decades now on the social composition of its membership, with some but declining attention to its political ideology and program. I will not go so far as to say that these questions are ceasing to yield new answers; for my purposes here, it is irrelevant whether or not this is so. What interests me today, and has interested me since my fledgling days in graduate school, is a quite different aspect of the Jacobin experience, one which has proved to be extremely useful in understanding the little known political history of the United Netherlands.
Experimental and Computational Studies of the Kinetics of the Reaction of Hydrogen Atoms with Carbon Disulfide

Abstract Pulsed laser photolysis at 193 nm of NH3/CS2 mixtures in an Ar bath gas combined with resonance fluorescence detection of atomic H yielded the rate constant for H + CS2 over 295–490 K. The reaction was found to be pressure dependent and in the fall-off region or near the low pressure limit. Fitting to the Troe formalism yielded k0 = 7.5 × 10−24 (T/300 K)−14.76 exp(−5180 K/T) cm6 molecule−2 s−1 over 295–490 K. At 490 K equilibration of adduct formation was observed which yielded a H-SCS bond dissociation enthalpy of 73 ± 10 kJ mol−1. These observations are consistent with W1 results for the potential energy surface and comparison suggests HSCS is the major addition product. Transition state theory yields an estimate for the high-pressure limit of addition over 290–300 K of 1.3 × 10−9 exp(−7.2 kJ mol−1/RT) cm3 molecule−1 s−1. Uncertainties are discussed in the text.
Product inhibition in simultaneous saccharification and fermentation of cellulose into lactic acid

The product, lactic acid, strongly inhibited microbial activity in lactic acid fermentation. The volumetric productivity declined from 1.19 g/l.h with zero lactic acid (control) to only 0.18 g/l.h when lactic acid reached 65 g/l. Lactic acid also inhibited cellulase activity but less severely than the inhibition on microbial activity as lactic acid above 90 g/l was needed for 50% inhibition. A gradual deterioration of the Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation (SSF) process occurred with the build-up of lactic acid and the rate-controlling step in SSF shifted from hydrolysis to fermentation as the bioprocess proceeded.
Multifunctional SENSING using 3D printed CNTs/BaTiO3/PVDF nanocomposites:

This research studied multifunctional sensing capabilities on nanocomposites composed of poly(vinylidene) fluoride (PVDF), BaTiO3 (BT), and multiwall carbon nanotubes (CNTs) fabricated by fused-dep...
Differences in conviction rates across violent crimes in India

Abstract Differences between violent crimes against women and gender-neutral violent crimes in India in terms of reporting of crimes, investigation of crimes, completion rates of investigations and trials, and conviction rates are examined in this study. I find that investigation into reported cases of rape and dowry death are initiated at higher rates compared to investigation into gender-neutral violent crimes. While the investigation completion rates as well as trial completion rates are also higher for rapes and dowry deaths, conviction rates for these crimes are considerably lower than the other violent crimes considered in this study.
Why Are 99% of the Applications for Debt Discharge under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program Being Denied, and Will This Change?

During the first 18 months after October 1, 2017 that student loan borrowers were able to apply for tax-free debt forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program a striking 99% of the 76,002 applications that have been fully processed have been denied. The more recently adopted Temporary Expanded Public Service Loan Forgiveness program also has a 97% to 99% application denial rate, depending on how it is calculated. This short article discusses the various factors that may be contributing to such a bizarrely high denial rate, and why the number of applications filed and the proportion of applications filed that are approved are both likely to increase significantly over time, particularly after 2024, and to a greater extent if the Department of Education improves its currently inadequate borrower outreach and loan servicer oversight activities.
Developing updated physical optics curriculum: Incorporating the neglected reality of Non-Interaction of Waves (NIW)

Huygens-Fresnel diffraction integral is the foundation for optical science and engineering since 1817, including the mathematical improvements. This integral propagates Huygens’ individual secondary wavelets unperturbed through each other. Huygens postulated this Non-Interaction of Waves (NIW) in his 1690 book, Treatise on Light. Quantum Electrodynamics also indicates NIW since the computed photon-photon interaction cross-section is immeasurably small. The linear sum of complex amplitudes does not represent an observable phenomenon. Fringes represent the energy absorbed by a detector as the square modulus of the sum of amplitude stimulation experienced by it. The detectors’ intrinsic properties determine the observable fringes. Due to our neglect of Huygens’ NIW, we are carrying on erroneous interpretations for several major optical phenomena. Our proposed experiment-guided curriculum will rectify the confusions. The new book will be developed using the currently published reference book, “Causal Physics; Photon by Non-Interaction of Waves”, Taylor & Francis, 2014 [1].
Information as a Value Concept

Philosophically, materialists and idealists understand the world differently. In materialist theory information directly represents the natural world, whereas idealism understands it to be the very structure of thought. Some of the problems arising between information theory and the actual practice of librarianship are due to mixing concepts from incompatible theories. The concept of information favored by materialist theories is not interchangeable with the concepts preferred by idealists and critical theorists. Materialism overemphasizes the empirical features of information, while giving short shrift to the possibility that information can be both factual and evaluative. Consequently, this leads to theories of information which are out of touch with the values, norms and purposes of ordinary people.
Development and validation of a smart HVAC control system for multi-occupant offices by using occupants’ physiological signals from wristband

Abstract Since people spend most of their time indoors, it is important to create comfortable indoor environments for building occupants. However, unsuitable thermostat settings lead to energy waste and an undesirable indoor environment, especially in multi-occupant rooms. This study aimed to develop and validate a control strategy for the HVAC systems in multi-occupant offices using physiological parameters measured by wristbands. We used an ANN model to predict thermal sensation from indoor environmental and physiological parameters such as air temperature, relative humidity, clothing level, wrist skin temperature, skin relative humidity and heart rate. The model was trained by data collected in seven multi-occupant offices in the course of a year, and it was able to predict the thermal sensation with high accuracy. Next, we developed a control strategy for the HVAC system to improve the thermal comfort of all the occupants in the room. The control system was smart and could adjust the thermostat set point automatically in real time. We validated the system by means of both experiments and numerical simulations. In most cases, we improved the occupants’ thermal comfort level. After using the wristband control, over half of the occupants experienced a neutral sensation, and fewer than 5% still felt uncomfortable. The energy consumption by the HVAC system with the wristband control was almost the same as when the constant set point was used. After coupling with occupancy-based control by means of lighting sensors or wristband Bluetooth, the heating and cooling loads were reduced by 90% and 30%, respectively, in interior offices. Therefore, the smart HVAC control system can effectively control the indoor environment for thermal comfort and energy saving.
Assessment of the validity of the AUDIT factor structure in parents involved with child protective services

Background: Identification of hazardous alcohol use is a critical step in connecting individuals to treatment and child protective services (CPS) is a treatment entry-point for parents if hazardous...
Side-Effects of Representation: Measuring the Impact of Representative Hiring on Employment Discrimination Complaints:

Since 1978, the government has been implementing programs to combat the underrepresentation of minorities in federal employment. However, representative bureaucracy literature has done little to ex...
Methotrexate esters of poly(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(2-hydroxyethyl-L-aspartamide). Part I: Effects of the level of methotrexate conjugation on the stability of micelles and on drug release.

Purpose. To study the effects of hydrophobicity of the micelle-formingblock copolymeric drug conjugate, methotrexate (MTX) esters ofpoly-(ethylene oxide)-block-poly(2-hydroxyethyl-L-aspartamide) (MTXesters of PEO-b-PHEA), on the stability of micelles and on drug release.
Prediction of post-interventional physical function in diabetic foot ulcer patients using patient reported outcome measurement information system (PROMIS).

Abstract Background Infected diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) patients present with an impaired baseline physical function (PF) that can be further compromised by surgical intervention to treat the infection. The impact of surgical interventions on Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) PF within the DFU population has not been investigated. We hypothesize that preoperative PROMIS scores (PF, Pain Interference (PI), Depression) in combination with relevant clinical factors can be utilized to predict postoperative PF in DFU patients. Methods DFU patients from a single academic physician’s practice between February 2015 and November 2018 were identified (n = 240). Ninety-two patients met inclusion criteria with complete follow-up and PROMIS computer adaptive testing records. Demographic and clinical factors, procedure performed, and wound healing status were collected. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, Chi-Squared tests and multidimensional modelling were applied to all variables’ pre- and postoperative values to assess patients’ postoperative PF. Results The mean age was 60.5 (33–96) years and mean follow-up was 4.7 (3−12) months. Over 70 % of the patients’ initial PF were 2–3 standard deviations below the US population (n = 49; 28). Preoperative PF (p Conclusions Majority of DFU patients present with poor baseline PF. Preoperative PROMIS scores (PF, PI, Depression) are predictive of postoperative PROMIS PF in DFU patients. Postoperative patient’s physical function can be assessed by PFpostoperative = 29.42 + 0.34 (PFinitial) – 5.87 (Not Healed) – 2.63 (Amputation Category). This algorithm can serve as a valuable tool for predicting post-operative physical function and setting expectations.
Defining Creativity: How Far Have We Come Since Plucker, Beghetto, and Dow?

Defining creativity remains an Achilles heel of creativity research. In 2004, Plucker, Beghetto, and Dow placed a call to action for more consistent, clearer conceptions of creativity to move resea...
Good Systems, a UT Grand Challenge: Socially Responsible AI

You are viewing a publication from a UT Affiliate that was in the Good Systems Network Digest for the May 2020 issue.
Population structure of pierid butterflies : III. Pest populations of Colias philodice eriphyle

Mark-release-recapture techniques were used to study alfalfa pest populations of Colias philodice eriphyle. Two new methods for estimating relative catchability and residence rates were used to compare males to females. The results show that: (1) both sexes had limited dispersal, with mean individual ranges less than 100 m; (2) males were more abundant than females; (3) males and females had similar residence times; (4) males were more catchable than females in uncut fields, but not in cut fields. Explanations for the differences between the sexes are considered. Females may be less catchable in uncut fields because they spend less time in flight than males. Males may be more abundant than females because they develop faster, and may have lower pre-adult mortality. The differences between the sexes are discussed with respect to reproductive strategy. Comparisons with non-pest C.p. eriphyle show differences between pest and non-pest populations. Pest C.p. eriphyle were more sedentary. The residence times were similar for pest and non-pest populations, but pest C.p. eriphyle probably have longer "reproductive life-spans". Mid-summer broods of the pest population were partially overlapping; the non-pest population has discrete broods. Pest population density varied less between years than non-pest population density. The differences between pest and non-pest C.p. eriphyle support the idea of ecological diversity among conspecific populations.
Out of the oven and into the fire: Unexpected preservation of the seasonal δ18O cycle following heating experiments on shell carbonate

Abstract Oxygen isotope values of shell carbonate sampled along the growth trajectory of fossil mollusks provide one of the few types of proxy data available for reconstructing seasonal temperature variation in Earth's past. Understanding how diagenesis affects the preservation of seasonal cycles is key to their interpretation in a paleoclimate context. An assumption common in the literature, albeit tenuous, is that the alteration of an aragonite shell to calcite will homogenize intra-shell stable isotope variation, thus attenuating or erasing any seasonal cycle and resetting bulk shell values. Demonstration of regular variation in δ18O values across growth bands in a still-aragonite mollusk is therefore generally interpreted to reflect retention of the primary environmental signal. However, this implied assumption remains untested, and experimental studies have demonstrated that heating can decrease shell δ18O values with negligible mineralogical transformation. Here we investigate how dry heat impacts both the geochemistry and mineralogy of shell aragonite by roasting time-equivalent shell sections of a modern bivalve, Spisula solidissima, at 200 °C for intervals ranging from 2 hours to 2 weeks, and comparing seasonal oxygen isotope variations recovered from the same one-year period of shell accretion with those from untreated shell. Oxygen isotope values from heated shell sections decline by as much as 1.5‰ across all parts of the ~2.5‰ annual cycle, and degree of 18O depletion decreases logarithmically with time heated. Neither Raman spectroscopy nor X-ray diffraction indicate mineralogic change in association with heating. Scanning electron microscopy reveals that heating results in some intra-crystal pitting and subtle smoothing of crystal edges, but heated shell lacks any textural evidence for inversion to calcite, suggesting that fine-scale isotopic exchange may take place with shell-bound water vapor and/or organic matter. The surprising magnitude of this shift in the absence of mineralogic transformation highlights the potential impact of diagenetic processes on the preservation of paleotemperature signals, seasonal or otherwise, in accretionary biogenic carbonates, and suggests a need for more stringent guidelines in assessing the preservation of these materials during the employment of common sclerochronological methodologies.
Methods of Fixation for Distal Biceps Repair: What Does the Evidence Show?

Distal biceps tendon ruptures are uncommon injuries of the biceps tendon that tend to occur in young active males and are associated with weightlifting, anabolic steroid use, and smoking. The surgical approaches and fixation options have evolved throughout the years. Surgical treatment options include repair via single or dual incisions along with several fixation options including bone tunnels, interference screws, suture anchors, cortical suture buttons, or hybrid fixation strategies. This chapter provides an overview of the different approaches and fixation options, discusses the relevant literature including biomechanical and clinical outcome studies, and presents our preferred technique of the surgical repair of acute distal biceps rupture.
Comparative Study of Renewable Sources of Energy

This chapter aims to unify all the different types of RESs in a comparative picture that helps readers visualize the contrast among the different RESs. The chapter gives a detailed comparison of seven types of RESs based on several criteria. The chapter ends with a case study.
Increment of FDG uptake as a function of time in malignant pleural mesothelioma: Relationship to tumor invasion, metastasis, and prognosis

1753 Objectives: To study the value of the increment of FDG uptake over time as a predictor of disease aggressiveness and prognosis in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (MPM) Methods: A total of 40 patients (22 untreated, 18 restaging) with histologically confirmed MPM, underwent dual-phase PET/CT starting at 60 min and at 90 min post-injection of 20.3±3 mCi of FDG. Semiquantitative image analysis was performed by calculating the lesions’ SUVmax and the increment of FDG uptake over time [malignant metabolic potential index (MMPi)] by: late SUVmax - early SUVmax/early SUVmax*100. Kaplan-Meier plots were used to estimate survival, and a log-rank test for statistical significance. Results were compared to histopathology, to the degree of primary lesion invasiveness (T), the presence of nodal (N) and distant metastasis (M), and survival. Results: In untreated patients, the pattern of uptake and the T-MMPi correlated well with the extent of pleural and parenchymal involvement observed in CT and surgery (r=0.81, P=0.005, and r=0.67, P=0.02, respectively). FDG lesion uptake increased over time at a higher rate in patients with more advanced disease. The T-MMPi increased at a higher rate in stage IV (52.7±12.5%) and III-N2 patients (61.6±59%), than in stage III-N1 (42.7±14.7%), II (31.9±6.4%) and I (21.4± 0.42%). The T-SUVmax was significantly higher in patients with N2 disease (P=0.038). ROC analysis showed that a T-SUVmax >12.37 identified pathologically confirmed N2 disease with a sensitivity of 88.9% and a specificity of 84.6% (P=0.001), compared to 88.9% and 38.5% respectively for a T-MMPi >25.8%, and 57% and 62% respectively for visual analysis. Recurrent lesions had higher MMPi and SUVmax than lesions at initial staging. Time to recurrence was longer after trimodality therapy than after surgery alone, with the number and metabolic activity of recurrent lesions being lower. In all patients with distant metastases, primary lesions were more FDG avid than in patients without(P=0.0001). A T-MMPi >47.8%, identified patients harboring distant metastases with a sensitivity of 100%, and a specificity of 83.3%. A high T-MMPi had a statistically significant relationship with poorer survival (P=0.03). Conclusions: These findings show that the MMPi and the SUVmax complement visual image analysis by increasing the PET/CT accuracy in the assessment of disease extent and aggressiveness of Mesothelioma. The SUVmax of untreated primary lesions predicts N2 disease. The MMPi of all primary lesions predicts distant metastasis and is associated with poor prognosis. Research Support (if any): Supported in part by a Pilot Grant from the International Mesothelioma Program, Brigham and Women9s Hospital
Parental Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms in the Context of Pediatric Post Intensive Care Syndrome: Impact on the Family and Opportunities for Intervention

Objective Pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) survivors and their families experience ongoing impacts on physical, cognitive, and psychosocial functioning, described as Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS). The objective of this study was to determine whether the posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) of parents predict the impact of critical illness on families following PICU admission beyond other factors (e.g., sex, race/ethnicity, age, insurance status, illness severity, family involvement or death). Method We conducted a retrospective analysis of data from 88 children aged 1 month to 18 years who were hospitalized with critical illness and acquired brain injury in the PICU and their families. Patients and their families participated in a 1-3 month post-discharge follow-up assessment, during which data on demographics, medical diagnoses, parent self-report of PTSS, and family impact of critical illness (via the Pediatric Quality of Life Family Impact Module) were collected. We used a hierarchical linear regression to determine whether parent PTSS predicted family impact above and beyond demographic and injury/illness factors. Results One-third of parents reported elevated PTSS. Among those with complete available data (n = 56), PTSS were the only significant predictor of family impact (β = -.52, t = -3.58, p = .001), with the overall model accounting for 41% of variance. Conclusion In addition to the direct effects on parents of children who survive the PICU, PTSS may negatively impact families and interfere with rehabilitative progress. We provide a rationale and conceptual model for integrating interventions designed to address parent PTSS into post-PICU care.
Battling Climate Change: Improving Crop Productivity and Quality by Increasing Photosynthetic Efficiency, Deploying Microbiome Metagenomics, and Effectively Utilizing Digital Technology

Change in normal environmental conditions is referred as climate change. The activities such as desertification, emissions of toxic gases from fossil fuel burning, increased livestock farming, use of nitrogenous fertilizers, and fluorinated gases are the main causes for global climate change. These activities release huge quantity of greenhouse gases into atmosphere in addition to those that produce naturally. The increased greenhouse gasses cause greenhouse effect and global warming. The temperature and rainfall are important factors from the point of agriculture and are affected due to climate change. The change in temperature and rainfall pattern affect crop growth and increase the chances of pests and diseases outbreak and finally the productivity. The effect of environmental change on agriculture is unevenly distributed across the world and if not addressed appropriately, it may increase the risk of food security in coming days. Increasing the agriculture productivity under changing climate is the need of the hour. Till date, only marginal efforts were made in enhancing the photosynthetic efficiency of crop plants. Biotechnological tools play significant part in improving the plant photosynthesis and the yield. Besides increasing crop’s intrinsic productivity, providing optimum biological environment to the crops is another logical combatting strategy to minimize any adverse effect of changed environment. Plant microbiome is the major component of the biological climate, which denotes the entire genetic makeup of microorganisms live on the soil and plant. The microbiome is unpredictably associated with plant wellbeing and helps in increasing the quality and productivity of crops. The beneficial microbes induce resistance to the plants against pest and diseases, play important role in nutrient recycling, nutrient mobilization. The metagenomic tools help in designing right microbiome to recover the plant and soil wellbeing. The application of digital technology in agriculture will enhance the precision and right prediction. The digital technology can be used to monitor the changing rainfall pattern, temperature, pest and disease outbreak, and databases can be developed for these. The machine learning (ML) algorithms and artificial neural network (ANN) can be used to analyze and process large-scale data. An artificial Intelligence (AI) platform developed by ML and ANN can help further decision making. These biological and digital solutions will bring revolution in the agriculture by increasing the productivity and by minimizing the crop losses. In this book chapter, we are discussing about the role of photosynthesis, microbiome, and digital technology in concern to changed environment and improving agriculture productivity.
Economic and environmental analyses of Iranian energy subsidy reform using Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model

Abstract This study analyzes economic and environmental implications of the elimination of energy subsidies in Iran applying a CGE model. The subsidy reform was investigated under two scenarios namely, redistributing total subsidy revenue back to households (complete payment) and allocating it to households and producers (half payment) proportionally (50% and 30% respectively). The results show that elimination of energy subsidies via resource reallocation causes a fall in GDP relative to the initial equilibrium by at least 15%, while the general level of prices (CPI) tends to increase by more than 10% compared to the initial level. However, redistributing a part of the subsidies revenue back to households increases overall welfare. Eliminating energy subsidies induces emission reduction of most of the pollutants. Considering the economic, welfare and environmental aspects, half payment scenario is preferred compared to complete payment option.