cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomic responses in mouse brain exposed to chronic excess of the neurotransmitter glutamate

Increases during aging in extracellular levels of glutamate (Glu), the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, may be linked to chronic neurodegenerative diseases. Little is known about the molecular responses of neurons to chronic, moderate increases in Glu levels. Genome-wide gene expression in brain hippocampus was examined in a unique transgenic (Tg) mouse model that exhibits moderate Glu hyperactivity throughout the lifespan, the neuronal Glutamate dehydrogenase (Glud1) mouse, and littermate 9 month-old wild type mice. Integrated bioinformatic analyses on transcriptomic data were used to identify bio-functions, pathways and gene networks underlying neuronal responses to increased Glu synaptic release. Bio-functions and pathways up-regulated in Tg mice were those associated with oxidative stress, cell injury, inflammation, nervous system development, neuronal growth, and synaptic transmission. Increased gene expression in these functions and pathways indicated apparent compensatory responses offering protection against stress, promoting growth of neuronal processes (neurites) and re-establishment of synapses. The transcription of a key gene in the neurite growth network, the kinase Ptk2b, was significantly up-regulated in Tg mice as was the activated (phosphorylated) form of the protein. In addition to genes related to neurite growth and synaptic development, those associated with neuronal vesicle trafficking in the Huntington's disease signalling pathway, were also up-regulated. This is the first study attempting to define neuronal gene expression patterns in response to chronic, endogenous Glu hyperactivity at brain synapses. The patterns observed were characterized by a combination of responses to stress and stimulation of nerve growth, intracellular transport and recovery.
Lane decoupling for improving the timing-error resiliency of wide-SIMD architectures

A significant portion of the energy dissipated in modern integrated circuits is consumed by the overhead associated with timing guardbands that ensure reliable execution. Timing speculation, where the pipeline operates at an unsafe voltage with any rare errors detected and resolved by the architecture, has been demonstrated to significantly improve the energy-efficiency of scalar processor designs. Unfortunately, applying the same timing-speculative approach to wide-SIMD architectures, such as those used in highly-efficient GPUs, may not provide similar gains. In this work, we make two important contributions. The first is a set of models describing a parametrized general error probability function that is based on measurements of a fabricated chip and the expected efficiency benefits of timing speculation in a SIMD context. The second contribution is a decoupled SIMD pipeline that more effectively utilizes timing speculation and recovery, when compared with a standard SIMD design that uses only conventional timing speculation. The proposed lane decoupling enables each SIMD lane to tolerate timing errors independent of other adjacent lanes, resulting in higher throughput and improved scalability. We validate our models and evaluate our design using a cycle-based GPU simulator, describe the conditions where efficiency improvements can be obtained, and explore the benefits of decoupling across a wide range of parameters. Our results show that timing speculation can achieve up to 10.3% improvement in efficiency.
PC-PLC/sphingomyelin synthase activity plays a central role in the development of myogenic tone in murine resistance arteries.

Myogenic tone is an intrinsic property of the vasculature that contributes to blood pressure control and tissue perfusion. Earlier investigations assigned a key role in myogenic tone to phospholipa...
Effects of progesterone on motility and prostaglandin levels in the distal guinea pig colon

Progesterone (P4) inhibits the gastrointestinal muscle contraction by downregulating Gαq/11 proteins that mediate contraction, by upregulating Gαs proteins that mediate relaxation, and by altering ...
The Optical Properties of Channel Waveguides in Batio3 Thin Films

BaTiO3 epitaxial films have been prepared on (001) MgO substrates by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition. The as-deposited 0.2 μm thick films had a surface roughness of 12 nm. Channel waveguides were fabricated from the films and the optical throughput measured. To differentiate the surface scattering loss from the internal scattering loss, waveguides were also prepared with a surface planarization step to reduce the surface roughness to 2.5 nm. The waveguide loss was greatly reduced for the planarized waveguides. The results indicate that surface and side wall roughness accounted for the majority of the waveguide loss. Grain boundary grooving lead to surface roughness and routes to overcome this problem are discussed.
Presolar Graphite: Noble Gases and their Origins

Presolar graphite contains a 22 Ne-rich component called Ne-E(L). Noble gas studies on graphite aggregates and single grains have shown that although a dominant source of the 22 Ne is 22 Na, 22 Ne in the He-shell of asymptotic giant branch stars have also contributed to the Ne-E(L). In addition to novae that have been considered to be a possible source of 22 Na, supernovae are a likely source as well. Krypton isotopic ratios of the separates indicate that part of graphite formed in low-mass (≤ 3M � ) asymptotic giant branch stars of low metallicity (Z ≤ 0.006).
Analysis by fluorescence microscopy of the development of compartment-specific gene expression during sporulation of Bacillus subtilis.

Abstract The use of a fluorogenic substrate, 5-octanoylaminofluorescein-di-beta-D-galactopyranoside, for beta-galactosidase has made it possible to visualize enzyme activity in individual cells of sporulating populations of Bacillus subtilis by fluorescence microscopy. lacZ fusions to different sporulation-associated genes have been used to investigate the cell compartmentalization of gene expression during sporulation. A strain with a lacZ fusion to sspA, a gene which is transcribed by E-sigma G at a late stage of sporulation, displayed predominantly compartment-specific fluorescence. Expression of the early-expressed spoIIA locus, which includes the structural gene for sigma F, was seen not to be compartmentalized. Populations of strains with lacZ fusions to gpr and dacF, genes which are transcribed by E-sigma F at intermediate stages of sporulation, included some organisms showing uncompartmentalized fluorescence and others showing compartment-specific fluorescence; the proportion showing compartment-specific fluorescence increased in samples taken later in sporulation. Several possible explanations of the results obtained with gpr and dacF are considered. A plausible interpretation is that sigma F activity is initially not compartmentalized and becomes compartmentalized as sporulation progresses. The progression to compartmentalization does not require the activities of the sporulation-specific factor sigma E or sigma G but may require some product of sigma F activity.
Study of the existence of energy functions for power systems with losses

It is shown that there is no general energy function for multimachine power systems with losses. It is also shown that under the condition of small losses, there does exist an energy function (defined in a compact set of the state space) which can be incorporated into direct methods for the stability analysis of power systems with losses. One implication of the results is that any general procedure attempting to construct an energy function for power systems with losses must include a step serving to check the existence of an energy function. This step would essentially play the same kind of role as the Lyapunov equation plays in determining the stability of an equilibrium point. The results confirm current practice in the area of direct analysis of power system stability for using numerical energy functions. >
Gravitational production of scalar particles in inflationary-universe models.

We study the production of massive scalar particles (with m<H0) in inflationary-universe models. A given mode of the scalar field is quantum mechanically excited when it is well within the Hubble radius (≡H0−1) during the de Sitter phase of inflation. It then crosses outside the Hubble radius after which it is treated classically. Ultimately, long after reentering the Hubble radius, the fluctuations correspond to nonrelativistic scalar particles. The energy density in these particles depends on the Hubble parameter during inflation, the mass of the particle species, and the coupling of the scalar field to the curvature scalar. The energy density may contribute significantly to the total energy density in the Universe; in addition, new constraints to the value of the Hubble constant during inflation follow. As an example we apply our results to axions.
Gobal optimization of linear hybrid systems with varying transition times

Open loop optimal control problems with linear hybrid (discrete/continuous) systems embedded are often approximated as dynamic optimization problems. These problems are inherently nonconvex. A deterministic global optimization algorithm for linear hybrid systems with varying transition times is developed. First, the control parametrization enhancing transform is used to transform the problem from a linear hybrid system with scaled discontinuities and varying transition times into a nonlinear one with stationary discontinuities and fixed transition times. Next, a convexity theory is applied to construct a convex relaxation of the original nonconvex problem. This allows the problem to be solved in a branch-and-bound framework that can guarantee the solution to ? global optimality within a finite number of iterations.
Bone mineral density and hypertension prevalence in postmenopausal women: results from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Purpose We sought to corroborate a reported association of hypertension with bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women. Methods Data are from a nationally representative sample of 2738 women aged 50 years and older from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Total proximal femoral bone mineral density was measured by using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Hypertension is defined as blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg or greater or recent blood pressure medication use. Results Compared with the fourth quartile of BMD, age- and race-adjusted relative odds of hypertension were decreased in the first quartile (odds ratio [OR], 0.50; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.38–0.67; p p = 0.83) and additional risk factors in multivariate models (OR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.65–1.30; p = 0.62). Conclusions No association between hypertension and BMD was observed after controlling for body mass index and other confounders.
Micro-Scale Printmaking on Silicon

Printmaking is a fine art practice that encompasses a variety of media including intaglio, relief, lithography and screen-printing. In this collaborative research project the authors extend the traditional boundaries of printmaking to create editions of micro-scale prints on the surface of silicon integrated circuits using the layers of materials normally used for making transistors and electrical interconnections. The process by which the images are printed on the silicon surface is discussed, alongside some of the conceptual and technical issues related to creating printed images using this technology.
Options and Considerations for Procedural Sedation in Pediatric Imaging

As pediatric imaging capabilities have increased in scope, so have the complexities of providing procedural sedation in this environment. While efforts by many organizations have dramatically increased the safety of pediatric procedural sedation in general, radiology sedation creates several special challenges for the sedation provider. These challenges require implementation of additional safeguards to promote safety during sedation while maintaining effective and efficient care. Multiple agent options are available, and decisions regarding which agent(s) to use should be determined by both patient needs (i.e., developmental capacities, underlying health status, and previous experiences) and procedural needs (i.e., duration, need for immobility, and invasiveness). Increasingly, combinations of agents to either achieve the conditions required or mitigate/counterbalance adverse effects of single agents are being utilized with success. To continue to provide effective imaging sedation, it is incumbent on sedation providers to maintain familiarity with continuing evolutions within radiology environments, as well as comfort and competence with multiple sedation agents/regimens. This review discusses the challenges associated with radiology sedation and outlines various available agent options and combinations, with the intent of facilitating appropriate matching of agent(s) with patient and procedural needs.
Implementation of evidence-based home visiting programs aimed at reducing child maltreatment: a meta-analytic review

In recent years there has been an increase in the popularity of home visitation programs as a means of addressing risk factors for child maltreatment. The evidence supporting the effectiveness of these programs from several meta-analyses, however, is mixed. One potential explanation for this inconsistency explored in the current study involves the manner in which these programs were implemented. In the current study we reviewed 156 studies associated with 9 different home visitation program models targeted to caregivers of children between the ages of 0 and 5. Meta-analytic techniques were used to determine the impact of 18 implementation factors (e.g., staff selection, training, supervision, fidelity monitoring, etc.) and four study characteristics (publication type, target population, study design, comparison group) in predicting program outcomes. Results from analyses revealed that several implementation factors, including training, supervision, and fidelity monitoring, had a significant effect on program outcomes, particularly child maltreatment outcomes. Study characteristics, including the program's target population and the comparison group employed, also had a significant effect on program outcomes. Implications of the study's results for those interested in implementing home visitation programs are discussed. A careful consideration and monitoring of program implementation is advised as a means of achieving optimal study results.
Numerical and Experimental Stress Analysis Studies of Thin-Walled Oblate and Prolate Hemispheroidal Domes and Panel Structures for Sonar Systems

As part of a study and design of new sonar systems a stress analysis of domes and acoustic panels was undertaken. Such structures, having suitable acoustic transparency, provide hydrodynamic envelopes to transducer arrays. The acoustic transparency is affected by both the material properties and the shape and thickness of the dome. The domes are seldom subjected solely to hydrostatic pressures, but are considerably loaded by hydrodynamic pressures.
Stimulation of prolactin and growth hormone release by TRH infused into a hypophysial portal vessel.

SummaryThe effects of infusion of synthetic thytropin releasing hormone (TRH) into a hypophysial portal vessel on the release of prolactin and growth hormone (GH) were investigated in normal male rats under urethane anesthesia. Significant increases in serum prolactin and GH levels were consistently observed after the infusion of 100 ng or larger doses of synthetic TRH, but smaller doses had no effect. Pretreat-ment of rats with 50 fig estradiol in oil raised the basal levels of prolactin and GH, but the net increase after TRH remained the same for prolactin and was somewhat reduced for GH.The authors are indebted to Mrs. J. Gauthier and Mrs. M. Esslinger for their excellent technical assistance, Dr. Abba J. Kastin for his help in preparing the manuscript, and NIAMD Rat Pituitary Hormone Program for the supply of rat GH and Prolactin RIA Kits.
Abstract 2941: Defining novel pathways that arrest genetically unstable tetraploid cells

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL Tetraploid cells, which are a common byproduct of cell division failures, are genetically unstable and have the capacity to facilitate tumorigenesis. Consequently, p53-dependent tumor suppression mechanisms exist to limit the continued proliferation of these cells by promoting G1 cell cycle arrest. However, unlike other common cellular insults that activate p53 and promote G1 arrest, such as the DNA damage response, the mechanisms governing G1 arrest in response to tetraploidy remain largely unexplored. To gain insight into these mechanisms, we have developed a novel genome-wide RNAi screening assay to comprehensively identify proteins that are necessary to activate or maintain G1 cell cycle arrest after the induction of tetraploidy. Results from this screen, in combination with complementary bioinformatic approaches, have begun to illuminate the nature of the stresses associated with tetraploidy. More importantly, this work is shedding light on the adaptive mechanisms that tetraploid and near-tetraploid tumors may have evolved in order to overcome these stresses. These findings have the potential to lead to the identification of new pathways that can be targeted by chemotherapeutics to specifically reinforce G1 arrest in grossly aneuploid cancer cells. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2941. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-2941
SELECTION OF ELECTRON-TRANSMITTER IN DYE DEGRADING BY PHOTO-CATALYTIC OXIDATION

Two kinds of catalysts have been used to degrade methyl orange and dyes under the different light lamp and with different electron transmitter. The catalysts have low activity when the transmitter is O 2, while the catalysts show high activity when the transmitter is H 2O 2. After 20 minutes reaction under sun light, the degradation of methyl orange can reach 90% and the COD remove ratio of the dye can reach 50%～60% and it has little color. Results have showed that the electron transmitter is one important factor for the process of effective photo catalytic oxidation and H 2O 2 is more effective than O 2 as electron transmitter.
Anesthetic experience with cardiac transplantation.

The anesthetic management of 17 patients undergoing cardiac transplantation is described. Recipients had severe biventricular failure and pulmonary hypertension. Careful administration of diazepam and morphine was the preferred induction method, and pancuronium was the favored relaxant for both intubation and maintenance. Sterile technique was used in placing endotracheal tubes. Relatively small doses of morphine and diazepam, combined with 50 percent nitrous oxide, were satisfactory for the maintenance of anesthesia. Postperfusion problems were few but included poor tolerance of hypovolemia and an exaggerated hypotensive response to protamine. Isoproterenol was required to support ventricular performance, but no other cardiac stimulants were needed. Postoperative courses were uneventful. There were no operative deaths and no recall of awareness during the operation with the described method of “light” anesthesia.
Benign Testicular Tumor Associated with Klinefelter’s Syndrome

AbstractTesticular tumors associated with Klinefelter’s syndrome are rare. We report a benign testicular epidermal cyst that was diagnosed in a patient with Klinefelter’s syndrome. The association between testicular tumors and Klinefelter’s syndrome, and management of a testicular epidermal cyst are discussed.
DNA-Binding Motif of the Imprinted Transcription Factor PEG3.

Peg3 is an imprinted gene that is predicted to encode a DNA-binding zinc finger protein. This was previously demonstrated through Chromatin ImmunoPrecipitation-based Sequencing experiments. In the current study, we reanalyzed the previous ChIP-Seq results and further characterized the DNA-binding motif of PEG3. According to the results, PEG3 binds to the promoters and enhancers of a subset of genes that are closely associated with the known functions of Peg3. Some of these identified targets include Tufm, Mrpl45, Cry2, Per1, Slc25a29 and Slc38a2. With this set of targets, we derived a DNA-binding motif of PEG3, 5’-GTGGCAGT-3’, which also provides a tabulated matrix that can be used for predicting other unknown genomic targets. Among the newly identified targets, we analyzed in detail the two loci, Slc38a2 and Slc38a4, which are known to be involved in neutral amino acid transport. The results indicated that PEG3 likely functions as a transcriptional repressor for these two loci. Overall, the current study provides a set of genomic targets and also redefines the DNA-binding motif for the imprinted transcription factor PEG3.
Impact of facility volume on outcomes in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal: Analysis of the National Cancer Data Base

BACKGROUND Given the rarity of anal cancer and the technical aspects involved in radiation (RT) planning, the authors conducted a population-based analysis evaluating the impact of radiation oncology facility volume on overall survival (OS) in patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the anal canal. METHODS The National Cancer Data Base (NCDB) was queried for patients with SCC of the anal canal who underwent RT. All patients were coded as having received their entire course of RT at the NCDB reporting facility. Facility volume was categorized into tertiles (low, intermediate, and high) and was based on the number of times a facility's unique identification code appeared. RESULTS In total, 13,550 patients were identified. Patients who received treatment at higher volume radiation oncology facilities had longer OS based on multivariate analysis (MVA) (hazard ratio, 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.73-0.90; P 45 days (odds ratio, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.69-0.80; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Treatment at higher volume radiation oncology centers appears to be associated with improved OS in patients with SCC of the anal canal. These results likely reflect the relation between physician experience and delivery of high-quality RT, which perhaps is best evident in rare tumors such as anal SCC. Cancer 2016. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Renewing Our Commitment to the Future of Dental Education: ADEA CCI 2.0.

In 2005, the Board of Directors of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) made a significant commitment to a long-term initiative to address challenges of curriculum reform in a contemporary dental school through the authorization of the ADEA Commission on Change and Innovation in Dental
Optical imaging and spectroscopy of microenvironmental changes associated with radiation resistance in tumors

We present our recent work using optical imaging and spectroscopy to investigate changes associated with oxygenation and metabolism in radiation-resistant and sensitive tumors
Ecological Challenges, Materialistic Values, and Social Change

Earth’s ecology faces significant challenges, including climate disruption, pollution, and habitat loss. Substantial research suggests that these challenges are exacerbated by humans’ strong desires for money, wealth, possessions, image, and status. I therefore present an empirically-based, two-pronged approach to decrease how much people and society focus on self-enhancing, materialistic aims: (a) remove the known causes of a strong materialistic orientation (i.e., social modeling and insecurity); and (b) promote the self-transcendent, intrinsic values which stand in opposition to materialism. This approach is applied to four concrete areas for social change action: voluntary simplicity, time affluence, restrictions on advertising, and adjustments to the capitalistic economic system.
Nutritional Needs and Support for Children with Chronic Liver Disease

Malnutrition has become a dangerously common problem in children with chronic liver disease, negatively impacting neurocognitive development and growth. Furthermore, many children with chronic liver disease will eventually require liver transplantation. Thus, this association between malnourishment and chronic liver disease in children becomes increasingly alarming as malnutrition is a predictor of poorer outcomes in liver transplantation and is often associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Malnutrition requires aggressive and appropriate management to correct nutritional deficiencies. A comprehensive review of the literature has found that infants with chronic liver disease (CLD) are particularly susceptible to malnutrition given their low reserves. Children with CLD would benefit from early intervention by a multi-disciplinary team, to try to achieve nutritional rehabilitation as well as to optimize outcomes for liver transplant. This review explains the multifactorial nature of malnutrition in children with chronic liver disease, defines the nutritional needs of these children, and discusses ways to optimize their nutritional.
Abstract 17942: Identifying Heart Failure Patients Less Likely to Report Dyspnea

Background: Dyspnea is a hallmark symptom of heart failure (HF); yet, many patients living with HF do not experience this symptom. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to identify clinical and psy...
Other Nonlinear Phenomena in Delta-Sigma Modulators

The nonlinear settling behavior in delta-sigma modulators are discussed in Chapter 4. Based on the excellent agreement between the model and the measurement results for the nonlinear settling, we further apply our framework to other nonlinear phenomena in delta-sigma modulators. They include nonlinear capacitor error in Section 5.2 and nonlinear reference error in Section 5.3. In Section 5.4, we analyze the nonlinear DC gain-induced error. In Section 5.5 we use our experimentally-verified model to outline a design strategy to minimize power consumption. We leave some conclusions in Section 5.6.
Optical nonlinear absorption properties of 4h-SiC-experiment and model

Intensity-dependent nonlinear light absorption in bulk 4H-SiC at the above-bandgap energy of 3.49 eV (λ = 355 nm) is studied. Characterization and understanding of such nonlinear optical behavior in 4H-SiC forms the basis efficiency improvements and design of optoelectronic SiC devices, including photoconductive semiconductor switches. It is noted that previous research performed elsewhere had focused primarily on nonlinearities at below-bandgap energies, while little had been explored above-bandgap. In this study, absorption of short laser pulses with fluences ranging from 1 mJ/cm2 to 30 mJ/cm2 incident on 160 μm-thick high purity semiinsulating 4H-SiC samples of varying recombination lifetimes is addressed. Sample bulk recombination lifetimes vary from 0.5 ns to 100 ns displaying the range of effects from growth, electron irradiation, and annealing. The effective absorption coefficient varies significantly within this range as an apparent function of bulk recombination lifetime. A four-level time-and space-dependent finite difference time domain (FDTD) model taking into account electron trapping, interband absorption, and free-carrier absorption was constructed that yielded further insight into the absorption dynamics. For instance, the importance of free carrier absorption and deep-level trapping in the nonlinear absorption behavior is elucidated.
Enhancing Inhibitory Learning: The Utility of Variability in Exposure.

Abstract Exposure therapy has strong empirical support as a treatment for anxiety and related disorders, yet not all participants see clinically meaningful reduction in symptoms, and some experience return of fear. In this review, we examine the theoretical models of exposure therapy, from early precursors to the contemporary inhibitory learning model. The inhibitory learning model is applied to examine one potential method of improving outcomes in exposure therapy: increasing variability in the progression of the exposure hierarchy. We explore mechanisms that support the use of variability in exposure, including the violation of expectancies to enhance learning. In addition, the role of intolerance of uncertainty in anxiety is examined; variable exposure therapy could target this transdiagnostic mechanism in anxiety and related disorders. Suggestions for future research are then offered.
Military threats: A systematic historical analysis of the determinants of success: By Peter Karsten, Peter D. Howell, and Artis Francis Allen (Contributions in Military History, Number 36) Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1984, 166 pp., $29.95

(1987). Military threats: A systematic historical analysis of the determinants of success. The Social Science Journal: Vol. 24, No. 1, pp. 93-94.
Urinary tract infection (UTI) at time of geriatric hip fracture surgery increases the risk of experiencing adverse 30-day outcomes.

Abstract Introduction Pre-operative urinary tract infection (UTI) may be associated with a high rate of complications following surgeries. Few studies have investigated the clinical impact of a pre-operative UTI on post-operative outcomes following surgeries for hip-fracture in geriatric patients. Methods The 2015–2016 ACS-NSQIP database was queried for patients undergoing hip fracture surgery using CPT-Codes for Total Hip Arthroplasty (27130), Hemiarthroplasty (27125) and Open Reduction/Internal Fixation (ORIF) (27236, 27244, 27245). Only patients ≥65 years of age undergoing surgery due to a traumatic hip fracture were included in the study. Results Out of 31,621 patients undergoing surgical treatment for a hip fracture, 410 (1.3%) had UTI at the time of the surgery. Following adjusted logistic regression analysis, UTI present at the time of surgery was associated with a longer length of stay>5 days (OR 5.46 [95% CI 2.27–13.1]; p = 0.008), any complication (OR 1.33 [95% CI 1.49–1.63]; p = 0.007), infectious complications (OR 1.71 [95% CI 1.19–2.47]; p = 0.004), non-infectious complications (OR 1.28 [95% CI 1.04–1.58]; p = 0.021), 30-day unplanned re-operations (OR 1.96 [95% CI 1.25–3.06]; p = 0.003) and 30-day readmissions (OR 2.04 [95% CI 1.57–2.66]; p Conclusions Patients undergoing hip-fracture surgery with a concurrent UTI at the time of surgery have more adverse 30-day outcomes as compared to hip fracture patients who do not present with a UTI. Despite adjustment for a delay in the time to surgery, the impact of UTI on post-operative outcomes remained significant. While it is difficult to eradicate a UTI in a non-elective population, the findings stress the need for clinical optimization and potential need for early recognition/management of UTI in patients who sustain a hip fracture to minimize the risk of adverse outcomes.
Structural Characteristics, Population Analysis, and Binding Energies of [An(NO3)]2+ (with An = Ac to Lr).

Efficient predictive capabilities are essential for the actinide series since regulatory constraints for radioactive work, associated costs needed for specialized facilities, and the short half-lives of many actinides present great challenges in laboratory settings. Improved predictive accuracy is advantageous for numerous applications including the optimization and design of separation agents for nuclear fuel and waste. One limitation of calculations in support of these applications is that the large variations observed from predictions obtained with currently available methods can make comparisons across studies uncertain. Benchmarking currently available computational methodologies is essential to establish reliable practices across the community to guarantee an accurate physical description of the systems studied. To understand the performance of a variety of common theoretical methods, a systematic analysis of differences observed in the prediction of structural characteristics, electron withdrawing ...
Sildenafil Use in Children with Pulmonary Hypertension.

Objective To assess the demographics, treatment algorithm, and outcomes in a large cohort of children treated with sildenafil. Study design A retrospective cohort study of children with pulmonary hypertension (PH) treated with sildenafil at a single institution between 2004 and 2015. Baseline and follow-up data collected by chart review. Results There were 269 children included in this study: 47 with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension, 53 with congenital heart disease, 135 with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, 24 with congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and 7 with other causes. Sildenafil was initial monotherapy in 84.8% and add-on therapy in 15.2%. Median follow-up time was 3.1 years (2 weeks-12.4 years). On follow-up, 99 (37%) remained on sildenafil or transitioned to tadalafil, 93 (35%) stopped sildenafil for improvement in PH, 54 (20%) died, and 20 (7%) were lost to follow-up. PH was most likely to improve in those with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, allowing for the discontinuation of sildenafil in 45%. Eighteen deaths were related to PH and 36 from other systemic causes. Two patients stopped sildenafil owing to airway spasm with desaturation. Overall survival was significantly lower in World Health Organization group 3 PH (bronchopulmonary dysplasia and congenital diaphragmatic hernia) vs group 1 (idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and congenital heart disease), P = .02. Conclusions In this retrospective experience in children with mainly World Health Organization groups 1 and 3 PH, low-dose sildenafil was well-tolerated, safe, and had an acceptable side effect profile. Although patients with group 3 PH have high mortality, survivors have a high likelihood of PH improving.
Nicotine arms race: JUUL and the high-nicotine product market

Objective Until recently, purveyors of vaping products marketed e-liquids in the 1%–3% range of nicotine concentration with those at 3% described as ‘super high’ intended for two packs/day smokers. The goal of this study is to evaluate the degree to which JUUL, with its 5% nicotine and 75% US market share, has spurred other e-liquid vendors to raise the nicotine levels of their products. Methods Online search to identify brands offering e-liquid in exceptionally high nicotine concentration (≥5%) and to catalogue the appearance of devices which emulate JUUL. Results JUUL compatible pods (14) and JUUL knock off devices (39) were identified which offer equal or higher nicotine than JUUL. More than 70 e-liquid brands sell high-nicotine products (≥5%) in bulk (≥30 mL) equivalent to >40 cigarette packs. All of these products come in multiple youth appealing sweet and fruity flavours. It was noted that nicotine percentage is inconsistently reported (eg, JUUL is 5% by weight vs 5.9% by volume). Conclusions JUUL has triggered a widespread rush among aerosol purveyors to market e-liquid in unprecedentedly high nicotine concentrations. The rapidly rising popularity of high-nicotine e-liquids threatens to addict a generation of youth. When sold in large quantity bottles (eg, 30 mL) they represent a childhood poisoning risk. Labelling of nicotine concentration in e-liquids needs to be standardised to avoid consumer confusion. The addictiveness and toxicity of these products makes it imperative that regulators act swiftly to enact protective measures.
Vibrational interactions of tetrahedra in silicate glasses and crystals

Normal coordinate calculations, producing synthetic infrared and Raman spectra, were carried out on melilites, pyroxenes, silica polymorphs and feldspars. Atomic motions are complex in the high-frequency Raman modes of melilites and aluminous pyroxenes. The symmetric T-Onb stretching vibrations of Si and Al tetrahedra with different numbers of bridging oxygens are separate from each other, but may combine individually with oscillation of bridging oxygens between Si and Al tetrahedra. The latter type of vibration tends to dominate as Al/Si increases. The frequencies of these vibrational components and the degree of such intermixing depend on T-O force constants, which vary greatly depending on local bonding configurations; individual bands in the high-frequency Raman cannot in general be assigned to single structural entities or fixed combinations thereof. Calculations confirm that in some Al-Si glasses such as jadeite and spodumene, i.e. those in which all Al can be tetrahedral without non-bridging oxygens, Al-O-Al linkages or linkage of more than two tetrahedra by a single oxygen, aluminum is predominantly in tetrahedral coordination. Other Al-Si glasses which are richer in aluminum or which have non-bridging oxygens may contain Al tetrahedral triclusters, non-tetrahedral Al, or both. On the basis of distinctive 450–750 cm−1 infrared bands, both silica and feldspar glasses resemble tridymite and related stuffed derivatives, not other crystalline silica polymorphs or feldspars. Either these glasses have a structure like that of tridymite on a local scale, or the disorder of the glasses causes drastic modification to the vibrations in question.
Effective Degrees of Freedom in Baryon and Meson Spectroscopy

We discuss some of the most relevant non-standard quark configurations in hadron spectroscopy, which are alternative to the qqq and $$q \bar{q}$$ description of baryons and mesons, respectively. They include the quark-diquark and four-quark (five-quark) meson-meson (meson-baryon) bound states. To this purpose, we briefly review the diquark model of baryons and tetraquark states and the hadro-quarkonium model of heavy-light tetra- and pentaquarks. Some applications of the previous models are discussed.
Regressions of FX Returns on Fractionally Integrated Forward Premium

Fractional integration in the forward-premium allegedly causes the FX forward-bias anomaly via an unbalanced uncovered-interest-parity regression. This article reports Monte Carlo simulations of FX-return regressions with small-sample bias and low signal-to-noise ratio allowing for different long-memory coefficients for the forward-premium. If long memory is a problem, FX-return regressions would display biases in slope-estimates and t-statistics; however, regressions with simulated data accurately reveal the true model, either uncovered-interest-parity (unitary slope) or independent FX-returns (zero slope). Also, there is little or no parameter-instability for samples of 60 and 300 observations, suggesting that time-varying uncovered-interest-parity slopes are not an artifact of forward-premium persistence.
Caribbean masala: Indian identity in Guyana and Trinidad, by Dave Ramsaran and Linden F. Lewis

For over three quarters of a century (1838–1920), the British, Danish, Dutch, and French governments transported an estimated 500,000 indentured Indian laborers from the Indian subcontinent to the ...
Development of highly productive nickel–sodium phenoxyphosphine ethylene polymerization catalysts and their reaction temperature profiles

We have successfully applied a pendent Lewis acid design strategy to enhance the ethylene polymerization rates of nickel phenoxyphosphine catalysts. Our heterobimetallic complex is among one of the most productive coordination insertion catalysts reported to date for nickel. Due to its tendency to generate large reaction exotherms, it is necessary to apply continuous temperature control and low catalyst loading to achieve optimal efficiency.
Development of a Validity Scale for the Dissociative Experience Scale-Revised: Atypicality, Structure, and Inconsistency

The Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES), the most commonly used scale for assessing dissociation across settings, lacks a validity scale. In this study, six methods of enhancing validity were utilized: vocabulary and duration screening, manipulation checks, inconsistency, atypicality, and structure (unlikely pattern of responses). Six reverse-worded DES questions were developed to assess inconsistency, six questions regarding extremely rare or unknown symptoms assessed atypicality, and the difference between taxon and absorption items assessed structure. Honest, feigning, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) groups completed the assessment (N = 345) via Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) or SurveyMonkey. All groups received a brief definition of dissociation. The honest/PTSD groups were asked to complete the survey honestly. The feigning group members were asked to pretend to be someone with dissociative symptoms. Failure of the vocabulary, duration, or manipulation check validations led to 72 exclusions. The three groups differed significantly on the inconsistent items, the atypical items, and structure items, F(2, 271) > 7.52, p < .001, with the feigning group consistently performing worse than the two honest groups. The DES with validity scale may be most useful for community survey studies in which there is a high risk of malingering or feigning.
Income, wages and household production theory

Abstract With the American Time Use Survey 2003-15 we show that both non-workers and workers with higher household incomes spend less time on two quantitatively important time-intensive activities, sleep and TV-watching. This finding cannot be explained by the standard (Becker, 1965) ”commodity production” model. We modify that model to allow both substitution between time and goods in household production and substitution among commodities in utility functions, which rationalizes these results and suggests a way forward for empirical work on household behavior.
Mitochondrial targeted therapy with elamipretide (MTP-131) as an adjunct to tumor necrosis factor inhibition for traumatic optic neuropathy in the acute setting.

Abstract Traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) can occur following blunt trauma to the orbit and can lead to permanent vision loss. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of elamipretide (MTP-131), a small mitochondrially-targeted tetrapeptide, in conjunction with etanercept, a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor, as neuroprotective agents of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after optic nerve trauma with sonication-induced TON (SI-TON) in mice. Treatment with intravitreal MTP-131 and subcutaneous etanercept and MTP-131 showed a 21% increase (p
Use of biplane quantitative angiographic imaging with ensemble neural networks to assess reperfusion status during mechanical thrombectomy

Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) is the main imaging modality used to assess reperfusion during mechanical thrombectomy (MT) when treating large vessel occlusion (LVO) ischemic strokes. To improve this visual and subjective assessment, hybrid models combining angiographic parametric imaging (API) with deep learning tools have been proposed. These models use convolutional neural networks (CNN) with single view individual API maps, thus restricting use of complementary information from multiple views and maps resulting in loss of relevant clinical information. This study investigates use of ensemble networks to combine hemodynamic information from multiple bi-plane API maps to assess level of reperfusion. Three-hundred-eighty-three anteroposterior (AP) and lateral view DSAs were retrospectively collected from patients who underwent MTs of anterior circulation LVOs. API peak height (PH) and area under time density curve (AUC) maps were generated. CNNs were developed to classify maps as adequate/inadequate reperfusion as labeled by two neuro-interventionalists. Outputs from individual networks were combined by weighting each output, using a grid search algorithm. Ensembled, AP-AUC, AP-PH, lateral-AUC, and lateral-PH networks achieved accuracies of 83.0% (95% confidence-interval: 81.2%-84.8%), 74.4% (72.0%-76.7%), 74.2% (72.8%-75.7%), 74.9% (72.2%-77.7%), and 76.9% (74.4%-79.5%); area under receiver operating characteristic curves of 0.86 (0.84-0.88), 0.81 (0.79-0.83), 0.83 (0.81-0.84), 0.82 (0.8-0.84), and 0.84 (0.82-0.87); and Matthews correlation coefficients of 0.66 (0.63-0.70), 0.48 (0.43-0.53), 0.49 (0.46-0.52), 0.51 (0.45-0.56), and 0.54 (0.49-0.59) respectively. Ensembled network performance was significantly better than individual networks (McNemar's p-value<0.05). This study proved feasibility of using ensemble networks to combine hemodynamic information from multiple bi-plane API maps to assess level of reperfusion during MTs.
Using Constrained Density Functional Theory to TrackProton Transfers and to Sample Their Associated FreeEnergy Surface

The ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) methods are powerful tools for studying proton solvation, transfer, and transport processes in various environments. However, due to the high computational cost of such methods, achieving sufficient sampling of rare events involving excess proton motion – especially when Grotthuss proton shuttling is involved – usually requires enhanced free energy sampling methods to obtain informative results. Moreover, an appropriate collective variable (CV) that describes the effective position of the net positive charge defect associated with an excess proton is essential for both tracking the trajectory of the defect and for the free energy sampling of the processes associated with the resulting proton transfer and transport. In this work, such a CV is derived from first principles using constrained density functional theory (CDFT). This CV is applicable to a broad array of proton transport and transfer processes as studied via AIMD and QM/MM simulation.
Adaptation and Pilot Study of a Behavioral Intervention Targeting Morning Activation Deficits in Dementia Caregivers: Scheduling Activity and Monitoring Mornings (SAMM).

Objectives Morning activation deficits (MADs) correlate with depression symptom persistence in older dementia caregivers. To clarify the potential of MADs as a target for depression interventions, we aimed to: 1) adapt an existing behavioral activation program, Engage therapy, to target mornings; and 2) evaluate effects on self-reported MADs and depression symptoms. Methods While trialing the 9-week Engage adaption (targeting mornings) in six older dementia caregivers, we incorporated feedback and finalized an adapted program called Scheduling Activity and Monitoring Mornings (SAMM). We delivered the SAMM protocol to 13 dementia caregivers (all female; mean age = 69, standard deviation = 7). We report modifications made/rationale, as well as changes in subjective MADs (relevant items from the Composite Scale of Morningness) and depression symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire - 9). Results Using caregiver and expert input, we adapted the protocol to: include educational materials/content describing the potential relationship between morning inactivity and depression; target activity scheduling within 2 hours of awakening (preferably earlier); and focus only on the main components of morning activity scheduling, planning, and monitoring. This program was associated with decreases in subjective MADs averaging 29% at week 4, 52% at week 6, and 57% by week 9 (all p's Conclusions These preliminary findings suggest that subjective MADs can be modified pragmatically, and that doing so may have antidepressant effects. A controlled trial with measures of the putative mechanism is needed to clarify whether, and if so how, targeting MAD with SAMM causally perturbs depression's mechanisms.
Ford Mechanically Assembled Aluminum Radiator

This paper discusses the design, development and manufacturing of the Ford mechanically assembled aluminum radiator. This new product is lighter in weight, lower in cost, and has superior reliability and durability compared to its copper and brass counterpart. Extensive research and development by Ford of coolants, corrosion inhibitors, and the use of an air side sealant at the tube to header interface has made the mechanically assembled aluminum radiator very attractive for vehicle applications where moderate cooling requirements exist.