cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Entangled seabird and marine mammal reports from citizen science surveys from coastal California (1997-2017).

Abstract Marine fauna in the California Current System is susceptible to entanglement in anthropogenic debris. We examined beach survey data from six California counties to describe trends of entangled marine birds and mammals (1997–2017). Surveyors reported 357 cases of entanglements among 65,604 carcasses. Monterey County had the greatest average entanglement rate (0.007) of surveyed counties, however, was not statistically different from Santa Cruz (p > 0.05). Twenty-six seabird species (97%) and three marine mammal species (3%), and three non-marine birds were affected. Numerically, Common Murre (23%), Brandt's Cormorant (13%), Western Gull (9.6%), Sooty Shearwater (8%) and Brown Pelican (7%) were the most affected due to abundance, but their entanglement rates were not statistically different (p > 0.05). The most vulnerable species were those frequently documented as entanglement despite low deposition numbers (Merganser spp. 25%). Entangling material consisted primarily of monofilament line (some hooks/lures), but other entanglement items were reported.
Polyetherimide/carbon black composite sensors demonstrate selective detection of medium-chain aldehydes including nonanal

Abstract This study presents the synthesis, fabrication, and development of a selective polyetherimide (PEI)/carbon black (CB) sensor, engineered to detect aldehydes such as nonanal. Using a novel approach, spin coating of the PEI/CB in 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) was followed by a reduction of the composite through heat treating at 200 °C resulting in a highly sensitive and selective film (with low hydrophilicity) for detection of nonanal. This represents a key step, as it decreased surface oxygen and increased surface amine/imine sites. XPS analysis demonstrated the engineered surface was comprised of >3.5% nitrogen (including 1.2% amines/imines) and displayed a contact angle of 80°. The sensor response to nonanal (1 ppm to 80 ppm) ranged from 0.02% to 1.9%. Fabricated sensors showed over 14 times more sensitivity to nonanal than volatiles with similar molecular weights but different functional groups such as 2-nonanone, dodecane, and 1-octanol. This confirms the sensing film has high selectivity to aldehydes over ketones, hydrocarbons, and alcohols. Importantly, the proposed sensor maintained its response to nonanal over a period of 36 days. In addition, a multifactor machine learning algorithm was developed based on principal component analysis (PCA) to detect the type and concentration of a VOC using the temporal response of the sensor. Fabrication, characterization, testing methods, and results are presented and discussed.
Quantifying pore scale and matrix interactions of SCCO2 with the Marcellus shale

Abstract Marcellus Shale was investigated as a storage reservoir for CO2, applying CO2 as an enhanced hydrocarbon recovery agent, and examining the CO2 alteration of the shale as a sealing unit. The investigation was comprised of observing the geochemical interaction of CO2 and water with two Marcellus Shale samples (MS-1 [silicate-rich] and MS-4 [carbonate-rich]) using various analytical techniques. In-situ Fourier Transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy at geological storage conditions (high temperature and pressure) was used to examine the geochemical interaction of CO2 (with and without water) and Marcellus Shale. FT-IR results showed that CO2 interacted physically with the clay and kerogen components of dehydrated Marcellus Shale samples while dissolving in the water layer in the hydrated Marcellus Shale samples to promote carbonate dissolution. Feature relocation scanning electron microscopy was utilized to document the physical changes and the pore alterations based on exposure to CO2 with and without water. SEM indicated significant carbonate dissolution to the MS-4 sample after exposure to CO2 and water. Density function theory (DFT) and sorption isotherms were used for pore size analysis and to quantify CO2 sorption. The results were very different for the two Marcellus Shale samples studied. The MS-4 showed dissolution of carbonate to be a major reaction under hydrated conditions with a loss of mesopore volume from 68% to 40%, while MS-1 often showed an opposite trend. Both the MS-1 and MS-4 samples showed that significant volume of macropores larger than 200 nm were present. Isotherm results suggested uptake of CO2 of the MS-4 sample is four times greater than the MS-1 sample.
A large flat panel multifunction display for military and space applications

A flat panel multifunction display (MFD) that offers the size and reliability benefits of liquid crystal display technology while achieving near-CRT display quality is presented. Display generation algorithms that provide exceptional display quality are being implemented in custom VLSI components to minimize MFD size. A high-performance processor converts user-specified display lists to graphics commands used by these components, resulting in high-speed updates of two-dimensional and three-dimensional images. The MFD uses the MIL-STD-1553B data bus for compatibility with virtually all avionics systems. The MFD can generate displays directly from display lists received from the MIL-STD-1553B bus. Complex formats can be stored in the MFD and displayed using parameters from the data bus. The MFD also accepts direct video input and performs special processing on this input to enhance image quality. >
Abstract B34: Cord blood CD34+ HSPCs: An in vitro model system for characterizing NUP98 fusions

Chromosomal translocations of the Nucleoporin 98 gene (NUP98) are associated with multiple hematopoietic malignancies. In particular, NUP98 rearrangements can be found in up to 6.6% of de novo cases of pediatric AML. Specific subpopulations of pediatric AML appear to be even more enriched for NUP98 fusions, with over 16% of cytogenetically normal pediatric AML patients and 15% of non-Down syndrome acute megakaryoblastic leukemia (AMKL) patients harboring these fusions. Clinically, the NUP98-KDM5A fusion is associated with erythroid and megakaryocytic leukemias while the NUP98-NSD1 fusion is associated with myelomonocytic leukemias. When NUP98 fusions are present in AML, they confer a poor prognosis. To better characterize the role of these fusions in human hematopoiesis, we used cord blood CD34+ (cb-CD34+) hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) as an in vitro model system. We transduced cb-CD34+ HSPCs with NUP98-NSD1, NUP98-KDM5A, or empty vector control and studied the effects on cell proliferation and differentiation in liquid culture media containing cytokines (IL-6, FLT3-Ligand, SCF, TPO, and SR1 (an aryl hydrocarbon receptor antagonist)). NUP98-NSD1 and NUP98-KDM5A fusions increase the proliferation rate in liquid culture by three-fold and 19-fold, respectively (p Citation Format: Ryan Hiltenbrand, Jonathan Miller, Jeffery Klco. Cord blood CD34+ HSPCs: An in vitro model system for characterizing NUP98 fusions [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on the Advances in Pediatric Cancer Research; 2019 Sep 17-20; Montreal, QC, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(14 Suppl):Abstract nr B34.
Gene and cell therapy approaches for the prevention and treatment of ventricular arrhythmias

Abstract Current treatment for ventricular arrhythmias with antiarrhythmic drugs, implantable cardioverter defibrillators, or radiofrequency ablation has limited efficacy and detrimental impact on the quality of life. Gene and cell therapy have promising preclinical data suggesting they could prevent and treat ventricular arrhythmias. The future successes of gene and cell therapy greatly depend on our understanding of the underlying disease mechanisms and the strategies to develop stable and long-term gene expression (gene therapy) or cell stability, integration, and function (cell therapy). This review summarizes the current understanding of mechanistic insight, application strategies, and pre-clinical outcome of gene and cell therapy for ventricular arrhythmias. We highlighted recent efforts to control the ventricular arrhythmias using gene-based and cell-based approaches that target ion channels, gap junction, and calcium cycling proteins of particular infarcted or ischemic hearts. We further discuss the advantages and limitations associated with gene and cell therapy approaches.
Pharmacotherapeutic strategies for treating cocaine use disorder-what do we have to offer?

Background Cocaine use contines to be a significant public health problem world-wide. However, despite substantial research efforts, no pharmacotherapies are approved for the treatment of cocaine use disorder (CUD). Argument Studies have identified positive signals for a range of medications for treating CUD. These include long-acting amphetamine formulations, modafinil, topiramate, doxazosin and combined topiramate and mixed amphetamine salts extended-release (MAS-ER). However, valid conclusions about a medication's clinical efficacy require nuanced approaches that take into account behavioural phenotypes of the target population (frequency of use, co-abuse of cocaine and other substances, genetic subgroups, psychiatric comorbidity), variables related to the medication (dose, short-/long-acting formulations, titration speed, medication adherence) and other factors that may affect treatment outcomes. Meta-analyses frequently do not account for these co-varying factors, which contributes to a somewhat nihilistic view on pharmacotherapeutic options for CUD. In addition, the predominant focus on abstinence, which is difficult for most patients to achieve, may overshadow more nuanced therapeutic signals. Conclusion While there is an emphasis on finding new medications with novel mechanisms of action for treating CUD, currently available medications deserve further investigation based on the existing literature. Evaluating refined metrics of treatment success in well-defined subgroups of patients, and further exploring combination therapies and their synergy with behavioural/psychosocial interventions, are promising avenues to establishing effective therapies for CUD.
Outcomes of Free Vascularized Fibular Flaps for the Treatment of Radiation-Associated Femoral Nonunions

Summary Introduction Nonunion is a known complication following fracture in the setting of radiotherapy. Free vascularized fibular (FVF) flaps have been used successfully in the treatment of segmental bone defects; however, their efficacy in the treatment of radiated nonunions is limited. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the outcome following FVFG for radiation-associated femoral fracture nonunions. Methods 23 (11 male and 12 female; mean age 60 ± 12 years) patients underwent FVF for radiation-associated femoral fracture nonunions. The most common indication for radiotherapy was soft tissue sarcomas (n = 16). The mean follow-up was 5 ± 4 years. Mean radiation dose was 51 ± 14 Gy at a mean of 11 ± 3 years prior to FVF. The mean FVF length was 17 ± 4 cm and placed commonly with an intramedullary nail (n = 18). Results First time union was 52% (n = 12) following additional bone grafting, the overall union was 78% (n = 18) at a mean of 13 ± 6 months. Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scores improved from 30% preoperatively to 73% at latest follow-up (p Conclusions FVF are a reasonable treatment option for radiation-associated femoral fracture nonunions, providing a union rate of 78% and an improvement in functional outcome. Level of Evidence Therapeutic Level IV.
RedCache: Reduced DRAM Caching

Adapting in-package caching to run-time characteristics of user applications seems a promising approach to improve bandwidth efficiency and performance. However, fine-grained cache block monitoring and adaptation are often impractical due to the significant bandwidth and energy overheads. This paper proposes RedCache that enables fine-grained adaptation at run-time via reduced DRAM caching. Two adaptive parameters are proposed to start and stop caching for individual blocks. Architectural techniques and DRAM specific control mechanisms are proposed to alleviate overheads. Our simulation results indicate averages of 31% and 24% performance improvements over the state-of-the-art Alloy and Bear cache architectures. Respective energy savings over the same baselines are 29% and 18% on average.
A human-specific modifier of cortical circuit connectivity and function improves behavioral performance

SUMMARY The remarkable cognitive abilities characterizing humans are thought to emerge from our unique features of cortical circuit architecture, including increased feedforward and feedback connectivity. However, our understanding of the evolutionary origin and nature of these changes in circuit connectivity, and how they impact cortical circuit function and behavior is currently lacking. Here, we demonstrate that expression of the human-specific gene duplication SRGAP2C leads to a specific increase in feedforward and feedback cortico-cortical connectivity. Moreover, humanized SRGAP2C mice display improved cortical sensory coding, and an enhanced ability to learn a cortex-dependent sensory discrimination task. Our results identify a novel substrate for human brain evolution whereby the emergence of SRGAP2C led to increased feedforward and feedback cortico-cortical connectivity, improved cortical sensory processing and enhanced behavioral performance.
Renal Papillary Necrosis Associated With Normocalcemic Primary Hyperparathyroidism.

Abstract Objectives Renal papillary necrosis (RPN) occurring in primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) has not been reported. We present a 50-year-old woman who manifested RPN associated with hypercalciuria and normocalcemic PHPT. Methods The diagnosis of RPN was based on imaging studies (ultrasound and computed tomography [CT] scan). PHPT was diagnosed with high parathyroid hormone (PTH) and high/normal serum calcium. Results A 38-year-old woman was evaluated for hypercalcemia (serum calcium, 11.8 mg/dL; ionized calcium, 6.3 mg/dL; phosphorus, 1.8 mg/dL; intact PTH, 98 pg/mL; and 24-hour urine calcium, 543 mg). Renal ultrasound showed no nephrocalcinosis or nephrolithiasis. A parathyroid scan revealed a left parathyroid adenoma. The patient underwent parathyroidectomy, and she became normocalcemic with normal serum PTH levels postoperatively. One year later, she was diagnosed with a left-sided bronchial carcinoid tumor. Following surgery, a surveillance gallium68 positron emission tomography/CT scan performed 2 years later was negative for metastases. Twelve years later (aged 50 years), she presented for follow-up and reported no symptoms of hypercalcemia, fractures, nephrolithiasis, history of pyelonephritis, diabetes mellitus, analgesic drug use, or hypertension. Her serum calcium level was 9.1 mg/dL, PTH level was 82 pg/mL, 25-OH vitamin D level was 34 ng/mL, and 24-hour urine calcium level was 410 mg. However, renal ultrasound showed bilateral RPN that was confirmed by a CT scan. Conclusion RPN may be associated with hypercalciuria and normocalcemic PHPT. Additional studies with a large number of patients are needed.
Front-label health claims: when less is more

Abstract Growing global attention has been directed toward labeling the ingredients, processing methods, and health claims of food. Accompanying this attention is an interest in how consumers process or understand the information on such labels. This article examines how the length of a front-label claim influences the nutritional beliefs and evaluation of a product when used in combination with complete back-label information. The results indicate that the presence of a shorter health claim on the front of the package (in combination with a more complete claim on the back) leads a person to generate more attribute-specific thoughts about the product and fewer general evaluative thoughts compared to longer health claims. These shorter health claims also led to more favorable beliefs about the product and to a more positive image of the product. This article concludes with a discussion of the implications of the findings for policy makers, consumers and researchers.
Association between post-traumatic stress disorder and alcohol-related hospitalizations among World Trade Center Health Registry enrollees.

Abstract Background We examined both the impact of 9/11-related exposures and repeated assessments of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on the risk of alcohol-related hospitalizations (ARH) among individuals exposed to the World Trade Center (WTC) disaster. Methods 9/11-related exposures (witnessing traumatic events, physical injuries, or both) were measured at baseline and PTSD symptoms were assessed at four time points (2003–2016) using the PTSD Checklist-17 among 53,174 enrollees in the WTC Health Registry. ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM codes were used to identify ARHs (2003–2016) through linked administrative data. For the effect of 9/11-related exposures on ARH, Cox proportional-hazards regression estimated hazard ratios (HR) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI); for time-varying PTSD, extended Cox proportional-hazards regression was used. Models were adjusted fora priori confounders and stratified by enrollee group (uniformed rescue and recovery worker (RRW), non-uniformed RRW, and community members). Person-time was calculated from baseline or 9/12/2001 to the earliest of ARH, withdrawal, death, or end of follow-up (12/31/2016). Results Across all 9/11-related exposures, community members and non-uniformed RRWs were at increased risk of ARHs; uniformed RRWs were not. In adjusted models, PTSD was associated with an increased risk of hospitalization across all groups [HR, (95 % CI): uniformed RRWs: 2.6, (1.9, 3.6); non-uniformed RRWs: 2.1, (1.7, 2.7); and community members: 2.6, (2.1, 3.2)]. Conclusions Among certain enrollee groups, 9/11-related exposures are associated with an increased risk of ARH and that PTSD is strongly associated with ARHs among all enrollee groups. Findings may assist the clinical audience in improving screening and treatment.
Corporate Innovation and Audit Fees

Economic literature documents that the rate of investment in intangibles has exceeded tangible assets in the U.S. private sector since the mid-1990s. However, whether or how the internally developed intangibles affect auditors’ risk assessment and work has received little attention. This study investigates whether the features of corporate innovation are associated with audit fees and going-concern opinions. Using patent-based metrics to measure the features of innovation, we find that the complexity of corporate innovation is positively associated with audit fees. Firms with higher innovation efficiency (more aged patent portfolio) are associated with lower (higher) audit fees. Furthermore, firms with higher innovation complexity or higher proportions of intangibles are more likely to receive going-concern opinions while those obtaining patents timelier are less likely to receive going-concern opinions. Overall, the results suggest that auditors reasonably incorporate innovation risk into their pricing and going-concern decisions, even though most of the innovation outputs are not captured and reported in current accounting systems.
Resilient Control Systems—Basis, Benchmarking and Benefit

Because the research area of resilient control systems was pioneered during the last decade, the basis and benchmarking of resilience have continued to mature to achieve what has long been understood as the ultimate benefit of resilience. However, the automation “ship” has long since sailed on society’s dependence on digital control systems as the basis for all our industries and even the appliances in our homes. While these systems have been in general very reliable and provided for many human and operational efficiencies, the designs were not built on a framework that recognizes and adapts to potential debilitating failures from events such as cyber-attack. In this review, we cover a rapidly maturing framework based upon a disturbance and impact resilience evaluation process that considers both the methodologies for assessing resilience and also how key design principals must be applied within distributed control systems to achieve resilience.
The Endosomal pH Regulator NHE9 is a Driver of Stemness in Glioblastoma

ABSTRACT A small population of self-renewing stem cells initiate tumors and maintain therapeutic resistance in glioblastoma. Given the limited treatment options and dismal prognosis for this disease there is urgent need to identify drivers of stem cells that could be druggable targets. Previous work showed that the endosomal pH regulator NHE9 is upregulated in glioblastoma and correlates with worse survival prognosis. Here, we probed for aberrant signaling pathways in patient-derived glioblastoma cells and found that NHE9 increases cell surface expression and phosphorylation of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases by promoting their escape from lysosomal degradation. Downstream of NHE9-mediated receptor activation, oncogenic signaling pathways converged on the JAK2-STAT3 transduction axis to induce pluripotency genes Oct4 and Nanog and suppress markers of glial differentiation. We used both genetic and chemical approaches to query the role of endosomal pH in glioblastoma phenotypes. Loss-of-function mutations in NHE9 that failed to alkalinize endosomal lumen did not increase self-renewal capacity of gliomaspheres in vitro. However, monensin, a chemical mimetic of Na+/H+ exchanger activity, and the H+ pump inhibitor bafilomycin bypassed NHE9 to directly alkalinize the endosomal lumen resulting in stabilization of receptor tyrosine kinases and induction of Oct4 and Nanog. Using orthotopic models of primary glioblastoma cells we found that NHE9 increased tumor initiation in vivo. We propose that NHE9 initiates inside-out signaling from the endosomal lumen, distinct from the established effects of cytoplasmic and extracellular pH on tumorigenesis. Endosomal pH may be an attractive therapeutic target that diminishes stemness in glioblastoma, agnostic of specific receptor subtype. Significance A well-known hallmark of cancer is excessive acidification of tumor microenvironment, caused by upregulation of Na+/H+ exchanger activity on the cancer cell membrane. However, the role of organellar pH in tumor biology has not been established. This study identifies a mechanistic link between upregulation of the endosomal Na+/H+ exchanger NHE9 and stemness properties in glioblastoma, the most malignant and common brain tumor in adults. By increasing pH of the recycling endosome, NHE9 exerts a broad effect on post-translational stability and activation of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases, leading to increased stem cell-like properties of self-renewal and tumor initiation in glioblastoma models. Our findings suggest that targeting NHE9 or endosomal pH could be an effective strategy for receptor agnostic glioblastoma treatment.
Marks of the Body: Embodiment and Diminishment

The images and ideologies of embodiment embedded in contemporary biomedical ethics stress the ways that the body is experienced as “other” and alien to ourselves. The enterprise of modern medicine, for example, presupposes in part the Cartesian understanding of the body as machine, infinitely malleable and manipulable to mechanical interventions, experimental testing, and technological repair ([13], p. 30). The technical skills of the physician as mechanic are critical to “salvaging” body “parts” or the body as a whole, even at the expense of minimal dialogue with the voice of the person.
Big Data Analytics Performance for Large Out-of-Core Matrix Solvers on Advanced Hybrid Architectures☆

Abstract This paper examines the performance of advanced computer architectures for large Out-Of-Core matrices to assess the optimal Big Data system configurations., The performance evaluation is based on a large dense Lower-Upper Matrix Decomposition (LUD) employing a highly tuned, I/O managed, slab based LUD software package developed by the Lockheed Martin Corporation. We present extensive benchmark studies conducted with this package on UMBC's Bluegrit and Bluewave clusters, and NASA-GFSC's Discover cluster systems. Our results show the speedup for a single node achieved by Phi Co-Processors relative to the host CPU SandyBridge processor is about a 1.5X improvement, which is an even smaller relative performance gain compared with the studies by F. Masci where he obtains a 2-2.5x performance. Surprisingly, the Westmere with the Tesla GPU scales comparably with the Sandy Bridge and the Phi Co-Processor up to 12 processes and then fails to continue to scale. The performances across 20 CPU nodes of SandyBridge obtains a uniform speedup of 0.5X over Westmere for problem sizes of 10K, 20K and 40K unknowns. With an Infiniband DDR, the performance of Nehalem processors is comparable to Westmere without the interconnect.
Xanthoma of the Breast

In a series of nine hundred (circa) tumors of the breast in which the preoperative diagnosis was carcinoma, histologic examination showed that in three instances the lesion was a xanthoma. Although the diagnostic error in reference to xanthoma was, therefore, small, the rarity of these tumors and their relation to abnormal lipoid metabolism prompts a discussion of them, as well as of the xanthomatous degenerative processes occurring secondarily in inflammations and in true neoplasms in the breast. Xanthomas are apparently not true neoplasms. A neoplasm has been defined as a more or less circumscribed collection of cells arising wholly independently of the rest of the body , in general growing progressively, and serving no useful purpose in the organism. Xanthomas violate the second premise in the definition, for they have been shown by blood chemistry determinations to be related to an abnormal lipoid metabolism. Before the development of the modern quantitative methods of blood chemistry which enabled this factor to be proved, there were well known clinical findings which suggested it. Xanthomas were known to be most frequent in elderly individuals with diseases of the liver, particularly those complicated by icterus, with nephritis, and with diabetes. Hutchinson, Sangster and Crocker, for instance, found that four-fifths of the 28 cases of xanthoma multiplex which they collected in 1882 were associated with chronic jaundice. Torok made a similar report. Chauffard and Laroche in 1911 first made blood cholesterin determinations in cases of xanthoma and found the cholesterin content to be distinctly elevated. This finding has since been verified by many workers. It has even been shown that when the blood cholesterin falls as the result of the administration of a cholesterin-free diet or because of treatment of coexisting diabetes, the xanthomas may disappear. Xanthomas are thus the local manifestation of a syndrome which may be called xanthomatosis.
Employee Stock Options and Taxes

In this paper, we investigate the effect of stock options on the tax position of the firm. We argue that option tax deductions can significantly affect a firm's marginal tax rate and that the effect is masked by current financial reporting rules. We present an approach for factoring in option deductions in assessing a firm's tax position and document that the effect can be substantial. In particular, many firms that appear to be profitable and face high income tax burdens (based on public financial statement data) actually pay relatively little in taxes. We provide evidence that the effect of options on taxes may help to explain managerial decisions such as why apparently profitable firms carry so little debt, lease rather than purchase, and out-source tax-advantaged activities, such as research and development, to syndicated partnerships.
Evaluating the Tradeoffs between Regenerative Inverters and Dynamic Braking

ABSTRACT Mechanical systems are often driven by electric motors that are controlled by adjustable speed drives. In applications where the mechanical system is subject to frequent deceleration and/or braking, a regenerative system can be used to recapture the mechanical energy and convert it back to electrical energy. Substantial energy savings, as well as maintenance advantages, can be achieved with such systems. Many regenerative braking systems use thyristor-based (SCR) inverters. These systems have proven to be a cost-effective means of regeneration to the AC utility system. Thyristor-based inverters, however, are particularly vulnerable to momentary dips in the utility voltage called voltage sags. A voltage sag can cause an SCR commutation failure in the inverter, which results in fuse blowing or inverter damage. The resulting loss of production can cause economic consequences exceeding the energy savings provided by the inverter. Alternatives to thyristor-based inverters include dynamic braking resis...
Moral cacophony: When continence is a virtue

Contemporary virtue ethicists widely accept thethesis that a virtuous agent's feelings shouldbe in harmony with her judgments about what sheshould do and that she should find virtuousaction easy and pleasant. Conflict between anagent's feelings and her actions, by contrast,is thought to indicate mere continence – amoral deficiency. This ``harmony thesis'' isgenerally taken to be a fundamental element ofAristotelian virtue ethics.I argue that the harmony thesis, understoodthis way, is mistaken, because there areoccasions where a virtuous agent will findright action painful and difficult. What thismeans is that the generally accepteddistinction between continence and virtue isunsupportable. This conclusion affects severalwell-known accounts of virtuous action,including those of Philippa Foot and JohnMcDowell. A closer look at Aristotle, however, providesanother way of distinguishing betweencontinence and virtue, based in hiscategorization of goods as noble or base. Iargue that virtue is exhibited when anagent's feelings harmonize with his correctjudgments of value, while discrepancies betweenfeelings and correct judgments of valueindicate continence. This understanding ofcontinence and virtue enables us to accommodatethe problem cases I raise.
What Determines Electoral Outcomes in India?Caste, Class, or Voters' Satisfaction with Government Performance?

Abstract In 2004 and 2009, the incumbent central governments in India enjoyed a high level of voter satisfaction. Why then did incumbents lose elections in 2004, while winning them in 2009? The different electoral outcomes can be explained by a combination of satisfaction with a constituent9s member of Parliament and the performance of the government at the state level, as well as satisfaction with the government at the national level. This analysis rejects the conventional argument of general satisfaction with the performance of the central government as being the determinant of electoral outcomes in national elections.
A framework for building collaboration tools by leveraging industrial components

Groupware applications allow a distributed group of human users to work apart together over a computer network They are difficult to develop due to the needs to suit a range of collaboration tasks that are often with diverse and evolutionary requirements To address this problem, we propose a new framework in which shared data components conforming to a well-defined interface can be dynamically plugged in for flexible sharing, and a simple transformation tool is provided such that the myriad of industrial collaboration-transparent components can be transformed into shared components The validity of our framework is evaluated by building a suite of typical collaboration tools such as group editors Under our framework, most components in the Java Development Kit (JDK) can be transformed automatically for prototyping collaboration tools With minimal manual work, those tools can be adapted to achieve advanced flexibility, e.g., data and control components can be bound dynamically to switch control protocols.
Potassium t‐Butoxide–Benzophenone

(t-BuOK) [865-47-4] C4H9KO (MW 112.23) InChI = 1S/C4H9O.K/c1-4(2,3)5;/h1-3H3;/q-1;+1 InChIKey = LPNYRYFBWFDTMA-UHFFFAOYSA-N (Ph2CO) [119-61-9] C13H10O (MW 182.23) InChI = 1S/C13H10O/c14-13(11-7-3-1-4-8-11)12-9-5-2-6-10-12/h1-10H InChIKey = RWCCWEUUXYIKHB-UHFFFAOYSA-N (Oppenauer-type oxidations of amino alcohols1) Physical Data: Ph2CO: mp 49–51 °C; bp 158 °C/10 mmHg. For t-BuOK, see Potassium tert-Butoxide. Solubility: Ph2CO: nonpolar organic solvents; insol H2O. Form Supplied in: Ph2CO: white crystalline solid; widely available commercially. Preparative Methods: in situ, usually in a ca. 1∶3 molar ratio of the base to the ketone. Purification: commercially available benzophenone is normally of sufficient purity to be used directly; if further purification is needed, it should be recrystallized from a nonpolar solvent such as cyclohexane and sublimed.2 Handling, Storage, and Precautions: Ph2CO: irritant; avoid contact with the eyes, skin, and clothing; use in a fume hood.
Evaluation of a method for initiating vancomycin therapy: experience in 205 patients.

Abstract This study evaluated a dosing method for initiating vancomycin therapy in a large population based on patients' age, weight, and renal function. The aims were to determine the method's efficacy in achieving predetermined peak and trough serum concentrations, and to calculate the cost savings incurred by individualizing therapy. Average doses +/- 1 SD of 7.93 +/- 0.29 mg/kg corrected body weight (lean body weight + 40% excess weight) were administered at intervals predicted by the patients' estimated creatinine clearances (range 22-130 ml/min). The calculated mean dose +/- SD was 558 +/- 83 mg (range 350-750 mg) and the calculated median interval was 12 hours (range 6-24 hr). Peak and trough concentrations +/- SD measured at steady state averaged 26.0 +/- 5.4 and 7.3 +/- 2.3 micrograms/ml, respectively. Peak and trough serum concentrations fell within the predetermined therapeutic range in 311 (76%) of 410 samples. Peak concentrations were in the range of 20-30 micrograms/ml in 145 (71%) of 205 samples. Trough concentrations were in the range of 5-10 micrograms/ml in 166 (81%) of the 205 samples. This simplified dosing method successfully individualized therapy in most patients, and produced a significant savings to the pharmacy in reduced drug acquisition costs and to patients in reduced drug charges.
Heart-Lung Transplantation in Infants, Children, and Adolescents

Abstract We have performed heart-lung transplantation in 10 children for the preoperative diagnoses of primary pulmonary hypertension (4), complex congenital heart disease with pulmonary hypertension (4), pulmonary atresia (1), and cystic fibrosis (1). Ages ranged from 4 months to 18 years. There were 15 episodes of pulmonary rejection, with an occurrence rate of 1.67 episodes per patient. Pulmonary infections occurred frequently, with an occurrence rate of 3.3 episodes per patient. The actuarial survival rate at 1 and 2 years was 78% and 47%, respectively. Patient attrition between 1 and 2 years was attributable to the complications of obliterative bronchiolitis, which has effected 71% (57) of the long-term survivors. Four of the 5 surviving children have minimal physical limitation and are in functional class I. These data support continued investigation into heart-lung transplantation in children and set the stage for further program development into single-lung transplantation in children.
Social communication skills group treatment: A feasibility study for persons with traumatic brain injury and comorbid conditions

Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility of improving impaired social communication skills in persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concomitant neurological or psychiatric conditions, using an intervention with evidence of efficacy in a TBI cohort without such complications.Research design: Cohort study with pre–post intervention and follow-up assessments.Methods: Thirty individuals with TBI ≥ 1 year post-injury and identified social communication problems participated in a group intervention to improve social communication skills.Interventions: Group Interactive Structured Treatment (GIST) for Social Competence; 13 week, 1.5 hour manualized intervention.Outcome measures: Profile of Pragmatic Impairment in Communication (PPIC); Social Communication Skills Questionnaire-Adapted (SCSQ-A); LaTrobe Communication Questionnaire (LCQ); Goal Attainment Scale (GAS), Awareness Questionnaire (AQ), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS); Participation Assessment with Recombined Tools (PART).Main outcomes and resu...
Improving the safety of topically applied timolol in the pigmented rabbit through manipulation of formulation composition.

Abstract The objective of this study was to compare the efficiency of various formulations in maximizing the ratio of ocular to systemic absorption of topically applied timolol in the pigmented rabbit. Formulations of various pHs, tonicities, and concentrations of benzalkonium chloride, EDTA, poly(vinyl alcohol), poly(vinylpyrrolidone), hydroxypropylcellulose, and Na hyaluronate were tested. Ocular absorption was determined by monitoring the timolol concentration in various anterior segment tissues 30 min after instillation of timolol solution, while systemic absorption was determined by monitoring the time course of timolol concentration over 120 min. Timolol was assayed by reversed-phase HPLC. Lowering the solution tonicity to 80 mosmol kg −1 and incorporating polymers into the formulation were the only approaches that promised to improve the safety of topically applied timolol, since they afforded the desired increase in ocular absorption and reduction in systemic absorption. Lowering the solution pH to 6·4 and increasing the tonicity of the solution to 600 mosmol kg −1 reduced systemic absorption but caused either no change or a decrease in ocular absorption. Raising the solution pH to 8·4 and incorporating 0·025% benzalkonium chloride and 0·5% EDTA into the formation led to an undesirable increase in systemic absorption although ocular absorption was also increased. In the final analysis, the net effect of formulation changes on the ratio of ocular to systemic absorption depended on the interplay of changes in solution drainage; permeability of the cornea, conjunctiva, and nasal mucosa; and fraction of drug in the preferentially absorbed form.
Singular value decomposition and metamorphic detection

Metamorphic malware changes its internal structure with each infection, while maintaining its original functionality. Such malware can be difficult to detect, particularly using static analysis, since there may be no common signature across infections. In this paper, we apply a score based on Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) to the challenging problem of metamorphic detection. SVD, which can be viewed as a specific implementation of Principal Component Analysis, is a linear algebraic technique that is applicable to the wide range of problems where eigenvector analysis is useful. Previous research has shown that an eigenvector-based score derived from the facial recognition problem yields good results when applied to metamorphic malware detection. In this paper, we reconsider these previous results in the context of SVD, and we outline a strategy to defeat such a detection scheme.
Knowing students as mathematics learners and teaching numbers 10–100: A case study of four 1st grade teachers from Romania

Abstract Researchers have increasingly linked teacher effectiveness with teacher knowledge of subject matter, curriculum, and teaching. Moreover, teacher knowledge of students has been regarded as another very significant component of teacher knowledge, influencing the classroom practice and student performance. Knowing students as mathematics learners means being aware of the ways students learn certain topics. This study examined the knowledge of students as mathematics learners displayed by four 1st grade teachers from Romania when designing and implementing a lesson on numbers 10–100. Findings show that knowledge of students as mathematics learners influenced the ways teachers planned and implemented their lesson. Teachers learned about students as mathematics learners from one series to another, and they tailored their use of manipulatives and classroom activities to meet the needs of their current students.
Construction of Solution Curves for Large Two-Dimensional Problems of Steady-State Flows of Incompressible Fluids

This work represents a step toward advancing classical methods of bifurcation analysis in conjunction with very large-scale scientific computing needed to model realistically processes which involve laminar and steady flows of incompressible fluids. A robust method of analysis based on pseudoarclength continuation, Newton's method, and direct solution of linear systems is proposed and applied to the analysis of a representative system of fluid mechanics, namely the tilted lid driven cavity. Accurate solution curves, possessing simple singular points, were computed for Reynolds numbers varying from 0 to 10,000 and for different angles of tilt. The results demonstrate that two-dimensional models with up to 1,000,000 algebraic equations can be studied feasibly using the methods described here with state-of-the-art vector supercomputers.
Effects of Endosomal Photodamage on Membrane Recycling and Endocytosis

The flux of receptor-independent endocytosis can be estimated by addition of wortmannin to cell cultures. Membrane influx is unaffected but traffic out of late endosomes is impaired, resulting in a substantial enlargement of these organelles. Using the 1c1c7 murine hepatoma, we investigated the effect of endosomal photodamage on this endocytic pathway. We previously reported that photodamage catalyzed by the lysosomal photosensitizer NPe6 prevented wortmannin-induced endosomal swelling, indicating an earlier block in the process. In this study, we show that endosomal photodamage, initiated by photodamage from an asymmetrically substituted porphine or a phthalocyanine also prevents wortmannin-induced endosomal swelling, even when the photodynamic therapy (PDT) dose is insufficient to cause endosomal disruption. As the PDT dose is increased, endosomal breakage occurs, as does apoptosis and cell death. Very high PDT doses result in necrosis. We propose that photodamage to endosomes results in alterations in the endosomal structure such that influx of new material is inhibited and receptor-independent endocytosis is prevented. In an additional series of studies, we found that the swollen late endosomes induced by wortmannin are unable to retain previously accumulated fluorescent probes or photosensitizers.
Institutional Completeness and Interpersonal Ties among Japanese American Immigrants

The integration of immigrants is a multidirectional process. A web of social contacts with the larger society, within the ethnic fold, or away from either to remain as isolates can be established. It is argued that the direction of integration is determined by the ability of the immigrant community to contain within its ethnic boundaries the social ties of its members. This is accomplished by the development of institutional completeness.
Synthesis of α-fetoprotein and albumin by fetal mouse liver cultured in chemically defined medium

Abstract Fetal mouse liver synthesizes two major secretory proteins: α-fetoprotein and albumin. The relative proportions of these proteins change during development. Fetal mouse liver secretes predominantly α-fetoprotein, and the neonatal mouse liver secretes predominantly albumin. α-Fetoprotein and albumin synthesis were studied in vitro using an organ culture system and a chemically defined medium (BGJ b ). This medium does not support hepatocellular replication but maintains protein synthesis at high levels for prolonged periods of culture. Patterns of protein synthesis were analyzed as functions of gestational age and time in culture. The ratio of α-fetoprotein/albumin decreases from 1.4 on gestational Day 14 to 0.4 on gestational Day 18. However, when liver cultures were begun on any given gestational day, the ratio of α-fetoprotein/albumin remains constant for as long as 8 days in culture. Thus, developmental changes in α-fetoprotein and albumin synthesis are arrested under the conditions of this culture system. Fetal mouse liver secretes two electrophoretically distinguishable forms of albumin. One form is similar in mobility to albumin from adult mouse serum; the other more electropositive species is similar in mobility to proalbumin isolated from adult mouse liver microsomes and can be converted to albumin by mild trypsin treatment.
A comparison of cardiopulmonary adaptations to exercise in pregnancy at sea level and altitude

Abstract OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare maternal cardiopulmonary and fetal responses of lowlander pregnant women in the third trimester to exercise at sea level and at an altitude of 6000 feet. STUDY DESIGN: Seven women at 33.86 ± 1 weeks' gestation performed a symptom-limited maximal exercise test and a submaximal cardiac output exercise test at sea level at an altitude of 6000 feet. Cardiopulmonary and metabolic variables were measured and compared at sea level and altitude. RESULTS: Maximal oxygen consumption and work levels were limited by short-term altitude exposure. Ventilatory variables were not significantly influenced by altitude exposure. During submaximal exercise no alteration in exercise efficiency or response was seen for most of the variables when altitude and sea level data were compared. Both cardiac output and stroke volume were elevated at altitude at rest but not during exercise, suggesting a lower reserve for both variables at altitude. Level of plasma glucose, lactate, norepinephrine, and epinephrine were not significantly influenced by altitude exposure. Fetal heart rate responses did not differ between the sea level and altitude conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Lowlander pregnant women in the third trimester have some limitations to maximal aerobic capacity but not submaximal exercise on short-term altitude exposure. No ominous fetal responses have been observed during this study. The results suggest that pregnant women may engage in at least brief moderate exercise bouts at moderate altitude without adverse consequences.
Novel Acetoxylation and C−C Coupling Reactions at Unactivated Positions in α-Amino Acid Derivatives

Under special conditions, N-phthaloyl-α-amino acid amides of 8-aminoquinoline can be either acetoxylated or arylated selectively at the β-carbon. In certain cases, arylation can be effected at the ...
Two further aspects of some new tests for structural stability

Abstract This paper presents two extensions to Hall and Sen’s [Hall, A.R. and Sen, A. 1999. Structural stability testing in models estimated via generalized method of moments. J. Bus. Econ. Stat., 17, 335–348.] analysis of their structural stability tests. First, we approximate the p -values for the non-standard asymptotic null distribution for the structural stability test statistics proposed by Hall and Sen (1999). The p -value response surfaces are approximated by a parametric function using the methodology proposed by Hansen [Hansen, B.E., 1997. Approximate asymptotic P-values for structural change tests. J. Bus. Econ. Stat, 15, 60–67.] Second, we show how Hall and Sen’s (1999) testing methodology can be used to diagnose the source of instability in Euler equation models. To illustrate this issue, we examine the stability of the dividend capital asset pricing model proposed by Hagiwara and Herce [Hagiwara, M. and Herce M.A., 1997. Risk aversion and stock price sensitivity to dividends. Am. Econ. Rev. 87, 738–745]. Hagiwara and Herce (1997) estimate the model using annual data from 1889–1994 and find the model is not rejected using the over-identifying restrictions test. Using the same data, we find some evidence of structural instability in the model. Interestingly, the tests reveal that the model appears to be correctly specified for the period up until 1942 but incorrectly specified in the post 1942 part of the sample.