Search

I. Resources for Deterrence Perhaps the greatest problem facing the expansion of environmental enforcement is that of resources. The work of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Criminal Investigation Division [...]

The thermal decomposition of 2-cyclopentenone, a cyclic oxygenated hydrocarbon that occurs in the pyrolysis of biomass, has been studied in a combined experimental and theoretical approach. Gas-phase pyrolysis was performed at temperatures ranging from 1000 to 1400 K in a pulsed, microtubular reactor. Products were identified by FTIR spectroscopy following their isolation in a low-temperature argon matrix. The following products were identified: carbon monoxide, ketene, propenylketene, vinylacetylene, ethylene, propene, acrolein, acetylene, propyne, and propargyl radical. Computational results identify three different decomposition channels involving a H atom migration, and producing prop-2-enylketene (Pathway 1), prop-1-enylketene (Pathway 2), and a second conformation of prop-2-enylketene (Pathway 3). A fourth decomposition pathway involves simultaneous rupture of two C–C bonds forming a high energy cyclopropenone intermediate that further reacts to form ethylene, acetylene, and carbon monoxide. Finally, a fifth pathway to the formation of acrolein and acetylene was identified that proceeds via a multistep mechanism, and an interconversion from 2-cyclopentenone to 3-cyclopentenone was identified computationally, but not observed experimentally.

ABSTRACTWithin the healthcare system, identification and intervention for intimate partner violence (IPV) are critical, yet often hindered by siloed operations among healthcare workers. Effective interprofessional collaboration is pivotal for timely and appropriate interventions. This article describes an interprofessional educational simulation involving nursing and social work students. Pairs engaged in risk assessment and safety planning for IPV. In the pilot run with 140 nursing and 137 social work students, post-simulation results increased confidence (t= 5.25, p = .001) and positive evaluation of IPV knowledge (t= 63.22, p = .001). Focus groups underscored team synergy, communication skills, and prior experiences as critical elements. Future projects should expand simulation scopes to address diverse situations and include additional professions interacting with survivors.

Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) is a valuable tool in forensic pathology for determining cause and manner of death. It uses CT scanning technology to create detailed images of the body, aiding in the detection of retained projectiles, bone fractures, and certain internal organ findings. While it has become routine in many medical examiner offices, it should be used alongside autopsies and microscopic examinations for accurate diagnosis and documentation. PMCT is particularly useful in cases of natural deaths, accidents, and blunt force trauma. However, there are limitations to its implementation, including cost, training requirements, and concerns about replacing autopsies. Nonetheless, PMCT is expected to continue being used alongside autopsies in forensic investigations. [Extracted from the article]

In 1933, 13-year-old Armand Merizon hitchhiked out of Michigan and sent his parents a postcard reading, 'I suppose you wonder why I ran away, but please don't worry...and don't for [...]

Acute musculoskeletal pain occurs in a broad spectrum of diseases and injuries and can be optimally treated with topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in many patients. Osteoarthritis (OA) is one [...]

The number of Americans over the age of 65 years is increasing. According to the Census Bureau, people older than 65 years will outnumber those younger than 5 years sometime [...]

Study design: A microscopy-based investigation of the permissive factors leading towards bacterial adherence on commonly utilized spinal implants. Objective: The adherence and subsequent colonization and biofilm formation of bacteria on orthopaedic implants represents one of the most serious problems facing orthopaedic surgeons. Once a biofilm is formed, surgeons may have to resort to implant removal, a strategy that may cause substantial patient morbidity and lead to additional cost to the healthcare system. This problem has been further compounded by the rise of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacterial pathogens. In this study, two commonly encountered bacterial pathogens in surgical site infections (SSI) were characterized for adherence pattern, density, and propagation on five commonly used spinal implant materials via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Summary of background data: The results show that bacterial adherence is largely dependent on the microtopographical features observed on the surface of the materials tested. Methods: Five commonly utilized spinal implant materials were inoculated with two of the most common nosocomial pathogens and visualized via scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Results: Analysis of 90 spinal implant pieces showed that even though no material showed the ability to prevent adherence of both pathogens tested, the presence of surface imperfections and rougher microtopography was found to harbor the most bacterial presence. Conclusion: Our data suggests that implants materials with uniform surface and minimal imperfections may reduce the ability of bacterial to adhere to implants. Level of evidence: Level I evidence: “Investigation of a diagnostic test”.

A one-step modification of biomedical silicone tubing with N,N-dimethyltetradecylamine, C14, results in a composition designated WinGard-1 (WG-1, 1.1 wt % C14). A surface-active silicon-amine phase (SAP) is proposed to account for increased wettability and increased surface charge. To understand the mechanism of antimicrobial effectiveness, several procedures were employed to detect whether C14 leaching occurred. An immersion-growth (IG) test was developed that required knowing the bacterial Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) and Minimum Biocidal Concentrations (MBCs). The C14 MIC and MBC for Gm– uropathogenic E. coli(UPEC), commonly associated with catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI), were 10 and 20 μg/mL, respectively. After prior immersion of WG-1 silicone segments in a growth medium from 1 to 28 d, the IG test for the medium showed normal growth for UPEC over 24 h, indicating that the concentration of C14 must be less than the MIC, 10 μg/mL. GC-MS and studies of the medium inside and outside a dialysis bag containing WG-1 silicone segments supported de minimisleaching. Consequently, a 5 log UPEC reduction (99.999% kill) in 24 h using the shake flask test (ASTM E2149) cannot be due to leaching and is ascribed to contact kill. Interestingly, although the MBC was greater than 100 μg/mL for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, WG-1 silicone affected an 80% reduction via a 24 h shake flask test. For other bacteria and Candida albicans, greater than 99.9% shake flask kill may be understood by proposing increased wettability and concentration of charge illustrated in the TOC. De minimisleaching places WG-1 silicone at an advantage over conventional anti-infectives that rely on leaching of an antibiotic or heavy metals such as silver. The facile process for preparation of WG-1 silicone combined with biocidal effectiveness comprises progress toward the goals of device designation from the FDA for WG-1 and clearance.

The mission-critical nature of information and the ease of digital access make organizations increasingly vulnerable to malicious insiders, who have the potential to wreak financial and reputational havoc on their [...]

I. The Ninth Circuit Articulates a Standard of Review for Individuals "Regarded-As" Being Disabled A. "Regarded-As" Before and After the ADAAA B. The Ninth Circuit Clarifies in Nunies C. Conclusion [...]

In a 2018 Cochrane review, Rankin et al surmised that no tool could evaluate all facets of polypharmacy and that it was not clear whether interventions provided to improve appropriate [...]

Sediment barriers (SBs) are stormwater management devices often installed along the perimeter of a construction site to intercept and treat overland sediment-laden flow before discharge into the surrounding environment. Effective SB practices remove stormwater pollutants by creating a temporary impoundment upstream of the practice which facilitates sediment capture via sedimentation. Controlling agencies and design practitioners often specify the installation of two SB practices (i.e., primary and secondary SB) in areas where enhanced stormwater treatment is critical because of downstream environmental concerns (e.g., impaired waters). This study sought to identify the overall performance of a commonly specified double-row SB (i.e., double-row silt fence), as well as six alternative designs that utilized various secondary SB practices that could be easily paired with a primary silt fence SB. Small-scale experiments were conducted on each of these double-row design configurations to develop a comprehensive understanding of their performance capabilities. A statistical analysis conducted on 700 water quality data points suggests that all six alternative double-row designs significantly outperformed the double-row silt fence installation. Water quality improvements achieved using alternative secondary SBs ranged from 11% to 71% during the 30 min test period and 14% to 60% during the 90 min dewatering period. In comparison, the double-row silt fence installation only achieved 5% and 1%, respectively. Additionally, post-test observations of secondary SB cross sections indicate that, at best, only half of the matrix filter media within the secondary SB contacts sediment-laden flow. This observation suggests that alternative cross-sectional designs could improve media utilization.

The University of Michigan reported that US consumer sentiment fell to a seven-month low in early February due to concerns about tariffs and rising prices. Consumers anticipate a 4.3% increase in prices over the next year and a 3.3% rise over the next five to 10 years. The decline in sentiment was observed across all political affiliations, with Republicans showing a decrease in confidence for the first time since August. Additionally, the job market is showing signs of slowing down, with it taking longer for unemployed Americans to find work. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses President Donald Trump's threatened tariffs against Canada, Mexico, and China, which economists estimate would fall short of offsetting the cost of extending his expiring 2017 tax cuts. The combined tariffs would generate less than a third of the estimated $4.6 trillion needed over the next decade. There are concerns about the economic costs and potential retaliation from foreign countries due to the imposition of tariffs. The article also highlights the lack of consensus among GOP lawmakers on how to offset the cost of additional tax cuts. [Extracted from the article]

In December, US job openings decreased to 7.6 million, the lowest since September, indicating a gradual slowdown in the labor market. The decline was driven by professional and business services, health care, social assistance, and finance and insurance sectors. Despite the decrease in job openings, the Federal Reserve believes that the job market is no longer a source of inflationary pressure. Economists expect labor demand to continue cooling in the coming months, with hiring rates remaining low and people showing less confidence in finding new positions. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Bloomberg.com reports that US consumer sentiment declined in January for the first time in six months due to concerns about unemployment and potential tariffs impacting inflation. The final sentiment index dropped to 71.1, with consumers expecting prices to rise at an annual rate of 3.2% over the next five to 10 years. The labor market and political ideologies also influenced consumer sentiment, with Democrats becoming more pessimistic while Republicans grew more optimistic. Additionally, a separate report showed a decrease in the growth pace of business activity, although companies remain positive about the outlook. [Extracted from the article]

The US government is projected to surpass World War II debt levels by 2029, according to the Congressional Budget Office. The budget deficit for this year is estimated at $1.87 trillion, representing 6.2% of US GDP. The rising debt is attributed to factors such as Social Security and Medicare costs, along with increasing interest payments on the debt. Despite improved economic growth forecasts, the CBO warns of escalating deficits and debt levels that may require policy adjustments in the future. [Extracted from the article]

The US government is projected to exceed World War II debt levels by 2029, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Despite a slight decrease in deficit projections for the next decade, the total US government debt is expected to reach 107% of GDP by 2029, surpassing the previous record set in 1946. The rising debt is attributed to factors such as Social Security and Medicare costs, along with increasing interest payments on the debt. The CBO also anticipates a moderation in economic growth and a rise in unemployment rates in the coming years. [Extracted from the article]

President-elect Donald Trump's plan to reduce the federal workforce could disproportionately affect Black workers, potentially increasing Black unemployment rates, particularly in areas like Washington, DC. Historically, government jobs have provided economic stability for many Black families, offering access to benefits and job security. The proposed downsizing could have a significant impact on the Black community, leading to loss of income, benefits, and health insurance. The move to cut federal jobs comes at a time when the labor market is cooling, and minorities, including Black workers, are often the first to be affected during downturns. [Extracted from the article]

US consumer sentiment increased for the fifth consecutive month in December, with views on inflation also rising slightly. The sentiment index reached 74, slightly below the median estimate of 74.2. Republicans showed a more positive outlook, while Democrats were more pessimistic, and independents also saw a significant increase in sentiment. Concerns about high prices and uncertainty surrounding economic policies, including potential tariffs, continue to impact consumer sentiment. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Bloomberg.com reports that US jobless claims decreased by 22,000 to 220,000 in the week ending Dec. 14, following a spike earlier in the month, which is common during the holiday season. Continuing claims also fell to 1.87 million, indicating a slight improvement in the labor market. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell mentioned that the labor market is still strong, despite some signs of cooling. The data suggests that the job market is stable but may be experiencing some fluctuations. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Bloomberg.com reports that US jobless claims rose to a two-month high after Thanksgiving, with initial claims increasing by 17,000 to 242,000 in the week ended Dec. 7. The four-week moving average also rose, indicating a spread of gains across states. Economists suggest that the jump in claims may be due to seasonal volatility rather than a fundamental deterioration in the job market. The data also shows an increase in the number of workers unemployed for three months or more, reflecting a longer job search period. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Bloomberg.com reports that US jobless claims rose to a two-month high last week, with initial claims increasing by 17,000 to 242,000. The four-week moving average also rose, indicating increased volatility in the job market. Continuing claims, a measure of people receiving benefits, also increased to 1.89 million. The data suggests a widespread increase in new jobless claims across the country, with only four states seeing small declines. [Extracted from the article]

The University of Michigan reported that US consumer sentiment rose to its highest level since April, with year-ahead inflation expectations also increasing to a five-month high. The survey period included responses from Nov. 19 to Dec. 2, reflecting a shift in sentiment based on political ideologies after the November election. Democrats expressed concerns about potential tariff hikes leading to inflation, while Republicans anticipated a slowdown in inflation under President-elect Donald Trump. Economists warned that Trump's policies, including tariffs, could lead to higher inflation, prompting consumers to view current buying conditions for durable goods favorably. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Bloomberg.com reports that US jobless claims rose to a one-month high during the Thanksgiving week, with initial claims increasing to 224,000. Despite the uptick, economists suggest that the rise may be due to statistical noise rather than fundamental labor market weakness. Continuing claims dropped to 1.87 million, and the government's upcoming monthly job report is expected to provide more insight on labor demand, with economists estimating a rise in nonfarm payrolls for November. [Extracted from the article]

According to a Bloomberg article by Maria Clara Cobo and Jarrell Dillard, US initial claims for unemployment benefits rose to a one-month high during the Thanksgiving week. The number of initial claims increased by 9,000 to 224,000, slightly higher than the forecasted 215,000 applications. The four-week moving average also rose to 218,250, while continuing claims decreased to 1.87 million in the previous week. [Extracted from the article]

In November, US companies added 146,000 jobs, according to ADP Research Institute data. The report indicated a mixed employment growth among industries, with education, health care, and construction leading gains, while manufacturing employment declined. Despite lingering price pressures and elevated borrowing costs, there is still demand for workers, which is seen as positive news for Federal Reserve officials. The government's upcoming employment report is projected to show a robust increase in payrolls, with job growth being broad across US regions. Wage growth also picked up, with workers who changed jobs seeing a 7.2% increase in pay. [Extracted from the article]

In October, US job openings increased to 7.74 million, with a notable rise in professional and business services and accommodation and food services. Layoffs decreased to the lowest level since June, while quits rose to the highest since May, indicating worker confidence in finding new jobs. Despite some companies cutting jobs, there are few signs of widespread layoffs, which is crucial for Federal Reserve officials aiming to stabilize the labor market. [Extracted from the article]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this article by Guhan Subramanian, Steven Herscovici, and Brian Barbetta ("SHB") and am pleased to be able to comment on it. SHB present empirical evidence that [...]

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jacceco.2008.11.004 Byline: Gennaro Bernile (a), Gregg A. Jarrell (b) Keywords: Agency costs; Event-study; Option backdating; Corporate scandal Abstract: The revelation that scores of firms engaged in the illegal manipulation of stock options' grant dates (i.e. 'backdating') captured much public attention. The evidence indicates that the consequences stemming from management misconduct and misrepresentation are of first-order importance in this context as shareholders of firms accused of backdating experience large negative, statistically significant abnormal returns. Furthermore, shareholders' losses are directly related to firms' likely culpability and the magnitude of the resulting restatements, despite the limited cash flow implications. And, tellingly, the losses are attenuated when tainted management of less successful firms is more likely to be replaced and relatively many firms become takeover targets. Author Affiliation: (a) University of Miami, School of Business Administration, USA (b) William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration, University of Rochester, USA Article History: Received 14 March 2007; Revised 6 October 2008; Accepted 6 November 2008 Article Note: (footnote) [star] We thank Thomas Lys (the Editor) and an anonymous referee for helping us improve the paper. We are also grateful to Sandro Andrade, Jennifer Carpenter, Jay Emerson, Doug Emery, Yaniv Grinstein, Shane Heitzman, Xi Li, Evgeny Lyandes, Howard Mulcahey, Robert Neal, Katherine Schipper, Douglas Skinner, Jerry Zimmermann, seminar participants at the University of Miami and the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC), and participants of the 2007 Journal of Accounting & Economics Conference and the Western Finance Association 2008 Meetings for their comments and suggestions; and to Hernan Awad for his invaluable help in designing the Monte-Carlo simulations used to compute the grant dates' odds. Finally, we gratefully acknowledge the special efforts and contributions in support of this study by Michael Schwert, Duke University, and Erin Redoutey and Raul Izquierdo, Univeristy of Miami. All remaining errors are our own.

Equine-assisted psychotherapy is an experiential modality involving a metaphorical process using a horse or horses as conduits for emotional growth and healing. Horses have been on the earth for about [...]

Objective: To describe the safety, efficacy, and potential role in therapy of voclosporin, an oral calcineurin inhibitor approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in January 2021 as an adjunct treatment for lupus nephritis.Data Sources: A literature search was conducted using PubMed with the following terms: voclosporin, Lupkynis, and lupus nephritis (January 1, 2010, to December 1, 2021). FDA product labeling was also reviewed for pertinent data sources.Study Selection and Data Extraction: All articles were considered for inclusion. English-language articles selected included preclinical and clinical studies examining the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and/or safety of voclosporin.Data Synthesis: Voclosporin has been studied as an adjunct immunosuppressive agent in patients with lupus nephritis. Drug design allows for a more predictable pharmacokinetic profile than other calcineurin inhibitors. Data suggest that adding this newly approved calcineurin inhibitor to a regimen of mycophenolate mofetil and corticosteroids produces promising therapeutic results. As such, voclosporin has been approved for use in patients with active lupus nephritis who are maintained on immunosuppressive therapy with mycophenolate mofetil and a corticosteroid.Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice: Voclosporin may be a favorable calcineurin inhibitor in patients with lupus nephritis, due to a predictable pharmacokinetic profile. This allows for decreased therapeutic drug monitoring and suggests a favorable adverse effect profile. However, cost remains a consideration with this new agent.Conclusions: Current available data suggest that voclosporin is a promising adjunct treatment option for patients with active lupus nephritis who are maintained on mycophenolate mofetil and a corticosteroid.

A study aimed to examine the impact of 9/11 terrorist attacks on Chimney Rock Park in Blue Ridge Mountains, a regional tourist destination. The results indicated that regional tourist destinations had an increased influx of visitors.

An outlook of consumer spending patterns in the United States, by 2025, is presented.

The University of Michigan's final November index of US consumer sentiment rose to 71.8, slightly lower than the preliminary reading of 73, following Donald Trump's election win. Republicans showed increased confidence in the economy, while Democrats' sentiment declined. Expectations for inflation over the next year eased to 2.6%, but long-term inflation expectations rose to 3.2%. Economists are divided on the potential impact of Trump's policies on inflation and economic growth. Business optimism post-election contrasts with consumer sentiment, with the Federal Reserve expected to take a cautious approach to interest rate cuts in the coming year. [Extracted from the article]

Scott Bessent, Donald Trump's pick for Treasury secretary, advocates for tariffs, a shadow chair for the Federal Reserve, and potentially a weaker dollar. If confirmed, Bessent will oversee public financing, economic sanctions, and the IRS, among other responsibilities. He supports Trump's economic agenda, including renewing tax cuts and loosening financial regulations. Bessent's views on the Federal Reserve, tariffs, markets, dollar policy, debt, and taxes will shape US economic policies. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Bloomberg.com reports that US initial jobless claims have decreased to the lowest level since April, with 213,000 applications in the week ended Nov. 16. However, continuing claims have climbed to 1.91 million, reflecting secondary effects from a strike at Boeing Co. Economists anticipate jobless claims stabilizing near current levels after recent volatility due to strikes and business disruptions. Despite some high-profile job cut announcements, there are few signs of a broad increase in layoffs. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses how American homebuyers are preparing for potential increases in mortgage rates following Donald Trump's election. Economists predict that rates could reach 7% or higher, impacting the housing market and making it challenging for buyers to find affordable options. Trump's proposed policies, such as tariffs and immigration restrictions, are causing uncertainty in the market, with experts warning of potential inflation and labor shortages in the construction industry. Despite these challenges, some buyers are still moving forward with purchases, showing confidence in the market post-election. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Bloomberg.com discusses the recent decrease in employment in Florida and Washington due to hurricanes and a strike at Boeing Co., indicating that the national hiring data may be temporarily affected. The Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows significant job losses in both states, particularly in sectors like construction, leisure, hospitality, and manufacturing. Analysts predict that the recovery in employment may be seen in the November report, but overall, the labor market's weakness extends beyond these specific events, with many states experiencing job losses. [Extracted from the article]

The article from Bloomberg.com reports that US initial jobless claims dropped to the lowest level since May last week, indicating a healthy demand for workers despite recent storms and strikes. Initial claims decreased by 4,000 to 217,000, below the average of the past two years. The Federal Reserve's recent interest rate cut aims to support the labor market, while some high-profile job cut announcements have been made by companies like Boeing and Nissan. [Extracted from the article]