cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
How Differences Between Manager and Clinician Perceptions of Safety Culture Impact Hospital Processes of Care.

Objective Evidenced-based processes of care improve patient outcomes, yet universal compliance is lacking, and perceptions of the quality of care are highly variable. The purpose of this study is to examine how differences in clinician and management perceptions on teamwork and communication relate to adherence to hospital processes of care. Methods Hospitals submitted identifiable data for the 2012 Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' Hospital Compare. The dependent variable was a composite, developed from the scores on adherence to acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, and pneumonia process of care measures. The primary independent variables reflected 4 safety culture domains: communication openness, feedback about errors, teamwork within units, and teamwork between units. We assigned each hospital into one of 4 groups based on agreement between managers and clinicians on each domain. Each hospital was categorized as "high" (above the median) or "low" (below) for clinicians and managers in communication and teamwork. Results We found a positive relationship between perceived teamwork and communication climate and processes of care measures. If managers and clinicians perceived the communication openness as high, the hospital was more likely to adhere with processes of care. Similarly, if clinicians perceived teamwork across units as high, the hospital was more likely to adhere to processes of care. Conclusions Manager and staff perceptions about teamwork and communications impact adherence to processes of care. Policies should recognize the importance of perceptions of both clinicians and managers on teamwork and communication and seek to improve organizational climate and practices. Clinician perceptions of teamwork across units are more closely linked to processes of care, so managers should be cognizant and try to improve their perceptions.
The Gap Between Assessment and Creating Inclusion

Different conceptions and understanding of the terms diversity and inclusion contribute to the slow progress in advancing principles of equity and social justice on college campuses. In particular, diversity and inclusion efforts must address national-level inequities with local instantiations of these inequities. In this chapter, Esteban Cardemil focuses on the critical role that assessment can play in helping advance university diversity and inclusion efforts by highlighting some forms of assessment. Further, he discusses some of the important limitations of assessment that must be acknowledged when conducting this work. Finally, he concludes by arguing that the very weaknesses inherent in assessment can spur the advancement of diversity efforts by encouraging diversity advocates to conceptualize diversity and inclusion as a process, not as an outcome.
Clinical Response and Complications are not Associated with Drug Levels in Patients with Severe Ulcerative Colitis on IV Cyclosporine Induction Therapy

Background IV ciclosporin therapy is effective in steroid-refractory ulcerative colitis. The optimal drug level to achieve response and minimize complications during induction therapy is not known. Aim The primary aim was to evaluate if serum ciclosporin drug levels are associated with increased risk of colectomy within 90 days of hospitalization. Secondary aims were to determine if ciclosporin levels are associated with avoidance of colectomy at 7 and 30 days, if ciclosporin levels are associated with drug-related and postoperative complications, and if patient-specific factors are associated with response to ciclosporin. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 81 hospitalized patients with steroid-refractory ulcerative colitis treated with ciclosporin. Risk factors for colectomy within 7, 30, and 90 days, medication-specific and postoperative complications were compared by first, mean, and peak ciclosporin level during IV induction therapy. Results There were 47 patients (58%) who underwent surgery. There were no differences between initial, mean, and peak ciclosporin levels among responders and nonresponders and treatment-related or postoperative complications. Responders within 90 days had lower C-reactive-protein levels (20mg/L vs. 38mg/L, P = 0.01), lower serum albumin concentrations (3.4g/dL vs. 3.7g/dL, P = 0.03), and higher rates of kidney injury (50% vs 17%, P = 0.002). Conclusion Initial, mean, and peak serum levels of ciclosporin did not correlate with response or toxicity. However, C-reactive-protein levels levels and kidney injury may be helpful in predicting clinical response to ciclosporin.
Distortions of Queer Desire in Ayn Rand’s Anthem

Rand’s Anthem illustrates the power of illicit desire to enlighten and ennoble. Here, however, this desire is reflexively phallic. The object of the male narrator’s desire is thin and straight as iron; her eyes are hard; and her demeanor is merciless, indicating that it is her masculine attributes that make her beautiful. Sexual desire emerges as male appreciation of a manly woman, revealing both a rejection of feminism and a distortion of queerness.
Swimming Upstream: A Study of Black Males and the Academic Pipeline

SWIMMING UPSTREAM: A STUDY OF BLACK MALES AND THE ACADEMIC PIPELINE by Rhonda D. Wilkins Post secondary participation and graduation rates of Black males are declining rapidly. Black women, however, are realizing substantial growth in both of these areas and account for the majority of the increase in Black student college enrollment. This qualitative case study addresses the decline in Black male participation in higher education by focusing on six Black men who completed college programs and the academic pipeline that brought them to their degree. The purpose of the research inquiry was to determine various factors that either helped or hindered the academic progression of the six Black male participants. For the study participants the two-year college was a component of their academic pipeline and was assessed based on its function as a conduit aiding degree attainment. The common factors that emerged from the findings as influential to the academic progression of the six Black males were categorized as: (a) personal attributes and perceptions, (b) relationships and external influences, and (c) institutional factors. The personal attributes of the participants included self-efficacy, endurance and resilience, and self-regulation. These attributes were framed within the central context of personal agency. Factors external to the participants consisted of family messages about higher education, role models, mentors and advocates, early exposure to college and participation in athletic sports. The institutional factors that surfaced were insufficient college preparation in high school, contrasts between the climate and culture of the two-year college and four-year institution, the lack of promotion of the transfer function at the twoyear college. Race and gender were also considered relative to the men and their experiences with the academic pipeline. The salient factors included: (a) the general social and economic conditions faced by young Black males, (b) the perpetuation of negative or onedimensional stereotypes in the media, (c) pre-college educational inequities, (d) the lack of assistance with college transition, and (e) the unwelcoming climates and lack of Black faculty at predominately white institutions. The study concluded that Black males may face many hurdles to postsecondary attainment and will therefore require personal, family, community, and institutional forces to push them through the academic pipeline. SWIMMING UPSTREAM: A STUDY OF BLACK MALES AND THE ACADEMIC PIPELINE by Rhonda D. Wilkins
A Unified Approach to Discrete Quantum Gravity

This paper is based on a covariant causal set (c-causet) approach to discrete quantum gravity. A c-causet is a partially ordered set $(x,<)$ that is invariant under labeling. We first consider the microscopic picture which describes the detailed structure of c-causets. The unique labeling of a c-causet $x$ enables us to define a natural metric $d(a,b)$ between comparable vertices $a,b$ of $x$. The metric is then employed to define geodesics and curvatures on $x$. We next consider the macroscopic picture which describes the growth process $x \to y$ of c-causets. We propose that this process is governed by a quantum dynamics given by complex amplitudes. Denoting the set of c-causets by $\pscript$ we show that the growth process $(\pscript ,\to)$ can be structured into a discrete 4-manifold. This 4-manifold presents a unified approach to a discrete quantum gravity for which we define discrete analogues of Einstein's field equations and Dirac's equation.
Paced glottic closure for controlling aspiration pneumonia in patients with neurologic deficits of various causes.

Objectives: We undertook to determine whether paced vocal fold adduction can check aspiration in patients with various neurologic conditions. Methods: Five patients with fluoroscopically documented aspiration and repeated pneumonias were enrolled. Two previously reported patients with hemispheric stroke were compared to 3 additional subjects with brain stem-basal ganglia and cerebellar stroke, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosi.s. A modified Vocare stimulator was implanted subcutaneousiy and linked to the ipsilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve via perineural electrodes. Vocal fold adduction and glottic closure were effected with pulse trains (42 Hz: 1.2 niA: 188 to 560 |j.s) and recorded with Enhanced Image J. Fluoroscopy results witb and without stimulation were assessed by 2 independent blinded revievk'ers. Pneumonia rates were compared before, during, and after the 6- to 12-month enrollment periods. Results: There was statistically significant vocal fold adduction (p < 0.05) for all patients, further verified witb bolus arrest (p < 0.05 for thin liquids, thick liquids, and puree depending on the speech-language pathologist). Pneumonia was prevented in 4 of the 5 patients during enrollment. In the fifth patient, who had brain stem-basal ganglia and cerebellar stroke, we were unable to completely seal the glottis and open the cricopharyngeus enough to handle his secretions. Conclusions: Vocal fold pacing for aspiration pneumonia from a variety of neurologic insults appears to be appropriate as long as the glottis can be sealed. It is not sufficient when the cricopharyngeus must be independently opened.
Acute Regulation of Sodium-Dependent Glutamate Transporters: A Focus on Constitutive and Regulated Trafficking

The acidic amino acid glutamate activates a family of ligand-gated ion channels to mediate depolarization that can be as short-lived as a few milliseconds and activates a family of G protein-coupled receptors that couple to both ion channels and other second messenger pathways. Glutamate is the predominant excitatory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system and is required for essentially all motor, sensory, and cognitive functions. In addition, glutamate-mediated signaling is required for development and the synaptic plasticity thought to underlie memory formation and retrieval. The levels of glutamate in brain approach 10 mmol/kg and most cells in the CNS express at least one of the receptor subtypes. Unlike acetylcholine that mediates "rapid" excitatory neurotransmission at the neuromuscular junction, there is no evidence for extracellular inactivation of glutamate. Instead, glutamate is cleared by a family of Na(+)-dependent transport systems that are found on glial processes that sheath the synapse and found on the pre- and postsynaptic elements of neurons. These transporters ensure crisp excitatory transmission by maintaining synaptic concentrations below those required for tonic activation of glutamate receptors under baseline conditions (approximately 1 microM) and serve to limit activation of glutamate receptors after release. During the past few years, it has become clear that like many of the other neurotransmitter transporters discussed in this volume of Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology, the activity of these transporters can be rapidly regulated by a variety of effectors. In this chapter, a broad overview of excitatory signaling will be followed by a brief introduction to the family of Na(+)-dependent glutamate transporters and a detailed discussion of our current understanding of the mechanisms that control transporter activity. The focus will be on our current understanding of the mechanisms that could regulate transporter activity within minutes, implying that this regulation is independent of transcriptional or translational control mechanisms. The glutamate transporters found in forebrain are regulated by redistributing the proteins to or from the plasma membrane; the signals involved and the net effects on transporter activity are being defined. In addition, there is evidence to suggest that the intrinsic activity of these transporters is also regulated by mechanisms that are independent of transporter redistribution; less is known about these events. As this field progresses, it should be possible to determine how this regulation affects physiologic and pathologic events in the CNS.
The Illicit Trade & Conflict Connection: Insights from U.S. History

A great deal of scholarly and policy attention has been given in recent years to the relationship between illicit trade and armed conflict. Much of the focus has been on how violent non-state actors have exploited illicit commerce to fund and sustain rebellion. It is commonly asserted that this is a distinctly post-Cold War phenomenon — even a defining characteristic of so-called “new wars.” In this brief paper I attempt to “bring history back in” to contemporary debates about illicit trade and conflict by critically examining the early American experience, arguing that illicit commerce and its connection to armed conflict played an essential role in the very making of the nation, and that the distinction between a patriot and profiteer was often a blurry one. I focus on three cases: the American War of Independence, the War of 1812, and the American Civil War. In all three cases, illicit trade profoundly shaped the nature, duration, and outcome of the conflict. In the case of the War of Independence, illicit trade successfully supplied the rebellion but also complicated postwar reconstruction. In the case of the War of 1812, illicit trade in the form of “trading with the enemy” extended the conflict, helped to turn it into a stalemate, and subverted U.S. efforts to annex Canada. In the case of the Civil War, illicit cotton exports via blockade running helped to prolong the conflict, allowing the Confederacy to persist far longer than would otherwise have been the case.
Using a System Identification based Framework to Elucidate How Scheffersomyces stipitis Shifts Redox in Response to Reduced Oxygen Supply

Abstract Scheffersomyces stipitis has been recognized as an important yeast species in the field of biorenewables due to its native capacity for utilizing xylose. It has been well-recognized that redox (im)balance plays an important role for S. stipitis under oxygen limited conditions, in terms of ethanol production and xylitol (a by-product) production. However, there has not been any systems level understanding on how the shift in redox balance contribute to the overall metabolic shift in S. stipitis to cope with reduced oxygen uptake. In this work, with our recently developed genome-scale metabolic model (GEM) for S. stipitis, iDH814, we apply a system identification (SID) based framework to elucidate how the cellular metabolism of S. stipitis shifts in response to reduced oxygen supply. The systems level analysis indicates that S. stipitis uses a concerted approach to cope with the stress associated with reduced oxygen supply, and the shift of reducing power from NADPH to NADH seems to be the center theme that directs the overall shift in metabolic states.
Synchronous discordant Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)–positive nodal T/NK-cell lymphoma and EBV-positive diffuse large B cell lymphoma in a patient with a history of EBV-positive Burkitt lymphoma

In rare cases, patients present with multiple simultaneous lymphomas at one or more anatomic sites. These may be described as composite (occurring at one anatomic site) or discordant (occurring at different anatomic sites). Although the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is often implicated in the development of composite lymphoma, its role in the pathogenesis of discordant lymphoma is less clear. We report a case of discordant Epstein-Barr virus–associated lymphoma consisting of nodal T/NK-cell lymphoma and diffuse large B cell lymphoma in a patient with a history of EBV-positive Burkitt lymphoma post treatment. Simultaneous biopsies of the left and right femoral lymph nodes showed a synchronous nodal T/NK-cell lymphoma (left) and diffuse large B cell lymphoma (right). The nodal T/NK-cell lymphoma was morphologically and immunohistochemical distinct from the diffuse large B cell. Both the T/NK-cell component and the B cell component showed bright nuclear positivity with in situ hybridization for EBER. Molecular studies for C-myc were negative. The role played by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in the pathogenesis of discordant T cell and B cell lymphoma is uncertain but may be clinically significant, particularly in the setting of prior EBV-positive lymphoma. Additional testing for immunodeficiency should be considered in these patients.
The Relationship Between Firm Resilience to Supply Chain Disruptions and Firm Innovation

This chapter discusses the relationship between supply chain disruption risk management and innovation management and examines whether a firm’s investment in innovation can improve the firm’s resilience to supply chain disruption. We review the antecedents of both firm innovativeness and firm resilience to supply chain disruptions, and we identify how investment in innovation can enhance a firm’s response to supply chain disruptions using a systematic literature review process. We identify leadership , information sharing, and collaboration as practices that improve both firm innovation and firm resilience to supply chain disruption. We discuss future research directions to further examine the relationship between a firm’s innovation capability and the firm’s resilience to supply chain disruptions.
Behavioral Response of Juvenile Chinook Salmon to Surgical Implantation of Micro-acoustic Transmitters

Author(s): Singer, GP; Hansen, MJ; Ho, KV; Lee, KW; Cocherell, DE; Peter Klimley, A; Rypel, AL; Fangue, NA | Abstract: Acoustic telemetry, a commonly used tool for examining movements and survival of aquatic species, is often applied without a comprehensive understanding of transmitter implantation effects. This can be problematic when the goal of the study is to use telemetry results to make inferences regarding broader populations. Here, we examined juvenile Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha at varying time intervals after transmitter implantation to assess the behavioral implications of tagging. The following behavioral metrics in response to a novel environment were compared across treatment and control groups: time to emergence from shelter into the open portion of the test arena, rheotactic response, total activity, and rates of exploration. Tagged fish (114–132nmm FL) were tested at 0, 1, or 4nd postsurgery (day-0, day-1, and day-4 groups, respectively), and their behavior was compared to that of similarly handled control fish. Emergence from refuge was the only metric that differed significantly between treatment and control groups. Fish tested on the same day as the surgery were less likely to emerge from the refuge, with only 46% of the day-0 tagged fish emerging compared to 88, 93, and 80% of the day-1, day-4, and control groups, respectively. However, day-0 fish that did emerge from the refuge had rheotactic responses, total activity, and exploration rates similar to those of fish from the other treatment and control groups. This study may have fisheries research and management implications, especially for telemetry studies and monitoring efforts. We encourage researchers using this technology to consider (1) observing a post-transmitter-implantation recovery period of at least 24nh prior to release, adjusting study plans and logistics accordingly; (2) applying sufficient scientific rigor to emerging tagging technology prior to wide-scale adoption; and (3) when possible, conducting concurrent battery life and tag effects studies with any field release of tagged fishes, as differing relationships between fish size, tag size, and tagging techniques may yield variable results.
Transplant Services: The Surgery Is the Least of It

Transplantation in the twenty-first century is a huge business. Kidneys, livers, hearts, pancreata, lungs, and small intestine, either alone or in combination, are transplanted every day. The complexity of the surgery and care of the patients is almost rivaled by the intricate regulatory system that governs transplantation in the United States. Success in transplantation is propelled by surgical and medical expertise but also by adhering to local, state, and federal rules and regulations. Unlike the days of old, starting a transplant program now requires gargantuan amounts of paperwork, organization, and money. In this chapter, we will review some of the history of transplantation, the development of regulatory requirements, and the day-to-day necessities for running successful transplant programs. This chapter will concentrate on the transplantation of kidneys and livers, although many of the requirements are similar for the transplantation of other organs.
Effective Visible Light Photodegradation of Paraoxon with Pure and Doped TiO 2

Here is described an effective form to degrade paraoxon using titanium dioxide (TiO2) doped with various metals (Al, C, Co, Fe, and Rh). The degradation of paraoxon was conducted under sunlight or assisted by a commercial light bulb. The synthesis of the TiO2 was conducted by sonochemical means. The heat treatment conditions were carefully manipulated to synthesize a single-phase framework of anatase. The band gap in the investigated samples varies from 2.38 to 4.10 eV depending on the dopant. The TiO2 lattices are rigid and promote an outwards diffusion of the dopants to the surface of the particles resulting in the surface precipitation of nanostructures decorating the anatase crystals. The precipitates develop a network of quantum dots with sizes between 5 and 10 nm. Rhodium is the most effective dopant to narrow the band gap; the opposite effect is observed with C. However the most effective dopant to degrade paraoxon is Co. Paraoxon degradation occurs in two stages that are both identified in the present work. The TiO2-Co dopant is effective under sunlight and light bulb-assisted conditions.
Domino heart transplant following heart-lung transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: The domino-donor operation occurs when a “conditioned” heart from the heart-lung transplant (HLT) recipient is transplanted into a separate heart transplant (HT) recipient. The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate the indications and outcomes associated with the domino procedure. Methods: An electronic search was performed to identify all prospective and retrospective studies on the domino procedure in the English literature. Eight studies reported 183 HLT recipients and 263 HT recipients who were included in the final analysis. Results: HLT indications included cystic fibrosis in 58% (95% CI: 27–84%) of recipients, primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) in 17% (95% CI: 12–24%), bronchiectasis in 5% (95% CI: 3–10%), emphysema in 5% (95% CI: 0–45%), and Eisenmenger’s syndrome in 4% (95% CI: 2–8%). HT indications included ischemic heart disease in 40% (95% CI: 33–47%), non-ischemic disease in 39% (95% CI: 25–56%), and re-transplantation in 10% (95% CI: 1–59%). The pooled mean pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) in HT recipients was 3.05 Woods units (95% CI: 0.14–5.95). The overall mortality in the HLT group was 28% (95% CI: 18–41%) at an average follow-up of 15.68 months (95% CI: 0.82–30.54), and 35% (95% CI: 17–58%) in the HT group at an average follow-up of 37.26 months (95% CI: 6.68–67.84). Freedom from rejection in HT was 94% (95% CI: 75–99%) at 1 month, 77% (95% CI: 30–96%) at 6 months, and 41% (95% CI: 33–50%) at 1 year. Conclusions: The domino procedure appears to be a viable option in properly selected patients that can be performed safely with acceptable outcomes.
Headache After Dural Puncture with an Epidural Needle

An anesthesiologist is attempting to perform a labor epidural for a patient with severe labor pain who is straining and vocalizing, but immediately after the loss of resistance, he feels another pop and cerebrospinal fluid flows back into his syringe (L-1). He leaves the Tuohy needle where it is, replaces the stylet, and then quickly threads the “epidural” catheter 3 cm into the subarachnoid space after removing the stylet (L-2). Applying counter-pressure against the catheter so as not to pull it out of the subarachnoid space, he removes the Tuohy needle and says to the patient, “I’m afraid I made a hole in that membrane called the dura I told you about, so we should be able to give you good pain relief for labor but you might get a headache later on. We’ll be following you very closely afterwards” (L-3).
GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY HIGHLIGHTS: 2019 LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract In this session, Drs. Tumba, Balachandran, and Scharrer will present an overview of highlighted studies from 2019 relevant to the clinical practice of geriatric psychiatry. Dr. Bessey will serve as faculty discussant. Studies for consideration will include recent advances in the assessment and treatment of mental health within the geriatric population, and advances from other geriatric disciplines that are applicable to practicing geriatric mental health providers. In order to promote efficient learning, critical thinking, and discussion, this symposium will cover a broad range of topics within the clinical practice of geriatric psychiatry.
Challenging Dominant Perspectives and Textual Hierarchies in English and Literacy Teacher Professional Development

Professional development plays a key role in continuing education for English and literacy teachers. Yet, professional development libraries are often mechanisms that reproduce inequities due to th...
Exploring the Expanded Role of Pharmacists in Advance Care Planning.

PURPOSE:Advance care planning (ACP) is a clinical skill that can be taught. An opportunity exists to teach how to conduct ACP to clinicians not typically engaged in these conversations to increase ...
RCT of a Telehealth Group-Based Intervention to Increase Physical Activity in Multiple Sclerosis: eFIT

Objective To conduct a pilot randomized controlled trial to determine whether participation in a group-based structured telehealth intervention increases physical activity in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods In this parallel-arms trial, all study procedures were administered remotely. Adults diagnosed with MS (any subtype) were randomized to one of two 12-week (1 h/wk) active conditions: eFIT, online moderated structured groups; or eJournal, online independent journaling. For comparison, a treatment-as-usual (TAU; i.e., no eFIT/eJournal) group was enrolled. The primary outcome was feasibility (completion and adherence). The secondary efficacy outcomes included self-reported physical activity level (International Physical Activity Questionnaire, IPAQ). Results Participants were 37 adults with MS. The sample was diverse: 66.7% female; age range 23–64 years; 17.5% Hispanic, 12.5% Black; and progressive and relapsing-remitting disease subtypes. Regarding feasibility, 70.7% completed; average adherence was 74.9%. Physical activity in active groups increased by 34.2% (baseline IPAQ = 2,406.8 ± 1,959.7, follow-up = 3,229.4 ± 2,575.2) and decreased in the TAU group by 17.4% (baseline = 2,519.9 ± 1,500.1, follow-up = 2,081.2 ± 1,814.9); group × time interaction was not statistically significant [F(2,25) = 1.467, p = 0.250; partial η2 = 0.105]. Conclusions Telehealth represents an accessible, acceptable vehicle to deliver targeted behavioral treatments to a neurologic population. eFIT may be an effective intervention for increasing physical activity, a historically intractable treatment target, in individuals with MS. In addition, these results provide evidence for feasibility of conducting fully remote clinical trial research. Classification of Evidence This study provides Class II evidence that for people with MS, participation in a group-based structured telehealth intervention compared with TAU resulted in a (non-significant) increase in self-reported physical activity level. The percentage of participants who completed follow-up questionnaires did not differ between groups. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03829267).
Show and Tell: An Examination of Experiential Learning Opportunities in Criminal Justice Courses

There has been debate over the years between the academic process and classroom success through practitioner “real-life” enhanced learning. These beliefs have been demonstrated through different in...
A Matter of Electoral Convenience: Early Voting in North Carolina, 2004-2018

This paper investigates the use of ‘early voting’ in North Carolina, through the methods of absentee by mail and absentee one-stop (in-person) compared to Election Day in-person voting from the 2004 to 2018 general elections. With the introduction of absentee voting in 2000 in North Carolina, substantial increases in voters have utilized early voting, especially one-stop absentee voting. Most notably, 2008’s election saw a majority of ballots cast due to the rise of the ‘early voter.’ This trend of early ballots as a majority of votes cast continued into subsequent presidential elections, but not necessarily in mid-term elections. In addition, analysis of who these early voters are has been limited in scope. This project explores eight general elections — four presidential and four mid-terms — and descriptively analyzes the frequency of early voting and who makes up these early voters, utilizing data from the North Carolina State Board of Elections for both voter history and voter registration.
Measurement Invariance of the Sex-Related Cannabis Expectancies Scale across Age and Gender.

Sex-related cannabis expectancies have been found to be associated with intentions to use cannabis, cannabis use, and sexual behavior. However, the construct of sex-related cannabis expectancies ha...
Prinzipien zur Konstruktion nominaler Korrelationsmaße

Immer dann, wenn Erscheinungen in den Wirtschafts- und Sozialwissenschaften auf kausale Abhangigkeiten hin untersucht werden, bedient man sich der Korrelationsrechnung, um mit ihrer Hilfe entsprechende Studien auch empirisch zu untermauern. Betrachtet man nun die Vielzahl der zur Korrelationsanalyse verfugbaren Zusammenhangsmase, so stellt sich die Frage, welches Mas fur die jeweilige Problemstellung adaquat ist. Die vorliegende Arbeit zeigt nun, das verschiedene Konzepte existieren, auf deren Basis die Korrelation zweier nominaler Merkmale operationalisiert und damit letztlich auch quantifiziert werden kann. Diese Konzepte beruhen auf einer differenzierten Sichtweise der Korrelation und versuchen, genau diese mit Hilfe geeignet konstruierter Mase wiederzugeben. Jedes so entstandene Mas mist seinen Zusammenhang und kann folglich kaum mit anderen Korrelationsmasen verglichen werden.
Robust H 2 -Type IMC Controller Design via the Structured Singular Value

Abstract The two-step Internal Model Control procedure is used for the synthesis of robust controllers for multivariable open-loop stable or unstable plants. In the first step the controller is designed so that the Integral Squared Error (ISE) is minimized for every external input (setpoint or output disturbance) direction in a set and their linear combinations. In the second step a low-pass filter is designed so that stability and good performance characteristics are maintained in the presence of model-plant mismatch. The problem is formulated as a minimization of the Structured Singular Value (SSV) for robust performance over the filter parameters.
Free Vibrations of Taut and Slack Marine Cables

The natural frequency and damping of several typical marine cables were measured in air and in water and are reported in this paper. The changes in natural frequency and mode shape that occur in both media as the cable sags from a taut configuration are in agreement with a recently developed linear theory. A modal "crossover" predicted by the theory was also observed as the cable tension was decreased. The onset of the catenary behavior has been identified and it coincides with at least an order of magnitude increase in the structural damping of the cables. The fluid dynamic contributions to the virtual mass and the damping are found to be independent of the sag in the cable and are comparable to measurements for taut cables reported in the literature.
First Comes Legalization, Then Comes What? Tips for Washington and Colorado to Help Break the Cycle of Selective Prosecution and Disproportionate Sentencing

The recent modifications of drug laws in Colorado and Washington risk duplicating the pattern of subjugation created by current drug laws. Portions of the Washington statute, in particular, threaten to maintain the status quo and to perpetuate stereotypes of African Americans and Latinos. The states’ approaches to marijuana legalization signal that it is time now, more than ever, to reevaluate and restructure our current drug laws to prevent selective prosecution as well as the disproportionate incarceration of men and women of color. In reforming current laws, however, states must avoid incorporating terms and limitations that might trigger new forms of profiling.Part I of this Article proceeds by exposing the disproportionate impact of drug policies on men and women of color. Part II then discusses the recent laws in Washington and Colorado and their potential for perpetuating the prevailing practice of selective enforcement. Finally, Part III espouses cautionary principles for other states considering legalization.
Ubiquitin Urine Levels in Burn Patients.

The objective of this study was to determine whether urine ubiquitin levels are elevated after burns and to assess whether urine ubiquitin could be useful as a noninvasive biomarker for burn patients. Forty burn patients (%TBSA: 20 ± 22; modified Baux scores: 73 ± 26) were included (control: 11 volunteers). Urine was collected in 2-hour intervals for 72 hours, followed by 12-hour intervals until discharge from the intensive care unit. Ubiquitin concentrations were analyzed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot. Total protein was determined with a Bradford assay. Patient characteristics and clinical parameters were documented. Urine ubiquitin concentrations, renal ubiquitin excretion, and excretion rates were correlated with patient characteristics and outcomes. Initial urine ubiquitin concentrations were 362 ± 575 ng/ml in patients and 14 ± 18 ng/ml in volunteers (P Language: en
3-D shape interrogation by medial axis transform

The Medial Axis Transform is a representation of an object which has been shown to be useful in design, interrogation, animation, finite element mesh generation, performance analysis, manufacturing simulation, path planning, and tolerance specification. In this thesis, the theory of the Medial Axis Transform for 3-D objects and an algorithm to compute such transforms are considered. For objects with piecewise $C\sp2$ boundaries, relationships between the curvature of the boundary and the position of the Medial Axis are developed. For n-dimensional submanifolds of $\Re\sp{n}$ with boundaries which are piecewise $C\sp2$ and completely $G\sp1$, a deformation retract is set up between each object and its Medial Axis, which demonstrates that if the object is path connected, then so is its Medial Axes. In addition, it is proven that path connected polyhedral solids without cavities have path connected Medial Axis. An algorithm for determining the Medial Axis Transform is developed first for convex 3-D polyhedral solids and then extended to general 3-D polyhedral solids of arbitrary genus without cavities, with non-convex vertices and edges. The algorithms are based on a classification scheme which relates different pieces of the Medial Axis to one another even in the presence of degenerate Medial Axis points. Vertices of the Medial Axis are connected to one another by tracing along adjacent edges, and finally the faces of the Axis are found by traversing closed loops of vertices and edges. Systems of governing equations for different types of Medial Axis points are established using the classification scheme, and the computation of solutions of these systems is discussed. Representation of the Medial Axis and associated radius function is addressed, and pseudocode for the algorithms is given along with recommended optimizations. A connectivity theorem is proven to show the completeness of the algorithm. A further extension of the algorithm to objects with curved boundaries is also outlined. Complexity estimates and stability analysis for the polyhedral algorithms are presented. Finally, examples illustrate the computational properties of the algorithm for convex and non-convex 3-D polyhedral solids with polyhedral holes. (Copies available exclusively from MIT Libraries, Rm. 14-0551, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307. Ph. 617-253-5668; Fax 617-253-1690.)
Evolution and revolution as organizations grow. 1972.

A small research company chooses too complicated and formalized an organization structure for its young age and limited size. It flounders in rigidity and bureaucracy for several years and is finally acquired by a larger company.
Lignocellulolytic Enzymes Produced by Volvariella volvacea, the Edible Straw Mushroom.

Volvariella volvacea, commonly known as the straw or paddy mushroom, had the following growth characteristics: minimum temperature, 25°C; optimal temperature, 37°C; maximal temperature, 40°C; pH optimum 6.0. Optimal pH for cellulase production was 5.5. The optimal initial pH for cellulase production and mycelial growth was found to be 6.0. The pH and temperature optima for cellulolytic activity were 5.0 and 50°C, respectively. Maximal cellulolytic activity was obtained within 5 days in shake-flask culture. The cellulases were found to be partly cell free and partly cell bound during growth on microcrystalline cellulose. The endoglucanase activity was primarily extracellular, and β-glucosidase activity was found exclusively extracellularly. Weak cellulase activity was detected when cells were grown on cellobiose and lactose. V. volvacea could not digest the lignin portion of newspaper in shake-flask cultivation. Phenol oxidase, an important enzyme in lignin biodegradation, also was lacking in the cell-free filtrate. However, the organism oxidized phenolic compounds when it was cultured on agar plates containing commercial lignin.
Quality of bone healing: Perspectives and assessment techniques

Bone regeneration and healing is an area of extensive research providing an ever-expanding set of not only therapeutic solutions for surgeons but also diagnostic tools. Multiple factors such as an ideal graft, the appropriate biochemical and mechanical wound environment, and viable cell populations are essential components in promoting healing. While bony tissue performs many functions, critical is mechanical strength, followed closely by structure. Many tools are available to evaluate bone quality in terms of quantity, structure, and strength; the purpose of this article is to identify the factors that can be evaluated and the advantages and disadvantages of each in assessing the quality of bone healing in both preclinical research and clinical settings.
Overcoming social awareness in computer-supported groups

We examined status effects in face-to-face and computer-mediated three-person groups. Our expectation that low status members in computer-mediated group discussions would participate more equally, and have more influence over decisions, than their counterparts in face-to-face groups was not confirmed. The results suggest that knowledge of status differences and labels were used to form cognitive impressions of other group members. It seems that when group members are aware of the status characteristics of the group, social cues were magnified rather than reduced. Implications of these findings for mixed status cooperative work groups and for the design of computer communication systems are discussed.
The APS direct-drive pulsed septum magnets

The Advanced Photon Source (APS) consists of four separate machines: linac, booster, positron accumulator ring (PAR) and storage ring (SR), plus three transfer lines interconnecting the machines. At least one thin, pulsed septum magnet is located at each splice joint. The stray field tolerances for two of these septum magnets are very stringent. As an example, for clean operation during the proposed top-up mode in the storage ring, the stray fields from the septum magnet must not exceed 1 G-m. The septum wall thickness must also not exceed 2.4 mm. To meet these requirements, direct-drive septum magnets with magnetic shield pipe around the stored beam region were developed and built. These magnets have now been tested and installed, and are used in daily operation. We describe the magnet(s) design, the measurement results, the actual operation, and performance.
Granules (Anaerobic) and Granulation Processes in Biosolids

Microbial Composition of Anaerobic Granules Structure of Granular Sludge Granulation Processes Start-up Procedures for Reactors That Utilize Granular Sludge Keywords: biosolids, granules in; granular sludge; sludge, granules in; wastewater treatment
Teaching Creativity in Engineering Courses.

Background The ability to engage in a creative process to solve a problem or to design a novel artifact is essential to engineering as a profession. Research indicates a need for curricula that enhance students' creative skills in engineering. Purpose Our purpose was to document current practices in engineering pedagogy with regard to opportunities for students' creative growth by examining learning goals, instructional methods, and assessments focused on cognitive creative skills. Design/Method We conducted a critical case study of engineering pedagogy at a single university with seven engineering courses where instructors stated the goal of fostering creativity. Data included instructor and student interviews, student surveys, and course materials. For qualitative analysis, we used frameworks by Treffinger, Young, Selby, and Shepardson and by Wiggins and McTighe. Results One aspect of creativity, convergent thinking (including analysis and evaluation), was well represented in the engineering courses in our case study. However, instruction on generating ideas and openness to exploring ideas was less often evident. For many of the creative skills, especially those related to divergent thinking and idea exploration, assessments were lacking. Conclusions An analysis of pedagogy focused on goals, instruction, and assessments in the engineering curriculum revealed opportunities for growth in students' creative skill development. Designing assessments that motivate students to improve their creative skills and to become more aware of their own creative process is a key need in engineering pedagogy.
Avoiding local optima in single particle reconstruction

In single-particle reconstruction, a 3D structure is reconstructed from a large number of randomly oriented 2D projections, using techniques related to computed tomography. Unlike in computed tomography, however, the orientations of the projections must be estimated at the same time as the 3D structure, and hence the reconstruction process can be error-prone, converging to an incorrect local optimum rather than the true 3D structure. In this paper, we discuss and further develop a maximum-likelihood approach to reconstruction, and demonstrate that this approach can help avoid incorrect local optima for both 2D and 3D reconstructions.
High Preformed Vitamin A Intake during Pregnancy Prevents Embryonic Accumulation of Intact β-Carotene from the Maternal Circulation in Mice

Background: The vitamin A precursor β-carotene (BC) promotes mammalian embryonic development by serving as a source of retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) to the developing tissues. In the Western world, increased consumption of dietary supplements, including vitamin A and BC, is common; however, the consequences of maternal high preformed vitamin A intake on embryonic uptake and metabolism of BC are poorly understood. Objective: This study investigated vitamin A and BC metabolism in developing mouse tissues after a single BC administration to pregnant wild-type (WT) mice fed purified diets with different vitamin A concentrations. Methods: WT dams fed a sufficient vitamin A (VA-S; 4.2 μg of retinol/g of diet), high vitamin A (VA-H; 33 μg of retinol/g of diet), or excess vitamin A (VA-E; 66 μg of retinol/g of diet) diet throughout gestation were intraperitoneally injected with BC or vehicle at 13.5 d postcoitum (dpc). At 14.5 dpc, retinoid and BC concentrations in maternal serum and liver, placenta, and embryo were quantified by HPLC; expressions of genes controlling retinoid and BC homeostasis were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Maternal lipoprotein BC concentrations were analyzed by density gradient ultracentrifugation followed by HPLC. Results: Intact BC was undetectable only in embryos from VA-E + BC dams. Relative to the VA-S + vehicle group, placentas from VA-S + BC dams showed 39% downregulation of LDL-receptor–related protein 1 (Lrp1 ); 35% downregulation of VLDL receptor (Vldlr); 56% reduced mRNA expression of β-carotene 15,15′-oxygenase (Bco1); and 80% upregulation of β-carotene 9′,10′-oxygenase (Bco2). Placental cytochrome P450, family 26, subfamily A, polypeptide 1 (Cyp26A1) was upregulated 2-fold in the VA-E group compared with the VA-S group, regardless of maternal treatment. Conclusions: In mice, transfer of intact BC to the embryo is attenuated by high tissue vitamin A concentrations. Maternal vitamin A intake and BC availability activate a placental transcriptional response to protect the embryo from retinoid and carotenoid excess.
Palliative Care Needs in the Neuro-ICU.

Objectives:Patients admitted to the neurological or neurosurgical ICU are likely to have palliative care needs. The goals of this project are to encourage the ICU team to identify palliative care needs for patients and their families and potential ways to meet those needs.Design:Quality improvement
Point Mutations in Aβ Induce Polymorphic Aggregates at Liquid/Solid Interfaces

A pathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a late onset neurodegenerative disease, is the development of neuritic amyloid plaques, composed predominantly of aggregates of the β-amyloid (Aβ) peptide. It has been demonstrated that Aβ can aggregate into a variety of polymorphic aggregate structures under different chemical environments, and a potentially important environmental factor in dictating aggregate structure is the presence of surfaces. There are also several mutations clustered around the central hydrophobic core of Aβ (E22G Arctic mutation, E22K Italian mutation, D23N Iowa mutation, and A21G Flemish mutation). These mutations are associated with hereditary diseases ranging from almost pure cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) to typical Alzheimer’s disease pathology. The goal of this study was to determine how these mutations influence the morphology of Aβ aggregates under free solution conditions and at an anionic surface/liquid interface. While the rate of formation of specific aggregates was altered by mutations in Aβ under free solution conditions, the respective aggregate morphologies were similar. However, aggregation occurring directly on a negatively charged mica surface resulted in distinct aggregate morphologies formed by different mutant forms of Aβ. These studies provide insight into the potential role anionic surfaces play in dictating the formation of Aβ polymorphic aggregate structures.