cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Deaths Among People With Hepatitis C in New York City, 2000–2011

Background. Infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) increases the risk of death from liver and nonliver-related diseases. Coinfection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) further increases this risk. Methods. Surveillance data (2000–2010) and mortality data (2000–2011) maintained by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) were deterministically cross-matched. Factors associated with and causes of death among HCV-infected adult decedents were analyzed. Results. Between 2000 and 2011, 13 307 HCV-monoinfected adults died, and 5475 adults coinfected with HCV/ HIV died. Decedents with HCV monoinfection were more likely to have died of liver cancer (odds ratio [OR] = 9.2), drug-related causes (OR = 4.3), and cirrhosis (OR = 3.7), compared with persons with neither infection. HCV/HIVcoinfected decedents were more likely to have died of liver cancer (OR = 2.2) and drug-related causes (OR = 3.1), compared with persons with neither infection. Among coinfected decedents, 53.6% of deaths were attributed to HIV/AIDS, and 94% of deaths occurred prematurely (before age 65). Among persons with HCV who died, more than half died within 3 years of an HCV report to DOHMH. Conclusions. HCV-infected adults were at increased risk of dying and of dying prematurely, particularly from conditions associated with HCV, such as HIV/AIDS or drug use. The short interval between HCV report and death suggests a need for earlier testing and improved treatment.
In the Beginning Was the Student: Teaching Peacemaking and Justice Issues

This article is written in the spirit of Richard Quinney's contributions to teaching as an exploration into the contradictions, ironies, and connections (both obvious and hidden) that allow learning to unfold and show itself to teachers and students. A critique of the conflict between developing expertise and experiencing learning is offered. The value of feelings and intuition, thinking and knowledge, and imagination and creativity are examined as a way to bring teacher and student together in the process of learning into wisdom.
Characterization of vesicular glutamate transporter in pancreatic α- and β-cells and its regulation by glucose

Glutamate has been suggested to play an important role in the release of insulin and glucagon from pancreatic cells via exocytosis. Vesicular glutamate transporter is a rate-limiting step for gluta...
Space diversity in presence of discrete multipath fading channel

Most analytical studies of the performance of space diversity systems on fading channels assume a very rich multipath environment. In certain wireless applications, however, the number of significant multipath components can be small. In this letter, we consider a multipath channel in which the signal propagates from the transmitter to the receiver via L discrete paths which are uniformly distributed about the transmitter and receiver. For this channel, we study the effects of the number of multipath components and antenna array size on the error probability and outage capacity of space diversity systems. We observe that performance is significantly influenced by the presence of a channel with few multipath components.
Hydrologic Connections and Dynamics of Water Movement in the Classical Karst (Kras) Aquifer: Evidence from Frequement Chemical and Stable Isotope Samoling

A review of past researchon the hydrogeology of the Classical Karst (Kras) region and new information obtained from a two-year study using environmental tracers are presented in this paper. The main problems addressed are 1) the sources of water to the Kras aquifer resurgence zone—including the famous Ti­mavo springs—under changing flow regimes; 2) a quantifica­tion of the storage volumes of the karst massif corresponding to flow regimes defined by hydrographrecessions of the Timavo springs; and 3) changing dynamics between deep phreatic con­duit flow and shallow phreatic and epiphreatic storage within the aquifer resurgence zone as determined throughchanges in chemical and isotopic composition at springs and wells. Partic­ular focus was placed on addressing the long-standing question of the influence of the Soca River on the ground waters of the aquifer resurgence zone. The results indicate that the alluvial aquifer supplied by the sinking of the Soca River on the north­western edge of the massif contributes approximately 75% of the mean annual outflow to the smaller springs of the aquifer resur­gence zone, and as muchas 53% to the mean annual outflow of the Timavo springs. As a whole, the Soca River is estimated to contribute 56% of the average outflow of the Kras aquifer resurgence. The proportions of Soca River water increase under drier conditions, and decrease under wetter conditions. Time series analysis of oxygen stable isotope records indicate that the transit time of Soca River water to the Timavo springs, Sardos spring, and well B-4 is on the order of 1-2 months, depending on hydrological conditions. The total baseflow storage of the Ti­mavo springs is estimated to be 518 million m3, and represents 88.5% of the storage capacity estimated for all flow regimes of the springs. The ratio of baseflow storage volume to the average annual volume discharged at the Timavo springs is 0.54. The Reka River sinking in Slovenia supplies substantial allogenic recharge to the aquifer; however, its influence on the northwest resurgence zone is limited to the Timavo springs, and is only a significant component of the spring discharge under flood con­ditions for relatively brief periods (several days to weeks). Sus­tainability of the trans-boundary aquifer of the Kras will benefit from maintaining highwater quality in the Soca River, as well as focused water tracing experiments within the epiphreatic zone of the aquifer to better delineate the recharge zone and to identify sources of potential contamination to the Brestovica water supply well.
"Waste in a Great Enterprise": Influenza, Modernism, and One of Ours

World War I has overshadowed the Great Influenza of 1918 so thoroughly in American thought that historian Alfred Crosby has styled it "America's forgotten pandemic." Willa Cather's One of Ours (1922), which recounts the ravages of influenza on American sailors bound for France, raises questions about why the 1918 flu has registered so faintly in the modern American imagination. This absence is clarified by De Man's notion of modernity as a "combined interplay of deliberate forgetting with an action that is also a new origin." Whereas some American modernists sought to sever themselves from the past by emphasizing the historical fissure created by the war and ignoring the historical continuity implied by the pandemic, Cather's investigation of disease as one of the deterministic forces of the twentieth century reveals a modernism which embraces historicity as a way of "diagnosing one's present."
The Glycolytic Enzymes, Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate Dehydrogenase, Triose-phosphate Isomerase, and Pyruvate Kinase Are Components of the KATP Channel Macromolecular Complex and Regulate Its Function

The regulation of ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channel activity is complex and a multitude of factors determine their open probability. Physiologically and pathophysiologically, the most important of these are intracellular nucleotides, with a long-recognized role for glycolytically derived ATP in regulating channel activity. To identify novel regulatory subunits of the KATP channel complex, we performed a two-hybrid protein-protein interaction screen, using as bait the mouse Kir6.2 C terminus. Screening a rat heart cDNA library, we identified two potential interacting proteins to be the glycolytic enzymes, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and triose-phosphate isomerase. The veracity of interaction was verified by co-immunoprecipitation techniques in transfected mammalian cells. We additionally demonstrated that pyruvate kinase also interacts with Kir6.2 subunits. The physiological relevance of these interactions is illustrated by the demonstration that native Kir6.2 protein similarly interact with GAPDH and pyruvate kinase in rat heart membrane fractions and that Kir6.2 protein co-localize with these glycolytic enzymes in rat ventricular myocytes. The functional relevance of our findings is demonstrated by the ability of GAPDH or pyruvate kinase substrates to directly block the KATP channel under patch clamp recording conditions. Taken together, our data provide direct evidence for the concept that key enzymes involved in glycolytic ATP production are part of a multisubunit KATP channel protein complex. Our data are consistent with the concept that the activity of these enzymes (possibly by ATP formation in the immediate intracellular microenvironment of this macromolecular KATP channel complex) causes channel closure.
Self-Regulation and the Writing Process: Enhancing the Performance of Students With Language and Learning Difficulties

Abstract This article first provides an overview of components of self-regulation in writing and specific examples of each component are given. The remainder of the article addresses common reasons why struggling learners experience trouble with revising, followed by evidence-based practices to help students revise their papers more effectively.
Acetylcholinesterase mutants in drosophila and their effects on the structure and function of the cental nervous system

Mutations that eliminate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity were used to study the effects of disrupted acetylcholine metabolism on the form and function of the central nervous system in Drosophila melanogaster. Mutants in the Ace gene, which have no AChE activity, usually die in early development, but the postembryonic effects of this lesion can be studied in genetic mosaics, or with conditional mutants. Adult mosaics, which expressed Ace mutations in part of their CNS, exhibited morphological defects in any ganglionic neuropile whose cells were mutant. The defects included reduction in ganglionic volume, a condensed appearance, and for a very large clone, degeneration. Examination of many such mosaics indicated that small clones restricted to one side of the CNS were not usually lethal. However, mosaics with large clones, with clones on either side of the posterior slope of the protocerebrum, or with clones encompassing symmetrical structures on both sides of the CNS rarely survived to adulthood. Mosaics with AChE-null tissue on either side of the optic lobes or the posterior-inferior protocerebrum had marked deficits in optomotor behavior, although they were outwardly normal in their movement and posture. Mosaics with Ace mutant tissue in the first-order optic lobe, the lamina, lacked a synaptic component of the electroretinogram, the "off" transient. Tests of courtship behavior revealed that AChE mosaics with mutant clones in the superior protocerebrum were often capable of demonstrating male courtship. However, their behavior was quantitatively and perhaps qualitatively deficient. In order to study critical periods for the effects of mutant AChE, temperature-sensitive mutations of the Ace gene were isolated. Flies bearing certain of these new mutations produced AchE activity that was thermolabile in vivo and in vitro. The critical period during which the mutants were most susceptible to conditional lethality was late in embryogenesis.
Study of particle size influence on laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry using an in-line cascade impactor

An in-line cascade impactor was used as a low pass filter to study the effects of particles on inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) performance. The temporal relative standard deviation (TRSD), which represents the short term internal precision during repetitive ablation, was improved from 20% to 4% by removing large particles ablated from brass alloys. External precision for spot to spot measurements on a bulk sample was improved to approximately 2%. The ablated aerosol chemistry was particle size dependent: smaller particles were zinc rich while larger particles were copper rich.
Chronic care management coding for neurologists

Abstract Chronic care management provides a way for neurologists to code for time spent by clinical office staff who coordinate services for patients with major chronic illnesses. Medicare allows payment for one such code; some third party payers accept 2 additional codes. When using these codes, the physician develops a Care Plan that organizes the patient9s medical and psychosocial needs. Clinical office staff communicates among the patient9s physicians, therapists, community services, the patient, family, and caregiver. The patient chooses only one physician whose office provides these coordination services. Rules include 24/7 access for urgent phone contact and use of an electronic health record system.
The role of peripheral nerve block analgesia in advancing therapeutic effectiveness spanning the episode of care

Abstract Health care reform has brought an unprecedented emphasis on attaining greater value for patients from treatment managed by individual providers and health care facilities. The value is defined as the relationship of the outcome achieved over an episode of care compared to the effort and resources employed to achieve this outcome. It is delivered when patients recover faster with fewer expensive resources, such as hospital, skilled nursing, or rehab facility stays. It is assessed by considering longer episodes of care, such as 30-180 days after performance of a procedure; and by assessing functional recovery, independence, and reintegration as a productive member of society. We review the evidence that suggests that peripheral nerve analgesia may favorably influence the value relationships described. Where insufficient or no evidence exists, we point out the need for further improvements in the pipeline of evidence for evidence-based medicine.
Ultracompact Graphene Multigate Variable Resistor for Neuromorphic Computing

Brain-inspired or neuromorphic computing has been proposed as a method to overcome the limitations of the von-Neumann architecture. Neuromorphic computing relies on an array of neurons interconnected locally through synapses to perform computing functions such as pattern recognition and image processing. Neuromorphic computing with CMOS-based circuits has limited utility due to the relatively large area required by neurons and synapses, limiting the size of the neuromorphic network implementable on chip. In this paper, we present a novel ultracompact graphene variable resistor that can be used to implement both neurons and synapses. To illustrate the functionality of the proposed devices, we present a 3-bit digitally controlled synapse prototype that occupies 3 μm × 9.3 μm. The proposed devices pave the way for high-performance large neuromorphic networks that can be integrated with CMOS to augment its functionality or for beyond CMOS computation.
High Thrust Density Propellants in Hall Thrusters

Iodine is discussed as a possible alternate propellant in hall thrusters. Iodine vapor was generated and used in a Busek Co BHT-200 Hall-effect thruster. The thruster was successfully operated at conditions ranging from 100 Watts to 300 Watts. Thrust measurements were taken at all operating conditions. Mass flow rates were calculated empirically and were used to find efficiency and specific impulse. A Faraday probe was swept through the plume to provide current density data. An ExB probe (Wein Filter) was used to estimate plume mass fractions and ion energy characteristics. Plume data was combined to estimate efficiency. Final comparisons are made between plume and performance characteristics. Xenon was used as a comparison propellant for all of the performance and plume parameters under similar operating conditions. The possibility of using iodine as a propellant on actual missions is discussed.
Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering Major Selection in First-Year Engineering Students

Examining major selection and decision making can help us understand the recruitment and retention of engineering students. In majors that have identified overlap in terms of content and future careers, such as Mechanical Engineering and Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, it is important to understand the perspectives of students who decide to pursue these majors and if they change their major selection throughout the crucial first-year. This paper discusses results from a survey of engineering students throughout their first year of study. Pre-test, mid-test, and post-test survey results demonstrate that there are differences in certainty of major choice between those that intend to pursue Mechanical Engineering and those that intend to pursue Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, with the latter typically being a higher level of certainty. Open-ended responses highlight the differences in student perceptions of what engineers do in these two disciplines. It is hoped that the knowledge gained through this work may help inform recruitment activities, advising, and first-year engineering curriculum to allow students to make an informed decision about their major and future career.
Theoretical Study of the Adsorption of Organophosphorous Compounds to Models of a Silica Surface

We present a study of the interaction of seven organophosphorous (OP) compounds with models of a silica surface using electronic structure calculations. Two of the OP species are chemical-warfare nerve agents (sarin and soman) and the rest are organophosphate (methyl dichlorophosphate, dimethyl chlorophosphate, and trimethyl phosphate) or organophosphonate (dimethyl methylphosphonate and diisopropyl methylphosphonate) mimics utilized in recent experiments. Calculations that approximate an amorphous silica surface by a simple gas-phase silanol molecule qualitatively reproduce the trend in binding energies determined in recent ultrahigh vacuum experiments. These calculations also show that, of the various atoms in the OP species that can accept hydrogen bonds from silanol groups, the oxygen atom that forms a double bond with the central phosphorus atom provides the largest binding energy, followed first by the remaining oxygen atoms and then by the halogen atoms. Quantitative comparisons with experiments ar...
Predictive Modeling Assessment of a Crushable Foam Material

A key aspect of science-based predictive modeling is the assessment of prediction credibility. This publication argues that the credibility of a family of models and their predictions must combine three components: 1) the fidelity of predictions to test data; 2) the robustness of predictions to variability, uncertainty, and lack-ofknowledge; and 3) the prediction accuracy of models in cases where measurements are not available. Recently published Theorems demonstrate the irrevocable tradeoffs between fidelity-to-data, robustness-to-uncertainty, and confidence in prediction. Basically, high-fidelity models cannot be made increasingly robust to the lackof-knowledge. Similarly, robustness-to-uncertainty can only be improved at the cost of reducing the confidence in prediction. In this publication, the theory is illustrated with an engineering application where a family of models is developed to predict the acceleration levels obtained when impacts of varying levels propagate through layers of crushable foam material of varying thicknesses. Convex modeling is invoked to represent a severe lack-of-knowledge about the constitutive material behavior. The analysis produces a mapping of acceptable requirements of fidelity, robustness and confidence offered by a family of models. It is argued that obtaining this information is necessary to assess the predictive power of models and overall credibility of their predictions. This publication has been approved for unlimited, public release on March 7, 2005 (LA-UR-05-1537, UNCLASSIFIED).
Characters and application of GC9,a SWCV of Japonica rice

The GC9,developed from multiple-crossbreeding of Japonica,Indica and glutinous rice,was characterized with:(i)early Japonica type with panicles with larger and more number of grains,strong and thick culm;(ii)normal fertility resulted from cross-test with all the Japonica testing-varieties but ony one or two of the Indica ones,which showed its limited compatibility inter-subspecies;(iii)special compatibility and strong restoring ability to the PTGMS varieties like Peiai 64S,which created some inter-subspecies hybrid combinations with high and stable setting rate and filling and yielding potentiality.It was concluded that GC9 could be used as good Japonica restorer line,to be applied in inter-subspecies hybrid breeding.
Study on the prevalence of human bocavirus among 364 children with acute gastroenteritis

ObjectiveTo investigate the prevalence of human bocavirus(HBoV) among children with acute gastroenteritis(AGE) in Tianjin.MethodsA total of 364 fecal samples from children with AGE in Tianjin Children's Hospital were collected from August 2008 to July 2009. HBoV NP-1,NS 1 and VP gene fragments were detected by PCR. Positive PCR products were sequenced. The DNA and translated amino acid sequences were aligned with known HBoV sequences in GenBank and phylogenetic analysis was also done.ResultsTwelve(3.3%) fecal samples from children with AGE were tested positive for HBoV DNA. Multiple pathogens were detected in 5(41.7 %) of the HBoV positive samples. The frequencies of HBoV positive samples in age groups 1 ~ 6 months,7 ~ 12 months and 13 ~ 35 months were 4.8 %,3.1 % and 1.3 %, respectively. There were no HBoV positive samples detected in children 1 month or 4 years. HBoV positive rate was 7.6 % in spring(from March to May),1.1 % in summer(from June to August),2.2 % in autumn(from September to November), and 2.2 % in winter(from December to February). The DNA and translated amino acid sequences of VP gene fragments of HBoV positive strains showed 97 % ~ 99 % and 92 % ~ 99 % identity with ST 2,respectively.ConclusionHBoV is found in fecal samples of 12 patients with AGE,and is more prevalent in infants younger than one year. Co-infections are frequent and clinically similar to HBoV infection alone.
Whitewashing the Past A KKK Display in a Small Rural Midwestern Town

In States of Denial, Stanly Cohen describes how individuals and institutions know about yet deny the occurrences of oppressive acts, seeing only what they want to see and wearing blinders to avoid ...
Altered adenosine cyclic 3',5'-monophosphate synthesis and degradation by C-6 astrocytoma cells following prolonged exposure to norepinephrine.

C-6 astrocytoma cells which were incubated with norepinephrine for 3 hr lost the ability to respond to the hormone by accumulating high concentrations of adenosine cyclic 39,59-monophosphate (cAMP). The altered response of the treated cells was not attributable to a greater release of cAMP from the cells into the incubation fluid. Comparison of the rates of cAMP accumulation by and disappearance from intact cells provided evidence that cells treated with norepinephrine hydrolyzed cAMP more rapidly than did naive cells. Increased cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase activity was found in homogenates of treated cells. The increase in phosphodiesterase activity was prevented by cycloheximide and actinomycin D, indicating that an induction of new enzyme synthesis was responsible for the increase in enzyme activity. The increased phosphodiesterase activity was apparent with cAMP but not with guanosine cyclic 39,59-monophosphate (cGMP) as substrate in the enzyme assay, suggesting that the induced form of the enzyme did not hydrolyze cGMP. The increased enzyme activity did not require Ca2+ for activity. Cycloheximide only partially prevented the effect of norepinephrine treatment on cAMP accumulation by intact cells. Further experimentation revealed that the norepinephrine-stimulated adenylate cyclase was decreased in cells treated with norepinephrine in the presence of cycloheximide.
A fabrication method of unique Nafion shapes by painting for ionic polymer-metal composites(Conference Presentation)

Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites (IPMC) are useful actuators because of their ability to be fabricated in different shapes and move in various ways. However, the process to produce an IPMC is complicated and takes a few days. To make it possible to mass produce in any desired shape, the fabrication process must be updated. Presented here is a new way of producing the Nafion® base through a spraying method, then the electrode will be plated with spraying method as well. To verify that this method of fabrication produces a Nafion® sample similar to that which is commercially available, a sample that was made using spraying method and N117 purchased from DuPont™ were tested for various characteristics and compared.
Prompt Gamma-ray Activation Analysis for Certification of Sulfur in Fuel Oil SRMs.

A combination of cold neutron prompt gamma-ray activation analysis (CNPGAA) and thermal neutron (TN) PGAA was used to determine sulfur in fuel oils to develop a method to provide values for certification. CNPGAA was used to measure S/H mass ratios, and TNPGAA to measure hydrogen mass fractions. Measurements were combined to determine sulfur mass fractions (with expanded uncertainties) of 2.159 ± 0.072 % for SRM 1622e, 0.7066 ± 0.0120 % for SRM 1619b, and 0.1266 ± 0.0030 % for SRM 1617b, in agreement with certified values. The results validate the method as suitable for certification of sulfur at mass fractions ≥0.1 %.
Financial Sustainability and Personal Finance Education

Financial stability refers to having the ability to manage financial resources to meet family financial needs throughout one’s life cycle and through ups and downs of economy at large. Size, allocation, and composition of household’s financial resources play a critical role in achieving such financial stability. The composition of a household’s financial resources is a function of financial habits, values, beliefs, and practices. Complexity of financial behavior calls for a multidisciplinary approach to future education and research efforts. The goal of all financial educational efforts must be to ensure that people gain knowledge leading to the development of habits and behaviors resulting in long-term financial security of their households and society at large. Research results must guide government policies and business practices ensuring a safe financial environment where individuals can demonstrate sound financial behaviors and sustain healthy financial status for the long term.
Rescue of the 1947 Zika Virus Prototype Strain with a Cytomegalovirus Promoter-Driven cDNA Clone.

The recent Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak has been linked to severe pathogenesis. Here, we report the construction of a plasmid carrying a cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter-expressed prototype 1947 Uganda MR766 ZIKV cDNA that can initiate infection following direct plasmid DNA transfection of mammalian cells. Incorporation of a synthetic intron in the nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) region of the ZIKV polyprotein reduced viral cDNA-associated toxicity in bacteria. High levels of infectious virus were produced following transfection of the plasmid bearing the wild-type MR766 ZIKV genome, but not one with a disruption to the viral nonstructural protein 5 (NS5) polymerase active site. Multicycle growth curve and plaque assay experiments indicated that the MR766 virus resulting from plasmid transfection exhibited growth characteristics that were more similar to its parental isolate than previously published 2010 Cambodia and 2015 Brazil cDNA-rescued ZIKV. This ZIKV infectious clone will be useful for investigating the genetic determinants of ZIKV infection and pathogenesis and should be amenable to construction of diverse infectious clones expressing reporter proteins and representing a range of ZIKV isolates. IMPORTANCE The study of ZIKV, which has become increasingly important with the recent association of this virus with microcephaly and Guillain-Barre syndrome, would benefit from an efficient strategy to genetically manipulate the virus. This work describes a model system to produce infectious virus in cell culture. We created a plasmid carrying the prototype 1947 Uganda MR766 ZIKV genome that both was stable in bacteria and could produce high levels of infectious virus in mammalian cells through direct delivery of this DNA. Furthermore, growth properties of this rescued virus closely resembled those of the viral isolate from which it was derived. This model system will provide a simple and effective means to study how ZIKV genetics impact viral replication and pathogenesis.
Encapsulation of natural ingredient for skin protection via nanoemulsion process

Many of the sunscreens are used during the hot summer time to protect the skin surface. However, some of ingredients in the sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, retinyl palmitate and synthetic fragrances including parabens, phthalates and synthetic musk may disrupt the cells on the skin and create harmful effects to human body. Natural oils may be considered for substitution of harmful ingredients in sunscreens. Many natural oils (e.g., macadamia oil, sesame oil, almond oil and olive oil) have UV protective property and on top of that they have natural essences. Among the natural oils, olive oil has a long history of being used as a home remedy for skincare. Olive oil is used or substituted for cleanser, moisturizer, antibacterial agent and massage reliever for muscle fatigue. It is known that sun protection factor (SPF) of olive oil is around eight. There has been relatively little scientific work performed on the effect of olive oil on the skin as sunscreen. With nanoencapsulation technique, UV light protection of the olive oil can be extended which will provide better coverage for the skin throughout the day. In the present study, natural olive oil was incorporated with DI water and surfactant (sodium dodecyl sulfate - SDS) and sonicated using probe sonicators. Sonication time, and concentrations of olive oil, DI water and surfactant were investigated in detail. The produced nanoemulsions were characterized using dynamic light scattering, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. It is believed that the nanoencupsulation of olive oil could provide better skin protection by slow releasing and deeper penetration of the nanoemulsion on skin surface. Undergraduate engineering students were involved in the project and observed all the process during the laboratory studies, as well as data collection, analysis and presentation. This experience based learning will likely enhance the students’ skills and interest in the scientific and engineering studies.
CHAPTER 26 – Quality Assessment of Drug Therapy

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews medication use-related quality issues in an institutional context and highlights their impact on patient care and clinical research. A medication error is any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or harm to the patient while medication is in the control of a healthcare professional, patient, or consumer. The medication-use system in an institutional setting offers even more complexity, with more chances for error. There are multiple facets to the quality assessment of medication use. Among them are the monitoring of adverse medication events and medication-use-evaluation programs. The pharmacy and therapeutics committee is expected to oversee important policies and procedures associated with the use of medications. The objective of an active formulary program is to direct medication use to preferred agents, which offer a therapeutic or safety benefit or an economic advantage. In addition to drug selection, the pharmacy and therapeutics committee is responsible for considering formulary tactics to support the overall goal of optimal medication use. The strategies for improving medication use are elaborated in the chapter.
Workers who use spreadsheets and who program earn more than similar workers who do neither

Prior work showed that in 2001 and 2003, workers in America who used spreadsheets or databases, and who did programming, earned 9 to 13% more than similar workers who did not use spreadsheets nor did programming. Such a fact, if still true, could help motivate workers to do programming and/or to create spreadsheets. This paper presents a study replicating these analyses using 2012 data. The results show that workers in America who used spreadsheets and who did programming earned approximately 10% more than similar workers who did neither (controlling for employment and demographic characteristics). These results highlight the potential fruitfulness of further research aimed at quantifying the personal financial benefits of using spreadsheets and doing programming.
Forced underwater laminar flows with active magnetohydrodynamic metamaterials

Theory and practical implementations for wake-free propulsion systems are proposed and proven with computational fluid dynamic modeling. Introduced earlier, the concept of active hydrodynamic metamaterials is advanced by introducing magnetohydrodynamic metamaterials, structures with custom-designed volumetric distribution of Lorentz forces acting on a conducting fluid. Distributions of volume forces leading to wake-free, laminar flows are designed using multivariate optimization. Theoretical indications are presented that such flows can be sustained at arbitrarily high Reynolds numbers. Moreover, it is shown that in the limit $\mathrm{Re}\ensuremath{\gg}{10}^{2}$, a fixed volume force distribution may lead to a forced laminar flow across a wide range of Re numbers, without the need to reconfigure the force-generating metamaterial. Power requirements for such a device are studied as a function of the fluid conductivity. Implications to the design of distributed propulsion systems underwater and in space are discussed.
Students' understanding of basic computational concepts in an introduction to mobile development course

Building basic computational thinking skills is an important goal in courses that introduce computing to students with limited programming background. Among choices of tools and platforms, MIT App Inventor is a popular mobile app development environment particularly suitable for engaging novice learners. Users are able to create their own mobile apps with real-world usefulness without having to deal with difficult language syntax. However, a study of computational thinking assessment showed students had difficulties in learning abstract concepts such as procedure and flow control using App Inventor [1]. Meanwhile, non-CS major students demonstrated a lack of continuous growth in computational thinking skills compared to CS major students [1]. In another recent study [2], students reported increased interests in computing after being exposed to modern responsive web development, but it is unclear if having an HTML/CSS background makes it more effective in learning abstract computational concepts when using App Inventor.
Prion protein genes: evolutionary and functional aspects.

Over the past decade, a wealth of new information about the biological and physical properties as well as genetics of the particle causing scrapie has accumulated. A host-encoded protein denominated prion protein (PrP) is transformed upon infection into a scrapie-specific isoform (PrPSc). Considerable evidence argues that PrPSc is a major and necessary component of the infectious scrapie particle termed prion (Prusiner 1982; Oesch et al. 1985; Gabizon et al. 1988; Gabizon and Prusiner 1990). Genetically, the PrP gene has been linked to a gene controlling the incubation time and species specificity (Carlson et al. 1986, 1988; Hunter et al. 1987; Mohri and Tateishi 1989; Scott et al. 1989; Race et al. 1990). Unfortunately, we still lack molecular probes directed towards the scrapie-specific portion of prions. The only convenient markers known to date are the protease resistance and detergent insolubility of PrPSc. The identification of different scrapie “strains” or isolates which appear to breed true in the same inbred host suggests that inheritable information independent of the host must be encoded within the infectious particle (Bruce and Dickinson 1987; Kimberlin et al. 1987). This hypothetical informational molecule has been equated with a nucleic acid genome which, however, is still elusive (Alper et al. 1967; Rohwer 1984; Duguid et al. 1988; Oesch et al. 1988; Aiken et al. 1989). As an unusual possibility, inheritable information may be encoded in molecules other than nucleic acid.
A Survey of Scheduling Results for Imprecise Computation Tasks

Meeting deadline constraints is one of the most important concerns in real-time systems. Sometimes, it is impossible to schedule all of the tasks so that their deadlines are met, a situation that occurs quite often when the system is in peak load. To cope with this situation, one can completely give up certain less important tasks in favor of meeting the deadlines of more important ones. Another approach is to regard each task as logically composed of two subtasks, mandatory and optional; the optional subtask of each task begins after the end of its mandatory subtask. It is required that each task finishes its mandatory subtask completely, while its optional subtask can be left unfinished. If a task cannot finish its optional subtask, it incurs an error proportional to the execution time of its unfinished portion. This approach is particularly useful for iterative algorithms, where the mandatory subtask corresponds to the task of obtaining an initial result and the optional subtask corresponds to the enhancement of previously obtained results. With this approach it is possible to satisfy the deadline constraints of more tasks, even though some tasks may not have completely finished execution.
Acute Lethality — The Hemopoietic Syndrome in Different Species

The following presentation will consist of two segments. The first is a general consideration of the hemopoietic syndrome and its variation among animal species. The second portion includes a discussion of studies done within the Medical and Biology Departments at Brookhaven aimed at gaining a better understanding of the hemopoietic syndrome and its modification in mammalian systems.
THE EXPRESSION OF HUMAN ALBUMIN IN A MOUSE HEPATOMA/HUMAN LEUCOCYTE HYBRID

ABSTRACT. Cells derived from a murine hepatoma were adapted to in vitro growth. A substrain of the hepatoma line, Hepa la, was selected for resistance to 6-thioguanine and has been shown to be deficient for hypoxanthine: guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT). Hepa la cells continue to synthesize and secrete several serum proteins in vitro including albumin, transferrin, ceruloplasmin, and α-fetoprotein. In addition, Hepa la expresses Es-2 esterase, an electrophoretic form of esterase found predominantly in tissues of the liver and kidney. The mouse line was co-cultivated with normal human leucocytes in the presence of inactivated Sendai virus. Five colonies appeared which were isolated and shown to be hybrid by isozymic and karyotypic analysis. Three of the hybrids were tested for the production of the mouse proteins transferrin and α-fetoprotein; they continued to express these murine differentiated functions. All five hybrids produced both mouse serum albumin and Es-2 esterase. In addition to the mouse proteins, two hybrid populations were observed which produced human serum albumin. The activation of a non-hepatic human genome to perform a liver function suggests the possibility that the human structural loci for differentiated phenotypes can be mapped in this somatic cell hybrid system.
A Desalination Battery Combining Cu3[Fe(CN)6]2 as a Na-Storage Electrode and Bi as a Cl-Storage Electrode Enabling Membrane-Free Desalination

A desalination battery is an attractive route for seawater desalination because it couples ion removal with energy storage. In this work, we paired Cu3[Fe(CN)6]2·nH2O as the Na-storage electrode wi...
Parent-Teen Communication about Sexual and Reproductive Health: Cohort Differences by Race/Ethnicity and Nativity

Parent-teen discussions about sexual and reproductive health (SRH) are associated with delayed sex and higher contraceptive use among teens. Using the National Survey of Family Growth, we conducted bivariate and multivariate analyses of different types of parent-teen SRH discussions among two cohorts of teens. We describe differences in patterns for males and females by race/ethnicity and nativity, and test for racial/ethnic interactions within each cohort. Analyses found that the prevalence of parent-teen discussions about SRH increased across cohorts. For males and females, there were increases in parent-teen discussions about condoms, and for males only, there were increases in any SRH discussions and discussions about contraception and STIs. Based on interactions, parent-teen discussions and STI discussions increased most for Hispanic females, and among Hispanics, increased most for the foreign-born. These data indicate increases in different types of parent-teen SRH discussions, particularly for males and foreign-born teens overall, and for Hispanic teen females regarding condom use. Future research should examine what factors are driving these changes, including changes in the structure of U.S. Hispanic communities and expansion of evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention programs.
Surgery at Sea: Exploring the Training Gap for Isolated Military Surgeons.

Objective Newly-graduated military general surgeons often find themselves isolated at sea, solely responsible for all surgical care of several thousand sailors, regardless of the surgical specialty training required for any individual procedure. This educational need assessment explored trends in afloat surgical care over the last 25 years, and assessed trainees’ preparedness for their expected role as an isolated surgeon. Design A sample of deidentified US Navy Ship's Surgeon case logs were reviewed to determine afloat case load trends in 5 common afloat case categories (urologic/gynecologic, anorectal, hernia, appendectomy, and hand/orthopedic/trauma) from 1990s to 2017. Individual procedures were mapped to American College of Surgeons/Military Health System Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes line items to ensure afloat-relevant skills were identified. Recent military resident case logs were then compared with afloat cases to evaluate relevant trainee experience. Setting US Navy ships at sea from 1995 to 2017. Participants US Navy afloat-deployed surgeons, totaling 1340 cases within the study period. Results Case log analysis of 1340 surgeries, comprising >200 months at sea, reflected 46 named procedures; 34 of 46 (74%) correlated to an intraoperative knowledge, skills, and attitudes item. The most common surgeries were vasectomy, (304 of 1340, 23%). No difference in case mix was apparent comparing pre- and post-2000 deployments (representing afloat laparoscopic integration) in 4 of 5 categories, while hernias proportionally declined. Case volume per deployment markedly declined overall (p Conclusions No formal case repository exists for afloat surgery, making detailed analysis problematic. Current training provides excellent surgical education but minimal exposure to rare-but-real cases expected on deployments, which may not translate to competency for the isolated, afloat surgeon. Military surgical leadership should embrace training for these cases and assertively invest in the development of the military's newest surgeons.
Outcomes of Onyx® Embolization of Type II Endoleaks After Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms.

Background Type II endoleaks (T2ELs) are common following endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms (EVAR). Embolization with ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (Onyx) may present an effective treatment alternative for T2ELs. Due to limited data supporting its use, we sought to analyze outcomes of Onyx embolization for T2ELs. Methods Retrospective review of consecutive patients treated for T2ELs utilizing Onyx embolization agent from 2009–2018. All pre- and post-Onyx intervention CT scans were analyzed for diameter and volume changes with 3D reconstruction software. The primary outcomes were change in maximum AAA diameter and volume. Secondary outcomes included additional interventions, rupture, and mortality. A subset analysis was performed with patients with isolated T2ELs (no other types of endoleaks present). Results We identified 85 patients (73 males, mean age 77.6 ± 7.6 years) who underwent 112 Onyx interventions. Average time to first Onyx intervention after index EVAR was 3.3 ± 2.6 years and average sac growth was 6.3 ± 6.7 mm. Patients underwent mean 1.3 Onyx interventions using a mean of 4.9 ± 4.7 ml for treatment. Three complications occurred (Onyx extravasation, colon ischemia, and access site hematoma). Mean follow-up was 2.5 ± 2.1 years after initial Onyx treatment. At the most recent follow-up, sac diameter stabilization was seen in 47% and reduction >5 mm was seen in 19%. Sac growth of >5 mm was seen in 34% of patients following the first Onyx intervention. In our subset of isolated T2EL, 72% had sac stabilization or reduction >5 mm. Four patients experienced a ruptured aneurysm (3 had active type 1 endoleaks). Rupture-free survival was 95% at 5 years, and overall survival was 54% at 5 years. Notably, increasing Onyx interventions were not associated with sac stabilization or reduction (OR 0.6, P = 0.1). On multivariable analysis, AAA sac diameter stabilization or reduction was independently associated with BMI >30 kg/m2 (OR 4.2, P = 0.01) and having only 1 Onyx intervention (OR 3.8, P = 0.02). Conclusions Onyx for embolization of T2ELs resulted in AAA sac diameter stabilization or reduction in 66% of patients, and up to 72% in isolated T2ELs. Further, increasing Onyx interventions were not associated with either aneurysm sac stabilization or reduction. Given its similar outcomes to other embolization strategies in the literature, Onyx embolization for management of T2ELs needs to be judiciously considered, particularly for T2ELs persisting after an initial Onyx embolization intervention.
Alterations of the Hair Follicle in Hair Diseases

Hair diseases can be divided into those that lead to deformed hairs, with possible loss through breakage, and into the true alopecias in which hair is lost completely, either temporarily or permanently. In either case, microscopic changes of the hair follicle may be expected (Pinkus and Mehregan 1976).