cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Terabyte-scale Particle Data Analysis: An ArrayUDF Case Study

A prime question for plasma physicists is how a fraction of charged particles is accelerated to very high energy.To answer this question, physicists simulate trillions of particles with detailed dynamics and analyze their trajectories. This process requires a range of data analysis tasks with high diversity. In this paper, we present a use case of formulating various analysis tasks on terabyte-scale particle data with a novel data analysis framework called ArrayUDF. The flexibility of ArrayUDF allows it to compose a wide range of particle data operations. We also present optimization strategies to avoid frequent global reduction and to take full advantage of the data locality. Tests show that our optimization methods could accelerate these particle data analysis operations by up to 1,600 times.
Winners and Learners: Classroom Discourse Surrounding Educational Game-Play

Teacher mediation has been shown to be a key factor in the successful implementation of educational games, particularly with respect to lower-performing students. There has been little previous research, however, that has described teacher mediation during educational game-play. This qualitative study used discourse analysis methods to examine classroom interaction during educational game-play, observing the classroom-conversation between teachers and differentiated student groups in four third-grade classrooms. Results from this study revealed that discourse in the educational gaming context was overwhelming focused on the procedural aspects of game-play, rather than on the learning objectives of the game. This “procedural pull” of the gaming context was pervasive and appeared to result from several factors, including the level of procedure inherent in the game itself, teachers’ varying instructional approaches, and from the students themselves. Results from this study also demonstrated that, contrary to previous findings in the teacher expectations literature, the lowest-performing student groups received a disproportionate amount of teacher time, attention, and content support in each of the classrooms. However, the additional teacher time and attention paid to these lowest-performing student groups appeared to come at the expense of other relatively lower-performing groups in the classes. The results of this study increase our understanding of how teachers implement educational games and may have relevance for other educational games and game-playing contexts.
Strategies to Achieve Spinal Fusion in Multilevel Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery: An Overview:

BackgroundAnterior cervical fusion offers surgeons a safe and reliable surgical option for single-level and multilevel pathology; however, multilevel fusions pose a higher risk of complications tha...
Performance of Children With Hearing Loss on an Audiovisual Version of a Nonword Repetition Task

Purpose The aims of this study were to (a) determine if a high-quality adaptation of an audiovisual nonword repetition task can be completed by children with wide-ranging hearing abilities and to (...
Bidirectional sex-dependent regulation of α6 and β3 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors by protein kinase Cε

Nicotine and alcohol are the most commonly abused substances worldwide, and comorbid nicotine and alcohol addiction is highly prevalent. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) containing the α6 and β3 subunits are expressed in neural reward circuits and are critical for both nicotine and alcohol reward. nAChRs are dynamically regulated by signaling molecules such as protein kinase C epsilon (PKCe), which impact transcription of α6 and β3 subunit mRNA (Chrna6 and Chrnb3, respectively). Previous work found decreased expression of Chrna6 and Chrnb3 transcripts in the ventral midbrain of male PKCe-/- mice, who also consume less nicotine and alcohol compared to wild-type (WT) littermates. Here, we show that female PKCe-/- mice have enhanced expression of Chrna6 and Chrnb3 transcripts in the ventral midbrain, which functionally impacts nAChR-dependent behavior, as female but not male PKCe-/- mice exhibit locomotor hypersensitivity to nicotine. Female PKCe-/- mice show no differences in alcohol-induced sedation compared to WT littermates, while male PKCe-/- mice have enhanced sedation compared to WT mice, a phenotype that has previously been reported in α6-/- mice. Female PKCe-/- mice also show reduced depression-like behavior in response to systemic injections of varenicline compared to WT littermates, and this effect was absent in male mice. Additionally, we found that female PKCe-/- mice show altered alcohol and nicotine consumption patterns in chronic voluntary two bottle choice assays. Our data reveal a bidirectional effect of sex in the transcriptional regulation of nicotinic receptors by PKCe, and highlight the importance of studying both sexes in preclinical animal models.
Applied Optics in 2019 and Our Path Forward in 2020: editorial

Editor-in-Chief Ron Driggers summarizes the current state of Applied Optics and its plans for 2020.
Multilevel Converters With Symmetrical Half-Bridge Submodules and Sensorless Voltage Balance

H-bridge-based multilevel converters (e.g., cascaded H-bridge converters) benefit from modularity and scalability. However, they suffer from the complexity and costs associated with a large count of semiconductor switches, together with their drivers and peripheral circuits, as well as higher conduction losses as compared to half-bridge-based counterparts, as two switches in each submodule must simultaneously conduct to provide a current path. To reduce the number of active switch semiconductors and conduction losses, this article proposes novel multilevel converters with symmetrical half-bridge submodules. The symmetrical half-bridge submodule features a bipolar voltage output, a reduced switch count, and simplicity. Furthermore, this article proposes a sensorless voltage balance scheme that successfully gets rid of capacitor voltage mismatch problems through diodes and submodule parallelization. This scheme can greatly reduce capacitor voltage ripples, thereby allowing the saving of dc capacitances, particularly in the case of numerous submodules. Finally, simulation and experimental results validate the superiority of the proposed multilevel converters and voltage balance scheme.
The Development of Kraepelin's Concept of Dementia Praecox: A Close Reading of Relevant Texts

In 1893 and 1896, in his fourth and fifth textbook editions, Emil Kraepelin brought together 3 syndromes to form the first and second of his 2 prequels to dementia praecox (DP), a definitive version of which he would propose in his 1899 sixth textbook edition. These syndromes, which would become hebephrenic DP, catatonic DP, and paranoid DP, each had distinct histories. Hebephrenic DP was derived from syndromes first proposed by Hecker, and catatonic DP was derived from syndromes first proposed by Kahlbaum, and then both were substantially revised. Kraepelin created paranoid DP de novo from a division of his early broad delusional syndrome Verrucktheit, distinguishing it from paranoia. Two of these syndromes (catatonic DP and paranoid DP) were present in different forms in his earlier textbook editions, and 1 syndrome (hebephrenic DP) was not. In his 2 prequels, the 3 syndromes were listed together with a brief preface. In the sixth textbook edition, they became "clinical forms" of DP with a lengthy integrative introduction. Much more than in his prequels, in his sixth edition, Kraepelin stitched these 3 syndromes together, emphasizing their shared signs, symptoms, and course. Hebephrenia was the core of Kraepelin's DP concept, while the paranoid subtype fitted least comfortably within his framework. His term dementia was meant in a broad sense consistent with both short-term and rare long-term recoveries. Kraepelin was a pragmatist, not a purist, in his nosologic work and focused both on clinical features and course and outcome. He experimented with various nosologic categories, willing to revise earlier formulations in the light of new data. He was more tentative about his conclusions than many who followed him.
The Conditional Effects of Health on Voter Turnout.

CONTEXT Voting is the central instrument of democracy, yet there are a number of impediments that affect citizens' ability to turn out to vote. Health is one such impediment. METHODS This study draws on 2012 and 2016 election data from the Cooperative Congressional Election Study and the American National Election Studies and uses objective validated measures of voter turnout as well as postelection data on respondents' reasons for nonvoting to examine the relationship between self-reported health and voter turnout. FINDINGS The results indicate poor health depresses turnout among low-income voters but not high-income voters. A low-income citizen in poor health is 7 points less likely to turn out to vote than a low-income citizen in excellent health is. In contrast, a high-income citizen in poor health is just as likely to vote as a high-income citizen in excellent health is. Moreover, low-income citizens in poor health are 10 points more likely to cite sickness as an impediment to voting than are otherwise similar high-income citizens who are also in poor health. CONCLUSIONS The findings have implications for health policy and unequal electoral engagement and suggest that health may narrow the scope of US democracy as poor health pushes low-income citizens out of the electoral sphere while high-income citizens continue to turn out to vote regardless of their underlying health conditions.
Personalizing 3D virtual fashion stores: Exploring modularity with a typology of atmospherics based on user input

Abstract This research develops a typology of atmospherics that contains user-identified modules and modular options for personalizing 3D virtual fashion stores. A content analysis of 46 focus group discussions (n = 170) was conducted to understand the user’s perspective for personalizing 3D virtual fashion store atmospherics. Based on three atmospheric categories (pathfinding assistant, environment, and the manner of product presentation), 17 modules and 207 modular options were identified for personalizing 3D virtual stores. This research pioneers the development of an atmospherics typology for personalizing 3D virtual shopping environments as a persuasive selling tool in the emerging field of 3D virtual reality (VR) retailing.
Why Dick and Jane don’t ask: Getting past initiation barriers in negotiations

Abstract Negotiation is an essential skill for personal well-being and professional success, a skill that begins with identifying and acting on one's wants and needs. Many individuals, however, lack the confidence, motivation, or training to simply ask for what they want in certain situations; for example, when negotiating with an important client. Still others are reluctant to initiate requests in general. This article discusses the personal characteristics and situational factors that influence an individual's likelihood of engaging another party in a negotiation, making a request, and optimizing that request. Herein, specific suggestions are offered for managing this critical phase of the negotiation process via three steps: mental preparation prior to the engagement; positioning prior to, and at the point of, the engagement; and verbal craftsmanship during the delivery of one's request.
Initial experience and early outcomes of the management of acute pulmonary embolism using the FlowTriever mechanical thrombectomy device.

Background Submassive and massive pulmonary embolism is associated with a high risk of complications. We aimed to evaluate our initial experience with a mechanical thrombectomy device in the management of these patients. Methods A single-center, retrospective study was performed in patients with acute submassive and massive pulmonary embolism treated with the FlowTriever device (Inari Medical, Irvine, CA) between June 2019 and November 2020. Clinical and technical parameters were analysed during the hospitalization and at 30- and 180-days after the procedure. Results Fourteen patients were evaluated with a median (IQR) age of 60 (50-69) years and 64% were male. All had right heart strain as the main indication for thrombectomy. The procedure duration and fluoroscopic time was 52 (37-89) and 13 (9-24) minutes, respectively. There was 100% technical success, and the pulmonary arterial pressure went from 60 (48-65) mmHg to 40 (34-47) mmHg. Thrombolysis was used in two patients and nine patients required intensive care. 100% experienced improvement in symptoms at the time of discharge. There were no device-related complications, major bleeding events, myocardial infarctions, or deaths. Preprocedural haemoglobin was 13 (12-15) g/dl, and pre-discharge was 12 (10-13) g/dl. Overall post-procedural length of stay was three (2-6) days. All the patients were discharged with oral anticoagulation. There were no devicerelated complications or recurrence of embolism at 30 and 180 days. Conclusions The mechanical thrombectomy device for submassive and massive pulmonary embolism is promising and appears a safe and effective procedure with 100% technical success, no complications, short intensive care requirement/stay, and good early clinical outcomes.
Retinal Microvascular Changes Differentiate Mild Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) from Mimics among Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department (ED) with Suspected TIA: The FOTO-TIA Study (2266)

Objective: A primary aim of the FOTO-TIA study was to investigate a possible role for retinal microvascular findings in TIA risk stratification. Background: About 10% of the 250–500,000 Americans who experience TIA annually have a stroke within 90 days. Clinical scores and MRI-DWI findings are routinely used to help triage patients with suspected TIA, although categorizing DWI-negative spells as TIAs or non–cerebrovascular events (CVE) is challenging. Design/Methods: FOTO-TIA was a cohort study of adult patients with a NIH Stroke Scale ≤ 3 admitted to three EDs’ observation units for an accelerated diagnostic protocol for suspected TIA or stroke. Clinical and imaging results were recorded prospectively. Non-mydriatic fundus photographs were obtained as part of the accelerated diagnostic protocol and reviewed for retinal microvascular findings, defined as retinal hemorrhages, cotton wool spots, retinal emboli or occlusions, hard exudates, or microaneurysms. A neurologist rated the probability each patient’s presentation (masked to fundus photography) represented a CVE on a visual analogue scale. Results: 395 patients were enrolled (median age: 57 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 50–66); 219 (55%) women; 253 (64%) black; 34 (9%) retinal microvascular findings present; median CVE probability assessment 22% (IQR: 5–100)). Controlling for the individual components of the ABCD2 score (age, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, clinical symptoms, duration of symptoms, and diabetes) and presence of a MRI-DWI positive lesion, any retinal microvascular finding increased the CVE probability assessment by 15.6% (95%CI: 4.2–27.1%, p=0.008). Excluding patients with a DWI positive lesion (i.e., those with definite stroke), any retinal microvascular finding increased CVE probability assessment by 21.8% (95%CI: 6.1–37.5%, p=0.007). Conclusions: Retinal microvascular findings assessed by nonmydriatic ocular fundus photographs during the evaluation of suspected TIAs in the ED are an independent factor differentiating TIA and stroke from mimics. Disclosure: Dr. Bruce has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with MedImmune, Bayer, Jensen Law Group. Dr. Bidot has nothing to disclose. Dr. Nahab has nothing to disclose. Dr. Siegelman has nothing to disclose. Dr. Bianchi has nothing to disclose. Dr. Sandor has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lin has nothing to disclose. Dr. Bell has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ross has nothing to disclose. Dr. Wright has nothing to disclose. Dr. Biousse has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Gensight Biologics.Dr. Newman has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with GenSight, Santhera, and Quark. Dr. Newman has received research support from GenSight and Santhera.
SU-E-T-135: Assessing the Clinical Impact of Approximations in Analytical Dose Calculations for Proton Therapy

Purpose: To estimate the clinical relevance of approximations made in analytical dose calculation methods (ADCs) used for treatment planning on tumor coverage and tumor control probability (TCP) in proton therapy. Methods: We compared dose distributions planned with ADC to delivered dose distributions (as determined by TOPAS Monte Carlo (MC) simulations). We investigated 10 patients per site for 5 treatment sites (head-and-neck, lung, breast, prostate, liver). We evaluated differences between the two dose distributions analyzing dosimetric indices based on the dose-volume-histograms, the γ-index and the TCP. The normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) was estimated for the bladder and anterior rectum for the prostate patients. Results: We find that the target doses are overestimated by the ADC by 1–2% on average for all patients considered. All dosimetric indices (the mean dose, D95, D50 and D02, the dose values covering 95%, 50% and 2% of the target volume, respectively) are predicted within 5% of the delivered dose. A γ-index with a 3%/3mm criteria had a passing rate for target volumes above 96% for all patients. The TCP predicted by the two algorithms was up to 2%, 2.5%, 6%, 6.5%, and 11% for liver and breast, prostate, head-and-neck and lung patients, respectively. Differences in NTCP for anterior-rectum and bladder for prostate patients were less than 3%. Conclusion: We show that ADC provide adequate dose distributions for most patients, however, they can Result in underdosage of the target by as much as 5%. The TCP was found to be up to 11% lower than predicted. Advanced dose-calculation methods like MC simulations may be necessary in proton therapy to ensure target coverage for heterogeneous patient geometries, in clinical trials comparing proton therapy to conventional radiotherapy to avoid biases due to systematic discrepancies in calculated dose distributions, and, if tighter range margins are considered. Fully funded by NIH grants.
Summertime scorcher: Assessing and promoting sunscreen protection in an amusement park setting

Summary Background/Purpose Intense, intermittent exposure, the kind of exposure associated with attending an amusement park for example, is correlated with the development of basal cell carcinoma and melanoma. The goals of this study were to assess the use of the station by visitors and to identify opportunities to increase the utilization of the sunscreen station. Methods The study was a descriptive observational study of attendees at an amusement park in Pennsylvania. The study included a paper survey and observation of the station for frequency of use. Results The station was very infrequently used; observation showed that 0.9% (8/879) of attendees in proximity used the station. There were numerous suggestions from attendees about increased utilization by improved station signage and locations as well as station advertising. Surveys were collected from 283 attendees and 59% (n = 165) had used sunscreen on the day of the study and 29% (n = 81) reported typical sunscreen use as ‘Never’ or ‘Rarely’ used. Once visitors were made aware of the station, 76% (201/263) reported that they would utilize it. Conclusion This study showed that sunscreen use at an amusement park can be improved, especially among men and young adults. Therefore, men and younger visitors need to be purposefully encouraged in advertising and marketing the sunscreen stations.
JWT China: Advertising for the New Chinese Consumer

This case analyzes the business strategy and expansion of JWT China from the late 1990s to 2008. As part of the world's fourth largest marketing communications network, JWT China grew into one of the largest integrated communications companies in China operating from offices in various parts of the country. The case provides students with a comprehensive history of and insights into China's advertising industry and the challenges for foreign and domestic firms operating within a highly regulated media environment controlled by the Chinese government. At the same time, this case offers insights into the structure of the highly fragmented Chinese consumers market, exploring the socio-economic disparities in income and media access as well as culturally determined consumer behavior across different regions and urban and rural areas. The case lets students explore how these trends might impact JWT's advertising and marketing strategies in the future and how to evaluate JWT's business expansion in China dealing with local and foreign competition.
Compassion fatigue in family caregivers: a Wilsonian concept analysis.

lynch s.h. & lobo m.l. (2012) Compassion fatigue in family caregivers: a Wilsonian concept analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(9), 2125–2134. Abstract Aim. An analysis of the concept of compassion fatigue in family caregivers. Background. The term ‘compassion fatigue’ is predominantly used with professional caregivers, such as nurses, doctors and social workers. Secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and other related terms are often cited in the literature in conjunction with compassion fatigue. Although compassion fatigue is linked to professional caregivers as a result of exposure to traumatizing events, minimal knowledge has been developed regarding its presence in family caregivers. Data sources. Literature published between 1980–2010 from the humanities, nursing and the social sciences, including psychology, sociology, social work, and religion, was reviewed. Data sources included dictionaries, newspapers and multiple academic databases, such as Academic Search Complete, Atla, CINAHL, PsychInfo, and PubMed. Review methods. Wilson’s concept analysis strategy was employed to frame the analysis of compassion fatigue, using model, contrary, related, and borderline cases to illustrate the concept’s meaning in relation to family caregivers. Results. Analysis revealed that the concept is predominantly used in relation to healthcare providers. Parallels are drawn between the role of healthcare providers and family caregivers. Compassion fatigue occurs when a care-giving relationship founded on empathy potentially results in a deep psychological response to stress that progresses to physical, psychological, spiritual, and social exhaustion in the family caregiver. Conclusion. This concept analysis clarified the definition and revealed that the concept of compassion fatigue has potential use with family caregivers. Implications for practice and research are identified.
NEONATAL VENTILATORY THERAPY: COMPARISON OF FOLLOW-UP RESULTS OF INFANTS WITH BIRTH WEIGHT (B.WT.) ≤1500 G. AND >1500 G

Several recent follow-up reports on infants surviving neonatal ventilatory therapy showed an incidence of major neurologic and intellectual defects to be only in the range of 10% to 20% for infants of B. Wt. >1500 g, but were as high as 50% for infants of B.Wt. 1500 g) who received ventilatory therapy at our center were evaluated at ages ranging from one to three years. Incidence of abnormal findings are listed below: Although there is a substantial incidence of abnormal findings in both groups of infants, there were no significant differences in the follow-up results of infants of B. Wt. ≤1500 g and >1500 g, who received ventilatory therapy in the neonatal period.
Spectroscopic Evidence for Backbone Desolvation of Helical Peptides by 2,2,2-Trifluoroethanol: An Isotope-Edited FTIR Study†

2,2,2-Trifluoroethanol (TFE) is widely used to induce helix formation in peptides and proteins, but the mechanism behind this effect is still poorly understood. Several recent papers have proposed that TFE acts by selectively desolvating the peptide backbone groups of the helix state. Infrared (IR) spectroscopy of the amide I band of polypeptides can be used to probe both secondary structure and backbone solvation, making this technique well suited for addressing the effect of TFE on polypeptide conformation. In this paper, we report the IR spectra as a function of TFE concentration for an alanine-rich peptide based on the repeat (AAKAA)n. The IR spectra confirm that TFE desolvates the helical state of the peptide to a greater extent than the random coil state. Moreover, using a series of specifically 13C-labeled peptides, the precise residues desolvated in the presence of TFE were identified. The residues most desolvated by TFE are the alanines located at position i − 4 in the sequence, where i is a lysi...
Comparison of reactivity of Ar(3P0) and Ar(3P2) metastable states. Rate constants for quenching by Kr and CO

Abstract A simple method is described for studying the reactions of metastable Ar( 3 P 0 ) and Ar( 3 P 2 ) atoms separately in a discharge-flow system. CO and Kr quench these states with rate constants in the ratio k 0 (CO)/ k 2 (CO) = 8±1 and k 2 (Kr)/ k 0 (Kr) = 18±2.
"Acts of God and man": Long-term character change in survivors of disasters and the law

Evidence from differing disaster populations indicates enduring effects on mental functioning or character change in survivors. Following the Buffalo Creek Disaster, character changes included psychic constriction, denial, somatization, and survivor guilt. In the legal proceedings following that disaster survivors received compensation for "psychic impairment," a term devised to cover the long-term effects of the survivor syndrome. Among combatant survivors of the Vietnam War, a common character change included the failure to channel hostile impulses effectively. Crucial for this group has been the role of law to provide a recovery environment conducive to their reentry to society. Language: en
Green plants: electrochemical interfaces

Abstract The most rapid methods of long distance communication between plant tissues and organs are bioelectrochemical signals. The action potential propagates rapidly throughout the plant along electrified interfaces. A potential pathway for transmission of this electrical signal might be the phloem sieve-tube system since it represents a continuum of plasma membranes. A phloem is an electrical conductor of bioelectrochemical impulses over long distances. At the cellular level in plants, electrical potentials exist across membranes, and thus between cellular compartments, as well as within specific compartments. Electrochemical phenomena are primary, and then deep cytophysiological reactions occur. Possible effects of the electric double layer of the Earth on the electrical activity of plants are discussed. Effects of uncouplers and acid rains on green plants are studied. Uncoupler carbonyl cyanide-p-trifluoromethoxyphenyl hydrazone (FCCP) induces ultra fast action potentials and decreases the resting potential in a soybean. The speed of the propagation of action potentials in a soybean induced by FCCP reaches up to 40 m s−1. The duration of single action potentials after treatment by FCCP was 0.0003 s. Adding FCCP to soil decreases the resting potential to zero level. The automatic measurements of the electrical potential difference can be effectively used in bioelectrochemistry, environmental plant electrophysiology, for the study of molecular mechanisms of transport processes and the influence of external stimuli on plants.
Compaction of diagnostic messages for compilers

The use of a space optimal storage scheme for compiler diagnostic messages is described. The space reduction achievable through word coding may be predicted in terms of text length, vocabulary size and average word length. A method of word or phrase selection is discussed. Illustration is made by application to the FORTRAN FTN and COBOL compilers under the operating system KRONOS for the CDC 6400 computer.
Timing and perioperative risk factors for in-hospital and post-discharge venous thromboembolism after colorectal cancer resection

Introduction: We postulated that the risk of venous thromboembolic disease (VTE) may persist after discharge and tested this hypothesis in patients undergoing colorectal resection for cancer. Metho...
Learning Classifiers from Distributional Data

Many big data applications give rise to distributional data wherein objects or individuals are naturally represented as K-tuples of bags of feature values where feature values in each bag are sampled from a feature and object specific distribution. We formulate and solve the problem of learning classifiers from distributional data. We consider three classes of methods for learning distributional classifiers: (i) those that rely on aggregation to encode distributional data into tuples of attribute values, i.e., instances that can be handled by traditional supervised machine learning algorithms, (ii) those that are based on generative models of distributional data, and (iii) the discriminative counterparts of the generative models considered in (ii) above. We compare the performance of the different algorithms on real-world as well as synthetic distributional data sets. The results of our experiments demonstrate that classifiers that take advantage of the information available in the distributional instance representation outperform or match the performance of those that fail to fully exploit such information.
The effect of thermal stimulation of anterior hypothalamus on blood pressure in the turtle

Abstract 1. 1. Warming of the anterior hypothalamus by 1°C in the turtle causes a 10–20 per cent increase in arterial blood pressure. 2. 2. Cooling of the anterior hypothalamus by 1°C causes a 10–20 per cent decrease in blood pressure. 3. 3. Below body temperatures of 20°C, warming and cooling of the anterior hypothalamus did not change the blood pressure. 4. 4. The anterior hypothalamus may be involved in regulating the temperature dependence of the cardiovascular system of reptiles.
Port Dynamic Empty Container Reuse

In this paper, empty container movements in the Los Angeles and Long Beach (LA/LB) port area are studied in an effort to reduce congestion by optimizing the empty container reuse. The dynamic empty container reuse is modeled analytically, and techniques are developed to optimize empty container operations. Several case studies based on current and projected demand in the LA/LB port area are used to evaluate the proposed techniques. Simulation results demonstrate that significant cost and congestion reductions can be achieved in the area, through reuse of empty containers.
An equilibrium model of drug utilization

We propose an equilibrium model to assess the dispensing pattern of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) among members of a health maintenance organization. The model incorporates observed patterns of patient switching among NSAIDs and identifies an implicit equilibrium distribution of drug dispensing, which may be used both to identify aberrations in prescription practice and to forecast the expected utilization of newly introduced drugs. NSAID dispensing patterns were stable for most quarters from 1987 to 1990. Introduction of two new NSAIDs and initiation of a pharmacy co-payment coincided with transient perturbation of the patterns. Dispensings of recently introduced NSAIDs achieved their equilibrium values in less than 2 years.
Single and multigenerational responses of body mass to atmospheric oxygen concentrations in Drosophila melanogaster : evidence for roles of plasticity and evolution

Greater oxygen availability has been hypothesized to be important in allowing the evolution of larger invertebrates during the Earth’s history, and across aquatic environments. We tested for evolutionary and developmental responses of adult body size of Drosophila melanogaster to hypoxia and hyperoxia. Individually reared flies were smaller in hypoxia, but hyperoxia had no effect. In each of three oxygen treatments (hypoxia, normoxia or hyperoxia) we reared three replicate lines of flies for seven generations, followed by four generations in normoxia. In hypoxia, responses were due primarily to developmental plasticity, as average body size fell in one generation and returned to control values after one to two generations of normoxia. In hyperoxia, flies evolved larger body sizes. Maximal fly mass was reached during the first generation of return from hyperoxia to normoxia. Our results suggest that higher oxygen levels could cause invertebrate species to evolve larger average sizes, rather than simply permitting evolution of giant species.
Enhancement of the thermal response of murine tumour and normal tissues by a streptococcal preparation, OK-432 (Picibanil)

We have studied the effect of a streptococcal preparation, OK-432, given alone or in combination with hyperthermia on murine tumour and normal tissues. The experimental tumour was a spontaneous non-immunogenic fibrosarcoma FSa-II transplanted in the foot of C3Hf/Sed mice. Local hyperthermia was achieved by immersing the mouse foot into a constant temperature water bath (42–45°C) for various lengths of time. Tumour response was studied by analysing the tumour growth (TG) time. Various doses of OK-432 (1–5 KE/mouse) were injected locally into the tumour. Local administration of OK-432 alone (without hyperthermia) had no effect on the TG time. Thermal enhancement ratio (TER) for combined treatment was independent of drug dose ⩾2 KE, and the mean TER was 1.48± 0.27 (95 % CL). The TER was greater for 6 mm tumours than for 4 mm tumours, and it was greatest if the time interval between hyperthermia and drug administration was 3 h or less. There was no effect if the drug was administrated 4 days before hypertherm...
Synthesis and Characterization of Aliphatic Ammonium Ionenes: Aqueous Size Exclusion Chromatography for Absolute Molecular Weight Characterization

Cationic aliphatic ammonium polyionenes, specifically 12,12- and 6,12-ionenes, were synthesized using step-growth polymerization and aqueous-based size exclusion chromatography (SEC) coupled with multiangle laser light scattering (MALLS) revealed absolute molecular weight information. The chromatographic separation of cationic polyelectrolytes presents many additional challenges compared to SEC of nonassociating, neutral polymers. Therefore, an aqueous-based SEC-MALLS mobile phase composition was identified to separate these notoriously challenging polyelectrolytes in an effort to achieve absolute molecular weight analysis. Various solvent compositions were evaluated for their ability to solvate and reproducibly separate both 6,12- and 12,-12-ionenes. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) verified the absence of aggregation of polyionenes in preferred mobile phase compositions. The optimum solvent composition comprised a ternary mixture of 54/23/23 water/methanol/glacial acetic acid, 0.54 M NaOAc, at a pH of 4.0...
Review of the literature and suggestions for the design of rodent survival studies for the identification of compounds that increase health and life span

Much of the literature describing the search for agents that increase the life span of rodents was found to suffer from confounds. One-hundred-six studies, absent 20 contradictory melatonin studies, of compounds or combinations of compounds were reviewed. Only six studies reported both life span extension and food consumption data, thereby excluding the potential effects of caloric restriction. Six other studies reported life span extension without a change in body weight. However, weight can be an unreliable surrogate measure of caloric consumption. Twenty studies reported that food consumption or weight was unchanged, but it was unclear whether these data were anecdotal or systematic. Twenty-nine reported extended life span likely due to induced caloric restriction. Thirty-six studies reported no effect on life span, and three a decrease. The remaining studies suffer from more serious confounds. Though still widely cited, studies showing life span extension using short-lived or “enfeebled” rodents have not been shown to predict longevity effects in long-lived animals. We suggest improvements in experimental design that will enhance the reliability of the rodent life span literature. First, animals should receive measured quantities of food and its consumption monitored, preferably daily, and reported. Weights should be measured regularly and reported. Second, a genetically heterogeneous, long-lived rodent should be utilized. Third, chemically defined diets should be used. Fourth, a positive control (e.g., a calorically restricted group) is highly desirable. Fifth, drug dosages should be chosen based on surrogate endpoints or accepted cross-species scaling factors. These procedures should improve the reliability of the scientific literature and accelerate the identification of longevity and health span-enhancing agents. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s11357-011-9224-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
New Trends in Resuscitation

Overall, injuries are the third leading cause of death in the United States, but they affect the younger and most productive segment of our society disproportionately. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, injuries are the number one cause of death and disability under age 44, and more Americans between the ages of 1–34 years are killed by injuries than by all other diseases combined1. The financial impact of injuries is staggering- 50 million injuries that required medical treatment in 2000 will ultimately cost the US society $406 billion, including $80.2 billion in medical care costs and $326 billion in lost productivity2. Analysis of epidemiological data from large trauma centers reveals consistent patterns of death 3–7. Up to half of the deaths occur prior to arrival in a hospital as a result of massive blood loss or central nervous system (CNS) damage. Compared to severe CNS damage, death resulting from bleeding is potentially preventable, and life saving efforts focus on early control of bleeding and adequate resuscitation. Unfortunately, conventional resuscitation methods often exacerbate the underlying cellular injury8. Of the patients that are transported to the hospital, the majority (70–80%) dies within the first 24–48 hours, with a much smaller percentage (<10%) succumbing to late death as a result of sepsis and organ failure. As hemorrhage-related deaths primarily occur in the first six hours after injury5, early delivery of high quality care is of critical importance. Despite hemorrhage being a common problem, the optimal resuscitative strategy remains controversial, with vigorous debates about the type of fluid, volume, rate, route of administration, and end points of resuscitation. This review highlights recent advances in resuscitation strategies as our understanding of the body’s response to hemorrhage and resuscitation has evolved.
Concerning free volume quantities and the glass temperature

Abstract Free volume quantities proposed earlier by Boyer and Simha in connection with the glass transition are reformulated by taking into account the temperature dependence of the thermal expansivities α l and αg for the liquid and the glass, respectively. This necessitates an extrapolation of the liquid to temperatures below Tg which is performed by means of the reduced volume-temperature function established and given a theoretical foundation previously. For the glass, low temperature experimental data, encompassing all relaxations occuring below Tg, are required. Two polymer series are examined in detail, namely, poly(methacrylates) and poly(vinyl) alkyl ethers, where αg has been measured between at least 30°K and Tg. Results for poly(methylacrylate) and poly(styrene) are also given. The systematic decrease in the product (αl - αg) · T|T=Tg with increasing length of the side chain noted previously is considerably reduced but not eliminated when the appropriately corrected expression is substituted in...
Deformation estimates for the Berezin-Toeplitz quantization

Deformation estimates for the Berezin-Toeplitz quantization ofCn are obtained. These estimates justify the description of CCR+K as a first-order quantum deformation of AP+C0, where CCR is the usualC*-algebra of (boson) canonical commutation relations,K is the full algebra of compact operators, AP is the algebra of almost-periodic functions andC0 is the algebra of continuous functions which vanish at infinity.
Assessment and management of acute pain in adult medical inpatients: a systematic review.

Objective. To review the literature addressing effective care for acute pain in inpatients on medical wards. Methods. We searched Medline, PubMed Clinical Queries, and the Cochrane Database for systematic reviews published in 1996 through April 2007 on the assessment and management of acute pain in inpatients, including patients with impaired self-report or chemical dependencies. We conducted a focused search for studies on the timing and frequency of assessment, and on the use of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) for nonsurgical pain. Two investigators performed a critical analysis of the literature and compiled narrative summaries to address the key questions. Results. We found no evidence that directly linked the timing, frequency, or method of pain assessment with outcomes or safety in medical inpatients. There is good evidence that treating abdominal pain does not compromise timely diagnosis and treatment of the surgical abdomen. Pain management teams and other systemwide interventions improve assessment and use of analgesics, but do not clearly affect pain outcomes. The safety and effectiveness of PCA in medical patients have not been studied. There is weak evidence that most cognitively impaired individuals can understand at least one self-assessment measure. Almost no evidence is available to guide management of pain in delirium. Evidence for managing pain in patients with substance abuse disorders or chronic opioid use is weak, being derived from case reports, retrospective studies, and expert opinion. Conclusions. Pain is a prevalent problem for medical inpatients. Clinical research is needed to guide the assessment and management of pain in this setting.
Estimation of vapor pressure deficit over land surfaces from satellite observations

Abstract Vapor pressure deficit over the land surface is needed in physically based calculations of evaporation and for estimating the efficiency of water utilization to perform photosynthesis by terrestrial plant communities. The two primary data required for this variable, namely air temperature and vapor pressure (or humidity), are currently available at isolated locations. Spatially representative global data of observed vapor pressure deficit are not currently available. This paper presents an approach for estimating monthly mean deficit from satellite observations and then evaluates the accuracy of the estimated values through comparison with globally distributed surface measurements. The standard error of estimate was found to be 4 hPa.
Functional Representation of Great Lakes Surface Temperatures1

We have fitted a continuous parametric function to daily averages of lake surface (depth 1 m) temperature measurements made at buoys deployed since 1979 in the Great Lakes by the National Data Buoy Center. The function, which is based on the Johnson Su probability distribution, successfully reproduces the major features of the observed annual surface temperature cycle including gradual warming from winter minimum to the onset of spring stratification, rapid warming to mid-summer peak, and slow cooling to winter minimum. Best fit parameters describing the observed average annual temperature cycles vary in a reasonable way with latitude and water depth. Although year-to-year variations in the temperature cycles can be large, the root-mean-squared differences between the fitted functions and the averaged buoy observations are on the order of a few tenths of a degree C. While no trend in lake surface temperatures is evident over the past 10 years, the effects of climatologically abnormal years can be seen in the observed data. The functional representations of lake surface temperature will be useful for computer simulations of bio-geochemical processes in the Great Lakes and for evaluations of climatological departures from typical conditions.
In-situ visualization of off-stoichiometric equilibrium crystal growth within indium antimonide: antimony-rich composition

Off-stoichiometric equilibrium crystal growth within the indium-antimony (In-Sb) system is studied during vertical Bridgman-Stockbarger crystal growth for an antimony-rich sample,In45Sb55. Real-time X-ray radioscopy tracks the crystal/melt interface position with respect to the furnace position. Calibrated temperature measurements at the ampoule outer wall provide interfacial temperatures. Results indicate substantial constitutional supercooling at the crystal/melt interface under a variety of experimental parameters.
Queer Girls and Popular Culture: Reading, Resisting, and Creating Media

This article reviews Driver's monograph, Queer Girls and Popular Culture: Reading, Resisting, and Creating Media, reporting on queer girls’ active engagement with television characters, films, lesbian magazines, online communities, and music. She explores the consequences of their engagements with these media on their lives and their understandings of popular culture and themselves.
Ultrafast high-resolution contact lithography with excimer lasers

A new technique for speckle-free, fine-line high-speed lithography using high-power pulsed excimer lasers is described and demonstrated. Use of stimulated Raman shifting is proposed for obtaining the most desirable set of spectral lines for any resist. This permits, for the first time, the optimization of the exposur wavelengths for a given resist, rather than the reverse situation. Excellent-quality images are obtained in 1-µm-thick diazo-type photoresists such as ® AZ-2400 and a diazonaph-thoquinone-®Novolak resist system by means of contact printing with a XeCl laser at 308 nm and a KrF laser at 248 nm. Resolution down to 1000 line pairs per millimeter is experimentally demonstrated. These images are comparable to state-of-the-art contact lithography obtained with conventional lamps. The major difference is that the excimer laser technique is approximately two orders of magnitude faster. Tests on reciprocity failure ins everal resists indicate a decrease in sensitivity by only a factor of three, despite the ≅108 times larger power density used in the laser exposures. The possibility of photochemical reactions being diflerent from those taking place in the case of lamp exposures is discussed in view of these results.