cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Insights in Public Health: The Current State of Sexual Health Education in Hawai'i Public Schools.

On June 16, 2015 the Hawai‘i Board of Education (BOE) passed a revision to the Sex Education Policy resulting in a more comprehensive approach to sexual health education.1 Since 1995 BOE policy 2210 had instructed that school sex education must be abstinence-based.1 Policy 103.5 replaces policy 2210 and is a step toward providing all Hawai‘i youth a comprehensive sex education. Yet sex education in Hawai‘i still has challenges, including financing, curriculum selection and sharing, parent involvement, and educator training and instruction time. This article will explore the current state of sex education in Hawai‘i and issues in policy implementation.
Predicting persistence of eating disorder compensatory weight control behaviors

Objective The study aimed to identify variables that predicted persistence versus desistence of eating disorder-related compensatory behaviors in a high-risk factor sample of women who reported repeated compensatory behaviors at baseline. Data came from a randomized trial evaluating two brief obesity prevention interventions for college students with weight concerns. Method Two hundred and sixty one young women (Mean age = 19.1, 79% European American) with weight concerns were randomly assigned to one of two brief obesity prevention interventions or educational video control. Participants were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, 6- and 12-month follow-up by interview, survey, and physical measurements on 6 eating disorder features and 13 psychosocial variables hypothesized to predict onset or maintenance of eating pathology. Results Approximately half (48%) reported engaging in recurrent compensatory behaviors in the year preceding study involvement. Among this subset, 61% reported persistent compensatory behaviors over 12-month follow-up. Neither study condition and adjunctive treatment, nor eating disorder features predicted persistence. Persistent compensatory behavior was significantly associated with greater sociocultural pressure to be thin, impulsivity, and substance use, and lower perceived sexual attractiveness. Discussion Perceived pressure to be thin is an established risk factor for the initiation of disorder eating behaviors but also may serve as a maintenance factor for unhealthy compensatory behaviors. Impulsivity, either as a trait factor or resulting from substance misuse may contribute to poor judgment and ongoing compensatory behaviors. Additional research on factors that predict persistence of eating disordered behaviors is needed. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.(Int J Eat Disord 2016)
Predictors of Acute Intracranial Pathology Identified by Computerized Tomography in Children with Sickle Cell Disease.

Abstract Headache and other symptoms and signs of possible CNS disease are common in children with sickle cell disease (SCD). Computerized tomography (CT) is a rapid and widely available method to image the skull and brain. However, the use of head CT to evaluate possible acute CNS complications in SCD has not been adequately addressed. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to characterize predictors of acute intracranial pathology detected by head CT. We included patients Table 1: . Sensitivity and Specificity of Clinical Findings for Acute Intracranial Pathology Variable Sensitivity Specificity GCS 40% 82% History of trauma 46% 93% Focal neurological deficit 67% 84% GCS 85% 62% GCS 67% 69% Trauma or Deficit 100% 64% GCS 100% 42%
FELLOWS ADDRESS California Dreaming: The Economics of Renewable Energy

California was the first jurisdiction to mandate a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. This target was subsequently endorsed by the G8 in 2009 and the European Commission in 2014, and is the guiding principle of the 2015 Paris Agreement. To achieve these targets will require near elimination of fossil fuels and/or a technological breakthrough that might be considered a black swan event. Eschewing nuclear power, countries are relying on renewable energy sources to meet future energy needs. In this paper, I examine the prospects of reducing GHG emissions by 80% by first summarizing extant global energy sources and production, trends, and projections of energy demand, and the potential mix of future energy sources. I consider the role of conservation and then focus on the electricity sector to determine how wind and biomass could contribute to the 80% target. I conclude that these ambitious targets cannot be attained without nuclear power.
Association of Hypercalcemia Before Treatment With Hypocalcemia After Treatment in Dogs With Primary Hyperparathyroidism

Background Development of hypocalcemia after treatment of hyperparathyroidism results in increased costs and risk of poorer outcomes. Previous studies have shown conflicting data about predictors of hypocalcemia after these procedures. Hypothesis/Objectives The objective of this study was to investigate whether ionized calcium (iCa) concentrations before treatment are predictive of hypocalcemia or its clinical signs after surgical removal or heat ablation in dogs with primary hyperparathyroidism. Animals Fifty-four dogs with primary hyperparathyroidism (29 female, 25 male; 49 retrospective, 5 prospective). Methods Dogs were enrolled if they met the inclusion criteria: persistent hypercalcemia (iCa >1.41 mmol/L) due to primary hyperparathyroidism and absence of preemptive calcitriol treatment. All dogs were treated with parathyroidectomy (n = 37) or percutaneous ultrasound-guided heat ablation (n = 17). After treatment, iCa was monitored twice daily until plateau or intervention. Results There was a moderate correlation between before-treatment hypercalcemia and after-treatment hypocalcemia. The prospective study was terminated due to ethical concerns given findings in the retrospective section. All dogs were placed into groups according to their pretreatment iCa: 1.46–1.61 mmol/L, 1.62–1.71 mmol/L, iCa 1.72–1.81 mmol/L, or >1.81 mmol/L. After treatment, the mean lowest iCa for each group, respectively, was 1.19, 1.18, 1.13, and 1.01 mmol/L. There was a significant association between higher group and proportion of dogs with iCa <1.00 mmol/L (P = .014). Conclusions and Clinical Importance This study demonstrates a moderate correlation between iCa concentration before treatment and hypocalcemia after treatment. Dogs with higher initial iCa concentrations should be treated to prevent rapid decline and development of clinical hypocalcemia.
Weyl-link semimetals

A family of topological semimetallic phases where twofold degenerate gapless points form linked rings is introduced. We refer to this phase as Weyl-link semimetals. A concrete two-band model with two linked nodal lines is constructed. We demonstrate that the Chern-Simons 3-form depends on the linking number of rings in a generic two-band model. In addition, we show the emergence of zero-energy modes in the Landau level spectrum can reveal the location of nodal lines, providing a method of probing their linking number.
The Effect of Generation Y Male Consumers' Body Satisfaction on Purchase Intentions toward Trendy Clothing Using the Theory of Reasoned Action

The present study aims to investigate how Generation Y male consumers` body satisfaction would influence their purchase intentions toward trendy clothing using the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) with an additional external variable, fashion involvement. Generation Y group was chosen because the purchasing power of Generation Y takes a major role in the fashion market in the U.S. Data were collected from 83 adult male students at a large western university using a survey approach. Results showed that body satisfaction negatively influenced fashion involvement and attitude toward trendy clothing; however, body satisfaction did not influence subjective norm. In addition, attitude toward trendy clothing and subjective norm positively influenced purchase intention toward trendy clothing; however, fashion involvement did not influence purchase intention toward trendy clothing.
Introduction: Alexander Luria's continuing influence on worldwide neuropsychology.

As an introduction to this special issue, this article provides an overview of the worldwide influence of the work of Alexander R. Luria. a noted Russian neuropsychologist. Major themes and issues that he studied are reviewed, and the reasons for his strong worldwide influence are discussed. An overview of subsequent articles in this issue is provided.
The Influence of Big (Clinical) Data and Genomics on Precision Medicine and Drug Development

Drug development continues to be costly and slow, with medications failing due to lack of efficacy or presence of toxicity. The promise of pharmacogenomic discovery includes tailoring therapeutics based on an individual's genetic makeup, rational drug development, and repurposing medications. Rapid growth of large research cohorts, linked to electronic health record (EHR) data, fuels discovery of new genetic variants predicting drug action, supports Mendelian randomization experiments to show drug efficacy, and suggests new indications for existing medications. New biomedical informatics and machine-learning approaches advance the ability to interpret clinical information, enabling identification of complex phenotypes and subpopulations of patients. We review the recent history of use of "big data" from EHR-based cohorts and biobanks supporting these activities. Future studies using EHR data, other information sources, and new methods will promote a foundation for discovery to more rapidly advance precision medicine.
Myomectomy to Conserve Fertility: Seven-Year Follow-Up

Abstract Objective To observe the occurrence of pregnancy in women undergoing minimally invasive and open myomectomy for symptoms attributed to uterine fibroids and who desire future pregnancy. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review of women who had undergone myomectomy at least two years previously within the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, MI. We reviewed the subsequent fertility outcomes according to the fertility goals identified by each woman. Results During the seven-year observation window, 310 women underwent myomectomy and 124 (40%) of these women desired pregnancy. Forty-nine women desiring pregnancy (40%) conceived, and 30 (61% of those who conceived) delivered a viable infant from their first pregnancy. In addition, two women had a live birth after a miscarriage, and one had a live birth after an ectopic pregnancy. Five women had a second live-born baby. There were no differences in the occurrence of pregnancy or pregnancy outcome according to surgical approach, patient age or race, number of uterine incisions, or whether the endometrial cavity was entered. In addition, five of 186 women who did not have a fertility goal (3%) conceived, and one woman delivered two babies. Conclusion Myomectomy performed to preserve fertility resulted in approximately one in four women having a live birth, independent of surgical technique.
A Vulnerability Study of Mhealth Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Applications (apps)

The mhealth applications industry has witnessed a significant growth both in revenue and popularity since its inception. The introduction of mhealth CDM apps has improved the management of chronic diseases as it provides the physicians with an opportunity to monitor their patients’ health for symptoms more efficiently and effectively. With the benefits of the mhealth CDM apps, also comes vulnerabilities that can cause unauthorized access to the patients’ health information and manipulation to the patients’ data. The presence of these vulnerabilities can cause harm to the patients’ health and reputations. Currently there is a lack of security assurance framework tailored to the mhealth CDM apps. In this regard, the objective of the research was to conduct a vulnerability study on mhealth CDM apps and to provide a set of security assurance recommendations tailored to the mhealth CDM apps for better security and assurance in the apps. In order to achieve the research objective, thirty mhealth CDM apps were tested for vulnerabilities using vulnerability scanner apps, after identifying the vulnerabilities, mobile applications related frameworks and guidelines were reviewed to come up with the security assurance recommendations for mhealth CDM apps.
Retrospective of Charles Pence Slichter (NAS 1967).

Charles Pence Slichter died on February 19 of this year at the age of 94. Charlie, as he was known to his friends, was one of the giants of postwar physics, a pioneer of electron and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and a renowned expert on superconductivity, a remarkably influential educator, and a dedicated public servant. Charles Pence Slichter. Image courtesy of the Department of Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign. Charlie received his doctorate in 1949, as a student of Edward Purcell at Harvard, developing the experimental technique of electron spin resonance. He came immediately to the University of Illinois as an Instructor of Physics and remained on the Physics faculty in Urbana throughout his entire career. An early experimental triumph at Illinois was his discovery in 1951, with graduate student David McCall and Herbert Gutowsky in the Illinois Chemistry Department, of the magnetic dipole–dipole coupling between nuclear spins in molecules induced by the molecular electrons. This result enabled bond angles and lengths in molecules, as well as molecular connectivity, to be deduced from NMR spectra, one of the first demonstrations of the power … [↵][1]1Email: gbaym{at}illinois.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Theatre Assessment for Teaching and Learning

In the world of higher education, participating in academic assessment has become an inescapable part of every faculty member’s job description. While theatre faculty members have an inherent understanding of what artistic growth looks like, we may not always be effective in measuring that growth in an assessment context. This chapter utilizes best practices in assessment to demystify the assessment process. Utilizing theatre-specific vocabulary, the chapter walks theatre practitioners through the basic steps of developing student learning outcomes, curriculum maps, developmental assessment rubrics that effectively measure specific program outcomes, and assessment plans. While most assessment literature ends with the collection and analysis of data, this chapter goes beyond to demonstrate methods that theatre practitioners can use to “Close the Loop” in their assessment cycles. By closing the loop on assessment data, theatre practitioners can recognize opportunities to develop innovative curriculum changes to help their students achieve the goals of the program. By fully completing the assessment cycle, theatre programs can reward innovation, better articulate program values, develop dynamic student-centered curriculum, and implement strategic program development.
Epidemiology and risk factors for recurrent Staphylococcus aureus colonization following active surveillance and decolonization in the NICU.

OBJECTIVES To examine neonatal risk factors associated with recurrent Staphylococcus aureus colonization and to determine the genetic relatedness of S. aureus strains cultured from neonates before and after decolonization.Study designSingle-center retrospective cohort study of neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) from April 2013 to December 2015, during which weekly nasal cultures from hospitalized NICU patients were routinely obtained for S. aureus surveillance. SETTING Johns Hopkins Hospital's 45-bed level IV NICU in Baltimore, Maryland. METHODS Demographics and clinical data were collected on all neonates admitted to the NICU with S. aureus nasal colonization who underwent mupirocin-based decolonization during the study period. A decolonized neonate was defined as a neonate with ≥1 negative culture after intranasal mupirocin treatment. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis was used for strain typing. RESULTS Of 2,060 infants screened for S. aureus, 271 (13%) were colonized, and 203 of these 271 (75%) received intranasal mupirocin. Of those treated, 162 (80%) had follow-up surveillance cultures, and 63 of these 162 infants (39%) developed recurrent colonization after treatment. The S. aureus strains were often genetically similar before and after decolonization. The presence of an endotracheal tube or nasal cannula/mask was associated with an increased risk of recurrent S. aureus colonization (hazard ratio [HR], 2.65; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19-5.90; and HR, 2.21; 95% CI, 1.02-4.75, respectively). CONCLUSION Strains identified before and after decolonization were often genetically similar, and the presence of invasive respiratory devices increased the risk of recurrent S. aureus nasal colonization in neonates. To improve decolonization efficacy, alternative strategies may be needed.
Early Red Cell Transfusion is Associated with Development of Severe Retinopathy of Prematurity

To evaluate the association between early (within 10 d) pRBC transfusion and the development of severe ROP. This was a single-center retrospective study. Inclusion criteria were preterm infants born ≤32 weeks gestation or weighing ≤1500 g. Severe ROP was defined as infants requiring retinal laser ablation or bevacizumab injection. Logistic regression was used to identify the association between transfusions and severe ROP. A total of 1635 infants were included in the final analysis. The severe ROP incidence was 8% (126/1635). Ninety-one percent (115/126) of infants who developed severe ROP received a pRBC transfusion in the first 10 d. Early transfusion was associated with severe ROP; adjusted odds ratio of 3.8 (95% CI: 1.8−8.1). pRBC transfusions in the first 10 days of life are associated with an almost four-fold increased risk of severe ROP, independent of gestational age at birth or bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) status.
Total Synthesis of (+/-) Carbocyclic Polyoxin C and Its alpha-Epimer.

Carbocyclic polyoxin C (2) and its α-epimer 3 were synthesized in racemic form in an efficient and diastereodivergent fashion from cis-4-(N-tert-butylcarbamoyl)cyclopent-2-en-1-ol (5a). This synthesis features a Pd(0)-catalyzed substitution reaction, a novel, mild reduction of an α-nitro ester to an amino acid ester, and an improved procedure for uracil ring formation.
An Effects Assessment Framework for Dry Forest Conservation

On the Ground • Large patches of dry conifer forests have burned as high intensity crown fire, threatening life, property, and natural resources. • Conservation practices such as mechanical thinning can reduce crown fire potential while promoting other benefits such as restoring forest heterogeneity, reducing post-fire erosion risk, and improving wildlife habitat. • We report on a pilot study to apply landscape-scale effects modeling in the Colorado Front Range as a potential framework for forestlands CEAP. • Spatially explicit estimates of conservation benefits to multiple resources provide a quantitative means to evaluate competing projects and to prioritize conservation outreach.
A Mobile Game for Crowdsourced Molecular Docking Pathways

Mobile gaming has become a popular pastime in recent years making it a viable avenue for crowdsourcing data collection with scientific games. We present one such application of scientific games on mobile devices by adapting an existing molecular docking game with a user interface suitable for this platform. In this initial study, players explore the state space of molecular interactions, and data is collected to be used in molecular motion planning. The results were compared to states collected from an automated Gaussian sampler commonly used in motion planning. Players were able to contribute states that could aid planners in finding molecular motion pathways with energies lower than the automated sampler. However, there remain challenges to the players’ ability to reach states in difficult areas due to the lack of molecular flexibility and guidance towards exploration over simply finding the lowest energy state.
Nervous and Endocrine System Dysfunction in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: An Overview and Consideration of Sex as a Biological Variable.

Abstract Decades of research into the biological mechanisms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) suggests that chronic activation of the stress response leads to long-lasting changes in the structure and function of the nervous and endocrine systems. While the prevalence of PTSD is twice as high in females as males, little is known about how sex differences in neuroendocrine systems may contribute to PTSD. In response to the paucity of research on sex-related mechanisms, the National Institutes of Health created a policy that asks researchers to consider sex as a biological variable. This review provides an overview of the current understanding of nervous and endocrine dysfunction in PTSD (e.g., neural circuitry, autonomic arousal, hormonal response), highlighting areas where the influence of sex has been characterized and where further research is needed. We also provide recommendations for using the sex-as-a-biological-variable policy to address specific gaps in PTSD neuroscience research.
Modeling word-of-mouth usage: A replication

Abstract Word-of-mouth communication plays a key role in buyer behavior decisions. In 2013, Martin and Lueg published an insightful research study examining antecedents of word-of-mouth usage and the impact word of mouth has on attitude toward the product and purchase intention. The paper has been widely cited in the word-of-mouth literature. However, while the results of this study have guided additional research, the study has not been replicated. The current study presents two attempts to replicate Word-of-mouth usage. Following the same procedures, these two studies do corroborate some of the reported findings, but there are substantial discrepancies among the original research and the replications efforts, as well as between the two replication studies. In addition, we identify issues involved in our attempt to replicate the original study. Implications for research in the discipline are provided.
The Association Between Experimentally Induced Stress, Performance Monitoring, and Response Inhibition: An Event-Related Potential (ERP) Analysis

Psychological stress is increasingly associated with alterations in performance and affect. Yet, the relationship between experimentally induced psychological stress and neural indices of performance monitoring and error processing, as well as response inhibition, are unclear. Using scalp-recorded event-related potentials (ERPs), we tested the relationship between experimental stress, using the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), and the error-related negativity (ERN), error positivity (Pe), and N2 ERP components. A final sample of 71 undergraduate students were randomly assigned to go through the TSST (n = 36; 18 female) or a brief mindfulness relaxation exercise (n = 35; 16 female) immediately followed by a go/no-go task while electroencephalogram (EEG) data were collected. Salivary cortisol, heart rate, and blood pressure confirmed increased physiological stress in the TSST group relative to control. Reaction times, accuracy, and post-error slowing did not differ by stress group. Two-group (TSST, control) by 2-trial type (correct, incorrect for ERN/Pe; go correct, no-go correct for N2) repeated measures ANOVAs for the ERN, Pe, and N2 showed the expected main effects of trial type; neither the ERN nor the N2 ERP components showed interactions with the stress manipulation. In contrast, the Pe component showed a significant Group by Trial interaction, with reduced Pe amplitude following the stress condition relative to control. Pe amplitude did not, however, correlate with cortisol reactivity. Findings suggest a reduction in Pe amplitude following experimental stress that may be associated with reduced error awareness or attention to errors following the TSST. Given the variability in the extant literature on the relationship between experimentally induced stress and neurophysiological reflections of performance monitoring, we provide another point of data and conclude that better understanding of moderating variables is needed followed by high-powered replication studies to get at the nuance that is not yet understood in the relationship between induced stress and performance monitoring/response inhibition processes.
Estimating the Transmission Risk of COVID-19 in Nigeria: A Mathematical Modelling Approach

Objectives: The potential burden of COVID-19 in sub-Saharan African might be substantially more significant than reported, and more than the existing health system can handle. Hence, in this study, we estimate and project the burden and transmission risk of COVID-19, in Nigeria, using current interventions. Methods: Modified SEIR epidemic mathematical model was used to simulate the disease progression in weeks, for up to 19 weeks. Different situations, involving zero-intervention and varying degrees of interventions are modeled. For the intervention phase, 25% and 75% social distancing are considered, while border closure includes 80% closure of airports, seaports, and intra-state borders, using available data as of 15th May 2020. Results: The effects of various interventions on the R0 of COVID-19 are presented. A higher percentage of social distancing appears to be more effective in controlling the spread of COVID-19 in Nigeria than border closure. Up to 131,000 persons could be infected if there are no interventions. Conclusion: According to our results, it is easier to enforce 75% closures than 25%, as the percentage of the population complying with social distancing is higher when at least 75% of public places were closed. The minimum requirement of the population percentage that needs to comply with the social distancing advice, to weaken the epidemic can be obtained from the model.
Why do firms forecast earnings for multiple years simultaneously

By issuing earnings forecasts for both current and future years simultaneously, managers provide the multi-year data required for many valuation models and help investors sort out transitory and permanent shocks. We find that firms that are overpriced and have more transitory earnings tend to issue multi-year forecasts simultaneously. Overpriced firms are more likely to issue both short- and long-term bad news than only short-term bad news forecasts. Mis-pricing tends to be corrected after firms’ multi-year forecasts, especially when overpriced firms issue both long- and short-term bad news forecasts. We also find a more linear current period earnings–return relation when firms issue multi-year forecasts, which suggests that investors under-react less to extreme news because the future year forecasts embed earnings persistence information.
A Genetically Adaptable Strategy for Ribose Scavenging in a Human Gut Symbiont Plays a Diet-Dependent Role in Colon Colonization

Efficient nutrient acquisition in the competitive human gut is essential for microbial persistence. While polysaccharides have been well-studied nutrients for the gut microbiome, other resources such as co-factors and nucleic acids have been less examined. We describe a series of ribose utilization systems (RUSs) that are broadly represented in Bacteroidetes and appear to have diversified to allow access to ribose from a variety of substrates. One Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron RUS variant is critical for competitive gut colonization in a diet-specific fashion. Using molecular genetics, we probed the nature of the ribose source underlying this dietspecific phenotype, revealing that hydrolytic functions in RUS (e.g., to cleave ribonucleosides) are present but dispensable. Instead, ribokinases that are activated in vivo and participate in cellular ribose-phosphate metabolism are essential. Our results underscore the extensive mechanisms that gut symbionts have evolved to access nutrients and how metabolic context determines the impact of these functions in vivo
Public Awareness of and Personal Willingness to Use California's Extreme Risk Protection Order Law to Prevent Firearm-Related Harm

Importance Extreme risk protection order (ERPO) laws temporarily suspend firearm and ammunition access by individuals whom a judge has deemed to be at substantial risk of harming themselves or others. Despite widespread recent adoption of these laws, use of ERPOs has been limited. Barriers to ERPO uptake remain unclear. Objective To assess public awareness and perceived appropriateness of and willingness to use ERPOs in various risk scenarios, and to identify reasons for being unwilling, overall and by firearm ownership status, to inform efforts to improve ERPO implementation. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a cross-sectional study using data from the 2020 California Safety and Wellbeing Survey, a statewide internet survey on firearm ownership and exposure to violence and its consequences, conducted from July 14 to July 27, 2020. Adult respondents were recruited from the Ipsos KnowledgePanel using probability-based sampling methods. Responses were weighted to be representative of the adult population of California. Main Outcomes and Measures Awareness and perceived appropriateness of gun violence restraining orders (GVROs; California’s official term for ERPOs), willingness to use a GVRO for a family member at risk of harm, and reasons for being not at all willing to use a GVRO in 1 or more risk scenarios, overall and by firearm ownership status. Results Of the 5018 panel members invited, 2870 (57%) completed the survey. Of these respondents (mean [SD] age: 47.9 [16.9] years; 52.3% women; 41.9% White, 34.7% Latinx, 14.4% Asian, and 5.8% Black individuals), 65.6% (95% CI, 63.0%-68.1) had never heard of a GVRO or a red flag law. Firearm owners were significantly more likely (20.5%; 95% CI, 15.9%-26.0%) than nonowners who live with owners (6.1%; 95% CI, 3.7%-10.0%;P Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional survey study, public awareness of GVROs was low, but perceived appropriateness of and willingness to use these tools at least some of the time was high. Foci for efforts to address barriers to GVRO use in California were identified; similar challenges likely exist in other jurisdictions.
Culturally Congruent Care in Radiology Nursing

Abstract The United States' diversity is growing, making it difficult for nurses to meet the needs of patients from a wide range of cultures, belief systems, and groups. Nursing is not new to providing culturally competent care; however, the profession's demographic shift has made it a priority. Improving nurses' cultural competency can lead to increased access to health care and, as a result, better health outcomes. Nurses in all specialties work with people from all walks of life, which necessitates that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to care in a culturally appropriate manner. Radiology nurses, in particular, influence care in a variety of settings and provide care to people of all ages and acuities, making the commitment to fostering culturally congruent practice even more critical. Nurses can begin this process by critically reflecting on their own biases as well as the concepts of cultural humility, competence, and competemility.
Do Hedge Fund Managers Understand Politics? Political Sensitivity and Investment Skill

Abstract We show that hedge fund managers who more actively and astutely adjust the political sensitivity of their portfolios, in line with the dynamic U.S. political landscape, improve their investment performance. Funds that tilt their portfolios toward market segments expected to perform better during the new political regime, specifically around U.S. Presidential elections, generate significantly higher alphas. Further, hedge fund families with greater responsiveness to political changes exhibit persistently superior performance and are more likely to survive. Hedge fund investors reward more responsive fund managers with greater inflows.
Gastrointestinal Tract Intervention

In the last fifteen years, several alternatives for transpyloric enteric nutrition have been developed in response to the increasing number of patients with acute or chronic medical conditions who need temporary or permanent nutritional support. Although parenteral nutrition may be used initially, most patients will require, in the long run, placement of some type of enteric feeding for improving or maintaining their nutritional status.
Health Big Data and Analytics

As the quote from the IOM conveys, our ability to generate scientific knowledge has outstripped the ability of healthcare providers to absorb, integrate and use that knowledge in daily patient care. The ability of information systems to analyze huge amounts of clinical data and provide useful insights and guidance is a major focus for research and commercial development now that the substantial majority of healthcare providers are using electronic records that have the potential to provide the data for that analysis. This feedback loop is a key part of the IOM’s vision of a learning healthcare system, as indicated by the title of the book from which the quote is taken. In this section, we’ll explore early results from these exciting and potentially transformational analytic technologies.
Theory of an exciton matter laser

Recent experiments show signatures of exciton Bose-Einstein condensation in semiconductors. Thus a device that creates a coherent population of excitons while being pumped by a thermal source may be possible. Such an exciton matter laser could consist of a quantum well, possibly embedded in an optical microcavity. In it hot excitons slightly below the bandgap are created by a thermal distribution of free electrons and holes (generated by electrical injection or optical pumping). The excitons interact with (LA) phonons. At low densities excitons are bosonic, and their scattering is affected by statistical enhancement into states with large occupation. Under certain conditions the excitons can condense into a single state, with statistics similar to a coherent state. Light emitted by radiative recombination has the coherence properties of the condensate and is similar to laser light. However, the electronic population in the device does not need to be inverted. We consider 1S heavy-hole excitons in a two-dimensional harmonic trap, realized by a quantum well where interface roughness inevitably localizes low-energy excitons, or by strain fields in lattice mismatched structures. We treat the lowest two trap levels quantum mechanically, and the higher lying states act as a reservoir. Our model is valid at low density, where phase space filling and collisions are negligible. While simplistic, the model displays the main features of an exciton matter laser. Our model is described by the master equation.
Multimodal addressee detection in multiparty dialogue systems

Addressee detection answers the question, “Are you talking to me?” When multiple users interact with a dialogue system, it is important to know when a user is speaking to the computer and when he or she is speaking to another person. We approach this problem from a multimodal perspective, using lexical, acoustic, visual, dialog state, and beam-forming information. Using data from a multiparty dialogue system, we demonstrate the benefit of using multiple modalities over using a single modality. We also assess the relative importance of the various modalities in predicting the addressee. In our experiments, we find that acoustic features are by far the most important, that ASR and system-state information are useful, and that visual and beamforming features provide little additional benefit. Our study suggests that acoustic, lexical, and system state information are an effective, economical combination of modalities to use in addressee detection.
Immediate and Long-Term Outcome of Acute H2S Intoxication Induced Coma in Unanesthetized Rats: Effects of Methylene Blue.

BACKGROUND: Acute hydrogen sulfide (H2S) poisoning produces a coma, the outcome of which ranges from full recovery to severe neurological deficits. The aim of our study was to 1- describe the immediate and long-term neurological effects following H2S-induced coma in un-anesthetized rats, and 2- determine the potential benefit of methylene blue (MB), a compound we previously found to counteract acute sulfide cardiac toxicity. METHODS: NaHS was administered IP in un-sedated rats to produce a coma (n = 34). One minute into coma, the rats received MB (4 mg/kg IV) or saline. The surviving rats were followed clinically and assigned to Morris water maze (MWM) and open field testing then sacrificed at day 7. RESULTS: Sixty percent of the non-treated comatose rats died by pulseless electrical activity. Nine percent recovered with neurological deficits requiring euthanasia, their brain examination revealed major neuronal necrosis of the superficial and middle layers of the cerebral cortex and the posterior thalamus, with variable necrosis of the caudate putamen, but no lesions of the hippocampus or the cerebellum, in contrast to the typical distribution of post-ischemic lesions. The remaining animals displayed, on average, a significantly less effective search strategy than the control rats (n = 21) during MWM testing. Meanwhile, 75% of rats that received MB survived and could perform the MWM test (PCONCLUSION: In conclusion, in rats surviving H2S induced coma, spatial search patterns were used less frequently than in control animals. A small percentage of rats presented necrotic neuronal lesions, which distribution differed from post-ischemic lesions. MB dramatically improved the immediate survival and spatial search strategy in the surviving rats. Language: en
Knowledge and common knowledge in a Byzantine environment I: crash failures

By analyzing the states of knowledge that the processors attain in an unreliable system of a simple type, we capture some of the basic underlying structure of such systems. The analysis provides us with a better understanding of existing protocols for problems such as Byzantine agreement, generalizes them considerably, and facilitates the design of improved protocols for many related problems.
Consumer Perceived Economic Value of Electronic Charts

This paper applies the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) to derive the mean willingness to pay (WTP) for the chart information in electronic format by end users. A case study of the members of the Passenger Vessel Association (PVA) was conducted. The results show that on average a PVA Vessel member is willing to pay approximately US$ 700 per vessel just for the chart information in electronic format. The proposed evaluation methodology can be modified to assess WTP for electronic charts of other key users such as recreational boaters and larger cargo shipping companies so the overall benefits of electronic charts can be derived.
Preparation and properties of uniform coated colloidal particles

Abstract Cationic polystyrene latex was coated with uniform layers of yttrium basic carbonate by aging at elevated temperatures dispersions of the polymer colloid in the presence of aqueous solutions of yttrium nitrate, urea, and polyvinylpyrrolidone. The thickness and morphology of the deposited layers could be altered by suitably adjusting the reactant concentrations, aging time, and temperature. A mechanism for the formation of the coating shell is suggested.
Exercise increases endostatin in circulation of healthy volunteers.

Physical inactivity increases the risk of atherosclerosis. However, the molecular mechanisms of this relation are poorly understood. A recent report indicates that endostatin, an endogenous angiostatic factor, inhibits the progression of atherosclerosis, and suggests that reducing intimal and atherosclerotic plaque tissue neovascularization can inhibit the progression atherosclerosis in animal models. We hypothesize that exercise can elevate the circulatory endostatin level. Hence, exercise can protect against one of the mechanisms of atherosclerosis. We examined treadmill exercise tests in healthy volunteers to determine the effect of exercise on plasma levels of endostatin and other angiogenic regulators. Oxygen consumption (VO2) was calculated. Plasma levels of endostatin, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were determined using ELISA. The total peak VO2 (L) in 7 male subjects was 29.5 ± 17.8 over a 4–10 minute interval of exercise. Basal plasma levels of endostatin (immediately before exercise) were 20.3 ± 3.2 pg/ml, the plasma levels increased to 29.3 ± 4.2, 35.2 ± 1.8, and 27.1 ± 2.2 ng/ml, at 0.5, 2, and 6 h, respectively, after exercise. There was a strong linear correlation between increased plasma levels of endostatin (%) and the total peak VO2 (L) related to exercise (R2 = 0.9388; P < 0.01). Concurrently, VEGF levels decreased to 28.3 ± 6.4, 17.6 ± 2.4, and 26.5 ± 12.5 pg/ml, at 0.5, 2, and 6 h, respectively, after exercise. There were no significant changes in plasma bFGF levels in those subjects before and after exercise. The results suggest that circulating endostatin can be significantly increased by exercise in proportion to the peak oxygen consumption under physiological conditions in healthy volunteers. These findings may provide new insights into the molecular links between physical inactivity and the risk of angiogenesis dependent diseases such as atherosclerosis.
Social Concentration on Boards, Corporate Information Environment and Cost of Capital

Prior evidence on the relationship between demographic diversity in corporate boards and firm performance is mixed. Some studies have found that the relationship between board attributes and firm performance is driven by a firm's information environment. This study examines whether corporate transparency also impacts the relationship between gender and ethnic diversity of directors and firm performance. To test this hypothesis, I use a Herfindahl Index based on directors� gender and ethnicity to measure board diversity, and an opacity index based on analyst following, analyst forecast error, bid-ask spread, and share turnover to measure corporate transparency. I find that the cost of capital is positively associated with social concentration on corporate boards and that this premium is larger for highly opaque firms. In further analysis, I find that the interaction of corporate information environment and social concentration on boards is more important for operationally complex firms. Compared with simple firms, operationally complex firms pay a greater premium on their capital if they have a socially concentrated board and an opaque information environment.
Trace fossils of shallow subtidal to dunal ichnofacies in Bahamian quaternary carbonates

Pleistocene and Holocene carbonate grainstones or calcarenites capping the islands of the Bahamas commonly contain distinctive animal and/or plant trace fossils. Three ichnocoenoses within the Skolithos and Psilonichnus ichnofacies are recognized in the transition from sediments deposited in the shallow shelf environment, commonly associated with coral reefs, to sediments of the coastal dune environment. Analog relationships between the trace fossils and modern tracemakers can be established in many cases, and this correspondence strengthens the interpretive model. Ophiomorpha and Skolithos linearis characterize beds deposited in shallow shelf settings. Psilonichnus upsilon, the fossil burrow of the ghost crab Ocypode quadrata, marks beds deposited in the upper foreshorebackshore environment and has particular utility as an indicator of sea-level position. A diverse ichnocoenosis consisting of Skolithos linearis, a large cluster burrow, small, irregular burrows, and plant trace fossils formed along bedding planes characterizes beds of the dunal environment. The ichnologic model developed herein for recognition of depositional zones in the transition from shallow subtidal to dune environments in the tropical, carbonate coastal settings of the Bahamas should be applicable to other geologically similar settings around the world.
Experimental study of three-lifting surface configuration

The aerodynamic ramifications of utilizing three lifting surfaces as opposed to the conventional or canard lifting configurations have been studied on a theoretical basis by previous researchers. This paper presents an experimental investigation of various configuration modifications for an unyawed typical business jet at a Reynolds number of 1.3 million. The three surface has better lift and high-lift drag characteristics than either the canard or tail-aft configurations, but the cruise drag is more. The induced drag at cruise is highest for the canard and lowest for the tail-aft configuration. The pitching moment characteristics are somewhat between those of the canard and tail-aft configurations. A decrease in gap adversely affects the pitching moment characteristics. A smaller stagger leads to better aerodynamic and stability characteristics. A decrease in span of the forward wing gives better cruise drag and longitudinal stability characteristics, but has adverse effects on high-lift drag. A variation in the incidence angles of either or both the forward and aft wings changes the zero-lift moments of the configuration, while marginally affecting overall lift and drag. At cruise, the lift to drag ratio is highest for the conventional and lowest for the three surface. For high lift conditions, the order is reversed.
Archaeological GPR investigation at Rennes-le-Chateau, France

GPR surveys were conducted at two sites within the hillside town of Rennes-le-Château, France. The town is linked with many traditions and mysteries associated with the Templar movement and its treasure, including according to some documents, the possible location of the Holy Grail. Two locations were chosen for the initial project: the Tour Magdala and the Church of St. Mary Magdalen. The survey at the Tour Magdala was carried out to image any features that may be located beneath the tower floor or around its outer base. Results indicate the tower is built on the local bedrock with possible surface and subsurface disruptions in the local stratigraphy, while 3D cubes show a hyperbolic feature, which may indicate the possibility of a buried feature. The survey at the Church was carried out to image any features that may be located beneath the church floor. 2D and 3D images show a subsurface anomaly (hyperbolic feature) that extends along several parallel lines that may possibly indicate a burial crypt.
Climate Change and Global Wine Quality

From 1950 to 1999 the majority of the world's highest quality wine-producing regions experienced growing season warming trends. Vintage quality ratings during this same time period increased significantly while year-to-year variation declined. While improved winemaking knowledge and husbandry practices contributed to the better vintages it was shown that climate had, and will likely always have, a significant role in quality variations. This study revealed that the impacts of climate change are not likely to be uniform across all varieties and regions. Currently, many European regions appear to be at or near their optimum growing season temperatures, while the relationships are less defined in the New World viticulture regions. For future climates, model output for global wine producing regions predicts an average warming of 2 ∘C in the next 50 yr. For regions producing high-quality grapes at the margins of their climatic limits, these results suggest that future climate change will exceed a climatic threshold such that the ripening of balanced fruit required for existing varieties and wine styles will become progressively more difficult. In other regions, historical and predicted climate changes could push some regions into more optimal climatic regimes for the production of current varietals. In addition, the warmer conditions could lead to more poleward locations potentially becoming more conducive to grape growing and wine production.