cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Wasatch: An architecture-proof multiphysics development environment using a Domain Specific Language and graph theory

Abstract To address the coding and software challenges of modern hybrid architectures, we propose an approach to multiphysics code development for high-performance computing. This approach is based on using a Domain Specific Language (DSL) in tandem with a directed acyclic graph (DAG) representation of the problem to be solved that allows runtime algorithm generation. When coupled with a large-scale parallel framework, the result is a portable development framework capable of executing on hybrid platforms and handling the challenges of multiphysics applications. We share our experience developing a code in such an environment – an effort that spans an interdisciplinary team of engineers and computer scientists.
Analysis and evaluation of coal quality characteristics of No.17 coal seam of Luna Mine Field

The coal seam structure,macro-and micro-structure of coal maceral types of coal in Luna Mine Field were introduced.According to the coal quality data,the coal in Luna mine field was inferred as coking coal with low ash,medium sulfur content,low volatile matter,low-phosphorus content and super-high calorific value.
Experimental Research on Microstructure and Properties of TRB After Annealing

A series of experiments of annealing for tailor rolled blank( TRB) of CR340 were carried out in order to study the microstructure and properties. The effects of the annealing temperature and time on the microstructure and properties of TRB in the area w ith different thickness w ere analyzed,and the reasons of different properties of TRB after annealing w ere explored. The results show ed that differences of the microstructure and properties of TRB w ere determined by the amount of cold deformation,annealing temperature and holding time. By fitting the experimental data,the corresponding relationship betw een the yield strength and the elongation of TRB in the area of different thickness and the annealing temperature and holding time,and the function of the hardness and yield strength of TRB after annealing w ere established,w hich provide a reference for formulating the annealing processes and controlling microstructure and properties of TRB.
Effectiveness of a handsewn nipple valve for reflux prevention in bladder reconstruction.

AbstractThe intussuscepted nipple has proved to be a versatile mechanism to provide continence or prevent reflux in urological reconstructive surgery. Early in its use detussusception of the nipple was recognized as a common complication, which was usually prevented by using several rows of staples to stabilize the nipple. The use of staples has reduced the rate of reoperation for eversion or obstruction but it has led to a higher stone formation rate, ranging from 10 to 18% in recent series.Since 1983 we have used a handsewn intussuscepted ileal nipple stabilized without staples as our antireflux mechanism in bladder augmentations and continent diversions. This technique has been performed in 30 patients with an average followup of greater than 3 years. A small bladder stone developed in only 1 (3%) of the patients, who was completely dependent on intermittent catheterization, while 4 (13%) required reoperation due to eversion of the nipple. This incidence compares well with nipple reoperation rates in r...
Genetic Heterogeneity of Philadelphia Chromosome-Positive Leukemias With a Spotlight on Two Cases: Relapsed Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and De Novo Acute Myeloid Leukemia

The Philadelphia chromosome (Ph) resulting from t(9;22)(q34;q11) is the hallmark of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and is also identified in a subset of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and rarely in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This derivative chromosome contains the BCR-ABL1 fusion gene that encodes for a constitutively active tyrosine kinase. Amplification of BCR-ABL1 and mutations in the ABL1 kinase domain are known causes of tyrosine …
Processing of Acoustic Information During Echolocation

In the previous chapter we considered the processing of acoustic information as if the bat were passively listening to sounds reaching its ears. In reality of course echolocation is an active process in which loud pulses are emitted, and the system is then primed or prepared to receive the fainter echoes that return a few milliseconds later. In addition to the type of processing discussed in the previous chapter, there are three chief events that occur with active echolocation. The first concerns mechanisms for reducing the sound pressure of the emitted pulse that actually reaches the inner ear. These mechanisms mainly involve beaming of the emitted pulses and the coordinated action of the middle ear muscles. The second involves central mechanisms whereby the response to an emitted pulse is reduced at higher levels of the auditory system compared with the response evoked when the bat passively listens to the same signal. The third also involves central mechanisms, but in this case the response evoked by a stimulus is qualitatively different during echolocation than it is when the stimulus is presented to an animal that is not echolocating.
Opiates and Marijuana Use During Pregnancy: Neurodevelopmental Outcomes

Opioid and marijuana use during pregnancy has received increased attention over time; however, there is still much unknown about the effect of in utero exposure to opiates and marijuana on child development. The current chapter outlines evidence suggesting that prenatal opioid exposure is linked to decreased neurobehavioral development in infants, challenges associated with neonatal abstinence syndrome, and potential behavioral concerns such as inattention and hyperactivity later in childhood. Marijuana exposure has been less studied; however, there is some evidence to suggest such exposure is linked to deficits later in childhood, such as decreased attention span and short-term memory skills. Implications for intervention/prevention and school-based accommodations are discussed.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Surgical versus Medical Treatment of Prolactinomas.

Background Few studies address the cost of treating prolactinomas. We performed a cost-utility analysis of surgical versus medical treatment for prolactinomas. Materials and Methods We determined total hospital costs for surgically and medically treated prolactinoma patients. Decision-tree analysis was performed to determine which treatment produced the highest quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Outcome data were derived from published studies. Results Average total costs for surgical patients were $19,224 ( ± 18,920). Average cost for the first year of bromocriptine or cabergoline treatment was $3,935 and $6,042, with $2,622 and $4,729 for each additional treatment year. For a patient diagnosed with prolactinoma at 40 years of age, surgery has the lowest lifetime cost ($40,473), followed by bromocriptine ($41,601) and cabergoline ($70,696). Surgery also appears to generate high health state utility and thus more QALYs. In sensitivity analyses, surgery appears to be a cost-effective treatment option for prolactinomas across a range of ages, medical/surgical costs, and medical/surgical response rates, except when surgical cure rates are ≤ 30%. Conclusion Our single institution analysis suggests that surgery may be a more cost-effective treatment for prolactinomas than medical management for a range of patient ages, costs, and response rates. Direct empirical comparison of QALYs for different treatment strategies is needed to confirm these findings.
Campylobacter fetus subsp. jejuni : An Old Pathogen of New Concern.

For over 60 years subspecies of Campylobacter fetus (formerly Vibrio fetus ) have been recognized as agents responsible for a variety of veterinary diseases. Such diseases range from abortion in cattle and sheep to hepatitis in poultry to dysentery in cattle. In rare instances, they have also been known to cause disease in humans. However, within the last 3 years, with the advent of microbiological methods that can selectively isolate campylobacters from human fecal specimens, C. fetus subsp. jejuni has become a disease-agent of serious concern. Clinical laboratories from throughout the world are now reporting that C. fetus subsp. jejuni is one of the most common bacterial causes of acute gastroenteritis in both children and adults. Its frequency of isolation is comparable to and in many studies exceeds that at which Salmonella is isolated from diarrheal stools of hospitalized patients. Although the source of the organism could not be identified for many of these cases, food and water have been implicated as being important vehicles for transmitting campylobacters to susceptible individuals.
"It's Definitely Been a Journey": A Qualitative Study on How Women with Eating Disorders Use Weight Loss Apps

Technology is often viewed as either positive or negative. On one hand, in HCI, weight loss apps are usually seen as a positive influence on users. From the sociocultural perspective, on the other hand, media and technology negatively impact body satisfaction and contribute to eating disorders; however, these studies fail to include weight loss apps. While these apps can be beneficial to users, they can also have negative effects on users with eating disorder behaviors. Yet few research studies have looked at weight loss apps in relation to eating disorders. In order to fill this gap, we conducted interviews with 16 women with a history of eating disorders who use(d) weight loss apps. While our findings suggest these apps can contribute to and exacerbate eating disorder behaviors, they also reveal a more complex picture of app usage. Women's use and perceptions of weight loss apps shift as they experience life and move to and from stages of change. This research troubles the binary view of technology and emphasizes the importance of looking at technology use as a dynamic process. Our study contributes to our understanding of weight loss app design.
Communication-related allegations against physicians caring for premature infants

Objective Maternal-fetal medicine physicians (MFMp) and neonatal-perinatal medicine physicians (NPMp) caring for premature infants and their families are exposed to significant risk for malpractice actions. Effective communication practices have been implicated to decrease litigious intentions but the extent of miscommunication as a cause of legal action is essentially unknown in this population. Analysis of communication-related allegations (CRAs) may help toward improving patient care and physician-patient relationships as well as decrease litigation risks. Study design We retrospectively reviewed the Westlaw database, a primary online legal research resource used by United States lawyers and legal professionals, for malpractice cases against physicians involving premature infants. Inclusion criteria were: 22 to 36 weeks gestational age, cases related to peripartum events through infant discharge and follow-up, and legal records with detailed factual narratives. Results The search yielded 736 legal records, of which 167 met full inclusion criteria. A CRA was identified in 29% (49/167) of included cases. MFMp and/or NPMp were named in 104 and 54 cases, respectively. CRAs were identified in 26% (27/104) and 35% (19/54) of MFMp- and NPMp-named cases, respectively, with a majority involving physician-family for both specialties (81% and 74%, respectively). Physician-family CRAs for MFMp and NPMp most often regarded lack of informed consent (50% and 57%, respectively), lack of full disclosure (41% and 29%, respectively) and lack of anticipatory guidance (36% and 21%, respectively). Conclusions This study of a major legal database identifies CRAs as significant causes of legal action against MFMp and NPMp involved in the care of high-risk women and infants delivered preterm. Physicians should be especially vigilant with obtaining genuine informed consent and maintaining open communication with families.
Declining Rates of Hospitalization for Selected Cardiovascular Disease Conditions Among Adults Aged ≥35 Years With Diagnosed Diabetes, U.S., 1998–2014

OBJECTIVE Reductions in heart attack and stroke hospitalizations are well documented in the U.S. population with diabetes. We extended trend analyses to other cardiovascular disease (CVD) conditions, including stroke by type, and used four additional years of data. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Using 1998–2014 National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample (NIS) data, we estimated the number of discharges having acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (ICD-9 codes 410–411), cardiac dysrhythmia (427), heart failure (428), hemorrhagic stroke (430–432), or ischemic stroke (433.x1, 434, and 436) as first-listed diagnosis and diabetes (250) as secondary diagnosis. Hospitalization rates for adults aged ≥35 years were calculated using estimates from the population with and the population without diabetes from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) and age-adjusted to the 2000 U.S. standard population. Joinpoint regression was used to analyze trends and calculate an average annual percentage change (AAPC) with 95% confidence limits (CLs). RESULTS From 1998 to 2014, in the population with diabetes, age-adjusted hospitalization rates declined significantly for ACS (AAPC −4.6% per year [95% CL −5.3, −3.8]), cardiac dysrhythmia (−0.7% [−1.1, −0.2]), heart failure (−3.6% [−4.6, −2.7]), hemorrhagic stroke (−1.1% [−1.4, −0.7]), and ischemic stroke (−2.9% [−3.9, −1.8]). In the population without diabetes, rates also declined significantly for these conditions, with the exception of dysrhythmia. By 2014, rates in the population with diabetes population remained two to four times as high as those for the population without diabetes, with the largest difference in heart failure rates. CONCLUSIONS CVD hospitalization rates declined significantly in both the population with diabetes and the population without diabetes. This may be due to several factors, including new or more aggressive treatments and reductions in CVD risk factors and CVD incidence.
Prion propagation and inositol polyphosphates

The [PSI+] prion is a folded in-register parallel β-sheet amyloid (filamentous polymer) of Sup35p, a subunit of the translation termination factor. Our searches for anti-prion systems led to our finding that certain soluble inositol polyphosphates (IPs) are important for the propagation of the [PSI+] prion. The IPs affect a wide range of processes, including mRNA export, telomere length, phosphate and polyphosphate metabolism, energy regulation, transcription and translation. We found that 5-diphosphoinositol tetra(or penta)kisphosphate or inositol hexakisphosphate could support [PSI+] prion propagation, and 1-diphosphoinositol pentakisphosphate appears to inhibit the process.
Building-in-Briefcase: A Rapidly-Deployable Environmental Sensor Suite for the Smart Building

A building’s environment has profound influence on occupant comfort and health. Continuous monitoring of building occupancy and environment is essential to fault detection, intelligent control, and building commissioning. Though many solutions for environmental measuring based on wireless sensor networks exist, they are not easily accessible to households and building owners who may lack time or technical expertise needed to set up a system and get quick and detailed overview of environmental conditions. Building-in-Briefcase (BiB) is a portable sensor network platform that is trivially easy to deploy in any building environment. Once the sensors are distributed, the environmental data is collected and communicated to the BiB router via the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and WiFi technology, which then forwards the data to the central database securely over the internet through a 3G radio. The user, with minimal effort, can access the aggregated data and visualize the trends in real time on the BiB web portal. Paramount to the adoption and continued operation of an indoor sensing platform is battery lifetime. This design has achieved a multi-year lifespan by careful selection of components, an efficient binary communications protocol and data compression. Our BiB sensor is capable of collecting a rich set of environmental parameters, and is expandable to measure others, such as CO 2 . This paper describes the power characteristics of BiB sensors and their occupancy estimation and activity recognition functionality. We have demonstrated large-scale deployment of BiB throughout Singapore. Our vision is that, by monitoring thousands of buildings through BiB, it would provide ample research opportunities and opportunities to identify ways to improve the building environment and energy efficiency.
NYC Selective Specialized Public High Schools and Honors College STEM Degrees: A Previously Unexplored Relationship:

This study examined the relationship between attending one of the nine New York City (NYC) selective specialized public high schools and graduating from an honors college with a science, technology...
Recent Advances in Microelectromechanical Systems and Their Applications for Future Challenges

Recent advances in optoelectronic methodology for microscale measurements are described and their use is illustrated with representative examples of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) operating at high frequencies and used in demanding environments. Today, the word MEMS is employed to describe a process used as well as the resulting products. Therefore, a MEMS-process is also known as a “microsystem technology” (MST).
The Normal School for Colored Girls (1851)

This chapter highlights the education of African American women during a time when it was rare for them to receive an education. The chapter speaks of Myrtilla Miner, a White abolitionist, who had a mission to open a school for formerly enslaved girls and women. Met with much opposition, Miner’s fight for the establishment of a school and its eventual impact is chronicled.
The salience of megaregional geographies for inter-metropolitan transportation planning and policy making

Abstract Researchers have argued that megaregions are a crucial spatial scale to address infrastructure modernization, growth management, economic development and environmental impacts because processes affecting these domains are highly concentrated within megaregional spaces. This paper evaluates the conceptual issues and policy salience of megaregional planning in the U.S. by analyzing the results of a 2018 survey of 382 designated MPOs. Drawing upon the survey results, we find support for the notion that MPO partnerships operating at the megaregional scale are somewhat widespread and involve MPOs along with other partners, like state DOTs and councils of governments. A subset of common concerns—especially multi-modal freight, major transportation corridors, economic development, intercity rail service, and air quality—appear to motivate megaregional partnerships. MPOs were most likely to engage in megaregion-scale collaborations requiring relatively low levels organizational time and resources versus more substantive collaborative efforts to develop joint plans or coordinated project investments. At the same time, few MPO respondents viewed megaregional scale planning collaborations as a high priority or as highly effective. For the majority of MPOs, it appears likely that the costs of such collaborations currently outweigh prospective benefits. Survey respondents identified increasing staff funding, requiring state DOTs’ statewide plans to address megaregional issues, and facilitating and enabling inter-local agreements for megaregional planning as actions that would enhance the salience and effectiveness of megaregional planning. These actions will likely occur only if planning at this scale is embraced as an important priority by federal and state policy makers.
5G-based intelligent transportation system construction

ITS is changing the mode of human transportation and communication, and promoting the development of vehicles to network and intellectualization. This paper analyses the current problems faced by ITS, the characteristics and powerful capabilities of 5G. The 5G communication technology is applied to the ITS scenario, and analysis the combination of 5G and intelligent transportation system. This paper systematically introduces the unique characteristics of ITS based on 5G, and objectively analyses the problems that still need to be solved, trying to show the future trend of 5G vehicle networking and provide direction for the research of ITS in 5G era. It is believed that the research of 5G vehicle network can promote the great evolution of society and make human society more convenient, safe, fast and efficient.
A thermomechanical description of the mold filling process in roll-to-roll nanoimprinting lithography

Abstract We derive the constitutive equations for a viscoelastic fluid that is undergoing a continuous mold filling process at the nanoscale within the context of a thermomechanical framework. The governing equations are obtained by substituting the constitutive equations into the appropriate balance laws. From the general characteristics inherent to the roll-to-roll nanoimprinting lithography processes, we derive suitable initial, boundary and simplifications of the governing equations. Since the general problem is nonlinear and appears to be intractable both analytically and numerically with the analytical and computational tools available currently, we simplify the problem by assuming the displacement gradient and its time rate to be small, resulting in an integro-differential problem with dynamic boundary conditions. To numerically obtain the evolution of the free surface of the fluid within the mold during filling, we propose a numerical scheme based on the Marker and Cell method for the simplified problem. We present and discuss a representative sample of the results from the numerical simulations of the nondimensional equation by considering changes to key process and transport parameters that affect mold filling.
Medicaid expansion and the management of pancreatic cancer.

BACKGROUND Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act has improved access to screening and treatment for certain cancers. It is unclear how this policy has affected the diagnosis and management of pancreatic cancer. METHODS Using a quasi-experimental difference-in-differences (DID) approach, we analyzed Medicaid and uninsured patients in the National Cancer Data Base during two time periods: pre-expansion (2011-2012) and postexpansion (2015-2016). We investigated changes in cancer staging, treatment decisions, and surgical outcomes. RESULTS In this national cohort, pancreatic cancer patients in expansion states had increased Medicaid coverage relative to those in nonexpansion states (DID = 17.49, p < 0.01). Medicaid expansion also led to an increase in early-stage diagnoses (Stage I/II, DID = 4.71, p = 0.03), higher comorbidity scores among surgical patients (Charlson/Deyo score 0: DID = -13.69, p = 0.02), a trend toward more neoadjuvant radiation (DID = 6.15, p = 0.06), and more positive margins (DID = 11.69, p = 0.02). There were no differences in rates of surgery, postoperative outcomes, or overall survival. CONCLUSION Medicaid expansion was associated with improved insurance coverage and earlier stage diagnoses for Medicaid and uninsured pancreatic cancer patients, but similar surgical outcomes and overall survival. These findings highlight both the benefits of Medicaid expansion and the potential limitations of policy change to improve outcomes for such an aggressive malignancy.
The chloride-activated peroxidation of catechol as a mechanistic probe of chloroperoxidase reactions. Competitive activation as evidence for a catalytic chloride binding site on compound I.

Abstract Chloride ion (Cl-) effects on chloroperoxidase (CPO)-catalyzed peroxidation of catechol were used to probe the involvement of Cl- in CPO reactions. High concentrations of Cl- inhibit catechol peroxidation by competing with hydrogen peroxide (KI = 370 mM). However, at lower concentrations, Cl- is a linear competitive activator versus catechol (KDC = 35 mM). Addition of good halogenation substrates to the peroxidatic reaction mixture converts Cl- from a competitive activator to a competitive inhibitor. The KI (10 mM) for this halogenation substrate promoted Cl- inhibition is equivalent to the KM (11 mM) for Cl- in CPO-catalyzed halogenation reactions. During this inhibition, the halogenation substrate is consumed and, at the point where its consumption is complete, Cl- again becomes an activator. Also, at 2.0 mM hydrogen peroxide, CPOs chlorination reaction and its Cl- -activated peroxidatic reaction have similar apparent kcat values. All data are consistent with a mechanism in which Cl- competes with catechol for binding to CPO Compound I. Catechol binding initiates the Cl- -independent path, in which Compound I acts as the oxidizing agent for catechol. When Cl- binds to Compound I, it reacts to yield the enzymatic chlorinating intermediate which is responsible for either the oxidation of catechol in the Cl- -dependent path or the chlorination of substrates in the halogenation pathway. Cl- activation of the peroxidatic reaction is due to a shift from the Cl- -independent pathway to the Cl- -dependent process. The mechanism is unique in that exclusion of the substrate from its primary binding site leads to an increase in the catalytic efficiency of the reaction. This catechol-Cl- system also offers further potential for probing the specificity and chemistry of the key enzymatic intermediates in haloperoxidase-catalyzed reactions.
For Wesley Sturges: On the Teaching and Study of Law

DURING the academic year 1941-1942, toward the end of the fall term, several second and third year students, of whom I was one, conceived the odd idea that our legal education would not be complete without a course in the common law forms of action. This antiquarian project afforded us, no doubt, a pleasant distraction from the great and terrible events which threatened to overwhelm us. But the official schedule of courses and seminars was of no help to us. Then, as now, the common law forms of action did not make the grade in the forward-looking Yale curriculum. We decided to ask Wesley Sturgesto offer such a course in the spring term. When our delegation waited on him his attitude was one of grave courtesy and mild amusement: he neither commended us for our historical interest, nor castigated us for having lost touch with reality. He would, he said, offer the course if a sufficient number of students signed up. He did not point out to us that, in addition to his having a full teaching schedule for the spring term, he had committed a large portion of his time to activities on behalf of both the state and federal governments in connection with what was called, before Pearl Harbor, the defense effort. The course was announced, about twenty students signed up and, through the catastrophic spring of 1942, Wesley labored patiently with us as we canvassed the mysteries of replevin, trover, detinue, and debt. During the same academic year I was enrolled in Wesley's course in Credit Transactions-the course which was both the terror and delight of a generation of students at the Yale Law School. During the spring term the class in Credit Transactions decided to express its appreciation by presenting a gift to the instructor: in twenty-five years of association with the School, as a student and a member of the faculty, I have never heard of any other occasion on which such a thing was done. A collection was taken up, a committee was appointed to purchase an appropriate token and, at the beginning of one session the ceremonial presentation was made.' Wesley acknowledged the gift and briefly thanked us. "There is," he said, "only one reason why I teach law: I enjoy it." I shall engage in a somewhat lengthy attempt to reconstruct the general atmosphere of the time as well as the particular situation of the Yale Law School. The background throws some light on the work Wesley chose to do and on the intensely personal quality of his teaching.
Analogical Retrieval Within a Hybrid Spreading-Activation Network

The mechanisms by which people are initially reminded of analogies remain poorly understood. Psychological evidence suggests that memories retrieved tend to be semantically similar and structurally consistent with the new situation. This paper describes a hybrid symbolic/connectionist model of analogical retrieval that is influenced by the language understanding process. In this model, activation is spread through a semantic network that disambiguates and makes inferences about the input cue. A network of units is then dynamically created to represent competing mappings between the cue's winning interpretation and the activated subset of potential targets. Connections created from the semantic network to these new mapping units imposes priming by semantic similarity, with links between mapping units enforcing structural consistency with the cue. The mapping network then settles by constraint satisfaction into the most coherent analogical match to the cue, after which the winning mapping units feed activation back into the semantic network, where the most highly-activated target is retrieved as the analog.
Mobile anchor-free localization for wireless sensor networks

In this paper, we consider how to localize individual nodes in a wireless sensor network when some subset of the network nodes can be in motion at any given time. For situations in which it is not practical or cost-efficient to use GPS or anchor nodes, this paper proposes an Anchor-Free Mobile Geographic Distributed Localization (MGDL) algorithm for wireless sensor networks. Taking advantage of the accelerometers that are present in standard motes, MGDL estimates the distance moved by each node. If this distance is beyond a threshold, then this node will trigger a series of mobile localization procedures to recalculate and update its location in the node itself. Such procedures will be stopped when the node stops moving. Data collected using Tmote Invent nodes (Moteiv Inc.) and simulations show that the proposed detection method can efficiently detect the movement, and that the localization is accurate and the communication is efficient in different static and mobile contexts.
Issues in multi-level cache designs

Due to the rapid growth of processor speeds and the expansion of the application base, multi-level cache hierarchies are becoming more important for microprocessor systems. One classical technique in designing multi-level caches is the subset-rule, with which the cache contents at one level of a hierarchy are maintained as a subset of the next level of the hierarchy. A major benefit of the subset-rule is its conceptual simplicity for cache coherence control. However, in certain systems, conventional subset management may result in higher hardware costs or in unexpected performance losses. In this paper, we investigate these aspects through simulations for a multiprocessor environment. Several alternatives to the conventional subset approach are proposed and evaluated. We also examine some new techniques for managing coherence information at lower costs when very large caches are involved. >
C-Section and Racism: “Cutting” to the Heart of the Issue for Black Women and Families

Cesarean section (C-section) is one of the leading surgeries performed worldwide today, especially in the USA, Europe, China, and Brazil. While a great number of news and scholarly outlets are talking about the “global C-section epidemic” (e.g., Associated Press 2010), few are alerting communities to the excessive rate of these operations specifically among Black women. This paper addresses the disproportionate rate of surgical birthing in communities of African descent, informs readers of common health consequences, and re-presents pre-colonial gynecological care. In the end, C-sections are shown to be anti-African in philosophy and anti-Black in social and psychological practice where racism exists. Readers are encouraged to reimagine how C-section is perceived as a medical procedure and community occurrence.
Professionalizing business district management for the twenty‐first century

Purpose – This paper seeks to explore leading theories and concepts in professionalising the emerging field of business district management.Design/methodology/approach – In the context of globalization and localization, it discusses distinctive place‐based elements of business improvement districts (BIDs), such as: law, nomenclature, assessment formulae, and branding; while suggesting and analyzing strategic international application of certain theories and concepts.Findings – As an outgrowth of a literature review of globalizing cities, public administration, urban management, and BIDs together with semi‐structured interviews of respondents in connection with doctoral dissertation research and in view of co‐designing curriculum for and teaching a business district management certification program; research reveals that public entrepreneurship, social capital, network governance, and performance management can transcend disciplines and cut across sectors to be key theories and concepts for education and t...
Results of Pulse-Scaling Experiments on Rapid-Growth DKDP Triplers Using the Optical Sciences Laser at 351 nm

Results are reported from recently performed bulk-damage, pulse-scaling experiments on DKDP tripler samples taken from NIF-size, rapid-growth boule BD7. The tests were performed on LLNL's Optical Sciences Laser. A matrix of samples was exposed to single shots at 351 nm (3(omega) ) with average fluences from 4 to 8 J/cm 2 for pulse durations of 1, 3 and 10 ns. The damage sites were scatter-mapped after testing to determine the damage evolution as a function of local beam fluence. The average bulk damage microcavity (pinpoint) density varied nearly linearly with fluence with peak values of approximately 16,000 pp/mm 3 at 1 ns, 10,000 pp/mm 3 at 3 ns and 400 pp/mm 3 at 10 ns for fluences in the 8-10 J/cm 2 range. The average size of a pinpoint was 10(+14,-9) micrometers at 1 ns, 37+/- 20 micrometers at 3 ns and approximately 110 micrometers at 10 ns, although all pulse durations produced pinpoints with a wide distribution of sizes. Analysis of the pinpoint density data yielded pulse-scaling behavior of t 0.35 . Significant planar cracking around the pinpoint as was observed for the 10 ns case but not for the 1 and 3 ns pulses. Crack formation around pinpoints has also been observed frequently for Zeus ADT tests at approximately 8 ns. The high pinpoint densities also lead to significant eruption of near-surface bulk damage. Measurements of the damage site area for surface and bulk gave ratios (A surf /A bulk ) of 2:1 at 1 ns, 7:1 at 3 ns and 110:1 at 10 ns.
Privacy Infusion in Ubiquitous Computing

In recent years, ubiquitous computing applications span such areas as telemedicine, banking, and transportation that require user privacy protection. The realization of context-aware ubiquitous computing exasperates existing privacy concerns. Ubiquitous computing applications demand new privacy enhancing technologies for the information and communication environments where the users are equipped with flexible and portable applications to support the capture, communication, recall, organization and reuse of diverse information. In this paper, we develop a novel scheme for the infusion of privacy into context-aware ubiquitous computing. We present Precision, a system for privacy enhanced context-aware information fusion in ubiquitous computing environments. In our scheme, privacy is defined as a set of parameters encapsulated in composite data entities called privons, through which, we aim at infusing privacy into Precision. We evaluate our proposed scheme through real interactions in implementation of privons.
The negative effect of policy restrictions on consumers’ post-purchase reactions to price-matching guarantees

Price-Matching Guarantees (PMGs) are a mechanism by which retailers can reassure consumers of the competitive price of products they offer. While current research in marketing has studied consumers’ pre-purchase perceptions of the retailer as a result of offering price-matching guarantees, research on the post-purchase impact of PMGs has been relatively limited. While price-matching guarantees are typically assumed to result in positive consumer perceptions of the retailer, no study to date has examined the potentially negative post-purchase impact of PMGs. This paper examines the potential negative effect of policy restrictions which may prevent the disbursement of a price-matching refund, on consumer perceptions. Two experiments (Experiment 1 n = 120, Experiment 2 n = 50) are utilized to dissect the impact of policy restrictions on consumers’ perceptions of service quality, price, and loyalty. The paper concludes with a discussion of the managerial implications of the findings on price-matching guarantee policies.
Second harmonic generation from a charged Ni electrode with and without anion adsorption

Abstract Effects of anion (Cl − and Br − ) adsorption on second harmonic generation from a Ni electrode are investigated in aqueous electrolytes. The experiments involve combined measurements of surface charge densities, adsorbate coverages, and second harmonic generation at 532 nm. The interfacial optical response is also tested at a second harmonic wavelength of 266 nm. The results indicate a strong third order surface susceptibility of Ni. With these results, a relatively simple method is demonstrated for characterizing polycrystalline Ni electrodes with surface second harmonic generation.
STRESS RELAXATION OF $gamma$-IRRADIATED FLUOROCARBON ELASTOMERS

Poly(vinylidene fluoride), polytrifluoroethylene, and two rubbery copolymers with vinylidene fluoride were crosslinked by γ-irradiation in vacuum. Radiation-induced chain scissions in the copolymers were studied by observing the relaxation of stress at constant extension during further irradiation at 27°C., at 0.31–2.7 Mr./hr. in nitrogen and in air. From gel content, swelling, and elasticity, the values of Gc (crosslinking) and Gd (scission) were respectively; for CF2CFH, Gc = 2.2 and Gd = 0.4; for CF2CH2, 2.0 and 0.3; for CF2CH2 + C3F6, 3.4 and 1.3; for CF2CH2 + CF2CFCl, 1.8 and 1.4. The Gd values from stress relaxation were variable; the lowest were: for CF2CH2 + C3F6, 4.6 in nitrogen and 8.4 in air; for CF2CH2 + CF2CFCl, 1.9 in nitrogen and 3.6 in air.
Maximum Safe Weight of Lift: A New Paradigm for Setting Design Limits in Manual Lifting Tasks Based on the Psychophysical Approach:

The main objective of this study was to introduce a new concept for setting design limits in manual lifting tasks, i.e., the notion of the maximum safe weight of lift (MSWL), and to examine the effects of different sets of subject instructions for load selection on the amount of weight determined by male subjects in the psychophysical experiment. The results revealed that the MSWL values were significantly lower than the maximum acceptable weight of lift (MAWL) values. It was proposed that the classical approach to setting design limits in manual lifting tasks, based on the psychophysical method introduced by S. Snook, be modified to emphasize the subjects' safety and to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injury.
Diagonal Forms of Translation Operators for the Helmholtz Equation in Three Dimensions

Abstract The diagonal forms are constructed for the translation operators for the Helmholtz equation in three dimensions. While the operators themselves have a fairly complicated structure (described somewhat incompletely by the classical addition theorems for the Bessel functions), their diagonal forms turn out to be quite simple. These diagonal forms are realized as generalized integrals, possess straightforward physical interpretations, and admit stable numerical implementation. This paper uses the obtained analytical apparatus to construct an algorithm for the rapid application to arbitrary vectors of matrices resulting from the discretization of integral equations of the potential theory for the Helmholtz equation in three dimensions. It is an extension to the three-dimensional case of the results of Rokhlin ( J. Complexity 4 (1988), 12-32), where a similar apparatus is developed in the two-dimensional case.
Testosterone control of brain and anterior pituitary β-adrenergic receptors

Abstract Orchidectomy of adult albino rats resulted in a quick, (approximately 70%) increase in the density of β-adrenergic receptors in the anterior pituitary gland within the first day. There was a concurrent rapid increase in plasma levels of pituitary gonadotropins. The β-receptor density continued to increase slowly for at least 16 days after castration, but it could be lowered significantly to the levels of sham-operated animals by treatment with testosterone (3 mg/kg/day) beginnings on the fourth day after castration and continuing for 4 days. This treatment also completely reversed the elevation in plasma levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), and significantly reduced the circulating follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. Prolactin levels were not significantly altered by the treatments used in these studies. Most of the β-adrenergic receptors induced by orchidectomy in the antirior pituitary were shown, using a β 1 -selective antagonist, practolol, or a β 2 -selective antagonist, IPS-339, to be of the β 2 -subtype. The density of the β-adrenergic receptors in the cerebral cortex also increased significantly (10–24%) after castration, and returned to the levels of sham-operated animals following treatment with testosterone. No significant change in the density of the β-adrenergic receptors in the hypothalamus resulted from their castration or testosterone replacement.
Molecular Basis of Combined Pituitary Hormone Deficiencies

Pituitary gland commitment from oral ectoderm occurs in response to inductive signals from the neuroepithelium of the ventral diencephalon. Invagination of the oral ectoderm leads to the creation of Rathke's pouch. Intensified cell proliferation within Rathke's pouch results in formation of the anterior pituitary lobe. Subsequently, highly differentiated cell types arise sequentially due to overlapping, but distinct, spatial and temporal patterns of signaling molecules and transcription factors. Mutations in some of the pituitary-specific transcription factors have been identified in patients with hypopituitarism, confirming the role of these factors in pituitary development.
Sensitivity Analysis of an Excitation System in Order to Simplify and Validate Dynamic Model Utilizing Plant Test Data

Electrical system dynamic modeling of associated components such as generators, turbines and other drivers, excitation systems, governors, and rotating loads requires countless engineering man-hours to determine the models' necessary parameters. Therefore, any reduction or simplification of the component dynamic models that can be performed, while assuring statistically equivalent analyses results, will reduce man-hours and modeling process duration. This paper addresses generator excitation system models, which include complex Laplace transfer functions typically provided in IEEE Std 421.5-2005, along with their simplification and parameter reduction by utilizing a novel sensitivity analysis method; the method yields a simplified IEEE model. It further addresses the process for digitizing hard copy trace recorder plots of power plant field test data. This paper then addresses the tuning process for obtaining optimized exciter model parameters. Finally, the original and simplified exciter models are used to perform system dynamic analysis on a stand-alone 6.9-kV microgrid with five large sequentially started induction motors powered from a 7-MW diesel generator with an IEEE type AC5A excitation system. The results of the two dynamic analyses validate the entire process by comparison with the sequential motor start test results.
On evidence, biases and confounding factors: Response to commentaries

In a critical review (Thomas and Baker, 2012), we argued for caution in evaluating reports of training-dependent adult structural plasticity measured with MRI. Here, we respond to the commentaries on our review, clarifying our position and addressing some of the specific criticisms raised.
Child Care Costs as a Barrier to Employment for Single and Married Mothers

Because women typically serve as primary care providers for their children, female labor force participation behavior is likely to be affected significantly by the costs associated with replacing maternal care with nonmaternal care. While some evidence of this phenomenon exists in the economics literature, discrepancies across studies make it difficult to provide conclusive evidence of the employment effects of these child care costs. This paper uses an improved SIPP survey design to present new evidence regarding the degree to which child care prices impede mothers' employment behavior, with additional evidence of the difference in these elasticities across marital status, empirical technique, and equation specification. This permits linking this paper to the existing evidence, drawing the conclusion that child care prices impede mothers' employment behavior significantly, with single mothers exhibiting less responsiveness in their labor force participation behavior to child care price changes than marri...
Database management and analysis tools of machine induction

This paper surveys machine induction techniques for database management and analysis. Our premise is that machine induction facilitates an evolution from relatively unstructured data stores to efficient and correct database implementations.
Ultra-dense hydrogen silsesquioxane (HSQ) structures on thin silicon nitride membranes

Ultra-dense nanometer-scale gratings (20nm pitch) on thin silicon nitride (Si"3N"4) membrane substrates using hydrogen silsesquioxane (HSQ) resist have been fabricated. Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) were performed to evaluate the pattern quality of the HSQ gratings. The results are compared with HSQ gratings fabricated on silicon substrates.
The decomposition of iron(III) sulfate in air

The decomposition of initially hydrated powders of iron(III) sulfate was carried out in air over the temperature range 823–923 K. The decomposition process, which gave Fe2O3 as a solid product, was seen to have zero-order kinetics and an activation energy of 219 kJ·mol−1. The nature of the product and the kinetics of decomposition were the same for samples decomposed in air and in argon. Sulfate samples with additives of FeS and Fe2O3 were also decomposed under similar conditions and the results confirmed the zero-order kinetics (for the case of the Fe2O3 additives) and the lack of effect of FeS on the decomposition of iron(III) sulfate.