cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The value of writing a “how‐to” book to reduce the writing apprehension of secondary preservice science and mathematics

Abstract Although theory details characteristics of self‐regulated learners, educators do not have a definitive sense of how to teach students self‐evaluation and reflection. This action research addresses that and other limitations in the extant literature, describing the strategies, planning, knowledge monitoring, calibrations, and performance of 24 undergraduates. Students were dually enrolled in a cognitively demanding history course and a strategic learning seminar taught by the researchers. Using the history content, students were taught task‐appropriate strategies designed to generate self‐reflection and internal feedback. Findings indicated that the most successful history students calibrated global planning processes and the type and level of self‐selected strategies sooner than did the other students. Implications suggest that self‐reflective practice takes a sustained period of time to be internalized by students, but should be routinely incorporated into traditional strategy instruction.
Evolution of the chromospheric and coronal activity of intermediate mass stars

Recent ultraviolet and X-ray observations pertaining to the outer atmospheric structure of intermediate mass (4-6 solar masses) stars and the evolution of their structure are presented. A distance-limited (d equal to or less than 200 pc) IUE ultraviolet survey of early K bright giants shows that C IV emission commonly is present. These stars are almost evenly split between stars showing hybrid-chromospheric and coronal outer atmospheric structures. Exosat observations have been obtained for three hybrid stars, of which only Alpha TrA, the nearest, is detected. The temperature of the emitting plasma is likely to be about 10 to the 6th K. Observtions of six K II stars made with the Einstein satellite show no detections. The general conclusion from the available X-ray data is that early K bright giants are not strong X-ray sources.
Sustainability of Seniors in Low- and Middle-Income Societies

As low income societies are aging rapidly, government and families face challenges to support the seniors, who are already at greater risks of being negatively affected by many other social, cultural, and global changes occurring around them. This paper reviews some of the major challenges faced by seniors in China, India, Mexico, and African countries. It also examines some of the sustainable solutions to these challenges.
Whole-tree harvesting and site productivity: twenty-nine northern hardwood sites in central New Hampshire and western Maine.

Abstract Whole-tree harvesting is widely used in the northeastern United States to supply biomass energy plants with fuel, but questions remain regarding its long-term sustainability. To assess its effects on the northern hardwood forests that make up a significant portion of northern New England, we conducted a regeneration survey of twenty-nine (29) small clearcuts in central New Hampshire and western Maine in 2011. We measured fourteen (14) whole-tree harvested (WTH) and fifteen (15) conventionally harvested (CH) sites and compared the productivity of the 10–14 year old regeneration. Height and diameter of all trees >2 m in height were measured within 1 m-radius plots. Biomass was calculated using species-specific regression equations based on measured diameter. No significant difference was observed in height, diameter or calculated biomass of stems >2 m in height between WTH and CH treatments. We conclude that no significant effects of residue removal on site productivity from whole-tree harvesting are observed within our sample of northern hardwood sites as this point in their stand development.
The Importance of Adultʼs Personality Traits and Professional Interests in Career Decision Making

Abstract I intend to analyze the contribution of personality traits and professional interests in the career decision making so as to identify those occupations or professions that in agreement with them, for the purpose of increasing work satisfaction and performance. As a result of my investigation, I found out that personality traits and professional interests are relevant whenever adults choose the optimal alternative in their career selection or development.
Electrochemical and chemical reactions in baths for plating amorphous alloys

Deposition of amorphous alloys of (W, Co, B) is accompanied by anodic decomposition of ammonium citrate (pH 8.5) electrolyte. Products of decomposition include amines and nitro-organic compounds. Also some nitrite, and probably nitrate, is found in solutions electrolyzed for a long time. The anodic decomposition processes are catalyzed by cobalt.
Two-dimensional radiating gas flow by a moment method

T governing equations for multidimensional radiating gas flow, in general, are of a complicated integrodifferential form. Thus, no reasonably simple solutions, valid for the whole range of optical thickness, exist for such problems at the present time. For the limiting cases of an optically thin or thick gas, the integrodifferential equations can be reduced to a system of differential equations, and earlier investigations" have been confined to these limits. For onedimensional flow problems, Vincenti and Baldwin suggested the use of an exponential function to approximate the integral term. By this approximation, they were able to obtain a system of purely differential equations that are valid for the whole range of optical thickness. Unfortunately, this technique is not directly applicable to multidimensional flow problems. A different scheme of approximation known as the moment method was first suggested by astrophysicists in problems of transfer of radiation in stars. It was subsequently highly developed by nuclear physicists in dealing with neutron transport problems. Using this scheme of approximation, Traugott and others were able to obtain a system of purely differential equations for one-dimensional flow problems that are valid throughout the whole range of optical thickness. It can be shown that the first approximation in this approach when applied to one-dimensional transfer problems is equivalent to the exponential approximation suggested by Vincenti and Baldwin. In the following, we will apply this technique to multidimensional radiating-gas-flow problems.
The myth of judicial leniency in sentencing

Opinion polls report that the pubic is increasingly critical of perceived judicial leniency in sentencing. To examine the degree and pattern of judicial leniency, Illinois judges and laypersons were asked to impose sentences on the same offenders. Contrary to the myth of judicial leniency, the sentences given by laypersons tended to be equal to or less severe than those given by judges. Explanations are offered for the divergence between myth and reality, including the availability heuristic and the impact of biased recall. Language: en
Choledochal cysts in western adults: Complexities compared to children

Choledochal cysts occur most frequently in East Asian children and rarely in Western adults. Over the past two decades, pediatric treatment has been standardized, but relatively little information is available on the management of Western adults with choledochal cysts. Therefore the aims of this analysis were to compare the presentation, management, and late results of Western adults and children with choledochal cysts. Records were reviewed of patients with choledochal cysts at three academic institutions in Wisconsin. Fifty-seven patients were identified, and 51 of these patients (89%) were managed surgically. Thirty-one patients (54%) were adults, and the adults were more likely to be male (29% vs. 4%, P<0.02). Pain (81% vs. 42%, P<0.01) and cholangitis (35% vs. 15%) were more common in adults. Forty-one patients (71%) had type I cysts, but type IVa or V cysts with dilated intrahepatic ducts were more common in adults (39% vs. 15%, P=0.05). Seventeen adults had undergone biliary surgery prior to referral compared to only four children (59% vs. 15%, P<0.01). Preoperative endoscopic or percutaneous stents were employed more commonly in adults (42% vs. 15%, P<0.01). Hospital mortality was 0%, and morbidity was low in both adults and children (25% vs. 8%). An associated biliary malignancy correlated with age (P<0.05): 0 to 30 years (0%), 31 to 50 years (19%), and 51 to 70 years (50%). In addition, adults were more likely to have late problems with cholangitis (19% vs. 4%, P<0.07) and secondary biliary cirrhosis (13% vs. 4%). This analysis suggests that compared to children, Western adults with choledochal cysts are more likely to have (1) type IVA or V cysts, (2) undergone prior surgery, (3) preoperative biliary stents, (4) an associated biliary malignancy, and (5) late hepatobiliary problems. We conclude that surgery in Western adults with choledochal cysts is frequently complicated and should be performed by specialists in complex biliary surgery.
Portasomes as Coupling Factors in Active Ion Transport and Oxidative Phosphorylation

SYNOPSIS. We propose that particles, 7–15 nm in diameter, observed on the apical plasma membranes of cation transporting cells of insect midgut, salivary glands, and Malpighian tubules are modified F1-F coupling complexes such as those found on phosphorylating membranes of mitochondria, chloroplasts, and bacteria. We suggest the generic term, portasome, to describe all of these particles and point out that they are located on the side of the membrane which is electronegative and has the low cation concentration, i.e. , on the input side in each case. Biophysical evidence identifies the portasome bearing membrane as the ion transporting membrane in several insect epithelia, some of which exhibit ion modulated ATPase activity. The activity of a K+-modulated ATPase from Manduca sexta midgut is increased in portasome enriched plasma membrane fractions. We propose that portasomes orient the scalar hydrolysis of negatively charged MgATP2− to less negatively charged MgADP thereby eliminating the attraction of MgATP2− to K+ with the result that the K+ ions are ejected to the opposite side of the portasome bearing membrane. This mechanism explains the coupling of the scalar hydrolysis of ATP to the vectorial active transport of K+ which leads to the establishment of a K+ electrochemical gradient. The reverse process, but with an H+ ionophore replacing a K+ ionophore in the portasome, would provide a mechanism for coupling the vectorial flow of H+, driven by a proton electrochemical gradient, to scalar ATP synthesis and thereby provide a mechanism for oxidative phosphorylation. Electrogenic active potassium ion transport would appear to have evolved from oxidative phosphorylation.
Prevalence of MTHFR C677T and MS A2756G polymorphisms in major depressive disorder, and their impact on response to fluoxetine treatment

Objective To examine the prevalence of the C677T polymorphism of the methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene and the A2756G polymorphism of methionine synthase (MS), and their impact on antidepressant response.
Topographic components analysis of evoked potentials: estimation of model parameters and evaluation of parameter uniqueness

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the practicability of the ‘topographic components model’ proposed by Mocks1 for the spatio-temporal characterization of multi-channel evoked potentials (EP), and to present a complete and detailed algorithm for this method of analysis. Details of the algorithm are discussed along with various computational issues, especially with regard to contrasts with traditional principal components analysis. The algorithm is applied to multi-channel pattern-shift visual EP data obtained from normal subjects, and the model is demonstrated to provide data reduction of 71% with a relative mean-squared error (MSE) of 2%. Obvious features of the data are seen to be reflected in the estimated model parameters, lending support to the appropriateness of the model. The results also demonstrate that although the model parameters are uniquely identifiable in theory1, care must be taken when fitting the model to insure that the MSE is not so insensitive to perturbations in the model parameters that they are rendered ‘non-unique’ for all practical purposes. The proper selection of model order is shown to play a critical role in avoiding this problem. Finally, a theoretical analysis is presented which evaluates the relationship between parameter ‘uniqueness’, model order, and the non-orthogonality of the model components.
At the interface of cultures: Multiethnic/multiracial high school and college students.

Data from 2 studies conducted in the United States--1 with high school students and 1 with college students--are reported. Two hundred forty-one multiethnic/multiracial youths (also termed biethnic/biracial, mixed ethnic/mixed racial, and interracial) were selected using 2 large surveys and compared with 1,041 of their monoethnic peers. Although more than 10% of the students across both studies were multiethnic, less than one third of these respondents labeled themselves as such. Ethnic self-labels varied with setting, type of question, and parental ethnicity. Multiethnic youths did not differ from monoethnics regarding self-esteem. In some cases, multiethnic students had more positive attitudes toward other groups than monoethnics did.
Combined effects of ionizing radiation and cycloheximide on gene expression

We performed experiments to determine the effects of ionizing radiation exposure on expression of genes such as beta-actin, c-fos, histone H4, c-myc, c-jun, Rb, and p53 after exposure of Syrian hamster embryo (SHE) cells to the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide. The purpose of these experiments was to determine the role of a labile protein in the radiation-induced response. The results revealed that when ionizing radiation (either fission-spectrum neutrons or gamma rays) was administered 15 min after cycloheximide treatment of SHE cells, the radiation exposure reduced cycloheximide-mediated gene induction of c-fos, histone H4, and c-jun. In addition, dose-rate differences were found when radiation exposure most significantly inhibited the cycloheximide response. Our results suggest that ionizing radiation does not act as a general protein-synthesis inhibitor and that the presence of a labile protein is required for the maintenance of specific gene transcription and mRNA accumulation after radiation exposure, especially at high dose-rates.
Changes in Critical Thinking Skills Following a Course on Science and Pseudoscience: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

We assessed changes in paranormal beliefs and general critical thinking skills among students (n = 23) enrolled in an experimental course designed to teach distinguishing science from pseudoscience and a comparison group of students (n = 30) in an advanced research methods course. On average, both courses were successful in reducing paranormal beliefs and increasing both abstract and psychology-specific critical thinking skills. However, the only difference that emerged between the courses was that the experimental course was superior with regard to reducing specific paranormal beliefs.
Characterization of Zn1−xMnxSe nanowires and nanoribbons with cation sublattice ordering

Abstract Characterization of Zn 1− x Mn x Se nanowires grown by Au-catalyzed chemical vapor deposition (CVD) using transmission electron microscopy is reported. The nanostructures were found to grow in the form of nanowires, nanoribbons, and nanosaws. The fraction of manganese on the cation sublattice in the nanowires varied from x =0.1 to x =0.28. No correlation between Mn fraction and nanowire diameter was found for straight nanowires; however, in tapered nanowires the Mn fraction was found to increase as the diameter increased. The tapering, as well as the increase in Mn fraction, is likely caused by thin film deposition with a higher Mn fraction on the sides of the nanowires. Some of the nanoribbons were found to display extra diffraction spots at half-order positions in selected area diffraction. The half-order reflections were found to have originated from spontaneous atomic ordering of Mn and Zn on planes on the cation sublattice.
Primary outcomes in two randomized controlled trials of treatments for cannabis use disorders.

Background While several randomized controlled trials evaluating a range of treatments for cannabis use disorders have appeared in recent years, these have been marked by inconsistency in selection of primary outcomes, making it difficult to compare outcomes across studies.
Discovery, utilisation and analysis of credible threats for 2×2 incomplete information games in the Theory of Moves framework

Steven Brams's [(1994). Theory of moves. Cambridge University Press] Theory of Moves (TOM) is an alternative to traditional game theoretic treatment of real-life interactions, in which players choose strategies based on analysis of future moves and counter-moves that arise if game play commences at a specified start state and either player can choose to move first. In repeated play, players using TOM rationality arrive at nonmyopic equilibria. One advantage of TOM is its ability to model scenarios in which power asymmetries exist between players. In particular, threat power, i.e. the ability of one player to threaten and sustain immediate, globally disadvantageous outcomes to force a desirable result long term, can be utilised to induce Pareto optimal states in games such as Prisoner's Dilemma which result in Pareto-dominated outcomes using traditional methods. Unfortunately, prior work on TOM is limited by an assumption of complete information. This paper presents a mechanism that can be used by a player...
Flooding in vertical gas-liquid countercurrent flow through multiple short paths

Abstract An experimental investigation has been conducted on flooding in the vertical gas-liquid countercurrent flow through multiple short paths. Experimental results show similar flooding characteristics as those in the single-path flow, but secondary behaviors also exist, unique to the multiple-path flow, due to path interaction. A modeling procedure has been developed to analyze the onset of flooding. The analysis shows that correlations of the Wallis and Kutateladze type may be interpreted as dynamic similarity conditions for the flooding phenomenon, although their detailed parametric dependences are quite complicated.
Adjuvant Effect of Cholera Enterotoxin on the Immune Response of the Mouse to Sheep Red Blood Cells

Intensive efforts are currently being made to develop a cholera toxoid for use in immunization against cholera. Recent reports have demonstrated that a toxoid prepared by inactivation of cholera toxin with formalin was highly immunogenic but reverted in part to toxin [1, 2]. The possibility that some of the immunogenicity of this toxoid was related to the reactivated toxin acting as an adjuvant is suggested by these preliminary studies of the immune response of mice to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) in the presence of cholera toxin. Threeto four-week-old male Balb/c mice were given an iv injection of 10s washed SRBC and cholera enterotoxin. Controls received only SRBC. Five days later, the animals were sacrificed, and the spleens were individually assayed for direct plaque-forming cells (PFC) against SRBC by a modification [3] of the Jerne technique [4]. The cholera enterotoxin used was a highly purified preparation (choleragen) supplied by Dr. Richard A. Finkelstein [5]. Since endotoxin, a known adjuvant, might be present as a contaminant in the preparation, the enterotoxin was assayed for pyrogenicity in rabbits at a dose of 45 sg per rabbit [6]. No pyrogenicity was observed. Only the enterotoxin component was present when the material was tested in immunodiffusion in agar against a multispecific antiserum. The combined data from five separate experiments are presented in table 1. Mice were given SRBC with doses of cholera enterotoxin ranging
Science as doctrine or thought? A critical study of nine academic year institutes

This study of nine Academic Year Institutes in the United States was supported by the National Science Foundation following an earlier study of an A Y1 at the University of Colorado. For a more detailed report of the methods and results of this study, see H. E. Gruber, “Science as Thought: A Study of Nine Academic Year Institutes,” University of Colorado Behavior Research Laboratory Report No. 16 (1961).
Stability Analysis of FPGA-Based Control of Brushless DC Motors and Generators Using Digital PWM Technique

Brushless dc (BLDC) drives have received significant attention, owing to their high efficiency, electromagnetic interference, and high mechanical reliability due to the absence of brushes in commercial, residential, and industrial applications. In generating mode, they are very suitable for small wind and hydro generator applications, as well as integrated starter alternators in hybrid electric vehicles. This paper discusses digital pulsewidth modulation control for a BLDC drive in both motoring and generating modes of operation. This control strategy is simple and robust, requires no current sensors, and is not computationally intensive. Owing to these attributes, the technique can be implemented on a low-cost field-programmable gate array. This paper investigates potential stability issues due to the simplicity of this control under various conditions of load disturbances and also owing to the reduction in processor capability. Lyapunov stability criteria have been used to analyze the closed-loop stability of the system. Furthermore, an approximate discrete model has been developed, and the stability of the system is analyzed to ensure closed-loop operation under various sets of loads, speeds, and input voltages. Simulation and experimental results have been presented to verify the claims.
Diverse Effects of Wideband Intense, Non-Ionizing Radiation on Cells and Tissues

Ionizing radiation can be an environmental health risk as well as a cancer therapeutic, but similar roles for non-ionizing radiation are controversial. We have examined effects of wideband, intense non-ionizing radiation applied to cells and tissues as nanosecond pulsed electric fields (nsPEFs). Compared to conventional electroporation pulses, nsPEFs have shorter pulse durations (?10ns) and higher electric fields (~300kV/cm). In spite of the high electric field, measured thermal changes are negligible. For these short pulses we have observed a number of nsPEF-induced effects on biological cells and tissues, including apoptosis induction and tumor regression at high electric fields, as well as calcium mobilization, platelet aggregation and enhanced gene transcription at lower, sublethal electric fields. When nsPEFs are below the plasma membrane (PM) charging time constant (~100ns), effects on intracellular membranes are appreciable. Thus, it is possible to observe effects on intracellular structures (membranes) and functions without observing effects on the PM. For Jurkat or HL-60 cells exposed to lOns or 60ns pulses, mobilization of calcium from intracellular stores is observed at significantly lower electric fields than electric fields needed for PM electroporation or transport. However, as the electric field and/or the pulse duration are increased, it is possible to observe effects on the PM. Thus, as the pulse duration increases there is a cell type-specific increase in effects at the PM, as well as on intracellular structures and functions.
Algebraic construction of sparse matrices with large girth

In this correspondence, we present a method for constructing sparse matrices that have a compact description and whose associated bipartite graphs have large girth. Based on an arbitrary seed matrix of nonnegative integers a new matrix is constructed which replaces each entry of the seed matrix with a sum of permutation matrices. Algebraic conditions that lead to short cycles in the associated bipartite graph are analyzed and methods to achieve large girth in two special cases are presented. In one, all the permutation matrices are circulants; in the other they are all affine permutation matrices. When used to define a low-density parity-check (LDPC) code the compact description should lead to efficient implementation and the large girth to good error correction performance. The method is adaptable to a variety of rates, and a variety of row and column degrees
N- and P-Type Doping of ZnSe Using Gas Source Molecular Beam Epitaxy

High quality ZnSe:Cl has been grown on GaAs by gas source molecular beam epitaxy (GSMBE); elemental Zn and H2Se are used as source materials, with ZnCl2 as a dopant source for donors. Atomic Cl concentrations ([Cl]) approaching 1020 cm−3 have been incorporated into the lattice as indicated by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). At incorporation levels greater than 1020 cm−3, an appreciable decrease in the growth rate has been observed. The sharp transition to a negligible growth rate is attributed to the occurrence of a surface chemical reaction originating from Cl and H which are present in the GSMBE environment. For [Cl] as high as 4 × 1018 cm−3, the films exhibited high crystalline quality, as indicated by photoluminescence originating from a single intense donor-bound excitonic transition. Hydrogenation of semiconductors can potentially result in the electrical passivation of incorporated acceptor and donor species. In the case of ZnSe:Cl, H was present in the ZnSe layers, but did not appear to adversely affect the electrical properties of the n-type films. In contrast, for the growth of ZnSe:N, where a nitrogen plasma cell was employed as a source of nitrogen, the H concentration (as determined by SIMS) was observed to track the N concentration. The ZnSe:N films were highly resistive for various amounts of N incorporation, which suggests that H incorporation is an issue of primary importance in the p-type doping of ZnSe grown by GSMBE.
Role of Executive Dysfunction and Dysexecutive Behavior in Late-Life Depression and Disability

Objective Both executive dysfunction (ED), measured by performance-based tasks, and dysexecutive behavior (DB), measured by behavioral rating scales, contribute to late-life depression and comorbid disability. There is a modest positive association of ED and DB, but less is known about their relative contributions to core aspects of neuropsychiatric conditions and whether they provide unique or redundant information. Methods Latent variable analyses were applied to ED, DB, depression, and disability data from 220 older patients with major depression and ED who had been enrolled in a psychosocial treatment study of depression. ED measures included the Trail Making Test, part B, Stroop Color Word Interference Test, and Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Trail 1. The ED scale from the Frontal Systems Behavior Scale, self and other-rated, served as the ratings-based measure of DB. Results The measurement model, with all four latent variables related to one another, demonstrated good fit (RMSEA = 0.06). In the structural models, DB was associated with both depression (β = 0.61) and disability (β = 0.42), whereas ED was associated with depression (β = 0.43) but not disability (β = 0.16). Social problem-solving accounted for 49% of the influence of DB on late-life depression, whereas ED was not related to social problem-solving. Conclusion ED and the lesser studied DB measures offer unique and complementary information. DB was robustly associated with late-life depression and disability. Patients with depression and ED may be more likely to develop disability when they exhibit DB and social problem-solving difficulties.
XIth International Symposium on Amyloid and Amyloidosis. Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, USA, November 5 - 9, 2006.

The XIth International Amyloid Symposium, organized by Martha Skinner, Amyloid Treatment and Research Program, Boston University, together with local and international committees, was held in the S...
Survivable low-cost low-delay multicast trees

The problem of finding survivable low-cost multicast trees having node-disjoint paths to destinations and satisfying delay requirements is an open area of research. Having two node-disjoint paths from the source to each destination makes a multicast tree resilient to node or edge failures. Satisfying delay requirements of the application ensures that the data delivered to the destination is fresh. Reducing the total cost of the multicast tree helps in lowering resource usage. We propose a new heuristic called dynamic weight optimal path pair (DW-OPP) for this problem. The heuristic constructs a node-disjoint low-cost multicast tree having low end-to-end delays. A user-specified parameter controls the performance of the heuristic. The parameter presents the user with a choice between lowering tree cost and achieving better delay performance. The performance of the new heuristic is evaluated empirically
A study of the relationship between mineral content and mechanical properties of turkey gastrocnemius tendon

The vertebrate skeletal system undergoes adaptation in response to external forces, but the relation between the skeletal changes and such forces is not understood. In this context, the variation in the amount and location of calcification has been compared with changes in mechanical properties of the normally mineralizing turkey gastrocnemius tendon using ash weight measurements, X-ray radiography, and mechanical testing. Radiographic evidence from 12- to 17-week-old birds showed calcification in only portions of gastrocnemius tendons proximal to the tarsometatarsal joint. Mechanical testing of these dissected proximal regions demonstrated an increased ultimate stress and modulus and a decreased maximum strain that appeared to parallel calcification. Further, stress-strain curves of portions of uncalcified turkey gastrocnemius tendon were shaped similar to those of other typical unmineralized tendon curves while highly calcified tendons yielded curves resembling those of bone. The proximal portions of the gastrocnemius where mineralization begins were observed to have a decreased tendon cross-sectional area compared with distal portions which do not mineralize. Based on the resultant measures of mineral content and location and mechanical properties, it is hypothesized that increased calcification is a result of increased stresses at certain locations of the tendon, perhaps the consequence of the natural forces exerted by the large leg muscles of the bird into which the gastrocnemius inserts. More specifically, tendon calcification may be the result of stress-induced exposure of charged sites on the surfaces of collagen molecules, fibrils, or fibers so that deposition of mineral and subsequent mechanical reinforcement occur in the tissue.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Paradoxical intention in the treatment of urinary retention

Abstract Although most cases of psychogenic urinary retention can be ameliorated by a program composed of various behavioral techniques, there is a small percentage of cases which resists the behavioral treatment of choice. The present multiple case paper focused on the treatment of several resistant cases of functional urinary retention. Following a two week baseline period, each individual was exposed to eight weekly behavioral sessions. Whereas most cases of urinary retention have significantly improved by this time, the five individuals chosen for the present study were dissatisfied with their progress. Thus, following the eighth week, paradoxical intention was employed. Within six weeks treatment for the urinary problem was terminated as all clients were comfortable with this aspect of their daily behavior. It was hypothesized that cases of psychogenic urinary retention which resist behavioral techniques are possibly exacerbated by performance anxiety. Such anxiety can be efficiently handled by paradoxical intention.
Measurement of worst-case power delivery noise and construction of worst case current for graphics core simulation

Worst case graphics core power delivery noise is a major indicator of graphics chip performance. The design of good graphics core power delivery network (PDN) is technically difficult because it is not easy to predict a worst case current stimulus during pre-silicon design stage. Many times, the worst case power delivery noise is observed when graphics benchmark software is run during post-silicon validation. At times like this, it is too late to rectify the power delivery noise issue unless many extra capacitor placeholders are placed during early design stage. To intelligently optimize the graphics core power delivery network design and determining the right amount of decoupling capacitors, this paper suggests an approach that setup a working platform to capture the worst case power delivery noise; and later re-construct the worst case power delivery current using Thevenin's Theorem. The measurement is based on actual gaming application instead of engineering a special stimulus that is generated thru millions of logic test-vectors. This approach is practical, direct and quick, and does not need huge computing resources; or technically skilled logic designers to design algorithms to build the stimulus.
Construct validity of the PROMIS® sexual function and satisfaction measures in patients with cancer.

With data from a diverse sample of patients either in treatment for cancer or post-treatment for cancer, we examine inter-domain and cross-domain correlations among the core domains of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Sexual Function and Satisfaction measures (PROMIS® SexFS) and the corresponding domains from conceptually-similar measures of sexual function, the International Index of Erectile Function and the Female Sexual Function Index. Men (N=389) and women (N=430) were recruited from a tumor registry, oncology clinics, and an internet panel. The PROMIS SexFS, International Index of Erectile Function, and Female Sexual Function Index were used to collect participants’ self-reported sexual function. The domains shared among the measures include desire/interest in sexual activity, lubrication and vaginal discomfort/pain (women), erectile function (men), orgasm, and satisfaction. We examined correlations among different domains within the same instrument (discriminant validity) and correlations among similar domains measured by different instruments (convergent validity). Correlations demonstrating discriminant validity ranged from 0.38 to 0.73 for men and 0.48 to 0.74 for women, while correlations demonstrating convergent validity ranged from 0.62 to 0.83 for men and 0.71 to 0.92 for women. As expected, correlations demonstrating convergent validity were higher than correlations demonstrating discriminant validity, with one exception (orgasm for men). Construct validity was supported by convergent and discriminant validity in a diverse sample of patients with cancer. For patients with cancer who may or may not have sexual dysfunction, the PROMIS SexFS measures provide a comprehensive assessment of key domains of sexual function and satisfaction.
Case report: Frontal lobe tumor presenting as late onset depression

A 64-year-old female with no past psychiatric history presented with a two-month history of depressive symptoms. She met DSM-III-R criteria for major depressive episode with melancholia. Physical exam revealed a left-sided Horner's syndrome, and MRI scan of the brain revealed large bilateral frontal lobe masses that were neurologically silent. This case demonstrates that intracranial tumors can present as late onset depression without significant accompanying neurologic deficits.
Management of chronic pain with chronic opioid therapy in patients with substance use disorders

Substance use disorders (SUDs), whether active or in remission, are often encountered in patients with chronic nonmalignant pain. Clinicians are challenged when managing chronic pain while facing substance abuse issues during the course of chronic opioid therapy (COT). Further, the interrelated behavioral symptomatology of addiction and chronic pain suggests that if one disorder is untreated, effective treatment of the other in not possible. Incomplete understanding of the overlapping presentations of the two disorders, coupled with insufficient management of both conditions, leads to undertreated pain and premature discharge of SUD patients from pain treatment. In order to achieve pain relief and optimal functionality, both conditions need to be carefully managed. This paper reviews the prevalence of SUDs in chronic pain patents; the overlapping presentation of the two disorders; risk factors and stratification for addiction; identification of addiction in the chronic pain population; and suggestions for treating patients with COT, with an emphasis on relapse prevention. With appropriate assessment and treatment, COT for chronic pain patients with a history of SUD can be successful, leading to improved functionality and quality of life.
Dibutyryl-cyclic GMP stimulation of Ca2+ -ATPase activity in rat brain synaptic membranes.

Abstract: The effects of dibutyryl cyclic AMP (dbcAMP) and dibutyryl cyclic GMP (db-cGMP) were tested on Ca2+-ATPase, Mg2+-ATPase, and (Ca2++ Mg2+)-ATPase activities in lysed synaptosomes prepared from whole rat brains (minus cerebellum). At concentrations from 0.1 to 2.0 mM, db-cGMP produced a selective, concentration-dependent increase in Ca2+-ATPase activity. Both db-cGMP and db-cAMP slightly reduced Mg2+-ATPase activity, whereas neither compound had concentration-dependent effects on (Ca2++ Mg2+)-ATPase activity. These findings suggest that the Mg2+-independent, Ca2+-ATPase activity in rat brain is regulated by a cyclic GMP-dependent process. Further, the data provide evidence that the Ca2+-ATPase activity in lysed synaptosomal membranes represents an enzyme that is distinguishable from both the Mg2+- and (Ca2++ Mg2+-ATPase.
A review of suicidality in nonpsychotropic medications

Abstract Introduction: The term suicidality describes the multitude of behaviors related to suicide: suicidal ideation, self-injurious behavior, suicide attempt, and completed suicide. Risk factors...
Intraobserver and Interobserver Reliability of the Oberg-Manske-Tonkin (OMT) Classification: Establishing a Registry on Congenital Upper Limb Differences.

Background: The purpose of this investigation was to determine the reliability of the Oberg-Manske-Tonkin (OMT) classification system applied to patients enrolled in a prospective, multicenter cohort study of congenital upper limb differences. Our hypothesis was that the OMT classification would exhibit high intraobserver and interobserver reliability and thus would be an appropriate tool for the new Congenital Upper Limb Differences registry. Methods: Four pediatric hand surgeons independently reviewed the medical records, clinical photographs, and radiographs of 60 randomly selected patients previously enrolled in the Congenital Upper Limb Differences registry. Patient’s information was summarized and shared electronically (PowerPoint). Each rater classified each congenital anomaly according to the OMT classification system. Responses were recorded using a web-based data capture tool (REDCap). Three weeks later, the surgeons repeated the process. Intraobserver reliability for each rater was assessed using Fleiss’ κ. Interobserver reliability was assessed using percent exact agreement (when all 4 raters were in agreement) as well as Fleiss’ κ. Results: Using the OMT classification, intraobserver reliability for the 4 pediatric hand surgeons showed almost perfect agreement, with κ values in the range of 0.89 to 0.93. Interobserver reliability demonstrated substantial agreement, with κ value of 0.79 (95% confidence interval, 0.77-0.82) in the first reading and 0.80 (95% confidence interval, 0.77-0.83) in the second reading. The highest possible agreement (κ=1) was seen for the following diagnoses: congenital dislocation of radial head (OMT I.A.2.v), Madelung deformity (I.A.2.vii), radial polydactyly (I.B.2.iii), triphalangeal thumb (I.B.2.iv), Kirner deformity (I.B.4.vi), and osteochondromatosis (3.B.4.i). Conclusions: The OMT classification of congenital upper limb differences exhibits substantial to almost perfect intraobserver and interobserver reliability among pediatric hand surgeons at different institutions. The OMT is therefore well-suited for classification of congenital upper limb anomalies in patients enrolled in a multicenter registry. Level of Evidence: Level II—diagnostic.
What can ongoing clinical trials of anticoagulants demonstrate

As the population ages, the burden of thromboembolic disease increases. The development of new anticoagulants that overcome the shortcomings of the vitamin K antagonists represents an important advance.Clinical evaluation of new anticoagulants typically begins in short-term indications, such as prop
Uncovering beam position monitor noise at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider

We apply the independent component analysis (ICA) algorithm to uncover intrinsic noise in the beam position monitor (BPM) system. Numerical simulations found that ICA is efficient in the BPM noise estimation. The ICA algorithm is applied to the turn-by-turn data at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider. We found the distribution of the BPM noise level, which is consistent with the Johnson-Nyquist thermal noise model. The ICA analysis of turn-by-turn data can be used in neuronetwork feasibility of monitoring a storage ring parasitically.
Clinical problems in changing preparation of traditional Chinese medicine

The problems in changing preparation of traditional Chinese medicine were analyzed. We explained what the researcher should pay attention to, such as item of purpose and gist, and clinical trail technology requirement, combined with the current regulations.
Are Blood Cultures Overused in Infants and Children with Uncomplicated Skin and Soft Tissue Infections

To determine the incidence of blood culture collection and the rate of true bacteremia in pediatric patients admitted with uncomplicated skin and soft tissue infections. Although the 2014 IDSA guidelines for uncomplicated skin and soft tissue infections (uSSTIs) do not recommend obtaining blood cultures (BCx) routinely in healthy, immunocompetent patients, these are frequently ordered. Malone demonstrated <1% positive BCx in pediatric patients older than one year of age with uSSTIs; however, this study was limited by the inclusion of patients who had …
Redox Chemistry, Acid Reactivity, and Hydrogenation Reactions of Two-Electron Mixed Valence Diiridium and Dirhodium Complexes

The syntheses and reaction chemistry of two electron mixed-valence diphosphazane-bridged dirhodium and diiridium complexes M20,II(tfepma)2(CNtBu)2Cl2 [M = Rh (1), Ir (2); tfepma = MeN[P(OCH2CF3)2]2, CNtBu = tert-butyl isocyanide] are described. 1 and 2 undergo addition and two-electron oxidation and reduction chemistries. In the presence of CNtBu, the addition product with the stoichiometry M20,II(tfepma)2(CNtBu)3Cl2 [M = Rh (3), Ir (3)] is generated; in the presence of 1 equiv of CNtBu and 2 equiv of bis(pentamethyl-cyclopentadienyl)cobalt(II), 1 and 2 are reduced to furnish M20,0(tfepma)2(CNtBu)3 [M = Rh (5), Ir (6)], which feature both four- and five-coordinate M0 centers. Complexes 1, 2, 5, and 6 all possess coordinatively unsaturated square planar M0 centers that are reactive: (1) 2 reacts with PhICl2 to produce Ir2II,II(tfepma)2(CNtBu)2Cl4 (7); (2) protonation of 2 with HX yields Ir2II,II(tfepma)2(CNtBu)2Cl2HX [X = Cl– (8), OTs– (9)]; (3) protonation of 5 with HOTs produces [Rh2I,I(tfepma)2(CNtBu)3(...
Maintenance of renal function following major trauma.

Acute renal failure following trauma or operation is a loose description of the kidney’s inability to excrete the load of metabolic products presented to it. Some of the many causes of acute renal failure are discussed, and prerenal, renal, and postrenal causes are distinguished.
Pharmacologic antagonism of propranolol in dogs. III. Effects of dopamine-isoproterenol and glucagon on hemodynamics and myocardial oxygen consumption in ischemic hearts during chronic propranolol administration.

In 31 dogs chronically beta blocked with oral propranolol (12 to 14 mg/kg/day), glucagon (20 ug/kg) and combined dopamine (10 ug/kg/min) and isoproterenol (0.2 ug/kg/min) were given intravenously and tested for hemodynamic efficacy. Dogs were divided into four groups. Basal hemodynamics were obtained in Group I (n = 8) without cardiopulmonary bypass. In Group II (n = 8), hemodynamics were studied after 15 minutes of global ischemia during cardiopulmonary bypass. In Group III (n = 8), hemodynamics were studied after regional ischemia produced by ligation of the proximal left anterior descending coronary artery. In Group IV (n = 7), myocardial oxygen consumption and left ventricular mechanics were studied before and after 1 hour of cardiopulmonary bypass. Our results indicate the following: (1) Dopamine-isoproterenol improves hemodynamics in basal, post-global ischemic, and post-regional ischemic states. Glucagon improves hemodynamics either insignificantly or to a lesser extent than dopamine-isoproterenol. Furthermore, glucagon produces a larger increase in heart rate, which is not desirable. (2) Both dopamine-isoproterenol and glucagon increase myocardial oxygen consumption in comparison with control.
Oral piercing injuries treated in United States emergency departments, 2002-2008

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to report the epidemiology and clinical history of oral piercing injuries presenting to US hospital emergency departments (EDs). METHODS: A retrospective analysis of oral piercing injuries was performed using patient injury data collected from 2002 through 2008 using the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. National estimates of ED visits were analyzed by injury type, anatomic site, and mechanism of injury according to age, gender, and race. RESULTS: An estimated 24,459 oral piercing injuries presented to US EDs during the 7-year period. The male:female ratio for ED visits was 1:2.6. Patients 14- to 22-years-old accounted for 73% of the ED visits. Injuries to the lips (46%), tongue (42%), and teeth (10%) predominated. Infections (42%) and soft tissue puncture wounds (29%) caused injury most commonly. Thirty-nine percent of ED visits resulted from patients' inability to remove mucosally overgrown oral piercings. Hospitalization was rarely required ( Language: en
Layout Extraction for Integrated Electronics and MEMS Devices

Lumped parameter simulators are increasingly being used for schematic-based MEMS design. However, as layout continues to be the design representation of choice for MEMS manufacturing, layout verification is crucial. Schematic-based simulation tools can be used for this verification through the extraction of the schematic from the layout representation. Furthermore, integrated MEMS needs combined extraction and simulation of conventional electronics and electromechanical components in order to correctly capture the interaction between these components. This paper introduces the concept of mechanical parasitics, which, when combined with electrical parasitics, enables the accurate verification of integrated electronics and MEMS devices.