cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Subjective understanding of ill-structured problems: an information systems perspective

Many of the problems faced by managers generally fall in the ill-defined, ill-structured category. Decision makers perform various activities that help them understand such ill-structured problems (ISPs). These activities are tightly coupled to an individual manager's "cognitive orientation" about the problem. This research investigates, from a cognitive perspective, the nature of information systems (IS) support that might facilitate a decision maker's understanding of ISPs. Four research questions are investigated: (1) Can a conceptual model be developed that incorporates a cognitive perspective of IS support for ISPs? (2) What cognitive activities could help a decision maker's understanding of ISPs? (3) What type of IS support might promote understanding? (4) Can a prototype be built to provide this IS support? The answers to these questions are based, in part, on the argument that IS support for promoting understanding of ISPs should be provided "through" the cognitive orientations of decision makers. This dissertation develops a new notion called the "cognitive lens" to describe an individual's "cognitive orientation," for a given problem domain. The activities performed by decision makers to understand ill-structured problems are deductively derived. The notion of the "cognitive lens" and the IS functions needed to support these "understanding-activities" are then utilized to develop a classification of IS support for the cognitive lens in the form of three "inquiry modes." These three inquiry modes--introspective, dialectic and eclectic--are useful for operating on cognitive lenses stored and maintained in a computer system. The modes are supported by specifying IS functions for a support system that allows decision makers to perform the various understanding-activities "through" their cognitive lenses. These concepts are demonstrated by designing and constructing a prototype "cognitive lens support system" (CLSS). The design and construction of the CLSS closely follows the principles of the object-oriented programming paradigm. In doing the above, this dissertation argues for an alternative approach to providing IS support to decision makers for understanding ill-structured problems (ISPs). It contributes to the information systems field since past research has primarily focussed on providing objective support to decision makers to the exclusion of the cognitive aspects relevant to the subjective understanding of ISPs.
The Effect of Rhubarb and Ligustrazin in Multiple Organ Dysfunction Caused by Reperfusion Injury after Hemorrhagic Shock in Rabbits

Objective To investigate the the effect of Rhubarb and Ligustrazin in multiple organ dysfunction caused by reperfusion injury after hemorrhagic shock in rabbits.Methods Using a hemorrhagic shock model,serum creatine kinase(CK),laclate dehydrogenase(LDH),alanine trasaminase(ALT) and creatinine(Cr) were measured in 16 rabbits on 4 different times,and the wet/dry ratio of lung tissue pieces were measured too.16 animals were randomly divided into Rhubarb and Ligustrazin treatment group(n=8) and nontreatment group(n=8).Results The final serum level of CK,LDH,ALT and Cr in the group treated by Rhubarb and Ligustrazin was markedly lower than in the an other group(P0.05 or P0.01).The difference of the wet/dry ratio of lung tissue pieces between the two groups was significative(P0.05).Conclusion It is suggested that Rhubarb and Ligustrazin may have protective effect in multiple organ dysfunction caused by reperfusion injury after hemorrhagic shock in rabbits.The clinical study is worth to do deeply.
Transcriptome Profiling of Buffalograss Challenged with the Leaf Spot Pathogen Curvularia inaequalis

Buffalograss (Bouteloua dactyloides) is a low maintenance United States native turfgrass species with exceptional drought, heat and cold tolerance. Leaf spot caused by Curvularia inaequalis negatively impacts buffalograss visual quality. Two leaf spot susceptible and two resistant buffalograss lines were challenged with C. inaequalis. Samples were collected from treated and untreated leaves when susceptible lines showed symptoms. Transcriptome sequencing was done and differentially expressed genes were identified. Approximately 27 million raw sequencing reads were produced per sample. More than 86% of the sequencing reads mapped to an existing buffalograss reference transcriptome. De novo assembly of unmapped reads was merged with the existing reference to produce a more complete transcriptome. There were 461 differentially expressed transcripts between the resistant and susceptible lines when challenged with the pathogen and 1552 in its absence. Previously characterized defense-related genes were identified among the differentially expressed transcripts. Twenty one resistant line transcripts were similar to genes regulating pattern triggered immunity and 20 transcripts were similar to genes regulating effector triggered immunity. There were also nine up-regulated transcripts in resistance lines which showed potential to initiate systemic acquired resistance (SAR) and three transcripts encoding pathogenesis-related proteins which are downstream products of SAR. This is the first study characterizing changes in the buffalograss transcriptome when challenged with C. inaequalis.
Kindergartners Studying Trans* Issues Through I Am Jazz

In a unique, relevant, and momentous lesson plan, Sullivan expertly weaves together the Queer Literacy Framework and early childhood pedagogical structured read aloud approaches with the children’s text I Am Jazz. Founded in the theoretical frameworks of Judith Butler and Michel Foucault, this Common Core aligned lesson utilizes the autobiography of a young transgender girl to instruct preschoolers and kindergartners about trans* youth. Via the integration of research-based vocabulary instruction techniques, including the incorporation of a character splash, students are drawn into Jazz’s compelling story. This social justice approach emphasizes inclusion in an interactive, rigorous, and student–centered manner. Preschool and elementary teachers, scholars, and pre-service teacher educators can utilize the pedagogical techniques presented with a variety of pertinent audiences.
Stochastic online learning under unknown time-varying models

An online learning problem under stochastic time-varying models is considered. The problem is treated as a generalization of the classic multi-armed bandit problem when the arm distributions are time-varying. The objective is to study the impact of time variation in arm distributions on the performance of the player's strategy. Sufficient conditions on the rate of model variations under which learning can or cannot improve the regret order are established.
Lives of Informal Learning

This chapter considers several personal accounts from the time by several individuals. Personal accounts from Christos Christovasilis, Alexandros Papadiamandis, Nikos Kazantzakis, Nikiforos Lytras and Nicholaos Gyzis help shed light on the impact that informal learning had on these individuals. Much of the autobiographical literature suggests that the stories learned by these individuals were both religious and secular in nature. Most of them learned stories from ancient Greek mythology and history, as well as biblical stories, local folk tales, and more contemporary tales that dealt with Greece’s Ottoman and revolutionary pasts.
Overview of diesel emissions and control for heavy-duty diesel engines

Abstract: This review covers the exhaust emissions regulations and NOx and particulate matter (PM) aftertreatment technologies for heavy-duty vehicles. The chapter first discusses recent developments in the regulations, which drive the aftertreatment technologies. NOx control using selective catalytic reduction and lean NOx traps is discussed. Finally, the author describes the state of the art in controlling particulates using diesel particulate filters, and summarizes future trends and provides informational sources for staying current.
A Social Learning Perspective on Childhood Trauma and Same-Sex Intimate Partner Violence

The family violence and childhood trauma literature has suggested that early adverse experiences create risk factors for intimate partner violence (IPV). Thus, this study used a sample of lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) college students (N = 266) to explore differences among childhood trauma, same-sex IPV, and IPV acceptance. The authors used survey methodology and multivariate analysis of variance. Results indicated that LGB individuals reporting childhood trauma also reported higher rates of IPV, suggesting implications for research and practice.
Gas-Particle Partitioning of Nitric Acid Modulated by Alkaline Aerosol

The role of alkaline mineral aerosol in controlling HNO3 partitioning between gas and aerosol phases is explored using a comprehensive, process oriented three-dimensional model. Simulation results for March 1994, a period from the PEM West B experiment, are presented. It is found that in the dust impacted regions of the boundary layer and free troposphere, more than 50% of HNO3 ispartitioned onto dust particles; while 10∼50% of HNO3 in the boundarylayer and 10∼ 30% of HNO3 in the free troposphere is partitionedonto sea-salt particles. This higher capacity of mineral dust to uptake HNO3 is due to the fact that carbonate in the dust particles is more volatile (thus easily replaced by nitrate) than chloride in the sea-salt particles. When this process of nitric acid partitioning onto alkaline particles is included in the analysis, model predicted HNO3-to-NOx ratios are much closer to observed valuesthat typically range between 1 and 9.
The Necessity of the Hippocampus for Statistical Learning

Converging evidence points to a role for the hippocampus in statistical learning, but open questions about its necessity remain. Evidence for necessity comes from Schapiro and colleagues who report...
Application of 2D full-waveform tomography on land-streamer data for assessment of roadway subsidence

ABSTRACTRoadways are key components of the modern transportation system. Therefore, assessment of roadway subsidence is critical to the health and safety of the traveling public. Existing seismic r...
BIOMECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF NORMAL AND PROLAPSED VAGINAL TISSUE SURROGATES

In the recent years, poorly evaluated gynecological surgeries and urogynecological mesh implantations have been affecting millions of women in the US and across the globe. These failed surgeries co...
The Breadth of MTT [From the Editor's Desk]

The theme of this issue is "The Breadth of MTT," and, in keeping with the MTT-S field of interest statement, the aim is to introduce you to details of technologies with which you may not be familiar. In addition to six feature articles, we also have many of our regular columns in this issue, as well as an introduction to the new cohort of MTT-S members recently elevated to IEEE Fellow (and who will be recognized during the plenary session at IMS2018). There are four technical features, along with two articles describing winning entries for the IMS2017 Student Design Competitions, which are briefly summarized here.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Congenital Heart Disease

Congenital heart disease (CHD) occurs in 7–9 per 1000 live births (Pradat et al. 2003) with the more complex anomalies often presenting during the newborn period. Initial investigation of neonates with CHD requires imaging for defining the cardiovascular anomalies and planning further clinical management. Echocardiography provides a full morphologic and functional evaluation in most neonates, but sometimes the acoustic windows may be insufficient for definite delineation of all vascular abnormalities. Further investigation has traditionally been performed by angiocardiography, which is invasive due to radiation exposure and catheterization with a considerable complication rate in neonates (Vitiello et al. 1998). Although computed tomography angiography (CTA) with current multirow-detector technology allows excellent assessment of the extracardiac thoracic vasculature, it still poses a substantial radiation exposure that should be avoided in neonates.
Number-Theoretic Preliminaries

The theory of numbers is primarily the theory of the properties of integers (whole numbers), such as parity, divisibility, primality, additivity, multiplicativity, and unique factorization, etc. One of the important features of number theory is that problems in number theory are generally easy to state but often very difficult to solve.
Contamination-driven laser-induced damage model at the National Ignition Facility

National Ignition Facility (NIF) is the world’s most energetic laser system, capable of delivering over 1.8 MJ of energy at UV. After operating for over 10 years and working continuously to improve the damage resistance of the optics, there seems to be a disconnect between the offline measured damage performance of optics and the actual lifetime of an installed optic. Recently, we have discovered a source of laser-induced optic damage that originated from particles ejected from damage of a neighboring disposable optic. We were able to replicate this contamination-driven laser-induced damage experimentally in an offline facility and have developed a phenomenological model based on the results which includes particle generation, particle cleaning, and particle damage as a function of damage size as well as laser fluence. The model was able to accurately predict the multi-shot process of the offline experiment. Since then, we have used this model to predict online damage performance on NIF on a series of very high energy shots to test the validity of model with surprising results that shows the success of the model along with new features that will need to be address. This work was performed under the auspices of the U. S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344. (LLNL-ABS-745711)
Proceedings of the 3rd Workshop on Fault-tolerance for HPC at extreme scale

It is our great pleasure to welcome you to the 2013 Fault-Tolerance for HPC at Extreme Scale -- FTXS 2013. For the HPC community, a new scaling in numbers of processing elements has superseded the historical trend of Moore's Law scaling in processor frequencies. This progression from single core to multi-core and manycore will be further complicated by the community's imminent migration from traditional homogeneous architectures to ones that are heterogeneous in nature. As a consequence of these trends, the HPC community is facing rapid increases in the number, variety, and complexity of components, and must thus overcome increases in aggregate fault rates, fault diversity, and complexity of isolating root cause. Recent analyses demonstrate that HPC systems experience simultaneous (often correlated) failures. In addition, statistical analyses suggest that silent soft errors can not be ignored anymore, because the increase of components, memory size and data paths (including networks) make the probability of silent data corruption (SDC) non-negligible. The HPC community has serious concerns regarding this issue and application users are less confident that they can rely on a correct answer to their computations. Other studies have indicated a growing divergence between failure rates experienced by applications and rates seen by the system hardware and software. At Exascale, some scenarios project failure rates reaching one failure per hour. This conflicts with the current checkpointing approach to fault tolerance that requires up to 30 minutes to restart a parallel execution on the largest systems. Lastly, stabilization periods for the largest systems are already significant, and the possibility that these could increase in length is of great concern. During the Approaching Exascale report at SC11, DOE program managers identified resilience as a black swan -- the most difficult under-addressed issue facing HPC. FTXS 2013's program committee contains representation from at least seven countries across the world with leaders in government, academia, and industry. We hope that you will find this program interesting and thought-provoking and that the symposium will provide you with a valuable opportunity to share ideas with other researchers and practitioners from institutions around the world.
On the capability of metal–halogen groups to participate in halogen bonds

A number of halogen (X) atoms were covalently attached to a metal (M) and the ability of the X atom to act as electron acceptor in a halogen bond to nucleophile NCH was assessed. Both Cl and Br were considered as halogen atom, with NH3 and CO as other ligands attached to the metal. Metals tested were Ti, Mn, and Zn in various combinations of oxidation state, coordination, and overall charge. In the majority of cases, the strong electron-releasing power of the metal imbues the halogen atom with a high negative partial charge and minimizes the development of a σ-hole. As such, the M atom is generally a stronger attractor for the incoming nucleophile than is the halogen. Nonetheless, there are cases where a halogen bond can form such as Ti(CO)4Br+, TiCl3+, and MnCl4+, each with a different coordination. A requisite of halogen bond formation is generally an overall positive charge, although neutral species can engage in such bonds, albeit much weaker.
Successful treatment of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis presenting concomitantly with acute myeloid leukemia.

There were reports of the occurrence of TB during therapy for leukemia with possible complications. In patients with acute leukemia, therapy might be delayed or complicated by the presence of tuberculosis. We present a patient who was diagnosed with acute leukemia and concomitant tuberculosis. The patient’s therapy of leukemia had to be delayed and he had relapse of leukemia but was subsequently treated successfully for both diseases despite a prolonged culture positivity for tuberculosis. He required a prolonged course of therapy and additional secondary anti-tuberculosis therapy. The possibility of tuberculosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with pneumonia, persistent fever, and those with focal signs or symptoms suggestive of tuberculosis. Despite having a sensitive organism, the infection was difficult to treat, even with the addition of two second-line drugs. The standard anti-tuberculosis therapy is usually adequate, but response may be slow, and inadequate even if the organism is sensitive requiring the addition of second-line agents.
Metabolic effects of two high-intensity circuit training protocols: Does sequence matter?

Abstract Background/objective The integration of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and circuit weight training (CWT) is seamless and practical for meeting recommended exercise guidelines. The purpose of this study was to determine the ideal combination of HIIT and CWT to elicit desired acute cardiorespiratory and metabolic responses in variables such as energy expenditure (EE), oxygen consumption (VO2), heart rate (HR), blood lactate (BLa−), excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and enjoyment. Methods Fourteen trained males (25.7 ± 4.4 yr) completed two exercise protocols matched for volume and recovery periods. On one day, participants performed six HIIT bouts prior to three rounds of a nine exercise CWT protocol (HIC). The second day (separated by ≥ 72 h) consisted of three rounds of three mini-circuits (three exercises per circuit) integrated with three HIIT bouts between the first and second and second and third mini-circuits (TRI). VO2, HR, and EE were monitored throughout both protocols. EPOC for a 20-min duration, [BLa−] (five time points), RPE, and enjoyment were measured post-exercise. Results Energy expenditure was significantly higher during the HIC compared to the TRI protocol (p = .012), as well as EPOC (p = .034). [BLa−] was significantly greater immediate-, 5min-, 10min- and 20min-post-exercise following HIC as compared to TRI. Mean values for HIC and TRI were similar (p > .05) for HR and RPE. Conclusion Performing HIIT prior to CWT elicits a higher metabolic perturbation compared to the TRI protocol. Although a significant EE difference was detected between the two trials, the practical difference (∼20 kcal) between protocols indicates both protocols are similarly effective for caloric expenditure, metabolic and cardiorespiratory response.
Mac-1 and F4/80 Surface Markers Are Present on Murine Hematopoietic Stem Cells.

Abstract Transplanted bone marrow donor cells with tissue specific phenotypes have been found in the brain, liver, heart, skin, lung, kidney, and gut of transplanted humans and mice. Such observations have led to the controversial hypothesis that hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) might be intrinsically plastic, and through transdifferentiation or fusion lead to the repair of damaged tissues throughout the body. Alternately, it is suggested that fusion of macrophages to the recipient cells may explain this phenomenon. We have shown recently that purified HSC are the cells responsible for GFP positive donor-derived muscle fibers in the recipient mice post bone marrow transplantation. However, further studies sorting for macrophage markers Mac-1 and F4/80 also resulted in donor-derived muscle fibers in the host. To address this discrepancy, we investigated subpopulations of Mac-1 and F4/80 positive cells, in the presence or absence of stem cell markers (Sca-1 and C-kit). We demonstrate that only the subpopulations of Mac-1 and F4/80 positive cells harboring stem cell markers, Sca-1 or c-kit, were capable of contributing to the regenerating muscle post transplantation. Furthermore, these same subpopulations demonstrated single cell High Proliferative Potential (HPP) (6–26%) in a 7 factor cytokine cocktail, compared to the Mac-1 or F4/80 cells with no stem cell markers (0%). Additionally, they demonstrated long-term engraftment in all three lineages at 1-year (average chimerism of 55% versus 0% in stem cell marker negative groups). These subpopulations were also evaluated for morphology using Hematoxylin/Eosin (H/E), Wright-Giemsa, and Nonspecific Esterase staining. In the Mac-1 and F4/80 positive groups, those negative for stem cell markers resembled differentiated cells of the myeloid origin (macrophages, granulocytes), while those with positive stem cell markers demonstrated stem cell characteristics. We did not observe any engraftability, donor-derived muscle fibers, or HPP potential for CD14 or cfms positive cells coexpressing stem cell markers, indicating that these markers are more appropriate for identifying macrophages. In conclusion, our studies demonstrate that both Mac-1 and F4/80 surface markers are present on HSC and therefore caution must be taken in the interpretation of data using these macrophage markers. It is reasonable to believe that the use of Mac-1 and/or F4/80 surface markers in a lineage depletion process may result in the loss of a subpopulation of stem cells, and other markers such as CD14 or c-fms may be more appropriate for eliminating differentiated macrophages.
Patient and clinician perspectives on a patient-facing dashboard that visualizes patient reported outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis.

Author(s): Liu, Lucy H; Garrett, Sarah B; Li, Jing; Ragouzeos, Dana; Berrean, Beth; Dohan, Daniel; Katz, Patricia P; Barton, Jennifer L; Yazdany, Jinoos; Schmajuk, Gabriela | Abstract: BackgroundPoor patient-clinician communication around patient-reported outcomes (PROs) is a barrier to the effective management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We aimed to develop an RA 'dashboard' that could facilitate conversations about PROs and that would be acceptable to a wide range of patients, including English and Spanish speakers and patients with adequate or limited health literacy.MethodsA diverse group of RA patients along with clinicians from two academic rheumatology clinics joined separate focus groups. We solicited feedback and made iterative changes to mock-ups of an RA dashboard that visualized PROs using a human-centred design process. We used the thematic analysis method to identify and characterize themes from the focus groups and used these insights to refine the dashboard.ResultsWe conducted six focus groups involving 25 RA patients and three groups with 11 clinicians. Patients and clinicians agreed that the dashboard could enhance communication about PROs and RA disease activity and could promote patient self-management. Patients varied in their (a) comprehension, (b) preferences for the display and features of the dashboard, and (c) desired uses for the dashboard. Clinicians expressed significant concerns about the logistics of using the dashboard in clinical practice.ConclusionUsing principles of human-centred design, we created an RA dashboard that was well-accepted among patients and clinicians. The ability to customize the data display is important for tailoring the dashboard to patients with diverse needs and preferences. Special attention should be given to feasibility concerns voiced by clinicians.
Use of Self-Regulated Strategy Development to Improve Comprehension of Elementary Students with and At-Risk for E/BD

Students with emotional and behavioral disorders frequently display deficits in reading. One emerging method for addressing these deficits is known as self-regulated strategy development (SRSD). One specific SRSD reading strategy is TWA (Think before reading, think While reading, and think After reading), which teaches students to self-monitor and self-evaluate while reading. The purpose of this study was to determine if TWA is effective in increasing reading comprehension of 4th-, 5th-, and 6th-grade students with or at-risk for emotional and behavioral disorders, using a randomized control trial pretest/posttest design. Results suggested no statistical significance between the reading comprehension of the treatment and control group following the intervention. Limitations are discussed and suggestions for future research are presented.
Faculty Reflections on Effective Strategies Utilized to Implement Simulation-Enhanced IPE for Future Health Care Providers

Abstract Background With the recent emphasis on implementation of interprofessional education (IPE), simulation can be a successful and impactful pedagogy to train health profession learners. Simulation allows opportunities to practice decision-making and working in teams in a realistic and safe environment. Participants learn with and about other professions and have the chance to clarify roles within their team. Simulation-enhanced IPE can present challenges for faculty. This article seeks to provide insight into key aspects of interprofessional simulation to maximize its successful implementation. Methods Our team has identified key lessons learned in how we successfully implemented IPE using simulation. We have collectively overcome challenges and barriers as we have implemented simulation-based IPE at our university. Results To implement effective simulation-enhanced IPE, teams should consider an overall need assessment, curriculum integration, logistical plans, faculty development, a structured prebrief and debrief plan, and a process for evaluation. Conclusions Although IPE is an important component of training for future health care providers, simulation can be an effective strategy for implementation of interprofessional activities. However, it is essential to consider key aspects to ensure a quality and consistent experience for learners.
Plazomicin: a new aminoglycoside in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.

Objective:To review the mechanism of action, mechanisms of resistance, in vitro activity, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and clinical data for a novel aminoglycoside.Data sources:A PubMed sear...
Tranexamic Acid in Infantile Craniosynostosis Surgery: Friend or Foe?

BACKGROUND Recent studies support the prophylactic use of tranexamic acid during craniosynostosis surgery to reduce blood loss. The study aims to assess national trends and outcomes of tranexamic acid administration. METHODS The Pediatric Health Information System database was used to identify patients who underwent craniosynostosis surgery over a 9-year period (2010 to 2018). Search criteria included patients younger than 2 years with a primary diagnosis of craniosynostosis (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, 756.0; International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Q75.0) and CPT code for craniotomy (61550 to 61559). Tranexamic acid use, complications, length of stay, and transfusion requirements were recorded. Subgroup analysis was performed for fronto-orbital advancements and single-suture surgery. RESULTS A total of 1345 patients were identified. Mean patient age was 229 ± 145 days. Four hundred fifty-four patients (33.7 percent) received tranexamic acid. Tranexamic acid use increased from 13.1 percent in 2010 to 75.6 percent in 2018 (p = 0.005), and mean blood products per patient increased from 1.09 U to 1.6 U (p = 0.009). Surgical complication rate was higher in those receiving tranexamic acid (16.7 percent versus 11.1 percent; p = 0.004). Tranexamic acid administration was associated with increased transfusion requirements on univariate and multivariate analysis (1.76 U versus 1.18 U; OR, 2.03; p < 0.001). In the fronto-orbital advancement subgroup, those receiving tranexamic acid received more total blood products (2.2 U versus 1.8 U; p = 0.02); this difference was present but not significant within the single-suture group (0.69 U versus 0.50 U; p = 0.06). CONCLUSIONS Tranexamic acid use in craniosynostosis surgery has increased dramatically since 2010. However, it was associated with higher transfusion and complication rates in this data set. Optimization of its use and blood loss mitigation in infant craniosynostosis deserve continued research. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic, III.
Circulating Cell-Free DNA Correlates with Body Integral Dose and Radiation Modality in Prostate Cancer.

Purpose The RadTox assay measures circulating cell-free DNA released in response to radiotherapy (RT)-induced tissue damage. The primary objectives for this clinical trial were to determine whether cell-free DNA numbers measured by the RadTox assay are (1) correlated with body integral dose, (2) lower with proton RT compared with photon RT, and (3) higher with larger prostate cancer RT fields. Patients and methods Patients planned to receive proton or photon RT for nonmetastatic prostate cancer in the setting of an intact prostate or postprostatectomy were eligible for the trial. Plasma was collected pre-RT and at 5 additional daily collection points beginning 24 hours after the initiation of RT. Data from 54 evaluable patients were analyzed to examine any correlations among RadTox scores with body-integral dose, RT modality (photon versus proton), and RT field size (prostate or prostate bed versus whole pelvis). Results Body integral dose was significantly associated with the peak post-RT RadTox score (P = .04). Patients who received photon RT had a significant increase in peak post-RT RadTox score (P = .04), average post-RT RadTox score (P = .04), and day-2 RadTox score (all minus the pre-RT values for each patient) as compared with patients who received proton RT. Field size was not significantly associated with RadTox score. Conclusion RadTox is correlated with body integral dose and correctly predicts which patients receive proton versus photon RT. Data collection remains ongoing for patient-reported RT toxicity outcomes to determine whether RadTox scores are correlated with toxicity.
Uniaxial Compression Behavior of Ultra-High Performance Concrete Confined by Steel Spirals

The superior physical and mechanical behavior of Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) has attracted lots of interest for large number of applications such as joints and connections. However, there is still a great potential for application of UHPC in large-scale structural elements such as bridge columns. To achiee this goal, design guidelines must be developed which will require a comprehensive knowledge of the confined and unconfined UHPC material behavior. To date, no extensive studies investigated the confining effects of steel spirals on UHPC. This study addresses this gap with a focus on the compressive stress-strain behavior of UHPC cylinders confined using steel spirals. The effect of different volumetric ratios of spirals was investigated and uniaxial compression tests were carried out on the cylinders with 3 in(76 mm) diameter and 6 in(152 mm) height. UHPC cylinders were castfrom one batch, used2%steel fibers ratio, and confined with three different spiral configurations that has 1 in(25 mm), 0.5 in(13 mm),and 0.25 in(6mm)pitch and corresponds 1.9%, 3.8%, and 7.6%volumetric ratio, respectively. The overall behavior ofconfined UHPC cylinders from each group was compared with the reference unconfined UHPC cylinders. Moreover, the out-of-planeness of the tested cylinders along with the actual specimens’ height were reported and related to the compression strength for any trending effects.
Nicotine formulations impact reinforcement-related behaviors in a mouse model of vapor self-administration.

Abstract Background Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) differ from combustible cigarettes given that nicotine-salt or nicotine-freebase may be used depending on the product. We have investigated how nicotine-salt and freebase formulations alter e-Vape® self-administration (EVSA) behavior and plasma cotinine levels in male and female mice. Methods Adult C57/BL6 J mice were used in EVSA and assigned vaping e-liquids (50:50 PGVG, 6 mg/mL nicotine-freebase, or 6 mg/mL nicotine-salt). Mice were escalated on a fixed ratio 1 (FR1) schedule in daily 2 h sessions and then transitioned to a FR3 to examine reinforcement-related behaviors. Results Here we observed that mice assigned nicotine-salt exhibited increased EVSA on a FR3 schedule compared to nicotine-freebase. Additionally, mice assigned nicotine-salt exhibited higher plasma cotinine concentrations following delivery-controlled passive-inhalation sessions. Conclusions These data provide evidence nicotine-salt formulations may contribute to greater reinforcement-related behavior and highlight the need for further investigations regarding nicotine formulation in ENDS.
What Is the Clinical Impact of Sending Tissue for Histopathology During Surgery for Known, Diffuse Metastatic Disease to Bone?

Background/aim During surgery for patients with known, diffuse metastatic bone disease (MBD), lesional tissue is routinely sent for pathological evaluation. However, there are limited data to assess whether there is a role for histopathology for MBD despite time and cost of interpretation, as well as whether a positive sample changes the subsequent treatment course. Patients and methods Sixty-six cases from 2017 to 2020 were reviewed retrospectively. The median age at surgery was 63.5 years (range of 23 to 84 years), and the primary tumor was most frequently breast (24.2%, n=16), renal (21.2%, n=14) or lung (15.2%, n=10). The most common location of MBD was the femur (60.6%, n=40). Results The overall yield of a positive tissue sample of MBD was 77.3% (n=51). The positive rate from sending intramedullary reamings was 65.4% (n=17 of 26). Among the 66 cases (63 patients), a change in the subsequent clinical management was recorded in 9.1% (n=6). The most common change was related to the medication regimen (n=5), with one change related to recognition of the carcinoma origin via histology, which was previously unknown. Conclusion Despite the routine practice of sending tissue for histology during surgery for known and diffuse MBD, a change in the subsequent clinical management is uncommon. Prior to sending tissue, surgeons should discuss this practice with the multidisciplinary care team on a per-patient basis.
Investigation of Power Quality Issues in Cold Ironed (Shore Connected) Grid Connected Electric Ships

Electrification of the transportation industry has become a fast reality in the past decade. This is promoted by increased investment in the development and commercialization of electric based vehicles. Like its air and land counterparts, electric vehicles for short distances are now completely electrified by battery storage systems. However, cargo ships and large cruisers are still running on hybrid engines. Recently it was proposed to electrify these large cargo/cruise ships, when they are on – shore and loading/unloading operations are going on. This process is termed as shore – to – ship power. However, the impact of onboard loads on the offboard utility grid must be analyzed. This helps in identifying any underlying problems that may deteriorate the grid performance and stability. In this paper, large cargo/cruise ships’ load (consisting of different low voltage and high voltage dc lines powered loads) are first studied and then its connection to onboard diesel generator/utility grid is emulated using Simulink/MATLAB®. The impact of different types of loads on the quality of electric power consumed by the electric ship is quantified and its impact on the point of common coupling (PCC) voltage is analyzed.
We Are...More Than Football: Three Stories of Identity Threat by Penn State Insiders

For many, Penn State is synonymous with football and Coach Joe Paterno, an association that has been a source of pride for many alumni, staff, and students for years. As Alderfer's (2013) article summarizes, that overlap has now made the horrific behaviors of the former football coach Sandusky indelibly connected to Penn State. Alderfer argues that the scandal can be explained by the actions or inactions of nine Penn State groups “whose collective behavior first allowed the criminal acts to occur and then put an end to them” (p. 117).
Doing Justice During Wartime: Why Military Tribunals Make Sense

In November 13, 2001, President Bush issued a Military Order authorizing the Department of Defense to create military commissions to try non-citizens who are members of al Qaeda or who have attempted or carried out acts of international terrorism. The promulgation of the order was met with overwhelming public support, but with a stream of criticism from civil libertarians and others concerned with the possible dilution of due process standards. The Military Order has also sparked a lively debate among lawyers and pundits in the op-ed columns of America’s newspapers focusing on the legality of the commissions under international law and their actual utility in fighting terrorism. What has unfortunately been missing from this debate is its proper political context. The question is not whether a military commission is a good or bad thing, but whether any adequate mechanism currently exists for prosecuting prisoners who end up in U.S. custody during the new terror war facing America and its allies. The narrow legalistic debate has failed so far to do justice to the magnitude and nature of the threat of terror war and the policy context for the decision to use military commissions. In this broader context, it becomes clear that current domestic and international mechanisms cannot respond effectively to the needs encountered in the current terror war, but that military commissions, properly used, can do so at least for now. In the longer run, the existing Yugoslav tribunal offers substantial promise as an international terrorism court for particular types of cases. But in the meantime, the need for an effective mechanism is acute, and the military commissions provide one.
Subliminal psychodynamic activation, food consumption, and self-confidence

The subliminal psychodynamic activation (SPA) method was used to study the effects of a message related to loss and separation on the behavior of anaclitic and control subjects in a sample of male college students (N = 148). In the subliminal condition (4 ms exposure time), subjects shown the experimental message "Mommy is Leaving Me" ate significantly fewer crackers than those exposed to the neutral message "Mona is Loaning It" (p = .04). Subjects subliminally exposed to the experimental message reported less confidence in their interpersonal attractiveness than those subliminally shown the neutral stimulus (p = .05). These findings, which support the hypothesis that semantic analyses are performed unconsciously, are discussed in the context of recent research on both the SPA paradigm and the anaclitic personality.
Growth of Escherichia coli on Short-Chain Fatty Acids: Nature of the Uptake System

Abstract Mutants of Escherichia coli K-12 which grow on butyrate and valerate were studied with respect to uptake of these substrates. To utilize short-chain and medium-chain fatty acids, E. coli must synthesize the β-oxidation enzymes constitutively. In addition, growth on the C4 and C5 acids requires a second mutation which permits entry of these substrates. At pH 5, both in the parent and mutant strains, butyrate and valerate penetrate as the undissociated acids but appear not to be activated and thus inhibit growth. At pH 7, the parent strain is not permeable to the anions, whereas the mutant concentrates these substrates. There appear to be two components of the uptake system, a nonspecific diffusion component and an energy-linked activating enzyme. Two mutant types which take up short-chain fatty acids are described. One synthesizes the uptake system constitutively and is inhibited by 4-pentenoate when cultured on acetate. In the other, the uptake system is inducible, and the strain is pentenoate-resistant when grown on acetate but pentenoate-sensitive when cultured on butyrate or valerate.
Effect of Wind-Tunnel Contraction on Free-Stream Turbulence

The effect of wind-tunnel contraction on free-stream turbulence is determined by passing a well-defined turbulence through three contractions of ratios 4 : 1 , 9 :1 , and 16:1. Turbulent velocity measurements show that, in absolute magnitudes, the longitudinal component decreases and the lateral component increases as the flow accelerates through the contraction. Postand precontraction spectra are measured to get an idea about the distortion of turbulence structure.
One medicine: The dynamic relationship between animal and human medicine in history and at present

The relation and collaboration of human and animal medicine had its ups and downs throughout history. The interaction between these two disciplines has been especially fruitful in the broad areas of patho-physiology and of epidemiology. An exploration of the interaction between the two disciplines, using historical and contemporary examples in comparative medicine, zoonoses, zooprophylaxis, and human-animal bond, reveals that a better understanding of animal and human disease, as well as societal changes such as interest in non-conventional medicine, are leading to a broader concept of one medicine that includes animal and human medicine as well as social and other sciences.
Diagnostics of Wolf-Rayet Atmospheres

Classic modeling techniques cannot be used to analyze Wolf-Rayet (W-R) spectra. At a minimum one must consider spherical geometry, non-LTE, and the transfer of radiation in an expanding atmosphere. A code incorporating all of these is briefly described. New atomic data are required if we are to fully interpret W-R stellar spectra; limitations and problems with the currently available atomic data are discussed. Diagnostics available to allow a determination of the temperature structure, mass loss rate, and velocity law for W-R atmospheres are considered. The strength of electron scattering wings, for example, provides both information on inhomogeneities in stellar winds, and a constraint on the mass loss rate. We illustrate that for strong-lined W-R stars the velocity law is not strongly constrained by the stellar spectrum. This calculation highlights the critical need for a dynamical model of W-R atmospheres.
Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation for large common bile duct stones

Endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD) involves endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy (EBS) followed by balloon dilation using a 12-20-mm balloon to remove large or difficult stones from the common bile duct. The complications and limitations of endoscopic biliary sphincterotomy (EBS) are well known. Endoscopic papillary balloon dilation (EPBD) with a smaller diameter balloon but without sphincterotomy is widely used in a number of regions of the world for removal of routine bile duct stones and has been investigated as an alternative to EBS. EPBD, however, appears to be associated with an increased risk of pancreatitis. EPLBD differs from EPBD as it involves EBS followed by large balloon dilation. EPLBD would theoretically combine advantages of sphincterotomy and balloon dilation by increasing efficacy at stone extraction while minimizing complications of both EBS and EBD. A review of the available literature for EPBLD shows that it is relatively safe and effective. A high success rate (up to 95%) has been described for stone removal using EPLBD, with a low complication rate. Unlike EPBD, EBLBD does not appear to be associated with a higher risk of post-ERCP pancreatitis, probably because of separation of the biliary and pancreatic sphincters after EBS. EPLBD appears to be a reasonable option for removal of large or difficult common bile duct stones. This technique may be especially helpful in patients with difficult papillary anatomy, such as those with small papillae, intra- or peri-diverticular papilla. Its role in patients with coagulopathy or other risks for bleeding remains to be investigated.
Mapping location of excitation during magnetic stimulation: Effects of coil position

We determined the location of excitation for different positions of a round and butterfly coil during in vitro magnetic stimulation of cut peripheral nerves. We analyzed the conditions under which excitation occurs, either at the termination or at the peak of the field gradients (first spatial derivative of the electric field). These results were then compared to predictions about the location of excitation sites from a theoretical model of magnetic stimulation of finite neuronal structures. Excitation along a straight nerve occurred at terminations when 1) a coil was positioned close to the end of a nerve (at least one diameter length from the end), 2) a nerve ended in a finite terminating impedance much greater than the axial resistance of the nerve, 3) the induced electric field was of sufficient magnitude, pointing in a direction away from the axis of a nerve. Excitation occurred at the negative peak of the field gradients along a nerve when 1) a coil was positioned far away from the ends of a nerve, 2) there were no geometric or volume conductor inhomogeneities around a nerve, and 3) it was of sufficient magnitude. Threshold strengths for excitation at terminations were significantly lower than that for field gradient excitation and comparable to that due to geometric and volume conductor inhomogeneities.