cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 155: Sustained CD4+ T-Cell Activation Promotes Transplant-Associated Recipient Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in transplant patients. The mechanisms underlying increased recipient CVD are poorly understood. We have established an animal model of transplant-associated recipient CVD by combining murine models of atherosclerosis (apolipoprotein E-deficient recipients, ApoE -/- ) and of transplant rejection (heterotopic cardiac transplantation). Mice were placed on a normal chow diet for 3 months after transplantation and then analyzed. ApoE -/- recipients of rejecting allografts developed more severe aortic atherosclerosis compared to syngeneic controls, most strikingly across a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II antigen barrier (Fig. A). Atherosclerotic lesions were associated with increased CD4 + T cell infiltration and sustained CD4 + T cell activation as assessed by flow cytometry. Total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were unchanged. Cardiac function and aortic distention by echocardiography demonstrated significant impairment in recipients of MHC class II mismatched grafts (Fig. B). In addition, quantitative assessment of proinflammatory cytokines demonstrated significantly elevated plasma levels of interferon (IFN)-γ, the signature Th1 cytokine, as well as IFN-γ inducer cytokine IL-12 in mice with MHC class II mismatched grafts. Our study provides an experimental model of transplant-associated recipient CVD, reveals the critical role of sustained CD4 + T cell activation by donor-recipient immunological crosstalk, and has the potential for identifying novel therapeutic interventions for transplant-associated recipient CVD.
$\mu-e$ conversion in nuclei in the left-right supersymmetric model

We investigate the contributions to $\mu - e $ conversion in nuclei in a supersymmetric model with left-right symmetry, motivated by the new data on neutrino oscillations. We study the dependence of the conversion rate on the various parameters of the model, and show that light-mass or large $\tan \beta$ scenarios are severely restricted. We analyse the effect of several popular mecahnisms of neutrino mixing on the conversion rate as well as the influence of the right-handed scale on the conversion rate. We compare the conversion rate to the branching ratio for $\mu \rightarrow e \gamma$ and discuss their relative accessibility at future experiments, their sensitivity to various parameters of the model, as well as their relative importance in providing signals for new Physics.
Temperature Measurement of Metallized Silicon Wafers by Infrared Transmission Using Single- and Double-Pass Geometries

The infrared transmission technique for the measurement of silicon wafer temperature has been extended to metallized wafers. For wafers with partial metal coverage, a single-pass method has been demonstrated from 200°C to 550°C. For wafers with blanket metal coverage, a novel double-pass infrared transmission technique is presented.
Development of Noise Measuring Instrument

Noise measuring instrument is developed from the general sound level meter to real-time analysis instrument. Firstly, basic and precision sound level meters′ products and functions are analyzed. Then, the common real-time analyzer products at home and abroad are introduced. Finally, the internal and external noise measuring instrument trend of development is discussed.
The subject matter of phenomenological research: existentials, modes, and prejudices

In this essay I address the question, “What is the subject matter of phenomenological research?” I argue that in spite of the increasing popularity of phenomenology, the answers to this question have been brief and cursory. As a result, contemporary phenomenologists lack a clear framework within which to articulate the aims and results of their research, and cannot easily engage each other in constructive and critical discourse. Examining the literature on phenomenology’s identity, I show how the question of phenomenology’s subject matter has been systematically neglected. It has been overshadowed by an unending concern with phenomenology’s methodological identity. However, an examination of recent contributions to this literature reveals that a concern with articulating phenomenology’s subject matter has gradually increased, although such articulations remain preliminary. In light of this, I delineate, define, and illustrate three layers of phenomenological research, which I term “existentials,” “modes,” and “prejudices.” While the delineation of these layers is drawn primarily from classical phenomenological texts, they are defined and illustrated through the use of more contemporary literature. Following the articulation of this subject matter, I briefly consider some of the debates—both foundational and applied—that can be facilitated by the adoption of this framework.
Rapid in situ formation and densification of titanium boride (TiB) nano-ceramic via transient liquid phase in electric field activated sintering

Abstract Rapid in situ synthesis of bulk nanostructured titanium boride (TiB) ceramic, at the lowest possible processing temperature, is demonstrated. Using electric-field-activated-sintering (EFAS), nanoscale TiB whiskers were formed and densified uniformly throughout the volume, from a mixture of micron-sized Ti, TiB 2 and FeMo powders, at 1100 °C in 30 min and at a relatively low pressure. Microstructure and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, revealing the formation of TiB whiskers in this rapid processing condition, are presented. The formation of a transitional quaternary liquid phase, facilitated by localized joule heating at particle contacts, are hypothesized as contributors to rapid and low-temperature synthesis.
Legacies of Crime: The Intergenerational Transmission Process

I don't talk to her. Because I'm mad at her. She smokes something she shouldn't be smoking. I call her a crackhead all the time. I should be living with her right now if she wasn't smoking crack. The preceding chapters document that the original OLS respondents had numerous problems as adolescents, and our follow-ups indicate that many continued to have legal difficulties well into their adult years. Chapter Five details results indicating that many of their children had been victimized and also exhibited problem behaviors, with the severity of delinquency, drug/alcohol use, and violence often exceeding the types and levels we observe in a random sample of adolescents. We found a significant effect of the parents' substance-abuse problems on the variations in the children's self-reported delinquency, providing a general indication of intergenerational transmission processes at work within these families. In this chapter we describe in more detail the family and individual-level processes that we believe are important to a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying these cross-generational continuities, and also provide a framework for understanding variability in child outcomes. We outline a symbolic interactionist approach that can be conceptualized as a revised social learning perspective on intergenerational transmission, and illustrate with material drawn from the narratives of the children and adults who have participated in the OLS study.
Integrative Public Health-Aligned Physical Education and Implications for the Professional Preparation of Future Teachers and Teacher Educators/Researchers in the Field

ABSTRACTThis article has two purposes: (a) to consider existing platforms and future possibilities in the United States for what the authors refer to as Integrative Public Health-Aligned Physical Education (IPHPE), which integrates standards-based K–12 physical education with a public health agenda focusing on promoting increased physical activity and fitness, and (b) to consider the implications of IPHPE for the preparation of future physical education teachers and teacher educators/researchers. First, the historical context that has nurtured the development of ideologies that inform IPHPE is summarized. Second, examples of these ideologies in terms of their current and prospective contributions to IPHPE perspectives are discussed. Third, building from existing public health-aligned recommendations for pre-service physical education teacher education (PETE) programs, IPHPE-based professional preparation requirements for future physical education teachers are considered. Finally, the focus shifts to docto...
Hexafluoroisopropyl alcohol mediated synthesis of 2,3-dihydro-4H-pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-4-ones

An efficient synthesis of novel 2,3-dihydro-4H-pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-4-ones has been reported. Inexpensive and readily available substrates, environmentally benign reaction condition, and product formation up to quantitative yield are the key features of this methodology. Products are formed by the aza-Michael addition followed by intramolecular acyl substitution in a domino process. The polar nature and strong hydrogen bond donor capability of 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropan-2-ol is pivotal in this cascade protocol.
Transection of the anterior tibial artery during minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of the proximal tibia.

Abstract Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) techniques have been developed to protect the blood flow to tissues surrounding fractures and reduce the risk of non-union. Typically, MIPO involves the insertion of a plate through a small incision and fixation with percutaneously applied screws targeted fluoroscopically. Here we present a case of a transected anterior tibial artery during routine minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of a tibial plateau fracture to highlight a rare complication of this type of surgery and discuss relevant anatomical considerations. Level of evidence According to the OCEBM Levels of Evidence Working Group, this study is graded as a Level of Evidence IV.
Comment on "On Gonorynchus , Gonorhynchus , Gonorinchus , Gonorhinchus , and Gonorrhynchus , and some other names of labeonine fishes (Teleostei: Gonorhynchidae and Cyprinidae)" by Kottelat (2016).

Kottelat (2016) noted that ‘ Gonorhynchus McClelland, 1838,’ the name used for a South Asian cyprinid genus recognized by Yang et al. (2012) and revised by Ciccotto & Page (2016), does not exist or is a junior homonym of Gonorhynchus Cuvier, 1816. He further noted that Tariqilabeo Mirza & Saboohi, 1990 is the valid genus name for the species recognized in Gonorhynchus by Yang et al. (2012) and by Ciccotto & Page (2016). Kottelat also rejected the placement of Epalzeorhynchus bicornis Wu, 1977 in this genus by Yang et al. (2012), instead placing it in the monotypic Akrokolioplax Zhang & Kottelat, 2006, and questioned the validity of the designation of the neotype of Cyprinus latius Hamilton, 1822 by Ciccotto & Page (2016). While we are in agreement with the validity of Tariqilabeo , we disagree with the use of Akrokolioplax and defend the designation of the neotype for C. latius .
Risk Adjustment and Performance Measurement for Esophageal Cancer Resection

Achieving high-quality care for all patients undergoing esophageal cancer requires identifying and modifying risk factors associated with poor outcomes. These factors occur at different time points from the preoperative to the postoperative periods. A straightforward model for predicting outcomes has proved difficult to identify. This article reviews the current studies addressing risk adjustment and performance measurement for esophageal cancer resection.
Vapor Pressure Deficit Control Algorithm for Plant Studies

Abstract A crop to air Vapor Pressure Deficit (VP Dcrop-air ) control algorithm was developed from analysis of energy balances on bedding plants in a sunlit plant growth chamber (SPGC). The control algorithm was implemented in the SPGC using a computer control interface, and system tests were conducted to determine the performance of individual control components and dynamic response of the system. The completed VPDcrop-air control algorithm was run for several days at typical ambient conditions. Results from these full system tests were analyzed. Algorithm development, performance and possible improvements are discussed.
Metabolomics of Diabetes in Pregnancy

The purpose of this review is to describe ways in which metabolomics may enhance understanding of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) etiology and refine current diagnostic criteria. Current clinical recommendations suggest screening for GDM between 24 and 28 of gestational weeks using an oral glucose tolerance test. Despite this consensus, there are discrepancies regarding the exact criteria for GDM diagnosis. Further, emerging evidence has unveiled heterogeneous physiological pathways underlying GDM—specifically, GDM with defective insulin secretion vs. sensitivity—that have important implications for disease diagnosis and management. The objectives of this review are threefold. First, we seek to provide a brief summary of current knowledge regarding GDM pathophysiology. Next, we describe the potential role of metabolomics to refine and improve the prediction, screening, and diagnosis of GDM. Finally, we propose ways in which metabolomics may eventually impact clinical care and risk assessment for GDM and its comorbidities.
Social Learning Instructional Models

Contemporary social skills training programs for children adopt a variety of teaching and skill generalisation techniques. These include didactic instruction, modeling, behavioural rehearsal, feedback and self-evaluation, behaviour management, assigning homework tasks, visual supports, caregiver and school staff involvement, and peer buddy programs. This chapter begins with an overview of these methods, including practical illustrations and the empirical basis of each. Latest technological innovations in social skills training are subsequently reviewed, followed by an overview of several commercially available social skills training programs that adopt a hybrid of teaching approaches. The chapter concludes with directions for future research, including evaluating social skills training approaches that adopt alternative theoretical models to cognitive-behavioural therapy, examining program outcomes for nonclinical populations and children with psychiatric conditions other than ASD, and testing whether tech tools can enhance the effectiveness, accessibility, and affordability of social skills training.
d-Serine administration affects nitric oxide synthase 1 adaptor protein and DISC1 expression in sex-specific manner.

Abstract Antipsychotic medications are inefficient at treating symptoms of schizophrenia (SCZ), and N-methyl d -aspartate receptor (NMDAR) agonists are potential therapeutic alternatives. As such, these agonists may act on different pathways and proteins altered in the brains of patients with SCZ than do antipsychotic medications. Here, we investigate the effects of administration of the antipsychotic haloperidol and NMDAR agonist d -serine on function and expression of three proteins that play significant roles in SCZ: nitric oxide synthase 1 adaptor protein (NOS1AP), dopamine D2 (D2) receptor, and disrupted in schizophrenia 1 (DISC1). We administered haloperidol or d -serine to male and female Sprague Dawley rats via intraperitoneal injection for 12 days and subsequently examined cortical expression of NOS1AP, D2 receptor, and DISC1. We found sex-specific effects of haloperidol and d -serine treatment on the expression of these proteins. Haloperidol significantly reduced expression of D2 receptor in male, but not female, rats. Conversely, d -serine reduced expression of NOS1AP in male rats and did not affect D2 receptor expression. d -serine treatment also reduced expression of DISC1 in male rats and increased DISC1 expression in female rats. As NOS1AP is overexpressed in the cortex of patients with SCZ and negatively regulates NMDAR signaling, we subsequently examined whether treatment with antipsychotics or NMDAR agonists can reverse the detrimental effects of NOS1AP overexpression in vitro as previously reported by our group. NOS1AP overexpression promotes reduced dendrite branching in vitro, and as such, we treated cortical neurons overexpressing NOS1AP with different antipsychotics (haloperidol, clozapine, fluphenazine) or d -serine for 24 h and determined the effects of these drugs on NOS1AP expression and dendrite branching. While antipsychotics did not affect NOS1AP protein expression or dendrite branching in vitro, d -serine reduced NOS1AP expression and rescued NOS1AP-mediated reductions in dendrite branching. Taken together, our data suggest that d -serine influences the function and expression of NOS1AP, D2 receptor, and DISC1 in a sex-specific manner and reverses the effects of NOS1AP overexpression on dendrite morphology.
Response to John Steiner's “Overcoming Obstacles in Analysis: Is it Possible to Relinquish Omnipotence and Accept Receptive Femininity?”

While the author agrees that issues of sex and gender are frequently involved in impasses and often remain clinically unexplored, she highlights how Dr. Steiner's thinking and (contemporary) Kleinian theory approach, in spite of seeming to recommend gender balance, suffer from the underlying severe sexed-gender polarities that were accentuated in the old Freudian and early twentieth-century schemata. Instead of setting up either/or propositions between abstract generalized (phantasized) masculine–feminine conflicts (as implied here by “feminine” receptivity, and “masculine” omnipotence as phallic), this commentary argues as an alternative and as apt to this impasse, the forward thinking of proposed varied gender integrations that emerged from work in the transference—such as has been described in clinical work enriched by contemporary theoretical development in the United States. This has been much more influenced by the human's internalized social and historical environs, academic postmodern thinking, fe...
Dell Hymes and the Ethnography of Communication

ed norms of a grammar, and that ‘we have reached a point at which the concept of grammar itself is that which needs to be transcended’ (Hymes, 1989: 434). Hymes argues for an understanding of speech that includes the diversity of the particular, not just the structured norms of an abstraction. Ultimately, Hymes rejects an understanding of language where it is permissible ‘to speak of the great role of language in general, but never language in particular; which leads to ‘a tendency to treat some linguistic particularities as inferior’ (Hymes 1989: 450). The idea of speech economy is significant in dealing with this tension between general models of language and language particularities because the metaphor of economy carries with it notions of the specific and general, the individual and the community. Conceptually, economy accounts for both individual actors and their aggregate conduct, and so the terms ‘speech economy’ and ‘means of speech’ maintain and make visible the tension between the particular speech of the individual and the aggregate speech economy. In this conception of ways of speaking, Hymes offers a theoretical basis for approaching language through the ethnography of communication. Hymes proposes a general method of ethnographic investigation through taxonomic, descriptive fieldwork (Hymes, 1972b). He is careful to point out, however, that ‘sociolinguistic fieldwork is not an end in itself’, but rather ‘a necessary part of the progress towards models (structural and generative) of sociolinguistic description, formulation of universal sets of features and relations, and explanatory theories’ (1972b: 43). Hymes advocates comparative, ethnographic taxonomies as the only way to explore and understand language systematically, because ‘communities differ significantly in the ways of speaking, in patterns of repertoire and switching, in the roles and meanings of speech. They indicate differences with regard to beliefs, values, reference groups, norms, and the like ... [I]ndividual accounts that individually pass without notice ... leap out when juxtaposed, as contrasts that require explanation’ (1972b: 42). Descriptive and taxonomical ethnographic work that allows for comparison between speech communities allows for systemic classification of ways of speaking in four traditional areas: ‘genetic classification’ of language descent; ‘areal classification’ of features spread through an area; ‘typological classification’ of structural features independent of genetic or areal nature; and usage/role classification (i.e. as a pidgin, trade language, etc). The sort of fieldwork Hymes advocates—ethnographies of communication—must ‘discover and explicate the competence that enables members of a community to conduct and interpret speech’ (Hymes, 1972b: 52). The exploration and documentation of communicative
Ductile Fracture Analysis and Safety of Nuclear Pressure Vessels

The past two decades have witnessed the development of commercial nuclear power into a mature industry. Because of the potential for release of radioactive materials there has been a parallel growth in procedures for the prevention of fracture in nuclear pressure vessles and associated components. A catalyst to this development has been the discovery of radiation embrittlement in the ferritic steels used in pressure vessel construction. This chapter reviews current fracture analysis methodology for nuclear vessels from the viewpoint of linear elastic fracture mechanics and code procedures which are applied to assure structural integrity.
The Information Content of Short Selling Around Close Supply Chain Relationships

Close supply chain relationships are sometimes detrimental to the partnering firms, and short sellers recognize this before the rest of the market. Suppliers and customers that are in linked, close supply chain relationships have higher short interest on average. Further, higher short interest increases the likelihood of large, linked customers reporting negative earnings surprises, whereas suppliers with high short interest are more likely to report negative earnings surprises, irrespective of the supply chain structure. Short selling is informative to capital markets because these suboptimal relationships eventually lead to dependent suppliers being delisted from a stock exchange for financial distress reasons.
Text mining systems biology: Turning the microscope back on the observer

Abstract In this review, we describe the relationship between systems biology and text mining. On the one hand, text mining functions as a practical tool for systems biology research, which integrates diverse sub-fields and takes an overall, systems-level view of biological phenomena. In this vein, various analyses have been done to recognize biological entities, construct networks of them (e.g. protein–protein interaction maps) and even find disease-associated genes directly from texts. On the other hand, text mining can also be applied to study systems biology itself, giving a ”distant-reading perspective” on the evolution of the field. For example, by examining changes in the frequencies of terms in systems biology publications, we can analyze trends in research focus and in the popularity of systems approaches in various subdomains (e.g., autism). Given these two uses of text mining for systems biology, we close with suggestions for adapting current publication formats for facilitating text mining and enabling its broader use.
The Impulse to Rhetoric in India: Rhetorical and Deliberative Practices and Their Relation to the Histories of Rhetoric and Democracy

ABSTRACTScholars of rhetoric have long held that there is such a thing as a “rhetorical tradition” and that that tradition began within the context of ancient Athenian democracy. Recently this trad...
Energy Management System for Interconnected Microgrids using Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers (ADMM)

A distributed energy management system for an interconnected multi-microgrid system is developed and tested. The distributed energy management system is formulated using the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) and is implemented using the CVX platform of the MATLAB environment. In this work, microgrids are interconnected and communicate with each other in order to minimize the operational cost of the system and to derive maximum profits via energy exchanges with the main grid. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Rising rates of cesarean delivery in Ecuador: Socioeconomic and institutional determinants over two decades

Background Ecuador's cesarean delivery rate far exceeds that recommended by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Using data from three iterations of Ecuador's nationally representative, population-based survey Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutricion (ENSANUT/ENDEMAIN), spanning 23 years, this study examines women's mode of delivery outcomes by sociodemographic characteristics and hospital type (private, public, social security) in light of Ecuador's major health care reform over the past two decades. Methods Using data from the 1994, 2004, and 2012 iterations of the data set, we analyzed trends in cesarean delivery based on province, year, and institution of care. Logistic regression was used to test the odds of cesarean delivery based on hospital type, sociodemographics, and birth complications for the full sample and primiparous women. Predicted probabilities were derived from this model. Results Ecuador's cesarean rate increased from 22% in 1989 to 41% in 2012. From 2008 to 2012, the probability of cesarean delivery in private centers was significantly higher than in public centers, and from 2009 to 2012, the probability of cesarean delivery in social security centers was significantly higher than in public centers. Higher maternal age, income, education, and parity, earlier prenatal care initiation, and more prenatal visits were associated with risk for cesarean delivery. Conclusions To decrease the adverse effects of cesarean delivery for women and their babies, cesarean delivery should be reduced. Future research should investigate how incentive structures are used and how medical indication is defined within health institutions in Ecuador.
Improved functional asssessment of ischemic severity using 3D printed models

Purpose: To develop a novel in vitro method of evaluating coronary artery ischemia using a combination of noninvasive coronary CT angiograms (CCTA) and 3D printing. Materials and Methods: Five patients with varying degrees of coronary artery disease who underwent non-invasive CCTA scans and invasive fractional flow reserve (FFR) of their left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) were included in this study. The LAD artery was segmented and reconstructed using Mimics (Materialise). The segmented models were then 3D printed using a Carbon (Carbon Inc.,) and Objet260 Connex (Stratasys) printers with urethane methacrylate (UMA) family of rigid resins and Veroclear, respectively. An in vitro flow circulation system representative of invasive measurements in a cardiac catheterization laboratory was developed to experimentally evaluate the hemodynamic parameters of pressure and flow. Physiological coronary circulation was modelled in vitro as flow‐dependent stenosis resistance in series with variable downstream resistance. A range of physiological flow rates was applied by a peristaltic steady flow pump and titrated by a flow sensor. The pressure drop and the pressure ratio (Pd/Pa) were assessed for patient-specific aortic pressure and differing flow rates to evaluate FFR in vitro. Results: For these five models, there was a good positive correlation (r = 0.78) between the in vitro and invasive FFR. The mean differences, as assessed by Bland-Altman analysis, between in vitro and invasively measured FFR was at 0.01±0.1 (95% limit of agreement -0.1169 to 0.1369). Conclusions: 3D printed patient-specific models can be used in a non-invasive in vitro environment to quantify coronary artery ischemia as assessed by invasive FFR.
A Mixed-Method Inquiry of Bisexual Identity Centrality Among Racially and Ethnically Diverse Women

There is a dearth of research on racially and ethnically diverse bisexual women. Samples routinely over-represent White women, and studies often combine women of Color into a single analytic catego...
A protocol for metabolic characterization of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPS-CM)

Recent advances in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSCM) field offer a novel platform for modeling cardiac metabolism, heart diseases drug candidates screening and cardiac toxicity assessments. These workflows require a fully functional characterization of iPSCMs. Here we report a step by step protocol for iPSCM metabolic characterization. The described assays cover analysis of small metabolites involved in a vital metabolic pathways.
Deficit Discourse and Labeling in Elementary Mathematics Classrooms

In this paper we examine deficit perspectives that prospective elementary school teachers (PTs) noticed their mentor teachers held with regards to classifying students by their achievement or behavior. Using a sociopolitical framework, we explored the following research question: What labels and forms of labeling of students have elementary school PTs experienced as part of their school placements? According to PTs, mentor teachers commonly expressed deficit narratives and attached labels to their students, particularly to students of color and low-income students. Deficit perspectives led to student blaming and lowering of expectations, which PTs were convinced negatively impacted students’ mathematical identities. Though student labeling was common, PTs also provided examples in which their mentor teachers refused to attach degrading labels to their students.
Brain Signal Authentication for Human-Computer Interaction in Virtual Reality

The purpose of this research was to determine whether active portions of the brain are influenced by the presence of Virtual Reality(VR) and whether those brain signals can be used for user authentication. Electroencephalography(EEG) signals are individually unique and non-trivial to collect. Because of this, EEG based biometrics is one of the most reliable and most secure forms of biometric data. For this study, EEG signals were collected under two conditions: subjects viewed video using a VR headset and then using a laptop. During the collection of EEG data, volunteers started in a resting stage and then went into an active stage. In addition, a new feature extraction method is proposed in this paper combined with an EEG authentication model. Brain waves collected for both the VR stage and the non-VR stages are compared for analysis purposes. Pre-processing and feature extraction of VR and non-VR EEG data were performed, and distance computation was calculated in an attempt to authenticate the identity of subjects.
MR biomarkers predict clinical function in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Objective To investigate the potential of lower extremity magnetic resonance (MR) biomarkers to serve as endpoints in clinical trials of therapeutics for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) by characterizing the longitudinal progression of MR biomarkers over 48 months and assessing their relationship to changes in ambulatory clinical function. Methods One hundred sixty participants with DMD were enrolled in this longitudinal, natural history study and underwent MR data acquisition of the lower extremity muscles to determine muscle fat fraction (FF) and MRI T2 biomarkers of disease progression. In addition, 4 tests of ambulatory function were performed. Participants returned for follow-up data collection at 12, 24, 36, and 48 months. Results Longitudinal analysis of the MR biomarkers revealed that vastus lateralis FF, vastus lateralis MRI T2, and biceps femoris long head MRI T2 biomarkers were the fastest progressing biomarkers over time in this primarily ambulatory cohort. Biomarker values tended to demonstrate a nonlinear, sigmoidal trajectory over time. The lower extremity biomarkers predicted functional performance 12 and 24 months later, and the magnitude of change in an MR biomarker over time was related to the magnitude of change in function. Vastus lateralis FF, soleus FF, vastus lateralis MRI T2, and biceps femoris long head MRI T2 were the strongest predictors of future loss of function, including loss of ambulation. Conclusions This study supports the strong relationship between lower extremity MR biomarkers and measures of clinical function, as well as the ability of MR biomarkers, particularly those from proximal muscles, to predict future ambulatory function and important clinical milestones. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01484678.
Conceptualizing and Measuring Communication Interdependence: The Technology and Face-to-Face Integration Scale

A distinguishing feature of contemporary relationships is the integration of technological mediation into routine social interaction. The communication interdependence perspective (CIP) explains ho...
A Less than Provocative Approach for the Primary Prevention of CAD

Coronary artery disease (CAD) risk increases in proportion to the magnitude and duration of exposure to plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), doubling every additional decade of exposure. Early primary prevention is three times more effective than initiated later. Several clinical trials show plasma LDL-C of 15–40 mg/dL is more effective and equally safe as the Current Cardiovascular Clinical Practice Guidelines (CCCPG) recommended target of 70mg/dL. The cholesterol in the blood is the excess synthesized by the cells and secreted into the blood for disposal in the liver. The CCCPG is inadequate since traditional risk factors (TRF) are not detectable until the sixth and seventh decade. The genetic risk score (GRS) evaluated in 1 million individuals as a risk stratifier for CAD is superior to TRF. Genetic risk for CAD was reduced by 30–50% by statin therapy, PCSK9 inhibitors, and lifestyle changes. The GRS does not change during one’s lifetime and is inexpensive. Incorporating genetic risk stratification into CCCPG would induce a paradigm shift in the primary prevention of CAD.
What's the magic number? Impact of time to initiation of treatment for rectal cancer.

Abstract Background National guidelines, including the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer, recommend initiation of rectal cancer treatment within 60 days of diagnosis; however, the effect of timely treatment initiation on oncologic outcomes is unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact on oncologic outcomes of initiation of rectal cancer treatment within 60 days of diagnosis. Methods This was a retrospective review of stage II/III rectal cancer patients performed using the United States Rectal Cancer Consortium, a collaboration of 6 academic medical centers. Patients with clinical stage II/III rectal cancer who underwent radical resection between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2018 were included. The primary exposure was treatment initiation, defined as either resection or initiation of chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy, within 60 days of diagnosis. The primary outcome was disease recurrence, and the secondary outcome was all-cause mortality. Results A total of 1,031 patients meeting inclusion criteria were included in the analysis. Treatment was initiated within 60 days of diagnosis in 830 patients (80.5%) and after 60 days in 201 patients (20.3%). In multivariable logistic regression, older age, non-White race, and residence greater than 100 miles from the treatment center were significantly associated with delay in treatment beyond 60 days. In survival analysis, 167 patients (16.2%) experienced recurrent disease, and 127 patients (12.3%) died of any cause. In an adjusted model accounting for pathologic staging, treatment sequence, distance to care, age, comorbidities, treatment center, and receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy, neither progression-free survival nor all-cause mortality was significantly associated with timely initiation of therapy with hazard ratios of 1.09 (0.70, 1.69) and 1.03 (0.63, 1.66), respectively. Conclusion This study found no difference in oncologic outcomes with initiation of treatment beyond 60 days.
The Effect of Large Scale Asset Purchases in 2020 on Bank Lending

The paper estimates the effect of large scale asset purchases by the Federal Reserve System on bank lending in 2020. The identification strategy exploits the cross-sectional variation in treasury and mortgage-backed security holdings in the bank balance sheet. The identification strategy used is augmented inverse propensity weighing to get unbiased, consistent and efficient estimates. The results show that large scale asset purchases reduced total lending by 0.23% and increased riskier commercial and industrial lending by up to 0.85% and real estate lending by up to 1.38%.
The Professional Status of Head Coaches of Athletics in Colleges and Universities

(1953). The Professional Status of Head Coaches of Athletics in Colleges and Universities. Research Quarterly. American Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 24, No. 1, pp. 8-17.
Choice of anaesthetics for neurosurgical anaesthesia

The anaesthetic management of neurosurgical patients is, by necessity, based upon our understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of the central nervous system (CNS) and the effect of anaesthetic agents on the CNS. Consequently, a great deal of investigative effort has been expended to elucidate the influence of anaesthetics on CNS physiology and pathophysiology. The current practice of neuroanaesthesia is based upon findings of these investigations. However, it should be noted that most studies in this field have been conducted in laboratory animals and the applicability of the findings to the human patient is debatable at best. A great deal of emphasis has been placed on the minor differences in anaesthetic-induced changes in cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral metabolic rate (CMR) and intracranial pressure (ICP) that have been consistently demonstrated in a variety of studies. Is this emphasis justified? It is not surprising that, in the absence of controlled studies demonstrating the superiority of one technique over another, interpretations of the available data differ and that opinions on the optimal approach to the neurosurgical patient also differ. A more important question to the practising anaesthesiologist is not whether the minor differences in CNS physiology induced by anaesthetics are relevant to all neurosurgical patients, but the identification of clinical situations in which anaesthetic effects might be significant.
Multi-Scale Modeling of PLGA Microparticle Drug Delivery Systems

Abstract A mechanistic reaction-diffusion model is proposed for the simulation of drug delivery from PLGA microspheres. The model considers the effects of autocatalytic hydrolysis kinetics and the evolution of the pore network on microsphere-size-dependent drug release. Spatial and temporal variations in the intraparticle pH and the void fraction are reported.
Biomedical Decision Making: Probabilistic Clinical Reasoning

After reading this chapter, you should know the answers to these questions: How is the concept of probability useful for understanding test results and for making medical decisions that involve uncertainty? How can we characterize the ability of a test to discriminate between disease and health? What information do we need to interpret test results accurately? What is expected-value decision making? How can this methodology help us to understand particular medical problems? What are utilities, and how can we use them to represent patients’ preferences? What is a sensitivity analysis? How can we use it to examine the robustness of a decision and to identify the important variables in a decision? What are influence diagrams? How do they differ from decision trees?
A Novel End to the Big Inflation in China in 1950

The Chinese inflation of 1949-1950 was fueled by large budget deficits but was ended in March 1950 before significant deficit reduction occurred. We discuss the fiscal strains that gave rise to this inflation and consider the role played by early Communist market-based anti-inflationary measures such as the 'economic warfare' against speculators conducted by the government's state trading companies. While later monetary and fiscal tightening sustained the stabilization achieved in March – at considerable cost to the real economy – the Chinese experience seems to confirm that there is more to inflation stabilization than fiscal balance alone.
Numerical Study of Initiation and Propagation of One-Dimensional Detonations

In this paper we briefly review some recent work centered on numerical simulation of initiation and propagation of reactive shock waves. This work is a joint project with A. Majda [1–3] with some very recent contributions by Majda’s Ph.D. student A. Bourlioux.
Parent-Reported Behavioral Problems and Language Delays in Boys and Girls Enrolled in Head Start Classrooms

Early emergent patterns of behavioral problems, social skill deficits, and language delays were examined in 259 three-year-old children enrolled in Head Start classrooms. The Child Behavior Checkli...
Psychosocial and Educational Implications of Diabetic Foot Complications

In recent years, clinicians have begun to recognize the impact that ­educational, psychosocial, and behavioral factors have on treatment success for leg and foot wounds. Further, many now consider quality of life an important outcome of treatment for those suffering from neuropathy, foot ulcerations, and amputations. However, although interest is increasing, behavioral aspects of the diabetic foot remain emerging science. Researchers are only now beginning to investigate the psychological response to diabetic foot ulceration and amputation and the behavioral and psychological factors that influence self-care. Although cross-sectional studies have explored these areas, little longitudinal data currently exist. In this chapter, we review the current state of behavioral science pertaining to individuals with diabetic foot disease including barriers to prevention, precipitating factors, and therapeutic interventions. The first section describes some of the behavioral/psychological issues faced by individuals with diabetes during the course of their illness. We describe four phases of psychological responses and attempt to relate these phases to the prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of foot problems. Then, we discuss quality of life for those with peripheral neuropathy, lower extremity wounds, or amputations. Next, we discuss depression, its impact on self-care, signs and symptoms, and implications of treatment. Finally, we describe measurement instruments, strategies, and interventions that may be useful for clinicians either to incorporate into their clinical practice or as a referral for struggling patients.
Legal Ground Rules in Coordinated and Liberal Market Economies

Two parallel literatures have explored differences across legal and economic systems,noting that countries can be loosely grouped into liberal vs. coordinated market economies on the one hand, and common law vs. civil law countries on the other. These two groups largely overlap. Liberal market economies (LMEs) tend to have a common law tradition, while coordinated market economies (CMEs) belong to the civil law family (French or German). This paper argues that this overlap is not coincidental. The link between legal and economic systems are social preferences reffected in basic norms, or ground rules, found in substantive and procedural laws of different countries. These ground rules are more pervasive than their specific incarnation, such as codetermination in Germany, or shareholder primacy in the United States. The paper develops a typology of ground rules, distinguishing between substantive ground rules that allocate decision making rights to either individuals or to the state/collective; and procedural ground rules that determine whether the individual or a collective (or the state) have the primary or exclusive power to seek judicial remedies. The paper uses examples from contract and corporate law to illustrate these ground rules focusing on German law, as an example for the civil law family and a CME, and the US as an example for a common law jurisdiction and LME. An important implication of this analysis is that each system is highly path dependent and that, therefore, marginal changes of specific incarnations of social preferences are unlikely to fundamentally alter the nature of each system.
Bonding: Recent Observations That Alter Perinatal Care

1. John H. Kennell, MD* 2. Marshall H. Klaus, PhD† 1. 2. *Professor of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH. 3. 4. †Adjunct Professor of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, CA. 1. Continuous support by an experienced woman during labor results in a shorter labor, with a greater than 50% reduction in the need for obstetric interventions that may interfere with early mother-infant contact and interaction. 2. Continuous labor support for the mother results in an increased incidence and duration of breastfeeding, more affectionate mother-infant contact, and psychological benefits. 3. The crawling ability of the newborn infant, the sensitivity of the mother’s nipple, the marked decrease in crying when the infant is skin-to-skin with the mother, and the warming abilities of the mother’s chest are adaptive. 4. When the infant suckles from the breast, there is an outpouring of 19 different gastrointestinal hormones in both the mother and the infant, including cholecystokinin and gastrin, which stimulate growth of the baby’s and mother’s intestinal villi, increasing the surface area and absorption of calories with each feeding. 5. Encouraging mother-infant contact from birth on and rooming-in could increase breastfeeding significantly and decrease the incidence of failure to thrive, abuse, neglect, and abandonment of infants. For almost three decades, there has been special interest in the bond between parents and their infants in the hope that better understanding of this relationship could result in improved perinatal care routines and a reduced incidence of parenting disorders such as child abuse, neglect, failure to thrive, and abandonment. Recent research findings provide a compelling rationale for major changes in some birth practices related to the bonding process. The term bonding refers to the emotional tie from parent to infant; attachment generally is used for the tie from infant to parent. A bond can be defined as the unique relationship between two people that is specific and endures through time. Parenteral bonds to their child can persist during long separations of time and distance, even though visible signs of their existence may not …