cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chronic ethanol administration alters the modulatory effect of 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one on the binding characteristics of various radioligands of GABAA receptors

Abstract In this study, we investigated the modulatory effect of 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one, a neurosteroid, on the binding characteristics of [ 3 H ]flunitrazepam (2 nM), [ 3 H ]muscimol (5 nM), and 4 nM [ 35 S ]t-butylbicyclophosphorothionate (TBPS) in cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and hippocampus of control, ethanol-dependent, and ethanol-withdrawn rats. 5α-Pregnan-3α-ol-20-one potentiated the binding of [ 3 H ]flunitrazepam and [ 3 H ]muscimol in all the rat brain regions investigated in this study. There was a significant increase in the maximal potentiation of [ 3 H ]flunitrazepam as well as [ 3 H ]muscimol binding (Emax) in the ethanol-dependent rat cerebellum as compared to control group (p 35 S ]TBPS at lower concentrations (⩽100 nM) and inhibited the binding at higher concentrations (>100 nM). There was a significant higher inhibition of [ 35 S ]TBPS binding (−Emax) by 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one in the hippocampus of ethanol-dependent as well as ethanol-withdrawn rats (p
Can Online Courses Deliver In-class Results?: A Comparison of Student Performance and Satisfaction in an Online versus a Face-to-face Introductory Sociology Course

This study uses a quasi-experimental design to assess differences in student performance and satisfaction across online and face-to-face (F2F) classroom settings. Data were collected from 368 stude...
Adverse Cutaneous Reactions to Antidepressants

Antidepressants are among the most widely prescribed medications in the United States. Adverse cutaneous drug reactions (ACDRs) associated with drugs are common, with possibly higher rates associated with psychotropic medications. While the vast majority of ACDRs are benign and easily treated, serious and life-threatening ACDRs, such as those associated with antidepressants, do rarely occur. ACDRs to antidepressants are diagnosed primarily on the basis of the patient’s history. A clinician who is aware of these common and potentially serious adverse events will help avoid their continuation or recurrence. There are certain characteristics that place an individual at higher risk for an ACDR such as female gender, increasing age, African- American ethnicity, use of multiple medications and presence of a serious illness. If a cutaneous reaction occurs in an outpatient setting, it is advisable to discontinue the offending antidepressant and substitute it with one from another class. Treatment of the ACDR should be symptomatic if the patient shows no other significant signs of reaction. If other signs are present, however, a dermatology consultation should be obtained. Since the diagnosis of ACDRs is often tentative, and the exanthema is likely to be benign, the physician treating a patient with a mood or anxiety disorder must weigh the risk of developing these potential problems against the possibility of relapse of the psychiatric disorder should the medication be discontinued.
Some recent developments in photoelectrochemical water splitting using nanostructured TiO 2 : a short review

Photoelectrochemical cells with TiO2 electrodes to convert sunlight and water into gaseous hydrogen and oxygen are a source of clean and renewable fuel. Despite their great potential, far-from-ideal performance and poor utilization of the solar spectrum have prevented them from becoming a widespread and practical technology. We review recent experimental work that uses dynamics measurements to study limitations of photoelectrochemical cells from a fundamental level and the use of TiO2 nanotube arrays as a superior alternative to TiO2 nanoparticles. Through a combination of nanoscale size control, doping, composite materials, and the incorporation of noble-metal nanoparticles, improved performance and light harvesting are demonstrated.
A Grounded Theory of Counselor Educators Integrating Social Justice Into Their Pedagogy

The topic of social justice has received considerable attention in the counseling literature; however, little empirical research exists. This grounded theory study examined 4 counselor educators' process of integrating social justice constructs into their pedagogy. Data analysis revealed 4 primary experiences that emerged in the participants' descriptions of their integration of social justice into their pedagogy. Implications for counselor educators and future research are presented.
Ergodicity for time series and spatial processes

(1989). C326. Ergodicity for time series and spatial processes. Journal of Statistical Computation and Simulation: Vol. 32, No. 1-2, pp. 61-63.
Resting "Solar Polar" map pattern and reduced apical flow reserve: characteristics of apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy on SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging.

Patients with apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (ACM) are often referred for myocardial perfusion single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) as a result of marked T-wave inversion and chest pain syndromes. Stress perfusion defects have been reported in ACM, but the characteristic SPECT pattern as well as the typical findings on volume-weighted polar maps has not been described.>/ / /<
High-dose methotrexate improves clinical outcome in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: St. Jude Total Therapy Study X.

High-dose methotrexate (HDMTX, 1,000 mg/m2) and cranial irradiation/sequential chemotherapy (RTSC) were compared for ability to extend complete remission durations in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Three hundred thirty patients were enrolled in the study, according to our criteria for standard-risk ALL: a leukocyte count less than 100 X 10(9)/L, no mediastinal mass, no leukemic involvement of the central nervous system (CNS), and blast cells lacking sheep erythrocyte receptors and surface immunoglobulin. Prednisone-vincristine-asparaginase induced complete remissions in 95% of the patients, who were then randomized to receive either HDMTX (n = 154) or RTSC (n = 155). HDMTX was administered with intrathecal MTX for the first 3 weeks following remission induction, and then every 6 weeks with daily mercaptopurine (MP) and weekly oral MTX for a total of 18 months. The RTSC regimen consisted of 1,800 cGy cranial irradiation and intrathecal MTX for 3 weeks, followed by MP/MTX, cyclophosphamide/doxorubicin, and teniposide/cytarabine administered sequentially over 18 months. The final 12 months of treatment for both groups was MP and oral MTX; all patients received intrathecal MTX every 12 weeks. With a median follow-up of 5 years, complete remission durations have been significantly longer among children treated with HDMTX, compared with RTSC (P = .049) or historical institutional control regimens (P = .002). Approximately 67% of the patients receiving HDMTX and 56% of those receiving RTSC are expected to be in continuous complete remission at 4 years. Overall, isolated CNS relapse rates were similar (P = .17) in the two treatment groups, although by newer risk criteria cranial irradiation could be expected to provide better protection in patients with an unfavorable prognosis. These findings indicate that addition of intermittent HDMTX infusions to conventional chemotherapy is an effective method for extending complete remissions in children with ALL.
Transient plasticity of hippocampal CA1 neuron glutamate receptors contributes to benzodiazepine withdrawal-anxiety.

Withdrawal from 1-week oral administration of the benzodiazepine (BZ), flurazepam (FZP) is associated with enhanced AMPA receptor (AMPAR)-mediated and reduced NMDA receptor (NMDAR)-mediated excitation in CA1 pyramidal neurons 2-days after cessation of FZP administration. The present study examined temporal regulation of glutamate receptor-mediated whole-cell currents in CA1 neurons from hippocampal slices prepared from 0-, 1-, 2-, and 4-day FZP-withdrawn rats in relation to expression of anxiety-like behavior during BZ withdrawal. AMPAR-mediated miniature excitatory postsynaptic current (mEPSC) amplitude was significantly increased in CA1 neurons from 1- and 2-day FZP-withdrawn rats, while evoked NMDAR EPSC amplitude was reduced only in neurons from 2-day FZP-withdrawn rats. Withdrawal-anxiety, measured in the elevated plus-maze, was observed 1 day, but not 0, 2, or 4 days, after FZP treatment with 1-day withdrawn rats spending significantly reduced time in open arms compared to controls. CA1 neuron hyperexcitability was evident from the significant increase in the frequency of extracellular, 4-AP-induced spike discharges in slices from 1-day FZP-withdrawn rats. Systemic injection of the NMDAR antagonist MK-801 (0.25 mg/kg) on day 1 of withdrawal prevented reduced NMDAR-mediated currents in CA1 neurons from 2-day FZP-withdrawn rats, whereas AMPAR-mediated currents remained upregulated. Furthermore, MK-801 ‘unmasked’ withdrawal-anxiety in the same 2-day FZP-withdrawn rats. Systemic injection of the AMPAR antagonist GYKI-52466 (0.5 mg/kg) at the onset of withdrawal blocked increased AMPAR-mediated currents and withdrawal-anxiety in 1-day FZP-withdrawn rats. These findings suggest that increased CA1 neuron AMPAR-mediated excitation may contribute to hippocampal hyperexcitability and expression of withdrawal-anxiety after prolonged BZ exposure via NMDAR-mediated neural circuits. Neuropsychopharmacology (2004) 29, 1994–2006, advance online publication, 21 July 2004; doi:10.1038/sj.npp.1300531
The Third Reich Sourcebook

This comprehensive collection of sources contains 411 texts from the Nazi era in English translation. The Third Reich Sourcebook stands out both for the variety of important topics it includes and ...
Evaluation of tumor markers: An evidence-based guide for determination of clinical utility

A tumor marker is clinically useful if its results serve to separate a large heterogeneous population into smaller populations with more precisely predictable outcomes. In theory, if this separation is both reliable and disparate, one can apply therapy more efficiently to the population by exposing those most likely to need and benefit from the therapy while ensuring that the other group avoids needless toxicities. In essence, the term tumor marker has come to describe a variety of molecules or processes that differ from the norm in either malignant cells, tissues, or fluids in patients with malignancies. Assessing these alterations from normal can be used to place patients into categories that are distinguished by different outcomes, either in the absence of specific therapy or after various treatments are applied.
The Society of American Archivists Confronts the Computer

During the 1960s, the committee structure of the Society of American Archivists began to deal with the twin concerns resulting from automation: automated control techniques and machine-readable records. Until 1975, separate committees dealt with the two facets of computerization. Then the Committee on Automated Records and Techniques launched a broad program of publications, presentations, and projects dealing with both concerns. Many of these activities echoed the efforts and concepts of previous committees. In addition, the Society of American Archivists addressed other facets of automation through the National Information Systems Task Force and its publications program. This progress, however, came in spite of problems resulting from ongoing questions about the proper organizational structure to deal with automation, from communication problems within the Society, and from new technological challenges.
Paleobiological and Phylogenetic Significance of Life History in Miocene Hominoids

Features by which extant hominoids are distinguishable from cercopithecoids can be readily identified. Anyone schooled in primate biology could generate a comprehensive list of these features; a less comprehensive although still generally accurate list could probably be generated by any observant individual. From such a list it would not be too difficult to come up with a short characterization of hominoids that unified the various features into a few more generalized traits, abilities, and so forth. I suspect there would be sufficient conformity in these characterizations such that there would be few disagreements as to how to define a hominoid. It is surely the case, however, that character lists would become shorter and the entire exercise more challenging the further back one went into the hominoid record.
The measurement of hip motion in the sagittal and coronal planes.

The only true measurement of the pelvifemoral relationship is by the determination of the angle between the axis of the femur and a fixed line of pelvic reference. Four new pelvifemoral angular relationships are described: two in the sagittal plane, the pelvifemoral angles of extension and of flexion; and two in the coronal plane, the co-pelvifemoral angles of abduction and adduction. In the sagittal plane, motion can be measured by the pelvifemoral angle, the angle which opens downward and backward and is formed by Nelaton's line and the femoral axis. In maximal extension, the pelvifemoral angle of extension is 50 degrees. Any increase in the angle is indicative of a flexion contracture, measured by the amount that the angle exceeds the normal value. In maximum flexion, the pelvifemoral angle of flexion is 125 degrees. The total range of flexion and extension at the hip joint is 75 degrees. In the coronal plane, motion at the hip joint can be determined by measuring the angle between the mechanical axis and the line drawn on the skin between the two femoral heads.
Genome- and exome-wide association study of serum lipoprotein (a) in the Jackson Heart Study.

Genome- and exome-wide association study of serum lipoprotein (a) in the Jackson Heart Study
College for All: New Institutional Conflicts in the Transition to Adulthood

This chapter examines how community colleges shape the life course of individuals transitioning into adulthood, and whether alternative institutional structures and better informed students might reduce some of the unintended conflicts between education and other life domains. We focus on several conflicts. We examine simultaneous role conflicts between life domains, simultaneous time conflicts between educational and life timetables, and sequential conflicts that occur during transitions. Mortimer and Kruger (Pathways from school to work in Germany and the United States. In: Hallinan MT (ed) Handbook of the sociology of education Springer, New York, pp 475–497, 2000) contend that clear school-work connections may help shape youths’ career plans and outcomes so they can anticipate and prepare for future demands. We examine how educational institutions shape these connections and how the lives of low-income and disadvantaged students may be particularly affected. We conclude by suggesting that improved transition structures may reduce conflicts and avoid the problems imposed by extended educational timetables.
Meridional Rib-Stiffened Shells

A semianalytical technique is proposed for the analysis of a meridional rib stiffened shell of revolution which accounts for the discrete stiffness of the rib in a rational manner. The method uses discrete field concepts, finite Fourier series expansion of the dependent variables in the circumferential direction and Galerkin FEM in the meridional direction to analyse such a class of shells. In the process the two-dimensional physical problem is reduced to a one-dimensional mathematical model, thereby increasing computation efficiency. This scheme can be employed to study the size and effect of the ribs on the shell behavior more efficiently than a full-blown FEM. Through the use of a numerical example, the effect of the ribs in a typical hyperbolic shell of revolution is illustrated. Shell deflection and stress resultants are compared for both stiffened and unstiffened shell subjected to wind pressure. The analysis is applicable to such linear elastic models where small deflection theory is valid.
X -band rf driven free electron laser driver with optics linearization

In this paper, a compact hard X-ray free electron lasers (FEL) design is proposed with all X-band rf acceleration and two stage bunch compression. It eliminates the need of a harmonic rf linearization section by employing optics linearization in its first stage bunch compression. Quadrupoles and sextupoles are employed in a bunch compressor one (BC1) design, in such a way that second order longitudinal dispersion of BC1 cancels the second order energy correlation in the electron beam. Start-to-end 6-D simulations are performed with all the collective effects included. Emittance growth in the horizontal plane due to coherent synchrotron radiation is investigated and minimized, to be on a similar level with the successfully operating Linac coherent light source (LCLS). At a FEL radiation wavelength of 0.15 nm, a saturation length of 40 meters can be achieved by employing an undulator with a period of 1.5 cm. Without tapering, a FEL radiation power above 10 GW is achieved with a photon pulse length of 50 fs, which is LCLS-like performance. The overall length of the accelerator plus undulator is around 250 meters which is much shorter than the LCLS length of 1230 meters. That makes it possible to build hard X-ray FEL in a laboratory with limited size.
The need for research-tested smartphone applications for promoting breastfeeding.

Compared with all other racial/ethnic groups in the U.S., African American women have the lowest rates of breastfeeding initiation, as well as continuation at 6 months (1). Among infants born in 2012, the rate of breastfeeding at 6 months was 35.3% among non-Hispanic blacks as compared with 51.4% for all infants in the U.S. (1). The rate of exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months was 13.9% among non-Hispanic blacks as compared with 21.9% for all U.S. infants. African American women are 2.5 times less likely to breastfeed than white women (2). Currently, African American women are not meeting any of the Healthy People 2020 objectives for breastfeeding.
Integrated Automatic Measuring Equiment for Settlement and Tilt of Earth-rock Dams

The development of integrated automatic measuring equipment for settlement and tilt of earth-rock dams as well as its structure,principles,main functions and data processing method are introduced.The measuring data indicate that the proposed equipment is highly accurate and fully automatic,and it can largely reduce the labor intensity and has good applicability.Some matters in using the equipment are analyzed.
Effect of spatial image support in detecting long-term vegetation change from satellite time-series

Arid rangelands have been severely degraded over the past century. Multi-temporal remote sensing techniques are ideally suited to detect significant changes in ecosystem state; however, considerable uncertainty exists regarding the effects of changing image resolution on their ability to detect ecologically meaningful change from satellite time-series. (1) Assess the effects of image resolution in detecting landscape spatial heterogeneity. (2) Compare and evaluate the efficacy of coarse (MODIS) and moderate (Landsat) resolution satellite time-series for detecting ecosystem change. Using long-term (~12 year) vegetation monitoring data from grassland and shrubland sites in southern New Mexico, USA, we evaluated the effects of changing image support using MODIS (250-m) and Landsat (30-m) time-series in modeling and detecting significant changes in vegetation using time-series decomposition techniques. Within our study ecosystem, landscape-scale (>20-m) spatial heterogeneity was low, resulting in a similar ability to detect vegetation changes across both satellite sensors and levels of spatial image support. While both Landsat and MODIS imagery were effective in modeling temporal dynamics in vegetation structure and composition, MODIS was more strongly correlated to biomass due to its cleaner (i.e., fewer artifacts/data gaps) 16-day temporal signal. The optimization of spatial/temporal scale is critical in ensuring adequate detection of change. While the results presented in this study are likely specific to arid shrub-grassland ecosystems, the approach presented here is generally applicable. Future analysis is needed in other ecosystems to assess how scaling relationships will change under different vegetation communities that range in their degree of landscape heterogeneity.
Retroperitoneal mobilization of the vas deferens in the complex vasovasostomy.

Anatomic distances along retroperitoneal, inguinal, and infrainguinal segments of the vas deferens were measured in 14 formalin fixed cadavers and in 15 recently postmortem males. There were no significant differences in segment lengths between the two groups nor between the right and left vasa. Data from the recent postmortem group reveals a mean length of 5.83 +/- .65 cm to be gained from retroperitoneal mobilization of the vas deferens. This information is important to surgical decisions in cases of microsurgical repair of obstructive azoospermia resulting from damage to the inguinal segment of the vas deferens. Data on other vasal segment lengths is beneficial for planning repair in other complex cases of obstructive azoospermia as well.
Ethics and Experiments

Abstract The pursuit of knowledge through social scientific research requires consideration of the many ways to protect the human dignity of study participants. This chapter reviews issues inherent in conducting ethical research, both generally and specifically with regard to experimental studies. To the extent that researchers remain mindful of these ethical concerns, they are more prepared to navigate the (federal) regulations pertaining to the protection of the rights and welfare of research subjects. The chapter concludes with suggestions on how to successfully meet the demands of institutional review boards, which oversee these regulations.
Cognitive decline following incident and preexisting diabetes mellitus in a population sample

Objective: To examine if incident and preexisting diabetes mellitus (DM) were associated with cognitive decline among African Americans (AAs) and European Americans (EAs). Methods: Based on a prospective study of 7,740 older adults (mean age 72.3 years, 64% AA, 63% female), DM was ascertained by hypoglycemic medication use and Medicare claims during physician or hospital visits, and cognition by performance on a brief battery for executive functioning, episodic memory, and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Decline in composite and individual tests among those with incident DM, with preexisting DM, and without DM was studied using a linear mixed effects model with and without change point. Results: At baseline, 737 (15%) AAs and 269 (10%) EAs had preexisting DM. Another 721 (17%) AAs and 289 (12%) EAs had incident DM in old age. Following incident DM, cognitive decline increased by 36% among AAs and by 40% among EAs compared to those without DM. No significant difference was observed between AAs and EAs ( p = 0.64). However, cognitive decline increased by 17% among AAs with preexisting DM compared to those without DM, but no increased decline was observed among EAs with preexisting DM. In secondary analyses, faster decline in executive functioning and episodic memory was observed following incident DM. Conclusions: In old age, faster cognitive decline was present among AAs and EAs following incident DM, compared to cognitive decline prior to DM, and among those without DM. This underscores the need for stronger prevention and control of DM in old age.
New developments in long-acting reversible contraception: the promise of intrauterine devices and implants to improve family planning services

After decades of having the developed world's highest rates of unintended pregnancy, the United States finally shows signs of improvement. This progress is likely due in large part to increased use of highly effective long-acting reversible methods of contraception. These methods can be placed and do not require any maintenance to provide years of contraception as effective as sterilization. Upon removal, fertility returns to baseline rates. This article addresses advances in both software—improved use and elimination of barriers to provide these methods; and hardware—novel delivery systems and devices.
Determination of the dielectric constant and density of cryogenic liquids

The determination of the density of cryogenic liquids, particularly those that represent mixtures of two or more components, is difficult and yet of considerable practical importance. The difficulties arising from carrying out high precision measurements at cryogenic temperatures are well known and need not be reviewed here. The practical importance of the results obtained with these measurements are perhaps less known since they are designed to meet the need of close inventory control, and equitable custody transfer. For these purposes it is necessary to know the density to at least ±0.1% at the prevailing temperature. While it is relatively easy to measure capacitances and hence dielectric constants to within this accuracy or better, the translation of these data into density with the help of the Clausius Mossotti equation (CME) is not as facile. This paper presents the results of dielectric measurements carried out in a large storage tank filled with liquid mixtures of ethane, propane, n-butane, and isobutane. It also examines the validity of linear mixing laws for these liquids and the use of the CME. Finally it interprets the observed changes in density in terms of the liquids compressibility.
Modern Endodontic Microsurgery Concepts: A Clinical Update

Increased use of the surgical operating microscope in endodontic surgery has elucidated many shortcomings of previous techniques and along with microsurgical instruments and new more biologically acceptable root-end filling materials has started the new microsurgical era in surgical endodontics. Endodontic microsurgery is a minimally invasive technique that results in less postoperative pain and edema and faster wound healing. It offers a significantly higher success rate than traditional apical surgery technique. The components, key concepts and procedural steps of endodontic microsurgery as well as the prognosis and predictability of modern root-end procedures are presented in this review.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Parameters Affected by RE Cell Activators

The onset, intensity, and duration of drug effects depend to a large degree on achieving and maintaining an appropriate concentration of the agent at its site of action. The two branches of pharamacology concerned with the study of various factors that influence drug concentration and drug response are pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Pharmacokinetics embraces investigations of the various factors that affect absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of pharmacologically active agents. Pharmacodynamics is concerned with those biochemical and/or physiological alterations elicited by a compound relative to its concentration, i.e., the dose-response relationship. Inherent within the latter is also the consideration of the mechanism of drug action, i.e., the primary alteration that underlies the sequence of events leading to a demonstrable effect. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters thus are key considerations in governing the selection and adjustment of drug dosage and dosage schedules . In a therapeutic context, alterations, either positive or negative, of these parameters due to disease processes, genetic factors, age, or prior drug exposure may significantly attentuate or accentuate the therapeutic effectiveness of a particular agent. Indeed, at the two extremes, complete failure to achieve therapeutic effect or frank toxicity may result from inappropriate consideration of the status and interplay between pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters.
The magnetar model for Type I superluminous supernovae I: Bayesian analysis of the full multicolour light curve sample with MOSFiT

We use the new Modular Open Source Fitter for Transients (MOSFiT) to model 38 hydrogen-poor superluminous supernovae (SLSNe). We fit their multicolour light curves with a magnetar spin-down model and present the posterior distributions of magnetar and ejecta parameters. The colour evolution can be well matched with a simple absorbed blackbody. We find the following medians (1$\sigma$ ranges): spin period 2.4 ms (1.2-4 ms); magnetic field $0.8\times 10^{14}$ G (0.2-1.8 $\times 10^{14}$ G); ejecta mass 4.8 Msun (2.2-12.9 Msun); kinetic energy $3.9\times 10^{51}$ erg (1.9-9.8 $\times 10^{51}$ erg). This significantly narrows the parameter space compared to our priors, showing that although the model is flexible, the parameter space relevant to SLSNe is well constrained by existing data. The requirement that the instantaneous engine power is $\sim 10^{44}$ erg at the light curve peak necessitates either a large rotational energy (P 20 Msun), and that this is consistent with the observed SLSN rate. High mass, low metallicity, and likely binary interaction all serve to maintain rapid rotation essential for magnetar formation. By reproducing the full set of SLSN light curves, our posteriors can be used to inform photometric searches for SLSNe in future survey data.
Improved electron collimation system design for Elekta linear accelerators.

Prototype 10 × 10 and 20 × 20-cm2 electron collimators were designed for the Elekta Infinity accelerator (MLCi2 treatment head), with the goal of reducing the trimmer weight of excessively heavy current applicators while maintaining acceptable beam flatness (±3% major axes, ±4% diagonals) and IEC leakage dose. Prototype applicators were designed initially using tungsten trimmers of constant thickness (1% electron transmission) and cross-sections with inner and outer edges positioned at 95% and 2% off-axis ratios (OARs), respectively, cast by the upstream collimating component. Despite redefining applicator size at isocenter (not 5 cm upstream) and reducing the energy range from 4–22 to 6–20 MeV, the designed 10 × 10 and 20 × 20-cm2 applicator trimmers weighed 6.87 and 10.49 kg, respectively, exceeding that of the current applicators (5.52 and 8.36 kg, respectively). Subsequently, five design modifications using analytical and/or Monte Carlo (MC) calculations were applied, reducing trimmer weight while maintaining acceptable in-field flatness and mean leakage dose. Design Modification 1 beveled the outer trimmer edges, taking advantage of only low-energy beams scattering primary electrons sufficiently to reach the outer trimmer edge. Design Modification 2 optimized the upper and middle trimmer distances from isocenter for minimal trimmer weights. Design Modification 3 moved inner trimmer edges inward, reducing trimmer weight. Design Modification 4 determined optimal X-ray jaw positions for each energy. Design Modification 5 adjusted middle and lower trimmer shapes and reduced upper trimmer thickness by 50%. Design Modifications 1→5 reduced trimmer weights from 6.87→5.86→5.52→5.87→5.43→3.73 kg for the 10 × 10-cm2 applicator and 10.49→9.04→8.62→7.73→7.35→5.09 kg for the 20 × 20-cm2 applicator. MC simulations confirmed these final designs produced acceptable in-field flatness and met IEC-specified leakage dose at 7, 13, and 20 MeV. These results allowed collimation system design for 6 × 6–25 × 25-cm2 applicators. Reducing trimmer weights by as much as 4 kg (25 × 25-cm2 applicator) should result in easier applicator handling by the radiotherapy team.
Intracellular potassium activity measurements in single proximal tubules of Necturus kidney.

The intracellular potential (E M) and potassium activity (a K ) ofNecturus proximal tubule were measured with double barreled liquid ion-exchange microelectrodes. Axial heterogeneity along the length of the accessible proximal tubule was observed, withE M anda K averaging −63.6±6.0 mV and 59.6±8.5 meq/liter in early segments, and −75.4±6.9 mV and 71.5±7.8 meq/liter in late segments. In both segmentsa K was above electrochemical equlibrium and thus actively accumulated within the cells. Increasing extracellular [K+] in increments from 2.5 to 50.0 meq/liter causedE M to depolarize progressively from −63.9±5.8 to −15.8±3.8 mV, whilea K i increased only slightly from 63.1±7.0 to 69.0±8.7 meq/liter. The response ofE M to increasing extracellular [K+] was reduced when extracellular [Na+] was decreased from 101 to 13 meq/liter. Treatment of tubules with ouabain for 1–2 hr caused a dose-dependent depolarization of the cell potential and a fall in intracellularK +. With 10−4 m ouabainE M decreased from −61.1±7.6 to −28.1±5.6 mV, anda K decreased from 62.7±5.7 to 10.2±4.0 meq/liter. However, when sodium entry into tubule cells was curtailed by perfusion with low-sodium solutions, or by replacement of chloride with a poorly permeant anion, cellular potassium activity remained unchanged. Taken together, the results of these studies clearly demonstrate that K+ is actively accumulated within the cells of theNecturus proximal tubule and that this accumulation is dependent upon Na+−K+-ATPase. In addition, the basolateral cell membrane has a relatively large K+ conductive pathway, which is subject to modulation by extracellular sodium. Finally, significant axial heterogeneity of the peritubular potential and ofa K i along the proximal tubule were noted.
Treatment of endogenous monadic variables in gravity equations

Abstract In the presence of country fixed effects, monadic variables are not identified in the traditional gravity equation. The paper uses a hybrid two-stage treatment model to overcome the identification problem. The model also accommodates endogeneity in monadic variables. An application to the trade impact of the Olympic Games is presented. Results highlight the empirical significance of endogeneity left untreated in the gravity equation.
Introduction: Moral-Political Philosophy, a Spectrum Shift Rightward

This introduction seeks to reinterpret the nature of government and its relation to capitalism, as well as preview the following chapters, with topics including the reconceptualization of military power, the “just war” doctrine, and the potential progression of the USA toward fascism.
THE HYDROLYSIS OF PHOSPHATE ESTERS AND RELATED COMPOUNDS: MONOMERIC METAPHOSPHATES AND PHOSPHORIMIDATES

Monomeric metaphosphates have long been postulated as intermediates in the solvolysis of phosphate esters, but none had previously been isolated. We now present evidence that monomeric methyl metaphosphate has been prepared in the gas phase, and trapped with N- methylaniline.
Socratic Dialogue in Design Education

The Graphic Design Program at the University of South Florida, Saint Petersburg utilizes Socratic Questioning to develop lifelong learners. In today’s society lifelong learners continually are re-examining their knowledge and developing their critical thinking skills. The Graphic Design Program teaches the Socratic Questioning methodology so students are able to develop higher-level thinking in their design work. This implementation of higher-level questioning allows the students to critically analyze their ideology of design.
Cancer and comorbidity: redefining chronic diseases.

BACKGROUND A narrow subspecialty model of cancer care has led to cancer treatment often being given outside the full medical context of the patient. The full range of comorbid illness must be considered in all aspects of diagnosis and treatment. This study was conducted to describe the prevalence of comorbidity in cancer patients and examine its relation with multiple demographic and clinical variables. METHODS A case comparison study of 15,626 population-based incident cases of cancer was conducted between 1984–1992 in 3 metropolitan Detroit counties (a National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program). Chronic disease status and demographics were collected by self-report; cancer diagnoses and staging were obtained by medical record review. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed. RESULTS Comorbidity was present in 68.7% of cancer patients, and 32.6% of these individuals had ≥2 comorbid conditions. Frequency was increased in the elderly, African-American patients (particularly African-American women), smokers, and those with lower socioeconomic status. Rates also appeared to vary by specific tumor site. CONCLUSIONS Comorbid chronic diseases are common in persons with cancer. The prevalence of comorbidities has important clinical, health service, and research implications. The disease specific model of oncology may limit appropriate care for these patients, and enhanced integration of primary care into the ongoing management of cancer may offer better outcomes. Cancer 2000;88:653–63. © 2000 American Cancer Society.
Agency, Self-Efficacy, and Desistance from Crime: an Application of Social Cognitive Theory

To explain why many offenders desist from crime, and why some persist, some theorists highlight the role of personal agency. Qualitative studies, in particular, observe that desisting offenders tend to express a “language of agency”—they view themselves as capable of influencing their actions and environment—while persistent offenders tend to see themselves as relatively helpless and even “doomed to deviance.” Drawing on Bandura’s social cognitive theory, which highlights self-efficacy as a key mechanism of agency, we analyze quantitative data from a large sample of serious offenders and examine how confidence in their ability to desist (desistance self-efficacy) is related to offending behavior. To advance research in this area, we focus on within-person effects and examine how changes in desistance self-efficacy relate to changes in offending over time. We also examine factors that are expected to enable or constrain personal agency. The findings indicate that a number of factors contribute to changes in desistance self-efficacy. An increase in desistance self-efficacy, in turn, is associated with a decrease in overall criminal involvement. Implications for theory, research, and policy are discussed.
Enhancer Chromatin and 3D Genome Architecture Changes from Naive to Primed Human Embryonic Stem Cell States

During mammalian embryogenesis, changes in morphology and gene expression are concurrent with epigenomic reprogramming. Using human embryonic stem cells representing the preimplantation blastocyst (naive) and postimplantation epiblast (primed), our data in 2iL/I/F naive cells demonstrate that a substantial portion of known human enhancers are premarked by H3K4me1, providing an enhanced open chromatin state in naive pluripotency. The 2iL/I/F enhancer repertoire occupies 9% of the genome, three times that of primed cells, and can exist in broad chromatin domains over 50 kb. Enhancer chromatin states are largely poised. Seventy-seven percent of 2iL/I/F enhancers are decommissioned in a stepwise manner as cells become primed. While primed topologically associating domains are largely unaltered upon differentiation, naive 2iL/I/F domains expand across primed boundaries, affecting three-dimensional genome architecture. Differential topologically associating domain edges coincide with 2iL/I/F H3K4me1 enrichment. Our results suggest that naive-derived 2iL/I/F cells have a unique chromatin landscape, which may reflect early embryogenesis.
Sediment accumulation and sedimentation rates in playas on the High Plains of western Kansas, USA

Abstract Grassland ecosystems are some of the most modified ecosystems in the world, largely due to conversion to cropland, and the High Plains of the central United States is no exception. Playa wetlands are ubiquitous features of the High Plains and have experienced increased sediment accumulation, which is the primary cause of reduced playa ecosystem function. Seven playas on the High Plains of western Kansas, five with cropland-dominated watersheds and two with grassland-dominated watersheds, were examined to quantify the amount of recent (past ~100–175 yr) sediment accumulated within playas and to establish chronologies of playa filling. Thicknesses of recent sediment were determined in the field, and soil cores were extracted from study playas. Four playa cores were analyzed for 210Pb to establish the chronology of recent sediment accumulation and sedimentation rates. Chronologies of pre-agricultural sediments and sedimentation rates were calculated by 14C dating of buried soils preserved within playa cores. Radiocarbon ages indicate playa stratigraphic records span the Holocene and that these playas have persisted on the landscape since at least the Late Pleistocene. Long-term, natural sedimentation rates were highest during the Pleistocene-Holocene transition and early Holocene, at ~2–4 cm/century. During the middle and late Holocene, sedimentation rates averaged ~1 cm/century. Cropland playas accumulated ~10–15 cm of recent sediment at average rates of ~6.5–10 cm/century, while grassland playas accumulated only ~2 cm of recent sediment. Conversion of watersheds to cropland has greatly accelerated sediment accumulation within playas, which is generally resulting in a decline in critical playa ecosystem functions.
Balancing cost and benefit: How E. coli cleverly averts disulfide stress caused by cystine

Building a robust, stable network must include strategies to minimize perturbations caused by environmental stress, while optimizing cellular fitness. The introduction of oxygen into the Earth's atmosphere brought challenges for the microbes that had evolved enzyme machinery and metabolic network stability in the anoxic world. Unable to generate new enzyme paradigms and metabolic networks de novo, organisms have evolved strategies to neutralize the impact of oxygen that can be added to and integrated into the existing metabolic framework. This issue of Molecular Microbiology includes a paper by Korshunov et al. in which the authors describe an elegant strategy that Escherichia coli has evolved to minimize metabolic stress that results from the acquisition and use of cystine, the oxidized form of cysteine, as a source of cellular sulfur. This study highlights how a strategy involving both cost and benefit can result in a functional, but energy intensive mechanism for this bacterium to thrive in an oxic world.
A Spring-Aided Two-Dimensional Electromechanical Spine Architecture for Bio-Inspired Robots

This paper presents a distributed six-link two-dimensional electromechanical actuator that emulates a biological spine. The gearless actuator is made by stacking modules of E-shaped cores along with integrated springs. A coil excitation induces magnetic flux in the core, which produces electromechanical force in the air gap between two adjacent cores. The proposed actuator is driven by dc-dc converters with current control. Electromechanical force analysis for the proposed spine architecture with different air-gap distances and spring analysis that improve the actuator’s performance are discussed. Experimental results show different biological motions with a prototype design. The prototype can produce a maximum torque of 1.4 N-m.
A Self-Led Approach to Improving Classroom Management Practices Using Video Analysis.

Strong classroom management may be the key to finding success as a new teacher. Yet many teachers seek additional professional development in managing classrooms that include students with disabili...
Abstract 125: Automated External Defibrillator Shock Advisement Performance Among Multiple Human Electrocardiographic Rhythms and Devices

Background: Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) perform rhythm analysis in order to facilitate defibrillation. The effectiveness of AEDs is dependent on the accuracy of their rhythm classifica...
Artificial intelligence for operation and control: The case of microgrids

Abstract Research on artificial intelligence (AI) has advanced significantly in recent years. A variety of AI algorithms have shown great promise in a large number of applications for power system operation and control. This article examines the potential of applying AI in microgrids (MGs). Specifically, as MGs commonly employ onsite generation including an increasing penetration of non-dispatchable distributed energy resources (DERs) and require seamless transition between operation modes (e.g., grid-connected and island) for different operation scenarios, the energy management within an MG is particularly complicated. Many factors including lack of inertia needed for system stability, generation uncertainty from DERs, and complex MG network topology composition (e.g., AC, DC, and hybrid AC/DC MGs) contribute to the difficulty of microgrid energy management. AI techniques such as deep learning (DL) and deep reinforcement learning (DRL) have recently demonstrated their excellence in tackling problems pertinent to decision making, providing a possible solution to overcome the above-mentioned challenges. This article discusses the applications of AI to MG operation and control, with an emphasis on DL and DRL. We survey the available DL and DRL technologies and their applications to power grids. We also investigate the unique issues associated with MGs including their layered control architecture, single vs. networked structure, and topology optimization. Perspectives on the ongoing challenges and viable AI solutions to MG operation and control are presented.
Treatment of Displaced Femoral Neck Fractures with Total Hip Arthroplasty

Femoral neck fractures are common, and total hip arthroplasty (THA) has become the preferred treatment for active older patients. In this chapter, we review the indications, surgical approaches, and complications of total hip arthroplasty in the treatment of displaced femoral neck fractures.
Chapter 9 Continuous Synchronous Cultures of Protozoa

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on continuous synchronous culture of Protozoa . A continuous synchronous culture refers to a system, which is regularly permitted to expand from one population level to another in a stepwise fashion by a synchronous burst of cell division. Through the adoption of continuous culture techniques, the cells are offered a more stable environment that, in part, results in repetitive synchronous bursts whose characteristics are easily duplicated with a substantial degree of precision each time the cycle is repeated. Moreover, if the continuous system is well controlled, the data from one cycle can be superimposed on that of another cycle. In terms of developmental patterns, synchrony is the segregation of age classes, which reflects temporally distributed cellular events. The use of stepwise dilution procedures in a continuous synchronized culture provides a benefit that is not immediately evident but that is analogous to a chemostat's tendency to select for short generation time organisms. The light-dark cycle, which brings about repetitive synchrony in Euglena is derived from a series of considerations encompassing not only the growth of this cell as a function of light exposure but also its biochemical profile and kinetic responses following cessation of illumination. The inherent quality of repetitiveness that is seen in the synchrony of Euglena and Astasia , does not rest with a uniqueness of these organisms, but represents the ability of the cell cycle to adapt to an externally applied cycle of stresses.
Direct evidence for the all-in/all-out magnetic structure in the pyrochlore iridates from muon spin relaxation

In the pyrochlore iridates R${}_{2}$Ir${}_{2}$O${}_{7}$ (R = lanthanide, Y) determination of the magnetic structure of the iridium moments remains an outstanding problem despite the role this is expected to play in the formation of novel band structures and topologies in these materials. In this work, an analysis of the experimentally measured spontaneous muon spin precession frequency is presented which incorporates both probabilistic and ab initio modeling techniques to determine the ground state magnetic structure. It is shown that the experimentally observed results are consistent only with a magnetically ordered Ir${}^{4+}$ sublattice with the so-called ``all-in/all-out'' magnetic structure, and that the electronic state of the Ir${}^{4+}$ is best described by the ${J}_{\mathrm{eff}}=\frac{1}{2}$ model in several member compounds. Through this approach it is also demonstrated that such a simple structure is not likely to be present on the rare-earth sublattice which contains much larger localized moments.