cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Myocardial Response to Stress in Cardiac Hypertrophy and Heart Failure: Effect of Antihypertensive Drugsa

: The myocardium's response to increased stress or load is not stereotyped. Differences have been observed in the heart's molecular composition and performance characteristics when exposed to stress. Myosin isoforms gradually change during development of hypertrophy, whereas collagen levels change only during the chronic phase of hypertrophy. Cardiac hypertrophy can regress if treated with antihypertensive drugs, but the myocardium of the post-hypertrophic heart no longer has the same composition as it did before hypertrophy. In rat studies of the effects of antihypertensive drugs on cardiac functional reserve, captopril showed a regression of hypertrophy associated with a lower baseline stroke volume and, after dobutamine stress, a dose-dependent rise in stroke volume. In untreated rates captopril showed no change in stroke volume. In hydralazine-treated rats, there was no change in reserve after dobutamine stress, whereas propranolol treatment resulted in partial regression and a slight change in stroke volume. Overall, our data suggests that development of hypertension and hypertrophy plays a role in changes in the molecular structure of the myocardium, especially during the chronic phase of hypertrophy and heart failure. This complex process cannot be explained by one factor but involves a combination of factors. Identification of each factor would be of importance for the development of appropriate therapeutic agents.
Circular Dichroism of Cobalt(III) Complexes of Optically Active Amino Acids

O’BRIEN and TOOLE (1) studied theoptical rotatory dispersion (ORD) of complexes formed by several colorless metal ions with optically active amines. They concluded that the effects were independent of the nature of the central metal ion and of the nature of the active amines, but dependent on the number of ligand molecules coordinated. SHIMURA (2) showed that for [Co(NH3)4L-leuc] (ClO4)2 [leuc = NH2CH(CO2)C2H3 (CH3)2] the presence of the optically active ligand caused an anomalous dispersion curve in the region of the first absorption band of Co(III). The present paper reports the study of the contributions to the optical activity from the dissymmetric spiral configuration
Assessing the effectiveness of breast cancer education workshops among Samoan and Pacific Islander women in Southern California.

Background: Samoans experience among the worst five-year breast cancer survival rates in the U.S., largely due to late stage diagnosis. There is great potential for screening interventions to reduce cancer mortality among Samoans. This paper examines the effectiveness of a culturally and linguistically tailored breast cancer education workshop for Samoan and other Pacific Islander women in Southern California. Methods: Educational workshops were conducted in churches, homes, and the Samoan National Nurses Association office to Pacific Islander women. Effectiveness was assessed using pre- and post-tests. Selfadministered questionnaires queried participants about demographics, access, personal or family breast cancer history, screening knowledge and behaviors, and plans to obtain screening (n=495). Results: Participants were predominantly Samoan, with 57% reporting they were ≥40 years of age. At pre-test, half of the participants did not know how to perform Breast Self Examination (BSE), 40% never had a Clinical Breast Examination (CBE), and 30% never had a mammogram. Less than 40% reported having a mammogram in the past two years. At post-test, 98% reported increased knowledge. Older women were more likely to report plans for screening at post-test. Conclusions: Health educators in Samoan and other Pacific Islander communities must recognize and appropriately address screening barriers such as cultural beliefs and lack of knowledge, and should consider working with important institutions such as the church.
Immunoassays Based on Conformational Restriction of the Enzyme Label Induced by the Antibody

We describe here an approach to separation-free enzyme immunoassays based on the ability of specific antibodies to ligands to restrict the conformational mobility of an apoenzyme that has already been labeled with that ligand, to fold into a catalytically active conformation.
Comparison of tunneling in the laboratory and field by the Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae).

Differences in tunneling between small groups of Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermesformosanus Shiraki (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) foragers in the laboratory and foragers in the field environment were investigated. Groups from two different colonies showed no differences in amount of tunneling and wood consumption under controlled laboratory conditions; however, significant differences in tunneling and feeding were found when comparing the same two colonies in the field. Possible reasons for variation in tunneling rate between field colonies are discussed. Population estimates suggested that colony size could be a factor. Observations on tunneling in the field over a three-day period indicated that tunneling rate may also be related to air temperature, with a lag effect.
Closing Summary: Twentieth Stellar Pulsation Conference

There have been many significant advances in the 40 years since the first stellar pulsation conference in 1971, including new instrumentation and observational techniques, discovery of many thousands of variable stars from extensive surveys, and prediction, discovery, and explanation of many new types of variable stars. These advances have generated new insights into the physics required to understand and interpret stellar phenomena, and motivated progress in computational capabilities. However, with increased resolution and sensitivity, data volume and accuracy, and the ability to include more complex processes in computational models, we also have new challenges and questions. This conference pointed to some emerging directions for the study and application of stellar pulsations. Here we summarize a few of the new discoveries, observational capabilities, progress in theory and computational models, and questions discussed.
A re-examination of the Floral Fresco from the Unexplored Mansion at Knossos1

Restudy of the fragments belonging to the LM IA Floral Fresco from the Unexplored Mansion at Knossos yields a more comprehensive reconstruction that focuses on the arrangement of the floral elements within their landscape setting and facilitates an examination of the composition within the context of Aegean art. The reconstruction suggests that the anonymous artist displays technical mastery and innovation which produce the unusual ‘anemone’, ‘frilled flower’, and ‘osier’ motifs, yet reveal an intimate knowledge of contemporary trends in both Minoan and Cycladic painting. Comparison with surviving fragments of landscape painting from the neighbouring Knossos town houses further suggests that LM IA artists actively participated in a competitive environment in which new pictorial motifs were invented to satisfy the demands of their patrons for novelty.
Common core writing and language standards and aligned state assessments: a national survey of teacher beliefs and attitudes

A random sample of 482 teachers in grades 3 through 8 from across the United States were surveyed about (a) their perceptions of the version of the Common Core writing and language standards adopted by their state and their state’s writing assessment, (b) their preparation to teach writing, and (c) their self-efficacy beliefs for teaching writing. Regardless of grade, a majority of teachers believed that the adopted standards are more rigorous than prior standards, provide clear expectations for students that can be straightforwardly translated into activities and lessons, and have pushed them to address writing more often. However, many surveyed felt the new writing and language standards are too numerous to cover, omit key aspects of writing development, and may be inappropriate for struggling writers. Moreover, most did not feel that professional development efforts have been sufficient to achieve successful implementation, and nearly one in five respondents was not familiar with the standards. The respondents were generally less sanguine regarding their state’s writing test, with elementary teachers even less positive than middle school teachers on some aspects, though nearly a third were unfamiliar with their state test. A majority believed state writing tests, though more rigorous than prior tests, fail to address important aspects of writing development, do not accommodate the needs of students with diverse abilities, and require more time than is available to prepare students. Additionally, many teachers believed professional development efforts have been insufficient to help them understand measurement properties of the assessments and how to use test data to identify students’ writing needs. Teachers who were better prepared to teach writing and who held more positive personal teaching efficacy beliefs for writing exhibited generally more positive perceptions of their state’s standards. In contrast, only teacher efficacy beliefs made a unique contribution to the survey respondents’ attitudes and beliefs about their state’s writing test.
Reconfiguring the Audience Commodity: The Institutionalization of Social TV Analytics as Market Information Regime

Changes in the ways that audiences use television, and the ways in which such usage can be measured, raise the possibility of a transformation of the audience commodity, and the currency that fuels the audience marketplace. Specifically, it appears at this point that social media analytics are beginning to play a role in how television program success is measured, and in how advertising dollars are allocated across programs. Essentially, then, the emergence of social TV analytics represents the possibility of a new market information regime taking hold in the audience marketplace. Working from an institutional theoretical framework, this article uses trade materials as a window into industry dynamics and discourses in an effort to provide an account of the recent emergence and usage of social TV analytics in the U.S. television industry and thus explore the process of institutionalization of a new market information regime.
Art therapy in art museums: Promoting social connectedness and psychological well-being of older adults

Abstract This study aimed to identify the therapeutic benefits of utilizing the art museum, in art therapy programs, with older adults. Eight older adults participated in docent tours with an art making component at the [BLINDED FOR REVIEW] Museum in California. This study explored the phenomenological perspective of the older adults visiting the museum and aimed to understand how the experience may have impacted their well-being and sense of social support. Participant’s art, journals, and researcher’s observations were analyzed along with measures of psychological well-being, social connectedness and support. Emergent themes in the art and writing were aligned with De Botton and Armstrong’s (2013) seven functions of art. Results indicated the opportunity to explore emotions, thoughts, and memories safely within a group increased participant’s well-being and allowed for social connections. Furthermore, the art created reflected the seven functions of art, suggesting these may be useful for the layperson when visiting museums. This study supports previous research, recommending museum visits and art therapy with older adults.
10 Financial stress and intimate partner violence perpetration among young men and women

Purpose Intimate partner violence (IPV) poses a serious threat to the health and well-being of men, women, and children. Perpetrators often cite situational characteristics, such as financial stress, as a risk for IPV events, but little research has examined situational factors. The purpose of this analysis is to explore the association between financial stressors and perpetration of physical IPV. Methods Drawn from Wave IV of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, participants (age range: 24–34) answered six questions on financial stress (e.g., food insecurity; eviction) in the prior year. Participants were categorised as perpetrating physical IPV if they reported hitting, kicking, and/or slapping their partner within the prior year and perpetrating physical IPV causing injury if their partner was injured during the abuse. Weighted, clustered logistic regression was used to determine the association between financial stressors and perpetration of IPV. Covariate selection for adjusted analysis were informed by directed acyclic graphs. Results Approximately 6% of young adults reported perpetrating physical IPV in the past year. Each type of financial stress was significantly associated with increased odds of perpetrating physical IPV (cOR: 1.73–5.53). For each additional financial stressor, the odds of perpetrating physical IPV increased by 33.9% (p Conclusions Individuals with recent financial stressors are at an increased risk for perpetrating physical IPV and physical IPV resulting in injury. Intervention efforts for IPV perpetrators, which have not been highly effective, may benefit from addressing financial stressors. Significance and contributions Since IPV has significant consequences and current interventions efforts have had limited success, it is crucial to identify modifiable risk factors. Financial stressors are one potential modifiable factor that may be incorporated into intervention efforts.
The Regulation of Class IA PI 3-Kinases by Inter-Subunit Interactions

Phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI 3-kinases) are activated by growth factor and hormone receptors, and regulate cell growth, survival, motility, and responses to changes in nutritional conditions (Engelman et al. 2006). PI 3-kinases have been classified according to their subunit composition and their substrate specificity for phosphoinositides (Vanhaesebroeck et al. 2001). The class IA PI 3-kinase is a heterodimer consisting of one regulatory subunit (p85α, p85β, p55α, p50α, or p55γ) and one 110-kDa catalytic subunit (p110α, β or δ). The Class IB PI 3-kinase is also a dimer, composed of one regulatory subunit (p101 or p87) and one catalytic subunit (p110γ) (Wymann et al. 2003). Class I enzymes will utilize PI, PI[4]P, or PI[4,5]P2 as substrates in vitro, but are thought to primarily produce PI[3,4,5]P3 in cells.
Expecting Rejection: Understanding the Minority Stress Experiences of Transgender and Gender-Nonconforming Individuals.

Abstract Purpose: Transgender and gender-nonconforming (TGNC) individuals often are the target of enacted or external (i.e., distal) experiences of stigma, discrimination, and violence, which are linked to adverse health, particularly psychological distress. There is limited research, however, examining felt or internal (i.e., proximal) stressors faced by TGNC individuals. This study sought to examine one type of internal stressor, expecting rejection, and aimed to (1) identify how and to what extent rejection expectations operate day-to-day for TGNC individuals and (2) explore how TGNC individuals respond to expectations of rejection. Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with 30 participants from 2014 to 2015 who identified as TGNC (mean age=30.4; 60% people of color); data were analyzed using a consensual qualitative research method. Results: Four thematic categories emerged about expecting rejection: (1) where to expect rejection; (2) thoughts and feelings associated with expectations of rejecti...
Stability Analysis of Ultra-Thin Lubricant Films with Chain-End Functional Groups

The thermodynamic stability of ultra-thin perfluoropolyether (PFPE) films is examined. The model used in this paper incorporates a layered structure due to polar interaction at the endgroups and provides the stability criteria as a function of film thickness, the surface/interfacial energies of PFPEs and substrates, and molecular weight. The surface energies of PFPEs were obtained from measured contact angles and separated into non-polar and polar components using Fowkes' method. The stability of PFPE films is examined via a diagram constructed from the measured surface energies of PFPEs and hydrogenated carbon substrate.
Chastity and ‘Rumour’d Heavens’: ‘Woman’ and The Double Message of Sexual Love

What is a woman? If you have to ask the question, you might say, you will probably never find an answer; or, as Simone de Beauvoir has said, in asking the question we have already suggested an answer, since the very fact of having asked is significant.1 I may as well confess at once that I will not answer it, that in fact there is no answer to this question which obsessed nineteenth-century writers. Another way of putting this refusal is to observe that there are too many answers which cluster around this question, too many hopes for certainty and, finally, too many representations, a plenitude of forms and values which constitute an impenetrable thicket of meanings. Moreover, there are thickets in at least two forests: one we might label essentialist, in which the term draws its definition from immutable, ultimately biological conditions, and the other constructivist, in which no a priori trees are presumed to exist in the forest at all.2 This is not to say, however, that there are no paths through this density. One path is to observe a connected series of representations, such as are constituted by those novels we will examine.
Computer-Based Teaching of Chemistry

The PLATO IV computer-based teaching system has been under development at the University of Illinois since 1960. At the present time ca 103 terminals are connected to a CDC CYBER 73 computer system and are used for about 106 terminal hours per year to provide direct instruction in over 100 subject areas.1, 2
ONAC: Optimal number of active cores detector for energy efficient GPU computing

Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) have become a prevalent platform for high throughput general purpose computing. The peak computational throughput of GPUs has been steadily increasing with each technology node by scaling the number of cores on the chip. Although this vastly improves the performance of several compute-intensive applications, our experiments show that some applications can achieve peak performance without utilizing all cores on the chip. We refer to the number of cores at which performance of an application saturates as the optimal number of active cores (N opt ). We propose executing the application on N opt cores, and power-gating the unused cores to reduce static power consumption. Towards this target, we present ONAC (Optimal Number of Active Cores detector), a runtime technique to detect N opt . ONAC uses a novel estimation model, which significantly reduces the number of hardware samples taken to detect the optimal core count, compared to a sequential detection technique (Seq-Det). We implement ONAC and Seq-Det in a cycle-level GPU performance simulator and analyze their effect on performance, power and energy. Our evaluation shows that ONAC and Seq-Det can reduce energy consumption by 20% and 10% on average for memory-intensive applications, without sacrificing more than 2% performance. The higher energy savings for ONAC comes from reducing the detection time by 45% as compared to Seq-Det.
Three-Dimensional, computer simulated navigation in endoscopic neurosurgery.

Abstract Background In order to address the pre- and perioperative need for visualization and prediction of patient-specific anatomy for surgical planning, endoscopic neurosurgeons have increasingly relied on computerized navigation devices to guide their surgical approaches. Objective This manuscript aims to review: 1) the use of neuronavigation in endoscopic neurosurgery for pre-operative planning, 2) the intraoperative advantages of neuronavigation in endoscopic neurosurgery, and 3) the effects of navigation guidance on operative time, registration accuracy, brain shift, and avoidance of complications. Limitations of the current neuroendoscopic navigation literature will be discussed. Methods We conducted a search using PubMed-MEDLINE; the keywords “stereotactic navigation AND endoscopic surgery” and “simulation AND endoscopic neurosurgery.” 36 studies were identified that addressed the use of neuronavigation in endoscopic neurosurgery. These studies were then further analyzed for topics relevant to computerized neuroendoscopy and reviewed for the purposes of this article. Conclusion Three-dimensional, frameless neuronavigation systems are useful in endoscopic neurosurgery to assist in the pre-operative planning of potential trajectories and to help localize the pathology of interest. Neuronavigation appears to be accurate to
Spectrum sharing between WiFi and radio astronomy

The proliferation of wireless local area network also known as WiFi system has enabled easy wireless information access for consumers. However, it also causes radio frequency interference (RFI) to passive wireless systems such as radio astronomy systems (RAS), making almost impossible to get useful scientific observations around the WiFi bands. This paper proposes a new paradigm for the coexistence between WiFi and RAS. The proposed approach creates a coexistence access zone (CAZ) around the RAS site within which WiFi and RAS follow a pre-determined time-division spectrum access. Two modified WiFi medium access control (MAC) protocols are developed to embed the time-division coexistence access. Furthermore, traffic statistics based improved spectrum access is developed. Performance evaluation results show that at the cost of slight WiFi throughput reduction, RAS achieves substantial RFI-free spectrum access which were infeasible in the existing paradigm.
Chemical and canine analysis as complimentary techniques for the identification of active odors of the invasive fungus, Raffaelea lauricola

Raffaelea lauricola, a fungus causing a vascular wilt (laurel wilt) in Lauraceae trees, was introduced into the United States in the early 2000s. It has devastated forests in the Southeast and has now moved into the commercial avocado groves in southern Florida. Trained detection canines are currently one of the few successful methods for early detection of pre-symptomatic diseased trees. In order to achieve the universal and frequent training required to have successful detection canines, it is desirable to create accessible, safe, and long-lasting training aids. However, identification of odorants and compounds is limited by several factors, including both the availability of chemicals and the need to present chemicals individually and in combination to detection canines. A method for the separation and identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from environmental substances for the creation of such a canine training aid is presented here. Headspace solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) was used to identify the odors present in avocado trees infected with the R. lauricola phytopathogen. Twenty-eight compounds were detected using this method, with nine present in greater than 80% of samples. The majority of these compounds were not commercially available as standard reference materials, and a canine trial was designed to identify the active odors without the need of pure chemical compounds. To facilitate the creation of a canine training aid, the VOCs above R. lauricola were separated by venting a 0.53mm ID solgel-wax gas chromatography column to the atmosphere. Ten minute fractions of the odor profile were collected on cotton gauze in glass vials and presented to the detection canines in a series of field trials. The canines alerted to the VOCs from the vials that correspond to a portion of the chromatogram containing the most volatile species from R. lauricola. This innovative fractionation and collection method can be used to develop reliable and cost effective canine training aids.
Cancer-related disease factors and smoking cessation treatment: Analysis of an ongoing clinical trial.

Objective Smoking cessation treatment should be an important aspect of cancer care. In this study, we evaluated whether cancer-related disease factors adversely influence smoking cessation treatment. Methods Smokers with cancer (within 5 years of diagnosis, any tumor site) were recruited for an ongoing trial of varenicline for smoking cessation. Disease factors, assessed at baseline, included tumor site, cancer treatment, time since diagnosis, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Medication adherence was defined by 132 of 165 pills taken and counseling adherence was defined by 4 of 4 behavioral counseling sessions attended. Abstinence was bioverified at Week 12. Using logistic regression analysis, we assessed the relationship between disease factors and 12-week medication adherence, counseling adherence, and abstinence. Results Of 144 participants, 56% were medication adherent, 74% were counseling adherent, and 39% were abstinent. HRQOL predicted medication adherence (OR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.01-1.16, p=.019, d=0.20), but not counseling adherence or 12-week abstinence. Tumor site, cancer treatment, and time since diagnosis did not predict any smoking cessation treatment outcomes. Conclusions Cancer-related disease factors did not predict cancer survivors’ engagement or success in smoking cessation treatment. Findings support National Comprehensive Cancer Network Clinical Practice guidelines that recommend smoking cessation treatment for all smokers with cancer, regardless of time since diagnosis.
Outcome of children and adolescents with relapsed Hodgkin lymphoma treated with high-dose therapy and autologous stem cell transplantation: the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center experience

To evaluate outcomes and prognostic markers among children with relapsed Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) treated with autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT), we conducted a retrospective analysis of 36 conse...
Abstract TP148: Care Partner Program improves Discharge to Community and Functional Gains in Stroke Patients at Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility

Introduction/Hypothesis: Caregiver training and education plays an important role throughout the post-stroke recovery continuum. The comfort level and competence of these caregivers in providing th...
Facet Sparing Foraminal Decompression Using the Flexible Shaver Foraminotomy System: Nerve Safety, Pain Relief, and Patient Satisfaction.

ABSTRACT Background: A number of surgical options exist for decompressing lumbar foraminal stenosis. Flexible shaver foraminotomy is a recent addition to this armamentarium. While the foraminotomy device has been incorporated into clinical practice, the literature on its safety and efficacy remain limited. We aimed to evaluate nerve safety, pain relief, and patient satisfaction in a series of patients treated with the iO-Flex shaver system (Amendia, Inc., Marietta, Georgia). Methods: Thirty-one consecutive patients with lumbar foraminal stenosis underwent foraminal decompression using the flexible microblade shaver system at 62 neuroforamina. The shavers were inserted into each foramen using an open hemilaminotomy and fluoroscopic guidance. Nerve mapping via mechanomyography (MMG) was used to ensure nerve safety. Perioperative charts were reviewed to find the incidence of neurologic complications and to quantify pain relief. Average office-based follow-up was 5.3 months. A 3-item questionnaire was administered to assess patient satisfaction during late follow-up, which occurred at an average of 21 months. Results: No planned iO-Flex foraminotomies were aborted. Neurologic complications included transient dysesthetic pain in 1 patient (3.2%, n = 31), and transient numbness in 3 patients (9.7%, n = 31). There were no motor deficits. The composite nerve complication rate was 12.7%. Preoperative visual analog scale scores decreased from a mean of 7.1 (n = 31, standard deviation [SD] 2.0) to a mean of 3.5 (n = 30, SD 2.5). If asked to repeat their decision to do surgery, 81% of patients would redo the procedure. The rate of patient dissatisfaction was 19%. Conclusions: Decompression of lumbar foramina using the flexible shaver system and MMG nerve mapping is safe and effective, although the short-term sensory complication with this technique may be higher than previously reported. Patient satisfaction with iO-Flex foraminotomy is comparable to reported satisfaction outcomes for traditional lumbar decompression. Level of Evidence: 4.
Infectious Change: Reinventing Chinese public health after an epidemic

Katherine Mason’s book provides an engaging and nuanced ethnographic account of the post-SARS Chinese public health system in Tianmai (fake name), a city of immigrants with a prosperous middle clas...
Minimal Tile and Bond-Edge Types for Self-Assembling DNA Graphs

We employ a model for self-assembling graph-theoretical complexes using tiles representing branched-junction DNA molecules with free cohesive ends. We determine the minimum number of tile and bond-edge types necessary to create a given graph as a self-assembled complex under three different scenarios: (1) where the incidental creation of complexes of smaller size than the target graph is acceptable; (2) where the incidental creation of complexes the same size as the target graph is acceptable, but not smaller complexes; and (3) where no complexes the same size as or smaller than the target graph are acceptable. In each of these cases, we find bounds for the minimum number of tile and bond-edge types that must be designed, and give specific minimum values for common graph classes (including cycles and trees, as well as complete, bipartite, and regular graphs). For these classes of graphs, we provide either explicit descriptions of optimal tile sets or efficient algorithms for generating the desired set.
Reagowanie na nietypowe zachowania związane z demencją

Dementia is an insidious disease process that prevents an individual from making sense of environmental circumstances. Cognitively impaired patients are at increased risk for falls, skin integrity issues, accidents, and wandering behaviors. Yet, as the understanding of this disease process and the behaviors exhibited by the dementia patient grows, there is a new focus on individualizing care and attempting to manage adverse behaviors in a holistic fashion utilizing mainly nonpharmacological interventions. It has been shown that the evidence-based best practices related to mitigating adventitious behaviors in the geriatric population diagnosed with dementia are associated to nonpharmacological interventions. Utilization of technology in the form of computers to implement music therapy, reminiscence therapy, and occupational recreational therapy was the selected evidence-based best practice to implement. The aim of the work is to show non-pharmacological interventions as an inseparable and complementary method of pharmacological treatment of working with people with dementia. (JNNN 2018;7(1):40–45)
On the estimation of the incidence and prevalence in two-phase longitudinal sampling design

Two-phase sampling design is a common practice in many medical studies. Generally, the first-phase classification is fallible but relatively cheap, while the accurate second phase state-of-the-art medical diagnosis is complex and rather expensive to perform. When constructed efficiently it offers great potential for higher true case detection as well as for higher precision at a limited cost. In this article, we consider epidemiological studies with two-phase sampling design. However, instead of a single two-phase study, we consider a scenario where a series of two-phase studies are done in a longitudinal fashion on a cohort of interest. Another major design issue is non-curable pattern of certain disease (e.g. Dementia, Alzheimer’s etc.). Thus often the identified disease positive subjects are removed from the original population under observation, as they require clinical attention, which is quite different from the yet unidentified group. In this article, we motivated our methodology development from two real-life studies. We consider efficient and simultaneous estimation of prevalence as well incidence at multiple time points from a sampling design-based approach. We have explicitly shown the benefit of our developed methodology for an elderly population with significant burden of home-health care usage and at the high risk of major depressive disorder.
Microporous polysaccharide hemosphere efficacy and safety in primary total knee arthroplasty

Abstract Absorbable hemostats such as microporous polysaccharide hemospheres (MPH) are used to manage hemostasis and prevent complications in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We aimed to determine safety and effectiveness of MPH use in TKA. Records were reviewed for blood loss, hematomas, and infections. No differences existed regarding demographics, superficial infections (P = 0.933) or hematomas (P = 0.393). Positive correlation existed between hematoma and superficial infection (P = 0.009). Blood loss was greater in the treatment group (P = 0.014). MPH demonstrated inferior bleeding control and had no effect on complications. Our results suggest application of this agent may be unnecessary.
Measuring Unit Test Accuracy

Unit testing is widely adopted in software development to automate verification of individual functions. Likewise, computer science curricula are increasing their emphasis on teaching unit testing skills. However, coverage and other measurements of test quality have limitations and may even encourage poor practices when used as an assessment and/or feedback mechanism for students. In this paper, we introduce test accuracy as a measurement that compares how well unit tests perform at distinguishing acceptable from unacceptable function implementations. To study measurements of test quality, we evaluated an assignment where students (n=103) developed a class along with accompanying tests for each of its functions. Our quantitative analysis compares test accuracy with coverage and bug identification measurements by examining each of their relationships with a lack of bugs in the students' implementations. Of the three measurements, accuracy had the strongest positive correlation (p=.648, p
Outage Detection for Millimeter Wave Ultra-Dense HetNets in High Fading Environments

Millimeter wave spectrum utilization and network densification are two of the fundamental technologies that will enable high user quality of experience required in 5th Generation mobile cellular networks. However, user sparsity in ultra-dense heterogeneous networks and coverage limitations of millimeter wave cells means reliability of such networks will become a key operational challenge. Recent studies have explored the use of machine learning techniques for outage detection in legacy and heterogeneous mobile cellular networks. However, machine learning techniques are highly susceptible to noise in the training data which can affect their outage detection accuracy. To counter these challenges, we present a novel outage detection method based on entropy field decomposition technique first introduced in [1]. The proposed method is able to detect cell outages with at least 96&#x0025; accuracy even as the level of shadowing in the network is increased which makes it ideal for practical implementation in emerging ultra-dense heterogeneous networks with millimeter wave cells. The proposed solution is compared against k-means clustering for outage detection with results showing that not only does entropy field decomposition return higher true positive results, it also returns fewer false positive results compared to k-means clustering.
A dual PI3 kinase/mTOR inhibitor BEZ235 reverses doxorubicin resistance in ABCB1 overexpressing ovarian and pancreatic cancer cell lines.

Abstract Background Multi-drug resistance (MDR) develops because cancer cells evade toxicity of several structurally unrelated drugs. Besides other mechanisms, MDR is linked to the overexpression of ATP Binding Cassette (ABC), transporters, among which ABCB1 is the best characterized one. Since overactivation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR plays a pivotal role in the growth of human cancers, we hypothesized whether dual PI3K and mTOR inhibitor, BEZ235 (BEZ, dactolisib) reverses resistance to doxorubicin (DOX). Methods Ovarian (A2780) and pancreatic (MiaPaca2) cancer cells were used to generate DOX-resistant clones by overexpressing ABCB1 or stepwise treatment of DOX. Intracellular accumulation of DOX was measured by flow cytometry after treatment with BEZ. Results BEZ treatment caused an increase in intracellular levels of DOX which was almost identical to the naive parental cell lines. BEZ was found to be a weak substrate for ABCB1 as demonstrated by minimal increase in ATPase activity. BEZ treatment caused a dose-dependent decrease in cell viability in combination with DOX, which was associated with an increase in cleaved PARP expression in the drug resistant clones. Conclusions These results suggest that BEZ is a non-substrate inhibitor of ABCB1 and is able to effectively re-sensitize cells overexpressing ABCB1 to the effects of DOX. General significance Dual PI3 Kinase/mTOR inhibitor, BEZ, has the potential to reverse MDR in cancer patients.
Imaging features of neonatal systemic juvenile xanthogranuloma: a case report and review of the literature:

Juvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG) is the most common non-Langerhans cell histiocytic disorder in children. This report describes the case of a 28-day-old boy that presented with multiple subcutaneous nodular lesions on the trunk and extremities, and multiple red nodular lesions on the scrotum. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain showed a well-demarcated extra-axial dura-based mass that appeared isointense or slightly hyperintense on T1-weighted images, hypointense on T2-weighted images and had intense enhancement on gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted images. Computed tomography (CT) or MRI scans of the chest and abdomen revealed multiple scattered nodular or patchy lesions of varying sizes in the lungs, liver and left kidney. Histological analysis of a subcutaneous mass suggested JXG. The patient was diagnosed with neonatal systemic JXG with involvement of the central nervous system, lungs, liver, kidneys, subcutaneous soft tissue and skin. CT and MRI after 3 months of treatment with methylprednisolone sodium succinate demonstrated that the lesions were obviously diminished. This report discusses the imaging findings in this current case of multi-organ JXG and reviews the imaging literature on this condition to improve awareness of the lesions in order to help radiologists establish an accurate differential diagnosis when confronted with similar cases.
Does Gender Role Conflict Moderate the Relationship Between Lifetime Adversity and HIV Stigma in a Community Sample of HIV-Seropositive Black Men?:

Previous research highlights the need to better understand the complex relationships between factors marginalizing Black men who have sex with men and women (MSMW) living with HIV, including HIV st...
COVID-19 anxiety and mental health among university students during the early phases of the U.S. pandemic.

Objective This study examined the impact of COVID-19 in the early stages of the pandemic on university students in the U.S. by: (1) characterizing COVID-19-related disruptions; (2) evaluating health anxiety, obsessive-compulsive (OC), depression, and stress symptoms; and (3) analyzing the unique role of COVID-19 anxiety on mental health outcomes, after accounting for relevant variables. Participants Participants included 263 students (63.9% female). Methods Data were collected online between March 19, 2020 and May 1, 2020. Results Participants screened positive for health anxiety (6.5%), OC symptoms (48.7%), or depression (29.7%). COVID-19 anxiety was positively associated with mental health symptoms. After controlling for demographics and COVID-19 impact, COVID-19 anxiety accounted for significant variance in health anxiety, OC symptoms, and stress. Conclusions Findings demonstrate the vast impact of COVID-19 on mental health among university students and provide guidance for identifying mental health priorities in the context of public health crises.
Place-based Educational Development: What Center for Teaching and Learning Spaces Look Like (and Why That Matters)

This study seeks to explore the physical spaces centers for teaching and learning (CTLs) occupy; with an emphasis on gaining a better picture of what CTL spaces look like; where they are located; how they developed: and what these spaces represent. We gathered visual, empirical, and qualitative data to take the first steps towards developing a shared vision of not only of our physical spaces, but also as a jumping off point for further analysis of the CTL as a meaningful place.
Fatigue Crack Detection in Metallic Members Using Spectral Analysis of Ultrasonic Rayleigh Waves

Ultrasonic testing for fatigue crack detection in metallic members are commonly performed using time domain analysis of Rayleigh waves. This approach will be successful only if the fatigue cracks produce strong interaction with the Rayleigh waves. The optimum frequency range of ultrasonic Rayleigh waves for scanning long structural members in the field is from 0.5 to 2.25 MHz because higher frequencies will not travel long distances. However, this frequency range may not always result in strong interaction with fatigue cracks. Hence, the data analysis procedure for characterizing such signals should provide enhanced sensitivity. Several authors have reported the advantages of using frequency domain analysis for detecting flaws [1–3]. This paper demonstrates the use of spectral analysis for detecting fatigue cracks in metallic members. The paper includes results from both direct-transmission and pulse-echo tests. Since Rayleigh waves are significantly affected by surface conditions, this study included crack detection in both painted and unpainted members.
Application of Biological Modelling to Facilitate the Transition from Conventional to Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy Treatment

Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) makes possible new and potentially more powerful treatment techniques, but at the same time carries the risks associated with venturing beyond the realm of clinical experience. A case in point is the use of IMRT to treat prostate cancer differentially such that the whole prostate gland is treated to a minimum dose but a portion, which has been shown to be cancerous by magnetic resonance spectroscopy, is treated to a higher dose. The question then arises as to what dose and fractionation scheme can yield the optimal combination of tumor control and minimal complications. Guidance can be provided through the use of biological models which allow the calculation of tumor control probability (TCP) and normal tissue complication probability (NTCP). We show how these models can provide the basis of selecting a safe and effective treatment scheme.
Endothelin receptor antagonism in single ventricle physiology with fontan palliation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background The prevalence of single ventricle patients palliated with Fontan operation continues to grow worldwide. This study systematically reviewed existing evidence and performed a meta-analysis to determine the safety and efficacy of endothelin receptor antagonism in single ventricle physiology with Fontan palliation. Methods Keyword and reference search was conducted in PubMed Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases. Inclusion criteria were — study design: randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, prospective studies, or retrospective studies; subjects: single ventricle patients with Fontan palliation; main outcome: exercise or functional capacity; language: English; and article type: peer-reviewed publications. Results Five studies met the inclusion criteria, including three pre–post studies, one randomized crossover open label clinical trial, and one double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial. Study durations ranged from 3.5 to 6 months, with a total sample size of 123. Bosentan was the single endothelin receptor blocker used in all studies. No significant increase in liver toxicity or other serious adverse events were reported in these studies. Meta-analysis found bosentan use to be associated with improvement in functional class (p = 0.0007); whereas no significant change in six-minute walk distance, resting oxygen saturation, and maximal oxygen consumption was identified. Conclusions Bosentan was found to be a safe and well tolerated endothelin receptor antagonist in Fontan patients over 3–6 months of therapy. Bosentan use was associated with improved functional capacity. Future studies with larger sample size and longer duration are warranted to examine the long-term safety and efficacy of endothelin blockade in Fontan physiology.
The Tokamak as a Neutron Source

This paper describes the tokamak in its role as a neutron source, with emphasis on experimental results for D-D neutron production. The sections summarize tokamak operation, sources of fusion and non-fusion neutrons, principal neutron detection methods and their calibration, neutron energy spectra and fluxes outside the tokamak plasma chamber, history of neutron production in tokamaks, neutron emission and fusion power gain from JET and TFTR (the largest present-day tokamaks), and D-T neutron production from burnup of D-D tritons. This paper also discusses the prospects for future tokamak neutron production and potential applications of tokamak neutron sources. 100 refs., 16 figs., 4 tabs.
Mentoring and Tutoring Help (MATH) Program Fights Truancy

(1997). Mentoring and Tutoring Help (MATH) Program Fights Truancy. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas: Vol. 70, No. 6, pp. 319-324.
An integrated utility microgrid test site ecosystem optimized by an open interoperable distributed intelligence platform

Microgrid is any subset of a distribution grid that can be islanded from the grid and continue to operate as a distributed energy resource (DER). Recent advances in technology have enabled the creation of microgrid test beds, with distributed generation (DG) and energy storage providing sufficient energy to power the loads within the Microgrids. Duke Energy is developing a new Microgrid test bed at its Mount Holly, NC facility that will not only be a self-sustaining entity when disconnected from the grid, but also for the first time trying to prove the interoperability via the distributed intelligence platform (DIP) by utilizing the publish and subscribe message bus protocols to share the data between all devices within the Microgrid. This concept will provide safe, reliable, and secure power environment that utilizes set of communication technologies, both wired and wireless.
Conjugacy of Maximal Tori

Definition: A subset Y of a space X is said to be dense in X if every nonempty open set in X contains at least one point in Y.
The Career Development of Adolescent Mothers: A Review of 25 Years of Professional Literature

Twenty-one articles from peer-reviewed journals published over 25 years (1983–2008) were selected for inclusion in a review of the professional literature on adolescent mothers' career development. Findings identified that the selected literature included a variety of research methods and theoretical approaches, identified areas of need for this population, and discussed impediments to the career development of adolescent mothers. The most frequent recommendations, aside from the need for further research, were to develop and implement comprehensive programs for adolescent mothers that are strength based and responsive to their needs, and to foster career development skills/knowledge and resiliency.
High School Curriculum Alignment: Much Work to Be Done

(1989). High School Curriculum Alignment: Much Work to Be Done. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas: Vol. 62, No. 6, pp. 245-249.