cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Continuous Dose-Response Association Between Sedentary Time and Risk for Cardiovascular Disease: A Meta-analysis.

Importance Prior studies suggest that higher sedentary time is associated with a greater risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the quantitative, dose-response association between sedentary time and CVD risk is not known. Objective To determine the categorical and quantitative dose-response association between sedentary time and CVD risk. Data Sources Two independent investigators searched the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases for all studies published before July 6, 2015, that evaluated the association between sedentary time and incident CVD. Study Selection Prospective cohort studies with participants 18 years or older that reported the association between sedentary time and incident CVD were included. Data Extraction and Synthesis Two independent investigators performed the data extraction and collection using a standardized form. The study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The categorical dose-response association was evaluated by comparing the pooled hazard ratio (HR) for incident CVD associated with different levels of sedentary time (vs lowest sedentary time) across studies. The continuous dose-response association was assessed using random-effects generalized least squares spline models. Data were collected from April 5 to July 6, 2015. Main Outcomes and Measures Incident CVD (coronary heart disease, including nonfatal myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular mortality). Results Nine prospective cohort studies with 720 425 unique participants (57.1% women; 42.9% men; mean age, 54.5 years) and 25 769 unique cardiovascular events and a median follow-up of 11 years were included. In categorical analyses, compared with the lowest sedentary time category (median, 2.5 h/d), participants in the highest sedentary time category (median, 12.5 h/d) had an increased risk for CVD (HR, 1.14; 95% CI, 1.09-1.19). However, no apparent risk associated with intermediate levels of sedentary time (HR for 7.5 h/d, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.96-1.08) was found. In continuous analyses, a nonlinear association between sedentary time and incident CVD was found ( P for nonlinearity Conclusions and Relevance The association between sedentary time and the risk for CVD is nonlinear with an increased risk only at very high levels. These findings could have implications for guideline recommendations regarding the risks related to sedentary behavior.
LARGE DIAMETER MOM WITH METAL TOXICITY LEADING TO REVISION

A 35-year-old female (age 35Yrs) had primary MOM total hip arthroplasty (THA) in 2008. At 8 months this patient postoperatively developed headaches, memory loss, vertigo, and aura-like symptoms that progressed to seizures. At 18 months review, she complained of progressive hip pain, a popping sensation and crepitus with joint motion. This patient weighed 284lbs with BMI of 38.5. Radiographs revealed the cup had 55° inclination, 39° anteversion (Fig. 1). Metal ion concentrations were high (blood: Co=126 mcg/L, Cr= 64mcg/L). Revision was performed in November 2010 A dark, serous fluid was observed, along with synovitis. The implants were well fixed and the femoral head could not be removed; thus the stem was removed by femoral osteotomy. With the head fused on this femoral stem, for the 1 st time it was possible to precisely determine the habitual patterns of MOM wear relative to her in-vivo function. We investigated (1) size and location of wear patterns and (2) signs of cup-stem impingement to help explain her symptoms developed over 32 months follow-up. The retrieved MOM was a Magnum™ with head diameter 50mm and 50×56mm cup (Biomet). This was mounted on a Taperloc™ lateralized porous-coated stem. Components were examined visually and wear damage mapped by stereo-microscopy, interferometry, CMM, SEM, and EDS. Main-wear zone (MWZ) areas were calculated using standard spherical equations 1 and centroidal vectors determined. The head-cup mismatch was 427um with the cup revealing a form factor of 228um. The cup showed wear area of 1275mm² that extended up to the cup rim over 150°arc. The cup rim was worn thin over a 90° arc with loss of cup bevel. The head showed an elliptical wear area of 2200mm 2 located centrally on the superior-medial surface (ellipsoidal ratio ×1.2). Compared to the hemispherical surface (50mm: hemi-area = 3927mm 2 ), the worn area represented hemi-area ratio of 56%. The centroidal vectors measured 8° anterior and 24° superior to the head9s polar axis (Fig. 2). Stripe wear damage revealed multiple impingement sites. SEM and EDS revealed stripes were contaminated by metal transfer from the stainless-steel instruments used at revision. The main impingement position was identified (Fig. 3) indicating the site of repetitive subluxations whereby the subluxing head thinned the cup, i.e. “edge wear”. Cup and head wear patterns corresponded well, reinforcing our definition of the MWZ locations in vivo. The femoral MWZ was centrally located superiorly and medially with respect to the polar axis of the femoral neck and head. The noted impingement position indicated this patient had experienced repetitive subclinical subluxations (RSS). 2 The taper inside the fused head may also have been a contributory factor that we cannot ignore. Nevertheless her excessive cup thinning was likely a result of a steep cup and considerable anteversion allowing the femoral head to sublux over the cup rim, thus thinning the cup and wearing the rim bevel, and producing MOM wear debris.
Evaluation and Management of Athletes With Long QT Syndrome: An Evolved Paradigm

Context:The congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) is an inherited channelopathy known for its electrocardiographic manifestations of QT prolongation and its hallmark arrhythmia, torsades de pointes (TdP). TdP can lead to syncope or sudden death and is often precipitated by triggers such as physical exertion or emotional stress. Given that athletes may be at particular risk for adverse outcomes, those suspected of having LQTS should be evaluated, risk stratified, treated, and receive appropriate counseling by providers with sufficient expertise according to the latest guidelines.Evidence Acquisition:The following keywords were used to query MEDLINE and PubMed through 2016: LQTS, LQT1, LQT2, LQT3, long QT, long QTc, prolonged QT, prolonged QTc, QT interval, QTc interval, channelopathy, channelopathies, athletes, torsades de pointes, and sudden cardiac death. Selected articles within this primary search, in addition to relevant references from those articles, were reviewed for relevant information and data. Art...
VNIR multispectral observations of aqueous alteration materials by the Pancams on the Spirit and Opportunity Mars Exploration Rovers

Multispectral visible and near infrared (VNIR) observations from the Mars Exploration Rover Pancam multispectral stereo camera systems are consistent with materials having been subjected to various aqueous processes. Ferric oxides in the form of hematite in the Burns and Grasberg formations of Meridiani Planum have been well characterized by Opportunity on the basis of strong 535 and 864 nm absorptions and positive 754–1009 nm and 934–1009 nm slopes. On the rim of Noachian-aged Endeavour crater, Opportunity has observed light-toned veins with high Ca and S, as determined by the rover’s Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS), and a negative 934–1009 nm slope in VNIR spectra extracted from Pancam data, indicative of a 1000 nm H2O overtone absorption. Together these observations indicate that the veins are composed of gypsum. Rocks overturned by Opportunity on the Murray Ridge portion of the Endeavour crater rim display dark- and light-toned coatings. The dark-toned coatings have a red, featureless slope that is consistent with the slope observed in laboratory spectra of high-valence manganese oxide minerals. Potential Mn oxide coatings may also be associated with some exposures of the Grasberg formation. APXS results for high Mg and S in the light-toned coatings of the Murray Ridge overturned rocks and a negative 934–1009 nm slope are consistent with hydrated Mg-sulfates. Opportunity has also observed spectral features in rocks that are consistent with orbital observations of Fe-smectites, as well as Al-smectites and possible hydrated silica in light-toned fracture-fill materials. The Spirit rover observed sulfate-rich light-toned soils exposed by the rover’s wheels. Several of these soil observations contained spectral features, such as a broad absorption centered near 800 nm, consistent with ferric sulfate minerals, a finding confirmed by the rover’s Mossbauer spectrometer. Spirit also excavated light-toned Si-rich soils. These soils have a flat near-infrared spectrum with a drop in reflectance from 934–1009 nm that is consistent with free water contained in voids or adsorbed onto the surface of the silica.
Staff perspectives regarding the implementation of a yoga intervention with chronic pain self-management in a clinical setting

Chronic pain affects millions of Americans and can be addressed through multiple modalities, interventions, and strategies. Yoga and self-management have been proven effective in treating chronic pain, but little research has been conducted on the feasibility and implementation barriers related to these alternative intervention forms. In our qualitative study, we examined staff perceptions regarding the feasibility of implementing yoga along with established self-management at a pain management clinic in Colorado. We utilized the Implementation Drivers of Competency, Organizational, and Leadership, and our added Hypothetical Driver to explore barriers and facilitators related to project implementation. Our findings suggest that positive staff and patient attitudes were crucial for successful implementation. We also identified physical space, transportation, and supportive leadership as necessary components of project implementation. Further research is needed to examine barriers such as funding to ensure intervention sustainability and the need for adequate staffing.
Losing your GRP on platelet activation

In this issue of Blood, Kato et al identify compound heterozygous mutations in the Ras guanyl releasing protein 2 (RASGRP2) gene that cause decelerated platelet signaling, reduced platelet aggregation under shear stress, and severe bleeding in an adolescent patient.1
Repeat Intracranial Expansion After Skull Regrowth in Hyperostotic Disease: Technical Note.

Objective and Importance Camurati-Engelmann disease (CED) is a rare, autosomal-dominant genetic disorder resulting in hyperostosis of the long bones and skull. Patients often develop cranial nerve dysfunction and increased intracranial pressure secondary to stenosis of nerve foramina and hyperostosis. Surgical decompression may provide symptomatic relief in select patients; however, a small number of reports document the recurrence of symptoms due to bony regrowth. We present a patient who had been treated previously with bilateral frontal and parietal craniotomy who experienced recurrence of symptoms due to reossification of her cranial bones. This report underscores the progressive nature of CED and its influence on surgical management. Furthermore, we propose a novel surgical approach with multiple craniectomies and titanium mesh cranioplasties that could potentially offer long-term symptomatic relief. Clinical Presentation A 46-year-old female patient with CED who was treated with ventriculoperitoneal shunting, posterior fossa decompression, and multiple craniotomies 2 decades prior presented with signs and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure. Studies of the skull at presentation demonstrated rethickening of cranial bones that resulted in severely decreased intracranial volume. Intervention A radical craniectomy, requiring 4 separate bone flaps made up of bilateral frontal and parietal bones, was performed. The remaining coronal and sagittal bony struts were drilled to approximately 1 cm thick. Cranioplasties with 4 separate titanium meshes were performed to preserve the natural contour of the patient's skull. Conclusions Although surgical decompression could provide some patients with CED symptomatic relief, clinicians should consider managing CED as a chronic condition. To the authors' knowledge, this is one of few case reports documenting the recurrence of symptoms in a patient with CED treated by surgical intervention. Furthermore, we propose that multiple craniectomies with titanium mesh cranioplasties confer more permanent symptomatic control, and, more importantly, lower the risk of recurrence secondary to cranial hyperostosis.
Phosphorus Availability in Western Lake Erie Basin Drainage Waters: Legacy Evidence across Spatial Scales.

The Western Lake Erie Basin (WLEB) was inundated with precipitation during June and July 2015 (two to three times greater than historical averages), which led to significant nutrient loading and the largest in-lake algal bloom on record. Using discharge and concentration data from three spatial scales (0.18–16,000 km²), we contrast the patterns in nitrate (NO₃–N) and dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) concentration dynamics and discuss potential management implications. Across all scales, NO₃–N concentration steadily declined with each subsequent rainfall event as it was flushed from the system. In contrast, DRP concentration persisted, even on soils at or below agronomic P levels, suggesting that legacy P significantly contributes to nutrient loads in the WLEB. These findings highlight the need to revisit current P fertility recommendations and soil testing procedures to increase P fertilizer use efficiency and to more holistically account for legacy P.
Computing Generalized Matrix Inverse on Spiking Neural Substrate.

Emerging neural hardware substrates, such as IBM’s TrueNorth Neurosynaptic System, can provide an appealing platform for deploying numerical algorithms. For example, a recurrent Hopfield neural network can be used to find the Moore-Penrose generalized inverse of a matrix, thus enabling a broad class of linear optimizations to be solved efficiently, at low energy cost. However, deploying numerical algorithms on hardware platforms that severely limit the range and precision of representation for numeric quantities can be quite challenging. This paper discusses these challenges and proposes a rigorous mathematical framework for reasoning about range and precision on such substrates. The paper derives techniques for normalizing inputs and properly quantizing synaptic weights originating from arbitrary systems of linear equations, so that solvers for those systems can be implemented in a provably correct manner on hardware-constrained neural substrates. The analytical model is empirically validated on the IBM TrueNorth platform, and results show that the guarantees provided by the framework for range and precision hold under experimental conditions. Experiments with optical flow demonstrate the energy benefits of deploying a reduced-precision and energy-efficient generalized matrix inverse engine on the IBM TrueNorth platform, reflecting 10□ to 100□ improvement over FPGA and ARM core baselines.
Towards Comparison of Alternative Methods for Producing Bulk Nanostructured Metals by Severe Plastic Deformation

Considerations in comparing alternative methods for producing bulk nanostructured metals are developed. When these are applied to examine current severe plastic deformation techniques, critical needs for future research to aid commercialization become apparent. First, Severe Plastic Deformation (SPD) processing to create ultrafine grain materials must be explored more completely before we can rigorously compare alternative processing methods. Mechanistic and microstructure modeling are particularly critical to the evolution of severe plastic deformation technology and the ability to contrast alternative SPD techniques. Finally, SPD is a single step in a multi-step process to produce nanostructured metals commercially. It is imperative that greater attention be given to processing of nanostructured metals in order to compare alternative techniques from a commercial perspective.
Potential roles of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in female reproductive senescence.

SUMMARY The transition to reproductive senescence involves changes in neuroendocrine and ovarian functions, and is accelerated by activation of the aryl hydrocarbon pathway by environmental toxicants such as 2,3,7,8tetrachloro-dibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). In this article, studies which provide evidence as to the possible mechanisms by which the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) acts in this capacity (i.e. disruption of ovarian, hypothalamic or suprachiasmatic nucleus function, or any combination of these) are reviewed, along with the normal physiological changes that occur during the transition to reproductive senescence in female humans and rodents. Based on findings that the AhR is evolutionarily conserved and necessary for normal fertility, we suggest that the AhR has not only a pathological but also a physiological role in the process of aging. Studies of realistic lifelong AhR activation by dioxins on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and its impact on the transition to 1
Concentration evolution of gas species within a collapsing bubble in a liquid medium

In this study numerical methods are used to investigate the relationship between chemical concentration of gas species within a cavitating bubble, equilibrium radius of the gas bubble and pressure variations in the ambient liquid. For this purpose, governing equations are developed to describe the dynamic equilibrium of a bubble in a flowing fluid and mass transfer between gas and liquid phases, where it was assumed that gases undergo isothermal compression, obey the ideal gas law, Henry law. It is further assumed that the concentration of each phase within the bubble is uniform. The resulting nonlinear equations are solved using implicit Trapezoidal method with Newton iteration. Four gas species are modeled under various initial and ambient pressure variation conditions. These conditions maybe considered to represent typical cavitation events. The numerical results obtained are presented in terms of dimensionless numbers. These results indicate that chemical damage maybe an important component of cavitation surface damage, since high concentration profiles may develop within a collapsing bubble. Proposed formulation and numerical solutions are simple and cost effective to implement. The results presented in this study maybe used to benchmark experimental investigations or other more complex solutions, which are outside the scope of this study.
Radiation Therapy in the Management of Retinoblastoma

Radiation therapy is a primary treatment for retinoblastoma resulting in high rates of disease control and functional organ preservation. Late effects from treatment, including secondary tumor formation in patients with genetic predisposition have, during the past 15 years, led investigators to pursue treatment approaches that delay or omit radiation therapy. Currently, the role of radiation therapy in the management of retinoblastoma remains in a state of uncertainty, and the number of patients irradiated using external beam methods is on the decline even as cure rates continue to increase (Broaddus et al. 2009). Investigators and caregivers await firm evidence that visual outcomes and eye preservation are equivalent with newer approaches that include episcleral plaque brachytherapy as a component of local therapy in the current front-line management for selected patients (Antoneli et al. 2006).
Endothelial cell-specific collagen type IV-α3 expression does not rescue Alport syndrome in Col4a3−/− mice

The glomerular basement membrane (GBM) is a critical component of the kidney’s blood filtration barrier. Alport syndrome, a hereditary disease leading to kidney failure, is caused by the loss or dy...
Epidural Mepivacaine for Cesarean Section: Maternal and Neonatal Effects

The effects of epidural anesthesia using mepivacaine on maternal blood pressure, newborn Apgar scores, neonatal acid-base status, and the Early Neonatal Neurobehavioral Scale (ENNS) were studied in 21 pregnant women undergoing cesarean section. Maternal and neonatal blood levels of mepivacaine were also determined. Neonatal outcome was compared with a control group of 14 neonates of healthy mothers who received 3% 2-chloroprocaine for elective cesarean section. All patients had satisfactory anesthesia for cesarean section with an onset of 19 ± 1.8 minutes (mean ± SEM) and duration of 95 ± 11.9 minutes. Hypotension developed in two patients, and they were treated with intravenous ephedrine. All neonates had Apgar scores of 8 or more at 1 and 5 minutes and normal blood gases and acid-base status. None of the variables of the ENNS differed significantly between the mepivacaine and the chloroprocaine control group with the exception of truncal tone, which was significantly higher in the mepivacaine group ( p
ePortfolios and Online Learning: Applying Concepts of Organizational Behavior

Higher education faculty are redesigning student learning experiences to expand opportunities for application of learning. They are also emphasizing the development of cross-cutting learning outcomes valued by employers (e.g., communication, critical thinking, teamwork) and measuring learning in more authentic ways. An increasingly common platform for these engaged learning experiences is the ePortfolio, which entails students creating and compiling artifacts that represent their learning, accompanied by reflections about what and how they learned. This qualitative study explores the student learning outcomes of a team ePortfolio assignment in face-to-face and online sections of an organizational behavior course. The purpose of the assignment was to help students demonstrate their learning and apply organizational behavior concepts such as communication, conflict resolution, appreciation for diversity, and teamwork. Students reviewed and commented on other teams’ ePortfolios and wrote reflections about their learning in the course. Findings indicate that students exhibited learning outcomes in four areas: learning to know, learning to do, learning to live with others, and learning to be. Titre: Portfolios electroniques et apprentissage en ligne : application des concepts de comportement organisationnel Dans l’enseignement superieur, les professeurs cherchent a reconfigurer les experiences d’apprentissage des etudiants afin d’elargir leurs opportunites d’apprentissage. Ils travaillent egalement au renforcement du developpement des competences transversales valorisees par les employeurs (par exemple, la communication, la pensee critique, le travail d’equipe) et tendent a evaluer l’apprentissage de manieres plus authentiques. Un environnement de plus en plus couramment utilise pour ces experiences d’apprentissage engage est le portfolio electronique, qui amene les etudiants a creer et compiler des artefacts qui representent leurs apprentissages, accompagnes de reflexions sur ce qu’ils ont appris et sur la maniere dont ils ont appris. Cette etude qualitative explore les resultats d’apprentissage d’etudiants auxquels il etait demande de travailler en equipe avec le portfolio electronique sur des sections en face-a-face et en ligne d’un cours sur le comportement organisationnel. L’objectif etait d’aider les etudiants a faire la demonstration de leurs apprentissages et d’appliquer les concepts de comportement organisationnel tels que la communication, la resolution de conflit, l’appreciation de la diversite et le travail d’equipe. Les etudiants ont examine et commente les portfolios electroniques des autres equipes et ecrit des reflexions sur leur apprentissage dans le cours. Les resultats indiquent que les etudiants ont fait preuve d’apprentissage dans quatre domaines : apprendre a savoir, apprendre a faire, apprendre a vivre avec les autres, et apprendre a etre. Mots cles: portfolio electronique, pratique a fort impact, resultats d’apprentissage, comportement organisationnel
The value of being there: toward a science of immersive virtual field trips

With immersive experiences becoming a medium for mass communication, we need pedagogies as well as scientific, evidence-based design principles for immersive learning. To foster evidence-based designs of immersive learning, we detail an empirical evaluation of a geosciences field trip, common in undergraduate education across numerous disciplines. The study builds on a previously proposed research framework in which we detailed a basic taxonomy of virtual field trips distinguishing between basic, plus, and advanced immersive virtual field trip experiences. The experiment reported here expands the original evaluation of basic field trips into the realm of plus versions using pseudo-aerial $$360^{\circ }$$ imagery to provide embodied experiences that are not possible during the actual field trip. We also refined our original experimental design placing a stronger focus on the qualitative feedback elicited from the students. Results show an overwhelmingly positive response of students to virtual field trips with significantly higher-valued learning experience and enjoyment. Furthermore, the introduction of pseudo-aerial imagery (together with higher image resolution) shows a significant improvement in the participants spatial situation model. As contextualizing and spatially grounding is essential for place-based learning experiences, plus versions of virtual field trips have the potential to add value to the learning outcome and immersive virtual field trip experience. We discuss these encouraging results as well as critical feedback from the participants, such as the absence of touch in virtual experiences, and lay out our vision for the future of immersive learning experiences across environmental sciences.
Technology use in high school aural skills instruction

In this study, we investigated the use of digital technology for aural skills instruction in Advanced Placement Music Theory (APMT) classes in the United States. Our research questions focused on w...
Pricing “Competitive” Postal Products

The US Postal Service (USPS) provides “market-dominant” services on an exclusive basis, e.g., first class mail, and “competitive” services in markets with rivals, e.g., parcel delivery. Rivals have long complained that USPS underprices if not cross-subsidizes its competitive offerings. I ask what prices of the monopoly and competitive services maximize net economic welfare across the market-dominant and competitive service markets. With perfect competition, USPS should charge the market price and use the profits to finance reductions in market dominant service prices. If the regulated firm faces a fringe, Ramsey rules hold based on the elasticity facing that firm, recognizing fringe supply share and elasticity. If a rival offers a differentiated product, we find, following Prieger (1996), that the regulated firm’s price in that market should exceed the Ramsey price because the rival sells too little. This price will be the target if pricing in the differentiated competitive market is simultaneous rather than sequential. Application is complicated if a publicly-owned postal operator is not profit-maximizing.
Exploring the Bridge from Multimedia Cases to Classrooms: Evidence of Transfer

This article reports findings from a follow-up study of teacher education students who utilized multimedia cases in coursework in preparation for teaching students with emotional/behavioral disorde...
Ascending aortic slide for interrupted aortic arch repair.

In a recent editorial (1), Dr. Takeuchi summarized our report (2) on five neonates and infants undergoing repair of interrupted aortic arch (IAA) using the so-called “ascending aortic slide” technique. It was initially performed by Dr. William I. Norwood, without him ever publishing it, and was adopted by our team through description by memory after direct observation by one of our co-authors/colleagues who worked with Dr. Norwood in the 1980’s. In difficult situations, where the gap between the proximal and distal portions of the interrupted arch is too far apart to achieve a tension-free anastomosis, the reconstruction involves splitting the ascending aorta in half up to the take-off of the innominate artery, posteriorly rotating the free flap of native tissue towards the ipsilateral shoulder respective to arch-sidedness, with anastomosis to the distal portion of the arch. The opening in the filleted arch is reconstructed with a patch as per any arch repair, and may be used for biventricular or univentricular physiology. Other techniques in a similar situation, namely the subclavian flap, the reverse subclavian flap, an interposition graft, or incorporating the aortic branches in the anastomosis (3), all have potential drawbacks. The ascending aortic slide technique has potential advantages, including the use of a native tissue-to-tissue anastomosis with the potential to grow, providing a good posterior scaffold to facilitate anterior patch reconstruction, no tethering or compression of the airway, and no sacrifice of a major vessel.
Presentation and outcomes of adrenal ganglioneuromas: A cohort study and a systematic review of literature.

Objective To describe the presentation and outcomes of patients with adrenal ganglioneuromas (AGN). Design Single-center retrospective cohort study (January 1st , 1995 to December 31st , 2019) and systematic review of literature (January 1st , 1980 to November 19th , 2019). Patients Diagnosed with histologically confirmed AGN. Measurements Baseline clinical, imaging, and biochemical characteristics, recurrence rates, and mortality. Sub-group analysis was performed on tumors with histologic elements of ganglioneuroma and pheochromocytoma (i.e. composite tumors). Results The cohort study included 45 patients with AGN, 20 (44%) of which had composite tumors. Compared to pure AGN, patients with composite tumor were older (median age, 62.5 vs. 35 years, P Conclusions AGNs are rare benign tumors that present with variable imaging features including large size, unenhanced CT attenuation >20 HU, calcifications, and lobulated shape. Imaging characteristics can assist in establishing a diagnosis and avoiding an unnecessary adrenalectomy. The association of pheochromocytomas with AGNs is frequent. Diagnosis should include biochemical testing.
Helen Keller International’s Eye Health Partnerships and Accomplishments in South-East Asia

Founded in 1915, Helen Keller International (HKI) is a non-profit organization working in 21 countries, primarily in Africa and Asia. HKI mission is to save and improve the sight and lives of the world’s most vulnerable populations. We combat the causes and consequences of blindness, poor health, and malnutrition by establishing programs based on evidence and research in vision, health, and nutrition and by building the technical and operational capacity of local partners to provide services to those in need. We envision a world where no one suffers from preventable or treatable blindness or low vision, no one suffers from malnutrition, and fewer people suffer a loss of their productive years due to disability and premature death. To accomplish this, we work with local government, non-profit, and private sector systems and promote the development of sustainable, large-scale programs that deliver effective solutions to overcome preventable blindness and malnutrition.
Gaufinia, a New Stonefly Genus (Plecoptera: Chloroperlidae), with the Description of Six New Species from Western North America

Gaufinia is proposed as a new genus for the Sweltsa lamba (Needham and Claassen 1925) species group, and 5 current and 6 new species are recognized based primarily on scanning electron microscopy of the male epiproct. Males of the new genus are distinguished from all other Chloroperlidae by the presence of a distinctive leaf-like aedeagal lamella. A preliminary key for males of the 11 currently recognized species is presented to assist in identification.
Fractional Modeling in Action: A Survey of Nonlocal Models for Subsurface Transport, Turbulent Flows, and Anomalous Materials

Modeling of phenomena such as anomalous transport via fractional-order differential equations has been established as an effective alternative to partial differential equations, due to the inherent ability to describe large-scale behavior with greater efficiency than fully-resolved classical models. In this review article, we first provide a broad overview of fractional-order derivatives with a clear emphasis on the stochastic processes that underlie their use. We then survey three exemplary application areas - subsurface transport, turbulence, and anomalous materials - in which fractional-order differential equations provide accurate and predictive models. For each area, we report on the evidence of anomalous behavior that justifies the use of fractional-order models, and survey both foundational models as well as more expressive state-of-the-art models. We also propose avenues for future research, including more advanced and physically sound models, as well as tools for calibration and discovery of fractional-order models.
Best Practices for Assessing Digital Literacy and Strengthening Online Teaching Pedagogy of Digitally Immigrant Stakeholders in Higher Education

Here, we add to the growing body of e-learning and teaching literature by examining the digital literacy of full-time and adjunct faculty at a public regional secondary education institution, examining the relationship between digital literacy and technology self-efficacy and understanding the role that digital immigration status plays in faculty’s technology-based choices. How faculty’s digital literacy translates into hybrid and online teaching environments and how faculty categorize their technologically based self-efficacy is also explored, particularly the role of user-based decision making through the lens of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Findings suggest that, to engage digitally immigrant and digitally native faculty teaching with technology, training should be scaffolded, with a particular focus on screening and assessing potential participants, with a focus on rigorous training that moves faculty from one stage or behavior change to another. Other suggestions and implications for strengthening online teaching pedagogy are discussed.
Effective Pollution Control in Industrialized Countries: International Economic Disincentives, Policy Responses, and the Gatt

If not, and if A remained committed to a policy of maintaining aggregate demand (a policy that props up demand for imports), there would be a balance-of-payments problem.41 If there are exogenous inflationary forces at work in A's economy to a stronger degree than in A's trading partners, the balance-of-payments problem would be exacerbated; conversely, it would be ameliorated if the rate of inflation is greater in the trading partners.
Standard of Care

Standard of care refers to those practices, procedures and quality of treatments that a patient should be accorded and a health care provider is obligated to make available. The phrase standard of care also refers to the evaluation of a provider’s actions compared to what should have been done in a given situation. As medicine evolves, our knowledge increases and we modify our recommendations and treatment offerings to incorporate and improve our care of patients. As a result, the standard of care is not fixed, but instead, can change rapidly. Health care providers are obligated to stay current and continue to educate themselves on these changing standards. This obligation is often expressed in terms of continued education requirements, certifications, and practice guidelines.
Effect of calcium ions on synthesis of T5-specific ribonucleic acid.

Abstract The arrest in the development of bacteriophage T5 and in the synthesis of phage-specific proteins in Escherichia coli F cells infected at a low calcium ion concentration (10-4 m) has been traced to a deficiency in the system for synthesis of a specific class of viral RNA. Previous studies have recognized that during an infection under standard conditions at 10-3 m Ca++ three classes of RNA are formed in sequence during the infective cycle. They are Class I RNA, which appears between 0 and 4 min after infection, and Class II and Class III RNA, commencing at 4 and 9 min, respectively. The predominant RNA species formed during the first 4 min of infection at 10-4 m Ca++ appears to be identical with that synthesized immediately after infection of cells at 10-3 m Ca++ and is therefore Class I RNA. By this time, however, the rate of RNA synthesis has fallen rapidly and thereafter there is a marked change in the composition of the RNA species. At 20 min after infection 75% of the product is Class II RNA. Upon elevation of the Ca++ concentration to 10-3 m the rate of RNA synthesis increases markedly. Class II RNA at greatly elevated levels is the immediate product, and 5 to 6 min later Class III is formed. The arrest in RNA synthesis at 10-4 m Ca++ does not result from the failure of the T5 DNA to inject completely into the host cell nor from a loss of the metabolic capacity of cells to generate nucleoside triphosphates and maintain them within the cell. The interruption in viral development at low calcium ion concentrations probably represents a malfunction of the machinery for DNA transcription beginning with the synthesis of Class II RNA. The cessation of Class I RNA synthesis at either high or low Ca++ concentration probably results from the action of a protein formed early in the infective cycle.
Secondary Metabolites: Killing Pathogens

Plants produce many antimicrobial secondary metabolites. Two major classes with a demonstrated or proposed role in resistance to plant pathogens are phytoanticipins, or preformed inhibitors, which are present constitutively in plants, and phytoalexins, which are synthesized only in response to pathogen attack. Available evidence is consistent with both phytoanticipins and phytoalexins being important in defence in some disease interactions. Keywords: phytoalexin; phytoanticipin; plant disease; inducible defence; elicitor
The role of nutrition in reducing nutrient output from ruminants

Much of the effort expended on nutrient management has focused on the post-excretion product. It is important to keep in mind that management of the diet can have important impacts on quantitative and qualitative aspects of the excreted nutrients. Surveys of nutritionists and extension specialists show that dairy producers are advised to feed 0.45 to 0.50% phosphorus (P) (DM basis) in their lactating cow diets. This is 20% in excess of NRC (2001) requirements. Feeding to requirement would reduce P excretion by 25 to 30% and would reduce solubility and potential for runoff of the P that is applied to fields. Nitrogen (N) excretion by dairy cows can also be decreased, but by a lesser amount. Balancing ruminally undegraded and degraded protein and use of protected methionine along with strategic selection of protein supplements that are relatively rich in lysine, may permit a 10 to 15% reduction in total N excretion, with most of the reduction occurring in urinary N. Urinary urea, following conversion to ammonia, is the N excretion product most vulnerable for loss to the environment. Feedlot cattle rou
Homology modeling and molecular docking for the science curriculum

DockoMatic 2.0 is a powerful open source software program (downloadable from sourceforge.net) that allows users to utilize a readily accessible computational tool to explore biomolecules and their interactions. This manuscript describes a practical tutorial for use in the undergraduate curriculum that introduces students to macromolecular structure creation, ligand binding calculations, and visualization of docking results. A student procedure is provided that illustrates the use of DockoMatic to create a homology model for the amino propeptide region (223 amino acids with two disulfide bonds) of collagen α1 (XI), followed by molecular docking of the commercial drug Arixtra(®) to the homology model of α1 (XI), and finally, analysis of the results of the docking experiment. The activities and Supporting Information described are intended to educate students in the use of computational tools to create and investigate homology models for other systems of interest and to train students to perform and analyze molecular docking studies. The tutorial also serves as a foundation for investigators seeking to explore the viability of using computational biochemistry to study their receptor-ligand binding motifs. © 2013 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 42(2):179-182, 2014.
ANEURYSMAL MALFORMATION OF THE GREAT VEIN OF GALEN CAUSING HEART FAILURE IN EARLY INFANCY: Report of Five Cases

Five cases of heart failure, resulting from a cerebral arteriovenous fistula and aneurysm of the great vein of Galen, are reported. In two infants the diagnosis was made roentgenographically; one improved after arterial ligation. In four cases, autopsy demonstrated the anomalous vessels and dilatation or hypertrophy of the heart. In three cases there was spongy necrosis of the brain. The pathogenesis of heart failure seems to be related to an enormous increase of the intake of the right atrium and ventricle. The cerebral damage seems to be due to ischemia caused by shunting of blood toward the veins bypassing the capillary network. Early diagnosis can be made by auscultation of the head and cerebral arteriography in infants who develop heart failure. Treatment is discussed.
The Majorana Ge-76 Double-Beta Decay Project

The MAJORANA Project is a research and development activity set up to establish the feasibility and cost of a double-beta decay experiment comprising a one-ton array of Ge detectors fabricated from germanium enriched to about 86% in 76Ge.
Central Pattern Generating Neurons Simultaneously Express Fast and Slow Rhythmic Activities in the Stomatogastric Ganglion

Neuronal firing patterns can contain different temporal information. It has long been known that the fast pyloric and the slower gastric motor patterns in the stomatogastric ganglion of decapod cru...
A model for activity-driven development of auditory receptive fields

This paper presents a stimulus-driven model for the development of auditory receptive fields. The model is shown to develop all receptive field types found in the mammalian cochlear nucleus, as defined by their frequency responses. The success of this model in developing auditory receptive fields and its similarity to a model that was previously shown to develop visual receptive fields demonstrates that one development scheme is capable of forming appropriate receptive field structures for two different sensory modalities, vision and audition.
The effects of certain vegetable vs. particular meat breakfasts on the magnitude of human positive contrast and self-ratings of positive emotionality

People who ingested certain vegetables for breakfast rated themselves more positively emotional than did people who ate particular meat breakfasts when daily body weights and caloric, water, and nutrient intakes were equated for the vegetable and meat groups. Furthermore, when an increase incentive magnitude produced positive contrast in the vegetable subjects and not in the meat eaters, the subjects who displayed the upward effect also rated themselves as happier than did the vegetable-unchanged control subjects. The present contrast data of shiftcontrol group appetitive emotionality differences and previous contrast results in the literature are in agreement with the notion that positive contrast is due to some appetitive emotional variable. The facts that (1) certain vegetable breakfasts produced differences in emotionality self-ratings and (2) particular vegetable breakfasts produced upward contrast are both consistent with some recent research findings of behavioral differences as a function of vegetable vs. meat regimes.
Precise millimeter-wave dielectric measurements of single crystal ferroelectric materials

Transmittance measurements on various single crystal ferroelectric materials over a broad millimeter-wave frequency range have been performed. The frequency dependence of the complex dielectric permittivity has been determined in the millimeter wave region for the first time. The measurements have been employed using a free-space quasi-optical millimeter-wave spectrometer equipped with a set of high power backward wave oscillators (BWOs) as sources of coherent radiation, tunable in the range from 30 – 120 GHz. The uncertainties and possible sources of instrumentation and measurement errors related to the free-space millimeter-wave technique are discussed. This work has demonstrated that precise MMW permittivities can be obtained even on small thin crystals using the BWO quasi-optical approach. The real and imaginary parts of dielectric permittivity have been extracted from the accurate transmittance spectra. The effect of crystallographic orientation on complex permittivity, which is shown to be more than a factor of 1.5 between different orientations, has been carefully examined for Lithium Niobate.
Engineering of microstructures

Structure is at the heart of the materials science paradigm connecting processing with properties. In the hierarchy of structures that exist in materials microstructure offers the richest variety of structural arrangements. This variety is often conveniently accessible, e.g., simply by heat treatment or mechanical deformation. Exploration of the relation between properties and microstructure serves to establish a target range of microstructural states that will perform. In order to attain a target microstructure it is necessary to understand what microstructures are, and how they evolve in processing. This presentation focuses upon the set of tools that must be combined to achieve this control: 1. Geometry 2 Thermodynamics 3. Kinematics 4. Kinetics. The content of these tools is reviewed briefly and their uses illustrated in developing an understanding of how microstructures evolve. In this development an attempt is made to carry the description of each microstructural process as far as possible without making simplifying assumptions. The study of microstructures with this rigorous point of view was termed by F.N. Rhines, "microstructology".
Photoionization of atoms and ions

Abstract Calculations of subshell photoionization processes are performed for various atoms (neon, argon, iron and uranium), for various degrees of ionization, within the independent-particle approximation. We discuss the asymptotic behavior and the high-energy features of these cross sections, focusing on subshell cross-section ratio functions. Near threshold, a modified Dirac-Fock theory is used to study core relaxation effects on photoabsorption for argon. Finally we examine the ionic neon total photoabsorption cross section as a function of degree of ionization.
Validation of a combined corneal topographer and aberrometer based on Shack–Hartmann wave-front sensing

A corneal aberrometer based on Shack-Hartmann wave-front sensing was developed and validated by using calibrated aspheric surfaces. The aberrometer was found to accurately measure corneal reflective aberrations, from which corneal topography and corneal refractive aberrations were derived. Measurements of reflective aberrations correlated well with theory (R2 = 0.964 to 0.994). The sag error root mean square (RMS) was small, ranging from 0.1 to 0.17 microm for four of the five calibrated surfaces with the fifth at 0.36 microm as a result of residual defocus. Measured refractive aberrations matched with theory and whole-eye aberrometry to within a small fraction of a wavelength. Measurements on three human corneas revealed very large refractive astigmatism (0.65-1.2 microm) and appreciable levels of trefoil (0.08-0.47 microm), coma (0.14-0.19 microm), and spherical aberration (0.18-0.25 microm). The mean values of these aberrations were significantly larger than the RMS in repeated measurements.