cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin Prophylaxis Dosing Is Weight an Issue?

Objective. To evaluate the pharmacokinetic, safety, and effectiveness data of dosing low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs) for prophylaxis of venous thromboembolic events (VTEs) in obese people. Data Sources. A PubMed search (1966 to September 2015) was performed of published English articles using the following keywords: low-molecular-weight heparin, prophylaxis, and obesity. Study Selection and Data Extraction. In all, a total of 11 articles were included in this review. The search was conducted to identify pharmacokinetic studies, clinical trials (phases I-IV), or retrospective evaluations of the impact of weight and/or obesity on anti-Xa levels as well as the safety and effectiveness of LMWHs used for VTE prophylaxis. Data Synthesis. The vast majority of the available data focus on enoxaparin. Pharmacokinetic, effectiveness, and safety data all support increased enoxaparin dosing in obese patients. However, the optimal adjustment remains uncertain. For now, we recommend using 40 mg twice daily as the ...
PhysQSR: Improving Reasoning in Three Dimensions and Time With Image Processing and Physics.

Qualitative Spatial Reasoning (QSR) is an exceptionally powerful tool in the fields of computer cognition and automated computer reasoning. Recent results have shown the potential feasibility of pairing image processing techniques with basic principles of physics that humans inherently understand in order to allow the computer to extrapolate additional information about the environment in which it exists. Initial results showed that, while using the tenets of conservation of mass, conservation of energy, and inertia allowed the computer to gain more information than was initially apparent, noise in the perceived input data resulted in the software erroneously reasoning about the state of the system. Hence improving the image processing techniques used in analyzing the data should ameliorate the errors in reasoning. In this paper, the authors investigate this claim, and present a system that allows a more precise and correct computational view of the environment.
Correction Method for Different Attenuation in a Fiber-optic Distributed Temperature Sensor System

The principle that the attenuation difference of Anti-Stokes and Stokes Raman scattering causes temperature measurement errors in the distributed temperature sensor system is explained,and a new attenuation correction method is presented.The experiment proves that this method does not require any attenuation compensation,and is suitable for the optical fiber with different brands and different attenuation.Temperature measurement accuracy test shows that the system using this method has high precision and accurate positioning.
The Sensemaking Experience of Newly Appointed District Teacher Leader Coordinators: A Case Study

OF DISSERTATION THE SENSEMAKING EXPERIENCE OF NEWLY APPOINTED DISTRICT TEACHER LEADER COORDINATORS: A CASE STUDY In an effort to address diverse needs in K-12 education, policymakers have proposed initiatives to increase the leadership opportunities for classroom teachers. Although teachers have undertaken leadership roles in schools throughout history, the notion of teacher leadership spurred by policy is in the emergent stages. As educators and leaders in various roles implement teacher leadership policy, learning must ensue at both an individual and collective level to adapt schools to a new model of leadership. This study examined how district-level teacher leader coordinators in one Iowa region came to understand their role as leaders. A case study approach illuminated the experience of these individuals as Iowa teacher leadership policy was initially implemented. Data were collected through the use of interviews, observations, and document reviews. Participants included district-level teacher leader coordinators and regional leaders supporting teacher leadership to gain insights from multiple levels of policy implementation. The findings of this study identified themes for sensemaking and leading within the teacher leader coordinator’s role. The study revealed that coordinators were guided in learning their new teacher leadership roles through both formal policy guidance and informal interactions with leaders and peers. Coordinators enacted their leadership roles in a bridge building capacity, linking other teacher leaders to resources and modeling leadership processes and actions.
Effects of early experience and alternative feeds on medusahead (Taeniatherum caput-medusae ssp. asperum) intake by sheep

Abstract The goals of this study were to test the effects of early experience at grazing medusahead – an invasive unpalatable weed – and the availability of forage alternatives on intake of medusahead later in life by sheep. The study involved two experiments of 10 days each. During Experiment 1, 29 yearling sheep were penned individually in a 2 × 2 factorial design with early experience at grazing medusahead (yes [ n = 15], no [ n = 14]) and alfalfa hay availability (yes, no) as the main factors. All animals were fed ad libitum amounts of freshly harvested medusahead daily from 10:00 to 13:00 h; additionally, eight experienced and seven inexperienced sheep received alfalfa hay (0.31% body weight) at the same time. All groups had a basal diet of tall fescue hay. Intake of the forages, NaCl and trace-mineralized salt blocks was measured. In Experiment 2, sheep were then clustered into nine groups of three yearlings each ( n = 5 early experience; n = 4 experience gained during Experiment 1) and one group of two yearlings (experience gained during Experiment 1) and grazed 10 plots of medusahead-infested rangeland. Grazing events were recorded daily at 5 min intervals from 08:30 to 11:00 h and from 16:00 to 17:00 h, and the defoliation proportion of medusahead tillers was determined every five days. During Experiment 1, medusahead intake was not affected by early experience or alfalfa availability ( P > 0.05) but medusahead intake across days was cyclic with more pronounced intake peaks at the beginning and end of the experiment for inexperienced animals ( P 0.05). Experienced sheep showed a greater gain-to-feed ratio ( P 0.05), and tended to have greater average daily body weight gains and salt intake ( P 0.10) than inexperienced sheep. Sheep fed alfalfa tended to eat less trace-mineralized salt blocks than sheep that did not receive this forage ( P 0.10). During Experiment 2, the proportion of grazing events recorded on medusahead by both groups (yes/no early experience) of animals was almost nil, although experienced animals tended to defoliate more medusahead tillers than inexperienced animals ( P = 0.10). In conclusion, when sheep were fed ad libitum amounts of medusahead, intake was low and cyclic with a more even consumption of the weed by experienced animals. Under these conditions, early experience also favored animal performance. However, it is likely that such high exposure to medusahead attenuated the subsequent use of the weed during grazing.
Clinical impact of visceral thrombosis (VT) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

260Background: VT or splanchnic thrombosis is defined as thrombi within the hepato-portal venous system including; portal (PV), mesenteric (MV) and splenic vein (SV), as well as thrombi in renal or gonadal veins. Limited evidence has explored the prognostic significance, incidence and current clinical management of VT in patients with PDAC. Methods: We conducted an analysis of N = 95 patients treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center diagnosed between 1/1/13 and 12/31/15 with PDAC who developed a VT either at presentation or which developed during the disease course. Results: N = 134 VT events (VTe) occurred. Median age of PDAC diagnosis was 62.5 yrs. Overall survival (OS) was 10.5 months (m); seven patients were still alive in 7/ 16. Time to develop first VTe was 4.3m (SD6.71, 0-31) and time to death from VTe development was 6.1m (SD 5.7,0-24). Subsequently, N = 42 pts developed a second VTe and N = 13 pts a third VTe. At time of VT diagnosis, N = 37 (38%) pts were asymptomatic, and N = 58 (61%) ...
SITUATION AND POSSIBILITY FOR DEVELOPMENT GOAT AND SHEEP PRODUCTION IN SERBIA

Structure of agricultural producing in Serbia is unfavorable. Participation of live stock farming in value of total producing is 40%, and in process of development in live stock farming is noticeable that goat and sheep farming get behind. In last few years is express negative trend in number of sheeps and goats. Parallel with decrease in number of goats and sheeps, negative trend characterized processes of producing milk, meat, and wools. That is the reason why is so important to use adequate measure to upgrade race composite, sanitary, nutrition and care for sheeps and goats and also implementation new biotechnological measure. In these paper work is presented situation in goats and sheeps farming in Serbia and emphasis is on last decade (1995-2005). Authors showed fluctuation in number, quantity in production goats and sheeps milk, meats, and also in producing sheeps wools. Paper work showed basic characteristic of sheeps and goats race which are most present in breeding, and in total number. Also presented possibilities for intensive development and gave same suggestions for promote this kind of production in Serbia.
Absolute Configuration of 2,2',3,3',6-Pentachlorinatedbiphenyl (PCB 84) Atropisomers

Nineteen polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners, such as 2,2′,3,3′,6-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 84), display axial chirality because they form stable rotational isomers, or atropisomers, that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other. Although chiral PCBs undergo atropselective biotransformation and atropselectively alter biological processes, the absolute structure of only a few PCB atropisomers has been determined experimentally. To help close this knowledge gap, pure PCB 84 atropisomers were obtained by semi-preparative liquid chromatography with two serially connected Nucleodex β-PM columns. The absolute configuration of both atropisomers was determined by X-ray single-crystal diffraction. The PCB 84 atropisomer eluting first and second on the Nucleodex β-PM column correspond to (aR)-(−)-PCB 84 and (aS)-(+)-PCB 84, respectively. Enantioselective gas chromatographic analysis with the β-cyclodextrin-based CP-Chirasil-Dex CB gas chromatography column showed the same elution order as the Nucleodex β-PM column. Based on earlier reports, the atropisomers eluting first and second on the BGB-172 gas chromatography column are (aR)-(−)-PCB 84 and (aS)-(+)-PCB 84, respectively. An inversion of the elution order is observed on the Cyclosil-B gas chromatography and Cellulose-3 liquid chromatography columns. These results advance the interpretation of environmental and human biomonitoring as well as toxicological studies.
Can You See Me Now? Video Supplementation for Pediatric Teledermatology Cases.

Background/Objectives Digital video is widely available and is used sporadically in clinical settings to evaluate patients, but whether it helps improve clinical management has not been determined. The aim of this study was to assess whether recorded video in addition to still images can improve residents' diagnostic and management accuracy and confidence with pediatric teledermatology cases. Methods Dermatology residents from three programs were assigned alternately to an online survey with 15 pediatric teledermatology cases presented with still images only (still) or still images plus recorded video (mixed). Participants provided free-text diagnoses and management recommendations and rated their confidence and image quality. Responses were scored using a modified script concordance grading key based on reference panelists' responses. Results Thirty-one residents participated (response rate 57%). Participants in the mixed group scored significantly higher on management accuracy (87.6 ± 12.9 vs 71.7 ± 14.2; p = 0.003). Both groups performed better on more common conditions than less common conditions. The mixed group outperformed the still group on less common conditions with respect to management recommendations. Conclusion This novel study suggests that supplemental recorded video may improve the management accuracy of pediatric teledermatology consultations, particularly for complex cases. Residents may benefit from training in recording and interpreting video.
Time Trends for Binomial and Poisson Data

In this chapter, we will see how to develop models in which p and λ are explicit functions of time, relaxing the assumptions of constant p and constant λ in the binomial and Poisson distribution, respectively. This introduces new unknown parameters and makes the Bayesian inference significantly more complicated mathematically. However, modern tools such as OpenBUGS make this analysis no less tractable than the single-parameter cases analyzed earlier.
Religion as a Determinant of Marital Stability

This paper develops hypotheses about the effects of husbands’ and wives’ religious affiliations on fertility. The hypotheses are based on two central ideas. First, religions differ in their fertility norms and corresponding tradeoffs between the quality and quantity of children; differences in religious beliefs between husband and wife may thus lead to conflict regarding fertility decisions and possible resolution through bargaining. Second, a low level of religious compatibility between the spouses may raise the expected probability of marital dissolution and thereby decrease the optimal amount of investments in spouse-specific human capital. Analyses of data from the 1987—1988 National Survey of Families and Households conducted in the United States suggest that both of these effects play important roles in explaining the observed linkages between the religious composition of unions and fertility behavior.
Self-care among Filipinos in the United States who have hypertension

Abstract Background Despite the strong literature on the influence of self-care on hypertension (HTN) diagnosis, there is a notable lack of studies that explore self-care among Filipino immigrants in the United States (US) who have HTN. Aim To determine the levels of and relationships between and among acculturation, acculturative stress, HTN self-efficacy, patient activation, and HTN self-care among first generation Filipino immigrants in the US who have HTN. Design A cross-sectional correlational design was used to determine the relationships between and among acculturation, acculturative stress, HTN self-efficacy, patient activation, and HTN self-care using the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping. One hundred and sixty-three community-dwelling first-generation Filipino immigrants participated in the study. Methods Data on HTN self-care, acculturation, acculturative stress, HTN self-efficacy, and patient activation were collected. Results The study results revealed that HTN self-efficacy and patient activation significantly contributed to the regression model that accounted for 29.5% of the variance in HTN self-care for this sample. Further analysis revealed that patient activation had a mediating role between HTN self-efficacy and HTN self-care. Conclusions Findings from this study revealed that HTN self-efficacy and patient activation were associated with self-care behaviors associated with HTN management for this sample. Clinical relevance Findings from this study highlight the importance of addressing HTN self-efficacy and patient activation in improving HTN self-care for this population.
Collaboration for sustainability? A framework for analyzing government impacts in collaborative-environmental management

Citizen participation and empowerment are critical sustainability elements. One increasingly popular form of citizen participation is collaborative-environmental management (CEM). This approach has...
Caracterización de mínimos restringidos

El objetivo de esta conferencia es caracterizar las soluciones del problema: P) Inf f (x),x ∈ Q
Precision analysis of a quantitative CT liver surface nodularity score.

To evaluate precision of a software-based liver surface nodularity (LSN) score derived from CT images. An anthropomorphic CT phantom was constructed with simulated liver containing smooth and nodular segments at the surface and simulated visceral and subcutaneous fat components. The phantom was scanned multiple times on a single CT scanner with adjustment of image acquisition and reconstruction parameters (N = 34) and on 22 different CT scanners from 4 manufacturers at 12 imaging centers. LSN scores were obtained using a software-based method. Repeatability and reproducibility were evaluated by intraclass correlation (ICC) and coefficient of variation. Using abdominal CT images from 68 patients with various stages of chronic liver disease, inter-observer agreement and test–retest repeatability among 12 readers assessing LSN by software- vs. visual-based scoring methods were evaluated by ICC. There was excellent repeatability of LSN scores (ICC:0.79-0.99) using the CT phantom and routine image acquisition and reconstruction parameters (kVp 100–140, mA 200–400, and auto-mA, section thickness 1.25–5.0 mm, field of view 35–50 cm, and smooth or standard kernels). There was excellent reproducibility (smooth ICC: 0.97; 95% CI 0.95, 0.99; CV: 7%; nodular ICC: 0.94; 95% CI 0.89, 0.97; CV: 8%) for LSN scores derived from CT images from 22 different scanners. Inter-observer agreement for the software-based LSN scoring method was excellent (ICC: 0.84; 95% CI 0.79, 0.88; CV: 28%) vs. good for the visual-based method (ICC: 0.61; 95% CI 0.51, 0.69; CV: 43%). Test–retest repeatability for the software-based LSN scoring method was excellent (ICC: 0.82; 95% CI 0.79, 0.84; CV: 12%). The software-based LSN score is a quantitative CT imaging biomarker with excellent repeatability, reproducibility, inter-observer agreement, and test–retest repeatability.
Pheromone-Mediated Control of Sexual Activity

Chemical agents regulate cellular metabolic activities, rates of protein synthesis, and spatial morphogenesis in some, and probably all differentiating multicellular biological systems (Chapters 1, 2, 5, and 7). If sexual conjugation evolved as an essential component of developmental programs, permitting species preservation in metazoan organisms in which somatic cells undergo irreversible linear differentiation and programmed death, we might expect that similar agents and mechanisms would have co-evolved to regulate germ cell interactions. Moreover, if analogous mechanisms existed prior to the divergence of the prokaryotic and eukaryotic kingdoms, we can anticipate that chemical control of conjugation may still exist in some present-day prokaryotes. Indeed, Gram-positive bacteria have been reported to release extracellular peptide signals that trigger conjugation. Considerable evidence supports the postulate that chemical agents control sexual activities in a variety of single-celled, differentiating eukaryotes including yeast (Saccharomyces), slime molds (Dictyostelium), and protozoa (Tetrahymena). The same has been amply demonstrated in higher multicellular organisms including Coelenterates (Hydra), various insects (Bombyx, Drosophila), and humans. In fact, there appear to be no well-doclimented instances of higher eukaryotes in which extracellular chemical agents (pheromones, hormones, neurotransmitters) do not mediate sexual activities. In this chapter we shall consider a few of the better known examples of pheromone control of conjugation. The relevance of chemoreception and electric signal transmission (discussed in Chapter 8), and receptor-mediated regulatory mechanisms eliciting second messenger chemical signal transduction (discussed in Chapter 7), to the mechanisms by which pheromones control sexual activities will become apparent.
Simple Stochastic Models for Material Failure

A variety of simple models for material failure and deformation have been developed in recent years. These models are closely related to and were in part motivated by diffusion-limited aggregation model and other models for non-equilibrium pattern formation. Here several related models for crack growth are described. In a model closely related to DLA the effective fractal dimensionality appears to depend on local boundary conditions as well as on the dependence of the growth probabilities on the local stress and strain. The dependence on local boundary conditions is surprising and may be a consequence of finite size effects. If the growth probabilities are represented by an inhomogeneous power law then crossover effects that depend on the boundary conditions are found. Such effects are also expected for other models such as DLA and dielectric breakdown models. Some recent work concerning models for surface cracking and models with non-central forces are also surveyed. These simple models raise important theoretical questions that may lead to a better understanding of real materials. Improved algorithms for the efficient relaxation of elastic networks are needed for models of this type to continue to complement experimental and theoretical work in a strongly synergistic fashion.
On the Theory of Acoustical Imaging

A generalized treatment for the mechanics of ray acoustics, in the intermediate wavelength regime, is systematically developed. The discussion makes extensive use of geometric acoustical solutions (eikonal solutions) in which their frequency dependence is taken into account. One of the results yields the mapping of the acoustic object-to-image fields by means of a transfer matrix for the acoustic propagation. The study is restricted to the case of coherent illumination.
Structural Basis of Extracellular Matrix Interactions with Matrix Metalloproteinases

Interactions of the extracellular matrix (ECM) with domains of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) increase their proteolytic action upon matrix components. This occurs by multiple structural means. The activating interactions of a partner protein with pro-MMP-9 and of GAGs with pro-MMP-7 were reported. The interactions of fibrillar proteins with catalytic domains can traverse the breadth of the active site cleft and overflow into a neighboring exosite and perhaps beyond. Exosite interactions bear some resemblance to precedents in thrombin complexes. Basket-shaped surfaces on fibronectin II-like modules (inserted into the catalytic domains of MMP-2 and -9) appear to bind protein fibrils, may bend them, and certainly unwind triple helices. C-terminal hemopexin domains are joined loosely to the catalytic domain, which might facilitate positioning and movement across collagen triple helices. At least the first blade of the β-propeller of the hemopexin domain of MMP-1 seems to interact with the triple helix. Unifying themes among diverse interactions of MMPs with ECM polymers are (1) that two domains of the MMP often participate and (2) that the interaction guides the MMP to the site for proteolytic action.
Engaging family supporters of adult patients with diabetes to improve clinical and patient-centered outcomes: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Most adults with diabetes who are at high risk for complications have family or friends who are involved in their medical and self-care (“family supporters”). These family supporters are an important resource who could be leveraged to improve patients’ engagement in their care and patient health outcomes. However, healthcare teams lack structured and feasible approaches to effectively engage family supporters in patient self-management support. This trial tests a strategy to strengthen the capacity of family supporters to help adults with high-risk diabetes engage in healthcare, successfully enact care plans, and lower risk of diabetes complications. We will conduct a randomized trial evaluating the CO-IMPACT (Caring Others Increasing EnageMent in Patient Aligned Care Teams) intervention. Two hunded forty adults with diabetes who are at high risk for diabetes complications due to poor glycemic control or high blood pressure will be randomized, along with a family supporter (living either with the patient or remotely), to CO-IMPACT or enhanced usual primary care for 12 months. CO-IMPACT provides patient-supporter dyads: it provides one coaching session addressing supporter techniques for helping patients with behavior change motivation, action planning, and proactive communication with healthcare providers; biweekly automated phone calls to prompt dyad action on new patient health concerns; phone calls to prompt preparation for patients’ primary care visits; and primary care visit summaries sent to both patient and supporter. Primary outcomes are changes in patient activation, as measured by the Patient Activation Measure-13, and change in 5-year cardiac event risk, as measured by the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study cardiac risk score for people with diabetes. Secondary outcomes include patients’ diabetes self-management behaviors, diabetes distress, and glycemic and blood pressure control. Measures among supporters will include use of effective support techniques, burden, and distress about patient’s diabetes care. If effective in improving patient activation and diabetes management, CO-IMPACT will provide healthcare teams with evidence-based tools and techniques to engage patients’ available family or friends in supporting patient self-management, even if they live remotely. The core skills addressed by CO-IMPACT can be used by patients and their supporters over time to respond to changing patient health needs and priorities. ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02328326 . Registered on 31 December 2014.
What clinical rotation factors have an impact on trainee success

BACKGROUND Educators and trainees both recognise that autonomy, the number of patient encounters and setting learning outcomes are all vital for a successful residency. This study examined whether these clinical rotation characteristics have an impact on trainee success in an orthotic and prosthetic clinical residency. METHODS Two cohorts of resident trainees rated their rotation characteristics (autonomy, patient encounters and learning outcomes [1, significantly below expectations; 5, exceeds expectations]) and self-competency (77 items [1, not at all able; 5, very able]) at three points during an 18-month residency. Rotation performance (0-100, where 100 is the highest score) was ascertained with preceptor ratings and test scores. Means and correlations were derived. RESULTS Data from 38 trainees were examined. The mean self-competency and rotation performance scores improved from time 1 to time 3 (from 4.14 ± 0.43 to 4.36 ± 0.38 [p < 0.01]; from 90.74 ± 5.15 to 92.62 ± 4.55 [p < 0.05]). Autonomy correlated with performance at time 1 (p < 0.05) only, and did not relate to self-competency at any point. Neither the number of patient encounters nor the presence of learning outcomes were associated with performance or self-competency at any point. CONCLUSIONS These data show that over time our trainees become more competent, as rated by both themselves and their preceptors. These data do not suggest that the number of patient encounters and the presence of learning outcomes have an impact on trainee competence. Autonomy may play the largest role at the beginning of the residency as students make the transition to clinical practice.
Doing Things Differently: EVP Report to the 2018 House of Delegates, July 25, 2018.

Let me express my appreciation to each of you, delegates, alternates and interested others, who make participation in the work of AACP’s democracy a priority for this annual meeting. Recognizing that there are so many other ways you could use your precious and limited hours today, this week or
Stem succulence controls flower and fruit production but not stem growth in the desert shrub ocotillo ( Fouquieria splendens )

Premise of the study The C3 desert shrub ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens) completely lacks xeromorphic leaves but is uncommonly both stem succulent and repetitively drought deciduous (documented to have produced many foliation-defoliation cycles during a growing season). Both adaptations conserve water in this xerophyte, but are the roles of succulence and deciduousness merely redundant? The observation that year-to-year reproductive effort was relatively consistent while vegetative growth was not offered a critical clue that, coupled with long-term precipitation data, helped answer this question. Methods At two sites in the Chihuahuan Desert in southern New Mexico, United States, 22 ocotillos were studied annually for more than two decades to explore the relationships among reproductive effort, vegetative stem growth, and patterns of precipitation. Key results Vegetative stem growth occurred in mid- to late summer (July-September), the season of maximum precipitation in the Chihuahuan Desert, and was significantly related to summer precipitation received in the year of growth. Reproductive effort occurred in early to late spring (April-June), which with winter account for minimum precipitation during the year, but was significantly related to summer precipitation received in the previous year, suggesting the importance of stem succulence and stored water. Conclusions While highly variable summer precipitation was responsible for enormous fluctuations in annual ocotillo stem growth, stem succulence insulated reproductive effort from such immense variability. Stem-stored water allowed the production of flowers and fruits to proceed relatively consistently during the driest years and during the driest time of year in the Chihuahuan Desert.
Modeled changes to the Great Plains low‐level jet under a realistic irrigation application

Low-level jets (LLJs) are relatively fast-moving streams of air that form in the lower troposphere and are a common phenomenon across the Great Plains (GP) of the United States. LLJs play an important role in moisture transport and the development of nocturnal convection in the spring and summer. Alterations to surface moisture and energy fluxes can influence the planetary boundary layer (PBL) development and thus LLJs. One important anthropogenic process that has been shown to affect the surface energy budget is irrigation. In this study, we investigate the effects of irrigation on LLJ development across the GP by incorporating a dynamic and realistic irrigation scheme into the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. WRF simulations were conducted with and without the irrigation scheme for the exceptionally dry summer of 2012 over the GP. The results show irrigation-introduced changes to LLJ features both over and downstream of the most heavily irrigated regions in the GP. There were statistically significant increases to LLJ speeds in the simulation with the irrigation parameterization. Decreases to the mean jet core height on the order of 50 m during the overnight hours were also simulated when irrigation was on. The overall frequency of jet occurrences increased over the irrigated regions by 5-10%; however, these differences were not statistically significant. These changes were weaker than those reported in earlier studies based on simple representations of irrigation that unrealistically saturate the soil columns over large areas over a long period of time, which highlights the importance and necessity to represent human activity more accurately in modeling studies.
Differences in head accelerations and physiological demand between live and simulated professional horse racing

The purpose of this study was to determine if there are differences in mechanical and physiological demand between live and simulated racing. Fifteen male professional jockeys (31.8±9.5 years, 160....
Testosterone is positively and estradiol negatively associated with mucosal immunity in Amazonian adolescents.

OBJECTIVES A core assumption of life history theory and the immunocompetence handicap hypothesis (ICHH) is that testosterone (T) upregulates energetic investment in mating effort at the expense of immunity. This tenet, along with observed positive relationships between estrogens and immunity, may contribute to the higher observed morbidity and mortality of males. In the present study, we examine the association between sex steroid hormones and mucosal immunity as well as sex differences in immunity in a rural Amazonian population of immune-challenged Bolivian adolescents. METHODS Salivary steroid hormones (T [males only] and estradiol [E2 , females only]), Tsimane-specific age-standardized BMI z-scores, and salivary mucosal immunity (sIgA, secretory IgA) were measured in 89 adolescent males and females. RESULTS Males had significantly higher sIgA levels than females, which may be due to the observed immune-endocrine associations found in the present study. Controlling for age and phenotypic condition, higher T significantly predicted higher sIgA; whereas higher E2 was associated with lower sIgA in females. CONCLUSIONS Results stood in contrast to common interpretations of the ICHH, that is, that T should be inversely associated with immunity. Findings from the present study support the notion that the endocrine system likely affects immunity in a regulatory fashion, upregulating certain aspects of immunity while downregulating others. An important remaining question is the adaptive reason(s) for sex differences in endocrine-mediated immuno-redistribution.
Additive Laser Metal Deposition Onto Silicon for Enhanced Microelectronics Cooling

We previously demonstrated how the Sn3Ag4Ti alloy can robustly bond onto silicon via selective laser melting (SLM). By employing this technology, thermal management devices (e.g., micro-channels, vapor chamber evaporators, heat pipes) can be directly printed onto the electronic package (silicon die) without using thermal interface materials. Under immersion two-phase cooling (pool boiling), we compare the performance of three chip cooling methods (conventional heat sink, bare silicon die and additively manufactured metal micro-fins) under high heat flux conditions (100 W/cm^2). Heat transfer simulations show a significant reduction in the chip temperature for the silicon micro-fins. Reduction of the chip operating temperature or increase in clock speed are some of the advantages of this technology, which results from the elimination of thermal interface materials in the electronic package. Performance and reliability aspects of this technology are discussed through experiments and computational models.
Loss of PIP5KIβ Causes a Defect in Lamellipodia Formation and Shear Resistant Adhesion.

Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) is widely known for the production of lipid second messengers after its hydrolysis by phospholipase C or phosphorylation by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. PIP2 also regulates cytoskeletal dynamics by directly interacting with actin-binding proteins. Three isoforms of PIP5KI (α, β, and γ) are all capable of phosphorylating PI4P to synthesize PIP2. However, these isoforms have different primary structures, expression levels in various tissues, and intracellular localization. Our previous studies have demonstrated that PIP5KIβ and PIP5KIγ are the dominant isoforms present in platelets. We generated and bred mice heterozygous for a null mutation into the murine PIP5KIβ gene, and crossed these mice to determine the phenotype of mice lacking this protein. PIP5KIβ-null mice were born, appeared developmentally normal, had normal platelet counts, and exhibited no spontaneous hemorrhage. Compared to platelets derived from wild type littermates, platelets lacking PIP5KIβ had PIP2 concentrations that were 61% of normal under basal conditions (p
A Mathematical Analysis of an Example Delay Tolerant Network using the Theory of Sheaves

NASA's High-Data Rate Architecture (HiDRA) project is working towards a general yet practical toolkit and knowledge base to help usher in the era of new technologies for space systems communications, such as optical links. The High-Rate Delay Tolerant Networking (HDTN) implementation falls under the umbrellas of both the toolkit and the knowledge base, as its advancements illuminate more general areas of Delay Tolerant Networking (DTN) that need growth. The goal of this paper is to explore the usage of particular mathematical machineries, namely temporal flow networks and sheaves, to identify fundamental, underlying structures in DTN for space systems. Satellites, space assets, ground stations, etc. give rise to a disconnected network, and it is the goal of DTN to glue disparate links together into a cohesive system, that is, a network. Depending on a given link, the latencies might be beyond that which the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) can handle, and contact times might have one-way light times in excess of minute (sometimes significantly longer). Some links might be periodic (say, due to orbital mechanics) or they might not be. This diversity has made it difficult to probe the underlying structure. An immediate consequence is that DTNs in practice today are controlled by globally distributed contact plans (schedules), which are the input to the contact graph routing (CGR) algorithm. While this is effective for smaller networks, it will be very difficult to scale for future networks. Deeper and more rigorous theory is needed to bring DTN to the next evolutionary step. To this end, this paper introduces and suggests a mathematical framework for DTN, and applies it to a space network that is simulated using an orbital analysis toolkit. The tag-line for the structure known as sheaves is that they are the mathematically precise way of gluing local data together into unique, global data. If we consider routing, we see that networking is a “sheafy” science. We then discuss a simplified sheaf model, known as the cellular sheaf. The sheaf-theoretic analysis is presented and discussed, as it is hoped that this and related papers will help form the primordial ooze of DTN theory. Finally there is a section of future work suggesting follow-on research.
Traces of Appropriation: Roman Board Games in Egypt and Sudan

races of appropriation: Roman board games in Egypt and Sudan Board games in antiquity are characterized by their continuity in both shape and playing practice when crossing socio-political borders and centuries of time. But as much as these games appear similar throughout the archaeological record, traces of integration and appropriation are found in aspects not necessarily affecting rules of play or configurations of boards. Recently uncovered examples of the game of Duodecim scripta in Egypt and Sudan point to changes in board design or, at least, in design preference when compared to those found elsewhere in the Roman Empire. The presence of game boards in grave contexts further illustrates the extent of the appropriation that may have taken place. Egypt and Sudan in Greco-Roman times are on and across the border of the Roman world and provide ideal contexts for the understanding of the cultural appropriation process of board games in antiquity.
Prospective estimation of the age of initiation of cigarettes among young adults (18-24 years old): Findings from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) waves 1-4 (2013-2017).

Objectives To prospectively estimate the age of cigarette initiation among young adults (18-24 years old) who were never cigarette users at their first wave of adult study participation overall, by sex, and by race/ethnicity given recent increases in cigarette initiation occurring in young adulthood. Methods Secondary analyses were conducted using the PATH restricted-use adult datasets among young adult never users of cigarettes in waves 1-3 (2013-2016) with outcomes followed-up in waves 2-4 (2014-2017). Interval censoring survival methods were used to estimate the age of initiation of (i) ever, (ii) past 30-day, and (iii) fairly regular cigarette use. Among never cigarette users when they first entered the adult study, interval censoring Cox proportional hazard models were used to explore differences in the estimated age of initiation of the three cigarette use outcomes by sex and by race/ethnicity, controlling for the effect of previous e-cigarette use and the total number of other tobacco products ever used (0-5 products) before cigarette initiation outcomes. Results Among the young adults who were never cigarette users at their first wave of adult participation, the highest increase in cigarette initiation occurred between 18 and 19 years old. By age 21, 10.6% (95% CI: 9.5-11.7) initiated ever cigarette use, 7.7% (95% CI: 6.1-8.1) initiated past 30-day of cigarette use, and 1.9% (95% CI: 1.4-2.5) initiated fairly regular cigarette use. After controlling for other tobacco products: (a) males were 83% more likely to initiate past 30-day cigarette use at earlier ages than females; (b) Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Black young adults had increased risk to initiate past 30-day cigarette use at earlier ages than Non-Hispanic White young adults (62% and 34%, respectively). Conclusions The substantial amount of cigarette initiation among young adults reinforces the need for prevention strategies among this population. Although, interventions are needed for all young adult populations, strategies should target 18-21-year-olds, with potentially differential prevention targets by sex and by race/ethnicity.
Projecting the Prevalence and Costs of Metastatic Breast Cancer From 2015 through 2030

Background This study projected the number of metastatic breast cancer (mBC) cases and costs (medical and productivity) attributable to mBC through 2030 among 3 age groups: younger (aged 18-44 years), midlife (aged 45-64 years), and older women (aged 65 years and older). Methods We developed a stock/flow model in which women enter the mBC population at initial diagnosis (de novo stage IV) or through progression of an earlier-stage cancer. Women exit the mBC population through death. Input parameters by age and phase of treatment came from the US Census, Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results and peer-reviewed literature. Results In 2030, we estimated there would be 246 194 prevalent cases of mBC, an increase of 54.8% from the 2015 estimate of 158 997. We estimated total costs (medical and productivity) of mBC across all age groups and phases of care were $63.4 billion (95% sensitivity range = $59.4-$67.4 billion) in 2015 and would increase to $152.4 billion (95% sensitivity range = $111.6-$220.4 billion) in 2030, an increase of 140%. Trends in estimated costs were higher for younger and midlife women than for older women. Conclusions The cost of mBC could increase substantially in the coming decade, especially among younger and midlife women. Although accounting for trends in incidence, progression, and survival, our model did not attempt to forecast structural changes such as technological innovations in breast cancer treatment and health-care delivery reforms. These findings can motivate early detection activities, direct value-driven mBC treatment, and provide a useful baseline against which to measure the effect of prevention and treatment efforts.
Assessing the Impact of Land Cover, Soil, and Climate on the Storage Potential of Dryland Sand Dams

Sand dams, a water-harvesting structure employed by rural communities in drylands have an inconsistent record of effectiveness. While many sand dams are highly functioning, improper siting, siltation, seepage, and high rates of evaporation from shallow sand reservoirs inhibit the water storage capacity of some sand dams. This study examines large-scale drivers of sand dam storage potential through analysis of an integrated surface and subsurface flow model. Multiple simulations were run, and comparative simulation analyses consider the effect of geomorphological factors, intraseasonal rainfall variability, and future climate conditions on sand dam performance criteria. The analyses revealed that a watershed highly cultivated with low water crops actually reduces evapotranspiration below that of natural vegetation and supports higher groundwater recharge. Additionally, intraseasonal variation and volume of rainfall impact sand dam performance less than the prevailing pattern and duration of dry and rainy seasons. Sand dams constructed in watersheds with sandier soils may experience greater connectivity with the stream margins and thus provide additional groundwater recharge. Lastly, climate change may improve some conditions desirable for sand dam performance, such as extending the duration of the rainy season and reducing overall evapotranspiration. However, the interactions between the expected climate change conditions and other geomorphological factors may result in a net decline in sand dam performance. The results of this study may help identify watersheds that are likely to support a sand dam with high potential for capturing and storing water throughout the dry season.
PFAS in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Systemic environmental health disparities exist for residents of U.S. Tribal lands including access to safe public drinking water and differences in drinking water quality as co...
Nitric Oxide and Bleeding Time

Abman, Kinsella, and co-workers caution against the widespread use of nitric oxide (NO) gas in the neonatal intensive care unit.1,2 However, like other leading advocates of NO therapy, they limit their remarks concerning toxicology to a discussion of the risks of acute lung injury and methemoglobinemia. It must be remembered that NO may have other important side effects as well. In particular, NO inhalation in concentrations of 30 ppm prolongs bleeding time in rabbits and humans,3 making it a uniquely dangerous agent for use in preterm infants at risk for intraventricular hemorrhage.
The Mississippi County Community College Large-Scale Demonstration Project a Success Story

The world’s first large-scale photovoltaic concentrating system has now been completed and is operational. The project is located at Mississippi County Community College in Blytheville, Arkansas, U.S.A., and consists of a uniquely energy-conscious building with some 63,000 photovoltaic concentrator cells providing 320 kW (DOE standard) power. The system is actively cooled, single-axis tracking, and is designed for providing about 85 percent of the total energy needs of the 55,000 sq. ft. building.
Benefits of a resident-run orientation for new radiology trainees

Incoming radiology residents must rapidly assimilate large amounts of technical, medical, and operational information. This can be overwhelming and contribute to anxiety. Typical introductory curricula focused on radiologic content may not address the concerns of new residents. Two consecutive classes of incoming radiology residents participated in our study. For groups A (n=11) and B (n=11), the existing introductory lectures were given by faculty. For group B, residents hosted sessions for each rotation, including round-table discussions and work area tours, with emphasis on resident roles, personnel, and workflow. With institutional review board exemption, residents were anonymously surveyed before and after the sessions regarding: awareness of responsibilities, familiarity with anatomy, and anxiety regarding each rotation on a 1-4 scale. Free-text comments were collected. Comparison was performed using Wilcoxon rank sum test. Group A reported increased role awareness (P=0.04), greater content familiarity (P<0.05), and decreased anxiety (P=0.02) in one rotation each. There were 3 of 12 rotations in group B that showed significantly increased role awareness (P range <0.01 to 0.01) and decreased anxiety (P range <0.01 to <0.05). In addition, two rotations indicated improved role awareness only (P=0.02 and P=0.04), while there were four rotations reported decreased anxiety only (P range 0.01 to 0.03). Free-text commenters preferred the resident-run portions of the sessions. In conclusion, adding role-oriented introductory sessions to existing lectures for first-year residents decreased anxiety and increased role awareness for all rotations; therefore, it is suggested that anxiety may be better addressed by role-oriented content, and resident-to-resident teaching may have benefits.