cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Is potassium iodide solution necessary before total thyroidectomy for Graves disease

Potassium iodide (KI) has traditionally been used to reduce gland vascularity and diminish blood loss in patients undergoing thyroidectomy for Graves disease (GD). Current American Thyroid Association (ATA) guidelines (Recommendation 22) call for its routine administration in GD but avoidance in toxic multinodular goiter (TMNG). A retrospective review (July 2008–May 2012) of perioperative data was performed on 162 patients undergoing total thyroidectomy without preoperative KI and compared to 102 patients with TMNG. Statistical analysis included Student’s t test, χ 2 test, and multivariate linear regression. Compared to TMNG patients, GD patients had a lower mean age (42.7 vs. 49.6 years, p < 0.001) and were less likely to be obese (37 vs. 54 %, p = 0.047). No patients were provided KI in preparation. GD patients did not differ significantly from TMNG patients with respect to mean estimated blood loss (55.4 vs. 51.5 mL, p = 0.773) or mean operative time (131.5 vs. 122.6 min, p = 0.084). GD patients had a lower rate of transient hypocalcemia (31 vs. 49 %, p = 0.004), but the two groups did not statistically differ in rates of prolonged hypocalcemia, temporary recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy, prolonged RLN paralysis, or hematoma formation. Although current ATA recommendations for the management of GD call for routine use of KI before thyroidectomy, this large series demonstrates no appreciable detriment to patient outcomes when this goal is not met.
Discussion Note: Distributed Cognition in Epistemic Cultures

Abstract In Epistemic Cultures (1999), Karin Knorr Cetina argues that different scientific fields exhibit different epistemic cultures. She claims that in high energy physics (HEP) individual persons are displaced as epistemic subjects in favor of experiments themselves. In molecular biology (MB), by contrast, individual persons remain the primary epistemic subjects. Using Ed Hutchins’ (1995) account of navigation aboard a traditional US Navy ship as a prototype, I argue that both HEP and MB exhibit forms of distributed cognition. That is, in both fields cognition is distributed across individual persons and complex artifacts. The cognitive system producing the knowledge is heterogeneous. Nevertheless, in both fields we can reserve epistemic agency for the human components of these systems. We do not need to postulate new distributed cognitive agents, let alone ones exhibiting new forms of consciousness.
Generalized T2 test for genome association studies.

Recent progress in the development of single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) maps within genes and across the genome provides a valuable tool for fine-mapping and has led to the suggestion of genomewide association studies to search for susceptibility loci for complex traits. Test statistics for genome association studies that consider a single marker at a time, ignoring the linkage disequilibrium between markers, are inefficient. In this study, we present a generalized T2 statistic for association studies of complex traits, which can utilize multiple SNP markers simultaneously and considers the effects of multiple disease-susceptibility loci. This generalized T2 statistic is a corollary to that originally developed for multivariate analysis and has a close relationship to discriminant analysis and common measure of genetic distance. We evaluate the power of the generalized T2 statistic and show that power to be greater than or equal to those of the traditional χ2 test of association and a similar haplotype-test statistic. Finally, examples are given to evaluate the performance of the proposed T2 statistic for association studies using simulated and real data.
Set-to-Set Face Recognition Under Variations in Pose and Illumination

We present a face recognition method using multiple images where pose and illumination are uncontrolled. The set-to-set framework can be utilized whenever multiple images are available for both gallery and probe subjects. We can then transform the set-to-set classification problem as a geometric one by realizing the linear span of the images in a given resolution as a point on the Grassmann manifold where various metrics can be used to quantify the closeness of the identities. Contrary to a common practice, we will not normalize for variations in pose and illumination, hence showing the effectiveness of the set-to-set method when the classification is done on the Grassmann manifold. This algorithm exploits the geometry of the data set such that no training phase is required and may be executed in parallel across large data sets. We present empirical results of this algorithm on the CMU-PIE database and the extended Yale face database B, each consisting of 67 and 28 subjects, respectively.
Numerical representation and cross-cut role assignments: Majority members’ responses under cooperative interaction

Abstract This research investigates why cross-cutting role assignments, compared to those that converge, may worsen the intergroup attitudes of numerical majorities. Study 1 manipulated the numerical representation of groups and role assignments in a cooperative setting. As predicted, when the cross-cut role condition included the reintroduction of the numerical imbalance, the intergroup attitudes of majorities were more favorable than when the cross-cut condition did not reintroduce this discrepancy. Also, Study 1 showed that the intergroup attitudes of the majority were more positive when roles converged. Study 2 compared a convergent condition to one with converging roles that also reduced the salience of the majority’s numerical advantage. The results for this convergent-reduced-salience condition mimicked that of the cross-cut condition, revealing less positive majority attitudes. In both studies, results suggest that the processes of ingroup identification and relative ingroup homogeneity may mediate the effect of role assignments on ingroup bias. The findings are discussed in terms of the implications for cooperative interventions designed to improve intergroup attitudes.
Laparoscopic cystectomy for the treatment of benign ovarian cysts in children: an analysis of 21 cases.

Study Objective: To evaluate the outcomes of treatment with minimal invasive surgery in children with benign ovarian cysts. Design: Retrospective chart review. Settings: Maternity and children hospital. Patients: Between May 2007 and May 2011, 21 children were treated by laparoscopic method for ovarian cysts at our clinic. The age, symptoms, ultrasonographic findings, operation records and follow-up times were retrospectively evaluated. Results: The mean age was 13.2 years. One patient presented with findings of torsion and another presented with findings of rupture; both were urgently operated on. The other patients presented with intermittent abdominal pain and were operated on under elective basis. The mean cyst size was 8.4 cm (5-13 cm). One patient with necrotic ovary and salpinx due to torsion underwent salpingo-oophorectomy while the others were administered ovary-preserving cystectomy. Only 4 patients required iv paracetamol as an analgesic in the postoperative period. Two patients were discharged on the second postoperative day while the remaining 19 patients were discharged on the first postoperative day. During a mean follow-up of 14 months, no recurrence was seen in this period. Cosmetic appearance was good in all patients. Conclusion: The authors demonstrated that laparoscopic cystectomy was a technically feasible and safe method in the treatment of benign ovarian cysts, associated with short hospitalization, minimal analgesic requirement, and a good cosmetic appearance.
Multiple Deescalating Requests, Statistical Information, and Compliance: A Field Experiment1

Although prior research on influence has identified numerous techniques for increasing donation rates (see e. g., Cialdini, 1988), the problem of increasing donation sizes has been neglected. We conducted a field experiment in a telemarketing fundraising context to examine the effectiveness of three influence techniques for increasing the size of donations. The results indicate that the multiple-deescalating-requests technique was effective for increasing donation sizes. However, statistical information-based techniques were ineffective. Theoretical and applied implications of the results are discussed.
Current convection in solar active regions

Current carrying magnetic fields which penetrate sunspots can be unstable to current convective modes caused by the large gradient of electrical conductivity. The linear growth rates and wavelengths of the unstable modes are found. The unstable modes produce fine-scale vortices perpendicular to the magnetic field, which overshoot well into the solar corona. The modes provide a turbulent vorticity source at the photospheric footpoints of the field. This can cause braiding and reconnection of the coronal magnetic field. The modes twist the coronal magnetic field into loops with a typical radius of 200 km, consistent with recent X-ray observations.
Sooting behavior in temperature-controlled laminar diffusion flames☆

Abstract The sooting tendency of gaseous and liquid hydrocarbon fuels has been determined systematically in an axisymmetric laminar diffusion flame whose temperature was controlled by nitrogen dilution. Sooting tendency was measured by the minimum mass flow rate of fuel (FFM) at the smoke height. Result, plotted as log 1/FFM versus 1 T , where T is a calculated adiabatic flame temperature, show that fuel structure plays a significant role in diffusion flames. Comparison of these flame results with basic pyrolysis studies in the literature supports the concept that pyrolysis of the fuel molecule is a controlling factor in determining the overall tendency to soot, even though such tendency results from the competition of pyrolysis of the fuel and heterogeneous oxidation of the soot particles. The pyrolysis characteristics affecting the sooting process are rate, sequence and nature of products, and pyrolysis mode (pure or oxidative). The aromatics show a temperature sensitivity with respect to sooting tendency significantly lower than the other fuels. Conjugation of the initial fuel molecule and pyrolysis intermediates enhances sooting propensity.
Value of absent or retrograde end‐diastolic flow in fetal aorta and umbilical artery as a predictor of perinatal outcome in pregnancy‐induced hypertension

There is insufficient data on the value of absent or retrograde end-diastolic flow (AREDF) in the fetal umbilical artery, descending aorta and aortic arch to predict perinatal outcome. In this prospective investigation, 65 pregnant women between 24 and 34 weeks' gestation with pregnancy-induced hypertension were studied by color Doppler echocardiography. Pregnancies leading to birth at or before 34.0 gestational weeks (23 with and 19 without AREDF) were included in the outcome analysis. Fetuses with AREDF were delivered at earlier gestational ages (p = 0.006). They had a higher incidence of gastrointestinal complications (p = 0.01), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (p = 0.03), intraventricular hemorrhage (p = 0.03) and vascular hypotension (p = 0.03) than those without AREDF. The presence of AREDF was associated with a mortality rate of 30%, whereas in fetuses without AREDF there was no mortality (p = 0.01). Using logistic regression and taking into consideration various perinatal factors, the presence of AREDF (p = 0.03) and early gestational age (p = 0.0001) were associated with serious neonatal diseases or death. A reverse diastolic flow in the aortic isthmus was registered in five fetuses; three died during the perinatal period and one was severely damaged. According to our results, AREDF, particularly with the appearance of reverse diastolic flow in the isthmus of the aortic arch, is a predictor of poor neonatal outcome.
An E5 transition in 123Te and E5 transitions in general

Abstract We have observed an extremely weak 248 keV, E5 transition in 123Te with a strength of 0.05 Weisskopf units. We have also summarized the available experimental information on all E5 transitions.
Tight-binding description of the electronic structure and total energy of tin

Abstract The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) tight-binding (TB) method was applied to tin, a material which is known to exist in the diamond structure (α-Sn) at zero temperature and Iow pressures. A smali change in the pressure drives tin to the β-Sn structure, which is stable up to 9.5 GPa at room temperature. In this paper we present the NRL-TB parameterization for tin, applying it to the study of the bulk properties of both α-Sn and β-Sn. The parameters were determined by fitting to a database of first-principles band structures and total energies, generated using the general potential linearized augmented plane-wave method for the fcc, bcc, sc and diamond structures, with limited infonnation from calculations of the β-Sn phase. We report the success of this method in predicting the two stable structures α-Sn and β-Sn in the correct order, even though these structures have a smali energy difference. We also discuss the NRL-TB method's ability to calculate electronic band structures and density of state...
The Texas Experience with Accountability and Student Learning Assessment.

The University of Texas experience with a public accountability reporting system foretells the prospects of related efforts like the Voluntary System of Accountability.
Spectrometric Characterization of Purified C 60 and C 70

C 60 and C 70 were synthesized and purified according to published procedures. Both nanosecond and picosecond laser desorption from coated substrates gave copious positive and negative ions. Mass spectra (TOF and FTMS) with excellent signal to noise, showing only the C 60 and C 70 mass peaks, have been observed. Well-resolved isotopic structure was seen in the FTMS spectra in agreement with the natural abundance of carbon. Laser desorption and multiphoton ionization/photodissociation of the neutral species, as well as electronic absorption, FTIR, and fluorescence spectra, have been obtained.
The Sun’s Strange Behavior: Maunder Minimum or Gleissberg Cycle?

During the last few years the Sun and solar wind have shown a behavior that was so unexpected that the phenomena was described as “the strange solar minimum”. It has been speculated that the 23/24 solar cycle minimum may have indicated the onset of a Maunder-Minimum-type Grand Minimum. Here we review what is known from 1500 years of proxy data about Maunder-type Grand Minima and the minima of the cyclic Centennial Gleissberg variations. We generate criteria that distinguish between the two types of event. Applying these criteria to the observed solar terrestrial data we conclude that the unexpected behavior began well before the solar cycle 23/24 minimum. The data do not support the Maunder Minimum conjecture. However, the behavior can be understood as a minimum of the Centennial Gleissberg Cycle that previously minimized in the beginning of the 20th century. We conclude that the Centennial Gleissberg Cycle is a persistent variation that has been present 80% of the time during the last 1500 years and should be explained by solar dynamo theory.
Whispering-gallery mode silica microsensors for cryogenic to room temperature measurement

Optical resonance shifts are measured against a wide range of temperatures from cryogenic to room temperature for silica microspheres operating at whispering-gallery modes. The sensor head microsphere is coupled to a fiber taper and placed in an insulated cell where the air temperature first cools down to below 110 K and then rises steadily and slowly. The transmission resonance spectrum of a distributed feedback laser at 1531 nm exciting the microsphere–taper system is monitored and recorded for every 1 K temperature increment. The resonance wavelength shifts against the temperature changes are analyzed. Several microspheres with size from 85 to 435 µm are tested. No significant dependence of the sensor sensitivity is seen with the sphere size. A cubic dependence of the wavelength shift versus the temperature is least-squares fitted. The measured sensitivity increases from 4.5 pm K−1 to 11 pm K−1 with increasing temperature in the test temperature range, and this behavior is consistent with the temperature dependence of the sum of thermal expansion and thermo-optic coefficients of silica material. The resolution of the sensors with the current instrument could reach 3 mK.
Taylor dispersion of chemically reactive species: Irreversible first-order reactions in bulk and on boundaries

Abstract Generalized Taylor dispersion theory is extended so as to include position-dependent irreversible first-order reactions in the bulk fluid and on the boundaries. We go beyond prior analyses in considering: (i) flows whose streamlines are curvilinear rather than rectilinear; (ii) position-dependent tensorial molecular diffusivities; (iii) (conservative) external forces exerted on the reactive species; and (iv) nonuniform surface reaction velocity constants. Potential extensions to time-periodic flows and time-periodic molecular transport coefficients are pointed out. Our curvilinear flow analysis constitutes a necessary precursor to the study of comparable bulk and surface reactions in (spatially periodic models of) porous media.
Social and spatial order in villages in India

Abstract The paper explores the social, ecological, and religious factors which shape the village forms in India. Linear, nucleated and dispersed villages have been identified with different regions. Caste and kinship groups form the basic unit of a neighbourhood. The castes ranked on a hierarchical scale, locate themselves in a centre‐periphery distribution in the village. This layout also expresses the duality between ritually pure and polluting space and defines the social interaction patterns between the different castes.
LOCALIZATION OF A DOMAIN ON THE PARAMYXOVIRUS ATTACHMENT PROTEIN REQUIRED FOR THE PROMOTION OF CELLULAR FUSION BY ITS HOMOLOGOUS FUSION PROTEIN SPIKE

Abstract The promotion of membrane fusion by the paramyxovirus hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) and fusion (F) proteins requires that they be derived from homologous viruses, suggesting the possibility that the promotion of fusion requires a virus-specific communication between the two glycoprotein spikes. We have evaluated the ability of chimeric HN proteins, composed of domains from the HN proteins of two heterologous members of the group, human parainfluenza virus 3 (bPIV3) and Newcastle disease virus (NDV), to complement the F protein of each virus in the promotion of fusion. Specificity for the F protein of hPIV3 segregates with a segment composed of the transmembrane anchor and the first 82 residues of the ectodomain of its HN protein. Specificity of NDV HN for its homologous F protein is determined by a similar domain. These findings suggest that determinants specific to this segment of the attachment protein spike may be involved in the triggering of the fusion process.
LEARNING IN TWO-PERSON, ZERO-SUM GAMES

Summnry.-In a series of three studies, Ss were required to play a two-person zero-sum game. Ss low in dogmatism tended to approach the optimum or exploiting strategy more closely than highly dogmatic Ss, but two other personality variables (internal-external control and computer confidence, a measure of willingness to have decisions made by a computer) were unrelated to gaming strategies. The value of the game and the required strategy affected significantly Ss' choice behavior. The theory of games (von Neumann & Morgenstern, 1944) indicates the best strategy for zero-sum, two-person games; such games have two players with one's loss being he other's gain. When this best strategy, a minimax strategy, is followed, the outcome of the game is at least as good as the outcome resulting from any other strategy, at least if the opponent is playing a minimax strategy. However, in many investigations, it has been found that Ss infrequently adopt the minimax strategy. At best a few Ss in each study have used strategies which approximate the optimum. There are a number of factors that could account for the failure of Ss to adopt a minimax strategy. The incentive may be too small to result in a change in strategy. However, Pate and Broughcon (1970), using a zero-sum game requiring a mixed strategy, and Axelrod and May (1968), using a nonzero-sum game, demonstrated that the incentive had little or no effect on the strategy employed. According to von Neumann and Morgenstern (1944), it is necessary that the sequence of plays be random in addition to meeting certain probability requirements. Since humans are not good randomizing devices, it may be that Ss do not adopt an optimum strategy because they can not perform randomly. In the absence of a random sequence, the optimum strategy would not yield the value of the game, and thus S perhaps would not do as well as with some other strategy. Kaufman and Becker (1961) eliminated the necessity of randomizing plays by allowing Ss to specify the strategy they would play for the next 100 trials. Although Ss did not play the optimum, they changed in the direction of the optimum. Kaufman and Lamb ( 1967) found that Ss did not use a randomizing device which was available and concluded that S thought he could "outwit" his opponent. It might be suggested that S's perception of his opponent determines, in part, Ss strategy. In fact, Lacey and Pate (1960) demonstrated that Ss played dif
Attenuation of ethanol withdrawal by ceftriaxone-induced upregulation of glutamate transporter EAAT2

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is a potentially fatal outcome of severe alcohol dependence that presents a significant challenge to treatment. Although AWS is thought to be driven by a hyperglutamatergic brain state, benzodiazepines, which target the GABAergic system, comprise the first line of treatment for AWS. Using a rat model of ethanol withdrawal, we tested whether ceftriaxone, a β-lactam antibiotic known to increase the expression and activity of glutamate uptake transporter EAAT2, reduces the occurrence or severity of ethanol withdrawal manifestations. After a 2-week period of habituation to ethanol in two-bottle choice, alcohol-preferring (P) and Wistar rats received ethanol (4.0 g/kg) every 6 h for 3–5 consecutive days via gavage. Rats were then deprived of ethanol for 48 h during which time they received ceftriaxone (50 or 100 mg/kg, IP) or saline twice a day starting 12 h after the last ethanol administration. Withdrawal manifestations were captured by continuous video recording and coded. The evolution of ethanol withdrawal was markedly different for P rats vs Wistar rats, with withdrawal manifestations occurring >12 h later in P rats than in Wistar rats. Ceftriaxone 100 mg/kg per injection twice per day (200 mg/kg/day) reduced or abolished all manifestations of ethanol withdrawal in both rat variants and prevented withdrawal-induced escalation of alcohol intake. Finally, ceftriaxone treatment was associated with lasting upregulation of ethanol withdrawal-induced downregulation of EAAT2 in the striatum. Our data support the role of ceftriaxone in alleviating alcohol withdrawal and open a novel pharmacologic avenue that requires clinical evaluation in patients with AWS.
Physical properties of selected block Argonne Premium bituminous coal related to CO2, CH4, and N2 adsorption

Abstract CO2, CH4, and N2 adsorption and gas-induced swelling were quantified for block Blind Canyon, Pittsburgh #8 and Pocahontas Argonne Premium coals that were dried and structurally relaxed at 75 °C in vacuum. Strain measurements were made perpendicular and parallel to the bedding plane on ~ 7 × 7 × 7 mm3 coal blocks and gravimetric sorption measurements were obtained simultaneously on companion coal blocks exposed to the same gaseous environment. The adsorption amount and strain were determined after equilibration at P ≤ 1.8 MPa. There is a strong non-linear correlation between strain and the quantity of gas adsorbed and the results for all gases and coals studied follow a common pattern. The dependence of the coal matrix shrinkage/swelling coefficient (Cgc) on the type and quantity of gas adsorbed is seen by plotting the ratio between the strain and the adsorbate concentration against the adsorbate concentration. In general, Cgc increases with increasing adsorbate concentration over the range of ~ 0.1 to 1.4 mmol/g. Results from the dried block coals are compared to CO2 experiments using native coals with an inherent level of moisture as received. The amount of CO2 adsorbed using native coals (assuming no displacement of H2O by CO2) is significantly less than the dried coals. The gas-induced strain (S) and adsorption amount (M) were measured as a function of time following step changes in CO2, CH4, and N2 pressure from vacuum to 1.8 MPa. An empirical diffusion equation was applied to the kinetic data to obtain the exponent (n) for time dependence for each experiment. The data for all coals were pooled and the exponent (n) evaluated using an ANOVA statistical analysis method. Values for (n) near 0.5 were found to be independent on the coal, the gas or type of measurement (e.g., parallel strain, perpendicular strain, and gas uptake). These data support the use of a Fickian diffusion model framework for kinetic analysis. The kinetic constant k was determined using a unipore diffusion model for each experiment and the data were pooled for ANOVA analysis. For dry coal, statistically significant differences for k were found for the gases (CO2 > N2 > CH4) and coals (Pocahontas >Blind Canyon > Pittsburgh #8) but not for the method of the kinetic measurement (e.g., strain or gas uptake). For Blind Canyon and Pittsburgh #8 coal, the rate of CO2 adsorption and gas-induced strain for dry coal was significantly greater than that of the corresponding native coal. For Pocahontas coal the rates of CO2 adsorption and gas-induced strain for dry and native coal were indistinguishable and may be related to its low native moisture and minimal amount of created porosity upon drying.
Transient electro-optics of organized assemblies

Abstract Recent results obtained by the use of electric field- and laser-induced transient birefringence and light scattering techniques are summarized on the dynamic behavior of reverse micelles, water-in-oil microemulsions, surfactant crystallites and unilamellar bilayer vesicles. In birefringence experiments, in general, the importance of examining and separating the contribution of field-induced turbidity to the birefringence signal is emphasized. The relaxation response of the systems on the nanosecond to millisecond timescale provides information about the structure of the aggregates and details of their field-induced deformation, reorientation and vectorial clustering, the kinetics of phase separation in microemulsions and the mechanism of electroporation of vesicles. The use of electroporation of vesicles for the preparation of ultra-small quantum dots (diameter
Infant Perioperative Patients

NOVEMBER 2007, VOL 86, NO 5 • AORN JOURNAL • 843 ediatric patients are not just small adults; each child is a unique individual. Similarities in children do exist, however, based on their developmental levels. Several developmental theories, including those of Sigmund Freud, Jean Piaget, and Erik Erikson, can help provide an excellent foundation on which to develop an approach to treating children at each psychosocial and cognitive level of development. By adjusting the approach to patient care accordingly, health care providers can provide holistic, family-centered care. From a developmental perspective, infancy ranges from birth until the child’s first birthday. Family-centered care is especially important during this period, and this type of care can make the perioperative process less stressful for everyone involved. The information presented in this column is designed to provide a developmental theory foundation to augment the psychosocial competency outlined in Age-Specific Care: Competency Assessment Module. Infants also have very specific physiological needs based on their size and the maturity of their body systems. These needs also are addressed in the module.
Source effects and the interpretation of geomagnetic sounding data at sub‐auroral latitudes

Summary Conventional techniques of geomagnetic deep sounding use functions of vertical to horizontal field variations to estimate either horizontal layering or lateral discontinuities in conductivity within the Earth. When the conductivity varies with depth alone, gradient methods are also used to estimate the ambient conductivity at depth of penetration. In sub-auroral regions and in the period range 15-60 min, the assumption of source field uniformity basic to both methods does not always hold and the techniques of interpretation become questionable. Using three-dimensional source models (electrojet + field-aligned currents), we show how the closeness of the source can distort transfer function estimates and thus Z/H ratios. Estimates of source field gradients appear to be less error prone at high latitudes than standard interpretations of internal-external field ratios.
CROSS-CULTURAL STUDY OF SAMPLES OF ADOLESCENTS' ATTITUDES, KNOWLEDGE, AND BEHAVIORS RELATED TO SMOKING '

This study examined the smoking behavior, knowledge, and attitudes of 413 students in Grades 7 and 8 in the United States and 393 such students in the People's Republic of China. A survey questionnaire developed by Pederson and Lefcoe was adapted and then translated into Mandarin. There were statistically significant differences between the students of the two countries in knowledge, attitude, and behavior related to smoking. Families played an important role in relation to smoking among this age group.
Integrated micro/macro-mechanical model of woven fabric composites under large deformation

Thermoforming of woven composite panels generally involves significant in-plane shear deformation, and induces additional anisotropy into the composites. In our previous paper, a new constitutive model for macro-mechanically characterizing the non-orthogonal material behavior under large deformation was proposed. In the present work, we develop an integrated micro- and macro-constitutive model to predict the mechanical properties of woven composites during large deformation based on the microstructure of composites, i.e., the dimensions of fibers, yarns and unit cell, the material properties of composite constituents, as well as the orientation of yarns. The modeling strategy starts with a geometrical description of the yarn and the unit cell during a trellising shear deformation. Following this, a mechanistic analysis on a unit cell has been conducted to determine the equivalent shear properties of woven composites used in our non-orthogonal model. Meanwhile, a simple and conventional analytical technique is applied to predict the tensile properties of woven composites. The proposed integrated micro/macro-model shows excellent agreement with the experimental data and the 3D finite element results. Finally, a parametric study is performed using the presented models to investigate the effects of major geometrical parameters and material properties of the constituents on the shear properties of plain weave composites.
Mutations associated with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease cause SIMPLE protein mislocalization and degradation by the proteasome and aggresome-autophagy pathways

Mutations in SIMPLE cause an autosomal dominant, demyelinating form of peripheral neuropathy termed Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1C (CMT1C), but the pathogenic mechanisms of these mutations remain unknown. Here, we report that SIMPLE is an early endosomal membrane protein that is highly expressed in the peripheral nerves and Schwann cells. Our analysis has identified a transmembrane domain (TMD) embedded within the cysteine-rich (C-rich) region that anchors SIMPLE to the membrane, and suggests that SIMPLE is a post-translationally inserted, C-tail-anchored membrane protein. We found that CMT1C-linked pathogenic mutations are clustered within or around the TMD of SIMPLE and that these mutations cause mislocalization of SIMPLE from the early endosome membrane to the cytosol. The CMT1C-associated SIMPLE mutant proteins are unstable and prone to aggregation, and they are selectively degraded by both the proteasome and aggresome–autophagy pathways. Our findings suggest that SIMPLE mutations cause CMT1C peripheral neuropathy by a combination of loss-of-function and toxic gain-of-function mechanisms, and highlight the importance of both the proteasome and autophagy pathways in the clearance of CMT1C-associated mutant SIMPLE proteins.
Oxygen and oxygenation in stem-cell therapy for myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction (MI) is caused by deprivation of oxygen and nutrients to the cardiac tissue due to blockade of coronary artery. It is a major contributor to chronic heart disease, a leading cause of mortality in the modern world. Oxygen is required to meet the constant energy demands for heart contractility, and also plays an important role in the regulation of heart function. However, reoxygenation of the ischemic myocardium upon restoration of blood flow may lead to further injury. Controlled oxygen delivery during reperfusion has been advocated to prevent this consequence. Monitoring the myocardial oxygen concentration would play a vital role in understanding the pathological changes in the ischemic heart following myocardial infarction. During the last two decades, several new techniques have become available to monitor myocardial oxygen concentration in vivo. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) oximetry would appear to be the most promising and reliable of these techniques. EPR utilizes crystalline probes which yield a single sharp line, the width of which is highly sensitive to oxygen tension. Decreased oxygen tension results in a sharpening of the EPR spectrum, while an increase results in widening. In our recent studies, we have used EPR oximetry as a valuable tool to monitor myocardial oxygenation for several applications like ischemia-reperfusion injury, stem-cell therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The results obtained from these studies have demonstrated the importance of tissue oxygen in the application of stem-cell therapy to treat ischemic heart tissues. These results have been summarized in this review article.
Placental mesenchymal dysplasia

Placental mesenchymal dysplasia is a benign condition that can be confused with a molar pregnancy by ultrasound scanning and gross examination. Conservative management should be considered with a normal-appearing singleton fetus and a cystic-appearing placenta. We present a case of placental mesenchymal dysplasia with a favorable outcome.
Validation of Computational Models Based on MultipleHeterogeneous Knowledge Sources

Theories of organizations have brought together multiple heterogeneous theories in computational models. In addition, in artificial intelligence, there has been an emphasis on the generation of knowledge-based systems that include multiple heterogeneous knowledge bases. As a result, increasingly, theory and model developers have called for the need to validate these computational models. Unfortunately, there has been only limited attention given to validation of multiple knowledge source programs. The primary focus of this paper is on the identification of conflict between multiple knowledge bases. The existence of conflict is particularly critical in those situations where database evaluations are “averaged”. For example, what would it mean to average the assessments of supply and demand economists, or surgeons and chemotherapists? Correlational statistics are used to identify conflict situations. In addition, a new approach, referred to as cutpoints, is developed to determine if probability distributions of multiple agents are in conflict. A case study is used to illustrate the problems of combining expertise in multiple agent systems and to demonstrate the approach.
Genomics on Pretreatment Inhibitor Tolerance of Zymomonas mobilis

The development and use of robust ethanologenic microorganisms resistant to industrially relevant pretreatment inhibitors will be a critical component in the successful generation of biofuel on the industrial scale. Recent progress to understand the genetic basis of pretreatment inhibitor tolerance using genomics and systems biology tools for metabolic engineering for the model ethanologenic bacterium Zymomonas mobilis is reviewed in this chapter. The importance of accurate genome annotations and the integration of systems biology data for annotation improvement are highlighted, and case studies that describe the identification and characterization of the Z. mobilis nhaA, hfq, and himA inhibitor tolerance related gene targets are presented.
Genetics in Virology Research

The publication in 2012 of papers by Ron Fouchier and colleagues in Science (1) and Yoshihiro Kawaoka and colleagues in Nature (2) elicited a firestorm of concern about research in which variants of pathogenic microbes with enhanced host-to-host transmission and virulence were selected. The Fouchier and Kawaoka research teams identified mutations in highly pathogenic avian influenza virus A H5N1 that are associated with airborne transmission in ferrets, which are used as animal models for studies of influenza virus transmissibility and pathogenesis. This type of research, which is designated gainof-function (GOF) research, has led to two moratoria in the United States on certain types of experiments with influenza virus, the latest of which is still in effect (3). The current moratorium also includes analogous experiments with highly pathogenic coronaviruses, including those that cause MERS and SARS. The controversy continues with an uncertain timetable for resolution, which has led to alterations in experimental plans and has adversely influenced career choices of young microbiologists (4). Why the controversy? Influenza virus is an important human pathogen. It is spread from human to human by respiratory droplets and causes yearly epidemics of disease. Introduction of new viral subtypes into immunologically naive populations can give rise to much more severe, although less frequent, pandemics with substantial worldwide morbidity and mortality. The 1918 influenza pandemic is thought to have led to 20– 50million global deaths (5). Influenza virus vaccines and antiviral therapeutics are imperfect, in part because of an incomplete understanding of influenza virus biology, pathogenesis, and immunity. The concern with the recent influenza virusGOF research is that a virus generated in the research setting will escape to threaten human health worldwide (6–8). Do GOF approaches have a place in the study of viruses and their biology? And is this type of research new? Fundamentally, two types of genetic approaches can be used to unravel the underlying mechanisms of a biological process: disruption of the process [loss-of-function (LOF) experiments] or enhancement of the process (GOF
Segregated Programs Versus Integrated Comprehensive Service Delivery for All Learners Assessing the Differences

The purpose of this article is to address the principles of a comprehensive whole-school restructuring to serve not only students with disabilities educated in inclusive environments but also all learners who have been labeled to receive services from federally mandated programs, such as special education, limited English, at risk, or Title I. The number of students who qualify for such services is growing. Unfortunately, these students often spend the largest part of their day leaving their classroom to receive special instruction, resulting in a disconnected and fragmented day. We address the outcomes of traditional programs and the underlying principles necessary to support inclusive services versus creating segregated programs. The principles are classified into four cornerstones: core principles, location of services, curriculum and instruction, and funding and policy.
Digitally-bypassed transducers: Interfacing digital mockups to real-time medical equipment

Medical device software is sometimes initially developed by using a PC simulation environment that executes models of both the device and a physiological system, and then later by connecting the actual medical device to a physical mockup of the physiological system. An alternative is to connect the medical device to a digital mockup of the physiological system, such that the device believes it is interacting with a physiological system, but in fact all interaction is entirely digital. Developing medical device software by interfacing with a digital mockup enables development without costly or dangerous physical mockups, and enables execution that is faster or slower than real time. We introduce digitally-bypassed transducers, which involve a small amount of hardware and software additions, and which enable interfacing with digital mockups.
Sedimentary Structures in the Keuper Marl (Upper Triassic)

"Combinations of sedimentary structures in the lacustrine Keuper marl are segregated bathymetrically. Beds deposited below lacustrine wave base are characterized by even bedding, rhythmic lamination, disturbed stratification, graded bedding, load casts, 9pull-apart9 structures, and oscillation ripple marks. Lacustrine beds deposited above wave base contain even bedding, rhythmic lamination, oscillation and interference ripple marks, current lineation, rib-and-furrow structure, groove casts, mudcracks, and raindrop imprints. A marine unit in the Keuper marl is characterized by even bedding, flat-topped oscillation ripple marks, and air-heave structures."
Genetic Basis of Children's Interstitial Lung Disease

Specific genetic causes for children's interstitial lung disease (chILD) have been identified within the past decade. These include deletions of or mutations in genes encoding proteins important in surfactant production and function (SP-B, SP-C, and ABCA3), surfactant catabolism (GM-CSF receptor), as well as transcription factors important for surfactant production (TTF1) or lung development (Fox F1), with heterozygous deletions or loss-of-function mutations of the latter resulting in alveolar capillary dysplasia (ACD) with misalignment of the pulmonary veins. Familial pulmonary fibrosis in adults may result from mutations in genes encoding components of telomerase and SP-A2. While not yet reported in children, the expression of these genes in alveolar type II epithelial cells supports a key role for the disruption of normal homeostasis in this cell type in the pathogenesis of interstitial lung disease. The identification of specific genetic causes for chILD now allows for the possibility of non-invasive diagnosis, and provides insight into basic cellular mechanisms that may allow the development of novel therapies.
Use of Social Networking Sites in the Communication Disorders Classroom

In this article, I describe a web-based national survey to investigate the social networking practices of university faculty in communication disorders and to determine their perspectives on the us...
Overall diet quality and age-related macular degeneration.

Purpose: To examine overall diet quality in relation to advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD).Methods: This case-control study identified 437 advanced AMD patients and 259 unrelated controls using stereoscopic color fundus photographs. Participants were predominantly non-Hispanic White men and women from North Carolina and Tennessee. A 97-item Block food frequency questionnaire was used to gather diet information, and overall diet quality was measured using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) and Alternate Healthy Eating Index (AHEI).Results: Participants in the highest quartile of diet quality had significantly reduced odds of AMD according to the AHEI score (0.54, 95% confidence interval 0.30–0.99) and non-significantly reduced odds of AMD according to the HEI (0.75, 0.41–1.38). Odds of AMD were also 51% lower in the highest quartile of fish intake compared to the lowest quartile (odds ratio = 0.49, 0.26–0.90).Conclusions: We found that advanced AMD was significantly related to overall diet quality...
Alvimopan Use in Laparoscopic and Open Bowel Resections: Clinical Results in a Large Community Hospital System:

Background:Alvimopan has received Food and Drug Administration approval to accelerate the time to upper and lower gastrointestinal recovery following partial large or small bowel resection with primary anastomosis.Objective:To assess the efficacy, safety, and economic benefit of alvimopan in patients undergoing open or laparoscopic bowel resection in a community hospital system setting.Methods:This 6-month, open-label, multi-hospital, prospective study combined with a retrospective chart review compared postoperative length of stay and postoperative ileus-related morbidity (nasogastric tube insertion, hospital read-mission) for patients undergoing open or laparoscopic bowel resection who received alvimopan 12 mg (n = 108) versus historical control bowel resection patients (n = 91) who would have been eligible to receive alvimopan. Multivariate analysis assessed the effects of age and surgery type on postoperative length of stay. Additional-day hospital costs were estimated using ordinary least-squares reg...
High SEPT9_v1 Expression Is Associated with Poor Clinical Outcomes in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The purpose of this work was to determine SEPT9_v1 expression levels in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and to analyze whether SEPT9_v1 expression is relevant to clinical outcomes. Recently, the SEPT9 isoform SEPT9_v1 has been implicated in oncogenesis, and methylation of the SEPT9 promoter region was reported in HNSCC. These findings led us to hypothesize that SEPT9_v1 could be differently expressed in HNSCC. To determine whether SEPT9_v1 is expressed in HNSCC, tissue microarray immunohistochemical analysis was performed using a SEPT9_v1-specific antibody. Tissue microarrays stained with a polyclonal SEPT9_v1-specific antibody was used to determine protein expression levels in HNSCC tissue samples, some with known clinical outcomes. This analysis showed that SEPT9_v1 is in fact highly expressed in HNSCC compared with normal epithelium, and high expression levels directly correlated with poor clinical outcomes. Specifically, a high SEPT9_v1 expression was associated with decreased disease-specific survival (P = .012), time to indication of surgery at primary site (P = .008), response to induction chemotherapy (P = .0002), and response to chemotherapy (P = .02), as well as advanced tumor stage (P = .012) and N stage (P = .0014). The expression of SEPT9_v1 was also strongly correlated with smoking status (P = .00094). SEPT9_v1 is highly expressed in HNSCC, and a high expression of SEPT9_v1 is associated with poor clinical outcomes. These data indicate that SEPT9_v1 warrants additional investigation as a potential biomarker for HNSCC.
Media Bias by the Numbers: Challenges and Opportunities in the Empirical Study of Partisan News

Partisan bias in the news is a perennial matter of concern and debate for scholars, journalists, politicians, and citizens. Although there are abundant opinions about the magnitude, direction, and even existence of media bias, producing a scholarly consensus on the issue has proven difficult for several reasons. In particular, scholars studying media bias empirically must overcome problems of subjectivity, strategic behavior by the actors involved in the process, and especially the absence of suitable baselines against which to assess bias. This article reviews some approaches to studying media bias and explores several promising strategies and tools scholars have developed to help overcome these obstacles. I conclude with suggestions for future research in the area.
What Makes an Antipsychotic ‘Atypical’?

Until recently, antipsychotic drugs were assumed to be generally equivalent in terms of efficacy while adverse effects varied along a relative continuum. Particular compounds did not stand out as being qualitatively different. With the introduction of clozapine, discussions of novel or atypical effects began, and now there is debate as to what criteria should be used to define atypicality. I would argue that the term has served a heuristic function, but is no longer useful.