cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Managed Care Fundamentals: Implications for Health Care Organizations and Health Care Professionals

Managed care is changing our health care delivery system as radically as the computer chip has changed telecommunications. Health care professionals and organizations that do not understand managed care's implications will not be prepared for the future. For example, one implication of managed care is payment capitation, which is the transfer of financial risk from the insurer to the provider. As a result, health care providers, including occupational therapy professionals, need to be better managers of scarce resources by recognizing the cost implications among various alternative procedures while still delivering quality care. Under managed care with capitation, occupational therapists will need to learn to provide services within the parameters of a fixed budget, requiring reengineering of the therapies and processes of care and a considerable reduction in the procedures and modalities for any given treatment or therapy. As a result, patients will be required to do more for themselves, and occupational therapists will have to become better patient educators and motivators. Additionally, managed care will require changes in professional curriculums, emphasis through continuing education, and assimilation of better cost information to practitioners to facilitate decision making. Implications of managed care other than payment capitation are assigning to enrollees a gatekeeper who is responsible for limiting access to costly specialty services, practicing utilization review to audit usage patterns and provide constructive recommendations to reduce costs and improve service quality, and forming networks and associations among medical providers for developing economies of scale and providing an integrated continuum of health care services to enrollees.
A Free Object in Quantum Information Theory

We consider three examples of affine monoids. The first stems from information theory and provides a natural model of image distortion, as well as a higher-dimensional analogue of a binary symmetric channel. The second, from physics, describes the process of teleporting quantum information with a given entangled state. The third is purely a mathematical construction, the free affine monoid over the Klein four group. We prove that all three of these objects are isomorphic.
A composite cyclodespreader and semiblind beamformer for WCDMA

In cellular wideband code-division multiple-access (WCDMA) systems, several transmitted data sequences can be separated because of the unique spreading codes which are designed to be orthogonal. However, cochannel interference and multipath propagation usually destroy this orthogonality at the receiver. We present a composite cyclodespreader that compensates for this distortion by exploiting the cyclostationary property of WCDMA signals, and uses a minimum mean-squareerror criterion to compute a composite despreading code. A semiblind beamformer that utilizes estimated physical channels as an extended training sequence is also employed in the receiver to improve the interference rejection capability in a high interference environment.
Distributed, Integrated, and Collaborative Research Environment (DiCore): An Architectural Design

In this paper, we propose to develop a Distributed, Integrated, and Collaborative Research Environment (DiCore) that may enable a new generation of scientific discovery, learning, and innovation in all scientific areas. DiCore seamlessly integrates a set of carefully selected high quality web-based software tools with ajax-style rich user interfaces. These tools collectively satisfy the daily research needs of researchers. Underneath DiCore is a set of intelligent machine learning and data mining algorithms that are designed to serve researchers, educators, and students in different aspects, such as recommending reading materials based on researchers' interests, and suggesting working research groups. DiCore is a potential enabling research and educational environment that may satisfy our next generation collaborative research and educational needs. A wide range of new collaborative research and educational projects in all areas of computing become possible under DiCore.
Microstructural response of dilute colloidal gels to nonlinear shear deformation

The time-resolved microstructural response of dilute, depletion-induced colloidal gels prepared in a density and refractive index matched solvent, to nonlinear shear deformation was investigated in 3D by fast scanning confocal microscopy in a custom-built cone-and-plate shear cell. Two sets of experiments were performed by manipulating the connectivity of the gel network with the stationary plate, thereby changing the flow boundary conditions. The gel structure evolves from its quiescent state via local rearrangement, rupture, and densification, first to a highly anisotropic network oriented near the extensional component of the shear flow field, and eventually to a mixture comprised of dense clusters and large voids. The transitions between these stages are highly sensitive to the boundary condition at the stationary plate. Our findings indirectly support the notion of soft pivot points along the backbone of dilute colloidal gels with centrosymmetric interactions, and will have important implications for the nonlinear rheology of colloidal gels and other structured fluids.
A HEAT TRANSFER CORRELATION FOR ROTARY STEAM-COIL VACUUM EVAPORATION OF TOMATO PASTE

The rate of heat transfer is required in designing and sizing the heat transfer surface necessary for heat exchangers. A heat transfer correlation equation was determined for a rotary steam-coil vacuum evaporator for concentrating tomato juice at the temperature difference of 120–130°F. A Nusselt-type dimensionless equation was obtained as follows: hoDt/k = 0.60 XS-2.5 1 (ρND2c/μ)0.6 2 (cpμ/k)1/3μ/μW)0,14 in which ho is the film coefficient for the product side of coil surface; Dc is the ouside diameter of rotary coil; Dt is the inside diameter of the mixing vessel; k is the thermal conductivity; XS is the solids content in decimal; ρ is the density; N is the speed of the rotary coil; μ is the viscosity; and cp is the specific heat. All fluid properties were evaluated at the arithmetic mean temperature of the bulk fluid and the wall except the μW which was evaluated at the wall temperature. The Reynolds number is in the range of 1–200 and solids content 20–50%.
Low-Power Bus Transform Coding for Multilevel Signals

In this paper, we propose a novel extension of Bus-Invert coding to handle 4-level pulse amplitude modulated (PAM-4) signals. A generalized mathematical model for energy consumption and energy dissipation for PAM-4 signals is presented and a family of coding schemes are developed that can reduce the average power consumption and dissipation by up to 54% compared to un-coded PAM-4 buses. This technique is attractive for high-speed data transmission systems that employ PAM-4 signals on general high capacitance buses such as global wires, off-chip buses, I/O and backplanes.
The Method of Multiple Hypotheses A Neglected Research Strategy in Family Studies

The field of family studies would be enhanced by more systematic use of the method of multiple hypotheses. Multiple interpretations of family phenomena need to be considered routinely. Conceptual hypotheses should more frequently be designed to disconfirm theoretical expectations or to pit competing explanations against one another. Theories need to be bolder, particularly in the sense that they should aim to make counterintuitive and more precise predictions. This article elaborates such a view and relates it to philosophy of science (especially Popper and Kuhn), to current practice in family studies, to factors that inhibit attempts to disconfirm existing interpretations, and to implications for research and for theory development in family studies.
Error Analysis for Vector Scope Measurement of Pulmonary Mechanics

The errors that are incurred by misreading the angle on the oscilloscope face in the determination of pulmonary compliance, resistance, and functional residual capacity with a vector scope are presented. Results indicate that the calculated value will be within 10% of the correct value, provided that the oscilloscope angle is between 10.5 and 78.5 degrees, and the reading error is less than 1 degree.
Representin(g) Negotiating Multiple Roles and Identities in the Field and Behind the Desk

In this article, the author examines the dilemmas that emerged in his role as teacher-researcher in Hip-Hop Lit, a hip-hop-centered literature class within an evening education program. Specifically, the author examines the complex and often competing roles and identities that he performed within the research context, as well as during the process of ethnographic writing. The author details how these roles and identities were mediated by the various allegiances, commitments, and beliefs that prompted the study, as well as those that developed in response to the relationships that were forged with research participants. The article argues for a constant reflection on and response to issues of identity, authority, and power while in the field and “behind the desk.”
REVIEW OF THE PHILIPPINE GENERA CHROTOMYS AND CELAENOMYS (MURINAE) AND DESCRIPTION OF A NEW SPECIES

The murine genera Celaenomys and Chrotomys comprise a group of semifossorial, vermivorous rodents endemic to the Philippines. Analysis of variation within this group supports the recognition of 4 named species occurring on the large islands of Luzon and Mindoro, as well as our description of a 5th species from Sibuyan, a small island in the central Philippines that has remained isolated from the other islands by deep water channels. Examination of cytochrome-b gene sequence data from 4 of the 5 taxa indicates that Celaenomys silaceus may be basal and sister to the other taxa but morphological and chromosomal data do not support the recognition of Celaenomys as a separate genus. Analysis of the sequence data indicates a relatively early separation of the Sibuyan species and a later split between 2 species of Chrotomys on Luzon. Diversification of Chrotomys appears to have involved speciation associated with both habitat vicariance on Luzon and overwater dispersal to neighboring islands. Most of the members of this clade are restricted to mid- or high-elevation forests, have limited geographic ranges within the archipelago, and some may be imperiled due to loss of natural habitat.
Relative magnitude of tonic and phasic synaptic excitation of medullary inspiratory neurons in dogs.

The relative contribution of phasic and tonic excitatory synaptic drives to the augmenting discharge patterns of inspiratory (I) neurons within the ventral respiratory group (VRG) was studied in an...
Preschoolers' Mind‐related Comments During Collaborative Problem‐solving: Parental Contributions and Developmental Outcomes

Preschool children's mind-related comments were analyzed during collaborative problem-solving interactions with mothers and fathers, and in relation to parental mind-mindedness (MM) and children's concurrent theory of mind (ToM). Seventy-two parents (36 fathers, 36 mothers) and their four-year-olds participated. Parents' comments to encourage independent thinking and children's own mind-related comments were expected to mediate, in serial, the relationship between parental MM and children's ToM. The proposed model of mediation received empirical confirmation. In addition, mothers and fathers were found to perform similarly on two measures of MM and in their usage of autonomy promoting and control comments. Finally, no differences were found in the frequency of children's mind-related comments during interactions with fathers and mothers.
Level set jet schemes for stiff advection equations: The semijet method

Abstract Many interfacial phenomena in physical and biological systems are dominated by high order geometric quantities such as curvature. Here a semi-implicit method is combined with a level set jet scheme to handle stiff nonlinear advection problems. The new method offers an improvement over the semi-implicit gradient augmented level set method previously introduced by requiring only one smoothing step when updating the level set jet function while still preserving the underlying methods higher accuracy. Sample results demonstrate that accuracy is not sacrificed while strict time step restrictions can be avoided.
Modeling of Biomass Char Gasification, Combustion, and Attrition Kinetics in Fluidized Beds

Char conversion is one of the most pivotal factors governing the effectiveness of fluidized bed gasification systems. Gasification-assisted attrition is a phenomenon whereby heterogeneous reactions progressively weaken a char’s structure throughout its lifetime leading to enhanced attrition and the production of a significant fraction of fines that exit the reactor unconverted. While this effect has been observed and measured experimentally, few models have been developed to quantitatively account for it, particularly for biomass chars. In this study, a transient gasification and combustion particle model is presented to describe primary fragmentation, attrition, and heterogeneous reactions of a single batch of particles. A conversion-dependent structural function is proposed to describe gasification-assisted attrition, and the model parameters are fitted to published experimental data from Ammendola, P.; Chirone, R.; Ruoppolo, G.; Scala, F. Proc. Combust. Inst. 2013, 34 (2), 2735–2740. The fragile struct...
Study of the photocycle of the metastable states of SRII and their mutants with the use of light activated NMR spectroscopy

Sensory rhodopsin II (SRII) is a seven helix protein that belongs to the rhodopsin protein family. Light induced conformational changes govern SRII's function. These changes are related to the photo cycle of the protein that is comprised of various metastable states. After the completion of this cycle the protein returns to its ground state. Mutational studies of key residues will reveal the mechanism that underlies the function of the protein. The result will allow us to determine key structures at various PHs involved in the photo cycle of SRII and to understand the protein's function and mechanism.
Asymmetric Information in Dynamic Contract Settings: Evidence from the Home Equity Credit Market

We analyze more than 108,000 home equity loans and lines of credits to study the role of information asymmetry in a credit market where borrowers face a menu of contract options and a lender uses a counteroffer to further mitigate contract frictions. Our results reveal that a less credit-worthy applicant is more likely to select a credit contract that requires less collateral. Further analysis on borrower repayment behavior ex post indicates that the lender may face adverse selection due to private information, controlling for observable risk attributes. We also find that systematic screening ex ante by a lender to mitigate contract frictions can effectively reduce overall credit losses ex post.
Localization of the site of action of triamterene diuretic.

SummaryThe pteridine compound triamterene was studied in 11 dogs using the stop flow method. These data support the hypothesis that the site of action of triamterene is the distal tubule of the kidney and that triamterene produces its natriuretic effect by reducing Na reabsorption in this area. No evidence was obtained for a proximal renal tubular effect.
EVIDENCE FOR A MOSAIC HYBRID ZONE IN THE GRASS SHRIMP PALAEMONETES KADIAKENSIS (PALAEMONIDAE) AS REVEALED BY MULTIPLE GENETIC MARKERS.

Molecular techniques provide powerful tools for studying the geographic structure of hybrid zones and the dynamics of gene exchange between incipient species. We examined allozyme variation at five loci (PGM, GPI, MDH-1, MDH-2, and LDH) for 27 populations of Palaemonetes kadiakensis from the central, coastal, and eastern regions of Texas. Central Texas populations of P. kadiakensis exhibited highly significant linkage disequilibrium and departures from Hardy-Weinberg genotype proportions. In populations with linkage disequilibrium, allelic differences at GPI defined two types of P. kadiakensis, designated A and B. Both types existed in central Texas with little or no evidence of interbreeding, whereas the populations from all other localities showed complete introgression of type B alleles into the type A gene pool. We also examined ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation in a subset of populations, chosen to cover a range of geographic locations and levels of linkage disequilibrium. Two groups of mtDNA haplotypes and two restriction fragment patterns for the rDNA corresponded to allozyme type A and B individuals in populations exhibiting linkage disequilibrium. In populations with ongoing hybridization, all hybrid animals (N= 15) exhibited type A mtDNA. Exhibition of type A mtDNA indicated that type A females had mated successfully with type B males, but type B females had not mated successfully with type A males. Genotype distributions suggest reduced reproduction by hybrid offspring in central Texas populations. These patterns are consistent with a mosaic model of hybrid zone dynamics.
Preliminary Report on the Control of the Gladiolus Thrips on Corms in Storage

Results are given on tests with various corm treatments, including heat, fumigants, insecticidal and fungicidal dips, dusts, and smudges, with reference to the mortality of the gladiolus thrips ( Taeniothrips gladioli ) and the effect on the corms and succeeding growth.
Neural network approximation of mixed continuous/discrete systems in multidiscplinary design

A multidisciplinary design optimization framework suitable for application to mixed continuous/discrete systems has been developed. This framework, called Concurrent Subspace Design, employs artificial neural networks to provide response surface approximations. A concise metric indicating how accurately a neural network is able to approximate the design space was defined and used to assess different networks, which were obtained by varying the amount of data considered in their construction and the means by which discrete design variables are represented in them. Results demonstrate that this framework is able to locate optimal designs and that its computational requirements are related to to some degree to the database used in formulating the neural network approximations.
Effects of MgO Content in Sinter on Softening- Dripping Behavior of Vanadium- Titanium Magnetite Composite Burdens

Effects of Mg O content in sinter on softening-dripping behavior of vanadium-titanium magnetite composite burden and the migration patterns of V,Cr in slag-iron were studied. The results showed that with the increasing of Mg O in sinter,the softening range t40- t4 tends to be wider,the melting range tD- tSis narrowed slightly. The cohesive zone tends to be narrowand its location is shifted down but not obvious. Softening-dripping characteristics S decreases at first then increases,the permeability tends to be better then worse,when the content of Mg O is between2. 98% and 3. 40%,the permeability is the best. The dripping ratio tends to be declining; when Mg O is increased,it is not conducive to the reduction of V,Cr. The optimal content of Mg O in the sinter is around 3. 40% and the content of Mg O in BF slag is about 12%.
Scintigraphic and hemodynamic demonstration of transient left ventricular dysfunction immediately after uncomplicated coronary artery bypass grafting.

The immediate effects of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) on left ventricular function were assessed by serial hemodynamic and scintigraphic (Sc) measurements obtained before operation, immediately (I to 5 hours), and up to 3 days after operation in 30 patients. Multiple gated Sc ejection fractions (EF) were obtained in 23 of the 30 patients by means of Sc camera, computer, and in vitro tagged red blood cells. Surgical techniques included use of systemic hypothermia (20° to 28° C.) and intermittent aortic cross-clamping without chemical cardioplegia. One patient had a perioperative myocardial infarction. Cardiac index decreased immediately after operation (2.41 ± 0.08, mean ± S.E.M., to 2.12 ± 0.07 L./min./M.2, p
Origins of tooth pulp-evoked far-field and early near-field potentials in the cat

Electrical stimulation of the mandibular canine tooth pulp in barbiturate-anesthetized cats activated myelinated A-beta-fibers in the inferior alveolar (dental) nerve and evoked a complex pattern of short-latency potentials that were recorded epidurally from the cortex. Three far-field components ( FFPs designated I, IIa,b, and IIIa,b) and two early near-field components ( ENFPs designated P1 and N1) were identified from computer-averaged potentials recorded over the contralateral lateral sigmoid gyrus or ipsilateral presylvian /anterior coronal gyri. Several corroborative lines of evidence indicated that tooth pulp-evoked FFPs and ENFPs originate from the following generator sources: I, inferior alveolar (dental) nerve/semilunar (gasserian) ganglion; IIa,b, trigeminal lemniscal fibers from the principal (main) sensory nucleus; IIIa,b, thalamocortical fibers from the thalamic ventral posteromedial nucleus; P1, N1, cytoarchitectural area 3 on the banks of the coronal or orbital sulcus. The latencies and waveforms of volume-conducted, surface-recorded potentials were not significantly different from those recorded at putative generator sites along the trigeminal lemniscal projection system. The short latencies and distribution of surface- and depth-recorded tooth pulp-evoked potentials suggested bilateral, trisynaptic paths from peripheral nerve to cortical neurons. Amplitude measurements of FFPs and ENFPs recorded at the cortical, epidural surface were compared to calculated values based on a mathematical model of two concentric spheres of inhomogeneous media in which a single equivalent dipole is radially oriented at some distance from the center. The morphology and distribution of FFPs and ENFPs are discussed in relationship to source geometry. Surface- and depth-recorded tooth pulp-evoked potentials had recovery functions that were covariant with rates of stimulation. In addition, stimulation of putative generator sites along the trigeminal lemniscal system reproduced portions of the tooth pulp-evoked surface-recorded potentials. Selective ablation of trigeminal cortical area 3 abolished ENFPs and lesions of lemniscal brain stem sites abolished FFPs . Disruption of extralemniscal brain stem sites had no effect on the surface-recorded evoked potentials examined. These findings and other supporting evidence from previous studies imply that the projection of fast-conducting tooth pulp input to the cortex may subserve a nonnociceptive modality and participate in sensorimotor integration.
Pulmonary Mucormycosis Caused by Cunninghamella elegans in a Patient with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia

Cunninghamella elegans was cultured from autopsy materials of the infected lung of a patient with chronic myelogenous leukemia. The histologic sections revealed extensive growth of nonseptate, broad hyphae in and about the large and small arteries and veins, occluding the vessels. This case is believed to be the second in which human infection by C. elegans has been documented.
The Incest Motif in Lessing's Nathan Der Weise and Schiller's Bra Ut Von Messina

(1967). The Incest Motif in Lessing's Nathan Der Weise and Schiller's Bra Ut Von Messina. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 42, No. 3, pp. 184-196.
Biases in Accounting and Nonaccounting Information: Substitutes or Complements?

ABSTRACT This paper studies how bias in nonaccounting and in accounting information should be related. Bias in accounting information is modeled, as in some recent literature, as an alteration in the relative information content of accounting numbers. The optimal bias in one type of information is shown to be a complement of the bias in the other type. This result can be applied in various settings to explain a number of phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Self-knowledge and character formation: Teaching to students’ weaknesses:

This article considers David Brooks’ recent New York Times bestseller, The Road to Character, in light of Christian thinkers on the connection between virtue and suffering, specifically Dante and St John of the Cross. By putting Brooks in conversation with the Christian tradition, I show how his ideas, specifically his assertion that the mark of character is the willingness to encounter one’s weaknesses, can be used by teachers concerned with cultivating virtue and character in their students. I argue that teaching to students’ weaknesses, not only their strengths, is a significant way educators can cultivate virtue by helping students to understand their limitations. Students’ growth in knowing their limitations and weaknesses is a kind of self-knowledge that points them inward ultimately to help them look beyond themselves and toward lives of service.
Role of tyrosine phosphorylation in malignant transformation by viruses and in cellular growth control.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the role of tyrosine phosphorylation in malignant transformation by viruses and in cellular growth control. Tyrosine protein-kinases appear to be essential cellular gene products. The regulated phosphorylation of tyrosine in proteins has been implicated in growth control and the organization of cytoskeleton in normal cells. The molecular basis for transformation by some acutely transforming retroviruses may involve unscheduled phosphorylation of cellular proteins on tyrosine. One indication of this is that cells transformed by these viruses have phosphotyrosine levels in protein five to ten fold higher than the parental untransformed cells. Moreover, the transforming proteins of these viruses have an associated tyrosine-specific protein-kinase activity. All acutely transforming retroviruses contain in their genomes sequences recognizable as having been derived from the genome of a normal cell. These cellular sequences are responsible for the oncogenic potential of these viruses, encoding at least part of their transforming proteins. The group of viruses whose transforming proteins have associated tyrosine protein-kinase activity can be subdivided into five classes representing five distinguishable types of cellular sequence. The onc genes corresponding to these cellular sequences are src, fps or fes, yes, ros, and abl . In addition to these five genes, evidence is mounting that the genes encoding certain growth-factor receptors may also specify tyrosine protein-kinases. There are strong indications that the epidermal growth factor receptor has intrinsic tyrosine protein-kinase activity.
Potassium Channel Regulation

In this article we compare mechanisms that regulate potassium channels of the Kv1 and Kv2 subfamilies. In situ hybridization and immunocytochemical studies indicate that transcriptional and posttranscriptional mechanisms play important roles because channel gene expression occurs in cell-specific and developmentally specific patterns; little is known about this level of control for Kv1 and Kv2 genes. However, recent studies indicate that posttranslational mechanisms exert strong control over Kv1 and Kv2 channels by regulating processes such as surface membrane insertion, subcellular localization, and phosphorylation. Each identified regulatory mechanisms targets a specific Kv1 or Kv2 subunit, allowing control over the select subset of neurons expressing the subunit. Moreover, because each Kv1 and Kv2 channel displays a unique subcellular localization, subunit-specific regulatory mechanisms allow control of excitability in specific neuronal compartments such as the axon or dendrite.
Coping Strategies of Older American Korean War Veterans: A Mixed Research Study

ABSTRACTFor American Korean War veterans, military service during wartime is a major life-changing experience across their lifespan. Research on them, while they are still living, is critical to understanding how older veterans have dealt with social adjustment after the war and in their later lives. This study examined the impact of military experience and social support upon coping strategies of older veterans. Both surveys and focus groups were conducted to collect data from 20 American Korean War veterans and 22 older non-veterans. Our findings indicate that the American Korean War Veterans Association has been a critical source of social support for veteran participants, leading them into more adaptive coping strategies. Focusing upon positive adaptation after traumatic events is a recommended shift of practice for helping professionals. More implications of the activity professionals were discussed.
Identifying Misalignments between Public Participation Process and Context in Urban Development

Public participation is a common element in state-of-the-art urban development projects. Tailoring the public participation process to the local context is a popular strategy for ensuring sufficient turnout and meaningful engagement, but this strategy faces several challenges. Through a review of case studies of public participation in urban development projects, we identify ten typical misalignments between the public participation process and the local context, including the lack of policy maker support, adverse personal circumstances of participants, low collaborative capacity, and mistrust, among others. When a public participation process is not aligned to the local context, the process may generate outcomes that compromise public interests, inequitably distribute benefits among stakeholders, or favor powerful private interests. This study offers caution and guidance to planning practitioners and researchers on how to contextualize public participation in urban development projects through the categorization of common misalignments that ought to be avoided.
Adding sparkle to social coding: an empirical study of repository badges in the npm ecosystem

In fast-paced, reuse-heavy, and distributed software development, the transparency provided by social coding platforms like GitHub is essential to decision making. Developers infer the quality of projects using visible cues, known as signals, collected from personal profile and repository pages. We report on a large-scale, mixed-methods empirical study of npm packages that explores the emerging phenomenon of repository badges, with which maintainers signal underlying qualities about their projects to contributors and users. We investigate which qualities maintainers intend to signal and how well badges correlate with those qualities. After surveying developers, mining 294,941 repositories, and applying statistical modeling and time-series analyses, we find that non-trivial badges, which display the build status, test coverage, and up-to-dateness of dependencies, are mostly reliable signals, correlating with more tests, better pull requests, and fresher dependencies. Displaying such badges correlates with best practices, but the effects do not always persist.
Glial cells in the heart? Replicating the diversity of the myocardium with low-cost 3D models

Excitation-contraction (EC) coupling in the heart has, until recently, been solely accredited to cardiomyocytes. The inherent complexities of the heart make it difficult to examine non-muscle contributions to contraction in vivo , and conventional in vitro models fail to capture multiple features and cellular heterogeneity of the myocardium. Here, we report on the development of a 3D cardiac μTissue towards recapitulating the architecture and composition of native myocardium in vitro . Cells are encapsulated within micropatterned gelatin-based hydrogels formed via visible light photocrosslinking. This system enables spatial control of cardiac microarchitecture, perturbation of the cellular composition, and functional measures of EC coupling via video microscopy and a custom algorithm to quantify beat frequency and degree of coordination. To demonstrate the robustness of these tools and evaluate the impact of altered cell population densities on cardiac μTissues, contractility and cell morphology were assessed with the inclusion of exogenous non-myelinating Schwann cells (SCs). Results demonstrate that the addition of exogenous SCs alter cardiomyocyte EC, profoundly inhibiting the response to electrical pacing. Computational modeling of connexin-mediated coupling suggests that SCs impact cardiomyocyte resting potential and rectification following depolarization. Cardiac μTissues hold potential for examining the role of cellular heterogeneity in heart health, pathologies, and cellular therapies.
The Contribution of Autoimmunity to Chagas Heart Disease

There are many potential mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of chagasic heart disease. The frequent absence of parasites from the inflamed heart tissue of chronically infected individuals suggests that the disease may be, in part, autoimmune in nature. Mechanisms to explain the induction of T. cruzi induced autoimmunity include (i) polyclonal lymphocyte activation, induced by the parasite, (ii) bystander activation induced by tissue damage and stimulation of normally tolerant, self-reactive lymphocytes, (iii) altered antigen processing leading to the generation and presentation of “cryptic self epitopes,” and (iv) molecular mimicry, immunity to a parasite epitope that cross-reacts with a self epitope that “mimics” it. The genetics of host and parasite also determine susceptibility to T. cruzi induced autoimmunity. To date, there is little evidence that the T. cruzi induced autoimmunity directly causes pathology in human Chagas disease or even in mouse models of the disease. Therefore, public health interventions should focus on control of the insects that transmit the parasite, development of parasiticidal drugs and vaccines, and testing of blood products since they are important sources of potential new infections.
Computable General Equilibrium Modeling of Electric Utility Lifeline Losses from Earthquakes

Losses from earthquakes are usually associated with building and other property damage. However, many businesses are forced to shut down, even if physically unscathed, when suppliers of lifeline services or other inputs are disrupted, or if their employees are unable to reach the workplace. Likewise, businesses may be forced to curtail operations if orders for their products are canceled by their customers, or if they are unable to deliver their products to market. Moreover, these impacts pertain not only to immediate suppliers and customers, but to successive rounds of upstream or downstream links. The totality of these impacts is some multiple of the businesses directly impacted, hence the typical application of some form of “multiplier” analysis.
A Screening Test for Assessing Iron Status

Intervention strategies to combat iron deficiency anemia in developing countries may hasten the development of iron overload in patients with an inherited defect in hemoglobin synthesis. This risk could be diminished if there was a rapid and simple method available for detecting iron overload in population screening programs. We have developed such a method, which is in effect a semiquantitative ferritin measurement based on a modification of a two-site enzyme-linked immunoassay. The assay requires only 2 drops of whole blood and a total incubation time of 90 min. The procedure, which can readily distinguish iron deficiency from even a modest increase in storage iron, has a potentially wide application in settings where a prompt assessment of iron status is required.
Welfare Fair Hearings and Client Advocacy: A Role for Social Workers

As a legally mandated grievance mechanism, welfare fair hearings provide a formal recourse for applicants and recipients of welfare dissatisfied with agency decisions. Fair hearings may be viewed as an example of one agency's attempt to foster fairness and to control administrative discretion. However, as a mechanism for redressing grievances, welfare fair hearings have a number of severe limitations. Social workers practicing with potential and actual recipients of public welfare are in a position to reduce these limitations through client advocacy. Advocacy, a concept social work borrowed from the legal profession, includes advancing the client's cause through the presentation of facts and arguments. Securing benefits to which the client is legally entitled is often the goal of these advocacy efforts.1 One arena forcase advocacy frequently overlooked by social workers is the administrative grievance machinery established by agencies charged with dispensing governmental benefits. These agencies have placed consideable reliance on the development of adjudicatory procedures to insure administrative justice. A variety of adjudicatory procedures have been developed by government
Model Predictive Control of Building On/Off HVAC Systems to Compensate Fluctuations in Solar Power Generation

Ahstract-The high variability in solar photovoltaic (PV) power production causes voltage variations temporally and spatially on distribution feeders and substations. To tackle this problem, we propose absorbing most of the PV power generation locally by building loads such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units to minimize the impact on the grid and reduce the need for large energy storage devices. In this paper, we formulate a mixed integer quadratic optimization problem to optimally dispatch a fleet of on/off HVAC units to consume most of PV power generation locally while maintaining occupants comfort and hardware constraints. On/off HVAC units are widely available in residential buildings in addition to many small to medium size commercial buildings. Simulation results show that by assigning the proper number of aggregated HVAC units, the proposed mechanism achieves good PV tracking performance without jeopardizing occupants comfort. This study concludes that most of the PV generation can be consumed by building loads with the help of proper control strategies, thereby permitting to increase solar PV penetration levels.
Congruences modulo primes of the Romik sequence related to the Taylor expansion of the Jacobi theta constant {\theta}_3

Recently, Romik determined in [9] the Taylor expansion of the Jacobi theta constant \theta_3, around the point x = 1. He discovered a new integer sequence, (d(n))_0^\infty=1, 1, -1, 51, 849, -26199, \dots, from which the Taylor coefficients are built, and conjectured that the numbers d(n) satisfy certain congruences modulo various primes. In this paper, we prove some of these conjectures, for example that d(n)\equiv (-1)^{n+1}(mod 5) for all n\geq 1,and that for any prime p\equiv 3 (mod 4), d(n) vanishes modulo p for all large enough n.
Animal Model of Chronic Tympanic Membrane Perforation

Chronic tympanic membrane perforations (TMP) can be a source of significant morbidity from hearing loss, recurrent middle ear infections, changes in lifestyle, and risk of cholesteatoma formation. Laboratory experiments of TMP have been fraught by the rapid and high rate of spontaneous healing observed in animal models. There is controversy on the minimal time that perforations in animal models must have in order to be considered chronic TMP and thus have clinical relevance, with authors suggesting time periods of perforation patency of 8-12 weeks. In this article, we sought to create a clinically significant experimental model that could yield a high rate of perforation patency for at least 8 weeks. Animals undergoing acute TMP were exposed to three different experimental situations to delay the healing of the perforation: fractionated radiation, topical lipopolysaccharide application, and a combined dexamethasone and mitomycin C (DXM/MC) solution. In our study, the use of DXM/MC reliably produced TMP lasting at least 8 weeks in 86.48% of the cases without the need to reopen the perforation, infolding the edges of the membrane, or using physical barriers to prevent TMP closure. Histologically, the resulting perforated tympanum showed hyaline changes of the remnant tympanum and hyperkeratosis of the squamous epithelia of the external auditory canal. We believe that this model is reproducible and has potential use in experiments of delayed healing of TMP. Anat Rec, 303:619-625, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy.
Regenerative Therapies for Chronic Intradiscal Pain

Intervertebral disc degeneration involves a complex interaction of various processes including cell loss, inflammation, and matrix degradation. Many patients suffer relapsing and chronic back pain despite conservative and interventional treatment. Procedures including steroid injection, electrothermal therapy, and surgery have been met with challenges including lack of robust or long-term efficacy. The immunomodulatory and trophic effects of regenerative therapies have shown significant promise and attracted considerable interest from researchers, clinicians, and patients. Intradiscal injection of mesenchymal stem cell products and platelet-rich plasma is being studied increasingly by pain physicians as a novel therapy for the treatment of discogenic pain. Published studies in preclinical and human models demonstrate encouraging results, but well-powered, high-quality studies are needed to properly evaluate the safety and efficacy of such treatments. Regenerative therapies with bone marrow aspirate concentrate and platelet-rich plasma are offered in point-of-care settings. Treatments involving more sophisticated mesenchymal stem cells prepared with culture expansion or genetic modification are currently offered only in clinical trial settings with FDA approval.
Performance of ultrasound for the visualization of the placental cord insertion.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this review was to review the literature on the performance of ultrasound for the visualization of the placental cord insertion (PCI) and for the diagnosis of abnormal placental cord insertion (APCI). APCI included both marginal cord insertion (MCI) and velamentous cord insertion (VCI) PCI. RECENT FINDINGS The overall rate of visualization of the PCI across all trimesters is 90.3% and for those studies routinely using color Doppler, 98.1% (P < 0.0001). Although the visualization was lower with advancing gestational age, it remained high even into the late third trimester. In all studies, where time was reported, the PCI was visualized in most cases in less than 1 min. Ultrasound performed best for the diagnosis of VCI with a sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value of 100, 99.9 and 85.7%, respectively, with routine use of color Doppler. SUMMARY Ultrasound is an excellent screening test for the evaluation of PCI across all trimesters. The use of color Doppler increases the rate of visualization and should be routinely used. Ultrasound with color Doppler is also an excellent screening test for the diagnosis of VCI. However, the performance of ultrasound is reduced with the inclusion of MCI.
Melanoma of the External Auditory Canal: A Review of Seven Cases at a Tertiary Care Referral Center.

Objectives/hypothesis Examine the presentation and management characteristics of seven patients with melanoma of the external auditory canal (EAC). Study design Retrospective case series and review of the relevant literature. Methods Records of seven patients from 2003 to 2017 with melanoma of the EAC were reviewed for characteristics of presentation, subsequent management, and outcomes. A thorough review of relevant literature is presented. Results The median age is 52 years, with four females. The average Breslow depth was 3.6 mm, with five patients having a Clark level IV or greater on presentation. Six patients underwent lateral temporal bone resection, and one patient underwent wide local excision of the cartilaginous canal. Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) was performed in three patients. Three patients experienced distant recurrence an average of 20 months following primary therapy. Median follow-up was 21 months. At last follow-up, four were free of disease, one had active disease, and two were deceased from melanoma. Conclusions This is the largest series and the first to report the use of SLNB for patients with EAC melanoma in the peer-reviewed literature. Patients with external auditory canal melanoma present with higher Breslow thickness and stage relative to all external ear melanomas. Management should include wide local excision, which entails lateral temporal bone resection when the bony ear canal is involved. SLNB has a critical role in identifying patients with early metastatic disease. Postoperative radiation therapy should be considered for patients with high-risk features to reduce the risk of locoregional relapse. Chemotherapy, and especially immunotherapy, has an emerging role for this disease. Level of evidence 4 Laryngoscope, 131:165-172, 2021.
Problems in the Diagnostics and Treatment of Transtiretinum Amyloidosis with Heart Disease in the Elderly: Clinical Experience

The article presents a modern understanding of the treatment of cardiac amyloidosis and provides data on the frequency of occurrence, classification, and variants of clinical manifestations of transthyretin amyloidosis. This pathology is a slowly progressive disease, the symptoms of which usually appear in elderly and senile age. This diagnosis may become more common in the future as the population ages and diagnostic methods improve. A description of the clinical case of transtritin amyloidosis of the heart in a 77-year-old patient, which occurred with a primary lesion of the heart and symptoms of chronic heart failure, is given as an illustration that shows the difficulties in the lifetime diagnosis of transthyretin amyloidosis.
Technologies of the Novel: Quantitative Data and the Evolution of Literary Systems

Based on a systematic sampling of nearly 2000 French and English novels from 1601 to 1830, this book's foremost aim is to ask precisely how the novel evolved. Instead of simply 'rising', as scholars have been saying for some sixty years, the novel is in fact a system in constant flux, made up of artifacts – formally distinct novel types – that themselves rise, only to inevitably fall. Nicholas D. Paige argues that these artifacts are technologies, each with traceable origins, each needing time for adoption (at the expense of already developed technologies) and also for abandonment. Like technological waves in more physical domains, the rises and falls of novelistic technologies don't happen automatically: writers invent and adopt literary artifacts for many diverse reasons. However, looking not at individual works but at the novel as a patterned system provides a startlingly persuasive new way of understanding the history and evolution of artforms.