cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Philosophy of Technology

Great minds have been considering technology since far before Socrates and Plato argued over the advent of the written word. To collect all of these ideas into one publication would be quite an ambitious feat. However, in this section we can take very brief bits of influence from some of the media and technology philosophers who have made a significant contribution to their fields and consider them in our context of the sustainable Web ecosystem. Certainly this is neither an exhaustive list of relevant philosophers nor the ideas toward the study and understanding of the impact of a sustainable Web ecosystem, but this section is a very basic introduction to some of the ideas. This section can be used as a springboard of sorts to further study around the ideas of media theory and the philosophy of technology. At any rate, an open mind to some of these ideas is a necessary node that must be considered when mapping the anatomy of sustainable Web ecosystem design.
Brain Password: A Secure and Truly Cancelable Brain Biometrics for Smart Headwear

In recent years, biometric techniques (e.g., fingerprint or iris) are increasingly integrated into mobile devices to offer security advantages over traditional practices (e.g., passwords and PINs) due to their ease of use in user authentication. However, existing biometric systems are with controversy: once divulged, they are compromised forever - no one can grow a new fingerprint or iris. This work explores a truly cancelable brain-based biometric system for mobile platforms (e.g., smart headwear). Specifically, we present a new psychophysiological protocol via non-volitional brain response for trustworthy mobile authentication, with an application example of smart headwear. Particularly, we address the following research challenges in mobile biometrics with a theoretical and empirical combined manner: (1) how to generate reliable brain responses with sophisticated visual stimuli; (2) how to acquire the distinct brain response and analyze unique features in the mobile platform; (3) how to reset and change brain biometrics when the current biometric credential is divulged. To evaluate the proposed solution, we conducted a pilot study and achieved an f -score accuracy of 95.46% and equal error rate (EER) of 2.503%, thereby demonstrating the potential feasibility of neurofeedback based biometrics for smart headwear. Furthermore, we perform the cancelability study and the longitudinal study, respectively, to show the effectiveness and usability of our new proposed mobile biometric system. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first in-depth research study on truly cancelable brain biometrics for secure mobile authentication.
Quantifying atherosclerosis by "3D" ultrasound works!: But there is work to be done.

Imaging-based assessment of atherosclerosis to predict incident cardiovascular disease (CVD) instead of a risk factor–based approach has been proposed as a way to implement preventive intervention and thwart the increasing CVD toll [(1)][1]. Intima-media thickness (IMT) of exposed large vessels,
A Systematic Review of Micronutrient Deficiencies in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Background This systematic review critically analyzes the current research on micronutrient deficiency in children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and synthesizes these data to provide evidence-based guidelines for nutritional surveillance in this population. Methods We searched 5 databases (Ovid Medline, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library) for studies evaluating micronutrients in patients with IBD using the following inclusion criteria: 1) original research, 2) published 1996 or later; 3) published in English; 4) human subjects; and 5) containing pediatric data. Studies were reviewed and included based on the strength of research methods. Data on the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies in pediatric patients with IBD and risk factors for micronutrient deficiency in these patients were extracted from included studies and compared and discussed in preparation of the proposed guidelines and manuscript. Results A total of 39 studies were included in the final review. The data presented in these studies show that iron deficiency and vitamin D deficiency are common in pediatric patients with IBD. Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency are rare. Zinc deficiency, while not common, occurs at a higher rate in patients with Crohn's disease than in healthy controls. There was limited data on vitamins A, E, and C, and selenium, but deficiency of these micronutrients seems rare. Conclusions We recommend annual surveillance of iron and vitamin D in pediatric patients with IBD regardless of disease activity or phenotype. Zinc should be monitored annually in patients with Crohn's disease. There is insufficient evidence to support routine screening for other micronutrient deficiencies.
The Influence of Active Gaming on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Black and Hispanic Youth.

BACKGROUND Youth in the United States have low levels of cardiorespiratory fitness, a risk factor for childhood obesity. Lower levels of physical fitness for black and Hispanic youth contribute to health disparities. In this feasibility study, we examined active video games (AVGs) as a tool to improve fitness and attitudes toward physical activity during early adolescence. METHOD A 6-week AVG program took place in a youth development program in a high-poverty neighborhood in New York City. Youth aged 10 to 15 years (50% overweight or obese) participated in 2 fitness tests and completed surveys that captured barriers to physical activity pre- and postintervention. Each week, participants played Wii Fit games for 30 minutes. RESULTS Participants improved the number of sit-ups and step-ups they completed from pre- to postintervention (p < .05). Participants also increased their self-efficacy, intention to exercise and perceived social support to exercise (p < .05). Youth reported a high level of enjoyment and perceived Wii Fit as ways to increase physical fitness and increase their physical activity. CONCLUSION AVGs may be a viable alternative exercise program to increase physical activity for black and Hispanic youth living in poverty-impacted neighborhoods.
Trusting Oneself and Others: Relational Vulnerability and DBS for Depression

The use of implanted devices that apply therapeutic stimulation to areas of the brain, or deep brain stimulation (DBS), is currently being investigated as a possible therapeutic treatment for chron...
Use of Antibiotics for Dermatologic Procedures From 2008 to 2016.

Importance Although overall antibiotic use among dermatologists is decreasing, there has been an increase in use associated with dermatologic procedures during the past decade. This higher antibiotic use may increase antibiotic-associated adverse events and promote the development of antibiotic resistance. Objective To characterize antibiotic use associated with dermatologic procedures, including geographic variation. Design, Setting, and Participants Using Optum Clinformatics DataMart deidentified commercial claims data, we performed a repeated cross-sectional analysis of antibiotic prescribing by dermatologists from 2008 to 2016. Dermatology clinicians were identified by their National Uniform Claim Committee taxonomy codes, encounters for surgical procedures were identified by Common Procedure Terminology codes, and courses of oral antibiotics prescribed by these clinicians were identified by their National Drug Codes. Exposures Claims for oral antibiotic prescriptions associated with encounters with dermatologists associated with dermatologic procedures. Main Outcomes and Measures Frequency of antibiotic prescribing and associated procedures. Poisson regression models were used to assess for changes in the frequency of antibiotic prescribing over time. Results Between 2008 and 2016, among 1 934 633 encounters (1 128 244 unique patients, 854 072 [44.1%] were women and the median [interquartile range] age was 66 [52-76] years) for dermatologic procedures, oral antibiotic prescribing associated with benign excisions increased from 2.9% to 4.4% of visits (52.5% relative change; incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.04; 95% CI, 1.03-1.04), antibiotic prescribing associated with malignant excisions increased from 4.2% to 6.3% of visits (49.5% relative change; IRR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.05-1.06), and antibiotic prescribing associated with Mohs surgery increased from 9.9% to 13.8% of visits (39.7% relative change; IRR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.03-1.04). There was greater than 2-fold variation in antibiotic prescribing rates across geographic census divisions. If higher prescribing divisions were to develop antibiotic prescribing rates similar to lower prescribing divisions, antibiotic use could be decreased by over 50%. Conclusions and Relevance Oral antibiotic prescribing by dermatologists associated with benign excisions, malignant excisions, and Mohs surgery is increasing over the past decade and there is substantial geographic variation. These findings highlight that there may be opportunities to optimize antibiotic use associated with dermatologic procedures.
Aligning endangered species management with fire-dependent ecosystem restoration: manager perspectives on red-cockaded woodpecker and longleaf pine management actions

Endangered species management has been criticized as emphasizing a single-species approach to conservation and, in some cases, diverting resources from broad-based, land management objectives important for overall biodiversity maintenance. Herein we examine perceptions on management for an endangered species whose habitat requirements largely depend on frequent fire, the red-cockaded woodpecker (Leuconotopicus borealis Vieillot). In doing so, we consider the alignment between species-specific population recovery actions and broader ecosystem restoration goals. Through semi-structured interviews with natural resource professionals (n = 32) in the Southeast Coastal Plain of the United States, we examined manager perspectives on the evolution of recovery efforts and the potential alignment of recovery efforts with other management goals and objectives on public lands. Participants described an evolution of approaches to manage red-cockaded woodpeckers, from an initial emphasis on intensive management actions with a single-species focus to reduce extinction risk (e.g., artificial inserts and translocation of individual birds) to a broader focus on restoring forest conditions and the processes that maintain them (e.g., fire). Most participants considered red-cockaded woodpecker habitat management to be compatible with other resource management actions (e.g., prescribed fire, mechanical thinning). However, there were some notable exceptions as a smaller but substantive number of participants indicated that specific habitat management guidelines (basal area guidelines for foraging habitat) posed a barrier to implementing preferred ecosystem restoration actions (transitioning stands of fast-growing, short-lived pines to longleaf pine [Pinus palustris Mill.]). Overall, participants expected efforts to provide habitat for red-cockaded woodpeckers to continue regardless of its conservation status and that intensive, single-species management actions would likely decrease over time. Providing for the specific needs of specialist species that are in decline is often necessary to prevent their extinction in the near term. Our findings suggest that the ability to connect long-term management actions to recover endangered species to other agency priorities may promote the willingness of managers to prioritize and continue long-term management of their habitats.
Root Cause Analysis in Surgical Pathology

Pathologists and pathology laboratory personnel provide care for patients within increasingly complex healthcare delivery systems. Systems and infrastructure are imperfect, as are humans, and thus all types of diagnostic error are inevitable. Understanding root causes and systemic vulnerabilities is at the core of root cause analysis (RCA), as is improving patient safety. This chapter describes root cause analysis as a standardized tool for managing patient safety events within pathology and laboratory medicine. Specific techniques are covered including how to assemble an RCA team, using fishbone diagrams, cause maps, and process maps, as well as disseminating the results of a successful RCA. Benefits of successful RCA include improved safety culture, risk reduction for patient safety events, and workforce engagement.
Improving restoration success through microsite selection: an example with planting sagebrush seedlings after wildfire

Post‐fire restoration of foundation plant species, particularly non‐sprouting shrubs, is critically needed in arid and semi‐arid rangeland, but is hampered by low success. Expensive and labor‐intensive methods, including planting seedlings, can improve restoration success. Prioritizing where these more intensive methods are applied may improve restoration efficiency. Shrubs in arid and semi‐arid environments can create resource islands under their canopies that may remain after fire. Seedlings planted post‐fire in former canopy and between canopies (interspace) may have different survival and growth. We compared planting Wyoming big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata Nutt. ssp. wyomingensis Beetle & Young) seedlings post‐fire in former sagebrush canopy and interspace microsites at five locations. Four growing seasons after planting, seedling survival was 46 and 7% in canopy and interspace microsites, respectively. Sagebrush cover was 5.8 times greater in canopy compared to interspace microsites. Sagebrush survival and cover were likely greater because of less competition from herbaceous vegetation as well as benefiting from resource island effects in canopy microsites. Initially, post‐fire abundance of exotic annual grasses was less in canopy microsites, but by the third year post‐fire it was substantially greater in canopy microsites, indicating that resource availability to seedlings was greater, at least initially, in canopy microsites. These results suggest microsites with greater likelihood of success should be identified and then utilized to improve restoration success and efficiency. This is important as the need for restoration greatly exceeds resources available for restoration.
An Improved UWB Microwave Radar for Very Long-Range Measurements of Snow Cover

We present an ultrawideband (UWB) frequency-modulated (FM) microwave radar instrument capable of preserving cm-scale vertical resolution from a very long range (verified up to ~6 km). The system can operate either as a conventional continuous-wave FM radar (2–18 GHz) or in time-delayed stretch processing mode (2–14 GHz), providing high sensitivity, fine range resolution, and very low-range sidelobes. We present an overview of the system and laboratory test results to validate its performance. As a practical demonstration of its capabilities, we tested the system’s ability to map snow cover thickness on the Arctic marine ice. We present sample results from airborne measurements carried out at altitudes between ~500 m and ~6 km above the ground level onboard a long-range fixed-wing platform.
Tactile comics, disability studies and the mind’s eye: on “A Boat Tour” (2017) in Venice with Max

Positioned at the intersection of disability studies and urban comics studies, this article explores the artistic form, content and social engagement of the tactile comic ‘A Boat Tour’. Though the ...
Help-Seeking Behaviors and Barriers Among Black Women Exposed to Severe Intimate Partner Violence: Findings From a Nationally Representative Sample.

This article examined general help-seeking utilization and barriers among U.S. Black women reporting severe physical intimate partner violence (IPV). Data from the National Survey of American Life ...
The Lateral Orbitotomy Approach for Intraorbital Lesions.

The lateral orbitotomy approach (LOA) was first described by Kronlein in 1888 and has since been subject to many modifications and variations. When considering orbital approaches, the location of the pathology is often more important in decision making than the type of pathology. The LOA is best suited for access to intraconal and extraconal lesions lateral to the optic nerve. Pathologies treated via the LOA include primary orbital tumors, extraorbital tumors with local extension into the orbit, and distantly metastatic lesions to the orbit. These all often initially manifest with vision loss, oculomotor deficits, or proptosis. The expertise of a multidisciplinary team is needed to execute safe and effective treatment. Collaboration between many specialties may be required, including ophthalmology, neurosurgery, otolaryngology, plastic surgery, oncology, and anesthesiology. The modern technique involves either a lateral canthotomy or eyelid crease incision with removal of the lateral orbital wall. It affords many advantages over a pterional craniotomy, primarily a lower approach morbidity and superior cosmetic outcomes. Reconstruction is fairly simple and the rate of complications—vision loss and extraocular muscle palsy—are low and infrequently permanent. Deep orbital apex location and intracranial extension have traditionally been considered limitations of this approach. However, with increased surgeon comfort, modern technique, and the adoption of endoscopy, these limits have expanded to even include primarily intracranial pathologies. This review details the LOA, including the general technique, its indications and limitations, reconstruction considerations, complications, and recent data from case series. The focus is on microscopic access to intraorbital lesions.
The energy park planning region

A number of studies have considered the selection of potential sites for energy parks (see e.g. Nureg-0001[110], Gilbert Associates [69], U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission [111], and Blair et al. [61]). All of these studies have screened potential sites in terms of technical feasibility alone. The most suitable site in these studies is taken to be the one that best satisfies the technical requirements of an energy park design.
Ancient Greek Literary Letters: Selections in Translation

The first referenece to letter writing occurs in the first text of western literature, Homer's Iliad. From the very beginning, Greeks were enthusiastic letter writers, and letter writing became a distinct literary genre. Letters were included in the works of historians but they also formed the basis of works of fiction, and the formal substructure for many kinds of poem. Patricia Rosenmeyer, an authority on the history of the Greek letter, assembles in this book a representative selection of such 'literary letters', from Aelian and Alciphron to Philostrartus and the supposed letters of Themistocles. The book will be valuable for all students of Greek literature especially those studying Greek (and Latin) letter.
Moral Imagination: A Bridge Between Ethics and Entrepreneurship

This paper seeks to bridge the gulf between business ethics scholarship and management practice by exploring the links between two topics that have, to date, been neatly divided by what Freeman terms the Separation Thesis. The first topic is moral imagination, an issue of growing interest to moral philosophers and business ethicists. The second is the problem of organizational creativity and entrepreneurship, one of increasing concern to the business practitioner. We hope to show that there is more overlap between these two topics than current work in both areas would suggest. Specifically, we hope to show how moral imagination cannot only improve the ethical performance of firms, but also can serve as an effective platform for the kind of creative problem solving that managers and management scholars see as key to developing and sustaining competitive advantage in today's fast-moving markets.
Coronary Blood Flow is Reduced by Doxorubicin: a Ultrasound Microscopic Study

The use of doxorubicin (DOX), an anti-cancer drug, in treatment for various malignancies is limited because of its cardiotoxicity; whether DOX causes vascular disorders is unknown. Ultrasound biomi...
Social determinants of health in adults with type 2 diabetes—Contribution of mutable and immutable factors

Abstract Aims Socioeconomic, psychosocial, and neighborhood factors influence clinical outcomes and self-care behaviors in diabetes; however, few studies simultaneously assessed the impact of multiple social determinant of health factors on glycemic control. We used an explanatory model to examine the differential contribution of social determinants and clinical factors on glycemic control. Secondarily, we examined the contribution of mutable and immutable factors to identify meaningful future interventions. Methods Six hundred and fifteen adults with type 2 diabetes in the southeastern United States were recruited. A hierarchical model was run with HbA1c as the dependent variable and independent variables entered in blocks: demographics (block 1), socioeconomic (block 2), psychosocial (block 3), built environment (block 4), clinical (block 5), and knowledge/self-care (block 6). Results Significant associations for HbA1c included self-efficacy ( β =−0.10, p β =0.01, p β =−0.09, p β =0.95, p β =−0.11, p β =0.34, p Conclusions Important factors that drive glycemic control are mutable, and amenable to health interventions. Greater attention should be given to interventions that increase self-efficacy and social support, reduce the burden of comorbidities, and enhance medication adherence and smoking cessation.
Learning Biology Through Innovative Curricula: A Comparison of Game- and Nongame-Based Approaches

This study explored student learning in the context of innovative biotechnology curricula and the effects of gaming as a central element of the learning experience. The quasi-experimentally designed study compared learning outcomes between two curricular approaches: One built around a computer-based game, and the other built around a narrative case. The research questions addressed student learning of basic biological principles, development of interest in learning science, and how a game-based approach compared to a nongame-based approach in terms of supporting learning. The study employed a pre–post design with 1,888 high school students nested within the classes of 36 biology teachers. Results indicated that students participating in both approaches demonstrated statistically and practically significant gains on both proximal and distal assessments of biological content knowledge. Neither group demonstrated gains in science interest. The curriculum by time interaction was not statistically different, indicating that students in both groups showed similar results. Implications for game-based science learning and future research include building better awareness of technological and professional development challenges associated with implementing educational games, the need for new strategies for understanding the impacts of games for learning, and the need for cost–benefit analyses in the planning of game-based educational approaches.
Pertenecer a la gran familia granadina.Lucha partidista y construcción de la identidad indígena y política en el Cauca, Colombia, 1849-1890

This article argues that the constitutional guarantees achieved by indigenous communities in the wake of the 1991 Constitution were the result of a long history of negotiation between Indians from the Cauca and the Colombian State regarding land rights and their status within the Republic. It explores how Indians contested the elite and racist notions of citizenship of the governing class, and examines how they negotiated the partisan struggles between Liberals and Conservatives.
Adherence and medical outcomes in pediatric liver transplant recipients who transition to adult services

Non-adherence to medications is associated with poor medical outcomes in adolescent transplant recipients. It is unclear whether non-adherence is further compromised when transplant recipients transition to the adult health care system. The purpose of the present study was to examine whether adherence changes during transition. We reviewed the medical records of 14 recently transitioned patients and compared their adherence and corresponding medical outcomes before and after transition. These outcomes were also compared with two cohorts of patients receiving care solely in pediatric or adult services. Medication adherence, measured through the use of standard deviations of tacrolimus blood levels, was examined for all patients. We found that adherence to tacrolimus significantly decreased after transition. After transitioning, patients furthermore exhibited poorer adherence than patients in the other two cohorts did over time. This small retrospective study suggests that the period of transition from pediatric to adult transplant clinics is a vulnerable one. Larger, prospective investigations of the transition process are necessary before recommendations are made regarding interventions.
The caring child

1. The Study of Prosocial Behavior 2. Benevolent Babies and Caring Children 3. Motives for Prosocial Actions 4. Characteristics of Prosocial Children 5. The Biological Bases of Altruism 6. Cultural Influences 7. Socialization in the Family 8. Socialization outside the Home: School, Peers, and the Media 9. The Effect of Circumstances 10. Conclusion Notes Index
Differentiating benign from malignant vertebral fractures using T1‐weighted dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI

PURPOSE To differentiate pathologic from benign vertebral fractures, which can be challenging. We hypothesized that dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) can aid in the noninvasive distinction between pathologic and benign fractures. MATERIALS AND METHODS Consecutive patients with vertebral fractures who underwent DCE-MRI, biopsy, and kyphoplasty were reviewed. Forty-seven fractures were separated into pathologic and benign fractures. Benign fractures were in turn separated into acute and chronic fractures for further comparison. Regions of interest (ROIs) were placed over fractured vertebral bodies. Perfusion parameters: plasma volume (Vp ), K(trans) , wash-in slope, peak enhancement, and area under the curve (AUC) were measured and compared between the three different groups of fractures. A Mann-Whitney U-test was conducted to assess the difference between the groups. RESULTS Pathologic fractures had significantly higher (P < 0.01) perfusion parameters (Vp , K(trans) , wash-in slope, peak enhancement, and AUC) compared with benign fractures. We also found significant differences (P < 0.001) in all parameters between chronic and acute fractures. Vp and K(trans) were able to differentiate between pathologic and acute fractures (P < 0.01). No significant differences were found with peak enhancement (P = 0.21) and AUC (P = 0.4) between pathologic and acute fractures. CONCLUSION Our data demonstrate that T1 -weighted DCE-MRI has potential to differentiate between pathologic vs. benign, acute vs. chronic, and most important, benign acute vs. pathologic vertebral fractures.
Cloning, characterization, and expression of cDNAs encoding human delta 1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate dehydrogenase.

Δ1-Pyrroline-5-carboxylate dehydrogenase (P5CDh; EC 1.5.1.12), a mitochondrial matrix NAD+-dependent dehydrogenase, catalyzes the second step of the proline degradation pathway. Deficiency of this enzyme is associated with type II hyperprolinemia (HPII), an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by accumulation of Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate (P5C) and proline. As an initial step in understanding the biochemistry of human P5CDh and molecular basis of HPII, we utilized published peptide sequence data and degenerate primer polymerase chain reaction to clone two full-length human P5CDh cDNAs, differing in length by 1 kilobase pair (kb). Both cDNAs have the identical 1689-base pair open reading frame encoding a protein of 563 residues with a predicted molecular mass of 62 kDa. The long cDNA contains an additional 1-kb insert in the 3′-untranslated region that appears to be an alternatively spliced intron. The conceptual translation of human P5CDh has 89% sequence identity with the published human P5CDh peptide sequences and 42 and 26% identity with Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Escherichia coli P5CDhs, respectively, as well as homology to several other aldehyde dehydrogenases. Both P5CDh cDNA clones detect a single 3.2-kb transcript on Northern blots of multiple human tissues, indicating the long cDNA containing the 3′-untranslated intron represents the predominant transcript. The P5CDh structural gene appears to be single copy with a size of about 20 kb localized to chromosome 1. To confirm the identity of the putative P5CDh cDNAs, we expressed them in a P5CDh-deficient strain of S. cerevisiae. Both conferred measurable P5CDh activity and the ability to grow on proline as a sole nitrogen source.
TDP2 keeps the brain healthy.

Many inherited human DNA repair deficiency syndromes involve pronounced neurological dysfunction, although the DNA lesions responsible are generally unknown. A new study shows that the phosphodiesterase TDP2 has a key role in protecting the nervous system by preventing DNA breaks induced by aberrant topoisomerase II activity.
Comparative Genomics of Vesicomyid Clam (Bivalvia: Mollusca) Chemosynthetic Symbionts

The Vesicomyidae (Bivalvia: Mollusca) are a family of clams that form symbioses with chemosynthetic gamma-proteobacteria. They exist in environments such as hydrothermal vents and cold seeps and have a reduced gut and feeding groove, indicating a large dependence on their endosymbionts for nutrition. Recently, two vesicomyid symbiont genomes were sequenced, illuminating the possible nutritional contributions of the symbiont to the host and making genome-wide evolutionary analyses possible. To examine the genomic evolution of the vesicomyid symbionts, a comparative genomics framework, including the existing genomic data combined with heterologous microarray hybridization results, was used to analyze conserved gene content in four vesicomyid symbiont genomes. These four symbionts were chosen to include a broad phylogenetic sampling of the vesicomyid symbionts and represent distinct chemosynthetic environments: cold seeps and hydrothermal vents. The results of this comparative genomics analysis emphasize the importance of the symbionts' chemoautotrophic metabolism within their hosts. The fact that these symbionts appear to be metabolically capable autotrophs underscores the extent to which the host depends on them for nutrition and reveals the key to invertebrate colonization of these challenging environments.
Comparison of the effects of acute and subacute treatment of phenobarbital in different strains of mice.

Abstract A strain specificity has been demonstrated for the effect of subsequent administration of phenobarbital (PB), in which diethylnitrosamine (DENA)-initiated hepatocarcinogenesis was promoted in C3H mice, inhibited in B6C3F1 (C57BL × C3H) and not affected in C57BL mice. A correlation has been established between the ability of barbiturates and hydantoins to promote tumor formation and their ability to induce liver growth, hepatic DNA synthesis and mixed function oxidase activities. Therefore, we examined in these 3 strains of mice and in C3B6F1 (C3H × C57BL) mice the effect of PB administered in their drinking water for 4 days or 28 days. The liver weight to body weight ratio was increased by PB in all types of mice. Microsomal protein concentrations were increased in C57BL mice after 28 days of treatment, in C3H after both 4 days and 28 days and in B6C3F1 after 4 days of treatment. No effect upon microsomal protein content was observed in C3B6F1 mice. DNA content was increased in C3H mice, both in the 4-day and 28-day treatment groups, while the other strains showed either a decrease or no difference from control. DNA synthesis was elevated in all strains of mice after 4 days of treatment with PB, however, after 28 days of treatment there was either a much reduced increase (C57BL and C3B6F1) or no difference (C3H and B6C3F1) from controls. In all 4 types of mice after 4 and 28 days of treatment, PB increased the concentration of cytochrome P-450, the activity of aminopyrine-N-demethylase (AmDm) and 7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (ErDe) and the oxidation of testosterone (T). The oxidative metabolites of T were similar in the 4 types of mice.
Litigant Partisan Identity and Challenges to Campaign Finance Policies: An Examination of U.S. District Court Decisions, 1971–2007

This study seeks to determine if the partisan affiliation (Democrat or Republican) of a plaintiff challenging a local, state, or federal campaign finance policy influences the case votes of U.S. district court judges. Using an original database of campaign finance cases decided between 1971 and 2007, I find that judges do not systematically favor challenges filed by plaintiffs who share the judge's partisan affiliation. However, judges are statistically less likely to favor challenges filed by plaintiffs who are members of an opposing major political party. These results indicate that plaintiffs who do not share a judge's partisan affiliation are at a disadvantage when challenging campaign finance policies.
Design Optimization under Parameter Uncertainty for General Black-Box Models

Accurate knowledge of the effect of parameter uncertainty on process design and operation is essential for optimal and feasible operation of a process plant. Existing approaches for dealing with uncertainty at the design and process operations level assume the existence of a well-defined model to represent process behavior and, in almost all cases, convexity of the involved equations. However, most of the realistic case studies are described by nonconvex and, more importantly, poorly characterized models. Thus, a new approach is presented in this paper that is based on the development of input−output mapping with respect to a system's flexibility and a design's optimality. High-dimensional model reduction is used as our basic mapping methodology, although different mapping techniques can be employed. The result of the proposed approach is a parametric expression of the optimal objective with respect to uncertain parameters. The proposed approach is general to accommodate black-box models as it does not re...
Decentralized kinematic control of payload by a system of mobile manipulators

In this paper, we examine creation of a decentralized kinematic control scheme for a composite system of two (or more) wheeled mobile manipulators that can team up to cooperatively transport a common payload. Each mobile manipulator module consists of a differentially driven wheeled mobile robot (WMR) with a mounted planar two-degree-of-freedom (d.o.f) manipulator. A composite multi-degree-of-freedom system is formed when a payload is placed at the end effectors of multiple such modules with significant advantages. However, the nonholonomic/holonomic constraints and active/passive components within the composite vehicle need careful treatment for realizing the payload transport task. Hence, we first verify that arbitrary desired end-effector motions can be accommodated, within the feasible motion distributions of the articulations and the wheeled base. Then, we develop motion-plans by which this desired end-effector motion could be actively realized, using only the limited active motion-distribution of the differentially driven wheels. Finally, we deploy this in the form of a two-level hierarchical control framework, with an upper-level planning of the steerable active vector-fields and a lower-level posture stabilization control of the individual WMRs. Preliminary experimental results from the decentralized-control implementation for a two-module composite vehicle are also presented.
Get real!: Cultural relevance and resistance to the mediated feminine ideal

As part of a longitudinal study that examines early and late adolescent girls' interpretations of mainstream teen magazines, this research focuses on how the African American audience's interpretive frame enables them to critique and distance themselves from selected aspects of a consumption object with which they regularly engage. The results were drawn from in-depth interviews with 16 African American girls, ages 13–18, who are regular readers of one of the top three teen titles: Seventeen, YM, or ‘Teen. In this article, consumption is conceptualized not only as purchase, but acceptance of and aspiration to the ideals employed by the beauty industry to sell goods and services, e.g., a thin body type, European-American facial features, and a preference for a “made-up” appearance. Conversely, anti-consumption is rejection, subversion or negotiation of those same ideals, although such critical stances do not preclude voluntary, regular exposure to the texts conveying these ideals. The analysis illustrates the importance of cultural relevance in promoting consumers' aspiration to mediated ideals; in particular, the article explores African American consumers' criticism of Euro-centric feminine ideals as not real. While White girls actively sought out the magazines' alternate, improved version of reality, African American girls compared the fictional work to their real world experience and not only denied the veracity of the ideal, but preferred their reality to it. As predicted by racial identity theory, most African American girls in this study, particularly older girls, did not defer to the magazines' authority in defining their conception of femininity, which instead was strongly influenced by culture and frequently defined in direct opposition to the mediated ideal. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Isosorbide dinitrate oral spray in acute exacerbation of chronic congestive heart failure secondary to coronary artery disease.

Abstract Lingual and buccal administration of isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) oral spray is theoretically more rapid in onset of action than sublingual tablet administration because the drug is absorbed from the tablet only after its dissolution. We studied the effect and the pharmacodynamic time course of ISDN spray in patients with acute deterioration of chronic congestive heart failure (CHF).
An analysis on magnetically induced subsequent fault in utility line topologies

Abstract When an electric fault occurs, a strong magnetic force on power lines may bring them in close proximity, or in contact with one another, causing a subsequent fault. Being able to analyze and then to predict the probability of the subsequent fault will be beneficial to utilities. In this paper, we present an analysis of the magnetically induced subsequent fault of three-phase overhead power lines. A computer simulation is developed for this analysis, based on electromagnetic theory and fundamental laws of mechanics as well as numerical techniques. This analysis is applicable for various types of faults and different kinds of power line constructions. Numerical results are presented and analyzed. The accuracy of the numerical results is validated by showing that they well satisfy the energy conservation law.
Effects of Beardedness on Person Perception

The present study examined the hypothesis that a bearded man would be perceived less favorably than a non-bearded man. Beardedness, sex, and geographic information (West Coast vs local vs no inform...
Diurnal Variation of Plasma Renin Activity, Aldosterone and Cortisol in Idiopathic Edema

The plasma levels of aldosterone (PA), renin activity (PRA) and cortisol were measured every 30 min in the supine position in 4 women with idiopathic edema. The circadian rhythm of PA was similar to that previously reported in normal subjects: peak secretory episodes occurred during the latter part of sleep and shortly after awakening. Moreover the levels of PA were statistically significantly correlated with PRA and cortisol in 3 of the 4 patients (P < .005). Secretory spikes followed meals by 30 min and furosemide administration by 4 h. It is concluded that, 1) as in normals, a central nervous system rhythm may be important in control of PA, and 2) potassium is suggested as the secretagogue of aldosterone after meals. Comparison of the circadian hormone levels in the patients with those previously found in normals revealed only one subject who had significantly lower PRA than normals, and one patient with a higher PA during the midnight to 0800 h period than controls. The other levels were not significa...
Pilot Use of a Cockpit Display of Traffic Information during Aircraft Navigation on the Airport Surface: An Analysis of Pilot/Controller Operational Communication

The Federal Aviation Administration is making a concerted effort to reduce runway incursions. A 5-day operational evaluation conducted in October 2000 assessed pilot use of varying types of CDTI de...
Predicting smoking cessation outcome in a medical center from stage of readiness: contemplation versus action.

Background. This study shows the clinical utility of Prochaska and DiClemente′s stages of readiness for treating nicotine dependence in a medical center. Methods. Six hundred forty-eight patients were retrospectively studied in either the contemplation or the action stage of readiness. Results. Statistical analysis showed the action stage to be the most significant predictor of smoking cessation at 6 months. Individuals in the action stage had twice the 6-month cessation rate as those in the contemplation stage (41.5% versus 20.3%, P < 0.001). Other significant predictors of smoking cessation included a low Fagerstrom Tolerance Questionnaire score (≤6) and the patient′s report of a current disease but no past history of disease worsened by smoking. Conclusions. This study shows the potential clinical application of this theoretical model for providing treatment for smokers.
Parallel non-linear finite element dynamic response

Abstract This paper investigates some of the design characteristics of explicit and implicit methods for parallel computers and suggests a hybrid approach which incorporates both methods. Several key issues are discussed as well as experiences in implementing all three methods. A range space/preconditioned conjugate gradient method is also discussed which has good potential for parallel implementation. It is concluded that the next generation parallel general purpose transient finite element systems should have the capability of handling all classes of structural analysis on a wide variety of shared/local memory parallel computers. An approach is outlined for the design of a future general purpose parallel finite element system.
Magnet Current Bypass Shunt

A precision active shunt has been developed for fine tuning of individual magnet fields in a series magnet string operated from a single power supply. The shunt uses power transistors operated in linear mode to regulate the bypass current in the range 0 to 50 A with precision of ±10 mA. Communication with and control of shunt which may be floating 1000 V or more above earth ground, is by means of transformer coupled isolation amplifiers. Because of reliability requirements, 7 transistors, mounted on demountable water cooled copper plate are used. Low level electronics and current sensing resistor are mounted on the same plate. This paper presents system description and preliminary results.
Breast cancer regional radiation fields for supraclavicular and axillary lymph node treatment: is a posterior axillary boost field technique optimal?

Purpose To assess whether using an anterior oblique supraclavicular (SCV) field with a posterior axillary boost (PAB) field is an optimal technique for targeting axillary (AX) lymph nodes compared with two computed tomography (CT)-based techniques: (1) an SCV field with an anterior boost field and (2) intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). Methods and Materials Ten patients with CT simulation data treated with postmastectomy radiation that included an SCV field were selected for the study. Supraclavicular nodes and AX Level I–III nodes within the SCV field were contoured and defined as the treatment target. Plans using the three techniques were generated and evaluated for each patient. Results The anterior axillary boost field and IMRT resulted in superior dose coverage compared with PAB. Namely, treatment volumes that received 105%, 80%, and 30% of prescribed dose for IMRT plans were significantly less than those for the anterior axillary boost plans, which were significantly less than PAB. For PAB and anterior axillary boost plans, there was a linear correlation between treatment volume receiving 105% of prescribed dose and maximum target depth. Furthermore, the IMRT technique resulted in better lung sparing and dose conformity to the target than anterior axillary boost, which again was significantly better than PAB. The maximum cord dose for IMRT was small, but higher than for the other two techniques. More monitor units were required to deliver the IMRT plan than the PAB plan, which was more than the anterior axillary boost plan. Conclusions The PAB technique is not optimal for treatment of AX lymph nodes in an SCV field. We conclude that CT treatment planning with dose optimization around delineated target volumes should become standard for radiation treatments of supraclavicular and AX lymph nodes.
Effects of melatonin administration on daytime sleep after simulated night shift work

Disturbed sleep and on-the-job sleepiness are widespread problems among night shift workers. The pineal hormone melatonin may prove to be a useful treatment because it has both sleep-promoting and circadian phase-shifting effects. This study was designed to isolate melatonin's sleep-promoting effects, and to determine whether melatonin could improve daytime sleep and thus improve night time alertness and performance during the night shift. The study utilized a placebo-controlled, double-blind, cross-over design. Subjects (n=21, mean age=27.0 +/- 5.0 years) participated in two 6-day laboratory sessions. Each session included one adaptation night, two baseline nights, two consecutive 8-h night shifts followed by 8-h daytime sleep episodes and one recovery night. Subjects took 1.8 mg sustained-release melatonin 0.5 h before the two daytime sleep episodes during one session, and placebo before the daytime sleep episodes during the other session. Sleep was recorded using polysomnography. Sleepiness, performance, and mood during the night shifts were evaluated using the multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) and a computerized neurobehavioral testing battery. Melatonin prevented the decrease in sleep time during daytime sleep relative to baseline, but only on the first day of melatonin administration. Melatonin increased sleep time more in subjects who demonstrated difficulty in sleeping during the day. Melatonin had no effect on alertness on the MSLT, or performance and mood during the night shift. There were no hangover effects from melatonin administration. These findings suggest that although melatonin can help night workers obtain more sleep during the day, they are still likely to face difficulties working at night because of circadian rhythm misalignment. The possibility of tolerance to the sleep-promoting effects of melatonin across more than 1 day needs further investigation.
Fill Weight Variation Release and Control of Capsules, Tablets, and Sterile Solids

The United States Pharmacopeia gives specifications for fill weight variation of capsules, tablets, and sterile solids to which the federal government expects the pharmaceutical industry to adhere. This paper makes probability statements about the USP weight variation test that could form the basis for a criterion for both final product release and in-process control, as far as fill weight variation is concerned. Use is made of the fact that the coefficient of variation, the standard deviation divided by the mean, efficiently describes fill weight variation. The effect of un-intentional overfill on control is considered. A certain final product weight variation specification is examined and mention is made of sampling methods.