cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Impact of a Worksite Diabetes Prevention Intervention on Diet Quality and Social Cognitive Influences of Health Behavior: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the impact of a worksite diabetes prevention intervention on secondary outcomes regarding the change in diet quality and components of the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) theoretical framework. Design Pretest-posttest control group design with 3-month follow-up. Setting University worksite. Participants Employees aged 18–65 years with prediabetes (n = 68). Intervention A 16-week group-based intervention adapted from the Diabetes Prevention Program. Main Outcome Measures Diet quality was assessed using the Alternative Healthy Eating Index 2010; HAPA components were assessed via written questionnaire. Analysis Repeated-measures ANOVA compared the between- and within-group change in outcomes across time. Results Significant difference occurred between groups for the change in consumption of nuts/legumes and red/processed meats postintervention and for fruits at 3-month follow-up (all P P = .002). The changes in action planning, action self-efficacy, and coping self-efficacy from HAPA were significantly different between groups after the intervention; the change in outcome expectancies was significantly different between groups at 3-month follow-up (all P Conclusions and Implications The worksite intervention facilitated improvement in diet quality and in planning and efficacious beliefs regarding diabetes prevention. Further research is needed to evaluate the long-term impact of the intervention.
Effects of H content on the tensile properties and fracture behavior of SA508-III steel

SA508−III steel was charged with different hydrogen (H) contents using a high-pressure thermal charging method to study the effects of H content on the tensile properties and evaluate the H embrittlement behavior of the steel. The results indicate that the ultimate tensile strength remains nearly unchanged with the addition of H. In contrast, the yielding strength slightly increases, and the elongation significantly decreases with increasing H content, especially at concentrations exceeding 5.6 × 10−6. On the basis of fractographic analysis, it is clear that the addition of H changes the fracture mode from microvoid coalescence to a mixture of river patterns and dimples. Carbides are strong traps for H; thus, the H atoms easily migrate in the form of Cottrell atmosphere toward the carbides following moving dislocations during tensile deformation. In addition, stress-induced H atoms accumulate at the interface between carbides and the matrix after necking under three-dimensional stress, which weakens the interfacial bonding force. Consequently, when the local H concentration reaches a critical value, microcracks occur at the interface, resulting in fracture.
The Systematic Position of Unio Caffer (Pelecypoda: Unionoida: Unionidae)

AbstractSome anatomical, adult shell and larval features of Unto coffer Krauss are described and compared to those reported in previous accounts of this and other species. The findings necessitate the removal of U. caffer from the nominal genus Cafferia Simpson, for which it is the type species, and its return to the genus Unio Pbilipsson, in the Unionidae: Unioninae. Cafferia consequently becomes a junior subjective synonym of Unto.Unio caffer is characterized in part by zigzag beak sculpture, dimorphic septal spacing between the marsupial, outer (comparatively dense) and the non-marsupial, inner (more distant) demibranchs and also within the marsupial demibranchs, the presence of perforated marsupial septa and imperforate non-marsupial septa, the occurrence of hermaphrodites in some but apparently not all populations, production of subtriangular glochidia with a hook at the ventral margin of each valve, short-term incubation of larvae in the marsupial demibranchs, and by its disjunct occurrence in the s...
On the Tunes between Ankang Dialects and Standard Chinese

Summary: In the former Putonghua teaching, Shengmu, Yunmu teaching of learns the specific weight compare greatly, neglect Function of Shengdiao, the Putonghua teaching is usually matter doubly half of result, the other party speech adjusts to rectify the result not to fulfill persons idea. Pass to adjust to carry on the contrast to the Ankang dialect and the Putonghua, find out the peace and Ankang and Putonghua in a difference that adjusts the aspect existence, the familiar voice adjusts the mistake type and trains the method. Can guide the common speech teaching and train availably, exaltation study the quantity and the efficiency of the common speech.
Reduction of aberrant aortic haemodynamics following aortic root replacement with a mechanical valved conduit.

OBJECTIVES Previous work suggests that aortic root and valve prostheses alter blood flow patterns in the ascending aorta, creating aberrant haemodynamics compared with those of healthy volunteers. Various valve designs have been proposed to better restore physiological haemodynamics. In this study, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to non-invasively assess three-dimensional (3D) ascending aortic haemodynamics after aortic root replacement (ARR) with a mechanical valved conduit postulated to create less turbulent blood flow. METHODS Ten patients (40 ± 9 years) underwent transthoracic echocardiography and contrast-enhanced multidimensional four-dimensional (4D) flow MRI at 1.5 T after ARR with an On-X mechanical valved conduit. Preoperative 4D flow MRI was available in 7 patients. Ten age- and gender-matched healthy volunteers (42 ± 13 years) were also analysed to characterize physiological flow. The presence of vortex/helix formation was graded by two blinded observers. Peak transvalvular pressure gradients were computed using the simplified Bernoulli equation. Patients' postoperative pressure gradients and helicity/vorticity grades were compared with preoperative gradients and those from healthy volunteers. RESULTS Intra- and interobserver ratings showed good agreement (κ = 0.93, P < 0.01 and κ = 0.84, P < 0.01, respectively). Highly helical and/or vortical flow was observed in all patients preoperatively, which was significantly reduced postoperatively (P < 0.01 and <0.01, respectively), restoring similar flow patterns similar to those seen in volunteers (P = 0.56 and 0.56). Peak transvalvular pressure gradients (ΔP) were also significantly reduced [43 ± 21 vs 12 ± 7 mmHg, P < 0.05 (Echo); 48 ± 22 vs 16 ± 9 mmHg, P < 0.05 (MRI)], but remained significantly higher than those of volunteers (6 ± 1 mmHg, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Preliminary evidence suggests that ARR with an On-X mechanical valve significantly reduces aberrant aortic haemodynamics, producing flow patterns that resemble those in healthy volunteers.
Population genetics of the diamondback terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin , in Louisiana

Previous population genetic studies of diamondback terrapins (Malaclemys terrapin) have typically focused on either the entire range or relatively small spatial scales. The Louisiana coastline contains vast salt marshes suitable for terrapins; however, two major freshwater inputs (Atchafalaya River and Mississippi River Deltas) break up the seemingly contiguous habitat and may isolate populations of terrapins. To determine population genetic structure and connectivity of terrapins occupying Louisiana marshes, we collected 573 individuals from 26 study sites across the Louisiana coastline. Twelve microsatellite loci were used to evaluate population structure using standard genetic and spatially explicit approaches. Patterns of gene flow were examined via model testing, including those to determine if freshwater inputs serve as barriers to movement. We also assessed levels of genetic diversity, inferred the historical demography and estimated effective population sizes across our sampling. While we did not detect significant population structure, we found that terrapins are not panmictic, and demonstrated a pattern of isolation by distance along the Louisiana coastline. Genetic diversity in this study was comparable to the Atlantic coast, but was higher than other sites within the Gulf of Mexico. Though terrapins in eastern Louisiana were historically harvested and apparently experienced a genetic bottleneck, this is not reflected in estimates of effective population sizes. Although, there was no strong genetic structuring across Louisiana, historical differences and patterns of habitat loss suggest that it may be necessary to develop separate management strategies for the western and eastern portions of the state.
Women and Democracy in Cold War Japan, by Jan Bardsley

Jan Bardsley opens her book with a description of a 1959 Time magazine cover story titled ‘Japanese Women: New Freedoms Amid Old Customs.’ Featuring a front-page picture of Shōda Michiko, the bride...
Nuclear weapons in the 1990s and beyond

The recent political changes in Europe and longer-term developments such as the continuing diffusion of economic and technological power throughout the world are calling into question basic assumptions about the compatibility of the existing nuclear order with other aspects of the international system. As is frequently pointed out, together the United States and the former Soviet Union possess over 95 percent of the nuclear warheads in existence, but only about 10 percent of world population and 35 percent of gross national product. This anomalous situation at the global level is compounded by a series of regional imbalances and anomalies. France and Britain have large and growing nuclear arsenals, while Japan and Germany, both of which have larger populations and economies and which are more exposed geopolitically, are barred by internal and external constraints from access to nuclear weapons. In the third world there is lingering resentment at the perceived efforts by the great powers to deny nuclear weapons to rising regional “influentials,” as well as a certain unreal quality to the discussion of nuclear weapons that arises from a blurring of the nuclear-nonnuclear distinction in the case of important countries such as India, Israel, and South Africa.
Microflora Recovered from Foods on Violet Red Bile Agar with and without Glucose and Incubated at Different Temperatures1

Counts and taxonomic distribution of typical colonies on violet red bile agar (VRB) and VRB with 1% glucose (VRBG) incubated at 45, 35, 20, 7 and 1 °C from 23 retail food samples were compared. Aerobic plate counts were also obtained at each incubation temperature. Samples included fresh meats, processed meats, frozen processed products and fresh vegetables. Overall mean VRBG counts were slightly higher than VRB counts at each incubation temperature although there was some variation according to sample type. No significant differences (p>0.05) between the two media were noted overall or for any food type. Highest counts for VRB and VRBG generally occurred at 20°C incubation followed by 35, 7, 45 and 1 °C; counts at 20 and 35°C were not significantly different (p>0.05). The taxonomic distribution of typical colonies varied according to incubation temperature and sample type but there were few differences between VRB and VRBG for a given sample and incubation temperature. At 45°C, Escherichia coli was the most frequently recovered organism from both media overall but Klebsiella pneumoniae , Erwinia herbicola or Enterobacter cloacae predominated in many samples. Serratia marcescens and Erwinia herbicola comprised the majority of isolates from both media at 35, 20, 7 and 1 °C with taxonomic diversity being greatest at 35 and 20°C.
Detecting single molecule on bioenabled optofluidic biosensors by Inkjet printing

We developed an innovative approach to continuously deliver picoliter volume droplets onto bioenabled optofluidic biosensors. The ultra-hydrophilic diatom surface concentrates molecules in the solution as the solvent evaporates, which enables single molecule detection by SERS.
Coupled-channel-Born-approximation analysis of one-nucleon transfer reactions to $sup 25$Mg and $sup 25$Al

A simple formulation of the coupled-channel Born approximation is presented, for the case where the spin-dependent term in the optical potential can be ignored. The formalism is particularly useful in reducing the computer time required when numerical calculations are carried out for one-particle transfer reactions.
National Incidence of Patient Safety Indicators in the Total Hip Arthroplasty Population.

Abstract Background The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) use the incidence of patient safety indicators (PSI) to determine healthcare value and hospital reimbursement. The national incidence of PSI has not been quantified in the total hip arthroplasty (THA) population and it is unknown if patient insurance status is associated with PSI incidence following THA. Methods All patients in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) that underwent THA in 2013 were identified using ICD-9-CM codes. The incidence of PSI was determined using the ICD-9 diagnosis code algorithms published by CMS and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). The association of insurance status and the incidence of PSI during the inpatient episode was determined by comparing privately insured and Medicare patients to Medicaid/self-pay patients using a logistic regression model that controlled for patient demographics, patient comorbidities, and hospital characteristics. Results In 2013, the NIS included 68,644 hospitalizations with primary THA performed during the inpatient episode. During this time period, 429 surgically-relevant PSI were recorded in the NIS. The estimated national incidence rate of PSI following primary THA was 0.63%. In our secondary analysis, the privately insured cohort had significantly lower odds of experiencing one or more PSI relative to the Medicaid/self-pay cohort (OR 0.47 95% CI 0.29 – 0.76). Conclusions The national incidence of PSI among THA patients is relatively low. However, primary insurance status is associated with the incidence of one or more PSI following THA. As value-based payment becomes more widely adopted in the United States, quality benchmarks and penalty thresholds need to account for these differences in risk-adjustment models in order to promote and maintain access to care in the underinsured population.
Cerebral edema: a major complication of massive hepatic necrosis.

A review was conducted of 32 patients dying of massive hepatic necrosis and subject to complete autopsy examination. Sixteen of the 32 patients were found to have cerebral edema and 4 of these had evidence of cerebellar and/or uncal herniation. Those patients with cerebral edema were younger, had a more prolonged period of stage IV coma, and were less likely to have terminal azotemia and acidosis than the patients without cerebral edema. The pathogenesis of the cerebral edema in these patients is unknown but it does not appear to be related to secondary complications causing cerebral hypoxia nor to any specific form of therapy.
Measurements and predictions of wind turbine tower shadow and fairing effects

Abstract Downwind two-bladed rotor configurations can have advantages in reducing rotor mass for wind turbines, compared with three-bladed upwind designs. However, the tower shadow adds an aerodynamic complication that can be difficult to quantify and predict. This study presents and analyzes a previously unpublished subset of data collected during an extensive wind tunnel campaign, the Unsteady Aerodynamic Experiment (UAE). At high tip speed ratios, the tower shadow is a dominating contributor to bending moment oscillations but can be mitigated by the use of a tower fairing when such a fairing is aligned with the flow. At lower tip speed ratios where the blades can undergo aerodynamic stall and hysteresis, tower shadow was only a secondary contributor to bending moments and the tower fairing did not significantly impact bending moments. The aeroelastic simulation code called FAST was used to predict the same experimental conditions. In general, simulations reasonably predicted most of the cycle-averaged aspects, but only qualitatively predicted the unsteady variations due to tower shadow. To improve simulation predictions inside the tower wake, it is suggested that future work model the unsteady wake component associated with cylinder shedding and to consider a wake model for tower fairings at various wind incidence angles.
Modeling and control of robotic mine haulage system

Concepts borrowed from discrete and hybrid system simulation have been successfully applied in the design of a complex, distributed computer control system. The example presented is a rail haulage system for a horizontally cut coal mine. The system controls all train movements and haulage operations into and out of the mine. The control logic is embedded in the system software, distributed over three levels:1. Central control (resident in a minicomputer)2. Wayside control (five microcomputers in distinct mine sections)3. Locomotive control (one microcomputer in each locomotive)The paper focuses on the wayside control. To accomplish the control objectives, the wayside software compares actual operation with the operation of a flexible reference model. That model gives the wayside control the ability to function like an intelligent robotic system.
SRAM-Based Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) to Generate Signature Out of Silicon for Authentication and Encryption

In this Chapter, we demonstrate chip-ID generation schemes using SRAM-based physical unclonable functions (PUFs) for secure system LSIs. An SRAM-based PUF using failure bit addresses is presented first and discussed on how to improve the uniqueness and reliability of generated IDs. A test chip for chip-ID generation system with memory built-in-self-test (BIST) is implemented using 90-nm CMOS technology. The measured data shows that over 99.9% stable chip-IDs are given by using multiple test scheme with ideal uniqueness, which is obtained by Hamming distance evaluation. Next, we compare three types of SRAM-based PUFs, which are (1) initial data with single power-on, (2) initial data with divided-power-on, and (3) conflicted data after low/low (L/L) writing, in the point of views of uniqueness and reliability. Based on the measurement results obtained with test chips fabricated using 45-nm CMOS bulk technology, theoretical values of uniqueness are obtained in these three schemes. In contrast, results show that higher reliability against variations of temperature and voltage conditions is achieved using the divided-power-on scheme compared to those of single power-on scheme and L/L writing scheme.
Rates of neurovascular injury, compartment syndrome, and early infection in operatively treated civilian ballistic forearm fractures.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study is to evaluate the incidence of neurovascular injuries, compartment syndrome, early postoperative infection as well as the injury factors predictive of neurovascular injury following ballistic fractures of the radius and ulna. Methods A retrospective review was performed to identify all ballistic fractures of the radius and ulna in skeletally mature patients over a 5-year period at a single level-1 trauma center. Chart and radiographic review was performed to identify patient and injury demographics, associated neurologic or vascular injuries, and fracture characteristics. Fracture location was measured on computerized imaging software and fractures were grouped into bone(s) segments involved. Proximal, mid-diaphyseal, and distal locations were used for statistical analysis. Results Fifty-six extremities in fifty-five patients were identified (mean age 32 years; male to female ratio 9:1). Overall incidence of neurologic injury was 50%, arterial injury 32%, and compartment syndrome 7.1%. Presence of a proximal third forearm fracture was associated with an increased risk for neurologic injury (p Conclusion Ballistic forearm fractures result in high rates of neurovascular injury. Fractures caused by high velocity/energy firearms have extremely high rates of neurologic injury when compared with low velocity ballistic injuries. Ballistic fractures involving the proximal third of the radius or ulna are five times more likely to be associated with neurologic injury after a ballistic injury and should be assessed carefully on initial evaluation.
Representationalism is a dead end

Representationalism—the view that scientific modeling is best understood in representational terms—is the received view in contemporary philosophy of science. Contributions to this literature have focused on a number of puzzles concerning the nature of representation and the epistemic role of misrepresentation, without considering whether these puzzles are the product of an inadequate analytical framework. The goal of this paper is to suggest that this possibility should be taken seriously. The argument has two parts, employing the “can’t have” and “don’t need” tactics drawn from philosophy of mind. On the one hand, I propose that representationalism doesn’t work: different ways to flesh out representationalism create a tension between its ontological and epistemological components and thereby undermine the view. On the other hand, I propose that representationalism is not needed in the first place—a position I articulate based on a pragmatic stance on the success of scientific research and on the feasibility of alternative philosophical frameworks. I conclude that representationalism is untenable and unnecessary, a philosophical dead end. A new way of thinking is called for if we are to make progress in our understanding of scientific modeling.
Cultural Conditions for l-Leucine Production by Strain No. 218, a Mutant of Brevibacterium lactofermentum 2256

The excellent l-leucine producing mutant No. 218, derived from a biotin requiring glutamic acid producing strain, is methionine and isoleucine auxotrophic. A suboptimum growth condition made by adding a limiting amount of isoleucine was necessary for the maximum production of l-leucine. On the other hand, methionine was indifferent to the productivity if sufficiently supplied for growth.Biotin of more than 50 μg/liter caused the accumulation of l-leucine; less than 50 μg/liter, however, gave a drastic change in accumulation pattern from l-leucine to l-glutamic acid. Strain No. 218 produced 28 mg/ml of l-leucine after 72 hr cultivation when 13 % glucose was supplied as a carbon source, thus giving the yield of 21.6%.Effects on l-leucine production of concentrations of inorganic salts, pH, temperature and aeration were also investigated.
Marriott International and Pay-Per-View

In 2007, J. W. “Bill” Marriott Jr., chairman and CEO of Marriott International, faced criticism from various groups about the fact that the Marriott hotels offered in-room adult entertainment. Because the Marriott family and organization was affiliated with the Mormon Church, which decried pornography, claiming that it was harmful to children, family, and society, critics assailed the company for not being true to Mormon values. In an attempt to make a decision, Bill Jr. reflected on the history of the Marriott Corporation and his family's deep ties to the Mormon Church and community. The company had been founded on his father's strong principles, and Bill Jr. knew that the ultimate decision had to adhere both to these principles and to his responsibility for the corporation's financial stability and the needs of its customers. Excerpt UVA-E-0365 Nov. 11, 2011 Marriott International and Pay-Per-View As he prepared to meet with his board of directors, J. W. “Bill” Marriott Jr., chairman and CEO of Marriott International, looked at the angry letter dated July 18, 2007, that he had just received. In it, Robert Peters, president of Morality in Media, an organization dedicated to opposing pornography, had complained angrily about the fact that Marriott hotels offered in-room adult entertainment. Peters had detailed his chagrin after a recent Marriott stay, when he had discovered this fact. In his letter, he wrote that he would “avoid staying at Marriott Hotels, despite their quality and affordability, because Marriott Hotels is a major distributor of hardcore pornography on its pay-TV channels.” Peters was just one of many critical voices over this issue. Among other conservative groups, Concerned Women for America, the American Decency Association, Focus on the Family, and others had publicly denounced Marriott, claiming that pornography was harmful to children, families, and society. The outcry had become so fierce that the Marriott board of directors had asked for a special meeting with its CEO to discuss what, if anything, the hospitality company management should do to address this issue and fend off a possibly ugly public relations debacle. In preparing for the meeting, Bill Jr. reflected on the history of Marriott and the sometimes unpopular business decisions it had been forced to make. Marriott and Mormons Marriott was not the only hotel chain that offered pay-per-view (PPV) adult movies in its rooms; Hilton and Westin hotels, among many others, also did. What made the Marriott situation unique, however, was the company's direct connection to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (also called the LDS Church or the Mormon Church because of its subscription to the Book of Mormon). Marriott's founder, J. Willard Marriott (Bill Sr.), was a devout Mormon. His father had followed Brigham Young west to Utah in the 1850s. His son, Bill Jr., was also prominent in the Mormon Church at the national level, serving in various volunteer leadership positions. The Mormon religion explicitly prohibited pornography, considering its use a violation of a commandment of God. . . .
Label-free Raman spectroscopy reveals signatures of radiation resistance in the tumor microenvironment

Delay in the assessment of tumor response to radiotherapy continues to pose a major challenge to quality of life for patients with nonresponsive tumors. Here, we exploited label-free Raman spectroscopic mapping to elucidate radiation-induced biomolecular changes in tumors and uncovered latent microenvironmental differences between treatment-resistant and -sensitive tumors. We used isogenic radiation-resistant and -sensitive A549 human lung cancer cells and human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines (UM-SCC-47 and UM-SCC-22B, respectively) to grow tumor xenografts in athymic nude mice and demonstrated the molecular specificity and quantitative nature of Raman spectroscopic tissue assessments. Raman spectra obtained from untreated and treated tumors were subjected to chemometric analysis using multivariate curve resolution-alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) and support vector machine (SVM) to quantify biomolecular differences in the tumor microenvironment. The Raman measurements revealed significant and reliable differences in lipid and collagen content postradiation in the tumor microenvironment, with consistently greater changes observed in the radiation-sensitive tumors. In addition to accurately evaluating tumor response to therapy, the combination of Raman spectral markers potentially offers a route to predicting response in untreated tumors prior to commencing treatment. Combined with its noninvasive nature, our findings provide a rationale for in vivo studies using Raman spectroscopy, with the ultimate goal of clinical translation for patient stratification and guiding adaptation of radiotherapy during the course of treatment. SIGNIFICANCE: These findings highlight the sensitivity of label-free Raman spectroscopy to changes induced by radiotherapy and indicate the potential to predict radiation resistance prior to commencing therapy.
Succession, regression and loss: does evidence of saltwater exposure explain recent changes in the tree communities of North Carolina's Coastal Plain?

Background and aims Coastal plant communities globally are highly vulnerable to future sea-level rise and storm damage, but the extent to which these habitats are affected by the various environmental perturbations associated with chronic salinization remains unclear. In this study, we examine the relationship between North Carolina wetland tree community composition and basal area change and indicators of salinization such as soil salt ion content and elevation. Methods We surveyed 34 forest plots in forested, freshwater wetlands across the Albemarle-Pamlico Peninsula. A subset of our study sites had been sampled during the previous decade as part of the Carolina Vegetation Survey, enabling us to investigate the environmental effects on current community structure, and community change over time. Key results Multi-variate (ordination) analysis and linear regression models of tree community composition revealed that elevation and soil salt content were correlated with changes in total site tree basal area. Shifts in tree community composition were, however, only weakly correlated with indicators of salinization, specifically elevation, soil sulphate and sodium, but not chloride. While the majority of plots experienced gains in basal area over the past decade, consistent with secondary succession, sites with high soil salt content or low elevation experienced basal area (biomass) loss during the same period. Conclusions The key factors associated with chronic saltwater intrusion (soil ion content) likely explain recent changes in tree biomass, and potential shifts in community composition in low-elevation sites along the North Carolina coast. Not only is it probable that other coastal forest ecosystems worldwide will experience similar stressors and shifts in community biomass and structure as sea levels rise, but the ability of these habitats to deliver key ecosystem services like carbon sequestration and flood defence will be compromised as a result.
Abdomen: Panniculectomy and Abdominoplasty

Straightforward abdominal contouring can be very rewarding. After massive weight loss, however, achieving optimal results can be challenging due to a host of factors. These include difficult upper rolls, significant epigastric laxity, mons ptosis, and occasionally the true giant pannus. This chapter addresses many of these challenges of various deformities and potential complications such as T-point breakdown, umbilical problems, and residual skin laxity after standard procedures. Surgical pearls are provided to aid in avoiding complications.
Coupling of SPT and 3D full waveform inversion for deep site characterization

Abstract Detailed information of soil/rock variability and properties for the entire volume of supporting materials is crucial for the successful design and construction of deep foundations. Traditional invasive testing methods such as the standard penetration test (SPT) and the cone penetrometer test (CPT) only sample a small volume of soil/rock properties near the device's tip. Surface-based seismic methods can provide overall subsurface conditions but are limited to shallow depths due to the dominancy of surface waves. To address this issue, we present a novel SPT-seismic testing method for deep site characterization. Seismic wavefields generated by SPT blows at various depths are recorded by a 2D grid of geophones on the ground surface, and analyzed by a 3D full-waveform inversion (3D FWI) to extract subsurface material properties. Unlike surface-based wavefields dominated by surface waves propagating near the ground surface, the SPT-seismic wavefields are rich in body waves propagating from great depths that allow extracting detailed material properties at depths. The method is tested on in-depth source synthetic data and SPT-source field data. The results of the synthetic experiment indicate that the method successfully images soil layering with a buried anomaly. Field experiment results provide new insights into its utility as a viable geophysical tool for deep site characterization. 3D subsurface S-wave and P-wave velocities within 9 m around the SPT boring are well characterized, including two deep voids at 14–18 m depth. Comparison with the surface-based 3D FWI method proves the superiority of the presented method in imaging deep structures. S-wave velocity values of the final inverted result are also compared with SPT N-values and a good overall agreement over the whole depth is observed.
Alcohol suppresses cardiovascular diurnal variations in male normotensive rats: Role of reduced PER2 expression and CYP2E1 hyperactivity in the heart

Abstract Background and aims The molecular mechanism of the adverse effects of ethanol on diurnal cardiovascular regulation remains unknown. In separate studies, the cardiac circadian rhythm protein period-2 (PER2) confers cardioprotection and, in other organs, PER2 interaction with the ethanol-metabolizing enzyme CYP2E1 underlies, via heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) upregulation, tissue injury/dysfunction. Here, we hypothesized that suppressed PER2 expression and elevated CYP2E1/HO-1 levels in the heart underlie the disrupted diurnal cardiovascular rhythm/function in alcohol-fed normotensive rats. Methods In ethanol-fed (5%, w/v; 8 weeks) or isocaloric liquid diet-fed male rats, diurnal changes in blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), HR vagal variability index, root mean square of successive beat-to-beat differences in beat-interval duration (rMSSD), and cardiac function were measured by radiotelemetry and echocardiography followed by ex vivo molecular studies. Results Radiotelemetry findings showed ethanol-evoked reductions in BP (during the dark cycle), rMSSD (during both cycles), and in diurnal differences in BP and rMSSD. Echocardiography findings revealed significant (p Conclusions Our novel findings implicate upregulations of CYP2E1/HO-1 and downregulation of the circadian rhythm cardioprotective protein PER2, in the heart, in the chronic deleterious diurnal cardiovascular effects of alcohol in male rats.
A human-centred approach to smart housing

Smart buildings are complex systems, yet architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals often perform their work without considering the human factors of building occupants. Tradit...
Work-Family Programs and Nonwork Networks: Within-Group Inequality, Network Activation, and Labor Market Attachment

Organizations increasingly offer work-family programs to assist employees with balancing the competing demands of work and family life. Existing scholarship indicates that the consequences of work-...
Implementing ERAS: how we achieved success within an anesthesia department

The Massachusetts General Hospital is a large, quaternary care institution with 58 operating rooms, 164 anesthesiologists, 76 certified nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), an anesthesiology residency program that admits 25 residents annually, and 35 surgeons who perform laparoscopic, vaginal, and open hysterectomies. In March of 2018, our institution launched an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathway for patients undergoing hysterectomy. To implement the anesthesia bundle of this pathway, an intensive 14-month educational endeavor was created and put into effect. There were no subsequent additional educational interventions. We retrospectively reviewed records of 2570 patients who underwent hysterectomy between October 2016 and March 2020 to determine adherence to the anesthesia bundle of the ERAS Hysterectomy pathway. RESULTS: Increased adherence to the four elements of the anesthesia bundle (p < 0.001) was achieved during the intervention period. Compliance with the pathway was sustained in the post-intervention period despite no additional actions. Implementing the anesthesia bundle of an ERAS pathway in a large anesthesia group with diverse providers successfully occurred using implementation science-based approach of intense interventions, and these results were maintained after the intervention ceased.
Control of type 2 diabetes mellitus during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract Aims Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent chronic condition that can lead to significant complications if not well controlled. The COVID-19 pandemic created disruptions in daily life; however, it is unknown whether the pandemic’s disruptions affected the ability for adults with T2DM to control their condition. This study aims to fill the knowledge gap with the experiences of adults with T2DM in Arkansas, U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This study analyzed cross-sectional, observational survey data collected from adults (≥18 years) who live, work, or receive healthcare in Arkansas; self-reported a diagnosis of T2DM; and completed the diabetes module of the Impact of COVID-19 online survey (n = 131) fielded in July–August 2020. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the sample and survey responses, and multivariate regression was used to identify demographics, self-care behaviors, and access issues associated with uncontrolled T2DM (HbA1c ≥ 9% or 74.9 mmol/mol) or with an increase in HbA1c. Results 28.2% reported an increase in their HbA1c since the pandemic began, and 18.2% had uncontrolled T2DM. Educational level, eating healthily, and weight gain were negatively associated with uncontrolled T2DM. Eating less healthily and having difficulty accessing diabetes related medication were positively associated with an increase in HbA1c. Conclusions Adults with T2DM in Arkansas were reasonably able to maintain control of their T2DM during the five months post the first case of COVD-19 diagnosed in the state. However, T2DM self-management interventions targeting those with lower educational levels that are focused on eating habits and/or that improve access to diabetes medication should be considered for future public health emergencies.
A photo-switchable assay system for dendrite degeneration and repair in Drosophila melanogaster

ABSTRACT Neurodegeneration arising from aging, injury or disease has devastating health consequences. Whereas neuronal survival and axon degeneration have been studied extensively, much less is known about how neurodegeneration impacts dendrites. To develop an assay for dendrite degeneration and repair in the Drosophila peripheral nervous system, we used photo-switchable caspase-3 (caspase-LOV) to induce neuronal damage with tunable severity by adjusting illumination duration, thereby revealing cell type-specific responses to caspase-3 induced dendrite degeneration in dendrite arborization (da) neurons. To ask whether mechanisms underlying axon degeneration also govern dendrite degeneration, we tested the involvement of the Wallerian degeneration pathway by examining the effects of expressing the mouse Wallerian degeneration slow (WldS) protein and knockdown of the Drosophila sterile alpha/Armadillo/Toll-Interleukin receptor homology domain protein (dSarm1) and Axundead (Axed) in class 4 da neurons. Here we report WldS expression or knockdown of dSarm1 improved dendrite repair following caspase- 3 induced dendrite degeneration. Whereas both dSarm1 and Axed were required for thermal nocifensive behavior in uninjured animals, WldS expression improved the recovery of thermal nocifensive behavior that was impaired by chronic low-level of caspase-LOV activity. By establishing ways to induce graded dendrite degeneration, we uncover a protective role of WldS in caspase-3 induced dendrite degeneration and repair.
William the Conqueror. By David Bates. (New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 2016. Pp. xx, 596. $40.00.)

The author of this book has made a career of studying Normandy, the Norman Conquest, and William the Conqueror. The results of this sustained effort are clear in this wise, learned, and massively d...
Guanylate Cyclase-Activating Protein (GCAP)

Vertebrate photoreceptors respond to light by a transient hyperpolarization of the plasma membrane. Hyperpolarization is achieved when cGMP-gated cation channels, located in the plasma membrane, are closed after hydrolysis of the gating ligand, cGMP ( 1,28). To re-open the channels, a prerequisite to return photoreceptors to the dark-adapted state, cGMP has to be produced at an accelerated rate by a guanylate cyclase (GC). As shown by numerous electrophysiological and biochemical experiments, activation of GC is regulated bv Ca2+ ions.
Abstract A38: Optimization of whole-genome amplification for analysis of single cells using next-generation sequencing

The accurate analysis of both genotypic variation in tumors and tumor evolution due to selective pressure is important in determining treatment options in the clinic. Next generation sequencing (NGS) of single cells from solid tumors and circulating tumor cells has the potential to dramatically increase the amount of genotypic detail obtained from these samples. For the analysis of single cells the challenge is to employ whole genome amplification (WGA) to obtain enough DNA for analysis while minimizing amplification bias and maintaining copy accuracy. We are developing tools for single cell sequencing to improve these parameters while also increasing sample throughput. Initially, three commercially available WGA methods were tested on 5-10 genome quantities of HCT-15 genomic DNA. Using the Ion Torrent AmpliSeq Cancer Hotspot Panel, the amplification accuracy, amplicon coverage and DNA yield were determined. When compared to controls significant differences were observed in the three WGA methods ability to accurately amplify DNA. The most accurate kit produced a specificity and sensitivity of 98.5% and 100% respectively. This protocol also produced a substantial DNA yield of 25 µgs and although, the average amplicon coverage indicated some bias, greater than 99% of the amplicons had at least 100-fold coverage. This WGA kit was then tested on single cells from a human breast cancer; an ER/PR/Her2 negative spindle cell metaplastic carcinoma. To obtain single cells the tumor was grown in a PDX mouse model and index sorted using a BD FACSAria II flow cytometer. The WGA produced an average DNA yield of 2.7± 0.8 µg, with 100-fold amplicon coverage of 92±7%. For the variants identified, the amplification bias differed by as much as 3,000 reads/variant. We are now taking steps to improve WGA of single cells and will report on these efforts in detail. To date when monitoring variant allele frequency and coverage depth in the triple negative tumor, KRAS and MET mutations were identified in single cells, as well as in the bulk sample. Interestingly, a TP53 mutation was identified only in single cells. This data supports the utility of WGA and single cell analysis to identify mutations, some having clinically relevant role for targeted therapy. Citation Format: Terry J. Amiss, Frances Tong, Eileen Snowden, Richard Kelly, Rainer Blaesius, Nick Herrmann, Friedrich Hahn, Warren Porter, Mitchell Ferguson, Chen Chang, Daphne Clancy, Stewart Jurgensen. Optimization of whole-genome amplification for analysis of single cells using next-generation sequencing. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Precision Medicine Series: Drug Sensitivity and Resistance: Improving Cancer Therapy; Jun 18-21, 2014; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2015;21(4 Suppl): Abstract nr A38.
Simulating Springtime Temperature Patterns in the Community Atmosphere Model Coupled to the Community Land Model Using Prognostic Leaf Area

Observations show that emergence of foliage in springtime slows surface air temperature warming as a result of greater transpiration. Model simulations with the Community Atmosphere Model coupled to the Community Land Model confirm that evapotranspiration contributes to this pattern and that this pattern occurs more reliably with prognostic leaf area as opposed to prescribed leaf area. With prescribed leaf area, leaves emerge independent of prevailing environmental conditions, which may preclude photosynthesis from occurring. In contrast, prognostic leaf area ensures that leaves emerge when conditions are favorable for photosynthesis, and thus transpiration. These results reveal a dynamic coupling between the atmosphere and vegetation in which the observed reduction in the springtime warming trend only occurs when photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and leaf emergence are synchronized with the surface climate.
Antenna design: A crystallographical appoach

The goal of this thesis was to design a switched beam antenna by applying the principles of crystallography. The main benefit of this approach is that simple design equations can be derived from crystallography and readily applied to the design of a steerable beam antenna. Before using equations from crystallography in an antenna design, the equations are first verified. One of the best known laws of crystallography, namely Bragg's Law, is verified both by software simulation, and experimentally from the radiation patterns of a prototype antenna. One set of simulations used to verify Bragg's Law involved varying the angles of incidence while changing the plane spacing accordingly to maintain the diffraction condition. The average deviation between the software simulation and the calculated diffracted peak location was 0.8%, confirming Bragg's Law at radio frequency. A prototype antenna was designed using Bragg's Law, and the peak location was verified experimentally. The antenna was designed for use at around 6 GHz. Having verified that principles from crystallography can be applied at radio frequencies, a switched beam antenna array was designed. The antenna had three possible directions: forward, and +/- 90 degrees relative to the incident beam. The side lobe level was 15.7 dB, and the half power beam width was 2 to 3 degrees.
Contribution of nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 to the atherogenic phenotype transition in coronary arterial smooth muscle cells lacking CD38 gene (1065.16)

Recent studies have reported that CD38 gene deficiency results in dedifferentiation or transdifferentiation of arterial smooth muscle (SMCs) upon atherogenic stimulations. However, the molecular me...
A comparative review of the efficacy and safety of established phosphate binders: calcium, sevelamer, and lanthanum carbonate

ABSTRACTBackground: Obstacles to successful management of hyperphosphatemia in chronic kidney disease include inadequate control of dietary phosphate and non-compliance with phosphate-binder therapy. Three major classes of phosphate binders include calcium-based binders, sevelamer HCl, and lanthanum carbonate.Scope: A literature search was performed using MEDLINE and EMBASE databases to identify clinical trials from January 1966 to May 2007 comparing classes of phosphate binders with regard to efficacy, safety, compliance, or pharmacoeconomics. Search terms included lanthanum AND sevelamer, lanthanum AND calcium, and sevelamer AND calcium. A total of 1372 articles were identified in the search, with 125 review articles and clinical trials of interest identified.Findings: Calcium-based binders are effective, but their potential to contribute to total body calcium overload and vascular calcification is an important long-term clinical concern. Sevelamer HCl is effective in reducing serum phosphate, has no sy...