cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Percolation Threshold of Sand-Clay Binary Mixtures

Many poorly graded granular materials of engineering importance can be characterized as gap-graded binary mixtures. Such mixtures display a volume-change response at a threshold value of the coarse fraction that is reminiscent of systems described by percolation theory. An experimental investigation on a sand-clay mixture is presented that clearly displays threshold behavior and sheds light on the role that each soil fraction plays in transferring loads through the medium. There are two key effects. First, an analysis of void ratio of the interpore clay fraction for varying compaction energies reveals an abrupt reduction in clay density at the threshold fraction of sand, whereby it is virtually impossible to impart compaction on the clay fraction at sand contents exceeding this threshold. Second, although force chains cannot be observed directly, analysis of the sand in terms of its component void ratio, computed based on treating the clay as part of the void space, shows that the sand carries a majority of the load at component void ratios that are too high to form stable force chains. The traditional interrelationship between mean stress and void ratio based on critical state theory breaks down when the sand content nears its threshold fraction. When the sand content is near the threshold limit, increasing mean stress results in a greater dilative tendency. Results are compared with findings on consolidation of sand-bentonite mixtures, and so-called reverse behavior of sand-silt mixtures.
Initial clinical experience with interleukin‐2 receptor antagonist induction in combination with tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil and steroids in simultaneous kidney‐pancreas transplantation

Since 1996, our standard immunosuppressive protocol for simultaneous kidney-pancreas transplantation (SKPT) has been tacrolimus (TAC), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and steroids without antibody induction. When basiliximab and daclizumab, monoclonal antibodies directed against the interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R), became available, we selectively added these agents to our standard protocol. The purpose of this prospective, open-label study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of IL-2 receptor antagonists in SKPT. From April 1998 to August 1999, 35 SKPTS were performed. One patient with delayed graft function received Thymoglobulin and was excluded; 17 received no induction, and 17 received IL-2R antagonists (9 basiliximab, 8 daclizumab) as induction. Demographic- and transplant characteristics were similar between the two groups. At 6 months, patient survival was 88 % (15/17) in the induction arm compared to 100 % (17/17) in the no-induction arm, P = NS. The 2 causes of death were sepsis and hemolytic uremic syndrome, and both patients died with functioning grafts. Death-censored pancreas and kidney graft survival rates in the induction and the no-induction groups were 88 % vs. 100 % respectively, in both groups. The incidence of acute rejection (kidney or pancreas) at 6 months did not differ between the two groups (35 % in both groups). Biopsy proven pancreas and kidney acute rejections were 35 % vs. 24 % and 12 % vs. 12 % in the induction- and no-induction groups, respectively. The incidences of major infection and readmission did not differ between groups. TAC trough levels and mean daily doses of TAC, MMF and steroids did not differ between the two groups at 1, 3, and 6 months. The incidence of event-free survival (no death, rejection, or graft loss) at 6 months was 59 % (10/17) in the induction and 65 % (11/17) in the no-induction group. Basiliximab and daclizumab appear to be safe in SKPT. However, the preliminary results of this study do not demonstrate a significant benefit in either reducing the incidence of acute rejection or improving outcomes at 6 months. Larger studies with longer follow-up are needed to confirm these findings.
Effect of Phosphodiesterase Inhibition on Insulin Resistance in Obese Individuals

Methods and Results-—We conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of adults age 18 to 50 years with obesity and elevated fasting insulin levels (≥10 lU/mL). Participants were randomized to tadalafil 20 mg daily or placebo for 3 months. Oral glucose tolerance tests were performed, and the effect of tadalafil on IR was examined. A total of 53 participants (mean age, 33 years; body mass index [BMI], 38 kg/m 2 ) were analyzed, 25 randomized to tadalafil and 28 to placebo. In the overall sample, measures of IR did not differ between tadalafil and placebo groups at 3 months. However, in individuals with severe obesity (BMI ≥36.2 kg/m 2 ), tadalafil use was associated with improved IR (homeostatic model assessment for IR), compared to placebo (P=0.02, respectively). Furthermore, one measure of b-cell compensation for IR (oral disposition index) improved with tadalafil in the overall sample (P=0.009) and in the subgroup with severe obesity (P=0.01).
Unanswered questions in the design of controlled vocabularies

The issue of free-text versus controlled vocabulary is examined in this article. The history of the issue, which is seen as beginning with the debate over title term indexing in the last century, is reviewed and then attention is turned to questions which have not been satisfactorily addressed by previous research. The point is made that these questions need to be answered if we are to design retrieval tools, such as thesauri, upon a rational basis.
Nutrition support and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

Nutritional support of patients with HIV or acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) has many similarities to other disease states in that the same nutritional products and techniques are used. Some patients with HIV, and many with AIDS without secondary infection, experience a metabolic milieu similar to patients with cancer cachexia. In providing dietary counselling to the HIV patient, we encounter many of the obstacles that must be overcome to improve nutrition in cancer: anorexia, gastrointestinal discomfort, lethargy, and poor nutrient utilization, which limit the ability for nutritional repletion. When a secondary infection is superimposed on HIV, patients resemble more highly catabolic trauma patients or patients in the intensive care unit (ICU), where, despite aggressive efforts to feed, there is usually a net nitrogen wasting leading to the more rapid development of cachexia. However, even in this setting, feeding will limit substantially net catabolism when compared to total starvation. Because the nutritional needs of HIV patients vary greatly, individual strategies have to be designed as the patient moves through the stages of disease. Patients are generally able to consume adequate nutrition either as regular food or dietary supplements during the latency period of viral replication. Once secondary infections become prevalent, artificial diets administered by tube or by vein may be required during the period of active secondary infections, with dietary supplements often helpful during more quiescent periods. Patients with HIV are among the most challenging for clinicians providing nutritional support. Knowledge from treatment of patients with other diseases may be useful, but more data must be gathered on the unique aspects of aetiology and treatment of the anorexia, malabsorption, and ultimate wasting associated with AIDS.
The Intelligent Design controversy: lessons from psychology and education

The current debate over whether to teach Intelligent Design creationism in American public schools provides the rare opportunity to watch the interaction between scientific knowledge and intuitive beliefs play out in courts rather than cortex. Although it is tempting to think the controversy stems only from ignorance about evolution, a closer look reinforces what decades of research in cognitive and social psychology have already taught us: that the relationship between understanding a claim and believing a claim is far from simple.
A review of the species in the Apogon fasciatus group with a description of a new species of cardinalfish from the Indo-West Pacific (Perciformes: Apogonidae)

Nine nominal, Indo-West Pacfic species are treated: Apogon fasciatus (White, 1790), Apogon quadrifasciatus Cuvier in Cuvier & Valenciennes, 1828, Apogon monogramma Gunther, 1880, Apogon septemstriatus Gunther, 1880, Apogon evanidus Fowler 1904, Apogon elizabethae (Jordan & Seale, 1905), Apogon quinquestriatus Regan, 1908, Apogon kiensis Jordan & Snyder, 1901 and Apogon bryx Fraser, 1998. Four species treated as valid have VII first-dorsal spines: Apogon fasciatus with two brownish stripes on each side of the head and body to caudal peduncle and a faint, variable stripe along a portion of the lateral-line, 16 (15) pectoral-fin rays, and 14–17 (12, 13 or 18) gill rakers, Apogon quinquestriatus with four brownish stripes on each side of head and body, two reaching the caudal peduncle, 15 pectoral-fin rays, and 15 gill rakers, Apogon septemstriatus with three brownish stripes on each side of head and body, three reaching the caudal peduncle, 14 (13) pectoral-fin rays, and 14–16 gill rakers, Apogon pleuron, new species, with two brownish stripes on each side of head and body reaching the caudal peduncle, ventral edge of midlateral stripe with vertical bars, 15 (14 or16) pectoral-fin rays, and 17–20 (15, 16 or 21) gill rakers. Two species treated as valid have VI first-dorsal spines: Apogon bryx with three brownish stripes on each side of head and body, two reaching the caudal peduncle, 14–15 pectoral-fin rays, and 22–23 (21 or 24) gill rakers, Apogon kiensis, with two brownish stripes on each side of head and body reaching the caudal peduncle, 14–15 pectoral-fin rays, and 16–18 (15 or 19-20) gill rakers. The long recognized name, Apogon quadrifasciatus, is synonymous with Apogon fasciatus.
Abstract 1451: Modeling patient-derived lung cancer in mice: Preclinical tool for drug development

Background: Genotype directed treatment is the standard of care for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, acquired drug resistance invariably develops. There is a need to develop clinically relevant animal models from patients who have developed acquired resistance in order to study mechanisms of resistance and validate new therapeutic strategies. We have generated a portfolio of clinically relevant, early passage, patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of lung cancer. Methods: Tumor biopsies (core biopsies (n = 8), pleural effusions (n = 28) and surgical samples (n = 11)) were implanted subcutaneously (n = 39) or into the sub-renal capsule (n = 8) of NSG mice under an IRB approved protocol. After implanting 35 specimens, mostly from pleural effusions, several mice exhibited weight and fur loss. Histopathology revealed infiltration of the liver, skin and lungs by human derived T-cells consistent with graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Subsequent pleural effusions were then subjected to CD45 depletion using a human CD45 microbead separation kit which eliminated the incidence of GVHD. Tumors from all three sources were allowed to grow and subsequently passaged only as subcutaneous implants in NSG mice. Molecular characterization of PDX models was performed using targeted next generation sequencing and tumor histology confirmed by HE to models including SCLC with an NRAS Q61K mutation (n = 1); EML4-ALK resistant to crizotinib and ceritinib (n = 1); KRAS G12C mutation (n = 1); NUT-mid line carcinoma with BRD4 rearrangement (n = 1); pan wild-type (n = 2) and a PIK3CA mutation (n = 1). We have used these models to study therapeutic interventions. Treatment of the NRAS Q61K mutant SCLC with trametinib resulted in complete tumor regression. Pharmacodynamic analyses revealed inhibition of pERK 1/2 and induction of apoptosis. Data will be presented with further characterization and platform development of the lung PDX models. Notably, >50% of the models do show pulmonary metastases from the subcutaneous implant site. Conclusions: PDXs can be established from lung cancer patients undergoing routine clinical biopsies. Establishment of models from pleural effusions is also feasible following CD45 depletion to prevent GVHD. These models will provide unique information on mechanisms of drug resistance and can be used to evaluate pre-clinical therapeutic strategies. Citation Format: Prafulla C. Gokhale, Sangeetha Palakurthi, Man Xu, Antonio Calles, Shruti D. Shah, Allison O9Connell, Melissa Messineo, Yanan Kuang, Masahiko Yanagita, Mosab Ali, Cam Anh Tran, Jihyun Choi, Atsuko Ogino, Mohit Butaney, Amanda J. Redig, Cloud Paweletz, Paul T. Kirschmeier, Pasi A. Janne. Modeling patient-derived lung cancer in mice: Preclinical tool for drug development. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 1451. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-1451
Abstract 3740: Exergame development for cancer prevention and intervention

Proceedings: AACR 106th Annual Meeting 2015; April 18-22, 2015; Philadelphia, PA The current study utilized smart and connected technologies to assist difficult to reach populations with healthy lifestyle intervention for cancer prevention. Lack of physical activities and high body mass index are important cancer risk factors. We tested the hypothesis that a low cost gaming platform could be used to supplement therapeutic regimes for life style changes to affect risk factors associated with cancer. Using a 3D room sensor built into the Microsoft Kinect, we analyzed qualitative and quantitative measures of Yoga and Tai Chi postures and dance routines with the Kinect sensor. Specifically, we used Kinect version 2.0 Software Development Kit to capture skeleton image streams composed of X, Y, Z coordinates at 20 frames per second. The instructors performed a series of 17 hatha yoga postures, including a variety of standing and supine positions, 12 Tai Chi motions, or performed traditional African-based dance routines. Inaccuracy of data capture was measured by the number of imputed joint positions in the skeleton stream using two-sample equal variance t-test, along with time-average measurements for the dance routines. The accuracy of skeleton capture for sampled yoga postures was heavily dependent on the yoga practitioner view orientation and the particular yoga posture. Frontal view orientation was slightly more accurate than perpendicular, but not significantly different. Standing poses were significantly more accurate than seated or supine body orientations. Instability of joint positions in the skeleton stream was more severe for seated poses as evidenced by large fluctuations between image frames that resulted in visible displacements of joints that were described as jitter. Tai Chi and African dance routines were significantly more accurate for full range of postures. Multiplayer modes in other exergames show positive effect with motivation and physical exertion. Implementation of multiplayer capacity will help to establish a culturally appropriate electronic cohort focused on cancer prevention. In conclusion, the skeleton movement tracking algorithms embedded in Kinect were not appropriate for body positions that significantly deviated far from upright postures. Future studies will evaluate Tai Chi and African dance as an Exergame for multiple players. This app will be designed by peers of targeted populations at risk for cancer, linking GIS neighborhood characteristics for longitudinal tracking across metropolitan Atlanta over time. Acknowledge partial support from G12MD007602, 8U54MD007588, and U54 CA118638. Citation Format: Blessing Ahabue, Paula Pullen, Afebuameh Ogbesor, William S. Seffens, James W. Lillard. Exergame development for cancer prevention and intervention. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2015 Apr 18-22; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(15 Suppl):Abstract nr 3740. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2015-3740
Know Your Enemy: The Changing Sophistication and Success of Maritime Piracy

In this article we have introduced a new comprehensive Maritime Piracy Sophistication Index. The MPSI allows us to better understand the relationship between risks and rewards in maritime piracy, manifested through highly sophisticated attacks and their lower success rates. More highly sophisticated and difficult attacks present a greater risk of failure; simultaneously, they provide the financial incentive of greater monetary reward than their easier, less risky low sophistication counterparts. It also helps to identify time-based and regional trends in piracy sophistication, namely the evolution in recent years of more sophisticated pirate operations and the stratified development of piracy in East Africa. The MPSI shows that piracy is nuanced and regional: different geographic regions experience vastly different forms of piracy, in their sophistication as well as magnitude. Any further efforts to understand or combat piracy must keep these developments in mind, and must, critically, be geospatially rooted.
Structural and Electrical Properties of Molecular Beam Deposited Polycrystalline Silicon

The structural and electrical properties have been investigated of antimony doped polycrystalline silicon films obtained by molecular beam deposition on oxidized silicon substrates. We show that low resistivity films with smooth morphology are obtained by Solid Phase Crystallization of antimony doped amorphous silicon layers deposited at 250°C. A resistivity of 4.3 mΩ cm is obtained by crystallizing the films at temperatures as low as 650°C for 15 minutes. Similar resistivities are typically obtained by Chemical Vapor Deposition at temperature of at least 850 °C. In-situ crystallization of the amorphous silicon is needed to obtain low resistivity polysilicon. We also show that direct deposition above 650 ° C gives rise to polycrystalline silicon with much higher resistivities.
Reflexive Global Bollywood and Metacinematic Gender Politics in Om Shanti Om (2007), Luck By Chance (2008), and Dhobi Ghat (2010):

This essay examines reflexive strategies in three contemporary Hindi-language feature films directed by women, Om Shanti Om (2007), Luck By Chance (2008), and Dhobi Ghat/Mumbai Diaries (2010). These Mumbai-set films, directed and written by Farah Khan, Zoya Akhtar, and Kiran Rao, respectively, offer insider industry perspectives and a variety of outlooks on Bollywood and Indian society more generally. I introduce the concepts of “selective reflection” to critically examine self-conscious representations of the excessively star-driven world of Bollywood filmmaking in an age of globalization (and the dominant figure of the male hero), directing styles and strategies of image-making, and the blurred boundaries between reality and artifice. This article presents a close analysis of narrative tropes (especially “breaking in” to Bollywood), filmi references, casting, spectator dynamics, and gendered agency in films that represent a taxonomic range from commercial blockbuster to art cinema.
Islam and the Tablighi Jama’at in Spain: Ghosts of the Past, Limits of Representation, and New Developments

After 1492, Spain emerged as opposed to the previous presence of Muslim rulers in the Iberian Peninsula. Consequently, Islam became a mythological past overturned by the emergence of a new nation. Today, scholars in the social sciences reproduce such distinction by focusing on circumscribed moments and spaces for the practice of Islam such as communal prayers at mosques. However, in Barcelona, the Islamic movement Tablighi Jama’at calls into question the segmentation of time and space dedicated to religion and daily activities. Working hours emerge as a central domain for proselytizing and the cultivation of everyday life virtues. Thus, the Tablighi Jama’at produces a creative way of experiencing Islam while engaging in city life challenging hitherto dominant orders of governance and representation of Islam in Spain.
Treatment Algorithm for Patients with Massive Rotator Cuff Tears

Significant controversy surrounds the appropriate treatment of irreparable rotator cuff tears. A host of varying treatment options is available for the treating shoulder surgeon. However, diligent patient evaluation should allow for a tailored treatment plan based upon specific patient symptoms and physical exam findings. This chapter reviews available diagnostic criteria to assist in the identification of the irreparable rotator cuff tears. This chapter will also offer a review of the diverse treatment options for irreparable tears of the rotator cuff. These options include physical therapy, arthroscopic treatment, tendon transfers, and arthroplasty. In conclusion the authors offer a reproducible and reliable treatment algorithm to help guide surgeons in treating this difficult clinical scenario.
Photonic gauge potential and synthetic dimension with integrated photonics platforms

Photonic gauge potentials can be achieved in dynamically modulated photonic structures. Moreover, such a potential can be realized in a synthetic space with a frequency dimension, leading to novel opportunities for controlling the light spectrum.
Norwegian military field exercises in the arctic: endocrine and metabolic responses.

This study examined select endocrine and metabolic responses of Norwegian soldiers to performing military physical training in an arctic field setting which involved cold exposure. Also, the impact on nocturnal shelter conditions on the physiological responses was investigated. A field based group (EXP, n = 17) lived in tents and a garrison group (CON, n = 16) lived in barracks for 10 days while performing similar daily training in cold weather. Cortisol, testosterone, thyroxine, glucose, triglycerides, and beta-hydroxybutyrate were measured on day 1, 5, and 10 of training. The cortisol and testosterone findings suggest a moderate, but somewhat transient, stress response is associated with field living. The living conditions, however, did not seem to influence the metabolic responses to the physical activity. The observed changes in thyroxine, glucose, and triglycerides (i.e., reductions) suggest that an energy imbalance may accompany military training in the arctic.
Abstract 347: Cigarette Smoking Associated Changes on Platelet Surface

Thirty percent of all deaths from coronary heart disease each year in the US are attributable to cigarette smoking. The acute effects of smoking on the cardiovascular systems are associated with ar...
Dual Mode Control of a Three-Phase Inverter Using Minimum Variance Adaptive Architecture

This paper presents a system identification based minimum variance control architecture for three-phase voltage source inverters that work seamlessly in both grid connected and grid forming modes. The controller is adaptive as parameters in the control law are updated online based on an identified system that relate the inverter output to input. Main advantages of the proposed controller are 1) it can be used in both modes of inverter operation and 2) the controller adapts under varying operating conditions, thus capable of accommodating uncertain energy resources and yet maintaining the power quality. First, the design of the controller is presented and simulation results from test performed using MATLAB SimPowerSystems along with hardware-in-the-loop implementation are illustrated. Second, operation of the inverter controller in the context of micro grids is discussed. The results show that the proposed controller can be a better alternative to the existing cascaded PI based vector control for both grid connected and grid forming modes of operation.
Cannabinoids for Treatment of MS Symptoms: State of the Evidence

Cannabis and cannabinoids have been used medically and recreationally for thousands of years and recently there has been a growing body of research in this area. With increased access now that medical marijuana is available in many jurisdictions, patients and providers want to know more about the evidence for benefits and risks of cannabinoid use. This paper provides an overview of the available cannabinoid-based formulations, a summary of the highest quality evidence for the use of cannabinoids for treating spasticity and pain associated with multiple sclerosis (MS), and a discussion of possible dosing regimens based on information from these studies. Two recent high-quality systematic reviews concluded that the only strong evidence for medical marijuana in neurological disorders was for reducing the symptoms of patient-reported spasticity and central pain in MS and that the only complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) intervention in MS with strong supportive evidence was cannabinoids. Based on this review, they concluded that nabiximols (Sativex oral spray), oral cannabis extract (OCE), and synthetic tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are probably effective at reducing patient-reported symptoms of spasticity in people with MS, but OCE and synthetic THC were not found to be effective for reducing physician-administered measures of spasticity. In addition, nabiximols, OCE, and synthetic THC are probably effective at reducing MS-related pain. Cannabinoids were generally well-tolerated. However, cannabis use has been associated with an increased risk of psychosis and schizophrenia in at-risk individuals, there is growing evidence that cannabis can increase the risk for cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction (MI), hypertension, heart failure, and stroke, and a recently recognized adverse effect of cannabis is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. The medical use of cannabinoids remains controversial. While cannabinoids have been studied for a variety of neurologic disorders, there is strongest evidence to indicate benefits in treatment of spasticity and neuropathic pain in multiple sclerosis. Although the best dose for an individual remains uncertain, most participants in the studies discussed in this paper used between 20 and 40 mg of THC a day in divided doses. Adverse events in studies were generally more common in the groups using cannabinoid products but serious adverse events were rare and cannabis products were generally well-tolerated. Cannabis use does appear to be associated with increased risk of certain adverse events, including psychosis, cardiovascular diseases, and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
LONGTERM HEALTH CARE APPLICATIONS FOR ROBOTS

An interdisciplinary team was selected to participate in an investigation of robots in a longterm care facility. The research took place in the VA Menlo Park Nursing Home Care Unit. The objectives were three-fold. First, we wanted to identify tasks that were amenable to augmentation or replacement by robotic technology. Second, we wanted to survey the attitudes of the administration and staff toward computers and robots. Third. we wanted to see if our training techniques for the VA/SU Robotic Aid could be used successfully by older users and to see how their time to completion scores compared to younger users.
Interconnecting LANs for Real Time Traffic Application

This work deals with the flow control of real time traffic in communication systems interconnecting multiple LAN-s through a gateway or over a high speed backbone. Multiple LAN-s connected to a WAN, or over a MAN are typical examples of systems belonging to these categories. The systems under consideration, LAN-s or gateway, have a finite set of buffers, and packets destined to the gateway or a destination LAN and that cannot be stored are considered lost. We propose and investigate flow control which can minimize probability of loss, without packet retransmission. Traffic control is studied for geographically adjacent systems, as well as for interconnected systems in which the packet transfer time is nonnegligible. An approximate Analytical model is introduced, which is used to set optimal control parameters, and derive the interconnected system performance in terms of packet loss probability, throughput and the average packet delay. It is shown that the use of the proposed control mechanism can significantly reduce the packet loss probability.
Nonsyndromic genetic predisposition to aortic dissection: A newly recognized, diagnosable, and preventable occurrence in families

The major diseases affecting the aorta are aortic aneurysms and dissections, with patients with acute dissections often presenting in the emergency department (ED). Recent studies demonstrate a strong genetic predisposition to thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections, independent of syndromes traditionally considered to predispose to aortic disease (such as Marfan syndrome). Nonsyndromic familial thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections are inherited in families as an autosomal dominant disorder and a variable age of onset of the aortic disease. The case reported here illustrates the critical importance of obtaining a family history of thoracic aortic aneurysms and dissections, along with unexplained sudden death, when assessing an individual with chest pain in the ED, regardless of age and in the absence of a known genetic syndrome.
Methotrexate Administration to Patients With Presumed Ectopic Pregnancy Leads to Methotrexate Exposure of Intrauterine Pregnancies.

Objective To report clinical experience with methotrexate (MTX) treatment for suspected but not definite ectopic pregnancy (EP). Methods This was a retrospective cohort study. All patients treated with MTX for presumed EP between 2000 and 2016 were included. Demographic, clinical, sonographic, and outcome data were collected and analyzed. Results A total of 820 patients were treated with MTX, 692 (84.4%) of which were lacking definitive features of EP; 155 (22.4%) failed to follow up until complete resolution and were excluded. Retrospective sonographic categorization was applied to 537 patients; of those patients, 393 (73.2%) were categorized as probable EPs, 136 (25.3%) pregnancies of unknown location (PULs), and 8 (1.5%) probable intrauterine pregnancies (IUPs). Sixteen were eventually diagnosed with IUP: 6 from the probable EPs, 9 from the PULs, and 1 from the probable IUP group. Patients with final diagnosis of IUP had higher values of β-human chorionic gonadotropin as well as lower prevalence of adnexal mass (38% versus 74%; P = .003), higher prevalence of intracavitary fluid (44% versus 9%; P = .0004) and thicker endometrium (17.1 ± 11.8 versus 9.7 ± 5.6; P = .04). None of the sonographic parameters were able to distinguish patients with IUP. One patient of the 16 with IUP was diagnosed with a viable pregnancy, and 7 additional patients had a possible viable pregnancy. None of them elected to continue the pregnancy. Conclusions Most patients with suspected EP who are eligible for medical treatment lack definitive sonographic features of EP. Treatment with MTX in such cases should be delayed, as clinically reasonable, to improve the diagnosis and prevent inadvertent administration of MTX to patients with a viable IUP.
Initiation, Continuation, Switching, and Withdrawal of Heart Failure Medical Therapies During Hospitalization.

Patients with worsening heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) spend a large proportion of time in the hospital and other health care facilities. The benefits of guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) in the outpatient setting have been shown in large randomized controlled trials. However, the decision to initiate, continue, switch, or withdraw HFrEF medications in the inpatient setting is often based on multiple factors and subject to significant variability across providers. Based on available data, in well-selected, treatment-naive patients who are hemodynamically stable and clinically euvolemic after stabilization during hospitalization for HF, elements of GDMT can be safely initiated. Inpatient continuation of GDMT for HFrEF appears safe and well-tolerated in most hemodynamically stable patients. Hospitalization is also a potential time for switching from an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin II receptor blocker to sacubitril/valsartan therapy in eligible patients, and is the subject of ongoing study. Therapy withdrawal or need for dose reduction is rarely required, but if needed identifies a particularly at-risk group of patients with progressive HF. If recurrent intolerance to neurohormonal blockers is observed, these patients should be evaluated for advanced HF therapies. There is an enduring need for using the teachable moment of HFrEF hospitalization for optimal initiation, continuation, and switching of GDMT to improve post-discharge patient outcomes and the quality of chronic HFrEF care.
The Legacy for Children™ Randomized Control Trial: Effects on Cognition Through Third Grade for Young Children Experiencing Poverty.

OBJECTIVE In an effort to promote the health and developmental outcomes of children born into poverty, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conceptualized and designed the Legacy for Children™ (Legacy) public health prevention model. This article examines the impact of Legacy on children's cognitive and language development (intelligence quotient [IQ], achievement, language skills, and early reading skills) using both standardized assessments and parent-reported indictors through third grade. METHODS Data were collected from 2001 to 2014 from 541 mother-child dyads who were recruited into the 2 concurrent randomized controlled trials of Legacy in Miami and Los Angels. Cognitive and/or language outcomes of children were assessed annually from age 2 to 5 years as well as during a follow-up visit in the third grade. RESULTS Children experiencing Legacy at the Los Angeles site had significantly higher IQ and achievement scores at 2 and 6 years postintervention, equivalent to approximately one-third of an SD (4 IQ points). IQ results persisted over time, and the difference between intervention and comparison groups on achievement scores widened. There were no significant differences in cognitive outcomes in the Miami sample. There were no significant differences in language outcomes for either site. CONCLUSION Legacy shows evidence of effectiveness as an intervention to prevent cognitive delays among children living in poverty. The mixed findings across sites may not only reflect the impact of heterogeneous risk profiles noted by other intervention research programs but also warrant additional study.
Ultrasonic Spectroscopy for Corrosion Detection

A new approach that overcomes traditional difficulties associated with ultrasonic spectroscopy (including inspection time, resolution and signal-to-noise ratio) is presented along with examples of inspection methods made possible by the new technology. Particularly, use of the method to detect hidden corrosion, independent of material thickness, will be presented.
Adverse Outcome Pathway on antagonist binding to PPARα leading to body-weight loss

The present AOP describes antagonistic chemical binding to the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα), resulting in preferential binding a co-repressor to the overall PPARα signalling complex causing a chain of events that includes: antagonism of PPARα nuclear signalling, decreased transcriptional expression of PPARα-regulated genes that support energy metabolism, inhibited metabolic energy production (decreased fatty acid beta oxidation and ketogenesis), and increase in catabolism of muscle protein, culminating with starvation-like weight loss. The AOP is likely to be synergised during fasting, starvation or malnutrition events. The adverse outcome of this AOP is body-weight loss, which within the context of dynamic energy budget theory, decreases energy allocations to organismal maturation and reproduction and has been demonstrated to negatively affect ecological fitness.
The Utility of Thirst as a Measure of Hydration Status Following Exercise-Induced Dehydration

The purpose of this study was to examine the perception of thirst as a marker of hydration status following prolonged exercise in the heat. Twelve men (mean ± SD; age, 23 ± 4 y; body mass, 81.4 ± 9.9 kg; height, 182 ± 9 cm; body fat, 14.3% ± 4.7%) completed two 180 min bouts of exercise on a motorized treadmill in a hot environment (35.2 ± 0.6 °C; RH, 30.0 ± 5.4%), followed by a 60 min recovery period. Participants completed a euhydrated (EUH) and hypohydrated (HYPO) trial. During recovery, participants were randomly assigned to either fluid replacement (EUHFL and HYPOFL; 10 min ad libitum consumption) or no fluid replacement (EUHNF and HYPONF). Thirst was measured using both a nine-point scale and separate visual analog scales. The percent of body mass loss (%BML) was significantly greater immediately post exercise in HYPO (HYPOFL, 3.0% ± 1.2%; HYPONF, 2.6% ± 0.6%) compared to EUH (EUHFL, 0.2% ± 0.7%; EUHNF, 0.6% ± 0.5%) trials (p 0.05) or between EUHFL and EUHNF (p > 0.05). Beginning at minute 5 during the recovery period, thirst perception was significantly greater in HYPONF than EUHFL, EUHNF, and HYPOFL (p 2%), negated differences in perception of thirst between euhydrated and hypohydrated trials. These results represent a limitation in the utility of thirst in guiding hydration practices.
Effects of Primary Care Provider Characteristics on Changes in Behavioral Health Delivery During a Collaborative Care Trial

ABSTRACT Objective Pediatric primary care providers (PCPs) are increasingly expected to deliver behavioral health (BH) services, yet PCP characteristics that facilitate or hinder BH service delivery are poorly understood. This study examined how PCP characteristics and collaborative care participation influenced changes in BH-related effort and competency over time. Methods Pediatric PCPs (N = 74) participating in a cluster randomized trial (8 practices) of a collaborative care intervention for disruptive behavior problems completed self-report measures at 0, 6, 12, and 18 months. Latent growth curve models tested the impact of PCP characteristics (i.e., age, gender, negative BH beliefs, BH burden, BH competency) on changes in identification/treatment of disruptive behavior disorders (DBDs) and competency over the course of the trial. Results Participation in collaborative care was associated with increases in identification/treatment, with no evidence that PCP characteristics moderated changes in identification/treatment. For competency, however, older PCPs (>50 years) in collaborative care exhibited steep increases over time, while older PCPs in the comparison condition exhibited steep decreases, suggesting differential benefits of collaborative care participation by PCP age. In both conditions, PCPs with more negative BH beliefs reported less identification/treatment over time. Baseline competency was positively associated with identification/treatment and associations weakened over time. Gender and perceived burden had little impact. Conclusions PCP characteristics are associated with changes in PCPs’ BH-related effort and competency over time. Participation in a collaborative care model appears to be especially beneficial for older PCPs. Implementation of collaborative care can promote growth in BH-related effort and competency for PCPs.
Genome-resolved metagenomics to study co-occurrence patterns and intraspecific heterogeneity among plant pathogen metapopulations

Assessment of pathogen diversity in agricultural fields is essential for informing management decisions and the development of resistant plant varieties. However, many population genomic studies have relied on culture-based approaches that do not provide quantitative assessment of pathogen populations at the field-level or the associated host microbiome. Here, we applied whole-genome shotgun sequencing of microbial DNA extracted directly from the washings of pooled leaf samples, collected from individual tomato and pepper fields in Alabama that displayed the classical symptoms of bacterial spot disease caused by Xanthomonas spp. Our results revealed that while the occurrence of both X. perforans and X. euvesicatoria within fields was limited, evidence of co-occurrence of up to three distinct X. perforans genotypes was obtained in 7 of 10 tomato fields sampled. These population dynamics were accompanied by the corresponding type 3 secreted effector repertoires associated with the co-occurring X. perforans genotypes, indicating that metapopulation structure within fields should be considered when assessing the adaptive potential of X. perforans. Finally, analysis of microbial community composition revealed that co-occurrence of the bacterial spot pathogens Pseudomonas cichorii and Xanthomonas spp. is common in Alabama fields and provided evidence for the non-random association of several other human and plant opportunists.
X-Ray Holography Using Photoresists: High Resolution Lensless Imaging

X-ray microscopy using two types of holography (Gabor and Fourier transform) is considered. The advantages and drawbacks of Gabor holography using photoresists are considered in some detail. Recent results in Gabor holography using undulator radiation are presented, including twin image noise reduction, the imaging of 3D objects, and the results of initial attempts at imaging hydrated specimens.
The role of maternal environment on calibrating “Mini Puberty” in early infant development

The postnatal period is a time of increased brain development and plasticity which have enduring influences on brain and behavior. Infants demonstrate a transient surge in testosterone (T) during development referred to as "mini puberty". The utility of studying mini puberty in psychobiology has only recently emerged. Life-history theory postulates that infants "use" the maternal environment-pre and postnatally-to calibrate growth and timing of sexual maturity. As such, variability in infant T levels is not arbitrary and can be predicted by theory. We examine the role of maternal pre- and postnatal cortisol. Using saliva samples (n = 193 dyads), we predicted that higher levels of maternal cortisol are associated with higher levels of infant T. We found only maternal postnatal cortisol had a relationship with infants' mini puberty. This relationship was in the predicted direction and remained after controlling for numerous variables. Discussion will include the potential role of mini puberty as an inflection point where systems related to growth, sexual maturation, and psychosexual behavior can be calibrated and coordinated.
A manipulative thermal challenge protocol for adult salmonids in remote field settings.

Manipulative experiments provide stronger evidence for identifying cause-and-effect relationships than correlative studies, but protocols for implementing temperature manipulations are lacking for large species in remote settings. We developed an experimental protocol for holding adult Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and exposing them to elevated temperature treatments. The goal of the experimental protocol was to validate heat stress biomarkers by increasing river water temperature from ambient (~14°C) to a treatment temperature of 18°C or 21°C and then maintain the treatment temperature over 4 hours within a range of ±1.0°C. Our protocol resulted in a mean rate of temperature rise of 3.71°C h-1 (SD = 1.31) to treatment temperatures and mean holding temperatures of 18.0°C (SD = 0.2) and 21.0°C (SD = 0.2) in the low- and high-heat treatments, respectively. Our work demonstrated that manipulative experiments with large, mobile study species can be successfully developed in remote locations to examine thermal stress.
Reflecting on Therapeutic Jurisprudence in the Criminalization of Mental Illness and Addiction

Problem-solving courts were created as a means of therapeutic jurisprudence. They arose in the context of the post-deinstitutionalization influx of defendants with behavioral and social problems entering the criminal court system. Seeing that typical judicial practices were poor solutions for individuals primarily facing problems such as homelessness, substance use disorders, and mental illness, courts developed specialized dockets as a solution to the problem of not being able to restrict the flow of these individuals into courtrooms. Although highly regarde, mental health courts (MHCs) and drug courts (DCs) can harm people with mental illness and addiction and contribute to the oppression of disenfranchised populations, including racial and ethnic minorities. By tying access to needed treatment to criminal justice system involvement, MHCs and DCs can increase criminalization of mental illness, subject individuals to long-term collateral consequences, and interfere with social policy reforms that would dismantle the prison-industrial complex (PIC). As forensic mental health professionals, we must reflect on our practices and consider the impact that our professional decisions have on the patients that we serve, and on society as a whole, and advocate for criminal justice and healthcare system reforms that truly free individuals in need of mental health or substance use treatment from the grasp of the PIC.
Infrared spectroscopy for chemical agent detection using tailored hypersorbent materials

We report long-wave infrared (LWIR, 5-15 μm) and mid-wave infrared (MWIR, 2.5 – 5 μm) differential absorption spectra of different nerve agent simulants and common solutes sorbed to poly(methyldi(1,1,1-trifluoro-2-trifluoromethyl- 2-hydroxypent-4-enyl)silane, HCSFA2, an NRL developed hypersorbent polymer. HCSFA2 is a strong hydrogen-bond acidic polymer which exhibits large gas-polymer partitions for a variety of hazardous chemicals with hydrogen-bond basic properties such as the phosphonate ester G-nerve agents or their simulants. The measured ATR-FTIR differential absorption spectra show complex fingerprint signal changes in the resonances for the sorbent material itself, as well as new resonances arising from chemical bonding between the solute or analyte and the sorbent or the solute itself being present in the sorbent.
Bottom-Supported Concrete Platforms: Overview

A concrete gravity platform consists of a cellular caisson made up of a collection of large concrete cylinders supporting three or four large diameter tubular columns with a steel frame deck structure on top. The huge size of the overall structure, and the variety of load conditions, make it complicated to analyze all of the problems with one structural model. The complete soil-structure-water system is divided into separate systems for analysis, and then the load cases are combined with due regard for interaction effects to determine the total response. Three general classes of analyses are involved: (1) Space frames; (2) continuum type shell problems; and (3) soil-structure interaction problems. Methods of predicting elastic-plastic-fracture behavior and implosion pressure on the outer cell walls are mentioned. Kinds of failure of gravity type foundations for offshore structures are given.
Information-Seeking Behavior of Academic Meteorologists and the Role of Information Specialists

In lengthy interviews of 43 meteorologists at two universities and a research center, the author investigated their methods of seeking information needed for their research, teaching, and current awareness. The primary goals of the study were to determine problems and challenges encountered by these scientists and to develop a profile of their information needs. Of particular interest were the effects of the Internet on their information-seeking behavior, particularly their access and retrieval of electronic journal articles and data. Suggestions for academic science librarians were developed through another series of interviews with successful information professionals. More than ever before, scientific information specialists must make clear their new roles in facilitating the scientific endeavor, especially the constant effort and vigilance required in developing and maintaining library Web sites, so convenient and indispensable to their clientele.