cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relationship Status Acceptance, Alcohol Use, and the Perpetration of Verbal Aggression Among Males Mandated to Treatment for Intimate Partner Violence:

Forty substance using, male offenders of intimate partner violence completed measures of alcohol use and relationship status acceptance during a pretreatment screening session. They also completed a measure of verbal aggression after each month of a 12-week intervention program. Treatment length, heavy episodic drinking, and relationship status acceptance were used to assess the frequency of verbal aggression at each of the four assessment periods in a repeated measures ANCOVA. Main effects were detected for both alcohol and acceptance variables such that greater verbal aggression was observed among participants with a recent history of heavy episodic drinking and failure to accept the status of the relationship with their female victim. The interaction between time in treatment and relationship status acceptance was significant and showed that participants who accepted their relationship status reported low verbal aggression across measurement occasions while those who did not accept their relationship s...
Religious Expression In The Growing Multicultural Workplace

The twentieth century saw incredible growth in the diversity of the American workplace as barriers, especially for women and minorities, were reduced. In this twenty-first century the effects of globalization are adding to the company‟s diversity. Today, some companies reflect a microcosm of our world as the world‟s workers come to America and technology connects organizations worldwide. With this diverse workplace come not only the obvious differences of gender, race, and national origin, but also differences in religion and religious practices. This research examines some trends in American workplace diversity, the historical and legal framework into which diverse religions can function in America, and corporate practices necessary to enable religious expression without significantly diminishing the organization‟s efficiency. The research concludes by reporting results of a survey on religious expression difficulties and solutions in the workplace.
Beyond Perestroika: Soviet-Area Archives after the August Coup

This article traces changes in Soviet-area archives through 1991. Despite increasing evidence of glastnost' in access to archives and to their internal finding aids, the failure of perestroika under Glavarkhiv has left a legacy of problems. The article discusses archival reform during the last months of Glavarkhiv's administration of state archives throughout the Soviet Union and the rise to pre-eminence of the Russian archival service, Roskomarkhiv. Roskomarkhiv has taken over the nationalized Communist Party archives, KGB archives, and most all-union archives on Russian territory. Russia and other republics are drafting archival laws which will open new claims and potential areas of conflict regarding their archival patrimony and jurisdiction over records. At the same time, questions have been opened anew about jurisdiction over Russian records abroad, records captured by the Soviet Union during World War II, and access to Soviet World War II prison-camp records. The article ends by describing the legac...
Foreign direct investment, economic growth, and volatility: a useful model for policymakers

The explosion of hypotheses addressing empirical relationships between foreign direct investment (FDI) and economic growth is to say the least, confusing. There is the positive view whereby FDI positively affects growth, the negative view where FDI negatively affects growth, and the dependent view where FDI may or may not have an effect on growth at all, but is conditional upon whether certain economic and social conditions are met in the receiving country. In other words, to date, dozens of variables and modeling methods have been used to determine the effect FDI has on economic growth, and all with different results. Essentially, parsimony and ease of interpretation have been replaced with confusion. The central theses of the most important arguments focus on the broad dissemination of FDI, an economy’s absorptive capacity, and how injections tend to depend upon cyclical components. We use existing theory to justify a simpler model using a single determinant that encompasses these characteristics. By interacting past growth with current FDI, policymakers can more easily draw inference from the estimated marginal effect. We prove this by applying the model to pooled, high income, emerging, and developing economy samples in order to gain a clearer picture of exactly to what extent, FDI affects economic growth. And since policy not only takes growth into consideration, but economic stability as well, we also apply our model to volatility. While the results differ across income groups and growth rates, the inference drawn from them is unambiguous.
Hybrid Tuned Mass Damper and Isolation Floor Slab System Optimized for Vibration Control

Base isolation and tuned mass dampers are known to be highly effective for earthquake mitigation. However, their effectiveness is limited to a specific domain of cases and is confined by various constraints that have to be met. In this study, a hybrid floor slab tuned mass damper and isolation system is introduced whereby the floor slabs are allowed to move relative to the main frame. The floor slabs are resting on curved supports to allow for self-centering of the slabs upon the conclusion of the seismic event. An optimized design of the curved supports and friction between the supports and the slabs can reduce the response of the structure by up to 40%. The optimization strategy is employed over a range of frequencies in order to minimize the response for any input. The results show an improved system behavior with decreased displacement, acceleration, and inter-story drift. The proposed system is shown to not only be quite effective, but also much more robust than conventional isolation strategies. The...
The Commodity Currency Puzzle

Commodity-exporting countries have persistently high real interest rates and currency excess returns. To explain this fact, I adapt a classic idea: labor cost disease, or the Balassa-Samuelson effect. Commodity booms raise wages in exporter countries, and thus make local goods and services less affordable, raising the cost of living (real exchange rate). Since the real exchange rate then moves procyclically with commodity prices, it inherits a commodity risk premium that resolves the puzzle. Using a rare-disaster setup, I show that a stochastic, international business cycle model, with local labor used as a factor of production, can quantitatively match observed commodity currency risk premia. The model’s predictions about the co-movement of commodity prices and exchange rates, the cross-section of risk premia, and the dynamics of labor costs, are also consistent with the data. Finally, to understand the impact of monetary policy, I build a New Keynesian, sticky-wage extension. Policy choices (for example, a credible peg) can reduce the risk premium on the real exchange rate, but at the cost of bigger output gaps.
Pebbles: fine-grained data management abstractions for modern operating systems

Support for fine-grained data management has all but disappeared from modern operating systems such as Android and iOS. Instead, we must rely on each individual application to manage our data properly - e.g., to delete our emails, documents, and photos in full upon request; to not collect more data than required for its function; and to back up our data to reliable backends. Yet, research studies and media articles constantly remind us of the poor data management practices applied by our applications. We have developed Pebbles, a fine-grained data management system that enables management at a powerful new level of abstraction: application-level data objects, such as emails, documents, notes, notebooks, bank accounts, etc. The key contribution is Pebbles's ability to discover such high-level objects in arbitrary applications without requiring any input from or modifications to these applications. Intuitively, it seems impossible for an OS-level service to understand object structures in unmodified applications, however we observe that the high-level storage abstractions embedded in modern OSes - relational databases and object-relational mappers - bear significant structural information that makes object recognition possible and accurate.
Simultaneous cross polarization to (13)C and (15)N with (1)H detection at 60kHz MAS solid-state NMR.

Abstract We describe high resolution MAS solid-state NMR experiments that utilize 1H detection with 60 kHz magic angle spinning; simultaneous cross-polarization from 1H to 15N and 13C nuclei; bidirectional cross-polarization between 13C and 15N nuclei; detection of both amide nitrogen and aliphatic carbon 1H; and measurement of both 13C and 15N chemical shifts through multi-dimensional correlation experiments. Three-dimensional experiments correlate amide 1H and alpha 1H selectively with 13C or 15N nuclei in a polypeptide chain. Two separate three-dimensional spectra correlating 1Hα/13Cα/1HN and 1HN/15N/1Hα are recorded simultaneously in a single experiment, demonstrating that a twofold savings in experimental time is potentially achievable. Spectral editing using bidirectional coherence transfer pathways enables simultaneous magnetization transfers between 15N, 13Cα(i) and 13C′(i−1), facilitating intra- and inter-residue correlations for sequential resonance assignment. Non-uniform sampling is integrated into the experiments, further reducing the length of experimental time.
Wardriving: Unauthorized Access to Wi-Fi Networks

Abstract Wireless local area network, or Wi-Fi (“wireless fidelity”), is a short-range networking technology. Wi-Fi allows suitably equipped computers to connect to computer networks and the Internet using a radio connection rather than wires. Most new laptop computers can access Wi-Fi routers. T-Mobile HotSpot provides high-speed Wi-Fi in public locations such as Starbucks, Borders, FedEx, Kinko's, Hyatt's, and the airline clubs for most major airlines. Unlimited subscription plans start at $29.99 per month or $6.00 per hour for nonmembers.
Prerequisite Riemann Surface Theory

In this chapter we list the basic properties of Riemann surfaces which are needed in the remainder of the book. For the most part we have omitted detailed proofs here since the reader will often be able to supply his own or else refer to standard textbooks for them.
Myroslav Shkandrij, Ukrainian nationalism: politics, ideology, and literature, 1929–1956

In Ukrainian Nationalism: Politics, Ideology, and Literature, 1929–1956, Myroslav Shkandrij calls for an open, objective discussion of Ukrainian nationalism, taking the topic in a new direction and...
Low-Carbon Boron Carbidestproduced by CVD

Boron carbides with low C contents were produced from BC1 3 and CCl 4 by chemical vapor deposition at temperatures of 1020–1500°C. The deposits were found to be between B 13 C 2 and B 13 C (8.3 to 13.3 at %C) in composition by means of Auger electron spectroscopy. Raman spectroscopy demonstrates that the specimens contain very little free carbon. Further, disordering of C in the chains and icosahedra of the rhombohedral boron carbide structure for C contents of less than 20 at.% is indicated by the Raman results. Singlephase rhombohedral boron carbides with C contents as low as 12.5 at.% (≈B 7 C) have been produced. The most B-rich specimens, containing 8.3 at.% (B 11 C) or less C, were phase separated. At least one of the phases in the phase separated specimens is tetragonal. The electrical conductivity and Hall mobility of the B 11 C specimen are reported.
The management of Crohn's colitis with colonogastric fistula. Report of a case.

Colonogastric fistula, more commonly called “gastrocolic,” is a rare complication of Crohn's colitis. The 17th incidence of this fistula is reported. Fecal halitosis is a prominent symptom. Barium enema is the most accurate diagnostic tool. Colonoscopy plays a role in delineating surgical therapy. The stomach resection is described. Because of its pathogenesis, the authors prefer to call this “colonogastric” fistula, rather than gastrocolic fistula.
Survey of the Microorganism of Moon Cake in Huadu during 2000～2004

Objective To investigate the hygienic quality and the microorganism contamination of the moon cakes in Huadu district, Guangzhou. Method Microorganisms in the moon cake samples were detected by standard methods. A survey of the hygienic quality of the moon cakes also conducted during 2000～2004. Result There were significant differences on the passing rate of the moon cakes between different years (P0.01). However, no significant differences were shown in different kinds of moon cakes (P0.05). Conclusion The hygienic quality of moon cake is satisfactory in Huadu district during 2000～2004.
Clearance of serum cortisol in suckled and nonsuckled postpartum beef cows.

Clearance of cortisol from the sera of suckled (S) and nonsuckled (NS) beef cows was studied on days 14 +/- 1 and 28 +/- 1 (mean +/- SE) postpartum (periods 1 and 2, respectively). Eight multiparous Angus cows (325 kg to 445 kg) were assigned at calving to S (n = 4) and NS (n = 4) treatments. Basal cortisol concentrations tended to be higher (p less than .10) in S (19.0 +/- 1.3 ng/Ml) than in NS (12.9 +/- .9 ng/ml) cows across both periods. After administration of 20 mg of cortisol, serum cortisol concentrations increased (p less than .01) similarly in S and NS cows to 122.1 +/- 6.4 and 165.6 +/- 11.5 ng/Ml at 2 min postinjection at periods 1 and 2, respectively. Clearance of cortisol from the body was evaluated by biological half-life (t 1/2), volume of distribution (Vd) and total body clearance (TBC) of cortisol. Serum cortisol had a similar t 1/2 in S (32.5 +/- 2.3 min) and NS (29.2 +/- 3.2 min) cows and did not not differ between sampling periods. Vd did not differ (p greater than .3) between S (248 +/- 29 liters) and NS (199 +/- 14 liters) cows across both periods, but was greater (p less than .05) at period 1 than at period 2 for both S and NS cows. Total body clearance was similar in S (5.2 +/- .4 liters/min) and NS (5.0 +/- .6 liters/min) cows and was similar at both sampling periods. On the basis of these results, we conclude that clearance of cortisol from the serum was not affected by lactational status or by postpartum interval, but that the volume of distribution of cortisol in the body decreased during the postpartum period studied.
Passive current flow and morphology in the terminal arborizations of the posterior pituitary

1. Patch-clamp techniques were used to study the morphology and electrotonic properties of the terminal arborizations of the posterior pituitary. 2. Neurobiotin-labeling experiments revealed axons and swellings connected to the structure that was patch clamped. The large swellings were en passant and situated along axons in a topological arrangement identical to that of the small varicosities. Axons had many varicosities and few branches, reflecting a predominant architectural motif of beads on a string rather than berries on a bush. 3. Cable theory was used to analyze passive current transients produced by voltage steps under whole-cell clamp. Most charging transients were not consistent with an equivalent cylinder representation as posited by the Rall model for a motoneuron. A few charging transients were consistent with the Rall model and provided estimates for basic membrane and cable properties. 4. Some of the charging transients that violated predictions of the Rall model were consistent with an alternative model, in which the patch-clamped swelling was assumed to be coupled to another swelling by a segment of axon. This model was called the Dumbbell model, and it, together with the neurobiotin-labeling experiments, indicated that a significant number of large swellings were less than one length constant away from another large swelling. 5. Large swellings can have diameters approximately 30 times larger than the diameters of the connecting axons. These swellings lie along the axon such that action potentials must propagate through them to spread excitation through the entire terminal arborization. These large swellings could be sites where action-potential propagation is more likely to fail. 6. The information presented here about neurohypophysial nerve terminals should be useful in further investigations of how terminal arborization geometry and membrane properties influence neurosecretion and synaptic transmission.
Dual-particle imager for standoff detection of special nuclear material

An advanced dual-particle imaging system is being developed for standoff, passive detection of special nuclear material. This system consists of three detector planes and will be capable of imaging both photons and fast neutrons. The ability of the system to detect fast neutrons makes it more difficult to effectively shield a threat source. This feature has an advantage over the commonly used Compton-camera systems, which are only sensitive to photons. Additionally, the detection of fast neutrons will allow for increased performance in regions with high levels of photon background radiation. The first two planes of the system consist of EJ-309 liquid scintillators and the third plane consists of NaI scintillators. This detector/plane combination allows image reconstruction using both neutrons and photons. In the liquid scintillators, neutron interactions are distinguished from photon interactions using an optimized pulse shape discrimination technique. The Monte Carlo transport code MCNPX-PoliMi has been used for the initial studies of this system due to its ability to track detailed information on interactions of interest and time-correlated particle production. This information has been used to optimize system parameters and has also allowed for investigation of image reconstruction techniques including simple backprojection and maximum likelihood expectation maximization (MLEM). A small-scale prototype is being developed for testing and validation of the simulations. This paper will analyze preliminary measurements and will also discuss simulations of several shielded source scenarios.
“Let the Waters Be Gathered Together, and Let the Dry Land Appear”: Sixteenth-Century Exegeses of Genesis 1.9–10 in Context

Building on both Christian scriptures and Aristotelian notions of the four elements, many patristic, medieval, and sixteenth-century Christians held that water could and perhaps should cover the whole earth. Christian and Jewish exegetes from Basil the Great and into the sixteenth century discussed the dry land’s existence in their commentaries on Genesis 1.9–10, arguing that its existence was either natural, preternatural, or a supernatural act of God. Analyzing patristic, medieval and sixteenth-century exegeses of these biblical verses, this article explores how these Christian and Jewish exegetes categorized water’s failure to flood the earth. It argues that the possibilities for characterizing water’s behavior expanded greatly in the sixteenth century. Whereas patristic and medieval authors tended to claim that the natural order God had established during the process of creation could account for water’s failure to submerge the earth, sixteenth-century exegetes offered a wide variety of categorizations, arguing that water’s behavior was natural, preternatural, supernatural, a wonder, or even a miracle. Drawing on contemporary scholarship on sixteenth-century cosmographical models, this paper argues that fifteenth- and sixteenth-century sea voyages and encounters with people living in the Southern Hemisphere might have led these sixteenth-century exegetes to reexamine the categories as they did.
Outcome-based cost analysis of transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement using fascia iliaca compartment block and minimalist conscious sedation approach versus general anesthesia.

Background: Early studies demonstrated feasibility of minimalist conscious sedation (CS) for Transfemoral (TF) access for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). A recent STS-ACC TVT Registry analysis demonstrated that a CS TF-TAVR has lower mortality, stroke, and shorter length of stay (LOS
Review: The Silk Roads: A New History of the World, by Peter Frankopan

Peter Frankopan, The Silk Roads: A New History of the World . New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2016. xix + 645 pp., 44 illustrations, 9 maps. ISBN 97811019463219. $30.00. In the Preface to his new book, Peter Frankopan writes, “Above all, I hope to inspire those who read this book to look at history in a different way” (xix). This “different way” is linked to his choice of a geographical and cultural focus through which to consider the world's history. Rather than placing the Mediterranean and Western Europe at the center of this work, Frankopan, a historian of Byzantium and the Crusades, emphasizes the region from the Eastern shores of the Mediterranean and the Black Sea in the west to the Hindu Kush in the east—a macroregion that he describes as the “center,” “heart,” or “spine” of Eurasia (and sometimes the world). The region was not chosen arbitrarily, but for its central role in the transmission of goods, technologies, ideas and beliefs, practices, and even illnesses. It is in this sense that Frankopan employs the term “Silk Roads,” referring to the routes through which these exchanges occurred and extending his meaning of this term beyond the “classic” Silk Roads that crossed central Eurasia to include an ultimately global network of land and sea routes. This ambitious and absorbing book is intended to challenge narratives of world history that emphasize Europe from the ancient Greeks to the European Union, and successfully does so. Yet there is no denying that it still has a strong Western focus; even Frankopan's “heart” of Eurasia is given the greatest attention when it interacts with political or cultural forces in Europe and the United States. This tendency can be seen from the book's first chapter, which begins with Iran in the sixth century B.C.E. and then swiftly moves to Alexander's invasion. Frankopan explores the political and cultural encounters that resulted when communities of Greeks came to live along the “spine” of Eurasia, where they influenced …
Heterotrimeric G-protein regulatory circuits in plants: Conserved and novel mechanisms

ARTICLE ADDENDUM Efficient activation and deactivation of Gα protein is critical for the regulation of heterotrimeric G-protein mediated signaling pathways. While the core G-protein components and their activation/deactivation chemistries are broadly conserved throughout the eukaryotic evolution, their regulatory mechanisms seem to have been rewired in plants to meet specific needs. Plants such as Arabidopsis, which have a limited number of G-protein components and their regulators, offer a unique opportunity to dissect the mechanistic details of distinct signaling pathways. We have recently established an interaction between the regulator of G-protein signaling 1 (RGS1) and phospholipase Dα1 (PLDα1); 2 of the GTPase activity accelerating proteins (GAPs) of the Arabidopsis Gα protein, GPA1. We now show that phosphatidic acid (PA), a key product of PLDα1 activity, can bind with and modulate the GAP activity of RGS1, uncovering a molecular link between lipid and G-protein signaling and its role in providing the specificity of response regulation.
Effects of multiple oral administrations of fenbendazole on growth and fecal nematodes infection of early-weaned beef calves grazing perennial, warm-season or annual, cool-season grasses

Two experiments evaluated growth and total fecal egg count (FEC) of early-weaned calves receiving multiple or a single oral drench of fenbendazole while grazing warm- or cool-season grasses. On d 0, Brangus crossbred calves (n = 64 and 56 in Exp. 1 and 2, respectively) were allocated into bahiagrass or ryegrass pastures (6 to 8 pastures per forage system; 4 calves per pasture). Thereafter, 2 of 4 calves within each pasture (Exp. 1) or all calves in each pasture (Exp. 2) received oral administration of fenbendazole (5 mg/kg of BW) every 28 d from d 0 to 84 (MULT) or once on d 56 (CTRL). Overall ADG from d 0 to 84 increased (P = 0.01; Exp. 1) or tended to increase (P = 0.11; Exp. 2) for MULT versus CTRL calves. In Exp. 1, FEC on d 28 and 56 was less (P ≤ 0.05) for MULT versus CTRL, but the reduction on FEC was greater for MULT calves grazing ryegrass versus bahiagrass (P < 0.001). Fenbendazole treatment on d 56 reduced FEC on d 84 versus 56, but FEC remained greater for CTRL calves grazing bahiagrass than all calves grazing ryegrass (P ≤ 0.03; Exp. 1). In Exp. 2, FEC of MULT calves decreased on d 28 and 56 (P ≤ 0.10) and achieved similar values in d 84 than CTRL calves (P = 0.93). Therefore, monthly oral administrations of fenbendazole improved ADG of early-weaned calves, regardless of forage system, compared with a single, strategic administration on d 56 after weaning.
Automated Configuration Design of Hydraulic Systems

Configuration design is a type of design activity in which a set of pre-defined components can be combined in certain ways to design a system (Mittal and Frayman 1989). This paper focuses on the configuration design of power transmission systems in general and hydraulics systems in particular. We present a general framework for configuration design in which the design specifications are separated into basic functions, performance goals, and constraints. The design space is divided into a functional space and a physical space. Each are further organized into hierarchies of functional modules and generic physical devices respectively. Functional modules are representations of behaviors of physical devices and are domain-independent. Starting with design specifications, a skeletal design consisting of a network of essential functions is formed. Functions are mapped to physical devices that satisfy performance goals and constraints. Based on the framework presented in this paper, a knowledge-based design tool, called HYSYN (HYdraulics SYNthesizer), was developed. A design example of systematic configuration of hydraulic systems is also presented. Issues in automated configuration design issues, such as function-sharing, granularity of the building blocks, and combinatorial explosion, are also discussed.
Michel Foucault: Politics, Philosophy, Culture: Interviews and Other Writings, 1977–1984. Edited by Lawrence D. Kritzman

(1990). Michel Foucault: Politics, Philosophy, Culture: Interviews and Other Writings, 1977–1984. Edited by Lawrence D. Kritzman. Argumentation and Advocacy: Vol. 26, No. 4, pp. 167-169.
Politicians at Arms: Civilian Recruitment of Soldiers for Middle East Coups:

Why would politicians recruit soldiers for military coups d’etat? The civil–military relations literature assumes politicians aspire to supremacy over the military; enabling praetorianism would ris...
TTP-like syndrome: novel concept and molecular pathogenesis of endotheliopathy-associated vascular microthrombotic disease

TTP is characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia associated with brain and kidney dysfunction. It occurs due to ADAMTS13 deficiency. TTP-like syndrome occurs in critically ill patients with the similar hematologic changes and additional organ dysfunction syndromes. Vascular microthrombotic disease (VMTD) includes both TTP and TTP-like syndrome because their underlying pathology is the same disseminated intravascular microthrombosis (DIT). Microthrombi are composed of platelet-unusually large von Willebrand factor multimers (ULVWF) complexes. TTP occurs as a result of accumulation of circulating ULVWF secondary to ADAMTS13 deficiency. This protease deficiency triggers microthrombogenesis, leading to “microthrombi” formation in microcirculation. Unlike TTP, TTP-like syndrome occurs in critical illnesses due to complement activation. Terminal C5b-9 complex causes channel formation to endothelial membrane, leading to endotheliopathy, which activates two different molecular pathways (i.e., inflammatory and microthrombotic). Activation of inflammatory pathway triggers inflammation. Activation of microthrombotic pathway promotes platelet activation and excessive endothelial exocytosis of ULVWF from endothelial cells (ECs). Overexpressed and uncleaved ULVWF become anchored to ECs as long elongated strings to recruit activated platelets, and assemble “microthrombi”. In TTP, circulating microthrombi typically be lodged in microvasculature of the brain and kidney, but in TTP-like syndrome, microthrombi anchored to ECs of organs such as the lungs and liver as well as the brain and kidneys, leading to multiorgan dysfunction syndrome. TTP occurs as hereditary or autoimmune disease and is the phenotype of ADAMTS13 deficiency-associated VMTD. But TTP-like syndrome is hemostatic disorder occurring in critical illnesses and is the phenotype of endotheliopathy-associated VMTD. Thus, this author’s contention is TTP and TTP-like syndrome are two distinctly different disorders with dissimilar underlying pathology and pathogenesis.
Research Issues Concerning Family Violence

After decades of professional inattention and neglect, the area of family violence has received substantial publicity in recent years, and more research is being conducted now than ever before. Several factors have contributed both to the inattention and to the burgeoning interest. Researchers in this area come from a variety of disciplines, including psychology, sociology, criminology, medicine, law, and others. Communication between these fields has been inadequate, conceptual schemata and research strategies are often divergent, and there is sometimes competition between the professions. As a consequence, numerous inconsistencies in methodology, results, and interpretation have emerged, and these contribute to the confusion regarding the etiology and demography of family violence.
Metabolic aspects of the new low-dose oral contraceptives.

Surveying recent literature data the author describes the metabolic effects of new oral contraceptives. THe three pills containing either desogestrel norgestimate or gestodene in combination with estrogen have the same efficacy as the existing low-dose combinations. They are associated with no or slight changes in glucose tolerance and appear to have reached carbohydrate metabolic neutrality. Concerning lipid metabolism relative metabolic neutrality appears to be present in patients using combinations with gestodene or desogestrel. In several small studies gestodene and desogestrel combinations have been associated with changes in circulating lipids that are considered favorable to the reduction of cardiovascular risk. The dominant risk factors are undoubtedly cigarette smoking age obesity hypertension glucose intolerance family history and diet. With regard to protein metabolism tripling of baseline levels of sex-hormone binding globulins was found with desogestrel and norgestimate while doubling was found with gestodene. There is some preliminary evidence that plasma fibrinolytic activity is increased with gestodene and desogestrel combinations thus no increase in coagulation-related episodes should be anticipated. All these data suggest that a high level of contraceptive efficacy with minimal systemic metabolic changes is provided by these new oral contraceptive combinations.
Nonrenal Elimination, Extensive Renal Tubular Reabsorption and Secretion of Creatinine in Humans and Animals

The nonrenal elimination (NE), tubular reabsorption (TR) and tubular secretion (TS) of creatinine (CR) in humans and animals, especially those with normal kidney function, are often assumed to be negligible (1–6). Recent preliminary studies (4–7) indicate that the magnitude of NE, TR and TS of CR might be much greater than commonly recognized. For example, plots of renal clearance (CLr) versus the reciprocal of the (pseudo-) steady-state serum creatinine concentration yielded nonrenal clearances (CLnr) of 1.4, 8.1, 35 and 42 ml/min in 4 adult chronic renal patients studied within 6 years (4). High CLnr values were also suggested from analysis of other human studies (4).
Direct electron transfer reactions of cytochrome c553 from Desulfovibriovulgaris Hildenborough at indium oxide electrodes

The direct, heterogeneous, electron transfer reactions of cytochrome c553 from Desulfovibriovulgaris Hildenborough have been studied at indium oxide optically transparent electrodes. These reactions have been studied using cyclic voltammetry and derivative cyclic voltabsorptometry and the kinetics of heterogenous electron transfer is quasi-reversible. The thermodynamics and kinetics of electron transfer by this molecule can be studied at this electrode surface without the need for surface modification or the addition of surface promoters or mediators.
Survey of Desktop Virtualization in Higher Education: An Energy- and Cost-Savings Perspective

Benefits of utilizing desktop virtualization technology in higher education environments include the ability to deploy numerous applications, which may conflict on a traditional desktop, into a single image. Additionally, the utilization of thinclients could produce substantial energy savings and reduce physical desktop replacement costs. Finally, virtualized desktops can be delivered to numerous non-enterprise devices, particularly student’s personal laptops or dorm-room computers. While there appear to be numerous benefits to desktop virtualization, there are many barriers to adoption. This paper outlines the substantial energy- and cost-savings provided through desktop virtualization in higher education. A literature review of relevant works and findings of a university implementation workgroup are presented using a case-study approach.
The association of an alpha2C adrenoreceptor gene polymorphism with vasomotor symptoms in African American women.

OBJECTIVE The alpha2C adrenoreceptor deletion 322-325 (ADRA2C del 322-325) polymorphism has been associated with autonomic activity and thermoregulation, which are implicated in the vasomotor symptom (VMS) mechanism. The ADRA2C del (322-325) has higher prevalence in African American women, a group known to experience more frequent and bothersome VMS. We assessed whether the ADRA2C del (322-325) genotype is associated with increased frequency of VMS in African American women. METHODS DNA samples from African American (N = 400) women participating in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN) were genotyped for the ADRA2C del (322-325) polymorphism. Longitudinal data on VMS were obtained from the SWAN repository. The relation of ADRA2C del (322-325) genotypes (deletion/deletion [D/D]; insertion/deletion [I/D]; insertion/insertion [I/I]) with VMS over the menopausal transition for up to 12 years of follow-up was examined using generalized estimating equations. Primary models considered the outcome of frequent VMS (6 or more days in the prior 2 wk vs VMS <6 d in the prior 2 wk) by stage of menopause. RESULTS Four hundred DNA samples from African American women were included. Seventy-five women (18.8%) were found to carry the homozygous variant allele (D/D). There was no significant difference in the trajectory of frequent VMS over the menopausal transition between women with D/D and I/I + I/D genotypes (P = 0.39). CONCLUSIONS In this preliminary study among African American women in SWAN, ADRA2C del (322-325) was not significantly related to self-reported VMS. Further studies are warranted to help us understand the role of the adrenergic system in the physiology of VMS to tailor medical therapy to patient needs.
CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated BRCA1 Knockdown Adipose Stem Cells Promote Breast Cancer Progression

Background:The tumor microenvironment within the breast is rich in adipose elements. The interaction between adipose cells and breast cancer is poorly understood, particularly as it pertains to patients with genetic susceptibility to breast cancer. This study focuses on the phenotype of human adipos
Time to first treatment is an independent prognostic factor for multiple myeloma (MM).

e19523Background: Previous studies have shown a disparity in outcomes of MM between clinical trials and real-world practice. This could be partly due to clinical trial exclusion of patients who nee...
Transformer Fault Diagnosis System Based on Knowledge Node and FMECA

In view of the complicated structure of transformers, the relative independence of monitoring data and the difficulty for comprehensive health evaluation of the equipment (subcomponents), a knowledge node is proposed based on the fault diagnosis information model to acquire the indicator information that is difficult to acquire during the dynamic process, determine the fault model and realize the collaboration work of fault performance, monitoring data, causes and strategies in accordance with the established Fault Mode, Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) model, on which a fault diagnosis model is established. Case studies show that this approach can deal with the multi-information fusion, acquisition difficulty of key indicators and other problems, and its diagnostic conclusion has a strong reliability and practicality, which has laid a sound foundation for achieving the lean maintenance of transformers.
P77 Reye-like syndrome and severe carnitine deficiency in a boy with autism spectrum disorder and restricted diet

Case Description A 9-year old boy presented to the Emergency Department with an acute history of vomiting, ataxia and reduced consciousness in the setting of a respiratory illness. In the two months prior he had intermittent episodes of vomiting, without headaches or visual disturbance. On examination, he was encephalopathic (GCS 9/15), with marked hepatomegaly. Height and weight were on the 0.4th-2nd percentile and 9th percentiles respectively. He had a background of high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and a long history (since aged 18 months) of rigid eating behaviour, with a diet restricted to corn-based crisps (‘Rancheros’), rich-tea biscuits (2–3/day), French-fries and Coca-Cola (10% glucose, drinking 1 L/day). He had recently commenced a multivitamin preparation. Blood-work showed anaemia, elevated hepatic transaminases and creatinine kinase (6000U/l), low albumin, hypoglycaemia (2.7 mmol/l) and deranged electrolytes. CT brain showed moderate, communicating hydrocephalus without pressure effects. An extra-ventricular drain was inserted but later removed as this was deemed to be a coincidental finding of arrested congenital hydrocephalus. Management and Investigation He required intubation and ventilation for respiratory compromise (RSV infection). Given the Reye-like scenario and abnormal biochemistry, a metabolic disorder was suspected. Acylcarnitine profile showed undetectable free carnitine and amino acid levels were low, as were vitamin levels. He received carnitine supplementation and very cautious nasogastric feeding; biochemistry and neurological status improved. Extensive investigations including carnitine uptake studies did not reveal an inherited metabolic disorder. Detailed nutritional analysis of the patient’s diet revealed very low daily protein (0.37 g/kg/day) and fat (0.77 g/kg/day) but with normal total daily caloric intake of 1200kCal, indicative of protein-energy-malnutrition (Kwashiorkor). He received intensive inpatient dietetic and psychological input and by discharge from hospital he was consuming an expanded range of foodstuffs. Carnitine is synthesised from essential amino acids lysine and methionine, but primarily it is obtained directly from protein in the diet. Cereal-based diets such as above are particularly low in the amino acids methionine and lysine. Diagnosis and Follow-up On follow-up 2 years later, carnitine levels remain normal without supplementation. Protein intake is normal and diet is varied. Vertical growth has improved significantly with height now on the 91st centile and hepatomegaly has resolved. The final diagnosis was dietary protein-energy-malnutrition with profound secondary carnitine deficiency resulting in Reye-like syndrome. This case reminds us that severe malnutrition exists in the developed world, and emphasises the need for detailed nutritional assessment of children on self-restricted diets, especially those with ASD.
Effect of acidic pH on surface roughness of esthetic dental materials.

Abstract Statement of problem Exposure to gastric acid in patients with bulimia nervosa and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) causes demineralization of hard tooth structures. This chemical attack also causes the degradation of dental ceramics, which results in increased surface roughness and reduced strength. However, studies comparing the effect of acidic pH on resin matrix ceramic with other computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) esthetic materials are lacking. Purpose The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the surface roughness changes of different CAD-CAM restorative dental materials after exposure to acidic pH by using a 3D optical interferometer. Material and methods Five esthetic CAD-CAM block materials, a leucite glass-ceramic (IPS Empress CAD), a zirconia (BruxZir Solid Zirconia), a resin matrix ceramic (VITA Enamic), a lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (IPS e.max CAD), and a feldspathic porcelain (VITABLOCS Mark II CAD) were tested. Eighteen specimens were sectioned from CAD-CAM blocks into 2-mm-thick rectangular plates and immersed in 10 mL of 5% hydrochloric acid (HCl) with (pH=2) at 37 °C for 45 and 91 hours. The surface roughness average (Ra) of the specimens was measured by using a 3D optical interferometer before the storage period (baseline), after 45 hours, and after 91 hours of exposure to HCl. Statistical analyses were performed with the Kruskal-Wallis test and the post hoc Dunn test with Bonferroni correction (α=.05). Results Regarding the comparison of surface roughness changes at different periods of evaluation (baseline, 45 hours, 91 hours), there were no statistically significant differences for lithium disilicate (P=.063) or zirconia (P=.513). Leucite glass-ceramic, feldspathic porcelain, and the resin matrix ceramic demonstrated statistically significant differences (P Conclusions Leucite glass-ceramic, feldspathic porcelain, and resin matrix ceramic showed statistically significant increases in surface roughness when they were exposed to simulated gastric acid for 45 and 91 hours. Lithium disilicate and zirconia showed no statistically significant change in surface roughness after exposure to HCl for 45 and 91 hours.
Smart world cities in the 21st century

Smart World Cities in the 21st Century is a study conducted by Agnes Mainka as part of a larger research project at the Department of Information Science, Heinrich-Heine University, Dusseldorf. It ...
Regulation of Prefrontal Patterning, Connectivity and Synaptogenesis by Retinoic Acid

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) and its reciprocal connections with the mediodorsal thalamus (MD) are crucial for cognitive flexibility and working memory and are thought to be altered in several disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. While developmental mechanisms governing regional patterning of the rodent cerebral cortex have been characterized, the mechanisms underlying the development of PFC-MD connectivity and the lateral expansion of PFC with distinct granular layer 4 in anthropoid primates have not been elucidated. Here we report increased concentration of retinoic acid (RA), a signaling molecule involved in brain development and function in the prospective PFC areas of human and macaque, compared to mouse, during mid-fetal development, a crucial period for cortical circuit assembly. In addition, we observed the lateral expansion of RA synthesizing enzyme, ALDH1A3, expression in mid-fetal macaque and human frontal cortex, compared to mouse. Furthermore, we found that enrichment of RA signaling is restricted to the prospective PFC by CYP26B1, a gene encoding an RA-catabolizing enzyme upregulated in the mid-fetal motor cortex. Gene deletion in mice revealed that RA signaling through anteriorly upregulated RA receptors, Rxrg and Rarb, and Cyp26b1-dependent catabolism is required for the proper molecular patterning of PFC and motor areas, the expression of the layer 4 marker RORB, intra-PFC synaptogenesis, and the development of reciprocal PFC-MD connectivity. Together, these findings reveal a critical role for RA signaling in PFC development and, potentially, its evolutionary expansion.
Personal Perspectives on the Emergence of the Learning Sciences: 1970s–2005

We describe the emergence of the interdisciplinary learning sciences field and its consequential transformations, drawing on experiences that brought us together. Starting with our undergraduate years, the account culminates with the formation of the International Society of the Learning Sciences. We weave our experiences around six themes that shaped the emergence of the learning sciences and our own trajectories: (a) Broadening the community and incorporating new disciplinary perspectives; (b) Appropriating and developing new methods; (c) Reconceptualizing challenges; (d) Creating artifacts; (e) Developing abstractions; and (f) Developing people. We intend this personal account to stimulate new initiatives and deepening insights as the journey of the learning sciences continues.
Preventing Violent Extremism and Social Work: Recent US History and Prospects.

Anti-immigrant, anti-Semitic, and anti-Muslim violent extremism is on the rise in Western nations while jihadist terrorism continues throughout the Middle East and Africa. Despite significant efforts by governmental, non-governmental, and civic society organizations to address violent extremism, little progress has been made to prevent it. White supremacist organizations are now organizing globally through a variety of next generation communication networks using techniques developed by ISIS and Al-Qaeda. Throughout, relatively few social work academics have engaged in preventing violent extremism (PVE) scholarship. Though the profession is referenced frequently in the PVE literature, it is dominated by those in psychology and political science. Few articles in major social work journals have discussed social work’s role or advanced PVE research. What has been published has mainly been critical of social work in this arena for legitimate fears of securitization, lack of resources/training, and the potential to discriminate against particular groups. The profession has a long history of impactful work in violence prevention in a myriad of practice areas. Given this wealth of experience and focus on social justice, social work should be a leader in this field. Areas of potential engagement in practice and research are discussed.
Paraconduit Hiatal Hernia Following Esophagectomy: Incidence, Risk Factors, Outcomes and Repair.

ABSTRACT Background Paraconduit hiatal hernia (PCHH) is a known complication of esophagectomy with significant morbidity. PCHH may be more common with the transition to a minimally invasive approach and improved survival. We studied the PCHH occurrence following minimally invasive esophagectomy to determine the incidence, treatment, and associated risk factors. Methods We retrospectively reviewed records of patients who underwent esophagectomy at an academic tertiary care center between 2013-2020. We divided the cohort into those who did and did not develop PCHH, identifying differences in demographics, perioperative characteristics and outcomes. We present video of our laparoscopic repair with mesh. Results Of 49 patients who underwent esophagectomy, seven (14%) developed PCHH at a median of 186 d (60-350 d) postoperatively. They were younger (57 versus 64 y, P Conclusions PCHH is associated with younger age and tumor recurrence, but not mortality. Safe repair of PCHH can be performed laparoscopically with or without mesh. Further studies, including systematic video review, are needed to address modifiable risk factors and identify optimal techniques for durable repair of post-esophagectomy PCHH.