cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Medical therapy or coronary artery bypass graft surgery for chronic stable angina: an update using decision analysis.

Abstract Purpose Randomized trials comparing medical and surgical therapies for the treatment of chronic stable angina were completed in the early 1980s. Therapies developed since then have decreased mortality and myocardial infarction rates from coronary artery disease. Using decision analysis and incorporating current recommendations for treatment, we simulated a trial comparing coronary artery bypass graft surgery and medical therapy. Methods A Markov decision analysis model was constructed to compare the 5-year and 10-year outcomes of a simulated trial of medical therapy versus bypass surgery for stable chronic angina. Baseline data were obtained from a meta-analysis of trials comparing the two treatments. Data on risk reduction from contemporary therapies were obtained from randomized trials and meta-analyses. Results All subgroups experienced modest gains in survival with current therapies. At 5 years, the survival rate was 90% in the medical group (an absolute gain of 6%) and 94% in the surgical group (an absolute gain of 4%). Similar results were obtained for patients with triple-vessel disease. Among patients with a low ejection fraction, the 5-year survival rate was 85% for medical patients and 92% for surgical patients. Sensitivity analyses did not substantially affect the conclusions. Conclusion Advances in the treatment of chronic stable angina have improved the outcome both for patients treated initially with surgery and for those treated initially with medical therapy. The improvements were of similar magnitude in both groups, so the fundamental conclusions of the bypass trials are unchanged.
Magnetocaloric properties of the pseudo-binary Er-rich lanthanide dialuminide compounds

Abstract The compounds ( RE 1 - x Er x ) Al 2 (where RE=Gd, Ho, Pr for x ⩾ 0.75 ) were studied experimentally and theoretically in order to evaluate their magnetocaloric properties and suitability for use as working media in magnetic refrigeration devices operating at low temperatures. I propose a theoretical description of these systems which are composed of two rare-earth ions with different total angular momentum ( J RE 1 and J RE 2 ) Our model Hamiltonian is solved self-consistently, taking into account crystal electric fields, exchange interactions, the Zeeman effect and second-order effects. From the eigenvalues and eigenstates, the partition function from which thermodynamic quantities may be calculated is obtained, including the isothermal magnetic entropy change, ΔSmag. In order to validate the theoretical results, ΔSmag obtained from heat capacity measurements using Maxwell's relations is compared to the calculated one. The results indicate that for Er-rich compositions fairly good agreement between theoretical and experimental ΔSmag is obtained.
Numerical modeling of the voltage sensors for quench detection in the TPX TF and PF conductors

The voltage sensors in the TPX superconducting TF and PF magnets are designed to pick up the resistive voltage once the conductor quenches and becomes normal. This is one of the quench detection systems needed to protect the rather expensive magnets. Because the magnets are operating in a high-noise environment, the sensors would experience inductive voltages (noise). It is important to estimate the noise level and design a system with high signal to noise ratio. The numerical model described in this paper includes 3-D eddy currents assuming the worst condition, i.e., plasma disruption. The voltages induced in both parallel and helical cowound sensors are calculated. Several differencing schemes to eliminate the noise levels are compared and a new scheme is suggested.
Range and antenna beamwidth dependencies in multidimensional fixed wireless channels

This paper describes a multidimensional model of the fixed wireless propagation channel, which is well suited to system-level simulations. The proposed method yields realistic predictions of various channel characteristic parameters as a function of the range and antenna beamwidths, in agreement with experimentally observed results. The originality of the approach is that the power-delay profile for omnidirectional antennas at the edge of the cell is used to predict the time-varying channel over the whole cell for any antenna beamwidth. The method is based on a set of spatially distributed scatterers, which can be scaled to any range within the cell. The time-varying channel impulse response is then calculated as the combination of all scattered contributions by means of a ray approximation. The multidimensionality of the channel model is explored through predictions of signal statistics, level-crossing rate, delay-spread and angle-spread. In contrast to most existing models, the impact of range and antenna beamwidth is clearly addressed and found to be close to experimentally observed behaviors.
Group cognitive and behavioral treatment for compulsive hoarding: a preliminary trial.

Background: Time-limited group cognitive behavioral treatments (GCBT) for obsessive–compulsive disorder have demonstrated improvement in target symptoms. One small sample study of GCBT specifically for hoarding problems also showed benefit. This study examines the efficacy of a specialized GCBT for compulsive hoarding on a larger sample. Methods: Thirty-two clients diagnosed with hoarding participated in five groups. Four groups met once weekly for 2 hour over 16 weeks (n=27) and one group met for 20 weeks (n=5). All participants had two individual 90-min home sessions. Self-report assessments were completed at baseline, mid-treatment, and post-treatment about hoarding behavior and related symptoms (e.g., depression). The sample was predominantly female, White, highly educated, unemployed, and not partnered/married; mean age was 53. A majority was diagnosed with major depressive disorder and obsessive–compulsive personality disorder. Results: Participants showed significant improvement from pre- to post-treatment on the Saving Inventory Revised, Saving Cognitions Inventory, Clutter Image Rating, and Clinical Global Severity. The most recent group (n=8) that used a more formalized treatment and research protocol improved significantly more than did earlier members. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the feasibility and modest success of GCBT methods in improving hoarding symptoms. Group treatment may be especially valuable because of its cost-effectiveness, greater client access to trained clinicians, and reduction in social isolation and stigma linked to this problem. Further research is needed to improve the efficacy of GCBT methods for hoarding and to examine durability of change, predictors of outcomes, and processes that influence change. Depression and Anxiety, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Policy networks and the transformation of secondary eucation through ICTs in Africa: The prospects and challenges of the NEPAD e-Schools initiative

Using the policy network theoretical framework, this paper examines the prospects and challenges of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) e-schools initiative. The secondary education system is the most strategic education sector and unfortunately the least developed and the least available in Africa. This sector of education is faced with the twin challenges of limited access and low quality. The e-schools initiative aims to tackle the problems of secondary education in Africa through the application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in teaching and learning. The objective is to expand access to and improve the quality of secondary education in the region.
Molecular mechanisms of Nrf2 regulation and how these influence chemical modulation for disease intervention.

Nrf2 (nuclear factor erytheroid-derived-2-like 2) transcriptional programmes are activated by a variety of cellular stress conditions to maintain cellular homoeostasis. Under non-stress conditions, Nrf2 is under tight regulation by the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS). Detailed mechanistic investigations have shown the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)–cullin3 (Cul3)–ring-box1 (Rbx1) E3-ligase to be the primary Nrf2 regulatory system. Recently, both beta-transducin repeat-containing E3 ubiquitin protein ligase (β-TrCP) and E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase synoviolin (Hrd1) have been identified as novel E3 ubiquitin ligases that negatively regulate Nrf2 through Keap1-independent mechanisms. In addition to UPS-mediated regulation of Nrf2, investigations have revealed a cross-talk between Nrf2 and the autophagic pathway resulting in activation of Nrf2 in a non-canonical manner. In addition to regulation at the protein level, Nrf2 was recently shown to be regulated at the transcriptional level by oncogenic K-rat sarcoma (Ras). A consequence of these differential regulatory mechanisms is the dual role of Nrf2 in cancer: the canonical, protective role and the non-canonical ‘dark-side’ of Nrf2. Based on the protective role of Nrf2, a vast effort has been dedicated towards identifying novel chemical inducers of Nrf2 for the purpose of chemoprevention. On the other hand, upon malignant transformation, some cancer cells have a constitutively high level of Nrf2 offering a growth advantage, as well as rendering cancer cells resistant to chemotherapeutics. This discovery has led to a new paradigm in cancer treatment; the initially counterintuitive use of Nrf2 inhibitors as adjuvants in chemotherapy. Herein, we will discuss the mechanisms of Nrf2 regulation and how this detailed molecular understanding can be leveraged to develop Nrf2 modulators to prevent diseases, mitigate disease progression or overcome chemoresistance.
An overlooked connection: serotonergic mediation of estrogen-related physiology and pathology

Background In humans, serotonin has typically been investigated as a neurotransmitter. However, serotonin also functions as a hormone across animal phyla, including those lacking an organized central nervous system. This hormonal action allows serotonin to have physiological consequences in systems outside the central nervous system. Fluctuations in estrogen levels over the lifespan and during ovarian cycles cause predictable changes in serotonin systems in female mammals.
Property Rights and Patent Litigation in Early Nineteenth-Century America

Economic development depends on the establishment of appropriate institutions, such as a patent system that defends property rights in inventions. Skeptics argue that patents in early America were unenforceable because judges arbitrarily ruled against patentees. I examine 795 patent cases to assess the role of the courts and find that judges protected patent rights because they believed that inventors were motivated by expected returns. Although changes occurred in the 1850s, the courts consistently upheld the view that the patent system fostered economic growth. If inventive activity indeed responded to material incentives, this finding implies that the legal system stimulated technical change by reinforcing the effectiveness of the patent system.
One hundred pulmonary valve replacements in children after relief of right ventricular outflow tract obstruction.

Abstract Background . Surgical repair of obstructive lesions of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) in children commonly creates pulmonary valve incompetence that may eventually require pulmonary valve replacement (PVR). We reviewed our experience with PVR late after RVOT reconstruction. Methods . We performed 100 PVRs in 93 children 1.1 months to 22.4 years (median 8) after RVOT reconstruction. Children with right ventricular to pulmonary artery conduits and primary PVRs were excluded. Age at PVR was 4.5 months to 27.9 years (median 9.5 years). Initial diagnosis was tetralogy of Fallot and variants, 62; critical pulmonary stenosis, 15; pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum, 7; and others, 9. Eleven patients had a redo PVR. A total of 62 PVRs were homografts; 38 were porcine valves. Results . There was one early death. On follow-up of 5 months to 12.4 years (mean 4.9 years) there were no late deaths although 1 child underwent cardiac transplantation. Actuarial freedom from redo PVR at 8 years was 100% for porcine valves but 70% for homograft valves ( p = 0.17). For children younger than 3 years at PVR, freedom from reoperation was 76% at 1 year and 39% at 8 years compared with freedom from redo PVR at 8 years of 100% for children older than 3 years. On latest echocardiogram 97% of porcine valves had mild or no pulmonary regurgitation compared with 72% of homograft valves. Conclusions . PVR after RVOT reconstruction can be performed with low risk. Porcine valves may be superior to homograft valves although this advantage may be due to older age at time of PVR.
Electroencephalograms, clinical observations and the monitoring of neonatal seizures

Objective : To identify neonatal seizures and evaluate the efficiency of clinical observations and short duration electroencephalograms (EEG). Methodology : Sixty-three neonates were investigated using prolonged video/EEG monitoring. Patients with confirmed seizures were treated with sequential doses of phenobarbitone and, if seizures persisted, phenytoin. The likelihood of correct management if short duration EEG and clinical observations had been employed was determined. Results : Thirty-two patients had confirmed seizures. After administration of anticonvulsants, clinical observations identified seizures in a mean of 66% (s.d. 7.3%) of the cohort. A 60 min EEG after each stage of phenobarbitone therapy would guarantee electrographic seizure capture in a mean of 76% (s.d. 10%) of the cohort. A 60 min EEG after addition of phenytoin would guarantee capture in 50%. Conclusions : An EEG would avoid misdiagnoses in most patients with ambiguous clinical signs. After anticonvulsant infusions, EEG add substantial information to that gained by clinical observations.
An appraisal of the factors influencing human sexuality research in nursing.

BACKGROUND. Conducting human sexuality research continues to be a challenge for nurse researchers and may seem daunting to nursing students interested in conducting human sexuality research. PURPOSE. The purpose of this paper was to conduct a comprehensive review of the literature to appraise the factors that have influenced human sexuality research for nurse researchers. FINDINGS. Various factors, both intrinsically and extrinsically to the nursing profession, have had an influence on human sexuality studies conducted by nurse researchers. CONCLUSION. A critical appraisal of the findings from the review of the literature provide implications for nurse researchers as well as students of nursing interested in conducting human sexuality research.
Comparison of Instrumental Variable Analysis Using a New Instrument With Risk Adjustment Methods to Reduce Confounding by Indication

Confounding by indication is a vexing problem, especially in evaluating treatment effects using observational data, since treatment decisions are often related to disease severity, prognosis, and frailty. To compare the ability of the instrumental variable (IV) approach with a new instrument based on the local-area practice style and risk adjustment methods, including conventional multivariate regression and propensity score adjustment, to reduce confounding by indication, the authors investigated the effects of long-term control (LTC) therapy on the occurrence of acute asthma exacerbation events among children and young adults with incident and uncontrolled persistent asthma, using Iowa Medicaid claims files from 1997-1999. Established evidence from clinical trials has demonstrated the protective benefits of LTC therapy for persistent asthma. Among patients identified (n = 4,275), those with higher asthma severity at baseline were more likely to receive LTC therapy. The multivariate regression and propensity score adjustment methods suggested that LTC therapy had no effect on the occurrence of acute exacerbation events. Estimates from the new IV approach showed that LTC therapy significantly decreased the occurrence of acute exacerbation events, which is consistent with established clinical evidence. The authors discuss how to interpret estimates from the risk adjustment and IV methods when the treatment effect is heterogeneous.
Opportunistic packet scheduling with imperfect channel knowledge

We consider transmission control (rate and power) strategies for transferring a fixed size file (finite number of packets) over fading channels under constraints on both transmit energy and average transmission delay. The goal is to maximize the probability of successfully transferring the entire file over a time-varying wireless channel modelled as a finite state Markov process. We investigate the performance degradation caused by the imperfect (delayed or erratic) channel knowledge. The resulting optimal policies are shown to be a function of the available channel state information (CSI), the residual battery energy as well as the number of residual packets in the transmit buffer. It is observed that the probability of successful file transfer increases significantly when the CSI is exploited opportunistically. However. when counting the power expenditure over the pilot for channel estimation, the transmitter chooses to use pilot only if there is sufficient energy left for packet transfer, otherwise, a channel independent policy is deployed instead.
Deuterated liquid scintillator (NE230) as a fast neutron detector for cold-fusion and other research

Unlike conventional liquid scintillators (e.g., NE213) deuterated scintillators (NE230) can provide, without time-of-flight, usable neutron energy spectra for neutrons E/sub n/>or=1 MeV. The authors have assembled and calibrated several of these detectors and have used them in experiments searching for d+d fusion-neutron emission (E/sub n/=2.5 MeV) in Pd+D/sub 2/O electrolysis and Ti+D/sub 2/ absorption at liquid nitrogen temperatures. The detectors yield direct fusion-neutron spectra and set limits in the Pd+D and Ti+D experiments of >
Formulating Alcohol-Free Microemulsions Using Rhamnolipid Biosurfactant and Rhamnolipid Mixtures

This research focused on developing alcohol-free biosurfactant-based microemulsions. Rhamnolipid-based mixtures were found to have double the solubilization parameter as compared to sodium bis(2-ethyl) dihexyl sulfosuccinate/sodium dihexyl sulfosuccinate/sodium mono- and dimethyl naphthalene sulfonate at the same total molar concentration. For the first time, a phase diagram was developed for surfactant mixtures containing soy methyl ester ethoxylate, rhamnolipid and oleyl alcohol with limonene oil. This phase diagram can be used as a guideline for selecting a surfactant system and surfactant ratio to formulate microemulsions with a given oil. In addition, the alcohol-free biosurfactant-based microemulsions required reasonable salinity values for limonene, making it viable in a variety of applications.
Optimum multiuser noncoherent DPSK detection in generalized diversity Rayleigh-fading channels

The jointly optimum multiuser noncoherent detector for differential phase-shift keying (DPSK) modulation over the generalized diversity Rayleigh-fading (GDRF) channel is derived and analyzed. The GDRF channel includes time/frequency/receiver antenna diversity and allows fading correlations between the various diversity branches of each user. Noncoherent detection here refers to the case where the receiver has neither knowledge of the instantaneous phases nor of the envelopes of the users' channels. Upper and lower bounds on the bit-error probability of the optimum detector are derived for a given user. For fast fading, when the fading coefficients vary from one symbol interval to the next (but are still essentially constant over one symbol interval), the detector asymptotically (for high signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs)) reaches an error floor, which is bounded from below and above for different fast fading scenarios. For slow fading, when the channel is constant for at least two consecutive symbol intervals, the upper bound is shown to converge asymptotically to the lower bound. Thus, the asymptotic efficiency of optimum multiuser DPSK detection can be determined and is found to be positive. In contrast to coherent detection, however, it is smaller than unity in general. Since the asymptotic efficiency is independent of the interfering users' signal strengths, the optimum detector is near-far resistant. While optimum multiuser detection is exponentially complex in the number of users, its performance provides the benchmark for suboptimal detectors. In particular, it is seen that the previously suggested post-decorrelative detectors can be far from satisfactory.
Cell Population Changes in the Intestinal Epithelium of the Rat following Starvation and Protein-Depletion∗:

SummaryIn rats starved for periods up to 10 days or fed a protein-free diet for periods up to 11 weeks, the number of cells per crypt of the small intestine declined steadily. During this time, however, with the exception of the rats kept on a protein-free diet for 11 weeks, the number of cells per crypt synthesizing DNA and dividing remained the same as in the control crypts, thus resulting in an increase in the labeling and mitotic indices in the experimental animals. The hypoplasia in the crypts, despite the fact that there were a constant number of cells per crypt undergoing proliferative activity was due to the inhibitory effect of the dietary regimes on the generation cycle time. The synthetic and the mitotic phases of the cycle are inhibited to the greatest extent.
EFFECTS OF CONTROLLED WATER TABLE ON BEACH PROFILE DYNAMICS

The purpose of this study is to improve general understanding of beach profile dynamics as affected by the interaction between the beach profile and the water table level within the beach by presenting the results of laboratory and numerical studies. Two series of laboratory experiments were conducted in "large" and "small" wave tank facilities. Special attention was given to elevated water table levels to investigate whether or not erosion of the beach face is enhanced. The results of the large wave tank experiments demonstrated a surprising influence of beach water table on profile dynamics including changes in the bar region. Although the experiments in the small wave tank used correctly scaled sand, it was found that the effects documented in the large scale tests could not be duplicated. Furthermore those results were supported by numerical simulation of the internal flow inside the beach. One possibility for the difference is that the sand in the large scale tests was more poorly-sorted than that in the small scale experiments.
Utilization of Food and Nitrogen by the Beet Armyworm., Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)., in Relation to Food Type and Dietary Nitrogen Levels

The influence of host plant type and nitrogen level on beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hubner), performance was determined. Larval development time and mortality were decreased, and egg production increased, by nitrogen application to host plants. While food and nitrogen utilization efficiencies differed somewhat with host plant type, the studies indicated that foliage became more digestible and efficiency of conversion of ingested and digested food increased, as nitrogen levels increased. In addition, nitrogen utilization efficiency and nitrogen accumulation rates were inversely related to nitrogen application level, while nitrogen consumption rate was not affected.
Application of PI system in Hydropower Plant

With application of PI system in hydropower plant,this article analyzes demand,proposes ideas and security strategies about constructing PI system,and introduces the application example,structure of hydropower plants PI system,and design of real-time database system,network platform and features modular.
Diagnosing Myocardial Infarction with a Radioimmunoassay for the B-Monomer of the Creatine Phosphokinase Isoenzymes

A diagnosis of myocardial infarction (MI) is usually established by the evaluation of clinical symptoms, electrocardiographic changes, and serum enzyme levels, specifically creatine phosphokinase, subunit MB (CK-MB), by electrophoresis. A total of 215 patients were evaluated in this study. One hundred two of them were admitted to the coronary care unit and 113 to the emergency room, where they were screened for possible MIs. The radioimmunoassay (RIA) used in this study determines levels of the CK-MB isoenzyme by detecting the B monomer, which also has 100% cross-reactivity with the CK-BB isoenzyme. The intra-assay coefficients of variability (CVs) for 30 samples were 22% (means = 7.0 ng/ml) and 11% (means = 47.3 ng/ml), and the interassay CVs for 30 samples were 17% (means = 7.1 ng/ml) and 9.2% (means = 49.3 ng/ml). Of the 215 patients evaluated, 21 had myocardial infarction by the criteria in the study. The diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 100.0%, 92.8%, and 93.5% respectively. These values increased to 100.0%, 96.9%, and 97.2% when only coronary care unit patients were considered. The CK-MB RIA was found to be a reliable replacement for electrophoresis, but it was nonspecific in some patients.
Reproductive Considerations During Abdominal Surgical Procedures in Young Women

Abdominal surgical procedures for a variety of iridications place the reproductive potential of young women at risk. Steps can be taken to minimize the adverse consequences of common procedures, such as measures to reduce adhesion formation. Advances in reproductive technology make it imperative that surgeons reconsider traditional management of ectopic pregnancies and certain ovarian neoplasms in young women. The author presents contemporary recommendations for the surgical management of these problems to preserve reproductive potential whenever possible.
Rethinking Teaching and Learning Mathematics for Social Justice from a Critical Race Perspective.

What is teaching and learning mathematics for social justice (TLMSJ)? How has TLMSJ been taken up in mathematics education—both historically and contemporarily? Along with unpacking these two centr...
Representing a problem space: towards a deeper understanding of the practice of instructional leadership

Understanding how principals solve the problems they encounter in practice is a critical step in improving instructional leadership in schools. Traditional approaches to extracting expertise in principals are sufficient to capture some differences in behavior and may hint at cognitive differences, but we argue that they do not tackle differences in the architecture of the problem space that principals construct when they are working on instructional problems. Drawing on a subset of data from a larger study of 40 principals, we present our visual approach to understanding how principals reason through problems. We conclude the paper with a discussion of how our approach could be used to better understand the practice of instructional leadership.
Nanomaterials, Scaffolds, and Skin Tissue Regeneration

Skin tissue regeneration has been in use for a number of decades during which it saw many developments. At the present it belongs to the new interdisciplinary field of nanomedicine which blends knowledge of biomaterials with engineering principles and understanding of pathology and function of tissues. Research in this area continues because, as of now, no synthetic product has succeeded to fully reproduce the characteristics of healthy skin.
The Misuse of a Mathematical Model: The Tasmanian Case

Good application of a mathematical model depends on conformity with empirical observations. Mathematical models based on Dual Inheritance Theory and purporting to demonstrate that population size is a primary determinant of the complexity of tool assemblages in hunter-gatherer societies have been proposed despite their obvious contradiction with data from hunter-gatherer groups. One such model has relied on archaeological data from Tasmania for its validation, but has been extensively critiqued. A response to that critique attempts to justify the application of the model to the Tasmania data but does not succeed in so doing and still fails to address the more fundamental problem of disconnect between model prediction and empirical observation. The problem does not lie in the mathematical formulation of the model but the use of an invalid assumption when the model is used to account for variation in the complexity of tool assemblages in hunter-gatherer societies.
Immune Function During Sleep and Sleep Deprivation

Sleep is a behavior under central nervous system control critical for homeostatic regulation of endocrine and metabolic systems, and inadequate sleep quality and/or duration alter the output of these systems. Sleep increases the likelihood of survival in some pathogen challenge models, but most studies of acute challenge have found that sleep deprivation (keeping an animal or human awake for periods longer than would occur in normal circumstances) does not seriously compromise early immune function. However, not unrelated to the endocrine and metabolic effects, sleep loss leads to elevated inflammatory mediators and blood pressure. The mechanism(s) for this elevation of inflammatory mediators is not known, but understanding the relationship to sleep is of high importance considering the evidence of increased risk in healthy asymptomatic individuals for the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease associated with comparably elevated levels of inflammatory mediators.
Modeling the endogenous sunlight inactivation rates of laboratory strain and Wastewater E. coli and enterococci using biological weighting functions

Models that predict sunlight inactivation rates of bacteria are valuable tools for predicting the fate of pathogens in recreational waters and designing natural wastewater treatment systems to meet disinfection goals. We developed biological weighting function (BWF)-based numerical models to estimate the endogenous sunlight inactivation rates of E. coli and enterococci. BWF-based models allow the prediction of inactivation rates under a range of environmental conditions that shift the magnitude or spectral distribution of sunlight irradiance (e.g., different times, latitudes, water absorbances, depth). Separate models were developed for laboratory strain bacteria cultured in the laboratory and indigenous organisms concentrated directly from wastewater. Wastewater bacteria were found to be 5–7 times less susceptible to full-spectrum simulated sunlight than the laboratory bacteria, highlighting the importance of conducting experiments with bacteria sourced directly from wastewater. The inactivation rate mod...
Use of novel oral anticoagulant agents in venous thromboembolism

New oral anticoagulants (NOAC) serve as alternatives for patients currently using warfarin for the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolic (VTE) disease. This article provides a brief summary of the clinical use of these drugs as well as a review of the landmark clinical trials which evaluated described their safety and efficacy. As more data becomes available, a fundamental understanding of these medications will be vital to cardiovascular practitioners managing patients with VTE.
How Transcendental Is Cohen’s Critical Idealism?

This chapter discusses Hermann Cohen’s critical idealism and examines the extent to which it owes to, and goes beyond, Kant’s transcendental philosophy. While remaining within the tradition of transcendental philosophy, Cohen goes well beyond Kant and reveals a new dimension of this philosophy. In his effort to rid the transcendental philosophy of its unpalatable psychological heritage, Cohen attempts to complete the transcendental method in a new way, by means of what might be called “the method of hypothesis” and the ensuing doctrine of origin. The chapter concludes that, in effectively abandoning the Kantian synthetic method in favor of the analytic method followed by the method of hypothesis, Cohen’s critical idealism goes well beyond the purview of the Kantian project with his recourse to origin.
High-resolution climate of the past ∼7300 years of coastal northernmost California: Results from diatoms, silicoflagellates, and pollen

Piston core TN062-O550, collected about 33 km offshore of Eureka, California, contains a high-resolution record of the climate and oceanography of coastal northernmost California during the past ∼7.34 kyr. Chronology established by nine AMS ages on a combination of planktic foraminifers, bivalve shell fragments, and wood yields a mean sedimentation rate of 103 cm kyr−1. Marine proxies (diatoms and silicoflagellates) and pollen transported by the nearby Eel River reveal a stepwise development of both modern offshore surface water oceanography and coastal arboreal ecosystems. Beginning at ∼5.4 cal ka the relative abundance of coastal redwood pollen, a proxy for coastal fog, displays a two fold increase suggesting enhanced coastal upwelling. A decline in the relative contribution of subtropical diatoms at ∼5.0 cal ka implies cooling of sea surface temperatures (SSTs). At ∼3.6 cal ka an increase in the relative abundance of alder and oak at the expense of coastal redwood likely signals intensified riverine transport of pollen from inland environments. Cooler offshore SSTs and increased precipitation characterize the interval between ∼3.6 and 2.8 cal ka. A rapid, stepwise change in coastal climatology and oceanography occurs between ∼2.8 and 2.6 cal ka that suggests an enhanced expression of modern Pacific Decadal Oscillation-like (PDO) cycles. A three-fold increase in the relative abundance of the subtropical diatom Fragilariopsis doliolus at 2.8 cal ka appears to mark an abrupt warming of winter SSTs. Soon afterwards at 2.6 cal ka, a two fold increase in the relative abundance of coastal redwood pollen is suggestive of an abrupt intensification of spring upwelling. After ∼2.8 cal ka a sequence of cool-warm, PDO-like cycles occurs wherein cool cycles are characterized by relative abundance increases in coastal redwood pollen and decreased contributions of subtropical diatoms, whereas opposite proxy trends distinguish warm cycles.
Organic electronics: Battery-like artificial synapses.

Borrowing the operating principles of a battery, a three-terminal organic switch has been developed on a flexible plastic substrate. The device consumes very little power and can be used as an artificial synapse for brain-inspired computing.
Multiple Levels of Synaptic Regulation by NMDA-type Glutamate Receptor in Normal and Disease States

The acquisition of new behaviors and the formation of memories occur through the creation and regulation of synaptic contacts within the brain. In mammals, most synapses form onto small, bulbous cellular compartments called dendritic spines (reviewed in Harris 1999). Spines are dynamic structures that appear rapidly following activity patterns that lead to memory formation, and these fast structural alterations are believed to contribute to the remarkable plasticity of the brain (Engert and Bonhoeffer 1999; Maletic-Savatic et al. 1999; Toni et al. 1999). Each spine is biochemically isolated (Sabatini et al. 2002) and contains components of many signaling pathways necessary for synaptic plasticity (Kornau et al. 1995). Here we describe recent work in our laboratory focusing on the role of NMDA-type glutamate receptors (NMDAR) in regulating the function and plasticity of dendritic spines and synapses in both normal and disease states (Alvarez et al.2007; Ngo-Anh et al. 2005; Bloodgood and Sabatini 2007a; Shankar et al. 2007).
Implementation of nanoparticles in therapeutic radiation oncology

Development and progress of cancer is a very complex disease process to comprehend because of the multiple changes in cellular physiology, pathology, and pathophysiology resulting from the numerous genetic changes from which cancer originates. As a result, most common treatments are not directed at the molecular level but rather at the tissue level. While personalized care is becoming an increasingly aim, the most common cancer treatments are restricted to chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, each of which has a high likelihood of resulting in rather severe adverse side effects. For example, currently used radiation therapy does not discriminate between normal and cancerous cells and greatly relies on the external targeting of the radiation beams to specific cells and organs. Because of this, there is an immediate need for the development of new and innovative technologies that help to differentiate tumor cells and micrometastases from normal cells and facilitate the complete destruction of those cells. Recent advancements in nanoscience and nanotechnology have paved a way for the development of nanoparticles (NPs) as multifunctional carriers to deliver therapeutic radioisotopes for tumor targeted radiation therapy, to monitor their delivery, and improve the therapeutic index of radiation and tumor response to the treatment. The application of NPs in radiation therapy has aimed to improve outcomes in radiation therapy by increasing therapeutic effect in tumors and reducing toxicity on normal tissues. Because NPs possess unique properties, such as preferential accumulation in tumors and minimal uptake in normal tissues, it makes them ideal for the delivery of radiotherapy. This review provides an overview of the recent development of NPs for carrying and delivering therapeutic radioisotopes for systemic radiation treatment for a variety of cancers in radiation oncology.
Maintaining Integrity and Non-Repudiation in Secure Offline Documents

Securing sensitive digital documents (such as health records, legal reports, government documents, and financial assets) is a critical and challenging task. Unreliable Internet connections, viruses, and compromised file storage systems impose a significant risk on such documents and can compromise their integrity especially when shared across domains while they are shared in offline fashion. In this paper, we present a new framework for maintaining integrity in offline documents and provide a non-repudiation security feature without relying on a central repository of certificates. This framework has been implemented as a plug-in for the Microsoft Word application. It is portable because the plug-in is attached to the document itself and it is scalable because there are no fixed limits on the numbers of users who can collaborate in producing the document. Our framework provides integrity and non-repudiation guarantees for each change in the document's version history.
Creating a Macrostructure in Academic Writing: Contributions of Tutor–Tutee Interaction When Performing a Text Revision

ABSTRACTThis article examines how students develop an effective macrostructure with supporting arguments in academic writing. We base the study on theory developed about macrostructures. The study focuses on components of macrostructure-building through tutor–tutee dialogic communication. We draw from work on the role of speech for and within written communication and examine factors that contribute to effective tutor–tutee interaction in revision processes. This article reports on the writing of a bilingual, Hispanic undergraduate who is a first-generation college student; the processes used by the student when performing a text revision; and self-perceptions associated with this writing activity, all of which provide avenues for understanding this student’s revision processes and text product.
Formation of Nb-rich droplets in laser deposited Ni-matrix microstructures

Abstract Ni-rich γ cells and Nb-rich eutectic droplets that form during laser power bed fusion solidification of Ni-Nb alloys are studied using experiments and simulations. Finite element simulations estimate the cooling rates in the melt pool and phase-field simulations predict the resulting cellular microstructures. The cell and droplet spacings are determined as a function of cooling rate and fit to a power law. The formation of Laves phase is predicted for a critical composition of Nb in the liquid droplets. Finally, our simulations demonstrate that anisotropy in the γ orientation influences the Laves fraction significantly.
The Ineffectiveness of the Current Definition of a “Mercenary” in International Humanitarian and Criminal Law

The world is facing today new forms of mercenarism. Non-State armed groups, such as foreign fighters and private military and security companies (PMSCs), operate with impunity in armed conflicts.
Efficiency for Lives, Equality for Everything Else: How Allocation Preference Shifts Across Domains

The allocation of scarce public resources such as transplant organs and limited public funding involves a trade-off between equality—equal access and efficiency—maximizing total benefit. The curren...
Nutraceuticals in prostate cancer therapeutic strategies and their neo-adjuvant use in diverse populations

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy and second leading cause of cancer mortality in American males. Notably, men of African descent in the United States and Caribbean have the highest PCa mortality rates compared to men with European ancestry. Although current therapeutics are quite potent and effective, disease resistance, progression to metastasis, therapy-associated toxicities and efficacy-related issues in diverse populations develop over time. Thus, non-toxic and efficacious therapeutic strategies are needed to address these major obstacles for the clinical treatment and management of PCa. In this regard, preclinical and population-based efficacy studies have shown the potential of natural non-toxic nutraceuticals as potent anti-PCa agents. Accordingly, the implementation of nutraceutical intervention and genetic testing in diverse populations might aid in the development and design of precision medicine strategies to reduce the burden of chemotherapy-associated toxicities, suppress disease resistance, and treat both localized and advanced PCa. Consequently, additional large-scale and inclusive clinical studies are required to fully assess efficacy and therapeutic limitations of these agents in PCa. This review discusses the most current clinical research on selected nutraceutical agents and their efficacy in the context of clinico-pathological outcomes and disease susceptibility in diverse PCa clinical and epidemiological studies.
Taking oral health to heart: an overview.

ABSTRACT Background This article is an introduction to the 2001 ADA symposium, “Taking Oral Health to Heart,” which focused on the relationship between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease. This overview describes the databases and terminology used in discussions of epidemiologic studies on this topic. Conclusions In determining if a certain disease, medication or condition is a risk factor for another entity, one must carefully evaluate and analyze the data, weigh the various other contributing risk factors and then determine the mechanism of interaction if an association is established. Clinical Implications This symposium provided practitioners with various concepts regarding the role of periodontal disease as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and the data presented represent the state of the art.
Behavioral Health Support for Patients, Families, and Healthcare Workers

During the 2014–2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, over 850 healthcare workers contracted Ebola, and over 500 died. These tragic numbers underscore the need for strict adherence to infection control precautions when caring for patients with Ebola and other diseases that are both highly infectious and potentially fatal. In addition to the use of personal protection equipment (PPE), such measures include source isolation of infected patients. In the process of confining infectious pathogens, however, it is essential that health systems do not overlook the psychological needs of patients nor that of the medical staff who care for them. This chapter is divided into two sections. The first explores the experiences of patients cared for in source isolation, highlighting the possible iatrogenic psychological consequences of treatment in a biocontainment unit. Strategies for mitigating the potentially harmful psychological effects of isolation are reviewed, including considerations for children. The second section considers the experiences of healthcare workers. The discussion outlines the psychological impact of treating patients with infectious diseases, risk factors for emotional distress, and strategies to promote psychological well-being and resilience.
How Do Sanctions Affect Incumbent Electoral Performance

How do sanctions affect incumbent electoral performance during elections? Although existing literature suggests that sanctions may shorten or prolong incumbent tenure, we are less informed about th...
The effects of lead on algae

Lead inhibits respiration and photosynthesis in Phaeodactylum. In cells treated for 24 h with PbCl2 (10 mg 1−1), photosynthesis is completely suppressed, while respiration is reduced to 25%. A lower concentration, 1.0 mg 1−1, permits photosynthesis at 75% of the control rate, respiration being virtually unaffected. The vital activities of cells treated for 48 h or 72 h are progressively more inhibited: concentrations of PbCl2 as low as 0.1 mg 1−1 reduce photosynthesis and respiration by 25 to 50%.
Forecasting global road traffic injury mortality for 2030.

Objective To forecast the number and rate of deaths from road traffic injuries (RTI) in the world in 2030. Methods This study was a secondary analysis of annual country-level data of RTI mortality rates for 1990–2017 in the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2017 Study, population projection for 2030, gross domestic product (GDP) per capita for 1990–2030 and average years of schooling among people aged 15 years+ for 1990–2030. We developed up to 6884 combinations of forecasting models for each subgroup stratified by country, sex and mode of transport using linear and squared year, GDP per capita and average years of schooling as potential predictors. We conducted a fixed-size, rolling window out-of-sample forecast to choose the best combination for each subgroup. In the validation, we used the data for 1990–2002, 1991–2003 and 1992–2004 (fit periods) to forecast mortality rates in 2015, 2016 and 2017 (test periods), respectively. We applied the selected combination of models to the data for 1990–2017 to forecast the mortality rate in 2030 for each subgroup. To forecast the number of deaths, we multiplied the forecasted mortality rates by the corresponding population projection. Results During the test periods, the selected combination of models produced the number of deaths that is higher than that estimated in the GBD Study by 5.1% collectively. Our model resulted in 1.225 million deaths and 14.3 deaths per 100 000 population in 2030, which were 1% and 12% less than those for 2017 in the GBD Study, respectively. Conclusions The world needs to accelerate its efforts towards achieving the Decade of Action for Road Safety goal and the Sustainable Development Goals target.