cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abbreviated form of the test of memory malingering.

The Test of Memory Malingering (TOMM) is a neuropsychological effort test in which scores below 45 on Trial 2 or Retention Trial indicate insufficient effort on testing, but Trial 1 score is not used. This study attempted to identify Trial 1 cut points above and below which further trials need not be administered. Data were analyzed from 114 patients referred for clinical neuropsychological evaluation. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value for identifying failure on TOMM were calculated. Trial 1 scores ≥36 indicated 99% likelihood that TOMM would be passed; Trial 1 scores ≤27 indicated 100% likelihood of failure.
Selective specification of CNS stem cells into oligodendroglial or neuronal cell lineage: cell culture and transplant studies.

Neural stem cells (NSCs) were isolated from embryonic day 16 Sprague-Dawley rats and cultured in a novel serum-free stem cell medium that selected for the growth of NSCs and against the growth of GFAP(+) cells (astrocytes). NSCs maintained in culture for extended periods of time retained immunoreactivity for both nestin and PSA-NCAM, two markers characteristic of the stem cell phenotype. Moreover, using an oligodendrocyte (OL) specification medium, NSCs differentiated into OL as evidenced by their morphology and expression of multiple oligodendrocyte/myelin-specific markers. In addition, NSCs are capable of acquiring a neuronal phenotype as evidenced by expressing neuronal markers, such as neurofilament (NF) and NeuN when cultured in a defined medium for neurons indicating that these cells are also a good source of neuroblasts, which could be used to replace neuronal populations in the brain. We also showed successful propagation and differentiation of NSCs into OL after cryostorage, allowing for the later use of stored NSCs. The long-term goal of culturing NSCs and committed oligodendrocyte progenitors (OLP) is to obtain homogeneous populations for transplantation with the goal of remyelinating the myelin-deficient CNS. Our preliminary experiments carried out on normal and myelin deficient rats demonstrate that these cells survive and migrate extensively in both types of hosts. NSCs grafted as such, as well as cells derived from NSCs exposed to selective specification before grafting, are able to differentiate within the host brain. As expected, NSCs are capable of giving rise to astrocytes in a medium favoring this phenotype.
Profound autoimmune hemolysis and Evans syndrome in two asplenic patients with babesiosis.

Background Evans syndrome (ES) is characterized by the simultaneous or sequential presence of multiple autoimmune cytopenias. It is often secondary to rheumatologic disorders or lymphoid malignancies, but has not previously been associated with babesiosis. Here we present two cases of severe cytopenias in asplenic patients precipitated by active babesiosis. Case Report The first patient had a history of Hodgkin's lymphoma in remission and autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) treated by splenectomy 12 years prior who presented with severe AIHA and thrombocytopenia after Babesia infection. The second patient had a history of ES requiring splenectomy, which relapsed after Babesia infection. Results The complex presentation and medical histories of both patients made the diagnosis challenging. Both patients’ cytopenias responded to therapy, although the use of immunosuppressive agents in patients with active hematologic infections was challenging and required a multidisciplinary approach. Conclusion These two cases illustrate the possibility of babesiosis to not only reactivate ES in asplenic patients, but also precipitate increased levels of immune deregulation, potentially provoking ES, a phenomenon not previously reported.
The silica gel‐water vapor sorption therm

The sorption isotherms for moist air and silica gel were determined at a total pressure of one atmosphere and 82, 100, 125, 150, 175 and 200°F. A small hysteresis effect was noted. The silica gel-moist air system can best be described by either of two equations. The first is the distribution function description of the Polanyi characteristic curve. If the data are described by this equation the adsorption process can be explained in terms of Polanyi's potential theory. Alternately, the data may be described by a double Langmuir expression.
Ecosystem Functions of Tidal Fresh, Brackish, and Salt Marshes on the Georgia Coast

We examined patterns of habitat function (plant species richness), productivity (plant aboveground biomass and total C), and nutrient stocks (N and P in aboveground plant biomass and soil) in tidal marshes of the Satilla, Altamaha, and Ogeechee Estuaries in Georgia, USA. We worked at two sites within each salinity zone (fresh, brackish, and saline) in each estuary, sampling a transect from the creekbank to the marsh platform. In total, 110 plant species were found. Site-scale and plot-scale species richness decreased from fresh to saline sites. Standing crop biomass and total carbon stocks were greatest at brackish sites, followed by freshwater then saline sites. Nitrogen stocks in plants and soil decreased across sites as salinity increased, while phosphorus stocks did not differ between fresh and brackish sites but were lowest at salty sites. These results generally support past speculation about ecosystem change across the estuarine gradient, emphasizing that ecosystem function in tidal wetlands changes sharply across the relatively short horizontal distance of the estuary. Changes in plant distribution patterns driven by global changes such as sea level rise, changing climates, or fresh water withdrawal are likely to have strong impacts on a variety of wetland functions and services.
Computational model of in vivo human energy metabolism during semistarvation and refeeding

Changes in body weight and composition are the result of complex interactions among metabolic fluxes contributing to macronutrient balances. To better understand these interactions, a mathematical model was constructed that used the measured dietary macronutrient intake during semistarvation and refeeding as model inputs and computed whole body energy expenditure, de novo lipogenesis, and gluconeogenesis as well as turnover and oxidation of carbohydrate, fat, and protein. Published in vivo human data provided the basis for the model components that were integrated by fitting a few unknown parameters to the classic Minnesota human starvation experiment. The model simulated the measured body weight and fat mass changes during semistarvation and refeeding and predicted the unmeasured metabolic fluxes underlying the body composition changes. The resting metabolic rate matched the experimental measurements and required a model of adaptive thermogenesis. Refeeding caused an elevation of de novo lipogenesis that, along with increased fat intake, resulted in a rapid repletion and overshoot of body fat. By continuing the computer simulation with the prestarvation diet and physical activity, the original body weight and composition were eventually restored, but body fat mass was predicted to take more than one additional year to return to within 5% of its original value. The model was validated by simulating a recently published short-term caloric restriction experiment without changing the model parameters. The predicted changes in body weight, fat mass, resting metabolic rate, and nitrogen balance matched the experimental measurements, thereby providing support for the validity of the model.
COGNITIVE RADIOS FOR DYNAMIC SPECTRUM ACCESS - The Throughput Potential of Cognitive Radio: A Theoretical Perspective

Cognitive radios are promising solutions to the problem of overcrowded spectrum. In this article we explore the throughput potential of cognitive communication. Different interpretations of cognitive radio that underlay, overlay, and interweave the transmissions of the cognitive user with those of licensed users are described. Considering opportunistic communication as a baseline, we investigate the throughput improvements offered by the overlay methods. Channel selection techniques for opportunistic access such as frequency hopping, frequency tracking, and frequency coding are presented. The trade-off between regulation and autonomy inherent in the design and performance of cognitive networks is examined through a simple example, which shows that the optimal amount of licensing is equal to the duty cycle of the traffic arrivals
CAMBRO-ORDOVICIAN CEPHALOPODS

Summary Volborthella and Salterella of the Lower Cambrian arc probably pteropods, rather than cephalopods. The oldest undoubted cephalopods are two species of Plectronoceras from the Upper Cambrian of eastern Asia; both are small curved brevicones with ellipochoanitic siphuncles. The oldest American cephalopods are from the uppermost Cambrian of the Ozark region, and they are referable to Shelbyoceras, which in general physiognomy resembles Plectronoceras. The nautiloids appear to have reached a climax during the earliest Ordovician times and again near the close of the Lower Ordovician; the second climax is characterized particularly by the appearance of nautilicones. The majority of Cambro-Ordovician cephalopods are brevicones, but longicones are fairly abundant, and locally (in the Lower Ordovician) nautilicones are not particularly rare. Evolute specimens with closely spaced adoral septa and modified apertures are mature, rather than senile. Many Cambro-Ordovician cephalopods have orthochoanitic siphuncles, others holochoanitic. In the adapical portions of the siphuncle of certain Early Palaeozoic holochoanites (both brevicones and longicones) there are numerous closely spaced endocones, which are believed to have developed from diaphragms. The siphuncle of one genus of Lower Ordovician orthochoanites contains a central tube of unknown function. In another Lower Ordovician genus the walls of the siphuncular segments are solid-V-shaped in longitudinal section. The adapical portions of at least some of the early nautilicones show a siphonal caecum much like that of modern Nautilus, an orthochoanitic siphuncle, a small umbilical perforation, and a nepionic line near the end of the first volution. Both cameral and siphuncular deposits occur in Lower Ordovician nautilicones. Presumably brevicones gave rise to longicones and these in turn to gyroceracones and nautilicones. During the Lower Ordovician, holochoanites developed from ortho-choanites; and cyrtochoanites, which in America at least are not known to exist before the Middle Ordovician, also evolved from orthochoanites.
Integrating Learning in a Multi-Scale Agent

Video games are complex simulation environments with many real-world properties that need to be addressed in order to build robust intelligence. StarCraft is a real-time strategy (RTS) game that exhibits both cognitive complexity and task environment complexity. Expert StarCraft gameplay involves many cognitive processes including estimation, anticipation, and adaptation. Achieving the objective of destroying all enemy forces requires managing a number of concurrent subtasks while working towards higher-level objectives. Working towards the goal of building expert-level performance for RTS games presents a multi-scale AI problem, which motivates the need for integrative AI systems. This thesis investigates the capabilities necessary to realize expert StarCraft gameplay in an agent. My central claim is that in order to perform at the level of an expert player, a StarCraft agent must utilize heterogeneous reasoning capabilities. This requirement is motivated by the structure of RTS gameplay, which involves both deliberative and reactive decision making, and analysis of professional gameplay, which demonstrates the need for estimation, adaptation, and anticipation reasoning capabilities. Additionally, StarCraft gameplay involves decision making across multiple scales, or levels of coordination. My approach for supporting these capabilities in an agent is to identify the competencies necessary for RTS gameplay, and develop techniques for implementing and integrating these competencies. The resulting agent, EISBot, integrates reactive planning for plan execution and monitoring, machine learning for opponent modeling, and case-based reasoning for goal formulation and strategy learning. EISBot plays StarCraft at the same action and sensing granularity as human players, and is evaluated against AI and human opponents. The contributions of this thesis are idioms for authoring agents for multi-scale AI problems, techniques for learning domain knowledge from gameplay demonstrations, and methods for integrating a variety of learning algorithms in a real-time, multi-scale agent.
Interactivity and non-interactivity on tabletops

In the growing field of tabletop computing research, there has been an understandable focus on interactive aspects of tabletop use, in terms of technology, design, and behavioural analysis. In this paper, I highlight the importance of considering also non-interactive aspects of tabletop computing and the mutually dependent relationship between interactive and non-interactive. We illustrate aspects of this relationship using findings from a deployment of an interactive tabletop in a public setting. The findings highlight how consequences of interaction can impact on non-interactive behaviours and intentions and how non-interactive actions can constrain interactive behaviours on the tabletop. In doing this we aim to raise more awareness of the relationship between interactivity and non-interactivity within tabletop computing research.
Biological Control Agents for Fire Blight of Apple Compared Under Conditions Limiting Natural Dispersal.

Pusey, P. L. 2002. Biological control agents for fire blight of apple compared under conditions limiting natural dispersal. Plant Dis. 86:639-644. The efficacy of Pantoea agglomerans strain E325 for control of fire blight of apple was determined in comparative field trials involving other bacterial antagonists. Concurrently, the importance of the natural dispersal of bacteria as a complicating factor was assessed. Tests were performed under two sets of conditions, those that allowed for the dispersal of bacteria via honeybee activity and those that minimized it through the use of translucent polyethylene enclosures around single trees. The enclosures also raised daytime temperatures and allowed for controlled wetting, two factors important to the development of blossom blight. Singleantagonist treatments with strain E325, Pseudomonas fluorescens strain A506, and P. agglomerans strain C9-1 were applied to open blossoms on each of 10 enclosed trees and 10 nonenclosed trees. During bloom, suspensions of antagonists (10 8 CFU/ml) were applied twice with a brush, and a suspension of Erwinia amylovora (107 CFU/ml) was subsequently applied once using the same method. Two days after inoculation with the pathogen, trees were misted to simulate precipitation. Flower-to-flower spread of antagonistic bacteria was less frequent on trees surrounded by plastic enclosures than on nonenclosed trees. The range and statistical separation of means for population size of E. amylovora and disease incidence among treatments were greater for enclosed trees than for nonenclosed trees. Based on these results, the natural spread of antagonists being compared may mask differences in their efficacy as biocontrol agents. Such distortions and resulting misinterpretations could be lessened by separating treatments widely in large orchard blocks and by monitoring microbial populations. Strain E325 from fresh or lyophilized cultures was consistently more effective than standard antagonists in suppressing E. amylovora and reducing disease incidence. To fully assess its potential use for fire blight, larger-scale trials under various conditions will be necessary.
Ethos, Pathos, Logos, Kairos: Using a Rhetorical Heuristic to Mediate Digital-Survey Recruitment Strategies

How might the rhetorical strategies of ethos, pathos, logos, and kairos play a mediational, intervening role in the successful administration of online surveys? What are the general costs and benefits of conducting survey research? Based on the activity of administering an online survey ( N= 334) testing knowledge and understanding of US copyright law among digital writers (both students and teachers) in US technical and professional writing (TPW) programs, I blend Rhetorical Theory with Activity Theory by conducting a rhetorical analysis within an Activity Theory paradigm. I posit that a rhetorically informed heuristic mediates between the researcher and potential participants when the researcher attempts to recruit individuals to respond to an online survey.
Glutamatergic theories of schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that affects up to 1% of the population worldwide. Traditional models of schizophrenia have emphasized dopaminergic dysfunction. Over the last 20 years, however, limitations of the dopamine model have become increasingly apparent, necessitating development of alternative models. Glutamatergic models are based upon the observation that the psychotomimetic agents such as phencyclidine (PCP) and ketamine induce psychotic symptoms and neurocognitive disturbances similar to those of schizophrenia by blocking neurotransmission at N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-type glutamate receptors. Because glutamate/NMDA receptors are located throughout the brain, glutamatergic models predict widespread cortical dysfunction with particular involvement of NMDA receptors throughout the brain. Further, NMDA receptors are located on brain circuits that regulate dopamine release, suggesting that dopaminergic deficits in schizophrenia may also be secondary to underlying glutamatergic dysfunction. Agents that stimulate NMDA receptor-mediated neurotransmission, including glycine-site agonists and glycine transport inhibitors, have shown encouraging results in preclinical studies and are currently undergoing clinical development. Encouraging results have been observed as well with agents such as metabotropic 2/3 agonists that decrease resting glutamate levels, reversing potential disruption in firing patterns within prefrontal cortex and possibly other brain regions. Overall, these findings suggest that glutamatergic theories may lead to new conceptualizations and treatment approaches that would not be possible based upon dopaminergic models alone.
Expression of adenine nucleotide translocator parallels maturation of respiratory control in heart in vivo

Changes in the relationship between myocardial high-energy phosphates and oxygen consumption in vivo occur during development, implying that the mode of respiratory control undergoes maturation. We...
Jones v. Harris Associates, L.P. and the Limits of Public Choice Textualism

Despite their obvious affinity on many matters related to law and economics, Judges Frank Easterbrook and Richard Posner recently engaged in a fierce battle over the economics of the mutual fund industry and over statutory interpretation in Jones v. Harris Associates, L.P., a case challenging the fees paid to a fund’s investment adviser. Chief Judge Easterbrook, writing for the panel, held that under § 36(b) of the Investment Company Act, advisers have a duty of full disclosure and must avoid fraud, but are not subject to a limit on compensation. In dissent, Judge Posner argued that the Jones decision is based “on an economic analysis that is ripe for reexamination.” It is true that the panel opinion relies heavily upon an economic analysis that counts on competition to restrain adviser compensation and whose validity the recent collapse of the financial services industry calls into question. But the opinion can best be viewed as a product of Judge Easterbrook's public choice theory of statutory interpretation: strict textualism based upon an extreme skepticism of legislation and of judicial discretion. That theory leads the court in Jones to reach a conclusion that ignores the text, structure, and history of § 36(b), and that nullifies the intended effect of the statute. Moreover, the decision suggests that Easterbrook’s theory of interpretation is inadequate as a solitary tool for interpreting statutes. Public choice principles help us to set limits upon interpretation, but they do not provide a guide to interpretation within those limits. Without a balancing principle of fidelity to congressional purpose, Easterbrook’s theory comes dangerously close to a different form of judicial activism: using strict construction as a means for eviscerating legislation of any practical effect.
Decoding the Development Strategy of a Major Retailer: Wal-Mart's Expansion in the United States

This research aims to provide insight regarding Wal-Mart's retail development strategy in its expansion across the continental United States. The study examines store location patterns and relationships between Wal-Mart's store and distribution center locations and markets. The study shows that, although radial expansion is broadly characteristic of the dense store patterns that have been well established for Wal-Mart at the national level, expansion patterns at the regional level are consistent with a selective process based on factors other than store density. These results provide a new perspective on Wal-Mart's expansion, providing insights of value to retail practitioners and local government.
Social Media Use and the Acceptability of Telepsychological Services in Rural Populations

Rural communities tend to be underserved by the psychological and medical communities, often due to the lack of available specialty services in the area. When seeking mental health services, rural communities face additional ethical concerns, such as increased stigma, confidentiality concerns, and dual relationships. As such, the use of telehealth and telepsychological services has been seen as a positive alternative means to provide mental health services to rural or remote areas. The aim of this research was to examine the effects of social media use and population size on the perceived effectiveness of, and openness to, telepsychological services. Two hundred forty-one undergraduate students at a small Midwestern university completed an online survey in the fall semester of 2012. The questionnaire included measures of sociodemographics, rurality, computer use, social media use, and attitudes toward telehealth services. Hierarchical regression analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between social media use, population size, and acceptability of telehealth services. Results indicated increased positive attitudes toward telehealth with increases in social media use and decreases in population size. The current study suggests social media technology use and population size has a significant effect on attitudes toward telehealth services. Therefore, as social media use continues to grow and technological advances become more prevalent in rural areas, positive perceptions of telehealth services may increase in rural areas.
Improvements in Mechanical Behavior of SOFC Anodes

Processing-induced residual stresses in the component layers of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC’s) can lead to fracture or to cell curvature which impedes stack assembly. Reducing or eliminating residual stresses to improve the mechanical behavior of the cells becomes increasingly important as the area of the cells is increased to increase the power of the fuel cell stack. Residual stresses in SOFC’s result primarily from differential thermal expansion and sintering shrinkage between the component layers, such as the electrolyte and the anode support in a planar cell. This work investigates the impact of anode composition on each of these factors, with the ultimate goal of designing a flat, large-area cell. A range of anode compositions is investigated to determine the effect of different additives on the sintering behavior, and on the thermal and mechanical properties. Dilatometry, sintering shrinkage, scanning electron microscopy, and reduction studies are performed to correlate the microstructure, thermomechanical behavior, and composition. The experimental results are used to select an anode composition that leads to low overall cell curvature and improved mechanical behavior with respect to standard SOFC anode cermet materials.
Baseline Investigation of Liver Health Promotion Project in University Students in Sichuan

Objective To understand liver health related knowledge,attitude and behavior in university students in Panxi region and to provide a basis for liver health promotion. Methods Altogether 278 university students were conducted questionnaires in Panxi region with cluster sampling according to the uniform program of Sichuan province. Results A proportion of 39. 43% correctly answered the non-major transmission route of hepatitis B; 57. 71% thought sting of mosquito could transmit the hepatitis B; 78. 49% thought coughing and sneezing could transmit hepatitis C. When knew schoolmates around to be a hepatitis B carrier,27. 6% students would evade and 50. 54% would keep contact with the carrier,but reject in heart; 22. 94% students would mind dining with the carrier; 65. 95% had been inoculated hepatitis B vaccine and 88. 17% students reluctant to inoculate hepatitis B. Differences were statistically significant between medical students and the non-medical students regarding the above aspects. Conclusion The awareness rate of hepatitis health knowledge among university students in Panxi region is comparatively low. Distinct objection towards the carriers is prevalent and the vaccination rate is not satisfied. Thus,pertinent health promotion measures should be taken in view of the above situation.
Pulmonary vasomotion and the distribution of vascular resistance in a dog lung lobe

We examined the influence of stellate ganglion stimulation, hypoxia, and the infusion of norepinephrine, PGF2alpha, serotonin, and histamine on the longitudinal distribution of vascular resistance and intravascular pressures in an isolated left lower lobe of the dog lung using the low-viscosity bolus technique. Sympathetic stimulation, norepinephrine, serotonin, PGF2alpha, and hypoxia increased total pulmonary vascular resistance by increasing the resistance, primarily on the arterial or upstream side of the volume midpoint, whereas histamine increased the resistance near the venous end of the lobar vascular bed. Hypoxia increased the volume upstream from the site of maximum resistance, suggesting that the larger lobar arteries were distended by the elevated lobar artery pressure. Sympathetic stimulation, norepinephrine, PGF2alpha, and serotonin, on the other hand, had little effect on the volume upstream from the maximum resistance, suggesting that these vasomotor stimuli prevented distension of the larger arteries.
Kanemaru as a Member of the National Diet (1958–1972)

Hori Shigeru, a Diet power broker, served as both role model and benefactor in advancing Kanemaru’s Diet career. Kanemaru secured beneficial Diet committee assignments that put him in charge of road construction and agricultural policy. Kanemaru branched out into foreign affairs in the 1960s, visiting the US on official business in 1963 and 1971, and became a vocal supporter of Chiang Kaishek on Taiwan. The Yamanashi Gubernatorial election of 1966 was a key turning point in Kanemaru’s career. Kanemaru built a strong support base (jiban) and support group (koenkai) during the 19605. In 1969, Kanemaru became the President of Yamanashi TV, creating another revenue stream for himself and also positioning himself at the center of a newly emerging technology useful in his political pursuits.
EVALUATION OF SCALLOP MEAT QUALITY BY THE RESAZURIN REDUCTION TECHNIQUE1

Experiments were conducted on calico and bay scallop meats in the fresh, frozen, and thawed states and with two modifications of the resazurin technique. Results indicated that the resazurin reduction test was a relatively rapid, objective technique to determine the shelf-life of scallop meats as compared with total bacteria numbers and sensory ratings for aroma by a trained panel. Agreement between these three criteria for determining shelf-life quality improved with storage time; which apparently was related to changes associated with the log phase of bacterial growth. The resazurin test was found to be a simple, relatively rapid, inexpensive, and objective technique for determining quality of fresh scallop meats.
Association of Long-term, Low-Intensity Smoking With All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality in the National Institutes of Health-AARP Diet and Health Study.

Importance A growing proportion of US smokers now smoke fewer than 10 cigarettes per day (CPD), and that proportion will likely rise in the future. The health effects of smoking only a few CPD over one’s lifetime are less understood than are the effects of heavier smoking, although many smokers believe that their level is modest. Objective To evaluate the associations of long-term smoking of fewer than 1 or 1 to 10 CPD (low intensity) with all-cause and cause-specific mortality compared with never smoking cigarettes. Design, Setting, and Participants Prospective cohort study of 290 215 adults in the National Institutes of Health–AARP (formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons) Diet and Health Study who were aged 59 to 82 years in calendar years 2004-2005 (baseline). Data were gathered with a questionnaire assessing lifetime cigarette smoking history. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs were determined for all-cause mortality and cause-specific mortality through the end of 2011. Hazard ratios and 95% CIs were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression models using age as the underlying time metric and adjusted for sex, race/ethnicity, educational level, physical activity, and alcohol intake. Data analysis was conducted from December 15, 2015, to September 30, 2016. Exposures Current and historical smoking intensity during 9 previous age periods (from Main Outcomes and Measures All-cause and cause-specific mortality among current, former, and never smokers. Results Of the 290 215 cohort participants who completed the 2004-2005 questionnaire, 168 140 were men (57.9%); the mean (SD) age was 71 (5.3) years (range, 59-82 years). Most people who smoked fewer than 1 or 1 to 10 CPD at baseline reported smoking substantially higher numbers of CPD earlier in their lives. Nevertheless, 159 (9.1%) and 1493 (22.5%) of these individuals reported consistently smoking fewer than 1 or 1 to 10 CPD in each age period that they smoked, respectively. Relative to never smokers, consistent smokers of fewer than 1 CPD (HR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.07-2.51) and 1 to 10 CPD (HR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.64-2.13) had a higher all-cause mortality risk. Associations were similar in women and men for all-cause mortality and were observed across a range of smoking-related causes of death, with an especially strong association with lung cancer (HR, 9.12; 95% CI, 2.92-28.47, and HR, 11.61; 95% CI, 8.25-16.35 for Conclusions and Relevance This study provides evidence that individuals who smoke fewer than 1 or 1 to 10 CPD over their lifetime have higher mortality risks than never smokers and would benefit from cessation. These results provide further evidence that there is no risk-free level of exposure to tobacco smoke.
Some perspectives on the application of Little's law: L = λW

Little's law, L = λW, has been covered in operations management, operations research and management for decades. The expression has been applied to manufacturing and service processes, queueing models, inventory and other related problems. Although random characteristics of interarrival and processing times have been considered in the proof of the theorem, in the application of Little's theorem process variation, random characteristics and data homogeneity are often ignored. The purpose of this research is to show that the assumption of a steady-state condition in the application of Little's law theorem will shift the focus from the underlying process variation and may lead to incorrect decisions regarding the process parameters. It is recommended that Shewhart control charts be used to establish data homogeneity before the application of Little's law expression.
Salivary proline-rich protein may reduce tannin-iron chelation: a systematic narrative review.

Tannins are often cited for antinutritional effects, including chelation of non-heme iron. Despite this, studies exploring non-heme iron bioavailability inhibition with long-term consumption have reported mixed results. Salivary proline-rich proteins (PRPs) may mediate tannin-antinutritional effects on non-heme iron bioavailability. To review evidence regarding biochemical binding mechanisms and affinity states between PRPs and tannins, as well as effects of PRPs on non-heme iron bioavailability with tannin consumption in vivo. Narrative systematic review and meta-analysis. Common themes in biochemical modeling and affinity studies were collated for summary and synthesis; data were extracted from in vivo experiments for meta-analysis. Thirty-two studies were included in analysis. Common themes that positively influenced tannin-PRP binding included specificity of tannin-PRP binding, PRP and tannin stereochemistry. Hydrolyzable tannins have different affinities than condensed tannins when binding to PRPs. In vivo, hepatic iron stores and non-heme iron absorption are not significantly affected by tannin consumption (d = −0.64-1.84; −2.7-0.13 respectively), and PRP expression may increase non-heme iron bioavailability with tannin consumption. In vitro modeling suggests that tannins favor PRP binding over iron chelation throughout digestion. Hydrolyzable tannins are not representative of tannin impact on non-heme iron bioavailability in food tannins because of their unique structural properties and PRP affinities. With tannin consumption, PRP production is increased, and may be an initial line of defense against tannin-non-heme iron chelation in vivo. More research is needed to compare competitive binding of tannin-PRP to tannin-non-heme iron complexes, and elucidate PRPs’ role in adaption to non-heme iron bioavailability in vivo.
Modeling capillary rise in clinoptilolite zeolite and riparian soils to sustain vegetation in water-scarce areas.

AbstractClinoptilolite zeolite (CZ) is being considered as a wicking material for revegetation of riparian regions in arid environments where depth to groundwater is less than 3 m. Simulation of wa...
Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel β Subunits and Their Related Diseases

Voltage-gated sodium channels are protein complexes comprised of one pore forming α subunit and two, non-pore forming, β subunits. The voltage-gated sodium channel β subunits were originally identified to function as auxiliary subunits, which modulate the gating, kinetics, and localization of the ion channel pore. Since that time, the five β subunits have been shown to play crucial roles as multifunctional signaling molecules involved in cell adhesion, cell migration, neuronal pathfinding, fasciculation, and neurite outgrowth. Here, we provide an overview of the evidence implicating the β subunits in their conducting and non-conducting roles. Mutations in the β subunit genes (SCN1B–SCN4B) have been linked to a variety of diseases. These include cancer, epilepsy, cardiac arrhythmias, sudden infant death syndrome/sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and multiple neurodegenerative disorders. β subunits thus provide novel therapeutic targets for future drug discovery.
Teaching Mathematics in Multi-Lingual Classrooms: Developing Intercultural Competence via a Study Abroad Program

This study investigated how a study abroad experience teaching mathematics in Tanzania, Africa impacted a group of secondary education pre-service teachers’ (PSTs) from the United States. In particular, we discuss their ability to facilitate the learning of students in multi-lingual mathematics classrooms while personally developing intercultural competence. We examined three areas: the PSTs’ knowledge and comprehension, skills, and attitudes in an effort to understand their ability to teach in multilingual classrooms.
Barrett's Esophagus after Bimodality Therapy in Patients with Esophageal Adenocarcinoma.

INTRODUCTION Barrett's esophagus (BE) may be present in patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) after bimodality therapy (BMT). There is no specific guidance for follow-up of these patients with regard to the presence of BE or dysplasia. In this study, we assessed the outcomes of patients who, after BMT, had BE and those who did not. METHOD Patients with EAC who had BMT were identified and analyzed retrospectively in two groups, with and without BE. We compared patient characteristics and outcome variables (local, distant, and no recurrence). RESULTS Of 228 patients with EAC, 68 (29.8%) had BE before BMT. Ninety-eight (42.9%) had BE after BMT, and endoscopic intervention was done in 11 (11.2%). With a median follow-up of 37 months, the presence of post-BMT BE was not significantly associated with overall survival (OS) and local recurrence-free survival (LRFS). Similarly, endoscopic intervention was not significantly associated with OS and LRFS. Fifty (73.5%) patients with BE before BMT had BE after BMT (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION The presence of BE after BMT was not associated with increased risk of local recurrence. The local recurrence rate was not influenced by endoscopic intervention. Prospective studies are warranted to generate guidance for intervention, if necessary, for this group of EAC patients.
Invasive Bladder Cancer: Tumor Configuration, Lymphatic Invasion and Survival

AbstractThe pathologic slides of 86 patients who underwent radical cystectomy for invasive (stage T2 plus) bladder carcinoma were reviewed. The tumors were classified according to the demonstration or absence of small vessel invasion and the papillary or solid configuration. Of the 86 patients regional nodal metastases were noted in 24. Eighteen of 48 patients (38 per cent) with small vessel invasion also had nodal metastases compared to 6 of 38 (16 per cent) without small vessel invasion. Of the 62 patients without nodal metastases the crude 5-year survival was 52 per cent for 32 without small vessel involvement compared to 30 per cent for 30 with small vessel involvement.
A Sinusoidal Twist with Exponential Influences

We show that the total distance traveled by an under-damped oscillating spring mass system with sinusoidal displacement results in a nice, closed-form expression.
Age alone is not a contraindication to kidney donation: Outcomes of donor nephrectomy in the elderly.

With increasing organ demand, living kidney donation from older donors (>60-years-old) has become more common. Between 1975 and 2014, 3752 donor nephrectomies (DN) were performed at University of Minnesota; 167 (4.5%) were >60-years-old Short- and long-term outcomes were compared between contemporaneous >60-years-old and 60-years-old were more likely to have had prior abdominal surgery and hypertension; and less likely to smoke. Baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was lower in >60-years-old (80 ± 16 vs 101 ± 26 mL/min/1.73 m2 ; P 60-years-old After >20 years post-DN, systolic blood pressure was significantly higher among >60-years-old (142 vs 125 mm Hg; P 60-years-old but slope of eGFR and rates of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) were not significantly different >20 years post-DN. Thus, kidney donation among carefully selected >60-years-old poses minimal perioperative risks and no added risk of long-term ESRD.
Probes for Intracellular RNA Imaging in Live Cells

RNA localization, dynamics, and regulation are becoming increasingly important to our basic understanding of gene expression and RNA virus pathogenesis. An improved understanding of these processes will be necessary in order to identify new drug targets, as well as to create models of gene expression networks. Much of this new understanding will likely come from imaging studies of RNA, which can generate the spatiotemporal information necessary to characterize RNA within the cellular milieu. Ideally, this would be performed imaging native, nonengineered RNAs, but the approaches for performing these experiments are still evolving. In order for them to reach their potential, it is critical that they have characteristics that allow for the tracking of RNA throughout their life cycle. This chapter presents an overview of RNA imaging methodologies, and focuses on a single RNA sensitive method, employing exogenous probes, for imaging, native, nonengineered RNA in live cells.
Abstract WP323: Using Telemedicine Eliminates the Weekend After-Hours Effect in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients

Background: Stroke outcomes have been shown to be worse for patients presenting overnight and on weekends (off-hours) to stroke centers compared with those presenting during business hours (on-hour...
Split Cord Malformations

Split cord malformations (SCM) are a form of spinal dysraphism in which the spinal cord itself is split into two hemicords. In type 1 SCM, the two hemicords are contained within two separate dural sleeves, often separated by a bony or cartilaginous septum. In type 2 SCM, both hemicords are contained within the same dural sleeve. This chapter discusses the anatomy and classification of SCM, including a discussion of the cutaneous abnormalities associated with SCM and the other dysraphisms that may accompany SCM. In addition, there is a review of the theory of embryologic insult that leads to SCM formation. Finally, the chapter discusses the natural history, details of surgical treatment, and outcomes from surgical treatment. The natural history of SCM is thought to be unfavorable, with progressive neurological deficits. Surgical treatment strategies should focus on complete release of all tethering elements.
Enhancing advance care planning conversations by nurses in a bone marrow transplantation unit

Objectives To describe the impact of advance care planning (ACP) education on nurses' confidence in ACP knowledge and practice and to identify barriers to facilitate ACP conversation in a bone marrow transplantation unit. Sample & setting 60 nurses working in the bone marrow transplant unit at Oregon Health and Science University, an academic medical center. Methods & variables The aim of this quality improvement project was to increase ACP conversations by nurses. The authors used a single-group pre-/post-test design to assess the effectiveness of a 30-minute educational intervention in changing nurses' confidence and practice. Group interviews were conducted to identify barriers to ACP. Results The educational intervention increased nurses' confidence in knowledge about ACP. The number of nurses who discussed ACP with patients also increased, but it was not statistically significant. Lack of time, inefficient workflow, and concerns about questioning providers' understanding of patient preferences were identified as barriers for nurses engaging in and documenting ACP conversations. Implications for nursing In addition to appropriate education, strategies that help tailor ACP practice to fit into nurse workflow and promote collaboration with other healthcare team members are needed to change nurses' ACP practice.
Short- and Long-term Effects of Support Visibility on Support Providers' Negative Affect

Objectives Seminal research with spouses of chronic pain patients indicates that providing patients with instrumental support can be either costly or beneficial for spouses' well-being. Drawing from the invisible support literature, this study evaluated the extent to which patients' recognition of spouses' support moderated daily and long-term associations between spouses' support provision and negative affect. Method Data came from a sample of spouses (N = 145) of knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients, and the patients themselves. Participants completed a baseline interview, 22 days of daily diaries, and two follow-up interviews 6 and 18 months after baseline. Multilevel models were estimated to test study hypotheses. Results As expected, support visibility moderated daily and long-term associations between spouses' instrumental support provision and negative affect. Spouses reported elevated levels of negative affect in response to providing patients with extra care and attention, but only when their support was not recognized (i.e., reported) by patients. Discussion Findings from the current study pinpoint support visibility as a protective factor that may mitigate negative short- and long-term effects of spousal instrumental support provision on spouses' negative affect. Promoting patients' awareness of their spouses' support may offset negative emotional consequences of caregiving in the context of chronic health stressors.
IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE AND ECONOMIC FACTORS ON FUTURE SUPPLY AND DEMAND OF ALTERNATIVE ENERGY SOURCES FOR GENERATING ELECTRICITY

In preparation of Draft Environmental Impact Statements, the staff of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has responsibility under the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) to review electrical energy and peak load forecasts contained in an Applicant's environmental report. Forecasting is an important consideration in the timing of new nuclear generating capacity additions. On the basis of a review of the Applicant's forecast and other sources of information the NRC staff seeks to confirm that there will be a need for the added generating capacity, within reasonable error bounds, at the year of commercial operation projected by the Applicant. Given the complex nature of forecasting electrical energy, scientific precision in predicting an exact year of need is not to be expected. Therefore, the staff accepts forecasts of year-of-need within a several year “window of launch” framework. In order to improve the quality of the review of electricity forecasts, the Cost-Benefit Branch staff has surveyed a wide variety of published material on the economic, technological, political and social factors affecting the future growth of electrical energy. This paper discusses these factors which are generally considered to be important in forecasting electricity demand and supply. It should be noted that, for an Applicant's service area, new generating capacity may be warranted on a substitution basis for fuels in short supply in keeping with the goals of Project Independence or to replace obsolete and high operating cost fossil units. The economic rule for such replacement is that the total annualized cost of new generation including capital charge, fuel, and O&M be less than the variable cost (fuel and O&M) of certain existing units at the time the new plant would come on stream. Thus, replacement capacity is also a forecasting problem since it requires projection of alternative fuel prices as well as O&M costs for the new and old units.