cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Immersion in Water on Survival of Preimaginal Stages of Haematobia irritans (Diptera: Muscidae)

Laboratory studies on effects of immersion and immersion duration on all Haematobia irritans (L.) preimaginal stages revealed a significant disparity in tolerance limits among different developmental stages and in tolerance to different immersion durations (0, 1, 6, 18, and 30 h). Of the 4 preimaginal stages, 2nd instars were most susceptible to immersion of any duration, whereas eggs and pupae were most resistant. All instars were intolerant of immersion durations >6 h, with <10% survival at 6-, 18-, and 30-h immersion durations. Survival of 2nd instars was reduced to 38% by 0-h immersion, when compared with the control group. Adult eclosion was reduced by immersion durations of 18 and 30 h during the pupal stage. Life stage survival was dependent upon immersion duration, with survival generally decreasing as a negative linear function of increasing immersion duration. Immersion durations of 0, 1, 6, 18, and 30 h resulted in overall mortality rates of approximately 30, 37, 53, 61, and 82%, respectively. In wet regions with low elevations, water accumulation may significantly affect horn fly distribution and abundance. In drier regions, where flooding events are sporadic and water accumulation variable, the effect on horn fly populations is uncertain.
Islam and the Modern Law of Nations

Muslim states have shown in recent years eagerness to participate in international organizations and co-operate with other Powers to promote international peace and security. This is a significant phenomenon in the behavior of states whose traditional law of nations is so radically different from the modern law of nations and the principles implied in the United Nations Charter.
Kinetics of Silicon Oxide Thin Film Deposition From Silane and Disilane with Nitrous Oxide.

A mechanistic study of the deposition of silicon oxide films (SiOx, 0 < x ≤2) from silanes with nitrous oxide was performed. The depositions of non-stoichiometric films from silane and stoichiometric silicon dioxide from disilane were dominated by SiH2 generation from the decomposition of the silicon-containing reactant. The depositions of stoichiometric films from silane were found to follow chain reaction kinetics initiated by the homogeneous decomposition of N2O.
Evaluation of a sparse sampling strategy for determining vancomycin pharmacokinetics in preterm neonates: application of optimal sampling theory.

OAJECTIF: Utiliser la theorie optimale d'echantillonnage pour determiner le nombre minimum de prelevements et les temps de prelevements requis pour calculer les parametres de la vancomycine chez les nouveaux-nes. DEVIS EXPERIMENTAL: Evaluation ouverte chez des nouveaux-nes possiblement septiques. LIEU DE LETUDE: Unite de soins intensifs neonatalogiques d'un hopital communautaire. PATIENTS: Onze nouveaux-nes avec un diagnostic possible de septicemie. INTERVENTIONS: Douze traitements de vancomycine intraveineuse 20 mg/kg furent evalues. Les echantillons sanguins furent preleves a 3 et 9 heures apres la premiere infusion administree sur 1 heure. MESURES ET RESULTATS: Un modele a deux compartiments a ete applique aux concentrations de vancomycine en utilisant une analyse par iteration. Les parametres pharmacocinetiques estimes furent utilises pour determiner les temps de prelevements optimaux pour des strategies a deux, trois, ou quatre echantillons. La performance relative de ces strategies fut comparee par l'evaluation de leur efficacite respective. Le biais (le pourcentage d'erreur mediane) et la precision (le pourcentage d'erreur absolue mediane) des parametres pharmacocinetiques estimes pour chaque strategie furent determines. CONCt.USIONS: Pour l'estimation de la clairance totale et du volume du compartiment central et peripherique, toutes les strategies ont donne des resultats similaires sans difference d'efficacite, de biais ou de precision des valeurs estimees. Nos resultats suggerent que pour une evaluation clinique, un echantillon preleve a 0.5 h apres une infusion de 1 h et un autre preleve au creux sont adequats pour estimer la clairance de la vancomycine des nouveaux-nes.
The relationship between acoustic and perceived intraspeaker variability in voice quality.

Little is known about intraspeaker changes in voice across changing speaking situations in everyday life. In this study, we examined acoustic variations between and within 5 talkers and their effect on the likelihood that voice samples would not be identified as coming from the same talker. Talkers were drawn from a large database recorded to capture everyday variations in vocal characteristics. Nine samples of /a/, recorded on three different days, were examined for each talker. Acoustic characteristics were estimated using VoiceSauce and analysis-by-synthesis, and listeners judged whether pairs of voices came from the same or two different talkers. Results indicate that interspeaker variability in voice quality exceeds intraspeaker variability, but differences are smaller than expected. As predicted by models that treat voice quality as an auditory pattern, the acoustic attributes associated with incorrect “different speaker” responses varied from talker to talker, depending on the particular characteristics of the voice in question.
Patents and Microwave Measurements-Nonlinear Transmission Lines [TCC Tidbits]

This column is the first in a series devoted to patents and microwave measurement. Although the patent system is abused and misused, it also offers a path to publish design ideas in addition to journals and conferences. Many times, design ideas and concepts only appear in patents. Therefore, in this column, we will look at how studying patents can inform our knowledge of microwave instrumentation and measurement.
Total Body Mass Estimation from Anthropometric Measurements in Modern Young Adult U.S. Populations with Healthy Body Fat Percentages (NHANES III)

This study presents a method by which to estimate total body mass in modern young adult U.S. populations who self-identified as non-Hispanic U.S. White, non-Hispanic U.S. Black, and Mexican American with anthropometric measurements from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) 1988-1994 dataset (N = 2532). Correlations of stature and bi-iliac breadth with total body mass were stronger among males (r = 0.717-0.774) than among females (r = 0.549-0.661), yet these results were more accurate assessments of total body mass than existing techniques. This study also examined additional anthropometric measurements to estimate total body mass using an information-theoretic approach demonstrating that some error in the stature-bi-iliac breadth method is attributed to a nonsupported model with multimodel inference. The limitations of the current total body mass technique are discussed as well as the need for future studies to validate the method.
New image-processing and noise-reduction software reduces radiation dose during complex endovascular procedures

Background A new proprietary image-processing system known as AlluraClarity, developed by Philips Healthcare (Best, The Netherlands) for radiation-based interventional procedures, claims to lower radiation dose while preserving image quality using noise-reduction algorithms. This study determined whether the surgeon and patient radiation dose during complex endovascular procedures (CEPs) is decreased after the implementation of this new operating system. Methods Radiation dose to operators, procedure type, reference air kerma, kerma area product, and patient body mass index were recorded during CEPs on two Philips Allura FD 20 fluoroscopy systems with and without Clarity. Operator dose during CEPs was measured using optically stimulable, luminescent nanoDot (Landauer Inc, Glenwood, Ill) detectors placed outside the lead apron at the left upper chest position. nanoDots were read using a microStar ii (Landauer Inc) medical dosimetry system. For the CEPs in the Clarity group, the radiation dose to surgeons was also measured by the DoseAware (Philips Healthcare) personal dosimetry system. Side-by-side measurements of DoseAware and nanoDots allowed for cross-calibration between systems. Operator effective dose was determined using a modified Niklason algorithm. To control for patient size and case complexity, the average fluoroscopy dose rate and the dose per radiographic frame were adjusted for body mass index differences and then compared between the groups with and without Clarity by procedure. Additional factors, for example, physician practice patterns, that may have affected operator dose were inferred by comparing the ratio of the operator dose to procedural kerma area product with and without Clarity. A one-sided Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare groups for radiation doses, reference air kermas, and operating practices for each procedure type. Results The analysis included 234 CEPs; 95 performed without Clarity and 139 with Clarity. Practice patterns of operators during procedures with and without Clarity were not significantly different. For all cases, procedure radiation dose to the patient and the primary and assistant operators were significantly decreased in the Clarity group by 60% compared with the non-Clarity group. By procedure type, fluorography dose rates decreased from 44% for fenestrated endovascular repair and up to 70% with lower extremity interventions. Fluoroscopy dose rates also significantly decreased, from about 37% to 47%, depending on procedure type. Conclusions The AlluraClarity system reduces the patient and primary operator's radiation dose by more than half during CEPs. This feature appears to be an effective tool in lowering the radiation dose while maintaining image quality.
Abstract P216: Thoracic Epidural Administration of Resiniferatoxin Improves Cardiac and Autonomic Dysfunction in Post-MI Rats

Our recent study demonstrated that chronic ablation of the cardiac sympathetic afferent reflex (CSAR) at the time of myocardial infarction (MI) by destroying TRPV1-expressing CSAR afferent nerve endings by epicardial delivery of the afferent neurotoxin, resiniferatoxin (RTX) significantly improved cardiac and autonomic dysfunction post MI. In this study, we provide an alternative route of epidural peri-ganglion administration of RTX for CSAR ablation thus destroying TRPV1-expressing CSAR afferent neuronal soma at the level of the T1-T4 DRGs in post-MI rats. This strategy completely abolished the CSAR for up to 6 months, significantly longer than epicardial application (~3-4 months). We compared the cardioprotective effects of epidural application of RTX with [Sar 9 ,Met(O 2 ) 11 ]-substance P (SSP)-saporin (SAP) to determine if SP-containing CSAR afferents ablation mimics the cardioprotective effects of RTX in post-MI rats. Echocardiographic data demonstrated that both epidural RTX and SSP-SAP treatments significantly slowed LV chamber dilation in MI rats. Epidural application of RTX significantly decreased cardiac sympathetic tone (%max: 44±5 (n=6) vs. 11±1 (n=9), vehicle vs. RTX, P
Nocturnal Polyuria in Older Women with Urge Urinary Incontinence: Role of Sleep Quality, Time in Bed and Medications Used.

Purpose: Nocturia is common and bothersome in older adults, especially those who are also incontinent. Since nocturnal polyuria is a major contributor, we examined factors associated with nocturnal polyuria in this population to identify those possibly amenable to intervention.Materials and Methods: We analyzed baseline data from 2 previously completed studies of urge urinary incontinence. The studies involved 284 women (mean age ± SD 72.9 ± 7.9 years) who also completed 3-day voiding diaries. Participants with a nocturnal polyuria index greater than 33% were categorized as having nocturnal polyuria (nocturnal polyuria index = nocturnal urinary volume per 24-hour urine volume). Associations between nocturnal polyuria and various demographic, clinical and sleep related parameters were determined.Results: Overall 55% of the participants had nocturnal polyuria. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that age, body mass index, use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker, ti...
Education for the love of the world: Hannah Arendt’s philosophy of education and communication studies

Amidst a challenging moment of transition in American higher education, this article uses Arendt’s examination of American educational institutions and her reflections on the human condition to dev...
Tether enabled spacecraft systems for ultra long wavelength radio astronomy

Abstract This paper describes a proposed CubeSat mission to perform unique experiments involving interferometry and tether dynamics. A 3U CubeSat is to be placed in orbit where it will separate into three 1U CubeSats connected by a total of 100 m of tether. The separation between the three units will allow for the demonstration of high resolution radio interferometry. The increased resolution will provide access to the Ultra-Long Wavelength (ULW) scale of the electromagnetic spectrum, which is largely unexplored. During and after completion of the primary experiment, the CubeSat will be able to gather data on tethered dynamics of a space vehicle. Maneuvers to be performed and studied include direct testing of tether deployment and tethered formation flying. Tether deployment is a vital area where more data is needed as this is the phase where many tethered missions have experienced complications and failures. There are a large number of complex dynamical responses predicted by the theory associated with the deployment of an orbiting tethered system. Therefore, it is imperative to conduct an experiment that provides data on what dynamic responses actually occur.
The Leukemia Oncogene E2a-Hlf Impairs Checkpoint Activation.

The E2a-Hlf oncogene results from the translocation of chromosomes 17 and 19. This is a rare translocation found in pro-B cell leukemia cells of older children and adolescents. However, the resulting leukemia has been fatal in all reported cases despite intensive therapy. Evidence suggests that E2a-Hlf contributes to leukemogenesis by impairing apoptosis, but the precise molecular mechanisms of malignant transformation are not well understood. We have observed that E2a-Hlf confers a survival disadvantage relative to un-transduced cells and hypothesize that impaired checkpoints play a major role in genetic instability, malignant transformation, and resistance to therapy. In retrovirally transduced murine pro-B lymphocytes (FL5.12) we have observed that when co-cultured with un-transduced cells, the percentage of E2a-Hlf expressing cells diminishes over time. Furthermore, after retroviral transduction of wild-type primary hematopoietic progenitor cells and transplantation into lethally irradiated recipients, E2a-Hlf expressing cells are undetectable after 2 weeks. In contrast, after transduction and transplantation of replication impaired hematopoietic progenitors (E2F1 and E2F2 mutated), E2a-Hlf expressing cells persist for up to 6 months. We have also observed a survival disadvantage in fibroblasts, indicating that the effect is not tissue specific. When exposed to genotoxic agents such as bleomycin, E2a-Hlf expressing cells have substantially decreased activation of the checkpoint proteins p53, Chk1, and Chk2 as determined by Western blot analysis using phospho-specific antibodies. This effect appears to be downstream of DNA damage focus formation, as levels of ATR and phosphorylated ATM (Western blotting) and gamma-H2AX foci formation (immunofluorescence) are not affected by E2a-Hlf expression. Future studies will be directed at determining how checkpoint activation is inhibited by E2a-Hlf. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of E2a-Hlf mediated malignant transformation may lead to targeted and more effective therapy.
Back to the Future: Paving the Way for the Next Generation of Renal Therapeutics ☆

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a major global public health problem, as it is a driver of premature morbidity and mortality, and it exerts a high economic burden across public and private sectors and across geographic and demographic boundaries. During the 20th century, the field of nephrology developed and applied major technological advances that have resulted in our ability to provide dialysis and transplantation to patients whose native kidneys have failed. These major technological advances have resulted in the meaningful extension of life expectancy for millions of patients with end stage renal disease globally over the past fifty years. The application of these technologies has become routine, especially in the developed world, as the clinical, commercial, and operational infrastructure to provide ESRD care has evolved significantly. In addition, multiple pharmacologic strategies to inhibit the Renin Angiotensin System (RAS) have emerged, with the resultant ability to slow progression to ESRD for some patients with kidney diseases, most notably patients with Diabetic Nephropathy. However, even as these significant technological advances of dialysis and transplantation and pharmacologic inhibition of the RAS pathway have become routinely available, especially over the past two decades, the field of nephrology has unfortunately stagnated in terms of additional innovation for new technologies and therapeutics targeted at delaying or preventing renal failure. This is especially noticeable, since substantial progress in molecular medicine has been made in other fields recently, especially in oncology. Now is a critical time for field of nephrology to acknowledge our prior progress, to recognize current challenges to innovation, and to implement new drug development strategies, including the establishment and adoption of disease-specific biomarkers, with the goal of enabling and ensuring successful development of novel therapeutics to help patients at risk for renal failure. A strategic framework is offered to encourage the aggregate set of stakeholders interested in the development of the next generation of renal therapeutics.
The phonon contributions to the gibbs free energy of γ and β CuI

Abstract Equations are derived for the phonon contributions to the Gibbs free energy and entropy in terms of the phonon energy states. The energy states are determined from phonon dispersion relations, as calculated by the author in previous papers, for the γ and β phases of Cul. The resulting Gibbs free energies and entropies for each phase are plotted as a function of temperature and compared in the region of the γ to β phase transition. It is found that the phonon contributions are not important factors in the phase transition. Comments are made on other factors which are felt to be important in the phase transition.
Promoting intercultural competence in diverse US classrooms through ethnographic interviews

To meet the demands of contemporary society, students need to develop the ability to interact effectively with people from different cultures. To advance this goal, a project involving ethnographic...
N-glycolyl groups of nonhuman chondroitin sulfates survive in ancient fossils

Biosynthesis of the common mammalian sialic acid N -glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc) was lost during human evolution due to inactivation of the CMAH gene, possibly expediting divergence of the Homo lineage, due to a partial fertility barrier. Neu5Gc catabolism generates N -glycolylhexosamines, which are potential precursors for glycoconjugate biosynthesis. We carried out metabolic labeling experiments and studies of mice with human-like Neu5Gc deficiency to show that Neu5Gc degradation is the metabolic source of UDP-GlcNGc and UDP-GalNGc and the latter allows an unexpectedly selective incorporation of N -glycolyl groups into chondroitin sulfate (CS) over other potential glycoconjugate products. Partially N -glycolylated-CS was chemically synthesized as a standard for mass spectrometry to confirm its natural occurrence. Much lower amounts of GalNGc in human CS can apparently be derived from Neu5Gc-containing foods, a finding confirmed by feeding Neu5Gc-rich chow to human-like Neu5Gc-deficient mice. Unlike the case with Neu5Gc, N -glycolyl-CS was also stable enough to be detectable in animal fossils as old as 4 My. This work opens the door for investigating the biological and immunological significance of this glycosaminoglycan modification and for an “ancient glycans” approach to dating of Neu5Gc loss during the evolution of Homo .
Textual Revolution: Reading and Writing about Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism in High School Humanities Classes

This article will provide a rationale for why high school humanities classes need to discuss the sensitive topics surrounding terrorism and counter-terrorism. It will provide lesson plan ideas on the topics of lone wolf killings, domestic terrorism, the language of terror, related current events and larger social issues, and counter-terrorism. These lessons have the potential to reimagine secondary English and Social Studies classrooms to further focus on human development, relationships, and social justice.
The Learning-Disabled Child/Adolescent

The catch phrase for children with learning disabilities is now low self-esteem. We repeatedly hear teachers, psychologists, and parents of learning-disabled (LD) children and adolescents speak of low self-esteem and poor self-concept. We need to ask ourselves what we mean by low selfesteem in this population and, more importantly, what we can do to improve it. The principal focus of this chapter is on the clinical aspects of self-esteem and how it presents itself in the LD population.
Coping in Neurological Disorders

Although there is an elevated occurrence of depression in neurological disorder patients relative to the general population, it is somewhat remarkable that over half of patients manage to maintain healthy mood states in the face of disease-related stress and in light of possible damage to mood-regulating neural systems. Coping is one of the best-studied positive health-promoting factors, and decades of research have demonstrated that coping style modulates the relationship between stress and negative emotional states. Research on coping in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) has demonstrated that active and problem-focused coping strategies are associated with better adjustment and decreased likelihood of depression. Although cognitive deficits are often related to depression in MS patients, research suggests that the use of active coping strategies may mitigate the negative effects of this stressor. However, evidence also indicates that cognitive deficits may result in a diminished ability to use adaptive active coping strategies and a concomitant increased reliance on maladaptive coping. The clinical implications of these research findings are discussed.
Juxtahepatic Venous Injuries

Blunt trauma contributes over 75 % of mechanisms of injuries for most of the trauma centers in the United States. The liver, the largest solid organ in the body, is one of the most frequently injured abdominal organs by either blunt or penetrating mechanisms. Fortunately, the majority of hepatic injuries are not severe and require no surgical repair. These are low-grade injuries. Suspicion of liver injury is predicated on several factors: clinical suspicion derived from the mechanics of the crash and the hemodynamic state of the patient in the field and upon arrival at the hospital, along with findings obtained during abdominal examination obtained in the hospital.
Insomnia (primary) in older people

Introduction Up to 40% of older adults have insomnia, with difficulty getting to sleep, early waking, or feeling unrefreshed on waking. The prevalence of insomnia increases with age. Other risk factors include psychological factors, stress, daytime napping, and hyperarousal.
Plastic in the Brain: Delayed Recognition of Progressive Unilateral Hemispheric Lesions

Flow diverters are increasingly used to treat complex ruptured intracranial aneurysms. Most complications are ischemic and seen early after placement. We present a patient with 3 year duration of neurologic symptoms and seizures as a result of lesions associated with a inflammatory response to embolized polymer coating. Over a period of 3 years MRI abnormalities were noted with substantial gadolinium enhancement of the stent but with resolution after corticosteroids. Polymer embolization associated with a flow diverter may cause fluctuating unilateral hemisheric lesions and become symptomatic. Inflammatory response to a foreign body (polymer strands) can be succesfully treated with corticosteroids.
Las mujeres que trabajaban en el área de cirugía del Hospital de las Cinco Llagas de Sevilla durante los siglos XVI al XVIII

The objective of this work is to know the area of surgery of the Hospital of the Five Wounds and the group of people who worked there, mainly, the surgical nurses from 1500 to 1808. Regarding the methodology, the first phase of the study included an archival review of primary sources of diverse archives and bibliographic of secondary sources to know the state of the question. Then, I proceeded to interpret and analyze the data. The main results indicate that this area only received wounded women, who were admitted to the surgery room, called San Juan, where they received the care of the surgeon mother and her maids who followed the prescriptions given by the surgeon. The instruments handled in this area were bandages, tweezers, syringes, scissors, knives, saws, irons to cauterize and even a gynecological instrument called the speculum matricis. The results indicate that this hospital could be a reflection of the development of the surgery and its personnel in the Castilian hospitals of the Modern Age. Area that would be quite structured at the end of the 16th century, in which the binomial surgeon and surgery nurse stand out and the crucial role that the latter plays in the care of the injured in a Spanish hospital.
A Middle-School Camp Emphasizing Data Science and Computing for Social Good

The underrepresentation within computer science of women, domestic students of color, and students with lower socioeconomic-status remains a national issue. Recent studies demonstrate two critical factors: Persistent stereotypes about "who does computer science" can preclude interest in the field for members of these groups; many also perceive computing as "irrelevant" and "asocial". While these issues must be addressed at multiple ages and levels, many suggest that we should start early, before students have developed stereotypes. As a step in combating (mis-)perceptions of ability and relevance, we developed and conducted a spectrum of week-long summer "code camps" for regional middle-school students. These camps emphasize meaningful uses of computing, on building self-efficacy, and on broadening understanding of who does and can do computer science. In this paper, we focus on our "data science for social good" (ds4sg) camp, in which students explored computational approaches to data science through a lens of computing for social good, discovering how computing helps them not only better understand societal issues but also convince others to address problems. We discuss the rationale for the curriculum and its content, including our uses of pair programming, personal projects, and a growth model that brings students from block-based programming to professional Jupyter data notebooks. We consider the short-term effects the camps have on students' self-efficacy and perceptions of computer science. We conclude with recommendations and guidelines for those intending to offer similar camps.
Anterior Column Realignment (ACR) With and Without Pre-ACR Posterior Release for Fixed Sagittal Deformity.

ABSTRACT Background: Multiple studies have demonstrated a strong correlation between sagittal malalignment and health-related quality of life measures. Thus, correction of sagittal vertical axis (SVA), pelvic tilt (PT), lumbar lordosis–pelvic incidence (LL-PI), and T1 spinopelvic inclination (T1SPi) have become a primary objective of adult spinal deformity surgery. Anterior column realignment (ACR) has emerged as a less invasive technique and while the addition of posterior osteotomies has shown greater correction in ACR, it is unknown if a pre-ACR posterior release is necessary for optimal correction. The purpose of this study was to determine if pre-ACR posterior release allows for greater sagittal deformity correction. Methods: Seventeen patients were identified that underwent minimum 1-level ACR. Ten patients underwent an anterior-posterior surgical sequence without a pre-ACR posterior release, and 7 underwent a posterior-anterior-posterior (PAP) sequence with a pre-ACR posterior release. Radiographic outcomes at final follow-up and complications were compared. Results: Both groups saw significant improvements in LL, LL-PI, PT, SVA, and T1SPi but the correction was not significantly different between cohorts. With the exception of PT in the PAP group, the improvements in LL-PI, PT, and SVA correlated to improvement in Scoliosis Research Society–Schwab classification. The correction achieved at the ACR level, represented by motion segment angle, was greater in the PAP group by a degree that approached statistical significance. Five patients (29%) had 6 complications. Conclusions: Both techniques achieved meaningful improvements in overall sagittal alignment. Our results suggest that a pre-ACR posterior release may allow for greater correction specifically at the ACR level but may not always be necessary to achieve clinically meaningful correction of sagittal plane deformity. Level of Evidence: 3 Clinical Relevance: We present our experience with and without pre-ACR posterior release. To our knowledge, this is the first study to show that pre-ACR posterior release may achieve greater correction at the ACR level.
Micromechanical and microstructure analysis of strain-induced phenomena in ultrasonic additively-manufactured Al-6061 alloy

Abstract This work investigates the anisotropic mechanical behavior (both macro and micro) of Al6061 alloy samples manufactured using ultrasonic additive manufacturing. Samples from both sonotrode travel and vibration directions (TD and VD, respectively) were investigated in the as-built and aged (8 h at 180 °C under Argon gas) conditions. The aged VD-specimens showed appearance and propagation of Luders-like band, which did not exist in the TD-specimens, deformed at the same strain rate. X-ray diffraction, x-ray computed tomography, scanning electron microscopy, laser flash technique and in-situ loading with neutron diffraction were used to characterize the material and its hardening behavior during straining. Aging was mainly found to lead to relaxation of stresses, induced by the build process, some decrease in yield stress, and potential secondary phase reprecipitation. Stress partitioning, revealed via in situ neutron diffraction, showed that one of grain families, (110) || tensile axis, revealed strain softening at small strain range. This texture component, (110) || tensile axis, dominated the structure of VD-specimens, and was one of key factors stimulating band appearance and propagation.
Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Dietary Intake of U.S. Children Participating in WIC.

Recent studies have assessed diet quality of low-income U.S. children participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), but differences by race/ethnicity remain unknown. We assessed racial/ethnic disparities in nutrient intake from dietary sources (not supplements) among children participating in WIC, with a focus on priority nutrients and food groups for future WIC food package revisions, as described in a recent report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM). We used data from the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) and multivariable linear regression analysis to evaluate relationships between race/ethnicity and nutrient/food group intake of children participating in WIC. All data were analyzed using SAS 9.4 survey procedures, accounting for the complex survey design of the NHANES. Compared to non-Hispanic White children, Hispanic children had diets with better nutrient distribution and lower dietary energy density, while non-Hispanic Black children had diets with poorer nutrient intake. Hispanic children had higher potassium and fiber intake, and consumed more legumes, while non-Hispanic Black children had lower calcium and vitamin D intake, higher sodium intake, and lower total dairy intake, compared to non-Hispanic White children. These findings can inform WIC nutrition education messages and future food package revisions.
Buckling-induced reconfigurability in underwater acoustic scatterers

In this work, we explore switchable acoustic scattering from underwater particles via instability-induced internal pattern transformation in the 50 kHz–80 kHz frequency range. Our wavelength scale aqueous scatterer is designed based on modeling using the finite element method for a square lattice of air-filled voids within a shape memory polymer and is directly 3D printed. The structure undergoes a buckling transformation when subjected to an external deformation while simultaneously being heated. Through computational and experimental results, we demonstrate that the deformation state change leads to programmable acoustic transparency, or opacity, for the scattering particle. Underwater propagation experiments resolved in the near field illustrate that the switchable acoustic characteristics are frozen in the structure with rapid cooling after compression, and the initial acoustic state can be automatically recovered through reheating.
Challenges in the setting of coronavirus 2019: A review of disease and experience from delta state university teaching hospital

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was first identified in December 2019 and declared a pandemic in March 2020 by the World Health Organization. Countries with advanced technology and huge financial base are finding it difficult to curtail the COVID-19 spread and its attendant morbidity and mortality. Spread of the disease to the African Sub-Region became fearful because poor health-care facilities and manpower needs due to the majorly dilapidated health-care infrastructure, considering the mortality tables from other more advanced nations. To adequately prepare the manpower and avoid strain on the workforce before the incidence of disease peaks, there was a massive re-training of health-care personnel and the workforce routine schedule re-designed. This paper reviews the disease and highlights the challenges in our setting toward combating the coronavirus 2019 disease.
“I’m Gonna Cook My Baby in a Pot”: Young Black Girls’ Racial Preferences and Play Behavior

Despite calls for an increase in diversity and equity in early childhood classrooms, preschool teachers sometimes struggle to effectively address race in their classrooms, leaving young children to try to make sense of it themselves. Therefore, in this qualitative study, researchers examined how race issues were manifested in the play of young Black preschool girls. Findings indicate that young Black girls had a strong preference for the nonblack dolls. This preference was evident in their repeated rejection of the Black dolls. These findings have significant implications for early childhood teachers and how they anticipate notions or misconceptions children may have about race, structure discussions and activities about race and racism, and scaffold children's development of their racial identity. Further, the paper presents how teacher educators can help to prepare future practitioners for work in helping to foster positive racial identities.
Economic value of podiatry service in limb salvage alliance.

Abstract Objective/Background Over the past decade, multidisciplinary "toe and flow" programs have gained great popularity, with proven benefits in limb salvage. Many vascular surgeons have incorporated podiatrists into their practices. The viability of this practice model requires close partnership, hospital support, and financial sustainability. We intend to examine the economic values of podiatrists in a busy safety-net hospital in the Southwest United States. Methods An administrative database that captured monthly operating room (OR) cases, clinic encounters, in-patient volume, and total work relative value units (wRVUs) in an established limb salvage program in a tertiary referral center were examined. The practice has a diverse patient population with >30% of minority patients. During a period of 3 years, there was a significant change in the number of podiatrists (from 1 to 4) within the program, whereas the clinical full-time employees for vascular surgeons remained relatively stable. Results The limb salvage program experienced >100% of growth in total OR volumes, clinic encounters, and total wRVUs over a period of 4 years. A total of 35,591 patients were evaluated in a multidisciplinary limb salvage clinic, and 5535 procedures were performed. The initial growth of clinic volume and operative volume (P 40%, respectively (P 10% of increase in wRVUs. Conclusions This study shows that the value of close collaboration between podiatry and vascular in a limb salvage program extends beyond a patient's clinical outcome. A financial advantage of including podiatrists in a vascular surgery practice is clearly demonstrated.
Examining Students’ Perceptions About an Adaptive-Responsive Online Homework System and its Influence on Motivation and Learning

Advances in technological education have made online homework an integral part of science courses in general which is especially true for general chemistry courses. Online homework, if used correctly, has the potential to improve students’ experience, and learning and performance in general chemistry courses. The purpose of this research investigation is to study students’ levels of perceptions about an adaptive-responsive online homework in terms of (1) examining students’ motivation, learning, and understanding of concepts, (2) determining the aspects of adaptive-responsive online homework that are useful to students’ learning, and (3) understanding the features in online homework that causes improvement in students’ motivation. The investigation took place at an urban, commuter, minority serving, and public college. The study subjects were recruited from student enrolled in general chemistry courses consisting of 207 research participants (N = 207). Our data suggest that students display positive levels of perceptions about the adaptive-responsive online homework and its use. Students also hold perceptions that show positive attitudes towards the online homework system and that it positively affected their motivation. Also, students list several useful aspects of the online homework system such as explanations of concepts, knowledge checks, review questions for tests, and tutorials. The adaptive-responsive online homework, according to the participants in our study, helped motivate students by helping them learn the concepts, continuously assessing their learning, checking their knowledge, and updating the topics accordingly.
Walking energetics and abductor strength are associated with physical activity in older women with hip osteoarthritis.

Abstract Background Osteoarthritis (OA) can hinder physical activity in older adults for reasons that are not fully understood. Functional barriers may exist such as reduced muscle strength around the affected joint, potentially affecting physical activity. Aging-associated declines in energy capacity may also be exacerbated by OA. These factors may work together to influence physical activity in people with OA. Research question Our objective was to evaluate the combined role of walking energetics and hip abductor strength on physical activity in older women with hip OA. Methods We evaluated 30 women with moderately symptomatic hip OA (61 ± 10 yrs; 30.7 ± 4.9 kg/m2) in this cross-sectional observational study. We measured physical activity using the UCLA activity score and quantified activity frequency and intensity using accelerometers worn for seven days (7 ± 2 days). We used a portable oxygen exchange system to measure energy used during walking at preferred speeds (relative to total energy capacity assessed using a six-minute walk test) and a dynamometer to measure hip abductor strength. We used Pearson correlations and regression analysis to test our hypotheses. Results Greater energy used during walking was associated with lower self-reported physical activity (R=-0.626, p Significance Results suggest intervention targets to promote physical activity in this population.
Bank Networks and Systemic Risk: Micro-Evidence Before and After the National Banking Acts of 1863-1864

The National Banking Acts of 1863-1864 (the Acts) created reserve requirements that dictated the amounts and location of interbank deposits. Using micro-level data of Pennsylvania banks in 1862 and 1867 on balance sheets and disaggregated amounts due from other banks, we study how changes in bank networks contributed to systemic risk. We build a model of interbank networks with liquidation and default based on Eisenberg and Noe (2001) and quantify the robustness of the empirically observed bank networks before and after the Acts. We find that the Acts induced a "robust-yet-fragile" bank network. The post-Acts network is more robust against liquidity shocks to financial center banks in normal times but is more fragile in times of aggregate distress. Moreover, the post-Acts network is more fragile to liquidity shocks due to deposit withdrawals by banks outside of financial centers.
Wireless Security Vulnerabilities

As wireless technologies are increasingly integrated into our lives, the security vulnerabilities are increasingly important. From the now ubiquitous remote keyless entry in our cars to contactless payment systems, these systems are ingrained into daily activities. With new technologies, come new opportunities for criminals — especially clever criminals. This paper examines various wireless technologies, how they have been exploited, and current and future solutions to these exploits. The examination of these technologies and exploits is through the prism of case studies. These case studies are examinations of technologies that are familiar and should assist the reader in understanding how and why these security vulnerabilities exist and how they may be ameliorated.
Deepening the Sense of Touch in Planetary Exploration with Geometric and Topological Deep Learning

Tactile and embedded sensing is a new concept that has recently appeared in the context of rovers and planetary exploration missions. Various sensors such as those measuring pressure and integrated directly on wheels have the potential to add a "sense of touch" to exploratory vehicles. We investigate the utility of deep learning (DL), from conventional Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) to emerging geometric and topological DL, to terrain classification for planetary exploration based on a novel dataset from an experimental tactile wheel concept. The dataset includes 2D conductivity images from a pressure sensor array, which is wrapped around a rover wheel and is able to read pressure signatures of the ground beneath the wheel. Neither newer nor traditional DL tools have been previously applied to tactile sensing data. We discuss insights into advantages and limitations of these methods for the analysis of non-traditional pressure images and their potential use in planetary surface science.
Analysis of genetic selection at insulin receptor substrate-2 gene loci

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is highly heritable and exhibits significant variability in prevalence between different populations. Prevalence of T2DM is higher in Asian and African relative to European populations. During evolution, traditional feast-famine cycles likely led to significant natural selection impacting metabolic genes. Human adaptation to environmental changes (food supply, lifestyle, climate, and geography) likely influenced differential selection of T2DM-associated genes. Together, insulin receptor substrate-1 and -2 (IRS1 and IRS2) genes encode the major ligands of insulin and IGF1 receptors. Irs2-deficient mice exhibit a T2DM phenotype with severe insulin resistance, and a common IRS2 polymorphism is associated with T2DM. Therefore, the present study sought evidence of natural selection at IRS2 loci. Data were sourced from the HapMap and 1000 Genomes projects, comprising four different populations with distinct ancestries: European, Yoruba, Han Chinese, and Japanese. A three-step method was applied to detect IRS2 locus selection. The long-range haplotype (LRH) test detected unusual extended haplotypes, the integrated haplotype score (iHS) detected selection, and Wright’s F-statistics (particularly Wright’s fixation index: FST) were calculated as a measure of population differentiation. The African population exhibited highly significant LRH findings (percentile >99.9, p = 0.005–0.0009), while both the European and African populations exhibited extreme positive iHS test scores ([iHS] >2.5). These findings indicate that genetic selection has occurred at the IRS2 locus, warranting further research into the adaptive evolution of metabolic disorder-associated genes.
Fast Probabilistic 3-D Curvature Proprioception with a Magnetic Soft Sensor

This paper introduces a cost-effective and high speed approach for predicting a 2-DOF bend parameterization for soft bodies through a magnetic and constant curvature system. We propose a design for a probabilistic particle filter that can be paired with magnetic simulations to produce highly accurate and fast pose information for parameter-constrained magnets. We include the design, fabrication, modeling, and experimental results of a physical sensor with the ability to produce both bend directionality and bend magnitude results with a speed of ~60Hz. The proposed design consists of a magnet and tri-axis Hall effect sensor embedded in a soft silicone body. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this system through real-world interaction tests.
Employment outcomes among cancer patients in the United States

Background Cancer diagnosis and treatment can lead to disruptions in employment, which can, in turn, lead to financial problems and uninsurance. We used a nationally representative survey to describe predictors of non-employment among cancer patients compared to a matched cohort of individuals without cancer. Methods This was a retrospective study of the 2005-2018 nationally representative Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. We included respondents aged 18-64 and identified the cohort with current cancer by healthcare utilization related to a cancer diagnosis in the given year. We propensity-score matched controls to cancer cases in a 2:1 ratio. Survey weights were applied to generate national estimates of non-employment among the study cohort compared to the overall U.S. Population The Adjusted Wald test was used to compare employment outcomes between groups. Weighted multivariable linear regression was utilized to assess factors independently associated with non-employment. Results An estimated annual mean of 3.9 million cancer patients in the U.S. were included. Relative to controls, cancer patients had higher rates of part-year (36.0% vs 28.3%, P Population Sub-groups of cancer patients at high risk of negative employment outcomes included those enrolled in Medicaid, those without a high school degree, and those with high healthcare utilization. Low family income was the strongest predictor of non-employment. Conclusion Cancer patients were at greater risk of non-employment relative to matched controls and adverse employment outcomes disproportionately affected cancer patients from vulnerable populations.