cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Involuntary outpatient treatment as "desintitutionalized coercion": the net-widening concerns.

Abstract In American jurisprudence, two justifications have traditionally been put forth to support the government's social control of persons with mental illness: police power and parens patriae. As public mental hospitals became less available as loci in which to exercise these functions, governments sought alternative means to achieve the same ends. One prominent but quite controversial means is involuntary outpatient treatment (IOT). While the concerns about IOT have been myriad, one often alluded to but never documented is that of “net-widening.” That is, once IOT became available, it would be applied to an ever greater number of individuals, progressively expanding the margins of the designated population to whom it is applied, despite the formal standard for its application remaining constant. We tested the net-widening belief in a naturalistic experiment in Massachusetts. We found that net-widening did not occur, despite an environment strongly conducive to that expansion. At this time, whatever the arguments against IOT might be, net-widening should not be one of them.
14N nuclear quadrupole resonance in several liquid crystals in their solid state

Abstract Nitrogen-14 nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) spectra in several liquid crystals in their solid state have been detected at 77 K, using a pulsed spectrometer. The quadrupole coupling constants (e2qQ) and asymmetry parameters (η) for the nitrogens have been calculated.
Selective integrin subunit reduction disrupts fibronectin extracellular matrix deposition and fibrillin 1 gene expression

Integrins are transmembrane receptors that can specifically bind extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Assembly of the ECM protein fibronectin into fibrils has been shown to be a cell-mediated process that requires integrins. Like fibronectin, fibrillin 1 is an ECM glycoprotein that can assemble into fibrils, but the role of integrins in fibril formation is not understood. To investigate the role of integrins in fibrillin 1 ECM deposition, cells that normally produce and assemble fibrillin 1 fibers in vitro were stably transfected with plasmid constructs encoding short interfering RNAs that target specific integrin subunits. Cells that were deficient in α2- and β3-integrin subunits produced and deposited fibronectin normally, but cells that were deficient for α5 and αV were unable to elaborate a fibronectin matrix, although they continued to produce and secrete the protein. Surprisingly, the cells that were unable to elaborate a fibronectin matrix also lost fibrillin 1 gene expression.
“TRANSITIVE INFERENCE” IN MULTIPLE CONDITIONAL DISCRIMINATIONS

We used multiple conditional discriminations to study the inferential abilities of pigeons. Using a five-term stimulus series, pigeons were trained to respond differentially to four overlapping pairs of concurrently presented stimuli: A+ B-, B+ C-, C+ D-, and D+ E-, where plus and minus indicate the stimulus associated with reinforcement and extinction, respectively. Transitive inference in such situations has been defined as a preference for Stimulus B over Stimulus D in a transfer test. We measured this and other untrained preferences (A vs. C, A vs. D, B vs. E, etc.) during nonreinforced test trials. In three experiments using a novel, rapid training procedure (termed autorun), we attempted to identify the necessary and sufficient conditions for transitive inference. We used two versions of autorun: response-based, in which the subject was repeatedly presented with the least well-discriminated stimulus pair; and time-based, in which the subject was repeatedly presented with the least-experienced stimulus pair. In Experiment 1, using response-based autorun, we showed that subjects learned the four stimulus pairs faster than, but at a level comparable to, a previous study on transitive inference in pigeons (Fersen, Wynne, Delius, & Staddon, 1991), but our animals failed to show transitive inference. Experiments 2 and 3 compared time- and response-based autorun. Discrimination performance was maintained, but transitive inference was observed only on the second exposure to the response-based procedure. These results show that inferential behavior in pigeons is not a reliable concomitant of good performance on a series of overlapping discriminations. The necessary and sufficient conditions for transitive inference in pigeons remain to be fully defined.
Douching: A Risk to Women's Healthcare?

has attestedto the perceived importance of this issue forwomen’s healthcare. Douching is a commonpracticeforwhichthereislittlescientificdatatosupportorrepudiatethestatedallegations.Never-theless, serious discussions have been held bythe Food and Drug Administration as to thebanningofcommercialdouchingpreparations.Ifthis is done, it must be based on valid scientificexperimentation.Concernhasbeenraisedastoanongoingfailuretocontrolcriticalvariablesandtotheexperimentaldesigns chosen. The studies suggesting a causalrelationshiphavebeenprimarilystatic-groupcom-parisons and/or pseudo- or quasi-experimentaldesigns
Bone mineral density in elite adolescent female figure skaters

Abstract Elite adolescent figure skaters must accommodate both the physical demands of competitive training and the accelerated rate of bone growth that is associated with adolescence, in this sport that emphasizes leanness. Although, these athletes apparently have sufficient osteogenic stimuli to mitigate the effects of possible low energy availability on bone health, the extent or magnitude of bone accrual also varies with training effects, which differ among skater disciplines.
Infrared region classification using texture and model-based features

Infrared sensors are widely utilized on manned and unmanned systems due to their ability to operate during low light conditions as well as their target discrimination capability. Machine vision algorithms that operate on infrared imagery (e.g. target detection, obstacle detection, target tracking) can significantly increase the effectiveness of platforms and the autonomy of unmanned systems. The classification of regions in infrared imagery provides a valuable input to computer vision algorithms. This paper contains an analysis of features for infrared region discrimination, feature dimensionality reduction, and classification for regions of infrared imagery. A variety of features are considered including those based on texture and a physics based model for atmospheric attenuation. An analysis of the optimal feature set and classifier combination is presented. Performance of the classifier on a database of infrared imagery is provided as well as top level contextual techniques to improve classification performance.
Endovenous Laser Ablation as a Treatment for Postsurgical Recurrent Saphenous Insufficiency

The purpose of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of endovenous laser ablation as a treatment for recurrent symptomatic saphenous insufficiency occurring after saphenous vein ligation and stripping. A single-center retrospective review of patients who received endovenous laser ablation as a treatment for recurrent symptomatic saphenous insufficiency after ligation and stripping between November 2003 and October 2006 was performed. Fifty-six insufficient saphenous systems were identified in 38 patients. Follow-up consisted of a clinical examination in all patients as well as selective lower-extremity duplex ultrasound as clinically indicated. All 38 patients demonstrated complete closure of the insufficient saphenous vein by clinical examination and/or duplex ultrasound evaluation. Preoperative symptoms resolved after treatment in all 38 patients. No major complications were identified. Endovenous laser ablation of recurrent symptomatic saphenous venous insufficiency is a safe and effective treatment in patients who develop recurrent symptoms after saphenous vein ligation and stripping.
Comparison of slow inactivation in human heart and rat skeletal muscle Na+ channel chimaeras

1. Voltage-gated Na+ channels undergo two types of inactivation in response to depolarization. One type, fast inactivation, occurs with a time scale of milliseconds. The other, slow inactivation, occurs over seconds to minutes. In addition, these two processes appear to be distinct at the molecular level. However, the molecular mechanism of Na+ channel slow inactivation is unknown. 2. We used patch clamp techniques to study slow inactivation, activation and fast inactivation in alpha-subunit cDNA clones for wild-type human heart Na+ channels (hH1) and rat skeletal muscle Na+ channels (mu1) transiently expressed in human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells. Our experiments showed that the Na+ channel slow inactivation phenotype (development, steady state and recovery) differed dramatically between hH1 and mu1. Slow inactivation in mu1 had a faster onset, a steeper voltage dependence, and was more complete compared with hH1. In addition, recovery from slow inactivation was much slower for mu1 than for hH1. Activation and fast inactivation kinetics were also different in hH1 and mu1. In hH1, fast inactivation was slower and V values of activation and steady-state fast inactivation (hthorn ) were more negative than in mu1. 3. To better understand the molecular basis of Na+ channel slow inactivation, Na+ channel chimaeras were constructed with domains from hH1 and mu1. The slow inactivation phenotype in the chimaeras (domains denoted by subscripts) mu1(1)hH1(2,3,4), mu1(1,2)hH1(3,4) and mu1(1,2,3)hH1(4) was intermediate compared with that of wild-type. However, the chimaera mu1(1)hH1(2,3,4) was more like wild-type hH1, while the chimaeras mu1(1,2)hH1(3,4) and mu1(1,2,3)hH1(4) were more similar to wild-type mu1. In the chimaeras, activation resembled that of mu1, fast inactivation resembled that of hH1, and steady-state fast inactivation fell between that of hH1 and mu1. 4. The data demonstrate that all four domains can modulate the Na+ channel slow inactivation phenotype. However, domains D1 and D2 may play a more prominent role in determining Na+ channel slow inactivation phenotype than D3 and D4. The results also support previous conclusions that D3 and D4 (and the D3-D4 linker) play an important role in Na+ channel fast inactivation, and that activation may require non-equivalent contributions from all four domains.
Evolutionary innovation and conservation in the embryonic derivation of the vertebrate skull

It is unclear whether the embryonic origin of skull bones is evolutionarily conserved. Here, the authors show that the pattern of cranial development of the Mexican axolotl is similar to that reported for other vertebrates, but the pattern in the African clawed frog, another amphibian, is unique.
REVIEW: THE DIRECT STRENGTH METHOD OF COLD-FORMED STEEL MEMBER DESIGN

The objective of this paper is to provide a review of the development and current progress in the Direct Strength Method for cold-formed steel member design. A brief comparison of the Direct Strength Method with the Effective Width Method is provided. The advantage of methods that integrate computational stability analysis into the design process, such as the Direct Strength Method, is highlighted. The development of the Direct Strength Method for beams and columns, including the reliability of the method is provided. Current and ongoing research to extend the Direct Strength Method is reviewed and complete references provided. The Direct Strength Method was formally adopted in North American cold-formed steel design specifications in 2004 as an alternative to the traditional Effective Width Method. The appendices of this paper provide the Direct Strength Method equations for the design of columns and beams as developed by the author and adopted in the North American Specification.
Dual radar investigation of E region plasma waves in the southern polar cap

Origins and characteristics of small-scale plasma irregularities in the polar ionosphere are investigated using a dual radar setup in which the E region is probed from opposite directions by two Super Dual Auroral Radar Network (SuperDARN) facilities at the McMurdo and Dome Concordia Antarctic stations. In certain time intervals, velocity agreement is observed when velocities are compared at the same physical location in the horizontal plane. Such an agreement is widely expected if velocity at a given location is largely controlled by the convection electric field. In other cases, however, velocity agreement is unexpectedly observed when measurements are considered at the same slant range (distance along the radar beam) for both radars. This implies that it is not the electric field at a given location that is a controlling factor. Raytracing results show that the same range agreement may be explained for certain E-region density conditions when echo altitude increases with radar range. Backscatter observations under generally unfavorable conditions for irregularity generation and the critical role of propagation conditions in the polar cap are discussed. The observed E-region velocity in the polar cap is demonstrated to depend indirectly on the plasma density distribution, which is important for establishing the fundamental dependence on the convection electric field.
Dynamic visualization of transcription and RNA subcellular localization in zebrafish

Live imaging of transcription and RNA dynamics has been successful in cultured cells and tissues of vertebrates but is challenging to accomplish in vivo. The zebrafish offers important advantages to study these processes – optical transparency during embryogenesis, genetic tractability and rapid development. Therefore, to study transcription and RNA dynamics in an intact vertebrate organism, we have adapted the MS2 RNA-labeling system to zebrafish. By using this binary system to coexpress a fluorescent MS2 bacteriophage coat protein (MCP) and an RNA of interest tagged with multiple copies of the RNA hairpin MS2-binding site (MBS), live-cell imaging of RNA dynamics at single RNA molecule resolution has been achieved in other organisms. Here, using a Gateway-compatible MS2 labeling system, we generated stable transgenic zebrafish lines expressing MCP, validated the MBS-MCP interaction and applied the system to investigate zygotic genome activation (ZGA) and RNA localization in primordial germ cells (PGCs) in zebrafish. Although cleavage stage cells are initially transcriptionally silent, we detect transcription of MS2-tagged transcripts driven by the βactin promoter at ∼3-3.5 h post-fertilization, consistent with the previously reported ZGA. Furthermore, we show that MS2-tagged nanos3 3′UTR transcripts localize to PGCs, where they are diffusely cytoplasmic and within larger cytoplasmic accumulations reminiscent of those displayed by endogenous nanos3. These tools provide a new avenue for live-cell imaging of RNA molecules in an intact vertebrate. Together with new techniques for targeted genome editing, this system will be a valuable tool to tag and study the dynamics of endogenous RNAs during zebrafish developmental processes.
Hypocholesterolaemic effects of lovastatin in familial defective apolipoprotein B-100.

Abstract Familial defective apolipoprotein B-100 (FDB) is an autosomal dominant disorder associated with hypercholesterolaemia in which an aminoacid substitution in apoprotein B-100 leads to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles which have defective binding to the LDL receptor. All known patients are heterozygous, and their plasma contains normal and poorly binding LDL particles. 12 hypercholesterolaemic patients from 10 unrelated families with FDB were treated with lovastatin. In 6 patients treated with 20 mg lovastatin daily, LDL cholesterol decreased by 21·5% from 6·23 to 4·89 mmol/l (95% confidence interval 0·74, 1·96 mmol/l), whereas it fell by 32·1 %, from 6·99 to 4·81 mmol/l (95% Cl 1·55, 2·70 mmol/l), in 9 patients who received 40 mg daily. These results indicate that the hypercholesterolaemia of FDB may respond to treatment with statins.
Existence of Dafermos profiles for singular shocks

For a model system of two conservation laws, we show that singular shocks have Defermos profiles.
Selecting Indicators for Patient Safety at the Health System Level in OECD Countries

Background. Concerns about patient safety have arisen with growing documentation of the extent and nature of harm. Yet there are no robust and meaningful data that can be used internationally to assess the extent of the problem and considerable methodological difficulties. Purpose. This article describes a project undertaken as part of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Quality Indicator Project, which aimed at developing an initial set of patient safety indicators. Methods. Patient safety indicators from OECD countries were identified and then rated against three principal criteria: importance to patient safety, scientific soundness, and potential feasibility. Although some countries are developing multi-source monitoring systems, these are not yet mature enough for international exchange. This project reviewed routine data collections as a starting point. Results. Of an initial set of 59 candidate indicators identified, 21 were selected which cover known areas of harm to patients. Conclusions. This project is an important initial step towards defining a usable set of patient safety indicators that will allow comparisons to be made internationally and will support mutual learning and quality improvement in health care. Measures of harm should be complemented over time with measures of effective improvement factors.
Morphological signal processing and computational intelligence for engineering system prognostics

AbstractA computational intelligence (CI)-based approach is presented for prognostics of machine conditions using morphological signal processing (MSP). The machine vibration signals are processed using MSP to extract a novel entropy-based health index (HI) characterizing the signal shape-size complexity for system prognostics. The progression of HI is predicted using CI techniques, namely, recursive neural network (RNN), adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), and support vector regression (SVR). Both single- and multi-step ahead predictions were evaluated through benchmark datasets of non-linear, non-stationary, and chaotic time series solutions of Mackey-Glass and Lorenz equations. The prognostic effectiveness of the CI techniques was illustrated using a vibration dataset of a helicopter drive-train system gearbox. For each CI predictor, both training datasets gave almost similar prediction performance. In training, the performance of ANFIS was the best, followed by SVR and RNN. In test, the bes...
Crust and lithosphere structure of the northwestern U.S. with ambient noise tomography: Terrane accretion and Cascade arc development

article To address the tectonic and magmatic modifications of the Pacific Northwest lithosphere, including transformation of the Farallon oceanic terrane "Siletzia" into continent, we study the crust and uppermost mantle of the Pacific Northwest with fundamental-mode Rayleigh-wave ambient noise tomography using periods 6-40 s, resolving isotropic shear-wave velocity structure from the surface to 70 km depth (3 crustal layers and 2 upper mantle layers). We optimize this estimate with the aid of a neighborhood search algorithm, which we also use with receiver functions to estimate Moho depth. Horizontal node spacing is 0.25°. The EarthScope Transportable Array, the Wallowa array, a portion of the High Lava Plains array, and seven permanent stations are joined to achieve high resolution. Very slow western Columbia Basin upper crust above very fast lower crust expresses the large Eocene sedimentary basins above a magmatically underplated crust of extended Siletzia lithosphere. High-velocity lower crust in adjacent areas to the east and south represents Siletzia thrust under the pre-accretion North America forearc. This interpretation is supported by an anomalous absence of post-accretion magmatism in these areas, implying an absence of slab removal. The southeast termination of the fast lower crust is especially strong and sharp about 35 km southeast of the Klamath-Blue Mountains gravity lineament, suggesting the Farallon slab to the southeast was torn away. The Columbia River Flood Basalts erupted at ~16 Ma, apparently creating a hole of diameter ~150 km in the edge of the underthrust Siletzia lithosphere. The magmatically active Oregon Cascade arc is slow at all depths, and the much less active Washington Cascades tend to have a volcano-centered structure that is slow in the lower crust but fast in the upper crust and upper mantle. This structure suggests that magmatic intrusion has increased upper crustal velocity, but that the higher temperatures beneath the active Oregon Cascades have a dominating effect and create low velocities.
Natural Products That Target Cancer Stem Cells

The cancer stem cell model suggests that tumor initiation is governed by a small subset of distinct cells with stem-like character termed cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs possess properties of self-renewal and intrinsic survival mechanisms that contribute to resistance of tumors to most chemotherapeutic drugs. The failure to eradicate CSCs during the course of therapy is postulated to be the driving force for tumor recurrence and metastasis. Recent studies have focused on understanding the unique phenotypic properties of CSCs from various tumor types, as well as the signaling pathways that underlie self-renewal and drug resistance. Natural products (NPs) such as those derived from botanicals and food sources may modulate vital signaling pathways involved in the maintenance of CSC phenotype. The Wingless/Integrated (WNT), Hedgehog, Notch and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways have all been associated with quiescence and self-renewal of CSCs, as well as execution of CSC function including differentiation, multidrug resistance and metastasis. Recent studies evaluating NPs against CSC support the epidemiological evidence linking plant-based diets with reduced malignancy rates. This review covers the key aspects of NPs as modulators of CSC fate.
Expression and analysis of the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells using retroviral vectors.

Publisher Summary This chapter describes methods for studying the expression and transport of the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (poly-IgR) in Madin–Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. This system has been very useful in analyzing protein traffic and transport in polarized cells. A variety of methods have been used to express cloned cDNAs in MDCK cells, both transiently and in stable cell lines. The retroviral system consists of an expression vector and a packaging cell line. In pDOL vector, the gene of interest (the rabbit poly-IgR) can be cloned into either a Bam HI or Sal I site, both of which are driven by the viral long terminal repeat (LTR) promoter. Secretory component (SC) is a large proteolytic fragment of the poly-IgR and is easily purified from rabbit bile. Growth of MDCK cells on filters leads to increased cell polarity and allows separate access to the apical and basolateral surfaces. Cells are maintained on 10-cm tissue culture plates in medium containing 5% FBS. It is not easy to monitor directly the growth of cells on filters and formation of a confluent monolayer. A simple qualitative test relies on hydrostatic pressure.
Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Signaling in Immune Cells and Inflammation: Roles and Therapeutic Potential.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive sphingolipid metabolite involved in many critical cell processes. It is produced by the phosphorylation of sphingosine by sphingosine kinases (SphKs) and exported out of cells via transporters such as spinster homolog 2 (Spns2). S1P regulates diverse physiological processes by binding to specific G protein-binding receptors, S1P receptors (S1PRs) 1–5, through a process coined as “inside-out signaling.” The S1P concentration gradient between various tissues promotes S1PR1-dependent migration of T cells from secondary lymphoid organs into the lymphatic and blood circulation. S1P suppresses T cell egress from and promotes retention in inflamed peripheral tissues. S1PR1 in T and B cells as well as Spns2 in endothelial cells contributes to lymphocyte trafficking. FTY720 (Fingolimod) is a functional antagonist of S1PRs that induces systemic lymphopenia by suppression of lymphocyte egress from lymphoid organs. In this review, we summarize previous findings and new discoveries about the importance of S1P and S1PR signaling in the recruitment of immune cells and lymphocyte retention in inflamed tissues. We also discuss the role of S1P-S1PR1 axis in inflammatory diseases and wound healing.
Broken on the Wheel

The days are a wheel, part light, part shadow. . .This morning I'm reborn from a dream, sensingthe same things from 24 hours earlier:Nothing ever dies. I'm a Flip-in-the-flesh, I am.Then I awaken feeling part Old Navy, part Honda,part steel: a carabao refit with pistons for legs.Today, I scour for real beauty-in-a-box—joy, love, belief, something—I roam among my fellow mechanized, sedated,like yesterday, by the impulsive neon of shopping malls.
Quantitative studies of the reaction of bovine thyrotropin antiserum with human and bovine thyrotropin preparations.

SummaryTwo kinds of immunological comparisons between several bovine and human preparations of thyrotropin (TSH), including an I131-labeled bovine preparation, were made with the use of a rabbit antiserum against a purified bovine preparation. Using erythrocytes sensitized with a sample of the immunizing antigen, the inhibition of hemagglutination demonstrated cross-reaction between a crude human TSH preparation and anti-bovine TSH serum, but degree of inhibition was not proportional to biological activity when 3 bovine preparations were compared. Both the in vivo mouse I131 release and the in vitro bovine thyroid slice bioassay showed that the antiserum neutralized TSH. Results from the 2 assays were in agreement. Crude human TSH preparations required considerably more antiserum per unit of biological activity than did either crude or purified bovine TSH preparations. The labeled bovine preparation retained both biological potency and immunological integrity.
[Daily changes in 5-hydroxytryptamine concentration in mouse brain].

SummaryZBC mice, male or female, 5 or 7 weeks of age, were studied under conditions standardized for evaluation of 24-hour periodicity. A small but significant decrease in 5-HTA concentration of brain pools was noted prior to usual time of arousal. A sex difference in brain 5-HTA concentration also was recorded, the females exhibiting slightly higher values.
Thermal Conductivity of N-Type Si-Ge

The lattice thermal conductivity of 80-20 Si-Ge is treated theoretically for the case of the Fermi energy positioned for optimum figure of merit. The spectral distribution of the lattice conductivity is limited by anharmonic interactions, by the randomness of the Si-Ge lattice and, at low frequencies, by the interaction with free carriers and neutral donors. The two latter processes dominate over grain boundary scattering. The spectral conductivity is sharply peaked around 0.1 of the Debye frequency. A further reduction in lattice conductivity can be obtained by small insulating inclusions. This is partially offset by a reduction in electronic conductivity, but results in some improvement in the figure of merit.
Surgical Treatment of Adolescent Clavicle Fractures: Results and Complications.

Abstract No level 1 evidence is available to guide the surgical treatment of adolescent clavicle fractures. Adult literature is not applicable as adolescent mid-diaphyseal clavicle fractures do not develop nonunions, and only a small percentage (10% to 20%) are symptomatic from malunions. Current indications for operative fixation are: (1) completely displaced midshaft fracture with shortening of >2 cm; (2) superior displacement with skin tenting and/or an impending open fracture; (3) associated neurovascular injury; (4) open clavicular fracture; and (5) floating shoulder with a completely displaced clavicular fracture. Future large prospective randomized studies will need to be performed to accurately define which adolescent patients will "truly" benefit from surgical intervention.
A Cross-Sectional Investigation into the Evaluation of Clinical Practice Quality at Medical Universities

A cross-sectional investigation into the evaluation of clinical practice quality at 112 medical universities in China shows that methods used in the evaluation of students’ clinical skills were insufficient, which were mainly bedside tests and written tests like multiple-choices and essay questions. Therefore, studies on comprehensive evaluation of clinical skills should be conducted so as to establish a scientific and feasible system of evaluating clinical practice quality as soon as possible.
Oxidative changes in hypoxic rat heart tissue.

Reactive O2 species appear to be generated both during hypoxia and at reoxygenation, but it has not been established whether these species interact with heart tissue and cause injury. Oxidative cha...
Pet ownership and physical health.

Purpose of reviewPet ownership and brief human–animal interactions can serve as a form of social support and convey a host of beneficial psychological and physiological health benefits. This article critically examines recent relevant literature on the pet–health connection.Recent findingsCross-sect
Worst Case Bioethics - Death, Disaster and Public Health

"Worst Case Bioethics" is a term with many possible meanings, some of which may overlap. I use the term to refer to two seperate situations. First, it can involve some real horrendous incidents at the core of bioethics, such as end of life issues, in which fatally flawed reasoning or unwanted politicization of intensenely personal health care decisions compounded heart wrenching situations. These real events are amoung the "worst cases" in the field of bioethics. Second, remotely likely, hypothetical "worst case senarios" of death, destruction, and disaster have been used to justify public policies limiting civil libertties or reflecting unsound public health. "Worst case" analyses have been misapplied to a wide range of commonly anticipated happenings, such as hurricanes and seasonal influenza, thereby equating commonplace public health events with doomsday scenarios of bioterrorism or pandemics.
Accelerated Structural Bioinformatics for Drug Discovery

This chapter documents the parallelization of, eFindSite, a ligand binding site prediction software used in drug discovery and design. eFindSite is a complex hybrid C++/Fortran77 code, which includes significant legacy Fortran software that was not thread-safe, to utilize parallelism and obtain a 17.6× speedup. Solutions to challenges in moving this code to parallelism serve as lessons with wide applicability and are examined in detail. Porting extensive use of thread-unsafe common blocks in the Fortran77 code using OpenMP to make thread-private copies is discussed. With minimal modifications, it is demonstrated how modern drug discovery can be accelerated by parallel systems.
Variability of Brain Death Policies in the United States (P3.225)

Objective: To assess how widely the updated 2010 American Academy of Neurology (AAN) practice parameters for brain death determination have been incorporated into hospital policies in the U.S. Background: Brain death is a medically and legally accepted form of death in the US and worldwide. We previously showed that significant variability exists in individual institutional policies regarding brain death determination, leading to the 2010 update in US guidelines. We sought to evaluate if there has been adoption of these new guidelines, leading to decreased variability of brain death determination. Methods: We worked with organ procurement organizations to obtain individual US hospital policies pertaining to the determination of brain death. Policies were evaluated for summary statistics across 5 categories of data: 1) who is qualified to perform the determination, 2) what are the necessary prerequisites for testing, 3) details of the clinical examination, 4) details of apnea testing, and 5) details of ancillary testing. We compared this data with the standards in the AAN 2010 guideline update. Results: 508 unique hospital policies were obtained, representing the majority of hospitals that would be able to evaluate a brain dead patient in the US. Although improvement in compliance with the AAN guidelines was readily apparent, there remained significant variability across all categories of data. These included excluding the absence of hypotension (56[percnt]) and hypothermia (80[percnt]), specifying all aspects of the clinical examination and apnea testing, and specifying appropriate ancillary tests. Conclusions: Significant variability remains in US hospital policies for brain death determination. Hospitals should be encouraged to implement the updated 2010 guidelines to ensure 100[percnt] accurate and appropriate brain death determination. Disclosure: Dr. Wang has nothing to disclose. Dr. Robinson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Varelas has received personal compensation for activities with UCB Pharma as an advisory board member. Dr. Henderson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Wijdicks has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for Neurocritical Care. Dr. Greer has received personal compensation for activities with Bard Medical. Dr. Greer has received personal compensation in an editorial capacity for Seminars in Neurology.
The Relationship Between Offspring Sex Ratio and Vasectomy Utilization.

Objective To determine if there was an association between vasectomy utilization and offspring sex ratio (male offspring : total offspring), as offspring sex preference may have an impact on family planning in the United States. Methods Using data from the National Institutes of Health-AARP Diet and Health Study, we calculated the number of sons and daughters of all men stratified by vasectomy status. We utilized a logistic regression model to determine if vasectomy utilization varies based on offspring sex ratio while accounting for known factors that impact vasectomy utilization. Results Of these men, 30,927 (30.8%) underwent vasectomy. Marital status, race, age, education level, region or state, and number of offspring were all significantly correlated with vasectomy utilization (P < .01). The sex ratio for vasectomized fathers (51.3%) was significantly higher than for fathers who had not undergone vasectomy (50.7%, P < .01). This difference remained even after we stratified by the total number of offspring: vasectomized men with 4 or more children had a sex ratio of 947 girls per 1000 boys, whereas the no vasectomy group had a sex ratio of 983 girls per 1000 boys (P < .01). For men with at least 2 children, each additional son increased the likelihood of vasectomy by 4% (P < .01), whereas each additional daughter led to a 2% decrease in vasectomy utilization (P = .03). Conclusion Vasectomized fathers have a higher proportion of sons compared with non-vasectomized fathers, suggesting that offspring sex ratio is associated with a man's decision to undergo vasectomy. Further research is indicated to understand how offspring sex ratio impacts a man's contraceptive decisions.
Species-specific variation in nesting and postfledging resource selection for two forest breeding migrant songbirds

Habitat selection is a fundamental component of community ecology, population ecology, and evolutionary biology and can be especially important to species with complex annual habitat requirements, such as migratory birds. Resource preferences on the breeding grounds may change during the postfledging period for migrant songbirds, however, the degree to which selection changes, timing of change, and whether all or only a few species alter their resource use is unclear. We compared resource selection for nest sites and resource selection by postfledging juvenile ovenbirds (Seiurus aurocapilla) and Acadian flycatchers (Empidonax virescens) followed with radio telemetry in Missouri mature forest fragments from 2012−2015. We used Bayesian discrete choice modeling to evaluate support for local vegetation characteristics on the probability of selection for nest sites and locations utilized by different ages of postfledging juveniles. Patterns of resource selection variation were species-specific. Resource selection models indicated that Acadian flycatcher habitat selection criteria were similar for nesting and dependent postfledging juveniles and selection criteria diverged when juveniles became independent from adults. After independence, flycatcher resource selection was more associated with understory foliage density. Ovenbirds differed in selection criteria between the nesting and postfledging periods. Fledgling ovenbirds selected areas with higher densities of understory structure compared to nest sites, and the effect of foliage density on selection increased as juveniles aged and gained independence. The differences observed between two sympatric forest nesting species, in both the timing and degree of change in resource selection criteria over the course of the breeding season, illustrates the importance of considering species-specific traits and postfledging requirements when developing conservation efforts, especially when foraging guilds or prey bases differ. We recommend that postfledging habitat selection be considered in future conservation efforts dealing with Neotropical migrants and other forest breeding songbirds.
Video education to improve recognition of common benign and malignant cutaneous lesions and skin cancer prevention in the public

Abstract Objective Although dermatologists strive to provide patient education on sun protection and skin cancer, approximately 90% of Americans have limited health literacy skills. Little has been written about the means to best teach all levels of learners to recognize common benign and malignant skin lesions. Earlier work found that with advancing age, adults were less able to identify concerning lesions, thus underscoring the need for accessible education. Methods We showed subjects a brief video (7th grade level) about common cutaneous growths, reducing the risk of skin cancer, and the importance of early detection. Subjects were asked about their skin cancer history, educational format preference, and the perceived impact of the video. Comprehension of symptoms of skin cancer and the benefits of sunscreen use and the ability to identify a melanoma, nevus, angioma, and seborrheic keratosis were also assessed. Results Of the 156 subjects, mean age 52.7 years (range, 18-88 years), 31% had a history of skin cancer. A total of 98.7% found the video to be helpful; 92% preferred having a video as part of their teaching versus 9% who preferred written materials alone, 99% knew that a new or changing lesion could signal skin cancer, and 100% correctly answered that wearing sunscreen is protective. Subjects correctly identified lesions as melanoma (99%), benign mole (97%), angiomas (96%), and seborrheic keratosis (91%). There was a nominal trend toward higher scores in people who preferred video learning, had no history of skin cancer, and were older than 60 years of age. Conclusion In this study, we found that a brief, plain-language video was effective at conveying understandable content to help subjects learn to identify common cancerous and benign skin growths while also teaching them strategies to protect against skin cancer.
Fair value accounting and corporate cash holdings

Abstract A trade-off often exists between relevance and reliability of accounting numbers. Prior research suggests that fair value accounting increases the relevance and decreases the reliability. The reduced reliability may lead to more agency conflicts. We predict a positive relation between the use of fair value inputs and the level of corporate cash holdings because prior research links more agency conflicts to a higher level of cash. We find that increased use of fair value inputs is associated with a higher level of cash holdings, and the results are mainly driven by Level 1 and Level 2 fair value inputs. In addition, we find that our results are stronger for firms with more-able managers.
A transition calculus for Boolean functions

A transition calculus is presented for analyzing the effect of input changes on the output of logic circuits. The method is closely related to the Boolean difference, but it is more powerful. Both differentiation and integration are considered.
Shared Mechanisms May Support Mnemonic Benefits from Self-Referencing and Emotion

The literatures on episodic memory for self-referential and emotional information have proceeded relatively independently, and most studies examining the effects of age on these memory processes have been interpreted within domain-specific frameworks. However, there is increasing evidence for shared mechanisms that contribute to episodic memory benefits in these two domains. We review this evidence and propose a model that incorporates overlapping as well as domain-specific contributions to episodic memory encoding of self-referential and emotional material. We discuss the implications for understanding the relatively intact memory of older adults for these classes of stimuli, and conclude with suggestions for future research to test key tenets and extensions of this shared-process model.
Extension of the △-ε Method to Diatomic Gases

The delta-epsilon method for solving the Boltzmann equation is extended to allow for internal energy modes. The delta-epsilon method utilizes a discrete approximation of the infinite velocity phase space. The velocity distribution function is only defined over regions where its values are deemed large enough to be of importance to the physics of the problem. This allows distribution points to exist anywhere in the phase space. A fourth order finite-difference scheme is used to model the convection terms and a Monte Carlo-like method is applied to the discrete velocity space to model the elastic collision integral. Internal energy mode effects on the distribution function are modeled by an inelastic contribution to the collision integral. The exchange of energy between translational and internal modes is modeled empirically by a relaxation rate equation that contains a characteristic relaxation time and the mean internal mode energies. Using this approach the internal mode energy distributions do not have to be computed as only mean values are used. A relation governing the variation of the velocity distribution function with temperature is developed from the Maxwellian distribution. Numerical examples of homogeneous relaxation are given and compared to solutions obtained via Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC).
Visual and Spatial Data Integration in Mobile Application Design

Mobile application design is a strong motivator for student-centered computing. By including visual and spatial data in a mobile application, students can develop a 3-D implementation which can provide the mobile app users with a virtual experience. The development of a mobile app for a historical burial ground provides an example of how to integrate database information with visual and spatial data to achieve s virtual experience. The case study presented here, using both Android and iOS devices, includes three parts. Initially, an existing database was converted for mobile application access. This was followed by design integration in support of the desired mobile app features. Finally, the inclusion of an image gallery, with visual and spatial elements, integrated with the mobile application, resulted in a compelling mobile application, providing a virtual replica of an actual visit to the historical site.
Assessment of incidental 18F FDG uptake in thyroid on PET/CT

2218 Objectives The use of Positron Emission Tomography (PET/CT) scans is rapidly increasing for tumor evaluation and management due to its ability to identify areas of abnormal chemical and metabolic action. Since PET/CT scans include most of the body and have the ability to detect smaller metabolically active lesions that may not be identified as abnormalities on a computerized tomography (CT) scan, occasional unexpected abnormalities are found using PET/CT scans. We investigated all patients with known malignancies that had a PET/CT scan and specifically examined the prevalence of incidental FDG uptake in the thyroid gland. Methods Retrospective study was done using the electronic data system at NorthShore University HealthSystem. Data was collected on all patients having a PET/CT scan between July 2008 and December 2008, there were a total of 715 patients. PET/CT reports were reviewed for mention of abnormal thyroid findings. The clinical data for these patients was analyzed to determine the results of the thyroid findings. Results Out of the total 715 PET/CT scans, 31 were found to have incidental thyroid uptake in patients of known malignancies not associated with the thyroid. Of the 31, 15 were suspicious for malignancies in the thyroid gland. In the group of 15 suspected thyroid malignancies, 3 were diagnosed with cancer using a fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNA), 5 were diagnosed as benign using both FNA and ultrasound guided biopsies, 6 had no follow up, and 1 was diagnosed with thyroiditis via ultrasound. Conclusions The data suggests that incidental 18F-FDG uptake findings in the thyroid should be clinically followed as they have potential for malignancy.
Hybrid Aortic Arch Debranching and TEVAR Is Safe in a Private, Community Hospital.

Background Hybrid open cervical vessel debranching and thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is a treatment option in the management of aortic arch or proximal descending thoracic aortic aneurysms. However, these patients are often referred to tertiary care academic centers for aneurysm repair. Our study looks to assess the safety and outcomes of open cervical debranching and TEVAR within a private, community hospital setting. Methods A total of 12 patients underwent hybrid open cervical vessel debranch with staged TEVAR from 2015 to 2018 at Riverside Community Hospital (Riverside, California). Three patients underwent open sternotomy with innominate artery bypass; four patients underwent combined carotid-carotid bypass with left carotid-axillary bypass or left subclavian transposition; three patients solely underwent left carotid-axillary bypass or left subclavian transposition. In cases involving multiple cervical bypasses, two surgeons were present. TEVAR was performed in a staged fashion during the same hospitalization. Results There were no patient deaths, MI, or stroke within the 30-day postoperative period and at 1-year follow-up. One patient suffered a small subdural bleed after ascending aorta to innominate bypass involving redo sternotomy and hypothermic circulatory arrest. The mean aortic zone stented was zone 1. On follow-up imaging, all bypass grafts were patent, all aneurysms demonstrated thrombosis without endoleak. Average follow-up was 20 months. Conclusions Hybrid cervical debranching with staged TEVAR can be safely performed by experienced vascular surgeons in the community setting. Staged repair appears to confer better operative and patient outcomes.
Risky Business? Manufacturer and Retailer Action to Remove Per- and Polyfluorinated Chemicals From Consumer Products.

In the absence of comprehensive environmental regulation, under what conditions can social movement pressure on the private sector generate substantive change? We explore this question in relation ...
Weak Evidence Supports Augmentation Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression.

There is weak research to guide treatment decisions for patients who have not responded to two adequate courses of antidepressant treatment. One study of cognitive behavior therapy showed benefit over placebo.
Internal hernias: No bulge, no hernia?

Internal hernias are a rare and easily missed cause of small bowel obstruction that occur in patients who have previously undergone bariatric surgery. A high index of suspicion must be maintained, as imaging and laboratory testing may be negative even with active pathology.