cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A longitudinal multilevel model analysis of the within-person and between-person effect of effortful engagement and academic self-efficacy on academic performance

Using data from an accelerated longitudinal study, we examined the within-person and between-person effect of effortful engagement and academic self-efficacy on academic performance across students (N=135) in elementary school. Teachers assessed participants' effortful engagement and participants rated their academic self-efficacy once per year for 3 years. Academic performance was assessed through standardized test scores in reading and math. Multilevel models indicated that within-person change in Effortful Engagement and Academic Self-Efficacy scores significantly predicted concomitant within-person change in reading test scores, B=2.71, p=.043, Pseudo-R2=.02 and B=4.72, p=.005, Pseudo-R2=.04, respectively. Participants with higher between-person levels of Effortful Engagement had higher initial reading test scores, B=10.03, p=.001, Pseudo-R2=.09, and math test scores, B=11.20, p<.001, Pseudo-R2=.15, whereas participants with higher between-person levels of Academic Self-Efficacy showed a faster rate of increase in math test scores across elementary school, B=10.21, p=.036, Pseudo-R2=.25. At the between-person level, Effortful Engagement mediated the association between Academic Self-Efficacy and both reading and math test scores, although no support was found for mediation at the within-person level. Collectively, results suggest that trait-level psychological factors can vary meaningfully within school-aged children and that both within-person change and between-person individual differences in these traits have important consequences for academic performance.
Grain boundary character and recombination properties in CdTe thin films

In this work we present a correlation between the structural and electro-optical properties of grain boundaries in CdTe thin films deposited by vapor transport technique. We were able to identify different types of grain boundaries using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), and investigated their recombination properties by cathodoluminescence (CL). The objective is to investigate the existence of “good” and “bad” boundaries in CdTe thin films, which will provide guidance for the growth of better films in the future. The crystallographic orientation, grain size, and relative fraction of different boundaries were determined by EBSD. For the comparison study, the grain boundaries were colored according to their character, and compared to the CL spectra. By applying focused ion beam (FIB) marks, we were able to analyze CL and EBSD maps taken at exactly the same areas. We present a correlation between the types of boundaries with recombination.
Pattern size dependence of Si1-xGex epitaxial growth for high mobility device applications

Abstract Pattern size dependence of etch pit dislocations (EPDs), strain relaxation and Hall mobility has been investigated in Si 0.62 Ge 0.38 alloy layers grown on a patterned Si template with different sizes of trench openings isolated by oxide. The results show that the EPD density is significantly reduced from 24 000 to 6400 cm − 2 as the pattern size decreases from 500 × 500 to 10 × 10 μm 2 . The Hall mobility is also greatly enhanced as the pattern size decreases, particularly at low temperature. These results represent that the dislocation and surface roughness are dominant limiting factors of the mobility in the SiGe epitaxial layers. The dislocations are effectively reduced and the smoother surface roughness is achieved using the pattern guided epitaxy. The nano-scaled pattern guided epitaxial growth may provide a promising method for future high mobility and low dimensional device applications.
NK-Like T Cells and Plasma Cytokines, but Not Anti-Viral Serology, Define Immune Fingerprints of Resilience and Mild Disability in Exceptional Aging

Exceptional aging has been defined as maintenance of physical and cognitive function beyond the median lifespan despite a history of diseases and/or concurrent subclinical conditions. Since immunity is vital to individual fitness, we examined immunologic fingerprint(s) of highly functional elders. Therefore, survivors of the Cardiovascular Health Study in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA were recruited (n=140; mean age=86 years) and underwent performance testing. Blood samples were collected and examined blindly for humoral factors and T cell phenotypes. Based on results of physical and cognitive performance testing, elders were classified as ‘‘impaired’’ or ‘‘unimpaired’’, accuracy of group assignment was verified by discriminant function analysis. The two groups showed distinct immune profiles as determined by factor analysis. The dominant immune signature of impaired elders consisted of interferon (IFN)-c, interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor-a, and T cells expressing inhibitory natural killer-related receptors (NKR) CD158a, CD158e, and NKG2A. In contrast, the dominant signature of unimpaired elders consisted of IL-5, IL-12p70, and IL-13 with co-expression of IFN-c, IL-4, and IL-17, and T cells expressing stimulatory NKRs CD56, CD16, and NKG2D. In logistic regression models, unimpaired phenotype was predicted independently by IL-5 and by CD4 + CD28 null CD56 + CD57 + T cells. All elders had high antibody titers to common viruses including cytomegalovirus. In cellular bioassays, T cell receptor (TCR)-independent ligation of either CD56 or NKG2D elicited activation of T cells. Collectively, these data demonstrate the importance of immunological parameters in distinguishing between health phenotypes of older adults. NKR + T cells and cytokine upregulation indicate a unique physiologic environment in old age. Correlation of particular NKR + T cell subsets and IL-5 with unimpaired performance, and NKR-driven TCR-independent activation of T cells suggest novel immunopathway(s) that could be exploited to improve immunity in old age.
Origins of the Highly Ionized Gas along the Line of Sight toward HD 116852

We present Hubble Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph (HST/STIS) and Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE) observations of high ion interstellar ultraviolet absorption along the sight line to HD 116852. At a distance of 4.8 kpc, HD 116852 is an O9 III star lying in the low Galactic halo, � 1.3 kpc from the plane of the Galaxy in the direction l ¼ 304=9, b ¼� 16=1. The sight line passes underneath the Sagittarius-Carina and the Norma-Centaurus spiral arms. The STIS E140H grating observations provide high-resolution (FWHM � 2: 7k m s � 1 ) spectra of the resonance doublets of Si iv ,C iv, and N v. These data are complemented by medium-resolution (FWHM � 20 km s � 1 ) FUSE spectra of O vi. The integrated logarithmic column densities are log N(Si iv Þ¼ 13:60 � 0:02, log N(C iv Þ¼ 14:08 � 0:03, log N(N vÞ ¼ 13:34 þ0:05 � 0:06 , and log N(O vi Þ¼ 14:28 � 0:01. We find evidence for three distinct types of highly ionized gas present in the data. First, two narrow absorption components are resolved in the Si iv and C iv profiles, at approximate LSR velocities of � 36 and � 10 km s � 1 . These narrow components appear to be produced in gas associated with the Norma and Sagittarius spiral arms, at approximate z-distances of � 1.0 and � 0.5 kpc, respectively. The temperature of the gas in these narrow components, as implied by their b-values, suggests that the gas is photoionized. The ratio of C iv to Si iv in these narrow components is low compared to the Galactic average. Second, we detect an intermediate-width component in C iv and Si iv ,a t 17 km s � 1 , which we propose could arise at the conductive interface at the boundary between a low column density neutral or weakly ionized cloud and the surrounding hot medium. Finally, a broad collisionally ionized component of gas responsible for producing the smooth N v and O vi profiles is observed; such absorption is also present to a lesser degree in the profiles of Si iv and C iv. The broad O vi absorption is observed at a velocity displaced from the broad C iv component by almost 20 km s � 1 , an amount large enough to suggest that the two ions may not coexist in the same physical location. If these two ions do exist together, then the ratio N(C iv)/ N(O vi) is too low to be consistent with turbulent mixing layer models, but could be explained by radiative cooling or conductive heating models. Combining our results with high resolution observations of four other sight lines from the literature, we find an average C iv component frequency of 1:0 � 0:25 kpc � 1 . Subject headings: Galaxy: halo — ISM: structure — stars: individual (HD 116852) — ultraviolet: ISM
Attenuation of the effects of rat hemorrhagic shock with a reperfusion injury-inhibiting agent specific to mice.

Death after hemorrhagic shock (HS) may be caused by a generalized reperfusion injury, particularly noti- ceable in the gut. A period of tissue ischemia followed by reinstitution of perfusion produces severe inflammation that can be blocked in mice by preventing the binding of a pathogenic natural immunoglobulin M (IgM) of defined specificity to antigens in reperfused tissue by using a soluble peptide analogue of the IgM tissue target. We hypothesize that this agent can improve end points of rat HS: death, intestinal injury, and lung injury. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were anes- thetized; 50% of calculated blood volume was removed for 120 min, shed blood, then returned; and animals were sacrificed at 72 h. One group of rats received i.v. analogue ((N2) 300 2g) with the return of shed blood. Small intestine and lung were evaluated by histological examination and immunohistochemistry. Lung edema was assessed by Evans blue extravasation and histological examination. I.v. N2 decreased experimental mortality from 62% to 12% (P G 0.05). Associated with this was diminution of gut injury score from 57.8% T 5.5% to 19.5% T 2.5% (P G 0.05), lung injury from 21.4 T 1.5 to 14.8 T 1.3 polymorphonuclear leucocytes per high-power field 400 (P G 0.05), and Evans blue extravasation index from 0.61 T 0.14 to 0.18 T 0.06 (P G 0.05). As well, the deposition of IgM and C3 that is seen in intestinal villi from HS was not present in N2-treated rats. The N2 peptide agent that blocks reperfusion injury in mice prevents death from rat HS, as well as attenuates gut reperfusion injury and its remote target injuries. These data suggest that death from HS is caused by reperfusion injury, and that an agent derived from mice is effective in rats when given in real therapeutic time. KEYWORDS—Ischemia reperfusion, hemorrhagic shock, survival, peptide, IgM
Thermochemical Factors Influencing the Death Kinetics of Spores of Clostridium botulinum 62 A

SUMMARY: Death kinetics of spores of Clostridium botulinum, Type A, strain 62, were studied at sterilant gas temperatures in the range of 40°C (104°F) to 70°C (158°F). Hygroscopic carriers in the form of small discs of filter paper were used. The sterilant gas used was a mixture of dichlorodifluoromethane and ethylene oxide (88 and 12% by weight respectively). Pressures in the exposure atmosphere were adjusted to obtain an ethylene oxide concentration of 700 mg per liter at all temperatures. It was shown by gas-chromatographic analysis that an actual concentration of 700 ± 20 mg per liter was maintained at all exposure temperatures during all exposure periods. The effect of various moisture levels on spore death kinetics was also studied. The relative humidities employed in both the preconditioning and exposure of spores were 3, 23, 33, 53 and 73%, respectively. Thermochemical resistance parameters, D and z, were calculated as the reciprocals of the slopes of the survivor curves and thermochemical destruction time curves, respectively. Of the various environmental moisture levels studied, a preconditioning and exposure relative humidity of 3% for destruction of C. botulinum spores taken from an aqueous suspension, was found to be most effective. This effect held for all temperatures studied. Over the range studied, temperature was seen to have the greatest effect at 3% relative humidity (RH), second greatest at 33% and least effect at 73%.
Oxygen mass-transfer performance of low viscosity gas-liquid-solid system in a split-cylinder airlift bioreactor

The O2 mass-transfer coefficient, kLa, decreased by 20% when the viscosity of a simulated broth increased from 1.38 × 10−3 to 3.43 × 10−3 Pa s in a split-cylinder airlift bioreactor with a broth volume of 41 l. When the paper pulp concentration was below 10 g l−1, kLa hardly changed. While at 30 g l−1, kLa decreased by 56%. C2O42− and Na+ were found to have some effect on the kLa value.
Acceptability of fat-modified foods to children, adolescents and their parents: Effect of sensory properties, nutritional information and price

Abstract The effects of sensory properties, nutrition information (NI) and price (P) on the acceptability of eight fat-modified foods were investigated in 30 families with children (ages 6–10), adolescents (ages 12–15) and both parents. Liking was measured blind with a 7-point hedonic scale (DOL) and by preference ranking. Purchase intent was then measured on a 5-point scale, first with NI and then with NI and P available. DOL did not differ across fat levels for any of the products, except for the regular ice cream which was liked more by mothers. Yet, fathers preferred the regular version over the low-fat or fat-free ones for milk, cheese, mayonnaise, hot dog and ice cream. Mothers were more willing to purchase the low-fat version than the regular one for milk, mayonnaise and pastry. Fathers were not willing to pay more for the fat-free foods that were more expensive. The purchase intentions of children and adolescents were driven mainly by their liking for the foods.
Equivalent stress and strain distribution in helical compression springs subjected to bending

Stress and strain analyses of helical compression springs have long been an important factor in machine design. Designs routinely incorporate helical springs, either tensile or compressive, to tran...
The One‐Point Method in Predicting Dosage Regimen in Case of Hepatic and/or Renal Failure in Presence or Absence of Change in Volume of Distribution

In some clinical situations such as in acute myocardial or coronary infarction, liver disease, renal failure, hypoalbuminemia, displacement from protein binding, etc., both the volume of distribution and the elimination rate may change. The determination of the creatinine clearance may be too time consuming, and the serum creatinine concentration may be an unreliable indicator in some cases (acute renal failure, uremia, muscular diseases, old age, etc). Neither indicates change in elimination by extrarenal routes (metabolism in liver disease). The "repeated one-point method" is presented as clinical tool to calculate the dosage regimen for patients where differences in Vd and kel can be expected. The method is based on the evaluation of one blood sample each in the first two dosing intervals after administration of a test dose. The "repeated one-point method" is compared with the previously published "one-point method."
How Students Search for Consumer Health Information on the Web

This study investigates how undergraduate and graduate students search the web for consumer health information. The 32 participants were asked to find answers to four health related topics. Data was collected through pre- and post search questionnaires, think-aloud protocol, and transaction logs. The results presented focus on the search process as a whole and by question and on the user satisfaction.
Shh Maintains Nkx2.1 in the MGE by a Gli3-Independent Mechanism

Gamma-aminobutyric acidergic (GABAergic) interneurons perform crucial roles in cortical development and function. These roles are executed by diverse subgroups of interneurons, and dysfunction of particular subgroups may contribute to a variety of neuropsychiatric diseases. In rodents, most cortical interneurons originate in the pallidal telencephalon that also gives rise to the GABAergic neurons of the striatum and other ventral structures. In this paper, we examine the evidence for distinct origins of interneuron subgroups and then discuss the role of the homeobox gene thyroid transcription factor1 (Ttf-1 or Nkx2.1) in the specification of interneurons from the medial ganglionic eminence (MGE). Nkx2.1 is induced in the pallidal telencephalon by the action of sonic hedgehog (Shh) that antagonizes formation of the dorsalizing Gli3 repressor (Gli3R) protein. Recent evidence suggests that Shh is also required to maintain Nkx2.1 expression, and thus MGE interneuron specification, during embryonic neurogenesis. Here we provide evidence that, in contrast to the initial induction of Nkx2.1 during telencephalic patterning, the Nkx2.1 maintenance function of Shh does not require blocking the formation of the Gli3R. The plastic nature of Nkx2.1 expression during the age range of interneuron genesis suggests that factors regulating this gene can be critical determinants of the balance of excitation and inhibition in the postnatal cerebral cortex.
Thermally Induced Relaxation in GaInNAsSb Quantum Well Structures

GaInNAsSb quantum wells with GaNAs barriers, grown via molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) on 100-oriented GaAs substrates at varying temperatures, were analyzed using photoluminescence (PL), high-resolution x-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS). Samples grown at 420 °C, 440 °C, and 470 °C were analyzed, as were two pieces of the 440 °C growth temperature sample that had been annealed at 740 °C and 820 °C. These measurements showed that the decrease in PL with higher growth temperatures was due to the onset of 3D growth and the nucleation of dislocations. The degradation associated with overannealing was likely due to dislocation nucleation. The poor PL associated with low growth temperatures was due to another mechanism, most likely arsenic anti-site defects. EDS measurements showed greater composition uniformity with lower growth temperatures, as expected, and also showed that there was no ordered indium-rich or indium-poor phase separation at any temperature. Phase separation upon annealing was not observed.
Nonhuman primates will not respond to turn off strong 60 Hz electric fields

Using a set of six baboons (Papio cynocephalus), the authors conducted a series of seven experiments designed to evaluate the potentially aversive character of a 60 Hz electric field (EF). Initially, the subjects were trained, using food rewards as the reinforcer, to respond only when a cue light was illuminated. Next, an EF was presented along with the cue light; responses produced delivery of a food pellet and turned off both the cue light and the EF. Then, stimulus and reward conditions were varied. The authors determined that (1) presence of a strong EF does not affect operant responding for food rewards, (2) subjects will not respond at normal rates when the only reinforcer is termination of a strong EF, (3) presence of a strong EF can serve as a discriminative stimulus, (4) presence of a strong EF does not affect extinction of an appetite-motivated task, and (5) presentation of an EF can become a secondary reinforcer. The pattern of results was consistent across all experiments, suggesting that an EF of as much as 65 kV/m is not aversive to nonhuman primates. Separately, the authors demonstrated that the average EF detection threshold for baboons is 12 kV/m. Thus, EF exposuremore » at intensities well above the detection threshold and at species-scaled EF strengths greater than those found environmentally does not appear to be aversive.« less
On the Observed Diurnal Oscillation of the Somali Jet

Abstract The time mean and diurnal oscillation of the Somali jet are examined, using as a data base a high-resolution time series of pilot balloon soundings for two sites in northeast Africa. The diurnal mode is found to contain a significant amount of the total amplitude of the jet. In association with this oscillation, the level of maximum wind varies considerably during the course of a day. A multi-cored jet structure is observed during the afternoon. Other interesting structural variations of the jet are discussed. Hypotheses are ventured to provide explanations for the observed behavior of this low-level jet.
A genome wide search for alcoholism susceptibility genes

Alcoholism is currently one of the most serious public health problems in the US. Lifetime prevalence rates are relatively high with one in five men and one in 12 women meeting criteria for this condition. Identification of genetic loci conferring an increased susceptibility to developing alcohol dependence could strengthen prevention efforts by informing individuals of their risk before abusive drinking ensues. Families identified through a double proband methodology have provided an exceptional opportunity for gene-finding because of the increased recurrence risks seen in these sibships. A total of 360 markers for 22 autosomes were spaced at an average distance of 9.4 cM and genotyping performed for 330 members of these multiplex families. Extensive clinical data, personality variation, and event-related potential characteristics were available for reducing heterogeneity and detecting robust linkage signals. Multipoint linkage analysis using different analytic strategies give strong support for loci on chromosomes 1, 2, 6, 7, 10, 12, 14, 16, and 17.
Spectroscopic investigations of lanthanide ion binding to nucleic acids.

Luminescent lanthanide (Ln(III)) ions are valuable spectroscopic probes for metal ion binding sites in nucleic acids. In this chapter, we briefly review Ln(III) luminescence and the information available from these experiments. An emphasis is placed on direct excitation Eu(III) spectroscopy as a tool. Eu(III) excitation spectroscopy is used to show that solutions containing micromolar Eu(III), 100 mM NaCl, and 20 mM MES buffer contain predominantly a mononuclear Eu(III) aqua complex and an Eu(III) hydroxide complexes. The binding of these species to various RNA and DNA sequences are monitored by using Eu(III) excitation spectroscopy. Eu(III) luminescence lifetime data shows that the Eu(III) ion typically loses 1–3 water molecules to form innersphere complexes with RNA and DNA that contain tandem base pair mismatches or hairpin loops. In addition, early studies that used nucleobase-sensitized Eu(III) or Tb(III) luminescence within transfer RNA or in the hammerhead ribozyme are presented. Luminescence resonance energy transfer studies are shown to be useful for determining distances between bound Ln(III) ion and organic fluorophores or between two different Ln(III) ions. To supplement luminescence data, the binding sites of paramagnetic Ln(III) ions are determined by monitoring the chemical shifts of nucleotide protons. Binding sites are identified by following the protons that are influenced by the Ln(III) pseudo-contact shift.
Changes in number and distribution of community and ambulatory pharmacies in Virginia from 1994 to 1999.

Abstract Objective To determine whether market changes have resulted in a decrease in the number or geographic distribution of pharmacies available to ambulatory patients in Virginia. Design Retrospective review of Virginia Board of Pharmacy records of pharmacy registrations in 1994 and 1999. Setting The Commonwealth of Virginia. Participants All pharmacies classified as outpatient pharmacies (including community and other types of ambulatory pharmacies) and operating in Virginia in 1994 and 1999. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Changes in the total number, geographic distribution, and metropolitan/nonmetropolitan distribution of outpatient pharmacies between 1994 and 1999. Results The total number of outpatient pharmacies increased from 1,290 to 1,337 between 1994 and 1999. Chain pharmacies, mass merchandiser, and grocery pharmacies increased in number while independent pharmacies declined. There was little change in the geographic or metropolitan/nonmetropolitan distribution of pharmacies. Conclusion Changes in the number and distribution of community and other ambulatory pharmacies in Virginia have not diminished their availability to consumers.
Extracting Horizons and Sequence Boundaries From 3D Seismic Images

Automated horizon-extraction methods often have difficulty extracting horizons that terminate at unconformities or sequence boundaries. Using sequence boundaries as constraints is one way to solve this problem, but there exists no automated method for sequence-boundary extraction. We first introduce a globally optimal method to efficiently extract a horizon from a seismic image. We then use scattered control points as constraints to enable our horizon-extraction method to extract sequence boundaries. Finally, we propose an active-surface method to refine extracted horizons to align them with amplitude peaks or troughs and thereby reveal more geologic details.
Leukemia disease burden and its trend evaluated by DALY in Ningbo City

[Objective] To investigate the disease burden level and trend of leukemia in Ningbo City of Zhejiang Province. [Methods] Disability adjusted life years( DALY) of leukemia was calculated for residents on the basis of leukemia monitoring data in Ningbo City. [Results] The disease burden of leukemia in Ningbo City was 30 681. 26 DALYs; the intensity was 1. 06 DALYs per 1 000 population. The disease burden and intensity of leukemia in male was higher than that in female. The disease burden of leukemia was focused on those aged 40 years and above. The disease burden intensity was rising year by year. [Conclusion] The disease burden of leukemia in Ningbo City has been relatively stable. It is suggested that the health administrative departments should enhance prevention and control of leukemia in those under 10 years and those aged 50 and over,so as to reduce the disease burden resulting from leukemia.
Cytogenetic Alterations in Lung Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma

BACKGROUND AND AIM: To study the characteristics of cytogenetic alterations of lung epithelioid hemangioendothelioma.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Whole DNA was isolated from two formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues of lung epithelioid hemangioendothelioma.The DNA copy number changes were measured by array-comparative genomic hybridization(array-CGH).RESULTS: Two epithelioid hemangioendotheliomas showed many similar DNA copy number changes.Gains of small fragments(10 Mb) were the most frequent change while deletions were infrequent.There were 150 and 556 genes involved with 77 sharing common changes.CONCLUSION: Amplifications of small fragments of DNA maybe the main cytogenetic alteration in lung epithelioid hemangioendothelioma,which may explain that epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is a low-grade malignant tumor.
Network oxygen sites in calcium aluminoborosilicate glasses: Results from 17O{27Al} and 17O{11B} double resonance NMR

Abstract 11B, 17O, and 27Al NMR has widely been used to quantify numerous aspects of oxide glass structure, but many issues remain to be resolved, including basic issues of assignment of overlapping 17O resonances. Double resonance NMR, involving cation spin pairs such as 27Al and 11B, has provided further details of network connectivities in some multicomponent glasses; very recent work on 27Al-17O has allowed unique identification of non-bridging oxygen (NBO) on aluminum cations in lanthanum aluminoborosilicate glasses [1]. Here we have explored 17O{27Al} and 17O{11B} TRAnsfer of Population in DOuble-Resonance (TRAPDOR) NMR experiments in several calcium aluminosilicate and aluminoborosilicate glasses. We have demonstrated clear distinction among resonances for 17O associated with boron and/or aluminum, including quantification of NBO associated with boron, aluminum and silicon in these multicomponent glasses. Additionally, spectral components for bridging oxygens and non-bridging oxygens with aluminum, boron, and silicon can also be at least in part separated, allowing for comparison to proportions expected if cations were connected via random mixing.
Feedback Control of Two-Component Regulatory Systems

Two-component systems are a dominant form of bacterial signal transduction. The prototypical two-component system consists of a sensor that responds to a specific input(s) by modifying the output of a cognate regulator. Because the output of a two-component system is the amount of phosphorylated regulator, feedback mechanisms may alter the amount of regulator, and/or modify the ability of a sensor or other proteins to alter the phosphorylation state of the regulator. Two-component systems may display intrinsic feedback whereby the amount of phosphorylated regulator changes under constant inducing conditions and without the participation of additional proteins. Feedback control allows a two-component system to achieve particular steady-state levels, to reach a given steady state with distinct dynamics, to express coregulated genes in a given order, and to activate a regulator to different extents, depending on the signal acting on the sensor.
A Favorability Score for Vaginal Hysterectomy in a Statewide Collaborative.

Abstract Study Objective Because it is associated with fewer complications and more rapid recovery, the vaginal approach is preferred for benign hysterectomy. Patient characteristics that traditionally favor a vaginal approach include adequate vaginal access, small uterine size, and low suspicion for extrauterine disease. However, the low proportion of hysterectomies performed vaginally in the United States suggests that these data are not routinely applied in clinical practice. We sought to analyze the association of parity, prior pelvic surgery, and uterine weight with the use of the vaginal, laparoscopic, robotic, and abdominal approaches to hysterectomy. Design A retrospective cohort study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2). Setting The Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative is a statewide organization of 52 academic and community hospitals in Michigan funded by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Michigan/Blue Care Network, including patients from all insurance payers. Patients Five thousand six hundred eight women undergoing hysterectomy for benign gynecologic conditions from January 1, 2013, through December 8, 2013, and included in the Michigan Surgical Quality Collaborative. Interventions To assess potential for vaginal hysterectomy, a favorability score of 0, 1, 2, or 3 was calculated by summing 1 point each for parity ≥1, no prior pelvic surgery, and uterine weight Measurements and Main Results The use of robotic hysterectomy was most frequent (41.9%, n = 2349/5608) followed by abdominal (19.7%, n = 1103/5608), laparoscopic (14.4%, n = 809/5608), vaginal (13.5%, n = 758/5608), and laparoscopic-assisted vaginal (10.5%, n = 589/5608) hysterectomy. With favorability scores of 0, 1, 2, and 3, vaginal hysterectomy was performed in 0.6% (n = 1/167), 5% (n = 66/1324), 13.7% (n = 415/3036), and 25.5% (n = 276/1081) of cases and abdominal hysterectomy in 41.9% (n = 70/167), 30.8% (n = 408/1324), 17.5% (n = 531/3036), and 8.7% (n = 94/1081), respectively. There was little variation in the rates of laparoscopic hysterectomy (13.3%–16.8%, p = .429) and robotic hysterectomy (39.5%–42.4%, p = .518) across favorability scores. Conclusion In a population of women undergoing hysterectomy in the state of Michigan, the use of vaginal and abdominal hysterectomy varied with respect to parity, prior pelvic surgery, and uterine weight, but there was little variation in the use of laparoscopic and robotic approaches. The favorability score could potentially be used as a quality improvement tool to evaluate practice patterns with respect to the use of various surgical approaches to hysterectomy.
Fluoroscopically Assisted Radiographs Improve Sensitivity of Detecting Loose Tibial Implants in Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Abstract Background Fluoroscopically assisted radiographs theoretically improve detection of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) implant loosening by providing a better evaluation of the true implant interface, but their utility has not been well studied. We sought to determine whether fluoroscopically guided radiographs improve the sensitivity, specificity, and interobserver reliability of determining TKA implant loosening compared to standard radiographs. Methods Standard anteroposterior and lateral and fluoroscopically assisted radiographs were retrospectively obtained from 60 patients within 6 months before revision TKA. Thirty knees were revised for aseptic loosening and 30 knees for other indications, most commonly instability. The radiographs were randomized. Four reviewers independently determined whether each tibial and femoral component was radiographically loose or stable. Intraoperative determination of implant stability was utilized as the gold standard. Results Fluoroscopically guided radiographs had a significantly higher sensitivity for detecting tibial component loosening compared to standard radiographs (85.3% vs 74.8%, P = .02). Sensitivity in detecting femoral component loosening was poor overall and not improved by fluoroscopic enhancement compared to standard radiographs (58.8% vs 66.5%, P = .33). Fluoroscopically guided radiographs did not improve the specificity of detecting well-fixed implants in either tibial or femoral components nor affect the mean interobserver reliability over standard radiographs (kappa = 0.58 vs kappa = 0.60, P = .6). Conclusion Fluoroscopically assisted radiographs increased the sensitivity of detecting tibial component loosening over standard radiographs, but this clinical significance is unclear. Fluoroscopically guided radiographs may provide benefit in diagnosing aseptic loosening in select patients with painful TKAs.
The effect of radiation exposure on the mechanical behavior of Rohacell foams used in composite structures

Rohacell foam is being utilized on a number of composite structures used for space applications. The effect of radiation exposure on these materials has been evaluated to determine the degree of structural degradation that may occur in a space environment. A 60Co source was used on Rohacell 31HFHT, Rohacell 110WF, and Rohacell HERO 110. The exposure levels varied from 0 to 15 Mrad, in both an inert and an air environment. Tensile tests were then performed to determine the failure strength and strain. Mechanical testing of the 31HFHT specimens showed a significant decrease in strength of 50% after only a 4-Mrad exposure. The failure strain also exhibited a 75% decrease over the same range. The 15-Mrad specimens continued to decrease in strength, losing 95% of the initial strength. The rate of tensile strength degradation with radiation increased as the foam cell pore diameter increased. Dynamic mechanical analysis indicated an increase in the peak intensity of the tan delta curve as a function of radiation exposure, which has been attributed to radiation-induced polymer chain fragmentation. The fracture behavior of the radiated specimens also exhibited embrittlement of the polymer cells consistent with the mechanical properties. Thermal gravimetric analysis showed a decrease in the temperature for the onset of mass loss with radiation exposure, which is consistent with chain scission of the polymer network. Even though the chemical structure of all polymethacrylimide foams is susceptible to radiation degradation, a smaller foam cell pore diameter may provide additional margin with respect to the rate of mechanical property degradation. POLYM. COMPOS., 2016. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
A study of materials for their suitability as Standard dielectric reference materials

The Standards Group within the Dielectrics Section of the National Bureau of Standards has undertaken an investigation with the object of producing a set of Standard Specimens with well-defined dielectric constant and loss index. An important attribute of such a group of specimens is that their electrical properties should not be subject to unpredictable change as a function of environment or time. Furthermore, both high-loss and low-loss specimens are needed.
Novice Teachers’ Experiences in High-Poverty Schools: An Integrative Literature Review:

Retaining teachers in high-poverty schools is essential for ensuring students who live in poverty have equitable educational opportunities. Understanding novices’ experiences can help school leader...
A National Survey on Students' and Practitioners' Perceptions of Training

A national survey of graduating students (N=232) and current practitioners (N=195) was conducted to assess their perceptions about their training for the many roles school psychologists are expecte...
Incidence and survival trends in oligodendrogliomas and anaplastic oligodendrogliomas in the United States from 2000 to 2013: a CBTRUS Report

Measuring tumor-specific trends in incidence is necessary to elucidate tumor-type contribution to overall cancer burden in the US population. Recently, there have been conflicting reports concerning the incidence of oligodendrogliomas (OD) and anaplastic oligodendrogliomas (AOD). Therefore, our goal was to examine trends in OD and AOD incidence and survival by age, gender and race. Data was analyzed from the Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States (CBTRUS) from 2000 to 2013. Age-adjusted incidence rates per 100,000 person-years with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and annual percent changes (APCs) with 95% CI were calculated for OD and AOD by age, sex and race. Survival rates were calculated for age, sex and race using a subset of the CBTRUS data. OD and AOD incidence peaked at 36–40 and 56–60 years, respectively. AOD:OD ratio increased up to age 75. Overall, OD and AOD incidence decreased [OD: APC −3.2 (2000–2013), AOD: −6.5 (2000–2007)]. OD incidence was highest in Whites but decreased significantly (2000–2013: APC −3.1) while incidence in Black populations did not significantly decrease (2000–2013: APC −1.6). Survival rates decreased with advancing age for OD, while persons aged 0–24 had the lowest survival for AOD. The current study reports a decrease in overall OD and AOD incidence from 2000 to 2013. Furthermore, AOD makes up an increasing proportion of oligodendroglial tumors up to age 75. Lower AOD survival in 0–24 years old may indicate molecular differences in pediatric cases. Thus, surveillance of tumor-specific trends by age, race and sex can reveal clinically relevant variations.
Stretch Athletic and Physical Education Budgets

(1981). Stretch Athletic and Physical Education Budgets. Journal of Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 52, No. 2, pp. 56-56.
Duplex Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay for Detection of Adenoviral and Lentiviral Vectors

The ability to detect and quantify viral vector sequences from a variety of clinical sample types is crucial to performing biosafety risk assessments. Viral vector-mediated gene transfer studies ar...
Using Cytogenetic and Molecular Tests in Diagnostic Workups with the WHO Classification – 2008

A critical review of the neoplastic disorders of hematopoietic cells has been conducted by panels of expert clinicians and pathologists under the sponsorship of the World Health Organization (WHO), and from this effort a comprehensive classification for these disorders has been developed. Clinical features, phenotypic characteristics of the cellular proliferations, and, in many instances, genotypic features of the abnormal cells are all used in characterizing these disorders. Detailed descriptions and discussions of diagnostically important features for the entities defined within this classification have been summarized and published in a monograph – WHO Classification of Tumors of Haematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues [1] – which represents the consensus of the many experts who have contributed to the WHO project.
Genoprotective pathways. II. Attenuation of oxidative DNA damage by isopentenyl diphosphate

Abstract Oxidative stress is believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Here we report that isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP), the 5-carbon building unit of all isoprenoids, is a potent antioxidant that is capable of inhibiting oxidative DNA damage at picomolar concentrations (IC 50 =1.7×10 −11 M). The diphosphate moiety is essential, since isopentenyl monophosphate (IMP) is unable to trigger antioxidative signaling. The 20-carbon isoprenyl, geranylgeranyl diphosphate (GGPP), but not the 15-carbon farnesyl diphosphate, displays similar genoprotective effects. The pathway activated by IPP is distinct from that of 2-chloroadenosine (2CA). 2CA-mediated genoprotective signaling is transduced through an A2a or A2b adenosine receptor (AR) and can be blocked by the cyclic AMP (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase (PKA) inhibitor, H-89. In contrast, IPP signaling is independent of A2aAR, A2bAR, cAMP or PKA. Unlike the 2CA-mediated pathway, the effect of IPP is dependent on the mevalonate pathway, a geranylgeranylated protein and on intact proteasome activity. Thus, IPP is a potent activator of a novel genoprotective pathway. These findings shed new light on the role of isoprenoids in oxidative stress biology and may help to develop novel preventive strategies against oxidative damage.
Time: Selections From The Evolution of the Notion of Time

1. When investigating the development of theories of time in chronological order, we are exposed to the danger of being completely lost and disoriented, in a mass of the most varied opinions, which are sometimes highly capricious. For this reason we will preface our historical review with a general overview of the literature, which allows us to classify these theories from the logical point of view. But what shall we adopt as a principle for this classification? Evidently, we should use, as the distinctive features of the systems, those characteristics of the concept of time which have played the most important role in the history of this problem. There is no doubt that all of our systems are grouped around two fundamental problems: the reality of time and the origin of the idea of time.
Estimation of the Eddy Diffusion Coefficient Using Total Electron Content Data

Large-scale physics models typically involve unknown parameters that are either inaccessible or representative of complex, unknown dynamics. The focus of this paper is on the estimation of the eddy diffusion coefficient (EDC), which represents the dissipative effect of turbulent mixing in the lower atmosphere. Retrospective cost parameter estimation is used to estimate EDC using measurements of the total electron content. The novel element of the paper is concurrent optimization of the filter that defines the retrospective cost function. Since this optimization problem is biquadratic, an alternating convex search algorithm is used.
Active and Passive Turbulent Boundary-Layer Drag Reduction

A 50 year journey through flow control strategies that seek to achieve viscous drag reduction in turbulent boundary layers is presented. These are shown to focus on different mechanisms underlying ...
Pediatric Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Have Reduced Six-Minute Walk Test Distance and Results Predict Transplant Outcomes

Introduction Impaired functional status is associated with poor outcomes following hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), but functional testing in pediatric patients is limited. Six-minute walk test (6MWT) predicts mortality in multiple adult diseases. We investigated whether pre-HSCT six-minute walk test (6MWT) distance was feasible in children and associated with outcomes post-HSCT. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review of all pediatric and young adult patients receiving HSCT at our center from June 2016 to September 2017 who were prospectively screened for pulmonary function per our clinical protocol. Patients over 3 years of age underwent pre-HSCT 6MWT using standard American Thoracic Society Criteria with age adjusted standard deviation (z-score) determined using published reference equations. Data presented as mean +/- standard deviation with p Results Twenty-seven patients, ages 11.0 +/- 6.3 years (range 3.8 – 25.8), completed pre-HSCT 6MWT 40.4 +/- 36 days before HSCT walking 1380 +/- 325 feet. Eight (29.6%) patients died during the study period. Age adjusted z-scores were significantly reduced (-2.94 +/- 2.2, p Conclusions 6MWT can be completed in patients as young as 3 years undergoing HSCT. Patients undergoing HSCT have significantly lower performance than age matched peers, even patients with high KLP status and reduced performance predicted subsequent poorer outcomes. 6MWT may provide additional insights into patient functional status going into HSCT.
Gonadal hormones differentially regulate sex-specific stress effects on glia in the medial prefrontal cortex

Women are more susceptible to various stress-linked psychopathologies, including depression. Dysfunction of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) has been implicated in depression, and studies indicate sex differences in stress effects on mPFC structure and function. For example, chronic stress induces dendritic atrophy in the mPFC in male rats, yet dendritic growth in females. Recent findings suggest glial pathways toward depression. Glia are highly responsive to neuronal activity and function as critical regulators of synaptic plasticity. Preclinical models demonstrate stress-induced microglial activation in mPFC in males, yet deactivation in females. By contrast, stress reduces astrocyte complexity in mPFC in male rats, whereas the effects in females are unknown. Glia possess receptors for most gonadal hormones and gonadal hormones are known to modulate neuronal activity. Thus, gonadal hormones represent a potential mechanism underlying sex differences in glia, as well as divergent stress effects. Therefore, we examined the role of gonadal hormones in sex-specific stress effects on neuronal activity (ie FosB/ ΔFosB induction) and glia in the mPFC. The findings obtained indicate greater microglial activation in mPFC in females and a greater astrocyte area in males. Basal astrocyte morphology is modulated by androgens, whereas androgens or oestrogens dampen the microglial state in males. Astrocyte morphology is associated with neuronal activity in both sexes, regardless of hormonal condition. Chronic stress induced astrocytic atrophy in males, yet hypertrophy in females, with gonadal hormones partly regulating this difference. Stress effects on microglia are oestradiol-dependent in females. Taken together, these data suggest sex-specific, gonadal hormone-dependent stress effects on astrocytes and microglia in the mPFC.
Reflections on the Archaeology of the Parlamentos

The broader implications of the archaeological findings are discussed and related to the wider research issues of the project. More specifically, the geo-political aspects of the site locations and site types are discussed and evaluated in terms of the archival data.