cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sustainable interaction design: invention & disposal, renewal & reuse

This paper presents the perspective that sustainability can and should be a central focus of interaction design-a perspective that is termed Sustainable Interaction Design (SID). As a starting point for a perspective of sustainability, design is defined as an act of choosing among or informing choices of future ways of being. This perspective of sustainability is presented in terms of design values, methods, and reasoning. The paper proposes (i) a rubric for understanding the material effects of particular interaction design cases in terms of forms of use, reuse, and disposal, and (ii) several principles to guide SID. The paper illustrates--with particular examples of design critique for interactive products and appeals to secondary research--how two of these principles may be applied to move the effects of designs from less preferred forms of use to more preferred ones. Finally, a vision for incorporating sustainability into the research and practice of interaction design is described.
GOUT AND HYPERURICAEMIA IN SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS

Coexistent gout and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have received increasing attention. An additional case is reported and published cases reviewed. Common clinical features of this group include nephritis, diuretic and corticosteroid therapy and a tendency to be older and more frequently male. Prevalence of hyperuricaemia (HU) was assessed in 38 patients with SLE. HU was found in 29% and was closely associated with renal involvement particularly proteinuria and diuretic therapy. The presentation of gout in SLE may be modified or suppressed by anti-inflammatory therapy and may be misinterpreted as SLE arthritis.
Serum complement in eclamptogenic toxemia

Abstract Serum complement (C′) levels were determined in 34 normal women in the third trimester of pregnancy, and in 15 women with eclamptogenic toxemia. The mean for the normal series was 40.4 50 per cent hemolytic complement units (C′H 50 ), with a standard deviation of 5.4 C′H 50 . In the toxemic series the mean was 44.4 C′H 50 , with a standard deviation of 6.4 C′H 50 . Uncomplicated pregnancy was not found to alter serum complement levels from accepted norms. No evidence of complement fixation was seen in patients with toxemia.
Granular-cell myoblastoma of labium majus.

Abstract A case of granular-cell myoblastoma in an unusual location (the right labium majus) has been presented from both a clinical and pathological standpoint. The mass was surgically excised and up to this time (3 months) there has been no “recurrence,” although it is expected eventually in this particular case.
The Racist Origins of California's Concealed Weapon Permit Law

California’s concealed weapon permit law has a curious history, awash in racism. This paper examines the history of why California’s constitutions (1849 and 1879) lack the right to keep and bear arms provisions common in other state constitution and shows the openly stated racist intentions behind California's three concealed weapon statutes, including the current law.
Communication in Galago crassicaudatus

The olfactory, visual and, auditory communicative behaviors of a colony of feralGalago crassicaudatus (four males ad three females) observed over a two year period are documented. The enclosure was constructed to simulate a natural environment, but all stimulus possibilities available in the wild were not present and several new ones were introduced. It is not known how many of such differences may have affected the animals' behavior, however not all behaviors observed in the wild appear in the lab. The characteristics of several calls are described in detail and illustrated with sonagrams. These include an agonistic call, a sexual call, a possible alarm or mobbing call, a possible territorial or spacing call and a “low grunting sound” which appears in contexts of sexual and territorial calls. Compared to “higher” primates these galagos exhibit a small number of vocalizations. The communicative system appears directly correlated to social organization.
3D Bipedal Robotic Walking: Models, Feedback Control, and Open Problems

Abstract The fields of control and robotics are contributing to the development of bipedal robots that can realize walking motions with the stability and agility of a human being. Dynamic models for bipeds are hybrid in nature. They contain both continuous and discrete elements, with switching events that are spatially driven by unilateral constraints at ground contact and impulse-like forces that occur at foot touchdown. Control laws for these machines must be hybrid as well. The goals of this paper are threefold: highlight certain properties of the models which greatly influence the control law design; present two control design approaches; and indicate some of the many open problems.
Total Ankle Arthroplasty for the Treatment of Symptomatic Nonunion Following Tibiotalar Fusion

Background. Nonunion of an ankle arthrodesis is associated with significant pain and morbidity. Revision arthrodesis presents greater short-term morbidity and long-term sequelae. 1-6 Recent reports have demonstrated the feasibility of converting a symptomatic nonunion of an ankle arthrodesis to a total ankle arthroplasty.7-9 The objective of the present study was to evaluate the short-term outcome associated with take down of symptomatic nonunions of ankle arthrodeses and conversion to a fixed bearing, intramedullary total ankle arthroplasty. Methods. Five patients with symptomatic, aseptic tibiotalar arthrodesis nonunions (average age, 62.2 years), who underwent conversion to a total ankle arthroplasty were retrospectively identified and assessed at a prospective office visit. Minimum follow-up was 12 months (average, 21.3 months). Clinical outcomes were assessed on the basis of the American Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score10 and the Foot Function Index.11,12 Radiographic analysis, pat...
Traditional and Non-Traditional Women-Owned Enterprises: A Comparative Study of Retailers and Realtors

This paper reports on a study of 169 women owned enterprises. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which women who own a nontraditional female business enterprise, such as real estate, differ from women who own a traditional female business enterprise, namely apparel retailing. The findings of this study suggest that some entrepreneurial traits are gender based, while others are industry specific.
Comparing ImmunoCard with two EIA assays for Clostridium difficile toxins.

OBJECTIVE: To compare three Clostridium difficile EIA kits for the detection of C. difficile toxins from clinical specimens. DESIGN: A total of 287 fresh and stored stool specimens were tested using all three assays. Stools with discrepant results were sent to a reference laboratory for tissue cytotoxin assay. SETTING: Trinity Medical Center, a community hospital with network hospitals PATIENTS: Patients with diarrhea submitted stools for detection of C difficile toxins RESULTS: Of the 287 stool specimens, 116 were positive and 171 negative for C. difficile toxins. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of Meridian EIA assay were 99.1, 97.7, 96.6, and 99.4%; Immuno Card were 100, 98.2, 97.5, and 100%; BioStar OIA assay were 94, 98.8, 98.2, and 96% respectively. Immuno Card provides the best sensitivity (100%) for C.difficile toxins A and B detection. The BioStar OIA rapid test missed seven positive stool specimens possibly due to failure to detect toxin B. CONCLUSION: Immuno Card has slightly higher predictive values, shorter turnaround time and greater convenience compared to the Meridian EIA Assay. Immuno Card may be cost effective not only in smaller laboratories, but also in high volume laboratories, when used on a STAT basis or single request. ABBREVIATIONS: C. difficile = Clostridium difficile , EIA = Enzyme Immuno Assay
Synthetic Processes Involving Amino Acids

Publisher Summary This chapter explores synthetic processes involving amino acids. Synthesis of the amino acids in the body of the vertebrates is limited to those that are not essential in the diet. The essential amino acids are the products of organisms with a more autotrophic metabolism such as various plants and microorganisms. Three of the amino acids, namely, alanine, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid, are readily formed by transamination from products of the citric-acid cycle. The carbon chain of cysteine and cysteine is derived from serine by the metabolism of sulfur-containing compounds. To give as complete an understanding of the chemical pathways of biosynthesis of all the different amino acids as is now possible.
Interactions of Alcohols and Increased Air Pressure on Echinochloa crus-galli (L) Beauv. Seed Germination

In contrast to previous findings, where stimulation of E. crus-galli seed germination by n-propanol was reversed by simultaneous treatment with 0.965 MPa air pressure, similar pressure was unable to reverse stimulation by n-butanol. When pressure was applied up to 2 d prior to n-propanol, stimulation by n-propanol was still prevented. Pressure appeared to exert its effect rapidly; only 15 min exposure gave the maximum effect. If temperature during treatment with pressure and n-propanol was 15 o C, rather than 35 o C, the inhibitory effect was not observed (...)
Structural and functional plasticity of dendritic spines - root or result of behavior?

Dendritic spines are multifunctional integrative units of the nervous system and are highly diverse and dynamic in nature. Both internal and external stimuli influence dendritic spine density and morphology on the order of minutes. It is clear that the structural plasticity of dendritic spines is related to changes in synaptic efficacy, learning and memory, and other cognitive processes. However, it is currently unclear whether structural changes in dendritic spines are primary instigators of changes in specific behaviors, a consequence of behavioral changes, or both. In this review, we first review the basic structure and function of dendritic spines in the brain, as well as laboratory methods to characterize and quantify morphological changes in dendritic spines. We then discuss the existing literature on the temporal and functional relationship between changes in dendritic spines in specific brain regions and changes in specific behaviors mediated by those regions. Although technological advancements have allowed us to better understand the functional relevance of structural changes in dendritic spines that are influenced by environmental stimuli, the role of spine dynamics as an underlying driver or consequence of behavior still remains elusive. We conclude that while it is likely that structural changes in dendritic spines are both instigators and results of behavioral changes, improved research tools and methods are needed to experimentally and directly manipulate spine dynamics in order to more empirically delineate the relationship between spine structure and behavior.
Epilepsy with Occipital Paroxysms

A 15 year prospective study of 18 children with benign childhood epilepsy with occipital paroxysms was carried out at the Division of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Kulturalität des Geschlechts – Die diskursive Konstruktion von Geschlechterkulturen

Die Erzeugung und Gestaltung von Sinn in Bezug auf sich selbst, auf andere und auf die Welt ist eingebettet in einen kulturell-gesellschaftlichen Kontext. Dieser soziokulturelle Rahmen stellt strukturierende Handlungsfelder dar, innerhalb derer Wirklichkeit durch diskursive Sinnzuweisungen geschaffen wird. Damit kommt der Sprache in Form von regelstrukturierten Diskursen eine prominente Bedeutung zu, da sie der „Schauplatz“ ist, an dem kulturelles Wissen und kulturelle Bedeutungen weitergegeben und reproduziert werden. Kultur wird in diesem Sinne als die Gestalt von Bedeutungen, Werten, Ideen, Lebensweisen verstanden, welche sich in gesellschaftlichen Institutionen, in Sitten und Gebrauchen und vor allem im konkreten Leben verkorpert und Ausdruck findet. Kultur ist
Prevalence of Atypical Pathogens in Patients With Cough and Community-Acquired Pneumonia: A Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), acute cough, bronchitis, and lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) are often caused by infections with viruses or Streptococcus pneumoniae. The prevalence of atypical pathogens Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila, and Bordetella pertussis among patients with these illnesses in the ambulatory setting has not been previously summarized. We set out to derive prevalence information from the existing literature. METHODS We performed a systematic review of MEDLINE for prospective, consecutive-series studies reporting the prevalence of M pneumoniae, C pneumoniae, L pneumophila and/or B pertussis in outpatients with cough, acute bronchitis, LRTI, or CAP. Articles were independently reviewed by 2 authors for inclusion and abstraction of data; discrepancies were resolved by consensus discussion. A meta-analysis was performed on each pathogen to calculate the pooled prevalence estimates using a random effects model of raw proportions. RESULTS Fifty studies met our inclusion criteria. While calculated heterogeneity was high, most studies reported prevalence for each pathogen within a fairly narrow range. In patients with CAP, the overall prevalences of M pneumoniae and C pneumoniae were 10.1% (95% CI, 7.1%–13.1%) and 3.5% (95% CI, 2.2%–4.9%), respectively. Consistent with previous reports, M pneumoniae prevalence peaked in roughly 6-year intervals. Overall prevalence of L pneumophila was 2.7% (95% CI, 2.0%–3.4%), but the organism was rare in children, with only 1 case in 1,765. In patients with prolonged cough in primary care, the prevalence of B pertussis was 12.4% (95% CI, 4.9%–19.8%), although it was higher in studies that included only children (17.6%; 95% CI, 3.4%–31.8%). CONCLUSIONS Atypical bacterial pathogens are relatively common causes of lower respiratory diseases, including cough, bronchitis, and CAP. Where surveillance data were available, we found higher prevalences in studies where all patients are tested for these pathogens. It is likely that these conditions are underreported, underdiagnosed, and undertreated in current clinical practice.
Impact of Booster Breaks and Computer Prompts on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Among Desk-Based Workers: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial

Author(s): Taylor, Wendell C; Paxton, Raheem J; Shegog, Ross; Coan, Sharon P; Dubin, Allison; Page, Timothy F; Rempel, David M | Abstract: IntroductionThe 15-minute work break provides an opportunity to promote health, yet few studies have examined this part of the workday. We studied physical activity and sedentary behavior among office workers and compared the results of the Booster Break program with those of a second intervention and a control group to determine whether the Booster Break program improved physical and behavioral health outcomes.MethodsWe conducted a 3-arm, cluster-randomized controlled trial at 4 worksites in Texas from 2010 through 2013 to compare a group-based, structured Booster Break program to an individual-based computer-prompt intervention and a usual-break control group; we analyzed physiologic, behavioral, and employee measures such as work social support, quality of life, and perceived stress. We also identified consistent and inconsistent attendees of the Booster Break sessions.ResultsWe obtained data from 175 participants (mean age, 43 y; 67% racial/ethnic minority). Compared with the other groups, the consistent Booster Break attendees had greater weekly pedometer counts (P l .001), significant decreases in sedentary behavior and self-reported leisure-time physical activity (P l .001), and a significant increase in triglyceride concentrations (P = .02) (levels remained within the normal range). Usual-break participants significantly increased their body mass index, whereas Booster Break participants maintained body mass index status during the 6 months. Overall, Booster Break participants were 6.8 and 4.3 times more likely to have decreases in BMI and weekend sedentary time, respectively, than usual-break participants.ConclusionFindings varied among the 3 study groups; however, results indicate the potential for consistent attendees of the Booster Break intervention to achieve significant, positive changes related to physical activity, sedentary behavior, and body mass index.
Social presence, identity, and online learning: research development and needs

Scholars across many disciplines have grappled with questions of what it means for a person to be and interact online. Who are we when we go online? How do others know we are there and how do they ...
Mother and Adolescent Eating in the Context of Food Insecurity: Findings from Urban Public Housing

Introduction Anecdotal evidence suggests that parents protect their children from food insecurity and its effects, but few studies have concurrently assessed food insecurity among youth and parents. The purpose of this study was to examine food insecurity and eating behaviors among an urban sample of mother-adolescent dyads. Methods Mother-adolescent dyads (n = 55) were from six public housing sites in Phoenix, Arizona who completed surveys during 2014. Multivariate mixed linear and logistic regression models assessed the relationship between mother and adolescent eating behaviors in the context of food insecurity. Results Food insecurity was prevalent with 65.4% of parents and 43.6% of adolescents reporting food insecurity; 34.5% of parents and 14.5% of adolescents reported very low food security. After adjusting for food insecurity status, parents' and adolescents' fruit, vegetable, and sugar-sweetened beverage consumption was not associated. However, significant associations were observed between mothers' and adolescents' fast food intake (β = 0.52; p < 0.001), family meal intake (β = 0.52; p = 0.001), mindful eating (β = 0.51; p = 0.032), and binge eating (OR 8.05; p = 0.011). Discussion Parents may protect their adolescent children against food insecurity given the lower prevalence of food insecurity observed among adolescents. Interventions addressing food insecurity among mothers and adolescents may want to capitalize on shared eating patterns and address issues related to binge eating and leverage site-based strengths of public housing.
Quantifying reaction kinetics of the non-enzymatic decarboxylation of pyruvate and production of peroxymonocarbonate with hyperpolarized 13C-NMR.

The transient nature of intermediate states in chemical reactions has made their detailed investigation difficult. In this study, we demonstrate the utility of hyperpolarized 13C-NMR to directly observe and quantify the kinetics of the intermediate compound in the non-enzymatic decarboxylation of pyruvate via H2O2 with time resolutions of <1 s. Reactants were sequentially added to a reaction vessel within a 9.4 T NMR magnet while continuously acquiring spectra with a low flip angle, producing the first direct observation at room temperature of the previously proposed reaction intermediate, 2-hydroperoxy-2-hydroxypropanoate. We also performed a series of NMR experiments to determine the identity of a previously unidentified peak, which was found to be peroxymonocarbonate, the product of the side reaction between HCO3−/CO2 and H2O2/OOH−. Using the information obtained from these experiments, we developed a kinetic model which fully describes the mechanism of reaction and can be fit to experimental data to simultaneously determine multiple kinetic rate constants over several orders of magnitude. We also discuss the application of this reaction to the production of hyperpolarized bicarbonate for pH imaging experiments. This study presents a template for the use of hyperpolarized 13C-NMR to study the kinetics and reaction mechanisms of innumerable organic reactions which involve polarizable substrates.
Production of polymeric nanofibers with different conditions of the electrospinning process

ABSTRACT Nanofibers are materials that present high elasticity, strength, porosity and surface-area-to-volume ratio. The electrospinning method is the most widely adopted technique for forming polymeric nanofibers due to repeatability, easy scale-up process and production of long and continuous nanofibers. This method produces nanofibers with diameters ranging from 10 nm to 1000 nm. The process is regulated by many parameters which significantly affecting the morphology of the nanofibers, and through the proper handling of these parameters are obtained desired nanofibers in morphology and diameters. Based on this, the objective of this work was to evaluate the size and morphology of nanofibers obtained by different conditions of the electrospinning process. The electrospinning technique will be utilized to produce nanofibers with polyacrylonitrile (PAN) polymer and solvent N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF). The polymer solutions (10% (w/v)) were injected through of the capillary with diameter 0.45; 0.55; 0.70 and 0.80 mm. The distances from the collector to the capillary were tested between 100 and 200 mm, voltage between 15 and 25 kV, and feed rate of the solution between 100 and 1000 µL/h. All of the tests were conducted at 22 °C with the relative humidity level controlled at 65±1%. The morphology and size of nanofibers were evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Thus, the development of nanofibers with small diameter and high pore volume facilitate bioactive molecules loading and / or transport of nutrients and wastes, and allow the polymeric nanofibers become important class of biomaterials.
MAPPING MATACANELA: THE COMPLEMENTARY WORK OF LIDAR AND TOPOGRAPHICAL SURVEY IN SOUTHERN VERACRUZ, MEXICO

We systematically compare methods used for topographical mapping of the archaeological site of Matacanela, located in the Tuxtla Mountains of Veracruz. Specifically, we compare the results of ArcMap 10.2–processed, publically accessible LiDAR-derived data, collected and distributed for no charge by the Instituto Nacional de Estadistica y Geografia (INEGI) in Mexico–with the results of traditional topographical mapping, undertaken using a Sokkia total station. These INEGI data are coarse-grained in comparison to many of the pay-for-service LiDAR datasets that have been generated for Mesoamerican sites and regions, such as Caracol (Chase et al. 2011, 2012, 2014), Izapa (Rosenswig et al. 2013), and Tres Zapotes (Loughlin et al. 2016). Here, we consider the two approaches and the type and quality of data achieved by each, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of using either approach alone. We strongly encourage scholars working in Mexico to avail themselves of these data whenever appropriate.
A macrophage cell surface antigen.

Although biochemical studies on macrophage membranes have been performed (21), there is no gross chemical basis to distinguish phagocytes from non-phagocytic cells. By using intact cells for functional study, instead of isolated membrane preparations for gross chemical comparisons, certain interesting aspects of phagocytic function have emerged. One has been the plethora of “receptors” found on the macrophage cell surface. Macrophages express receptors for the Fc portion of immunoglobulin and the third component of complement (4,17,19,26). Moreover, the chemoattractant properties of certain compounds for macrophages, including products of the complement pathway (C3 and C5 activation products), implies the presence of receptors for these molecules as well (2,3,42). Macrophages can also “acquire” antigen specific receptors from T-cells rendering them cytotoxic to cells bearing those antigens, i.e., “armed” macrophages (11). Other lymphocyte products including migration inhibitory factor (MIF) also seem to act on macrophages via cell-surface receptors (35). Finally, macrophages non-specifically activated by numerous synthetic and biologic agents can selectively kill tumor cells, while having little or no cytocidal activity against normal cells (14,15,20). This event, also, most probably requires a recognition at the cell surface. Receptors are also responsible for the binding and subsequent phagocytosis of foreign bodies by macrophages, the alteration of phagocytic function by soluble lymphocyte products and the regulation of the phagocytic state of macrophages by hormones.
Symmetric Connectivity Algotirthms in Multiple Directional Antennas Wireless Sensor Networks

In this paper, we investigate the Antenna Orientation (AO) and Antenna Orientation and Power Assignment (AOPA) problems concerning symmetric connectivity in Directional Wireless Sensor Networks (DWSNs) where each sensor node is equipped with 2 $\leq k\leq 5$ directional antennas having beamwidth $\theta\geq 0$ . The AO problem for DWSNs is closely related with the well-known Euclidean Degree-Bounded Minimum Bottleneck Spanning Tree (EBMBST) problem where different cases for the degree bound have been studied. While current works on DWSNs focus on solving each case of $k(=2, 3, 4)$ separately, we propose a uniform approach for the AO problem that yields constant-factor approximation algorithms for the AO as well as the EBMBST problem where the degree bound is between 2 and 4. Our method achieves the same constant factors. For the AOPA problem, to the best of our knowledge, our paper provides the first results concerning this problem. We show that the problem is NP-hard when 2 $\leq k\leq 4$ . We also establish the first constant-factor approximation algorithms for the problem. Finally, we perform some simulations to understand the practical performance of our algorithms.
Introduction to Carlos Mérida's “The True Meaning of the Work of Saturnino Herrán”

The introductory essay places “The True Meaning of the Work of Saturnino Herran: The False Critics” (1920), a piece of early criticism written by the Guatemalan artist Carlos Merida during the firs...
Depression, Suicide, and Giftedness: Disentangling Risk Factors, Protective Factors, and Implications for Optimal Growth

Although exact incidences of depression and suicide among the gifted remain unknown, they are most likely in line with that of the larger student population. In the present chapter, we invoke two theoretical frameworks—person–environment fit theory and the Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent Development—to understand how intrapersonal, interpersonal, environmental, and developmental risk and protective factors manifest uniquely for gifted student populations. To better reflect the current status of gifted student development in the twenty-first century, we place special emphasis on two recent trends: social media use and cyberbullying, in addition to reviewing traditional literature as it relates to risk and protective factors. We place much emphasis on understanding possible unique contributors to the development of depression and suicide ideation among gifted students, but also on providing strategies for helping parents, teachers, and other caregivers. Implications of this chapter are for those who are interested in developing intervention strategies that consider developmental as well as epidemiological factors when exploring depression and suicide among the gifted.
Resident Stress Level during Steps of Cataract Surgery

Purpose To investigate intraoperative stress levels using heart rate monitoring during each step of cataract surgery. Setting Single tertiary hospital. Design Observational study recording resident heart rate as a measure of acute stress level during cataract surgeries. Methods Emory ophthalmology postgraduate year (PGY) 3 and PGY-4 residents operating at Grady Memorial Hospital during the time period of the study were eligible to participate. Chest-strapped Bluetooth devices recorded heart rate during the surgeries. The mean, maximum, and minimum heart rates were then analyzed individually for the following steps of surgery: incisions, continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis, hydrodissection, nucleus disassembly, quadrant removal, cortical cleanup, intraocular lens insertion, and closure. Data collection started in April 2017 and ended in February 2018. Results Out of the 549 surgeries recorded, 427 yielded viable data. Across that dataset, quadrant removal had the highest adjusted mean heart rate value (90.3; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 82.9–97.7; p Conclusions Quadrant removal, nucleus disassembly, and incisions are the three most stressful steps for resident surgeons. This knowledge should be applied to enhance the resident experience by emphasizing these steps during surgical preparation and training. Future studies using intraoperative heart rate monitoring may be warranted to better understand the resident and attending experience and ultimately improve surgical outcomes.
Russell on Ontological Fundamentality and Existence

Russell was among the first to suggest that all existence statements should be analyzed by means of existential quantification, and so is often taken as a forerunner of the Quinean position that the ontological commitments of a theory are given by what it quantifies over. In his late paper “Logic and Ontology”, however, Russell makes it clear that he thinks ontological commitment stems mainly from the name/name-bearer relation, and that true existential quantifications don’t always necessitate robust ontological status for what exists. Even during the core logical atomist period of the 1910s, Russell would not have understood ontological questions to be first and foremost questions of quantification. I argue that his understanding of quantification is substitutional, and respond to recent objections against this reading. Only those quantifiers using variables whose substituends are names for fundamental entities are ontologically committing. This explains in part his assertions to the effect the values of individual variables have a reality not attributable to values of higher-order variables, even ineliminable higher-order variables. It also makes plain that his understanding of ontology focuses as much on issues of fundamentality as on those of existence.
Optical Aids: An Interdisciplinary Prescription:

The roles of the optometrist who prescribes low vision aids to partially sighted persons and the other professionals who provide training and follow-up services are related to the successful use of...
Direct effect of advertising spending on firm value: Moderating role of financial analyst coverage

Abstract Previous research distinguishes between direct and indirect effects of advertising spending on firm value. This research focuses on the direct effect of advertising based on the spillover and signaling effect of advertising. Both effects are the result of increased public information flow about the firm created by advertising. Another source of public information flow about firms is information produced by financial analysts. We hypothesize that the direct effect of advertising on firm value will be stronger for firms not covered by financial analysts than for those that are covered because investors may rely on information flow from financial analysts for covered firms and rely on information flow from advertising in the absence of analyst coverage. Using financial and accounting databases for publicly traded firms for a period from 1975 to 2015, we test this hypothesis and find empirical evidence for the moderating role of analyst coverage in the relationship between advertising spending and firm value.
A Clinical Risk Model to Predict Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries in Laboring Patients.

Objective Our objective was to develop a risk stratification tool for predicting obstetric anal sphincter injury risk in women during labor. Methods In this retrospective cohort study of singleton deliveries within Kaiser Permanente Northern California, a predictive model for anal sphincter injury was developed within the 2013 birth cohort and validated in the 2014 birth cohort of 22,741 births. Predictors of obstetric anal sphincter injury were identified using multiple regression analysis and used to create a risk calculator tool based on effect size and clinical judgment. Results Duration of second stage of labor, vacuum delivery, history of anal sphincter injury, maternal and gestational ages, and maternal race and ethnicity were associated with elevated risk of anal sphincter injury. Using these risk factors, we developed a validated parity-stratified scoring system. Among nulliparous women, 116 (1.3%) had a score of zero, corresponding to a 0.9% risk, and 1024 (11.7%) had a score higher than 6, corresponding to a 27.5% risk of anal sphincter injury. Among the multiparous women, 1181 (8.4%) had a score of zero, corresponding to a 0.1% risk, and the 260 (1.9%) with a score higher than 10 had a 7.7% risk. The predictive ability of the score derived based on the 2013 data was applied to the 2014 data, and results showed that the predictive abilities were statistically similar, except for one subgroup: multiparous women with a total score of ≥10. Conclusions Our anal sphincter injury risk stratification tool effectively predicts individual risk and can inform clinician and patient decision making to minimize maternal birth trauma.
Stress formalism for elastic waves in anisotropic solids

Traditionally, the propagation of bulk elastic waves in anisotropic crystals or solids is governed by the displacement form of the elastodynamic wave equation. Phase velocities follow after transforming the wave equation into an eigenvalue problem, which gives the Christoffel equations, and solving for the roots of the characteristic polynomial. Alternatively, only a few researchers have considered a pure stress wave equation of motion to describe the propagation of waves in elastic solids. However, to our knowledge, the dual characteristic polynomial and its solutions based on a pure stress formalism has not been established previously. This presentation will outline the needed steps to reach and solve the dual characteristic polynomial. Phase velocity solutions follow from the formation of new principal invariants, which are functions of the elastic compliance constants and propagation directions. The dual formalism is proven consistent to the traditional displacement formalism through the use of sixth-rank Levi-Civitia identities. Lastly, possible extensions of this work will be highlighted.
Implementing Maximum Likelihood Estimation of Empirical Matching Models

We propose two Mathematical Programming with Equilibrium Constraints (MPEC) formulations: the MPEC-Sparse and the MPEC-Dense to estimate a class of separable matching models. We compare MPEC with the Nested Fixed-Point (NFXP) algorithm—a well-received method in the literature of structural estimation. Using both simulated and actual data, we find that MPEC is more robust than NFXP in terms of convergence and solution quality. In terms of computing time, MPEC-Dense is 9 to 20 times faster than NFXP in simulations. For practitioners, MPEC is considerably simpler to program.
Surgical Cancellations in Glaucoma Practice: Causes, Delays, and Effect on Patient Care and Revenue.

Purpose To assess the incidence of glaucoma surgery cancellations, as well as their characteristics, underlying reasons, resultant surgical delay, and estimated lost potential reimbursement, at a tertiary eye hospital. Design Retrospective observational study of planned surgical procedures of 4 glaucoma specialists at a tertiary eye center over a 2-year period (May 2017–May 2019). An additional prospective survey of patients was conducted. Participants Patients who canceled glaucoma surgeries. Methods Demographics and clinical information were recorded from the electronic medical record. A brief phone survey was implemented to determine the reason for cancellation and whether the patient rescheduled. Lost reimbursement was estimated assuming Medicare reimbursement rates for each procedure based on facility fee, surgeon fee, and anesthesia fee. Main Outcome Measures Reasons for surgical cancellation, delay related to surgical cancellations, and annual lost reimbursement potential. Results One hundred twenty-three of 1384 glaucoma surgeries (8.9%) to be performed by 4 glaucoma specialists at Wills Eye Hospital during the 2-year study period were canceled. Among those canceled, the mean age ± standard deviation (SD) of the patients was 70.3 ± 14.4 years and 51% were men. Of the cancellations, 56.9% were made within 1 day of the planned date of surgery and 96.7% were canceled within 7 days. Of the reasons for surgical cancellation, 28% were considered preventable, 50% were considered unpreventable, and 23% were categorized as “no reason given.” Most of the surgeries eventually were performed-to-date (64.2%); the mean ± SD delay in surgery was 63.4 ± 68.6 days. The 3 most common preventable reasons for cancellation were lack of transportation (34%), lack of timely clearance (26%), and insurance-related issues (14%). Assuming Medicare reimbursement rates, the estimated annual lost potential reimbursement from surgical cancellations of the 4 glaucoma specialists was $208 306. Conclusions This study highlights a significant number of cancellations in a glaucoma practice, most of which occurred within 1 day of planned surgery. Minimizing preventable causes of cancellations could decrease the likelihood of surgical delays as well as lost reimbursement. Further comparison with patients who successfully underwent surgery performed without delay may identify predictive factors or interventions that could decrease the number of surgical cancellations.
Online Regulation of Unstable Linear Systems from a Single Trajectory

In this paper, we study online regulation of partially unknown (and possibly unstable) linear systems. In order to avoid the popular assumption of having access to an initial stabilizing controllers in learning algorithms, we propose the Data-Guided Regulator (DGR) synthesis that regulates the underlying states of an unknown linear model through generating informative data. We also introduce the notion of "regularizability" for a linear system that is of independent interest and provides a unique perspective on the geometry of data-guided regulation. Finally, we discuss an example involving online regulation of the (open-loop unstable) X-29 aircraft.
Cognitive Reserve Moderates Associations Between Walking Performance Under Single- and Dual-Task Conditions and Incident Mobility Impairment in Older Adults.

BACKGROUND Among older adults, walking performance is a reliable indicator of adverse health outcomes including incident mobility impairment. Whereas, attention and executive functions have been implicated in cognitive control of locomotion, much less is known about the role of cognitive reserve (CR) in predicting mobility impairments among older adults. Specifically, whether CR moderates the relationship between gait performance and incident mobility impairment has not been reported. To address this gap in the literature, we examined whether gait performance under single-task walk (STW) and dual-task walk (DTW) conditions predicted incident mobility impairment and whether CR moderated this relationship. METHOD Participants were 176 (mean age = 75.57; % female = 53) older adults with baseline Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) scores of 10-12. Participants completed neuropsychological testing, the SPPB, and a DTW protocol. CR was evaluated using the Wide Range Achievement Test, third edition. Participants were followed for 3 years; individuals whose SPPB scores declined below 10 were defined as incident cases of mobility impairment (n = 42). RESULTS Moderation analyses revealed significant interaction effects of CR with walking velocity under STW (b = 0.09, 95% CI [0.01, 0.17], z = 2.30, p = .02) and DTW (b = 0.10, 95% CI [0.02, 0.17], z = 2.55, p = .01) conditions, wherein slower gait predicted increased risk of incident mobility impairment among individuals with lower CR. CONCLUSION These findings extend knowledge about the interrelation of cognitive and mobility functions, revealing the critical role of CR in identifying older adults at risk of developing incident mobility impairment.
Machine perfusion organ preservation: Highlights from the American Transplant Congress 2021

The American Transplant Congress 2021 was a virtual meeting and occurred between June 4 and June 9 through an online platform. We highlighted abstracts discussing machine perfusion preservation, a hot topic that may become the gold standard of organ preservation in the future. A total of 33 abstracts on organ machine preservation (3 for heart, 4 for lungs, 18 for liver, and 8 for kidneys) were presented at the meeting. We selected 23 abstracts that showed advances including new approaches to organ preservation, promising treatments and biomarkers, cellular therapy, and novel research areas. Here, we summarize the new developments concerning machine perfusion in both experimental and clinical studies.
Exploring Optimal Wage Incentive System Using ABS

Players are motivated by social norms and morale to exert extra efforts in a work place with high morale. However, we often observe that the initially high performance of an organization gradually declines. In order to seek for an optimal wage incentive system, we have constructed an agent-based model with a small group of heterogeneous or homogeneous workers. The model has the following features: players’ behavior is subject to random shocks; inertia effect is introduced; and players are rewarded on the basis of their performances. The virtual experiment demonstrates that an organization, consisting of homogenous players, is more viable against the erosion than that with heterogeneous players, and that an organization with homogenous players is far more vulnerable to the erosion than that with heterogeneous players when subject to random shocks. Interestingly, an organization with heterogeneous agents can enjoy high morale among players that allows them to maintain high performance. We also show that the reward incentive is remarkably effective in any organization and it is particularly powerful in homogenous organizations. We have compared the two personnel rating systems: one based upon the level of performance relative to other workers’ contemporaneous ones and the other upon her own past performance. In inducing higher performance of the workers, the latter system excels the former for the heterogeneous organization, whereas the former system will outperform for the homogeneous one.
Cystic Lesions of the Jaw in Children: A 15-Year Experience.

Importance Pediatric jaw cysts represent a rarely symptomatic clinical entity and are not well addressed in the otolaryngology literature. It is important that otolaryngologists should be familiar with these lesions, which can manifest as jaw swelling or as paranasal sinus abnormalities. Objective To review the clinical presentation, radiologic features, management, and outcomes of jaw cysts in children treated at a single academic institution. Design, Setting, and Participants Retrospective medical record review at a tertiary care children’s hospital among patients 16 years and younger who were seen with a cystic jaw lesion. Main Outcomes and Measures Medical records were reviewed for data on symptoms, physical examination findings, imaging, pathology, interventions, and outcomes among children who were seen at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery or the Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Maryland Medical Center between January 1997 and December 2012 and were diagnosed as having a jaw cyst. Results Fifty-seven patients were identified who were diagnosed as having a true cystic jaw lesion and whose complete medical records were available for review. The most common cystic lesions were keratocystic odontogenic tumors (n = 19) and dentigerous cysts (n = 17). Fifty-six percent (32 of 57) of all cystic lesions were asymptomatic on presentation and were identified by imaging. The second most common presentation was local swelling (n = 15), followed by dental irregularities (n = 6). All patients, except for 1 with an eruption cyst, required surgical intervention, including biopsy, enucleation, curettage, or ostectomy, with reconstruction as indicated. Keratocystic odontogenic tumors tended to require more treatment (median, 2 procedures) for metachronous lesions or recurrence. Conclusions and Relevance Pediatric jaw cysts are unusual, and data are scarce regarding their presentation and management. Many of these cysts are asymptomatic and are identified incidentally on orthopantomography. Keratocystic odontogenic tumors were the most common lesion seen in our series, followed by dentigerous cysts. Surgical intervention is required in most patients with a cystic lesion of the jaw.
What Did We Learn from the HEMO Study? Implications of Secondary Analyses

Background: The HEMO Study was a randomized clinical trial designed to determine whether increasing hemodialysis dose above current standards, or using high-flux membranes, would improve patient out
Interactional influence of fatigue and task difficulty on cardiovascular response: Demonstrations involving an aerobic exercise challenge

Experiments were executed to provide new evidence relevant to the recent suggestion that fatigue should augment or retard cardiovascular response depending on the difficulty of the challenge at hand. Participants walked on a treadmill while wearing a vest fitted with 5 or 25 pounds of weight. Later, they mounted a recumbent stationary bicycle and were asked to pedal with the chance to earn a modest incentive if they attained a low or high cycling standard (i.e., if they met an easy or difficult cycling challenge). Analysis of CV responses during the cycling period indicated expected interactions for systolic blood pressure and heart rate. Whereas responses were stronger for the Heavy-Vest (i.e., high-fatigue) group when the standard was low, they were weaker for this group when the standard was high. Experiments 2 and 3 evaluated a nonfatigue interpretation of the main results and yielded findings that supported the fatigue interpretation.
Mutants of the N-3 R-Factor Conditionally Defective in hspII Modification and Deoxyribonucleic Acid-Cytosine Methylase Activity

The N-3 drug resistance (R) factor specifies a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-cytosine methylase and a DNA restriction-modification (hspII) system. We have isolated three independent mutants that are conditionally defective in their ability to modify bacteriophage λ and to methylate DNA-cytosine residues. The ratio of 5-methylcytosine to N6-methyladenine in bacterial DNA and in the DNA of phages λ and fd was determined after labeling with [methyl-3H]methionine at various growth temperatures. Although the ability of the wild-type N-3 factor to modify phage λ and to methylate DNA-cytosine residues was unaffected with increasing temperature, two of the mutants exhibited a parallel loss in modification and cytosine methylation ability. The ability of the third mutant to carry out these functions was dependent on the presence or absence of an amber suppressor mutation in the host genome. These results offer further support for the notion that hspII modification is mediated by a DNA-cytosine methylase. Evidence is also presented that the modification methylase is responsible for the in vivo methylation of phage fd DNA (which is not subject to hspII restriction in vivo).
Choosing among multiple nonlinear non-nested regression models with different dependent variables

Abstract The linearly-embedded regression model approach of Davidson and MacKinnon (1981) is used to construct joint tests of seven non-nested, autoregressive money demand equations with different regressands. The results support the Holmes-Smyth (1972) hypothesis that taxes affect money demand.