cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
What's Around Me?: Applying the Theory of Consumption Values to Understanding the Use of Location-Based Services LBS on Smart Phones

Businesses are increasingly aware of the power of mobile location-based services LBS in their success. For consumers, there are abundant options available. To understand the driving factors of consumers' behavioral intention to use LBS and speak positively about LBS, a model of examining personal values and their influences was developed in this study. The model centers around a set of consumers' personal consumption values Sheth et al., 1991a, 1991b, including functional values exemplified by perceived usefulness and ease of use, social value, emotional value, epistemic value, and conditional value. Use behavior is also studied to reveal the learning process in the LBS context, i.e., consumers learn about their perceived values toward using LBS from their actual use. An online survey was conducted among 226 LBS users. The research model was tested by using SmartPLS. The authors found that consumers' consumption values significantly influenced their intention to use LBS and spread positive word-of-mouth about LBS. Use behavior was also shown to significantly predict the consumption values. Both theoretical and business implications are discussed.
Microwave and Fast-Acting Valves and Vacuum Couplings for Accelerators

The high vacuum requirements of the Stanford Two-Mile Linear Electron Accelerator plus the radiation produced by electron acceleration have made it necessary to design special vacuum and isolation components. Two of these are special purpose valves capable of operating in a vacuum system at 10-8 torr, and the third is a group of quick-disconnect couplings used for component installation in the beam switchyard area of the accelerator. One valve is an all-metal, 50-megawatt, S-band microwave valve used to isolate an evacuated rectangular waveguide feed system from exposure to air during the replacement of a klystron drive tube for the accelerator. The valve is built with a remeltable indium seal which provides for leak rates on closure below 24 × 10-8 std. cc He/sec. The second valve is a fast-acting unit that was designed for beam axis application within the disk-loaded waveguide accelerator structure. This valve also has an indium seal that is remotely remeltable and has a measured closing time of nine milliseconds. The group of quick-disconnect couplings, which are 6, 10 and 12-inch pipe sizes, are remotely operable, non-elastomer couplings used in the vacuum chamber system of the beam switchyard. The radiation intensity in this area is sufficient to make elastomer seals impractical and to require that replacement of switchyard components be done quickly and remotely. Indium is also used as a reusable seal for these couplings and can be re-formed mechanically to extend seal life.
Phonons in AlxGa1−xAs alloys

Theoretical densities of phonon states in random AlxGa1−xAs alloys are presented and compared with published Raman scattering data. The calculations employ the recursion method and a Born-von Karman rigid-ion model of the lattics dynamics; they permit tha assigment of major spectral featuras either to parent modes in GaAs and AlAs or to vibrations of specific alloy clusters. The phonon spectral densities of states are shown to be nearly “persistent” — a linear superposition of GaAs and AlAs spectral densities. Deviations from the persistence limit are attributed to “alloy modes.” Many assigments of lines in Raman spectra are confirmed, but some lines are reinterpreted.
A general method for magnesium analysis in biological materials by atomic absorption spectroscopy

Abstract The effects of cations, anions, the type of burner, and absorbing system on the measurements of magnesium by atomic absorption spectroscopy have been investigated. A general method for the measurement of magnesium in biological material by atomic absorption spectroscopy has been developed which employs oxine to overcome interference due to phosphate.
Demonstration, extraction and intracellular distribution of kidney phosphoprotein kinase activity.

Summary 1. A phosphoprotein kinase (ATP:protein phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.1.37) was demonstrated in kidney. Phosphoprotein kinase activity was measured by determining the amount of 32 P transferred from [ γ - 32 P]ATP to 30–40% dephosphorylated Phosvitin. 2. Methods of extracting phosphoprotein kinase from kidney were investigated. 0.05 M Na 4 P 2 O 7 was found to be the best extractant. 3. Intracellular distribution of phosphoprotein kinase activity was studied in hog, rat and rabbit kidneys. The major portion of the phosphoprotein-kinase activity was found in the kidney-supernatant fraction. 4. Optimal conditions for the assay of kidney-phosphoprotein kinase activity were investigated. A bivalent metal ion was required and Mg 2+ produced optimal activation. Co 2+ , Mn 2+ and Ni 2+ also activated kidney phosphoprotein kinase. With an optimal concentration of Mg 2+ further activation was produced by potassium phosphate buffer, NaCl, KCl and Tris-HCl buffer. Phosvitin, 20–40% dephosphorylated by wheat-germ acid phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.2.), was the best substrate. 5. The effect of inhibitors on kidney phosphoprotein kinase was studied. Iodoacetamide, N -ethylmaleimide and KF had no effect on enzyme activity. 2,4-Dinitrophenol inhibited kidney-phosphoprotein kinase. With an optimal concentration of Mg 2+ the addition of other metal ions produced inhibition. 6. A convenient method for the preparation and isolation of [ γ - 32 P]ATP of high specific activity is described. The portion of the glycolytic pathway from fructose 1,6-diphosphate to 3-phosphoglyceric acid was used. The substrates and enzymes are avallable commercially.
Genetic immunotherapy of established tumours with adenoviral vectors transducing murine interleukin-12 (mIL12) subunits in a rat medullary thyroid carcinoma model.

SummaryOBJECTIVE Interleukin-12 (IL12) is a heterodimeric cytokine that plays an important role in the development of cellular immunity. Studies have demonstrated antitumour activity after systemic administration of recombinant IL12. As with other cytokines, with increasing dosage and longer exposure, systemic toxicity is observed. To reduce systemic toxicity and obtain local production of IL12, we developed a replication defective adenovirus transducing two subunits of the murine IL12 (AdCMVmIL12) gene. DESIGN Two separate cassettes, expressing the p35 or p40 subunit of mIL12, under the control of human cytomeglavirus immediate early promoter, were inserted into the early1 (E1) region of adenovirus 5. Biological activity of virally expressed mIL12 was demonstrated in vitro through its ability to induce proliferation of mouse ConA blast cells. RESULTS Rat medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) cells infected with AdCMVmIL12 lost their tumorigenicity in their syngenic WAG/Rij rat hosts. Efficient antitumour activity was found after direct injection of the AdCMVmIL12 vector into rMTC tumours. After intratumoural treatment with AdCMVmIL12, 86% of tumour bearing animals were apparently cured, and almost all remaining tumours were stabilized. Challenge studies showed that most animals cured after the first treatment remained tumour free after reinjection of wild type rMTC cells, indicating that long-term antitumour immunity developed. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the construction of an adenoviral vector expressing a functional heterodimeric mIL12 and its efficient antitumour activity after in vivo delivery in an animal model of medullary thyroid carcinoma.
Multiple charge-transfer emissions from different metal-ligand pairs in ruthenium diimines.

Ruthenium diimines are unique in their emissivity. Optical excitation with light of less than 500 nm leads to a strong emission in the 600−700 nm range. All emissive ruthenium complexes appear to undergo intersystem crossing from the absorptive singlet metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) state to an emissive triplet MLCT state localized on the lowest-energy metal−ligand pair. In contrast to this currently accepted model, in which a single emissive state is populated and then equilibrates among other states based on a particular set of conditions, the excitation-wavelength dependence of the [(bpy)2RudppH]3+ emission suggests two emissive pathways. One populates an emissive MLCT state localized on a bpy−Ru pair, and the other populates a lower-energy MLCT state localized on the dpp−Ru pair.
Diversity of viruses in Cryphonectria parasitica and C. nitschkei in Japan and China, and partial characterization of a new chrysovirus species.

Abstract We surveyed native populations of the chestnut blight fungus, Cryphonectria parasitica, in Japan and China, and C. nitschkei, a sympatric species on chestnut trees in Japan, to learn more about the diversity of hypoviruses and other double-stranded (ds) RNA viruses. In a sample of 472 isolates of C. parasitica and 45 isolates of C. nitschkei from six prefectures in Japan, we found 27 containing one or more dsRNAs. Twelve isolates of C. parasitica and two isolates of C. nitschkei were infected with Cryphonectria hypovirus 1 (CHV-1); four of these 12 C. parasitica isolates also contained other dsRNAs that did not hybridize to CHV-1. In China, only one of 85 C. parasitica isolates was CHV-1-infected; no dsRNAs were detected in the other isolates from China. No other known hypoviruses were found in this study. However, we found two previously undescribed dsRNAs in Japan approximately 9 kb in size that did not hybridize to each other or to any known dsRNAs from C. parasitica . We also found three additional groups of dsRNAs, one of which represents the genome of a new member of the virus family Chrysoviridae and was found only in C. nitschkei ; the other two dsRNAs were found previously in isolates of C. parasitica from Japan or China. The most significant result of this survey is the discovery of novel dsRNAs that can be characterized in future research.
Abstract 3043: FXR1 promotes lung cancer cell growth by regulating oncogenic targets in the 3q26-3q28 amplicon

Gain of chromosome 3q26-28 is one of the most common genomic imbalances in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly in squamous cell carcinomas (SCC). A comprehensive approach combining array CGH, mircroarray expression and shotgun proteomics data analysis reveals amplification, overexrpession of a candidate gene on 3q26, fragile-X-mental-retardation-related protein 1 (FXR1) in lung cancer. FXR1 is amplified and overexpressed in NSCLC tumors and highly correlated with several 3q26-28 targets including epithelial cell transforming sequence 2 (ECT2), protein kinase C iota (PKCi) and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4 gamma 1 (EIF4G1) measured by Real time-PCR and immunohistochemistry. We hypothesized that FXR1 is associated with these oncogenes and plays a critical role in lung cancer progression. ECT2 is known to promote lung cancer by binding to PKCi and activating MAPK signaling pathway. We found that overexpressing FXR1 in an immortalized human bronchial epithelial cell line (HBEC3KT) leads to upregulated expression of ECT2, PKCi and ERK1/2 activity. Downregulation of FXR1 using siRNA in lung cancer cell lines H520 and HCC95 induces the decreased expression of ECT2, PKCi and EIF4G1. Immunoprecipitation confirms that FXR1 binds to PKCi and EIF4G1 in NSCLC cells. Loss of FXR1 using siRNA treatment inhibits cell growth and survival of NSCLC cells that harbor 3q26-28 amplicon. Our results demonstrate the oncogenic potential of FXR1 and supports the concept that amplified targets on 3q26-28 are genetically and functionally associated to drive lung cancer cell growth. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3043. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-3043
Photochemical generation of cationic lewis acids via deligation of metal-sandwich complexes

Photoinduced loss of one or both ligands from bis(arene) metal complexes provides an attractive route to cationic Lewis acids that can function as initiators for polymerization and crosslinking reactions. In this article, we examine the spectroscopy, photochemistry and photoinitiation activity of two such complexes: Fe(mes)22+ (mes is mesitylene) and Cr(tol)2+ (tol is toluene). Acetonitrile solutions of Fe(mes)22+ undergo photochemical loss of both mesitylene rings to yield solvated Fe2+. The quantum efficiency of deligation ranges from 0.6 to 1.0 depending upon excitation wavelength, but is independent of complex concentration, solvent, oxygen concentration and excess counter-ion. Reaction appears to occur from both ligand field and ligand-to-metal charge transfer excited states. Low thermal stability, however, limits the use of Fe(mes)22+ as a practical photoinitiator. Deligation of both arene rings also occurs upon 366 nm irradiation of Cr(tol)2+ in acetonitrile. The quantum efficiency for this process is 0.04 and is independent of oxygen concentration. Photoinitiated crosslinking and insolubilization occur in a thin film of COP (copolymer of glycidyl methacrylate and ethyl acrylate) containing Cr(tol)2+.
IGF-1 prevents ANG II-induced skeletal muscle atrophy via Akt- and Foxo-dependent inhibition of the ubiquitin ligase atrogin-1 expression

Congestive heart failure is associated with activation of the renin-angiotensin system and skeletal muscle wasting. Angiotensin II (ANG II) has been shown to increase muscle proteolysis and decrease circulating and skeletal muscle IGF-1. We have shown previously that skeletal muscle-specific overexpression of IGF-1 prevents proteolysis and apoptosis induced by ANG II. These findings indicated that downregulation of IGF-1 signaling in skeletal muscle played an important role in the wasting effect of ANG II. However, the signaling pathways and mechanisms whereby IGF-1 prevents ANG II-induced skeletal muscle atrophy are unknown. Here we show ANG II-induced transcriptional regulation of two ubiquitin ligases atrogin-1 and muscle ring finger-1 (MuRF-1) that precedes the reduction of skeletal muscle IGF-1 expression, suggesting that activation of atrogin-1 and MuRF-1 is an initial mechanism leading to skeletal muscle atrophy in response to ANG II. IGF-1 overexpression in skeletal muscle prevented ANG II-induced skeletal muscle wasting and the expression of atrogin-1, but not MuRF-1. Dominant-negative Akt and constitutively active Foxo-1 blocked the ability of IGF-1 to prevent ANG II-mediated upregulation of atrogin-1 and skeletal muscle wasting. Our findings demonstrate that the ability of IGF-1 to prevent ANG II-induced skeletal muscle wasting is mediated via an Akt- and Foxo-1-dependent signaling pathway that results in inhibition of atrogin-1 but not MuRF-1 expression. These data suggest strongly that atrogin-1 plays a critical role in mechanisms of ANG II-induced wasting in vivo.
Rescue of the murine amelogenin null phenotype with two amelogenin transgenes

The amelogenin proteins are required for normal enamel development; the most abundant amelogenins expressed from alternatively spliced mRNAs are M180 and leucine rich amelogenin protein (LRAP). The Amelx null (KO) mouse has an enamel defect similar to human X-linked amelogenesis imperfecta. The disorganized enamel layer in KO mice is 10–20% the thickness of wild-type (WT) enamel and lacks prismatic structures. When the KO mice were mated with mice that express TgM180-87, partial rescue of the phenotype was observed such that enamel thickness, volume and density increased. A second transgene was introduced by mating the TgM180KO mice with TgLRAP mice, and male offspring were characterized for genotype and tooth phenotype was evaluated by SEM. TgM180LRAPKO molar enamel thickness further increased, and the structure was improved, with a more defined decussation pattern compared to singly rescued mice. We conclude that TgM180 provides significant rescue of the KO phenotype. Although the effectiveness of TgLRAP to rescue by itself is less obvious, the addition of TgLRAP to TgM180 in KO enamel leads to added improvement in both amount and structure and thus these transgenes function in a complementary manner. Together the two most abundant amelogenins lead to formation of obvious enamel decussation patterns.
Diluent composition and the recovery of Escherichia coli.

The ability of 0.1% Trypticase (BBL) to maximize recovery of frozen Escherichia coli on Violet Red Bile Agar is presented.
Highly Crosslinked Ultrahigh Molecular Weight Polyethylene in Total Hip Arthroplasty: No Further Concerns-Opposes

Fractures of highly crosslinked acetabular liners appear to be caused by edge loading or impingement, resulting in high stresses at the liner locking mechanism. The risk of fracture may be reduced by improvements in implant design and use of crosslinked ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), which is annealed at less than the melting temperature. Methods to reduce free radicals in submelt annealed crosslinked UHMWPE, such as sequential irradiation or vitamin E, appear to be effective in vitro . However, recent studies of crosslinked UHMWPE annealed at greater than the melt temperature have identified in vivo oxidation, which raises a concern about the stability of highly crosslinked UHMWPE.
Delirium and sedation

Critically ill patients nearing the end of life frequently present with needs for aggressive sedation and analgesia. Optimizing patient comfort while permitting effective communication are challenging goals in this patient population. This article discusses delirium and sedation as it applies to dying patients, and provides recommendations for effective management strategies to optimize the experience of such patients at the end of life.
A simulation of EOS MISR data and geometric processing for the prototyping of the MISR ground data system

Describes a modeling system for the simulation of the Multi-angle Imaging Spectro-Radiometer (MISR) instrument push-broom data to be used in the prototyping of the MISR ground data system. The data are being simulated using the known characteristics of the instrument and spacecraft position and pointing. Rendering software obtained from the Digital Image Animation Laboratory (DIAL) at JPL has been modified to model multi-angle push-broom data. Landsat TM data are used as input radiance. >
The origin of internal security in Colombia: Part I — A CIA special team surveys La Violencia, 1959–60

In October 1959 the Eisenhower administration dispatched a CIA Special Team to survey the violence problem in Colombia. This article, part one of a two‐part series, examines this first significant attempt by a US administration to influence that nation's internal security situation. It investigates the Special Team's actions and analyses its recommendations for transforming Colombia's conventionally‐orientated security forces. The Team's survey, which focuses on counter‐insurgency tactics, civil action, intelligence operations, psychological warfare, and covert action, is the foundation from which Colombia's modern internal security structures are derived.
Coronary effluent from a preconditioned heart activates the JAK-STAT pathway and induces cardioprotection in a donor heart.

Preconditioning (PC) protects against ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury via the activation of the JAK-STAT pathway. We hypothesized that the mediators responsible for PC can be transferred to naive...
Early diagenetic partial oxidation of organic matter and sulfides in the Middle Pennsylvanian (Desmoinesian) Excello Shale Member of the Fort Scott Limestone and equivalents, northern Midcontinent region, USA

A process of early diagenetic partial oxidation of organic matter and sulfides has altered the chemical composition of the Middle Pennsylvanian Excello Shale Member of the Fort Scott Limestone and equivalents in the northern Midcontinent region. This process was identified by comparison of organic carbon contents, Rock-Eval hydrogen indices, organic carbon δ13C and element compositions of core and surface mine samples of the Excello Shale Member with analyses of three other underlying and overlying organic-matter-rich marine shales (offshore shale lithofacies) from southern Iowa, northern Missouri, eastern Kansas and northeastern Oklahoma. The end product of the partial oxidation process is shale with relatively low contents of hydrogen-poor, C13-enriched organic matter, lower contents of sulfur and sulfide-forming elements, and relatively unchanged contents of phosphorus and many trace elements (e.g. Cr, Ni, and V). However, because of lower organic carbon contents, element/organic carbon ratios are greatly increased. The partial oxidation process apparently took place during subaerial exposure of the overlying marine carbonate member (Blackjack Creek Member of the Fort Scott Limestone) following a marine regression when meteoric waters percolated down to the level of the Excello muds allowing oxidation of organic matter and sulfides. This hypothesis is supported by earlier workers, who have identified meteoric carbonate cements within, and soil horizons at the top of the Blackjack Creek Member. The period of oxidation is constrained in that organic matter and sulfides in the Little Osage Shale Member of the Fort Scott Limestone and equivalents (immediately overlying the Blackjack Creek Member) appear unaltered. Similar alteration of other shales in the Middle and Upper Pennsylvanian sections may be local to regional in extent and would depend on the extent and duration of the marine regression and be influenced by local variations in permeability and topography. The partial oxidation process has likely led to a redistribution of sulfur and sulfide-forming elements into other organic-rich lithologies in the section. The altered/oxidized shales are nongenerative with respect to hydrocarbon generation.
Monte Carlo verification of IMRT dose distributions from a commercial treatment planning optimization system

The purpose of this work was to use Monte Carlo simulations to verify the accuracy of the dose distributions from a commercial treatment planning optimization system (Corvus, Nomos Corp., Sewickley, PA) for intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). A Monte Carlo treatment planning system has been implemented clinically to improve and verify the accuracy of radiotherapy dose calculations. Further modifications to the system were made to compute the dose in a patient for multiple fixed-gantry IMRT fields. The dose distributions in the experimental phantoms and in the patients were calculated and used to verify the optimized treatment plans generated by the Corvus system. The Monte Carlo calculated IMRT dose distributions agreed with the measurements to within 2% of the maximum dose for all the beam energies and field sizes for both the homogeneous and heterogeneous phantoms. The dose distributions predicted by the Corvus system, which employs a finite-size pencil beam (FSPB) algorithm, agreed with the Monte Carlo simulations and measurements to within 4% in a cylindrical water phantom with various hypothetical target shapes. Discrepancies of more than 5% (relative to the prescribed target dose) in the target region and over 20% in the critical structures were found in some IMRT patient calculations. The FSPB algorithm as implemented in the Corvus system is adequate for homogeneous phantoms (such as prostate) but may result in significant under- or over-estimation of the dose in some cases involving heterogeneities such as the air-tissue, lung-tissue and tissue-bone interfaces. (Some figures in this article are in colour only in the electronic version; see www.iop.org)
Fabrication of Polyethylene Glycol-Based Hydrogel Microspheres Through Electrospraying

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogel microspheres of controlled sizes and narrow size distribution were fabricated via electrospraying. To facilitate the formation of microspheres through electrospraying, the gelation time of PEG hydrogels by Michael’s addition reaction between acrylate and thiol were optimized. The effect of electrospraying parameters such as applied voltage, flow rate, needle gauge, and tip to collector distance (TTCD) on Taylor cone formation and microsphere size and distribution was determined. Applied voltage and TTCD had the strongest influence on Taylor cone formation and microsphere size and distribution. By careful design of process parameters a wide range of PEG hydrogel microspheres were obtained, namely 70– 700mm in diameter. The biodegradable PEG hydrogel microspheres developed in this study through a combination of mild gelation chemistry and electrospraying will be valuable in a variety of biological applications including drug and protein delivery, cell encapsulation, and biosensors.
The Concept of Inductive Probability

The word ‘probability’ in ordinary language has two different senses, here called inductive and physical probability. This paper examines the concept of inductive probability. Attempts to express this concept in other words are shown to be either incorrect or else trivial. In particular, inductive probability is not the same as degree of belief. It is argued that inductive probabilities exist; subjectivist arguments to the contrary are rebutted. Finally, it is argued that inductive probability is an important concept and that it is a mistake to try to replace it with the concept of degree of belief, as is usual today.
Sport and Moral Education in Plato’s Republic

(2007). Sport and Moral Education in Plato’s Republic. Journal of the Philosophy of Sport: Vol. 34, No. 2, pp. 160-175.
DesignWebs: a tool for automatic construction of interactive conceptual maps from document collections

Prior work supports the pedagogical value of conceptual maps for offering students an overview of a topic as well as the connections between subtopics In this poster we describe a system that uses automated topic modeling technology to map the topics and sub-topics in a collection of documents An interactive graphical representation allows users to explore this topic analysis, using it as an interface for browsing a collection of documents We present a small user study evaluating the usability of the interactive map.
Quest for the right word rewards both authors and readers.

This informal essay grew out my 30-plus years of experience in the publishing business and is part of a larger project on writing and editing. The concepts presented below are among those I have been applying to Mycologia during my recent tenure as assistant editor. I’m sharing these ideas here with those of you who care deeply about Mycologia—its authors, readers, editors and members of the Mycological Society of America—in the hope that they might help to improve communication in the journal, whose writing and scientific standards already are high, with all best wishes to former Editor in Chief Joan W. Bennett, who hired me, and new Editor in Chief Donald Natvig and his staff. I commend for your edification Scientific Style and Format: The CBE Manual for Authors, Editors, and Publishers, 6th edition, published in 1994 by the Council of Biology Editors Inc. It is an essential writing and editing tool for scientists. A 7th edition is in the works. TO START Titles.—Please include a verb; doing so infuses the title with meaning, clarity and power. The verb turns the title into a complete thought, grabbing the attention of your reader. A crusty news editor I once worked with, and learned a lot from, emphasized the importance of verbs in all writing, not just in headline writing. The writer’s careful selection of the right verb does more for a sentence than truckloads of adjectives and adverbs, he said, adding that it’s the most important word in the sentence. And I agree with him. Sentences.—Don’t lead with attribution or a prepositional phrase, when possible. Instead rewrite to get the important information up front, where it belongs. Lead with the subject and don’t delay the
Mode effects between computer self-administration and telephone interviewer-administration of the PROMIS(®) pediatric measures, self- and proxy report.

To test equivalence of scores obtained with the PROMIS® pediatric Depressive Symptoms, Fatigue, and Mobility measures across two modes of administration: computer self-administration and telephone interviewer-administration. If mode effects are found, to estimate the magnitude and direction of the mode effects. Respondents from an internet survey panel completed the child self-report and parent proxy-report versions of the PROMIS® pediatric Depressive Symptoms, Fatigue, and Mobility measures using both computer self-administration and telephone interviewer-administration in a crossed counterbalanced design. Pearson correlations and multivariate analysis of variance were used to examine the effects of mode of administration as well as order and form effects. Correlations between scores obtained with the two modes of administration were high. Scores were generally comparable across modes of administration, but there were some small significant effects involving mode of administration; significant differences in scores between the two modes ranged from 1.24 to 4.36 points. Scores for these pediatric PROMIS measures are generally comparable across modes of administration. Studies planning to use multiple modes (e.g., self-administration and interviewer-administration) should exercise good study design principles to minimize possible confounding effects from mixed modes.
The Caribbean's HIV/AIDS Epidemic: Theory, Research and Interventions

The Caribbean is the second leading region worldwide in HIV/AIDS infections behind Sub-Saharan Africa, and AIDS is the leading cause of death among young Caribbean adults. This paper addresses the research findings on the spread of the HIV virus in the adult population of English-speaking Caribbean countries (ESC). There is an examination of the primary drivers of the virus such as risky sexual behaviors, economic deprivation, illiteracy, stigmatization, inadequate HIV/AIDS health care facilities, among other factors. A related discussion is on the feminization of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Discrimination experienced by Caribbean persons infected and affected by HIV/AIDS is addressed. Theoretical perspectives on HIV/AIDS and research findings on HIV/AIDS care and antiretroviral treatment are discussed. The paper concludes with recommendations for the prevention and control of the epidemic in the Caribbean. Abstract
Relationship between Polymorphism of Surfactant Protein B Gene and Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Objective To study the relationship between polymorphism of surfactant protein B(SPB)and susceptibility of bronchopulmonary dysplasia(BPD).Methods The genetic polymorphism of SPB gene-18A/C and SPB 1580C/T,coded for SPB,were analyzed and then compared by using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism(PCR-RFLP)and gene sequencing in 57 children with BPD,and 103 children born at the same gestational without BPD.Results 1.The SPB-18 AA,AC,and CC genotype frequencies in BPD patients and control group were 14.0%,45.6% and 40.4% vs 4.9%,31.1% and 64.1%,respectively;A allele increased the risk of getting neonatal BPD as the following:the OR of AC/CC and AA/CC was 2.3(95% CI 1.2-4.7,P=0.02)and 4.7(95% CI 1.4-16.2,P=0.01);2.The SPB 1580 TT,CT and TT genotype frequencies in BPD patients were 6.8%,45.6%,47.6%,respectively and 12.3%,40.4%,and 47.4%,respectively in control group,there was no significant difference between both groups(χ2=1.50,P0.05).Conclusions SPB-18A/C gene polymorphism in Wuhan pediatric population is a susceptibility factor for BPD and AA is the genotype that increases the risk for BPD.However,no relationship is found between SPB 1580 locus and BPD.
Study on Isolation and Identification of Yersinia enterocolitica of raw meat

Objective:To study the methods of isolation and identification of pathogenic.Methods:Yersinia enterocolitica,isolated from samples of raw meat 49 portions,was identified by routine bacterial culture and multiplex PCR respectively.Results:The isolation and identification results of the two identification methods were consistent.Eight strains of Yersinia enterocolitica were isolated and identified from raw meat of 49 portions.Conclusion:Being time-and labor-saving,the multiplex method has superiority over conventional identification methods and it can be effectively employed in surveillance of Yersinia enterocolitica.
Clinical and imaging surveillance following breast cancer diagnosis

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy affecting women worldwide. Women have a 1 in 8 lifetime risk of breast cancer. Breast conservation therapy (BCT) is the most common method of definitive treatment. Patients who previously have had to undergo mastectomy may be now eligible for BCT or a multitude of options for reconstruction, either immediate or delayed. Surveillance imaging after a breast cancer diagnosis is important because there is an increased risk of recurrence developing in patients, and early detection has been shown to improve survival. There is currently no consensus on a protocol for imaging the postoperative breast. In patients who have undergone mastectomy, detection of recurrence has mostly been via clinical symptoms and physical exam, often at a later stage. New imaging modalities, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound (US), and positron emission mammography (PEM) are changing the way we image the postsurgical breast. MRI, coupled with physical exam and mammography, approaches 100% sensitivity and high specificity for the identification of recurrent disease. We present a review of major academic institutions' imaging protocols and discuss the advantages of including MRI in traditional mammographic and clinical exams.
THE PEDICLE OPERATION FOR CORONARY INSUFFICIENCY: TECHNIQUE AND PRELIMINARY RESULTS

SUMMARY A pedicle has been constructed from the internal mammary artery, vein, adjacent muscle, and connective tissue. It has been used to provide a source for collateral channels to coronary arteries. It will reliably provide these collaterals if it is implanted within the left ventricular wall of a dog, and if it passes under a branch of the coronary artery which has an abnormally low pressure. This type of pedicle is also believed to be capable of providing significant collateral channels to the coronary arterial system of patients, if it is implanted in an area of myocardium with “demand” for collateral channels. Coronary cinearteriographic criteria for identification of this “demand” is reviewed. The pedicle operation has been performed on 40 patients. There were two surgical deaths early in the series and there were two “coronary” deaths within the first 3 postoperative months. There have been no later deaths from any cause. The majority of the patients are partly or completely relieved of their symptoms. Mammary cinearteriography has been done in 4 patients. The artery was open in all. The only mammary arteriogram done after a moderately long-term follow-up (10½ months) showed extensive filling of the anterior descending artery and its branches from collateral channels from the pedicle.
Electron-transfer Oxidation

Electron-transfer oxidation of the vast majority of organic compounds involves multiple steps with transient radicals as key reactive intermediates. Since stable organic compounds are mostly diamagnetic donors with even numbers of electrons, the electron transfer must perforce generate an odd-electron species. In the case of a neutral organic donor (generically represented hereafter as RH), electron-transfer oxidation produces a radical cation (equation 1a),1–3 which is constrained to undergo a second electron transfer before it ultimately yields the diamagnetic product. It is the unique properties of organic radical cations that lead to the rich menu of organic transformations exploitable for organic synthesis.
Lessons learned: designing a mobile application for teaching computer science concepts to middle school girls

While the technology field is growing very fast and is important to our day-to-day lives, very few women consider this field as one they would like to pursue. While the reasons for this are primarily cultural, early exposure to these fields is also very important. In this small study, we tested a customized mobile application (App) we designed to teach middle school girls about computer science concepts. We used surveys to determine which content presentation methods were more effective for learning and to find out their perception of the App. We also tracked participants' movements in the App. We found that among our 7 participants, interactive presentation methods seemed to be better for teaching than heavy text-based methods. We also found out that no participant took the same path through the App. We hope the results from this preliminary study will help add to the knowledge of this demographic in both teaching and design work.
Optimization of a Moving Averages Program Using a Simulated Annealing Algorithm: The Goal is to Monitor the Process Not the Patients.

BACKGROUND: The patient moving average (MA) is a QC strategy using the mean patient result to continuously monitor assay performance. Developing sensitive MA protocols that rapidly detect systematic error (SE) is challenging. We compare MA protocols established using a previously published report as a guide and demonstrate the use of a simulated annealing (SA) algorithm to optimize MA protocol performance. METHODS: Using 400 days of patient data, we developed MA protocols for 23 assays. MA protocols developed using a previously published report and our SA algorithm were compared using the average number of patient samples affected until error detection (ANPed). RESULTS: Comparison of the strategies demonstrated that protocols developed using the SA algorithm generally proved superior. Some analytes such as total protein showed considerable improvement, with positive SE equal to 0.8 g/dL detected with an ANPed of 135 samples using the previously published method whereas the SA algorithm detected this SE with an ANPed of 18. Not all analytes demonstrated similar improvement with the SA algorithm. Phosphorus, for instance, demonstrated only minor improvements, with a positive SE of 0.9 mg/dL detected with an ANPed of 34 using the previously published method vs an ANPed of 29 using the SA algorithm. We also demonstrate an example of SE detection in a live environment using the SA algorithm derived MA protocols. CONCLUSIONS: The SA algorithm–developed MA protocols are currently in use in our laboratory and they rapidly detect SE, reducing the number of samples requiring correction and improving patient safety.
Single-center outcomes of combined heart and liver transplantation in the failing Fontan

Long-term outcomes of the Fontan operation include Fontan failure and liver disease. Combined heart-liver transplantation (CHLT) is an option for select patients although limited data exist on this strategy. A retrospective review of Fontan patients 18 years or older referred for cardiac transplant evaluation between 2000 and 2013 at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania was performed. All patients were considered for potential CHLT. Clinical variables such as demographics, perioperative factors, and short-term outcomes were reviewed. Of 17 referrals for cardiac transplantation, seven Fontan patients underwent CHLT. All patients who underwent CHLT had either advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis on liver biopsy. There were no perioperative deaths. The most common postoperative morbidity was acute kidney injury. Short-term complications include one episode of acute liver rejection but no cardiac rejection greater than 1R. CHLT is an acceptable therapeutic option for patients with failing Fontan physiology who exhibit concomitant advanced liver fibrosis. However, optimal patient selection is currently undefined, and long-term outcomes are not known.
Linear Parameter-Varying Modeling and Control Synthesis Methods

This chapter is split into the following two main parts: modeling of LPV systems and control synthesis methods for LPV systems.
Augustus, Agrippa, the Ara Pacis, and the coinage of 13 BC*

In 13 BC, Augustus returned to Rome from a lengthy tour of the western provinces, just as Agrippa returned from the East. All conditions had been readied to present to the Roman people the establishment of Agrippa as the new partner of Augustus’ labours after a multi-year build up, culminating in the Ara Pacis ceremony at which Agrippa co-presided. However, to those watching the political slogans and headlines of the Roman mint, the Ara Pacis ceremony and Agrippa’s prominent role therein did not bring news, for the coinage of 13 boldly proclaims Agrippa as if he were second princeps by advertizing his enhanced status and by highlighting his accomplishments beyond the level ever provided for any of Augustus’ other colleagues, including his eventual successor, Tiberius (whose own enhancement of powers after AD 4 was modeled upon the precedent of Agrippa). The coinage of 13 BC represents a break from the recent general pattern in that it broke up Augustus’ quasi-regal domination of the mint, and it sent out ...
Improving the process efficiency of catheterization laboratories using simulation

As the size of the population suffering from cardiac problems increases, the number of catheterization procedures performed is growing rapidly. The high costs associated with catheterization laboratories (cath labs) make managing these resources a critical task that impacts the efficiency and operating costs of hospitals as well as the quality of care. This study describes a discrete event simulation model developed to analyze the various factors that affect utilization of cath labs at a 337-bed full-service hospital in Scottsdale Arizona and provide decision support for improving the efficiency of the cath lab operations. The simulation model helped evaluate the performance of the existing approach at the hospital and compare alternative policies to improve operational efficiency. We consider both operational and patient satisfaction metrics and illustrate the tradeoffs between the two. Our analysis recommends reducing the initial time allotted to each case from 120 to 90 min, including a 30-min lunch buffer and end of the day buffer to absorb any delays, and potentially rescheduling inpatients when emergent cases have to be scheduled or other cases are taking longer than anticipated. We also perform detailed parametric analysis to develop more generic recommendations. The facility under study implemented our recommendations and realized a 19% increase in utilization as well as a 71% decrease in overtime.
Enhancing simulation learning with team mental model mapping

Simulations have been developed for many business courses because of enhanced student engagement and learning. A challenge for instructors using simulations is how to take this learning to the next...
Influence of Linguistic and Nonlinguistic Variables on Generalization and Maintenance Following Phonomotor Treatment for Aphasia

Purpose Although phonomotor treatment shows promise as an effective intervention for anomia in people with aphasia, responses to this treatment are not consistent across individuals. To better unde...
Microwave Excitation of Crystalline Energetic Composites

Hotspots produced by microwaves radiating into an energetic composite of RDX crystals and an estane binder are examined using transient electromagnetic (EM) and coupled EM-thermal analyses. Hotspots, localized regions where energetic activity is likely to initiate, manifest as regions of peak electric field or high temperature. Stress caused by these high fields and temperatures may result in molecular breakdown, creating a chain reaction leading to the release of chemical energy via deflagration (burning and melting) in the absence of a mechanical shock wave. High peak electric fields up to three times higher than the incident field result from subwavelength scattering and occur near crystalline surfaces while peak temperatures occur in the binder, with both generally coinciding at the binder-RDX interface. Abstractions enable materials to be modeled with crystals having an average characteristic dimension of 100 $\mu \text{m}$ . With an incident field of 1 MV/m the peak electric field in the composite was 2.9 MV/m and peak temperature increased by 75 K in the binder and 65 K in the RDX after 3.7 ms. The RDX fill factor of the composite was 37%, typical of an improvised explosive.
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Epidemiology and outcome

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia affects over 1000 babies born in the United States each year. 4% to 10% of infant deaths from all congenital anomalies are caused by diaphragmatic hernias. Survivors often suffer significant morbidity. When compared with trauma, cancer, and AIDS, it is clear that this birth defect represents a significant public health problem for children.
Black sites, "dark sides": war power, police power, and the violence of the (un)known

The US Senate Intelligence Committee report on CIA torture and the Guardian’s expose of the Chicago Police Department’s “off-the-books interrogation compound” at Homan Square have again thrust torture into debates concerning the nature and limits of state and police violence. Following a longstanding pattern, key actors framed both cases as revelatory and exceptional and used them as fodder for public condemnation and calls for reform. In order to confront and contest similar patterns of facile outrage, we theorize a cultural-cognitive process of disavowal, whereby the inherent violence of the US state is willfully situated by its subjects in politically and culturally redacted black spaces. Here, black spaces allow political subjects to disavow the many horrors—rendition, torture, murder—committed on their behalf and in the name of security. We argue that these are not simply metaphorical, imaginary spaces, but rather material landscapes linking the certainties of US imperial violence to routine and unco...
Cusps on Hilbert Modular Varieties and Values of L-Functions

This chapter presents an analysis of the cusps on Hilbert modular varieties and values of L -functions. It presents an explicit formula for φ ( M , V ) in terms of the triangulation of R n −1 / V generalizing Hirzebruch's formula in the case n = 2. The chapter discusses a new idea for calculating L ( M , V , 1) that would lead to the same closed formula for L ( M , V ,1) as for φ ( M , V ). The idea is essentially to identify the conditionally convergent series L ( M , V , 1) as a partial fraction decomposition of φ ( M , V ) using Euler's formula that is in some sense the case n = 1 of Hirzebruch's conjecture. The chapter discusses two geometric invariants of the cusp ( M , V ) that are closely related to the signature defect φ ( M , V ).
Phototechnology and Biological Experimentation

A great number of experiments in photobiology can be done with remarkably simple and inexpensive equipment. Nevertheless, the experimenter usually finds, after completing his initial “rough” experiments, that he must concern himself more and more with details such as the relative effectiveness of different wavelengths and the exact energies required. Consequently, there are needs for both simple and complex apparatus. One usually tries to compromise by using equipment that is only as sophisticated as is necessary for sound experimentation.