cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Potential Mechanisms of Vascular Thrombosis after Microwave Ablation in an in Vivo Liver

Abstract Purpose To evaluate potential biologic and thermal mechanisms of the observed differences in thrombosis rates between hepatic vessels during microwave (MW) ablation procedures. Materials and Methods MW ablation antennae were placed in single liver lobes of 2 in vivo porcine liver models (n = 3 in each animal; N = 6 total) in the proximity of a large (> 5 mm) portal vein (PV) and hepatic veins (HVs). Each ablation was performed with 100 W for 5 minutes. Conventional ultrasound imaging and intravascular temperature probes were used to evaluate vessel patency and temperature changes during the ablation procedure. Vascular endothelium was harvested 1 hour after ablation and used to characterize genes and proteins associated with thrombosis in PVs and HVs. Results Targeted PVs within the MW ablation zone exhibited thrombosis at a significantly higher rate than HVs (54.5% vs 0.0%; P = .0046). There was a negligible change in intravascular temperature in PVs and HVs during the ablation procedure (0.2°C ± 0.4 vs 0.6°C ± 0.9; P = .46). PVs exhibited significantly higher gene expression than HVs in terms of fold differences in thrombomodulin (2.9 ± 2.0; P = .0001), von Willebrand factor (vWF; 7.6 ± 1.5; P = .0001), endothelial protein C receptor (3.50 ± 0.49; P = .0011), and plasminogen activator inhibitor (1.46 ± 0.05; P = .0014). Western blot analysis showed significantly higher expression of vWF (2.32 ± 0.92; P = .031) in PVs compared with HVs. Conclusions Large PVs exhibit thrombosis more frequently than HVs during MW ablation procedures. Biologic differences in thrombogenicity, rather than heat transfer, between PVs and HVs may contribute to their different rates of thrombosis.
Rethinking the Concept of Negativity: An Empirical Approach:

Over the last twenty years, there has been a tremendous amount written on “negativity” in political campaigns. Yet, there is a conceptual disconnect between the definition of negativity used by res...
Analysis and Design of Safety-critical, Cyber-Physical Systems

The list of applications classified as safety critical is growing due to emerging contexts such as the Internet of Things that touch the everyday activities of millions of people through smart devices like home automation systems and connected vehicles. These consumer products require high reliability but must be priced competitively. Traditional system development strategies are costly, in part, because traditional verification activities find only a small percentage of defects early in a project and because when discovered late in the development life cycle their repair requires changes to dependent code as well. Our development approach leverages early system architecture knowledge to jump start an architecture-centric development strategy that iteratively establishes traceability among the requirements, architecture, and verification artifacts. A virtual integration strategy makes the current state of the system under development available for analysis early in the product development life cycle. The approach is implemented using the Architecture Analysis and Design Language (AADL) embodied in the Open Source AADL Tool Environment (OSATE). The Architecture-Led Incremental System Assurance (ALISA) toolkit, the latest contribution of our team at the Software Engineering Institute, builds on AADL to provide the constructs and tools for an engineer to specify the integrated system, and to define verification activities that ensure satisfaction of the specification. The results from using the languages and techniques in pilot projects have shown very large cost and time savings, important to holding down costs for consumer-level Internet of Things systems. In this paper we focus on the architecture-led development process and illustrate the support given by ALISA.
Towards user centered building design: Identifying end-user lighting preferences via immersive virtual environments

Abstract In this paper, a systematic approach is presented to (1) collect end-user lighting-related behavior by using immersive virtual environments (IVEs) as an experimental tool, (2) integrate the collected data with building performance simulation (BPS) tools in order to translate behavioral information into quantitative measures (i.e., preferred lux level), and (3) incorporate user preference data for evaluating design alternatives with the objective of meeting end-user lighting preferences while reducing the building lighting-related energy consumption. To evaluate the applicability of this approach, 89 participants' lighting preferences, performance (reading speed and comprehension), personality traits, and environmental views were collected in IVEs. BPS tools were used to translate participants' lighting preferences into quantitative lux distributions, which were then used to evaluate alternative designs and make user-centered design decisions. The results of the experimental study show that participants preferred to have maximum simulated daylighting compared to electric lighting. Additionally, participants with some or maximum levels of simulated daylighting performed significantly better on the assigned reading and comprehension tasks than those that did not have any simulated daylighting available. Lastly, by collecting participant personality traits, it was observed that extroverts are significantly more likely to prefer maximum lighting (maximum electric lighting and simulated daylighting) compared to other people. To demonstrate how the collected data and results could be used during the design phase of buildings, as one example, a design case study is presented, in which the design of the same office space (as the experiment) is improved to meet participants' lighting preferences and increase the available simulated daylighting.
Budesonide Versus Acetazolamide for Prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness

Abstract Background Inhaled budesonide has been suggested as a novel prevention for acute mountain sickness. However, efficacy has not been compared with the standard acute mountain sickness prevention medication acetazolamide. Methods This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial compared inhaled budesonide versus oral acetazolamide versus placebo, starting the morning of ascent from 1240 m (4100 ft) to 3810 m (12,570 ft) over 4 hours. The primary outcome was acute mountain sickness incidence (headache and Lake Louise Questionnaire ≥3 and another symptom). Results A total of 103 participants were enrolled and completed the study; 33 (32%) received budesonide, 35 (34%) acetazolamide, and 35 (34%) placebo. Demographics were not different between the groups ( P > .09). Acute mountain sickness prevalence was 73%, with severe acute mountain sickness of 47%. Fewer participants in the acetazolamide group (n = 15, 43%) developed acute mountain sickness compared with both budesonide (n = 24, 73%) (odds ratio [OR] 3.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3-10.1) and placebo (n = 22, 63%) (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.2-1.2). Severe acute mountain sickness was reduced with acetazolamide (n = 11, 31%) compared with both budesonide (n = 18, 55%) (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1-7.2) and placebo (n = 19, 54%) (OR 0.4, 95% CI 0.1-1), with a number needed to treat of 4. Conclusion Budesonide was ineffective for the prevention of acute mountain sickness, and acetazolamide was preventive of severe acute mountain sickness taken just before rapid ascent.
From Authority- to Evidence-Based Medicine: Are Clinical Practice Guidelines Moving us Forward or Backward?

Our goals in medicine should be simple; the work we do should relieve suffering, prevent future suffering, and/or prolong life. But the work we do to achieve these goals is not simple. A central part of that work is making good clinical decisions, one patient and one decision at a time. These
Iowa first congressional district: Anomaly or new normal?

A Republican representing northeast Iowa in Congress is a political anomaly. Almost immediately after Rod Blum’s initial election in 2014, he was viewed as vulnerable. Blum did not match the dynamics of Iowa’s 1st Congressional District, where Democrats have consistently outnumbered Republicans by four to five percentage points and President Obama won by 14 points in 2012. To understand this mismatch, this chapter draws on an original survey sent to 1‚500 randomly selected voters in the district. Blum’s success was in part due to independent voters seeing him as neither too hot nor too cold. Given the district’s support for Donald Trump, it is still an open question on whether Blum’s representation of the district is truly anomalous, or whether it is a new normal.
Rapid Diagnosis of Babesia gibsoni by Point-of-Need Testing by Insulated Isothermal PCR in Dogs at High Risk of Infection

BACKGROUND Dogs seized by law enforcement agencies during dogfighting investigations are at increased risk of Babesia gibsoni infection. A rapid and cost-effective diagnostic test would increase the feasibility of mass screening of dogs for infection and monitoring treatment efficacy in B. gibsoni-infected dogs. OBJECTIVE To determine the performance of a point-of-need insulated isothermal PCR (iiPCR) test for diagnosis of B. gibsoni in dogs rescued in dogfighting investigations. ANIMALS Two hundred and thirty-three dogs seized in dogfighting investigations. METHODS Cross-sectional study. Whole blood samples were tested for B. gibsoni and Babesia spp. by iiPCR. Results were compared to a reference standard comprised of concordant results from real-time PCR in a commercial diagnostic laboratory and antibody titers. RESULTS The iiPCR system was quick to learn, portable, and had a short processing time of <2 hours. Sensitivity and specificity of the iiPCR assay for B. gibsoni were 90% (95% confidence interval [CI] 81-95%) and 99% (CI, 95-100%), respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of the iiPCR assay for Babesia spp. were 87% (CI, 78-93%) and 98% (CI, 0.94-99%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE The iiPCR system produced few false-positive results, indicating that positive results are likely to represent true infections when used in high-risk animals. The iiPCR system can fail to identify 10-15% of truly infected dogs. However, the portability, speed, and economy of the iiPCR system compared to testing through a reference laboratory can allow rescue groups to screen and identify infection in more dogs.
Older adults in jail: high rates and early onset of geriatric conditions

The number of older adults in the criminal justice system is rapidly increasing. While this population is thought to experience an early onset of aging-related health conditions (“accelerated aging”), studies have not directly compared rates of geriatric conditions in this population to those found in the general population. The aims of this study were to compare the burden of geriatric conditions among older adults in jail to rates found in an age-matched nationally representative sample of community dwelling older adults. This cross sectional study compared 238 older jail inmates age 55 or older to 6871 older adults in the national Health and Retirement Study (HRS). We used an age-adjusted analysis, accounting for the difference in age distributions between the two groups, to compare sociodemographics, chronic conditions, and geriatric conditions (functional, sensory, and mobility impairment). A second age-adjusted analysis compared those in jail to HRS participants in the lowest quintile of wealth. All geriatric conditions were significantly more common in jail-based participants than in HRS participants overall and HRS participants in the lowest quintile of net worth. Jail-based participants (average age of 59) experienced four out of six geriatric conditions at rates similar to those found in HRS participants age 75 or older. Geriatric conditions are prevalent in older adults in jail at significantly younger ages than non-incarcerated older adults suggesting that geriatric assessment and geriatric-focused care are needed for older adults cycling through jail in their 50s and that correctional clinicians require knowledge about geriatric assessment and care.
Photodegradation of Secondary Organic Aerosol Material Quantified with a Quartz Crystal Microbalance

We used a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) to quantify the mass loss resulting from exposure of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) particles deposited on the QCM crystal to 254, 305, and 365 nm radiation. We coupled the QCM setup to a proton transfer reaction time-of-flight mass spectrometer (PTR-ToF-MS) to chemically resolve the photoproduced volatile organic compounds (VOCs) responsible for the mass loss. The photoproduced VOCs detected by the PTR-ToF-MS accounted for ∼50% of the mass loss rates measured with the QCM. Weakly absorbing SOA produced by ozonolysis of α-pinene or d-limonene exhibited a much larger mass loss rate in both the QCM and the PTR-ToF-MS data compared to that of strongly absorbing SOA produced by photooxidation of guaiacol. We predict that the fractional mass loss rate of α-pinene ozonolysis SOA should be as high as ∼1%/h on the summer solstice in Los Angeles in the lower troposphere and ∼4%/h in the stratosphere. The mass loss rates for SOA particles crossing a typical 254 nm oxidat...
On plankton distributions and biophysical interactions in diverse coastal and limnological environments

Digital holography provides a unique perspective towards studying aquatic particles/organisms. The ability to sample particles in undisturbed conditions, coupled with the ability to generate 3-D spatial distributions is currently unmatched by any other technique. To leverage these advantages, field experiments with the goal of characterizing aquatic particle properties in situ, were conducted using a submersible holographic imaging system. Diverse aquatic environments were sampled over 3 separate deployments between 2014 and 2017. The areas included: (a) The Gulf of Mexico (GoM), in the vicinity of the Mississippi river plume; (b) Lake Erie; and (c) East Sound in the US Pacific Northwest. A database of more than two million different types of particles in the 10-10000 m size range, was created after processing > 100,000 holograms. Particle size distributions (PSDs) exhibited a Junge-type distribution when characterized by size grouping into logarithmically spaced bins. Particles/plankton were also classified into different groups (e.g. diatoms, copepods). Results presented will be broadly grouped into two parts: (a) PSDs at different depths within the water column during the occurrence of a Microcystis bloom at Lake Erie and individual cell counts within these colonies; and (b) Vertical structure of plankton in East Sound, specifically the presence of diatom thin layers. Finally, the rich diversity in species composition in the GoM and successful data collection towards creating a training set to implement automated classification routines will be briefly discussed.
The G protein–coupled estrogen receptor agonist, G-1, attenuates BK channel activation in cerebral arterial smooth muscle cells

The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) is a significant modulator of arterial contractility and blood flow. The GPER-specific activator, G-1, has been widely used to characterize GPER function in a variety of tissue types. Large conductance, calcium (Ca2+)-activated K+ (BK) channels are sensitive to 17β-estradiol (17β-E2) and estrogenic compounds (e.g., tamoxifen, ICI 182 780) that target estrogen receptors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of G-1 on BK channel activation and function in cerebral arterial myocytes. Inside-out and perforated patch clamp were utilized to assess the effects of G-1 (50 nmol·L-1-5 μmol·L-1) on BK channel activation and currents in cerebral arterial myocytes. Pressurized artery myography was used to investigate the effects of G-1 on vasodilatory response and BK channel function of cerebral resistance size arteries. G-1 reduced BK channel activation in cerebral arterial myocytes through elevations in BK channel mean close times. Depressed BK channel activation following G-1 application resulted in attenuated physiological BK currents (transient BK currents). G-1 elicited vasodilation, but reduced BK channel function, in pressurized, endothelium-denuded cerebral arteries. These data suggest that G-1 directly suppresses BK channel activation and currents in cerebral arterial myocytes, BK channels being critically important in the regulation of myocyte membrane potential and arterial contractility. Thus, GPER-mediated vasodilation using G-1 to activate the receptor may underestimate the physiological function and relevance of GPER in the cardiovascular system.
Pre-evacuation Trip Behavior

Evacuation models, which seek to calculate evacuation time estimates (ETEs) and evaluate evacuation strategies, are based on assumptions concerning human behavior. One of the most consistent assumptions is that once an evacuation order is given, people will proceed to an evacuation point. ETEs are further assumed to be a function of network congestion along arcs. We test these assumptions through a survey of residents of Key West, Florida who experienced evacuation orders associated with Hurricane Wilma in 2005. Of particular interest are the trips residents made between the time the evacuation order was given and the deadline for evacuation, what we call pre-evacuation trips. Such trips were made by people who evacuated as well as by those who waited out the storm. That is, traffic on the transportation network is not solely limited to people seeking to evacuate. Survey data indicate three important aspects of pre-evacuation trip making behavior that run counter to common evacuation modeling assumptions. First, trip delays at stops are longer than delays on links. Second, trip delays are associated with trip purposes, which often are not to evacuate an area, and there is evidence of trip chaining. Finally, patterns of pre-evacuation trips show a dispersal of origins and destinations resulting in pre-evacuation trips that flow in many directions, not just toward evacuation points.
Proposal for measurement of coherent spin dynamics of individual magnetic dopants in a semiconductor using low-field magnetoresistance of spin-polarized scanning tunneling spectroscopy (Conference Presentation)

Individual magnetic impurities or small collections of magnetic impurities in III-V semiconductors can be identified via scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) [1,2], their exchange interaction can be measured [3], and they can have remarkably long spin coherence times [4]. Spin-1/2 impurities are able to be addressed individually and the eigenstates tailored allowing the construction of engineered spin networks [5]. We describe an approach to explore the coherent spin dynamics of a spin-1/2 defect coupled to an additional spin-1/2 defect via exchange interaction with a spin-polarized STM contact through low-field magnetoresistance. The inherent anisotropy [2,3,5,6] in conjunction with the applied magnetic field should allow one to describe a single spin Hanle curve. In addition, measurements of the spin coherence time and the local hyperfine interaction should be feasible. This analysis is then used to guide the examination of coherent spin-dynamics involving coupled Mn-hole complexes in III-V semiconductors. [1] J. M. Tang and M. E. Flatte, Phys. Rev. Lett. 92, 047201 (2004). [2] A. M. Yakunin et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 92, 216806 (2004). [3] D. Kitchen et al., Nature 442, 436 (2006). [4] R. C. Myers et al., Nature Materials 7, 203 (2008). [5] K. Yang et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 119, 227206 (2017). [6] R. E. George et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 110, 027601 (2013).
THE CONCEPTS OF “COMMUNICATIVE COMPETENCE” AND “GAMIFICATION OF ENGLISH LEARNING FOR SPECIAL PURPOSE” IN SCIENTIFIC DISCOURSE

The article defines the essence of the concepts of "competence" and "competence in learning". These concepts’ understanding by different researchers is highlighted, differences and similarities of these concepts definition by scientists are shown. The concepts of "communicative competence" and "professional communicative competence" are defined, their features are outlined. Our study also examines the problem of losing interest in the learning as one of the main issues of modern pedagogy, analyzes a relatively new motivation tool "gamification". The definitions of this concept by different researchers are given. It is highlighted that the most appropriate one is the usage of gaming practices and mechanisms in a non-gaming context to engage users to solve different problems. It is also noted that to solve the problem of the effectiveness of professional training, the use of the gamification approach in learning the maritime English for professional purpose is proposed during the creation of e-courses in the system of blended education, which involves the harmonious combination of traditional learning and online learning using e learning environment. In our research we consider the gamification approach in the informational and educational environment. In our article the advantages of using the gamification approach comparing to other approaches are also outlined.
Histologic effect of the potassium-titanyl phosphorous laser on laryngeal papilloma.

Objectives Tissue effects occurring with potassium-titanyl phosphorous (KTP) laser treatment are difficult to quantify due to the multiple variables that affect not only the fluence (energy delivered) but also the laser-tissue interaction. This histopathologic analysis of recurrent respiratory papilloma (RRP) removed after treatment with KTP laser therapy permits correlation of histologic effect with method of laser treatment. Methods The histopathology of RRP resected specimens in a single patient was compared following treatment with KTP laser in contact and non-contact modes as documented with intraoperative photography and video imaging. Results Epithelial-sparing injury selective to the microvasculature was identified on histopathologic assessment of a specimen treated with noncontact angiolysis. Highly cauterized papillomatous epithelium without identifiable vascular structures was identified on tissue removed after treatment with the KTP laser in contact mode. Conclusion The histopathologic assessment of acute KTP laser effect on papilloma permits correlation between technique of application and tissue effect. Similar assessments may be helpful to modify dosimetry for individual patients requiring repeated treatment and may also assist in refining the development of existing KTP laser treatment classification systems. Level of Evidence 4.
Size effects on phonon response of bismuth nanoislands to ultrafast laser excitation

Abstract The lattice dynamics of bismuth nanoislands induced by ultrafast laser excitation is studied by ultrafast electron diffraction. The decay times of the Bragg peak intensity depend on the diffraction order. For 5-nm flat nanoislands, the decay time of the (110) diffraction order is close to the A1g optical phonon decay time. When the thickness is increased to ∼16 nm, the excitation energy is dissipated into low energy phonons, making energy transport diffusive, thus leading to a longer decay time. The temporal evolution of the (012) Bragg diffraction peak shows a two exponential decay with a second decay time of ∼40 ps emerging when the nanoislands are 5 nm thick and the laser fluence is lower than 1.5 mJ/cm2. This second decay may be attributed to a phonon bottleneck caused by size restriction.
Quality of Care in Childhood-onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Report of an Intervention to Improve Cardiovascular and Bone Health Screening.

Objective Initial benchmarking of childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) quality indicators revealed suboptimal performance across multiple centers. Our aim was to improve cardiovascular and bone health screenings at a tertiary treatment center for cSLE. This included annual measurements of vitamin D, lipid profiles, and bone mineral density through dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). Methods Quality improvement methodology was applied to design and implement a standardized previsit planning process to electronically entered and saved orders for needed screenings prior to a scheduled clinic visit. Process outcomes were measured using statistical process control charts. Univariate analyses were completed to assess patient-level factors. Results During the study, 123 patients with cSLE participated across 619 clinic visits. The percentage of patients with completed screenings improved from 54% to 92% for annual vitamin D, 55% to 84% for annual lipid profiles, and 57% to 78% for DEXA, which was sustained for more than 1 year. Providers responded to a majority of abnormal results, and improvement in the average vitamin D level was observed over time. Higher levels of disease activity, damage, number of clinic visits, and screenings completed at baseline were observed in patients with all screenings completed at the end of the intervention. Conclusion Implementation of elements of the chronic illness care model for cSLE management improved performance of cardiovascular and bone health screenings, a step toward preventing longterm morbidity in cSLE. Our study also suggests that more patient interaction with the healthcare system may promote successful completion of health maintenance screenings.
2009 Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment

Case Files Internal Medicine (3rd edition) is an excellent internal medicine review book written especially for medical students in their clinical years. It is perfect for clerkships, sub-internships, shelf, and USMLE exams. Sized to fit in the pocket of a white coat for easy portability, this book offers an engaging and high-yield review of internal medicine. It promotes active learning, using patient presentations and thought-provoking questions to encourage deeper thinking about clinical problems. The format will be comfortable for anyone who has spent time on the wards learning from patients and engaging in problem-based learning. The introduction begins with an explanation of how to think clinically and to maximize the use of the content. Sixty cases are presented that cover a wide spectrum of commonly encountered diagnoses seen in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Each case presentation is followed by a prompt for the diagnosis and the next step in management or treatment. These are followed by discussions on pathophysiology and clinical management, several boards-style questions, and lists of clinical pearls that all serve to reinforce concepts for the student. The questions reflect what would be seen on shelf and USMLE exams, and the answer explanations are cogent and relevant, especially when used in combination with the topic reviews. References are provided at the end of each case for students who desire to study more in-depth material. Overall, the writing is simple and easy to understand, and the images, algorithms, tables, and clinical pearls emphasize key points that can easily be found for future reference. This book is highly recommended to supplement internal medicine clerkships and sub-internships and to prepare for shelf and USMLE exams.
Simultaneous Quantitative Analysis of Berberine and Other Alkaloids in Powdered Phellodendron Bark

Phellodendron bark ("Obaku") is an important crude drug used in Kampo-medicine. Recently, powder formulation of phellodendron bark was approved as an "efficacious treatment for bruise, sprain, and periodontal diseases", and it has been marketed as an OTC agent. To obtain this approval, the examination of quality control-related characteristics is necessary. Therefore, we established a quantitative method for jatrorrhizine, palmatine, and berberine determination. In this study, we compared the contents of the three constituents obtained from the extracts of Japanese and Chinese phellodendron bark and found remarkable difference.
Life history and individual differences in male testosterone: Mixed evidence for early environmental calibration of testosterone response to first-time fatherhood.

Abstract Male testosterone (T) decreases in response to childbirth. Longitudinal support for this has come from samples across cultures. In this study, we look at individual differences in this phenomenon. Utilizing a sample of U.S. fathers, we employ life history theory to investigate the influence of a father's early experience on his neuroendocrine response to fatherhood. We conducted three home visits (n = 226 fathers) from the third trimester of pregnancy to when infants were 10 months old. In this sample, T declined from the third trimester of (a partner's) pregnancy to the early months of the postnatal period. T recovered to pre-birth levels by the time infants reached 10 months old. We did not find any evidence that one's subjective experience of their early environment could account for any meaningful variability in T calibration. Objective, “event” measures of early harshness (i.e., death of a sibling/friend) and unpredictability (i.e., parent upheaval) each uniquely predicted a younger age of sexual debut. Neither harshness nor unpredictability had any (direct or indirect) effects on T calibration. Age of sexual debut did predict the rate of T recovery from 3 to 10 months postnatal. The younger one's sexual debut, the more accelerated their T ascent during this period. We discuss the potential reasons for, and implications of our mixed results.
Submodular sketches of single-cell RNA-seq measurements

Analyzing and sharing massive single-cell RNA-seq data sets can be facilitated by creating a "sketch" of the data -- a selected subset of cells that accurately represent the full data set. Using an existing benchmark, we demonstrate the utility of submodular optimization in efficiently creating high quality sketches of scRNA-seq data.
Pharmacogenetics of hypoglycemia associated with sulfonylurea therapy in usual clinical care

Hypoglycemia is a common complication among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients receiving sulfonylurea therapy. The aim of this study was to determine if genetic contributions to sulfonylurea pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics substantially affect the risk of hypoglycemia in these patients. In a retrospective case–control study in European American patients with T2DM, we examined the potential association between CYP2C9 reduced-function variants and sulfonylurea-related hypoglycemia. We also explored the relationship between sulfonylurea-related hypoglycemia and several candidate genetic variants previously reported to alter the response to sulfonylureas. We detected no evidence of association between CYP2C9 reduced-function alleles or any of the candidate genetic variants and sulfonylurea-related hypoglycemia. In conclusion, we identified no clinically significant predictors of hypoglycemia among genes associated with sulfonylurea pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics.
Optimization and characterization of a silicon photomultiplier-based ZnS(Ag) proton recoil fast neutron detector for nuclear fuel performance monitoring at TREAT

The restart of the Transient Reactor Test Facility (TREAT) at Idaho National Laboratory and consequent refurbishment of the Fuel Motion Monitoring System (FMMS), or Hodoscope, offers the opportunity to upgrade the detector system used for neutron imaging. Silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) are a viable option for updating the Hodoscope to yield improved fuel monitoring capability. The Hodoscope uses ZnS(Ag) proton recoil scintillators (PRS) that provide good gamma-ray suppression and discrimination. Previous work showed that the Hamamatsu S13360-6075CS SiPM offers the best neutron detection and gamma-ray discrimination capability with the ZnS PRS. This work optimizes a SiPM-based detector and develops a PRS prototype for testing. Specifically, possible overvoltages for use are determined by confirming steady operation over extended measurement times. In addition, various SiPM-circuit implementations are tested to optimize the detector according to desired properties, and ultimately a PRS prototype is developed with modifiable components for versatile testing. Measurements of the neutron detection efficiency and gamma-ray rejection efficiency of SiPM-based PRS detectors and a reference PMT-based detector are also carried out. Neutron detection efficiency ranges between 1–2%, and detected gamma-ray rejection efficiency is on the order of 10−7. Use of a low-pass filter only or a low-pass filter and 50-ω shunt resistor is recommended for the SiPM-based detector, and both configurations demonstrate improved performance over the PMT-based detector.
Mental Health Among Black Youth Experiencing Socioeconomic Microaggressions

Microaggressions, or subtle forms of discrimination, are associated with poor mental and physical health as well as chronic stress and disease. The current study sought to add to the microaggressio...
Differences in Differentiation: Rising Variety and Markups in Retail Food Stores

In this paper I show that consumers in food stores and supermarkets/hypermarkets became significantly less price sensitive between 2006 and 2017. At the median, across thousands of stores and products in nine large categories, estimated own-price elasticities have declined by 25% over this period. I argue that these changes are likely due in part to improved supply chain management, which has led stores to offer a larger variety of goods which better match consumers’ individual preferences. I show that newer products are indeed more “niche” in this sense, and that other potential sources of rising differentiation including increases in quality and changes in consumer wealth play a smaller role. Markups implied by a monopolistic pricing rule suggest that the observed rise in differentiation was large enough to generate significant increases in firms’ markups absent any changes in pricing behavior or competition.
Study on the combined effect of thixotropy, particle shape, and particle size on cuttings transport in horizontal annuli

Abstract Several authors have studied the effect of particle shape and size on cuttings transport and have reported different, often contradictory, results. The thixotropic nature of the drilling is seldom considered. This study investigates the effects of particle shape and size on cuttings carrying capability of thixotropic fluids in an attempt to better understand the underlying process. Flow equations are based on the mixture approach and are numerically solved using the CFD methodology. Turbulence is modeled using the buoyant k-epsilon model. A relative velocity equation is developed to model the slip between non-spherical particles and thixotropic fluid. It is concluded that in horizontal annuli, cuttings transport does not have a one to one relationship with particle size and/or particle shape. Instead, cuttings transport has a power-law relationship with the ratio of the product of particle shape and flow rate, and particle size i.e. (sphericity x velocity)/particle diameter.
An Interpretable Graph Generative Model with Heterophily.

Many models for graphs fall under the framework of edge-independent dot product models. These models output the probabilities of edges existing between all pairs of nodes, and the probability of a link between two nodes increases with the dot product of vectors associated with the nodes. Recent work has shown that these models are unable to capture key structures in real-world graphs, particularly heterophilous structures, wherein links occur between dissimilar nodes. We propose the first edge-independent graph generative model that is a) expressive enough to capture heterophily, b) produces nonnegative embeddings, which allow link predictions to be interpreted in terms of communities, and c) optimizes effectively on real-world graphs with gradient descent on a cross-entropy loss. Our theoretical results demonstrate the expressiveness of our model in its ability to exactly reconstruct a graph using a number of clusters that is linear in the maximum degree, along with its ability to capture both heterophily and homophily in the data. Further, our experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of our model for a variety of important application tasks such as multi-label clustering and link prediction.
Comparison Of Root Canal Irrigation Systems In Reducing Intracanal Microorganisms Using Saline-An In Vitro Study

COMPARISON OF ROOT CANAL IRRIGATION SYSTEMS IN REDUCING INTRACANAL MICROORGANISMS USING SALINE-AN IN VITRO STUDY By Pranav Desai, BDS, DDS A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Dentistry at Virginia Commonwealth University. Virginia Commonwealth University, 2012. Director: Karan J. Replogle, DDS, MS Department Chair, Department of Endodontics Mechanical and chemical debridement plays an important role in reducing intracanal microorganisms. Effective root canal irrigation depends on both the root canal irrigant and irrigation system. The objective of this study was to evaluate the debridement efficiency of four root canal irrigation systems, Endovac®, PiezoFlowTM, EndoActivator® and traditional needle irrigation using saline as an irrigant. Seventy-five, single canal, extracted, mature teeth were selected. Teeth were standardized to canal lengths of 15 mm and instrumented to Master Apical File size #40 with 4% taper. Teeth were mounted in a centrifuge tube using PVS impression material. Teeth were randomly divided into four experimental groups (n=15) and one control group (n=15). The root canals were inoculated with 24-hour culture of Streptococcus mutans and incubated for 72 hours. Saline was delivered via each of the irrigation systems at the rate of 7 ml/min using a precision syringe pump. Immediately following the treatment, samples were collected from the untreated control and the experimental groups and plated on agar plates. Results were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD multiple comparison tests. All the experimental groups were significantly better than the control group (p<0.0001). Among the experimental groups, Endovac® and PiezoFlowTM were significantly better in reducing microorganisms compared to needle and EndoActivator® groups (p<0.05). There was no statistical difference between Endovac® and PiezoFlowTM. Debridement efficiency of Endovac® and PiezoFlowTM is better than needle and EndoActivator® irrigation systems using saline as an irrigant. Funded by Alexander Fellowship, VCU School of Dentistry.
Introduction to the Special Section: Perspectives on Sibling Relationships: Advancing Child Development Research

— For the vast majority of individuals, relationships with siblings provide a context for life experiences, yet the influences of these relationships are rarely reflected in studies of child and adolescent development. To encourage researchers to take the role of siblings into account in their studies of child development, this Special Section of Child Development Perspectives presents 3 articles that summarize emerging issues related to how siblings are defined in a world of increasingly diverse family forms and multiple cultures and to the unique role of siblings during the transition to adulthood. The Special Section concludes with a commentary that frames sibling issues within the larger context of research on social relationships and child development across the life course.
Prediction of the energy value of cow's milk.

Abstract The quantification of lactation response requires that various yields of milk of various chemical compositions he equated to a common term. Although the gross energy value is the most common characteristic to which all organic substances can be reduced, its direct measurement is expensive. As a consequence, a study was made of the relationships among the energy value and the concentrations of total solids, solids-not-fat (SNF), fat, protein, lactose, and ash in 600 two- and seven-day composite samples of milk from 42 Holstein cows and ranging from 1.6 to 6.4% fat. An analysis of 21 different combinations of milk components showed that the most practical equation for the accurate prediction (C.V. = 1.3%) of the energy value of milks having a wide range of chemical composition is: Energy (kcal/lb) = 41.84 (% fat) + 22.29 (% SNF)−25.58. From this, the following equation was derived to compute the solids-corrected milk (SCM) yield containing 340kcal of energy per pound: SCM (lb) = 12.3 (F) + 6.56 (SNF)−0.0752 (M); where F, SNF, and M are expressed as pounds of fat, solids-not-fat, and milk, respectively. This equation predicted the milk energy output of cows producing low-fat milk effected by dietary means as accurately as that of normal milk. The Gaines 4% FCM equation underestimated by as much as 15% the energy output in milk containing less than 3% of fat.
A dispersion approach to interference model and local duality principle

The dispersion relations are used to obtain an interpolation formula for the amplitude which would have low-energy resonant behavior and high-energy Regge behavior. The method may be applied to both single- and multi-Regge exchange cases. A sum rule relating the Regge terms and the resonant terms is obtained, and it holds well throughout the low-energy and the intermediate-energy regions.
Methods of Proactive Classroom Management

Educational researchers and classroom teachers have long recognized that skills for managing children's behavior are essential to teaching success. Classroom management, however, has often been ass...
Adolescents at Risk

Adolescence is a developmental period of rapid physical, psychological, sociocultural, and cognitive changes characterized by efforts to confront and surmount challenges and to establish a sense of identity and autonomy. While many adolescents navigate the sometimes turbulent course from childhood to adulthood to become productive and healthy adults, there is growing concern that far too many others may not achieve their full potential as workers, parents, and individuals. Unfortunately, adolescence is also a period fraught with many threats to the health and well-being of adolescents, many of whom suffer substantial impairment and disability. Much of the adverse health consequences experienced by adolescents are, to a large extent, the result of risk behaviors (Ginzberg, 1991). As such, they are preventable.
Appearance and self-presentation research in gay consumer cultures: issues and impact.

Individuals present themselves to others through a variety of verbal and non-verbal behaviors. Appearance represents a non-verbal behavior which consumes a significant amount of our time, effort, and thought. We create and monitor our appearances in relation to cultural standards of attractiveness, relying on a wide range of appearance products and services to do so. The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of appearance and self-presentation among gay consumers, to discuss issues relating to conducting gay consumer research, to discuss implications for marketing strategies, and to suggest recommendations for further research on specific aspects of appearance management as they may affect marketing to gay consumers. Two studies are reported herein. The first study examines differences in perception among homosexual men when viewing a stimulus person dressed in six distinctly different modes of expression. Social impressions of the stimulus person were different on 15 pairs of characteristics, wi...
2-[(4-tert-Butyl­phenoxy)­di­chloro­methyl]­phenyl di­chloro­phospho­nate

The reaction of phospho­rus pentachloride with p-tert-butyl­phenyl salicyl­ate yielded the title compound, C17H17Cl4O3P, which was originally thought to contain a P—O—C heterocycle. The true molecular structure has now been established by the determination of its crystal structure.
Intradermal hepatitis B vaccination: a systematic review and meta-analysis

To compare seroprotection achieved by intradermal versus intramuscular hepatitis B vaccine, we conducted a systematic review of observational studies and a meta-analysis of randomized trials. Meta-analysis of data from 757 adults demonstrated that intradermal hepatitis B vaccination was slightly (14%) less likely to achieve seroprotection than intramuscular vaccination (risk ratio(pooled) 0.86; 95% confidence interval: 0.77-0.95). Diverse study methodologies detracted from our ability to synthesize data from these studies; standardized approaches would enhance comparability of future studies. Seroprotection from intradermal vaccination was higher among females and children, suggesting that these populations may be most appropriate for future intradermal vaccine development efforts.
Ladies: South by Northwest

The lady represented the ideal image for most nineteenth‐century American women, even those who pioneered the American frontier. The Southern lady, however, has always been considered the particular embodiment of that image. Since the advent of women's liberation and the large‐scale movement of women into the labor force, one might well question the salience of the lady as role model for contemporary women. Do modern women still want to be ladies? Using the constructed type of the lady role, this study examines the salience of the lady image for selected samples of women from the South and the Pacific Northwest. Our respondents indicated the extent of their agreement with our constructed type and also the extent to which they held the temperamental and behavioral traits of the constructed type. In general, the women in our samples supported the constructed type. Also the women in both regions felt that they lived up to the role expectations of the lady; however, the Northwest women felt that they met more...
Discontinuation of antiplatelet agents Don't worry, be happy?

Neurologists frequently lament that we are about a decade behind cardiologists: therapies initially pioneered in coronary artery disease, such as use of thrombolytics and statins, eventually filter down to the treatment of stroke. However, an opportunity presents itself by taking advantage of cardiology therapeutic advances or red flags raised in the treatment of coronary artery disease. Should neurologists be concerned about potential implications for our patients with stroke or TIAs if concerns arise in the context of cardiovascular disease? One concern that has been raised is the potential for adverse vascular events following the discontinuation of clopidogrel1 in those receiving dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel for acute coronary syndrome. In these patients, dual antiplatelet therapy is frequently administered for 3 to 12 months and subsequently aspirin monotherapy is continued indefinitely. A few …
Chronic AT2 receptor activation increases renal ACE2 activity, attenuates AT1 receptor function and blood pressure in obese Zucker rats

Abnormal regulation of the renin angiotensin system such as enhanced renal AT 1 R function and reduced ACE2 activity contributes to obesity-related hypertension. Here, we tested whether long-term AT2R activation affects renal function in obesity using lean and obese Zucker rats treated with the AT2R agonist CGP42112A for 2 weeks. This caused blood pressure to decrease by 13mmHg, which was associated with increased urinary sodium excretion in the obese rats. Cortical ACE2 expression and activity, the Mas receptor (MasR), and its ligand angiotensin-(1-7) were all increased in CGP-treated obese compared with control rats. Candesartan-induced natriuresis, a measure of AT 1 R function, was reduced but cortical AT 1 R expression and angiotensin II levels were similar in CGP-treated obese compared with control rats. Renin and AT2R expression in obese rats was not affected by CGP treatment. In HK-2 cells in vitro , CGP treatment caused increased ACE2 activity and MasR levels but decreased AT 1 R levels and renin activity. Thus, long-term AT2R activation shifts the opposing arms of renin angiotensin system and contributes to natriuresis and blood pressure reduction in obese animals. Our study highlights the importance of AT2R as a target for treating obesity-related hypertension.