cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neuronal Pentraxin 2 predicts medial temporal atrophy and memory decline across the Alzheimer’s disease spectrum

Chronic neuroinflammation is thought to potentiate medial temporal lobe (MTL) atrophy and memory decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD). It has become increasingly important to find novel immunological biomarkers of neuroinflammation or other processes that can track AD development and progression. Our study explored which pro- or anti-inflammatory cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers best predicted AD neuropathology over 24months. Using Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative data (N=285), CSF inflammatory biomarkers from mass spectrometry and multiplex panels were screened using stepwise regression, followed up with 50%/50% model retests for validation. Neuronal Pentraxin 2 (NPTX2) and Chitinase-3-like-protein-1 (C3LP1), biomarkers of glutamatergic synaptic plasticity and microglial activation respectively, were the only consistently significant biomarkers selected. Once these biomarkers were selected, linear mixed models were used to analyze their baseline and longitudinal associations with bilateral MTL volume, memory decline, global cognition, and established AD biomarkers including CSF amyloid and tau. Higher baseline NPTX2 levels corresponded to less MTL atrophy [R2=0.287, p<0.001] and substantially less memory decline [R2=0.560, p<0.001] by month 24. Conversely, higher C3LP1 modestly predicted more MTL atrophy [R2=0.083, p<0.001], yet did not significantly track memory decline over time. In conclusion, NPTX2 is a novel pro-inflammatory cytokine that predicts AD-related outcomes better than any immunological biomarker to date, substantially accounting for brain atrophy and especially memory decline. C3LP1 as the microglial biomarker, by contrast, performed modestly and did not predict longitudinal memory decline. This research may advance the current understanding of AD etiopathogenesis, while expanding early diagnostic techniques through the use of novel pro-inflammatory biomarkers, such as NPTX2. Future studies should also see if NPTX2 causally affects MTL morphometry and memory performance.
Incidental finding of lymphoma after septoplasty.

Introduction: Septoplasty, or surgical correction of the deviated septum, is an elective, routinely performed rhinologic procedure to address nasal airway obstruction. In many cases, resected septal cartilage and bone fragments are sent for pathologic review, although there is no consensus on this practice. We reported two cases of incidentally diagnosed lymphoma after elective septoplasty and discussed clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management.
Legal Theory among the Ruins

This paper responds to an ongoing discussion initiated by Duncan Kennedy concerning the identity of "contemporary legal thought." This contribution argues that that category is so hard to define or exemplify because the historical conditions for its possibility are lacking. The reason that there is no such thing as contemporary legal thought is the destructive contention of theories in the 1970s-90s, and in particular the contending options that caused the initial failure of critical legal studies. If this is true, no engagement with "contemporary legal thought" can fail to face the harsh truth that it simply may not exist, and hence that our main task is not to identify it but to bring it about.
An ω-6 Fatty Acid, Dgla, Prevents Platelet Activation and Thrombosis in Vivo.

Abstract Abstract 2169 Platelets play a pivotal role in thrombotic events leading to clot formation and clot stability in vivo. Uncontrolled signaling events in the platelet can result in unwanted thrombosis, which may eventually lead to the development of myocardial infarction or stroke. Previously, we have shown that ex vivo treatment of human platelets with the ω-6 fatty acid dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) or its eicosanoid derived from 12-LOX oxidation, 12-hydroxyeicosatrienoic acid (12(S)-HETrE), inhibits PAR and collagen-induced platelet aggregation, clot retraction, and GPIIbIIIa activation. Since early studies have shown dietary supplementation of fatty acids increase fatty acid incorporation into the platelet lipid membrane (Barre, DE Lipids 1992; 27(5): 315–320; Marry, MJ Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1997; 56(3):223–223), we postulated that altering fatty acid composition in the platelet through dietary supplementation in vivo may be a viable approach to inhibiting platelet function. Therefore, a longitudinal study of wild-type mice on normal chow compared to mice supplemented with high (.5 g/kg) or low (.13 g/kg) DGLA diets was conducted. Each set of mice (7–8 mice) was given the designated diet for a period of 1, 2, or 3 months. At each time point, tail bleeding times and ex vivo platelet function in PRP were performed. Tail bleeding times from mice on the high DGLA diet were significantly prolonged by more than 15 minutes. Further, a smaller but statistically significant delay in clotting time was observed in mice on the low DGLA diet compared with control mice. Additionally, ex vivo aggregation response to collagen (1 μg/mL to 20 μg/mL) and PAR4-AP (50 μM to 500 μM) in platelets from mice on the high DGLA diet showed significant shifts to the right in their ability to induce platelet aggregation compared with control mice suggesting these mice were protected against thrombosis. JON/A and P-selectin binding to the PRP of high and low DGLA were also significantly attenuated in response to PAR4-AP. This study, which evaluated the in vivo and ex vivo effects of DGLA on regulation of platelet reactivity, supports DGLA as a potent, endogenous anti-thrombotic agent. Understanding the mechanistic details by which DGLA protects against thrombosis and maintains hemostasis through its COX-1 and 12-LOX-dependent bioactive metabolites will help to identify the potential viability of this target for anti-platelet intervention. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Advancing characterization of social diversity in the wildland-urban interface: An indicator approach for wildfire management

A growing body of research indicates that communities at risk from wildfire differ in terms of the local social context that influences adaptive planning, mitigations or collective actions. Less work has attempted to document critical differences in that local social context across large samples. The research presented here explores a quantitative operationalization of an established framework for characterizing the social diversity of communities at risk from wildfire. We conducted structured interviews with key informants across nine U.S. states. Factor analysis, regression and hierarchical cluster analysis were used to characterize social context across communities and relate it to key informant evaluations of progress toward fire adaptation. Our results advance methods to systematically document how social context influences local wildfire adaptation by: (1) examining a preliminary set of quantitative key-informant measures for gauging social context across a range of WUI communities; (2) identifying related elements of social context that may collectively influence wildfire adaptations; (3) providing preliminary statistical evidence that highly related elements of local social context are correlated with expert assessment of local populations’ adaptations to wildfire; and (4) identifying differences in social context characteristics across a sample of western USA WUI communities. However, it also is important to recognize that the measures tested here serve as indicators of deeper conceptual understandings informed by in-depth case studies. Efforts to use these measures should be augmented with additional qualitative work and build from those deeper understandings by considering the complexity of local dynamics surrounding wildfire management.
Idiopathic Bence Jones Proteinuria (Smoldering Monoclonal Light-Chain Proteinuria): Clinical Course and Prognosis

Abstract 1861 Idiopathic Bence Jones Proteinuria (Smoldering Monoclonal Light-Chain Proteinuria), first reported in 1982, is an asymptomatic plasma cell proliferative disorder associated with an elevated risk of progression to symptomatic MM or amyloidosis (AL). We defined it as the presence of a monoclonal light chain in the urine ≥200 mg/24h, absence of an intact immunoglobulin M protein (IGH expression) in the serum and no evidence of MM, AL or other related plasma cell proliferative disorders. Following approval by our Institutional Review Board, we searched a computerized database and reviewed the records of all patients seen at Mayo Clinic within 30 days of the recognition of a monoclonal light chain (Bence Jones protein) in the urine from January 1, 1960 through June 30, 2004. Patients with end-organ damage at diagnosis resulting from the plasma cell proliferative disorder (including MM or AL), or who had received chemotherapy or had a nephrotic syndrome were excluded. Follow-up included review of each patient9s medical record at Mayo Clinic, as well as review of death certificates for patients who died. Patients were sent letters of inquiry if they had not visited Mayo Clinic in the preceding year. The risks of progression to MM and AL were compared to those expected on the basis of Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) rates for MM in Iowa and the incidence of AL in Olmsted County, Minnesota. One-hundred and one patients fulfilled the criteria for diagnosis during the 44-year period (1960–2004). The median age at diagnosis was 67 years (range 18–90 years), and only 2% were 1 g/24h. Kappa light chain accounted for 50% while the remaining 50% were lambda. Fifty-seven (56%) had a monoclonal light chain in the serum on immunofixation. Concentrations of uninvolved (normal, polyclonal or background) immunoglobulins were reduced in 62%. Eighty-eight percent of patients died during follow-up. During 900 person years of follow-up, 29 patients developed symptomatic MM (relative risk, 140.3; 95% CI, 93.9–201.5) and an additional 9 patients developed AL (relative risk, 104.4; 95% CI, 47.8–198.4). Four patients had both multiple myeloma and AL amyloidosis. The cumulative probability of progression to active MM or AL was 19% at 5 years, 31% at 10 years and 42% at 15 years. The factors associated with progression to MM or AL included size of urine M protein, percentage of bone marrow plasma cells, serum free light chain ratio 100, serum creatinine and reduction of all 3 uninvolved immunoglobulins. We conclude that patients with Idiopathic Bence Jones Proteinuria (Smoldering Monoclonal Light-Chain Proteinuria) are at risk for the development of MM or AL and must be followed indefinitely. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Predictive value of phase II clinical trials in pancreatic cancer: Rethinking the road to progress.

4036 Background: Few new therapies for pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PC) have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or recommended by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)...
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF EXPERIENCE, LANGUAGE, PICTORIAL, SYMBOL, AND APPLICATION (ELPSA) IN MATHEMATICS LEARNING BASED ON BRUNERS THEORY TO CLASS VII STUDENTS AT SMPN 29 IN MAKASSAR

The research is experiment. The research design is One-Group Pretest Posttest Design. The research employed two experiment classes, namely class VII.1 consist of 29 students and class VII.2 consist of 33 students chosen by using simple random sampling technique. Both classes were given the same treatment, namely experience, language, pictorial, symbol, and application in Mathematics learning based on Bruner’s theory. Data collecting techniques were learning result test, observation sheet, and questionnaire sheet. Data analysis employed descriptive statistic, inferential statistic, and effectiveness analysis. The results of the research indicate that: 1) Mathematics learning result of class VII students at SMPN 29 in Makassar after the implementation of experience, language, pictorial, symbol, and application in Mathematics learning based on Bruner’s theory is in high category, the improvement of Mathematics learning result (gain score) of class VII students at SMPN 29 in Makassar is significant and in high category. Mathematics learning result of class VII students at SMPN 29 in Makassar after the implementation of experience, language, pictorial, symbol, and application in Mathematics learning based on Bruner’s theory has not reached classical completeness; 2) the students activity with the implementation of experience, language, pictorial, symbol, and application in Mathematics learning based on Bruner’s theory is in active category; and 3) the students response toward the implementation of experience, language, pictorial, symbol, and application in Mathematics learning based on Bruner’s theory tended to be in positive category. Learning effectiveness score reveals that the implementation of experience, language, pictorial, symbol, and application is fairly effective in Mathematics learning based on Bruner’s theory to class VII students at SMPN 29 in Makassar
Pre-season concussion testing in high school students with academic difficulties or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Objective Learning disabilities and/or ADHD are considered to be important risk factors or modifiers for concussion assessment and management. The purpose of this study was to examine cognition and symptom reporting in high school students with academic difficulties or ADHD and compare to those without at baseline. Design Retrospective analysis of three measures routinely given as part of a high school yearly concussion baseline protocol. Setting The library of a high school in Westchester County, NY. Participants A sample of 143 high school students who participate in collision/contact sports [Age M (SD)=15.4 (1.2); Boys=78, 54.5%] completed baseline testing. Main results Non-parametric tests were used because of violations of normality. High school students with academic difficulties or ADHD (n=21) were compared to controls (n=122) on King- Devick, SAC, ImPACT Cognitive Composite scores, and Total Symptom ratings. Students with LD or ADHD performed significantly more poorly on King-Devick (p=0.003; d=0.79), Visual Motor Speed Composite of ImPACT (p=0.007; d=0.79), and reported more symptoms at baseline on the Post-Concussion Scale (p=0.005; d=0.59). No significant differences found between groups on SAC (p=0.11; d=0.36) or ImPACT Verbal Memory (p=0.54; d=0.16), Visual Memory (p=0.20; d=0.26), or Reaction Time (p=0.14; d=0.55) Composites. Conclusions To our knowledge this is the first study to examine performance on three different baseline measures. High school students with academic difficulties or ADHD performed more poorly on King-Devick, the Visual Motor Speed Composite of ImPACT, and reported more symptoms at baseline. Findings suggest these students need to be monitored for specific post injury changes. This study was approved by the Committee for Human Rights Research, Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, White Plains, NY, USA. Protocol # BRC-455. Competing interests None.
Wind wave analysis in depth limited water using OCEANLYZ, A MATLAB toolbox

Abstract There are a number of well established methods in the literature describing how to assess and analyze measured wind wave data. However, obtaining reliable results from these methods requires adequate knowledge on their behavior, strengths and weaknesses. A proper implementation of these methods requires a series of procedures including a pretreatment of the raw measurements, and adjustment and refinement of the processed data to provide quality assurance of the outcomes, otherwise it can lead to untrustworthy results. This paper discusses potential issues in these procedures, explains what parameters are influential for the outcomes and suggests practical solutions to avoid and minimize the errors in the wave results. The procedure of converting the water pressure data into the water surface elevation data, treating the high frequency data with a low signal-to-noise ratio, partitioning swell energy from wind sea, and estimating the peak wave frequency from the weighted integral of the wave power spectrum are described. Conversion and recovery of the data acquired by a pressure transducer, particularly in depth-limited water like estuaries and lakes, are explained in detail. To provide researchers with tools for a reliable estimation of wind wave parameters, the Ocean Wave Analyzing toolbox, OCEANLYZ, is introduced. The toolbox contains a number of MATLAB functions for estimation of the wave properties in time and frequency domains. The toolbox has been developed and examined during a number of the field study projects in Louisiana’s estuaries.
Location of colorectal cancer: colonoscopy versus surgery. Yield of colonoscopy in predicting actual location.

Background and study aims Recent studies suggest that differences in biological characteristics and risk factors across cancer site within the colon and rectum may translate to differences in survival. It can be challenging at times to determine the precise anatomical location of a lesion with a luminal view during colonoscopy. The aim of this study is to determine if there is a significant difference between the location of colorectal cancers described by gastroenterologists in colonoscopies and the actual anatomical location noted on operative and pathology reports after colon surgery. Patients and methods A single-center retrospective analysis of colonoscopies of patient with reported colonic masses from January 2005 to April 2014 (n = 380) was carried. Assessed data included demography, operative and pathology reports. Findings were compared: between the location of colorectal cancers described by gastroenterologists in colonoscopies and the actual anatomical location noted on operative reports or pathology samples. Results We identified 380 colonic masses, 158 were confirmed adenocarcinomas. Of these 123 underwent surgical resection, 27 had to be excluded since no specific location was reported on their operative or pathology report. An absolute difference between endoscopic and surgical location was found in 32 cases (33 %). Of these, 22 (23 %) differed by 1 colonic segment, 8 (8 %) differed by 2 colonic segments and 2 (2 %) differed by 3 colonic segments. Conclusion There is a significant difference between the location of colorectal cancers reported by gastroenterologists during endoscopy and the actual anatomical location noted on operative or pathology reports after colon surgery. Endoscopic tattooing should be used when faced with any luminal lesions of interest.
Moving People to Help People Move

The 24-km Dakar Toll Road (Autoroute de l’Avenir Dakar – Dianmiadio), built to solve severe congestion problems, was inaugurated in 2013 on schedule and below budget. It has reduced travel times by two thirds between downtown and the outskirts and is spurring the development of the conurbation. Long recognized to be an urgent priority, it took however about 30 years to eventuate, mainly because decision makers were deterred by the magnitude of the resettlement plan needed to insert this infrastructure into densely populated informal settlements. The paper explains (i) how the relocation of 38,000 people was mitigated through a comprehensive compensation scheme combined with the construction of a new town to accommodate some of those relocated, and the upgrading of low-income settlements along the Road and (ii) how this USD760 million project, first greenfield toll road in Sub-Saharan Africa (excluding South Africa), and structured as a Public Private Partnership, materialized through funding from multilaterals, government, commercial banks and the private sector. The paper describes how compensation of affected households, commercial buildings, etc. were estimated, making sure all those affected end up in at least an equivalent position as they were in prior to the project. It also explains how a new city was designed to accommodate 20,000 persons, with schools, health centers, paved roads, community facilities, running water, electricity, market, sewage, etc. In addition, it details the rationale for providing consolidated settlements along this road with better urban roads, community facilities and drainage structures, to ensure that those who are too poor to drive, would still benefit from the project.
Facilitating Adaptation in Anticipatory Mourning

A research study is concerned with the total set of cognitive, affective, cutural, and social reactions to expected death as felt by patient and family
A Novel Research Definition of Bladder Health in Women and Girls: Implications for Research and Public Health Promotion.

Abstract Background: Bladder health in women and girls is poorly understood, in part, due to absence of a definition for clinical or research purposes. This article describes the process used by a ...
Proximal gastric vagotomy

Proximal gastric vagotomy (PGV) selectively denervates the acid-producing part of the stomach (the body and fundus). The operation preserves the vagal innervation of the antrum and pylorus, making a gastric drainage procedure unnecessary. The operation is sometimes also referred to as highly selective vagotomy (HSV) or parietal cell vagotomy (PCV). Strictly speaking, the latter appellation should only by used when the operation is performed while the effect on parietal cell function is monitored either with an intragastric pH electrode or Congo red spray. PGV reduces both acid and pepsin secretion. Basal acid secretion is reduced by 80%, while maximal acid response to pentagastrin or to a meal is reduced by 50–60%. The rate of ulcer recurrence has varied from 2% to 22% among different surgeons, presumably because of variations in operative technique1. Although several potential sites of incomplete vagotomy are possible, the most important determinant of ulcer recurrence appears to be the thoroughness with which the distal 6–8 cm of the oesophagus is ‘skeletonized’ of vagal fibres. Hallenbeck et al. compared the results of PGV in which only the distal 1–2 cm was skeletonized with that in which the distal 5–7 cm of the oesophagus was denervated2. The former operation was associated with a 15.4% incidence of proven recurrent ulceration and a 10.2% incidence of suspected recurrence. By comparison, when 5–7.5 cm of the distal oesophagus was skeletonized, only one of 14 patients developed a recurrent ulcer.
Ideology and trust: a reply to Bloche.

On first reading, I was taken aback, almost stunned, by Gregg Bloche's response to my article. It opens with a story about betrayal of trust by the physician for his dying mother and it closes with the heart-stopping accusation that I am attempting to "remak[e] health law as a tool for limit-setting by deceit,... [which] would lead to downward cycles of anger and distrust, with tragic consequences for medicine's healing potential."l I wondered, what had I done to prompt this depth of outrage and outpouring of accusation and analysis? Had I forgotten what my own article was about? I immediately reread my article to make sure my memory was not playing tricks on me. Then I reread Bloche's response, several times, and thought long and hard about what is really on his mind. Here is what I've concluded.
The Impact of Soil and Fertilizer Phosphorus on the Environment

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the impact of soil and fertilizer phosphorus on the environment. Phosphorus in the form of phosphate (P) is essential for plant growth and its application to agricultural land often improves crop production. Production per unit area is increased with fertilizer P. The increased plant cover that is possible with proper use of fertilizer can reduce soil erosion from the cultivated area. Addition of phosphorus to fish ponds may also increase fish production. Potentially toxic chemical elements may be introduced into the food chain by adding P fertilizer to the soil. Increase in the amounts of soluble and particulate P transported in surface runoff have been measured after the application of fertilizer P. Phosphorus losses in surface runoff may be reduced by incorporating fertilizer material into the surface soil, away from the zone of extraction and detachment, and by using conservation or minimum tillage methods to reduce soil erosion. The detachment and transport of particulate phosphorus is also elaborated.
A nonrandom association of sarcoidosis in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor and other sarcomas

In patients with sarcoma, concomitant malignancy is found in 1.2% -2.5% of cases. Previous studies have demonstrated conflicting results in terms of positive or negative effects on cancer prognosis with comorbid sarcoidosis. Additionally, there are no data determining whether an association between sarcoidosis and sarcomas exists. Finding an association between the two entities could prevent inadvertent upstaging of a primary sarcoma based on pulmonary nodularity mistaken for metastatic disease. Here, we will describe eight sarcoma patients with concomitant occurrence of sarcoidosis identified since 2007. Eight patients with diagnosis of both sarcoma and sarcoidosis were identified over the period of 2007 -2016 at a single sarcoma center. Clinical and historical data including presentation, histology, treatment, and outcome was tabulated for analysis. The standardized incidence ratio was calculated for the state of Florida and our hospital catchment area. We compared the observed incidence to the expected incidence if the two entities were to be unrelated. Sarcoma subtype was gastrointestinal stromal tumor in five patients, the remaining three cases were unclassified spindled and epithelioid cell sarcoma, uterine leiomyosarcoma, and myxofibrosarcoma. Sarcoidosis was diagnosed before sarcoma in three patients, after sarcoma in four patients, and at the same time of sarcoma diagnosis in one patient. From our series, three patients have shown no progression of sarcoma, two are alive with sarcoma, two died due to progression of sarcoma, and one was lost to follow up. Statistical analyses showed a standardized incidence ratio of 305 (95% confidence interval: 131 -556) for the state of Florida and standardized incidence ratio of 950 (95% CI: 407 -1727) for our catchment area. This case series points to a statistically robust, nonrandom association between sarcoma and sarcoidosis that has not been previously described. Presumed metastatic sarcoma should be considered for biopsy particularly with demographic characteristics or imaging features suggestive of sarcoidosis.
Simultaneous Extraction of Tensile and Shear Interactions at Interfaces

Abstract A simple beam analysis is developed that accounts for the tensile and shear interactions between the surfaces of two beams that have been brought into contact. The generally coupled differential equations for the relative normal and tangential displacements between the interacting surfaces and the normal and shear components of the traction between the two surfaces are decoupled when a balance condition involving the bending stiffness and height of each beam is satisfied. This condition also allows the normal and shear components of the J-integral and the crack tip displacement to be obtained from measurements of the applied loads along with load point displacement and rotation of each beam. As a result, the derivative of each component of the J-integral with respect to its associated crack tip displacement simultaneously provides both the normal and shear traction–separation relations at any value of the mode-mix without invoking any assumption on the particular form. As an application of this method, the normal and shear traction–separation relations for a silicon/epoxy interface were determined over nominal mode-mixes ranging from −53° to 87.5° using non-symmetric end-loaded split (ELS) and end-notched flexure (ENF) specimens. It is found that many of the assumptions made previously in developing traction–separation relations based on potential or damage-based approaches do not apply to this particular interface, which should motivate future theoretical developments.
Leading as “the Other”:

People of color and women remain woefully underrepresented in top leadership positions across industries. Yet the doors to power and authority in organizations are slowly opening in large part due ...
Life History Variation Within and Among Populations of the Ninespine Stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) in Alaska: Lake-Stream Contrasts

Intra- and inter-population comparisons of size at reproduction, clutch size, and egg mass revealed differences between one stream and one lake population of ninespine stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) in Alaska. These results are compared with published data for a second lake population. Ninespine stickleback in the stream appeared to reproduce at a smaller overall average size and to produce greater numbers of smaller eggs per clutch than lake-dwelling ninespine stickleback. This pattern of life history traits is consistent with that reported for populations of the threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) in published studies from Alaska and Central Europe, suggesting stream environments favor a different set of life history tactics than lakes in both species. Further research is needed to test this hypothesis and to elucidate the causal mechanisms.
Markers of nutritional status and inflammation in transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis: association with outcomes and the clinical phenotype.

Background: Patients with transthyretin (TTR) cardiac amyloidosis demonstrate cardiac cachexia with progression of their cardiomyopathy, which is characterised by malnutrition and a heightened infl...
Implementation of High Power RF Devices with Hybrid Workfunction and OxideThickness in 22nm Low-Power FinFET Technology

Unique High-Power FinFET device with multiple workfunction materials and oxide thickness under a common gate, dubbed as HyPowerFF, is introduced. The proposed devices are as reliable as high-voltage IO devices with up to 7.1V of breakdown voltage and provide 290GHz of f max suitable for power-efficient RF power-amplifier (PA) design.
The role of subjective responses in electronic cigarette uptake and substitution in adult smokers

ABSTRACT Background While a majority of cigarette smokers who use electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) choose to continue using cigarettes, completely switching to e-cigarettes is necessary to reduce tobacco-related harm. Whether specific subjective responses to e-cigarettes are associated with extent of smoking reduction and complete switching from cigarettes to e-cigarettes is unclear. This study determined whether initial subjective responses to e-cigarettes related to the successful substitution of e-cigarettes for cigarettes and extent of cigarette and e-cigarette use. Methods Adult cigarette smokers (N = 58) uninterested in quitting were asked to completely substitute their cigarettes with an e-cigarette (Vuse Solo) for 8 weeks. At week 1, subjective responses to e-cigarettes were measured using the Product Evaluation Scale and Drug Effects/Liking Survey. A Poisson regression examined whether any of these initial subjective responses were associated with smoke-free days, e-cigarette puffs, and cigarettes smoked between weeks 6 and 8 after adjustment for potential confounders. A logistic regression examined the relationship between subjective measures and exhaled carbon monoxide (CO) verified 7-day abstinence at week 8 after adjustment for potential confounders. Results Following Holm’s p-value adjustment, e-cigarette liking and desire were associated with increased e-cigarette use (adjusted p Conclusions Initial subjective responses were related to cigarette and e-cigarette use at weeks 6-8, but not smoke-free days or CO-verified 7-day abstinence.
Lubricant thickness effect on tribological performance of ZDOL lubricated disks with hydrogenated overcoats

Tribo-chemical studies of the lubricant thickness effect on the tribology of the head/disk interface (HDI) were conducted using hydrogenated (CHx) carbon disk samples coated with perfluoropolyether ZDOL lubricant. The studies involved drag tests with uncoated and carbon-coated Al2O3–TiC sliders and thermal desorption experiments in an ultra-high vacuum (UHV) tribochamber. The studies showed that the lubricant interaction with the carbon overcoat varies as a function of lubricant thickness. Wear durability improves considerably for thicknesses more than a monolayer. However, in the sub-monolayer thickness regime, the adhesion of the lubricant to the carbon overcoat is much stronger, as indicated by the fact that a much higher temperature is required to desorb the lubricant. When the lubricant thickness is around or above a monolayer, cohesion among the lubricant molecules plays a greater role and a much lower temperature is needed for lubricant desorption.
Effect of docosahexanoic acid (DHA) supplementation on the birth weight of rat pups prenatally exposed to alcohol.

Title: Effect of docosahexanoic acid (DHA) supplementation on the birth weight of rat pups prenatally exposed to alcohol Deepak Yadav, Enrique M. Ostrea, Charlie T. Cheng, Esther Kisseih, Krishna R. Maddipati, Kenneth Honn, Robert Sokol, Ronald L. Thomas and William K. Kupsky. Background: Oxidative injury, unresolved inflammation, and cytokines play a key role in the pathogenesis of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, including the observed low birth weight in offsprings of alcoholic mothers. DHA has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving properties. Objective: In a rat model, we …
Critical evaluation of the efficiency of colorectal fellowship websites: Cross-sectional study

Background: Websites are an important source of information for fellowship applicants, as they can influence ongoing interest and potential program selection. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the current state of colorectal fellowship websites. Methods: This cross-sectional study evaluates the quantity and quality of information available on websites of colorectal fellowship programs verified by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education in 2019. Results: A total of 63 colorectal fellowships were included for evaluation. Websites were surveyed for content items that previous studies have found to be influential to program applicants. The 58 (91%) programs with a functional website were evaluated using an information index (calculated as a function of availability of content items concerning education, application, personnel, and benefits) and an interactive index (calculated as a function of accessibility and usability of the webpage). Programs had a median total score of 27.8 (IQR 21.5-34.5) of 79. The median score for the interactive index was 7.5 of 15 and for the information index was 20 of 64. The median scores for website application, education, personnel, and benefits or life considerations were 5, 5.5, 3.3, and 4 of 13, 24, 13, and 14, respectively. There was no difference in total score between programs in different geographical regions (P=.46). Conclusions: Currently, colorectal surgery fellowship program websites do not provide enough content for applicants to make informed decisions. All training programs, regardless of specialty, should evaluate and improve their digital footprint to ensure their websites are accessible and provide the information desired by applicants.
Strahlenumwelt des Lebens

Mehr denn je in ihrer Geschichte steht die Menschheit heute im Banne von „Strahlung“. Dies ist verstandlich, denn mit der stetig wachsenden An- und Verwendung des Kernspaltungsprinzipes auf so vielen Gebieten des Lebens, insbesondere zur Herstellung technisch verwertbarer Energie in allergrostem Masstab, ist zugleich auch — als unerwunschtes Beiprodukt — die Erzeugung gewaltiger Mengen energiereicher Strahlen verknupft.
What is Africanity

(2009). What is Africanity? Critical Interventions: Vol. 3, Africanity And North Africa, Guest Editors: Jessica Winegar and Katarzyna Pieprzak, pp. 190-198.
New fiber optics illumination system for application to electronics holography

ABSTRACT The practical application ofElectronic Holography requires the use offiber optics. The need ofemploying coherent fiber optics imposes restrictions in the efficient use oflaser light. This paper proposesa new solution to this problem. The proposed method increases the efficiency in the use ofthe laser lightand simplifies the interface between the laser source and the fiber optics. the paper will present the theorybehind the proposed method. A discussion ofthe effect ofthe different parameters that influence theformation ofinterference fringes is presented. Results that can be achieved and limitations are given. Anexample of application is presented. 1. INTRODUCTIONElectronic Speckle Interferometry,(ESPI) as it is commonly referred in the literature, or also Electronic Holography, is an image plane holographic method. Videcom tubes or CCD arrays are used torecord holographic images. The recording process is identical to conventional holography except that therecording medium has a very low spatial resolution compared to films or plastic recording media. The
Cost estimate for ITER central instrumentation and control

The Command Control and Data Acquisition (CODAC) system is responsible for the central instrumentation and control for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). Its major responsibilities include the Supervisory Control System, the Machine Control System, the Diagnostic Control System, the Data Management System, the Synchronization System, the Network and Communication System, and the Supervisory Interlock System.
Student Achievement, Selected Environmental Characteristics, and Neighborhood Type

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of neighborhoods on student achievement. Demographic data gathered from school officials, the results of building-level fourth- and sixth-grade achievement scores (n = 61), and selected data from the 1990 Census of two mid-size urban school districts were analyzed. The analysis showed that the predictive quality of neighborhoods was mostly revealed when sixth-grade achievement scores (n = 53) were isolated. With a multiple correlation of .88 and an adjusted R2 of .76 (p = .009), neighborhood type represented a 3% increase in the prediction with a large effect size (f2) of .35. Although it would be erroneous to conclude that the target variable is a major correlate of academic achievement, neighborhood type was nonetheless significant as it impacted the older youth in the study. Implications for educators and policymakers are discussed. In addition, an important and significant statistical finding regarding the effect of a suppressor variable was uncovered.
The synthesis of polyribitol phosphate. II. On the mechanism of polyribitol phosphate polymerase.

Abstract The synthesis of polyribitol phosphate by polyribitol phosphate polymerase from Staphylococcus aureus H proceeds by a single chain mechanism so that the enzyme completes a chain of approximately 30 units linked to lipoteichoic acid carrier, before starting a new chain. The lipoteichoic acid carrier of Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis are interchangeable and can be used both for the synthesis of polyglycerolphosphate or polyribitol phosphate. Both of these polymers appear to be attached to the same site on the lipoteichoic acid carrier. Lipoteichoic acid carrier, active with the S. aureus polyribitolphosphate polymerase can be extracted from Bacillus licheniformis, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Streptococcus faecalis, and Mycobacterium phlei but not from a variety of other microorganisms. No evidence has been found for the involvement of an additional carrier such as undecaprenol phosphate in polyribitol phosphate synthesis.
TRANSGENIC MICE CARRYING THE ERYTHROPOIETIN GENE PROMOTER LINKED TO LACZ EXPRESS THE REPORTER IN PROXIMAL CONVOLUTED TUBULE CELLS AFTER HYPOXIA

Results on the localization of erythropoietin (Epo) synthesis in renal cells have been contradictory, implicating either interstitial or tubular cells. We fused the lacZ gene to a 7-kb DNA fragment of the mouse Epo gene encompassing a portion of the first intron, the first exon, and a 6-kb sequence of the 5'-flanking region. Transgenic mice carrying this construct show a low level of specific expression of the lacZ gene in proximal convoluted tubule (PCT) cells. Without hypoxia, no significant expression was detected in the liver. Hypoxia induced a large degree of lacZ expression, mainly in kidney PCT cells and to a lesser degree in liver. However, anemia induced lacZ expression in both kidney and liver. These findings indicate that, under these conditions, Epo is expressed in tubular cells, specifically PCT cells.
Women's compliance with public health guidelines for mammograms and pap tests in Canada and the United States: an analysis of data from the Joint Canada/United States Survey Of Health.

Objectives We use the Joint Canada/United States Survey of Health (JCUSH) to examine use of mammograms and Pap tests among Canadian and US women during 2002 and 2003. Unlike previous data, the JCUSH data are bi-nationally comparable, in that the same instrument was used for interviewing both Canadian and US respondents at the same time. Furthermore, when appropriately weighted, these data are representative of the populations of both countries. Methods Descriptive statistics were used to provide a basic profile of screening practices among women in Canada and the United States. Logistic regression was then used to examine the determinants of compliance with mammogram and Pap test guidelines in the 2 countries, statistically controlling for demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, health status, and other indicators suggested from previous research. To increase comparability, these analyses were restricted to the age ranges covered in common by the screening guidelines of both countries. Results Among women covered by the guidelines in both countries, screening rates were higher in the United States than in Canada at all ages, which is puzzling given the existence of Canada’s universal health care system. Multivariate analyses revealed that whether a woman had had a mammogram within the last 2 years (when predicting last Pap test) or had had a Pap test within the last 3 years (when predicting last mammogram) were the strongest and most consistent predictors of compliance in both countries. Race/ethnicity, nativity, marital status, socioeconomic status, insurance coverage in the United States, and various health status indicators also predicted compliance in some, but not all, models.
Assessing the Cognitive Abilities of Alternate Learning Classifier System Architectures

Abstract : Since its inception in the 1960s, the Genetic Algorithm (GA) framework for solving complex problems has been simultaneously intensely studied and deployed. Despite wide-ranging practical successes in engineering, manufacturing, applied, and social science domains, developing GA-based systems has been more art than science. Consequently some researchers have attempted to build and test theories and models for robust GA design. Given this attention to "pure" Genetic Algorithm research and implementations, progress on a subsequent GA-based framework called Learning Classifier Systems (LCS) lay dormant until the late 1990s. Stalwarts in GA/LCS research have opined that to further advance the field and facilitate theory formation, a broad study of LCSs, particularly one that focuses on their cognitive aspects, is needed. I wish to contribute to this theory building effort by examining, using simulation modeling and analyses, how alternative LCS architectures learn to cope with other artificial entities in challenging, artificial environments created using variants of the Iterated Prisoners Dilemma (PD) Tournament setting.. The use of competing entities in this setting may be likened to a number of practical applications in which different agents must negotiate or compete with each other. One possible application is the use of computer-based agents in negotiations in a buying-selling situation. In such an environment, a buyer's agent must attempt to discern the seller's negotiation pattern, and then use this information to accomplish its objective. In this example, an LCS- based agent could be used in repeated encounters with the seller to improve its performance with regard to a measure of interest such as price, quantity or delivery time.
Lateral, wet thermal oxidation of AlAsSb lattice-matched to InP

Summary form only given. We present for the first time, to our knowledge, results of lateral, wet thermal oxidation of AlAsSb lattice-matched to InP. Using Auger analysis, SEM characterization, and Raman scattering, we find that the AlAsSb layer is converted to Al/sub 2/O/sub 3/ and an interfacial layer of semi-metallic Sb is formed between the top interface of the oxide and the cap material. Device implications of these findings, particularly of the Sb separation, are discussed.
Acculturation in the Context of Selected New and Old World Peasant Cultures1

IN COMPARING data from two culture areas, this paper conforms to traditional anthropological procedure; even the comparison of New and Old World data presents nothing unique. However, an attempt to compare Pueblo Indian cultures of the American Southwest with Tyrolean cultures of Central Europe may produce some apprehension. The former have traditionally been considered ethnology, or Vdlkerkunde, whereas the latter have been included under folklore, or Volkskunde. As Redfield (1956:19-20) noted, anthropologists have only recently become interested in Volkskunde. In discussing Austrian anthropology as of 1952, Haekel commented upon the need for close cooperation among ethnologists, folklorists, and prehistorians: "An ethnological orientation would be useful for folklore, since a more profound understanding of European folkculture can be attained only by comparison with primitive cultures" (1953: 215). Further recognition of the value of such collaboration is evidenced in the survey of Austrian anthropology for the years 1952-1954 by Heine-Geldern (1955:627), who called attention to the excellent study by Koren (1952), Volkskunde in der Gegenwart, as well as to studies by Burgstaller, Haberlandt, Mais, Wolfram, Wopfner, and others on the folklore of Austria and the Alpine region. Despite this intensified interest in combining aspects of ethnology and folklore, the comparison of such widely separated and dissimilar cultures as those of the Puebloans and the Tyroleans may still seem either illogical or illegitimate insofar as anthropology is concerned. What are the grounds for such objections? The answer appears to lie in the history of the discipline. Only in relatively recent times has there been sufficient interest in acculturation to prompt an intensified effort to deal with the contributing dynamic factors and processes as well as with implicit topics such as themes and value orientations. If these contemporary interests are considered, apprehension regarding the present comparison may be eased or even dispelled. The chief concern here is with acculturation, emphasizing cultural processes rather than origins or inventories.
Tracking of serum lipids and dietary energy, fat and calcium intake from 1 to 15 years

We describe the results of tracking serum lipids, and dietary intake of energy, fat and calcium in a cohort of 106 children in the Adelaide Nutrition Study who were followed to 15 years of age together with an additional 123 children recruited from 11 years of age. Measures of energy, fat and calcium intakes were obtained from analyses of 4-day weighed records. The pattern and level of tracking were similar for males and females. The tracking coefficient for total cholesterol was 0.28-0.49 between 1 and 15 years of age, 0.3-0.64 between 2-8 and 15 years of age, 0.48-0.64 between 8-11 and 15 years of age, 0.71-0.78 between 11-13 and 15 years of age and 0.71-0.78 between 13 and 15 years of age. The pattern was similar for low density lipoprotein cholesterol, but lower for high density lipoprotein cholesterol. For mean daily energy, fat and calcium intake, tracking coefficients were low below 4 years of age, but from then on were 0.46-0.64 for energy intake, 0.38-0.51 for fat (g) and 0.51-0.62 for calcium (mg).Adolescence, child, cholesterol, nutrition, tracking