cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Right Ventricular Apical Flattening as an Echocardiographic Screening Tool for Right Ventricular Enlargement

Right ventricular dilation is a common complication after tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) repair. Traditional echocardiographic assessments are imprecise due to the RV's location and complex geometry. We propose a novel echocardiographic measurement: RV apical flattening (RVAF) as a screening tool to help identify subjects with severe RV dilation. Patients with repaired TOF who had both echocardiograms and CMR's within 6-month interval at our institution were included in the study. The RVAF was measured in the four-chamber echocardiographic view as the minor length of RV cavity at the level of RV apical endocardium. Subjects were divided into two groups (group I: RVEDVi ≥ 150 ml/m(2) and group II; RVEDVi < 150 ml/m(2)). Echocardiogram and CMR data were compared between groups. A total of 75 subjects were included in the study. Mean age was 12.8 ± 3.6 years. Group I had 36 subjects, and group II had 39 subjects. The mean RVAF was significantly higher in group I (2.7 ± 0.5 cm) compared with group II (1.7 ± 0.4 cm; p < 0.001). There was significant correlation between RVAF and RVEDVi (r = 0.81; p < 0.001). By ROC analysis, an RVAF cutoff value of 2.0 cm had 94 % sensitivity and 77 % specificity in identifying severe RV dilation (area under the curve 0.95). RVAF is a simple and effective echocardiographic screening tool to help identify severe RV dilation. In conjunction with other 2D echocardiographic parameters, this technique would help further refine echocardiography-guided patient selection for timing of CMR and pulmonary valve replacement.
Community screening for pre-diabetes and diabetes using HbA1c levels in high-risk African Americans and Latinos.

Objective : To evaluate community screening using HbA1c levels in high risk African Americans and Latinos in those not known to have diabetes. Design : HbA1c levels were measured in 1542 African Americans and Latinos aged > 40 years with one or more of the following risk factors: family history in first degree relatives, waist circumference > 40 inches in males or > 35 inches in females, and hypertension, either treatment for or a measured BP of > 140/ 90 mm Hg. Oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) were offered to those meeting the HbA1c criterion for pre-diabetes. Setting : Churches, community health fares, senior citizen sites. Participants : People without known diabetes. Main Outcome Measures : Proportion of people meeting the HbA1c criteria for prediabetes (5.8–6.4%) and diabetes ( > 6.5%). Results: 32% had one, 50% had two and 18% had three risk factors. By HbA1c criteria, 40% had pre-diabetes and 25% had diabetes. Increased waist circumference was the most common risk factor followed by a positive family history, and lastly, hypertension. Each individual risk factor was significantly ( P <.001) and progressively more common as glycemia increased. Each additional risk factor increased the odds of pre-diabetes or diabetes by 2- to 4- fold. In individuals with pre-diabetes who underwent an OGTT, 59% were normal, 35% had pre-diabetes and only 6% had diabetes. Conclusions : Community screening of high risk African Americans and Latinos with HbA1c levels identifies a large proportion of people with pre-diabetes and diabetes. Those identified with pre-diabetes are unlikely to meet the OGTT criteria for diabetes. ( Ethn Dis . 2014;24[2]:195–199)
Visualizing Algorithm Analysis Topics (Abstract Only)

Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) courses are considered critical in any computer science curriculum. DSA courses emphasize topics related to procedural dynamics (how an algorithm works) and algorithm analysis (the algorithm's efficiency). Historically, algorithm visualizations (AVs) have dealt almost exclusively with portraying algorithm dynamics, and there are few examples of visualizations related to algorithm analysis topics. We have developed a new generation of visualizations that we term Algorithm Analysis Visualizations (AAVs) to convey algorithm analysis concepts. We present the motivation behind AAVs, and outlines a methodology for their evaluation. We present results from student surveys and the analysis of student interaction logs from the OpenDSA eTextbook used by several CS3-level classes during the period of Fall 2014 through Fall 2015. Initial results from Fall 2014 revealed that students were not spending enough time reading the algorithm analysis material presented as textual content. Our results from a preliminary deployment of AAVs in Spring 2015 showed that students interacted with AAVs for significantly longer than the control group spent reading the previous text-based algorithm analysis material. We will present additional results from our ongoing experiment in Fall2015 (control group without AAVs) and Spring2016 (test group with additional AAVs).
Abstract 1873: Low-dose radiation exposure and the risk of developing acoustic neuroma

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL Aside from the rare hereditary syndrome of Neurofibromatosis type 2 or high-dose ionizing radiation exposure, the causes of the vast majority of acoustic neuroma development remain unclear. A hospital-based case-control study was conducted to investigate the roles of exposure to commonly used diagnostic tools and phone technology that emit low dose ionizing and non-ionizing radiation in the etiology of acoustic neuroma. A total of 353 cases were recruited from a cohort of individuals who underwent Gamma Knife Radiosurgery as primary or adjuvant management of acoustic neuroma between the years 1997-2007 at the Center for Image Guided Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). Matched by age and gender, 353 controls without brain tumor history were recruited from the Neurosurgery spine and pain clinics at UPMC. Information on demographic characteristics, medical exposure to radiation, use of cell phone, and other potential risk factors of acoustic neuroma were collected via questionnaire by trained interviewers at clinics. Conditional multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) to assess risk of acoustic neuroma associated with low-dose radiation exposure. Adjusted for education, smoking, drinking, occupational exposure to noise, previous history of head injury, and family history of cancer, exposure to dental x-ray every 2-3 years and at least once a year was significantly associated with development of acoustic neuroma compared to individuals exposed to dental x-ray less than once every five years (OR=3.57, 95% CI = 1.54-8.23 and OR=2.31, 95% CI=1.06-5.04, respectively). History of full mouth or panorax X-ray exam (OR=1.35, 95% CI=0.76-2.41), CAT or CT scan of head or neck (OR=0.61, 95% CI=0.30-1.23), and other X-ray exam of head or neck (OR=0.77, 95% CI=0.41-1.45) were not found to be related to development of acoustic neuroma. Use of cell phones or cordless phones for more than 10 years was not significantly associated with development of acoustic neuroma (OR=1.30, 95% CI=0.53-3.20 and OR=1.20, 95% CI=0.43-3.37, respectively). We found that frequent exposure to dental X-rays may contribute the development of acoustic neuroma, although does-response effect was not found. Further epidemiologic studies are necessary to confirm the association of diagnostic dental X-rays exposure and development of acoustic neuroma. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1873. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-1873
A Flight Mill for Studies with the Mexican Fruit Fly

A flight mill was developed that uses magnetism to support the pivot, thereby minimizing friction, and a simple harness, adjustable in 3 planes, was designed for use with the mill. The performance of male and female Anastrepha Uidcns (Lowe) (Diptera: Tephritidae) on rotors of different lengths attached to this mill was then compared. There was no significant difference between male and female performance on the 4 rotors, and little between the performance of both sexes on rotors of different lengths.
Earth-Abundant Metal Pyrites (FeS2, CoS2, NiS2, and Their Alloys) for Highly Efficient Hydrogen Evolution and Polysulfide Reduction Electrocatalysis.

Many materials have been explored as potential hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts to generate clean hydrogen fuel via water electrolysis, but none so far compete with the highly efficient and stable (but cost prohibitive) noble metals. Similarly, noble metals often excel as electrocatalytic counter electrode materials in regenerative liquid-junction photoelectrochemical solar cells, such as quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) that employ the sulfide/polysulfide redox electrolyte as the hole mediator. Here, we systematically investigate thin films of the earth-abundant pyrite-phase transition metal disulfides (FeS2, CoS2, NiS2, and their alloys) as promising alternative electrocatalysts for both the HER and polysulfide reduction. Their electrocatalytic activity toward the HER is correlated to their composition and morphology. The emergent trends in their performance suggest that cobalt plays an important role in facilitating the HER, with CoS2 exhibiting highest overall performance....
Mechanical, physical and tribological characterization of nano-cellulose fibers reinforced bio-epoxy composites: An attempt to fabricate and scale the ‘Green’ composite

The development of bio-based composites is essential in order to protect the environment while enhancing energy efficiencies. In the present investigation, the plant-derived cellulose nano-fibers (CNFs)/bio-based epoxy composites were manufactured using the Liquid Composite Molding (LCM) process. More specifically, the CNFs with and without chemical modification were utilized in the composites. The curing kinetics of the prepared composites was studied using both the isothermal and dynamic Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) methods. The microstructure as well as the mechanical and tribological properties were investigated on the cured composites in order to understand the structure-property correlations of the composites. The results indicated that the manufactured composites showed improved mechanical and tribological properties when compared to the pure epoxy samples. Furthermore, the chemically modified CNFs reinforced composites outperformed the untreated composites. The surface modification of the fibers improved the curing of the resin by reducing the activation energy, and led to an improvement in the mechanical properties. The CNFs/bio-based epoxy composites form uniform tribo-layer during sliding which minimizes the direct contact between surfaces, thus reducing both the friction and wear of the composites.
Effect of growth-promoting technologies on Longissimus lumborum muscle fiber morphometrics, collagen solubility, and cooked meat tenderness

The objective of the study was to examine the effect of growth-promoting technologies (GP) on Longissimus lumborum steak tenderness, muscle fiber cross-sectional area (CSA), and collagen solubility. Crossbred feedlot heifers ( = 33; initial BW 464 ± 6 kg) were blocked by BW and assigned to 1 of 3 treatments: no GP (CON; = 11); implant, no zilpaterol hydrochloride (IMP; = 11); implant and zilpaterol hydrochloride (COMBO; = 11). Heifers assigned to receive an implant were administered Component TE-200 on d 0 of the study, and the COMBO group received 8.3 mg/kg DM of zilpaterol hydrochloride for the final 21 d of feeding with a 3 d withdrawal period. Following harvest, strip loins were collected and fabricated into 4 roasts and aged for 3, 14, 21, or 35 d postmortem. Fiber type was determined by immunohistochemistry. After aging, objective tenderness and collagen solubility were measured. There was a treatment × day of aging (DOA) interaction for Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF; 0.31). Soluble collagen amount tended to be affected ( 0.06) by a treatment × DOA interaction which was due to COMBO muscle having more soluble collagen than the other 2 treatments on d 21 of aging ( < 0.02). Correlation analysis indicated that type I, IIA, and IIX fiber CSA are positively correlated with WBSF at d 3 and 14 of aging ( < 0.01), but only type IIX fibers are correlated at d 21 and 35 of aging ( < 0.03). At these time periods, total and insoluble collagen became positively correlated with WBSF ( < 0.01). This would indicate that relationship between muscle fiber CSA and WBSF decreases during postmortem aging, while the association between WBSF and collagen characteristics strengthens. The use of GP negatively impacted meat tenderness primarily through increased muscle fiber CSA and not through altering collagen solubility.
The Practice and Cogitation of Microbiology Experiment Teaching Reform in Normal college

According to the microbiology experimental teaching system under the new curriculum reform of college,the microbiology experiment guide in normal college has been reformed,and the cultivating students' manipulative ability as the starting point was also put forward.From the reform of the experimental content,teaching method,experimental teaching staff and some other aspects,a set of innovation teaching system on microbiology experiment course to suit the biological science undergraduate in normal college was to be established.
Relationship between adjusted body mass index percentile and decayed, missing, and filled primary teeth.

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a significant relationship between adjusted body mass index (BMI) percentiles and the frequency of decayed, missing, and filled primary teeth (dmft) in a retrospective cohort of 3- to 5-year-old children. METHODS Data was collected from 215 3- to 5-year old children with an American Society of Anesthesiologists class I or II physical status who had received dental treatment under general anesthesia at a university hospital between 2007 and 2008. The diagnosis of dental caries and dmft scores were confirmed by oral and radiographic examination. RESULTS BMI percentile was a statistically significant explanatory variable for dmft after controlling for race, gender, and age ( P<.001). When BMI percentile increased by 10 units, the dmft score increased by an estimated 1.1 after adjusting for the other covariates. CONCLUSIONS Young children with elevated BMI percentiles who have caries may be at risk for an increased number of carious teeth in the future. Providing nutritional and weight counseling may potentially lower the risk for dental caries in young children while improving their general health.
Short Cut to Understanding the Chinese through the Novel Dream of the Red Chamber

This article identifies such basic Chinese values and cultural aspects as piety, honor, modesty, respect to elders, g-uanshi, saving free, consensus building, and formality among co-workers. An awareness of such cultural factors is useful for people who would like to go into joint ventures with Chinese both nationally and internationally.
No Blood for Oil? Hydrocarbon Abundance and International Security

For most of the past century, the international security dimensions of energy have largely been governed by perceptions of scarcity: the presumption that global reserves of oil and other basic fuels are insufficient to meet the anticipated needs of all industrialized powers and that energy-poor states must, therefore, undertake extraordinary measures—economic, diplomatic, and military—to ensure access to adequate supplies. This outlook first gained traction in the years leading up to World War I, when British warships were converted from coal to oil propulsion and Great Britain sought control over oil fields in the Persian Gulf area. The need to ensure access to foreign sources of oil also played a role in German and Japanese military operations during World War II and helped shape US policy toward the Middle East during the Cold War period and its aftermath. Recently, however, energy analysts have begun questioning this scarcity-driven outlook. The future, it is claimed, promises abundant energy availability—whether in the form of oil or natural extracted from shale or renewable sources of energy. Along with expressing greater optimism regarding the future availability of energy, moreover, analysts are beginning to question the need to continue relying on military means to safeguard the delivery of energy supplies. The inclination to rely on military means to protect energy remains strong, however, and many major consuming powers continue to retain combat forces for this purpose while some, especially China, are expanding such capabilities.
Wide bandgap semiconductor microwave technologies: from promise to practice

SiC and GaN based microwave devices offer significant performance advantages over conventional semiconductors. These advantages include increased power density, total power, and efficiency. In this article, the status and prospects for these device is presented.
Experiments and simulation research on the Lightning flashover risk of UHVDC electrode lines

Safe and stable operation of electrode line is important to the reliability of the UHVDC transmission system. In recent years, electrode line fails repeatedly which causing electricity companies' close attention. According to the relevant standards and typical design, arcing horn is mounted on the electrode line to prevent insulators from direct current after lightning breakdown. However, several fails show that the unreasonable design of arcing horn is the main reason. Coordination between arcing horn and over-voltage is not effective. In order to improve the insulation coordination defects of UHVDC electrode line, experiments and simulation has been carried out. The 50% lightning impulse breakdown voltages through the arcing horns with different gap distance were obtained through experiments. A model based on Monte Carlo method is established to calculate lightning flashover rate. And main impact factors of the lightning flashover rate were studied. Results show that: 1) The dielectric strength of UHVDC electrode line currently operating in China is low. The arcing horn has increasing the lightning flashover risk. 2) Lightning flashover rate is closely related to the probability distribution of lightning current amplitude and gap distance of arcing horns. Lighting induced overvoltage should be considered in insulation coordination design of UHVDC electrode line.
Color‐Blind and Multicultural Strategies in Medical Settings

Recently, scholars have called for research that systematically examines the role of race and culture in shaping communication during racially discordant practitioner–patient interactions (i.e., patient and physician from different racial ethnic groups). In this review, we focus on two conceptual frameworks that influence the way people think about race, and subsequently, how they interact with others of a different race: color blindness and multiculturalism. We integrate basic social psychological research on interracial laboratory interactions with research on the markers of successful practitioner–patient communication to discuss how these two strategies shape interactions between Black patients and non-Black practitioners. Given that racial discrimination is often addressed within medical education and training contexts, we also discuss how these two strategies influence how practitioners are trained to talk about race. We conclude by offering practical suggestions as to how medical interactions can be improved by taking into consideration how color-blind and multicultural strategies shape behaviors within medical settings.
Neonatal Sleep-Wake Analyses Predict 18-month Neurodevelopmental Outcomes.

Objectives The neurological examination of critically ill neonates is largely limited to reflexive behavior. The exam often ignores sleep-wake physiology that may reflect brain integrity and influence long-term outcomes. We assessed whether polysomnography and concurrent cerebral near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) might improve prediction of 18-month neurodevelopmental outcomes. Methods Term newborns with suspected seizures underwent standardized neurologic examinations to generate Thompson scores and had 12-hour bedside polysomnography with concurrent cerebral NIRS. For each infant, the distribution of sleep-wake stages and electroencephalogram delta power were computed. NIRS-derived fractional tissue oxygen extraction (FTOE) was calculated across sleep-wake stages. At age 18-22 months, surviving participants were evaluated with Bayley Scales of Infant Development (Bayley-III), 3rd edition. Results Twenty-nine participants completed Bayley-III. Increased newborn time in quiet sleep predicted worse 18-month cognitive and motor scores (robust regression models, adjusted r2 = 0.22, p = .007, and 0.27, .004, respectively). Decreased 0.5-2 Hz electroencephalograph (EEG) power during quiet sleep predicted worse 18-month language and motor scores (adjusted r2 = 0.25, p = .0005, and 0.33, .001, respectively). Predictive values remained significant after adjustment for neonatal Thompson scores or exposure to phenobarbital. Similarly, an attenuated difference in FTOE, between neonatal wakefulness and quiet sleep, predicted worse 18-month cognitive, language, and motor scores in adjusted analyses (each p Conclusions These prospective, longitudinal data suggest that inefficient neonatal sleep-as quantified by increased time in quiet sleep, lower electroencephalogram delta power during that stage, and muted differences in FTOE between quiet sleep and wakefulness-may improve prediction of adverse long-term outcomes for newborns with neurological dysfunction.
Comparison of surgical and non-surgical orthodontic treatment approaches on occlusal and cephalometric outcomes in patients with Class II Division I malocclusions

This study aimed to examine end-of-treatment outcomes of severe Class II Division I malocclusion patients treated with surgical or non-surgical approaches. This study tests the hypotheses that occlusal outcomes (ABO-OGS) and cephalometric outcomes differ between these groups. A total of 60 patients were included: 20 of which underwent surgical correction and 40 of which did not. Cast grading of initial and final study models was performed and information was gathered from pre- to post-treatment cephalometric radiographs. The end-of-treatment ABO-OGS and cephalometric outcomes were compared to Mann-Whitney U tests and multivariable linear regression models. Following adjustment for multiple confounders (age, gender, complexity of case, and skeletal patterns), the final deband score (ABO-OGS) was similar for both groups (23.8 for surgical group versus 22.5 for non-surgical group). Those treated surgically had a significantly larger reduction in ANB angle, 3.4° reduction versus 1.5° reduction in the non-surgical group (p = 0.002). The surgical group also showed increased maxillary incisor proclination (p = 0.001) compared to the non-surgical group. This might be attributed to retroclination of maxillary incisors during treatment selection in the non-surgical group—namely, extraction of premolars to mask the discrepancy. Those treated surgically had a significantly larger reduction in ANB angle and increased maxillary incisor proclination compared to those treated non-surgically with no significant changes in occlusal outcomes.
Pinyon-Juniper Vegetation

Pinyon-Juniper vegetation covers more area on the mountains and plateaus of the American Southwest than all other vegetation types combined. It occurs in an elevational band below Ponderosa Pine Forest and above desert shrublands and semi-desert grasslands. Stands are dominated by pinyons and/or junipers of shorter height than forest tree species at higher-elevation. Stands have diverse structure, composition, and ecology and are categorized as persistent woodland, wooded shrubland, and savanna. The key driver of Pinyon-Juniper vegetation is variation in climate, which interacts with other drivers such as insect outbreaks to affect tree regeneration and mortality. Persistent woodland also experiences infrequent, high-intensity, stand-replacing fires. Anthropogenic disturbances include livestock grazing, fire management, modern climate change, invasive species, recreation, and nearby land use. Vegetation dynamics have been dominated by infill, expansion, and succession. Historical conditions are poorly known, but trees have increased in density in many stands since the late nineteenth century (infill) and have invaded adjacent grasslands (expansion). Understories have been altered by livestock grazing and increased tree densities. Vegetation dynamics are illustrated in a nested, three-tiered set of conceptual models. Key conclusions and challenges for researchers and land managers are summarized.
Ewing Sarcoma in the cervical trachea of a pediatric patient: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract Malignant pediatric tracheal tumors are rare and often present with non-specific findings. Here we present the first case of a primary Ewing tracheal sarcoma in a pediatric patient. Initial presentation, surgical management, post-operative care, and a review of the literature are discussed.
A non-traditonal approach to an assembly language course

Teaching assembly language is difficult at best. Most small schools and many larger ones use PC's in their labs. The method used by most texts focusing on the Intel 8x86 processor is becoming less and less applicable. This paper presents an approach to teaching an assembly language course that relies on free software, free documentation and integration with C or C++ programs. The software is available for Linux, UNIX and Windows and the methods are easily adaptable to these O/S. The course focuses on subroutines (functions) instead of programs. It also seeks to provide the students with a motivation for learning assembly language programming beyond writing device drivers. The concepts can easily be presented in a manner that readily relates to computer architecture and programming languages courses. All these factors appear to make the assembly language course more effective for the students and less painful for the instructor.
Human Microbiota, Blood Group Antigens, and Disease

Far from being just “bugs in our guts,” the microbiota interacts with the body in previously unimagined ways. Research into the genome and the microbiome has revealed that the human body and the microbiota have a long-established but only recently recognized symbiotic relationship; homeostatic balance between them regulates body function. That balance is fragile, easily disturbed, and plays a fundamental role in human health—our very survival depends on the healthy functioning of these microorganisms. Increasing rates of cardiovascular, autoimmune, and inflammatory diseases, as well as epidemics in obesity and diabetes in recent decades are believed to be explained, in part, by unintended effects on the microbiota from vaccinations, poor diets, environmental chemicals, indiscriminate antibiotic use, and “germophobia.” Discovery and exploration of the brain-gut-microbiota axis have provided new insights into functional diseases of the gut, autoimmune and stress-related disorders, and the role of probiotics in treating certain affective disorders; it may even explain some aspects of autism. Research into dietary effects on the human gut microbiota led to its classification into three proposed enterotypes, but also revealed the surprising role of blood group antigens in shaping those populations. Blood group antigens have previously been associated with disease risks; their subsequent association with the microbiota may reveal mechanisms that lead to development of nutritional interventions and improved treatment modalities. Further exploration of associations between specific enteric microbes and specific metabolites will foster new dietary interventions, treatment modalities, and genetic therapies, and inevitably, their application in personalized healthcare strategies.
When Do Renters Behave Like Homeowners? High Rent, Price Anxiety, and NIMBYism

How does spatial scale affect support for public policy? Does supporting housing citywide but “Not In My Back Yard” (NIMBY) help explain why housing has become increasingly difficult to build in once-affordable cities? I use two original surveys to measure how support for new housing varies between the city scale and neighborhood scale. Together, an exit poll of 1,660 voters during the 2015 San Francisco election and a national survey of over 3,000 respondents provide the first experimental measurements of NIMBYism. While homeowners are sensitive to housing’s proximity, renters typically do not express NIMBYism. However, in high-rent cities, renters demonstrate NIMBYism on par with homeowners, despite continuing to support large increases in the housing supply citywide. These scale-dependent preferences not only help explain the deepening affordability crisis, but show how institutions can undersupply even widely supported public goods. When preferences are scale dependent, the scale of decision-making matters.
Trends in inferior turbinate surgery: analysis of patients using the Medicare database.

Background The aim of this study was to characterize trends in turbinate reduction procedures from 2000 to 2015. Methods Annual procedure data were obtained for the period 2000-2015 and detailed Medicare provider and payment data were obtained for 2012-2015. Turbinate procedures analyzed included turbinate soft tissue mucosal ablation (TMA), turbinate soft tissue submucosal ablation (TSMA), turbinate excision (TE), and turbinate submucous resection (TSR). TMA and TSMA were grouped as turbinate soft tissue ablation (TA) for analysis. From 2012 to 2015, the type and location-facility (F) or nonfacility (NF)-of the providers performing the procedures were assessed. Results From 2000 to 2015, the total number of turbinate reduction procedures increased by an average of 3.8% annually. TSR had the highest annual increase at 5.4%. TE is the only procedure to show a decrease, by an average of -2.3% annually. From 2012 to 2015, the number of turbinate reduction procedures changed by -1.6% and 107.7% at F and NF locations, respectively. NF TSMA and TSR had the largest increases at 121.6% and 260.1%, respectively. Of the NF TA procedures, there was an average annual increase of 50% by non-otolaryngologists. For TA, the average F charge was 78.0% more than the NF charge, and the average NF otolaryngologist charge 11.5% more than the non-otolaryngologist charge. Conclusion The number of turbinate reduction procedures increased steadily between 2000 and 2015, with the majority being TSRs. This is consistent with previous studies demonstrating that TSR leads to better outcomes. There has been a significant increase in turbinate reduction procedures performed in outpatient/ambulatory settings by otolaryngologists, non-otolaryngologists, and midlevel providers.
Acquiring Competence at a Distance: Application Service Providers as a Hybrid Organizational Form

Application service providers (ASPs) are an innovative way for firms to outsource business functions by renting software as a service via the Internet. ASPs bring state of the art technology within the reach of firms that have been denied access to such advances in the past. The novelty of the ASP model results from the use of the Internet in the provision of services and the virtual inter-organizational tie that it creates between ASP and customer. The novelty of the ASP model has generated legitimacy concerns among the potential pool of customers, which has slowed the diffusion of this innovation. The recent dot-com fall-out has also had negative effects on the diffusion of the model. Nonetheless, the ASP model has managed to survive by adapting to the trends of the market. Entrepreneurship researchers have two reasons to pay more attention to ASPs. First, the emergence of the ASP business model has opened up opportunities for entrepreneurial activity by those seeking to capitalize on this new business model. Second, the proliferation of ASPs has the potential to affect other new ventures by altering their technology options.
Ballistic Electron Emission Microscopy and Spectroscopy Study of Ordering-Induced Band Structure Effects in Ga 0.52 In 0.48 P

Ordering induced changes in the band structure of GaInP are important with regard to its device applications, as well as for fundamental studies of atomic ordering. To characterize the structural and electronic properties of Ga0.52In0.48P (written as GaInP2 for simplicity), we have used the Ballistic Electron Emission Microscopy (BEEM) technique which allows the study of buried heterostructures with high spatial resolution. To make the most out of the BEEM capabilities, this work has detailed a quantitative study of the second voltage derivative (SD) of the ballistic electron emission spectra. Then, we associate two peaks observed in the SD-BEEM spectra of disordered GaInP2 on n+ GaAs substrate with the F and L conduction minima, whereas an additional third peak in the SD-BEEM spectra of ordered GaInP2 we associate with the L-band splitting due to the ordering-induced “folding” of one (from four) L valley onto the \( \bar \Gamma \) point. According to our results, this splitting is 0.13meV for the ordered GaInP2 (η∼0.5). In addition, the BEEM images of ordered GaInP2 samples show regions of enhanced and reduced current on the scale of ∼0.5 μm, and we relate these BEEM contrast regions to be due to order parameter fluctuations or antiphase domain boundaries.
Profound bilateral post-partum retinal circulation ischemia in two diabetic mothers with pre-eclampsia.

Abstract Purpose We report 2 cases of young diabetic mothers with pre-eclampsia and no previously documented visual deficits prior to pregnancy who were found to have profound retinal circulation loss during the postpartum period. Observations Fluorescein angiogram in both cases documented profound ischemia of retinal and macular circulation with resulting severe vision loss, leading to legal blindness. Conclusions and Importance While Pre-eclampsia and Eclampsia are well known clinical entities with potentially grave effects on both the mother and child, there is little information about the possible combined effects of diabetes and Pre-eclampsia/Eclampsia on the retinal circulation. We aim to raise awareness about this devastating association with a need for aggressive monitoring and prompt treatment of similar patients to potentially avoid poor visual outcomes.
Behavioral problems are associated with cognitive and language scores in toddlers born extremely preterm.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the relationship of parent-reported child behaviors on the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) to cognition, language, and motor skills on the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development – III (Bayley-III) in toddlers born extremely preterm. Study design Toddlers born extremely preterm (gestational ages 22 0/7 to 26 6/7 weeks) were tested at 22–26 months corrected age with Bayley-III while parents completed the CBCL. Socio-demographic variables and medical history were recorded. Linear regression models were used to assess the relationship of Bayley-III cognitive, motor, and language scores with CBCL scores, adjusting for medical and socio-demographic factors. Results Internalizing, affective, and pervasive development problem behavior scores on the CBCL correlated significantly with lower Bayley-III cognitive, language, and motor scores on unadjusted and adjusted analyses. Although externalizing and anxiety problems were significantly associated with cognitive and language scores on unadjusted analysis, the relationships were not significant after adjusting for socio-economic factors. CBCL scores were similar for boys and girls, with the exception of the pervasive developmental problem scale; boys had significantly more problems than girls (p = 0.02). Conclusions This study showed that parent reported behavior problems were related to lower cognitive, language, and motor development in toddlers born extremely preterm. Early findings of behavioral problems in toddlers born extremely premature may help identify children at greater risk for later learning difficulties. Adding a measure of behavior to the evaluation of these children may help better understand factors that can contribute to delays, especially in cognition and language.
Interdisciplinary palliative care communication for quality palliative care: Outcomes of a statewide train-the-trainer course.

83Background: Expert communication skills are essential for the delivery of effective palliative care across the domains of care. However, few healthcare providers receive formal communication training. The purpose of this presentation is to describe a train-the-trainer course for interprofessional hospital-based palliative care teams to prepare them to teach other healthcare professionals palliative care communication skills. Methods: This project was organized by the eight domains of the National Consensus Project (NCP) guidelines for quality palliative care and provided communication skills training for California-based teams. Funded by the Archstone Foundation, this 2-day train-the-trainer course included skill-building exercises and interactive discussions to assist participants in integrating communication skills-building into their clinical settings. Using a goal-directed method of teaching, the faculty assisted teams in developing three institutional goals for providing palliative care communicati...
Geologic legacy spanning >90 years explains unique Yellowstone hot spring geochemistry and biodiversity

Little is known about how the geological history of an environment shapes its physical and chemical properties and how these, in turn, influence the assembly of communities. Evening primrose (EP), a moderately acidic hot spring (pH 5.6, 77.4°C) in Yellowstone National Park (YNP), has undergone dramatic physicochemical change linked to seismic activity. Here, we show that this legacy of geologic change led to the development of an unusual sulphur-rich, anoxic chemical environment that supports a unique archaeal-dominated and anaerobic microbial community. Metagenomic sequencing and informatics analyses reveal that >96% of this community is supported by dissimilatory reduction or disproportionation of inorganic sulphur compounds, including a novel, deeply diverging sulphate-reducing thaumarchaeote. When compared to other YNP metagenomes, the inferred functions of EP populations were like those from sulphur-rich acidic springs, suggesting that sulphur may overprint the predominant influence of pH on the composition of hydrothermal communities. Together, these observations indicate that the dynamic geological history of EP underpins its unique geochemistry and biodiversity, emphasizing the need to consider the legacy of geologic change when describing processes that shape the assembly of communities.
The Impact of Alcohol and Drug Use on Employment: A Labor Market Study Using the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth

The purpose of this study was, first, to estimate the impact of alcohol and drug use on the employment status of men and women and, second, to examine whether a history of past use, as opposed to current use, adversely affects the propensity to be employed. Using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth we conducted a cross-sectional and a longitudinal analysis with logistic regression estimation to model the probability that a person was employed in 1992. In addition to usual regressors, interactions between substance use measures, between substance use measures and human capital variables, and between substance use measures and race dummies were included in the equation. The longitudinal analysis utilized a conditional likelihood method based on employment data in 1992 and 1988 and included the difference between 1992 regressors and their 1988 counterparts. A comparison was made between the prediction accuracy of the logit choice model, linear discriminant analysis, k-nearest neighbor analysis, and three modern classification methods that are used extensively in the area of machine learning. Results showed that the logit model performs relatively well in classifying individuals into employed and unemployed categories based on individual attributes. Results of the cross-sectional and longitudinal analysis were mixed but not inconsistent with our prior expectations that use of alcohol or drug has a negative impact on a person's propensity to be employed. Cross-sectional results show a clear negative impact of past substance use on a person's employment probability among all demographic groups examined (by gender: all persons, blacks, Hispanics, families with income below the poverty line, and high users of alcohol or drugs). However, when current and past use are considered together, only women seem to experience negative impacts. The results of the longitudinal analysis are less clear, although they do indicate that negative impacts are associated with the interaction between substance use measures and human capital variables. Limitations of the study are pointed out and suggestions are made for future research.
Attachments: Three Wishes

As a child and adolescent psychiatrist over the past 30 years, I have asked children and adolescents at the end of a diagnostic evaluation what are their three wishes. Why do I ask children and adolescents about their wishes? It enables me to understand their desires and to further recognize and appreciate their concerns. There are some children and teenagers who, during an evaluation, deny that they have any problems, but when asked about their wishes state they wish they weren't born or wished they had gone through with their plan to commit suicide.
Alzheimer’s Caregivers’ Experience With and Perceptions of the Affordable Care Act: Thematic Analysis of Online Discussion Forums:

The objective of this study was to analyze caregivers' authentic perceptions of and experiences with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This mixed-methods study identified and analyzed caregivers' unsolicited posts on a national online forum. Data posted in 2011 to 2017 were collected. The text-mining thematic analysis method was used to code and analyze 514 caregiver posts. Although many caregiver posts about the ACA had a negative tone, perceptions became more positive over time. Three overall themes emerged: (a) concern about cost implications of placement decisions for care recipients, (b) skepticism about government and health care system support of their caregiving roles, and (c) caregivers' own well-being and concerns about health insurance. Clear and effective communication between policymakers, health professionals, and caregivers is needed to enhance health system literacy. Policymakers, as well as health and social care professionals working with Alzheimer's patients and their families, should be empowered to develop and support a family-centered service system.
Detectability of Gravitational Waves from SN 1987A

We discuss the potential for the detection of gravitational waves from a rapidly spinning neutron star produced by supernova (SN) 1987A, taking the parameters claimed by Middleditch et al. at face value. Assuming that the dominant mechanism for spin-down is gravitational waves emitted by a freely precessing neutron star, it is possible to constrain the wobble angle, the effective moment of inertia of the precessing crust, and the crust cracking stress limit. Our analysis suggests that if the interpretation of the Middleditch data is correct, the compact remnant of SN 1987A may well provide a predictable source of gravitational waves well within the capabilities of the second Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory. The computational task required for the data analysis is within the capabilities of current computers if performed off-line and could be accomplished on-line using techniques such as demodulation and decimation.
Evidence-Based Guidelines Should Be Used to Inform COVID-19 Management.

A recent commentary by McCullough (1) includes a recommended COVID treatment algorithm that is outdated and parts of which are contradicted by high quality trial data. .
Supplementary Damping Controller Design of DFIG With Mode-based Damping Torque Analysis Method

This paper introduced the design method of supplementary damping controller of DFIG with the mode-based damping torque analysis method. Firstly, the principle of the mode-based damping torque analysis method is stated. Then, the comparison of the mode-based damping torque analysis method and two traditional controller design methods, that is, the classical damping torque analysis method and the residue method, are illustrated. Through theoretical derivation, it can be seen that different from the classical damping torque analysis method, the mode-based damping torque analysis method takes the oscillation mode of the power system as the main analysis object directly, which reduced the amount of calculation greatly. In addition, in the controller parameter adjustment in closed-loop system, the “dynamic” mode-based damping torque indicator is theoretically more accurate than the “static” residual indicator. Finally, the modified two-area four-machine power system is used to determine the installation location and parameters of the supplementary damping controller of DFIG with the model-based damping torque analysis method, which demonstrated the correctness of the method.
Proteomics: an emerging tool for the discovery of bone mineral density molecular pathways

Osteoporosis is a polygenic disease associated with low bone mineral density and deterioration of bone miniscule architecture and increased chance of bone fractures. However, several signaling pathways regulate bone mineral density including parathyroid hormone (PTH), Core-binding factor α-1 (CBFA1), Wnt/β-catenin, the receptor activator of the nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) ligand (RANKL), myostatin, estrogen, and osteogenic exercise signaling pathways. These signaling pathways occur at protein level that depends not only on messenger RNA transcriptional regulation but also on a number of translational and posttranslational controls. Moreover, proteomic alterations in bone tissue due to a disease may occur in several ways that are unpredictable from either genome or transcriptome analysis. Decades of genome and transcriptome analyses have identified few causative genes; nonetheless, the majority of osteoporosis susceptibility genes remain unknown. It appears that a deeper view of bone proteome alterations will influence bone health and disease. This article highlights the efficacy of proteomics as an emerging tool for the discovery of bone mineral density molecular pathways.