cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A New-Coupled-Inductor Circuit Breaker for DC Applications

In order to eliminate power conversion steps, future microgrids with renewable energy sources are being visualized as dc power systems. System components such as sources (solar panels, fuels cells, etc.) loads, and power conversion have been identified and are readily available. However, when it comes to dc circuit breakers, many designs are still in the experimental phase. The main limitation is that interrupting a current which does not have a zero crossing will sustain an arc. This paper introduces a new type of dc circuit breaker. It uses a short conduction path between the breaker and load as well as mutual coupling to automatically and rapidly switch Off in response to a fault. The proposed breaker also can have a crowbar type switch at the output so that it can be used as a dc switch. Mathematical analysis, detailed simulation, and laboratory measurements of the new dc switch are included.
Pertinent recent developments in blood banking.

Significant recent advances in blood banking have occurred. The preservatives for liquid-stored blood have changed in the last few years. With the addition of more dextrose and more adenine, the length of storage has increased to 35 days, and the viability of red cells in whole blood has improved. The future of red cell substitutes, the improvement of the functional properties of red cells in some situations, and supplementing the body’s defenses against infection by increasing the levels of fibronectin in the blood are also considered.
Hypothesis: The Intratumoral Immune Response against a Cancer Progenitor Cell Impacts the Development of Well-Differentiated versus Dedifferentiated Disease in Liposarcoma

Well-differentiated/dedifferentiated (WD/DD) liposarcoma is a rare malignancy of adipocyte origin ("fat cancer"). Tumors may be entirely WD, WD with a DD component, or rarely DD without a clear WD component. WD tumors are low grade and generally indolent, while tumors with a DD component are high grade and behave much more aggressively, with a modest potential for distant metastasis. The presence of cancer progenitor cells in WD/DD liposarcoma is suggested by clinical evidence and reported research findings. In addition, there are emerging data to support the existence of a naturally occurring, antigen-driven, and adaptive immune response within the tumor microenvironment. We hypothesize that the intratumoral immune response is directed against a cancer progenitor cell and that the outcome of this response impacts the development of WD versus DD disease. Further study will likely provide interesting insights into the disease biology of WD/DD liposarcoma that may be readily translated to other more common cancers.
Congressional Analytic Capacity, Party Polarization, and the Political Economy of Revolving Door Lobbying

We argue that the market for lobbying services is a function of two key features of modern American politics: (1) the decline in Congress’s analytic capacity and (2) the concentration of agenda setting powers to party leaders that has come with increased polarization in government. These trends have made the legislative process much more uncertain to external stakeholders. As a result, revolving door lobbyists’ strategic political process knowledge has increased their value relative to substantive, policy-oriented lobbyists. In a departure from previous work, our model does not rely on the assumption that revolving door lobbyists sell “access” to specific policymakers. Rather, revolving door lobbyists offer organized interests a form of political insurance against the perceived risk of chaotic, unpredictable government action (or inaction). We draw on our original data set of the career histories of more than 630 contract lobbyists. We find that revolving door lobbyists generate at least twice the revenue per year than those without government experience, especially with more senior positions Capitol Hill. These findings have important consequences for political reform: efforts to minimize the influence of lobbyists and special interests need to first look at how Congress itself has created a system that rewards those who spin through the revolving door.
Novel Methods to Enhance Precision and Reliability in Muscle Synergy Identification during Walking.

Muscle synergies are hypothesized to reflect modular control of muscle groups via descending commands sent through multiple neural pathways. Recently, the number of synergies has been reported as a functionally relevant indicator of motor control complexity in individuals with neurological movement disorders. Yet the number of synergies extracted during a given activity, e.g. gait, varies within and across studies, even for unimpaired individuals. With no standardized methods for precise determination, this variability remains unexplained making comparisons across studies and cohorts difficult. Here, we utilize k-means clustering and intra-class and between-level correlation coefficients to precisely discriminate reliable from unreliable synergies. EMG was recorded bilaterally from eight leg muscles during treadmill walking at self-selected speed. Muscle synergies were extracted from 20 consecutive gait cycles using non-negative matrix factorization. We demonstrate that the number of synergies is highly dependent on the threshold when using the variance accounted for by reconstructed EMG. In contrast, our method utilized a quantitative metric to reliably identify four or five synergies underpinning walking in unimpaired adults and revealed synergies having poor reproducibility that should not be considered as true synergies. We show that robust and unreliable synergies emerge similarly, emphasizing the need for careful analysis in those with pathology.
Bid and Time Truthful Online Auctions in Dynamic Spectrum Markets

The allocation of underutilized spectrum from primary users to secondary users in real time is likely the most promising avenue for advancing efficiency of spectrum use given the ever-increasing demand for transmission. Research in this area has focused on auctions to facilitate the distribution of spectrum, inducing truthful reporting by participants. However, most research has assumed a static or partially dynamic setting. These approaches are unable to capture that spectrum becomes available at random intervals as primary users’ needs vary across time; and, similarly, secondary users’ needs vary over time. Moreover, frequently there is flexibility regarding the time of transmission—with some transmissions being more urgent and time-sensitive than others. Therefore, existing research cannot be directly applied to such auction environments involving users with variable transmission deadlines, while preserving efficiency and truthfulness. In this paper, we present two truthful online auction mechanisms in dynamic spectrum markets that consider indefinite number of arrival of bidders with varying transmission deadlines and random availability of spectrum units over time. The first proposed mechanism SOADE assumes that the underlying distribution information of bidders and supplies is available. With that knowledge, the mechanism builds around a priority function that determines the rank of a bidder of winning spectrum at an auction considering its valuation, deadline, and uncertainty associated with dynamic arrival of bidders and spectrum availability. The second proposed mechanism xSOADE does not require any distribution knowledge. This mechanism applies bid monotonic spectrum allocation technique, determines the payment based on critical pricing, and enforces penalty rules to avoid manipulation. We prove that both the algorithms are truthful against bid and time-based cheating and individually rational through theoretical analysis and numerical simulations. Finally, we analyze the performance of these algorithms under different settings in terms of auction efficiency and auction revenue and demonstrate their effectiveness compared to prior work.
Detecting Sexually Provocative Images

While the abundance of visual content available on the Internet, and the easy access to such content by all users allows us to find relevant content quickly, it also poses challenges. For example, if a parent wants to restrict the visual content which their child can see, this content needs to either be automatically tagged as offensive or not, or a computer vision algorithm needs to be trained to detect offensive content. One type of potentially offensive content is sexually explicit or provocative imagery. An image may be sexually provocative if it portrays nudity, but the sexual innuendo could also be contained in the body posture or facial expression of the human subject shown in the photo. Existing methods simply analyze skin exposure, but fail to capture the hidden intent behind images. Thus, they are unable to capture several important ways in which an image might be sexually provocative, hence offensive to children. We propose to address this problem by extracting a unified feature descriptor constituting the percentage of skin exposure, the body posture of the human in the image, and his/her gestures and facial expressions. We learn to predict these cues, then train a hierarchical model which combines them. We show in experiments that this model more accurately detects sexual innuendos behind images.
Phase-Separated Liposomes Enhance the Efficiency of Macromolecular Delivery to the Cellular Cytoplasm

From viruses to organelles, fusion of biological membranes is used by diverse biological systems to deliver macromolecules across membrane barriers. Membrane fusion is also a potentially efficient mechanism for the delivery of macromolecular therapeutics to the cellular cytoplasm. However, a key shortcoming of existing fusogenic liposomal systems is that they are inefficient, requiring a high concentration of fusion-promoting lipids in order to cross cellular membrane barriers. Toward addressing this limitation, our experiments explore the extent to which membrane fusion can be amplified by using the process of lipid membrane phase separation to concentrate fusion-promoting lipids within distinct regions of the membrane surface. We used confocal fluorescence microscopy to investigate the integration of fusion-promoting lipids into a ternary lipid membrane system that separated into liquid-ordered and liquid-disordered membrane phases. Additionally, we quantified the impact of membrane phase separation on the efficiency with which liposomes transferred lipids and encapsulated macromolecules to cells, using a combination of confocal fluorescence imaging and flow cytometry. Here we report that concentrating fusion-promoting lipids within phase-separated lipid domains on the surfaces of liposomes significantly increases the efficiency of liposome fusion with model membranes and cells. In particular, membrane phase separation enhanced the delivery of lipids and model macromolecules to the cytoplasm of tumor cells by at least four-fold in comparison to homogenous liposomes. Our findings demonstrate that phase separation can enhance membrane fusion by locally concentrating fusion-promoting lipids on the surface of liposomes. This work represents the first application of lipid membrane phase separation in the design of biomaterials-based delivery systems. Additionally, these results lay the ground work for developing fusogenic liposomes that are triggered by physical and molecular cues associated with target cells.
Google, King of Search

This survey of Google's rise to prominence as the de facto search engine of choice focuses on the theme of relevance as a guiding principle. As Google has diversified its offering through both organic growth and acquisition, the potential manifestations of relevance have multiplied, to the point where the nature of its market may need to be reassessed. Excerpt UVA-M-0818 Aug. 11, 2011 Google, King of Search In 2010, Google had an 80% market share of the world's Internet searches and over $ 29 billion in revenue. The following year, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) began an investigation to determine whether Google was abusing its dominance in search advertising. Over the previous 12 years, the corporation had also diversified into a variety of products, from those developed organically, such as Gmail and Google Maps, to large acquisitions, such as YouTube. How had Google become such a powerhouse in just over a decade that it faced antitrust charges? And, with so many products, how exactly should Google's market be defined? Becoming an Advertising Machine Larry Page and Sergey Brin founded Google on their initial insight that effective searches relied less on key words than on links, and they emphasized maintaining focus on that core competency (Table 1). Less evident to them was how to monetize the concept. Other search engines had employed banner ads and pop-ups, which they considered intrusive and distracting, so instead, they developed AdWords, simple text-only ads that appeared above and alongside search results, the goal being “for the ads you see on Google to be as useful to you [the internet searcher] as they are to the advertisers.” . . .
SEIZURE TYPES: RESULTS OF PARTIAL AND COMPLETE CALLOSOTOMY IN ADULTS

Corpus callosum section was initially conceptualized as a means of preventing seizure generalization by interrupting the major interhemispheric commissural systems (Van Wagenen and Herren 1940). Section of the anterior commissure, hippocampal commissure, corpus callosum, and one fornix were performed, and effective, but accompanied by an unacceptably high complication rate. Successive modification resulted in a procedure that now involves section of only the corpus callosum and sometimes the hippocampal commissure. The pioneering work of Wilson and his colleagues established that the desirable reduction in generalized seizures was realized despite the persistence of some commissural connections (Wilson et al. 1977, 1978, 1982).
A Review of Linear Mixed Models

In this chapter we will introduce the basic concepts and matrix algebra methods used to perform linear mixed models analysis. For readers who are more familiar with traditional analysis of variance (ANOVA) based on ordinary least squares methods, we first will review the ANOVA and compare ANOVA to mixed models analysis to help introduce this topic. We will show that under certain conditions, results from ANOVA and mixed models analysis are largely equivalent, but that when data are unbalanced or when we want to relax certain assumptions of the ANOVA, the mixed model analysis has properties that make it preferable. In this section, we focus on hypothesis testing and estimation using an empirical data set to show how these analyses are conducted for different methods and for different software packages. Only a few details of the mathematical machinery involved in the mixed models analysis will be covered here. A more detailed description of mixed model theory will be covered in later sections of the book. For readers interested in a more formal treatment of the argument details, they can be found in Sorensen and Gianola (Likelihood, Bayesian, and MCMC Methods in Quantitative Genetics. Springer Science & Business Media, 2007). Details of ANOVA for balanced and unbalanced data can be found in Rawlings et al. (Applied regression analysis: A research tool. New York: Springer, 2001) and Milliken and Johnson (Analysis of messy data, Designed Experiments (Vol. 1). Boca Raton: Chapman & Hall/CRC, 2004).
Two Examples of Satellite Temperature Retrievals in the North Pacific

TIROS-N data for 21 October 1979 indicate a stronger jet and cyclone vortex at 250 mb in the eastern Pacific than is suggested by forecast continuity and aircraft winds. NOAA-6 data for 29 January ...
(Re)writing Women’s Lives: A Call for Media Scholars to Renew Their Efforts at Feminist Biography

Greenwald addresses the status of feminist biography and reviews its relevance. Because the accomplishments of women have been overlooked in most fields, it is important that their stories be told. Many of the women in media who overcame overt discrimination and resisted male dominance are the ones whose stories have been ignored or relegated to anthologies.
Elastic torsional buckling of thin-walled composite cylinders

The elastic torsional buckling strength has been determined experimentally for thin-walled cylinders fabricated with glass/epoxy, boron/epoxy, and graphite/epoxy composite materials and composite-reinforced aluminum and titanium. Cylinders have been tested with several unidirectional-ply orientations and several cross-ply layups. Specimens were designed with diameter-to-thickness ratios of approximately 150 and 300 and in two lengths of 10 in. and 20 in. The results of these tests were compared with the buckling strengths predicted by the torsional buckling analysis of Chao.
Poly-μ-2,5-dimethylpyrazine-μ-dithiocyanato-N, S, S-dicopper(I): a three-dimensional coordination polymer containing both molecular and anionic rod ligands

Reaction of CuSCN with 2,5-dimethylpyrazine (2,5-me2pyz) yields a polymeric material, [Cu2(SCN)2(2,5-me2pyz)]∞, which has been crystallographically characterized. The compound crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/N with a = 5.6850(2) A, b = 6.92877(3) A, c = 14.3575(6) A, β = 93.435(1)○, and Z = 2. It contains [Cu(SCN)]∞ sheets in which each thiocyanate ligand acts in a μ-N,S,S-bridging mode. The sheets are bridged by 2,5-dimethylpyrazine ligands to generate a three dimensional network. The compound has also been characterized by infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis.
Hemodynamic-Directed Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Improves Neurologic Outcomes and Mitochondrial Function in the Heart and Brain.

OBJECTIVES Less than half of the thousands of children who suffer in-hospital cardiac arrests annually survive, and neurologic injury is common among survivors. Hemodynamic-directed cardiopulmonary resuscitation improves short-term survival, but its impact on longer term survival and mitochondrial respiration-a potential neurotherapeutic target-remains unknown. The primary objectives of this study were to compare rates of 24-hour survival with favorable neurologic outcome after cardiac arrest treated with hemodynamic-directed cardiopulmonary resuscitation versus standard depth-guided cardiopulmonary resuscitation and to compare brain and heart mitochondrial respiration between groups 24 hours after resuscitation. DESIGN Randomized preclinical large animal trial. SETTING A large animal resuscitation laboratory at a large academic children's hospital. SUBJECTS Twenty-eight 4-week-old female piglets (8-11 kg). INTERVENTIONS Twenty-two swine underwent 7 minutes of asphyxia followed by ventricular fibrillation and randomized treatment with either hemodynamic-directed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (n = 10; compression depth titrated to aortic systolic pressure of 90 mm Hg, vasopressors titrated to coronary perfusion pressure ≥ 20 mm Hg) or depth-guided cardiopulmonary resuscitation (n = 12; depth 1/3 chest diameter, epinephrine every 4 min). Six animals (sham group) underwent anesthesia and instrumentation without cardiac arrest. The primary outcomes were favorable neurologic outcome (swine Cerebral Performance Category ≤ 2) and mitochondrial maximal oxidative phosphorylation utilizing substrate for complex I and complex II (OXPHOSCI+CII) in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Favorable neurologic outcome was more likely with hemodynamic-directed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (7/10) than depth-guided cardiopulmonary resuscitation (1/12; p = 0.006). Hemodynamic-directed cardiopulmonary resuscitation resulted in higher intra-arrest coronary perfusion pressure, aortic pressures, and brain tissue oxygenation. Hemodynamic-directed cardiopulmonary resuscitation resulted in higher OXPHOSCI+CII (pmol oxygen/s × mg/citrate synthase) in the cortex (6.00 ± 0.28 vs 3.88 ± 0.43; p < 0.05) and hippocampus (6.26 ± 0.67 vs 3.55 ± 0.65; p < 0.05) and higher complex I respiration (pmol oxygen/s × mg) in the right (20.62 ± 1.06 vs 15.88 ± 0.81; p < 0.05) and left ventricles (20.14 ± 1.40 vs 14.17 ± 1.53; p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS In a model of asphyxia-associated pediatric cardiac arrest, hemodynamic-directed cardiopulmonary resuscitation increases rates of 24-hour survival with favorable neurologic outcome, intra-arrest hemodynamics, and cerebral and myocardial mitochondrial respiration.
Obesity and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children

Abstract Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) consists of the fatty infiltration of the liver by > 5% hepatocytes without excessive (
Creating a bubble…and an understanding of scientific practices

The use of creativity in science practices is many times lost on secondary students. Creativity is seen as something central to the arts and humanities, but tangential at best in the sciences. Howe...
Diffuse Scattering Models for mmWave V2X Communications in Urban Scenarios

This paper is concerned with the generation of accurate radio channel propagation models for mmWave transmissions for vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications in urban scenarios. We emphasize the importance of capturing diffuse scattered rays for improved large-scale and small-scale radio channel propagation models. Our paper focuses on directive transmissions and compares various diffuse scattering models, arguing their advantage for the analysis of the mmWave radio links. The conclusions are that both received power levels and delay spread produce better estimates when the diffuse scatter models are enabled in the Wireless InSite ray-tracer that we use.
The Anterior Abdominal Wall

The subcostal body wall is largely muscular in its overall construction. The muscles not only function in their usual capacity as movers of the skeleton, e.g., they flex and rotate the trunk, but also provide support and protection for abdominal contents. In addition, a muscular body wall is able to accomodate to variations in intra-abdominal pressure and to comply with changes in size, shape, or position of internal organs, e.g., an enlarging uterus of pregnancy.
Psychologists’ Practices, Stressors, and Wellness in Academic Health Centers

Burnout has been identified as widely prevalent in physicians and other health professions. However, relatively little has been written about burnout in psychologists. The current study reviews the literature investigating professional wellness, sources of stress, and burnout in practicing psychologists. Based on a survey of members of the Association for Psychologists in Academic Health Centers’ (n = 93), stress levels, burnout, and work satisfaction in health service psychologists in academic health centers (AHCs) were examined. Respondents indicated some level of burnout ranging from having no symptoms (8%) to being occasionally stressed (59%), symptoms won’t go away (12%), definitely burning out (18%), or being completely burned out (3%). Most respondents described working at high levels, including “at full capacity” (41%) or being “over-extended” (39%). Despite these concerns, most respondents indicated satisfaction with their positions (42% “very satisfied,” 44% “somewhat satisfied”) and recommended careers as psychologists in medical settings (50% strongly; 34% moderately). Most commonly perceived sources of stress included clinical load, salary, insufficient protected time for research, teaching, education, and supervision, insufficient psychologists to meet the need, and non-billable clinical activities. Consistent with the physician literature, workload was associated with burnout and burnout was associated with decreased professional satisfaction. The current study narrows the gap in the literature on the stress psychologists experience in AHCs and explores findings within the broader literature about health professional burnout. Greater understanding is needed about factors that affect burnout in health service psychologists, identification and modification of risk factors, and prevention strategies.
Introducing machine learning concepts using hands-on Android-based exercises

In this innovative practice work-in-progress paper, we discuss novel methods to teach machine learning concepts to undergraduate students. Teaching machine learning involves introducing students to complex concepts in statistics, linear algebra, and optimization. In order for students to better grasp concepts in machine learning, we provide them with hands-on exercises. These types of immersive experiences will expose students to the different stages of the practical uses of machine learning. The data collection apparatus is based on applications (apps) developed for the Android platform. Due to the accessible nature of the app and the exercises based on the app, this approach is useful for students across all majors.We provide the students with three different sets of activities, the first of which will introduce the basics of machine learning with specially designed artificial datasets. The second and third activities involve data collection, modeling, training, and testing, as applied to machine learning algorithms. The second activity will involve collecting touch/swipe data on mobile devices from students as they use a touch logger app. The third activity uses the Reflections app to collect cross-correlation data from rooms with different purposes. These hands-on activities guide the students through every step of the machine learning process. Student learning is assessed for each activity by holding workshops for undergraduate students. A workshop with the first activity outlining the basics of machine learning was given in the fall of 2018 and significant student learning was demonstrated. Workshops for the second and third activities are planned for the fall semester of 2019. Results from these workshops will be presented at the conference.
Stent vs. Primary Repair for Esophageal Perforation

Esophageal perforation is a relatively uncommon event, but one that is associated with very high morbidity and mortality. The most appropriate approach to management is currently contested. Primary repair has long thought to be the most efficacious technique, but several endoscopic modalities have recently been developed, the most commonly employed of which is stenting. We evaluated the available literature regarding the management of esophageal perforations with respect to success, complications, length of stay, re-intervention, and quality of life. We recommend the use of a stent as first line therapy for patients with esophageal perforation who are hemodynamically stable.
Trace element fractionation and isotope ratio variation during melting of a spatially distributed and lithologically heterogeneous mantle

Abstract The source region of basalts in the mantle is chemically and lithologically heterogeneous. During decompression melting of a spatially distributed and lithologically heterogeneous mantle, mineral modes of distinct mantle sources vary continuously, resulting in spatial and temporal variations in the bulk partition coefficient of a trace element in different lithologies in the melting column, which in turn affects the fractionation of the trace element in partial melt and residual solid. This problem can be quantified by following the motion of solid in the melting column. This study presents a new melting model that can be used to keep track of spatial and temporal variations of mineral mode, melting reaction, bulk partition coefficient, and trace element concentration in the lithologically heterogeneous melting column. Simple analytical solutions for a time-dependent perfect fractional melting model are obtained. Essential features of the new model are elucidated through case studies of melting a two-lithology mantle that consists of blobs of orthopyroxene-rich lithology in the upwelling lherzolitic mantle; and an application to Sr-Nd-Hf isotope ratio variations in basalts from the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is presented. Fractional melting of the two-lithology mantle results in large temporal variations in incompatible trace element concentrations and Sr-Nd-Hf isotope ratios in the pooled melt. Mixing of fractional melts derived from different lithologies in the melting column produces enriched and depleted melts that form mixing loops in Sr-Nd-Hf isotope ratio correlation diagrams. These mixing loops rotate away from mixing lines defined by the binary mixing model and are a unique feature of melting a spatially heterogeneous mantle. Formation of the mixing loop can be traced to the location and spacing of the enriched lithological units in the melting column. The role of lithological heterogeneity is to change the bulk partition coefficient of a trace element from its values in the lherzolitic mantle to new values in the pyroxenitic mantle, which alters the extent of depletion of the trace element in the melting column. Changing bulk partition coefficient with time and space through lithological heterogeneity can result in greater variabilities in Sr-Nd-Hf isotope ratios and highly incompatible trace element concentrations in the pooled melt. Results from this study establish a framework for systematic studies of trace element fractionation and isotope ratio variation during decompression melting of a spatially distributed and lithologically heterogeneous mantle.
Input substitution and relative input price variability in timber markets

Timbers of multiple tree species and sizes are often traded in a single market. Some previous studies have empirically examined their price interdependences, but the drivers of such relationships r...
The consideration for outpatient mastectomy during the COVID-19 global pandemic.

• Due to resource constraints due to COVID-19, surgeons should consider performing mastectomies in the outpatient setting. • Multimodal analgesia, ERAS pathways, and pre-operative patient counseling aid in the safety of outpatient mastectomies. • Surgeons and patients should work together to balance the risks and benefits of oncologic care during the pandemic.
The History of Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy has revolutionized the management of joint ailments in orthopedics. It is impossible to recognize all of the surgeons and other individuals involved in promoting the use of arthroscopy as well as advancing the technology since it was first used to see inside a bladder in 1806. Arthroscopy has come a long way from using a combustion of gasoline reflected with mirrors to using the fiber optic light source and nanoscopic technology we have today. Technology and techniques will continue to improve making arthroscopy a fundamental skill for today’s orthopedic surgeon.
Three is a crowd: Clinical outcomes of a twice daily versus a thrice daily metronidazole dosing strategy from a multicenter study.

This was a multicenter, retrospective study of patients with anaerobic bacteremia comparing metronidazole 500 mg every 8 h versus 500 mg every 12 h. Of 782 patients reviewed, 85 met inclusion criteria. There was no significant difference in mortality, length of stay, or escalation of therapy between dosing strategies.
Vasectomy and vasectomy reversal: a comprehensive approach to the evolving spectrum of care

Male reproduction and male contraception form an important spectrum within men's health. In this issue's Views and Reviews, four author groups detail important new developments in vasectomy clinical practice guidelines, emerging and investigational techniques in the fields of hormonal and nonhormonal male contraception, useful paradigms for patient care when deciding between sperm extraction with in vitro fertilization and vasectomy reversal, and finally, a state-of-the-art overview of recent developments in vasectomy reversal microsurgery. These articles will provide readers with a contemporary understanding of the rapidly evolving spectrum of male reproductive and contraceptive health care.
Conditional Mutation of Hand1 in the Mouse Placenta Disrupts Placental Vascular Development Resulting in Fetal Loss in Both Early and Late Pregnancy.

Congenital heart defects (CHD) affect approximately 1% of all live births, and often require complex surgeries at birth. We have previously demonstrated abnormal placental vascularization in human placentas from fetuses diagnosed with CHD. Hand1 has roles in both heart and placental development and is implicated in CHD development. We utilized two conditionally activated Hand1A126fs/+ murine mutant models to investigate the importance of cell-specific Hand1 on placental development in early (Nkx2-5Cre) and late (Cdh5Cre) pregnancy. Embryonic lethality occurred in Nkx2-5Cre/Hand1A126fs/+ embryos with marked fetal demise occurring after E10.5 due to a failure in placental labyrinth formation and therefore the inability to switch to hemotrophic nutrition or maintain sufficient oxygen transfer to the fetus. Labyrinthine vessels failed to develop appropriately and vessel density was significantly lower by day E12.5. In late pregnancy, the occurrence of Cdh5Cre+;Hand1A126fs/+ fetuses was reduced from 29% at E12.5 to 20% at E18.5 and remaining fetuses exhibited reduced fetal and placental weights, labyrinth vessel density and placenta angiogenic factor mRNA expression. Our results demonstrate for the first time the necessity of Hand1 in both establishment and remodeling of the exchange area beyond early pregnancy and in patterning vascularization of the placental labyrinth crucial for maintaining pregnancy and successful fetal growth.
Architectural challenges: AI Chips, Decision Support and High Performance Computing

Many of the societal problems we face today do not have the benefit of being data rich for the situations we worry about: in climate, energy, health, security. They also live outside most of the market forces that drive technology development. We have to look beyond our current horizons and balance the grip of near term pressures with these larger opportunities. Exploring new paradigms will require risk that many are not willing to do, but the benefits are societal. As with the Steam Engine, AI (as defined today) is a means to get to a place where we can achieve far beyond our own limitations. It is not and endpoint but rather a step towards this evolution.
Chapters in Narratives: Evidence From Oral Histories of the First Year in College

AbstractThirty college students provided 20-min oral accounts of their first year in college. One week later, each participant divided a typed transcript of his or her memory narrative into self-defined chapters. Two independent coders also "chapterized" all 30 narratives according to their own self-defined criteria. There was considerable agreement among coders and participants in both the number of chapters per narrative and the location of chapter breaks within the narrative. The chapters were approximately the same length as written individual memories obtained in earlier questionnaire studies using similar subjects. In follow-up interviews about the chapterizing process, men were more likely than women to define memory chapters by topics, whereas women were more likely than men to define chapters by emotions. Although the overall incidence of specific memo-ries in the oral histories was low, specific memories were overrepresented in opening chapters and they tended to occur in close proximity to each other throughout the narratives. The memory chapter appears to be a useful and meaningful unit for detailed analysis of extended narratives. (Psychology)
Influence of popular culture on special interest tourists' destination image

In this study the role of pop-culture on shaping destination image was derived from focus groups and interviews with 24 fans from different nationalities of the Korean pop star Ahn Jae-wook. Three main theses emerged from the study: 1) the destination image induced by pop-culture was changed in a positive way; 2) the pop-star's event reinforced a positive place image through experiences of the event and travels in South Korea; and 3) the positive image from pop-culture experiences had a strong impact on future behavior. Results of the study suggest that pop-culture as an autonomous agent delivers a more powerful and stronger influence on destination image than previously recognized in the literature. Theoretical contributions and practical implications are discussed.
Perception of Grazing to Promote Ecological Services in Recreational and Government Contracted Grasslands

and Implications Managed grazing in grasslands not currently grazed such as those enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program or used for recreational activities has the potential to improve plant community diversity and soil quality thus enhancing many grassland ecological services including wildlife habitat, carbon sequestration, and preserving water quality. Grazing in grasslands not currently grazed increases the available forage for grazing cattle to reduce the pressure on current pasturelands. However, introducing managed grazing into grasslands not currently grazed poses unique challenges including rep ailing or installing infrastructure, movement of cattle to new grazing areas, and developing agreements to ensure grazing management meets the goals of both the land owner and cattle producer. To determine the potential for integration of managed grazing into perennial grassland landscapes, a survey was made available to cattle producers and grassland owners throughout the Midwest. Results from 65 respondents throughout the Midwest indicate grassland owners and cattle producers recognize that grazing has potential to enhance the ecological value of grasslands; however, a majority of cattle producers (53%) feel grassland owners don't want to allow grazing on their land. Of the grassland owners surveyed, 63% wanted to attract wildlife for hunting and 87% would allow Sh011 duration grazing to enhance wildlife habitat. If grazing was allowed on government contracted grasslands, 79% of cattle producers were willing to move cattle up to 10 miles for less than 45 days of grazing. Both grassland owners and cattle producers in the survey were most likely to install infrastructure when grazing contracts lasted at least 5 years. The results of this survey indicate both cattle producers and grassland owners are willing to graze grasslands not cUlTently grazed; however, payments would be required by more than 70% of grassland owners to compensate for lost government payments or at a rate equal to CUlTent pasture rent.
Structure and Energetics of Weakly Bound Complexes. Systems Incorporating NH3 and PH3

Abstract Neutral molecules such as NH3 and PH3 form complexes of widely varying strength. A great deal is known about their interactions with cations like H+ and Li+ and the nature of the very strong binding. Gaps remain in the understanding of complexes of medium strength such as hydrogen and lithium bonds. The latter two types of interactions are compared and contrasted with particular attention to the underlying causes of their differing vibrational spectra. Whereas the Coulombic force is of prime importance in both strong and medium-strength interactions, it plays a subordinate role to exchange and dispersion in weak complexes such as (NH3)2 and Ar··XH3. The very strong anisotropy of exchange appears to guide the angular features of these complexes while dispersion is responsible for their bound nature.
Abstract #LB-255: CD44 and Hyaluronic Acid: Salivary Markers in HNSCC

Each year 40,000 individuals in the United States and 500,000 worldwide are diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Tobacco and alcohol, the main risk factors, account for approximately 85% of HNSCC. Only 50% of patients are cured with initial therapy, because the majority of HNSCC is identified in advanced stage. The upper aerodigestive tract (UADT) is easy to access and is bathed by saliva that contains potential molecular markers for HNSCC. CD44 and hyaluronic acid (HA), potential tumor markers, are differentially expressed in normal versus dysplastic UADT mucosa and HNSCC and involved in tumorigenesis. We have previously reported that soluble CD44 is overexpressed in oral rinses from HNSCC compared to controls and is useful for distinguishing benign disease from malignancy; however sensitivity was limited at 62%. Here we evaluate HA as an additional marker that may be useful in combination with solCD44. We used ELISA and ELISA-like assays to evaluate solCD44 and HA levels in oral rinses from 10 low-risk controls, 26 high-risk controls (history of drinking or smoking and with benign disease of the upper aerodigestive tract), and 23 HNSCC patients. The mean solCD44 level in oral rinses was 3.26 ± 0.4348 ng/ml for subjects with HNSCC, 2.07 ± 0.4379 ng/ml for benign disease patients (p 2 years prior to evidence of disease, subjects in the high-risk control group will have to be followed over time to determine whether this lower specificity is due to false positives or early malignant change. In conclusion, solCD44 complements the HA test, suggesting that the combination of these two markers may be useful to detect HNSCC in early stages with higher sensitivity and specificity than tested alone. Further investigation of this marker panel is under way in our laboratory. Supported by NIH grants CA107828 and CA118584, FAMRI grant 12536 Citation Information: In: Proc Am Assoc Cancer Res; 2009 Apr 18-22; Denver, CO. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; 2009. Abstract nr LB-255.
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS OF THE MULTI-FUNDS FROM 2002 - 2010

This paper evaluates, in a strictly financial manner, the performance obtained by the social security multi- funds in Chile from their inception to 2010. The first protective labor legislations were passed under the Partial Capitalization System that was sustained by the active contributors who financed the pensions of the passive. This System was radically modified to an Individual Capitalization System through pension reforms made in the 1980s. The income earned in the passive phase of working life were in direct relation with the individual contributions from the members, not guaranteeing return under a private administration. The legislation did not suffer major modifications until 2002. It included a system of multi-funds in which the management company of the resources contributed by the workers offered the possibility of investing those resources in aggressive portfolio based on their age. After almost 10 years, we wonder if those funds that are the only income in the vast majority of the cases were efficiently managed by these private companies because, in addition to the mandatory contribution percentages, there are certain payments the contributors must withstand: management services known as commissions. Through the implementation of certain financial metrics, the results indicate that earnings have not experienced abnormal returns. Also, the reference market portfolios in many findings show us better yields than those offered by these companies.
Crush Energy and Planar Impact Mechanics for Accident Reconstruction

This paper describes how the algorithm used in the third version of the Calspan Reconstruction of Accident Speeds on the Highway (CRASH3) and planar impact mechanics are both used to calculate energy loss and velocity changes of vehicle collisions. They intentionally solve the vehicle collision problem using completely different approaches, however, they should produce comparable results. One of the differences is that CRASH3 uses a correction factor for estimating the collision energy loss due to tangential effects whereas planar impact mechanics uses a common velocity condition in the tangential direction. In this paper, a comparison is made between how CRASH3 computes the energy loss of a collision and how this same energy loss is determined by planar impact mechanics. The main factors that control energy loss as calculated by CRASH3 are the determination of the PDOF (principal direction of force), definition of a common impact point of the two vehicles, the common normal velocity condition and the tangential correction factor. In the planar impact mechanics solution, the controlling factors are the definition of a crush surface, definition of a common impact point, common velocity conditions and the values of normal and tangential coefficients. Experimental collisions (RICSAC, Research Input for Computer Simulation of Automobile Collisions) are used to provide a basis for comparison. A method is proposed that exploits the features of both methods for vehicle accident reconstructions.
Auditory agnosia for speech (“pure word-deafness”)

Abstract A historical review of thought about the existence, clinical presentation, and mechanism of auditory agnosia for speech is presented. Implications of recent contributions which shed more light on this syndrome are discussed.
Mechanical Ventilation 101

The requirement for endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation is the most common indication for admission to the ICU. The most common reason for mechanical ventilation is hypoxic respiratory failure (type 1 respiratory failure). In addition, patients with hypercarbic respiratory failure (type II respiratory failure) who have failed non-invasive modes of ventilation (NIV) require mechanical ventilation. With the development, refinement and popularization NIV as a primary mode of ventilatory support (CPAP and Bi-PAP) many patients who previously would have required intubation and mechanical ventilation are now treated with NIV [1–3]. The most common indications for NIV are an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema (see Chap. 20). NIV is generally inappropriate for patients with severe respiratory failure due to pneumonia, aspiration pneumonitis, asthma or acute lung injury (ALI).
Phospho-ibuprofen (MDC-917) incorporated in nanocarriers: anti-cancer activity in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Phospho-ibuprofen (P-I; MDC-917) inhibits the growth of colon cancer in mice. Here, we investigated the use of nanocarriers to improve its pharmacokinetics (PKs) and anti tumour efficacy. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of P-I encapsulated into liposomes and micelles, and its in vitro metabolic stability, were determined in cultures of human colon adenocarcinoma cells. The performance of liposomal P-I was further evaluated in PK studies in mice, and in a model of colon cancer xenografts in nude mice. KEY RESULTS Liposomal P-I and micellar P-I showed significantly enhanced cellular uptake in the colon cancer cells. Liposomal P-I also demonstrated increased cytotoxicity in vitro. Free P-I was metabolized rapidly to ibuprofen in the presence of purified esterases. In contrast, liposomal P-I, and to a lesser extent micellar P-I, was resistant to esterase-mediated hydrolysis. In mice, liposomal P-I partially protected P-I from hydrolysis in the circulation, and improved the biodistribution of intact P-I and its metabolites compared to free P-I. Liposomal P-I was more effective at inhibiting the growth of human colon cancer xenografts in mice, which may be explained on the basis of its improved PK profile compared to free P-I. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Liposome encapsulation of P-I partially protected P-I from esterase-mediated hydrolysis in mice, enhanced the cytotoxicity and bioavailability of P-I and increased its efficacy at inhibiting the growth of human colon cancer xenografts. These results indicate that liposomes are suitable nanocarriers for the delivery of P-I, and that the anti-tumour potential of liposomal P-I merits further evaluation.
Anisotropy of bottom loss in marine sediments

We observed anisotropy in the acoustic reflection amplitudes from the seafloor at Hydrate Ridge on the Oregon Margin. We analyzed acoustic data from several OBS receivers and several sound-source lines with one line being perpendicular to the others. We used time windows to isolate the acoustic data that contained the most information regarding the seafloor reflectivity. The bottom loss is directly related to these observed reflection strengths with some restrictions. The observed higher reflection strengths for the east-west line (perpendicular to bathymetrie contours) than to reflection strengths on the north-south lines is unexpected and so far unexplained. We expect that the primary causes of variations in the reflectivity are due to scattering and from heterogeneity.