cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tobacco, Trade And Eastern Europe

Since the markets of Central and Eastern Europe were opened, four major transnational tobacco companies (TTCs) and some smaller ones have acquired interest in 34 former state cigarette monopolies investing $1.6 billion in 22 of the plants where data is available. If 6 pending plant acquisitions are included, the long term investment rises to $2.7 billion. Production data is available for 30 factories and is 360 billion cigarettes. If 6 pending plants are included the number rises to 400 billion cigarettes, twice the total exported by the U.S. in 1993 and 75% total U.S. domestic consumption. Prior to TTC entry advertising was prohibited by regulation in many nations. The TTCs ignored these regulations and introduced advertising on a wide scale. Governments subsequently banned or attempted to ban advertising. The TTCs either ignored these bans or lobbied to weaken the laws. The TTCs have also lobbied against tax increases and clean air legislation. The TTCs have acquired substantial interest in the market and secured the tools to control future demand.
Excursions Away From a Set

Part of the theory of excursions away from a point can be generalized as follows. Let {X t ; t ≥ 0} be a standard process and let V be a subset of the state space E. We will assume that V is closed and that every point of V is regular for V, that is P x (σ = 0) = 1 for all x in V where σ = σ v = inf{t > 0|X t ∈ V}. As in Chapter III let G = G(ω) denote the strictly positive left ends of the open intervals making up the complement of the closure of {t|X t (ω) ∈ V}.
Election Methods and Collective Decisions

This paper presents some simulation results on various collective decision methods in the context of Downsian proximity electorates. I show why these results are less than ideal, and contrast these different voting systems with a new system called Serial Approval Vote Elections (SAVE), which produces better outcomes that approach the ideal represented by the median voter theorem. I show how SAVE works in both normal and unusual electorates, how SAVE can be easily integrated into committee procedures, and how SAVE can be used in larger elections.
The compromised, colonized discourse of alternative food

This article examines how and to what extent the alternative food movement (afm), in its various incarnations, has effectively disrupted a food discourse space dominated and ordered by the global-industrial food system. The movement has achieved many particular victories —school gardens here, healthier canteen lunches there; shorter food supply chains here, local-product labeling there; organic cultivation practices here, and at least a little composting there— and some people view the collection of these victories as the beginning of a larger, more general one. They will give testimony to how the food movement might have “succeeded.” This article, instead, is about how it has not. Though the afm gathers very many members of diverse provenance and priority and earns widespread attention as an object of scholarship (see Ashe, 2013 for a review), I submit that it is profaned precisely by its alterity. The afm’s celebrated achievements are bounded by and within an epistemology of blindness (Santos, 2009, 2014), and, blind to its philosophical intoxication, the movement’s successes only reinforce that which they move against. What I denounce here is not the entire alternative food movement story, to be sure, and the empirical base from which I draw its example, New York City’s institutionally ruddered “alterity,” is a pointer to that story’s substance rather than a total capture of it. Still, New York’s example and all that I denounce along with it comprise a major part of the afm, a powerful part that emerges from within the epistemic centers of the world-system (Wallerstein, 2011) and is privileged —or burdened— with all the cognitive, political, social, and economic prerogative that this entails. Futility and failure, however, are not stories readily told or sold, and these are parts of the alternative food movement’s reality too little pronounced. In this paper, I pronounce them: the alternative food movement, or at least those parts of it bound to the epistemic promises of the modern world-system’s centers, is a Trojan horse.
Beliefs About the Treatment of Mental Illness Among the Namibian Aawambo: An Exploratory Study

The ways mental illnesses are treated has the propensity to vary across cultures. Although psychotherapy and the alliance between clients and therapists is efficacious for treating mental illness i...
Embolization of Extremity Trauma

• Life-saving and resuscitation: direct application of pressure on bleeding site or proximal tourniquet remains first step in control of hemorrhage.
A Distributed Low-Cost Pollution Monitoring Platform

Personal exposure to heightened levels of fine airborne particulate matter (PM) has been linked to numerous adverse health effects in sensitive groups. However, researchers investigating these correlations are struggling to find the spatio-temporal datasets that are sufficient for study. Current airborne PM monitoring solutions are highly accurate, but expensive. Therefore, they are not feasible candidates for spatially dense deployments, and cannot be used to analyze the effects of exposure to pollution microclimates. In this article, we present a low-cost pollution monitoring station that operates as a single node in a wireless network. Each node periodically collects airborne pollution and supporting meteorological data and uploads measurements to a central, open-source database. A total of 50 nodes were deployed across a large metropolitan area (roughly 100 km2) over a six-month campaign. The experimental results show good correlation ( $R^{2}=0.88$ ) between devices co-located with the federal equivalent methods, which have an accuracy traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology. By applying linear corrections derived from in situ field measurements to each PM sensor, we were able to demonstrate a $1.8\times $ decrease in root-mean-squared error over the raw measurements.
Predicting Criminal Recidivism Using

In this paper we develop a survival time model in which the probability of eventual failure is less than one, and in which both the probability of eventual failure and the timing of failure depend (separately) on individual characteristics. We apply this model to data on the tiring of return to prison for a sample of prison releasees, and we use it to make predictions of whether or not individuals return to prison. Our predictions are more accurate than previous predictions of criminal recidivism. The model we develop has potential applications in economics: far example, it could tie used to model the probability of default and the timing of default on loans.
Interprofessional 30-day readmission review novel curriculum

Planning and coordination among health-care professionals decrease readmission rates, yet workers have few opportunities to learn interprofessionally to improve transitions of care. An interprofessional readmission review curriculum engaged medical residents, pharmacy residents, nurse practitioner students, early-career nurses, and social work students in a critical analysis of readmissions. Learners (N = 98) participated in a 2 h, collaborative learning session to review health records from a patient readmitted within 30 days of discharge and determine plausible root causes for readmissions. A 5-item post-session survey completed by 83 (85%) evaluated knowledge and perceived competencies in transitions of care before and after participation. Significant improvements (p < .001) occurred in ratings for all five items. Two open-ended questions captured learners' perceptions of understanding and appreciating the roles of other disciplines in the discharge process and importance of interprofessional communication. Several themes emerged including understanding gaps in the discharge process, improving interprofessional collaboration and communication, and paying more attention to discharge documentation. This innovative program helped build essential skills to ensure safe discharges by introducing learners to interprofessional perspectives in analyzing root causes for readmissions, strategies to improve discharge planning, and the value of team-based care.
Mapping brain-behavior networks using functional and structural connectome fingerprinting in the HCP dataset

INTRODUCTION Connectome analysis of the human brain's structural and functional architecture provides a unique opportunity to understand the organization of the brain's functional architecture. In previous studies, connectome fingerprinting using brain functional connectivity profiles as an individualized trait was able to predict an individual's neurocognitive performance from the Human Connectome Project (HCP) neurocognitive datasets. MATERIALS AND METHODS In the present study, we extend connectome fingerprinting from functional connectivity (FC) to structural connectivity (SC), identifying multiple relationships between behavioral traits and brain connectivity. Higher-order neurocognitive tasks were found to have a weaker association with structural connectivity than its functional connectivity counterparts. RESULTS Neurocognitive tasks with a higher sensory footprint were, however, found to have a stronger association with structural connectivity than their functional connectivity counterparts. Language behavioral measurements had a particularly stronger correlation, especially between performance on the picture language test (Pic Vocab) and both FC (r = .28, p < .003) and SC (r = 0.27, p < .00077). CONCLUSIONS At the neural level, we found that the pattern of structural brain connectivity related to high-level language performance is consistent with the language white matter regions identified in presurgical mapping. We illustrate how this approach can be used to generalize the connectome fingerprinting framework to structural connectivity and how this can help understand the connections between cognitive behavior and the white matter connectome of the brain.
Torsional behavior of additively manufactured nickel alloy 718 under monotonic loading and low cycle fatigue

Abstract The high weldability and corrosion resistance of nickel alloy 718 (IN718) make it an ideal material for laser powder-bed fusion (LPBF). However, many of its material properties are still not characterized. Monotonic torsion and low cycle torsional fatigue tests were performed on LPBF IN718 in order to determine its shear properties. Three different print orientations (horizontal, diagonal, vertical) and three separate heat treatments (none, AMS-5662, modified) were tested to determine their effects on the LPBF IN718's torsional behavior. The modified heat treatment was developed to reduce LPBF IN718's anisotropic nature. Monotonic torsion tests revealed that the ultimate shear strength (USS) and yield shear strength (YSS) were dependent on both print orientation and heat treatment, while the shear modulus ( G ) was only dependent on the print orientation. The USS and YSS improved by at least 42% and 68%, respectively, when either heat treatment was applied. The vertical specimens had the highest G in all cases. The modified heat treatment reduced the difference between the maximum and minimum USS and G from approximately 29% and 38% to approximately 6% and 9%, respectively. The fatigue life appears to be more influenced by the print orientation than the heat treatment. In every case, the horizontal and vertical specimens had the highest and lowest fatigue lives, respectively. Fracture surface analysis revealed similar features observed in conventionally-manufactured material. These results indicate that both the print orientation and the heat treatment must be considered when designing LPBF IN718 parts that will be subjected to torsional loads.
An internally validated diagnostic tool for acute invasive fungal sinusitis

Background Acute invasive fungal sinusitis (AIFS) is a potentially life-threatening diagnosis in immunocompromised patients. Identifying patients who could benefit from evaluation and intervention can be challenging for referring providers and otolaryngologists alike. We aimed to develop and validate an accessible diagnostic tool to estimate the probability of AIFS. Methods Retrospective chart review from 1999 to 2017 identified all patients evaluated for possible AIFS at a tertiary care center. AIFS was diagnosed by pathologic confirmation of fungal tissue angioinvasion. Stepwise selection and univariate logistic regression were used to screen risk factors for a multivariable predictive model. Model performance was assessed using Tukey's goodness-of-fit test and the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC). Model coefficients were internally validated using bootstrapping with 1000 iterations. Results A total of 283 patients (244 negative controls, 39 with AIFS) were included. Risk factors in our final diagnostic model included: fever ≥38°C (log-odds ratio [LOR] 1.72; 95% CI, 0.53 to 2.90), unilateral facial swelling, pain, or erythema (LOR 2.84; 95% CI, 1.46 to 4.23), involvement of the orbit or pterygopalatine fossa on imaging (LOR 3.02; 95% CI, 1.78 to 4.26), and mucosal necrosis seen on endoscopy (LOR 5.52; 95% CI, 3.81 to 7.24), with p 0.05) and discrimination (AUC = 0.96). Conclusion We present an internally validated diagnostic tool to stratify the risk for AIFS. The estimated risk may help determine which patients can be observed with serial nasal endoscopy, which ones could be biopsied, and which ones would benefit from immediate surgical intervention.
Electromagnetic-heating enhancement of source rock permeability for high recovery

Abstract Source rock shales have permeability in the nano-Darcy range and require drilling long horizontal wells and extensive hydraulic fracturing to commercially produce hydrocarbons. Recently, an electromagnetic (EM) thermal method was proposed as a primary, or secondary, stimulation method to produce light hydrocarbons from extremely tight reservoirs. This method was based on the fact that EM heating rapidly elevates the pore-water pressure in tight rocks to fracture the reservoir. Since only the in-situ pore-water is needed, this is considered to be a water-free stimulation method, which is especially desirable for regions with limited water resources. Herein this further study provides an in-depth and quantitative investigation of the effects of laboratory EM stimulation on the permeability of the source rock shales under hydrostatic confinement and its dependence on the rock water content. In order to maintain hydrostatic pressure, a special pressure cell was built using nearly microwave transparent materials. Permeability of the samples before and after EM stimulation was acquired using a novel method capable of simultaneously measuring both matrix and fracture permeability. Microwave heating was found to generate extensive fractures in the source rock samples with a moderate amount of pore-water, which resulted in an increase of more than three orders of magnitude in permeability. This study provides further comprehensive evidence suggesting that EM thermal stimulation can be an efficient production method for source rock reservoirs and can result in both a high recovery rate and large estimated ultimate recovery of hydrocarbons.
The role of thermodynamic features on the functional activity of electron bifurcating enzymes.

Abstract Electron bifurcation is a biological mechanism to drive a thermodynamically unfavorable redox reaction through direct coupling with an exergonic reaction. This process allows microorganisms to generate high energy reducing equivalents in order to sustain life and is often found in anaerobic metabolism, where the energy economy of the cell is poor. Recent work has revealed details of the redox energy landscapes for a variety of electron bifurcating enzymes, greatly expanding the understanding of how energy is transformed by this unique mechanism. Here we highlight the plasticity of these emerging landscapes, what is known regarding their mechanistic underpinnings, and provide a context for interpreting their biochemical activity within the physiological framework. We conclude with an outlook for propelling the field toward an integrative understanding of the impact of electron bifurcation.
Enlarging Ventriculus Terminalis in a Patient With Polyarteritis Nodosa

Ventriculus terminalis (VT) is a cystic embryological remnant within the conus medullaris that normally regresses after birth. In rare cases, it may persist into adulthood and give rise to neurologic symptoms. The pathogenesis remains unclear but is thought to be related to failed embryonic regression with other proposed possible etiologies including vascular disturbances. We present an intriguing case of a slow-growing VT in a woman with progressive neurologic symptoms who experiences symptomatic relief following thoracic laminectomy and fenestration. Our case is the first to present a unique association with polyarteritis nodosa and only the third to report a case of documented enlargement of the VT over time successfully treated with surgical fenestration.
Sunlight-absorbing aerosol amplifies the seasonal cycle in low-cloud fraction over the southeast Atlantic

Abstract. The mean altitude of the smoke loading over the southeast Atlantic moves from the boundary layer in July to the free troposphere by October. This study details the month-by-month changes in cloud properties and the large-scale environment as a function of the biomass burning aerosol loading at Ascension Island (8 ∘ S, 14.5 ∘ W) from July to October, based on island measurements, satellite retrievals, and reanalysis. In July and August, the smoke loading predominantly varies within the boundary layer. During both months, the low-cloud fraction is less and is increasingly cumuliform when more smoke is present, with the exception of a late morning boundary layer deepening that encourages a short-lived cloud development. The meteorology varies little, suggesting aerosol–cloud interactions explain the cloudiness changes. September marks a transition month during which midlatitude disturbances can intrude into the Atlantic subtropics, constraining the free tropospheric aerosol closer to the African coast. Stronger boundary layer winds on cleaner days help deepen, dry, and cool much of the marine boundary layer compared to that on days with high smoke loadings, with stratocumulus reducing everywhere but at the northern deck edge. The September free troposphere is better mixed on smoky days compared to October. Longwave cooling rates, generated by a sharp water vapor gradient at the aerosol layer top, encourage a small-scale vertical mixing that could help maintain the well-mixed smoky September free troposphere. The October meteorology primarily varies as a function of the strength of the free tropospheric winds advecting aerosol offshore. The free tropospheric aerosol loading is less than in September, and the moisture variability is greater. Low-level clouds increase and are more stratiform in October when the smoke loadings are higher. The increased free tropospheric moisture can help sustain the clouds through a reduction in evaporative drying during cloud-top entrainment. Enhanced subsidence above the coastal upwelling region, increasing cloud droplet number concentrations, may further prolong cloud lifetime through microphysical interactions. Reduced subsidence underneath stronger free tropospheric winds at Ascension Island supports slightly higher cloud tops during smokier conditions. Overall, the monthly changes in the large-scale aerosol and moisture vertical structure act to amplify the seasonal cycle in low-cloud amount and morphology. This is climatically important, as cloudiness changes dominate changes in the top-of-atmosphere radiation budget.
Discerning Membrane Steady-State Oxygen Flux by Monte Carlo Markov Chain Modeling.

Molecular oxygen (O2) permeability coefficients for lipid bilayers have previously been estimated using both electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) oximetry and molecular dynamics simulation data. Yet, neither technique captures the fluxes that exist physiologically. Here, the dynamic steady state is modeled using a stochastic approach built on atomic resolution molecular dynamics simulation data. A Monte Carlo Markov chain technique is used to examine membrane-level fluxes of oxygen in lipid-water systems. At steady state, the concentration of oxygen is found to be higher inside the model membranes than in surrounding water, consistent with the known favorable partitioning of O2 toward the lipid phase. Pure phospholipid 1-palmitoyl,2-oleoyl-phosphatidylcholine (POPC) bilayers accrue ~40% more O2 molecules at steady state than POPC/cholesterol bilayers (1:1 molecular ratio) mimicking the red blood cell membrane. Steady-state levels of oxygen were reached inside both bilayer types within the same timeframe, but depletion of oxygen from the bilayer interior occurred 17% faster for POPC than for POPC/cholesterol. Likewise, first-order rate constants estimated for accrual to steady state were the same for POPC and POPC/cholesterol, at 190 μs−1, while first-order rate constants for depletion of the accrued O2 from the bilayers differed, at 95 μs−1 for POPC and 81 μs−1 for POPC/cholesterol (lower by 15%). These results are consistent with prior experiments in red blood cells (RBCs) with varying membrane cholesterol content, in which additional cholesterol slowed oxygen uptake and release. Further work is needed to understand whether differences in RBC membrane cholesterol content would affect the delivery of oxygen to tissues.
Modeling of the effect of local material imperfection to the structural mechanical property variability of 2D finite-size cellular structures

Abstract Understanding the effect of local material property fluctuation on the overall structural properties of cellular structures is not only important for more effective designs, but also critical for their adoption in load-bearing applications. In this work, an analytical modeling approach based on direct stiffness method was adopted, which allows for the implementation of heterogeneous material imperfection at full-scale cellular structure level. Three representative 2D cellular designs including auxetic, diamond and triangular structures were modeled and analyzed. The material property imperfection was represented by 3 levels of variabilities (2%, 5% and 10%) for both elastic modulus and strength, defined at local cellular element level. Experimental verification using Ti6Al4V cellular structures fabricated via laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing demonstrated the potential of the established model in providing accurate predictions to the mechanical property variability of the cellular structures. In addition, the results also revealed new insights into the topology-material imperfection coupling relationships for the cellular structures. The auxetic structures exhibit the lowest material imperfection tolerance, whereas the stretching-dominated triangular structures exhibit the highest material imperfection sensitivity. The contribution of elastic modulus and ultimate strength imperfections at material level to the overall structural performance were established. Ultimately, this work could help “re-establishing” the fundamental understanding of design factors for finite-size cellular structures with imperfect material properties.
Disability Status, Unemployment, and Alcohol-Related Liver Disease (ALD) Mortality: A Large Sample Individual Level Longitudinal Study.

Purpose Unlike previous research, we evaluate disability within expanded employment status factors and stratify gender, race and ethnicity in alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) mortality in a large sample individual level longitudinal study. Materials and Methods The National Longitudinal Mortality Study (NLMS) was used covering the period 1990-2011. Statistical analysis involved the use of proportional hazards regression on a sample of almost 1.4 million people aged 18 and older, of whom 2638 died of ALD by the end of the follow-up period. Results With expanded employment status factors, disability (HR=3.76 [95%] CI 3.22, 4.39), unemployment (HR=1.90, CI 1.56, 2.31), and those not otherwise in the labor force (HR=2.31, CI 2.08, 2.56) were strongly related to ALD mortality compared to the employed. When stratified, gender, race, and ethnicity were not important modifiers in the relationships between disability, unemployment, those not in the labor force and subsequent ALD mortality. Consistent with other studies, males, minority status, living in a highly urban area, renting as opposed to owning a home, lower educational attainment, marital statuses other than marriage, low income, and age were related to ALD mortality. Conclusion In addition to unemployment which has been previously studied in a large longitudinal sample, disabled people who were unable to work and those not looking for work had a higher risk of ALD mortality. Alcohol consumption, abuse and morbidity in these populations are of considerable clinical concern.
Oxygen-Independent Angiogenic Stimuli

Although much research has focused on the role of hypoxia and hyperoxia in preretinal neovascularization, there is growing evidence that other factors play a role. Carbon dioxide, acidosis, alkalosis, systemic infection, systemic growth retardation, and perturbations in the thyroxine and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) hormone axes all appear to be important risk factors in the pathogenesis of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and inducers of preretinal neovascularization in the immature retinae. Further advances in the prevention of ROP may require interventions directed at these oxygen-independent angiogenic stimuli.
The Story of My Work: How I Became Disabled

Perhaps the best opening line in disability studies comes from Georgina Kleege: “Writing this book made me blind.” Following this honorable tradition, I begin my explication of disability studies through my own experience with a similar starting point: “Feminism made me disabled.” Honoring as well the tradition of making theory through narrative, I also follow Helen Keller, who like Kleege situates her knowledge in the local. From these exemplary works of feminist disability studies, I develop an explication of how I grew disability studies and how it grew me. Throughout, I consider the categories of disabled and nondisabled and the ways in which they have developed in disability studies literature broadly. I conclude by asserting the importance of both access and identity and community for disabled people. Keywords: feminist disability studies, disability identity, misfitting, history of disability studies
Sensitivity and Parametric Analyses

In this chapter, we consider two related subjects. The first, called sensitivity analysis (or postoptimality analysis) addresses the following question: having found an optimal solution to a given linear programming problem, how much can we change the data and have the current partition into basic and nonbasic variables remain optimal? The second subject addresses situations in which one wishes to solve not just one linear program, but a whole family of problems parametrized by a single real variable.
Tillage, cover cropping, and poultry litter effects on cotton: I. Germination and seedling growth.

Inadequate and less vigorous crop stand is a constraint to adoption of conservation tillage in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) production. We evaluated the effects of tillage (conventional till, mulch-till, no-till), cropping system (cotton-winter fallow, cotton-winter rye, Secale cereale L.), and N source and rate (ammonium nitrate and poultry litter; 0, 100, and 200 kg N ha -1 ) on cotton seedling emergence on a Decatur silt loam soil (Typic Paleudults) in northern Alabama, from 1996 to 1998. Cotton seedling counts under no-till were 40 to 150% greater than those under conventional till at 1 and 2 d during seedling emergence. Cotton-winter rye cropping system had 14 to 50% greater seedling counts than cotton-winter fallow cropping during the first 4 d of emergence in 1998. Poultry litter source of N gave 17 to 50% greater cotton seedling counts than ammonium nitrate during the first 4 d of emergence in 1998. In all these cases, the differences progressively narrowed down by the 4th day of seedling emergence. Cotton seedling counts were significantly correlated to cotton growth parameters and lint yield, especially in the drier year (1998). These results were attributed to soil moisture conservation during seedling emergence. Our results show that conservation tillage improved cotton germination, emergence, dry matter, and lint yield. Therefore, no-till with winter rye cover cropping and poultry litter can be used for achieving early cotton seedling emergence and growth in the U.S. cotton belt where dryland cotton production systems are on the increase and safe disposal of poultry litter is becoming an environmental problem.
Amino acid substitutions in naturally occurring variants of ail result in altered invasion activity.

Yersinia enterocolitica is the causative agent of a variety of gastrointestinal syndromes ranging from acute enteritis to mesenteric lymphadenitis. In addition, systemic infections resulting in high mortality rates can occur in elderly and immunocompromised patients. More than 50 serotypes of Y. enterocolitica have been identified, but only a few of them commonly cause disease in otherwise healthy hosts. Those serotypes that cause disease have been divided into two groups, American and non-American, based on their geographical distributions, biotypes, and pathogenicity. We have been studying two genes, inv and ail, from Y. enterocolitica that confer in tissue culture assays an invasive phenotype that strongly correlates with virulence. Some differences between the American and non-American serotypes at the ail locus were noted previously and have been investigated further in this report. The ail locus was cloned from seven Y. enterocolitica strains (seven different serotypes). Although the different clones produced similar amounts of Ail, the product of the ail gene from non-American serotypes (AilNA) was less able to promote invasion by Escherichia coli than was the product of the ail gene from American serotypes (AilA). This difference is probably due to one or more of the eight amino acid changes found in the derived amino acid sequence for the mature form of AilNA compared with that of AilA. Seven of these changes are predicted to be in cell surface domains of the protein (a model for the proposed folding of Ail within the outer membrane is presented). These results are discussed in relation to the growing family of outer membrane proteins, which includes Lom from bacteriophage lambda, PagC from salmonella typhimurium, and OmpX from Enterobacter cloacae. Images
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with increased GHBP and reduced GH/IGF‐I levels

Summary Introduction Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been described in adult GH deficiency syndrome. Furthermore, chronic liver disease can be associated with significant changes in levels of IGF-I, GH-binding protein (GHBP), IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs) and acid-labile subunit (ALS). However, the effect of liver steatosis on the GHBP production has not been investigated yet. Aim of the study To explore whether GH secretion and/or levels of IGF-I, IGFBP-3, ALS and GHBP could be altered in obese patients in relation to the presence of liver steatosis. Materials and methods A total of 115 obese patients (BMI > 30) were enrolled in the protocol (65 patients with liver steatosis and 50 age- and BMI-matched controls). In all patients, the following parameters were studied: serum levels of glucose, insulin, the HOMA index, IGF-I, GHBP, IGFBP-3, ALS and GH after GHRH and arginine stimulation test. Results As expected, patients with NAFLD had blood glucose, insulin, HOMA-R significantly higher than controls, indicating a more severe insulin-resistance state in NAFLD. Furthermore, patients with NAFLD had higher levels of GHBP and IGFBP-3 and lower GH peak and IGF-I levels as compared to controls. No difference was found in ALS levels between the groups. In a multivariate analysis, GHBP was positively associated with hepatic steatosis while IGF-1 was negatively associated with hepatic steatosis. Conclusions This study demonstrates that in patients with NAFLD, the GHBP levels are increased, and that the GH/IGF-I axis is significantly altered probably leading to reduced IGF-I bioavailability at tissue level.
Demonstration of nonlinearity bias in the measurement of the apparent diffusion coefficient in multicenter trials

Purpose Characterize system-specific bias across common magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) platforms for quantitative diffusion measurements in multicenter trials. Methods Diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) was performed on an ice-water phantom along the superior–inferior (SI) and right–left (RL) orientations spanning ±150 mm. The same scanning protocol was implemented on 14 MRI systems at seven imaging centers. The bias was estimated as a deviation of measured from known apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) along individual DWI directions. The relative contributions of gradient nonlinearity, shim errors, imaging gradients, and eddy currents were assessed independently. The observed bias errors were compared with numerical models. Results The measured systematic ADC errors scaled quadratically with offset from isocenter, and ranged between −55% (SI) and 25% (RL). Nonlinearity bias was dependent on system design and diffusion gradient direction. Consistent with numerical models, minor ADC errors (±5%) due to shim, imaging and eddy currents were mitigated by double echo DWI and image coregistration of individual gradient directions. Conclusion The analysis confirms gradient nonlinearity as a major source of spatial DW bias and variability in off-center ADC measurements across MRI platforms, with minor contributions from shim, imaging gradients and eddy currents. The developed protocol enables empiric description of systematic bias in multicenter quantitative DWI studies. Magn Reson Med, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Does Strict Adherence to the Ponseti Method Improve Isolated Clubfoot Treatment Outcomes? A Two-institution Review

Despite being recognized as the gold standard in isolated clubfoot treatment, the Ponseti casting method has yielded variable results. Few studies have directly compared common predictors of treatment failure between institutions with high versus low failure rates. We asked: (1) is the provider’s rigid adherence to the Ponseti method associated with a lower likelihood of unplanned clubfoot surgery, and (2) at the institution that did not adhere rigidly to Ponseti’s principles, are any demographic or treatment-related factors associated with increased likelihood of unplanned clubfoot surgery? After institutional review board approval, a consecutive series of patients with a diagnosis of isolated clubfoot who underwent treatment between January 2003 and December 2007 were identified. At Institution 1, 91 of 133 patients met the eligibility criteria and were followed for a minimum of 2 years compared with 58 of 58 patients at Institution 2. At Institution 1, 16 providers managed care using a conservative casting approach based on the Ponseti method. However, treatment was adapted by the provider(s). At Institution 2, one orthopaedic surgeon managed care with strict adherence to the Ponseti method. Surgical indications at both institutions included the presence of a persistent equinovarus foot position while standing. A chart review was used to collect data related to proportion of patients undergoing unplanned additional treatment for deformity recurrences after Ponseti casting, demographics, and treatment patterns. The proportion of subjects who underwent unplanned major surgical intervention was greater (odds ratio [OR], 51.1; 95% CI, 6.8–384.0; p < 0.001) at Institution 1 (60 of 131, 47%) compared with Institution 2 (two of 91, 2%). There was no difference (p = 0.200) in the proportion of patients who underwent additional casting, repeat tendo Achilles lengthening, and/or anterior tibialis tendon transfer only (minor recurrence) at Institution 1 (nine of 131, 7%) compared with Institution 2 (11 of 91, 13%). At Institution 1, an increase in the number of revision casts (multiple vs no casts, hazard ratio [HR] = 3.9; 95% CI, 2.0–7.6; p < 0.001) and an increase in the number of cast-related complications (multiple vs no complications, HR = 2.8; 95% CI, 1.2–6.7; p = 0.019) were associated with increased risk of major surgery in the multivariate analysis. Rigid commitment to the Ponseti method in the conservative treatment of patients with isolated clubfoot was associated with a lower risk of subsequent unplanned surgical intervention. In addition, clubfoot treatment programs that use a care model that prioritizes continuity in care and dedication to the Ponseti method may decrease the proportion of patients who undergo unplanned surgical intervention. Level III, therapeutic study.
Evaluation of data acquisition geometries and strategies for myocardial SPECT imaging

This study evaluates myocardial SPECT images obtained from parallel-hole (PH) and fan-beam (FB) collimator geometries using both circular-orbit (CO) and noncircular-orbit (NCO) acquisitions. A newly developed 4D NURBS-based cardiac-torso (NCAT) was used to simulate the /sup 99m/Tc-sestamibi uptakes in human torso with myocardial defects in the left ventricular (LV) wall. Projection data including the effects of attenuation, collimator-detector response and scatter were generated using SIMSET Monte Carlo simulations. A large number of photon histories were generated such that the projection data were close to noise-free. Poisson noise fluctuations were then added to simulate the count densities found in clinical data.
Growth of carbon nanofibers from the iron–copper catalyzed decomposition of CO/C2H4/H2 mixtures

Abstract The growth of carbon nanofibers from Fe–Cu catalyzed decomposition of CO/C2H4/H2 mixtures at temperatures over the range 500–650 °C has been investigated. Based on analysis of the gas phase and solid products it is apparent that co-adsorption of CO and C2H4 induces major perturbations in the surfaces of the bimetallic catalyst particles. These features are reflected in an increase in the yield of solid carbon and subtle changes in the structural characteristics of the carbon nanofibers. Optimum performance with respect to the yield of carbon nanofibers is found for iron-rich particles treated in CO/C2H4/H2 (1:3:1) at 600 °C. Deactivation of the catalyst is observed to occur with high Cu concentrations and at reaction temperatures in excess of 600 °C. It is suggested that under these conditions the surface of the particles in contact with the reactant gas mixture become enriched in Cu, which does not possess the ability to dissociatively chemisorb either CO or C2H4.
Understanding conflict between landlords and tenants: implications for energy sensing and feedback

Energy use in the home is a topic of increasing interest and concern, and one on which technology can have a significant impact. However, existing work typically focuses on moderately affluent homeowners who have relative autonomy with respect to their home, or does not address socio-economic status, class, and other related issues. For the 30% of the U.S. population who rent their homes, many key decisions regarding energy use must be negotiated with a landlord. Because energy use impacts the bottom line of both landlords and tenants, this can be a source of conflict in the landlord/tenant relationship. Ubicomp technologies for reducing energy use in rental units must engage with landlord/tenant conflicts to be successful. Unfortunately, little detailed knowledge is available about the impact of landlord/tenant conflicts on energy use. We present an analysis of a series of qualitative studies with landlords and tenants. We argue that a consideration of multiple stakeholders, and the power imbalances among them, will drive important new research questions and lead to more widely applicable solutions. The main contribution of our work is a set of open research questions and design recommendations for technologies that may affect and be affected by the conflict between stakeholders around energy use.
Abstention in two-candidate and three-candidate elections when voters use mixed strategies

In re-analyzing the Ferejohn and Fiorina (1974) examination of ‘rational’ abstention we found that admitting mixed strategies does not affect findings as to the optimal behavior of voters who are expected utility maximizers but does significantly affect our expectations as to behavior of voters using a minimax regret rule. We found that minimax regretters with admissible mixed strategies would always have some probability of voting rather than abstaining, except under the quite restrictive condition that c > 1/2. Thus, to the extent that some voters can be seen as operating from a minimax regret perspective, a decision to vote on their part can be understood without recourse to ideas like the ‘psychic benefits of voting’ or ‘citizen duty’.
Plasma prolactin levels in male homosexuals

Abstract Plasma prolactin values of 20 male homosexuals of Kinsey rating 6 were compared with plasma prolactin values of 15 male heterosexuals of Kinsey rating 0. There was no difference in mean plasma prolactin value between the two groups. These findings are at variance with those reported by Kolodny et al. [Kolodny, R. C., Jacobs, L. S., Masters, W. H., Toro, G., and Daughaday, W. H. (1971a). Plasma gonadotrophins and prolactin in male homosexuals. Lancet 2 , 18–20] in which plasma prolactin was found to be elevated in individuals of Kinsey rating 6 as compared to heterosexual controls. The present investigation, therefore, fails to confirm a relationship between sexual orientation in males and plasma prolactin level.
Elevation head motion in rotary-wing flight with helmet-mounted displays

In spite of an immense increase in interest in helmet-mounted displays (HMDs) over the pass two decades, there have been few studies on head motion while using HMDs in operational flight. Rotary-wing flights conducted using a number of HMD configurations have resulted in a head position database that will be useful in filling this void. Various analysis techniques have been applied to investigate characteristics of elevation head position distributions for a slalom flight maneuver for four visual environments: good visual environment (daytime, unaided), night vision goggles, HMD with thermal imagery, and HMD with thermal imagery and symbology.
Meeting the Psychosocial Needs of the Students in Special Education: An Ethnographic Study

One of the top 10 emerging practices as reported by the American Occupational Therapy Association is psychosocial occupational therapy. The purpose of this research was to examine the psychosocial practice of the school-based occupational therapist. This research study utilized a structured interview to identify and analyze the extent of the occupational therapist's understanding and application of psychosocial occupational therapy in meeting the needs of the students in special education. This study explored the occupational therapist's perception of his or her psychosocial educational background and existing training needs in psychosocial occupational therapy. Six themes emerged from the data analysis: (1) understanding of psychosocial occupational therapy, (2) role in meeting psychosocial needs, (3) measurement of effectiveness, (4) identification of practice models, (5) usefulness of occupational therapy education, and (6) additional training needs in occupational therapy.
Simulation study of the impact of technology on cache memory performance

Abstract The paper analyses the impact of technology on the design and performance of small cache memories. Technology impacts are modelled through choice of optimal pipeline structures. Emphasis is placed on both silicon and gallium arsenide technologies and on variations thereof. Numerical results are presented for a number of relevant perfomance parameters, and for two representative benchmarks.
Reconsidering Reid's Geometry of Visibles

In his Inquiry, Reid claims, against Berkeley, that there is a science of the perspectival shapes of objects (‘visible figures’): they are geometrically equivalent to shapes projected onto the surfaces of spheres. This claim should be understood as asserting that for every theorem regarding visible figures there is a corresponding theorem regarding spherical projections; the proof of the theorem regarding spherical projections can be used to construct a proof of the theorem regarding visible figures, and vice versa. I reconstruct Reid's argument for this claim, and expose its mathematical underpinnings: it is successful, and depends on no empirical assumptions to which he was not entitled about the workings of the human eye. I also argue that, although Reid may or may not have been aware of it, the geometry of spherical projections is not the only geometry of visible figure.
A comprehensive model and measure of compensation satisfaction

We describe the results of two studies designed to develop a comprehensive theoretical model and measure of compensation satisfaction. Our typology of compensation satisfaction consists of seven dimensions: four for pay (level, structure, raises, and variable pay procedures satisfaction) and three dimensions for benefits (level, determination, and administration satisfaction). We used new and existing items to develop the Comprehensive Compensation Satisfaction Questionnaire. In Study 1, we report the results of exploratory factor analysis that supports a seven-factor structure. In Study 2, confirmatory factor analysis supported the same seven-factor structure in a different sample. We examined relationships between the compensation satisfaction dimensions and their antecedents and consequences. Seven hypotheses regarding differential antecedents of compensation satisfaction were supported. Satisfaction with aspects of compensation procedures were related to perceived organizational support, and perceived organizational support mediated the relationships between these compensation satisfaction procedures and affective commitment and turnover intentions. Our final analysis yielded a 29-item scale (including eight new items) which we recommend for use in future compensation satisfaction research.
N,N′-(Pyrene-1,8-diyl)bis(2,3-dimethoxybenzaldehyde)

The title compound, C34H28N2O6, crystallizes with two mol­ecules per asymmetric unit, both stabilized by intra­molecular N—H⋯O inter­actions. In the crystal structure, weak inter­molecular π–π inter­actions occur at distances ranging from 3.383 (7) to 3.533 (7) A at closest contact.
TOTAL AND INDIVIDUAL GLYCOALKALOID COMPOSITION OF STORED POTATO SLICES

The quantitation of α-chaconine and α-solanine by thin-layer chromatography agreed with the total glycoalkaloid (TGA) content as determined by titration. The TGA level of potato slices approximately doubled to 26–30 mg/100g fresh weight during the 7-h incubation period. Soaking of potato slices resulted in lower increases. Incubation at 25°C resulted in higher TGA levels than at 5°. The initial α-chaconine/α-solanine ratio was 1.42 but with time and temperature changed to 2.4–2.8 in unsoaked slices and 1.5–1.6 in soaked slices.