cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identifying Bands in the Knowledge Exchange Spectrum in an Online Health Infomediary

Online health infomediaries have the objective of knowledge exchange between participants. Visitor contribution is an important factor for the success of the infomediaries. Providers engaged with infomediaries need visitor identification for reputational incentives. However, identification or classification of visitors in online health infomediaries is sparse in literature. This study proposes two dimensions of participation, the intention and intensity levels of visitors, to conceptualize four user categories: community supporters, experiencer providers, knowledge questors, and expertise contributors. The authors validate these categories using a unique large data set collected from a health infomediary for cosmetic surgery, and consisting of 162,598 observed activities of 44,350 visitors, at different participation levels in the year 2012-13. They use cluster analysis to describe similarities and differences among the four user categories. Practice implications are discussed.
Studies in the synthesis of control structures for chemical processes: Part II: Structural aspects and the synthesis of alternative feasible control schemes

The classification of control objectives and external disturbances in a chemical plant determines the extent of the optimizing and regulatory control structures (see Part I). In this article we discuss the structural design of alternative regulatory control schemes to satisfy the posed objective. Within the framework of hierarchical control, criteria are developed for the further decomposition of the process subsystems, reducing the combinatorial problem while not eliminating feasible control structures. We use structural models to describe the interactions among the units of a plant and the physicochemical phenomena occurring in the various units. The relevance of controllability and observability in the synthesis of control structures is discussed, and modified versions are used to develop all the alternative feasible regulatory structures in an algorithmic fashion. Various examples illustrate the developed concepts and strategies, including the application of the overall synthesis method to an integrated chemical plant.
New Uses of Polarized Beams

Several novel and important uses of polarized beams have beet, developed over the past few years. It has been demonstrated that in nuclear reactions appreciable polarization is transferred from the incident beam to the residual nuclei. Successful techniques have been found to maintain the polarization of these nuclei if they are allowed to implant into suitable solid state environments. In the case of s-active nuclei, the polarization can be measured by means of the asymmetric s-decay. The nuclear moments of these nuclei can then be measured by observing the NMR destruction of the polarization at the resonant condition. The detection of the polarization of product nuclei has also been used to study the polarization transfer mechanism itself in both light and heavy ion reactions. The polarization of implanted nuclei also serves as a very useful probe of solid state properties such as spin-lattice and spin-spin relaxation, hyperfine fields, radiation damage and the nature of the implantation sites. The s-decay process itself can be studied by measuring the s-asymmetry as a function of the s-energy in the decay of these polarized nuclei. A search for second-class currents in s-decay is presently being carried out. Polarized neutral beams from polarized ion sources are presently being used to produce polarized gas jets for use as polarized targets in nuclear physics research. These crossed-beam experiments make possible the study of polarized-polarized reactions and of polarized heavy-ion reactions. Polarized beams have also been used to study the scattering from polarized targets produced by cryogenic methods.
Identification of genes associated with mutacin I production in Streptococcus mutans using random insertional mutagenesis

Streptococcus mutans is a major pathogen implicated in dental caries. Its virulence is enhanced by its ability to produce bacteriocins, called mutacins, which inhibit the growth of other Gram-positive bacteria. The goal of this study is to use a random insertional mutagenesis approach to search for genes that are associated with mutacin I production in the virulent strain UA140. A random insertional mutagenesis library consisting of 11,000 clones was constructed and screened for a mutacin-defective phenotype. Mutacin-defective clones were isolated, and their insertion sites were determined by PCR amplification or plasmid rescue followed by sequencing. A total of twenty-five unique genes were identified. These genes can be categorized into the following functional classes: two-component sensory systems, stress responses, energy metabolism and central cellular processes. Several conserved hypothetical proteins with unknown functions were also identified. These results suggest that mutacin I production is stringently controlled by diverse and complex regulatory pathways.
Single-Molecule Views of Protein Movement on Single-Stranded DNA

The advent of new technologies allowing the study of single biological molecules continues to have a major impact on studies of interacting systems as well as enzyme reactions. These approaches (fluorescence, optical, and magnetic tweezers), in combination with ensemble methods, have been particularly useful for mechanistic studies of protein-nucleic acid interactions and enzymes that function on nucleic acids. We review progress in the use of single-molecule methods to observe and perturb the activities of proteins and enzymes that function on flexible single-stranded DNA. These include single-stranded DNA binding proteins, recombinases (RecA/Rad51), and helicases/translocases that operate as motor proteins and play central roles in genome maintenance. We emphasize methods that have been used to detect and study the movement of these proteins (both ATP-dependent directional and random movement) along the single-stranded DNA and the mechanistic and functional information that can result from detailed analysis of such movement.
Safety and cleaning of medical materials and devices

A study was undertaken to evaluate different procedures to safely remove micro- organisms, protein, and mammalian cells from materials and provide a suitable method for cleaning and assessing effectiveness of cleaning medical devices for reuse or for analysis of failure. Safety considerations for the personnel performing the cleaning or handling the device after cleaning are important issues. Polystyrene plates (96 well) were used to simulate device surfaces not amenable to manual scrubbing. Staphylococcus epidermidis, Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and oral flora were grown in the plates. The plates were stained with crystal violet and the optical densities recorded. The results indicated that E. coli did not adhere well and Pseudomonas formed clumps that were easily detached from the surface of the plates. However, S. epi, C. albicans, and the oral organisms formed adherent biofilms that were difficult to remove from the plates. Detergents with enzymes and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) bleach were both effective in removing the biofilm. Other detergents and surfactants were not effective. The aldehyde agents did not remove the organisms and made further cleaning difficult. Allowing the biofilm to dry first made cleaning very difficult. Only the NaOCl bleach could subsequently remove the dried or aldehyde fixed organisms from the wells. The same 96-well polystyrene plate format was used to measure the amount of protein and cell adherence as well as the effectiveness of subsequent cleaning. Bradford reagent was used to detect protein as a measure of the cleaning efficacy. As with the bacteria, NaOCl bleach was effective at removing the protein and cells that had been dried or fixed by formalin or alcohol, whereas detergent with enzymes was not very effective. This study confirmed that used medical devices, contaminated with microorganisms, protein, and/or mammalian cells, should not be allowed to dry before cleaning and that a thorough cleaning procedure should precede sterilization or disinfection (with the exception of NaOCl bleach which also cleans). © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res (Appl Biomater) 53: 131-136, 2000
Multimodal Management of Atrophic Acne Scarring in the Aging Face

Atrophic facial acne scarring is a widely prevalent condition that can have a negative impact on a patient’s quality of life. The appearance of these scars is often worsened by the normal effects of aging. A number of options are available for the treatment of acne scarring, including chemical peeling, dermabrasion, ablative or nonablative laser resurfacing, dermal fillers, and surgical techniques such as subcision or punch excision. Depending on the type and extent of scarring, a multimodal approach is generally necessary to provide satisfactory results. Resurfacing techniques correct surface irregularities, long-lasting dermal fillers address the volume loss resulting from acne, and sub-superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) face-lift procedures counter the soft tissue laxity and ptosis associated with aging. This article briefly reviews the evolution of individual approaches to treating atrophic acne scarring, followed by case examples illustrating results that can be achieved using a multimodal approach. Representative cases from patients in their 30s, 40s, and 50s are presented. In the author’s clinical practice, multimodal approaches incorporating fractionated laser, injectable poly-l-lactic acid, and sub-SMAS face-lift procedures have achieved optimal aesthetic outcomes, high patient satisfaction, and durability of aesthetic effect over time.
Baroreceptor Reflexes and Autoregulation of Cerebral Blood Flow in the Dog

Cerebral venous outflow was measured in anesthetized dogs at the confluence of the sagittal and straight sinuses, with the lateral sinuses occluded. Denervation of the carotid bifurcation increased systemic arterial pressure (+25.8; SE±7.7 mm Hg) and decreased cerebral vascular conductance (-0.018; SE±0.005 ml/min · mm Hg); stimulation of the carotid sinus nerve decreased systemic arterial pressure and increased cerebral vascular conductance. Graded constrictions of the common carotid arteries induced transient responses of the cerebral blood flow that were characteristic of an autoregulatory process. Plots of the steady-state pressures and flows during the decreases of perfusion pressure were concave toward the pressure axis, were similar before and after denervation of the carotid bifurcation, and were indicative of autoregulation. We conclude that pressoreceptors in the carotid bifurcation or other pressoreceptors in systemic vessels upstream from the carotid bifurcation are not necessary for the contr...
Circadian regulation of uroguanylin and guanylin in the rat intestine

Uroguanylin (UGN) and guanylin (GN) are the endogenous intestinal ligands for guanylyl cyclase C (GC-C). We examined the circadian expression of UGN, GN, and GC-C in the jejunum, ileum, and proxima...
An Outcome Determinant Analysis of NCAA Rules Violations: An Application of Multivariate Statistics to the Committee on Infractions’ Decisions on Major Cases

ABSTRACTSince the National Collegiate Athletic Association (“NCAA” hereafter) began enforcing major rules infractions, there have been concerns over the causes and implications of the violations. The penalty structure that the NCAA recently promulgated would be one of the efforts to address such concerns. The project investigated the outcome of the violations with respect to all major infraction cases since 1994. A data set was constructed from all cases reported since 1994. Each case was coded in terms of charged violations, sanctions, level of competition, repeat violation, and whether the institution self-imposed their own penalties. Multiple regression analysis indicates that the aggregate score of violations statistically predicts the severity of sanctions imposed by the Committee. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the repeat violator status and self-imposed penalty would likely influence the severity of sanctions. In contrast, self-discovery or self-reporting does not affect the overall san...
Fracture of rock: Effect of loading rate

Abstract Fracture parameters of limestone at loading rates ranging over four orders of magnitude in the static regime are determined using the size effect method. Three sizes of three-point bend notched specimens were tested under crack-mouth opening displacement control. The fracture toughness and nominal strength decrease slightly with a decrease in rate, but the fracture process zone length and the brittleness of failure are practically unaffected. The effect of material creep on the fracture of limestone is negligible in the time range studied here. However, the methodology developed for characterizing rate effects in static fracture can be easily applied to other brittle-heterogeneous materials. The decrease of fracture toughness as a function of the crack propagation velocity is described with a power law. A formula for the size- and rate-dependence of the nominal strength is also presented.
Current approaches to management of nonsyndromic craniosynostosis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Surgical alternatives to traditional cranial vault remodeling for the treatment of craniosynostosis are being discussed in recent plastic and neurosurgical literature. This review highlights recent developments and discusses the risks as well as benefits of each. RECENT FINDINGS Surgical treatment of craniosynostosis has evolved from simple suturectomy, to extensive cranial vault remodeling, and now back to the minimally invasive. Options today include endoscopic suturectomies, spring-mediated cranioplasties, and distraction osteogenesis as well as cranial vault remodeling. There are disagreements among centers on the most optimal timing and best operative procedure. SUMMARY Clinicians should be aware that different surgical treatments are rapidly being developed for nonsyndromic craniosynostosis.
Blue II-VI laser Diodes and light Emitting Diodes

The use of a nitrogen rf plasma source for p-type ZnSe grown by MBE, has allowed a variety of pn junction based devices to be realized. The pn junctions have been combined with (Zn,Cd)Se quantum wells to implement semiconductor injection lasers, operating in the blue/green portion of the spectrum, which were reported by 3M and the Brown/Purdue group in the summer of 1991. In the past year the field has moved rapidly. In particular, we can now report CW operation at low temperatures as well as pulsed operation at room temperature (490nm) using a Zn(S,Se)-based device configuration. Laser power output per facet for some designs is above 300 mW, and threshold current densities are as low as 1000A/cm 2 at room temperature. Lasing was demonstrated from devices grown on both p and n-type GaAs substrates. X-ray rocking curves of theII-VI regions exhibit FWHM values below 20 arcsec for specific samples. Dislocation densities are less than 105 cm-2, below the threshold of TEM plan view imaging. The blue LEDs provide power outputs in excess of 100μW while exhibiting external quantum efficiencies of 0.1% at room temperature.
The Competitive Effect of Field Populations of Codling Moth on Sex Attractant Trap Efficiency

Known numbers of adult codling moths, Laspeyresia pomonella (L.), were released into an isolated 80-acre apple orchard in the Wenas Valley, Wash., (determined to be essentially free of native moths) to test the efficiency of traps baited with females when free-flying females were or were not present. Trap efficiency was reduced as much as 75% when a moderate-sized population of free-flying females was present to compete with the caged virgin females. However, when actual catches were compared with expected catches (based on the assumption that caged and free-flying females were equally attractive), the virgin females in the traps were seen to be more attractive than the free-flying females. Also, when populations grow large, these sex attractant trap catches do not reflect the increase and therefore cannot be used to estimate the size of the population.
Tactics and Measures of Accelerating Breeding of Good QualityRice and Brand Joint

Abstrcat This article briefly discussed the tactics of accelerating variety-breeding in good quality rice and put forward the developing tactics and measures about strengthening breeding research ranks, establishing the base and service network, how to carry out butt joint on good quality rice with brand and putting into effect the construction of industrialization.
Development of Polymeric MOA with No-supporting Series Gap for ±500 kV DC Transmission Lines

In order to improve the lightning withstand level of ±500 kV DC transmission lines and to reduce the lightning flashover rate,polymeric MOA with no-supporting series gap for ±500 kV DC transmission lines was developed and manufactured.By analyzing the operation duty and protection principle of the target line surge arrester,its structure requirements were presented and its main technical parameters were calculated and designed.The polymeric MOA with no-supporting series gap for ±500 kV DC transmission lines has been developed successfully by the State Grid Electric Power Research Institute,of which the nominal voltage,the residual voltage and the positive 50% lightning impulse discharge voltage are 571 kV,1 064 kV and 1 830 kV,respectively.By means of the pattern tests,it is proved that the mechanical and electrical properties of the line surge arrester are reasonable and the parameters design could be achieved successfully,which assures the line surge arrester could provide satisfactory protection for the insulator strings.The successful development of the product field in the domestic blank among line arresters for DC transmission lines,and lays a foundation for the usage spreading of the device on ±500 kV DC transmission lines.
Analysis and Treatment about the Lower pH of Cooling Water in Generator

In viewof the question that pH of cooling water in generator was lower than standard,combining with the actual condition of a plant,we used many methods,such as adding alkali,adding condensation water,ammoniating resin in mixed bed,and so on.The results of tests showed that the method of ammoniating resin could control the pH、conductivity、 Cu2+ concentration in cooling water in standard range.
Determination of the content of Procaine Hydrochloride in compound Gentamycin Sulfate and Procaine Hydrochloride oral solution by UV

OBJECTIVE To establish a method for the determination of procaine hydrochloride in compound gentamycin sulfate and procaine hydrochloride oral solution.METHODS The content of procaine hydrochloride was determined by Ultraviolet spectrophotometry with detection wavelength at 290nm,and comparing the result of permanent offtitration.RESULTS The linear range of procaine hydrochloride was 2.390～9.560μg·mL-1(r=0.999 7);with average recovery rate at 101.4%(RSD=0.7%).CONCLUSION The method is simple、quick and accurate,and can be used as the determination of procaine hydrochloride.
Steps Towards Adaptive Psychomotor Instruction

Marksmanship is a core skill required of every Warfighter yet the approaches and effectiveness of marksmanship training can vary by instructor. Even the U.S. Army's Engagement Skills Trainer (EST) marksmanship simulator, which provides detailed data about every shot fired, is only as effective as the instruction based on this data. The authors discuss a marksmanship simulator enhanced with an intelligent tutoring system in order to help instructors provide more efficient, consistent and accurate diagnoses and feedback to the trainees. This paper presents the brief history of adaptive psychomotor skills training and a 3-phase plan for the development of an adaptive training system for marksmanship, which is a relevant approach for other types of adaptive psychomotor training.
Early to Dialyze: Healthy and Wise?

Acute kidney injury (AKI) among hospitalized patients is common, consequential, and costly. Annually in the United States, approximately 10% of the estimated 5 million hospitalizations are complicated by AKI, with 0.4% of cases severe enough to require dialysis. Among patients with AKI requiring extracorporeal kidney support (dialysis), in-hospital mortality rates are consistently in excess of 20%, and may exceed 40% when accompanied by nonrenal organ system failure.1- 3 Acute kidney injury results in prolonged hospital stay, and is associated with marked increase in hospital costs, with attributable costs estimated to be between $5 billion and $10 billion annually.3- 5 Moreover, AKI has been linked with increased longer-term risks of chronic kidney disease (CKD), another condition associated with poor outcomes and high health care resource consumption,6 as well as of higher risks of hypertension.7
Cellular and Molecular Responses to Lung Injury in Relation to Induction of Tissue Repair and Fibrosis

Those factors that determine whether tissue injury is followed by regeneration and repair or irreversible destruction and fibrosis are only now being elucidated. This article examines the lung's response to injury, the prominent role of polypeptide growth factors and cytokines in directing tissue responses, and the effects of injury on cell-specific expression of a number of genes.
Challenges in Reducing Readmissions: Lessons from Leadership and Frontline Personnel at Eight Minority-Serving Hospitals

Article-at-a-Glance Background Hospitals that serve minority patients have higher readmission rates than other hospitals and, as a result, receive higher penalties under the federal government's Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program. A study was conducted to determine how minority-serving hospitals are responding to federal readmissions policy and whether they face specific challenges as they work to reduce readmissions. Methods In-depth case studies were created for eight minority-serving hospitals, selected to reflect a range of geographies and sizes. Semistructured interviews with hospital leaders and frontline personnel focused on knowledge of readmission rates and prioritization of readmission reduction, strategies to reduce readmissions, barriers to reducing readmissions, and opinions about federal readmissions policy. Results Each hospital had only a general awareness of its performance on readmissions metrics but placed a high priority on reducing readmissions, largely spurred by federal readmissions policy. Respondents reported that socioeconomics, rather than race alone, was a key factor in readmissions reduction. The hospitals followed a similar progression in strategies to reduce readmissions—moving from working on the discharge process to creating customized approaches to transitional care to, finally, focusing more on building community supports and resources. Salient barriers to reducing readmission rates included scarce resources, the variety of patient needs, limited ability to influence care in the community, and a misalignment of financial incentives. Conclusions Among eight hospitals serving a high proportion of minority patients, the findings uncovered the importance of addressing issues specific to the patient population and community and reaching outside the walls of the hospital to implement programs that improve outpatient access and management.
WE-DE-207B-08: Towards Standardization of X-Ray Filters in Digital Mammography-Enabled Breast Tomosynthesis Systems

Purpose: In digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) systems capable of digital mammography (DM), Al filters are used during DBT and K-edge filters during DM. The potential for standardizing the x-ray filters with Al, instead of K-edge filters, was investigated with intent to reduce exposure duration and to promote a simpler system design. Methods: Analytical computations of the half-value thickness (HVT) and the photon fluence per mAs (photons/mm2/mAs) for K-edge filters (50µm Rh; 50µm Ag) were compared with Al filters of varying thickness. Two strategies for matching the HVT from K-edge and Al filtered spectra were investigated: varying the kVp for fixed Al thickness, or varying the Al thickness at matched kVp. For both strategies, Al filters were an order of magnitude thicker than K-edge filters. Hence, Monte Carlo simulations were conducted with the GEANT4 toolkit to determine if the scatter-to-primary ratio (SPR) and the point spread function of scatter (scatter PSF) differed between Al and K-edge filters. Results: Results show the potential for replacing currently used Kedge filters with Al. For fixed Al thickness (700µm), ±1 kVp and +(1–3) kVp change, matched HVT of Rh and Ag filtered spectra. At matched kVp, Al thickness range (650,750)µm and (750,860)µm matched the HVT from Rh and Ag filtered spectra. Photon fluence/mAs with Al filters were 1.5–2.5 times higher, depending on kVp and Al thickness, compared to K-edge filters. Although Al thickness was an order higher than K-edge filters, neither the SPR nor the scatter PSF differed from K-edge filters. Conclusion: The use of Al filters for digital mammography is potentially feasible. The increased fluence/mAs with Al could decrease exposure duration for the combined DBT+DM exam and simplify system design. Effect of x-ray spectrum change due to Al filtration on radiation dose, signal, noise, contrast and related metrics are being investigated. Funding support: Supported in part by NIH R21CA176470 and R01CA195512. The contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not reflect the official views of the NIH or NCI.
Toward a Regulatory Framework for the Waterpipe

Waterpipe smoking has been dramatically increasing among youth worldwide and in the United States. Despite its general association with misperceptions of reduced harm, evidence suggests this is a harmful and dependence-inducing tobacco use method that represents a threat to public health. Waterpipe products continue to be generally unregulated, which likely has contributed to their spread. The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act of 2009 granted the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the authority to regulate waterpipe products, and the FDA finalized a rule extending its authority over waterpipe products in May 2016. This critical step in addressing the alarming increase in waterpipe smoking in the United States has created urgency for research to provide the evidence needed for effective regulatory initiatives for waterpipe products. We aim to stimulate such research by providing a framework that addresses the scope of waterpipe products and their unique context and use patterns. The proposed framework identifies regulatory targets for waterpipe product components (i.e., tobacco, charcoal, and device), the waterpipe cafe setting, and its marketing environment dominated by Internet promotion.
Antecedent Transfusion and Primary Hemorrhagic Stroke in Adults with Sickle Cell Disease.

Abstract Primary hemorrhagic stroke is an uncommon but serious complication of sickle cell disease (SCD) with mortality from 20 to 65%. Proposed risk factors include previous ischemic stroke, aneurysms, low steady-state hemoglobin, high steady-state leukocyte count, acute chest syndrome, and transfusion. We performed a retrospective case-control study to evaluate risk factors for primary hemorrhagic stroke in adults (age >18 years) with SCD from Johns Hopkins and Barnes- Jewish Hospitals and Duke University Medical Center from January 1989 to April 2008. Cases had SCD and intraparenchymal (IPH), subarachnoid (SAH), or intraventricular (IVH) hemorrhage confirmed by neuroimaging or analysis of cerebrospinal fluid; traumatic hemorrhages and hemorrhagic conversion of ischemic strokes were excluded. Controls had SCD and ischemic stroke (focal neurological deficits with corresponding cerebral infarcts by neuroimaging). Both were identified by searching the hospital discharge database using ICD-9 codes for acute stroke and SCD and reviewing divisional records. We compared continuous variables by Student's t-test and calculated odds ratios with exact methods. We identified 19 cases (mean age 29 years, range 18 – 66, 42% male) and 18 controls (mean age 34 years, range 19 – 61, 39% male). Most cases (14/18) had sickle cell anemia (HbSS) and 22% had a prior overt stroke; controls had HbSS (9/17), HbSB0thalassemia (1), or HbSC (7) and 41% had a history of overt stroke. Cases presented with headache (89%) and seizure (37%) and less frequently hemiparesis (27%). Controls presented with hemiparesis (78%), headache (57%), and rarely seizure (11%). Twelve cases had IPH including those with extension to the ventricles (1), subarachnoid (2) or both (2); six had SAH including ventricular extension (1). Potential causes of hemorrhagic stroke included moyamoya (4), aneurysms (3), anticoagulation (1) and ateriovenous malformation (1). Four cases (21%) and no controls died during the initial hospitalization. More cases (82%) than controls (44%, P Table 1: Associations with Primary Hemorrhagic Stroke Variable Odds Ratio (95% CI) P-value Genotype (HbSS vs. other) 3 (0.6 – 17) NS Moyamoya 5 (0.4 – 260) NS Transfusion in the last 14 days 13 (1.3 – 630) NSAID in the last 14 days 2.9 (0.3 – 36) NS
Design of a New 45 kWe High-Flux Solar Simulator for High-Temperature Solar Thermal and Thermo-Chemical Research

In this paper, we present a systematic procedure to design a solar simulator for high-temperature concentrated solar thermal and thermo-chemical research. The 45 kWe simulator consists of seven identical radiation units of common focus, each comprised of a 6.5 kWe xenon arc lamp close-coupled to a precision reflector in the shape of a truncated ellipsoid. The size and shape of each reflector is optimized by a Monte Carlo ray tracing analysis to achieve multiple design objectives, including high transfer efficiency of radiation from the lamps to the common focal plane and desired flux distribution. Based on the numerical results, the final optimized design will deliver 7.5 kW over a 6-cm diameter circular disc located in the focal plane, with a peak flux approaching 3.7 MW/m2 .Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Example Engineering Curriculum: Online Discussion Prompts

The purpose of this chapter is to provide examples on how to incorporate the entrepreneurial mindset into existing, engineering curriculum using online discussion prompts.
Understanding the Work of Mathematics Teacher Educators from a Knowledge of Practice Perspective

The work of mathematics teacher educators (MTE) is far from understood. In this study, we explore the nature of knowledge drawn upon MTEs as they connect pre-service teachers’ content learning to the practice of teaching mathematics to children. Using data from a two-year project focused on the professional development of university-based teacher educators, we illustrate MTEs’ work of teaching pre-service elementary teachers mathematics. In doing so, we identified three MTE practices of connecting to teaching practice, including MTEs supporting pre-service teachers in making sense of and remedying children’s errors, MTEs modeling for pre-service teachers how to modify a mathematical task appropriate to children’s current level of understanding, and MTEs engaging pre-service teachers to consider children’s common conceptions. The nature of knowledge MTEs draw upon in their teaching practices is discussed.
Light-dependent kinetic model for microalgae experiencing photoacclimation, photodamage, and photodamage repair

Abstract Microalgae naturally are exposed to changing light conditions. While a higher light intensity can promote a faster growth rate, it also can cause photodamage that leads to a temporary or semi-permanent decline in growth rate. We developed a model of photosynthetic growth including photoacclimation, reversible photodamage to photosystem II (PSII), and more severe photodamage to photosystem I (PSI). Phototrophic biomass optimizes its photosynthetic machinery to the light intensity it is experiencing; this is captured in the model by photoacclimation, in which photodamage to PSII caused by absorbed light is balanced by repair. However, repair of PSII photodamage can be overwhelmed by increases of light outside the photoacclimated condition, and this leads to severe PSII photodamage that slows the cells' specific growth rate. Furthermore, very large increases in light intensity can lead to photodamage to PSI, which is semi-permanent in that it can take days to weeks to repair. Our model captures all these phenomena. Example model outputs demonstrate the importance of each phenomenon for increases and decreases in light intensity from the photoacclimated state.
Nuanced Perspectives about Online Teaching: Mid-Career and Senior Faculty Voices Reflecting on Academic Work in the Digital Age

Students’ demand for online learning continues. At the same time, results of multiple studies from the early 2000s through the present day point to a set of common concerns that may explain faculty members’ hesitation and resistance to online teaching. However, less is known about how faculty members experience online teaching, especially the “essential elements” of work that the literature shows relate to positive workplace outcomes. Essential elements of work, as defined by Gappa, Austin, and Trice (2007) include flexibility and balance, academic freedom and autonomy, professional relationships, and professional growth. Findings from interviews with 19 faculty members showed that online teaching simultaneously enabled and frustrated faculty’s experiences of the “essential elements.” We recommend ways in which administrators can address these frustrations and highlight the positive aspects of online teaching.
Radiation-Free, Sub-Wavelength Optical Resonator based on All-Evanescent Confinement in a High-Index Core Material

We propose a radiation-free dielectric nanocavity with all-evanescent confinement based on perfect mode-matching and minimal use of negative permittivity. A record-low mode volume within high-index core material, supporting high-Q(Q/V), may enable efficient active nanophotonic components.
The Analysis and Modeling on Internet AS-Level Topology Based on K-Core Decomposition

The k-core analysis allows to characterize networks beyond the degree distribution and uncover structural properties and hierarchies due to the specific architecture of the system. The properties related with node coreness were studied firstly. The distribution on coreness of Internet AS-level topology was analyzed with the actual topology measuring data. The linking trend to higher shells of the nodes was analyzed and the linking probability function was induced. Then, a new framework for modeling Internet AS-level topology was proposed with the conclusion drawn and the model was implemented. The proposed model was based on k-core decomposition in order to reveal the hierarchy of the network. Experiment results show that the proposed model produces scale-free random graphs, in the meanwhile, it also exhibits the hierarchy of the network better.
Fuzzy Logic for Robots Calibration — Using Fuzzy Interpolation Technique in Modeless Robot Calibration

By using the dynamic on-line fuzzy interpolation technique presented in this chapter, the position errors in a modeless robot calibration can be greatly reduced. The effectiveness of using the proposed technique is confirmed by the simulation studies, in which three typical error models, sinusoid waveform, normal distributed and uniform distributed errors, are utilized. This fuzzy interpolation technique is suitable for the modeless robot position compensation. One drawback of the proposed method is its computational complexity in comparison to the linear interpolation method. With the advance of real-time operating systems, the difficulty due to this problem for on-line applications will be greatly reduced.
Chest Wall Anatomy

The structure of the chest wall determines the functional mechanics of the thorax. Comprised of the skin, fascia, bone, and muscle, the chest wall protects the cardiopulmonary and upper abdominal viscera. The thorax anchors the shoulder and upper extremity while functionally promoting dynamic movement to allow efficient ventilation and gas exchange. A thorough understanding of the chest wall anatomy is critical to safe surgical technique and understanding the cardiopulmonary repercussions of operating on the chest.
Perioperative safety in coronary artery bypass grafting: the role of the anesthesiologist.

Purpose of reviewAs our population ages and cardiovascular disease increases in prevalence, a growing number of patients will be candidates for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Outcomes from this common surgery can be improved by a coordinated team approach involving physicians, nurses, and h
Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients with AL Amyloidosis with Impaired Renal Function

Background Patients with immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis often present with organ dysfunction secondary to the deposition and aggregation of the amyloidogenic light chain. Renal involvement typically presents as proteinuria, however renal dysfunction manifesting as reduced creatinine clearance (CrCL) may also be seen, often contributed to by other comorbidities and can complicate therapy for these patients. Patients and methods We retrospectively reviewed all patients receiving an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) for AL amyloidosis at the Mayo Clinic Rochester between 19th May 1999 and 30th of September 2017, to identify the impact of impaired renal function (CrCL Results Baseline characteristics for each cohort are summarized in Table 1. Median age and the proportion of males in each cohort were similar. Predictably renal amyloidosis was more common in the IRF group (90% IRF cohort vs 60% NRF cohort, p Conclusions ASCT is an effective therapy in patients with AL amyloidosis and impaired renal function. Although PFS and OS in this cohort are similar to those with normal renal function, the 100 day mortality and proportion of patients requiring dialysis post ASCT are higher and need to be considered prior to recommendation of this therapy for patients.
[Administrative village-based spatial distribution specificity of Oncomelania hupensis and its relationship with water systems in Hubei Province].

OBJECTIVE To investigate the spatial distribution of Oncomelania hupensis snail habitats at the administrative village scale in schistosomiasis-endemic areas of Hubei Province, so as to provide scientific bases for precise control of O. hupensis snails in the province. METHODS Data regarding snail distribution at the village level in Hubei Province in 2017 were collected to create a spatial analysis database of snail distribution in Hubei Province. The spatial aggregations of O. hupensis distribution were analyzed using Moran's I index and Local Moran's I index. In addition, the distances from schistosomiasis-endemic villages to the Yangtze River were captured using the software ArcGIS 13.0, and their correlations with area of snail habitats were examined with the Spearman correlation method. RESULTS O. hupensis snails were mainly distributed in 5 450 endemic villages from 63 counties of 13 cities in Hubei Province in 2017. The global spatial autocorrelation analysis showed spatial aggregations in the areas of historically accumulated snail habitats, current areas of snail habitats, areas of snail habitats outside the embankment and snail habitats inside the embankment (all Z Scores > 0, all P values 0, P > 0.05). There were four types of spatial distribution of historically accumulated areas of snail habitats, areas of current snail habitats, areas of snail habitats outside the embankment and snail habitats inside the embankment, including the high-high type (H-H type), high-low type (H-L type), low-high type (L-H type) and random distribution type, and a high percentage of the H-H type was found. There were 340, 125 and 110 endemic villages with the H-H type of areas of historically accumulated snail habitats, current areas of snail habitats and areas of snail habitats outside the embankment, and these villages were mainly concentrated in Wuhan and Jingzhou cities, with almost consistent spatial aggregation locations. There were 319 endemic villages with the H-H type of distribution of snail habitats inside the embankment, which were mainly distributed in Jingzhou, Xiaogan and Huangshi cities. In addition, the areas of historically accumulated snail habitats, current areas of snail habitats and areas of snail habitats outside the embankment negatively correlated with the distance from the endemic villages to the Yangtze River (r = -0.094, P < 0.01; r = -0.225, P < 0.01; r = -0.177, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS The clustering areas of snail habitats along the Yangtze River Basin, notably the villages near the Yangtze River are key regions for snail monitoring and control in Hubei Province.
Occipital teratoma in a neonate with CHARGE syndrome: a case report.

Introduction Teratomas of the head and neck region are rare lesions, representing just 5% of all congenital teratomas. Usually found in the pineal region orneurohypophysis, teratomas are uncommonly located in the posterior occiput. Case presentation Herein, we present a case of a female neonate born at 37-week gestation with hydrocephalus, an occipital scalp lesion, and several craniofacial abnormalities consistent with a diagnosis of coloboma, heart defect, atresia choanae, retarded growth, genital abnormality, and ear abnormality (CHARGE) syndrome. The occipital scalp lesion was initially thought to be an encephalocele. On day of life 3, the neonate was taken to the operating room for placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt and repair of the occipital lesion. Intra-operatively, the lesion resembled a dural-based meningocele; however, during histologic evaluation, it was found to contain tissue derived from all three germ layers and thus, it was determined to be more consistent with a teratoma. Conclusion We hypothesize that a germline mutation in CHD7 or other similar regulatory gene causative of CHARGE syndrome and craniofacial developmental abnormalities may have contributed to the unusual location of the teratoma in this case.
Primary Functioning Neuroendocrine Tumor of the Appendix with Hypoglycemia Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of Neuroendocrine Tumors

Introduction Primary neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) of the appendix are uncommon, but when present are usually not hyperfunctioning. This case represents an extraordinarily rare primary hyperfunctioning NET of the appendix with a clinical presentation of symptomatic hypoglycemia in an otherwise healthy man. Case presentation A previously healthy 34-year-old man was found to be symptomatically hypoglycemic in early 2018. After the workup, the apparent explanation was a tumor in his midappendix, for which he was referred to our surgical oncology service for resection. The patient's clinical course is described in detail, including imaging, as well as surgical and pathologic descriptions of the appendiceal NET. Discussion A literature review demonstrates no other case series or reports of a primary hyperfunctioning NET of the appendix presenting with hypoglycemic crisis. The symptoms of tumor-induced hypoglycemia more typically arise with islet cell tumors, such as pancreatic NETs or insulinomas. We believe this case represents a nonislet cell tumor-induced hypoglycemia. This patient's elevated serum proinsulin level preoperatively implies secretion of proinsulin by the tumor. However, tumor-induced hypoglycemia caused by proinsulin has been described previously only in pancreatic tumors. This unique case adds knowledge to the possible glycemic endocrine effects of nonpancreatic NETs, specifically those that arise primarily in the appendix.
Teaching in Humans and Other Animals

One morning a few years ago, during a visit to my in-laws in Hong Kong (just as I was beginning to write this book), I stepped into the elevator outside their flat. Wanting to descend to the ground floor, I found myself hesitating between pressing the button marked G, or just below, B. I’d used the same elevator many times before, and knew very well, or should have, that B would take me to the ground floor, the last stop.
An approach to the management of fever of unknown origin in the setting of acute spinal cord injury.

INTRODUCTION Discovering the source of a patient's fever, in the absence of clinical localizing signs, can be a formidable undertaking. Without a clear symptom pattern to narrow the focus of a diagnostic workup, this task can require numerous noninvasive and invasive procedures, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to arrive at a conclusion. Identifying the source of a patient's fever in the setting of an acute spinal cord injury can present a unique challenge because this population is at risk for many different conditions that can cause fever, some of which are rarely seen in the general population. CASE PRESENTATION This case report describes a unique case and diagnostic workup of fever of unknown origin in a 51-year-old male with multiple medical comorbidities who presented to an inpatient rehabilitation service following an acute traumatic cervical spinal cord injury. Ultimately, it was determined that the patient had several different factors that were causing him to have intermittent fevers over a 5-week period. DISCUSSION This case demonstrates the importance of obtaining serial medical histories and physical examinations during the investigation for fever of unknown origin. It also supports why additional workup of a patient's fever may need to be considered even after a potential source is found. Finally, it demonstrates the need for increased awareness of quadriplegic fever so that this condition can be more effectively recognized, prevented, and managed in the future.
Let’s Get Ready to Tweet! An Analysis of Twitter Use by 2018 Senate Candidates

To what extent did the 2018 Senate candidates adapt their Twitter strategy to match electoral realities during the campaign? Previous literature on the political use of social media suggests that T...
Combining bioscaffolds and iPSCs in the treatment of neural trauma and Alzheimer’s disease

Abstract The discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) was a breakthrough in biological research poised to be a potential therapy in the field of regenerative medicine. The modality is a personalized therapy due to utilizing the patients’ own cells in the treatment of disease. Biomaterial scaffolds constructed from natural and synthetic polymers have both shown to increase stem cell viability in vivo via providing a controlled microenvironment which permits successful cell growth and differentiation. The use of biodegradable and biocompatible three-dimensional (3D) bioscaffolds combined with iPSCs is a promising therapeutic strategy for enhancing regenerative potential and restoring spinal cord function after injury. Bioscaffolds also create a 3D model for the investigation of Alzheimer’s disease. In this work, we reviewed the advance of the research with combination of bioscaffolds and iPSCs for the investigation and treatment of neural trauma and Alzheimer’s disease.