cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Documentation of Sexual and Menstrual Histories for Adolescent Patients in the Inpatient Setting.

Abstract Study Objective In this study, we aimed to determine the frequency of menstrual history and sexual history documentation in the inpatient setting. Design, Setting, and Participants A retrospective chart review was conducted for 307 female patients ages 11-18 years admitted from the emergency department at a single institution within a 7-month period. These charts were reviewed for documentation of menstrual and sexual history. Interventions and Main Outcome Measures Rates of menstrual and sexual history documentation were compared according to patient age, chief complaint, admitting specialty, and medical complexity. Results Sexual history documentation was noted in 158 (45.9%) of the 344 reviewed charts. Sexual history documentation rates were higher for patients with mental health symptoms (62.9%; 61 of 98 charts; P = .02) and lower for patients admitted to surgical services (30.6%; 19 of 62 charts; P = .04). At least 1 aspect of menses was documented in 113 (32.8%) of the 344 reviewed charts. Last menstrual period was the most commonly documented aspect of menstrual history, appearing in 100 (29.1%) of the 344 reviewed charts. Menarche (4.4%; 15/344), menses frequency (7.0%; 24/344), menses duration (2.6%; 9/344), flow quantity (4.9%; 17/344), and dysmenorrhea (4.4%; 15/344) were rarely documented, regardless of chief complaint or admitting service. Menstrual history documentation rates were significantly higher for patients requiring a gynecology consultation (73.3%; 11 of 15 charts; P Conclusion Menstrual and sexual history documentation rates for adolescent patients requiring inpatient admission were low, with fewer than half of patients having a documented menstrual or sexual history.
Sustaining Full-Service Community Schools : Lessons from the Tulsa Area Community Schools Initiative

The purpose of this study was to explore sustainability of social conditions and achievement outcomes in six full-service community schools (FSCSs) in two districts (Tulsa and Union Public Schools)...
Capital Dependence, Financial Risk, and Change from the Multidivisional to the Multilayered Subsidiary Form

Students of the modem corporation continue to assume that corporations have the same form as they did before the turbulent 1980s when the economy became increasingly globalized and competitive. Our analysis shows that corporations are changing from the multidivisional form to a multilayered subsidiary form. Previous research showed that most corporations were multidivisional in the late 1970s. However, by 1993, 42% of the largest 100 industrial corporations had one or no divisions. The mean number of divisions per corporation declined from 8.8 in 1981 to 4 in 1993, while the mean number of domestic subsidiary corporations increased from 23 in 1981 to 51 in 1993. Parent corporations are creating a hierarchy of subsidiary corporations. Most of these changes occurred after the mid-1980s change in state business policy. The theoretical framework historicizes the corporation by identifying how capital accumulation constraints and changes in the institutional arrangements (e.g., the state) within which corporations are embedded created motives and behaviors that resulted in a change in the corporate form. Findings from logistic regression suggest that corporations that have low profits, have low working capital, have a decline in dividend payments, and manufacture high-risk, liability prone product lines have an increased probability of change to the multilayered subsidiary form. Our results provide support for the capital dependence perspective.
Simulation of Endovascular Aortic Repair Using 3D Printed Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Model and Fluid Pump

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) models can be manufactured with 3D printing technology. This study describes detailed methodology and validation of endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) simulation using 3D printed AAA model connected to hemodynamic pump. The AAA model was printed with Objet500 Connex3 (Stratasys, Eden Prairie, MN) and connected to BDC PD-0500 fluid pump (BDC Laboratories, Wheat Ridge, CO). EVAR procedure metrics were benchmarked in two expert implanters and compared to 20 vascular surgical trainees with different levels of EVAR experience (< 20 or ≥ 20 cases). All simulations were performed using commercially available stent grafts, guidewires, catheters, fluoroscopic guidance and digital subtraction angiography. Studied outcomes included ability to complete the procedure independently, time to deploy aortic component, ability to cannulate contralateral gate and complete the repair, and total fluoroscopy and procedure times. A total of 22 EVAR simulation procedures were performed with mean procedure time of 37 ± 12 min. Experienced trainees had significantly lower total procedural time (32 ± 9 vs. 44 ± 6 min, P = 0.003) and fluoroscopic time (13 ± 5 vs. 23 ± 8 min, P = 0.005). All experienced trainees completed the procedure independently in < 45 min, compared to six (46%) of those with less EVAR experience (P = 0.016). Among less experienced trainees, only two (15%) completed the entire procedure independently (P < 0.001). Benchmark implanters performed significantly better than both trainee groups in nearly all EVAR metrics. EVAR simulation was feasible and simulated all procedural steps with high fidelity. This model may be applicable for assessment of technical competencies and standard endovascular skill acquisition within vascular surgery training curricula.
Logic Obfuscation using Metasurface Holography

Over the years, system design companies have developed sophisticated and accurate Reverse Engineering (RE) tools to debug the functionality of their own designs, ensure the legitimacy of their Intellectual Properties (IPs), and to some extent-gather information on their competitors. Technologies such as optical imaging, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Tunneling Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-ray Tomography, etc. have made it possible to acquire images of individual layers of a delayered Integrated Circuit (IC) with superfine resolution. State-of-the-art tools such as ICWorks from Chipworks can perform automatic extraction of netlists from images of each layer. An adversary can unlock valuable IPs through such attacks and pirate the design or sell the cloned IP to other competitors for unjust motives. Logic and interconnect obfuscation have been proposed to make the RE effort behind such approaches prohibitively high for the adversaries. Several solutions have been proven to be vulnerable to Satisfiability (SAT) based attacks where an adversary can deobfuscate the circuit reasonably quickly. In this paper, we have presented a novel obfuscation technique based on the concepts of cloaked nets and fake holographic gates using metasurface holography. The proposed approach can address optical and X-ray imaging based RE.
Magnetic resonance elastography vs. point shear wave ultrasound elastography for the assessment of renal allograft dysfunction.

Abstract Purpose To investigate the utility of magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) vs. ultrasound (US) point shear wave elastography (pSWE) for the assessment of chronic renal allograft dysfunction, prediction of outcome and determine the correlation with Banff pathology scores. Methods In this IRB approved prospective study, 27 enrolled patients with functional (n = 15) and chronic dysfunctional (n = 12) renal allografts underwent same day 2D MRE and pSWE. Histogram parameters [including mean, median, standard deviation, kurtosis and skewness] of the magnitude of the complex shear modulus (MRE) and median Young’s modulus (pSWE) were measured in the cortex (MRE and pSWE) and combined corticomedullary regions (MRE). Histopathology was available for 16 patients (4 functional, 12 dysfunctional). Results MRE and pSWE stiffness were not significantly different between functional and dysfunctional groups (p range 0.139-0.347). The skewness of MRE corticomedullary stiffness was significantly lower (p = 0.04) in patients with chronic dysfunction and correlated significantly with Banff histopathologic scores (range r=-0.518–0.567, p = 0.035–0.040). MRE cortical and corticomedullary mean stiffness showed strong performance in predicting graft loss/relist (AUC 0.958, p = 0.011 for both). Reliable pSWE measurements were obtained in 13 patients (48 %). pSWE stiffness did not correlate with Banff scores and did not predict outcome. Conclusions The skewness of MRE corticomedullary stiffness is sensitive to changes in chronic allograft dysfunction, while mean/median MRE renal stiffness and median US stiffness did not differentiate patients with stable function vs those with chronic renal allograft dysfunction. MRE corticomedullary mean stiffness appears to be a predictor of graft loss/relist. pSWE was not found to be a useful method for assessing renal allografts.
A Look Back: A Commentary:

An assistant professor and native Washingtonian looks back at the l970s and the impact of Watergate, Nixon, women in journalism and academia, and how some things have changed and how some things re...
The Deinstitutionalization (?) of the House of Representatives: Reflections on Nelson Polsby's “The Institutionalization of the U.S. House of Representatives” at Fifty

This article revisits Nelson Polsby's classic article “The Institutionalization of the U.S. House of Representatives” fifty years after its publication, to examine whether the empirical trends that Polsby identified have continued. This empirical exploration allows us to place Polsby's findings in broader historical context and to assess whether the House has continued along the “institutionalization course”—using metrics that quantify the degree to which the House has erected impermeable boundaries with other institutions, created a complex institution, and adopted universalistic decision-making criteria. We empirically document that careerism plateaued right at the point Polsby wrote “Institutionalization,” and that the extension of the careerism trend has affected Democrats more than Republicans. The House remains complex, but lateral movement between the committee and party leadership systems began to reestablish itself a decade after “Institutionalization” was published. Finally, the seniority system as a mechanism for selecting committee chairs—the primary measure of universalistic decision-making criteria—has been almost thoroughly demolished. Thus, most of the trends Polsby identified have moderated, but have not been overturned. We conclude by considering the larger set of interpretive issues that our empirical investigation poses.
The Effect of a Tablet-Mediated Flashcard Intervention on the Acquisition and Maintenance of Sight-Word Phrases

Although many studies have shown the efficacy of using flashcard interventions to increase sight-word reading, very few have investigated ways to increase sight-phrase reading. In the current study...
Reimagining C(sp3)–N bond formation via a HARC strategy

Conventional N-alkylation methods have been limited to approaches with high energy barriers and low selectivity. In this issue of Chem, MacMillan and co-workers report an innovative halogen abstraction-radical capture (HARC) strategy via metallaphotoredox catalysis that couples strained and hindered alkyl halides with a diverse range of N-nucleophiles.
Modeling Shared States for Adaptive Instruction

This paper discusses methods in which adaptive instructional techniques, strategies and tactics (collectively referred to henceforth as adaptive instruction) might be applied in a multi-learner or team training domain where accurate shared models of cognition and affect are critical to optimizing team performance, and individual learning, retention, and transfer. Application of these models in the Generalized Intelligent Framework for Tutoring (GIFT) is also discussed.
A Profile of Post-ASFA Hearings in the U.S. Congress

Examination of the policymaking process can yield a better understanding of the rationale behind policy content and prescriptions for shaping future policies. To this end, this study uses data from 38 child welfare hearings held by the U.S. Congress from 1999-2010 to describe key hearings, as well as Congress, committee member, and child welfare indicators. This manuscript concludes with implications for research and practice.
Better the data you know : developing youth data literacy in schools and informal learning environments

Thesis: S.M., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Comparative Media Studies, 2014.
Real-Time DRR Generation Using Cylindrical Harmonics

In this paper, we present a very fast algorithm for generating Digitally Reconstructed Radiographs(DRRs) using cylindrical harmonics. Real-time generation of DRRs is crucial in intra-operative applications requiring matching of pre-operative 3D data to 2D X-ray images acquired intra-operatively. Our algorithm involves representing the preoperative 3D data set in a cylindrical harmonic representation and then projecting each of these harmonics from the chosen projection point to construct a set of 2D projections whose superposition is the DRR of the data set in its reference orientation. The key advantage of our algorithm over existing algorithms such as the ray-casting or the voxel projection or the hybrid schemes is that in our method, once the projection set is generated from an arbitrarily chosen point of projection, DRRs of the underlying object at arbitrary rotations are simply obtained via a complete exponentially weighted superposition of the set. This leads to tremendous computational savings over and above the basic computational advantages of the algorithm involving the use of truncated cylindrical harmonic representation of the data. We present examples of DRR synthesis with fanbeam projection geometry for synthetic and real data. As an indicator of the speed of computation of one DRR from an arbitrary projection point, only 2-3 CPU seconds are required on a DELL Precision 420 using MATLAB as the program development environment.
The Diagnosis of Acute Cholecystitis

Diagnosis of acute cholecystitis involves clinical, laboratory, and radiographic findings. The Tokyo Guidelines for the Management of Acute Cholangitis and Cholecystitis (TG13) provide a diagnostic algorithm that optimizes specificity and sensitivity in those patients with a history suggestive of possible acute cholecystitis. Physical exam and laboratory findings should suggest acute inflammatory processes. Imaging should start with RUQ ultrasound and include HIDA if inconclusive. For patients with atypical symptoms, CT may be a better initial imaging modality. The role of MRI is less clear, but may become more important as radiation exposure concerns grow. In select patient populations and certain clinical settings, diagnosis may be difficult or delayed. A high index of suspicion and an attentive approach in at-risk populations is required to limit delays in diagnosis and possible complications.
Potential for larger earthquakes in the East San Francisco Bay Area due to the direct connection between the Hayward and Calaveras Faults

The Hayward and Calaveras Faults, two strike-slip faults of the San Andreas System located in the East San Francisco Bay Area, are commonly considered independent structures for seismic hazard assessment. We use Interferometric Synthetic Aperture RADAR to show that surface creep on the Hayward Fault continues 15 km farther south than previously known, revealing new potential for rupture and damage south of Fremont. The extended trace of the Hayward Fault, also illuminated by shallow repeating micro-earthquakes, documents a surface connection with the Calaveras Fault. At depths greater than 3–5 km, repeating micro-earthquakes located 10 km north of the surface connection highlight the 3-D wedge geometry of the junction. Our new model of the Hayward and Calaveras Faults argues that they should be treated as a single system with potential for earthquake ruptures generating events with magnitudes greater than 7, posing a higher seismic hazard to the East San Francisco Bay Area than previously considered.
El 11 de septiembre. Medios de comunicación y fiebre de guerra

En el siguiente analisis se quiere mostrar como las imagenes y los discursos de las cadenas de television estadounidense enmarcaron los ataques terroristas del 11 de Septiembre de manera tal que provocaron una histeria de guerra pero no lograron dar una explicacion coherente de lo que paso, por que sucedio, y cual podria considerarse una respuesta responsable. Mediante un analisis de los discursos, las escenas y las imagenes predominantes transmitidas por los medios sobre los cuales se baso el debate publico en los dias posteriores a los ataques terroristas del 11 de septiembre, se propone mostrar como los principales medios de comunicacion de los Estados Unidos privilegiaron el modelo del "conflicto entre civilizaciones", establecieron un dualismo binario entre el terrorismo islamico y la civilizacion, y difundieron ampliamente una fiebre de guerra, un sentimiento y un discurso que exigia toma de represalias y apoyaban alguna forma de intervencion militar. El argumento de este escrito es que ese militarismo unidimensional podria empeorar la crisis actual en lugar de ofrecer soluciones al problema del terrorismo mundial. En consecuencia, y a pesar de que en una democracia los medios deberian promover el debate critico de los temas urgentes para la nacion, en esta crisis del terror los principales medios de comunicacion estadounidenses, en particular la television, promovieron una fiebre de guerra y una solucion militar al problema del terrorismo mundial.
Automatic inspection of optical fibers

An optical fiber inspection technique for detecting the following defects is described: hard debris, necks, and bubbles. It is assumed that there is a single predominant defect in the field of view. Two complementary images of a fiber are utilized: in the first image, the fiber is illuminated with white light from the back; in the second, the image is illuminated with a laser from the side and slightly above. Each defect is characterized by its typical appearance in the two images. The complementary images are used to resolve ambiguities and provide redundancy in cases where a defect cannot be clearly identified in one image alone. Due to modular system design, the system can be easily augmented if the manufacturing process introduces new defects. After describing the inspection technique, the authors show results of exercising the system on a number of images.
HCN channelopathy in epilepsy

Hyperpolarization-activated, cyclic nucleotidegated (HCN) channels are voltage-gated ion channels that influence neuronal excitability in brain regions implicated in both focal and generalized epilepsies. Dysregulation of HCN channel function occurs in many animal models of epilepsy; understanding HCN channel regulation may lead to novel therapies for the prevention and treatment of human epilepsy. For an expanded treatment of this topic see Jasper's Basic Mechanisms of the Epilepsies, Fourth Edition (Noebels JL, Avoli M, Rogawski MA, Olsen RW, Delgado-Escueta AV, eds) published by Oxford University Press (available on the National Library of Medicine Bookshelf [NCBI] at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books).
Reliability Studies of Bivariate Distributions with Pareto Conditionals

In this paper we study Arnold's (1987, Statist. Probab. Lett.5, 263?266) class of bivariate distributions with Pareto conditionals from a reliability point of view. Failure rates and mean residual life function of the marginal distributions and their monotonic properties are studied. The hazard components and their properties are investigated and their relationships with some measures of dependence are established. Finally, the failure rate of the minimum of the two components is examined and its monotonicity is investigated. Some of the results presented here are general and would be useful in studying the dependence structure in other classes of bivariate distributions.
The effect of electrode configuration on arcjet performance

A segmented anode/nozzle for a low-power (1 kW) arc jet thruster was fabricated to investigate the effect of electrode configuration on the arc jet performance. The five segments of the nozzle, which could be isolated individually or in groups made it possible to observe current distribution from the constrictor through the diverging section of the nozzle; measurements of the potential difference between the cathode and any of the individual segments were possible. Results showed that the discharge initiates in the high pressure region of the nozzle upstream of the diverging section, and then rapidly moves to the diverging section of the nozzle. When the arc was allowed to seat in the diverging section, the anode fall voltage was between 10 to 20 volts. When the current was forced to the high-pressure section of the constrictor, the anode fall voltage increased to more than 40 volts.
An Export Portfolio Assessment of Regional Free Trade Agreements: A Mercosur and Pacific Alliance Perspective

We use the portfolio theory to assess the export performance of two important regional free trade agreements (RFTAs), namely, Mercosur and the Pacific Alliance, and their constituent countries. The results indicate that the export portfolio of the Pacific Alliance dominates that of Mercosur from a risk-return perspective. When we compare these two regional FTAs’ portfolios to an Asian export portfolio, the performance of the export portfolios of the Latin American RFTAs is dominated by that of the Asian export portfolio. In a larger context, the continual attention paid to these Latin American RFTAs is a reflection of the slow and uneven development of global trade negotiation.
SU-E-J-116: Validation of Deformable Image Registration Within the 4D Lung Using Two Commercial Algorithms and the User Guided Tool Reg Refine

Purpose: To quantify the registration error between different phases of breathing using two commercially available deformable image registration algorithms. A secondary goal was to better understand the Reg Refine tool developed by MIM software and provide practical recommendations for its use. Methods: The 4D patient data sets of the POPI model were used as phantoms for this work. DIR was performed using MIM Maestro and the SmartAdapt module available within Eclipse. For each of six patients, 100 landmarks were deformed between inhalation and exhalation with their final location compared to the ground truth previously established by expert identification. The base rigid registration was varied to assess the effect on the DIR. For MIM, the Reg Refine tool was also used to try and improve the registration. The number of locked points was varied in addition to varying their location and the size of the window used for local box based alignment. Results: The average displacement for 5 of 6 patients was 6 - 8 mm. For these patients the mean error was low (1 - 1.5 mm) no matter which algorithm was used. SmartAdapt was less sensitive to the initial rigid registration, although both algorithms showed improvement when rigidly aligned to the base of the lung versus the apex. Reg Refine further improved accuracy albeit marginally. For the remaining patient the average displacement was larger (14 mm) and the Reg Refine tool showed marked improvement in reducing the mean and maximum errors from 5 and 35.5 mm to 1.1 and 4.8 mm using as little as ten points. Conclusion: The residual registration error using both SmartAdapt and MIM Maestro for 4D lung patients has been quantified on the order of 1 - 1.5 mm using the POPI model. Reg Refine was also shown effective at improving registrations within MIM Maestro.
Checkpoint inhibitors continue to check out

T cells often fail to eradicate cancer—even when they successfully infiltrate tumors, they are often exhausted or suppressed by so-called immune checkpoints. A revolutionary new class of cancer immunotherapies—immune checkpoint blockers—reverses the inhibition and releases T cells to clear tumors. The latest good news for tumor immunotherapy is reported in three articles in The New England Journal of Medicine published to coincide with this year’s meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research. The FDA has already approved biological agents that target two cell surface receptors— cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)—that appear to act through distinct checkpoint pathways. Ipilimumab (Bristol-Myers Squibb) is an anti–CTLA-4 antibody approved as first-line treatment for advanced melanoma. Two different PD-1 inhibitors, nivolumab (Bristol-Myers Squibb) and pembrolizumab (Merck), are currently approved as second-line therapy for melanoma that is not responsive to anti–CTLA-4 treatment. Two of the current studies in the NEJM may be a step towards use of PD-1 inhibitors as first-line agents for advanced melanoma. Robert et al. performed a Phase 3 trial that compared pembrolizumab head-to-head with ipilimumab and reported that the anti–PD-1 antibody led to longer progression-free survival with fewer serious side effects. Phase 1 results from Postow et al. suggest that PD-1 inhibition with nivolumab may have even further survival benefits when given along with anti–CTLA-4 treatment, although they only compared the combination with anti–CTLA-4 monotherapy. A third study by Garon et al. extends beyond melanoma, reporting efficacy for pembrolizumab as a treatment for non–small cell lung cancer. Interestingly, this article observed that tumor expression of a PD-1 ligand correlated with anti–PD-1 efficacy, suggesting that expression of the PD-1 ligand may eventually serve as a biomarker to identify patients who are candidates for PD-1 blockade. These three studies are the most recent in a series of successes of anti–PD-1 therapies for cancers in which traditional chemotherapies have been ineffective. Additional combination therapies and improved biomarkers may extend the benefits further. Important work lies ahead to determine why some tumors remain unresponsive to checkpoint inhibition. E. B. Garon et al ., Pembrolizumab for the treatment of non–small-cell lung cancer. N. Engl. J. Med . 10.1056/NEJMoa1501824 (2015). [[Abstract]][1] C. Robert et al ., Pembrolizumab versus ipilimumab in advanced melanoma. N. Engl. J. Med . 10.1056/NEJMoa1503093 (2015). [[Abstract]][2] M. A. Postow et al ., Nivolumab and ipilimumab versus ipilimumab in untreated melanoma. N. Engl. J. Med . 10.1056/NEJMoa1414428 (2015). [[Abstract]][3] [1]: http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1501824 [2]: http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1503093 [3]: http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1414428
Immunochemical measurement of vitamin K-induced biosynthesis of prothrombin in the isolated perfused rat liver☆

Abstract An immunochemical method for the quantitative precipitation of rat prothrombin with specific antibody has been developed. The method has been applied to the detection of rat prothrombin biosynthesis under the influence of vitamin K from radioactive amino acids in the isolated perfused rat liver. It has been found that the radioactivity of prothrombin biosynthesized under these conditions is proportional to enzymatic activity of the prothrombin measured as thrombin. It is thus concluded that the action of vitamin K involves stimulation of de novo biosynthesis of prothrombin.
Structure/function aspects of human 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase

Abstract Separate genes encode the human type 1 (placenta, breast tumors, other peripheral tissues) and type 2 (gonad, adrenal) isoforms of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase (3β-HSD1, 3β-HSD2). Mutagenesis of 3β-HSD1 produced the Y154F, H156Y and K158Q mutant enzymes in the probable Y154-P-H156-S-K158 catalytic motif. The H156Y mutant of the 3β-HSD1 created a chimera of the 3β-HSD2 motif (Y154-P-Y156-S-K158) in 3β-HSD1. The D241N, D257L, D258L and D265N mutants are in the potential isomerase site of the 3β-HSD1 enzyme. Homology modeling with UDP-galactose-4-epimerase predicted that Asp36 in the Rossmann-fold domain is responsible for the NAD(H) specificity of human 3β-HSD1, and our D36A/K37R mutant tested that assignment. The H156Y mutant of the 3β-HSD1 enzyme shifted the substrate (DHEA) kinetics to the 14-fold higher Km value measured for the 3β-HSD2 activity. From Dixon analysis, epostane inhibited the 3β-HSD1 activity with 17-fold greater affinity compared to 3β-HSD2 and H156Y. The mutants of Tyr154 and Lys158 exhibited no dehydrogenase activity and appear to be catalytic 3β-HSD residues. The D257L and D258L mutations eliminated isomerase activity, suggesting that Asp257 or Asp258 may be catalytic residues for isomerase activity. The D36A/K37R mutant shifted the cofactor preference of both 3β-HSD and isomerase from NAD(H) to NADP(H). In addition to characterizing catalytic residues, these studies have identified the structural basis (His156) for an exploitable difference in the substrate and inhibition kinetics of 3β-HSD1 and 3β-HSD2. Hence, it may be possible to selectively inhibit human 3β-HSD1 to slow the growth of hormone-sensitive breast tumor cells and control placental steroidogenesis near term to prevent premature labor.
Are we mismanaging calcium and phosphate metabolism in renal failure

Secondary hyperparathyroidism and renal osteodystrophy are the consequences of abnormal calcium, phosphate, and calcitriol metabolism ensuing from renal failure. Evidence suggests that calcium balance tends to become negative as we grow older than 35 years of age; however, the current dialysis modalities provide patients regardless of age with excessive calcium during dialysis. Administration of calcitriol in the management of hyperparathyroidism further increases the calcium and phosphate absorption. Furthermore, the current thrice-weekly renal replacement therapies fail to remove the daily absorbed phosphate, and we have to use calcium carbonate as a primary phosphate-binding agent to reduce intestinal phosphate absorption. The large calcium mass transfer and phosphate retention could lead to soft tissue calcification, especially in older end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. Consequently, only by maintaining a negative calcium balance during renal replacement therapy can we safely use calcitriol and calcium carbonate for the management of secondary hyperparathyroidism. Recent studies have indicated that phosphate restriction alone independent of plasma calcitriol or calcium can lower plasma parathyroid hormone (PTH) in renal failure and prevent hyperplasia of parathyroid glands. Therefore, phosphate control perhaps is the most important means to prevent secondary hyperparathyroidism. Previous studies have shown that ferric compounds are potent phosphate-binding agents; hence, these compounds warrant further trial in the management of phosphate metabolism in renal failure.
A Top-Down and Bottom-Up Diffusion Model of CT2 and CQ2 in the Entraining Convective Boundary Layer

Abstract A model of scalar structure function parameters in the entraining, convective boundary layer is developed based on a top-down and bottom-up diffusion approach. The behavior of the structure function parameters is obtained from the large eddy simulations of the scalar variance budget equations given by Moeng and Wyngaard. The conventional convective scaling formalism is augmented with an additional scaling parameter, Rc, which is the ratio of the entrainment flux of the scalar variable, C, to the surface flux. The model is compared to atmospheric measurements of the structure function parameters for temperature (CT2) and humidity (CQ2). Two types of comparisons are done: average profiles from several well known measurement campaigns (e.g., Minnesota and AMTEX) and individual profiles from twenty soundings by a light aircraft. The model appears to fit the CQ2 data better than it fits the CT2 data, particularly for the average profiles. There is a tendency for the model to underestimate the structur...
ROMATIC COMPOUNDS AND SUGARS IN FLOCCULATION OF SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE

Phenol, aniline, benzyl alcohol and pyridine in the range 0.1 m to 0.3 m appreciably lowered the floc dissociation temperature, Tf, of two strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, without affecting flocculation intensity, F. Cell surface inactivation and Sr salt addition lowered F but not Tf. Mannose lowered F specifically, over fructose, glucose and maltose. Results are interpreted as a specific complementary site binding in yeast flocculence.
A formative evaluation of the SWITCH® obesity prevention program: print versus online programming

Background: SWITCH® is an evidence-based childhood obesity prevention program that works through schools to impact parenting practices. The present study was designed as a formative evaluation to test whether an online version of SWITCH® would work equivalently as the established print version. Methods: Ten elementary schools were matched by socio-economic status and randomly assigned to receive either the print (n = 5) or online (n = 5) version. A total of 211 children from 22, 3 rd grade classrooms were guided through the 4 month program by a team of program leaders working in cooperation with the classroom teachers. Children were tasked with completing weekly SWITCH® Trackers with their parents to monitor goal setting efforts in showing positive Do (≥60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity), View (≤2 hours of screen time), and Chew (≥5 servings of fruits and vegetables) behaviors on each day. A total of 91 parents completed a brief survey to assess project-specific interactions with their child and the impact on their behaviors. Results: The majority of parents (93.2%) reported satisfactory experiences with either the online or print SWITCH® program. The return rate for the SWITCH® Trackers was higher (42.5% ± 11%) from the print schools compared to the online schools (27.4% ± 10.9%). District program managers rated the level of teacher engagement in regards to program facilitation and the results showed a higher Trackers return rate in the highly engaged schools (38.5% ± 13.3%) than the lowly engaged schools (28.6 ± 11.9%). No significant differences were observed in parent/child interactions or reported behavior change (ps > .05) suggesting the equivalence in intervention effect for print and online versions of the SWITCH® program. Conclusions: The findings support the utility of the online SWITCH® platform but school-based modules are needed to facilitate broader school engagement by classroom teachers and PE teachers.
Automatic analysis of Monte-Carlo simulations of dynamic chemical plants

A methodology is presented for summarizing the voluminous results of Monte-Carlo simulations of a chemical plant and translating them into qualitative behavior trees, which can then be checked systematically for interesting behavior using Computation Tree Logic. The technique is useful for the verification of the safety and reliability of proposed plant and controller designs and handles broad classes of uncertainty in the plant, controller, and disturbances. The method is demonstrated to work well on a simulated styrene polymerization reactor.
Combination of spatial diversity and parallel decision feedback equalizer in a Single Input Multiple Output underwater acoustic communication system operating at very high frequencies

Single Input Multiple Output (SIMO) acoustic communication system using an adaptive spatial diversity combined with parallel Decision Feedback Equalizer (DFE) is presented in this document. The SIMO system operates at high frequencies with high data rate over a limited range (less than 200 m) in very shallow waters. The SIMO system consists of a single source transmitting Phase Shift Keying (PSK) messages modulated at 300 kHz and received by multiple receivers. In a first configuration, the symbols collected at each receiver are equalized using a decision feedback equalizer and combined using Maximum Ratio Combining (MRC). In a second configuration, the MRC outputs are used as decision symbols in the DFE. This second configuration is a form of turbo equalization: the process can be repeated over and over, leading to a better estimate of the received message as the number of iterations increases. The adaptive process of diversity is repeated until the best possible result is achieved or a predefined error criterion is met. Bit Error Rate (BER) and Signal-to-Noise-and-Interference Ratio (SNIR) are used as performance metrics of the acoustic channel. Experimental results using SIMO system with three, four or five receivers and pre-processed real recorded data demonstrate ability to improve the performance of the acoustic channel in challenging environments. Using received messages with non-zero BER, adaptive spatial diversity can achieve BER of 0% and increased SNIR of 3 dB with number of iterations depending on the number of receivers used.
Molecular genetics of mouse serotonin neurons across the lifespan

New molecular genetics approaches have been developed over the past several years to study brain serotonin (5-HT) neuron development and the roles of 5-HT neurons in behavior and physiology. These approaches were enabled by manipulation of the gene encoding the Pet-1 ETS transcription factor whose expression in the brain is restricted to developing and adult 5-HT neurons. Targeting of the Pet-1 gene led to the development of a mouse line with a severe and stable deficiency of embryonic 5-HT-synthesizing neurons. The Pet-1 transcription regulatory region has been used to create several new 5-HT neuron-type transgenic tools that have greatly increased the experimental accessibility of the small number of brain 5-HT neurons. Permanent and specific marking of 5-HT neurons with Pet-1-based transgenic tools have now been used for flow cytometry, whole cell electrophysiological recordings, progenitor fate mapping, and live time lapse imaging of these neurons. Additional tools provide multiple strategies for conditional temporal targeting of gene expression in 5-HT neurons at different stages of life. Pet-1-based approaches have led to advances in understanding the role of 5-HT neurons in respiration, thermoregulation, emotional behaviors, maternal behavior, and the mechanism of antipsychotic drug actions. In addition, these approaches have begun to reveal the molecular basis of 5-HT neuron heterogeneity and the transcriptional mechanisms that direct 5-HT neuron-type identity, maturation, and maintenance.
Modeling of Forces for Drills With Chip-Breaking Grooves

In this paper, a mechanistic modeling approach to predicting cutting forces for conical twist drills with chip-breaking grooves has been developed. The model is based on force principles for restricted contact cutting extended to take into account the presence of a groove on the drill rake face. The applicability of the model for arbitrary groove geometries has been ensured by eliminating the use of grooved drills in the calibration process. Four different combinations of groove geometries have been used for validating the model using high speed steel drills and low carbon steel workpiece material. The force predictions from the model were found to be in good agreement with the measured forces. The model was then employed to determine groove orientation and design parameters that minimize cutting forces, subject to the condition that chip breaking is satisfactory.
Haptic modules for palpatory diagnosis training of medical students

We have developed and evaluated a novel tool based on haptics and virtual reality technology for augmenting the teaching of palpatory diagnosis. This novel tool can act as an automated expert and an animated textbook to illuminate palpatory diagnosis concepts by touch on a laptop PC and by using affordable haptic interfaces that can be housed in a medical student resource library. It can be used for unlimited student practice for improving skills from Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine laboratory and also as a repeatable and objective measure of palpatory skill to track student progress. The system was evaluated by 22 osteopathic medical students (16 first- and 6 second-year). The majority of the participating students (>90.9 %) thought that future practice with the system may help them develop their palpatory skills. The majority (>77.3 %) of the students also thought that the instructions on the module screens were clear. When the students were asked about the user interface, most of the students (>86.4 %) responded that it was clear and easy to interpret. Evaluation results also showed that when the students were asked whether they would like to use the modules in the future for training at least 90.9 % of them answered “Yes” or “Maybe.” The achievement of purpose ratings for individual modules changed between 6.27 and 8.82 on a 10-point scale. This project has the potential to be extended from osteopathic medicine to allopathic medicine, veterinary medicine, physical therapy, massage therapy, and chiropractic schools.
Remote sensing of sea surface temperatures during 2002 Barrier Reef coral bleaching

Early in 2002, satellites of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) detected anomalously high sea surface temperatures (SST) developing in the western Coral Sea, midway along Australia's Great Barrier Reef (GBR). This was the beginning of what was to become the most significant GBR coral bleaching event on record [Wilkinson, 2002]. During this time, NOAA's National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) provided satellite data as part of ongoing collaborative work on coral reef health with the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA). These data proved invaluable to AIMS and GBRMPA as they monitored and assessed the development and evolution of SSTs throughout the austral summer, enabling them to keep stakeholders, government, and the general public informed and up to date.
Exit-plane electrostatic probe measurements of a low-power arcjet

Improved understanding of the flow processes in a 1-kW hydrazine constricted arcjet is achieved with multiple electrostatic probe surveys in the exit-plane region of the plume. Quadruple, triple, and single electrostatic probe techniques are utilized for measurements of the electron temperature Te9 density ne, and ratio of ion axial velocity to most probable thermal speed n,/cm,H+. Centerline axial profiles of Te and nc are presented for 2.2-6.2 mm downstream of the exit-plane, yielding Te = 6600 K ± 15% and nc 3.6 x 10 12 cm"3 ±60% close to the thruster exit. Quadruple probe theory is modified to account for radial gradients in Te and ne over the probe radial dimension, and is used to extract exit-plane radial Te and ne profiles. Floating probe measurements yield estimates of the radial electric-field profile at the thruster exit, implying a small amount of current and ohmic heating downstream of the exit-plane. Ak cm E e / I lb 7, j k L m n
Target reverse crossing: a selection method for camera-based mouse-replacement systems

We propose a selection method, "target reverse crossing," for use with camera-based mouse-replacement for people with motion impairments. We assessed the method by comparing it to the selection mechanism "dwell-time clicking," which is widely used by camera-based mouse-replacement systems. Our results show that target reverse crossing is more efficient than dwell-time clicking, while its one-time success accuracy is lower. We found that target directions have effects on the accuracy of reverse crossing. We also show that increasing the target size improves the performance of reverse crossing significantly, which provides future interface design implications for this selection method.
APPROXIMATE BINDING ENERGIES OF INNER ELECTRONS IN ATOMS BY THE WKB METHOD

Abstract Near the nucleus, the effective nuclear charge is approximately a parabolic function of the radius. Based on the WKB method modified by Langer using a least square parabolic fit of the Thomas-Fermi potential, the approximate binding energies of inner electrons may be expressed as a function of the atomic number, principal and orbital quantum numbers. Comparison with results using the more precise Hartree method indicates that the accuracy of this method is comparable to that of the numerical calculations by Latter using the Thomas-Fermi potential directly.
Peroxidative aggregation of myelin membrane proteins.

The exposure of CNS myelin to reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by a Cu2+−H2O2 system results in the aggregation of membrane proteins. Integral and peripheral membrane proteins are equally vulnerable and the denaturation is not mediated by the SH groups. The aggregated proteins retain their original antigenicity as determined by immunoblot technique. The aggregation of proteins is not limited to myelin and can be elicited in the preparation of other cerebral membranes. The effect of ROS on membrane proteins can also be demonstrated in cerebral slices incubated in the presence of the ROS-generating system. Furthermore, the peroxidation inactivates membrane-bound enzymes as exemplified by myelin cyclic nucleotide phosphatase (CNP). Competitive inhibition studies with various scavengers and quenchers of ROS implicate singlet oxygen as a major mediator in the Cu2+−H2O2 oxidizing system responsible for the peroxidative aggregation of membrane proteins.
On the energetics of the primary electron-transfer process in bacterial reaction centers

Abstract The energetics of the initial electron-transfer steps in photosynthetic bacterial reaction centers are evaluated by free-energy perturbation calculations using several different treatments of the ionizable amino acid residues and of solvent molecules in and around the protein. The calculation illustrate the problems with incomplete treatments of dielectric effects. Calculations that do not include mobile solvent lead to large overestimates of the effects of ionized amino acid side-chains, and can give errors of up to 20 kcal mol −1 in the free-energy difference between the ion-pair states P + B − and P + H − . When mobile solvent molecules are included, these two states are calculated to be relatively close together in free energy.
Karyotypic variation following an elevational gradient in the pocket gopher, Thomomys bottae grahamensis Goldman.

A system of non-Robertsonian chromosomal polymorphism is described for populations of the pocket gopher, Thomomys bottae grahamensis Goldman, from the Graham Mountains of southeastern Arizona. The polymorphism occurs in three of the four populations sampled, but the range of chromosomal variation within each population is less than for the whole sample. The diversity varies clinally with elevation and is strongly correlated with both habitat and moisture gradients. Each population is considered to be at an adaptive norm with respect to the occupied habitat, and the karyotypic changes are presumed to have played a role in this adaptability. Maintenance of the polymorphic conditions in each population is considered to be due to karyotypic stability (either frequency equilibrium or population monotypy) coupled with gene flow from adjacent populations.
“Convenience with the Click of a Mouse”: A Survey of Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder on Online Dating

Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have difficulty forming romantic relationships despite having motivation to establish them. The lack of success through traditional, face-to-face dating may lead to pursing relationships through other modalities, such as online dating, which present both advantages and disadvantages for the population. However, little is known about how adults with ASD utilize online dating services. Therefore, a preliminary survey on online dating in a sample of adults with ASD was conducted. Seventeen individuals with ASD participated in an online survey. Results indicated that slightly more than half of the sample used online dating services in the past with variable success. Additionally, participants discussed their opinions of online dating. The most frequently endorsed disadvantage of online dating was safety concerns. The results of the survey suggest that the population may benefit from additional research in learning how to navigate the online dating world successfully and safely.