cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Navigating the journey to culturally responsive teaching: Lessons from the success and struggles of one first-year, Black female teacher of Black students in an urban school

Abstract This exploratory case study examines the experiences of one first-year, Black female English language arts teacher and her Advanced Placement Language and Composition students. Through an exploration of her relationship with her Black students, the data reveal how she faced challenges when finding balance in her classroom management style, encountered cultural dissonance, developed teacher-student relationships, and struggled with how White, middle-class values may have shaped her classroom interactions with her students. The results of this study inform the field of teacher education and have potential implications for pre-service and inservice teachers worldwide working with students from diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds.
Thermally induced crystallization in NbO2 thin films.

Niobium dioxide can exhibit negative differential resistance (NDR) in metal-insulator-metal (MIM) devices, which has recently attracted significant interest for its potential applications as a highly non-linear selector element in emerging nonvolatile memory (NVM) and as a locally-active element in neuromorphic circuits. In order to further understand the processing of this material system, we studied the effect of thermal annealing on a 15 nm thick NbO2 thin film sandwiched inside a nanoscale MIM device and compared it with 180 nm thick blanket NbOx (x = 2 and 2.5) films deposited on a silicon dioxide surface as references. A systematic transmission electron microscope (TEM) study revealed a similar structural transition from amorphous to a distorted rutile structure in both cases, with a transition temperature of 700 °C for the NbO2 inside the MIM device and a slightly higher transition temperature of 750 °C for the reference NbO2 film. Quantitative composition analysis from electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) showed the stoichiometry of the nominal 15 nm NbO2 layer in the as-fabricated MIM device deviated from the target 1:2 ratio because of an interaction with the electrode materials, which was more prominent at elevated annealing temperature.
In Her Shoes.

Emma Rose turned 5 yesterday. She is the definition of spunky, sass and spice. Gives her parents a run for the money every time she's asked to clean up her room, be good to her sister and put on a pair of shoes. Nothing is simple – she is just too fierce for that. And that passion presents a great challenge, and presents a great gift. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Weighing the Evidence in Peters’ Rule: Does Neuronal Morphology Predict Connectivity?

Although the importance of network connectivity is increasingly recognized, identifying synapses remains challenging relative to the routine characterization of neuronal morphology. Thus, researchers frequently employ axon–dendrite colocations as proxies of potential connections. This putative equivalence, commonly referred to as Peters' rule, has been recently studied at multiple levels and scales, fueling passionate debates regarding its validity. Our critical literature review identifies three conceptually distinct but often confused applications: inferring neuron type circuitry, predicting synaptic contacts among individual cells, and estimating synapse numbers within neuron pairs. Paradoxically, at the originally proposed cell-type level, Peters' rule remains largely untested. Leveraging Hippocampome.org, we validate and refine the relationship between axonal–dendritic colocations and synaptic circuits, clarifying the interpretation of existing and forthcoming data.
An Illusion of Assortatiye Mating in Dysdercus Poecilus (Heteroptera: Pyrrhocoridae)

The cotton stainer Dysdercus poecilus shows considerable within-population variation in the size of dark spots on the corium of the fore wings, which makes some individuals appear overall much dark...
Just-in-time, viable, 3-D avatars from scans

We demonstrate a system that can generate a photorealistic, interactive 3-D character from a human subject that is capable of movement, emotion, speech, and gesture in less than 20 min without the need for 3-D artist intervention or specialized technical knowledge through a near automatic process. Our method uses mostly commodity or off-the-shelf hardware. We demonstrate the just-in-time use of generating such 3-D models for virtual and augmented reality, games, simulation, and communication. We anticipate that the inexpensive generation of such photorealistic models will be useful in many venues where a just-in-time 3-D reconstructions of digital avatars that resemble particular human subjects is necessary.
Discovery and validation of species–specific diagnostic SNP markers for the endangered San Diego fairy shrimp ( Branchinecta sandiegonensis ) and the versatile fairy shrimp ( Branchinecta lindahli )

Because only 3–7% of historically present vernal pool habitat remains in coastal San Diego County, conservation efforts must prioritize both the maintenance of these pools and the genomic integrity of their inhabitants. Coastal vernal pools found in southern California are home to the federally endangered San Diego fairy shrimp Branchinecta sandiegonensis. Simovich et al. (J Crustac Biol 33:730–740, 2013) characterized hybridization between B. sandiegonensis and the versatile fairy shrimp (Branchinecta lindahli) using morphological characters, but these characters are only found in adult females. To detect adult female, male and juvenile hybrids in the wild, we developed a genomic hybrid index comprised of 20 SNP loci using 16 individuals with no morphological evidence of hybridization, collected from populations unlikely to facilitate introgression. These loci have alternatively fixed alleles between the two species. This genomic hybrid index was validated using 426 individuals from 27 localities using morphology and habitat information. Our data suggest that some artificial and disturbed pool basins harbor hybrids, and thus have the potential to be stepping-stones for the future spread of hybrids. This genomic hybrid index will be a useful tool for identifying putative Branchinecta hybrids from both mature and immature life history stages, and aid in the monitoring and recovery of non-admixed B. sandiegonensis.
Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta: rupture risk and implications for blind inflation

Background Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is a torso hemorrhage control technique. To expedite deployment, inflation is frequently performed as a blind technique with minimal imaging, which carries a theoretical risk of aortic injury. The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between balloon inflation, deformation and the risk of aortic rupture. Methods Compliant balloon catheters were incrementally inflated in segments of cadaveric swine aorta. Serial longitudinal and circumferential measurements were recorded, along with the incidence of aortic rupture. Results Fourteen cadaveric swine aorta segments were tested with mean (±SD) baseline aortic diameter (mm) of 14.2±3.4. Rupture occurred in three aortas. The mean baseline diameters (mm) of the aortic segments that were ruptured were significantly smaller than those that did not rupture (8.9±1.2 vs 15.6±1.9; P Conclusions Inflation of aortic balloon catheters carries an inherent risk of aortic injury, which may be minimized through an understanding of the intrinsic characteristics of the aorta and compliant balloons. Smaller diameter aortic segments undergoing overinflation, particularly beyond a circumferential stretch ratio of 1.8, are at risk of aortic rupture. Level of evidence Level II.
Identifying high-risk young adults for violence prevention: a validation of psychometric and social scales in Honduras

High levels of violent crime plague Honduras, limiting economic, social, and human development. Numerous programs in the country seek to prevent violence and gang membership among youth. Fewer prog...
A Simple Circuit-Level Model of Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers Working Over a Broad Temperature Range

In this paper, we present a simple circuit-level VCSEL model working over a broad range of ambient temperatures, while accounting for self-heating effects. We present the static, dynamic small signal and dynamic large signal performance compared to measurement results.
Web-Based Physical Activity Intervention for Latina Adolescents: Feasibility, Acceptability, and Potential Efficacy of the Niñas Saludables Study

Background: Physical activity is markedly low in Latina adolescents, yet few physical activity interventions have been attempted in this population. Web-based interventions can incorporate theory-based components, be appealing to adolescents, and have potential for low-cost dissemination. Objective: This study aimed to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of a Web-based physical activity intervention for Latina adolescents in a single-arm pilot trial. Methods: A total of 21 Latina adolescents (aged 12-18 years) who could read and write in English and were underactive (<90 min/week) participated in a 12-week, theory-informed Web-based physical activity intervention. The intervention website was modified from a previous Web-based intervention for Latina adults. Web content was individually tailored based on the responses to monthly questionnaires. Feasibility was measured by recruitment, retention, and adherence/engagement, and acceptability was measured by satisfaction surveys. Physical activity was measured at baseline and follow-up (12 weeks) using the 7-day physical activity recall (PAR) interview and accelerometers. Results: Baseline activity as measured by the 7-day PAR and accelerometers was 24.7 (SD 26.11) and 24.8 (SD 38.3) min/week, respectively. At 12 weeks, 19 participants (90%, 19/21) returned. Adherence and engagement with materials were low, but 72% (15/21) of the participants indicated that they were satisfied with the intervention. Activity at 12 weeks increased by 58.8 (SD 11.33) min/week measured by the 7-day PAR (P<.001). Accelerometer-measured activity did not increase. Activities reported at follow-up were more varied than at baseline, including some activities measured poorly by accelerometers (eg, biking and swimming). Participants suggested simplifying the website and incorporating other technologies. Conclusions: Good retention and increases in self-reported activity suggest a promising approach to delivering a physical activity intervention to Latina adolescents. Incorporating other technologies, such as smartphone apps, could make the intervention more engaging, acceptable, and effective.
Cooperative bimetallic reactivity of a heterodinuclear molybdenum–copper model of Mo–Cu CODH

The synthesis of a heterodinucleating ligand LH2 (LH2 = (E)-3-(((2,7-di-tert-butyl-9,9-dimethyl-5-((pyridin-2-ylmethylene)amino)-9H-xanthen-4-yl)amino)methyl)benzene-1,2-diol) was undertaken toward a functional model of the bimetallic active site found in Mo-Cu carbon monoxide dehydrogenase (Mo-Cu CODH), and to understand the origins of heterobimetallic cooperativity exhibited by the enzyme. LH2 features a hard potentially dianionic catechol chelate for binding Mo(vi) and a soft iminopyridine chelate for binding Cu(i). Treatment of LH2 with either Cu(i) or M(vi) (M = Mo, W) sources leads to the anticipated site-selective incorporation of the respective metals. While both [CuI(LH2)]+ and [MVIO3(L)]2- complexes are stable in the solid state, [MVIO3(L)]2- complexes disproportionate in solution to give [MVIO2(L)2](NEt4)2 complexes, with [MVIO4]2- as the by-product. The incorporation of BOTH Mo(vi) and Cu(i) into L forms a highly reactive heterobimetallic complex [MoVIO3CuI(L)](NEt4)2, whose formation and reactivity was interrogated via1H NMR/UV-vis spectroscopy and DFT calculations. These studies reveal that the combination of the two metals triggers oxidation reactivity, in which a nucleophilic Mo(vi) trioxo attacks Cu(i)-bound imine. The major product of the reaction is a crystallographically characterized molybdenum(vi) complex [Mo(L')O2](NEt4) coordinated by a modified ligand L' that contains a new C-O bond in place of the imine functionality. This observed hydroxylation reactivity is consistent with the postulated first step of Mo-Cu CODH (nucleophilic attack of the Mo(vi)-oxo on the Cu(i)-bound electrophilic CO) and xanthine oxidoreductase (nucleophilic attack of Mo(vi)-oxo on the electrophilic xanthine carbon).
AN INVESTIGATION OF THE NATURE OF THE SPECIFIC HEAT IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD OF THE CRITICAL POINT OF 4He

Recently, Bagatskii, Voronel’, and Gusak1 showed that the specific heat at constant volume of argon exhibited a logarithmic singularity at the critical temperature, T c , for measurements taken at the critical density. This singular behavior is in sharp contrast to the predictions of the accepted theory of phase transition of Landau and Lifshitz.2 However, the behavior is precisely that to be expected for the so called “lattice gas” model for the liquid-gas transition. Lee and Yang3 have shown that for a classical gas of particles moving on a discrete lattice with a repulsive force preventing double occupancy of any site and a near neighbor attraction, the partition function can be mapped precisely onto that of an Ising model in an external magnetic field. The specific heat for this Ising model in zero field exhibits a logarithmic singularity at the Curie point. The critical point of the lattice gas corresponds to the Curie point of the corresponding Ising model. The measurements on argon then indicate that for a real gas the specific heat behaves in a similar manner to that of a lattice gas. We have investigated this point further by studying the specific heat at constant volume, C v , of 4He at densities close to the critical density.
Cardiac Troponin in Conditions Other Than Acute Coronary Syndromes

This chapter reviews the evidence-based literature demonstrating increased cardiac troponins in patients presenting without ischemic heart disease. In several clinical settings, increased cardiac troponin is associated with both short- and long-term adverse outcomes. In addition, mechanisms responsible for analytical false-positive cardiac troponin results are addressed.
Critically fun: Analyzing humor in political comedy

ABSTRACTCourses: Critically fun is a single-class activity for communication classes discussing persuasive messages, the effects of mass media, or rhetorical analysis (e.g. public speaking, communication theory, mass media, and rhetoric).Objectives: By the end of the activity, students should be able to analyze critically the rhetorical significance of the setting, visual features, message content, humor, persuasive elements, and impact of a humorous, political artifact. This activity was designed to help students engage in critical thinking, evaluation, and assessment of humor. Although this can function as a non-graded, in-class activity, it could be modified into an out-of-class assignment for traditional, hybrid, or online courses.
The Haptic Video Player: Using Mobile Robots to Create Tangible Video Annotations

Video and animation are common ways of delivering concepts that cannot be easily communicated through text. This visual information is often inaccessible to blind and visually impaired people, and alternative representations such as Braille and audio may leave out important details. Audio-haptic displays with along with supplemental descriptions allow for the presentation of complex spatial information, along with accompanying description. We introduce the Haptic Video Player, a system for authoring and presenting audio-haptic content from videos. The Haptic Video Player presents video using mobile robots that can be touched as they move over a touch screen. We describe the design of the Haptic Video Player system, and present user studies with educators and blind individuals that demonstrate the ability of this system to render dynamic visual content non-visually.
Is West Virginia A Religious Void? An Investigation

A recent map depicting levels of religious adherence across the United States appeared to show that West Virginia has a very low level of religious adherence, similar to some areas of the West coast and New England. Using individual-level survey data we investigate if this is an accurate portrayal of religion in the state. We find that West Virginia is more similar to states presented as highly religious in the map, such as Texas and Alabama, when looking at measures of individual belief, behavior, and belonging. Further examination of the affiliations of West Virginia residents suggest that a high rate of belonging to independent or unaffiliated congregations is likely responsible for the undercounting of religious adherence in the state. We conclude by considering the challenges of measuring religion in poor, rural communities, especially when the culture and history of those communities has not favored strong organizational ties.
External Resistance Reduction by Nanosecond Laser Anneal in Si/SiGe CMOS Technology

We report on a significant pFET external resistance reduction (∼40%) and corresponding 10% R ON decrease by nanosecond laser annealing of S/D structures applicable to advanced technology nodes. Selective melting of pFET S/D elements is responsible for this improvement. Process window boundaries are defined by channel and junction melting at the upper end and by S/D SiGe melting at the lower end. Short channel characteristics are not degraded within the identified process window. Contacted gate pitch (CPP) and fin number dependence of the process window is assessed.
Unhelmeted Motorcycle Riders Have Increased Injury Burden: A Need to Revisit Universal Helmet Laws.

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to compare hospital outcomes for patients in a motorcycle collision with and without helmet use. The study was conducted as a retrospective analysis of the National Trauma Data Bank's 2013 data set, which included reported data from 100 hospitals across the United States. Methods Inclusion criterion for this study is a motorcycle crash involving a driver or passenger. The total number of patients in motorcycle crashes as reported by the National Trauma Data Bank in 2013 was 10,345. Helmet use, hospital stay, ICU and ventilation days, mortality, Glasgow Coma Score, Injury Severity Score, patient payer mix, and complication data were obtained. Results Patients were divided into two groups: those wearing a helmet (n = 6250) and those without (n = 4095). Patients not wearing a helmet had an increased risk of admission to the ICU (OR = 1.36, P Conclusions It is not well understood why many states are repealing or have repealed universal helmet laws. Lack of helmet use increases the severity of injury in traumatized patients leading to a substantial financial impact on health care costs. Our analysis suggests the need to revisit the issue regarding laws that require protective headwear while riding motorcycles because of the individual and societal impact. Level of Evidence III.
Material design of economical ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) and evaluation of their properties

Abstract Coupling of separate optimizations of binder and aggregate phases to produce sustainable and economical ultra high-performance concrete (UHPC) mixtures is reported. Binders containing commonly available cement replacement materials with a (mass-based) cement replacement level between 30% and 50% are selected using microstructural packing- and rheology-based criteria. These binders are used along with aggregate sizes/amounts selected based on maximum packing density predicted by a compressible packing model to produce UHPC mixtures having a compressive strength > 150 MPa. Three coarse aggregate sizes (maximum nominal size of 6.25 mm, 4.75 mm, and 2.36 mm) and two fine aggregate sizes (d50 of 0.6 mm and 0.2 mm) are used in the optimization process, which is implemented in a computer program. Packing considerations relevant for polydisperse mixtures and the presence of fibers are incorporated. The high compressive and flexural strengths of these mixtures coupled with very high resistance to moisture and ionic transport validates the material design procedure. A preliminary cost analysis is also presented to demonstrate that UHPC mixtures can be proportioned at a fraction of the cost of proprietary mixtures using a fundamental materials science-based design approach.
Establishment of a human induced pluripotent stem cell line (SDQLCHi004-A) from a patient with nemaline myopathy-4 disease carrying heterozygous mutation in TPM2 gene.

Abstract Nemaline myopathy-4 (NEM4) is a very rare inherited muscle disorder caused by a heterozygous mutation in tropomyosin-2 (TPM2) gene. We established an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) line from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of a 3-month-old girl with NEM4 carrying a heterozygous mutation (c.397C>T (p.R133W)) in TPM2 gene. This iPSC line showed a normal karyotype, expressed pluripotency markers, showed differentiation potential and harbored the original mutation of c.397C>T in the TPM2 gene.
Identification and Surgical Management of Upper Arm and Forearm Compartment Syndrome.

Extremity muscles are grouped and divided by strong fascial membranes into compartments. Multiple pathological processes can result in an increase in the pressure within a muscle compartment. An increase in the compartment pressure beyond the adequate perfusion pressure has the potential to cause extremity compartment syndrome. There are multiple sites where compartment syndrome can occur. In this article, an arm and forearm compartment syndrome ensued secondary to a minor crushing injury that lead to supracondylar and medial epicondylar non-displaced fractures. A pure motor radial and ulnar nerve deficits noted on presentation, worsened with progression of the compartment syndrome. Ultimately, a surgical fasciotomy was carried out to release all compartments of the right upper arm and forearm.
Review Article: The Management of Children With Spinal Dysraphism

Improvements in technology have dramatically increased the survival of children with spinal dysraphism. Because this complex condition affects multiple organ systems as well as the psychosocial fun...
Intravascular Polarimetry for Tissue Characterization of Coronary Atherosclerosis

The microscopic tissue structure and organization influence the polarization of light. Intravascular polarimetry leverages this compelling intrinsic contrast mechanism by using polarization-sensitive optical frequency domain imaging to measure the polarization properties of the coronary arterial wall. Tissues rich in collagen and smooth muscle cells appear birefringent, while the presence of lipid causes depolarization, offering quantitative metrics related to the presence of important components of coronary atherosclerosis. Here, we review the basic principle, the interpretation of polarization signatures, and first clinical investigations of intravascular polarimetry and discuss how this extension of contemporary intravascular imaging may advance our knowledge and improve clinical practice in the future.
Urban Pedagogies and the Celling of Adolescents of Color

ship between student performance in urban public schools and the expansion of the prison-industrial complex. Both liberal and conserva? tive observers seem to generally agree on a cause-and-effect correlation between the two. For example, liberals and conservatives each would agree that limited educational opportunities or low academic achievement (cause) place certain populations, particularly urban adolescents of color, at greater risk for imprison? ment later in life (effect). The underlying view of this position, that school failure or underachievement forecloses opportunities later in life and leads to criminality, is reinforced by news reports, documentaries, and other information disseminated through film, radio, and television. This rather unproblematic view of the relation? ship between schools and the prison-industrial complex, however, glosses over a major function of U.S. public schools: to inculcate in young people the skills and values needed to enter into, and maintain, a cohesive society. This function is necessarily linked to preparing young people to enter the nation's work force. In this essay, I describe how we must focus on the relationship between school, society, and the economy to appraise the role of public education in the burgeoning prison-industrial complex. I argue below that the main purpose of urban public schools in the lives of students of color has been largely to prepare them to occupy and accept subordinate roles within the U.S. economy and, by extension, society. As I shall discuss in greater detail, this function of schools, with respect to black children and youth, was explicit during the early decades of the 20th century as public education began taking shape for these students. Nowadays, the implica? tions of this function are obscured by a narrative that presents education as the "great equalizer" ? that is, the key to material and social success. Further, this narrative excludes consideration of the possible educational and social implica
Faith and Work: Brave New World?

This chapter draws on the classic trope that polite company should not talk about sex, politics, or religion, and how the business world has largely followed that social custom. And yet this social custom is changing. Leading companies stress the business benefits of treating their employees holistically. But what does this actually mean or look like? Is it disruptive and problematic? Are there employee and business benefits to be gained? What are typical corporate attitudes towards this emerging phenomenon of faith at work? Is there a neutral language to help companies talk about faith and work? And is there a framework that can be useful? This chapter addresses these and other related questions pertaining to faith and work.
HIGH FIELD FACILITIES AT THE FRANCIS BITTER NATIONAL MAGNET LABORATORY

Publisher Summary This chapter highlights the features of high-field facilities at the Francis Bitter National Magnet Laboratory (FBNML). The laboratory features over two dozen water-cooled, superconducting, and combination magnets with fields ranging up to 30 teslas in a 3.3 cm bore and a homogeneous 25 τ in a 5.4 cm bore. The facility is available free of charge; this attracts scientists worldwide. The power supply consists of two identical shafts of rotating machinery. Each includes a 4.6 MW synchronous motor fed from a 4.16 kV substation, a pair of 240 V direct-current generators, and an 80-ton flywheel to help smooth field ripple and to store energy for multisecond pulses. Together, the four generators can deliver 40 kA continuously. The control system provides a current stability of ∼ 0.1% peak-to-peak; a 6 Hz ripple is the major component of this noise. All of the laboratory's high-field magnets are of the Bitter design. The laboratory's new hybrid system, brought on-line in early 1981, offers two combinations of field and bore: 30 τ in a 3.3 cm bore and a homogeneous 25 τ in a 5.4 cm bore. One of the facilities at FBNML is a group of four spectrometers operating at proton-observed frequencies of 272, 304, 306, and 498 MHz. The last of these incorporates a superconducting magnet generating 11.7 τ by means of niobium–titanium operating at 2.3 K.
Clinical Significance and Histologic Characterization of Histoplasma Granulomas.

OBJECTIVES To clarify the clinical significance and degree of resolution (ie, grade) of Histoplasma granulomas in routinely reviewed surgical pathology specimens and the clinical outcomes of patients with this diagnosis, with an emphasis on those not receiving antifungal therapy. METHODS We performed a retrospective medical record, laboratory data, and surgical pathology slide review of patients with Histoplasma granulomas following institutional review board approval. RESULTS Clinical, pathologic, and laboratory data from 62 patients with Histoplasma granulomas were available for review. Of these, 1 of 19 (5%) fungal cultures, 4 of 12 (33%) fungal serologic studies, 0 of 9 Histoplasma urinary antigen tests, and 0 of 2 Histoplasma serum antigen tests were positive. All but 3 of the Histoplasma granulomas were either in the resolving (grade 2) or resolved (grade 3) stage of resolution. None of the patients, including those who did not receive antifungal therapy after the histologic diagnosis, developed progressive or disseminated histoplasmosis. CONCLUSIONS These findings, which are supportive of clinical guidelines, suggest that patients with old, hyalinized Histoplasma granulomas do not benefit from further laboratory studies or antifungal therapy. The proposed grading of Histoplasma granulomas informs clinicians of the stage of resolution of an excised lesion, which informs therapeutic decisions and thus is recommended.
A Survey of Mosquito Larvae in the Bryan-College Station Area

The vast amount of mosquito in different bodies of water is very apparent in this region. These mosquitoes can transmit a multitude of diseases including Malaria, West Nile Virus, and Zika Virus. In this survey, mosquitoes were captured from various bodies of water in the Bryan/College Station area in order to determine which mosquitoes were more prevalent in these areas. The objective of this was to identify these species to understand what bodies of water in this area contain which species and therefore protect ourselves from. Mosquito larvae were attempted to be gathered from 4 different locations that were 4 different types of water in this region, however larvae were only successfully collected in one of our locations. Different tools and containers were used to obtain these samples including rearing containers, measuring cups, etc. From these locations, the species that was identified was the male Culex quinquefasciatus. Due to this species being the only one identified from the various locations, it was concluded that it is a prevalent one in the Bryan/College Station area.
CT-based structural analyses of vertebral fractures with polymeric augmentation: A study of cadaveric three-level spine segments.

Abstract Pathologic vertebral fractures due to metastasis can occur under normal physiologic activities, leading to pain and neurologic deficit. Prophylactic vertebroplasty is a technique used to augment vertebral strength and reduce the risk of fracture. Currently, no technique is available to objectively assess vertebral fracture risk in metastatically-involved vertebral bodies. The aim of the current study was to develop an image-based computational technique to estimate fracture force outcomes during bending. To this end, mechanical testing was performed on intact, simulated defect, PMMA-augmented, and PPF-augmented 3-level spine segments from both sexes under a compression/flexion-type loading condition. The augmentation performance of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF) were also evaluated and compared. Cylindrical defects were created in 3-level spine segments with attached posterior elements and ligaments. Using CT images of each segment, a rigidity analysis technique was developed and used for predicting fracture forces during bending. On average, PPF strengthened the segments by about 630 N, resulting in fracture forces similar to those observed in the intact and PMMA-augmented groups. Female spines fractured at about 1150 N smaller force than did male spines. Rigidity analysis, along with age, explained 66% variability in experimental outcomes. This number increased to 74% when vertebral size and age were added to the rigidity analysis as explanatory variables. Both PPF and PMMA similarly increased fracture strength to the level of intact specimens. The results suggest that PPF can be a suitable candidate for augmentation purposes and rigidity analysis can be a promising predicting tool for vertebral fracture forces.
Non-Genetic Diversity in Chemosensing and Chemotactic Behavior

Non-genetic phenotypic diversity plays a significant role in the chemotactic behavior of bacteria, influencing how populations sense and respond to chemical stimuli. First, we review the molecular mechanisms that generate phenotypic diversity in bacterial chemotaxis. Next, we discuss the functional consequences of phenotypic diversity for the chemosensing and chemotactic performance of single cells and populations. Finally, we discuss mechanisms that modulate the amount of phenotypic diversity in chemosensory parameters in response to changes in the environment.
Pairing policy change with investments in supports to improve outcomes for children impacted by family violence: The Arkansas experience

Abstract Children who experience family violence are at heightened risk for a multitude of physical, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. Fortunately, research has revealed several evidence-based ways to improve outcomes for this vulnerable population across child-serving systems. This manuscript highlights the collaborative efforts in Arkansas to pair policy changes designed to support children impacted by family violence with investments in supports necessary to ensure the success of policy changes. Specifically, this manuscript highlights initiatives designed to support children with histories of trauma exposure, including family violence, across key child-serving systems including child welfare, behavioral health, and early care and education. More specifically, three trauma-informed initiatives are described that paired policy changes with implementation supports: child welfare system training in trauma-informed care; expulsion prevention efforts for children ages birth to 5, particularly those with experiences of trauma; and Medicaid-related infant mental health certification requirements intended to emphasize evidence-based mental health care services. Processes, successes, and lessons learned are discussed.
Weapons Proliferation and War in the Greater Middle East: Strategic Contest

1. Power Politics: The Master Key for Strategic Wisdom 2. The Strategic Landscape: Regional Struggles for Power 3. Gulf Lessons: Chemical Weapons Deterrence and War Fighting 4. Swords and Shields: Ballistic Missiles and Defenses 5. Iran in Iraq's Shadow: Tehran's Nuclear Weapons Bid 6. Fallout from Iran's Nuclear Weapons 7. Desert Realists: Saudi Strategy and Nuclear Weapons 8. China's Strategic Prongs: Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Pakistan 9. Why Nuclear Weapons Will Not Prevent Major War 10. Instruments for Statecraft: Intelligence, Diplomacy, and Force Selected Bibliography Index
Factors Associated with High Sexual Risk Behavior in Single Women

Objective: This study was to identify factors associated with High Sexual Risk Behavior (HSRB) in single Afro American women seen in an Epidemiology1 Sexual transmitted disease (EPIDISTD) Clinic in Richmond, Virginia from January 2006 through April 2006. Method: Participants were 154 single women (no history of marriage) between the ages of 18-30 visiting the EPIDISTD clinic for the first time. Demographic information was obtained from their records. A volunteer interview was given that contained 101 variables to evaluate for High Sexual Risk Behavior (HSRB). HSRB was defined to response 'yes' to the question, "During the past 3 months did you have sex with some one you just met (i.e., within the past week or so)." We evaluated the association of HSRB and the pre-disposing factors that affect risk behavior using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results: There were 154 women interviewed of which 16% responded yes to the HSRB question. Eight percent reported a first sexual encounter prior to the age of 13, 69% reported 6 or more lifetime sexual partners, 39% reported > than one pregnancy, 53% said they had heard information on the risk of STDs often or a lot. Girls who initiated sex from13 to 15 were protected against HSRB as an adult according to our data. There was an association between HSRB and number of lifetime sexual partners as well as the number of lifetime pregnancies. In logistic regression, predictors for HSRB were found to include number of lifetime sexual partners as well as the number of lifetime pregnancies, with the highest adjusted POR for 16 or more lifetime sexual partners 13.69 (95%CI 2.03,92.23). In addition, women who had more than one pregnancy had an adjusted POR for HSRB of 5.13 (95% CI 1.14, 23.15). Conclusion: The results indicated that there was an association for HSRB, as measured by the report of sex with someone you just met in the past three months, with having 16 or more lifetime sexual partners and with one or more pregnancies. Also, in this study group, girls who initiated sex between the ages of 13-15 were protected against HSRB as adults. We need to target these at risk individuals to educate them and increase their awareness of negative outcomes linked to this type of behavior.
Teorías de causación y explicación

En Humphreys [2000] argumente que dado que estan basadas en cantidades conservadas, las ultimas teorias de la causacion y la explicacion de Salmon requieren un compromiso con una forma de fisicalismo bastante radical, haciendo la teoria dificil de aplicar a fenomenos sociales, economicos y psicologicos. Este compromiso pareceria estrechar considerablemente el alcance de las teorias a menos que una vasta reduccion de las ciencias sociales y psicologicas a la fisica pueda ser alcanzada. En el presente trabajo argumento que el contenido empirico inherente a las teorias de Salmon, aunque presente todavia, es menos problematico de lo que pense en [2000] y esto hace que problemas filosoficos involucrados en su evaluacion sean menos severos de lo que podrian parecer. Es mas, el grado de compromiso con el fisicalismo requerido por las teorias mas maduras de Salmon es minimo. La combinacion de realismo y empirismo en las teorias de Salmon requiere menos cambios en los metodos filosoficos de lo que podria esperarse.
Evaluation of Antimicrobials and Salt Replacers for Use in Low‐Sodium Dairy Products

Salt replacers and antimicrobial agents may be required to maintain consumer acceptability and safety of low-sodium dairy products. To determine which antimicrobials could potentially be effective in these products, this study evaluated the efficacy of eight commercial antimicrobials alone and in combination with six commercial salt replacers. Milk and low-sodium cheese agar systems were used as the growth medium for screening. Antimicrobials with and without salt replacers were added to the agar systems. Then cocktails of Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella or Escherichia coli O157:H7 were spread plated on the supplemented agar and observed for growth after 24 and 48 h at 35C. Fermentates C and D, lauric arginate (LAE), and lactoperoxidase inhibited growth of all pathogens on milk agar. No pathogen growth was observed in the cheese agar containing lactoperoxidase. Salt replacers decreased efficacy of the fermentates and LAE against Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7. Practical Applications Pressure has been put on the food industry to reduced sodium levels in food. Because reduction of salt from dairy products could change the microbial stability and flavor, alternative antimicrobials and salt replacers may be required. Many commercial antimicrobial systems and sodium replacer exist, but testing each potential combination in a specific food matrix is impractical. Through the use of model milk and cheese systems, eight antimicrobials and six salt replacers were screened for efficacy against selected pathogens. Four of the eight antimicrobials screened inhibited pathogen growth in the model systems. Findings also indicated that salt replacers can negatively impact antimicrobial efficacy. While variation in a product matrix can interfere with antimicrobial efficacy, these findings can be used to help guide selection of antimicrobials and salt replacers for use in dairy products.
Five Roles I Play in Online Courses

In my view, the key to successful teaching and learning is relationships. As Bernard et al. (2004) suggest, "Instructionally relevant contact with instructors and peers is not only desirable, it is probably necessary for creating learning environments that lead to desirable achievement gains and general satisfaction with DE [distance education]" (412). In online courses, developing meaningful relationships requires different strategies. Although this philosophy is familiar, especially to experienced online instructors, the five roles I describe below provide a useful rubric for thinking about how an instructor can promote community.
Impact of social support on valued activity disability and depressive symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Objective To examine the impact of instrumental and emotional support on valued life activity (VLA) disability and depressive symptoms. Instrumental support was expected to affect VLA disability; emotional support was expected to be associated with depressive symptoms and moderate the impact of VLA disability on depressive symptoms. Methods Data were collected over 3 years through interviews with the University of California, San Francisco, Rheumatoid Arthritis Panel. Analyses assessed whether instrumental support predicted later VLA disability and whether emotional support predicted both concurrent and later depressive symptoms. Results Receiving adequate instrumental support was associated with less subsequent VLA disability. Strong associations were noted between both VLA disability and emotional support with concurrent depressive symptoms. No relationship was found between emotional support and later depression. No evidence was found for the hypothesis that emotional support moderated the impact of VLA disability on depressive symptoms. Conclusion Results highlight the need to assess different types of support and their unique impact on critical outcomes. Instrumental support is beneficial to the maintenance of valued activities, a critical factor in the psychological adjustment of individuals living with rheumatoid arthritis. Emotional support has a significant short-term impact on depression, although it may not buffer the impact of VLA disability on future depression.
Tools for verifying network protocols

Recently, many papers have used temporal logic to verify network protocols [7, 16, 17, 23, 33, 35]. This paper serves as an introduction to the use of linear temporal logic and modular verification techniques for specifying and verifying network protocols.
The topology of large-scale structure. I - Topology and the random phase hypothesis

Many models for the formation of galaxies and large-scale structure assume a spectrum of random phase (Gaussian), small-amplitude density fluctuations as initial conditions. In such scenarios, the topology of the galaxy distribution on large scales relates directly to the topology of the initial density fluctuations. Here a quantitative measure of topology - the genus of contours in a smoothed density distribution - is described and applied to numerical simulations of galaxy clustering, to a variety of three-dimensional toy models, and to a volume-limited sample of the CfA redshift survey. For random phase distributions the genus of density contours exhibits a universal dependence on threshold density. The clustering simulations show that a smoothing length of 2-3 times the mass correlation length is sufficient to recover the topology of the initial fluctuations from the evolved galaxy distribution. Cold dark matter and white noise models retain a random phase topology at shorter smoothing lengths, but massive neutrino models develop a cellular topology.
IMMUNOMODULATORY PROPERTIES OF NONI (Morinda citrifolia)

Noni (Morinda citrifolia) is a popular medicinal plant of family Rubiaceae. Its fruit is rich in various phytochemicals and polysaccharides. Anecdotal evidence indicates that it was used to stimulate the immune system and, thus, to fight various infections. Limited in vitro studies also support the immunomodulatory role of Noni, however only one study utilized an animal model. The purpose of this study was to examine the immunomodulatory properties of Noni fruit the broiler chicken. Different concentrations of dietary Noni were added to diets and fed to day-old broiler chickens for 3 to 6 weeks. Gut tissue and blood were sampled to determine the expression of selected genes, concentration of immunoglobulins and α1-acid glycoprotein. The results showed that Noni at 6% concentration increased the expression of Toll like receptor -4 (TLR-4) and TLR-5, chemokine (IL-8), interleukin-12 (IL-12), and decreased the expression of IL-6 and TLR-7. At 4% concentration, Noni stimulated the expression of TLR-3. Increased expression of TLR-3, TLR-4 and TLR-5 indicate antiviral and antibacterial properties of Noni fruits in chickens that are further strengthened by increased expression of IL-12 and IL-8. Decreased expression of IL-6 indicates anti-inflammatory properties of Noni. However, Noni did not have effects on serum and gut immunoglobulins or α1-acid glycoprotein concentration. Further investigations will be necessary to explore the active immunomodulatory ingredients of Noni and their effects on immunity during viral and bacterial infections.
Why has the Price of Taxi Medallions Increased So Dramatically? An Analysis of the Taxi Medallion Market

On May 30th, 2007, a New York City Pakistani taxi driver sold his taxi medallion for $600,000, netting him a profit of $570,000 on his twenty-six year investment. Medallion prices have more than doubled since 2000 (see Figure 1), and the increases are not expected to slow down anytime in the near future (Tharp, 2008). The unbelievably high profit margin begs one to question why the market price of taxi medallions has increased as quickly as it has.
A Review of “Guide to Getting It On!”

We are schooled, graded, licensed, credentialed, and recredentialed in almost every aspect of our lives. Suggesting that someone who has only driven an automatic transmission car suddenly drive a s...
Las migraciones contemporáneas en la radio para todos: el caso español

O objetivo deste artigo e analisar as formas e modos em que a mimigracao, como conteudo, esta presente na atual programacao radiofonica das principais emissoras publicas e privadas. Os processos migratorios e suas consequencias, dada a sua dimensao social, devem deixar de ser uma tematica exclsuvia dos jornais e incorporar-se as grades de programacao desde outro tipo de produtos. Novas estrategias programaticas permitirao a producao de espacos informativos especializados destinados tanto a soceidade de acolhida como aos novos cidadaos.
( d , 2 He) reactions at E d =125.2 MeV

We have measured cross sections for (d${,}^{2}$He) induced reactions on the p-shell nuclei $^{6}\mathrm{Li}$, $^{12}\mathrm{C}$, and $^{13}\mathrm{C}$ and the sd-shell nucleus $^{24}\mathrm{Mg}$ at an energy of ${\mathit{E}}_{\mathit{d}}$=125.2 MeV. The measured excitation energy spectra are very similar to those from (p,n), (n,p), and (d${,}^{2}$He) reactions at higher energies. The measured 0\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} (d${,}^{2}$He) cross sections show a remarkably well-defined linear relation with the Gamow-Teller strengths deduced either from \ensuremath{\beta} decay or from (p,n) reactions. Our results demonstrate that the (d${,}^{2}$He) reaction can be used as a powerful tool to study Gamow-Teller strengths in the ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\beta}}}^{+}$ direction at energies as low as ${\mathit{E}}_{\mathit{d}}$=125.2 MeV.