cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Is patient-centred care a tautology?: View from the Netherlands

Medical care is by definition patient-centered. And while caring for their patients, physicians should listen to them and take them seriously. No doctor or any other healthcare professional would disagree with this statement and they are educated in this manner. At the University Medical Center (UMC) Utrecht, medical students receive extensive training in communication and have to study the impact of diseases on patients' daily lives. In the first year of the GP vocational training programme at UMC Utrecht, half a day per week is devoted solely to communicating with patients, informing them, and enhancing their coping behaviour. But, as always with principles and training, daily practice gives a diverse picture. There are many doctors who stand by their Hippocratic oath, discuss diagnostic and therapeutic options as well as …
Blunted heart rate response to upright tilt in people with Down syndrome

Abstract Fernhall B, Figueroa A, Collier S, Baynard T, Giannopoulou I, Goulopoulou S. Blunted heart rate response to upright tilt in people with Down syndrome. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2005;86:813–8. Objectives To determine whether heart rate and blood pressure responses to upright tilt would be lower in subjects with Down syndrome (DS) than in control subjects with no disabilities. Design Comparative study. Setting University research laboratory. Participants Nineteen people with DS (mean age, 25.1±7.3y) and 17 control subjects without disabilities (mean age, 28.4±5.6y). Interventions Not applicable. Main outcome measures Heart rate and blood pressure recordings were obtained at rest and during a 2-minute period of passive head up tilt to 80°. Results Heart rate and blood pressure increased significantly during the first 30 seconds of upright tilt in both groups ( P P P >.05). Controlling for heart rate reserve showed a blunted heart rate response through the tilt period in subjects with DS. Conclusions These data show a blunted heart rate response to upright tilt in people with DS, despite similar changes in blood pressure, consistent with reduced sympathoexcitation and possibly altered baroreceptor function in these people with DS.
Single view computer vision in polyhedral world: Geometric inference and performance characterization

An algorithm for making consistent 2-D to 3-D geometric inference in a polyhedral world using one perspective line drawing is described. Hypotheses are made on the internal angles of visible faces. The normals to the face planes are then determined. Valid normals lead to the reconstruction of the 3-D polyhedral world up to a scale factor. The performance of the algorithm is verified by using covariance matrix propagation. The experimental results show satisfactory performance. The general propagation formulae for the covariance matrix of both observed and inferred quantities are also derived.
Solvent-free phase-vanishing reactions with PTFE (Teflon®) as a phase screen

In a solvent-free phase-vanishing reaction with PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene, Teflon®) tape as the phase screen, a thermometer adapter is utilized to insert a PTFE-sealed tube into the vapor phase above the substrate. Besides avoiding use of solvents, the experimental design is not dependent upon the densities of the reactants and the procedure generates little or no waste while providing the reaction products in high yield and in high purity.
A transducer based upon vacuum tunneling

The phenomenon of quantum-mechanical vacuum tunneling of electrons between conductors is highly sensitive to the separation of the conductors. This sensitivity is exploited by using vacuum tunneling to detect the relative motion of two conductors. The basic theory of the tunneling transducer is presented. It is shown that the vacuum tunneling transducer can be more sensitive than a conventional reciprocal transducer and that it can surpass the limits which the amplifier forces upon a reciprocal transducer. The noise present within the tunneling transducer is discussed, and experimental results are presented. >
Pulmonary Capillary Hemorrhage Induced by Fixed-Beam Pulsed Ultrasound.

Abstract The induction of pulmonary capillary hemorrhage (PCH) by pulsed ultrasound was discovered 25 y ago, but early research used fixed-beam systems rather than actual diagnostic ultrasound machines. In this study, results of exposure of rats to fixed-beam focused ultrasound for 5 min at 1.5 and 7.5 MHz were compared with recent research on diagnostic ultrasound. One exposure condition at each frequency used 10-μs pulses delivered at 25-ms intervals. Three conditions involved Gaussian modulation of the pulse amplitudes at 25-ms intervals to simulate diagnostic scanning: 7.5 MHz with 0.3- and 1.5-μs pulses at 100- and 500-μs pulse repetition periods, respectively, and 1.5 MHz with 1.7-μs pulses at 500-μs repetition periods. Four groups were tested for each condition to assess PCH areas at different exposure levels and to determine occurrence thresholds. The conditions with identical pulse timing resulted in smaller PCH areas for the smaller 7.5-MHz beam, but both had thresholds of 0.69–0.75 MPa in situ peak rarefactional pressure amplitude. The Gaussian modulation conditions for both 7.5 MHz with 0.3-μs pulses and 1.5 MHz with 1.7-μs pulses had thresholds of 1.12–1.20 MPa peak rarefactional pressure amplitude, although the relatively long 1.5-μs pulses at 7.5 MHz yielded a threshold of 0.75 MPa. The fixed-beam pulsed ultrasound exposures produced lower thresholds than diagnostic ultrasound. There was no clear tendency for thresholds to increase with increasing ultrasonic frequency when pulse timing conditions were similar.
Proteolytic activity by multiple bacterial species isolated from chronic venous leg ulcers degrades matrix substrates.

Background:A major feature of chronic wounds is the loss of tissue, with the exposure of dermal components preventing primary closure and leading to bacterial colonization. Bacterial colonization h...
Knowledge Organization, Categories, and Ad Hoc Groups: Folk Medical Models among Mexican Migrants in Nashville

Abstract In this article we bring together theory and methods from two different but related fields, anthropology—specifically medical anthropology—and the cognitive sciences—specifically research on categorization and reasoning. We explore folk medical models of Mexican migrants in the greater Nashville area. The combining thread is our exploration in conceptual organization (categorization) and reasoning. We not only integrate formal methods with ethnographic research, but also integrate a set of formal tasks that together provide a better window into processes of categorization and domain organization than previously available in the literature. An interesting pattern of knowledge organization emerges integrating both real categories—as defined in the cognitive sciences—with ad hoc groups (or ad hoc categories) that show some shared features with real categories yet do not have the same conceptual status. The findings have important consequences for (1) knowledge organization as well as (2) related cultural phenomena, such as the production of knowledge through category-based induction.
Evidence for compartmental identity in the development of the rat lateral gastrocnemius muscle

In adult rats, each neuromuscu- lar compartment of the lateral gastrocnemius muscle (LG) is exclusively innervated by a pri- mary branch of the LG nerve. In neonates, how- ever, a small percentage of LG cells receives in- puts from more than one primary nerve branch; these inputs are known as cross-compartmental. Cross-compartmental inputs are normally lost from the medial compartment of LG (LGm) by the 8th postnatal day. To investigate the mechanisms involved in the elimination of cross-compartmen- tal inputs, muscle fibers in the LGm compartment were denervated by cutting the LGm nerve branch in 1-4 day old rat pups and in adult rats. We then assessed the degree of cross-compart- mental innervation within the "denervated" com- partment using intracellular recordings from neo- natal muscle fibers or immunohistochemical staining for nerve cell adhesion molecule (N-CAM) and neurofilament protein in adult muscles. Fol- lowing LGm axotomy in neonates, cross-compart- mental innervation is more extensive than in con- trols and is present as late as 20 days after birth. Thus, in the absence of "native" LGm axons, neo- natal cross-compartmental inputs proliferate by axonal sprouting and the formation of new syn- apses on vacant LGm fibers. In contrast, axoto- mized adults do not form new cross-compartmen- tal inputs over the same time period. The differential response of neonates and adults to muscle nerve branch denervation is evidence for the existence of some form of compartment-spe- cific recognition. We propose that compartmental identity either arises or becomes relatively more potent during ontogeny and normally acts selec- tively to eliminate foreign axons and deter the for- mation of new cross-compartmental inputs.
Comparison of two tourniquet application times for regional intravenous limb perfusions with amikacin in sedated or anesthetized horses.

Regional limb perfusion (RLP) in horses has proven to be a simple and effective technique for the treatment of synovial and musculoskeletal infections in the distal portion of the limbs. The ideal tourniquet time needed to achieve therapeutic synovial concentrations remains unknown. The pharmacokinetic effects of general anesthesia (GA) versus standing sedation (SS) RLP on synovial amikacin concentrations are not completely understood. This study investigated the pharmacokinetic effects of RLP under general anesthesia (GA) versus standing sedation (SS) on synovial amikacin concentration following 20 or 30 min tourniquet time. Using 1 g of amikacin RLP was performed in two groups of six horses (GA and SS). A pneumatic tourniquet was applied proximal to the carpus and maintained for 20 or 30 min. Two weeks later, the opposite treatment (20 or 30 min) was randomly performed in the opposite limb of horses in each group (GA and SS). Synovial fluid samples were collected from the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and radiocarpal (RC) joints. Amikacin was quantified by a fluorescence polarization immunoassay. Regardless of the group, no significant difference in the synovial amikacin concentrations was noted between 20 and 30 min RLP. Mean synovial concentrations of amikacin in the standing sedated horses were significantly higher in the MCP joint at 30 min (P = 0.003) compared to horses under general anesthesia. No significant difference was noted for the RC joint.
FUNCTIONAL MORPHOLOGY AND TAXONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE OF A NOVEL CUTICULAR STRUCTURE IN CRETACEOUS RANINID CRABS (DECAPODA: BRACHYURA: RANINIDAE)

Abstract Fossil raninid crabs, Cretacoranina punctata (Rathbun, 1935), from the Pawpaw Formation (Upper Cretaceous) of Fort Worth, Texas, exhibit an unusual cuticular morphology. Comparison of the cuticle of extant Raninoides louisianensis to that of C. punctata reveals general similarities in endocuticular, exocuticular, and epicuticular ultrastructure; however, their gross morphology is strikingly different. The surface of the carapace of C. punctata appears pebbled, much like the surface of a basketball, with closely packed, hexagonal caps. In cross-section, these caps are the upper portion of fungiform structures within convoluted exocuticle. Along the anterior margin, anterolateral margins, and pterygostomial region of the carapace of C. punctata each cap dips slightly posteriorly, creating a series of tiny terraces. In contrast to terrace lines, questa lines, spines, and nodes that provide frictional resistance in interactions with coarse-grained sediments, the fine relief and contouring of the pebb...
An In Vivo Pharmacological Screen Identifies Cholinergic Signaling as a Therapeutic Target in Glial-Based Nervous System Disease

The role that glia play in neurological disease is poorly understood but increasingly acknowledged to be critical in a diverse group of disorders. Here we use a simple genetic model of Alexander disease, a progressive and severe human degenerative nervous system disease caused by a primary astroglial abnormality, to perform an in vivo screen of 1987 compounds, including many FDA-approved drugs and natural products. We identify four compounds capable of dose-dependent inhibition of nervous system toxicity. Focusing on one of these hits, glycopyrrolate, we confirm the role for muscarinic cholinergic signaling in pathogenesis using additional pharmacologic reagents and genetic approaches. We further demonstrate that muscarinic cholinergic signaling works through downstream Gαq to control oxidative stress and death of neurons and glia. Importantly, we document increased muscarinic cholinergic receptor expression in Alexander disease model mice and in postmortem brain tissue from Alexander disease patients, and that blocking muscarinic receptors in Alexander disease model mice reduces oxidative stress, emphasizing the translational significance of our findings. We have therefore identified glial muscarinic signaling as a potential therapeutic target in Alexander disease, and possibly in other gliopathic disorders as well. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Despite the urgent need for better treatments for neurological diseases, drug development for these devastating disorders has been challenging. The effectiveness of traditional large-scale in vitro screens may be limited by the lack of the appropriate molecular, cellular, and structural environment. Using a simple Drosophila model of Alexander disease, we performed a moderate throughput chemical screen of FDA-approved drugs and natural compounds, and found that reducing muscarinic cholinergic signaling ameliorated clinical symptoms and oxidative stress in Alexander disease model flies and mice. Our work demonstrates that small animal models are valuable screening tools for therapeutic compound identification in complex human diseases and that existing drugs can be a valuable resource for drug discovery given their known pharmacological and safety profiles.
Equity, Not Mercy

In a variety of criminal justice settings, the term mercy is used broadly to refer to almost any instance of remitting the harshness of punishment. Although unobjectionable as a colloquial matter, this indiscriminate usage is conceptually problematic. Mercy understood in this broad sense distorts at least two concepts that are essential to our moral life. Specifically, the broad use of mercy denies us the conceptual resources to assess the distinctive operation of traditional mercy — an act of grace that cancels or mitigates what is due out of compassion or concern for the recipient. Perhaps more important, broad mercy effectively diminishes the concept of justice, alleviating the pressure it would otherwise exert to redress claims of right. I first consider the concept of mercy in both its traditional and broad senses. I then turn to equity as an alternative. Equity, like mercy, operates within the realm of discretion; but unlike mercy, equity aims at justice. In the legal context, equitable judgment represents a form of guided discretion in which decision making is both searchingly particular and constrained by authoritative standards of justice. A careful analysis of the concept of discretion underscores both the promise and pitfalls of the discretion with which we empower actors in the criminal justice process. Equity, not mercy, should structure their deliberations.
Learning outcome achievement in non-traditional (virtual and remote) versus traditional (hands-on) laboratories

This review presents the first attempt to synthesize recent (post-2005) empirical studies that focus on directly comparing learning outcome achievement using traditional lab (TL; hands-on) and non-traditional lab (NTL; virtual and remote) participants as experimental groups. Findings suggest that most studies reviewed (n?=?50, 89%) demonstrate student learning outcome achievement is equal or higher in NTL versus TL across all learning outcome categories (knowledge and understanding, inquiry skills, practical skills, perception, analytical skills, and social and scientific communication), though the majority of studies (n?=?53, 95%) focused on outcomes related to content knowledge, with most studies (n?=?40, 71%) employing quizzes and tests as the assessment instrument. Scientific inquiry skills was the least assessed learning objective (n?=?4, 7%), and lab reports/written assignments (n?=?5, 9%) and practical exams (n?=?5, 9%) were the least common assessment instrument. The results of this review raise several important concerns and questions to be addressed by future research. Data supports equal or greater outcome achievement in virtual/remote labs vs. hands-on.A categorization tool (KIPPAS) is presented for meaningful outcome comparisons.The Knowledge and understanding (K) outcome of the KIPPAS tool is most frequently assessed.Quizzes/exams are the most frequently used tools for evaluating outcome achievement.
Nature of the Blood Iodine. II. Nature of the Plasma Iodine

SummaryThe plasma iodine is divided between the albumin and the globulin fractions of the plasma in proportion to the relative amounts of albumin and globulin present. There is no chemical evidence for the presence of a preponderant amount of thyroglobulin in the circulating blood.
Provisional ipsilateral expandable rod for disc space distraction in minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: operative technique.

Background Lumbar disc degeneration may be so advanced and asymmetrical that transforaminal access to the interbody space is limited. The extent of collapse may compromise the capacity to restore disc height and coronal balance in minimally invasive approaches. Although a variety of distractors are available for open approaches, currently there is no feasible distractor that is functional within a minimally invasive retractor. Objective To describe the development of a provisional ipsilateral expandable rod for use in minimally invasive surgery for transforaminal lumbar interbody fusions to optimize access to the disc space, thereby facilitating placement of an interbody spacer. Methods The authors report the clinical and radiographic data for 30 patients (3 open and 27 minimally invasive surgeries) with advanced degenerative disc disease in whom a provisional ipsilateral expandable rod was used to restore coronal balance and maintain disc height for interbody preparation and placement. Preoperative disc heights were measured, and the height of interbody spacer recorded. Mean restoration of disc heights was calculated. Results The provisional ipsilateral expandable rod was successfully applied in both open exposures and within a minimally invasive retractor. The mean preoperative disc height was 4.9 mm (range, 1-9 mm), the mean height of the spacer inserted was 11.1 mm (range, 8-15 mm), and the mean increase in disc height was 6.2 mm (range, 5-11 mm). Conclusion A provisional ipsilateral expandable rod is feasible in either minimally invasive or open approaches. It has the capacity to maintain the disc height achieved by paddle distractors. This facilitates both the disc preparation and optimizes restoration of disc height and interbody spacer placement.
Bering Glacier surge 2011: analysis of laser altimeter data

The Bering Glacier–Bagley Icefield system in Alaska is currently surging (2011). Large-scale elevation changes and small-scale elevation-change characteristics are investigated to understand surge progression, especially mass transport from the pre-surge reservoir area to the receiving area and propagation of the kinematic surge wave as manifested in heavy crevassing characteristic of rapid, brittle deformation. This analysis is based on airborne laser altimeter data collected over Bering Glacier in September 2011. Results include the following: (1) Maximal crevasse depth is 60 m, reached in a rift that separates two deformation domains, indicative of two different flow regimes. Otherwise surge crevasse depth reaches 20–30 m. (2) Characteristic parameters of structural provinces are derived by application of geostatistical classification. Parameters include significance and spacing of crevasses, surface roughness and crevasse-edge curvature (indicative of crevasse age). A classification based on these parameters serves to objectively discriminate structural provinces, indicative of surge progression down-glacier and up-glacier. (3) Elevation changes from 2011 and 2010 altimetry show 40–70 m surface lowering in the reservoir area in lower central Bering Glacier and 20–40m thickening near the front in Tashalich arm. Combining elevation changes with results of crevasse profilometry and pattern analysis, the rapid progression of the surge can be mathematically–physically reconstructed.
VIIRS Improvements over MODIS

The NOAA-NASA jointly-acquired Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) will replace the afternoon orbit component and ground processing system of the current Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellites (POES). The ground system, known as the ‘Common Ground System (CGS)’, and developed by Raytheon Intelligence, Information and Services (IIS) provides command, control, and communications (C3) and data processing and product delivery. The CGS currently flies the Suomi NPP satellite and routes mission data to U.S. ground facilities, where it processes the data into mission products and provides them to US weather centrals. The primary sensor for both Suomi NPP and following JPSS missions is the Visible/Infrared Imager Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) developed by Raytheon Space and Airborne Systems (SAS). In many ways VIIRS is the successor to the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) which was developed by Raytheon SAS for the NASA Earth Observing System (EOS). This presentation will show how the implementation of the improvements to MODIS in the VIIRS instrument, science, and data processing has resulted in major progress in product quality and utility.
Alcoholic hallucinosis: a missed diagnosis. Differential diagnosis and management.

Bien que l'hallucinose alcoolique ait ete decrite comme entite distincte a la fin du 19e siecle, il reste encore des doutes sur sa nature. On y voit soit un aspect du syndrome de privation, soit un...
Picturing the Size and Site of Stroke With an Expanded National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale

Background and Purpose—The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) includes minimal assessment of cognitive function, particularly in right hemisphere (RH) stroke. Descriptions of the Cookie Theft picture from the NIHSS allow analyses that (1) correlate with aphasia severity and (2) identify communication deficits in RH stroke. We hypothesized that analysis of the picture description contributes valuable information about volume and location of acute stroke. Methods—We evaluated 67 patients with acute ischemic stroke (34 left hemisphere [LH]; 33 RH) with the NIHSS, analysis of the Cookie Theft picture, and magnetic resonance imaging, compared with 35 sex- and age-matched controls. We evaluated descriptions for total content units (CU), syllables, ratio of left:right CU, CU/minute, and percent interpretive CU, based on previous studies. Lesion volume and percent damage to regions of interest were measured on diffusion-weighted imaging. Multivariable linear regression identified variables associa...
Determination of 17 Elements in Whole Blood by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

[Objective]To establish a method for rapid and simultaneous determination of 17 elements in whole blood by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.[Methods]After acid digestion,17 trace elements in whole blood samples including Be,Cr,Mn,Co,Ni,As,Se,Mo,Ag,Cd,Sn,Sb,Tl,Pb,Al,Cu,and Zn were simultaneously determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry(ICP-MS).Li,Sc,Ge,and In were used as internal standards.[Results]The detection limit of the elements ranged from 0.081-218μg/L.The average correlation coefficients were all ≥0.9950,with good linearity.The recovery rates of each element varied from 83.0% to 112.1%.The intra-day and inter-day precisions ranged from 0.92% to 10.10% and from 0.51% to 9.05%,respectively.[Conclusion]A simple and rapid method is validated showing accurate and satisfied results.It meets the technical requirements of biology samples and can be applied to the determination of 17 metallic elements in human whole blood samples.
An intervention to improve the assessment of alcoholism by practicing physicians.

OBJECTIVE Alcoholism is estimated to affect at least 10% of American adults. Despite the fact that early diagnosis is possible and early treatment can prevent great suffering, American physicians typically diagnose and treat alcoholism less than half the time. Several authors have suggested additional physician education as a possible way to improve alcoholism assessment skills and increase the diagnosis rate. METHODS A baseline audit, an educational intervention, and a post-intervention audit were done with physicians and nurse practitioners in an urban family practice group, using information recorded during everyday patient care. RESULTS A significant increase in specific alcohol intake histories and a significant decrease in recorded abstention were found. The proportion of patients with a recorded diagnosis of alcoholism was 2.5% before and 4.1% after the intervention. CONCLUSIONS After this intervention, physicians' and FNP's skills in alcohol history-taking and assessment increased, and were incorporated into their daily patient care. Education alone was not enough to remedy a low diagnosis rate; many other factors are involved.
Phase Space Geometry and Dynamics Associated with the 1:2:2 Resonance

This paper is concerned with issues related to the global dynamics and geometry associated with three degree-of-freedom (3 DOF) Hamiltonian systems, and especially how the issues differ from those for 2 DOF systems. First, we review some basic facts along these lines for 2 DOF systems.
The Development and Validation of a Revised Version of the Math Anxiety Scale for Young Children.

Although there is an extensive amount of research that examines the relation between math anxiety and math performance in adolescents and adults, little work has focused on this relation in young children. Recently more attention has been paid to the early development of math anxiety, and new measures have been created for use with this age group. In the present study, we report on the development and validation of a revised version of the Math Anxiety Scale for Young Children (MASYC; Harari, Vukovic, & Bailey, 2013). We conducted cognitive interviews with the 12 MASYC items with 9 children and then administered the MASYC and five newly-developed items to 296 first-, second- and third-grade children. Results from cognitive interviews show that three of the items from the original scale were being systematically misinterpreted by young children. We present a revised measure (the MASYC-R) consisting of 13 items (eight original, five newly-developed) that shows strong evidence for reliability and validity. Results also showed that a small, but meaningful, proportion of children at this age show signs of high math anxiety. Validity of the MASYC-R was supported through correlations with a number of other factors, including general anxiety, math performance, and math attitudes. In addition, results suggest that a substantial proportion of the variance in math anxiety can be explained from these other variables together. The findings suggest that the MASYC-R is appropriate for use with young children and can help researchers to answer important questions about the nature and development of math anxiety at this age.
An optical micro-instrumentation system for measurement of fluorescent proteins in whole-cell biosensors

One well-developed paradigm for biosensing uses living microorganisms as sensors for environmental stimuli. In this paradigm, engineered cells contain plasmid or chromosomal sequences that link stress-inducible promoters to the production of fluorescent reporter proteins. We are developing such a sensor system with an aim for portability. This work describes the development and performance of a compact optical system designed for low-power detection of fluorescent reporter proteins in microliter-scale cell suspensions. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and silicon photodetectors (PDs) were configured to measure red fluorescence, green fluorescence, and cell biomass pseudo-simultaneously in 100 mul samples. The optical detectors were calibrated using E. coli cells that expressed red and green fluorescent proteins (dsRed2 and gfp-asv, Clontech) either constitutively or through chemical induction. We show that sufficient sensitivity for certain whole-cell biosensor applications is achievable in low-volume samples, despite the simplicity and low-cost nature of the detector system. The prototype optical detector occupies approximately 1.8 cmtimes2.2 cmtimes3.0 cm
Exposure in and out of School: A Black Bermudian Male's Successful Educational Journey.

Background/ContextThe influence of non-school based venues has been historically significant for people of African descent who have often had to buttress their schoolhouse experiences with support ...
The Political Responsiveness of Violent Crime Prosecution

Is a federal prosecutor’s decision whether to pursue violent crime charges political? While prosecutors frequently assert their decision-making independence, their selection and operational constra...
Using the Hessenberg decomposition in control theory

Orthogonal matrix techniques are gaining wide acceptance in applied areas by practitioners who appreciate the value of reliable numerical software. Quality programs that can be used to compute the QR Decomposition, the Singular Value Decomposition, and the Schur Decomposition are primarily responsible for this increased appreciation. A fourth orthogonal matrix decomposition, the Hessenberg Decomposition, has recently been put to good use in certain control theory applications. We describe some of these applications and illustrate why this decomposition can frequently replace the much more costly decomposition of Schur.
A superstructure optimization approach for process synthesis under complex reaction networks

Abstract In this work, we present mixed integer linear programming methods for the synthesis of processes that involve complex reaction networks. Specifically, we consider the modeling of reactors and interconnecting streams in systems where the composition of the reactor inlet streams can vary substantially, thereby making the determination of the limiting component as well as the calculation of the stream heating/cooling and power requirements challenging. First, towards the modeling of reactors, we develop an extent-based method which detects the limiting reactant of each reaction occurring in parallel with others, based on the inlet flows of the reactants. Second, we develop a computationally tractable method for the calculation of the work and heating/cooling duty needed to condition any stream of a process based on simple calculations that can be performed offline. Finally, we present how the two aforementioned components can be integrated in an optimization model generated based on a process superstructure. We demonstrate the application of the developed methods for the synthesis of a biorefinery.
Financial Hardship and Parenting Stress in Families with Young Children with Autism: Opportunities for Preventive Intervention

Children under age 6 years are especially likely to live in households facing serious financial hardship, and economic strain can increase the amount of stress experienced by parents of young children. Parenting stress and financial hardship are especially salient to families with young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This chapter utilizes Conger and Conger’s (J Marriage Fam 64:361–373, 2002) family stress model to conceptualize how financial hardship and parenting stress can exacerbate behavior problems among at-risk young children. The chapter also summarizes the literature on financial hardship and parenting stress among families with young children with ASD. The chapter concludes with a discussion of screening and intervention strategies to support low-income families with young children with ASD. An established preventive intervention for low-income families with young children is described. The chapter presents possible modifications to this preventive intervention approach to address the psychosocial needs of economically insecure families with young children with ASD.
Perceptions and experiences of appetite awareness training among African-American women who binge eat

Binge eating may contribute to the prevalence of obesity in African-American women. Yet, there has been scant intervention research on the treatment of binge eating in this population. We tested the feasibility of an appetite awareness training (AAT) intervention in a sample of African-American women with binge and overeating behaviors. Participants who completed AAT were recruited to participate in focus groups to elicit information about their perceptions and experiences with this intervention to inform the design of future interventions to treat binge eating and obesity in African-American women. African-American women, aged 18–70 years, who had completed an 8-week randomized AAT intervention, were invited to attend a focus group discussion. Session content was recorded and transcribed. Data were analyzed by use of open coding. Themes were identified that described their perceptions and experiences of participating in the intervention. Seventeen women participated in three focus group discussions. Pertinent themes identified included: paying attention to internal cues of hunger and satiety, influence of culture on eating patterns, breaking patterns of disordered eating, and perceptions about weight. Overall, participants were satisfied with their experience of AAT, and reported they found it valuable to learn about listening to biological signals of hunger and satiety and to learn specific strategies to reduce maladaptive eating patterns. AAT was acceptable and provided helpful eating behavior instruction to African-American women with reported binge and overeating behaviors. Future research should examine the potential of AAT to improve weight management in this underserved population. Level V, qualitative descriptive study.
3D Mammary Epithelial Cell Models: A Goldmine of DCIS Biomarkers and Morphogenetic Mechanisms

Breast ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) has been typically recognized by pathologists on the basis of aberrant mammary duct morphology. Thus, there are increasing efforts to detect DCIS biomarkers and druggable targets. In this study we focused on the molecular mechanism involving Annexin A8 (ANXA8), a Ca2+ and phospholipid binding protein, which is regulated by all-trans Retinoic Acid (RA), and it is highly expressed in breast DCIS tissue samples relative to atypical ductal hyperplasia, and normal breast tissue. Using a panel of human mammary epithelial HME1 cell lines that share a common protein signature, and develop in vitro three dimensional (3D) "DCIS-like" amorphous structures, we identified by bioinformatics analysis protein-miRNA pairs, potentially involved in mammary morphogenetic mechanisms, including the ANXA8 mechanism. HME1 cells with genetic mutations hampering the physiological RA regulation of the RA receptor alpha (RARA) transcriptional function, but retain the RARA function controlling the PI3KCA-AKT signaling, develop 3D "DCIS-like" amorphous structures with upregulated ANXA8. Consistently, ectopic ANXA8 expression, by affecting the RARA transcriptional function, induced HME1 DCIS-like amorphous acini expressing phosphorylated AKT (P-AKT). Apparently, a RA-RARA-ANXA8 feedback loop fosters a vicious circle of aberrant morphogenesis. Interestingly, a few miRNAs regulated by RA are predicted to target ANXA8 mRNA. These miRNAs are candidate components of the RA-RARA-ANXA8 mechanism, and their deregulation might induce DCIS initiation.
High-Tech Shakespeare in a Mediatized Globe: Ivo van Hove’s Roman Tragedies and the Problem of Spectatorship

Roman Tragedies transforms the stage into a high-tech version of Shakespeare’s Globe, mimicking how global media reduce social conflict to the compass of talking heads and scripted debates. Extending Shakespeare’s “all the world’s a stage” conceit to a world connected by clouds of information transported on viewless wings and deposited in airy dropboxes, van Hove’s stage is everywhere and nowhere, trafficking on the uniform look and feel of the world’s centers of privilege and power. While Ranciere suggests that even experiences designed to mirror our entrancement by mass-mediated spectacles cannot shut off people’s capacity to exercise “an unpredictable interplay of associations and dissociations,” van Hove arguably extends only the illusion of emancipation to spectators compelled to play the part of studio audiences distracted by competing demands on their attention.
Comparison of sonic boom noise metrics from predictions and measurements under low atmospheric turbulence conditions

Six noise metrics have been identified as candidates for quantifying ground sonic boom levels from overflight of supersonic aircraft. Each of these metrics (PL, ASEL, BSEL, DSEL, ESEL, and ISBAP) has previously been investigated in meta-analyses using laboratory study data corresponding to perception of sonic booms in outdoor and indoor environments. These metrics are now computed and analyzed for a set of recorded outdoor sonic boom signatures under low atmospheric turbulence conditions. Predictions of the ground signatures are also computed, without inclusion of turbulence effects, and metrics are compared between measurements and predictions. Metrics least sensitive to atmospheric turbulence effects are identified as potentially more robust for quantifying the sonic boom level from a supersonic aircraft.Six noise metrics have been identified as candidates for quantifying ground sonic boom levels from overflight of supersonic aircraft. Each of these metrics (PL, ASEL, BSEL, DSEL, ESEL, and ISBAP) has previously been investigated in meta-analyses using laboratory study data corresponding to perception of sonic booms in outdoor and indoor environments. These metrics are now computed and analyzed for a set of recorded outdoor sonic boom signatures under low atmospheric turbulence conditions. Predictions of the ground signatures are also computed, without inclusion of turbulence effects, and metrics are compared between measurements and predictions. Metrics least sensitive to atmospheric turbulence effects are identified as potentially more robust for quantifying the sonic boom level from a supersonic aircraft.
Oral antibiotics for the treatment of Gram-negative bloodstream infections: A retrospective comparison of three antibiotic classes

Abstract Objectives Treatment of bacteraemia with oral antibiotics has the potential to reduce hospital length of stay, treatment costs and line-related complications. To date, small trials have supported the use of specific classes of antibiotics, primarily fluoroquinolones (FQs), in the treatment of Gram-negative bloodstream infections (GNBSIs). Currently, limited data exist evaluating treatment with β-lactams (BLs) or trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (SXT). The purpose of this study was to compare treatment of GNBSIs across three different oral antibiotic classes. Methods A retrospective cohort of hospitalised patients with GNBSI receiving initial intravenous (i.v.) antibiotic therapy followed by step-down oral therapy was conducted. Patients were divided into one of three oral antibiotic treatment groups: FQ; BL; or SXT. The composite primary endpoint was treatment failure, including 30-day mortality, recurrent bacteraemia or transition back to i.v. antibiotics. Additional endpoints included secondary infections and individual components within the primary endpoint. Categorical endpoints were analysed using χ2 test or Fisher’s exact test, whilst continuous variables were assessed by one-way ANOVA. Results A total of 204 patients were included in the analysis. The majority of patients received a FQ (136; 66.7%), followed by a BL (46; 22.5%) and SXT (22; 10.8%). Treatment failure occurred in 15 patients (7.4%), with no statistically significant differences between groups. Likewise, individual composite outcomes and secondary outcomes demonstrated no statistically significant differences. Conclusion Transitioning to oral antibiotics to complete GNBSI treatment can offer many advantages. As FQ resistance increases, data supporting the use of a BL or SXT in GNBSI treatment will become essential.
Coping Among Breast Cancer Survivors: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Brief COPE.

Background and purpose Cancer survivors continue to cope with significant stressors after completing treatment. The Brief COPE (Carver, 1997) is frequently used to measure coping; however, its factor structure remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine the best factor conceptualization of the Brief COPE for use among breast cancer survivors. Methods Breast cancer survivors (N = 1,127) completed the Brief COPE. We conducted confirmatory factor analyses comparing several a priori models based on research in cancer-relevant populations. Results Of the eight models examined, the 14-factor model of the Brief COPE showed the best fit. Conclusions Despite efforts to simplify the structure of the Brief COPE, our results suggest coping among breast cancer survivors is best assessed using Carver's (1997) original 14-factor conceptualization.
Thermal Transport Behavior of Carbon Nanotube–Graphene Junction under Deformation

We employ molecular dynamics simulations to explore the effect of tensile strain on the thermal conductivity of carbon nanotube (CNT)–graphene junction structures. Two types of CNT–graphene junctio...
Improving outcomes for a 3-week intensive treatment program for posttraumatic stress disorder in survivors of military sexual trauma.

Abstract Background The experience of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) in the form of sexual assault and sexual harassment is common during service in the U.S. Armed Forces and often leads to adverse health outcomes including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Improving treatment of MST-related PTSD across settings is important to optimize treatment for survivors. The delivery of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) in an intensive treatment program (ITP) shows promise for rapid reduction of PTSD symptoms for veterans and service members (veterans). However, a recent outcome study suggested that this modality is significantly less effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD for survivors of MST compared to veterans recovering from combat trauma. Methods -The current study examines the utility of modifications made to a CPT-based ITP designed to treat PTSD secondary to MST in a mixedgender sample (N = 285). Treatment modifications included the introduction of skills-based groups in emotion regulation and interpersonal domains. Individual skills-consultation sessions were also offered to participants on an as-needed basis. Further, training was provided to both clinical and non-clinical staff to increase understanding of the unique experiences and needs of MST survivors. Results Program changes proved beneficial, resulting in PTSD treatment outcomes that were comparable for survivors of MST and combat traumas. Limitations Further research is needed to determine which of these specific program changes were most impactful in improving symptom outcomes. Conclusions Our findings suggest that short-term, intensive PTSD treatment for MST survivors may be improved by integrating present-focused, skills-based therapies and staff sensitivity training.
Understanding resistances in capacitive deionization devices

The desalination characteristics of capacitive deionization (CDI) are significantly impacted by the cell resistance. Here we apply electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to analyze the resistive properties of a CDI device, which include EIS measurements on a complete assembled cell (in two wire mode) and EIS measurements with additional contacts to decouple electrode/electrolyte and contact impedances (four wire mode). These measurements shed light on the interface between current collector and electrode as well as the internal capacitive and resistive elements of the cell. With two-wire and four-wire EIS measurements, we find that the often observed high-frequency arc(s) in the impedance spectra can be due to contact effects and/or an internal ionic-transfer resistance that is locally in parallel with macropore wall capacitance. In some cases, the two associated arcs in the Nyquist plot are overlapping and present simultaneously, making their identification in the EIS spectra difficult unless both two-wire and four-wire measurements are made. Despite causing a large high-frequency arc in the Nyquist plot, we find that the apparent internal ionic-transfer resistance is negligible compared to the resistances of the electrode, separator, and external electronic components. An investigation of the contact impedance between the electrode and current collector reveals a parallel RC arc that can grow over time if an improper material is used (e.g., titanium). In our system, the electrode ionic resistance dominates the total Ohmic power dissipation, which has implications for scale-up of CDI systems and future improvements of cell design.
Effects of parity, sympathy and reciprocity in increasing social welfare

We are interested in understanding how socially desirable traits like sympathy, reciprocity, and fairness can survive in environments that include aggressive and exploitative agents. Social scientists have long theorized about ingrained motivational factors as explanations for departures from self-seeking behaviors by human subjects. Some of these factors, namely reciprocity, have also been studied extensively in the context of agent systems as tools for promoting cooperation and improving social welfare in stable societies. In this paper, we evaluate how other factors like sympathy and parity can be used by agents to seek out cooperation possibilities while avoiding exploitation traps in more dynamic societies. We evaluate the relative effectiveness of agents influenced by different social considerations when they can change who they interact with in their environment using both an experimental framework and a predictive analysis. Such rewiring of social networks not only allows possibly vulnerable agents to avoid exploitation but also allows them to form gainful coalitions to leverage mutually beneficial cooperation, thereby significantly increasing social welfare.
“Not So Much Orwellian as Kafkaesque”: The War on Crime, Information Sharing Systems, and the Limits of Criminal Justice Modernization and Surveillance in Los Angeles County:

In response to the increasing frequency of urban rebellions and rising crime rates, President Lyndon Johnson announced a War on Crime in 1965, inaugurating the modernization of criminal justice sys...