cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Coordinated Kinematic Control of Compliantly Coupled Multirobot Systems in an Array Format

This paper presents coordinated kinematic control of compliantly coupled multirobot systems for payload transportation. In the robot, unicycle-type axles are connected to a moving platform in an array format using compliant frames. A coordinate system is attached to an ideal center point on the platform to establish robot kinematics. In order to drive the system along a reference trajectory, we coordinate axle velocity commands, while considering frame compliance, nonholonomic constraints, and rigid body kinematics, respectively. These commands are further coordinated to consider configuration stability and physical limitations. Simulation and experimental results evaluate the coordination algorithms for various trajectories.
Differential effects of salinity on leaf elongation kinetics of three grass species

This study focuses on the inhibitory effect of salinity on the leaf extension of three different grass species: Hordeum jubatum L., Hordeum vulgare L. and Zea mays L. Leaf elongation rates (LER) were measured on the third leaf of the plants. NaCl was added to the hydroponic solution (0, 40, 80 and 120 mM) and changes in LER were measured over time with a displacement transducer. Salinity inhibited LER immediately in all three species, and a new, but lower steady-state LER was reached within 5 h. The decrease in LER was proportional to the salinity level. Differences in salt tolerance (% of control LER) were evident between genotypes within 5 h after salinization, but the relative salt tolerance of the plant at this stage was not necessarily indicative of the long-term salt tolerance of the species. In general, H. jubatum was more tolerant than maize, which was more tolerant than barley to these short-term salinity stresses. In contrast, barley is more salt tolerant than maize over the long term. The mechanisms of inhibition of LER by salinity, as tested by the applied-tension technique, varied with the species examined, affecting either the apparent yield threshold, the hydraulic conductance of the whole plant or both. The cell wall extensibility was not significantly affected by salinity in the three species tested in this study.
Permeabilization and recovery of the stratum corneum in vivo: The synergy of photomechanical waves and sodium lauryl sulfate

Background and Objective: Photomechanical waves render the stratum corneum permeable and allow macromolecules to diffuse into the epidermis and dermis. The aim of this study was to investigate the combined action of photomechanical waves and sodium lauryl sulfate, an anionic surfactant, for transdermal delivery. Study Design/Materials and Methods: A single photomechanical wave was applied to the skin of rats in the presence of sodium lauryl sulfate. The sodium lauryl sulfate solution was removed and aqueous solutions of rhodamine-B dextran (40 kDa molecular weight) were applied to the skin at time points 2, 30, and 60 minutes post-exposure. The presence of rhodamine-B dextran in the skin was measured by fluorescence emission spectroscopy in vivo and fluorescence microscopy of frozen biopsies. Results: The use of sodium lauryl sulfate delayed the recovery of the stratum corneum barrier and extended the time available for the diffusion of dextran through it. Conclusion: The combination of photomechanical waves and surfactants can enhance transdermal drug delivery. Lasers Surg. Med. 29:145–150, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Person-centred integrative care.

Rationale, aims and objectives The essential ingredients of effective person-centred integrative care are described and its benefits are documented in terms of influence on compliance with care, drop-out rates, enhancement of well-being and reduction in ill-being. Method Prior literature on efficacy of person-centred treatment in medicine and psychology is reviewed and related to definitions of health and well-being. Results The general characteristics of person-centred care involve multiple elements. First, the doctor must be aware of the personality of the individual in order to enter into a humanistic dialogue with the person. Second, for a therapeutic alliance, there must be agreement that doctor and patient are working toward common goals. Third, calm reassurance, hope, and respect need to be communicated. Fourth, the doctor and patient need to be empathic and reflective. Fifth, they must identify and implement practical means of promoting health with available resources and a realistic understanding of facts. Conclusion Awareness of who the person is in a therapeutic encounter allows cultivation of a humanistic dialogue, which in turn accounts for most of the variation in clinical outcomes.
Effect of weight loss after bariatric surgery on left ventricular mass and ventricular repolarization in normotensive morbidly obese patients.

To assess the effect of weight loss on ventricular repolarization in morbidly obese patients, 39 normotensive subjects whose baseline body mass indexes were ≥40 kg/m 2 before weight loss from bariatric surgery were studied. All patients were free of underlying organic heart disease, heart failure, and conditions that might affect ventricular repolarization. Twelve-lead electrocardiography and transthoracic echocardiography were performed just before surgery and at the nadir of postoperative weight loss. The corrected QT interval (QTc) was derived using Bazett's formula. QTc dispersion was calculated by subtracting the minimum from the maximum QTc on the 12-lead electrocardiogram. Echocardiographic left ventricular (LV) mass was indexed to height 2.7 . The mean body mass index decreased from 42.8 ± 2.1 to 31.9 ± 2.2 kg/m 2 (p 2.7 as the most important predictor of pre–weight loss QTc and QTc dispersion and also identified weight loss–induced change in LV mass/height 2.7 as the most important predictor of weight loss–induced changes in QTc and QTc dispersion. In conclusion, LV hypertrophy is a key determinant of QTc and QTc dispersion in normotensive morbidly obese patients. Regression of LV hypertrophy associated with weight loss decreases QTc and QTc dispersion.
Electrokinetic patterning of colloidal particles with optical landscapes

We demonstrate an opto-electrokinetic technique for non-invasive particle manipulation on the surface of a parallel-plate indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode that is biased with an alternating current (AC) signal and illuminated with near-infrared (1064 nm) optical landscapes. This technique can generate strong microfluidic vortices at higher AC frequencies (>100 kHz) and dynamically and rapidly aggregate and pattern particle groups at low frequencies (<100 kHz).
Lystrosaurus and Gondwanaland

Gondwanaland, that hypothetical supercontinent composed of what are now the continents of Africa, South America, Australia, and Antarctica, and the subcontinent of peninsular India, has been the subject of much lively discussion among geologists, paleontologists, and biologists for more than half a century. Likewise, the inferred phenomenon of continental drift, involving the rifting of Gondwanaland into several large fragments, which are the continents listed above, and the subsequent drifting of those continental blocks to the positions they now occupy, has likewise occupied the attention of many interested authorities, as well as other people, through the past six decades. (It might be added that there has also been a correlative concept of Laurasia, a superconti-nent of what are now the northern hemisphere land masses, with its rifting, and the drifting of its several parts to their present positions. Furthermore, many authorities have envisaged a still larger land mass, Pangaea, embracing both Gondwanaland and Laurasia.) According to most students of the problem, Gondwanaland and Laurasia (or Pangaea) are supposed to have existed during at least the latter part of the Paleozoic and the beginning of the Mesozoic eras, the rifting and drifting having taken place at some time subsequent to the middle or final stages of Triassic history.
Recent Declines in Apparent Survival and Survey Counts of Snowy Plovers Breeding in the Southern High Plains of Texas

Abstract We quantified changes in long-term Snowy Plover (Charadrius nivosus) survey counts and return rates, estimated current sex and age-specific apparent survival and encounter rates, and calculated recruitment thresholds needed to maintain a stable population in the Southern High Plains of Texas. Mean survey counts of adult Snowy Plovers decreased by 78% at one saline lake (from 80 adults/survey to 18 adults/survey) from 1999–2000 to 2008–2010 but remained consistent at an alternate lake (from 45 adults/survey to 41 adults/survey). Adult and juvenile return rates have similarly declined within this time frame by 25 and 62%, respectively. Long-term declines in return rates may be the result of increased mortality from declining habitat conditions either within or outside the breeding season. Current estimates of adult (65%) and juvenile (12%) apparent survival are lower than most other estimates for Snowy Plovers throughout their range. Current estimates of adult and juvenile apparent survival and ret...
Dietary Depletion of Vitamin E and Vitamin A Inhibits Mammary Tumor Growth and Metastasis in Transgenic Mice

We showed previously that dietary antioxidant depletion enhances tumor reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis, resulting in a reduction in brain tumor size in the TgT 121 transgenic mouse model, a nonmetastatic tumor model. Here, in a transgenic mouse model of mammary tumorigenesis with defined rates of tumor growth and lung-targeted metastasis, we determined the ability of dietary antioxidant depletion to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis. Compared with control mice fed a standard diet, antioxidant-depleted mice exhibited tumor-targeted generation of ROS manifested by increased levels of oxidatively modified DNA/RNA (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanine, 8-hydroxyguanine) and lipid peroxidation (4-hydroxy-2-nonenal) in primary and metastatic tumor foci. In addition to increased tumor-targeted ROS, the number of apoptotic cells was increased approximately 500% (P 50% lower than in controls (P < 0.01). The proportional distribution of small (<1.5 cm) and large (≥1.5 cm) primary mammary tumors differed. The mice fed the antioxidant-depleted diet had more small primary tumors (P <0.05) and fewer large primary tumors (P < 0.05). Importantly, they also had fewer lung metastatic tumor foci compared with mice fed the control diet (4.5 ± 1.3 vs. 15.8 ± 8.5 foci/lung, P < 0.01). These findings may be important in understanding the role of dietary antioxidant vitamins in tumor growth and metastasis.
Ultrastructure of the mesosomal gland of Xylocopa micans lepeletier (Hymenoptera : Anthophoridae) associated with pheromone release

Abstract The ultrastructure of the mesosomal gland of Xylocopa micans Lepeletier (Hymencptera : Anthophoridae) revealed the gland to be an invagination of the integumental membrane between the propodeum and metatergum. The gland consists of a series of finger-like pouches that extend nearly the length of the propodeum just beneath the cuticle. The gland cells are characteristic of simple epithelial glands having numerous elongated mitochondria and an extensive smooth endoplasmic reticulum with abundant aggregations of electron-dense material associated with numerous membranous channels that lead to the apical cell surface. An electron-dense material released at the cell's cuticular border accumulates in numerous channels in the cuticle that coalesce and widen near the base of large hollow spines. It is suggested that the electron-dense secretion is released at the tips of hollow spines directly into the air-filled gland lumen forming an aerosol. Through thoracic movement, the aerosol is forced by air currents to the outside through a slit between the propodeum and metatergum.
Preliminary Models of the Cost of Fault Tolerance

Software cost estimation and overruns continue to plague the software engineering community, especially in the area of safety-critical systems. We provide some preliminary models to predict the cost of adding fault detection, fault-tolerance, or fault isolation techniques to a software system or subsystem if the cost of originally developing the system or subsystem is known. Since cost is a major driver in the decision to develop new safety-critical systems, such models will be useful to requirements engineers, systems engineers, decision makers, and those intending to reuse systems and components in safety-critical environments where fault tolerance is critical.
Explaining State High-Courts' Selective Use of State Constitutions

Although state constitutions offer substantial policymaking opportunities, state courts are reluctant to base decisions on independent state constitutional law. Using state high-courtjudicial review decisions from 1981 to 1985, we tested a model predicting countermajoritarian state-law rulings. Legal and political variables best predicted state constitutional decisions. Intragovernmental conflicts were particularly likely to result in state-law decisions, while courts were especially reluctant to base civil liberties decisions on state constitutions. Cases brought by government officials were likely to be decided on state constitutional principles; state-law decisions were also likely to emerge from conservative states and states with traditionalistic political cultures. Although these latterfindings stand apart from previous research connecting some forms ofjudicial activism to liberal political environments, they seem consistent with the element of American conservatism seen particularly in traditionalistic states (in the South and Southwest) demanding protection of state autonomy in the realms of policy development historically left to the states.
Pre-eruptive storage conditions and eruption dynamics of a small rhyolite dome: Douglas Knob, Yellowstone volcanic field, USA

The properties and processes that control the size, duration, and style of eruption of rhyolite magma are poorly constrained because of a paucity of direct observations. Here, we investigate the small-volume, nonexplosive end-member. In particular, we determine the pre-eruptive storage conditions and eruption dynamics of Douglas Knob, a 0.011-km3 obsidian dome that erupted from a 500-m-long fissure in the Yellowstone volcanic system. To determine pre-eruptive storage conditions, we analyzed compositions of phenocrysts, matrix glass, and quartz-hosted glass inclusions by electron microprobe and Fourier-transform infrared analyses. The pre-eruptive melt is a high-silica rhyolite (∼75 wt.% SiO2) and was stored at 760 ± 30 °C and 50 ± 25 MPa prior to eruption, assuming vapor saturation at depth. To investigate emplacement dynamics and kinematics, we measured number densities and orientations of microlites at various locations across the lava dome. Microlites in samples closest to the inferred fissure vent are the most aligned. Alignment does not increase with distance traveled away from the vent, suggesting microlites record conduit processes. Strains of <5 accumulated in the conduit during ascent after microlite formation, imparted by a combination of pure and simple shear. Average microlite number density in samples varies from 104.9 to 105.7 mm−3. Using the magma ascent model of Toramaru et al. (J Volcanol Geotherm Res 175:156–157, 2008), microlite number densities imply decompression rates ranging from 0.03 to 0.11 MPa h−1 (∼0.4–1.3 mm s−1 ascent rates). Such slow ascent would allow time for passive degassing at depth in the conduit, thus resulting in an effusive eruption. Using calculated melt viscosity, we infer that the dike that fed the eruption was 4–8 m in width. Magma flux through this dike, assuming fissure dimensions at the surface represent its geometry at depth, implies an eruption duration of 17–210 days. That duration is also consistent with the shape of the dome if produced by gravitational spreading, as well as the ascent time of magma from its storage depth.
Classical Statistical Mechanics

Statistical mechanics is the bridge between molecular science and continuum mechanics. The input to statistical mechanics is a force law between particles. The particles can be atoms in a crystal, molecules in a gas or liquid, electrons in a plasma, amino acid units in a protein, elementary constituents in a complex polymer, etc. The forces between particles originate from Coulomb forces between electric charges and from magnetic dipole forces between magnetic moments. The classical force laws may be modified by the quantum mechanics (especially the Pauli exclusion principle) describing the particles. Normally the force laws are quite complicated and are not given by a simple analytical expression. Rather, they are given in one or more of the following four ways: (1) In terms of an unknown function, for which qualitative properties are postulated as laws of physics. (2) As a specific function, such as the Lennard-Jones potential or hard sphere potential. Such functions are chosen because they have representative features in common with the true force laws; for example, they may be asymptotically exact in some limiting region. (3) As a result of numerical calculation, based e.g. on the complicated exact force law and a Hartree-Fock approximation. (4) As a result of experimental measurement.
Metabolic Reserve of the Heart: The Forgotten Link Between Contraction and Coronary Flow

Myocardial energy substrate metabolism entails a complex system of enzyme catalyzed reactions, in which the heart efficiently converts chemical to mechanical energy. The system is highly regulated and responsive to changes in workload as well as in substrate and hormone supply to the heart. Akin to the terms "contractile reserve" and "coronary flow reserve" we propose the term "metabolic reserve" to reflect the heart's capacity to respond to increases in workload. The heart's metabolic response to inotropic stimulation involves the ability to increase oxidative metabolism over a wide range, by activating the oxidation of glycogen and carbohydrate substrates. Here we review the known biochemical mechanisms responsible for those changes. Specifically, we explore the notion that disturbances in the metabolic reserve result in contractile dysfunction of the stressed heart.
Pure rotational coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering of simple gases

We report the experimental investigation of pure rotational coherent anti-Stokes Raman transitions using a computerized coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy (CARS) system. Spectra were obtained from atmospheric air, N2, and O2 from 1 atm to subTorr pressures. Frequency rejection of ω1 and ω3 was accomplished by crossing the input beams, which were perpendicularly polarized. Applications of the pure rotational CARS for temperature and species concentration measurement are discussed.
Breaking Down The Barriers To Organizational Change

A significant failure rate exists when it comes to organizational change. Managers understand the importance of organizational change, but many of them do not know how to execute it effectively. This study examines the reasons why the implementation of organizational change is so complicated and it suggests ways to break down the barriers to change.
Trade Deficits Always Matter

As America grapples over what to do in order to avoid the perils associated with manifest U.S. economic growth that has been characterized as ‘barely enough to forestall another recession,’ the nation is mired in economic limbo due to, among other causes, the absence of a clearly stated international trade agenda, limited new trade deals, and a lack of concentration on economic growth. Without fiscal clarity, the ability for the U.S. to withstand the burgeoning recessive pressures may prove futile. Meanwhile, China’s economy continues to rise, albeit slowly, no doubt reflecting the persistent U.S. slowdown. Europe, not surprisingly, remains in turmoil as European Union naysayers’ predictions of dismantling a system designed to prevent abysmal economic performance through uniting various entitlement-minded societies has not yet been vanquished by the positive effects of raising taxes and capital productivity while lowering pensioners’ and social program benefits. The battle for supremacy in this newly dubbed ‘G-Zero’ world hence remains unclear as governments decide what policies to effectuate and which to eradicate. In the past, economists have downplayed the corrosive effect that continuous ballooning international trade imbalances would have on economic growth. Finding a meaningful solution to the overall affects that running a persistent trade deficit with other nations has on a national economy has considerable implications. For those economic historians who have studied the U.S. - Japanese trade deficit, for example, a solution to the question of whether a trade deficit is sustainable remains high on the list of questions for which the answers are not altogether clear. Furthermore, the politicians and their supportive economic advisers provide prescriptive advice to the nation's leaders on how to shape trade policy with China, for example, would be enormously benefited by a better understanding of the trade deficit in historical context (say, with Japan) as they shape future trade relations of the U.S. What policy is best for the U.S. economy? Do trade deficits indeed matter?
Is There a Role for Limited Echocardiography During the Preparticipation Physical Examination

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is the leading cause of death during exercise for athletes younger than 35 years. Structural cardiac abnormalities are responsible for the majority of SCDs among competitive athletes. The screening protocol that is best for detecting athletes at risk for SCD has been the subject of considerable and long-standing debate. The American Heart Association recommends the use of a 14-element history and physical examination (HP however, this technique also proved to be cost-ineffective. The use of ECHO performed by a frontline physician reflects recent advancements in ultrasound technology utilization, including the advent of portable ultrasound, and introduces a new, promising screening method to the debate. Portable ECHO by a frontline physician (PEFP) has the ability to directly visualize structural components of the heart that are part of the gold standard ECHO evaluation performed by a cardiologist. The Early Screening for Cardiac Abnormalities with Preparticipation Echocardiography (ESCAPE) protocol developed at Northeastern University is the first attempt to implement the PEFP. Initial inquiries into the reliability and feasibility of the PEFP are promising. Measurements obtained by frontline physicians were not statistically different from those obtained by a cardiologist, focused ECHO was found to reduce the referral rate to cardiology by 33%, and PEFP was completed significantly faster than H&P and an ECG. Early results are encouraging, but continued research to support the widespread use of PEFP for preparticipation examination in all competitive athletes is needed prior to recommending implementation.
Congruences Relating the Order of a Group to the Number of Conjugacy Classes

(1995). Congruences Relating the Order of a Group to the Number of Conjugacy Classes. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 102, No. 5, pp. 440-442.
Case 9-2008

A 65-year-old woman was seen in the oral surgery clinic because of a nonhealing ulcer of the mandible at the site of a tooth that had been extracted 3 years earlier. The patient had multiple myeloma and had been treated with intravenous bisphosphonates for 6 years. Examination disclosed red, raised soft tissue in the right mandible, with mucosal ulceration and exposed bone. A diagnostic procedure was performed.
A spreadsheet for calculating normative mole fractions of end-member species for Na-Ca-Li-Fe2+-Mg-Al tourmalines from electron microprobe data

This work presents a spreadsheet that calculates the mole fractions of end-member components for simple Na-Ca-Li-Mg-Fe 2+ -Al tourmalines from electron microprobe data. The input includes the B 2 O 3 concentration obtained either from direct analysis or by estimation on the basis of stoichiometry. The concentration of Li 2 O can either be input from other analysis or estimated by the spreadsheet. The spreadsheet does not address the mole fractions of Cr, V, oxidized or deprotonated tourmaline species, nor account for species involving tetrahedral boron or aluminum. Therefore, the spreadsheet is not a comprehensive tool that includes all IMA approved tourmaline species, and so is not intended for naming tourmalines according to IMA convention. The present method includes a useful subset of end-member species that can be described simply from electron microprobe data and so, akin to a normative mineralogical analysis for rock composition, the calculations are intended to provide a normative result that serves as simple basis for comparing tourmalines that is more direct than names derived from the most abundant species present.
Multiple Sclerosis—The Hunt for Etiology

Research has made a strong case for the view that the blood-brain barrier is intact in multiple sclerosis patients and that the very high IgG levels found in the disease result from intracerebral production by the demyelinated plaque itself. Whether the IgG elevation represents an immunologic sequence to a slow virus infection or has an autoimmune basis is not yet clear.
Robustness of topology of digital images and point clouds

Such modern applications of topology as digital image analysis and data analysis have to deal with noise and other uncertainty. In this environment, the data structures often appear "filtered" into a sequence of cell complexes. We introduce the homology group of the filtration as a generalization of the homology group of a single cell complex. It is the group of all possible homology classes of all elements of the filtration with a certain equivalence relation. This relation equates the classes that represent the same homology class of the original data structure. The persistent homology group of the filtration is obtained similarly with an equivalence relation that equates the classes the differences of which falls outside of user’s choice of the acceptable level of noise. 1I ntroduction Since Poincare, homology has been used as the main descriptor of the topology of geometric objects. In the classical context, however, all homology classes receive equal attention. Meanwhile, applications of topology in analysis of images and data have to deal with noise and other uncertainty. This uncertainty appears usually in the form of a real valued function defi ned on the topological space. Persistence is a measure of robustness of the homology classes of the lower level sets of this function [6], [2], [4], [3]. Since it’s unknown beforehand what is or is not noise in the dataset, we need to capture all homology classes including those that may be deemed noise later. In this paper we introduce an algebraic structure that contains, without duplication, all these classes. Each of them is associated with its persistence and can be removed when the threshold for acceptable noise is set. The last step can be carried out repeatedly in order to find the best possible threshold. The construction follows the approach to analysis of digital images presented in [8].
Identification and Characterization of Sex-Associated Loci in Sockeye Salmon Using Genotyping-by-Sequencing and Comparison with a Sex-Determining Assay Based on the sdY Gene

Loci that can be used to screen for sex in salmon can provide important information for study of both wild and cultured populations. Here, we tested for associations between sex and genotypes at thousands of loci available from a genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) dataset to discover sex-associated loci in sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka). We discovered 7 sex-associated loci, developed high-throughput assays for 2 loci, and tested the utility of these 2 assays in 8 collections of sockeye salmon sampled throughout North America. We also screened an existing assay based on the master sex-determining gene in salmon (sdY) in these collections. The ability of GBS-derived loci to assign fish to their phenotypic sex varied substantially among collections suggesting that recombination between the loci that we discovered and the sex-determining gene has occurred. Assignment accuracy to phenotypic sex was much higher with the sdY assay but was still less than 100%. Alignment of sequences from GBS-derived loci to draft genomes for 2 salmonids provided strong evidence that many of these loci are found on chromosomes orthologous to the known sex chromosome in sockeye salmon. Our study is the first to describe the approximate location of the sex-determining region in sockeye salmon and indicates that sdY is also the master sex-determining gene in this species. However, discordances between sdY genotypes and phenotypic sex and the variable performance of GBS-derived loci warrant more research.
The Money Game and the Level Playing Field

One of the great economic cliches of all time is the demand for a ‘level playing field.’ Government officials in Paris often call on this cliche, especially when their producers lack competitive power in world markets.
Markov Chain Training Models for Nonseparable Classes

In Chapter 2, we derived the convergence under separability property of the proportional increment training procedure. As interesting as this property is, convergence is usually of less practical importance than a good estimate of the performance of the classifier as a function of training length. Indeed, it is sometimes possible to obtain a noncovergent training procedure that performs better over a finite training period than a convergent training procedure on the same input data. This situation has motivated much of the research on the learning dynamics of trainable classifiers.
Critical Role for Brain Stress Systems in the Negative Affective State Associated With Nicotine Withdrawal

Abstract Nicotine addiction is a chronic brain disorder that is characterized by a negative mood state upon smoking cessation and relapse after periods of abstinence. Accumulating evidence indicates that this negative mood state deters people from trying to quit smoking, leads to craving, and contributes to relapse after a period of abstinence. The animal studies that are presented here provide evidence for a role of brain stress systems in the negative mood associated with nicotine withdrawal. These studies demonstrate that nicotine dysregulates corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and norepinephrine systems in rodents. Drugs that block CRF type 1 receptors or α1-adrenoceptors diminish the negative mood states associated with nicotine withdrawal. Similar effects have been observed in animal models with the widely used smoking cessation drugs bupropion (Zyban) and varenicline (Chantix). Therefore, drugs that blunt brain stress responses in smokers trying to quit may provide a novel and viable treatment option for nicotine addiction.
A detached eddy simulation model for the study of lateral separation zones along a large canyon-bound river

Lateral flow separation occurs in rivers where banks exhibit strong curvature. In canyon bound rivers, lateral recirculation zones are the principal storage of fine sediment deposits. A parallelized, three-dimensional, turbulence-resolving model was developed to study the flow structures along lateral separation zones located in two pools along the Colorado River in Marble Canyon. The model employs the detached eddy simulation (DES) technique, which resolves turbulence structures larger than the grid spacing in the interior of the flow. The DES-3D model is validated using ADCP flow measurements taken during the 2008 controlled flood release from Glen Canyon Dam. A point-to-point validation using a number of skill metrics, often employed in hydrological research, is proposed here for fluvial modeling. The validation results show predictive capabilities of the DES model. The model reproduces the pattern and magnitude of the velocity in the lateral recirculation zone, including the size and position of the primary and secondary eddy cells, and return current. The lateral recirculation zone is open, having continuous import of fluid upstream of the point of reattachment and export by the recirculation return current downstream of the point of separation. Differences in magnitude and direction of near-bed and near-surface velocity vectors are found, resulting in an inward vertical spiral. Interaction between the recirculation return current and the main flow is dynamic, with large temporal changes in flow direction and magnitude. Turbulence structures with a predominately vertical axis of vorticity are observed in the shear layer becoming three-dimensional without preferred orientation downstream.
Energy upconversion and spectroscopic studies of ZBLAN:Er3+

A detailed spectroscopic investigation of ZBLAN:Er3+ sample was performed. Infrared to green, red to blue and blue to ultraviolet energy upconversion studies in this material were also performed. When the material was pumped with a 637 nm dye laser upconversion signals at 402 nm, whose efficiency is ~0.04%, were detected. Intensity parameters, transition probabilities, lifetimes and quantum efficiencies are also obtained.
A unified perspective on ankle push-off in human walking.

Muscle–tendon units about the ankle joint generate a burst of positive power during the step-to-step transition in human walking, termed ankle push-off, but there is no scientific consensus on its functional role. A central question embodied in the biomechanics literature is: does ankle push-off primarily contribute to leg swing, or to center of mass (COM) acceleration? This question has been debated in various forms for decades. However, it actually presents a false dichotomy, as these two possibilities are not mutually exclusive. If we ask either question independently, the answer is the same: yes! (1) Does ankle push-off primarily contribute to leg swing acceleration? Yes. (2) Does ankle push-off primarily contribute to COM acceleration? Yes. Here, we summarize the historical debate, then synthesize the seemingly polarized perspectives and demonstrate that both descriptions are valid. The principal means by which ankle push-off affects COM mechanics is by a localized action that increases the speed and kinetic energy of the trailing push-off limb. Because the limb is included in body COM computations, this localized segmental acceleration also accelerates the COM, and most of the segmental energy change also appears as COM energy change. Interpretation of ankle mechanics should abandon an either/or contrast of leg swing versus COM acceleration. Instead, ankle push-off should be interpreted in light of both mutually consistent effects. This unified perspective informs our fundamental understanding of the role of ankle push-off, and has important implications for the design of clinical interventions (e.g. prostheses, orthoses) intended to restore locomotor function to individuals with disabilities.
Pharmacogenomics of neuropathic pain

Variation in pain sensitivity and analgesic drug response is well recognized among individuals. Pharmacogenomics hypothesis dictates that a patient's response to a drug or development of adverse drug effects may depend on variation in genetic profile, in particular, the different alleles for the same gene that an individual carries. A review of the role of genetic variations in determining the receptor sensitivity and modulation of pain, response to analgesics drugs and their interactions are presented in this article. It is already known that genomic variations affect the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of various analgesic drugs. Genes related to the expression of mu-opioid receptor, ATP-binding cassette B1 (ABCB1), catechol-O-Methyl Transferase (COMT), Cytochrome P450 enzymes have been widely studied and show some promise in determining the drug response in individuals. Some recent studies on sodium channel mutations (SCN9A, SCN11A) have been implicated in congenital insensitivity to pain. Voltage gated ion channels such as sodium, calcium and potassium channels are being targeted for development of novel analgesics. Based on the available research, the clinical implementation of pharmacogenomics for personalized pain medicine is still in its infancy, but is promising. These are opening further opportunities for development of newer analgesics targeting pain receptors and ion channels.
3D material cytometry (3DMaC): a very high-replicate, high-throughput analytical method using microfabricated, shape-specific, cell-material niches

Studying cell behavior within 3D material niches is key to understanding cell biology in health and diseases, and developing biomaterials for regenerative medicine applications. Current approaches to studying these cell-material niches have low throughput and can only analyze a few replicates per experiment resulting in reduced measurement assurance and analytical power. Here, we report 3D material cytometry (3DMaC), a novel high-throughput method based on microfabricated, shape-specific 3D cell-material niches and imaging cytometry. 3DMaC achieves rapid and highly multiplexed analyses of very high replicate numbers ("n" of 104-106) of 3D biomaterial constructs. 3DMaC overcomes current limitations of low "n", low-throughput, and "noisy" assays, to provide rapid and simultaneous analyses of potentially hundreds of parameters in 3D biomaterial cultures. The method is demonstrated here for a set of 85 000 events containing twelve distinct cell-biomaterial micro-niches along with robust, customized computational methods for high-throughput analytics with potentially unprecedented statistical power.
Nurse Practitioner Fracture Liaison Role: A Concept Analysis

Background With the worldwide growing aging population, the high prevalence of osteoporosis-related fractures is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Healthcare costs for treating fractures and subsequent complications will increase to $25 billion by 2025. Purpose This article articulates a comprehensive concept analysis of the nurse practitioner fracture liaison (NPFL) role to provide new insights into the role of nurse practitioner in osteoporosis care coordination. Methods Walker and Avant's concept analysis framework was used to identify the attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of the NPFL role. Model cases illustrated real-life examples of the NPFL role. Conclusion The impact of NPFL role is rather novel in promoting healthy bone living at local, national, and international communities. Linking the refined outcome of the concept analysis of the NPFL role to osteoporosis care helps close osteoporosis care gaps, improve healthcare outcomes, and alleviate financial burden by reducing secondary fracture and complications.
Oyster-related tenosynovitis: a rare case of Mycobacterium szulgai in the immunocompromised.

A 66-year-old man with a history of renal transplant on chronic immunosuppression presented to his primary care physician with a swollen right index finger. On examination, mild swelling was present. Conservative management failed and initial plain films were negative. Corticosteroid injection was performed by orthopaedics, but symptoms recurred several months later and an MRI showed flexor digitorum tenosynovitis and abscesses of the superficialis and profundus tendons. A flexor tenolysis was performed with cultures positive for Mycobacterium szulgai, a rare, non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection. Treatment was initiated with moxifloxacin, ethambutol and azithromycin daily for nearly 4 months. Repeat MRI 3 months after completion of antibiotics showed near resolution of the tenosynovitis.
The effect of externalities on adoption of social customer relationship management (SCRM)

The rise of social media technology has led to new customer relationship management tools that engage customers more easily and directly (social customer relationship management, SCRM). However, the usefulness of SCRM is contingent upon a successful adoption by an organization. Various technology adoption theoretical frameworks have been proposed for social media technologies generally, and for SCRM specifically. This paper extends the literature by exploring network externalities as a potential driver of SCRM adoption in organizations by surveying 363 supply chain professionals regarding their behaviors and uses of SCRM. The results suggest that network externalities have a substantial effect on adoption of SCRM in business organizations and that a perception of higher network externalities has a positive effect on adoption. This implies that organizations should select SCRM systems with better network externalities and also that they should educate their workforce about those strong network externalities leading up to the adoption.
MR imaging of the accessory muscles around the ankle.

SUMMARY MR imaging is the modality of choice in the evaluation of suspected accessory muscles. Their signal characteristic (i.e., isointensity with normal musculature) determines their benign nature and excludes the possibility of a neoplasm. When symptoms arise, MR imaging allows preoperative mapping of the accessory muscle and its surrounding structures, particularly of the tarsal tunnel and neurovascular bundle.
Enzyme replacement and beyond

During the last decade, enzyme replacement therapy for lysosomal storage diseases became a reality with the demonstration of its safety and effectiveness in type 1 Gaucher disease. Currently, enzyme replacement and several other potential therapeutic strategies are being developed for selected lysosomal storage diseases, including Fabry disease due to the deficient activity of α-galactosidase A (α-Gal A). The development and clinical evaluation of these new therapies require a stepwise process, each step being rigorously reviewed and approved by national or international regulatory agencies. For lethal disorders that affect small populations, such as many inherited metabolic diseases, this process can be accelerated by ‘orphan drug’ and ‘fast track’ regulations. As an example of the drug development process, the development of recombinant human α-Gal A (r-hαGal A) replacement for Fabry disease is presented, including the preclinical studies in the ‘Fabry mouse’ model, and the clinical phase 1/2, phase 3, and phase 3 extension studies, which demonstrate the safety and efficacy of this new therapy.
Queering Intersectional Literacies to Redefine Female Sexualities: A Case Study.

Based on a 1-year interview-based case study of a preservice English teacher, this article considers the limitations of both intersectional literacies and reader-based responses to texts. In an eff...
Post-Transplant Trends in BNP Levels among Recipients of Heart versus Heart-Kidney Transplantation

Purpose Circulating levels of b-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) are elevated following heart transplantation (HT), peak at 1-2 months post-HT, and decline over the course of several months but rarely return to normal. We sought to determine the time course of BNP level following combined heart-kidney transplantation (HKT) compared to HT alone. Methods Between July, 2014 and August, 2017, 11 patients underwent HKT; they were matched based on age, gender, race and body mass index (BMI) to 22 patients undergoing isolated HT. Baseline demographics, serial BNP levels, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; ml/min/1.73 m 2 ) were monitored in patients at post-transplant days 30, 60, 90, 180 and 365. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to compared median BNP levels at different time points between the groups. Results Average age of HKT recipients was 54±18 years (82% females, 27% black Americans, BMI 25±5 kg/m2) and that of HT recipients was 55±14 years (82% females, 27% black Americans, BMI 26±3 kg/m2). As shown in the Figure, BNP values decreased significantly among HKT recipients by 90-days, and remained significantly lower at 1-year post-transplantation (p Conclusion Unlike HT alone, BNP levels were found to be near normal in the majority of HKT recipients within a much shorter period of time and remained low up to 1-year post-transplant. This finding can potentially be explained by improved renal function with kidney transplant ; although, the effect of KT on lusitropic properties of transplanted heart cannot be ruled out.
Aqueous Dearomatization/Diels–Alder Cascade to a Grandifloracin Precursor

A green laboratory experiment has been developed in which students perform an aqueous oxidation/cycloaddition reaction to convert salicyl alcohol into a pentacyclic diepoxydione that is readily isolated by filtration. Drawing on their knowledge of periodate-mediated 1,2-diol cleavage, students propose a mechanism for the oxidation of salicyl alcohol (which is not a 1,2-diol) and the structure of the transient product (prior to a spontaneous Diels–Alder dimerization). Students then characterize salicyl alcohol and their diepoxide product by mass spectrometry, IR spectroscopy, and 1H, 13C, and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy. The only organic solvents used are small amounts for IR and NMR spectroscopy.
Political Science and Polling

This article reviews the history and development of polling that has been relevant to political science in the United States. It covers the early ‘straw polls’ to the advent of ‘scientific polling’ based on statistical sampling, to telephone surveys, exit polls, and later technological developments and ensuing debates. It describes the general use of survey research to study public opinion and political behavior; the sources of errors in surveys and other methodological issues; and the topics in political science regarding public opinion and democracy that polling has helped examine.
Beam coupling impedances of obstacles protruding into a beam pipe

The beam coupling impedances of small obstacles protruding inside the vacuum chamber of an accelerator are calculated at frequencies for which the wavelength is large compared to a typical size of the obstacle. Formulas for a few important particular cases including both essentially three-dimensional objects like a post or a mask and axisymmetric irises, are presented. These results allow simple practical estimates of the broadband impedance contributions from such discontinuities. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}
Demystifying Psychopathology Understanding Disturbed Persons

Three basic questions are frequently asked in the context of psychiatry and psychology: What kinds of behavior are judged to be abnormal, whether by professionals or lay persons? What are the various patterns or forms of disturbed behavior? How can one make sense of the apparently senseless or irrational behavior of disturbed persons? For existential-phenomenological psychology, which seeks to understand human existence on its own terms and to disclose the significance of behavior for the actor as well as the observer, the last question is the most fundamental and constitutes the major focus of this chapter.
Predicting special educators’ intent to continue teaching students with emotional or behavioral disorders in self-contained settings

Schools experience difficulty retaining special educators to serve students with emotional or behavioral disorders (EBD) in self-contained settings, as they have higher rates of burnout and attriti...