cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Angiographic Patterns of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Dysfunction and Interventional Approaches to Shunt Revision

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an established and effective treatment for the complications of portal hypertension. The non-trivial rates of shunt dysfunction inherent to TIPS mandate familiarity with the imaging diagnosis and endovascular management of this phenomenon. Herein, we present a pictorial review of the various angiographic patterns of TIPS dysfunction and illustrate traditional and innovative technical approaches to shunt revision.
On kendall's tau as a test of trend in time series data

Kendall's tau is often used to detect the presence of trend in environmental time series data. Assuming stationarity, a general expression for the variance of the associated S score is derived. The results are specialized to the cases of MA(1) and MA(2). Asymptotic normality of tau is established. It is shown that the variance of tau is strongly affected by the assumption of statistical dependence. A seasonal model with non-zero correlations between successive seasons and years is considered. Simulation results indicate that the effects of departures from distributional assumptions are less important when compared to the effects of departures from the independence assumption.
Educating future practitioners of social work and law: Exploring the origins of inter-professional misunderstanding

Abstract Lawyers and social workers working with disadvantaged populations frequently collaborate to assist clients as they navigate such bureaucratic institutions as child dependency courts. Collaboration in the child welfare field is often characterized by conflict as professionals negotiate roles, duties, and varying ethical responsibilities. One overlooked cause of this conflict involves the difference in how practitioners are socialized. This descriptive, exploratory study describes how the graduate education experiences of future lawyers and social workers differ in both content and process. Eight law and social work classes were observed. The results indicate that the education of lawyers and social workers differs substantially in classroom environment, student–professor interactions, educational techniques, and explicit reference to group process. These differences have implications for the education of future professionals with respect to understanding authority, discretion, and collaboration.
Is Patient-Perceived Severity of a Geriatric Condition Related to Better Quality of Care?

Background Care for falls and urinary incontinence (UI) among older patients is inadequate. One possible explanation is that physicians provide less recommended care to patients who are not as concerned about their falls and UI.
Braid analysis of a bouncing ball

I identify the template organizing the chaotic dynamics of a bounding ball system. I further show how to estimate the topological parameter values of the system directly from a time series---a process I call ``topological time series analysis.'' Two distinct methods to determine the topological parameters are illustrated and compared---the ``pruning front'' procedure and a ``braid analysis.'' Both procedures lead to compatible results.
Flicker evoked increase in optic nerve head blood flow in anesthetized cats.

Abstract The effect of diffuse luminance flicker stimulation of a large area (≈ 30° diameter) on red blood cell flux ( F ) in the optic nerve head was measured in the anesthetized cat. F increased markedly during sustained flicker. The F -response to the initiation and cessation of the stimulation was found to occur within a few seconds. Upon sustained stimulation, the increase in F reached a plateau within approximately 2 min. Its level depended upon the intensity, frequency and wavelength of the stimulation and the state of adaptation of the retina. This stimulus offers a new and powerful means of investigating blood flow regulation in the optic nerve head (ONH).
Non-linear system identification using lumped parameter models with embedded feedforward neural networks

Abstract This paper describes a new methodology to identify multi-degree-of-freedom non-linear systems from the system's operating data. The methodology includes a new non-linear model architecture which embeds feedforward neural networks to represent unknown non-linearities in a lumped parameter model, and a learning algorithm to train the embedded neural networks as well as the other model parameters to obtain model fidelity. Three simulated and experimental examples are used to validate the proposed methodology.
An epidemiologic study of association between birth weight and mental outcome of children assessed in a developmental disabilities clinic.

The purpose of this study is to determine the association between mental retardation and birth weight. Particular attention was given to very low birth weight children (less than 1500 g). Children between the ages of 2 and 7 years, evaluated at a Developmental Pediatrics Clinic, provided a sample of 107 mentally retarded children of which 40 were severely retarded (IQ
Optimization of Static Loading and Sizing of Multilevel Memory Systems

The following two important aspects of multilevel static memory management are treated: (1) memory loading, and (2) memory sizing. An algorithm is developed for the optimal loading of program and data files in various memory levels of given sizes. The selection of optimal sizes from a given set of finite alternatives is done through a cyclic queueing model, which recognizes the effects of queues and waiting times and helps in deriving a balanced system.
Toward a Model for Assessing Level of Personality Functioning in DSM–5, Part I: A Review of Theory and Methods

Personality disorders are associated with fundamental disturbances of self and interpersonal relations, problems that vary in severity within and across disorders. This review surveyed clinician-rated measures of personality psychopathology that focus on self-other dimensions to explore the feasibility and utility of constructing a scale of severity of impairment in personality functioning for DSM-5. Robust elements of the instruments were considered in creating a continuum of personality functioning based on aspects of identity, self-direction, empathy, and intimacy. Building on preliminary findings (Morey et al., 2011 /this issue), the proposed Levels of Personality Functioning will be subjected to extensive empirical testing in the DSM-5 field trials and elsewhere. The resulting version of this severity measure is expected to have clinical utility in identifying personality psychopathology, planning treatment, building the therapeutic alliance, and studying treatment course and outcome.
The Measurement of Vocabulary Difficulty

Author's Summary— Six previous studies of vocabulary measurement are briefed in which four major fallacies mar the techniques. Data are presented from two investigations to show the application of a proposed Index of Difficulty, obtained by combining the two factors of Density and Frequency.
A non-linear finite element model of a spinal segment

Abstract Lumbar intervertebral joints play an important role in the etiology of low-back pain. An understanding of its mechanical response is essential both from the point of its normal function as well as injury prognosis. Since purely experimental investigations cannot provide complete information, mathematical models to supplement experimental records are necessary. In this study a finite element model of a lumbar intervertebral segment is developed to analyze the stress distributions and strain energy absorbing capacities. Experiments were conducted to obtain the geometry and load-deflection data. The nonlinear sigmoidal load-deflection behavior was divided into five distinct phases based on the variation of stiffness, defined by the instantaneous slope of the load-deflection diagram. The threshold of trauma was defined at the point at which the structure exhibited softening characteristics (this corresponds with the first drop of stiffness). Load at this level was termed as the micro failure of softening load. At the point of ultimate load, the specimen had zero stiffness. The non-linear axisymmetric (geometrical and material) model incorporated the cartilagenious and cortical bone, the endplates, and the disc. The nucleus pulposus was modeled using isoparametric quadrilateral fluid elements. The model was validated with experimental axial load-deflection data. To exercise the model, homogeneous, isotropic, and loading path independent material parameters were used for all the components of the spinal segment with the exception of the annulus. The Young's modulus of annulus was estimated as a function of load level using the method of steepest descent. The disc absorbed about 84% of the total strain energy in the initial loading phase (ambient range), and at the threshold of failure, it gradually decreased to about 65%. The bony elements absorbed about 15% at the threshold. The nucleus pressure increased to about 11MPa at the threshold of trauma.
Estimating power system dynamic states using extended Kalman Filter

The state estimation tools which are currently deployed in power system control rooms are based on a steady state assumption. As a result, the suite of operational tools that rely on state estimation results as inputs do not have dynamic information available and their accuracy is compromised. This paper investigates the application of Extended Kalman Filtering techniques for estimating dynamic states in the state estimation process. The new formulated “dynamic state estimation” includes true system dynamics reflected in differential equations, not like previously proposed “dynamic state estimation” which only considers the time-variant snapshots based on steady state modeling. This new dynamic state estimation using Extended Kalman Filter has been successfully tested on a multi-machine system. Sensitivity studies with respect to noise levels, sampling rates, model errors, and parameter errors are presented as well to illustrate the robust performance of the developed dynamic state estimation process.
Low-Tidal-Volume Ventilation in the Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

A 55-year-old man who is 178 cm tall and weighs 95 kg is hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia and progressively severe dyspnea. His arterial oxygen saturation while breathing 100% oxygen through a face mask is 76%; a chest radiograph shows diffuse alveolar infiltrates with air bronchograms. He is intubated and receives mechanical ventilation; ventilator settings include a tidal volume of 1000 ml, a positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) of 5 cm of water, and a fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) of 0.8. With these settings, peak airway pressure is 50 to 60 cm of water, plateau airway pressure is 38 cm of water, partial pressure of arterial oxygen is 120 mm Hg, partial pressure of carbon dioxide is 37 mm Hg, and arterial blood pH is 7.47. The diagnosis of the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is made. An intensive care specialist evaluates the patient and recommends changing the current ventilator settings and implementing a low-tidal-volume ventilation strategy.
A theoretical analysis of the binding of bilirubin by human serum albumin: the contribution of the two binding sites.

Abstract The distribution of bilirubin in plasma between the free and bound forms was analyzed by use of a computer program. The analysis showed that 98% to 99% of the total amount would be bound by the high affinity set of sites and 1% to 2% by the low affinity set of sites; only 0.000011% to 0.0028% would be free over a concentration range of 0 to 200 mg/L. Although the high affinity set of sites would bind most of the bilirubin, the low affinity set of sites would bind more than 500 times as much as would be free which suggests that these sites should be considered as potential reservoirs of bilirubin in displacement reactions by drugs. A reduction in the level of protein from 5, 4, 3, to 2 gm% would result in a progressive increase in the amount of free bilirubin. Along with the reduction in protein concentration was an increase in the relative amount of bilirubin bound by the low affinity set of sites.
Absence of true interchromosomal connectives in microsurgically isolated chromosomes

Abstract Mitotic chromosomes of the Indian muntjac were isolated from cultured fibroblast-like cells by microsurgery. The entire complement of seven chromosomes could be obtained with the radial array of chromosomes on the mitotic spindle intact. The center of the radial array was occupied by a fibrous network which stained with tubulin antiserum. This network was absent when cells were treated with colchicine or vinblastine sulfate prior to chromosome isolation, and probably represents a remnant of the mitotic spindle. Most isolated chromosomes were connected to the spindle by fibers attached to the centromeres. Such fibers did not stain for DNA and were resistant to DNases but sensitive to proteases. No interconnections were found to run from chromosome to chromosome except for occasional artifactual adhesions resulting from collisions between chromosomes which occurred during micromanipulation. We therefore found no evidence that chromosomes of the Indian muntjac are interconnected at mitosis.
Initial surgical experience with a dense cortical microarray in epileptic patients undergoing craniotomy for subdural electrode implantation.

Objective Detailed investigations of cortical physiology require the ability to record brain electrical activity at a submillimeter scale. Standard intracranial electrodes result in significant averaging of potentials generated by large numbers of neurons. In contrast, microelectrode arrays allow for recording of local field potentials and single-unit activity. We describe our initial surgical experience with the NeuroPort microelectrode array (Cyberkinetics Neurotechnology Systems, Inc., Salt Lake City, UT) in a series of patients undergoing subdural electrode implantation for epilepsy monitoring. Methods Seven patients were implanted with and underwent semichronic recording from the NeuroPort array during standard subdural electrode monitoring for epilepsy. The electrode was placed according to company specifications in putative noneloquent epileptogenic cortex. After the monitoring period, microelectrode arrays were removed during explantation of subdural electrodes and resection of epileptogenic tissue. Results Successful implantation of the microelectrode array was achieved in all patients, with minor operative difficulties. Robust and durable local field potentials and single-unit recordings were obtained from all implanted individuals. Implantation times ranged from 3 to 28 days; histological analysis of implanted tissue demonstrated no significant tissue injury or inflammatory response. There were no neurological complications or infections associated with electrode implantation or prolonged monitoring. Two patients developed postresection issues with wound healing at the site of scalp egress, with 1 requiring operative wound revision. Conclusion Our experience demonstrates that semichronic microelectroencephalographic recording can be safely and effectively achieved using the NeuroPort microarray. Although significant tissue injury, infection, or cerebrospinal fluid leak was not encountered, the large profile of the connection pedestal resulted in suboptimal wound closure and healing in several patients. We predict that this problem will be easily addressed in second-generation devices.
Blocking the Adhesion Cascade at the Premetastatic Niche for Prevention of Breast Cancer Metastasis

Shear-resistant adhesion and extravasation of disseminated cancer cells at the target organ is a crucial step in hematogenous metastasis. We found that the vascular adhesion molecule E-selectin preferentially promoted the shear-resistant adhesion and transendothelial migration of the estrogen receptor (ER)–/CD44+ hormone-independent breast cancer cells, but not of the ER+/CD44-/low hormone-dependent breast cancer cells. Coincidentally, CD44+ breast cancer cells were abundant in metastatic lung and brain lesions in ER– breast cancer, suggesting that E-selectin supports hematogenous metastasis of ER–/CD44+ breast cancer. In an attempt to prevent hematogenous metastasis through the inhibition of a shear-resistant adhesion of CD44+ cancer cells to E-selectin-expressing blood vessels on the premetastatic niche, an E-selectin targeted aptamer (ESTA) was developed. We demonstrated that a single intravenous injection of ESTA reduced metastases to a baseline level in both syngeneic and xenogeneic forced breast cancer metastasis models without relocating the site of metastasis. The effect of ESTA was absent in E-selectin knockout mice, suggesting that E-selectin is a molecular target of ESTA. Our data highlight the potential application of an E-selectin antagonist for the prevention of hematogenous metastasis of ER–/CD44+ breast cancer.
Mother-child interaction in the presence of maternal HIV infection.

This comparative study evaluated mother-child interaction in southeastern U.S. mother-child dyads where the mother was HIV positive and determined if the presence of maternal HIV infection was associated with differences in the quality of the mother-child interaction. A comparison was made between two groups of mother-child dyads, one where the mother was HIV positive (N = 25) and one where the mother was not HIV positive (N = 25). The Barnard model of mother-infant interaction guided this study. The quality of interaction within the dyads was assessed using the Nursing Child Assessment Teaching Scales (NCATS). Associated maternal, child, and environmental factors were described using an interview form, Centers for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and the Bayley Infant Neurodevelopmental Screener. The quality of mother-child interaction in the two groups was compared using chi square and paired t tests. Findings from this research showed no statistically significant difference in mother-child interaction (measured by NCATS) between the HIV-positive and HIV-negative groups. Although maternal symptoms of depression were noted in more of the HIV-positive mothers, covariant analysis failed to show this factor had any significant influence on mother-child interaction scores between the groups. It was noted that total sample (N = 50) group mean scores on NCATS maternal subscale and total interaction were significantly lower than published population norms. As the mother-child interaction has critical implications for the child, strategies to improve reciprocity need to be developed in this population, and attention must be paid to mental health needs of HIV-positive women.
Theoretical studies of the geometries of O and S overlayers on the (100) surface of nickel

Abstract Geometries for O and S overlayers on the (100) surface of Ni have been calculated using a b initio wavefunctions for O and S bonded to small clusters of Ni atoms (1 to 5 Ni atoms). The calculated distance of the adatom from the surface is 0.96 A and 1.33 A for O and S, respectively, in excellent agreement with the results of dynamic LEED intensity calculations, 0.9 ± 0.1 A and 1.3 ± 0.1 A, respectively. This indicates that accurate geometries of chemisorbed atoms may be obtained from calculations using clusters.
Solution-Deposited Thin Silver Films on Plastic Surfaces for Low-Cost Applications in Plasmon-Coupled Emission Sensors

We report the deposition of highly uniform thin silver films on plastic materials using a wet-chemistry method, suitable for surface plasmon-coupled emission (SPCE). This approach is reproducible for diverse low-cost applications and versatile to generate silver surfaces on various plastics substrates. An oxygen plasma pretreatment of the plastic provides for rapid silvering, leading to a 47-nm-thick continuous film for SPCE applications. The surface smoothness and thickness of the films have been estimated using atomic force microscope. The higher refractive index of polycarbonate, resulted in an SPCE angle of θF = 470 for Rhodamine B, compared to glass (θF = 500). The current study presents details on film deposition conditions, appropriate choice of index matching fluids, substrates, and light sources that play a vital role to augment SPCE emission intensity.
A new set of adsorption mutants of bacteriophage T4D: Identification of a new gene☆

Abstract Mutants of bacteriophage T4D have been isolated whose phenotype differs from that of T4D + in two respects: (1) the plaque morphology of the mutants is distinguishable from that of T4D + , and (2) the mutants adsorb to bacterial cells at a concentration of polyethylene glycol restrictive for the adsorption of T4D + . These mutants are named CBW mutants. In addition, we received a mutant, T4D. wac , which possesses the phenotype of the CBW mutants. No conditions have been found which are restrictive for the growth of the mutants but permissive for growth of T4D + . The CBW mutants and T4D. wac have been mapped at eight recombinationally distinct sites. These eight loci map into three clusters within which the mutants are genetically linked. One mutant maps in gene 36. Two sites are found in gene 18. The remaining five mutants map at sites lying between the most C-terminal amber mutant mapped in gene 12 and the most N-terminal marker mapped in gene 13. Electron micrographs of the mutants indicate that the five mutants mapping between the terminal markers in genes 12 and 13 are missing the collar and whiskers seen on T4D + and on the mutants mapping in genes 18 and 36. SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of labeled lysates of phage-infected cells shows that these mutants are missing a single, identical protein band, distinct from the protein products of genes 12 and 13. A band of the same molecular weight is missing from gels of purified phage of these five mutants. From this, and the genetic and physiological data, it is suggested that these four CBW mutants and T4D. wac map in a previously undefined gene. It is suggested that this gene is responsible for the presence of collar and whiskers on the phage particle. The gene is called wac (whisker antigen control).
Synthesis and Characterization of Crosslinked Polymers for Biomedical Composites

Abstract Three kinds of low molecular weight unsaturated polyesters containing carbon-carbon double bonds were synthesized by the reaction of poly (e-caprolactone) diol or D,L-lactide and glycolic acid with maleic anhydride or fumaric acid. These functionalized polymers were thermally crosslinked in the presence of radical initiator to prepare the crosslinked polymers available as a matrix resin for biomedical composites. Hydrolysis of the crosslinked polyesters was investigated in buffer solution at 37°C.
Functioning of Epigenetically Evolved Emotion Systems: A Constructive Analysis

Abstract The theory of emotions outlined in this paper follows a general theory that psychological processes maintain an adaptive equilibrium between one's construction system and sensory input from one's world. Persons build constructions to match any class of sensory data, and also build standards for (construe) varied levels of input which accompany the arousal-related activity associated with standard/input mismatch. Conscious identification of different emotional states reflects the use of constructions assigned to different standard/input relations. A constructivist may regard different emotional states or experiences as idealized configurations of attributes; and these configurations can be treated as prototypes, applying the same analyses which have been developed by cognitive scientists who have offered models for discussions of categorization processes. A model for discussing emotional development is provided, and directions of future constructivist investigations are suggested
The Protective Effects of Religious Coping and Spirituality on Delinquency: Results Among High-Risk and Gang-Involved Salvadoran Youth

While research conducted in Western nations suggests that religiosity and spirituality protect against delinquent behavior, few studies have examined these relationships in developing world contexts. Using a community sample of 290 high-risk and gang-involved adolescents (11-17 years) and young adults (18-25 years) in San Salvador, El Salvador, structural equation modeling and logistic regression are used to examine the relationships between religious coping, spirituality, social developmental factors, and delinquency. Results suggest that spirituality and, to a lesser extent, religious coping, protect Salvadoran youth at risk for involvement in delinquent behavior. The relationship between spirituality and delinquency was completely mediated by social developmental factors as no direct association was identified between spirituality and delinquency. Spirituality and religious coping are both relevant protective factors among Salvadoran youth; however, spirituality is more consistently protective against delinquency in terms of its relationship to social developmental mediating factors and its direct associations to particular delinquent behaviors. Language: en
Interarea model estimation for radial power system transfer paths with voltage support using synchronized phasor measurements

In this paper we develop a measurement-based method for estimating a two-machine reduced model to represent the interarea dynamics of a radial, two-area power system with intermediate voltage support. The method uses synchronized bus voltage phasor measurements at three buses including the voltage control bus, and the line currents on the power transfer path.
Anal sphincter-saving operations for chronic ulcerative colitis.

Abstract Three anal sphincter-saving operations—ileorectostomy, ileal pouch-anal anastomosis, and ileal pouch-distal rectal anastomosis—are currently being used in the surgical treatment of chronic ulcerative colitis. All three operations remove the disease, or most of it, and yet they maintain transanal defecation, reasonable fecal continence, and a satisfactory quality of life. All three avoid permanent abdominal ileostomy. Ileorectostomy is the easiest to perform, but it leaves residual disease in the remaining rectum and proximal anal canal that may cause symptoms and that may predispose the patient to cancer. In contrast, ileal pouch-anal anastomosis, although a more technically demanding procedure, totally eradicates the colitis. Its main drawbacks—frequent stooling, nocturnal fecal spotting, and pouchitis—are usually satisfactorily treated with loperamide hydrochloride and metronidazole. Heal pouch-distal rectal anastomosis is somewhat easier to perform than ileal pouch-anal anastomosis and may result in less nocturnal fecal spotting. Like ileorectostomy, however, the operation leaves residual disease in the distal rectum and proximal anal canal. Considering all of these factors, the ileal pouch-anal operation is preferred today for most patients who require surgery for chronic ulcerative colitis.
A NONLINEAR INDICIAL RESPONSE MODEL FOR FOREBODY TANGENTIAL BLOWING AT HIGH ANGLES OF ATTACK

This paper presents the development of a nonlinear aerodynamic model that describes the impact of forebody tangential blowing (FTB) on the generated roll moment for a fixed aircraft attitude. This model uses Nonlinear Indicial Responses (NlR) and incorporates physical insight gained from experimental data. The model accounts for the nonlinear aerodynamic behavior observed when FTB is applied at high angles of attack. Its predictions for the roll moment generated by FTB are compared to actual data and a model that uses a tirstorder lag of the static loads. The NlR model is found to provide a better prediction of the measured transient response. Experimental results used in the model’s development are discussed. They include flow visualization as well as static and dynamic measurements of the aerodynamic loads for various roll angles and blowing mass flow rates. The experimental apparatus used in this study is described and consists of an FTB-equipped wind tunnel model which is free to roll. The model is a wing-body combination with slots on the forebody for tangential blowing and is nominally set at 45 degrees angle of attack. To augment the control of a flight vehicle at high angles of attack, several methods of active flow control have been proposed and explored.4*5 They provide a means to alter the flow structure in a rational manner and increase the controllability of the vehicle under these flight conditions. The injection of thin sheets of air tangentially to the forebody of the vehicle has been found to be an extremely promising method6-8 and progress has been made in demonstrating the feasibility of using Forebody Tangential Blowing (FTB) to control the roll-yaw motion of flight vehicles through both experimental demonstrationsg*10 and simulations.” Experimental investigations into the use of FTB have been conducted at the low-speed wind tunnel of the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics at Stanford University. The experimental apparatus consists of a wind tunnel model that is free to ro11.‘2 The model has a cone-cylinder fuselage and a sharp leading-edge delta wing. It is set at a nominal incidence angle of 45 degrees and is equipped with side slots to support the injection of a thin sheet of air tangentially to the forebody of the vehicle.
Molecular Structure of [Me2Al(μ-OPh)]2: A Crystallographic and Ab initio Study

The molecular structure of [Me2Al(μ-OPh)]2 has been determined. The phenoxide ring is parallel to the Al2O2 ring rather than the energetically favored perpendicular configuration determined by ab initio calculations. Ab initio calculations successfully predict the structures of sterically demanding analogs. The adoption of the parallel configuration allows for an estimation of the magnitude of crystal packing forces. A discussion of the parameters controlling the structures of dialkylaluminum phenoxides is presented. Crystal data: group Pbca, a = 12.127(2), b = 8.491(2), c = 17.299(4) A, V = 1781.3(6) A3, Z = 4, R = 0.0695, wR 2 = 0.1390. The molecular structure of [Me2Al(μ-OPh)]2 has been determined. The phenoxide ring is parallel to the Al2O2 ring rather than the energetically favored perpendicular configuration as determined by ab initio calculations.
Photo-induced site-specific nitridation of plasma-deposited B10C2Hx films: A new pathway toward post-deposition doping of semiconducting boron carbides

Abstract We show that dopant impurities can be introduced in a controlled, site-specific manner into pre-deposited semiconducting boron carbide films. B―N bond formation has been characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy for semiconducting B 10 C 2 H x films exposed to vacuum ultraviolet photons in the presence of NH 3 . Core level photoemission data indicate that B―NH 2 bonds are formed at B sites bonded to other boron atoms (B―B), and not at boron atoms adjacent to carbon atoms (B―C) or at carbon atom sites. Nitridation obeys diffusion-limited kinetics. These results indicate that dopant species can be introduced in a controlled, site-specific manner into pre-deposited boron carbide films, as opposed to currently required dopant incorporation during the deposition process.
Hydrocarbon-fueled solid oxide fuel cells with surface-modified, hydroxylated Sn/Ni–Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.9 heterogeneous catalyst anode

Ni-catalyst-based anode-supported solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) operating with H2 fuel are highly efficient, low-emission, electrochemical energy conversion devices. However, the economical production of hydrogen is a challenge, and there is immense interest to use hydrocarbon fuels directly with SOFC. Unfortunately, the solid-carbon generated continuously by hydrocarbon cracking accumulates on the Ni-metal surface and leads to rapid decline in performance. We show here that 1 atom% Sn (with respect to Ni) incorporated onto a surface-modified Ni–Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.9 (GDC) cermet anode with extended three-phase boundaries, where O2− ions, electrons, and fuels get together, acts as an excellent decoking agent. The hydrophilic Sn doped on the surface of Ni is hydrated and hydroxylated by reacting with the water vapour produced by the electrochemical oxidation of the fuel, and the hydroxyl groups aid the oxidation of neighbouring carbon and drive off as CO2. Moreover, the enlarged three-phase boundaries of the anode allow O2− ions to rapidly reach the deposited carbon as well as the hydrocarbon gas and electrochemically oxidize them. With this modified Sn/Ni–GDC catalyst anode, GDC electrolyte, and La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ cathode, more than 200 h of operation with a methane-fueled SOFC is demonstrated here.
Temporal Inventory on Meaning and Experience: A Structure of Time

Beliefs of nonscientists concerning meanings and experiences of time were assessed by developing and administering a sixty-five-statement questionnaire, the Temporal Inventory on Meaning and Experience. The statements reflected a broad range of conceptions of time and temporal experience which have been expressed by physicists and psychologists. The findings reveal an interesting factor structure of beliefs about physical time, personal time, and duration experience. Comparisons of the beliefs of the respondents with scientific theories and evidence produce insights and implications on the study of time and consciousness.
Count rate statistics for drift detectors

Solid state drift detectors have emerged as a promising technology for high count-rate, high energy-resolution applications, e.g. X-ray spectroscopy and inelastic scattering experiments at synchrotron light sources. In such devices, the charge carriers generated from the absorption of a photon in the detector medium are made to drift through a region that has an electric field defined by field shaping electrodes before approaching and inducing a signal on a sensing electrode. Since all charges drift to this one location, there is a time delay between the occurrence of an event (absorption of a photon) and the generation of the electrode signal which is dependent on the position of the event. In this work, we consider what effect this has on the pile-up statistics. We derive expressions for the cases of a continuous X-ray source, a pulsed source with period that is either much less than the shaper support time or much less than the average drift time, and a pulsed source with a period that is long or comparable to both the shaper support and the drift time.
5-Fluorocytosine Resistance in Cryptococcus neoformans

Isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans from six patients were obtained before and after unsuccessful therapy with 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC). Post-therapy isolates exhibited massive and stable 5-FC resistance. The frequency of drug-resistant mutants in susceptible isolates of C. neoformans was <0.001% (70.4 +/- 17.9 per 10(7) cryptococci), whereas mutant frequencies in resistant isolates approached 100%. Non-drug-induced, spontaneously appearing 5-FC resistant mutants were documented in four susceptible isolates of C. neoformans by use of the statistical method of fluctuation analysis. Mutation rates on these same four isolates ranged from 1.2 x 10(-7) to 4.8 x 10(-7). Total intracellular uptake and incorporation of cytosine-5-(3)H (CyH(3)) and 5-fluorocytosine-2-(14)C (5-FC(14)) into a trichloroacetic acid-insoluble fraction were markedly reduced in six isolates with in vivo-acquired resistance when compared with susceptible pretreatment strains from the same patients. Five of these six isolates also had acquired massive resistance to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), suggesting that a mutation in the uridine-5'-monophosphate pyrophosphorylase was responsible for drug resistance. The sixth isolate, which remained susceptible to 5-FU, appeared to have a defect in a cytosine-specific permease accounting for 5-FC resistance. A single isolate with in vitro-acquired 5-FC and 5-FU resistance had no reduction in uptake or incorporation of CyH(3) or 5-FC(14). The mechanism of resistance in this isolate is discussed.
The Benefit of Co-Locating Groups of Nodes in Cooperative Line Networks

We consider two topologies for the deployment of nodes in a one-dimensional network. The first deployment scenario considers nodes equally spaced on a line, while the second topology has groups of co-located nodes, such that the groups are equally spaced on the line, and such that the two networks have equal average density. In both linear topologies, nodes transmit cooperatively, as opportunistic large arrays, in each hop. The difference is only that in the first topology, the cooperators have disparate path loss, while in the second they do not. We study the multi-hop transmission for both cases, where the one hop distance remains the same for both the topologies. We model both the scenarios with a quasi-stationary Markov chain and show that the co-located groups deployment gives better performance, especially for higher path loss exponents.
Development of a novel Modular Integrated Stackable Layer — Analog System Environment (MISL — ASE) platform for embedded systems education

With the support of Texas Instruments and NASA, a novel Modular Integrated Stackable Layer — Analog System Environment (MISL — ASE) platform has been developed to provide a comprehensive educational hardware environment for three embedded system design courses and two capstone design courses in the Electronic Systems Engineering Technology (ESET) program at Texas A&M University. The MISL-ASE platform uses the TI-MSP430 intelligence layer of the MISL architecture as the main core and control system that can be directly interfaced to the ASE board. Moreover, the MISL-ASE platform encompasses various analog and digital peripherals, such as GPIO outputs/inputs, LEDs, 7-segment displays, audio system, switches, keypad, and TFT LCD with touch screen, typical signal conditioning circuits such as A/D and D/A conversion for analog voltage simulation, battery life and light density measurement, 3-axis accelerometer, high-resolution external ADC converter, multiple analog signal generators, and motor control, etc. Several communication interfaces and protocols are also available such as UART (USB, RS-232/485, Bluetooth, and Zigbee), SPI (Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Micro SD card, and flash memory), I2C (DAC and EEPROM), and 1-wire communication devices. Additionally, the robust design of the ASE board facilitates it being interfaced to a number of other embedded intelligence boards such as the Launchpad development system. This paper will discuss the overall design and capabilities of the MISL-ASE platform and the development of a series of laboratory assignments that can be accomplished using this novel MISL-ASE environment in the area of analog electronics, digital interfacing, and communications.
History of Medical and Surgical Management of Acute Cholecystitis

Awareness that bile and the gallbladder play some sort of role in health and disease dates from antiquity, but not to a knowledgeable degree except for the last two centuries. Although this volume deals specifically with acute cholecystitis, little is written specifically about it from an historic perspective. Therefore, discussed herein is the history of gallbladder surgery and some of those who pioneered the field, which it is hoped will make for informative and enjoyable reading. This is a story of ancient history, ignorance and superstition, anatomists doing clandestine postmortem examinations, the emergence of the scientific method, surgical audacity, and remarkable advances in technology.
A process to support species conservation planning and climate change readiness in protected areas

Abstract –Global change will cause species range shifts, affecting species interactions. The 13 conservation implications of species range shifts are widely unknown. Through forming an 14 ecology-bioinformatics partnership at the National Evolutionary Synthesis Center-Encyclopedia 15 of Life-Biodiversity Heritage Library Research Sprint, we developed an analytical pipeline to 16 test whether global trends are forcing shifts of mutually dependent species in different spatial 17 directions. We calculated potential overlap between dependent species across climate scenarios 18 within protected areas. We selected the Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus) and its nesting host 19 tree the Giant Almendro (Dipteryx panamensis) as a proof-of-concept species pair that will be 20 affected by range shifts. We demonstrate with modeling that the Great Green Macaw will lose 21 approximately 64.0% of suitable habitat in future scenarios, while the Giant Almendro will lose 22 59.7% of suitable habitat. Species habitat overlaps across 85.3 % of its currently predicted 23 distribution and 69.07% of the remaining habitat predicted in future scenarios. After accounting 24 for spatially explicit protected areas networks, only 20.3% and 40.2 % of remaining habitat 25 persists within protected areas across climate scenarios for the Almendro and Macaw, 26 respectively, and 19.9 % of that habitat overlaps between the species. Currently, we are 27 conducting a literature review to select and expand our list of species for use in the pipeline to 28 detect trends for climate readiness planning in protected areas networks. The analytical pipeline 29 will produce habitat suitability maps for multiple climate scenarios based on current 30 distributions, and these maps will potentially be embedded into the Encyclopedia of Life as free, 31 downloadable files. This is just one of several broader impact products from the research. This 32 work demonstrates that modeling the future distribution of species is limited by biotic 33 interactions and that conservation planning should account for climate change scenarios. 34 35
Four Subtle Sins in Scale Development: Some Suggestions for Strengthening the Current Paradigm:

Despite continuing advances in statistical methods, problems in scalar measures persist. This paper reports the findings on a review of marketing scale batteries developed since the publication of ...
Optimal Replacement under Risk

Large investments in capital goods create concern about economic life of specific items of capital such as farm buildings, machinery, and livestock. Many of these assets are subject to involuntary replacement due to random phenomena. This paper develops a model for economic analysis of asset life under conditions of chance failure or loss. Analytical results are derived which imply routine decision rules and provide insight to the economics of replacement.
Demonstration of Hb C Crystals

This procedure involved the preparation of a 3% saline solut ion. EDTA-anticoagulated blood was used. The blood was centrifuged, and the plasma removed. Then a two-part saline, one-part packed cell di lut ion was made. The di lut ion was gently mixed and allowed to stand for at least onehalf hour. Although 12 hours is necessary for good C crystal manifestation, crystals can be seen after one-half hour.
Autoantibodies in Sjögren's Syndrome.

We compiled information on antibodies in Sjogren syndrome, focusing more on clinical manifestations associated with anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies and studies regarding novel antibodies. We reviewed previous as well as most recent studies with the subject heading Sjogren in combination with antibodies and congenital heart block (CHB). Almost half of asymptomatic mothers giving birth to children with CHB ultimately develop Sjogren. We discussed studies concerning the presence of antibodies predating clinical manifestations of disease. Studies in the future are required to ascertain the pathogenic mechanisms associated with these antibodies and the specific clinical manifestation related to new autoantibodies.
Preschool writing and premathematics predict Grade 3 achievement for low-income, ethnically diverse children

ABSTRACTThe present study was designed to explore the association between preschool academic skills and Grade 3 achievement among a sample of ethnically diverse children from low-income families. Data were collected from a sample of 1,442 low-income, ethnically diverse children in preschool and associated with Grade 3 achievement in reading and mathematics 4 years later. Mixed-effects modeling indicated that preschool skills significantly predicted Grade 3 achievement measures while controlling for various child-level factors and random school effects. While several preschool factors were predictive of Grade 3 achievement, writing/copying and counting/premathematics skills were consistently strong predictors of Grade 3 achievement across all measures and domains suggesting these are important foundational skills for academic success in midelementary school among low-income, ethnically diverse children. Findings also replicate studies demonstrating that writing plays an important role in learning and achie...
Safety and Efficacy of the “Easy Internal Jugular (IJ)”: An Approach to Difficult Intravenous Access

Abstract Background The easy internal jugular (Easy IJ) technique involves placement of a single-lumen catheter in the internal jugular vein using ultrasound guidance. This technique is used in patients who do not have suitable peripheral or external jugular venous access. The efficacy and safety of this procedure are unknown. Objective We aimed to estimate efficacy and safety parameters for the Easy IJ when used in emergency department (ED) settings. Methods We conducted a prospective study of the Easy IJ in stable ED patients with severe intravenous access difficulty. The study was conducted simultaneously at two academic EDs and a community university-affiliated ED. Patients were selected for failure of alternative access, hemodynamic stability, and ability to increase the IJ diameter with the Valsalva maneuver. Emergency physicians prepped the skin and inserted an 18-gauge, 4.8-cm catheter using a limited sterile technique. We collected the following data: patient body mass index, age, procedure time, pain score, initial success, loss of patency, occurrence of pneumothorax, infection, or arterial puncture. Results We recorded 83 attempts in 74 patients, with a median age of 44 years and a median body mass index of 27 kg/m 2 . The initial success rate was 88%, with a mean procedure time of 4.4 min (95% confidence interval 3.8–4.9). The average pain score was 3.9 out of 10 (95% confidence interval 3.4–4.5). Ten of 73 successful lines (14%) lost patency. There were no cases of pneumothorax, arterial puncture, or line infection. Conclusion The Easy IJ was inserted successfully in 88% of cases, with a mean time of 4.4 min. Loss of patency, the only complication, occurred in 14% of cases.