cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Reading and Study Center as a Resource for the University Academic Community A Partnership for Learning

(1972). The Reading and Study Center as a Resource for the University Academic Community A Partnership for Learning. Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the Western College Reading Association: Vol. 5, Proceedings of the Fifth Annual Conference of the WCRA. Reading: Putting All the Cards on the Table, pp. 164-170.
Comparing Spatial Estimation Techniques for Precipitation Analysis

Precipitation data from Columbia River Basin was analyzed using different spatial estimation techniques. Kriging, Locally weighted regression (lowess) and Smoothing Spline ANOVA (SS-ANOVA) were used to analyze the data. Log(precipitation) was considered as a function of easting, northing and elevation. Analysis by kriging considered precipitation only as a function of easting and northing. Various quantitative measures of comparisons were considered like maximum absolute deviation, residual sum of squares and scaled variance of deviation. Analyses suggested that SS-ANOVA and lowess performed better than kriging. Residual plots showed that the distribution of residuals was tighter for SS-ANOVA than for lowess and kriging. Precipitation seemed to have an increasing trend with elevation but seemed to stabilize after certain elevation. Analysis was also done for Willamette River Basin data. Similar results were observed.
Anisotropic Materials Characterization Using Air-Coupled Ultrasound

Ultrasonic materials characterization is widely used to assess both properties and defects of structural components. Recently, the option of gas- or air-coupled ultrasonic testing has become a realistic possibility. In this paper we develop the application of resonant sound transmission methods through ambient air in anisotropic materials with the sound wavevector oriented in a general direction in an anisotropic laminate. Establishing and demontrating the importance of voltage contributions from rays not contained in the incident plane, for sound propagation in a non-symmetry direction, is the major result of this paper.
Helping Children with Emotional Difficulties

This article describes a Response to Intervention (RTI) model of service delivery implemented within a rural elementary school for students in kindergarten through fifth grade experiencing significant emotional and behavioral difficulties. A multi-tiered model is presented that includes school wide interventions in Tier 1, as well as a six separate interventions applied within Tier 2 and Tier 3. These included applied behavioral analysis, social skills training, counseling, differentiated instruction, cognitive behavioral interventions and parent involvement designed to assist identified students with improving prosocial skills. Nine children were treated within this program model over a two year period, resulting in two students being placed in special education under the category of emotional disturbance by the project’s termination. Positive and negative aspects of the project’s implementation are reviewed, along with directions for future research.
Prognostic value of needle electromyography in traumatic brachial plexus injury.

Introduction In this study we aimed to determine whether needle electromyographic assessment of voluntary motor unit recruitment in traumatic brachial plexus injuries could predict spontaneous motor recovery. Methods A retrospective study was performed on patients with brachial plexus injury affecting deltoid, supraspinatus/infraspinatus, and biceps brachii. The outcome measure was strength on manual muscle testing at least 1 year after injury. Good outcome was considered strength >3/5 on the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale. Results No muscles with no recruitment (n = 27) at 1-9 months improved to MRC 4/5 strength at a mean of 2.0 years postinjury. Twenty-five percent of muscles with discrete or severely reduced recruitment (n = 8) regained strength to >3/5 at a mean of 1.4 years postinjury (P = .047). Discussion Absent voluntary motor unit potential recruitment at 1-9 months predicted poor prognosis for spontaneous recovery. A high percentage of patients with discrete recruitment did not improve to >3/5 strength. These patients should be considered for early nerve transfer surgery.
Comparison of Artificial Intelligence based approaches to cell function prediction

Predicting Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) cell functions in stem cell implants using non-invasive bright field microscopy imaging is a critical task for clinical deployment of stem cell therapies. Such cell function predictions can be carried out using Artificial Intelligence (AI) based models. In this paper we used Traditional Machine Learning (TML) and Deep Learning (DL) based AI models for cell function prediction tasks. TML models depend on feature engineering and DL models perform feature engineering automatically but have higher modeling complexity. This work aims at exploring the tradeoffs between three approaches using TML and DL based models for RPE cell function prediction from microscopy images and at understanding the accuracy relationship between pixel-, cell feature-, and implant label-level accuracies of models. Among the three compared approaches to cell function prediction, the direct approach to cell function prediction from images is slightly more accurate in comparison to indirect approaches using intermediate segmentation and/or feature engineering steps. We also evaluated accuracy variations with respect to model selections (five TML models and two DL models) and model configurations (with and without transfer learning). Finally, we quantified the relationships between segmentation accuracy and the number of samples used for training a model, segmentation accuracy and cell feature error, and cell feature error and accuracy of implant labels. We concluded that for the RPE cell data set, there is a monotonic relationship between the number of training samples and image segmentation accuracy, and between segmentation accuracy and cell feature error, but there is no such a relationship between segmentation accuracy and accuracy of RPE implant labels.
Using a portable hydrogen cyanide gas meter to uncover a dynamic phytochemical landscape.

Premise Over 3000 species of plants and animals release toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN) gas when their tissues are crushed. To investigate the role of cyanogenesis in Passiflora-herbivore interactions, we developed an inexpensive, rapid, sensitive method for measuring HCN emissions from crushed tissues. Methods The method includes crushed tissue confinement in a closed chamber, where cyanogenesis reactions occur, followed by evacuation of gas to a portable HCN meter. Parts per million readings are repeated at 5-min intervals until HCN is depleted. Three versions of the closed reaction chamber apparatus were tested: plastic cup, airtight combination mortar-pestle, and glass desiccator jar. Results We calibrated the method by comparing with a closed chamber measurement apparatus. The procedure's repeatability was demonstrated with a standard curve using known quantities of cyanogenic glycoside standard. Data collected with this method were also compared with the conventional colorimetric procedure. We processed over 2000 samples using this technique, revealing diverse elements of cyanogenic variation. Conclusions These methods produced well-defined data with minimal error. Results illustrated a one to four order-of-magnitude variation at organizational levels ranging from individual leaves to the entire Passiflora community. We now have a promising tool for uncovering the HCN phytochemical landscape in unprecedented detail.
The Role of Nursing in the School Setting to Lead Efforts to Impact Child Trafficking: An Integrative Review

Registered professional and advanced practice nurses in the school setting, as a specialized practice entity, are leaders in implementation of evidence-based practice, skilled coordinators of care, advocates for students, and experts in designing systems assisting individuals and communities to reach full potential. Child trafficking (CT) is an emerging public health threat impacting safety and well-being of students present in the school setting. This literature review identified four themes in five studies: (1) training impacts nurses' knowledge, awareness, and attitudes; (2) school nursing is underrepresented in training, education, prevention, response, and research; (3) lack of collaboration exists between school staff and school nurses; and (4) formal education and length of experience impact levels of interventions school nurses are able to provide. School nurses are opportunely situated to intervene as advocates for vulnerable children to develop a coordinated, effective response to CT risk factors, mitigating risk and fostering resiliency with systems-based change.
Child maltreatment in the time of COVID-19: Changes in the Florida foster care system surrounding the COVID-19 safer-at-home order.

Abstract Background Media outlets have suggested that rates of child maltreatment may increase during the global COVID-19 pandemic. The few empirical studies that have examined pandemic related changes in rates of child maltreatment have relied predominantly on reports of suspected maltreatment. Objective This study examines rates of documented, substantiated child maltreatment resulting in foster care placement, as well as demographic correlates of child maltreatment within the foster care system, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants and setting Data were available for all youth in the FL foster care system from January 1, 2001 through June 30, 2020 (i.e., > 304,000 youth; > 1.1 million total placements). Methods This study utilizes data from the Florida State Automated Child Welfare Information System (SACWIS). Results Results revealed a decrease in the number of youths placed in the FL foster care system during the COVID-19 pandemic with the greatest reduction in April, 2020 during the Safer-at-Home Order (24 % fewer youth in 2020 than 2019). In contrast, the percentage of placements into foster care due to maltreatment increased by 3.34 %. Demographic-linked differences were observed in placement rates and exposure to maltreatment. Conclusions While prior work suggests that reports of child maltreatment have decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study demonstrates that overall rates of substantiated maltreatment resulting in foster care placement have increased for White youth, while rates of placement of due to inadequate supervision, emotional neglect, and/or parental substance use have decreased for Black youth. Implications for policy and future research are discussed.
Will Nasdaq's Diversity Rules Harm Investors?

In December 2020, Nasdaq asked the Securities and Exchange Commission to approve new diversity rules. The aim is for most Nasdaq-listed firms to have at least one director self-identifying as female and another self-identifying as an underrepresented minority or LGBTQ+. While Nasdaq claims these rules will benefit investors, the empirical evidence provides little support for the claim that gender or ethnic diversity in the boardroom increases shareholder value. In fact, rigorous scholarship—much of it by leading female economists—suggests that increasing board diversity can actually lead to lower share prices. Adoption of Nasdaq’s proposed rules would thus generate substantial risks for investors.
Automated delineation of head and neck organs at risk using synthetic MRI-aided mask scoring regional convolutional neural network.

PURPOSE Auto-segmentation algorithms offer a potential solution to eliminate the labor-intensive, time-consuming, and observer-dependent manual delineation of organs-at-risk (OARs) in radiotherapy treatment planning. This study aimed to develop a deep learning-based automated OAR delineation method to tackle the current challenges remaining in achieving reliable expert performance with the state-of-the-art auto-delineation algorithms. METHODS The accuracy of OAR delineation is expected to be improved by utilizing the complementary contrasts provided by computed tomography (CT) (bony-structure contrast) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (soft-tissue contrast). Given CT images, synthetic MR images were firstly generated by a pre-trained cycle-consistent generative adversarial network. The features of CT and synthetic MRI were then extracted and combined for the final delineation of organs using mask scoring regional convolutional neural network. Both in-house and public datasets containing CT scans from head-and-neck (HN) cancer patients were adopted to quantitatively evaluate the performance of the proposed method against current state-of-the-art algorithms in metrics including Dice similarity coefficient (DSC), 95th percentile Hausdorff distance (HD95), mean surface distance (MSD), and residual mean square distance (RMS). RESULTS Across all of 18 OARs in our in-house dataset, the proposed method achieved an average DSC, HD95, MSD, and RMS of 0.77 (0.58-0.90), 2.90 mm (1.32-7.63 mm), 0.89 mm (0.42-1.85 mm), and 1.44 mm (0.71-3.15 mm), respectively, outperforming the current state-of-the-art algorithms by 6%, 16%, 25%, and 36%, respectively. On public datasets, for all nine OARs, an average DSC of 0.86 (0.73-0.97) were achieved, 6% better than the competing methods. CONCLUSION We demonstrated the feasibility of a synthetic MRI-aided deep learning framework for automated delineation of OARs in HN radiotherapy treatment planning. The proposed method could be adopted into routine HN cancer radiotherapy treatment planning to rapidly contour OARs with high accuracy.
Cryptococcus neoformans melanization incorporates multiple catecholamines to produce polytypic melanin

Melanin is a major virulence factor in pathogenic fungi that enhances the ability of fungal cells to resist immune clearance. Cryptococcus neoformans is an important human pathogenic fungus that synthesizes melanin from exogenous tissue catecholamine precursors during infection, but the type of melanin made in cryptococcal meningoencephalitis is unknown. We analyzed the efficacy of various catecholamines found in brain tissue in supporting melanization using animal brain tissue and synthetic catecholamine mixtures reflecting brain tissue proportions. Solid-state NMR spectra of the melanin pigment produced from such mixtures displayed larger melanin contributions than expected from the most robust dopamine constituent, suggesting uptake of additional catecholamines. Probing the biosynthesis of melanin using radiolabeled catecholamines revealed that C. neoformans melanization simultaneously incorporated more than one catecholamine, implying that the pigment was polytypic in nature. Nonetheless, melanin derived from individual or mixed catecholamines had comparable ability to protect C. neoformans against ultraviolet light and oxidants. Our results indicate that melanin produced during infection differs depending on the catecholamine composition of tissue and that melanin pigment synthesized in vivo is likely to accrue from the polymerization of a mixture of precursors. From a practical standpoint our results strongly suggest that using dopamine as a polymerization precursor is capable of producing melanin pigment comparable to that produced during infection. On a more fundamental level our findings uncover additional structural complexity for natural cryptococcal melanin by demonstrating that pigment produced during human infection is likely to be composed of polymerized moieties derived from chemically different precursors.
Surgical Techniques: Spondylolysis Repair

Lumbar spondylolysis is a bony defect in the pars interarticularis. The most common presentation is bilateral defects in the pars. The clinical symptom is activity-related back pain in young, athletic patients. The diagnosis is confirmed on radiographs or CT scan. MRI is indicated for atypical presentations, neurological symptoms, or pre-operative grading of the lumbar discs involved. While non-operative management is the mainstay of treatment, surgical intervention is indicated for patients who are not responsive despite adequate period of conservative management such as activity modification (stopping sports), physical therapy, and occasionally bracing. The selection of surgical candidates for pars interarticularis includes age, duration of the pain, and responsiveness to a pars block (pain relief after guided injection into the pars with local analgesia and steroid), segmental instability, discal health below the spondylolytic segments and laterality of the defect. The surgical technique has evolved over time. Segmental fusion is not advocated in the young population. The techniques of pars interarticularis repair using direct laminar/pars compression screw fixation or a pedicle screw, rod, and laminar hook construct are described. Overall successful outcome is reported in 90 % of patients. Potential complications include nerve root injury, implant breakage or dislodgement, non-union, infection, and conversion to segmental fusion.
Cytomegalovirus replication in cells pretreated with 5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine.

Abstract The replication of human cytomegalovirus (CMV) in cells pretreated with 5-iodo-2′-deoxyuridine (IUdR) was studied. Pretreatment of cells with IUdR enhanced several parameters of virus replication. Virus grown in drug-treated cells exhibited a shorter eclipse period and the cells produced more infectious virus sooner than did untreated cells. There was an approximate fivefold increase in virus yield per cell in the drug-treated samples when compared to control cultures. The time required for plaque development was shortened by 6 days in drug-treated cultures. Pretreatment of cells with IUdR also increased plaquing efficiency of the virus by approximately 10-fold. The enhancement of virus replication by IUdR was further demonstrated by varying the multiplicity of infection. In a 7-day period there was a 100-fold increase in sensitivity of the cultures for virus detection when the cells had been previously exposed to IUdR. The data presented indicate the possibility that IUdR interferes with the production of a cellular product inhibitory for CMV replication.
Building an Inclusive, Accessible, and Responsive Campus at California State University East Bay, 2010-2015

California State University East Bay (CSUEB), opened in 1959 with 300 students on one campus. Since then, it has grown to serve over 14,000 students on three campuses. The motto of our university i...
Occurrence of an Inhibitor of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Green Olives

Green olives were found to contain an inhibitor(s) of several species of lactic acid bacteria usually associated with the Spanish-type brined olive fermentation. The inhibitor was demonstrated by the presence of inhibition zones surrounding tissue which had been cut from frozen olives and implanted in a seeded nutritive agar medium. Relative potencies of aqueous extracts of frozen olives were determined by a paper disc assay method. The Mission variety of olive contained the most inhibitor, and the Manzanillo and Ascolano, about 50 and 40% as much as the Mission variety, respectively. Sevillano and Barouni varieties contained comparatively little inhibitor. Effects of the inhibitor on growth rates of lactic acid bacteria were determined by adding various amounts of a concentrated aqueous extract of olives to a nutritive broth medium contained in screw-capped tubes. Of the four species of lactic acid bacteria tested, Leuconostoc mesenteroides was the most sensitive, and Lactobacillus plantarum was the least sensitive; Pediococcus cerevisiae and Lactobacillus brevis were intermediate in sensitivity. Extracts possessed a bactericidal property, as evidenced by their effect on L. mesenteroides. Sodium chloride, especially at concentrations of about 5% and higher, greatly increased the effectiveness of the inhibitor. The inhibitor was ethyl alcohol-soluble and was stable when heated at 100 C in aqueous solution. Potencies of extracts were reduced greatly by adjustment to pH 10, but no appreciable effect was noted by adjustment to pH 0.8.
Conceptual modeling of genetic studies and pharmacogenetics

Genetic Studies examine relationships between genetic variation and disease development. Pharmacogenetics studies the responses to drugs against genetic variation. These two lines of research evaluate relationships among genotype, phenotype, and environment regarding subjects. These studies demand a variety of other information; such as clinical observations, disease development history, demographics, life style, and living environment. Correct and informative modeling of these data is critical for bioinformaticians; the model affects the capacity of data manipulation and the types of queries they can ask as well as performance of the implemented system. In this paper, we present a conceptual model on genetic studies and Pharmacogenetics using Unified Modeling Language (UML). Our model provides a comprehensive view of integrated data for genetic studies and Pharmacogenetics by incorporating genomics, experimental data, domain knowledge, research approaches, and interface data for other publicly available resources into one cohesive model. Our model can support diverse biomedical research activities that use both clinical and biomedical data to improve patient care through incorporation of the roles of environment, life style and genetics. Our model consists of a set of class diagrams organized into a hierarchy of packages diagrams to clearly and intuitively show inter-object relationships at different levels of complexity.
Durability/reliability of BGA solder joints under vibration environment

The objective of the present study is to develop an experimentally validated vibration fatigue damage model for a plastic ball grid array (PBGA) solder joint assembly. A 3-D modeling technique is used to simulate the vibration responses of the BGA packages soldered onto a printed wiring assembly (PWA). In the study, a method to determine the stresses/strains of BGA solder joints resulting from exposure of the PWA to random vibration environments is first described. Linear static and dynamic finite element analyses using MSC/NASTRAN/sup TM/ computer code, combined with a volume-weighted average technique, are then conducted to calculate the effective strains of the solder joints. In the calculation process, several in-house developed Fortran programs, in conjunction with the outputs obtained from MSC/NASTRAN/sup TM/ static and frequency response analyses, are used to perform the required computations. A vibration fatigue life model, evolved from an empirically derived formula of universal slopes based on high-cycle fatigue test data, is established. This model combined with a three-band technique and the derived solder effective strain is then used to predict the PBGA solder joint survivability/durability. This prediction is compared to in-house test results to qualitatively calibrate (in the sense of conservation) the proposed PBGA solder joint vibration fatigue damage model. This validated model is then recommended to serve as an effective tool to determine the integrity of the PBGA solder joints during vibration. Selecting more study cases with various package sizes, solder ball configurations, vibration profiles to further calibrate this vibration fatigue damage model is also recommended. An example of a 313-pin PBGA is illustrated in the present study.
Ribonucleotide reductase subunit one as gene therapy target: commentary re: M-Y. Cao et al., Adenovirus-mediated ribonucleotide reductase R1 gene therapy of human colon adenocarcinoma. Clin. Cancer Res., 9: 4304-4308, 2003.

RNR[2][1] catalyzes the reaction in which 2′-deoxyribonucleotides are generated from the corresponding ribonucleotide 5′-diphosphates. This is the rate-limiting step in the production of 2′-deoxyribonucleoside 5′-triphosphates required for DNA replication. RNR consists of two protein
Aggressive mimicry in neonates of the sidewinder rattlesnake, Crotalus cerastes (Serpentes: Viperidae): stimulus control and visual perception of prey luring

Aggressive mimicry in vertebrates remains understudied relative to other categories of mimetic systems, such as Batesian mimicry. Prey attraction through caudal luring (CL) is a type of aggressive mimicry that constitutes a tripartite relationship in which a predator (mimic, S2), typically a snake, produces a highly specific tail display in the presence of a prey species (receiver or operator, R) to produce a resemblance to a prey animal (model, S1), such as a worm or insect, that the receiver mistakes for food and attempts to capture. Most reports of CL in snakes, however, are not hypothesis-based and provide limited information on the cognitive interplay between predator and prey. In two experiments, CL was studied using a large sample (N = 40) of neonatal sidewinder rattlesnakes (Crotalus cerastes) and lizards (N = 12 species) to investigate stimulus control and visual perception. In experiment 1, CL was elicited in 110 trials using lizards that were either syntopic (N = 6 species) or nonsympatric (N = 6 species) to C. cerastes, and CL occurred at a significantly greater frequency when using syntopic taxa. Similarly, syntopic lizards were attracted to luring snakes significantly more than their nonsympatric counterparts. The presence of CL in C. cerastes was not ubiquitous and we provide preliminary evidence that this behaviour varies geographically and thus has a genetic basis. In experiment 2, a potential predator (live toad) was introduced to subjects that had been stimulated to lure by means of a prey-dummy and, in all (N = 8) trials, there was an immediate shift in the behaviour of the snakes. The most notable changes were termination of CL and a transition to species-typical defensive displays, which included rapid tail vibration and audible rattling in individuals with two (or more) rattle segments. We discuss future directions of CL research in snakes, especially with regard to expanding the types of cognitive tests. © 2008 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2008, 95, 81–91.
Decreased fecundity and sperm DNA methylation patterns

Objective To evaluate the relationship between epigenetic patterns in sperm and fecundity. Design Prospective study. Setting Academic andrology and in vitro fertilization laboratory. Patient(s) Twenty-seven semen samples from couples who conceived within 2 months of attempting a pregnancy and 29 semen samples from couples unable to achieve a pregnancy within 12 months. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Genomewide assessment of differential sperm DNA methylation and standard semen analysis. Result(s) We analyzed DNA methylation alterations associated with fecundity in 124 semen samples, and identified regions of interest in 27 semen samples from couples who conceived within 2 months of attempting a pregnancy and a total of 29 semen samples from couples who were unable to achieve a pregnancy within 12 months. No differences in sperm count, sperm morphology, or semen volume were observed between the patients achieving a pregnancy within 2 months of study time and those not obtaining a pregnancy within 12 months. However, using data from the human methylation 450k array analysis we did identify two genomic regions with statistically significantly decreased (false discovery rate HSPA1L and HSPA1B . Conclusion(s) Our data suggest that there are genomic loci where DNA methylation alterations are associated with decreased fecundity. We have thus identified candidate loci for future study to verify these results and investigate the causative or contributory relationship between altered sperm methylation and decreased fecundity.
Towards Predictive Computational Models of Oncolytic Virus Therapy: Basis for Experimental Validation and Model Selection

Oncolytic viruses are viruses that specifically infect cancer cells and kill them, while leaving healthy cells largely intact. Their ability to spread through the tumor makes them an attractive therapy approach. While promising results have been observed in clinical trials, solid success remains elusive since we lack understanding of the basic principles that govern the dynamical interactions between the virus and the cancer. In this respect, computational models can help experimental research at optimizing treatment regimes. Although preliminary mathematical work has been performed, this suffers from the fact that individual models are largely arbitrary and based on biologically uncertain assumptions. Here, we present a general framework to study the dynamics of oncolytic viruses that is independent of uncertain and arbitrary mathematical formulations. We find two categories of dynamics, depending on the assumptions about spatial constraints that govern that spread of the virus from cell to cell. If infected cells are mixed among uninfected cells, there exists a viral replication rate threshold beyond which tumor control is the only outcome. On the other hand, if infected cells are clustered together (e.g. in a solid tumor), then we observe more complicated dynamics in which the outcome of therapy might go either way, depending on the initial number of cells and viruses. We fit our models to previously published experimental data and discuss aspects of model validation, selection, and experimental design. This framework can be used as a basis for model selection and validation in the context of future, more detailed experimental studies. It can further serve as the basis for future, more complex models that take into account other clinically relevant factors such as immune responses.
Hormone replacement therapy trials: An update

Recent randomized trials of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in postmenopausal women are not consistent with the decrease in cardiovascular risk seen in observational studies of hormone therapy users compared with nonusers. Emerging evidence indicates that HRT use in some women with established coronary heart disease may be associated with prothrombotic effects or proinflammatory effects leading to adverse events. In healthy women, the decision to use HRT should be based primarily on non-cardiac factors until more data becomes available that is relevant to this population. Several alternatives to HRT, including phytoestrogens and selective estrogen receptor modulators, have favorable effects on cardiovascular risk factors, but their impact on clinical outcomes remains to be determined.
Vertebral bone mineral content in osteogenesis imperfecta.

Quantitative computed tomography of the lumbar spine was carried out in 28 patients with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) in order to measure vertebral trabecular bone mineral concentration (BMC). The patients ranged in age from 6–73 years, and included 3 of the 4 major clinical subtypes of the disease. The findings underscore the heterogeneity of osteogenesis imperfecta even among family members with the same disease type. In addition, cross-sectional analysis of Type I OI patients suggests that BMC during young adulthood averages about 70% of normal, and subsequently falls more rapidly than in normal patients. BMC tends to be lower in the more severe forms of OI. Decreased BMC was not found in a few otherwise normal relatives with scoliosis or joint laxity.
Multidisciplinary Team Approach in the Management of Tracheostomy Patients

ObjectiveTo examine whether the implementation of a multidisciplinary percutaneous tracheostomy team decreases complications, improves efficiency in patient care, and reduces length of stay and cos...
Efficient incremental code update for sensor networks

Wireless reprogramming of sensor nodes is an essential requirement for long-lived networks since software functionality needs to be changed over time. During reprogramming, the number of radio transmissions should be minimized, since reprogramming time and energy depend chiefly on the number of radio transmissions. In this article, we present a multihop incremental reprogramming protocol called Zephyr that transfers the delta between old and new software versions, and lets the sensor nodes rebuild the new software using the received delta and the old software. Zephyr reduces the delta size by using application-level modifications to mitigate the effects of function shifts. Then it compares the two binary images at the byte level to generate a small delta, that is then sent over the wireless network to all the nodes. For the wide range of software change cases that we used as benchmarks, Zephyr transfers 1.83 to 1987 times less traffic through the network than Deluge (the standard nonincremental reprogramming protocol for TinyOS) and 1.14 to 49 times less traffic than an existing incremental reprogramming protocol by Jeong and Culler [2004].
A decadal investigation of supraglacial lakes in West Greenland using a fully automatic detection and tracking algorithm

Abstract The sudden drainage of supraglacial lakes has been previously observed to initiate surface-to-bed hydrologic connections, which are capable of enhancing basal sliding, in regions of the Greenland Ice Sheet where ice thickness approaches 1 km. In this study, we develop a robust algorithm, which automatically detects and tracks individual supraglacial lakes using visible satellite imagery, to document the evolution of a population of West Greenland supraglacial lakes over ten consecutive melt seasons. Validation tests indicate that the algorithm is highly accurate: 99.0% of supraglacial lakes can be detected and tracked and 96.3% of reported lakes are true supraglacial lakes with accurate lake properties, such as lake area, and timing of formation and drainage. Investigation of the interannual evolution of supraglacial lakes in the context of annual melt intensity reveals that during more intense melt years, supraglacial lakes drain more frequently and earlier in the melt season. Additionally, the lake population extends to higher elevations during more intense melt years, exposing an increased inland area of the ice sheet to sudden lake drainage events. These observations suggest that increased surface meltwater production due to climate change will enhance the spatial extent and temporal frequency of lake drainage events. It is unclear whether this will ultimately increase or decrease the basal sliding sensitivity of interior regions of the Greenland Ice Sheet.
Patients' description of rectal effluent and quality of bowel preparation at colonoscopy

Background There are few data evaluating how accurately patients can predict the quality of their colonoscopy preparation. Objective The aim of this study was to assess whether patients' description of rectal effluent predicts preparation quality as assessed per endoscopist. Design Prospective, cross-sectional. Setting Three outpatient endoscopy units at Indiana University Medical Center. Patients Patients undergoing colonoscopy were enrolled. Interventions Patients were given a questionnaire assessing their preparation based on the description of their last rectal effluent. This was compared with endoscopists assessment of preparation. Main outcome measurements Correlation between the patient's description of the last effluent and endoscopist's assessment of preparation. Results Of the total 429 patients, 59% were male and 75% were white. There was only slight agreement between the patients' description of effluent and the endoscopists' description of preparation (Cohen kappa statistic, 0.067). However, patients reporting brown liquid or solid had a 54% chance of having fair or poor preparation. Ingestion of Limitations No validated system to assess the quality of the bowel preparation or for patients to assess their preparation. Conclusion Patients' description of last rectal effluent is not a reliable predictor of quality of preparation per the endoscopist, but patients reporting their last effluent as brown liquid or solid have a substantial likelihood of inadequate preparation. These patients may benefit from additional preparation, which may be particularly useful if it can be administered in the endoscopy unit followed by colonoscopy on the same day.
Experiences in math, science and technology summer camps for young females

Although there is an increase of career opportunities in science and technology fields, various research continues to reflect the under-representation of women in these areas. Panelists will report on their experiences in hosting summer math, science and/or technology camps being used to try and reverse this trend. They will discuss how data collected from camp sessions indicates that efforts to reverse this trend must be initiated at ages earlier than previously noted. The panelists will share successful and unsuccessful ideas and camp age appropriate activities, as well as advertising and implementation details.
An instrument for alternating current voltammetry featuring a digital phase-sensitive detector: Application to flow-injection analysis using ac amperometry

An instrument, which incorporates a lock-in amplifier based on a digital phase sensitive detector, has been designed and constructed for ac electrochemical measurements of solutions containing low concentrations of analyte. The performance of the lock-in amplifier was characterized experimentally. Phase angle resolution is better than 0.01°, and signal capture ratios up to about 80,000 can be attained. An up/down counter replaces the multiplier of the typical analog phase-sensitive detector. Provision was made to sum the net count over a preselected number of cycles of the reference signal to improve the sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio of the phase-sensitive detector. The lock-in amplifier output can be read on a recorder via a digital-to-analog converter or sent to a computer. Overall instrument performance is demonstrated using ac amperometry at a carbon paste electrode and flow injection techniques to determine o-dianisidine. Peak currents corresponding to a solution concentration of 6 nM in the detector were successfully measured.
Measurement of model propulsion system noise in a low-speed wind tunnel

Methods are presented for making overall and directional acoustic measurements with forward velocity in the Lewis 9 x 15 V/STOL wind tunnel. Overall acoustic measurements are discussed; the acoustic calibration methods, instrumentation features, and types of experiments are presented. Selected data are presented as examples of the various types of overall measurements that are possible. The method of making directional acoustic measurements is presented, and the necessary alterations to the tunnel, specialized acoustic instrumentation, and calibration details are described. The results indicate that relative overall acoustic measurements can be made successfully and that directional acoustic measurements are feasible.
Effect of prior exercise on thermal sensitivity of malignant hyperthermia-susceptible muscle.

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) episodes may occur upon exposure to halogenated anesthetics, during resistance and endurance exercise, and in response to thermal stress. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of prior eccentric and concentric (i.e., wheel running) exercise on the thermal sensitivity of isolated MH-susceptible mouse muscle (RyR1Y522S/wt). Eccentric, but not concentric, exercise attenuated the thermal sensitivity of MH-susceptible muscle. Muscle Nerve, 2010
Physical control of chlorophyll a, POC, and TPN distributions in the pack ice of the Ross Sea, Antarctica

[1] The pack ice ecosystem of the Ross Sea was investigated along a 1470-km north-south transect during the spring 1998 oceanographic program Research on Ocean-Atmosphere Variability and Ecosystem Response in the Ross Sea (ROAVERRS). Snow and sea ice thickness along the transect varied latitudinally, with thinner snow and ice at the northern ice edge and thin new ice in the vicinity of the Ross Sea polynya. Relative to springtime observations in other sea ice regions, algal chlorophyll a (Chl a) concentrations were low. In contrast, particulate organic carbon (POC), total particulate nitrogen (TPN), and POC:Chl a were all high, indicating either that the ice contained substantial amounts of detritus or nonphotosynthetic organisms, or that the algae had a high POC:Chl a ratio. The abundance of Chl a, POC, and TPN in the sea ice was related to ice age and thickness, as well as to snow depth: older ice had thinner snow cover and contained higher algal biomass while new ice in the polynya had lower biomass. Older pack ice was dominated by diatoms (particularly Fragilariopsis cylindrus) and had vertical distributions of Chl a, POC, and TPN that were related to salinity, with higher biomass at the ice-water interface. Fluorescence-based measurements of photosynthetic competence (Fv/Fm) were higher at ice-water interfaces, and photosynthesis-irradiance characteristics measured for bottom ice algae were comparable to those measured in pack ice communities of other regions. Nutrient concentrations in extracted sea ice brines showed depletion of silicate and nitrate, depletion or regeneration of phosphate and nitrite, and production of ammonium when normalized to seawater salinity; however, concentrations of dissolved inorganic nitrogen, phosphorous, and silica were typically above levels likely to limit algal growth. In areas where pack ice and snow cover were thickest, light levels could be limiting to algal photosynthesis. Enrichment of δ13C-POC in the sea ice was correlated with the accumulation of POC, suggesting that carbon sources for photosynthesis might shift in response to decreasing CO2 supply. Comparisons between new ice and underlying waters showed similar algal species dominance (Phaeocystis antarctica) implying incorporation of phytoplankton, with substantially higher POC and TPN concentrations in the ice.
Sodium-potassium activated adenosine triphosphatase in coelacanth tissues: high activity in rectal gland.

1. 1. Activity levels of sodium-potassium activated adenosine triphosphatase in the rectal gland of Latimeria chalumnae were found to be comparable with those in elasmobranch fish, implicating a role of the coelacanth rectal gland in salt secretion. 2. 2. Moderately high activities of the enzyme were also found in kidney and rostral organ of Latimeria.
A comparison of laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy versus laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy

Background We set out to compare the length of stay, costs, and morbidity associated with laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy (LSH) with laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH).
Preparation of ribohomopolymers of defined length

Abstract A method has been developed for the preparation of defined-length homopolymers of long chain length in high yield.
Gap free CONUS surveillance using dense networks of short range radars

Dense networks of short-range radars having the potential for improved surveillance of weather and airborne targets are described. Such networks overcome the earth-curvature blockage suffered by long-range radars. This enables surveillance from the region beneath the radar coverage of today's national radar infrastructure, up through the tops of storms and flight levels. Such networks have the potential to supplement — or replace — the long range radar networks in use today.
Health beliefs and physical activity behavior in adults with multiple sclerosis.

Abstract Background Understanding how health beliefs intersect with physical activity in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) is an important step in developing effective activity promotion programs. Objective The purpose of the study was to employ the Health Belief Model (HBM) to assess the health beliefs of adults with MS and examine the relationship between health beliefs and physical activity behavior. Method Participants with MS (N = 384) completed a web-based survey assessing the following HBM constructs: perceived susceptibility and seriousness of negative health outcomes, perceived benefits and barriers to physical activity, cues to action, and self-efficacy. Self-reported physical activity was also surveyed. Results Participant perceptions of susceptibility to negative health outcomes were focused more on physical conditioning and functioning rather than on general health conditions. The most important HBM predictors of physical activity were self-efficacy and perceived benefits of exercise. Even when controlling for the significant effects of disability level on physical activity, self-efficacy and perceived benefits remained robust exercise predictors. Conclusion Individuals with MS believe they can benefit from physical activity and remain healthy even in the context of their disease. They also acknowledge the fact that their disability levels limit their exercise capabilities. Given that self-efficacy and perceived benefits of activity are important determinants of physical activity, health promotion efforts should be directed at these modifiable factors.
General linear group approach to bivariational problems

A bivariational scheme based on the general linear group of spin orbital space is presented, with the aim of obtaining approximations to the spectra of complex rotated Hamiltonians.
An Assessment of Ecological Diversity in Homegardens A Case Study from Kerala State, India

ABSTRACT Homegardens are unique agroforestry systems that provide economic and sociocultural benefits to the tropical subsistence farmer. These intensively managed systems are often the only source of nutrition and income for the household. Along with their economic value, these gardens are also known for their high levels of biological diversity. This study attempted to quantify these patterns of diversity by inventorying 75 homegardens in Thrissur district in Kerala, India. The utility values of plant species were classified as primary, secondary, or tertiary based on farmer responses to survey questions. Sorenson's Index of similarity indicated fairly high levels of similarity in species composition across inventoried gardens, indicating some common use patterns among farmers. The Shannon-Wiener index and Margalef index were both calculated in order to ascertain levels of biological diversity in these managed agricultural systems. The Shannon-Wiener index indicated patterns comparable with natural fore...
Linear four-atomic molecules in the vibron model

Abstract We present a general scheme for calculating spectra of linear four-atomic molecules and apply it to the study of acetylene, C 2 H 2 , and its isotopic variations, C 2 D 2 and C 2 HD. Particular emphasis is given to the phenomenon of l -splitting, which plays an important role in four-atomic molecules. We are able to describe all known experimental levels, including stretching and bending, with an average rms of 10 cm −1 .
Benchmark test of the effectiveness of a nitrogen cooled beryllium reflector-filter

We present a comparison between the calculated and the measured effectiveness of a nitrogen cooled beryllium reflector-filter in increasing the cold flux of a polyethylene moderator at the same temperature. We also discuss the impact of the quality of beryllium on the results.
Negotiating the complementarian gender ideology of an evangelical student subculture: further evidence from women's narratives

This study is based on a longitudinal, qualitative investigation of a burgeoning evangelical student organisation on a university campus in the USA. In addition to four months of observation, in‐depth interviews were conducted with students in their first and third years of college to understand the gender climate and ideology that characterised the organisation, as well as how students' gender ideologies were altered or reinforced after three years of exposure to the organisation. The findings from the initial study revealed that the evangelical student community was steeped in a complementarian gender ideology; that is, the culture embraced normative masculinity, essential gender differences, and separate roles and expectations for men and women with respect to leadership, modesty, and dating/marriage. A narrative analysis of the longitudinal interview data revealed the diverse ways in which four women negotiated the gender ideology of the evangelical organisation during their college years.