cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Predicting the efficacy of future training programs using past experiences at other locations

Abstract We investigate the problem of predicting the average effect of a new training program using experiences with previous implementations. There are two principal complications in doing so. First, the population in which the new program will be implemented may differ from the population in which the old program was implemented. Second, the two programs may differ in the mix or nature of their components, or in their efficacy across different sub-populations. The first problem is similar to the problem of non-experimental evaluations. The ability to adjust for population differences typically depends on the availability of characteristics of the two populations and the extent of overlap in their distributions. The ability to adjust for differences in the programs themselves may require more detailed data on the exact treatments received by individuals than are typically available. This problem has received less attention, although it is equally important for the prediction of the efficacy of new programs. To investigate the empirical importance of these issues, we compare four experimental Work INcentive demonstration programs implemented in the mid-1980s in different parts of the U.S. We find that adjusting for pre-training earnings and individual characteristics removes many of the differences between control units that have some previous employment experience. Since the control treatment is the same in all locations, namely embargo from the program services, this suggests that differences in populations served can be adjusted for in this sub-population. We also find that adjusting for individual characteristics is more successful at removing differences between control group members in different locations that have some employment experience in the preceding four quarters than for control group members with no previous work experience. Perhaps more surprisingly, our ability to predict the outcomes of trainees after adjusting for individual characteristics is similar. We surmise that differences in treatment components across training programs are not sufficiently large to lead to substantial differences in our ability to predict trainees’ post-training earnings for many of the locations in this study. However, in the sub-population with no previous work experience there is some evidence that unobserved heterogeneity leads to difficulties in our ability to predict outcomes across locations for controls.
THE GENETIC RECOMBINATION OF SCIENCE AND RELIGION

The estrangement between genetic scientists and theo- logians originating in the 1960s is reflected in novel combinations of human thought (subject) and genes (investigational object), parallel- ing each other through the universal process known in chaos theory as self-similarity. The clash and recombination of genes and knowl- edge captures what Philip Hefner refers to as irony, one of four voices he suggests transmit the knowledge and arguments of the religion- and-science debate. When viewed along a tangent connecting irony to leadership, journal dissemination, and the activities of the "public intellectual" and the public at large, the sequence of voices is shown to resemble the passage of genetic information from DNA to mRNA, tRNA, and protein, and from cell nucleus to surrounding environ- ment. In this light, Hefner's inquiry into the voices of Zygon is bound up with the very subject matter Zygon covers.
Infections and Autoimmunity—Good or Bad?

The relationship between infections and autoimmunity is complex. Current evidence indicates that microbes can initiate, enhance, or, conversely, abrogate autoimmunity. In this paper, we will review experimental examples illustrating mechanisms involved in these three scenarios. Microbial infections can act as environmental triggers inducing or promoting autoimmunity resulting in clinical manifestations of autoimmune disease in genetically predisposed individuals. However, increasing evidence suggests the opposite outcome, which is the prevention or amelioration of autoimmune processes following microbial encounters. These latter observations support conceptually the "hygiene hypothesis," suggesting that cleaner living conditions will lead to enhanced incidence of autoimmune disorders, asthma, and allergies. Because proof of concept in humans is difficult to obtain, we will discuss relevant animal model data in context with likely or proven human associations. Knowledge of mechanisms that underlie either positive or negative effects of infections on autoimmunity will facilitate exploration of molecular details for prospective clinical studies in the future.
Adjuvant chemotherapy for older women with breast cancer

Many older women today with early-stage breast cancer have estimated survivals exceeding 5–10 years at the time of diagnosis and should be considered for systemic adjuvant chemotherapy. When available and if eligible, such patients should be offered clinical trials participation. Given the median age for onset of breast cancer, trials should also be developed to specifically investigate the disease in this age group. Oncologists caring for elders need to educate their colleagues as well as their patients concerning the pitfalls of age bias and the potential hazard of under-treatment and poorer outcomes.
Gender, Race, and Perceived Similarity Effects in Developmental Relationships: The Moderating Role of Relationship Duration

The authors examine the doctoral student‐faculty advisor dyad as a developmental relationship and investigate how gender, race, and perceived similarity are related to doctoral student perceptions of mentoring received. They hypothesized that the relationship of similarity with mentoring received would be moderated by duration of the relationship. Specifically, they expected that gender and race dissimilarity would lead to less mentoring early in the relationship but that such effects would dissipate later in the relationship. Furthermore, the authors predicted that perceived similarity, conceptualized as underlying similarity of attitudes, values, and beliefs, would be more strongly related to outcomes for longer duration versus shorter duration dyads. They found that, in general, duration of the relationship moderated the effects of gender similarity and perceived similarity on mentoring received, although the pattern of means was more complex than originally hypothesized. C � 2002 Elsevier Science (USA)
Appearance and persistence of maternal RNA sequences in sea urchin development

This paper deals with the relationship between the single copy transcripts represented in mature oocytes of the sea urchin and the RNA sequences present in immature oocytes and embryos. We term the oocyte transcripts from single copy DNA the maternal single copy sequence set. A single copy [^3H]DNA fraction ([^3H]oDNA) enriched for sequences complementary to the maternal single copy sequence set was prepared and reacted with the different RNA preparations. The complexity of the mature oocyte RNA is estimated to be 37 × 10^6 nucleotides. At kinetic termination, [3H]oDNA reacted with the polysomal mRNA of 16-cell embryos to 73% of the reaction with mature oocyte RNA, indicating that 27 × 10^6 nucleotides of the maternal sequence set are present. With blastula mRNA the reaction equals about 56%, a complexity of 21 × 10^6 nucleotides; with gastrula mRNA, 53%, a complexity of 19 × 10^6 nucleotides. The relative amount of hybridization of [^3H]oDNA was 100% with cytoplasmic RNA of the 16-cell stage and became progressively less with the cytoplasmic RNAs of later stages. The total RNA of immature oocytes was found to include about 26 × 10^6 nucleotides of the maternal sequence set. Results of these experiments are discussed, and an interpretation of the pattern of utilization of structural genes during oocyte and embryo development is suggested.
Selecting culprits in type 1 diabetes β-cell killing

Type 1 diabetes is by several measures a remarkable disorder. Diabetes appears when 80‐90% of the islet β-cells have been lost after being killed in a process strongly associated with autoimmune phenomena (1, 2). The rate of β-cell destruction before the clinical diagnosis of diabetes is made is not understood. Once the disease process has resulted in hyperglycemia that needs to be corrected with daily insulin injections, the point of no return has been reached; patients remain insulin-dependent for the rest of their lives. The disease may occur at any age and in individuals throughout the world. The incidence rate is increasing steadily in the developed countries. Individuals from developing countries moving to Western societies often expe
Examination of the Contribution of Clique Characteristics to Children's Adjustment: Clique Type and Perceived Cohesion

In a sample of 473 4th- and 5th-grade students, we examined the interaction between the type of clique to which a child belongs and the clique's level of perceived cohesion on a clique member's soc...
Molecular actions of vitamin D contributing to cancer prevention

The population-based relationship between low vitamin D status and increased cancer risk is now generally accepted. While these relationships are between serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D and cancer, cell-based studies show that the metabolite 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D is biologically active and influences cell biology relevant to cancer through vitamin D receptor-mediated gene transcription. This review examines this paradox and also discusses the cell and gene targets influenced by 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D that may account for the anti-cancer actions of vitamin D. A review of the literature shows that while vitamin D-induced growth arrest and apoptosis of tumor cells or their non-neoplastic progenitors are plausible mechanisms, other gene targets related to DNA repair and immunomodulation, and other cell targets such as the stromal cells and cells of the immune system, may be regulated by 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D and contribute to vitamin D mediated cancer prevention.
NEW EVIDENCE FOR PERSISTENT OR TRANSIENT SEED BANKS IN THREE SONORAN DESERT CACTI

Seedlings of Ferocactus wislizeni and Mammillaria grahamii, 2 common cactus species in the northern Sonoran Desert, emerged under protective cages that had been left in place for 6 years after an initial sowing of numerous Carnegiea gigantea and F. wislizeni seeds. Because no seeds were sown in the interim, Mammillaria and Ferocactus seedlings must have emerged from persistent seed banks. Mammillaria seeds evidently survived in or on the soil as long as 6 years, forming a long-term persistent seed bank, and Ferocactus seeds apparently survived up to 3 years, forming a short-term persistent seed bank. No Carnegiea seedlings emerged, confirming that this species has a transient seed bank This is the first evidence for a between-year seed bank in M. grahamii and the first confirmation of a between-year seed bank in F. wislizeni.
Implementation of break time for employee nursing mothers at the University of Louisville : a case study.

v TABLE OF CONTENTS vii LIST OF TABLES xi CHAPTER I 1 INTRODUCTION 1 PROBLEM STATEMENT 2 BACKGROUND 3 RESEARCH QUESTIONS 14 DELIMITATIONS 14 LIMITATIONS 15 CHAPTER II 17 LITERATURE REVIEW 17 BREASTFEEDING 17 PUMPING 19 LACTATION SPACE 22 THE BASIC PLAN 23 THE EVEN BETTER PLAN 23 THE STATE OF THE ART PLAN 24 BENEFITS OF BREASTFEEDING FOR EMPLOYERS 25 BREASTFEEDING POLICY & BREAK TIME FOR NURSING MOTHERS 27 BREASTFEEDING IN HIGHER EDUCATION 28
An efficient method for unfolding kinetic pressure driven VISAR data

Velocity Interferometer System for Any Reflector (VISAR) [Barker and Hollenbach, J. Appl. Phys. 43, 4669 (1972)] is a well-known diagnostic that is employed on many shock physics and pulsed-power experiments. With the VISAR diagnostic, the velocity on the surface of any metal flyer can be found. For most experiments employing VISAR, either a kinetic pressure [Grady, Mech. Mater. 29, 181 (1998)] or a magnetic pressure [Lemke et al., Intl J. Impact Eng. 38, 480 (2011)] drives the motion of the flyer. Moreover, reliable prediction of the time-dependent pressure is often a critical component to understanding the physics of these experiments. Although VISAR can provide a precise measurement of a flyer’s surface velocity, the real challenge of this diagnostic implementation is using this velocity to unfold the time-dependent pressure. The purpose of this study is to elucidate a new method for quickly and reliably unfolding VISAR data.
Decentralization, Subsidiarity, Rodney King and State Deification

This paper posits that the government is indistinguishable from a robber gang except for the fact that it enjoys exceedingly good public relations (supplied to it, symbiotically, by the intellectual classes) and thus legitimacy. The paper attempts to see beyond this superficiality. and thus to interpret cases in which the state and an ordinary criminal interact not in this manner, but rather as the interaction of tow criminal organizations.
Effects of Nutrition on Reproduction in Dairy Cows

Research findings are presented on the association of milk yield, energy balance, and fertility. Nutritional causes of infertility are reviewed. Strategies for monitoring herd nutritional status are described.
Diaphragm abnormalities in heart failure and aging: mechanisms and integration of cardiovascular and respiratory pathophysiology

Inspiratory function is essential for alveolar ventilation and expulsive behaviors that promote airway clearance (e.g., coughing and sneezing). Current evidence demonstrates that inspiratory dysfunction occurs during healthy aging and is accentuated by chronic heart failure (CHF). This inspiratory dysfunction contributes to key aspects of CHF and aging cardiovascular and pulmonary pathophysiology including: (1) impaired airway clearance and predisposition to pneumonia; (2) inability to sustain ventilation during physical activity; (3) shallow breathing pattern that limits alveolar ventilation and gas exchange; and (4) sympathetic activation that causes cardiac arrhythmias and tissue vasoconstriction. The diaphragm is the primary inspiratory muscle; hence, its neuromuscular integrity is a main determinant of the adequacy of inspiratory function. Mechanistic work within animal and cellular models has revealed specific factors that may be responsible for diaphragm neuromuscular abnormalities in CHF and aging. These include phrenic nerve and neuromuscular junction alterations as well as intrinsic myocyte abnormalities, such as changes in the quantity and quality of contractile proteins, accelerated fiber atrophy, and shifts in fiber type distribution. CHF, aging, or CHF in the presence of aging disturbs the dynamics of circulating factors (e.g., cytokines and angiotensin II) and cell signaling involving sphingolipids, reactive oxygen species, and proteolytic pathways, thus leading to the previously listed abnormalities. Exercise-based rehabilitation combined with pharmacological therapies targeting the pathways reviewed herein hold promise to treat diaphragm abnormalities and inspiratory muscle dysfunction in CHF and aging.
Laboratory simulation and bias in the study of juror behavior

Theoretical speculation and meta-analysis suggest that the strength of treatment effects (e.g., defendant attractiveness) may become weaker as the experimental simulation becomes more realistic and complex. In order to test this hypothesis, various levels of biasing pretrial publicity were combined with both a short and a long trial. Results provided no support for the contention that treatment effects act differently as a function of the length of the stimulus trial in which they are embedded. Rather, it is suggested that treatments used in simplified jury simulations may often show similar effects when examined in more realistic, complex settingsif the treatments are comparable.
The dissociation between renal HCO3- reabsorption and H+ secretion in the skate, Raja erinacea.

The rate of H+ secretion from cell to lumen was studied in the proximal nephron segment of the skate,Raja erinacea. The split drop technique was used, and the rate of acidification (from pH 7.5 to 5.8) was estimated by the time of the color change of the buffer dye, bromcresol purple (pK 6.2). The secretory cells (in each liter of their volume) produced 40·10−6 mol H+/min; calculated for the whole fish the rate of H+ excretion is about 0.15·10−6 mol/min. This rate is about the same as observed in vivo in the free swimming elasmobranch; and about 1/5 to 1/10 that calculated for the production of H+ from the uncatalyzed hydration of CO2, since elasmobranchs have no renal carbonic anhydrase. Addition of large amounts of NaHCO3 (17 fold) to the bromcresol purple did not change the time requested for the color change of this buffer dye; addition of phosphate prolonged the time significantly. It is concluded that luminal HCO3 − in this species is very rapidly reabsorbed by a process not involving proton production by tubular cells.
Fracture Mechanisms in SiC-Whisker Reinforced Alumina

The fracture mechanisms involved in the toughening of alumina by whisker reinforcement are studied at room temperature. The fracture toughness of a hot pressed SiC-whisker/alumina composite is measured and good agreement is found between the experimental data and a model that takes into account the effects of crack deflection and whisker pullout mechanisms. From the model, it is seen that the role of whisker pullout is negligible compared to that of crack deflection.
890VAP to VAE: Exploring the Epidemiology of a New Surveillance Definition

Background: Due to concerns about the subjectivity and inter-rater reliability of the surveillance definition for VAP (ventilator-associated pneumonia), a more objective outcome measure, VAE (ventilator-associated event), was released in 2013. We examined the epidemiology of the traditional VAP and new VAE measures in 6 adult intensive care units (ICUs) and hypothesized that VAE rates would be considerably higher than the traditional VAP rates and that correlation between VAEs and traditional VAPs would be low. Methods: Traditional VAP events (TradVAP) and VAEs in six adult ICUs (medical, surgical, burn, trauma, cardiovascular, and neurosciences) at an academic medical center were determined by trained personnel for the study period from July to December 2012. VAEs were classified as a ventilator-associated condition (VAC), infection-related VAC (IVAC), and possible/probable VAP (PossVAP) based on NHSN definitions. Descriptive analyses were conducted to assess the proportion of TradVAPs that were also identified as VAEs; TradVAP and VAE rates were also compared. Results: During the study period, 15 TradVAPs and 91 VAEs were identified in all ICUs combined. Only 8/15 (53%) TradVAPs met the VAE definition, but of these, 75% (6/8) were identified as a PossVAP; the other two TradVAPs met criteria for an IVAC only. The VAE rate was higher than the TradVAP rate across all units, but units differed in the degree of rate increase (Table). Conclusions: The overall VAE rate was 6-times higher than the TradVAP rate with wide variation in the degree of increase across ICU types. Only half of the identified TradVAPs were captured as a VAE event, but the majority of these VAEs were classified as a possible VAP. Further research is needed to determine causes of the VAEs in these units and the preventability of these.
Design and implementation of an open virtual storage system

For the purpose of utilizing and manipulating of the distributed storage resources,an open virtual storage system is designed here.The virtual layer architecture and specific implementation method are introduced.The Disk driver of the system maps the storage space of the host machine to other clients by means of TDI and the way by which the mass storage based on the network is implemented.So the distributed storage resources can be utilized and manipulated by the uniform method,providing the way by which the distributed storage resources,which is not based on the same architecture,communicate and operate each other.The system provides the uniform and transparent interface to be used for access and management for the user.
Construction of Blackboard-based virtual learning community for medical information retrieval curriculum and its application

How to create a virtual learning community for medical information retrieval curriculum by making use of the advantages of Blackboard network teaching platform and its application were studied in order to provide the basis for the teaching reform of other subjects.
Epidemiological characteristics of 8 cases of human infection with avian influenza A(H7N9) virus n Shangcheng district,Hangzhou

Objective To further understand the epidemiological characteristics of human infection with avian influenza A( H7N9) virus and provide evidence for the future prevention and control of the infection.Methods Epidemiological analysis was conducted on 8 laboratory confirmed cases of human infection with H7N9 virus in Shangcheng district,Hangzhou.Results The 8 cases occurred during 20 March-16 April 2013.Seven cases were males.The median of patients' age was 70.5 years.The average interval between onset and medical care seeking was 2.5 days.Epidemiological survey indicated that all the 8 cases had histories of exposure to alive poultry markets.Medical supervision was conducted for 167 close contacts,including 133 medical staff.No secondary cases were found.Conclusion Old men in urban area were at high-risk to be infected with H7N9 virus.No evidence showed that the human to human transmission of the infection had occurred.Early detection,early reporting,early diagnosis and early treatment are key steps for the effective prevention and control,increasing cure rate and decreasing case fatality of the human infection.Standard management of alive poultry markets is important to prevent H7N9 virus infection in urban population and improving the triage of infectious cases and medical staff's self protection in hospitals are essential in the prevention and control of H7N9 virus infection.
Evolution of the Wave Packet in Barotropic Flows

We now are ready to apply the theory developed in Chapter 2 to geophysical fluid dynamics. In this chapter and the next three chapters, we consider the evolution of the wave packet, specifically the Rossby wave packet, only in barotropic basic flows in order to clarify ideas, demonstrate the effectiveness of the theory, and show some new and fundamental results as well. The case in which the stratification and baroclinicity in the basic flows are both taken into account is postponed to Chapter 7.
Marine mammal tracks from two-hydrophone acoustic recordings made with a glider

Abstract. A multinational oceanographic and acoustic sea experiment was carried out in the summer of 2014 off the western coast of the island of Sardinia, Mediterranean Sea. During this experiment, an underwater glider fitted with two hydrophones was evaluated as a potential tool for marine mammal population density estimation studies. An acoustic recording system was also tested, comprising an inexpensive, off-the-shelf digital recorder installed inside the glider. Detection and classification of sounds produced by whales and dolphins, and sometimes tracking and localization, are inherent components of population density estimation from passive acoustics recordings. In this work we discuss the equipment used as well as analysis of the data obtained, including detection and estimation of bearing angles. A human analyst identified the presence of sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) regular clicks as well as dolphin clicks and whistles. Cross-correlating clicks recorded on both data channels allowed for the estimation of the direction (bearing) of clicks, and realization of animal tracks. Insights from this bearing tracking analysis can aid in population density estimation studies by providing further information (bearings), which can improve estimates.
Volumetric Muscle Loss

Volumetric muscle loss (VML) injury is prevalent in severe extremity trauma and is an emerging focus area among orthopedic and regenerative medicine fields. VML injuries are the result of an abrupt, frank loss of tissue and therefore of different etiology from other standard rodent injury models to include eccentric contraction, ischemia reperfusion, crush, and freeze injury. The current focus of many VML-related research efforts is to regenerate the lost muscle tissue and thereby improve muscle strength. Herein, we describe a VML model in the anterior compartment of the hindlimb that is permissible to repeated neuromuscular strength assessments and is validated in mouse, rat, and pig.
Wireless device performance management in temperature limited scenarios

Increasing demand on wireless communication capabilities and device integration elevates thermal effects to a key boundary condition for future SoC designs. Questions arise like how long can the device be operated on certain radio conditions and for which ambient temperature regions, in a sustainable fashion. How fast will heat issues be perceived as inconvenient by the device user, how fast must device reliability be considered on high temperature and at which level needs a thermal runaway be prevented from kickoff by methods like autonomous shutdown? Wireless device performance management needs to deal with thermal challenges, understand radio communication hurdles and come up with an appropriate power throttling strategy.
Self-Reported Health and Safety Awareness Improves Prediction of Level of Care Needs in Veterans Discharged From a Postacute Unit

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the differential value of a self-reported health and safety awareness measure relative to other medical, psychosocial, and cognitive factors in predicting level of care (LOC) needs after hospital discharge. Design Retrospective medical record review. Setting Community living center postacute care (CLC-PAC) unit at a Veterans Affairs hospital. Participants A total of 175 veterans admitted to the Veterans Affairs hospital or directly to the CLC-PAC from home. Methods Cognitive status was assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination, Digit Span Backward subtest, Trail Making Test (Part B), and Hopkins Verbal Learning Test-Revised. Self-report of health and safety awareness was measured with the Independent Living Scales Health and Safety (ILS-HS) subscale. Additional demographic and admission-related variables were coded, along with medical comorbidity, with the Charlson Comorbidity Index and depression using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition, Text Revision Depression Checklist. Main Outcome Measurements Increased level of care was collected from social work and occupational therapy notes and defined as increased assistance with activities of daily living or nursing home placement comparing prehospitalization with CLC-PAC discharge. Results A total of 19% (n = 34) of residents required increased LOC on CLC-PAC discharge. The ILS-HS was a significant predictor of increased LOC above and beyond age and Mini Mental Status Examination score; for each standard deviation decrease in ILS-HS, there was an increased likelihood of greater LOC (odds ratio 0. 54, 95% confidence interval 0.35-0.83). Other neuropsychological tests (memory, executive functioning) did not significantly improve the model. Conclusions The inclusion of the ILS-HS to a standard cognitive screen (Mini Mental Status Examination) can improve prediction of increased LOC. Although select aspects of memory and executive functioning independently contribute to increased LOC prediction, the ILS-HS likely measures a unique aspect of cognitive functioning that may be specific to discharge planning needs in CLC-PAC residents. Level of Evidence II
Abstract 297: Cyclic GMP Reduces Vascular Smooth Muscle Migration through Inhibition of TGF-ß1/Smad Signaling

Abnormal vascular smooth muscle (VSM) growth remains an elemental foundation of vasculoproliferative disorders including atherosclerosis and restenosis. Many second messenger, cytokine, and growth factor signals mediate control of VSM growth, and among these is transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, a pluripotent cytokine with wide-ranging yet often opposite effects in VSM. Cyclic nucleotide signaling also exerts powerful growth control of VSM, and our previous work has helped establish a biological link between cyclic GMP and TGF-β1 in injured carotid arteries. The current study characterized the influence of cyclic GMP on TGF-β1 and its receptor-activated Smad3 in rat primary VSM cells. The heme-dependent soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulator BAY 41-2272 (BAY41) significantly increased cyclic GMP and site-specific phosphorylation of vasodilator-activated serum phosphoprotein (VASP) in manner indicative of active protein kinase G (PKG) and PKA signaling. Recombinant TGF-β1 (10 ng/ml) significantly sti...
One-Year Stability of the Devereux Early Childhood Assessment for Preschoolers, Second Edition:

The Devereux Early Childhood Assessment (DECA) and recently updated Devereux Early Childhood Assessment for Preschoolers, Second Edition (DECA-P2) are strength-based measures that can inform early ...
Liquid toroidal drop under uniform electric field

The problem of a stationary liquid toroidal drop freely suspended in another fluid and subjected to an electric field uniform at infinity is addressed analytically. Taylor’s discriminating function implies that, when the phases have equal viscosities and are assumed to be slightly conducting (leaky dielectrics), a spherical drop is stationary when Q =(2 R 2 +3 R +2)/(7 R 2 ), where R and Q are ratios of the phases’ electric conductivities and dielectric constants, respectively. This condition holds for any electric capillary number, Ca E , that defines the ratio of electric stress to surface tension. Pairam and Fernandez-Nieves showed experimentally that, in the absence of external forces (Ca E =0), a toroidal drop shrinks towards its centre, and, consequently, the drop can be stationary only for some Ca E >0. This work finds Q and Ca E such that, under the presence of an electric field and with equal viscosities of the phases, a toroidal drop having major radius ρ and volume 4 π /3 is qualitatively stationary—the normal velocity of the drop’s interface is minute and the interface coincides visually with a streamline. The found Q and Ca E depend on R and ρ , and for large ρ , e.g. ρ ≥3, they have simple approximations: Q ∼( R 2 + R +1)/(3 R 2 ) and Ca E ∼ 3 3 π ρ / 2 ( 6 ln ⁡ ρ + 2 ln ⁡ [ 96 π ] − 9 ) / ( 12 ln ⁡ ρ + 4 ln ⁡ [ 96 π ] − 17 ) ( R + 1 ) 2 / ( R − 1 ) 2 .
Active Social Networking Site Usage and its Effects on the Quality of Marital Lifeand Family Relationships among IT Professionals

Social networking sites have a great impact on the current society and it has become part and parcel of people’s daily lives. Previous research stresses on how these social networking sites affect family relations in general. This paper specifically looks at usage patterns among active social networkers and its effects on the quality of their marital lives. The researchers adopt case study method to examine the nature of social networking sites’ usage among IT professionals in Kerala, India. To obtain a clear understanding, in-depth interviews are conducted and a thematic analysis is employed. The respondents are selected from married people of different compositions, who actively use one or more social networking sites such as Facebook , Twitter , LinkedIn and WhatsApp groups. The study identifies similar patterns regarding frequency of usage, mode of access, and its influence on themselves and their family members. The paper also highlights the psychological effects of these social networking sites and how it impacts their relationships. The paper argues that active usage of social networking sites can negatively influence family relations and even lead to psychological disorders. Keywords: social networking sites, active social networking, quality of marital life, family relations, IT professionals
The ransom of the Jews: the story of the extraordinary secret bargain between Romania and Israel / Kraj bez wyjścia? Migracje z Polski 1949–1989

In the aftermath of World War II, numerous states embarked on restructuring their entire societies according to communist ideals. In theory, they aimed for the welfare of everyone and their equalit...
High-stability tin/carbon battery electrodes produced using reduction expansion synthesis

Abstract This study shows high stability Sn (10 wt %)/carbon Li-ion battery anodes can be made via the Reduction Expansion Synthesis (RES) process. Hybrid Sn/C anodes had an initial capacity of 425 mAh g-1 which stabilized to ∼340 mAh g-1 after less than 10 cycles. Unlike earlier Sn/C anodes, capacity remained virtually constant for more than 180 additional cycles. Neat carbon independently tested for Li capacity had a steady specific capacity of 280 mAh g-1. The difference detected between the pure carbon and Sn/C cases are consistent with Sn having the theoretical capacity of ∼1000 mAh g-1. The high stability of the RES derived anodes, relative to earlier Sn based electrodes, is postulated to exist because RES synthesis enables the formation of direct, strong bond between Sn and carbon substrate atoms, hence reducing the rate of Sn electrode disintegration and capacity fade due to expansion upon lithiation. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy are consistent with this postulate as both show an initial Sn particles size of only a few nanometers and minimal growth after cycling. Reduced interface resistance is also indicative of unique Sn-carbon bond.
WEEC 2008 Energy Management Systems Pushing Your Energy Management System to the Limit

Our planet is in the midst of an energy crisis. Our traditional energy resources (oil, gas, coal) are limited. Due to ever-increasing competition for the finite supply of traditional energy sources, costs continue to escalate. The first step to combat rising energy costs is to make the most efficient use of what you have. This article summarizes several strategies to reduce energy costs by fully utilizing energy management system (EMS) features available with current building automation systems. Experience has shown that many facilities do not fully exploit the potential energy conservation tools at their disposal. The typical site energy management strategy does little more than time-of-day scheduling. There are numerous energy conservation measures that can be employed to reduce energy consumption-EMS strategies (utilizing all energy conservation features), continuous commissioning, and measurement and verification, to name a few. Designers must look for opportunities to fully specify all the energy conservation capabilities in an EMS. Building energy managers must be educated on building systems, look for energy conservation opportunities and utilize all the features of the EMS to help drive down energy costs. Additionally as more EMS features are utilized, the energy benefits increase. The incremental cost of additional energy features is typically low which helps the financial performance of the project. To ensure EMS features get utilized in new buildings, the designer must specify in detail which features are required and the expectations. Simply stating "the system must be capable of" does not mean that the EMS feature will be used. The training should be specific to the EMS and detailed enough to properly educate the users. Building energy managers must dedicate time to understand how to use the EMS and all of its functionality. Without the proper training and education, the building energy manager may not recognize energy conservation opportunities (ECOs). This knowledge is essential to developing a site energy management strategy. When a building manager pushes the EMS to the limit, the end result is lower operating costs, increased occupant comfort, and lower maintenance costs due to planned maintenance rather than emergency maintenance.
Stress Testing After Acute Myocardial Infarction

The goals of early exercise testing post infarction are to identify “high risk” patients who require further evaluation and more aggressive intervention, to assess functional capacity and provide a basis for physical activity recommendations, and to enhance patient confidence to resume a normal life style. This review will focus on prognostic considerations of exercise testing in the early post infarction phase.
Hinton and Shaw’s Extension with Two Singular Points

This chapter extends the results of the previous one to cover the situation that occurs when both a and b are singular points. The technique is similar. We restrict our attention to an interval (a′, b′) within (a, b), develop two M(λ) functions, one for generating L A 2 solutions near a, one for generating L A 2 solutions near b, by letting a′ → a, b′ → b.
Syncope in the athlete.

Syncope in the athlete requires a complete evaluation, as this may be the only warning prior to an episode of sudden cardiac death. This should include a detailed history which includes specific details of the event as well as bystander descriptions when possible. Following the history should be a careful physical examination and subsequent diagnostic testing based on the individual’s needs. The purpose of the evaluation is to determine if structural or electrical heart disease is present that may lead to sudden death. If absent, the patient, family and staff can be reassured that it is safe to resume athletic activity. Careful attention to the athlete with syncope may both prevent potential disasters in some, while at the same time enjoyment of intense physical activity in others.
Improved state estimation in multiagent settings with continuous or large discrete state spaces

State estimation in multiagent settings involves updating an agent's belief over the physical states and the space of other agents' models. Performance of the previous approach to state estimation, the interactive particle filter, degrades with large state spaces because it distributes the particles over both, the physical state space and the other agents' models. We present an improved method for estimating the state in a class of multiagent settings that are characterized in part by continuous or large discrete state spaces. We factor out the models of the other agents and update the agent's belief over these models, as exactly as possible. Simultaneously, we sample particles from the distribution over the large physical state space and project the particles in time. This approach is equivalent to Rao-Blackwellising the interactive particle filter. We focus our analysis on the special class of problems where the nested beliefs are represented using Gaussians, the problem dynamics using conditional linear Gaussians (CLGs) and the observation functions using softmax or CLGs. These distributions adequately represent many realistic applications.
3’3’-diindolylmethane enhances the cytotoxic effects of paclitaxel on Her2/neu human breast cancer cells

1727 HER-2/neu positive breast tumors are difficult to treat. About 25 to 30% of invasive breast tumors overexpress the Her2/neu oncogene. This gene appears to increase the aggressiveness of a breast cancer and resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. 3’3’-diindolylmethane (DIM), the active metabolite of indole-3-carbinol, a naturally occurring compound found in cruciferous vegetables, has been found to have anti-cancer properties in both humans and animals. DIM has been shown to induce cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in animal breast cancer models. Since HER-2/neu overexpression confers resistance to paclitaxel, and DIM has anti-tumor effects, we hypothesize that DIM will enhance the cytotoxic effects of paclitaxel, a common taxane drug, on human Her2/neu breast cancer cells by potentiating its effect on cell cycle and stimulating apoptosis/necrosis. The MDA-MB-435eB1 human Her2/neu breast cancer cells were treated with varying concentrations of DIM and paclitaxel (40μM DIM, 10nM paclitaxel, and 40μM DIM + 10nM paclitaxel). The cells were analyzed at different time points (24, 48, and 72hrs). Proliferation was measured by a commercial cell proliferation assay (Promega Procheck Assay). Cell-cycle analysis and apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry with propidium iodide and fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) DNA staining. Both DIM and paclitaxel exhibited time and concentration dependent inhibition of cell proliferation. The combination exhibited a statistically significant increase in proliferation inhibition over paclitaxel alone (p
500.03 Clinical Outcomes of the Dual-Therapy CD34 Antibody-Covered Sirolimus-Eluting Stent Versus Standard Drug-Eluting Coronary Stents: A Meta-Analysis

Clinical outcomes of drug-eluting stents (DES) in coronary artery disease have improved, but concerns about stent neo-atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and restenosis remain. The COMBO dual therapy stent (COMBO DTS) is a sirolimus-eluting stent with CD34 antibodies immobilized on its surface to capture
Application of rejuvenators to improve the rheological and mechanical properties of asphalt binders and mixtures: A review

Abstract The use of recycled materials such as Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) and Recycled Asphalt Shingle (RAS) in asphalt pavements is a valuable approach to construct sustainable pavements and to preserve natural resources and energy. However, the use of high amounts of RAP and RAS can potentially cause durability-related distresses such as cracking and raveling due to the presence of severely aged asphalt binders. Rejuvenators have been widely used to overcome this issue and to mitigate the problems associated with the use of aged binders. They can improve the viscoelastic and rheological properties of asphalt mixtures containing RAP and RAS. Much has been learned about various types of rejuvenating agents, techniques to apply these agents, and challenges associated with their applications. This article reviews the literature on the applications of various types of rejuvenators in paving industry and their effects on the properties of the aged binders. The techniques for rejuvenating the aged asphalt binders and the mechanism of rejuvenation are also reviewed. Moreover, methods to determine the optimum rejuvenator content to achieve optimized mechanical and durability properties of the asphalt binders and mixtures are discussed. The findings in this research show that rejuvenators can be successfully used to restore the properties of the aged binders. It is hoped that this review will serve as a guidelines for pavement engineers to better design the asphalt mixtures containing rejuvenators. This review will also help scientists to find future avenues of research on the applications of rejuvenators in asphalt industry.
Measuring hydroxyurea adherence by pharmacy and laboratory data compared with video observation in children with sickle cell disease

Background Hydroxyurea nonadherence is common among children with sickle cell disease (SCD), but it is unclear if current adherence measures are valid compared with video directly observed therapy (VDOT), a reference method. The objectives were to evaluate if hydroxyurea adherence by pharmacy records, urine assay, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and/or fetal hemoglobin (HbF) correlated with and was sensitive and specific compared with VDOT. Methods This was a cross-sectional analysis of adherence data from 34 children with SCD on a single-arm, six-month hydroxyurea adherence study. Spearman correlation coefficient compared participants' adherence by pharmacy records, MCV, and HbF to adherence by VDOT. The sensitivity and specificity of ≥80% adherence by pharmacy records, two urine samples with hydroxyurea, MCV ≥100 fl/L, and HbF ≥20% compared with ≥80% VDOT adherence were also calculated. Results Median pharmacy and VDOT adherence rates were similar (87.8% vs 88.1%, P = 0.75) and mildly correlated (rs = 0.45; P = 0.008) but the sensitivity of ≥80% adherence by pharmacy records was 72.7% and specificity was 45.5%. MCV (rs = -0.02, P = 0.92) and HbF (rs = -0.2, P = 0.33) did not significantly correlate with VDOT adherence. Sensitivity and specificity were 83.3% and 33.3% for having two urine samples with hydroxyurea, 35% and 71.4% for MCV ≥100 fl/L, and 75% and 0% for HbF ≥20%, respectively. Conclusions Commonly used tools to measure hydroxyurea adherence may not correlate with or be valid compared with video adherence. Future studies to refine these measures are needed to effectively target adherence interventions to children with SCD who have the potential to benefit. (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02578017).
Randomized Study of Delayed Cord Clamping of 30 to 60 Seconds in the Larger Infant Born Preterm.

In a randomized study of infants born preterm (gestational age 28-34 6/7 weeks), we evaluated delayed cord clamping for 30 (n = 50) vs 60 (n = 55) seconds. The primary outcome of initial hematocrit differed by 2.8% (P = .006), being greater with 60 seconds. There were no differences in secondary outcomes and no adverse consequences between groups. These findings should serve as a stimulus to many centers that are reluctant to implement delayed cord clamping in this targeted larger premature population.
LONG-TERM FOLLOW UP AND TREATMENT OUTCOMES OF A 2 YEAR-OLD-BOY WITH METASTATIC TESTOSTERONE-SECRETING ADRENOCORTICAL CARCINOMA.

ABSTRACT Objective Treatment of metastatic adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is challenging and long-term survival rates are exceedingly low. Long-term outcome data for pediatric patients who received mitotane is very limited. Methods We describe the case of a 2-year-old boy with ACC with a lung metastasis. He was treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and mitotane, and remains disease-free 13 years after diagnosis. Results The key endocrine issues learned from this case include: adrenal-derived sex-steroid and insulin-like growth factor-2 levels are correlated with disease status; very high doses of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid are required while on treatment of mitotane; and central precocious puberty needs to be detected and treated in a timely manner to preserve final adult height. Conclusion We report a case of pediatric ACC with metastasis that was successfully treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and adjuvant therapy with mitotane. Appropriate endocrine testing and management are important for long-term survival and quality of life. Abbreviations ACC adrenocortical carcinoma IGF insulin-like growth factor IGFBP insulin-like growth factor binding protein
Arginine for mitochondrial oxidative enzymopathy.

Although mitochondria are known to be a major source of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and oxidative stress is thought to contribute to pathology in sickle cell disease, in this issue of Blood, Morris et al have shown that arginine therapy can improve mitochondrial function and decrease oxidative stress.
Assessment of Groundwater Quality and Quantity Using Supervised Machine Learning

With the urban development of Las Vegas region in the past 3 decades, the water usage has increased rapidly and, accordingly, there has been a growing interest in assessment of water quality and quantity in this region. The availability of water in Nevada is not commensurate with the water usage. Water quality assessment involves expensive and time-consuming laboratory tests and in-depth analysis of many parameters. This study implements a supervised machine learning algorithm that uses cost-free methods to predict groundwater quality characteristics, thereby helping to reduce the cost of extraction and laboratory analysis. This study employs five input parameters, namely, Temperature, Humidity, Precipitation, Soil moisture (pH), and Well depth. The study uses the “Gradient Boosting Trees” and “Gradient Descent” methods to train the data and to predict the output. The results of this study provide real-time predictions of groundwater quality and quantity parameters, including water levels, nitrate concentrations. The Mean Absolute Error (MAE) values range from 16.7 to 39.48. A limited set of input parameters is used to achieve a cost-effective solution.
Distinguishing Between the Impacts of Heat and Drought Stress on the Root Microbiome of Sorghum bicolor

Water deficit and extreme temperatures regularly and considerably reduce crop productivity. Although several studies have explored the role of the plant microbiome in drought tolerance, it remains ...