cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prenatal care initiation among pregnant teens in the United States: an analysis over 25 years.

Abstract Purpose To examine changes in the initiation of prenatal care by teenage girls in the United States between 1978 and 2003. Methods Using birth certificate data collected by the National Center for Health Statistics from 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, and 2003 we described initiation of prenatal care in preteens (aged 10–14 years), young adolescents (aged 15–16), and older adolescents (aged 17–19) by the trimester in which care began. Results Although all three age groups showed trends toward earlier prenatal care, shifts to earlier prenatal care were mainly the result of more girls starting care in the first trimester and fewer in the second trimester. Younger teens were more likely to delay prenatal care or to receive no prenatal care for every year studied. Less education and prior births were also associated with increased likelihood of receiving delayed care. Conclusions Shifts in timing of prenatal care initiation occurred in the U.S from 1978 to 2003. Much of the change corresponded to expanded eligibility in Medicaid coverage, suggesting that lack of health care coverage was a significant impediment to early prenatal care.
An early intervention plan for identification and control of chronic lower extremity edema.

Chronic lower extremity edema is one of the most common medical problems; every second person has the problem, and every eighth has advanced problems that require treatment.1 Treatment interventions for wounded patients and prevention plans to prevent recurrence abound in the literature. However only one reference could be found that identified the need to intervene before wounding occurs, and no plan for intervention was proposed. The purpose of this article is to present a plan for early intervention designed to identify and prevent disease progression for patients who suffer from chronic edema. An advanced practice nurse identified the need, devised the plan, and coordinated the implementation, and now wishes to share the information and tools with other advanced practice nurses. The first of its kind to be proposed, the plan consists of the following components: education sessions for medical professionals, patients, and caregivers that explain the rationale for early intervention, the need to identify and treat patients, and program guidelines and expected outcomes; and guidelines of treatment, health assessment, and patient outcomes. Successful implementation of the plan is measured by the increase in the number of patients sent to the program, and by the number of patients successfully controlling their edema. (J Vasc Nurs 2002;20:45-50)
Solving staircase linear programs by the simplex method, 1: Inversion

This and a companion paper consider how current implementations of the simplex method may be adapted to better solve linear programs that have a staged, or ‘staircase’, structure. The present paper looks at ‘inversion’ routines within the simplex method, particularly those for sparse triangular factorization of a basis by Gaussian elimination and for solution of triangular linear systems. The succeeding paper examines ‘pricing’ routines. Both papers describe extensive (though preliminary) computational experience, and can point to some quite promising results.
Microfabricated chemical preconcentrators for gas-phase microanalytical detection systems

The gas or vapor preconcentrator is an analytical device that significantly improves the detection limit of a microanalytical system by preconcentrating the analyte. The preconcentrator performs front-end sampling and preconcentration of analyte by collecting and concentrating analyte over a period of time. After the analyte-collection phase is complete, a heat pulse releases the analyte as a concentrated wave into the detector. Desirable features of the preconcentrator device include the capability of operating at high flow rates, thermal heating with short-time constants, and selective collection of the analyte(s) of interest. The preconcentrators presented in this review are used as a generic front-end modification to gas-phase microanalytical detection systems, such as gas chromatographs, mass spectrometers, ion-mobility spectrometers, and microelectromechanical system (MEMS)-based chemical sensors. The advantages of the detector in incorporating a preconcentrator device are enhanced sensitivity and improved selectivity. Target analytes concentrated by the preconcentrators described in this review include various organic compounds in gas or vapor phase, such as explosives 2,4,6-trinitrotouluene (TNT) and 1,3,5 trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), chemical agent dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), a broad range of organic vapors, such as toluene, benzene, ethylene and acetone, and mixtures of these gas-phase organic compounds. We discuss examples of the current trends in microfabricated preconcentrator technology as well as several applications of microfabricated preconcentrators.
Polymerase Chain Reaction

organism number to readily detectable levels, yet culture is not always easy or successful. A novel technique, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), was recently developed for in vitro amplification of the DNA or RNA of an organism or gene defect, and culture may not be required. The PCR takes advantage of an enzyme that uses a defined segment in a strand of DNA as a template for assembling a complementary strand. The principle of the PCR is simple, requiring a three-step cycling process: (7) denaturation of doublestranded DNA, (2) annealing of primers, and (3) primer extension. If an RNA sequence is to be amplified, a DNA copy of it (cDNA) must be synthesized by using reverse transcriptase before the PCR is begun. A cycle typically takes ~3-5 min and is repeated 20-40 times [1]. The PCR reaction vessel contains a mixture of buffers, nucleotides, primers, enzyme, and nucleic acid from the specimen of interest.
Theories Explain, and so do Historical Narratives: But there are Differences

Anti-realists like Paul Roth conceive of historical narratives as having no genuine explanatory power, because historical events are not ready-made and reveal themselves only to the retrospective gaze of the historian. For that reason, the categories with the help of which historians identify historical events do not map onto categories of general theories of the world required for a genuine explanation of them. While I agree with Paul Roth that the significance of a historical event is revealed only retrospectively, I argue that this does not imply that historical narratives do not provide genuine explanations. In this context, it is however important to distinguish between the description used by historians to identify the event as being part of the narrative and the description under which the occurrence of the very same event could be causally explained within the narrative. Both types of descriptions possess a certain degree of conceptual independence from each other. I argue that historical narratives incorporate both dimensions: what I also call the view from and with the view from below. Historical narratives do explain, even though they differ from scientific theories.
DETECTION OF TOXOPLASMA MICROTI IN LIVING VOLES.

Abstract Toxoplasma microti Findley and Middleton is a common protozoan parasite in the brains of microtine rodents in several widely separated areas in North America. It was described from voles in England and has been reported in Europe. We have not succeeded in transmitting this organism to voles, mice, or other laboratory animals. Further study of the organism is partially dependent on recognition of infection in living animals. This has been accomplished with a fair degree of accuracy by direct surgery and observation. When the calvarium is exposed by a slit in the scalp, cysts in the superficial areas of the brain are visible. Mortality from surgery has been negligible.
Low 3He/4He ratios in basalt glasses from the western Southwest Indian Ridge (10°-24°E)

Abstract 3He/4He ratios and total helium concentrations have been measured in a suite of basalt glasses from the ultra-slow spreading (0.8 cm/yr half-rate) western Southwest Indian Ridge (SWIR). The study area is divided into two subregions, a supersegment between 9° and 16°E, where poorly defined ridge segments lie at a highly oblique angle to the regional spreading direction, and a supersegment between 16° and 24°E, where ridge segments are nearly orthogonal to the spreading direction. Although earlier geochemical studies suggested that the western oblique supersegment may be affected by the Bouvet plume more than 700 km to the west, there is no evidence for elevated 3He/4He in the region. In fact, 3He/4He throughout the entire study area ranges from 6.3 to 7.3 Ra, significantly below normal mid-ocean ridge basalt helium isotopic ratios of 8±1 Ra. The preferred explanation for low 3He/4He ratios is recycled crustal or lithospheric material in the SWIR mantle source, although thorough evaluation of this explanation awaits additional geochemical data. 4He concentrations for the oblique supersegment are generally lower than those for the orthogonal supersegment, which may reflect variable extents of magmatic degassing along the ridge. The low 3He/4He ratios are not attributable to radiogenic ingrowth following post-eruptive degassing, because 4He concentrations are too high (>0.4 μccSTP/g). In addition to low ratios, 3He/4He measurements for the western SWIR are characterized by low variability, which contradicts predictions of an inverse relationship between spreading rate and helium isotope standard deviation. 3He/4He ratios for the orthogonal supersegment increase systematically from west to east, and are positively correlated with mantle Bouguer anomaly, a correlation which is opposite to that observed in other ridge environments. Overall, the range in 3He/4He isotopic values for the SWIR is significantly different from that measured along other ridges, suggesting that there may be systematic variability of 3He/4He ratios between ridge systems.
The effect of weight loss on changes in health-related quality of life among overweight and obese women with urinary incontinence

Objective To estimate the effect of change in weight and change in urinary incontinence (UI) frequency on changes in preference-based measures of health-related quality of life (HRQL) among overweight and obese women with UI participating in a weight loss trial.
Use of the reordering/resolvation of alkyl-modified silica to characterize the microscopic heterogeneity of silica via liquid chromatography

Abstract The microscopic heterogeneity of the surface silanols of silica was studied by liquid chromatography. By examining thermally induced reordering/resolvation of bonded alkyl chains (i.e., octyl groups) in contact with water, it is possible to deduce fundamental information about differences in the microscopic surface structure of silica prepared by different manufacturing processes. In addition, deuterium exchangemass spectrometry was used to measure the bulk silanol concentration on the same silica.
Characteristics of a "weekend warrior": results from two national surveys.

Purpose: Little is known about high volumes of irregular weekly physical activity, such as long periods of physical activity performed on weekends (e.g., by "weekend warriors"). The purpose of this paper is to describe the prevalence, estimated energy expenditure, and types of activities that are performed by adults who engage in irregular patterns of physical activity (1-2 d·wk-1) with = 150 min·wk-1 of total time spent in activity. Methods: Two national datasets were analyzed to describe the proportion of the U.S. adult population who participate in irregular patterns of physical activity that are equivalent in total volume to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/American College of Sports Medicine recommendations for physical activity, but with infrequent weekly participation. Data from the 2003 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System were used to classify weekend warriors as those who participate in 1-2 d·wk-1 of moderate-intensity and vigorous-intensity physical activity totaling = 150 min·wk-1. The 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey was used to describe participation in transportation, household, and sports and exercise by weekend warriors. Results: Approximately 1-3% of U.S. adults were classified as weekend warriors by both surveys. The median energy expenditure did not vary by sex. Approximately 81% of weekend warriors participated in household or transportation activities, and 65% participated in sports or exercise. Conclusions: These survey data indicate that relatively few adults participate in the weekend warrior pattern of activity on 1-2 d·wk-1 at volumes that approximate recommended levels.
Multiply charged gas-phase NaAOT reverse micelles: Formation, encapsulation of glycine, and collision-induced dissociation

We report a study of the generation and characterization of multiply charged, sodium bis(2-ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (NaAOT) aggregates in the gas phase, using electrospray ionization (ESI) guided-ion beam tandem mass spectrometry. It was found that distributions of gas-phase NaAOT aggregate size and charge are related to the surfactant states in electrosprayed solutions. ESI mass spectra of NaAOT/water/hexane reverse micellar solutions show the compositions of [(NaAOT)nNaz]z+, with the aggregation number (n) and charge (z) increase with increasing water content in solution. In contrast, gas-phase aggregates from NaAOT monomers in solution have smaller aggregation numbers and lower charges. Gas-phase NaAOT aggregates of n ≥ 13 could encapsulate one glycine molecule, and those of n ≥ 16 could encapsulate two glycine molecules. Up to five glycine molecules could be accommodated in single aggregates of n ≥ 24. Regardless of glycine encapsulation, no water molecules were detected within gas-phase NaAOT aggregates. Collision-induced dissociation (CID) was studied for mass-selected NaAOT aggregates with Xe, including measurements of product ion masses and CID cross-sections for both empty and glycineencapsulating aggregates over the center-of-mass collision energy range of 0.1–8.0 eV. CID results provide a detailed probe of aggregate structures as well as the interactions between surfactants and the encapsulated glycine molecules. Specifically, the dependence of glycine encapsulation on aggregate size is observed in CID product ion mass spectra, too. The present study demonstrates that NaAOT surfactants are able to form reverse micelles in the gas phase, and gas-phase reverse micelles can act as nanometer-sized vehicles for transport of non-volatile biomolecules.
A new paradigm for examining MOSFET failure modes

Abstract We describe the origin of the time dependence of various forms of defects under hot electron stress as arising from to the distribution of precursor energies. This has specific consequences on all failure modes which are caused by those particular types of defects. Using a simple model for hot carrier interface state generation and a percolation model for oxide breakdown, the roughly Weibull statistics thus generated are easily interpreted in terms of a few physical parameters. A multi-carrier model for interface state generation is also presented. The model provides an explanation for the observed transition of maximum stress voltage from Vg at maximum substrate current to Vg=Vd.
Radiography of the elbow for evaluation of patients with osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum

This study was performed to determine the ability of a routine radiographic examination of the elbow to detect osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum and associated intra-articular loose bodies. The study group consisted of 15 patients with osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum confirmed by surgery or magnetic resonance imaging. Seven of the 15 patients had associated intra-articular loose bodies confirmed by surgery. All 15 patients had anteroposterior and lateral radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging of their symptomatic elbow. Nine of the 15 patients had subsequent elbow surgery. We reviewed the original interpretations of the radiographic examinations of the elbow of all 15 patients to determine whether osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum and associated intra-articular loose bodies had been identified prospectively. We also reviewed the elbow radiographs of all 15 patients to determine whether osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum and associated intra-articular loose bodies could be identified retrospectively. Osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum was detected during the initial interpretations of the radiographic examinations of the elbow in seven of 15 patients. Osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum was detected during retrospective review of the elbow radiographs in 10 of 15 patients. Intra-articular loose bodies were detected during the initial interpretations of the radiographic examinations of the elbow in three of seven patients. Intra-articular loose bodies were detected during retrospective review of the elbow radiographs in four of seven patients. A routine radiographic examination of the elbow has limited sensitivity for detecting osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum and associated intra-articular loose bodies.
B-tree indexes and CPU caches

Since many existing techniques for exploiting CPU caches in the implementation of B-tree indexes have not been discussed in the literature, most of them are surveyed. Rather than providing a detailed performance evaluation for one or two of them on some specific contemporary hardware, the purpose is to survey and to make widely available this heretofore-folkloric knowledge in order to enable, structure, and hopefully stimulate future research.
Diagnostic accuracy of circulating thyrotropin receptor messenger RNA combined with neck ultrasonography in patients with Bethesda III–V thyroid cytology

Background The aim of this study was to analyze the usefulness of thyrotropin receptor messenger RNA (TSHR-mRNA) combined with neck ultrasonography (US) in the management of thyroid nodules with Bethesda III-V cytology. Methods Cytology slides of patients with a preoperative fine needle aspiration (FNA) and TSHR-mRNA who underwent thyroidectomy between 2002 and 2011 were recategorized based on the Bethesda classification. Results of thyroid FNA, TSHR-mRNA, and US were compared with the final pathology. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated. Results There were 12 patients with Bethesda III, 112 with Bethesda IV, and 58 with Bethesda V cytology. The sensitivity of TSHR-mRNA in predicting cancer was 33%, 65%, and 79 %, and specificity was 67%, 66%, and 71%, for Bethesda III, IV, and V categories, respectively. For the same categories, the PPV of TSHR-mRNA was 25%, 33%, and 79%, respectively; whereas the NPV was 75%, 88%, and 71%, respectively. The addition of neck US to TSHR-mRNA increased the NPV to 100% for Bethesda III, and 86%, for Bethesda IV, and 82% for Bethesda V disease. Conclusion This study documents the potential usefulness of TSHR-mRNA for thyroid nodules with Bethesda III-V FNA categories. TSHR-mRNA may be used to exclude Bethesda IV disease. A large sample analysis is needed to determine its accuracy for Bethesda category III nodules.
Use of continuous, real‐time observations and model simulations to achieve autonomous, adaptive sampling of microbial processes with a robotic sampler

The Columbia River has a dynamic and fast flushing estuary impacted by strong advection and mixing of riverine and oceanic waters, and high but variable loads of suspended particulate matter. Transient, but recurring water and nutrient fluxes from end-members impart strong spatial and temporal gradients, contributing to microbiological hotspots that play important ecological roles in the estuary. Investigations of corresponding microbiota require precisely timed samples that are contextualized by physical and biogeochemical data. To accomplish this, we embedded a robotic microbial sampler (Environmental Sample Processor, ESP) within the operations of an interdisciplinary observation and prediction system (Science and Technology University Research Network, SATURN; www.stccmop.org/saturn). Autonomous, adaptively sampled water collection by the ESP was implemented based on environmental conditions assessed from SATURN physical and biogeochemical sensors. Water was pumped from multiple depths to sensors and the ESP on dry land. If water met user-defined parameters, ESP sampling was automatically initiated. This strategy was tested during three deployments in summer 2013, during which operational tools for analysis and visualization were used to formulate well-constrained mission plans by providing estimates of the intensity and timing of oxygen-depleted ocean water intrusion and estuarine turbidity maxima. This allowed the effective characterization of the impact of these events on selected estuarine microbiota.
Educating Students in Value-Based Design and Deve

Summary form only given. Much of software engineering is taught and practiced in a value-neutral context, in which every requirement, use case, object, test case, and defect is equally important. Too often, students learn that some of their stakeholders' value considerations are more important than others by failing to consider this on the job and suffering the consequences. The recent book, Value-Based Software Engineering (S. Biffl et al., eds., Springer, 2005) sets out the agenda of the value-based software engineering community. It is to integrate value considerations into traditional software engineering principles and practices for use in software engineers' education and daily work. We have been pursuing this agenda in a research project called "A Value-Based Science of Design", within the NSF Science of Design program. This paper addresses the nature of "value" in a software engineering context; present an initial theory and process for performing value-based software engineering; present example value-based techniques for requirements engineering, design, development, and test; and discuss experiences in incorporating value-based software engineering in individual-assignment and team project courses.
Some Biological Attributes of Sawflies in the Neodiprion fulviceps Complex in a Brushfield Pine Plantation (Hymenoptera: Diprionidae)

Although adults from each of four study areas in California showed no morphological differences and were identified as belonging to the Neodiprion fulviceps complex, a number of biological differences in different stages of development indicate that there are three distinct populations of one species or subspecies of a species in the, N. fulviceps complex in California.The life stages are typical of Neodiprion species. Overwintering as eggs, eclosion commences in the spring. The larvae drop to the ground after four to six feeding instars, spinning their cocoons in the duff beneath the host trees. Pre pupal larvae spend the summer in the cocoon; pupation occurs in the fall and adult emergence follows two to three weeks after.The foliage chosen for oviposition is mainly the current year's growth. Oviposition occurs largely in the upper crown of trees less than 10 feet in height, while in trees larger than 10 feet the lower crown is preferred. The outer two-thirds of the foliage of an individual tip and the lower gravitation edges of needles are favored for oviposition.Some of the differences supporting the belief that there are distinct species or subspecies include number of eggs per female, number of needles in each fascicle used for oviposition, number of eggs inserted in each needle, spacing of egg pockets, egg color, number of feeding instars, date of larval eclosion, larval size, and larval feeding capacity.Males and females emerged in synchrony in the laboratory and the field. Males predominated in cocoon collections but females predominated in rearings of larvae. This discrepancy in sex ratio may be due to a differential mortality factor. (In this study no prepupae were found to go into an extended diapause.)One adult morphological character was found that may be of significance in supporting the contention that distinct populations or subspecies occur. Females in one study area generally had more antennal segments than females in other areas. This character along with the biological differences may prove adequate to describe these populations as subspecies or even species in the future bur it was felt that additional names, at this time, would only add to the confusion in the genus. Such descriptions should wait until the entire N. fulviceps complex can be considered.
A Novel Method of Atomization with Potential Gas Turbine Applications

In conventional airhlast or air-assist nozzles the bulk liquid to he atomized is first transfor~ncd into a jct or shcct hcfore being cxposcd to the, atomizing air. In the mcthoii of atomization dcscrihcd in this paper, the air is introduced into the hulk liquid at sonic point upstream of thc nozzlc discharge orifice. This injcctcd air forms buhhlcs which 'cxplodc' downstream of thc injection orifice thereby shattering the liquid into sniall drops. Experiments cirrricd out on this ittoniizcr. using watcr as the working fluid and nitrogen as the driving gas, show that good atornization.can be achieved using only small amounts of atomizing gas at injection pressures as low as 173 kPa (25psi). It is found that atomization quality is largely independent of the size of the nozzle discharge orifice. Thus the system appears to have good potential for applications where small holes and passages cannot be employed due to the risk of blockage by contaminants in the fuel.
Cannabinoids, working memory, and schizophrenia.

S I n this issue, Bossong et al. (1) report that delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive constituent in cannabis, can induce both abnormal working memory (WM) perforance and altered brain activity. Based on these findings, they uggest a role for endocannabinoids in both prefrontal cortical unction and the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Deficits in neurocognition, particularly processes related to WM, ave been known to be core features of schizophrenia for nearly 2 ecades (2). Existing antipsychotic drugs, all of which block dopaine (DA) D2 receptors, have limited efficacy against neurocogniive deficits. Treatments based on alternate hypotheses involving he neurotransmitters gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and gluamate (GLU) are of considerable interest. Of note, in numerous rain regions relevant to working memory processes, both GABA nd GLU release are modulated by the activation of central cannainoid receptors (CB1Rs), which are among the most abundant G rotein-coupled receptors in the nervous system (3), and the prinipal target of THC.
Psychoeducation to increase psychotherapy entry for older African Americans

Objective Older African Americans have low rates of mental health service use, particularly for outpatient treatment. This pilot study examined the impact of a brief psychoeducational intervention on treatment entry and attendance for older African American medical patients referred for psychotherapy. Methods Before their first appointment, 32 participants attended a 15-minute individual psychoeducation session about psychotherapy that was specifically tailored for older African Americans. The rates of treatment entry and number of sessions attended over 3 months were compared between psychoeducation participants and a historical-comparison group of 37 African Americans referred for psychotherapy the previous year. Results The proportion of patients starting therapy was equivalent in both groups (about 75%). However, psychoeducation participants attended significantly more sessions than the comparison group in the 3-month period. In 3-month follow-up interviews, participants reported favorable impressions of the psychoeducation experience. Conclusions This brief intervention was acceptable to older African Americans and may be a promising strategy to promote outpatient treatment in this underserved population.
20- and 30-m telescope designs with potential for subsequent incorporation into a track-mounted pair (20/20 or 30/30)

Any future giant ground-based telescope must, at a minimum, provide foci for seeing-limited imaging over a wide field and for diffraction-limited imaging over ~1 arcminute fields corrected by adaptive optics (AO). While this is possible with a number of design concepts, our choices are constrained if we anticipate wanting to later add a second telescope for imaging with still higher resolution, and very high contrast imaging for exoplanet studies. This paper explores designs that allow for such future development. Higher resolution imaging by interferometric combination of the AO-corrected fields of two telescopes is possible without loss of point-source sensitivity or field of view, as long as the baseline can be held perpendicular to the source and varied in length. This requirement is made practical even for very large telescopes, provided both can move continuously on a circular track. The 20/20 telescope 1 illustrates this concept. Telescopes so mounted can additionally be operated as a Bracewell nulling interferometer with low thermal background, making possible the thermal detection of planets that would have been unresolvable by a single 20 m aperture. In practice, limits set by funding and engineering experience will likely require a single 20 or 30 m telescope be built first. This would be on a conventional alt-az mount, but it should be at a site with enough room for later addition of a companion and track. In anticipation of future motion it should be compact and stiff, with a fast primary focal ratio. We envisage the use of large, highly aspheric, off-axis segments, manufactured using the figuring methods for strong aspherics already proven for 8 m class primaries. A compact giant telescope built under these guidelines should be able to perform well on its own for a broad range of astronomical observations, with good resistance to wind buffeting and simple alignment and control of its few, large segments. We compare here configurations with adjacent hexagonal segments and close-packed circular segments. For given segment parent size and number, the largest effective aperture is achieved if the segments are left as circles, when also the sensitivity and resolution for diffraction-limited operation with AO is higher. Large round segments can also be individually apodized for high-contrast imaging of exoplanets with the entire telescope–for example 8.4 m segments will yield 10 -6 suppression 0.05 arcsec from a star at 1 µm wavelength, and 0.25
Adolescents’ Concern for Privacy When Using the Internet: An Empirical Analysis of Predictors and Relationships With Privacy-Protecting Behaviors

This study explores factors that influence the development of a “privacy concern” in adolescents and whether the development of such a privacy concern leads to the adoption of behaviors that can help teens protect themselves from risks associated with divulging private information when using the Internet. Results of the analyses indicate there are a number of predictors significantly associated with the development of a privacy concern in adolescents. Furthermore, results of the analyses suggest that heightening adolescents' concern for their privacy will lead to a greater likelihood that they will use a number of different privacy-protecting behaviors.
Twists, Turns, Cascades, Deque Conjecture, and Scanning Theorem

Nearly tight upper and lower bounds on the maximum number of various rotational operations that can be performed on a binary tree are proved. One of the lower bound results refutes D.E. Sleator's turn conjecture for binary trees (see R.E. Tarjan, SIAM J. Alg. Disc. Meth., vol.2, p.306-318, 1985). The upper bound results are used to derive an inverse Ackerman bound for Tarjan's deque conjecture on the performance of the splay tree. Two new proofs of Tarjan's scanning theorem are provided. One proof generalizes the theorem, whereas the other is a simple, potential-based proof. >
Constructing Markov Processes

Markov processes will provide us with a large class of processes that can be used as building blocks for useful and interesting random fields. This and the following chapter are a brief introduction to Markov processes.
An area estimation technique for module generation

Module generators for adders and shifts that work at the netlist-level due to complexity of design space exploration are discussed. The module generators deal only with the netlists composed of standard macros. The objective is to use the VPNR standard-cell-based placement and route system for the layout synthesis from the generated netlist. The netlist level generation also provides the additional benefit of technology independence. It is feasible to build an accurate model for area and RC-delay of the physical layouts generated by a layout synthesis system. VPNR does an extremely good job of retaining the analytically derived area form, to within 3-8%. This well-behaved aspect of the layout synthesis systems can be used to free the module generators from working at the layout level. The module generators can instead focus their activities at the netlist level, which give them better design space exploration capabilities. >
A Preliminary Physiology of Macro-Neocortical Dynamics and Brain Function

Human brains are information processing systems of vast complexity. Over the past century and especially over the past few decades, our understanding of brain function at small scales has grown substantially. For example, we know many new properties of neurotransmitters, synapses, membranes, and neurons. Higher brain functions involving the thoughts and emotions that determine our behavior, as well as consciousness itself, evidently involve the functional intergration of many sub-systems, involving large fractions of brain tissue. However, very little is known of the large-scale physiology of cell groups and their connection to psychology.
Structure/property (constitutive and dynamic strength/damage) characterization of additively manufactured 316L SS

For additive manufacturing (AM), the certification and qualification paradigm needs to evolve as there exists no “ASTM-type” additive manufacturing certified process or AM-material produced specifications. Accordingly, utilization of AM materials to meet engineering applications requires quantification of the constitutive properties of these evolving materials in comparison to conventionally-manufactured metals and alloys. Cylinders of 316L SS were produced using a LENS MR-7 laser additive manufacturing system from Optomec (Albuquerque, NM) equipped with a 1kW Yb-fiber laser. The microstructure of the AM-316L SS is detailed in both the as-built condition and following heat-treatments designed to obtain full recrystallization. The constitutive behavior as a function of strain rate and temperature is presented and compared to that of nominal annealed wrought 316L SS plate. The dynamic damage evolution and failure response of all three materials was probed using flyer-plate impact driven spallation experiments at a peak stress of 4.5 GPa to examine incipient spallation response. The spall strength of AM-produced 316L SS was found to be very similar for the peak shock stress studied to that of annealed wrought or AM-316L SS following recrystallization. The damage evolution as a function of microstructure was characterized using optical metallography.
Attaining wide tuning range in quasi-optical voltage-controlled grid oscillators

Previous work in voltage-tuned quasi-optical grid oscillators is reviewed from the point of view of features in designs that limit the tuning range. Fundamentally, the designer is faced with a tradeoff between broad tuneability (low Q) and high power efficiency (high Q). The grid structure influences the Q of the resonator through both. intentional electromagnetic coupling through transmission lines and through inadvertent coupling through parasitic effects, which typically can be modeled as lumped circuit elements. For example, the broader bandwidth of bowtie antenna elements produces a lower-Q/more-broadly-tunable spatial structure than dipole antenna elements when employed as the radiators in a grid oscillator. However, the bowtie elements pose geometric constraints upon the placement of varactor elements so as to weaken their coupling to transistor elements. The lower Q weakens power production, as well. The geometrical constraints are obviated if one employs two-layer fabrication, but the manufacture of the oscillator is complicated when two different layers contain semiconductor devices. We report the performance of a quasi-optical voltage-controlled grid oscillator which integrates the varactor diodes with the MESFET grids on the same side of a Duroid substrate and which operates at a nominal frequency of 5 GHz. The total frequency tuning range of the VCGO reached 12% when the voltage applied to the varactor diodes changes from 0 to ?20 V with the output power variation of 8 dB. The 3 dB power bandwidth is measured to be 8%.
Mixing in microfluidic devices and enhancement methods

Mixing in microfluidic devices presents a challenge due to laminar flows in microchannels, which result from low Reynolds numbers determined by the channel's hydraulic diameter, flow velocity, and solution's kinetic viscosity. To address this challenge, novel methods of mixing enhancement within microfluidic devices have been explored for a variety of applications. Passive mixing methods have been created, including those using ridges or slanted wells within the microchannels, as well as their variations with improved performance by varying geometry and patterns, by changing the properties of channel surfaces, and by optimization via simulations. In addition, active mixing methods including microstirrers, acoustic mixers, and flow pulsation have been investigated and integrated into microfluidic devices to enhance mixing in a more controllable manner. In general, passive mixers are easy to integrate, but difficult to control externally by users after fabrication. Active mixers usually take efforts to integrate within a device and they require external components (e.g. power sources) to operate. However, they can be controlled by users to a certain degree for tuned mixing. In this article, we provide a general overview of a number of passive and active mixers, discuss their advantages and disadvantages, and make suggestions on choosing a mixing method for a specific need as well as advocate possible integration of key elements of passive and active mixers to harness the advantages of both types.
Young Children’s Engagement With E-Books at School: Does Device Matter?

Differences between digital devices on children’s engagement with e-books are examined. The sample included 24 typical 4-year olds enrolled in Head Start. Over a 1-month period, video captures of children’s multi-sensory behaviors during shared reading at a tabletop touchscreen computer and teacher-facilitated book browsing with iPads and iPods were obtained. Data were coded on each child at 1-min intervals, examining the simultaneity of behaviors present, then aggregated to determine frequencies of each behavior by device and format. Differences between media devices on median percent of observation time were evaluated. Looking, touching, moving, and gesturing behaviors were significantly different among different devices. Large effect sizes indicated considerable variability attributable to the device. Mobiles support more looking and touching but less moving and gesturing than the tabletop touchscreen; none of the devices favored listening over another. Given the role of haptic perception in digital reading experience, access to mobiles may favor behaviors that support literacy motivation, sense of control, and interaction.
Aerosol Therapy in Pulmonary Critical Care

Aerosolized medications are routinely used for the treatment of critically ill patients. This paper reviews aerosol delivery devices with a focus on issues related to their performance in pulmonary critical care. Factors affecting aerosol drug delivery to mechanically ventilated adults and spontaneously breathing patients with artificial airways are reviewed. Device selection, optimum device technique, and unmet medical needs of aerosol medicine in pulmonary critical care are also discussed.
Acute versus chronic phase mechanisms in a rat model of CRPS

Tibia fracture followed by cast immobilization in rats evokes nociceptive, vascular, epidermal, and bone changes resembling complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). In most cases, CRPS has three stages. Over time, this acute picture, allodynia, warmth, and edema observed at 4 weeks, gives way to a cold, dystrophic but still painful limb. In the acute phase (at 4 weeks post fracture), cutaneous immunological and NK1-receptor signaling mechanisms underlying CRPS have been discovered; however, the mechanisms responsible for the chronic phase are still unknown. The purpose of this study is to understand the mechanisms responsible for the chronic phases of CRPS (at 16 weeks post fracture) at both the peripheral and central levels. We used rat tibial fracture/cast immobilization model of CRPS to study molecular, vascular, and nociceptive changes at 4 and 16 weeks post fracture. Immunoassays and Western blotting were carried out to monitor changes in inflammatory response and NK1-receptor signaling in the skin and spinal cord. Skin temperature and thickness were measured to elucidate vascular changes, whereas von Frey testing and unweighting were carried out to study nociceptive changes. All data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Neuman-Keuls multiple comparison test to compare among all cohorts. In the acute phase (at 4 weeks post fracture), hindpaw allodynia, unweighting, warmth, edema, and/or epidermal thickening were observed among 90 % fracture rats, though by 16 weeks (chronic phase), only the nociceptive changes persisted. The expression of the neuropeptide signaling molecule substance P (SP), NK1 receptor, inflammatory mediators TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6 and nerve growth factor (NGF) were elevated at 4 weeks in sciatic nerve and/or skin, returning to normal levels by 16 weeks post fracture. The systemic administration of a peripherally restricted IL-1 receptor antagonist (anakinra) or of anti-NGF inhibited nociceptive behaviors at 4 weeks but not 16 weeks. However, spinal levels of NK1 receptor, TNFα, IL-1β, and NGF were elevated at 4 and 16 weeks, and intrathecal injection of an NK1-receptor antagonist (LY303870), anakinra, or anti-NGF each reduced nociceptive behaviors at both 4 and 16 weeks. These results demonstrate that tibia fracture and immobilization cause peripheral changes in neuropeptide signaling and inflammatory mediator production acutely, but central spinal changes may be more important for the persistent nociceptive changes in this CRPS model.
Use of Drawing Lithography-Fabricated Polyglycolic Acid Microneedles for Transdermal Delivery of Itraconazole to a Human Basal Cell Carcinoma Model Regenerated on Mice

Itraconazole is a triazole agent that is routinely used for treatment of nail infections and other fungal infections. Recent studies indicate that itraconazole can also inhibit the growth of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) through suppression of the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway. In this study, polyglycolic acid microneedle arrays and stainless steel microneedle arrays were used for transdermal delivery of itraconazole to a human BCC model which was regenerated on mice. One-by-four arrays of 642-μm-long polyglycolic acid microneedles with sharp tips were prepared using injection molding and drawing lithography. Arrays of 85 stainless steel 800-μm-tall microneedles attached to syringes were obtained for comparison purposes. Skin grafts containing devitalized split-thickness human dermis that had been seeded with human keratinocytes transduced to express human SHH protein were sutured to the skin of immunodeficient mice. Mice with this human BCC model were treated daily for 2 weeks with itraconazole dissolved in 60% dimethylsulfoxane and 40% polyethylene glycol-400 solution; transdermal administration of the itraconazole solution was facilitated by either four 1 × 4 polyglycolic acid microneedle arrays or stainless steel microneedle arrays. The epidermal tissues treated with polyglycolic acid microneedles or stainless steel microneedles were markedly thinner than that of the control (untreated) graft tissue. These preliminary results indicate that microneedles may be used to facilitate transdermal delivery of itraconazole for localized treatment of BCC.
Regulating Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The Supreme Court, the Environmental Protection Agency, Madison’s “Auxiliary Precautions,” and Rohr’s “Balance Wheel”

Regulating greenhouse gas emissions is a complicated task, exacerbated by the inability of the political institutions of government to provide clear guidance on this matter to the Environmental Protection Agency. Using the Madisonian notion of “auxiliary precautions,” it is argued that the EPA is in the best position to serve the public’s interest in this area and should have more discretion in the absence of decisive action by the political branches of government. It is further argued that the EPA is in a position to embody Rohr’s notion of a “balance wheel” to protect the nation from the harmful effects of greenhouse gas emissions.
Non-invasive blood glucose monitor based on spectroscopy using a smartphone

Development of a novel method for non-invasive measurement of blood glucose concentration using smartphone is discussed. Our research work has three major contributions to society and science. First, we modified and extended the Beer-Lambert's law in physics to accommodate for multiple wavelengths. This extension can aid researchers who wish to perform optical spectroscopy. Second, we successfully developed a creative and non-invasive way for diabetic patients to measure glucose levels via a smartphone. Researchers and chemists can now use their smartphones to determine the absorbance and, therefore, concentration of a chemical. Third, we created an inexpensive way to perform optical spectroscopy by using a smartphone. Monitoring blood glucose using a smartphone application that simply uses equipment already available on smartphones will improve the lives of diabetic patients who can continuously check their blood glucose levels while avoiding the current inconvenient, unhygienic, and costly invasive glucose meters.
The Arts Connection The Arts and Transformative Learning in Professional Development

Artist-in-residency experiences (puppetry, creative drama, music, and movement) indicated a connection with emotional transformative learning as a venue for professional development. This small teacher practitioner-based study involved teacher participants engaged in four-weeklong artist residencies at four childcare centers. Thirteen teachers participated in a presurvey phase and eight teachers participated in a postsurvey phase designed to measure their attitudes and beliefs about how children learn. Teachers’ presurvey responses indicated firm beliefs in a direct instruction approach to teaching young children while postsurvey responses showed movement toward a facilitator approach to children’s learning. Four informal teacher interviews with 2 of the 13 teachers at one of the four centers suggested emotional transformative learning in an artist-in-residency experience allows teachers to begin to understand that attitudes, feelings, and beliefs are a part of change.