cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
86 FAST VENTRICULAR TACHYCARDIA AT PROGRAMMED ELECTRICAL STIMULATION AS A RISK FACTOR FOR SPONTANEOUS VENTRICULAR ARRHYTHMIAS IN IMPLANTABLE CARDIOVERTER DEFIBRILLATOR PATIENTS.

Background Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) reduce mortality in high-risk individuals by preventing sudden cardiac death owing to ventricular tachyarrhythmias. Programmed electrical stimulation (PES) is useful for risk-stratifying patients for sudden cardiac death (SCD). However, the prognostic value of induced fast ventricular tachycardia (FVT) (cycle length ≤ 230 msec) is uncertain. The purpose of this study is to compare the risk of appropriate shock for ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) in ICD recipients induced into FVT, monomorphic VT (MVT) (cycle length > 230 msec), polymorphic VT (PVT)/VF, and no ventricular tachyarrhythmias at the time of PES. Methods A single-center retrospective review was performed on patients who underwent PES, ICD implantation, and follow-up between 1992 and 2003. The primary end point was time to first appropriate ICD shock. Baseline variables were compared using appropriate tests of significance. Time-to-appropriate shock was compared for each type of induced rhythm using survival analysis. Cox regression was used to assess the impact of baseline variables on the primary end point. Results A cohort of 289 patients with a mean age of 64 ± 14 years, ejection fraction (EF) 33 ± 15%, 65% with ischemic cardiomyopathy, and 50% with secondary prophylaxis indications was studied. Inducible FVT was present in 18%, MVT in 40%, and PVT/VF in 21%, and 20% were noninducible. The mean cycle length was 212 ± 15 msec for FVT and 286 ± 59 msec for MVT (p .05 for all comparisons). After adjusting for baseline differences, only MVT and EF remained as significant predictors of appropriate ICD therapy (adjusted hazard ratio 2.2 for MVT; 95% CI 1.01-4.84; p = .048 and adjusted hazard ratio 0.98 for each 1% increase in EF; 95% CI 0.96-0.99; p = .008). Conclusion FVT induced on PES is a nonspecific finding with a similar long-term risk of spontaneous VT/VF as induction into PVT/VF or a lack of induction of ventricular tachyarrhythmia at the time of PES. However, noninducible patients and those inducible into FVT and PVT/VF still had a risk of appropriate ICD therapy for spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmias of 5%/year, suggesting that the induction of MVT as the sole predictor of future arrhythmic events may be inadequate.
The effectiveness of blended learning environments for the delivery of respiratory care education.

INTRODUCTION The undergraduate health professions student of the 21st century is very technology literate. In an attempt to provide these students with a forum to enhance learning, some educators have opted to integrate additional course materials via Internet classrooms while still maintaining the face-to-face interaction between instructor and learner. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed with the student course evaluations and demographics of two groups of respiratory therapy students (one group participated a traditional learning environment and one group participated in a blended learning environment) in a baccalaureate degree program. The author employed SPSS quantitative data analysis software to conduct statistical analysis. RESULTS None of the studied variables showed a statistically significant difference (p =0.05). Further testing revealed an expected positive relationship between pre-existing GPA and the final examination grade as well as the final examination grade and the course grade (p = 0.05). No other positive relationships were noted. DISCUSSION The qualitative analysis implies a difference in satisfaction between cohorts; however, the quantitative analysis of the student evaluations does not provide statistically significant differences for any aspect surveyed in the anonymous standardized questionnaire. CONCLUSION The results of this pilot study favor the continuing practice of blended learning environments as a viable option for course delivery in health care education. The author recommends further study to explore this topic in depth with larger cohorts.
Factor XIII Deficiency and Intracranial Hemorrhage

A 38 month old boy with excessive bleeding following circumcision as a newborn and two episodes of intracranial hemorrhage at four months and at 85 months of age is reported from the Scott and White Clinic, Temple, TX.
Utopia and Progress: The Case of Thomas Paine's Apocalypse

One of the overlooked aspects of political utopianism is the mechanism which brings about the utopia. What brings about the change from the ordinary politics of the present to the utopian state? For Thomas Paine the change is apocalyptic. Paine’s later writing testifies to the sudden birth of reason in the world and foresees its sweeping effect over individual human minds and human societies. He describes reason as an irresistible revelation, an apocalypse. Evaluating the American and French revolutions, Paine identifies the mechanism of change as the rational apocalypse itself. On the one hand, this mechanism of change shatters the coherence of Paine’s comprehensive thought. On the other, Paine’s utopianism is both thought-provoking and cautionary. To what extent can reason enlighten individuals to their true interests in harmony with others? To what extent do utopian plans for society rely on something miraculous or apocalyptic to change human consciousness? Should political utopianism purport to fix the problems of the world now, or is it primarily a device for imagining a better world which future generations might slowly construct?
Estimating Tropical Cyclone Integrated Kinetic Energy with the CYGNSS Satellite Constellation

AbstractThe Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS) constellation is designed to provide observations of surface wind speed in and near the inner core of tropical cyclones with high temporal resolution throughout the storm’s life cycle. A method is developed for estimating tropical cyclone integrated kinetic energy (IKE) using CYGNSS observations. IKE is calculated for each geographically based quadrant out to an estimate of the 34-kt (1 kt = 0.51 m s−1) wind radius. The CYGNSS-IKE estimator is tested and its performance is characterized using simulated CYGNSS observations with realistic measurement errors. CYGNSS-IKE performance improves for stronger, more organized storms and with increasing number of observations over the extent of the 34-kt radius. Known sampling information can be used for quality control. While CYGNSS-IKE is calculated for individual geographic quadrants, using a total-IKE—a sum over all quadrants—improves performance. CYGNSS-IKE should be of interest to operational and ...
Update of Experience with Fludarabine, Cyclophosphamide, Mitoxantrone Plus Rituximab (FCM-R) in Frontline Therapy for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL).

Combination therapy has developed into a gold standard of CLL therapy. Chemoimmunotherapy combinations currently achieve the highest rates of complete remission (CR) and molecular responses. Various combinations have been tried to maximize outcome. Based on our previous results with fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, rituximab (FCR) and more recent reports of favorable results with FC + mitoxantrone (M), we have designed an FCM-R (plus pegfilgrastim) combination for pts with previously untreated and symptomatic CLL. All patients were younger than 70 years with b2M levels 2 i.v. d2–4, C 250 mg/m 2 i.v. d2–4, M 6 mg/m 2 i.v. d2, R 375 mg/m 2 i.v. d1, and pegfilgrastim 6 mg s.c. d4. For courses 2–6, FCM started day 1 together with R 500 mg/m 2 , and pegfilgrastim on d3. Courses were repeated q4–6 wks. The primary objective was assessment of clinical responses (NCI-WG criteria) and flow cytometry (CD5/CD19) response rate at 3 and 6 months as well as toxicity. Thirty-one pts were enrolled of whom 30 were treated. The median age was 57 yrs (range 38–69). Fourteen pts (48%) were male. Four pts (14%) had Rai stage ≥ 3. Median b2M was 2.6 mg/L (1.4–4) and the median WBC 59.9 × 10 9 /L (5.6–355). Two pts had 11q23 and 17p- abnormalities by cytogenetics/FISH. Unmutated IgV H occurred in 12/17 (71%) pts; ZAP-70 immunohistochemistry was positive in 11/19 (58%) pts. Twenty-nine pts were evaluable for response at 3 months and 30 at completion of therapy. Twenty-eight pts (97%) responded at 3 mos (41% CR, 17% nPR, 39% PR); 10 pts (34%) had /= 3 neutropenia occurred in 19 (63)% of the pts, thrombocytopenia in 2 (7%). Infectious episodes were seen in 13 pts (45%). Seven (23%) did not complete 6 courses because of ongoing cytopenias. In conclusion, FCM-R has a high CR rate in symptomatic frontline patients with CLL. Time-to-event parameters and a comparison with FCR will be presented.
Grain boundary traction signatures: Quantifying the asymmetrical dislocation emission processes under tension and compression

Abstract The disruption in crystallographic arrangement of atoms across a grain boundary interface generates local stress fields in the vicinity. Here, we reconstruct the continuum-equivalent grain boundary tractions from local atomic stresses near symmetrical-tilt 〈110〉 Ni grain boundaries. We show that the resolved shear stress contribution from the grain boundary tractions, τGB, along active slip-systems either assists or prevents the emission of dislocations, depending on its direction with respect to the resolved shear stress contribution from external loading, τext. When τGB acts in the same direction as τext, Shockley partial dislocations are readily emitted from the boundary once | τ GB + τ ext | exceeds the critical barrier stress for shear-slip. When τGB opposes τext, the higher sustainable stresses in the grain boundary structure instead triggers: (a) emission of dislocations from the bulk, or (b) reconfiguration of the grain boundary atomic structure and subsequent emission of non-Schmid dislocations or formation of extrinsic stacking faults. Our results quantitatively explain the asymmetrical grain boundary dislocation emission processes observed in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations under applied tensile and compressive loads. The relationship between the traction signatures and periodic structural units along the grain boundary is discussed.
Bayesian variable selection for a semi-competing risks model with three hazard functions

A variable selection procedure is developed for a semi-competing risks regression model with three hazard functions that uses spike-and-slab priors and stochastic search variable selection algorithms for posterior inference. A rule is devised for choosing the threshold on the marginal posterior probability of variable inclusion based on the Deviance Information Criterion (DIC) that is examined in a simulation study. The method is applied to data from esophageal cancer patients from the MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, where the most important covariates are selected in each of the hazards of effusion, death before effusion, and death after effusion. The DIC procedure that is proposed leads to similar selected models regardless of the choices of some of the hyperparameters. The application results show that patients with intensity-modulated radiation therapy have significantly reduced risks of pericardial effusion, pleural effusion, and death before either effusion type.
Measurement of mechanical properties of metallic glass at elevated temperature using sonic resonance method

Bulk metallic glasses are fully amorphous multi-component alloys with homogeneous and isotropic structure down to the atomic scale. Some attractive attributes of bulk metallic glasses include high strength and hardness as well as excellent corrosion and wear resistance. However, there are few reports and limited understanding of their mechanical properties at elevated temperatures. We used a nondestructive sonic resonance method to measure the Young’s modulus and Shear modulus of a bulk metallic glass, Zr41.2Ti13.8Cu12.5Ni10Be22.5, at elevated temperatures. The measurement system was designed using a laser displacement sensor to detect the sonic vibration produced by a speaker on the specimen in high-temperature furnace. The OMICRON Bode-100 Vector Network Analyzer was used to sweep the frequency and its output was connected to the speaker which vibrated the material in its flexural mode and torsional modes. A Polytec OFV-505 laser vibrometer sensor was used to capture the vibration of the material at various frequencies. The flexural and torsional mode frequency shift due to the temperature variation was used to determine the Young’s modulus and Shear modulus. The temperature range of measurement was from 50°C to 350°C. The Young’s modulus was found to reduce from 100GPa to 94GPa for the 300°C temperature span. Similarly, the Shear modulus decreased from 38.5GPa at 50°C to 36GPa at 350°C.
Space Division Multiplexing Fibers and Amplifiers

We report on the fabrication of multi-core multi-mode fibers tailored for optics communications applications. Examples of passive graded index fiber and active Er-doped multi-mode and multi-core fibers for ultra-high-density SDM will be discussed.
Chapter 2 – Dystrophinopathies

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the natural history, a brief history of discovery, pathology, genetics, pathophysiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and emerging therapies in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and other dystrophinopathies. It encompasses (DMD), Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD), X-linked dilated cardiomyopathy (XLDCM), and manifesting/nonmanifesting DMD/BMD carriers. All of these diseases are caused by mutations in the DMD (or dystrophin) gene at Xp21.2 which encodes the protein dystrophin. DMD is the most severe disorder, which is described in detail, with related diseases discussed in comparison. The presentation of a young boy with progressive proximal weakness, calf hypertrophy, and raised creatine kinase (CK) levels almost always leads to the diagnosis of DMD. In case of DMD, boys are mildly delayed in motor and language development even before the first year of life and most boys of them never run or jump well. Progressive weakness of ankle dorsiflexor, hip flexor and extensor muscle groups begins between three and five years of age followed by quadriceps, hip adductor and extensor, neck and abdominal flexor weakness, proximal upper extremity, and respiratory muscle weakness. Sleep-related breathing disorders are prevalent in patients with DMD, about 10-fold higher than in the general pediatric population. Osteopenia and osteoporosis are commonly seen by 10–12 years of age, even in noncorticosteroid-treated boys and Vitamin D levels may be deficient in boys with DMD.
Structural properties of affine sparsity constraints

We introduce a new constraint system for sparse variable selection in statistical learning. Such a system arises when there are logical conditions on the sparsity of certain unknown model parameters that need to be incorporated into their selection process. Formally, extending a cardinality constraint, an affine sparsity constraint (ASC) is defined by a linear inequality with two sets of variables: one set of continuous variables and the other set represented by their nonzero patterns. This paper aims to study an ASC system consisting of finitely many affine sparsity constraints. We investigate a number of fundamental structural properties of the solution set of such a non-standard system of inequalities, including its closedness and the description of its closure, continuous approximations and their set convergence, and characterizations of its tangent cones for use in optimization. Based on the obtained structural properties of an ASC system, we investigate the convergence of B(ouligand) stationary solutions when the ASC is approximated by surrogates of the step $$\ell _0$$ -function commonly employed in sparsity representation. Our study lays a solid mathematical foundation for solving optimization problems involving these affine sparsity constraints through their continuous approximations.
Derivation of Retinal Pigmented Epithelial Cells for the Treatment of Ocular Disease

Eye diseases impact society in a devastating fashion, and, although there is a wealth of knowledge about ocular biology, treatment strategies are still lacking. There is great promise in emerging cellular therapies for ocular disease, and in this chapter, we will focus on current efforts to replace retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) to treat age-related macular degeneration. The eye has many advantages for the development of cellular therapies, and RPE cells have been derived from both human embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells. Significant advances have been made in methods for differentiation and expansion of stem cell-derived RPE, and protocols have been developed that result in homogeneous populations of bona fide RPE with very low levels of contaminating cells. Importantly, methods are in hand to eliminate undifferentiated stem cells that might form tumors. Several strategies are being pursued for transplantation and monitoring of cells; especially promising are approaches that will deliver a patch of fully differentiated, polarized RPE on a synthetic substrate. Clinical trials have already been initiated in this rapidly advancing field, with additional trials soon to begin.
Signal Detection, Noise, and the Evolution of Communication

Signal detection theory has had limited application in studies of animal communication. Yet by specifying constraints placed by noise on a receiver’s performance, it provides a way to investigate optimal performance and thus the evolution of communication. Noise in this case is anything influencing a receiver’s receptors other than a signal of interest. The essential features of signal detection theory are (1) a distinction between the detectability of a signal in noise and the criterion or threshold for a receiver’s response and (2) a realization that any decision by a receiver to respond has four possible outcomes, not all of which are independent. Although presented here in terms of a receiver’s threshold for response to one kind of signal, signal detection theory applies also to more complex criteria for response as well as complex discriminations among multiple signals. A receiver’s optimal performance always depends on the payoffs of the four possible outcomes of a decision to respond and on the detectability of a signal. By incorporating detectability, signal detection theory can provide a complete explanation for the evolution of exaggerated signals. An alternative explanation, based only on sexual selection and necessary costs of signals, does not do so. In particular, signal detection theory shows that exaggeration of signals should evolve so as to improve the detectability of signals by receivers. By shifting the emphasis from a receiver’s preferences and to its performance, this theory also clarifies the co-evolution of signalers and receivers. The result is a signal-detection balance, in which signals reach optimal but not ideal detectability and receivers reach optimal but not ideal performance. The crucial importance of the detectability of signals by receivers means that noise in natural situations, just as much as costs and benefits for the participants, determines the features of communication.
Noncanonical Linear Programming Problems

The simplex algorithm discussed in Chapter 2 solves canonical maximization and canonical minimization linear programming problems. The important properties that characterize a canonical linear programming problem (in this book at least) are the nonnegativity of the initial independent variables and the inequality form of the main constraints. However, easy modifications of the algorithms of Chapter 2 enable the solution of certain noncanonical linear programming problems. The concern of this chapter is the formalization of these modifications. Our linear programming solution procedure will consequently apply to a broader class of problems. In addition, the solution of the noncanonical problems here will be crucial to our first application in Chapter 5.
Phenotypes of anomalous trichromacy

This paper considers the substantial variation among anomalous trichromats, even among those within a discrete subtype such as simple deuteranomalous trichromacy. First, theoretical calculations show that relatively small individual differences in wavelengths of peak sensitivity of pigments and/or in optical densities can substantially affect Rayleigh matching, which is the procedure typically used to diagnose different types of anomalous trichromacy. Second, an ensemble of colour matches is introduced as a technique to assess individual differences in peak wavelength and density. Finally, results are reported from simple deuteranomals, two of whom are shown to have pigments with different peak wavelengths and two of whom are shown to have pigments with different optical densities. We argue that the standard classifications of anomalous trichromacy are too broad to relate phenotypes to genotypes
Understanding Chemical Inhomogeneities and Cation Gradients in Perovskite Photovoltaics with TOF-SIMS

Time-of-flight secondary-ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) is one of the few techniques that can obtain chemical information from all components of hybrid organicinorganic perovskite photovoltaics in up to three dimensions. This can yield critical insight into the uniformity of the cations through the thickness of the film (with sub-nm resolution), as well as laterally (with 100nm resolution) We have been using a TOF-SIMS to analyze perovskite photovoltaics at NREL for more than four years and have found many tricks and best practices, summarized here, to get around known artifacts when depth profiling and imaging.
Advantages of intensity modulated proton therapy during hippocampal avoidance whole brain radiation therapy

Abstract Background and purpose Intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) allows for modulation parameterized for individual beamlets by position, intensity, and depth. This modulation capability is ideally suited for sparing organs at risk intermediate of the radiation target, such as hippocampal volumes within the whole brain. This work compared IMPT relative to volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) during hippocampal avoidance whole brain radiation therapy (HA WBRT). Materials and methods Ten adult and ten pediatric patients previously treated for central nervous system malignancies were identified. IMPT and VMAT treatment plans employing HA WBRT were generated for each patient, delivering 30 GyE (Gray Equivalent) in 10 fractions for adults and 36 GyE in 20 fractions for pediatrics. Dose indices, including dose volume histogram metrics and homogeneity index HI = [D5% − D95%]/[Dmean] × 100, were used to assess plan quality and describe target coverage and normal-tissue sparing. Results IMPT offered significant benefits relative to VMAT for hippocampal sparing. Hippocampal mean dose was reduced from 13.7 ± 0.8 Gy with VMAT to 5.4 ± 0.3 GyE using IMPT for pediatrics, and was reduced from 11.7 ± 0.9 Gy with VMAT to 4.4 ± 0.2 GyE using IMPT for adults. IMPT similarly lowered left hippocampal mean dose. Dose to 95% of the clinical target volume was statistically equivalent for both groups; however IMPT reduced the homogeneity index by roughly half. Conclusion This manuscript demonstrates that HA IMPT can match or exceed dosimetric benefits offered with modulated X-rays. Inclusion of IMPT in future prospective studies is warranted.
Liver Involvement after a Fontan Procedure for Congenital Heart Disease

Patients with congenital heart disease are living longer into adulthood. As these patients age, we see extracardiac complications of Fontan circulation. Liver dysfunction is almost universal in patients who have had a Fontan surgery. This paper seeks to describe the current understanding of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of Fontan-associated liver dysfunction (FALD). In this era of noninvasive markers for liver diseases, unfortunately, these markers have been found to be less sensitive in patients with FALD. There have been small, mostly single center, reports about the need for combined heart and liver transplant in these patients. Clinical expertise is needed to determine optimal treatment for patients with FALD and it requires a multidisciplinary team of liver and congenital heart disease experts to manage this population.
Ensemble of Lindblad's trajectories for non-Markovian dynamics

Although Lindblad developed a general Markovian theory for open-system dynamics while maintaining the positivity of the density matrix, a practical non-Markovian analog remains a significant problem. Here, we present an extension of Lindblad's theory through an ensemble of Lindbladian trajectories originating from different times in the system's history. This approach provides an account of the system's memory while preserving the positivity of the density matrix. We apply the theory to the Jaynes-Cummings model to capture non-Markovian dynamics in the weak and strong coupling regimes.
Advantages and utilization of telemedicine.

In this issue, several research groups outline the advantages of telemedicine for multiple specialties. The authors explore the various reasons for telemedicine utilization and offer suggestions to increase the delivery of high-quality telemedicine services.
Vascular Rings in Adults: Outcome of Surgical Management

Background Limited data exist on the management of vascular rings (VR) in adults. We reviewed our experience of surgical treatment of these patients. Methods All adult patients with VR (n = 65) who underwent VR repair (mean age, 45 ± 16 years; 33 women [51%]) from January 1972 to January 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Anatomic variants were right arch with aberrant left subclavian artery (SA) and Kommerell diverticulum (KD) in 22 (34%), left arch with aberrant right SA and KD in 20 (31%), double aortic arch in 12 (18%), right arch with mirror imaging and persistent ligamentum off KD in 7 (11%), and others in 4 (6%). Indications for operation included dysphagia in 43 (63%), respiratory symptoms in 28 (43%), aneurysmal KD in 12 (18%), and dissection/rupture in 7 (11%). Results KD was found in 51 patients (78%). The surgical approach included left thoracotomy in 50 (77%), right thoracotomy in 7 (11%), sternotomy in 5 (8%), and hybrid repair in 3 (5%). A 2-stage repair with carotid-SA transposition, followed by transthoracic KD excision, was done in 51% of aberrant SA (n = 23). There was 1 early death. Morbidity included recurrent laryngeal nerve injury in 5 (8%) and chylothorax in 3 (5%). Symptomatic improvement occurred in 97%. Survival was 96.1%, 85.0%, and 73.4% at 1, 5, and 10 years, respectively. Dysphagia recurred in 9 (14%), which included 7 (11%) with esophageal dysmotility. Conclusions Repair of VR in adults can be performed safely. Dysphagia is the most common symptom and improves in most after repair. Excision of the KD and aberrant vessel is the preferred approach to prevent acute aortic events or recurrent symptoms. Early operation should be considered with esophageal compression to avoid late dysmotility.
Three-photon-excited laser-induced fluorescence detection of atomic hydrogen in flames

In many recent studies, ultrashort femtosecond (fs) two-photon (2p) laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) of atomic hydrogen (H) has been demonstrated using a 205 nm excitation. However, 205-nm- deep ultraviolet (UV) pulses can be problematic in practical devices containing thick transmissive optics and can also be susceptible to photolytic production at high laser energies. In this Letter, we investigate the three-photon (3p) excitation scheme of H by using red-shifted 307.7 nm fs laser pulses. Efficient 3p excitation resulting from fs laser pulses enable the 3pLIF detection of H, which was previously unattainable in most flame conditions using ns or ps pulses. Measurements are reported in CH4/O2/N2 Bunsen jet flames and premixed CH4/air flames and compared to similar 2pLIF schemes with fs pulses. Saturation effects, photolytic interferences, and stimulated emissions effects are studied, as well as the benefits of 3pLIF in diagnostic hardware with thick optical windows.
In situ studies of the lubricant chemistry and frictional properties of perfluoropolyalkyl ethers at a sliding contact

In situ analyses of lubricated sliding contacts were performed by interfacing an ultraviolet Raman spectrometer to a ball-on-flat tribotester. The sliding contact was simulated by rotating a sapphire window that is transparent to ultraviolet radiation against a stationary ball. Various loads were transmitted to the contact center through the ball. A branched perfluoropolyaklyl ether (Krytox 479) and two linear perfluoropolyalkyl ethers (Fomblin 491 and Fomblin 497) have been studied under various loads at a 10 cm/s sliding speed. Krytox and a Fomblin of lower viscosity, Fomblin 497, decomposed to amorphous carbon upon sliding on a chrome steel ball but no amorphous carbon was detected from Fomblin 491. The amount of amorphous carbon at the contact area during sliding was a balance of formation and removal rates. It is postulated that surface activity of the chrome steel ball was the main cause for the lubricant degradation. The lubricant degradation at the chrome steel/sapphire interface was found to slightly increase the kinetic coefficient of friction at the contact center. However, catastrophic scuffing was not observed.
Cervical cancer screening behaviors among American Indian women: Cervical cancer literacy and health belief model

ABSTRACTAmerican Indian women experience disproportionately high rates of cervical cancer morbidity and mortality, yet cancer screening services tend to be underutilized. Using the Health Belief Mo...
Chapter 4 – Wood Bioenergy

Energy created from the direct or indirect conversion of biomass from trees and woody shrubs is known as wood bioenergy. This energy can be derived by directly burning the wood or burning the wood in combination with coal or other fuel sources. It can also be derived indirectly through a number of thermal and/or chemical conversion processes. Wood bioenergy is one of many energy sources that is considered to be renewable or “nondepletive” in nature. Woody biomass that is consumed produces carbon dioxide and other emissions that can be used when young trees are planted and managed. This “carbon neutral” cycle is one prominent reason why wood bioenergy is considered to be a viable alternative to traditional depletive sources within energy discussions in the United States and around the world.
Three-Dimensional Printing for Craniofacial Bone Tissue Engineering

The basic concepts from the fields of biology and engineering are integrated into tissue engineering to develop constructs for the repair of damaged and/or absent tissues, respectively. The field has grown substantially over the past two decades, with particular interest in bone tissue engineering (BTE). Clinically, there are circumstances in which the quantity of bone that is necessary to restore form and function either exceeds the patient's healing capacity or bone's intrinsic regenerative capabilities. Vascularized osseous or osteocutaneous free flaps are the standard of care with autologous bone remaining the gold standard, but is commonly associated with donor site morbidity, graft resorption, increased operating time, and cost. Regardless of the size of a craniofacial defect, from trauma, pathology, and osteonecrosis, surgeons and engineers involved with reconstruction need to consider the complex three-dimensional (3D) geometry of the defect and its relationship to local structures. Three-dimensional printing has garnered significant attention and presents opportunities to use craniofacial BTE as a technology that offers a personalized approach to bony reconstruction. Clinicians and engineers are able to work together to produce patient-specific space-maintaining scaffolds tailored to site-specific defects, which are osteogenic, osseoconductive, osseoinductive, encourage angiogenesis/vasculogenesis, and mechanically stable upon implantation to prevent immediate failure. In this work, we review biological and engineering principles important in applying 3D printing technology to BTE for craniofacial reconstruction as well as present recent translational advancements in 3D printed bioactive ceramic scaffold technology.
Computational Thinking in Classrooms: A Study of a Professional Development for STEM Teachers in High Needs Schools

This study explores the influence of a professional development (PD) model aiming to build teacher capacities for K-12 schools. It examines the impact of this PD on teachers’ learning of content and pedagogical knowledge related to computational thinking. It also investigates the lessons learned during the implementation process. This mixed-methods study examined 25 teachers who participated in the PD. The pre- and post-tests analysis showed positive outcomes of this PD in helping teachers learn CT skills. The thematic analysis of the qualitative data identified themes to answer the second, third and fourth research questions. Learner-centered approaches, differentiated learning, and unplugged activities were three main themes identified in teacher-created lesson plans.
Comparative efficacy of metaphylaxis with tulathromycin and pentavalent modified-live virus vaccination in high-risk, newly received feedlot cattle

ABSTRACT Objective Our objective was to compare metaphylaxis with tulathromycin (META) and vaccination with a pentavalent modified-live virus respiratory vaccine (MLV) in high-risk feedlot calves and their influence on health and growth performance during a 56-d receiving period. Materials and Methods Beef bulls (n = 372) and steers (n = 106) were stratified by initial BW (234 ± 1.32 kg), health status, and sex and randomly assigned to treatments arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial: (1) no META or MLV (CON), (2) META administration on d 0 (META), (3) MLV administration on d 0 with revaccination on d 14 (MLV), and (4) META and MLV administration (META+MLV). Interactions and main effects were analyzed within a generalized complete block design using a mixed statistical model with 10 pen replicates per treatment. Body weight and feed refusals were recorded periodically to determine interim and overall (d 0 to 56) performance and feed efficiency. A subset (n = 256) was affixed with a 3-axis accelerometer ear-tag to quantify activity and rumination time. A 7-d postmetaphylactic interval was implemented for META, and bovine respiratory disease cases were determined by treatment-blinded, trained investigators. Results and Discussion The META groups had greater ADG from d 0 to 14, from d 14 to 28, and overall (P ≤ 0.01) and BW on d 56 was increased (P Implications and Applications Health and performance of high-risk feedlot cattle was improved by META but not MLV.
Student-Led Discussions about Recreation Programming

This learning activity describes changes made to teach Recreation Programming in an online format, specifically the use of weekly student-led discussions on readings and films related to programmin...
Violating Vergil’s Corpus: The Penetrated Body in Cento Literature

Using paratextual reflections from Umberto Eco’s Name of the Rose as its theoretical point of departure, this chapter examines two interrelated themes: unbound literary corpora and their bound, penetrated bodies. The unbound literary corpora under question are two fourth-century centos: Decimus Magnus Ausonius’ Cento Nuptialis and Faltonia Betitia Proba’s Christian cento. As patchwork poems that rework Vergilian lines or line-segments to form new literary wholes, centos are fascinating vestiges of late antique literary culture. They are also intrinsically allusive—each line or hemistich points (in)directly to some Vergilian context. In this chapter, I explore the ways Proba and Ausonius rework the Vergilian corpus to tell stories about two violated physical bodies—the crucified Jesus in Proba’s cento and the raped bride in Ausonius’ Cento Nuptialis.
Lipid emulsion therapy for local anaesthetic toxicity. (LipidRescue)

Intoxication due to local anaesthetic drugs poses a rare but potentially life-threatening complication. In particular long-acting local anaesthetics can cause refractory cardiac arrest due to their lipophilic properties. This is often preceded by neurological symptoms such as confusion, vertigo and tonic-clonic seizures. The clinical efficacy of lipid emulsions in resuscitation from local anaesthetic toxicity has been documented in multiple publications. The injection of local anaesthetics should be stopped immediately upon the first presentation of symptoms. Securing the airway is mandatory to avoid hypoxia and concurrent acidosis. A seizure should be controlled with adequate doses of anticonvulsants. In case of cardiac arrest standard protocols for cardiopulmonary resuscitation have to be implemented immediately. The use of lipid emulsion can then be initiated as a supplement to standard resuscitation. It is recommended that lipid emulsions are instantly accessible in all facilities where local anaesthetics are administered.
Teichmüller Theory of Riemann Surfaces

For detailed discussions of Teichmuller theory and moduli spaces, see [Abi80], [Gar87], [HM98], [Leh87], [Nag88], [Tro92], etc. Here we give only a brief introduction mostly without proofs. We first review some facts regarding the tensor calculus in the complex plane and Riemann surfaces that are used for the rest of the book. Recall that \(dz : = dx + idy, d\bar{z} :=\bar{dz} : dx - idy\) Are the differential forms and \(\partial _z : = \frac{1}{2}(\partial _x - i\partial _y ),\partial _{\bar z} : = \frac{1}{2}(\partial _x + i\partial _y )\) Are vector fields, z ϵ C. Thus \(dz \wedge d\bar z = - 2idx \wedge dy\) is the multiple of the Euclidean area form. The vector fields \(\partial _z ,\partial _{\bar z}\) are thought of as sections of two different complex line bundles T 1,0 (the holomorphic line bundle) and T 0,1 (the antiholomorphic line bundle). Since the bundle T 1,0 is 1-dimensional, there are natural isomorphisms between the tensor product (T 1,0)⊗n, the symmetric product Sn(T 1,0) and the exterior product \(\wedge ^n T^{1,0}\). In what follows, we will identify these bundles. The same applies to the bundle T 1,0 and to the duals: holomorphic and antiholomorphic contangent bundles (T 1,0)*, (T 0,1)* whose sheaves of local sections are generated by the forms \(dz,d\bar z\)
On the Value of Information in Dynamic Multiple‐Vehicle Routing Problems

A very active research area today addresses cooperative control of distributed multiagent systems: groups of autonomous robots and large-scale mobile networks are being considered for a broad class of applications, ranging from environmental monitoring, to search and rescue operations, and national security. An area of particular interest is concerned with the generation of efficient cooperative strategies for several mobile agents to move through a certain number of given target points, possibly avoiding obstacles or threats (Beard et al. 2002; Earl and D’Andrea 2005; Li and Cassandras 2006; Richards et al. 2002; Schumacher et al. 2003). Trajectory efficiency in these cases is understood in terms of cost for the agents: in other words, efficient trajectories minimize the total path length, the time needed to complete the task, or the fuel/energy expenditure. A related problem has been investigated as the Weapon-Target Assignment (WTA) problem, in which mobile agents are allowed to team up in order to enhance the probability of a favorable outcome in a target engagement (Arslan and Shamma 2006; Murphey 1999). In this set-up, targets locations are known and an assignment strategy is sought that maximizes the global success rate. In a biological setting, the closest parallel to many of these problems is the development of foraging strategies, and of territorial vs. gregarious behaviors (Tanemura and Hasegawa 1980), in which individuals choose to identify and possibly defend a hunting ground. Ideally, distributed multi-agent systems are desired to being able to perform complex tasks, comparable to the complexity achieved in animal populations or even in interacting human groups. For instance it would be extremely interesting, both on a theoretical ground and from a practical perspective, to have distributed multi-agent systems which are able to engage efficiently teams of hostile intelligent beings. Just considering what happens in a biological setting, it is evident
Regulation of tyrosine alpha-ketoglutarate transaminase in rat liver. VI. Induction by pancreatic hormones

Abstract The role of the pancreatic hormones, insulin and glucagon, in the regulation of hepatic tyrosine transaminase (l-tyrosine:2-oxoglutarate aminotransferase, EC 2.6.1.5) was studied in adrenalectomized rats. Each of these hormones initiated a rapid but limited increase in the enzyme level, which reached a maximum after 2.5 to 3 hours. The optimal doses of insulin and glucagon per 100 g of body weight were 0.75 unit (33 µg) and 150 µg, respectively. Alloxan-induced diabetes in adrenalectomized rats caused a significant increase in the transaminase level after 5 days. Immunochemical-isotopic analyses showed that the pancreatic hormones cause an increase in the rate of transaminase synthesis which is comparable to that caused by hydrocortisone. Effects of the pancreatic hormones on the rate of enzyme synthesis are not additive with one another but are additive with the effect of hydrocortisone. Induction by either insulin or glucagon was inhibited by actinomycin D. A discrete mechanism for induction of this enzyme, which is steroid-independent and which can be initiated in vivo by either insulin or glucagon, is indicated.
The Space Station programme: Defining the problem

Abstract The Space Station programme has come under increasing pressure in the USA since its inception in 1984, to the extent that its survival is now seriously questioned. This article locates the underlying problem in a lack of resilience in the programme's initial concept. It was conceived as large scale, long term and interdependent with nearly all other space programmes, and hence has been vulnerable to unforeseen developments. It has also been difficult to manage effectively. The elements of the programme should now be decoupled and made subject to separate evaluation in terms of a more modest, evolutionary space strategy.
Evaluating Scientific and Forensic Evidence

Professor Underwood offers a critique of the present state ofscientific and forensic evidence. In the context of discussing four challenges to the field, the author arms the practitioner with strategies and tactics for making effective use ofscientific and forensic testimony.
Explicit Rational Functions on Fermat Curves and a Theorem of Greenberg

This paper is concerned with the arithmetic of curves of the form vp=us(1-u), where p is a prime with p ≥ 5 and s is an integer such that 1 ≤ s ≤ p-2. The Jacobians of these curves admit complex multiplication by a primitive p-th root of unity ζ. We find explicit rational functions on these curves whose divisors are p-multiples of divisors representing (1-ζ)2 - and (1-ζ)3-division points on the corresponding Jacobians. This also gives an effective version of a theorem of Greenberg.
Measurements of mixing induced at a gas interface by the Richtmyer-Meshkov instability

Experiments to study the mixing between two gases induced by the Richtmyer-Meshkov instability are performed in a vertical shock tube of large, square internal cross section. The test gas is contained in an axisymmetric soap bubble which is at rest on an injector and is seeded with smoke to perform planar Mie scattering. Concurrently to the laboratory experiments, a computational investigation is carried out using the Raptor code- a finite volume code that solves the compressible Navier-Stokes equations using a Riemann solver with Phil Colella’s Piecewise Linear Method for data reconstruction at cell interfaces. Differences between the computational and the laboratory experiments include: perfectly spherical vs. near-spherical, axisymmetric shape; diffuse interface with no soap film vs. soap interface with no diffusion; absence vs. presence of an injector to hold the bubble in place. Examples of experimental and computational images of shock-accelerated bubbles are shown below.
Water quality assessment in the Limache stream (central Chile), using bioindicators and bioassays

Se evaluo la calidad de las aguas del estero Limache en cinco estaciones de muestreo en el periodo de bajo caudal. En cada estacion se colectaron macroinvertebrados acuaticos, se midio in situ pH, conductividad, oxigeno disuelto, y solidos disueltos totales. En el laboratorio se determino la demanda biologica de oxigeno (DBO), fosforo total y nitrogeno total. Tambien se determino la toxicidad del agua mediante bioensayos con la microalga Pseudokirchrneriella subcapitata . Se determinaron 33 familias de macroinvertebrados, los taxa dominantes fueron Dugessidae, Oligochaeta y Chironomidae. Se encontro correlacion significativa entre el indice biotico de familias (ChIBF), la conductividad electrica y los solidos disueltos totales (r = 0,92; p < 0,05). La menor diversidad de especies y tasa de crecimiento de P. subcapitata fue en las estaciones con mayor actividad antropica y en la zona de descarga del efluente de una planta de tratamiento de aguas domesticas.
A Study of Saving and Investment Pattern of School Teachers with special reference to Ahmednagar City, Mahartshtra

The research study was based on the micro economic approach of estimating the responses of the respondents i.e. school teachers towards the savings and investment pattern in the Ahmednagar city. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between the savings and investments literacy among the school teachers. The study was done on the different government and private school teachers. The data were collected by distributing a structured questionnaire to 100 school teachers in different schools of Ahmednagar city. In spite of low income the teachers have been saving for future needs. The major impact on savings is due to the level of income of the school teachers. The research shows that the majority of the respondents is saving money as Bank deposits for the safety of an unpredictable future. The main avenues of investment are Bank deposits and the main purpose of investment is for children's education, marriage, and security after retirement.
Influence of Thyroxine in the Regulation of Rat Parotid Salivary Protein Composition

This study tested the role of thyroxine in the regulation of the protein composition of rat parotid saliva. Thyro-parathyroidectomy was performed on two groups of rats, one of which subsequently received thyroxine replacement; the third group was sham-operated. Parotid saliva was collected on the eighth day after surgery, with pilocarpine and isoproterenol used as a secretory stimulus. The volume of saliva collected in 30 min from the thyro-parathyroidectomized rats was 55% less than that collected from sham-operated rats. In the thyro-parathyroidectomized rats, the protein concentration as measured by absorption at 215 nm was unaltered, but that measured by the Lowry procedure was 43% higher. Spectrophotometric scans of Coomassie Blue-stained gels following sodium dodecylsulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the secreted proteins showed an 18% reduction in the proportion of protein attributable to amylase and a 43% reduction in proportion of acidic and basic proline-rich proteins following thyro-parathyroidectomy; deoxyribonuclease and two other major secretory proteins (Fraction I and Fraction V) were increased (38%, 20%, and 46%, respectively). These changes in flow rate, protein concentration by the Lowry assay, and protein composition were prevented by treatment of thyro-parathyroidectomized rats with thyroxine replacement and are in opposition to those changes we reported earlier for hyperthyroid rats. The results indicate that the flow of saliva as well as the synthesis of the various salivary proteins are influenced by thyroxine.