cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Remembering democracy: anticolonial evocations and invocations of a disappearing norm

This essay is a corrective to disciplinary narratives of the story of democracy. To counter this story, it proposes the vision and imaginaries of democracy enunciated in a particular strand of anticolonial and postcolonial thought in Africa. The essay aims to highlight the precepts, predicates, and norms underlying this anticolonial democratic project which was constructed against a postwar liberal democratic project perceived then to be predicated on an imperial reason.
Growth of Semiconductor Laser Structures with Integrated Epitaxial Bragg Reflectors on Non-planar Substrates

Abstract The issues involved in the growth of strained InGaAs/GaAs quantum well lasers integrated with AlAs/GaAs Bragg reflectors on nonplanar substrates is treated in this work. Under optimized conditions, controlled growth of uniform small area Bragg reflectors integrated with low threshold lasers has been achieved. An average pulsed threshold current of 2.9 mA/μm for edge emitting lasers at 0.98 μm with 90% external efficiency was obtained showing the potential for the use of this structures as 45° folded cavity surface emitting lasers.
Temporal Communication Graphs: A New Graph Theoretic Model Mapping and Scheduling in Distributed Memory Systems

The temporal communication graph is a new graph theoretic model of parallel computation that we have developed for the mapping of parallel computations to message-passing parallel architectures. The TCG integrates the two dominant models currently in use in the area of mapping, task assignment, partitioning, and scheduling: the static task graph and the DAG. The TCG augments these models with the capability to identify logically synchronous phases of communication and computation, and to describe the temporal behavior of a parallel algorithm in terms of these phases. This paper defines the TCG, illustrates its use for mapping and scheduling, and discusses a wide range of potentials uses for the TCG in the area of parallel programming environments.
Long-term spectral occupancy findings in Chicago

This paper summarizes some of the results of measurements and related analysis efforts at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) Spectrum Observatory in Chicago over the past three years. The results are unique in the sense that the spectral occupancy estimates are based on multiple years of observations, whereas previous studies produced occupancy numbers based on short term snapshot measurements, often of a few hours duration or at most spanning a few days or weeks. The measurements are also presented in a novel way: the occupancy data in a band of interest during a one year span is graphed as a 2-dimensional image that visually reveals daily, weekly, and yearly trends and anomalies. The main objective of this paper is to present year by year first-order statistics about the spectral occupancy across multiple bands, but more details are presented about radio usage in a few bands like the TV band. In particular, we examine the spectral opportunities that are seen in the newly available “TV White Space”. The results illustrate occupancy trends and notable spectral events, such as the 2009 broadcast television transition and the related vacating of the 700 MHz band, which have created significant spectrum opportunities in the 30–1000 MHz region. The trends reported are applicable to long term spectrum modeling, spectrum planning, and regulatory decision-making efforts applicable to dynamic spectrum access networks.
Role of Implicit and Explicit Processes in Learning From Examples: A Synergistic Effect

Four experiments are reported in which subjects gained extensive experience with artificial grammars in explicit and implicit processing tasks. Results indicated that (a) implicit processing was sufficient for learning a finite state grammar but was inadequate for learning another type of grammar based on logical rules, (b) Subjects were able to communicate some of their implicit knowledge of the grammars to another person, (c) Consistent with rule induction but not memory array models of learning, verbal protocols indicated there was no tendency to converge on the same set of cues used to identify valid strings, (d) A synergistic learning effect occurred when both implicit and explicit processing tasks were used in the grammar based on logical rules but not in the finite state grammar. A theoretical framework is proposed in which implicit learning is conceptualized as an automatic, memory-based mechanism for detecting patterns of family resemblance among exemplars. Explicit learning mechanisms for discovering and controlling task variables are similar to conscious problem solving. These processes include attempts to form a mental representation of the task, searching memory for knowledge of analogous systems, and attempts to build and test mental models of task performance (Gentner & Stevens, 1983; JohnsonLaird, 1983). Implicit learning is thought to be an alternate mode of learning that is automatic, nonconscious, and more powerful than explicit thinking for discovering nonsalient covariance between task variables (Lewicki, 1986; Reber, 1969, 1976; Reber & Allen, 1978). Demonstrations of implicit learning of artificial grammars typically involve comparisons between groups of subjects who experience exemplars of a grammar under (a) instructions to figure out the rules of the grammar (rule discovery instructions) or (b) instructions that require attention to the exemplars without attempting to determine the rules of the grammar (e.g., groups of subjects asked to memorize the exemplars for a subsequent memory test). Typically, groups of subjects who implicitly learned the grammar do as well or better on subsequent attempts to discriminate between new valid versus invalid strings as subjects who
Testing of English in India: A developing concept

English is the associate official language in India and serves as a unifying force in this multilingual country. The teaching of English in K-12 settings focuses on the skills of reading and writing. Listening and speaking skills are not awarded much time, if any, in most classrooms or test settings; only two Boards of Examinations mandate their inclusion. This status is sustained by factors such as large classes, teachers' inadequate command of English, and the lack of easy access to support materials and facilities. Most exams are summative; very few private schools offer and use formative tests for diagnostic and instructional purposes. The Boards of Education to which the schools are affiliated involve teachers in the setting and grading of exams at all levels. Issues that need attention prior to instituting large-scale testing reform are teacher competency in English, grade inflation, and securing conditions for internal assessment in a high-stakes testing environment. A major fall-out of these chang...
EFFECT OF CATALASE AND CULTURAL CONDITIONS ON GROWTH OF BEGGIATOA

BURTON, SHERILD.(Oregon StateUniversity, Corvallis), AND RICHARDY.MORITA.Effect of catalase andcultural conditions on growthof Beggiatoa. J.Bacteriol. 88:1755-1761. 1964.-The addition ofcatalase toculture mediumincreased theperiod ofviability ofBeggiatoa from1weekto 2months. Addition ofcatalase alsoproduced a markedincrease incell yield andenzymeactivity. Cultures grownwithout catalase exhibited anabsorption peakcharacteristic ofperoxides. Thisabsorption peakwasremovedbyaddition ofcatalase during orafter growth. Oxygen wasrequired for growth, butcarbondioxide wasnotproduced. Malateandacetate stimulated growth atlowconcentrations. Glucose andthiosulfate werenot oxidized, andcytochromes werenotdetectable by spectrophotometric analysis. Investigations on Beggiatoa havebeenhindered bytheinability togrowsufficient quantities ofcells towarrant biochemical studies, and bythedifficulty inmaintaining stock cultures. Innature, however, these organisms areoften foundinverylarge massesandappeartobe abletowithstand adverse conditions forconsiderable periods oftime. Theclassification ofBeggiatoa intovarious species, according tothediameter ofthetrichome, isobviously notsatisfactory. Thismethodhas beenusedbecause insufficient information is available todevise a classification basedon biochemical characteristics. Thedescription of thefamily Beggiatoaceae intheseventh edition ofBergey's MIanual ofDeterminative Bacteriology (Breed, Murray, andSmith, 1957) endswitha
CORONAL IMAGING TO ASSESS URINARY TRACT STONE SIZE

ABSTRACT Purpose: Urinary tract stones are typically measured using axial images from computerized tomography (CT). Such images provide a precise measurement of stone length and width. However, cephalocaudad dimensions can be difficult to determine from axial images. Coronal reconstructions, which can more accurately measure cephalocaudad dimensions, are seldom used to measure stones. We determined if coronal reconstructions could aid in more precisely determining stone size. Materials and Methods: CT in patients who had undergone CT to evaluate urolithiasis at our institution during the 9-month period of January 2001 to September 2001 were reviewed. Length and width were measured using axial images, and cephalocaudad length and width were measured using coronal reconstructions. Cephalocaudad length was also estimated from axial images. Total area was calculated from axial and coronal reconstructions. The paired t test was used to assess statistical significance. Results: The CT images of 102 patients with a total of 151 stones had undergone coronal reconstructions and, thus, were included in the study. Mean area in the axial and coronal reconstruction groups was 22.23 and 31.29 mm 3 , respectively. Mean greatest axial dimension (length or width) was 4.87 mm and mean greatest coronal dimension (cephalocaudad length) was 6.51 mm. Cephalocaudad length estimated from axial images was 8.8 mm. Differences for all 3 of these comparisons (axial vs coronal area, greatest axial vs coronal dimension and estimated vs actual cephalocaudad length) proved to be statistically significant (p Conclusions: While urinary tract stones have typically been measured using axial images, coronal images provide a different impression of stone size. These data demonstrate that examining only axial images provides an inaccurate measure of stone size. We suggest that coronal images should also be used to measure more accurately stone size, which is critical for clinical decision making.
Kryptopterus geminus, a new species of silurid catfish (Teleostei: Siluridae) from mainland Southeast Asia

Kryptopterus geminus, a new species of silurid catfish is described from the Bang Pakong, Mekong, Mae Khlong and Chao Phraya River drainages in mainland Southeast Asia. Kryptopterus geminus, together with K. cryptopterus, can be distinguished from congeners by the dorsal profile lacking a nuchal concavity and short maxillary barbels extending to the base of the pectoral fin. Kryptopterus geminus can be further distinguished from K. cryptopterus in having a narrower head (9.5– 12.0% SL vs. 12.2–14.2), longer anal fin (62.2–72.7% SL vs. 57.2–62.9) and snout (39.5–45.3% HL vs. 35.1–39.8), and more laterally-placed eyes (only ventral half, vs. ventral two-thirds, of the orbital margin visible when the head is viewed ventrally).
Postnatal development of carbonic anhydrase IV expression in rabbit kidney

Carbonic anhydrase (CA) IV activity facilitates renal acidification by catalyzing the dehydration of luminal carbonic acid. CA IV has been localized to the proximal tubules and medullary collecting ducts. Maturation of CA IV expression has been considered to be important in the development of renal acid excretion. The purpose of the present study was to determine the maturational expression of CA IV in rabbit kidney. A guinea pig polyclonal antibody to purified rabbit lung microsomal membrane CA IV was generated. Immunoblotting of membrane proteins after peptide-N-glycosidase F treatment revealed two N-glycosylation sites and reduction in size from ∼52 to 35 kDa; there appeared to be heavier glycosylation in the medulla. In membrane and total proteins from the kidney cortex, CA IV was 15–30% of the adult level during the first 2 wk of life but increased to mature levels by 5 wk of age. The maturational pattern in the cortex was confirmed by measuring SDS-resistant CA hydratase activity. In the medulla, bo...
A Localized Surface Antigen of Guinea Pig Sperm is Precipitated by Monoclonal Antibodies to an Apparently “Internal”, Heat-Stable Component

Using monoclonal antibodies (Mabs), we have constructed a map of the surface of guinea pig sperm (Primakoff and Myles, in preparation). This map establishes that (1) there are at least five distinct regions on the sperm surface in which particular antigens are localized and (2) several antigens can be localized in a single region. One region of antigen localization is the anterior head (AH) surface which lies over the acrosome and equatorial segment. Using immunoprecipitation, we have identified five distinct antigens that are localized on the AH surface and are recognized by Mabs.
A mechanism to enhance cellular responsivity to hormone action: Krüppel-like factor 9 promotes thyroid hormone receptor-β autoinduction during postembryonic brain development

Thyroid hormone (TH) receptor (TR)-β (trb) is induced by TH (autoinduced) in Xenopus tadpoles during metamorphosis. We previously showed that Kruppel-like factor 9 (Klf9) is rapidly induced by TH in the tadpole brain, associates in chromatin with the trb upstream region in a developmental stage and TH-dependent manner, and forced expression of Klf9 in the Xenopus laevis cell line XTC-2 accelerates and enhances trb autoinduction. Here we investigated whether Klf9 can promote trb autoinduction in tadpole brain in vivo. Using electroporation-mediated gene transfer, we transfected plasmids into premetamorphic tadpole brain to express wild-type or mutant forms of Klf9. Forced expression of Klf9 increased baseline trb mRNA levels in thyroid-intact but not in goitrogen-treated tadpoles, supporting that Klf9 enhances liganded TR action. As in XTC-2 cells, forced expression of Klf9 enhanced trb autoinduction in tadpole brain in vivo and also increased TH-dependent induction of the TR target genes klf9 and thbzip. ...
Workplace Safety and the Union’s Duty after Lueck and Hechler

There is insufficient legal protection for workers who are seriously injured or killed on the job. Workers compensation is not designed to make victims whole. The Occupational Health and Safety Act does not have a private cause of action, and empowers the Department of Labor only limited enforcement remedies. Even where unions are contractually bound to actively inspect for, discover, and bargain over, potential dangers, the duty to provide a safe workplace is commonly found to be a non-delegable employer obligation. While statutory workers’ compensation regimes preclude tort lawsuits against employers, federal common law prohibits employee suits against their unions for all but intentional breaches of their duties as representatives. As a consequence, the law must be modified to disincentivize negligent or reckless disregard for the workers’ safety.
Response of Male Cabbage Loopers to Black-Light with or without the Presence of the Female Sex Pheromone

More male cabbage looper moths, Trichoplusia ni (Hubner), were caught in black-light traps baited with virgin female cabbage looper moths than in similar unbaited traps. More males were caught also in light traps operated 20 feet from baited traps than were caught in similar unbaited traps situated at least 1 mile apart and I mile from the baited traps. In laboratory studies, more male cabbage looper moths responded to black-light when female sex pheromone extracts were introduced than responded to the sex pheromone or to black-light alone.
SEROLOGICAL RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PATHOGENIC AND NONPATHOGENIC ISOLATES OF LEUCOSTOMA PERSOONII AND RHODOSTICTA QUERCINA.

Leucostoma persoonii (Nits.) Hohnel (Cytospora leucostoma Sacc.) has been termed a secondary organism capable of invading only unhealthy bark tissue of plum trees by Wormald (8), a weak and not serious pathogen of peach trees by Hildebrand (2), and an aggressive pathogen capable of causing severe dieback in Prunus domestica L. var. President by Lukezic et al. (4) and Treshow et al. (7), and on P. persica (L.) Batsch. by Wysong and Dickens (9). Lukezic et al. (5) compared 8 monoascospore isolates of L. persoonii from a single ascus and found that 1 isolate was avirulent on President plum while the others were intermediate to highly virulent. They studied the growth requirements of these isolates and reported variation in the amount of response to the compounds tested, but found a common need for thiamine, biotin, or both, and a response to choline chloride. No relationship was found between the pathogenicity and growth re? quirements of these isolates but a further study was deemed important to compare the antigenic properties of pathogenic and nonpathogenic isolates.
Mapping of Radiation-Induced Resistance Changes and Multiple Conduction Channels in ${\rm TaO}_{\rm x}$ Memristors

The locations of conductive regions in TaO x memristors are spatially mapped using a microbeam and Nanoimplanter by rastering an ion beam across each device while monitoring its resistance. Microbeam irradiation with 800 keV Si ions revealed multiple sensitive regions along the edges of the bottom electrode. The rest of the active device area was found to be insensitive to the ion beam. Nanoimplanter irradiation with 200 keV Si ions demonstrated the ability to more accurately map the size of a sensitive area with a beam spot size of 40 nm by 40 nm. Isolated single spot sensitive regions and a larger sensitive region that extends approximately 300 nm were observed.
Therapeutic Efficacy of 29 Antimicrobial Regimens in Experimental Intraabdominal Sepsis

An animal model of colonic perforation was used to examine the efficacy of 29 antimicrobial regimens in the treatment of intraabdominal sepsis. Efficacy was judged on mortality during the first 12 days after challenge and on the incidence of intraabdominal abscess noted at necropsy upon completion of the experiment. In general, antimicrobial agents that are active against coliform bacteria prevented early mortality, whereas drugs that are active against Bacteroides fragilis were most effective in reducing the incidence of late abscess formation. Exceptions were metronidazole, which produced a significant reduction in early mortality, and chloramphenicol, which caused only a modest reduction in the incidence of abscess. Optimal results were obtained with several regimens that showed good in vitro activity against both coliforms and B. fragilis.
Importance of physiology experimental teaching

Physiology is link a bridge between the basic medical subject and clinical practice.It is a theorectical subject,was founded and developed on the basis of experiment.So we should pay more attention to the theory and practice so as to develop students' creative thinking and increase their experimental ability.
Migrating Relational Databases to the Cloud - Rethinking the Necessity of Rapid Elasticity

Rapid Elasticity is often described as an essential characteristic of cloud computing, but there are some good reasons to rethink how it is described and implemented – especially as it relates to transaction processing relational databases, which are broadly used in many organizations. These types of relational databases, which support transaction processing, strictly adhere to what has been called the ACID compliance model, where the Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, and Durability of transactions are guaranteed to ensure a reliable transaction system. Databases in the cloud often sacrifice one or more of these essential ACID properties to achieve the desired Rapid Elasticity. This conflict between Rapid Elasticity and ACID compliance explains why relatively few existing transactional processing relational databases have been deployed to the cloud without undergoing significant revision. This paper argues for an expanded definition of the essential characteristic of cloud computing on which the underlying goal of Rapid Elasticity is based, but where the ACID compliance remains intact and many of the advantages of cloud computing can be utilized.
Parallel k-Means++ for Multiple Shared-Memory Architectures

In recent years k-means++ has become a popular initialization technique for improved k-means clustering. To date, most of the work done to improve its performance has involved parallelizing algorithms that are only approximations of k-means++. In this paper we present a parallelization of the exact k-means++ algorithm, with a proof of its correctness. We develop implementations for three distinct shared-memory architectures: multicore CPU, high performance GPU, and the massively multithreaded Cray XMT platform. We demonstrate the scalability of the algorithm on each platform. In addition we present a visual approach for showing which platform performed k-means++ the fastest for varying data sizes.
Eye Movements in Tourette Syndrome & Comorbid ADHD

The effect of comorbid ADHD on oculomotor abnormalities in boys with Tourette syndrome (TS) was determined using three saccade tasks to examine the planning and execution of eye movements in a study at the Kennedy Krieger Institute and Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.
TCT-240 Aspiration Thrombectomy during ST-Elevation Myocardial infarction: An updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials- 2015

The recently published Trial of Routine Aspiration Thrombectomy with PCI versus PCI Alone in Patients with STEMI (TOTAL) has refuted the salutary effect of aspiration thrombectomy (AT) in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) for patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).
Rare mutations and educational attainment

Intellectual disabilities and associated neurodevelopmental disorders may result from rare genetic mutations. Ganna et al. show that these also help explain variability in educational attainment, a proxy for cognitive function.
Ain't Dere No More: New Orleans Language and Local Nostalgia in Vic & Nat'ly Comics

As “local,” “authentic,” “working class,” “white,” “urban,” and “salt of the earth” characters, Vic and Nat'ly, the protagonists of Bunny Matthews's classic comic strip, embody all of the stereotypes of a New Orleans–based “Yat” identity. In this paper, we examine written representations of Yat English in Vic & Nat'ly strips, analyzing these results in comparison with current linguistic data from actual New Orleans English speakers and contextualizing our interpretation in terms of social and historical changes within post-Katrina New Orleans. We find that many of the linguistic features exaggerated in the comic (e.g., oil as “erl”) have been stigmatized almost to the point of nonexistence in the speech of working-class whites today, such that the characters Vic and Nat'ly do not accurately represent any current group of native New Orleanians, despite being held up as quintessential New Orleanians imbued with local authenticity. While Vic & Nat'ly comics celebrate a New Orleans identity that is increasingly dear to Yat and non-Yat residents alike, we argue that the representation is based more in nostalgia than faithful rendering of the current sociolinguistic landscape, and that commodification based on this nostalgia in some ways erases the realities of modern New Orleans, in particular the role that black New Orleanians play in representations of authenticity.
Perceived relationship power in emerging adults’ romantic relationships

ABSTRACTPower is an important element in dating relationships. Using the power within relationships theory and equity theory this research examined perceived relationship power in a sample of 1098 ...
Pathophysiology of the Alloimmune Response and Immunosuppression

Alloimmunity describes the recipient’s immune response to a transplanted organ from a genetically non-identical member of the same species. The primary targets for the alloimmune response are the major histocompatability complex (MHC) molecules located on the surface of nucleated cells in the allograft. Both cellular and antibody-mediated processes will result in rejection of the allograft is left unmodulated by immunosuppressive drugs. The routine use of induction therapy to provide early, intensive immunosuppression immediately after transplantation is currently practiced by fewer than 50 % of heart transplant programs world-wide but may be of benefit in the subset of patients with the highest risk of acute rejection and in patients with impaired renal function to allow delayed initiation of calcineurin-inhibitors post-transplantation, since these agents can cause significant nephrotoxicity. Most modern immunosuppressive regimens consist of two or three drugs, including a calcineurin-inhibitor (either cyclosporine or tacrolimus), an antimetabolite agent (either mycophenolate mofetil or mycophenolate sodium), and tapering doses of corticosteroids over the first year. The proliferation signal inhibitors (sirolimus and everolimus) can be used in combination with either a calcineurin-inhibitor or an antimetabolite agent in patients with cardiac allograft vasculopathy or renal insufficiency. Due to their inhibitory effects on smooth muscle proliferation and absence of intrinsic nephrotoxicity, the proliferation signal inhibitors have been useful in both settings. However, the high incidence of drug-related adverse effects, including lower extremity edema and inhibition of wound healing, may limit their generalized use. The calcineurin inhibitors and proliferation signal inhibitors are heavily metabolized by the cytochrome P450 3 A4 pathway and therefore are susceptible to numerous drug interactions. Clinicians managing heart transplant patients should become familiar with the common agents that can increase immunosuppressive drug levels (calcium channel blockers, antifungal drugs, amiodarone, and grapefruit juice), decrease drug levels (rifampin, phenytoin, St. John’s wort), or potentiate the nephrotoxic properties of immunosuppressive agents (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, aminoglycoside antibiotics). When these drugs are added to or deleted from a patient’s baseline regimen, immunosuppressive drug levels and renal function should be carefully monitored.
The Sexual Trafficking of Juveniles: A Theoretical Model

ABSTRACTResearch on the sexual trafficking of juveniles has increased. However, there has been no theoretical model developed incorporating variables into a systemic, interactive analysis of the issue. Utilizing Parsonian functionalism as its foundation, the authors developed such a model. The model is based on sociological, criminological, and psychological theories and concepts with a particular emphasis on the role of environmental design in trafficking. Unique to this study, the authors propose that a symbiotic relationship exists between the adolescent brain and trafficker as psychopath as contextualized in the Stockholm syndrome. We offer research and policy implications based on the model.
Dermal Histology in Mouse Skin Exposed to Cosmeceuticals.

Chronic exposure to environmental ultraviolet radiation elicits deleterious photoaging changes and histopathological damage to the skin. In addition to cosmetic surgical procedures, over-the-counter products described as cosmeceuticals are widely used by a large segment of globally aging populations to partially reverse changes induced by photoaging. Many such products are rarely examined in the laboratory to examine their ameliorative properties and microscopic effects on various skin compartments. The hairless mouse is a popular animal model widely used over the last few decades by researchers to compare cosmeceuticals about their properties to combat or reverse cutaneous photoaging changes. In the present experiment, five cosmeceuticals were topically administered to the dorsal skin over 2 weeks in the nonirradiated mice, and skin samples were analyzed for dermal histopathological changes. Histomorphometric procedures were employed to generate quantitative data on skin sections prepared with immunohistochemistry and staining technics, and the data statistically examined. Among the five agents tested, glycolic acid and retinoic acid produced striking changes, while vitamin C, estrogen, and soy product resulted in less remarkable responses. These quantitative data will be useful for further photoaging studies with these cosmeceuticals.
The Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Fluoroscopy Time During Intraarticular Hip Injection: A Multicenter Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND Higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with difficulty in obtaining imaging studies. While there is a small body of literature regarding the relationship between fluoroscopy time and BMI during injections for pain management, this has not been studied for intraarticular (IA) hip injections. Further, in academic training centers, trainee involvement may affect this relationship. OBJECTIVE To determine the relationship between BMI and fluoroscopy time during IA hip injections, both with and without involvement of a trainee. STUDY DESIGN Multicenter retrospective cohort study. SETTING Three academic, outpatient musculoskeletal and pain medicine centers. METHODS Patients who underwent fluoroscopically guided IA hip injections with encounter data regarding fluoroscopy time during the procedure and BMI were included. Mean and standard deviation fluoroscopy time were recorded. Comparisons were made between BMI categories of normal (18.5 - 24.9 kg/m2), overweight (25.0 - 29.9 kg/m2), and obese (greater than or equal to30.0 kg/m2). Statistical significance was set at P = 0.01 due to multiple comparisons. RESULTS A total of 559 IA hip injections are represented in this cohort. Patients had a mean age of 58 (standard deviation [SD] 14) years and 63% were women. There was no significant difference in fluoroscopy time when comparing BMI categories (P = 0.02). However, when trainees were not involved in the injection, fluoroscopy times were significantly shorter with decreasing BMI category, with normal weight patients requiring the shortest fluoroscopy times (P = 0.01). LIMITATIONS This study evaluated total fluoroscopy time, not radiation dose exposure per injection, which provides more direct and precise information with regard to provider and patient radiation exposure and overall safety. Future study of the impact of BMI on radiation dose during fluoroscopically guided IA hip injections is needed. CONCLUSIONS Fluoroscopy times during IA hip injections increase with higher BMI categories in a statistically significant manner when performed by experienced clinicians but this relationship is not observed when injections are performed with a trainee in a teaching institution. This finding appears to be related to longer fluoroscopy time required to complete an IA hip injection in patients with lower BMI when a trainee is involved. KEY WORDS Hip, injections, obesity, overweight, body mass index, fluoroscopy, radiation, pain.
Elevating prosumers to provisional microgrids

Prosumers, as electricity consumers with the ability of local electricity production, are rapidly increasing in the U.S. and around the world, and are enabling alternative electricity supply options to consumers. Prosumers, however, still face challenges in terms of reliability when the supply of power from the utility grid is interrupted. This paper investigates the benefits of elevating a prosumer to a provisional microgrid (PMG) and its impact on improving the reliability by reducing potential load curtailments during grid disturbances In addition, the impact on increasing the economic benefits of the coupled microgrid (CMG) is examined. Independent and integrated microgrid optimal scheduling models are developed, and further simulated through numerical examples, to identify merits of the PMGs over prosumers and the important role they can play in the distribution grid.
Assessment of recording bias in pregnancy studies using health care databases: An application to neurologic conditions.

BACKGROUND Pre-existing conditions are imperfectly recorded in health care databases. We assessed whether pre-existing neurologic conditions (epilepsy, multiple sclerosis [MS]) were differentially recorded in the presence of major obstetric outcomes (Caesarean delivery, preterm delivery, preeclampsia) in delivery records. We also evaluated the impact of differential recording on measures of frequency and association between the conditions and outcomes. METHODS The 2011-2014 Truven Health MarketScan® Commercial Claims Dataset was used to identify pregnancies. We calculated the relative recording of epilepsy and MS at delivery hospitalization compared with a 270-day pre-delivery window both overall and by the presence of major obstetric outcomes. We estimated risk ratios for the association between epilepsy and MS with the outcomes for each ascertainment window. RESULTS We identified 909 065 pregnancies in women continuously enrolled from 270-days before the delivery date. Of women with epilepsy identified in the pre-delivery window, 73% had the condition coded at delivery. For MS, the proportion was 60%. MS recording at delivery did not vary by obstetric outcomes, however, delivery-coded epilepsy was less likely confirmed in the pre-delivery window in the presence of preeclampsia. Generally, the period of ascertainment did not meaningfully impact risk ratios, however, the risk ratio for preeclampsia associated with epilepsy was 1.67 (95% CI 1.47, 1.90) when epilepsy was ascertained at delivery and 1.26 (95% CI 1.07, 1.48) when epilepsy was ascertained in the pre-delivery window (heterogeneity, P = .007). CONCLUSIONS Ascertainment of epilepsy and MS in delivery hospitalization records underestimated prevalence. However, the window of recording generally did not impact risk ratio estimates of associations with obstetric outcomes.
A latent profile analysis of exposure to community violence and peer delinquency in African American adolescents

Abstract Aims Person-based analyses have demonstrated wide variability among the levels of exposure to community violence (ECV) experienced by youth in disadvantaged communities. In addition, social network research has found that violence victimization tends to occur primarily among a small social group, demonstrating that levels of peer delinquency may be a factor that distinguishes among youth who experience high and low levels of ECV. Methods The current study utilized latent class analysis to examine profiles of ECV and peer delinquency in a sample of 618 African American adolescents (54.7% female; mean age = 15.8, SD = 1.41), and the relationship these profiles have to adaptive and maladaptive outcomes. Results Results demonstrated that levels of ECV and peer delinquency vary significantly among these youth, and profile membership predicts levels of delinquency, aggression, future orientation, and self-esteem. Conclusion Research and clinical implications are discussed.
Solutions to the Hospitality Industry's Labor Shortage

A shortage of labor exists in the hospitality industry, even to the point that many vacant positions go unfilled. The author discusses some solutions to the problem, including a look at retirees, working mothers, and the disabled.
What's Hot in Literacy 2018: Going Digital and Disciplinary.

ABSTRACTThe following article explores the “hot topics” in literacy for 2018, keeping the tradition of the “What’s hot in literacy” survey that was first published in 1997. Expert panelists from around the globe provided insight into current trends and issues in the field of literacy, resulting in digital and disciplinary literacies being classified as the hottest topics this year. The What’s Hot in Literacy 2018 survey aims to keep teachers and educators alike up to date on current literacy research and practice.
Anatomic Variation of the Phrenic Nerve and Brachial Plexus Encountered during 100 Supraclavicular Decompressions for Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome with Associated Postoperative Neurologic Complications.

Background The objective of this study was to characterize phrenic nerve and brachial plexus variation encountered during supraclavicular decompression for neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome and to identify associated postoperative neurologic complications. Methods A multicenter retrospective review was performed to evaluate anatomic variation of the phrenic nerve and brachial plexus from November 2010 to July 2018. After initial characterization, the following two groups were identified: variant anatomy (VA) group and standard anatomy (SA) group. Complications were analyzed and compared between the two groups. Results In total, 105 patients were identified, and 100 patients met inclusion criteria. Any anatomic variation of the standard course or configuration of the phrenic nerve and/or brachial plexus was encountered in 47 (47%) patients. Phrenic nerve anatomic variations were identified in 28 (28%) patients. These included 9 duplicated nerves, 6 lateral accessory nerves, 8 medial displacement, and 5 lateral displacement. Brachial plexus anatomic variation was found in 34 (34%) patients. The most common variant configuration of a fused middle and inferior trunk was identified in 25 (25%) patients. Combined phrenic nerve and brachial plexus anatomic variation was demonstrated in 15 (15%) patients. The VA and SA groups consisted of 47 and 53 patients, respectively. Transient phrenic nerve injury with postoperative elevation of the ipsilateral hemidiaphragm was documented in 3 (6.4%) patients in the VA group and 6 (11.3%) patients in the SA group (P = 0.49). Permanent phrenic nerve injury was identified in 1 (2.1%) patient in the VA group (P = 0.47) and none in the SA group. Transient brachial plexopathy was encountered in 1 (1.9%) patient in the SA group (P = 1.0) with full recovery to normal function. Conclusions Anatomic variability of the phrenic nerve and brachial plexus are encountered more frequently than previously reported. While the incidence of nerve injury is low, surgeons operating within the thoracic aperture should be familiar with variant anatomy to reduce postoperative complications.
Identifying Optimal Factor Scores on the Bereaved Family Survey: Implications for Practice and Policy.

Abstract Context The Bereaved Family Survey (BFS) is used to evaluate the quality of end-of-life (EOL) care in Veterans Affairs inpatient settings. The BFS consists of a global Performance Measure (BFS-PM) and three factors that relate to specific aspects of EOL care. Objective The purpose of this study was to identify empirically based target scores on each BFS factor that are most strongly related to a rating of “excellent” on the BFS-PM. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of BFS and Veteran clinical data from January 2012 to January 2016. Logistic regression models were constructed for each potential cut point on the three BFS factors and accounted for facility case-mix and nonresponse bias. Model fit was assessed primarily using the Liu Index, Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), and classification accuracy values. Results Our analytic sample included 40,180 Veterans whose next-of-kin completed a BFS. The mean BFS response rate across study years was 58%. A score of 14 or higher on the Respectful Care and Communication factor (range 0–15) had the lowest BIC (121355) and highest percent correctly classified (81.2%). The Emotional and Spiritual Support factor (range 0–9) had an optimal score of 8 or higher (BIC = 133685; % correctly classified = 77.1%). An optimal cut point on the Benefits factor was not identified. Conclusion The identification of data-driven targets makes BFS factor scores more useful to clinicians and administrators focused on improving quality of EOL care in their facilities. Our results lend support for prioritizing quality improvement efforts related to respectful care and communication.
ANTITRUST ECONOMICS AND CONSUMER PROTECTION ECONOMICS IN POLICY AND LITIGATION: WHY THE DISPARITY?

The lag in the use of microeconomics in consumer protection policy and litigation—as compared with the use of microeconomics in antitrust/competition policy and litigation—has at least three causes: a considerably shorter period of intellectual development; the specific historical origins and culture of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), where this disparity is especially noticeable; and the splintering of consumer protection responsibilities across a very large number of federal and state agencies. This paper will expand on these themes and discuss their implications—including the opportunities for expanded research in the area of consumer protection economics. (JEL B12, B13, B21, D18, L41)
Induced power analysis of sequential body motion and elbow valgus load during baseball pitching

The flow of mechanical energy of segmental motion during baseball pitching is poorly understood, particularly in relation to the valgus torque at the elbow which is prone to pitching-related injuri...
Large-Scale Model Test of Drilled Pier in Sand

A technique is presented for assessing the magnitude of skin friction for pier foundations in sand. The technique employs the results of interface direct shear tests between sand and the construction material; the results are presented in hyperbolic equation form. The test pier was 16 in. (407 mm) in diameter and 15 ft (4.6 m) long. The test pier was heavily instrumented with Carlson stress meters, electrical resistance strain gages, and calibrated hydraulic rams on the top and bottom of the pier. Comparisons of predicted and measured values of skin friction showed agreement within 5%. Bonded resistance strain gages on the vertical steel reinforcement are the most reliable instrumentation method. The magnitude of skin friction for "point bearing" piers in sand in prototype installations may approach 20% - 30% of the total load capacity. /ASCE/
Accommodating Apnea Testing Not Death Determination Refusal.

Serious adverse events from a properly performed apnea test are rare, nevertheless not non-existent (Daneshmand et al. 2019). On this basis, and due to the implications of apnea testing, surrogate ...
Water management implications for ALD-modified polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell catalysts

Device testing of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell catalysts is essential for electrocatalyst development, yet most reported catalysts fabricated with nanoceramic coatings via atomic layer deposition (ALD) have not been thoroughly examined in this fashion. Platinum nanoparticle catalysts supported on functionalized XC72 carbon black that had been modified with sub-monolayer WN films and subjected to various thermal treatments were incorporated into membrane electrode assemblies and tested for oxygen reduction reaction activity in a fuel cell. The mass activities of the catalysts calculated at low current densities had comparable trends to those previously recorded in aqueous half-cell testing; however, significant deviations in catalyst performance became apparent at high current densities in the mass transport region of the polarization curves. The poor performance of the ALD-modified catalysts was attributed to water flooding induced by the low hydrophobicity of these catalyst layers, as determined by contact angle measurements on the cathode surfaces. It was seen that hydrophobicity was increased by thermal treatment and removal of surface groups known to be prone to hydrogen bonding, thereby improving the catalyst performance in the mass transport region. A heat-treated WN-coated ALD catalyst was found to have superior performance to commercial Pt/C. The field of research on fuel cell catalyst design via ALD is rapidly expanding, and this work demonstrates the importance of understanding the impact of ALD-deposited nanostructures on materials properties beyond the pure electrocatalytic activity.
Generalized Poisson measures on topological spaces and applications

We introduce and study a marked Poisson random measure on a σ-compact Hausdorff space. The underlying parameters of this measure are changing in accordance with the evolution of some stochastic pro...
ARTICLE: A Statistical Analysis of Predictors Associated with the Dramatic Decline in Death Sentences in the United States in the Last Two Decades

The annual number of new death sentences in the United States has fallen by more than 75% in the last two decades. The current study examines 1,665 death-eligible cases from 1994, 2004, and 2014 to draw empirically based conclusions that can shed light on some significant predictors associated with this dramatic decline. The results of logistic regression models suggest that the following were consistently significant predictors of case outcomes throughout the country over time: multiple perpetrators, age of perpetrators between 18 and 20 years, number of mitigators, cases with high and low aggravation, and five formerly high-volume counties. By contrast, factors that were important predictors of case outcomes in 1994 but that became insignificant in later years were robbery-murder and limited-revenue counties; the murder rate was not significant in 1994 but became significant in later years. Allegations of intellectual disability and county population size were not significant predictors in any of the years.
In-Plane Structural Fluctuations in Differently Condensed Graphitic Carbon Nitrides

Graphitic carbon nitrides (g-CNxHy) are an important class of materials for driving energy conversion processes such as photocatalysis and fuel cell reactions. However, a poor understanding of stru...
A multipath interference cancellation technique for WCDMA downlink receivers: Research Articles

In this paper, we present a simple interference cancellation technique for the downlink of wideband code-division multiple-access (WCDMA) systems in multipath environment. With the same knowledge required by a RAKE receiver, the present method acts as an equalizer and cancels the interfering multipath signals from the received signal to retrieve the orthogonality property of the received signal. The present receiver has a simple structure and it has significant performance gain against the RAKE receiver. In addition, the noise enhancement is negligible when there is a line of sight path or the channel power delay profile has an exponential decaying form. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.