cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tobacco Smoke Free Radicals and Related Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress and oxidative damage play critical roles in the development of many tobacco-related diseases including heart and respiratory diseases, and cancers. We are testing the many aspects of free radical production and exposure in various tobacco products. We have recently developed methods for the direct, comprehensive, quantitative and reproducible assessment of free radicals in tobacco smoke by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR). Using these standardized protocols, we have found high levels of radicals in a series of combustible tobacco products (e.g. small cigars, commercial and make-your-own cigarettes) and non-combustible products (e.g. electronic-cigarettes). We found large (>12-fold) variation in the production of radicals between product brands/types. We next conducted a pilot switching study, in which a total 14 subjects switched from their usual cigarette to a reduced oxidant cigarette for 2 weeks and smoking topography, and biomarkers of exposure (plasma cotinine) and oxidative stress/damage, including 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG, oxidative DNA damage) and 8-isoprostane (8-IsoP, lipid peroxidation) and oxidized:reduced glutathione (GSSG:GSH ratio, redox status) were analyzed before and after switching. A decline in all 3 biomarkers of oxidative stress was observed after 2 weeks, with 8-OHdG decreasing by 20% (P
Evidence for a systematic offset of -80 micro-arcseconds in the Gaia DR2 parallaxes

We reprise the analysis of Stassun & Torres (2016), comparing the parallaxes of the eclipsing binaries reported in that paper to the parallaxes newly reported in the Gaia second data release (DR2). We find evidence for a systematic offset of $-82 \pm 33$ micro-arcseconds, in the sense of the Gaia parallaxes being too small, for brightnesses $(G \lesssim 12)$ and for distances (0.03--3 kpc) in the ranges spanned by the eclipsing binary sample. The offset does not appear to depend strongly on distance within this range, though there is marginal evidence that the offset increases (becomes slightly more negative) for distances $\gtrsim 1$ kpc, up to the 3 kpc distances probed by the test sample. The offset reported here is consistent with the expectation that global systematics in the Gaia DR2 parallaxes are below 100 micro-arcseconds.
Abstract 16179: Cost-effectiveness of Dabigatran for Stroke Prophylaxis in Atrial Fibrillation

Introduction: The 2.3 million Americans with atrial fibrillation (AF) have a five-fold increased risk of ischemic stroke. Recent studies have investigated promising alternatives to warfarin for stroke prophylaxis in patients with AF. However, it is unknown whether these therapies are cost-effective. Hypothesis: Based on the RE-LY (Randomized Evaluation of Long Term Anticoagulation Therapy) trial, we hypothesized that dabigatran, a new direct-thrombin inhibitor would be cost-effective in patients with atrial fibrillation who are at high risk of stroke. Methods: We developed a semi-Markov decision model to compare the cost and quality-adjusted survival of alternative strategies for primary prophylaxis of ischemic stroke in a hypothetical cohort of 70-year-old patients with chronic AF: dabigatran, warfarin, aspirin, dual therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel, or no antithrombotic therapy. We used a cost-effectiveness threshold of $75,000/quality adjusted life-years (QALY) from a healthcare system perspective. To quantify risks of stroke and hemorrhage, we performed a meta-analysis of published atrial fibrillation trials. For all treatments, we calculated quality-adjusted survival and net cost in 2010 US dollars, over a maximum of 20 years. Results: For patients with an average risk of hemorrhage (3.36% major bleeds/per yr of anticoagulant therapy) and a stroke rate greater than 1.5%/yr (CHADS 2 score > 0), warfarin was more cost-effective than aspirin. However, at a stroke rate above 5.1%/yr (CHADS 2 score > 2), dabigatran 150 mg twice daily became cost effective. In patients at high risk of hemorrhage (6.6% major bleeds/yr), dabigatran 150 mg twice daily was cost-effective at a stroke rate greater than 3.0% /yr (CHADS 2 score > 1). Neither dabigatran 110 mg twice daily nor dual therapy (aspirin and clopidogrel) were likely to be cost-effective. Conclusion: Dabigatran 150 mg twice daily is likely to be cost-effective in those patients with atrial fibrillation who are at high risk of hemorrhage, high risk of stroke, or both.
Hydrogen and D/H analysis of apatite by Elemental Analyzer-Chromium/High-Temperature Conversion-Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (EA-Cr/HTC-IRMS)

Abstract Hydrogen and δD measurements of the mineral apatite have been used to measure volatile contents of planets and planetesimals and to infer the sources and evolution of water throughout the solar system. All of these studies use Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) which necessitates the use of apatite mineral standards to correct for matrix effects, which have previously been measured by mass spectrometry for hydrogen isotopes. Here we present a new technique of Elemental Analyzer-Chromium/High Temperature Conversion-Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (EA-Cr/HTC-IRMS) for the measurement of hydrogen and hydrogen isotopes of apatite. This technique presents greater technical advantages over TC/EA due to ability of chromium to bind with phosphorus in the high-temperature reactor, and prevent this elemental P from clogging the instrument components. We also show that removal of adsorbed moisture of nominally hydrous minerals and glasses becomes increasingly important with decreasing grain size of materials and present experiments on moisture removal from nominally anhydrous quartz. We report hydrogen and hydrogen isotope results of five fluorapatite and two hydroxylapatite samples, including Durango apatite. We show that our results of hydrogen content of Durango apatite are similar to published values using the TC/EA technique. Our recommended values for hydrogen using a Cr reactor for H2O and δDVSMOW-SLAP for Durango apatite are 608 ± 102 ppm H2O and δDVSMOW-SLAP = −86 ± 4‰ (2σ).
Vegetative and geomorphic complexity at tributary junctions on the Colorado and Dolores Rivers: a blueprint for riparian restoration

Habitat complexity in rivers is linked to dynamic fluvial conditions acting at various spatial scales. On regulated rivers in the western United States, tributaries are regions of high energy and disturbance, providing important resource inputs for riparian ecosystems. This study investigated spatial patterns and extents of tributary influence on riparian habitat complexity in the near channel zone along regulated reaches of the Colorado (> 200 km) and Dolores Rivers (~ 300 km) in the western United States. Because tributary confluences are regions of increased dynamism, we hypothesized that: (1) geomorphic and land cover complexity would be greatest close to tributary junctions and decrease with distance from tributaries; and (2) patterns in complexity would vary across different sized spatial units. Using a combination of remote sensing and spatial analysis, we classified fluvial features and land cover classes to investigate patterns longitudinally at 10-, 25-, and 100-m spatial units in the near channel zone of two regulated rivers. Using change point analysis and randomization tests, we detected shifts in riparian habitat complexity closer to tributary junctions. Patterns varied across 10-, 25-, and 100-m spatial units in the near channel zone, with significance (p ≤ 0.05) recorded for 10- and 25-m spatial units. Tributary junctions deliver critical resource inputs on regulated systems, providing for increased geomorphic and land cover diversity upstream and downstream of tributaries. We found that patterns of response were non-linear and discontinuous, varying across spatial units and potentially influenced by the degree of mainstem flow regulation.
Growth Factors for Site Preparation: Current Science, Indications, and Practice

Implant restoration of the dentition poses many challenges in cases of limited bony foundation. Many patients suffer from loss of teeth and supporting bony structures through mechanisms including trauma, congenital abnormalities, or resorption secondary to tooth loss. In addition to classic alveolar ridge augmentation techniques and materials, growth factors are being studied to improve patient outcomes, especially in cases of larger, more challenging defects, in previously failed graft sites, and in stringent aesthetic cases. In this chapter, we will discuss three growth factors which are most commonly studied and US Food and Drug Administration approved: bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and platelet-rich protein/platelet-rich fibrin (PRP/PRF). Currently, growth factors are utilized in a wide variety of clinical situations, including guided bone regeneration, peri-implant defects, sinus augmentation, and socket augmentation. Furthermore, we will explore the future of growth factor usage, with new factors in various stages of investigation, combinations of materials, and viable cell therapy. Though much work has been done in the last few decades to reveal the clinical relevance of growth factors, much more research, both basic and clinical, must be performed to improve current technologies, develop predictable protocols, and evaluate long-term results.
How Well-Prepared are Graduating MSW Students in Clinical Competencies?

In 2008 the Council on Social Work Education made the decision to adopt a competency based assessment as a requirement for re-accreditation. The 2015 EPAS recommends extending the broad competencies for specialty practice, and also further defining the broad competencies into more specific skills. This study explored field supervisors’ and students’ perceptions of how well-prepared graduates are in general and specific clinical competencies. The study was a mixed method design that included a quantitative survey and follow-up focus groups. Results suggested a significant consensus around perceptions of competencies for which graduates are prepared as well as those with which they struggle. This article presents both qualitative and quantitative findings of the study and their implications for increased coordination between faculty of graduate social work programs and field representatives.
Differential Item Functioning and its Relevance to Epidemiology

In this review, I trace the origins, applications, limitations, and future prospects for research on measurement item bias or differential item functioning (DIF) in the context of health research. DIF arises in the context of using multiple item or symptom health instruments to rate the level of a particular condition, and describes the situation where not all persons at the same level of the underlying condition have the same probability of endorsing one or more symptoms. The presence of DIF can lead to biased assessment of group differences and confound risk factor and outcomes research. The epidemiologic literature includes a great many applied, review, and methodological articles focusing on DIF. The preponderance of the literature appears in the areas of health-related quality of life, physical functioning, cognition, and mental health outcomes. Epidemiologists and other researchers in the health sciences often rely upon multiple-item rating scales or questionnaires to assess for the presence of or level of health conditions or states that are otherwise not directly observable. When population subgroups respond differently to a subset of the items, this is referred to as differential item functioning (DIF) and might be a source of bias.
Can winter camelina, crambe, and brown mustard reduce soybean cyst nematode populations?

Abstract Industrial oilseeds have a great potential in the northern Great Plains both as oilseeds and as cover crops sown following wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) harvest and before soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] sowing in the following spring. One of the most important biotic stresses in soybean production is soybean cyst nematode (Heterodera glycines Ichinohe, SCN), a serious pest that affects 90% of the soybean producing areas in the U.S. The objective of this study was to evaluate the host status of and the SCN population reduction by, winter camelina [Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz, cv. Joelle], crambe (Crambe abyssinica Hochst. Ex R.E.Fr., cv. BelAnn), and brown mustard (Brassica juncea L. cv. Kodiak). The experiments were performed in a growth chamber at 27°C for 35 days by planting the crops in soil naturally infested with SCN and autoclaved sandy soil artificially inoculated with two SCN populations from two fields in North Dakota. Soybean cyst nematode did not reproduce on brown mustard or camelina with a female index (FI) of 0, suggesting these are non-hosts, while it reproduced on crambe. The numbers of white females on crambe ranged from 1 to 13 per plant with FI of 0.2 to 1.1 in naturally infested soils, and 1 to 4 per plant with FI of 1.2 to 2.5 in artificially infested soils, thus crambe would be classified as a poor-host (FI
Escribiendo la nación, habitando España. La narrativa colombiana desde el prisma transatlántico, de Virginia Capote Díaz y Esteban Ángel (eds.)

Resena de: Capote Diaz, Virginia ; Esteban Angel (eds.). Escribiendo la nacion, habitando Espana. La narrativa colombiana desde el prisma transatlantico. Madrid; Frankfurt: Iberoamericana Vervuert, 2017. 268 p.
Phonological Rules and Representations

This chapter discusses the mechanisms and principles of grammar, which corrects phonetic representation, assigned to the utterances in any human language in such a way as to reflect the native speaker's internalized grammar as closely as possible. It has been found that once the native speaker hears a given word pronounced, he simply memorizes what sounds make up the word and in what order those sounds are pronounced. This information is stored in the lexicon of the speaker's grammar. The syntactic component generates indefinitely many surface structures, where a surface structure is a sequence of morphemes with an associated constituent structure. Each morpheme in the surface structure is assigned a pronunciation simply by looking up in the lexicon where the pronunciation is stored. By putting the pronunciations of morphemes together in the order that the morphemes occur in the surface structure, one arrives at the pronunciation of the entire sentence. Thus, no phonological component of the grammar is required: the syntactic rules, which specify the order of the morphemes in the sentence, and the lexicon, which specifies the pronunciation of each morpheme, jointly produce a pronunciation for each sentence.
Opportunities for high productivity and selectivity desalination via osmotic distillation with improved membrane design

Abstract Osmotic distillation (OD) membranes offer selectivity based on vapor pressure and therefore highly reject all non-volatile contaminants. Despite the advantage of high selectivity, OD membranes have not been widely implemented due to poor water fluxes and detrimental heat transfer effects. In this study, we use element- and module-scale computational modeling to examine how OD membrane optimization can improve water treatment performance and compare the productivity of simulated OD membrane modules to conventional FO systems. Several OD membrane parameters are optimized, including thickness, thermal conductivity, porosity, and pore diameter. Among the membrane properties explored, we identify that reducing the OD membrane thickness is the most crucial factor in enabling high performance, and a membrane thickness of approximately 0.1 μm is needed to achieve water fluxes exceeding those of current commercial FO membranes. Thin membranes are also critical to minimize detrimental heat transfer effects in large-scale systems. Comprehensive comparison of OD with FO membranes showed that optimized OD membranes can outcompete high-performance FO membranes in maximum achievable water flux (25.3 vs. 18.6 kg m−2h−1 for OD and FO membranes, respectively) and module-scale water recovery (0.28 vs. 0.18). Overall, the results of this work demonstrate the promise of OD membranes to overcome the selectivity limitations of conventional polymeric membranes and offer guidelines for future OD membrane design.
Transepidermal water loss in the orphan forms of ichthyosis

As a surrogate measure of skin barrier dysfunction, we sought to determine differences in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) among ichthyosis subtypes and correlate TEWL with clinical severity. Subjects with Netherton syndrome had the highest TEWL values (increased water loss), while TEWL values were lowest in subjects with epidermolytic ichthyosis. TEWL correlated with severity only in lamellar ichthyosis and age was inversely correlated with TEWL (rs = -.213, P = .02). TEWL is an objective measure that complements disease severity in ichthyosis and may be used as an adjuvant to monitor treatment response.
Examining the liability issues associated with prone restraint deaths in detention

During a period of confinement in a detention facility it is not uncommon for detention officers to confront a violent and combative detainee While rare a detainee may unexpectedly die during or after the control and restraint process and from being restrained in the prone position Following a custodial death a lawsuit will most likely be filed claiming that the responding officers used excessive force and that it contributed to the positional asphyxia death of the detainee Further the lawsuit may assert that the administrator failed to train and supervise the officers and failed to implement constitutional policies and procedures The medical issues associated with prone restraint and the excessive force litigation theories have emerged as a high profile subject in detention liability This assessment examines the current status of the scientific research performed on prone restraint and provides an assessment of the outcomes and trends in the lower court rsquo s decisions regarding a custodial death nbsp after nbsp the nbsp use nbsp of nbsp the nbsp prone nbsp restraint nbsp position nbsp Recommendations nbsp for nbsp detention nbsp administrators are also discussed
Alveolar Hypoventilation and Non-invasive Ventilation in COPD

The adoption of non-invasive ventilation in the home setting for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been slow, due to concern that adherence would be low and that quality of life may be compromised. However, home non-invasive ventilation can be effective in COPD with persistent hypercapnia (PaCO2 > 52 mmHg) while in a stable state. Device settings are equally important, as recent randomized trials have found significant advantages with settings that attempt to reduce the PaCO2 (inspiratory positive airway pressure (IPAP) 19–24 cmH2O and expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP) 4–6 cmH2O), with benefits including a reduced risk of readmission, improved survival, and improvement in health-related quality of life and in adherence to the device. Although some studies have also recommended a high back-up rate to maximize PaCO2 reduction, adherence may not particularly improve with the selection of a back-up rate option. Future studies may need to address the potential confounding by sleep apnea in patients with the overlap syndrome of COPD and sleep apnea, the role of a back-up rate, and further refine the recommended device settings including the role of higher EPAP to address the potential threshold load from intrinsic positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP).
A Causal Approach to Tool Affordance Learning

While abstract knowledge like cause-and-effect relations enables robots to problem-solve in new environments, acquiring such knowledge remains out of reach for many traditional machine learning techniques. In this work, we introduce a method for a robot to learn an explicit model of cause-and-effect by constructing a structural causal model through a mix of observation and self-supervised experimentation, allowing a robot to reason from causes to effects and from effects to causes. We demonstrate our method on tool affordance learning tasks, where a humanoid robot must leverage its prior learning to utilize novel tools effectively. Our results suggest that after minimal training examples, our system can preferentially choose new tools based on the context, and can use these tools for goal-directed object manipulation.
Wave Generation and Wave-Particle Interaction Using Space-Based, RF, Linear Electron Accelerators

Active experiments in space provide the opportunity to perturb the natural environment with known and controllable conditions. As such, active experiments are well-suited to studying wave-particle and wave-wave interactions. Active experiments were much more common in the 1970's and 1980's than they are today. Results from rockets, the Space Shuttle, and satellites provided important contributions to our understanding of both linear and non-linear plasma physics. New technologies provide new opportunities for using electron beams to probe the physics of the magnetosphere and, in particular, the radiation belts. In particular, newly-developed RF linear accelerator (linac) technologies can finally be adapted for space enabling much more powerful and flexible options for electron beam wave generation. Similarly, wave receivers, particle detectors, digital electronics, and high telemetry rates now allow detailed measurements of the artificially-generated waves and their effects on the local plasma environment. Specifically, full waveform capture of the 3D electric and magnetic fields allow detailed understanding of the properties of the waves including spectra, wave normal distributions, polarization, etc.
The Personalizing Shopper and Marketplace Relationships

Abstract Relationship marketing has attracted increased attention from practitioners and researchers in recent times (Sheth and Parvatiyar 1995). The focus of investigations has shifted from customer acquisition to customer retention strategies that contribute to maintaining long term marketplace relationships (Berry 1995). Research that sheds more light on consumer characteristics especially as it relates to customer retention will add value, as it can be employed to build lasting marketing relationships with customers. Stone (1954) describes four types of consumers based on their attitudes to shopping. One of the shopper types identified as the personalizing shopper believes shopping to be an interpersonal activity and patronizes stores based on the closeness of the relationship she has with the store personnel or with the amount of personal service she can get at a particular store. This paper addresses the personalizing shopper, discusses the personalizingness construct, builds a scale to measure it, ...
Current role of radical hysterectomy as primary therapy for invasive carcinoma of the cervix

Abstract The rationale for management of patients with cancer of the cervix by radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy is discussed. Results of 44 consecutive operations performed by the resident staff at Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami School of Medicine, are presented with a discussion of modifications in technique. Further elaboration is made concerning reasons for incorporating this procedure within the therapeutic regimen, as well as the teaching program of this institution.
INTEGRATING PRONUNCIATION INTO ESL/EFL CLASSROOMS

Most language teachers are familiar with students such as these and agree that intelligible pronunciation is vital to successful communication. Similarly, most students see pronunciation as an important part of learning to speak, and therefore ask that more class time be devoted to pronunciation. Despite the recognized importance of pronunciation, teachers often remain uncertain about how to incorporate it into the curriculum. Given that most courses emphasize general oral communication over pronunciation (Murphy, 1991), teachers must seek creative ways to integrate pronunciation into speakingoriented classes in a manner clearly related to the oral communication goals of the course. We assume that it is desirable to address pronunciation teaching in the context of speaking (Firth, 1993), and that a speaking-oriented approach serves the communication needs of students more effectively than approaches focusing on either fluency or articulatory goals alone (Morley, 1991). Murphy (1991) echoes this belief by saying that pronunciation instruction “needs to be integrated with broader level communicative activities in which speakers and listeners engage in . . . meaningful communication” (p. 60). Although we believe it is best to achieve this integration without shifting the focus of the class to pronunciation, we acknowledge that implementation remains a work in progress. Approaches favoring the integration of pronunciation into oral communication have been espoused for more than 10 years, but teachers have received little clear direction about how to accomplish this integration. In this article, we address the practical challenges related to integrating pronunciation into oral communication. First, we describe the central difficulty in integrating pronunciation into the speaking classroom. Next, we suggest all-skills principles to guide the incorporation of pronunciation into oral communication courses. Finally, in the context of four typical classroom activities, we explore possible implementation strategies that can be applied to a wide variety of instructional settings. For the most part, the activities focus on suprasegmental features such as stress, rhythm, and intonation, not because segmentals (i.e., consonants and vowels) are unimportant in communication, but because suprasegmentals are more clearly connected to functions of spoken English.
Hyperparathyroidism Associated with Long-Term Proton Pump Inhibitors Independent of Concurrent Bisphosphonate Therapy in Elderly Adults.

Objectives To measure the effect of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), with and without concurrent bisphosphonates, on parathyroid hormone (PTH), vitamin D, and calcium. Design Retrospective chart review of individuals 60 years and older. Subjects with reduced renal function (creatinine >1.3 mg/dL) and low vitamin D (<30 ng/mL) were excluded. Setting Academic geriatric outpatient center in southern midwest. Participants Individuals aged 60 and older with concurrent calcium, PTH, vitamin D, and creatinine laboratory measurements (N = 80) meeting labeled criteria. Measurements Serum calcium, PTH, vitamin D, and creatinine. Results Chronic PPI exposure was associated with statistically significantly higher PTH (65.5 vs 30.3 pg/mL, P < .001; normal range 10–55 pg/mL) and lower calcium (9.1 vs 9.4 mg/dL, P = .02; normal range 8.5–10.5 mg/dL) than no PPI exposure. Chronic PPI exposure with concurrent BP therapy was associated with statistically significantly higher PTH (65.2 vs 43.4 pg/mL, P = .05) and lower calcium (9.2 vs 9.6 mg/dL, P = .04) than BP therapy only. Conclusion Based on the present study, chronic PPI exposure in elderly adults is associated with mild hyperparathyroidism regardless of concurrent oral BP administration.
Paulownia tomentosa Seedling Growth at Differing Levels of pH, Nitrogen, and Phosphorus

Abstract This study examined the effects of various levels of acidity, nitrogen, and phosphorus on the survival and growth of Paulownia tomentosa seedlings. The seedlings grew within a pH range of 7.0 to 4.0, but little or no growth occurred at pH 3.0. The seedlings grew well with nitrogen at 50 to 200 ppm and phosphorus at 5 ppm, but growth was greatly reduced below 10 ppm nitrogen. Higher levels of phosphorus need to be investigated.
Inclusion interaction and effective material properties in a particle-filled composite material system

This work presents a methodology implementing random packing of spheres combined with commercial finite element method (FEM) software to optimize the material properties, such as Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio, and coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of two-phase materials used in electronic packaging. The methodology includes an implementation of a numerical algorithm of random packing of spheres and a technique for creating conformal FEM mesh of a large aggregate of particles embedded in a medium. We explored the random packing of spheres with different diameters using particle generation algorithms coded in MATLAB. The FEM meshes were generated using software MATLAB and TETGEN. After importing the databases of the nodes and elements into commercial FEM software ANSYS, the composite materials with spherical fillers and the polymer matrix were modeled using ANSYS. The effective Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio, and CTE along different axes were calculated using ANSYS by applying proper loading and boundary conditions. It was found that the composite material was virtually isotropic. The Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio calculated by FEM models were compared to a number of analytical solutions in the literature. For low volume fraction of filler content, the FEM results and analytical solutions agree well. However, for high volume fraction of filler content, there is some discrepancy between FEM and analytical models and also among the analytical models themselves. The discrepancy is attributed to the multi-body interaction effect of the filler particles when they are getting close.
Group treatment of problem-solving deficits in outpatients with traumatic brain injury: A randomised outcome study

Sixty higher‐level outpatients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), all at least 1 year post‐injury, were randomly assigned to either conventional group neuropsychological rehabilitation or an innovative group treatment focused on the treatment of problem‐solving deficits. Incorporating strategies for addressing underlying emotional self‐regulation and logical thinking/reasoning deficits, the innovative treatment is unique in its attention to both motivational, attitudinal, and affective processes and problem‐solving skills in persons with TBI. Participants in the innovative group improved in problem solving as assessed using a variety of measures, including (1) executive function, (2) problem‐solving self‐appraisal, (3) self‐appraised emotional self‐regulation and clear thinking, and (4) objective observer ratings of roleplayed scenarios. These improvements were maintained at follow‐up. Baseline performance on timed attention tasks was related to improvement; individuals who processed the most slowly benef...
Origin of the Coastally Trapped Waves Observed during the Australian Coastal Experiment

Abstract Freely propagatiug coastally trapped waves (CTWs) dominated the large alongshore-scale low-frequency variability in the Australian Coastal Experiment (ACE). Two analytical models are used to demonstrate that these waves are not due to wave energy propagating freely through Bass Strait from the Southern Australian wave guide, but rather are largely generated by the very strong low-frequency winds in Bass Strait. The first model shows that the considerable CTW energy flux from the Southern Australian shelf wave guide does not propagate through Bass Strait. It is either frictionally dissipated at the northwest entrance to Bass Strait or travels southward along the western Bass Strait escarpment as “escarpment” waves and then southward along Tasmania's west coast as coastally trapped waves. The second model is used to calculate the eastward energy flux at the eastern end of Bass Strait assuming that all of this flux is generated by the very strong winds in Bass Strait. The calculations show that the ...
Examining relationships between academic motivation and personality among college students

Abstract Relationships between personality and academic motivation were examined using 451 first-year college students. Multiple regressions compared three types of intrinsic motivation, three types of extrinsic motivation and amotivation to five personality factors. Results indicated that those who were intrinsically motivated to attend college tended to be extroverted, agreeable, conscientious, and open to new experiences; although these trends varied depending on the specific type of intrinsic motivation. Those who were extrinsically motivated tended to be extroverted, agreeable, conscientious, and neurotic; depending on the type of extrinsic motivation. Those who lacked motivation tended to be disagreeable and careless. These results suggest that students with different personality characteristics have different reasons for pursuing college degrees and different academic priorities.
Supracondylar femoral fracture after arthroscopic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament. A case report.

R econstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament is one of the most frequently performed orthopaedic procedures, with more than 100,000 reconstructions performed annually in the United States alone1. Autogenous bone-patellar tendon-bone graft is the graft option that is most frequently utilized by orthopaedic surgeons in the United States, Canada, and Europe2. Complications have been reported to occur in association with 1.8% to 24% of anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions3-5. Serious complications have included arthrofibrosis, patellar fracture, patellar tendon rupture, tibial tubercle fracture, tibial plateau fracture, and osteonecrosis of the femoral condyles3-6. Femoral fracture following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is a devastating complication that has been reported only in isolated cases and has been attributed to technical errors or the creation of additional bone holes for supplemental fixation devices used with earlier reconstructive techniques7-12. We present a rare case of a supracondylar femoral fracture that occurred after an arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction that had been performed without supplemental fixation and had not been associated with intraoperative complications. The fracture occurred through an enlarged femoral tunnel following an injury of the involved extremity. Our patient was informed that data concerning this case would be submitted for publication. A thirty-three-year-old man sustained an injury of the left knee after falling off a mountain bike. He reported that he had lost his balance while in a standing position and had fallen onto the right side with hyperextension of the left knee after getting his foot caught in the pedal. He presented to the emergency room with left knee pain and the inability to bear weight on the affected leg. A review of the history revealed that an arthroscopic reconstruction of the left anterior cruciate ligament had been performed …
Comparative study of scarf and extended chevron osteotomies for correction of hallux valgus.

Background. Scarf and chevron osteotomies are two described treatments for the correction of hallux valgus deformity, but they have traditionally been employed for different levels of severity. We hypothesized that there would be no statistically significant difference between the results of these two treatments. Methods. This study is a retrospective review of 70 consecutive patients treated operatively for moderate and severe hallux valgus malalignment. The two groups based on their operative treatment: scarf osteotomy (Group A) and extended chevron osteotomy (Group B). Preoperative and postoperative hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle and distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) were measured at final follow-up. Charts were also assessed to determine the postoperative rate of satisfaction, stiffness, and pain. Results. There were no statistically significant differences between Groups A and B with regard to the HVA preoperatively and postoperatively. The DMAA was statistically significantly higher for Group B both preoperatively (p=0.0403) and postoperatively (p<0.0001). The differences in HVA correction and IMA correction were not statistically significant. There were no statistically significant differences with regard to post-operative stiffness, pain, and satisfaction. Discussion. The scarf and extended chevron osteotomies are capable of adequately reducing the HVA and IMA in patients with moderate to severe hallux valgus. These two techniques yielded similar patient outcomes in terms of stiffness, pain and satisfaction. Based on these results, we recommend both the scarf and extended chevron osteotomy as acceptable forms of correction for moderate to severe hallux valgus.
A comparative study of superoxide dismutase activity in polymorphonuclear leukocytes, monocytes, and alveolar macrophages of the guinea pig.

Superoxide dismutase, an enzyme which catalyzes the dismutation of superoxide radical formed during the univalent reduction of oxygen, was quantitated by observing the inhibition of cytochrome C reduction in three cell fractions in guinea pig peritoneal PMNs and monocytes and compared to alveolar macrophages. No differences were found in the 16,000 × g pellets containing mitochondria, membranes, and granules and representing 96% of total SOD activity in PMNs and monocytes but only 48% total SOD activity in alveolar macrophages. The 100,000 × g microsomal pellet of alveolar macrophages contained 8% of total SOD activity and two-five times more activity than the respective fractions from monocytes and PMNs. However, there was 70 times more SOD in the 100,000 × g supernatant from alveolar macrophages containing 44% of total enzyme activity than in the same fraction of PMNs and monocytes containing less than 2% total SOD activity. SOD activity is mainly located in the 16,000 × g particulate fraction of PMN and monocytes but more equally distributed between the particulate fractions and cytosol of alveolar macrophages.
Separation of Epstein-Barr virus DNA from large chromosomal DNA in non-virus-producing cells.

AT least four established human lymphocyte cell lines, one that originates from a Burkitt's lymphoma and the others from normal persons, contain Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) genome1. These cells show no viral antigens by immunofluorescence tests nor do they produce virus particles. We are examining one of the four cell lines, Raji (cells from a Burkitt's lymphoma), in more detail. The DNA isolated from purified Raji chromosomes contains as much virus genome as the DNA extracted from whole cells (65 genome equivalents per cell)1. The viral DNA therefore seems to be in the chromosomes. This result, however, does not necessarily indicate that the viral DNA is physically integrated into chromosomal DNA. The following experiments suggest that the EBV DNA in Raji cells is not covalently linked to the large chromosomal DNA, although the number of viral genomes per cell remains constant during passage. The results do not, however, exclude the possibility that small fragments of cell DNA are bonded to the viral DNA. The data also indicate that EBV DNA in Raji cells exists in strands of complete or nearly complete size.
Dimeric Molecular Capsules under Redox Control

A new tetraferrocenylurea calix[4]arene was prepared in order to investigate its dimerization properties. 1H NMR spectroscopic data clearly established that this calixarene forms stable dimeric molecular capsules in chloroform solution. The dimeric capsules are stabilized by the formation of multiple hydrogen bonds between the urea functional groups on the calixarene upper rims. In the dimer, eight ferrocene groups are held in proximity to the “seam” of hydrogen bonds. Upon oxidation of the ferrocene residues, electrochemical, PGSE NMR, and IR spectroscopic data revealed that the hydrogen bonds are broken, leading to the dissociation of the dimeric molecular capsule.
Adrenarche as a cause of benign pseudopuberty in boys

We found elevations of plasma dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHAS) in five boys, 5.5 to 10.3 years of age (group A), with premature pubarche (pubic hair development) or acne as an isolated phenomenon. Four boys (group B) with seemingly idiopathic premature pubarche (DHAS normal for age) were discovered to have above-average dehydroepiandrosterone levels. All of these boys with premature pubarche had some evidence of cerebral dysfunction or were obese. Plasma testesterone values and bone age were not markedly increased in either group. In each case studied, the patterns of plasma steroid intermediates before and after administration of adenocorticotropin were typical of adrenarche rather than of congenital adrenal hyperplasia or Cushing syndrome. In addition, DHAS was dexamethasone suppressible, and in those patients in whom nocturnal testosterone sampling or gonadotropin-releasing hormone testing was performed, no evidence of true puberty could be found. Fifteen percent of our normal male volunteers over 10 years of age developed pubarche with plasma DHAS levels over 120 μg/dl without evidence of true puberty. Thus pubarche as an isolated phenomenon does not necessarily indicate a virilizing disorder or true puberty. In the majority of cases, isolated pubarche appears to be the result of isolated adrenarche, the maturational increase in adrenal production of 17-ketosteroids.
Electrochemical studies of oxo(meso-tetraphenylporphinato)chromium(IV). Direct evidence for epoxidation of olefins by an electrochemically generated formal chromium(V) state

On montre qu'il est possible de generer l'espece stable metal (V)-oxo-porphyrine par oxydation electrochimique de la metal (IV)-oxoporphyrine correspondante. Le produit de l'oxydation a un electron de [(CrTPP)O] est reactif vis-a-vis des olefines: [(CrTPP)O] + +olefine→[CrTPP] + +epoxide
Shipping Chain Choices in Long-Distance Supply Chains

Shipping chain configuration is one of the key logistics choices that have been ignored or treated insufficiently in the current freight transportation models. This study focuses on the shipping chain configuration and the modeling of its relevant logistics choices, including number of stops and stop types. A brief descriptive analysis of the results of an online establishment survey to explore different shipping chain configurations used by decision makers (business establishments) was done. Also, a system of hierarchical database models of shipping chain choice for freight transportation was presented. A system of decision tree models was proposed to determine the shipping chain configuration of freight transportation by identifying number of stops and type of stops per chain. The results of the survey were used for analysis and model estimation. The proposed decision tree models were developed by using 80% of the observations in the data, and the remaining 20% were used to validate the models. The resu...
Creative Approaches to Motivational Interviewing: Addressing the Principles

Scholars have suggested that counseling theory is greatly enhanced by adding creative approaches (Degges-White & Davis, 2011). However, few suggestions have been made in the counseling literature indicating how motivational interviewing can be creatively used. In addition, the majority of creative approaches for problem behaviors within the professional literature have focused primarily on the application of creative interventions with traditional 12-step programs (Wilson, 2003). Examples of creative approaches consistent with motivational interviewing will be offered, with particular attention given to addressing motivational interviewing's four principles.
Joint Maintenance and Production Operations Decision Making in Flexible Manufacturing Systems

In highly flexible and integrated manufacturing systems such as those in semiconductor manufacturing, there exist strong dynamic interactions between the equipment condition, operations executed on the equipment and the resulting product quality. These interactions necessitate a methodology that integrates the decisions of maintenance scheduling and production operations. Currently, maintenance and production operations decision-making are two decoupled processes. In this paper we aim to devise an integrated decision making policy for maintenance scheduling and production sequencing with the objective of maximizing an adaptive profit function, while taking into account operation-dependent degradation models and a production target. In order to obtain the optimal decision policy, a metaheuristic method based on the results of discrete-event simulations of the target manufacturing system is used. The new approach is demonstrated in simulations of a generic cluster tool routinely used in semiconductor manufacturing. The results show that jointly making maintenance and production sequencing decisions consistently outperforms the current practice of making these decisions separately.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Rehabilitation of Dysphagia Following Head and Neck Cancer

Patients who have cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, or larynx may be treated with surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these modalities. Each treatment type may have a negative impact on posttreatment swallowing function; these effects are presented in this article. A number of rehabilitative procedures are available to the clinician to reduce or eliminate swallowing disorders in patients treated for cancer of the head and neck. The various procedures—including postures, maneuvers, modifications to bolus volume and viscosity, range-of-motion exercises, and strengthening exercises—and their efficacy in patients treated for head and neck cancer are discussed.
Site of restoration of the effect of PTH by propranolol in respiratory alkalosis.

Site of restoration of the effect of PTH by propanolol in respiratory alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis decreases the phosphaturic response to parathyroid hormone (PTH). β-adrenoreceptor blockade by propranolol infusion restores the phosphaturic effect of PTH in respiratory alkalotic rats; however, the nephron site of these changes in phosphate reabsorption by propranolol is not known. The present study was performed to localize the nephron segment(s) involved in the restoration of the phosphaturic effect of PTH by propranolol infusion in respiratory alkalotic rats. PTH infusion increased the fractional delivery of phosphate (FD Pi ) to the late proximal tubule to similar levels in the propranolol and vehicle-infused respiratory alkalotic rats (FD Pi 46.6 ± 4.4% and 48.6 ± 4.2%, respectively). In contrast, PTH only increased FD Pi to the early distal tubules (to 17.1 ± 0.9%) in the absence of propranolol compared to FD Pi 41.9 ± 2.5% in the presence of propranolol in respiratory alkalotic animals. We conclude that the restoration of the phosphaturic effect of PTH in respiratory alkalotic rats by propranolol infusion is due primarily to decreased reabsorption of phosphate by the straight segment of the proximal tubule.
Reference Sources in Journalism and Mass Communication

The nations of the world are linked together by increasingly fast, efficient and sophisticated means of communication. Satellites, cable, and other telecommunication methods are used to implement this mass communication. The mass media forms, radio, television, newspapers, magazines, film, etc., have influenced not only their resident population, they have the potential to influence all of us. The reference sources in this article are concerned with this global aspect.