cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of hepatic tumors against the diaphragm : Frequency of diaphragmatic injury

Purpose: To retrospectively determine the frequency of diaphragmatic injury when percutaneous hepatic radiofrequency (RF) ablation is performed adjacent to the diaphragm. Materials and Methods: Institutional Review Board approval was obtained for our HIPAA-compliant study. Informed consent for the ablation procedure and for use of related data for future research was obtained from each patient. A retrospective review was conducted of 215 patients undergoing percutaneous RF ablation of hepatic tumors. Twenty-nine patients (21 men and eight women; age, 41–89 years) were identified with tumors abutting the diaphragm. Episodes of right shoulder pain were recorded. A panel of radiologists blinded to the patients' clinical histories reviewed their imaging for evidence of diaphragmatic injury and ablation success. A generalized estimating equation model and the Fisher exact test were used for statistical analysis. Results: The 29 patients had a total of 33 tumors abutting the diaphragm. Tumor size was 1.3–5.5 cm...
Visual attention impairments in Alzheimer’s disease

Background: Impaired attention can hinder information processing at multiple levels and may explain aspects of functional decline in aging and dementia. Impairments of attention in early AD may contribute to performance reductions in other cognitive domains, including memory and executive functions. Method: The authors analyzed the scores on a battery of tests of attention and cognitive abilities in 64 older individuals: 42 with mild AD and 22 control subjects without dementia. The authors tested the hypotheses that patients with AD would have impairments of visual attention, and that these impairments would correlate with dysfunction in other key cognitive domains. Results: Patients with AD performed significantly worse than control subjects on measures of sustained attention, divided attention, selective attention, and visual processing speed. The differences were not due to differences in age, education, or basic visual function. Strong relationships were identified between reduced attention skills and overall cognitive impairment. Conclusions: Deterioration of attention abilities occurs in early stages of AD, and likely contributes to functional decline in these patients. More routine assessment of visual attention deficits could give a more accurate measure of functionally useful perception in patients with AD who show normal visual acuity and visual fields, perhaps providing useful clues to diagnosis and staging.
Mechanistic Evidence for Sequential Displacement–Reduction Routes in the Synthesis of Pd–Au Clusters with Uniform Size and Clean Surfaces

Bimetallic Pd–Au clusters with (Pd/Au)at compositions of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 narrowly distributed in size were prepared using colloidal methods with reagents containing only C, H, and O atoms, specifically polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as protecting species and ethanol as the organic reductant. Synthesis protocols involved contacting a solution of Au precursors with nearly monodisperse Pd clusters. The formation of Pd–Au clusters was inferred from the monotonic growth of clusters with increasing Au content and confirmed by the in situ detection of Au plasmon bands in their UV–visible spectra during synthesis. Specifically, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed that growth rates were proportional to the surface area of the clusters, and rigorous deconvolution and background subtraction allowed for determination of the intensity and energy of Au-derived plasmon bands. This feature emerged during initial contact between Au precursors and Pd clusters apparently because Au3+ species deposit as Au0 using Pd0 as...
Relationship between Criterion Task Set Performance and the Personality Variables of Sensation Seeking and Stimulus Screening

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the utility of the Criterion Task Set (CTS) as a method for personality theory testing. Subjects in a large CTS standardization study were administered the Sensation Seeking scale and the Stimulus Screening scale, two personality dimensions based theoretically on perceptual or biological processes that are believed to mediate task performance. Results indicated that high sensation seekers respond faster, but not necessarily more accurately, than low sensation seekers to central processing tasks. No differences were found for input/perceptual or motor/output tasks. Also, no differences were found between screeners and nonscreeners for any CTS tasks. The results of this study suggest that the CTS can be used profitably by personality researchers to test the basic assumptions of the theories of some personality dimensions.
The Complexity of Interdependence

"Interdependence" has long been a cardinal element in theoretical analyses of international politics, but its utility has been hampered by disagreements over both the meaning of the term and its links to changes in state behavior. This article provides a general framework for resolving those debates by using a game-theoretic analysis developed by Kelley and Thibaut. Their work demonstrates that past calls for choosing between the concepts of vulnerability and sensitivity are misplaced. The first measures dependence, the second interdependence. Only by using both-and by combining them with a third measure, independence-can we fully model the interactions of states in international politics. With such a complete model we can then begin to understand why some seemingly baneful issues in international politics (such as Mutual Assured Destruction) can still lead to cooperative outcomes, while some apparently benign issues (such as free trade) often lead to conflict. Finally, the article offers some preliminary propositions on the connection between interdependence and cooperation, tying those propositions to the measures of interdependence developed by earlier analysts.
Research of shunt active power filter compensation strategy

Based on that the compensation capacity of the device used in practice is limited,this paper discusses strategy of shunt active filter compensation,combines the choice of compensation strategy of active filter with the compensation ability of devices,and discusses superiority and inferiority of the compensation strategy in two situations,one is that the compensation capacity can meet the needs of compensation,and the other is that the compensation capacity is less than the compensation.And this paper suggests using genetic algorithm in the active filter compensation strategy to optimize the distribution of the compensation capacity of each harmonic.Simulation verifies that the method can make the filtering effect achieve optimal results in a limited compensation capacity.
Determination of Pirlimycin Residue in Milk by Liquid Chromatographic Analysis of the 9-Fluorenylmethyl Chloroformate Derivative

A procedure to determine pirlimycin residues in bovine milk was developed. Pirlimycin was extracted from milk after protein precipitation and 2 stages of liquid-liquid partitioning. The extract was evaporated to dryness, redissolved in dilute base, and derivatized with 9-fluorenylmethyl chloroformate (Fmoc) to impart a chromophore for ultraviolet (UV) detection. The derivatized extract was analyzed by reversed-phase liquid chromatography (LC). Pirlimycin concentration was calculated from the peak height of the extract by using a linear regression standard curve prepared from a series of derivatized standards. The procedure's performance in the range of the regulatory tolerance (0.4 ppm) was validated by replicate analysis of control, fortified control, and residue-incurred bovine milk. Average recoveries at 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8 ppm were 91, 88, and 87%, respectively, and coefficients of variation were 5, 4, and 1%, respectively. Overall recovery for all samples was 89%, with 4% coefficient of variation. Linear regression analysis of LC/UV results versus results from a previously published LC/mass spectrometric assay gave a slope of 0.95, with a correlation coefficient of 0.98.
Fetal cardiac axis in tetralogy of Fallot: associations with prenatal findings, genetic anomalies and postnatal outcome

Objective To compare prenatal findings, associated genetic anomalies and postnatal outcome in fetuses with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) with normal cardiac axis (CAx) and those with abnormal CAx. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, 85 cases diagnosed with TOF by prenatal ultrasound at our clinic between 2005 and 2015 were reviewed. Follow-up ultrasound and postnatal outcome were available for 68 cases. One case complicated with absent pulmonary valve syndrome and a further seven cases diagnosed postnatally with anomalies other than TOF were excluded from the study. The remaining 60 cases of postnatally confirmed TOF were divided according to CAx into two groups: those with normal CAx (n = 33) and those with abnormal CAx (n = 27). CAx was defined as the angle between the interventricular septum and midline of the fetal thorax at the level of the four-chamber view. CAx > 65° or < 25° was considered abnormal. Prenatal sonographic findings, associated genetic anomalies and postnatal outcome were compared between the two groups. Results Fetuses with TOF and abnormal CAx were more likely to have pulmonary atresia (40.7% vs 15.2%; P = 0.026) and right-sided aortic arch (48.1% vs 21.2%; P = 0.028) than those with normal CAx. Postnatal death occurred in 30.4% of infants with abnormal CAx vs 6.5% with normal CAx (P = 0.028). Incidence of tested genetic anomalies was similar between the two groups. Conclusion In fetuses with TOF, abnormal CAx is associated with the presence of pulmonary atresia, right-sided aortic arch and a higher risk of postnatal death. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Physics and performance of new solid-state laser gain media

Many new solid state laser media have been identified during the last decade, and it is now possible to usefully generate laser light from the ultraviolet region to the mid-infrared. These new laser media have become available in part because of the improved understanding of the solid state physics issues that impact the laser performance. The physics and performance of the new tunable ultraviolet-emitting laser crystal, Ce3+:LiSAF, will be discussed, as will the critical physics issues pertaining to the operation of 3 μm Er3− and Ho3+-based crystals.
State space collapse with application to heavy traffic limits for multiclass queueing networks

Heavy traffic limits for multiclass queueing networks are a topic of continuing interest. Presently, the class of networks for which these limits have been rigorously derived is restricted. An important ingredient in such work is the demonstration of state space collapse. Here, we demonstrate state space collapse for two families of networks, first-in first-out (FIFO) queueing networks of Kelly type and head-of-the-line proportional processor sharing (HLPPS) queueing networks. We then apply our techniques to more general networks. To demonstrate state space collapse for FIFO networks of Kelly type and HLPPS networks, we employ law of large number estimates to show a form of compactness for appropriately scaled solutions. The limits of these solutions are next shown to satisfy fluid model equations corresponding to the above queueing networks. Results from Bramson l4,5r on the asymptotic behavior of these limits then imply state space collapse. The desired heavy traffic limits for FIFO networks of Kelly type and HLPPS networks follow from this and the general criteria set forth in the companion paper Williams l41r. State space collapse and the ensuing heavy traffic limits also hold for more general queueing networks, provided the solutions of their fluid model equations converge. Partial results are given for such networks, which include the static priority disciplines.
The Organization of Movement in Slime Mold Plasmodia

At first sight, the noncellular slime mold plasmodia appear to be ideal organisms in which to study protoplasmic movement. They are large, easily manipulated, and display high speed protoplasmic streaming. After some experience with them, however, one is likely to become discouraged by the complexity and lability of their movement patterns. While the streaming movements necessarily follow the laws of hydrodynamics, it has not so far been possible to explain them satisfactorily in terms of any simple mechanism. The characteristics of plasmodial streaming which lead to confusion and frustration are outlined below as a substitute for direct observations and cine-photographic records.
Surgical resection of sinonasal hemangiopericytoma involving anterior skull base: Case reports and literature review.

Abstract Hemangiopericytomas are soft tissue tumors composed of pericytic cells that are characterized by their “staghorn” vascular branching and their variable clinical presentation. Fifteen to 25% of all HPC occur in the head and neck, with only 5% found in the nose or paranasal sinuses. Sinonasal hemangiopericytoma (SNHPC) is considered distinct from its soft tissue counterpart – the former showing a more uniform cellular organization, has convincing pericytic differentiation and is associated with a far better prognosis. With less than 200 cases of SNHPC reported in the literature, only limited assumptions can be made about this rare tumor. The purpose of this article is to add to the growing body of literature on this disease. We report two new cases of SNHCP – both in female patients who presented with epistaxis and anosmia. Pulsatile vascular masses were visualized with nasal endoscopy – one in the left middle meatus and the second one near the cribriform plate. CT and MRI studies show enhancing masses in the left nasal cavities with thinning and erosion of the skull base. Diagnoses were confirmed by pathology which reported spindle cell neoplasm staining positively for VEGF, NSE, factor XIIIa, S-100 protein, and CD34, and negative for actin, desmin, CD31, and pankeratin, consistent with hemangiopericytoma. In one patient, embolization of the sphenopalatine and labial artery as well as pre-operative radiation therapy was performed before complete endoscopic resection was undertaken. The second patient had a tumor invading the skull base, so a craniofacial resection was performed. Both patients remained free of disease two years after surgery. Review of the literature and treatment options are discussed.
Emotional availability and social skills: A link between mother-child depressive symptoms

This research examined the intergenerational transmission of depressive symptoms from mothers to their adult children through two succeeding mediators: a child’s perception of emotional availability from their mothers, and a child’s social skills. To do so, this study integrated principles from the integrative model of risk from depressed mother to offspring, attachment theory, and the social skills deficit theory of depression. Child reports of depressive symptoms, perceived emotional availability from mothers, and social skills were assessed as well as mother reports of depressive symptoms from 224 (N = 448) mother-child dyads. Results showed that maternal depressive symptoms were significantly related to child perceptions of emotional availability. Moreover, emotional availability was positively related to child social skills, which in turn was negatively related to child depressive symptoms. Additionally, the indirect effect from maternal depressive symptoms to child depressive symptoms through the mediators was significant. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
The effects of canthaxanthin on JB/MS melanoma growth during retroviral pathogenesis induced by LP-BM5 murine leukemia virus.

AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is the end stage of disease initiated in man by infection with HIV-1 (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and related viruses. Progression from retroviral infection to AIDS can take years, and may be influenced by immunosuppressive cofactors including drugs of abuse (1,2) and immunostimulatory ones like nutrients (3,4). The role of such compounds in progression to AIDS is difficult to study in humans because of ethical, economical and logistical considerations. While HIV infection has been possible in chimpanzees, it has produced little pathogenesis (6). To investigate simultaneously the effects of immunostimulatory compounds and retroviral infection, it would be advantageous to use a non-primate model.
Inhibition of B cell activating factor (BAFF) in the management of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

ABSTRACTIntroduction: The anti-BAFF monoclonal antibody, belimumab, was approved 5+ years ago by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of adult SLE patients. Although BAFF is now a proven therapeutic target in SLE, the limited clinical efficacy both in the clinical trials setting and in ‘real-life’ experience begs for further therapeutic improvement.Areas covered: In addition to belimumab, three other BAFF antagonists (atacicept, blisibimod, tabalumab) that biologically differ from belimumab are being or have been evaluated in SLE late-stage clinical trials. Literature search was performed using the search words/phrases, ‘BAFF’, ‘BLyS’, ‘APRIL’, ‘BCMA’, ‘TACI’, ‘BR3’, ‘belimumab’, ‘atacicept’, ‘blisibimod’, ‘tabalumab’, ‘lupus clinical trial’ along with papers from the author’s personal library.Expert commentary: The reasons underlying current lack of enthusiasm among clinicians for BAFF antagonism are discussed, and speculation if offered regarding the use of a BAFF antagonist as part of ...
Plasma Protein Vehicles

This chapter discusses plasma proteins that belong to a group of molecules that possess the structural capacity to transport a variety of substances, including metals, vitamins, hormones, hemoglobin, and heme in the circulation, and deliver them to the appropriate target cells or to sites of their degradation. The chapter discusses six transport proteins discussed—transferring (TF), ceruloplasmin, transthyretin, haptoglobin, hemopexin, and the vitamin D-binding protein. It discusses the protein structure, evolution, and function of TF. TF is essential for life in vertebrates because of its capacity to bind and transport ferric iron, which is required for the synthesis of heme proteins and iron-containing enzymes. The metal binding capacity of TF extends to other metals as well. During the acute-phase reaction, the plasma concentration of TF increases in rodents and decreases in primates. Mice and humans, inheriting the homozygous recessive trait, atransferrinemia, are unable to survive without the transfusions of TF. TF transports iron from the intestinal regions of absorption to iron-requiring cells and to iron-storage sites. It protects against infection and malignancy by competing with microorganisms and neoplastic cells for available iron. It also serves as a growth factor to proliferating cells.
A Study on Information Systems Risk Management Based on Control Self-assessment

CSA (Control Self Assessment) evaluation as a new control method, is widely used in domestic and This thesis, d. through the study of control self assessment method in information system under the environment of the critical success factors and implementation process, explore the control self assessment on the risk management of information system improvement and the promotion effect, and evaluate control self assessment information system impact of risk management.
A Comparative Analysis of the Cyberattacks Against Estonia, the United States, and Ukraine: Exemplifying the Evolution of Internet-Supported Warfare

This comparative international case study of cyber warfare provides a context for considering the evolution of cyber technologies as elements of hybrid warfare capable of creating confusion, disrupting communications, and impacting physical infrastructure such as power grids and satellite-based communications and weapons systems. Expanding an unpublished paper recognized by the ASIS Foundation in its 2012 international student writing competition concerning global security, which compared the cyberattacks against Estonia in 2007 and the United States in 2012, this study re-examines and updates the original data in a broader analysis that primarily includes the cyberattacks against Ukraine during the 2013-2015 conflict, but also considers other incidents on the timeline of digitization. The study shows how cyber warfare, first reported in the 1990s, has become an integral component of war today for both state and non-state actors who use zombies and robot armies to penetrate national boundaries and firewalls via satellites.
Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Regulation in Hepatic Metabolism

The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) participate in a multitude of processes that control hepatic metabolism. The liver regulates glucose and lipid metabolism, and under pathophysiological conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) these processes become dysfunctional. Stress responses activate the hepatic MAPKs, and this is thought to impair insulin action and lipid metabolism. The MAPKs also activate the MAPK phosphatases (MKPs) which oppose their actions. How the MAPK/MKP balance is controlled in liver metabolism and how perturbations in these activities contribute to metabolic disease remains unclear. Discussion of recent insights into the MAPK/MKP signaling role in hepatic metabolic function and disease will be the focus of this review.
A treatment classifier for long-term follow-up of intravenous immunoglobulin therapy response (P5.079)

Objective: Development of a treatment response classification using long-term follow-up data for the subjects with pure motor symptoms and abnormal A-waves, who participated in the double-blind placebo controlled therapeutic trial using intravenous-immunoglobulin (IVIg). Background: Motor neuron disease (MND) comprises of a spectrum of disorders ranging from pure lower motor neuron syndromes to a combination of both upper and lower motor neuron involvement to pure upper motor neuron syndromes. Often the diagnosis of MND is complicated by mimic syndromes like multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN), of particular significance due to its response to IVIg. The presence of abnormal A-waves was identified as a significant predictor among IVIg responsive subjects with pure motor symptoms but with no demonstrable conduction block. Design/Methods: After obtaining institutional review board approval 13 subjects participated in a double-blinded placebo controlled trial of IVIg. All subjects received an IVIg at a dose of 2g/kg over 5 days or a placebo, using a cross-over trial design. These subjects were followed-up 2 years after the successful completion of the trial. Using Appel ALS scale, ALSFRSr, distal motor latency, segmental velocity, CMAPs, F-wave recordings, A-waves and MUNEs, a treatment classifier model was developed to forecast the long-term follow-up data. Results: Among the 13 subjects who underwent the clinical trial, 5 subjects (38.46%) were diagnosed conclusively with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) within the 2 years of follow-up after the study completion. Using a random-forest based machine learning algorithm and 10 fold cross-validation, 100% of the subjects who were subsequently diagnosed with ALS during follow-up could be identified. Conclusions: A random-forest based supervised machine learning (ML) algorithm that utilized neurophysiology and clinical parameters described above was applied to subjects with pure motor symptoms. Using this classifier, long-term outcome forecast under IVIg therapy was successfully performed. Disclosure: Dr. Remanan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Pavlakis has nothing to disclose. Dr. Shahbazi has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lange has received personal compensation for activities with Genzyme as a consultant.
Are multiple sinus cultures necessary during sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis

Background Multiple cultures are commonly obtained from different sinuses where purulence is encountered during endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). This brings into question the utility and necessity of obtaining multiple cultures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if multiple cultures obtained during a single case is informative in finding additional pathogens or if it is a redundant, cost-increasing practice. We hypothesized that multiple sinus cultures are necessary to identify the pathogens responsible for an individual's sinus disease. We seek to add information on the utility of performing multiple sinus cultures from a patient care and a health economics standpoint. Methods This study was a retrospective review of a single rhinologist's surgical database from 2008 to 2016. Patients that underwent ESS for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and had multiple cultures obtained during surgery were included. Culture difference was recorded as a discrepancy of an infectious pathogen between cultures. Results We identified 231 patients with multiple sinus cultures. Of those, 39.4% had a difference of pathogens noted on culture between different sinuses. Only 5% of the cohort received clinically relevant benefit from the second culture obtained in regard to a change in antibiotics. Conclusion In this retrospective review we showed that, for the practitioner who obtains sinus cultures intraoperatively, limiting this practice to a single culture rather than multiple is cost-effective and sufficient for identifying the pathogen to be treated. This study, and the resultant change in practice, has the potential to reduce healthcare costs associated with the surgical care of the patient with CRS.
Angiotensin II Antagonism and Renal Function

The kidney is abundantly supplied with angiotensin II (ANG II) receptors. In the tubules, ANG II receptors are found in greatest density in the first part of the proximal convolution.1 In the vasculature, ANG II receptors are found in both afferent (preglomerular) and efferent (postglomerular) arteries and arterioles, in the glomerular capillary tuft, and in the vasa recta that supply blood to the renal medulla.2
Design of Carters Pumped Storage Project

The Carters Project is under construction on the Coosawattee River near Carter, Georgia, about 75 miles north of Atlanta. When completed in 1974 it will consist of a 440-ft high, rockfill, main dam with a powerhouse on the right bank, an emergency spillway on the left bank, and a low, earth-and-rockfill reregulation dam about two miles downstream of the main dam. The powerhouse, of conventional enclosed design, will contain four units. Nominal generator rating for each of the four units is 125,000 kw. The two conventional Francis turbines are rated at 172,000 hp at 345 ft net head and 163.6 rpm. The two pump-turbines are rated as turbines at 150 rpm. Normal operating head, at maximum power pool elevation 1072.0, will be about 385 ft. This is a multiuse project which will be developed for flood control and recreation as well as power.
COMBINATION TRANSFER FACTOR-AMPHOTERICIN B THERAPY IN A CASE OF CHRONIC MUCOCUTANEOUS CANDIDIASIS: A CONTROLLED STUDY

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the combination transfer factor-amphotericin B therapy in a case of chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis. Dialyzable transfer factor (TFQ) has been used successfully for the treatment of mucocutaneous candidiasis in combination with Amphotericin B chemotherapy. The patient had normal numbers of peripheral blood lymphocytes and a normal percentage of rosette positive lymphocytes and immunoglobulins and C3 were normal. The results of “Candida” skin testing, and the in vitro response to this antigen in MIF and lymphocyte transformation assays are shown. The patients clinical status is also summarized from + to ++++ infection with Candida as noted. Only treatments II and IV prolonged the Amphotericin B induced remission. The response of the patients own indicator cells in a migration inhibition assay to pre-form human MIF and LIF was assessed. Monocytes showed 17 % inhibitions while PMN leukocyte migration was inhibited 17%. It was found that clinically, the patient always responded well to Amphotericin B treatment.
A framework for understanding the effects of past experiences on justice expectations and perceptions of human resource inclusion practices

Abstract As organizational diversity becomes increasingly common, human resource departments must learn to effectively manage heterogeneity through the development of inclusionary practices. Although HR diversity and inclusion (D&I) practices seem like an adequate solution to workplace diversity, employee past experience and anticipatory justice regarding the fairness of HR initiatives may offer an explanation as to why such practices are not always successful at leading to positive perceptions and outcomes across employees. To begin to address this question, we use theory on uncertainty management to describe the role of cognitive biases on recollections of past experiences, and the role of anticipatory justice on fairness perceptions. Moreover, we argue for several moderators of the past experience—justice expectations and of the justice expectation—justice perceptions relationships. The contributions of this proposed framework are discussed as are directions for future research and practical implications.
Wave Attenuation by Oyster Reefs in Shallow Coastal Bays

Oyster reef restoration in shallow estuarine environments has been thought to have the potential to provide shoreline protection as well as oyster habitat. This study was designed to address the question of how effective oyster reefs are at attenuating wave energy in shallow coastal bays. Measurements were made of waves on both sides of four restored intertidal oyster reefs and at a control site with no reef; mean water depths ranged from 0.9 to 1.3 m. The reefs differed in composition and position relative to the shoreline, but all had reef crest elevations between 0.3 and 0.5 m below mean sea level. Differences in wave heights between the exposed/sheltered sides and upwind/downwind sides of the reefs were used to quantify the effects of the reefs on waves under varying tidal and wind conditions. All four reefs were able to reduce wave heights by an average of 30–50% for water depths of 0.5–1.0 m (bracketing the heights of reef crests) and 0–20% for water depths of 1.0–1.5 m (reef crests > 0.25 m below the water surface). For water depths greater than 1.5 m, there was < 10% change in wave heights. In contrast, there was no average decrease in wave height from the more seaward (exposed) to the more landward wave gauge at the control site regardless of water depth. Based on our results, we conclude that fringing oyster reefs can reduce the wave energy reaching the shoreline of marshes with edge elevations close to mean sea level. However, reefs like those in our study have little effect on waves during deeper water conditions, which allow for the largest waves, and are therefore less likely to offer protection to marshes characterized by high edge scarps and marsh surface elevations well above mean sea level.
Life History Traits and Status of a Peripheral Redside Dace (Clinostomus elongatus) Population in Minnesota

Abstract Redside dace Clinostomus elongatus in Minnesota represent genetically unique peripheral populations on the extreme western edge of their native range with uncertain population status. Electrofishing surveys were conducted in 2017 in the Little Cannon River watershed to ascertain life history traits (e.g., age, growth, reproductive traits) for comparison to core populations in eastern North America and to assess population status. Minnesota redside dace grew faster but lived shorter lives than their core populations/counterparts. Females matured at age-2 and about 80 mm total length and males at age-1 and 70 mm. Females produced up to 962 eggs. Estimated population size for age 1+ dace was 9251 (95% C.I. 8300–10,201) and for age 2+ was 6600 (95% C.I. 5789–7411). These values exceeded a demographic minimum viable population estimate of 3305 (nearly double) suggesting that redside dace should persist in this watershed for at least the next two decades (until ≈ 2040).
Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Wegener's Granulomatosis): Evolving Concepts in Treatment

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), formerly termed Wegener's granulomatosis, is the most common of the pulmonary vasculitides. GPA typically involves the upper respiratory tract, lower respiratory tract (bronchi and lung), and kidney, with varying degrees of disseminated vasculitis. Cardinal histologic features include a necrotizing vasculitis involving small vessels, extensive "geographic" necrosis, and granulomatous inflammation. The spectrum and severity of the disease is heterogeneous, ranging from indolent disease involving only one site to fulminant, multiorgan vasculitis. Circulating antibodies against cytoplasmic components of neutrophils (ANCAs) play a role in the pathogenesis, and often correlate with activity of the disease. Treatment strategies are evolving. Cyclophosphamide (CYC) plus corticosteroids was the mainstay of therapy for generalized, multisystemic GPA since the 1970s. However, within the past decade, rituximab (RTX), a monoclonal antibody directed against B cells, has been shown to be at least as effective (and possibly more effective) as CYC. Furthermore, the use of RTX may reduce the need for maintenance immunosuppression. Optimal therapy for GPA remains controversial, and additional studies are required to determine the role and duration of maintenance therapy following successful induction therapy.
Biexponential R2* relaxometry for estimation of liver iron concentration in children: A better fit for high liver iron states.

BACKGROUND R2* relaxometry's capacity to calculate liver iron concentration (LIC) is limited in patients with severe overload. Hemosiderin increases in these patients, which exhibits a non-monoexponential decay that renders a failed R2* analysis. PURPOSE/HYPOTHESIS To evaluate a biexponential R2* relaxometry model in children with different ranges of iron overload. STUDY TYPE Retrospective. POPULATION In all, 181 children with different conditions associated with iron overload. FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE 1.5T, T2 *-weighted gradient echo sequence. ASSESSMENT Bi- and monoexponential R2* relaxometry were measured in the liver using two regions of interest (ROIs) using a nonproprietary software: one encompassing the whole liver parenchyma (ROI-1) and the other only the periphery (ROI-2). These were drawn by a single trained observer. The residuals for each fitting model were estimated. A ratio between the residuals of the mono- and biexponential models was calculated to identify the best fitting model. Patients with 1) residual ratio ≥1.5 and 2) R2*fast ≥R2*slow were considered as having a predominant biexponential behavior. STATISTICAL TESTS Nonparametric tests, Bland-Altman plots, linear correlation, intraclass correlation coefficient. Patients were divided according to their LIC into stable (n = 23), mild (n = 58), moderate (n = 61), and severe (n = 39). RESULTS The biexponential model was more suitable for patients with severe iron overload when compared with the other three LIC categories (P < 0.001) for both ROIs. For ROI-1, 37 subjects met criteria for a predominant biexponential behavior. The slow component (5.7%) had a lower fraction than the fast component (94.2%). For ROI-2, 22 subjects met criteria for a predominant biexponential behavior. The slow component (4.7%) had a lower fraction than the fast component (95.2%). The intraobserver variability between both ROIs was excellent. DATA CONCLUSION The biexponential R2* relaxometry model is more suitable in children with severe iron overload. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3 Technical Efficacy: Stage 1 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1191-1198.
Do Social Cognitive Theory constructs explain response heterogeneity with a physical activity behavioral intervention in multiple sclerosis

Abstract Background Behavioral interventions based on Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) are efficacious for increasing both objectively-measured and self-reported physical activity in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Purpose This study involved a secondary analysis of data focused on SCT constructs as correlates of individual-level changes (i.e., response heterogeneity) following a behavioral intervention. Method Twenty-two persons with MS who completed a 6-month SCT-based behavioral intervention for increasing physical activity were included in analyses. The intervention consisted of two primary components, namely a dedicated Internet website and one-on-one video chats with a behavioral coach. Outcomes included objectively-measured moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) using Actigraph model GT3X+ accelerometers and self-reported physical activity using the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ) as well as SCT variables of exercise self-efficacy, barriers self-efficacy, outcome expectations, goal setting and planning and facilitators/impediments. Results There was individual variability in physical activity change following the intervention. For example, 4/22 participants demonstrated a reduction in MVPA, 1/22 participants had no change, 9/22 participants had less than 0.5 standard deviation (SD) increase in MVPA, and 8/22 participants had an increase in MVPA of more than 0.5 SD. Baseline SCT variables, particularly outcome expectations, goal setting, planning, and barriers self-efficacy, correlated with increased physical activity. Conclusions This study indicates that SCT variables correlate with the response heterogeneity associated with physical activity behavioral interventions, and this might inform the delivery of interventions consistent with Bandura's stepwise implementation model for optimizing the “fit” of an intervention based on SCT for maximizing treatment efficacy in MS.
Lipid hydroperoxide stimulates retinal neovascularization in rabbit retina through expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, vascular endothelial growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor.

To test the hypothesis that oxidative damage associated with tissue hypoxia plays a role in neovascularization, a lipid hydroperoxide (LHP) was injected into the vitreous of rabbits. Single injections of LHP (50-600 microg) caused a sustained retinal neovascularization visualized clinically by ophthalmoscopy and confirmed by microscopy. Vasodilators, i.e. histamine and nitric oxide, peaked at 6h and 7 days, respectively. The levels of both tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1alpha peaked at 12h and dropped to basal levels by 24h. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor-beta peaked at 24h and were sustained throughout the following 3 weeks, and platelet-derived growth factor was also elevated throughout the same period. Upregulation of these five angiogenic cytokines, but not basic fibroblast growth factor, occurred prior to the appearance of neovascularization. Leakage of fluorescein at the tips of new vessels was demonstrated by fluorescein angiography. Linoleic hydroperoxide induced neovascularization, but saturated or unsaturated native C-18 fatty acids had no effect. The cascade of multiple, angiogenic cytokines induced by LHP may interact to promote sustained neovascularization.
Displaying Common but Previously Neglected Health Claims on Product Labels: Understanding Competitive Advantages, Deception, and Education

An aim of the Food and Drug Administration food labeling regulations is to ensure that manufacturers aid consumers in making choices regarding their diets by eliminating “hollow” health claims. Of ...
The Marrano specter: Derrida and Hispanism: edited by Erin Graff Zivin, New York, Fordham University Press, 2017, 184 pp., $30 (paperback), ISBN13 978-0823277681

The Marrano is a subversive figure of nonidentification that marks the trace of a subterranean presence that has haunted and unsettled Luso-Hispanic culture since the Inquisition; its elusive, elli...
Trauma and posttraumatic stress interact with sex-specific risk loci for suicidality and converge on brain extracellular matrix biology and synaptic plasticity

Abstract We performed a multivariate gene-by-environment genome-wide interaction study (GEWIS) of suicidality in 123,633 individuals using a covariance matrix based on 26 environments related to traumatic experiences, posttraumatic stress, social support, and socioeconomic status. We discovered sex-specific risk loci exhibiting interaction effects driven by PTSD, including the male-specific rs2367967 (CWC22), which replicated in an independent cohort. Sex-specific cell-type transcriptome enrichment, gene-based analyses, and locus annotation point to extracellular matrix biology and synaptic plasticity as biological mediators of the effects of lifetime traumatic experiences on genetic risk for suicidality.
Temperature and precipitation in Mongolia based on dendroclimatic investigations

Recent tree-ring studies in Mongolia provide evidence of unusual warming that is in agreement with large-scale reconstructed and recorded temperatures for the Northern Hemisphere and the Arctic. One Mongolian proxy record for temperature extends back over 1000 years and several others are over 350 years in length. Precipitation reconstructions based on tree rings reflect recent increases but also indicate that the increases are within the long-term range of variations. Spectral analyses of recorded precipitation data and the reconstructions support the hypotheses of quasi-solar periodicity in precipitation variation, previously suggested by others.
Soft sensors that can feel it all

Soft materials and machine learning combine to enable a sensor that distinguishes bending, stretching, and compression.
Criminal charge history, handgun purchasing, and demographic characteristics of legal handgun purchasers in California.

The prevalence and characteristics of handgun purchasers’ criminal charge histories have never been described for a large population of firearm owners, but such information is critical to understanding risk factors for subsequent violence in this population. We sought to characterize legal handgun purchasers in California and compare this group to the state population, to quantify the proportion with a criminal charge history at purchase, and to identify modifiable factors associated with of having such a history. This cross-sectional study of all 79,927 legal handgun purchasers aged 21–49 years in California in 2001 used log-linear generalized additive models to identify factors associated with having a criminal charge history at purchase. Subjects are from a longitudinal study of incident criminal activity among handgun purchasers. The majority (91.03%) of purchasers were male; whites were overrepresented and Hispanics were underrepresented relative to their population size. At the time of purchase, 16.68% had a criminal charge history and 10.71% had a criminal conviction. Among men with such a history, 31.28% had been charged with a violent crime and 16.54% had been charged with a firearm-related crime. The strongest factor associated with having a criminal charge history was redeeming a pawned handgun (prevalence ratio: 1.82; 95% confidence interval: 1.71, 1.93). Despite California’s stringent firearm purchase laws, more than 1-in-6 handgun purchasers had a criminal charge history at purchase. This proportion may be higher in states with less restrictive firearm purchasing eligibility criteria.
Men Find Trophies Where Women Find Insults: Sharing Nude Images of Others as Collective Rituals of Sexual Pursuit and Rejection:

As sexting has become more common, so has the sharing of nude and semi-nude images of others. While women and men may both engage in this practice, when they do so they often participate in distinc...
Identifying a critical micelle temperature in simulations of disordered asymmetric diblock copolymer melts

In melts of highly asymmetric diblock copolymers, copolymers self-assemble into spherical micelles. Indirect evidence has long suggested the existence of two distinct characteristic temperatures in such materials: A critical micelle temperature (CMT) at which a dense fluid of micelles appears over a narrow range of temperatures and an order disorder transition (ODT) temperature at which micelles crystallize. In this article, molecular dynamics simulations are used to definitively confirm the correctness of this picture in melts of high molecular weight polymers, and to show that the CMT occurs very near where self-consistent field theory predicts the ODT to occur.
The poverty of cost models, the wealth of real options

The attempts to estimate forward looking costs worldwide are based on cost models whose foundation is traditionally applied discounted cash flow analysis — exactly the method that the real options methodology has shown can give terribly wrong results. However, these cost models are ideal vehicles to adapt to the real options methodology. This paper develops a stylized cost model to quantify several deficits associated with the cost models in use today. Even without the application of real options methodology, the stylized results show a significant difference between the revenue requirements model and a traditional discounted present value model. With the application of real options techniques, the differences become much greater.
Delivering primary education in Bangladesh: Enabling the field personnel

To transform the population of Bangladesh into a more literate and numerate group so that higher‐order nation building objectives can be attained, primary education has a vital role to play. Its effective delivery depends significantly on the ability of the field personnel to carry out their supervision, reporting, and related managerial tasks. A field survey was conducted; it found that various constraints and obstacles continue to hinder the performance of these tasks. What is vitally important is to enable the field personnel; by doing so, primary education planners can better attain their objectives and the nation can progress more rapidly on the path to development.
A Comparison of the Efficacy of Individual and Collaborative Music Learning in Ensemble Rehearsals.

Collaboration is essential in learning ensemble music. It is unclear, however, whether an individual benefits more from collaborative or individual rehearsal in the initial stages of such learning....
Deuterium-Labeling Study of the Hydrogenation of 2-Methylfuran and 2,5-Dimethylfuran over Carbon-Supported Noble Metal Catalysts

2-Methylfuran and 2,5-dimethylfuran were deuterated over Pd and Pt catalysts at 90-220 °C. Furan ring saturation over a Pd/C catalyst occurred at low reaction temperatures, which led to deuterated THFs, followed by progressive D exchange in the THF ring at higher temperatures. Finally, H/D exchange occurred in the methyl groups on the THF ring. Cleavage of the C-O bond also occurred over a Pd/C catalyst at elevated temperatures, which resulted in deuterated ketones, for which all H atoms were exchanged for D. Alcohols were produced over a Pt/C catalyst at low temperatures because they are more stable than the corresponding ketones. D replaced H on all carbon atoms of the furan ring and saturated the O and C atoms of the broken C-O bond in both deuterated 2-pentanol and 2-hexanol. At low temperatures (90-105 °C), all H atoms in the deuterated alcohols were exchanged for D except for the last two hydrogen atoms on the methyl groups.
Religious coping, spirituality, and substance use and abuse among youth in high-risk communities in San Salvador, El Salvador.

Little is known about the relationship between religious coping, spirituality, and substance use in developing nations such as El Salvador. Collected in 2011, the sample consists of 290 high-risk and gang-involved adolescents (11–17 years) and young adults (18–25 years) in San Salvador, El Salvador. Structural equation modeling and logistic regression are employed to examine the associations between the Measure of Religious Coping (RCOPE), the Intrinsic Spirituality Scale, and substance use and abuse. Results suggest that spirituality and, to a far lesser degree, religious coping may serve to protect for substance use and abuse among this high-risk population of Salvadoran youth.