cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Decoupling Between Diastolic Pulmonary Arterial Pressure and Pulmonary Arterial Wedge Pressure at Incremental Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) Speeds Is Associated With Worse Prognosis After LVAD Implantation.

ABSTRACT Background Decoupling between diastolic pulmonary arterial pressure (dPAP) and pulmonary arterial wedge pressure (PAWP) is an index of pulmonary vasculature remodeling and provides prognostic information. Furthermore, decoupling may change during incremental left ventricular assist device (LVAD) speed changes. Methods and Results In this prospective study, patients underwent an echocardiographic and hemodynamic ramp test after LVAD implantation and were followed for 1 year. The change in decoupling (dPAP − PAWP) between the lowest and highest LVAD speeds during the ramp test was calculated. Survival and heart failure admission rates were assessed by means of Kaplan-Meier analysis. Eighty-seven patients were enrolled in the study: 54 had a Heartmate II LVAD (60.8 ± 9.3 years of age and 34 male) and 33 had an HVAD LVAD (58.6 ± 13.2 years of age and 20 male). Patients who experienced greater changes in decoupling (Δdecoupling >3 mm Hg) had a persistently elevated dPAP at incremental LVAD speed and had worse 1-year heart failure readmission–free survival compared with the group without significant changes in the degree of decoupling (41% vs 75%; P = .001). Conclusions An increase in decoupling between dPAP and PAWP at incremental LVAD speed changes was associated with worse prognosis in LVAD patients.
Differences in landscape drivers of garlic mustard invasion within and across ecoregions.

While landscape models of invasive plant distributions have potential for targeting management areas, we focus on two reasons such models may be limited in their application. First, models to date are biased towards explaining establishment in ruderal habitat but not spread of invasives into adjacent habitat, where they may most impact native plants. Second, models are usually developed across ecoregions or for a single ecoregion, and it is unclear how well models for different regions and spatial extents agree. Our aims were to (1) test how landscape variables explain garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) occurrence on forest edges and its incursion into forest understory habitat; (2) compare models constructed for two ecoregions, separately, and both ecoregions together. In 183 sites in two ecoregions in Massachusetts, we recorded whether garlic mustard occurred on the forest edge (edge occurrence) and in the understory (understory incursion). We used logistic regression to relate either edge occurrence or understory incursion to elevation and four variables describing land use surrounding each site: percent open land in 1830, percent developed and agricultural land in 2005, and forest-edge length in 2005. Elevation was negatively associated with edge occurrence within regions but positively associated across regions. Land use from 2005 explained edge occurrence and understory incursion in only one region. These results suggest that mechanisms driving garlic mustard distributions are scale- and region-dependent. Our findings also suggest that region-specific invasive distribution models are necessary, and we caution against implying probability of understory incursion from the probability of edge establishment.
Children as mediators of their own cognitive development in kindergarten

Abstract The Opportunity-Propensity (O-P) model was created to explain individual and group differences in achievement and cognitive development. In this paper, we continued to revise and expand the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the O-P model to better meet this goal. In a secondary analysis of the ECLS-K 2011 dataset (n = 15,595), path analyses showed that children’s propensities (i.e., prior knowledge, self-regulation, and executive function) largely mediate the role of family and classroom factors in promoting cognitive development in the areas of literacy and mathematics. These findings suggest that whereas family factors and exposure to academic content are necessary for promoting knowledge growth, they are not sufficient. Rather, children with more advanced knowledge and abilities (e.g., prior knowledge and working memory capacity) are more likely to process new information effectively than their less advanced peers. However, these propensities can increase through certain types of opportunities. Implications for theories and practice are discussed.
Characterizing the learning curve of a virtual intracorporeal suturing simulator VBLaST-SS©

The virtual basic laparoscopic skill trainer suturing simulator (VBLaST-SS©) was developed to simulate the intracorporeal suturing task in the FLS program. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the training effectiveness and participants’ learning curves on the VBLaST-SS© and to assess whether the skills were retained after 2 weeks without training. Fourteen medical students participated in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to two training groups (7 per group): VBLaST-SS© or FLS, based on the modality of training. Participants practiced on their assigned system for one session (30 min or up to ten repetitions) a day, 5 days a week for three consecutive weeks. Their baseline, post-test, and retention (after 2 weeks) performance were also analyzed. Participants’ performance scores were calculated based on the original FLS scoring system. The cumulative summation (CUSUM) method was used to evaluate learning. Two-way mixed factorial ANOVA was used to compare the effects of group, time point (baseline, post-test, and retention), and their interaction on performance. Six out of seven participants in each group reached the predefined proficiency level after 7 days of training. Participants’ performance improved significantly (p < 0.001) after training within their assigned group. The CUSUM learning curve shows that one participant in each group achieved 5% failure rate by the end of the training period. Twelve out of fourteen participants’ CUSUM curves showed a negative trend toward achieving the 5% failure rate after further training. The VBLaST-SS© is effective in training laparoscopic suturing skill. Participants’ performance of intracorporeal suturing was significantly improved after training on both systems and was retained after 2 weeks of no training.
Radiographic Outcomes of Dorsal Spanning Plate for Treatment of Comminuted Distal Radius Fractures in Non-Elderly Patients

Purpose Multifragmentary fractures of the distal radius with articular and metaphyseal comminution (AO 23-C3) represent challenging injuries to manage. Distal fracture lines, articular comminution, and limited distal bone stock may preclude stable fixation with a volar locking plate. The use of a dorsal spanning plate (DSP) offers an alternative treatment option in this setting. We examined the radiographic outcomes of a consecutive series of patients with comminuted intra-articular distal radius fractures not amenable to volar locked plating, who were treated with a DSP. Methods We reviewed all distal radius fractures treated with a dorsal spanning plate at our institution between October, 2014 and March, 2018. Patients with AO 23-C3 fractures treated with dorsal spanning plate fixation were included in this study. Demographic data, time from plate placement to removal, and postoperative radiographic outcomes were examined. Results We identified 24 patients, mean age 41 years (range, 19–62 years). Mean follow-up was 19.5 weeks (range, 12–35 weeks) from the time of plate placement. Plates were removed at a mean of 87 days (range, 40–215 days) after surgery. All patients achieved radiographic union. Mean radial height at the time of union was 11.1 mm (SD, ±3.7 mm; range, 6–18 mm), radial inclination was 19.7° (SD, ±5.4°; range, 9° to 30°), ulnar variance was 1.0 mm (SD, ±2.4 mm; range, –3 to 6 mm), and volar tilt was 1.4° (SD, ±5.2°; range, –10° to 14°). Mean articular displacement was 1.7 mm (SD, ±1.7 mm; range, 0–6 mm). Malalignment of at least one of these radiographic parameters was identified in 16 of 24 patients at the time of union. Conclusions Dorsal spanning plate fixation offers an alternative treatment option for comminuted intra-articular distal radius fractures (AO 23-C3). Although this technique presents a straightforward means for fixation of complex distal radius fractures, radiographic outcomes may be inferior relative to less complex fractures treated with standard volar plating techniques. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.
The Archaeology of a Pioneer Family Cemetery in Western Oregon, 1854–1879

A forgotten late-19th-century cemetery (ca. 1854–1879) with 12 graves was discovered in early 2008 during a construction project in western Oregon. Eight graves had been previously opened during a 1901 disinterment, but four remained intact. All provided information on burial patterns during the decades following American settlement of the Willamette Valley by Oregon Trail pioneers. Although the timeline is both slightly delayed and compressed, trends in burial ornamentation and hardware generally follow those noted in American cemeteries in the East. The unadorned graves of the 1850s are most similar to those of earlier decades on the eastern seaboard. By the end of the 1870s, rail lines had been built through the Willamette Valley, and within a few years the valley was linked to a growing national rail network. A relative immediacy of bicoastal contact was achieved at this time, allowing a measure of synchronicity in funerary trends.
PD-1 Regulates GABAergic Neurotransmission and GABA-Mediated Analgesia and Anesthesia.

Summary The immune checkpoint inhibitor programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) plays a critical role in immune regulation. Recent studies have demonstrated functional PD-1 expression in peripheral sensory neurons, which contributes to neuronal excitability, pain, and opioid analgesia. Here we report neuronal expression and function of PD-1 in the central nervous system (CNS), including the spinal cord, thalamus, and cerebral cortex. Notably, GABA-induced currents in spinal dorsal horn neurons, thalamic neurons, and cortical neurons are suppressed by the PD-1-neutralizing immunotherapeutic Nivolumab in spinal cord slices, brain slices, and dissociated cortical neurons. Reductions in GABA-mediated currents in CNS neurons were also observed in Pd1−/− mice without changes in GABA receptor expression. Mechanistically, Nivolumab binds spinal cord neurons and elicits ERK phosphorylation to suppress GABA currents. Finally, both GABA-mediated analgesia and anesthesia are impaired by Pd1 deficiency. Our findings reveal PD-1 as a CNS-neuronal inhibitor that regulates GABAergic signaling and GABA-mediated behaviors.
Evaluating the Need for Routine COVID-19 Testing of Emergency Department Staff: Quantitative Analysis.

Background: As the number of COVID-19 cases in the US continues to increase and hospitals experience shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), health care workers have been disproportionately affected. However, since COVID-19 testing is now easily available, there is a need to evaluate whether routine testing should be performed for asymptomatic health care workers. Objective: This study aimed to provide a quantitative analysis of the predicted impact that regular testing of health care workers for COVID-19 may have on the prevention of the disease among emergency department patients and staff. Methods: Using publicly available data on COVID-19 cases and emergency department visits, as well as internal hospital staffing information, we developed a mathematical model to predict the impact of periodic COVID-19 testing of asymptomatic staff members of the emergency department in COVID-19–affected regions. We calculated various transmission constants based on the Diamond Princess cruise ship data, used a logistic model to calculate new infections, and developed a Markov model based on the average incubation period for COVID-19. Results: Our model predicts that after 180 days, with a transmission constant of 1.219e-4 new infections/person2, weekly COVID-19 testing of health care workers would reduce new health care worker and patient infections by approximately 3%-5.9%, and biweekly testing would reduce infections in both by 1%-2.1%. At a transmission constant of 3.660e-4 new infections/person2, weekly testing would reduce infections by 11%-23% and biweekly testing would reduce infections by 5.5%-13%. At a lower transmission constant of 4.067e-5 new infections/person2, weekly and biweekly COVID-19 testing for health care workers would result in an approximately 1% and 0.5%-0.8% reduction in infections, respectively. Conclusions: Periodic COVID-19 testing for emergency department staff in regions that are heavily affected by COVID-19 or are facing resource constraints may significantly reduce COVID-19 transmission among health care workers and previously uninfected patients.
The Internet Changes Everything: Revolutionizing Public Participation and Access to Government Information Through the Internet

By the end of the last century, federal administrative agencies began to increasingly rely on informal adjudication, interpretive rules, and policy statements, rather than formal procedures or notice and comment rulemaking, to interpret and implement federal law. That trend created a body of “shadow law” that is inaccessible, or not easily accessible, to most citizens. In addition, that trend reduced the opportunities for public participation in government decisionmaking. This article suggests that the Internet could fundamentally change that. It explores the manner in which the Internet and similar technological innovations can be, and are being, used to expand public access to government information and to increase public participation in all forms of agency decisionmaking. Part I of the article reviews the factors that initially encouraged agencies to make policy through notice and comment rulemaking, the factors that have encouraged agencies to move away from that process, and the disadvantages of the move toward “shadow law.” Part II explores the efforts of Congress and the Federal government to encourage agencies to use technology to make government information and law more accessible. Part III explores the manner in which the Internet could be, and is being, used to disseminate government information. It also explores the Internet’s benefits as a means of disseminating information and increasing public participation in government decisionmaking. Part IV focuses on some of the limitations or problems with using the Internet in this manner. Finally, Part V examines the manner in which the Internet could be used to develop rules through notice and comment rulemaking. It explores the benefits and drawbacks of the use of the technology, as well as the legal questions raised by its use.
Effector-mediated ERM activation locally inhibits RhoA activity to shape the apical cell domain

Activated ezrin-radixin-moesin (ERM) proteins link the plasma membrane to the actin cytoskeleton to generate apical structures, including microvilli. Among many kinases implicated in ERM activation are the homologues LOK and SLK. CRISPR/Cas9 was used to knock out all ERM proteins or LOK/SLK in human cells. LOK/SLK knockout eliminates all ERM-activating phosphorylation. The apical domains of cells lacking LOK/SLK or ERMs are strikingly similar and selectively altered, with loss of microvilli and with junctional actin replaced by ectopic myosin-II-containing apical contractile structures. Constitutively active ezrin can reverse the phenotypes of either ERM or LOK/SLK knockouts, indicating that a central function of LOK/SLK is to activate ERMs. Both knockout lines have elevated active RhoA with concomitant enhanced myosin light chain phosphorylation, revealing that active ERMs are negative regulators of RhoA. As RhoA-GTP activates LOK/SLK to activate ERM proteins, the ability of active ERMs to negatively regulate RhoA-GTP represents a novel local feedback loop necessary for the proper apical morphology of epithelial cells.
The Apollo program

Abstract Six landings were made during the Apollo program and a total of 376 kg of samples was returned. These samples are varied, including basalt, breccia, glass, and unexpected amounts of anorthosite. While much of the returned material remains unstudied in any detail, the basic nature of lunar history has been deciphered. Anorthosite represents the original crust of the Moon, forming at 4.5–4.1 Ga through plagioclase crystallization and flotation from a global magma ocean. Large impacts during this time and lasting until about 3.8 Ga formed large basins all over the Moon. Secondary melting of deeper portions of the crystallized magma ocean resulted in basalts, which erupted and filled many of the basins, resulting in the circular features observable from Earth. Although this volcanism appears to have mainly occurred prior to about 3 Ga, more recent studies indicate that it might have continued at least sporadically to much more recent times.
A New Method for Evaluation of the Complex Material Coefficients of Piezoelectric Ceramics in the Radial Vibration Modes

The determination of complex elastic, piezoelectric, and dielectric coefficients of piezoelectric ceramics is important for precision engineering devices. Here, a novel method for determining the optimal material coefficients is presented. This method minimizes the average relative error in the values of conductance, susceptance, resistance, and reactance obtained from the 1-D model in the IEEE Standard (ANSI/IEEE Std 176-1987) and the experimental measurements of the first and second radial modes. Poisson’s ratio is assumed to be a complex number in addition to the elastic, piezoelectric, and dielectric coefficients in the present method. The global minimum of the average relative error is found by searching the minimum among all local minima of the average relative error, which are obtained with the Levenberg–Marquardt modification of Newton’s method from randomly chosen initial conditions. The optimal material coefficients of an APC 850 disk and an APC 855 disk are calculated with this method. The uncertainties in the optimal material coefficients are evaluated by calculating the minimum average relative error when the real or imaginary part of each coefficient is prescribed.
Working Pasteur's Quadrant: harnessing science and action for community change.

Community psychology in general and the field of prevention in particular has unquestioningly accepted the assumption that the research process should proceed in a linear fashion from a search for basic knowledge to application in the community context. This ignores the compelling insight offered by Stokes (1997) that the drive for new knowledge and the pursuit of application can be combined in a single effort. If research in community psychology pursues the drive for application without an equal commitment to the development of knowledge about underlying community processes of social cooperation and change, it will become a field less capable of innovative and enduring contributions to community well-being and effectiveness. Opportunities abound in community psychology for the simultaneous pursuit of new knowledge and more effective practice. We offer the example of a community leadership development program to promote collective efficacy as a case in point.
Resonant infrared detector based on a piezoelectric fishnet metasurface

This paper reports on the first demonstration of a high resolution (noise equivalent power NEP of 1.9 nW/Hz1/2 at 200 Hz bandwidth) and fast (thermal time constant of 5.3 ms) infrared (IR) detector based on a nanoelectromechanical system (NEMS) resonant piezoelectric fishnet-like metasurface (PFM). For the first time, an ultrathin (650 nm) piezoelectric fishnet-like metasurface is employed to form the vibrating body of a nanomechanical resonator with a unique combination of optical, thermal and electromechanical properties. Efficient sensing and actuation (electromechanical coupling coefficient, k t 2∼1.4%) of a high frequency (172 MHz) and high quality factor (Q∼2254) bulk acoustic mode of vibration in the free-standing ultrathin structure is achieved thanks to the superior piezoelectric transduction properties of the proposed metasurface. Strong absorption (60%) of short wavelength infrared (SWIR) radiation in the ultra-low volume resonant device is obtained thanks to the properly engineered optical properties of the fishnet-like metasurface which provide a Fabry-Perot like resonance at ∼4 µm to the structure.
The impact of relationship history on negotiation strategy expectations: A theoretical framework

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore how the history of a supply chain relationship impacts expectations concerning negotiation strategy use. Design/methodology/approach – Following a grounded theory approach, experienced buyers and suppliers were interviewed to enhance understanding of the complexity of supply chain negotiations. Findings – Qualitative analysis developed a theoretical framework emphasizing the impact of relationship history on negotiation strategy expectations in long-term buyer-supplier relationships. Data supports that previous negotiation interactions build a history between the involved organizations. This relationship history creates expectations. When negotiation strategy use is consistent with expectations, the relationship history will continue to develop in the same manner as it has previously. When negotiation strategy expectations are violated, the relationship impact will differ depending on evidence of an Extrarelational Factor that leads to the strategy change....
Logical Granulometric Filtering in the Signal—Union—Clutter Model

A basic problem of binary morphological image filtering is to remove background clutter (noise) in order to reveal a desired target (signal). The present paper discusses the manner in which filtering can be achieved using morphological granulometric filters. Logical granulometries are unions of intersections of reconstructive openings and these use shape elements to identify image components to be passed (in full), whereas others are deleted. Assuming opening structuring elements are parameterized, the task is to find parameters that result in optimal filtering. Optimization is achieved via the notion of granulometric sizing. For situations where optimization is impractical or intractable, filter design can be achieved via adaptation. Based upon correct or incorrect decisions as to whether or not to pass a component, the filter parameter vector is adapted during training in accordance with a protocol that adapts towards correct decisions. The adaptation scheme yields a Markov chain in which the parameter space is the state space of the chain. Convergence of the adaptation procedure is characterized by the stationary distribution of the parameter vector. State-probability equations are derived via the Chapman-Kolmogorov equations and these are used to describe the steady-state distribution.
Hospitalization cost after spine surgery in the United States of America

The objective of this study was to develop and validate a predictive model of hospitalization costs after spine surgery. Several initiatives have been put in place to minimize healthcare expenditures but there are limited data on the magnitude of the contribution of procedure-specific drivers of cost. We performed a retrospective cohort study involving 672,591 patients who underwent spine surgery and were registered in the National Inpatient Sample from 2005–2010. The cohort underwent 1:1 randomization to create derivation and validation subsamples. Regression techniques were used for the creation of a parsimonious predictive model of total hospitalization cost after spine surgery. Included were 356,783 patients (53.1%) who underwent fusions, and 315,808 (46.9%) non-fusion surgeries. The median hospitalization cost was $14,202 (interquartile range $4772–23,632). Common drivers of cost identified in the multivariate analysis included the length of stay, number of admission diagnoses and procedures, hospital size and region, patient income, fusion surgery, acute renal failure, sex, and coagulopathy. The model was validated in an independent cohort and demonstrated a final coefficient of determination that was very similar to the initial model. The predicted and observed values in the validation cohort demonstrated good correlations. This national study quantified the magnitude of significant drivers of hospitalization cost after spine surgery. We developed a predictive model that can be utilized as an adjunct in the cost containment debate and the creation of data driven policies.
System-on-a-package (SOP) substrate and module with digital, RF and optical integration

The Packaging Research Center has been developing next generation system-on-a-package (SOP) technology with digital, RF, and optical system integration on a single package. SOP aims to utilize the best of on-chip SOC integration and package integration to achieve the highest system performance at the lowest cost. The micro-miniaturized multi-functional SOP package is highly integrated and fabricated on large area substrates similar to the wafer-to-IC concept. In addition to novel mixed signal design methodologies, SOP research at PRC is targeted at developing enabling technologies for package level integration including ultra-high density wiring, embedded passive components, embedded optical interconnects, wafer level packaging and fine pitch assembly. Several of these enabling technologies have been recently integrated into the first successful system level demonstration of SOP technology using the intelligent network communicator (INC) testbed. This paper reports on the latest INC and SOP testbed results at the PRC and provides an insight into the future SOP integration strategy for convergent microsystems. The focus of this paper is on integration of materials, processes and structures in a single package substrate for system-on-a-package (SOP) implementation.
A Review of “The Abuse of Power: How Cold War Surveillance and Secrecy Policy Shaped the Response to 9/11”

A first glance at the subtitle of this book might make the reader think that it is a study of the Patriot Act, passed after 9/11, and how it was influenced by Cold War policies. Instead, Athan Theo...
Undoing the Effects of Seizing and Freezing: Decreasing Defensive Processing of Personally Relevant Messages

Health messages are directed at those who are at risk of incurring adverse consequences. However, previous experiments have found that people process personally relevant health messages in a biased, defensive manner. We examine the role of elaboration as a mechanism to encourage less biased processing of personally relevant health appeals. Results demonstrate that high-relevance consumers freeze on the threatening information, leading to lower change appraisal (perceived severity, self-efficacy, and response efficacy) and decreased message persuasion. For these individuals, renewed elaboration on the consequences of caffeine (Experiment 1) and olestra (Experiment 2) consumption reduces defensive processing. This elaboration “unfreezes” message processing, leading to greater change appraisal and increased persuasion. These experiments provide guidelines for practitioners to design more effective messages.
Potential theory for regular and mach reflection of a shock at a wedge

If a plane shock hits a wedge, a self-similar pattern of reflected shocks travels outward as the shock moves forward in time. The nature of the pattern is explored for weak incident shocks (strength b) and small wedge angles 2θw through potential theory, a number of different scalings, some study of mixed equations and matching asymptotics for the different scalings. The self-similar equations are of mixed type. A linearization gives a linear mixed flow valid away from a sonic curve. Near the sonic curve a shock solution is constructed in another scaling except near the zone of interaction between the incident shock and the wall where a special scaling is used. The parameter β = c1θ2w(γ + 1)b ranges from 0 to ∞. Here γ is the polytropic constant and C1 is the sound speed behind the incident shock. For β > 2 regular reflection (weak or strong) can occur and the whole pattern is reconstructed to lowest order in shock strength. For β < 1/2 Mach reflection occurs and the flow behind the reflection is subsonic and can be constructed in principle (with an open elliptic problem) and matched. The case β = 0 can be solved. For 1/2 < β < 2 or even larger β the flow behind a Mach reflection may be transonic and further investigation must be made to determine what happens. The basic pattern of reflection is an almost semi-circular shock issuing, for regular reflection, from the reflection point on the wedge and for Mach reflection, matched with a local interaction flow. Assuming their nature, choosing the least entropy generation, the weak regular reflection will occur for β sufficiently large (von Neumann paradox). An accumulation point of vorticity occurs on the wedge above the leading point. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Is electoral violence effective? Evidence from Sri Lanka's 2005 presidential election

This research note reports empirical findings from a study of the effectiveness of electoral violence and intimidation in Sri Lanka's 2005 presidential election. Using the previous 1999 presidential election as a baseline for comparison, analysis conducted at the polling division level reveals that both United National Party (UNP) candidate Ranil Wickramasinghe and United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFP) candidate Mahinda Rajapakse experienced declines in the percentage of votes in polling divisions where opponent party activists committed acts of violence or intimidation. Fewer polling divisions reported violence or intimidation by UNP than UPFP activists, but the former appear to have been more effective in demobilizing voters.
Constraints for activities implemented jointly (AIJ) technology transfer in Africa

Abstract This paper outlines institutional constraints in relation to technology transfer and development in Africa. Institutional constraints are inherent in inefficient organizational, administration and management structures. Lack of institutional, incentive systems and technological capacities to re-organize institutions limits the potential for the transfer of technologies. It is practically difficult to design, implement and manage AIJ projects in Africa without a provision for capacity building. Existing institutions need strengthening and human capacity needs to be developed.
A framework of managerial promotion in a lifetime employment organization: The D bank

From existing formal personnel policies in a Korean bank, a set of internally consistent career system properties are logically inferred for an organization with the strategic human resource objective of lifetime employment. It is argued that the policy emphasis accorded particular functional personnel activities is inherent in the choice of human resource utilization strategy. It is recognized, however, that certain contextual features (e.g., the legal environment, cultural norms) may either constrain or facilitate the choice.
The U.S. Presidency and national security directives: An overview

Abstract The president of the United States issues a variety of directives to communicate to his staff and to the nation. One such directive is commonly referred to as a national security directive. National security directives have been used, in some form, by every president since Truman. Frequently classified national security directives can have wide-ranging impact on foreign and domestic policy and provide insight into the strategies of an administration. The use of national security directives and their availability is the subject of this article. The first part of the article provides a history of national security directives, by president. The second part offers suggestions on locating the text of directives.
Behavioural and neurochemical characteristics of phentermine and fenfluramine administered separately and as a mixture in rats

Clinical case studies suggest that combined administration of the serotonergic agent fenfluramine (FEN) and the weak amphetamine-like anorexic agent phentermine (PHEN) may be useful in the treatment of alcohol and cocaine addictions. The present experiment examined the nature of the interaction between the two agonists using the drug discrimination paradigm. In vivo microdialysis served to examine the neurochemical profile of dopamine and serotonin release in the nucleus accumbens. In conscious rats, acute injections of FEN (1.0–2.0 mg/kg IP) or PHEN (1.0–2.0 mg/kg IP) selectively elevated levels of serotonin and dopamine in the nucleus accumbens, respectively. A mixture (1 mg/kg of each) increased levels of both amines by similar magnitudes to those observed with each individually. Three groups of Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to discriminate (1) FEN (1.0 mg/kg IP) alone, (2) PHEN (1.0 mg/kg IP) alone or a mixture (3) PHEN+FEN (1 mg/kg of each, IP) from saline under a fixed ratio (FR-10) schedule of food reinforcement. Rats acquired the mixture discrimination rapidly, while for the other groups the training dose had to be increased to 2.0 mg/kg to attain stimulus control. The individual components of the mixture at the training dose generalized partially to the mixture, and complete generalisation was observed following 3.0 mg/kg FEN or PHEN. Rats trained to discriminate the individual components showed respective cross-generalisation profiles. Generalisation to cocaine (0.3–10.0 mg/kg IP), amphetamine (0.1–3.0 mg/kg IP) and nicotine (0.1–0.8 mg/kg SC) was greatest in the MIX-trained rats, while partial or no generalisation was observed in rats trained to discriminate the individual compounds. From the present results, it may be concluded that the two drugs given as a mixture do not produce a novel cue. Rather, these aminergics appear to interact additively. Furthermore, the dual stimulation of the amines by the mixture may be the basis for the cueing effects of the FEN+PHEN drug mixture, and its effectiveness in treating drug addictions.
K-Model: A New Computational Model for Stream Processors

We introduce K-model, a computational model to evaluate the algorithms designed for graphic processors, and other architectures adhering to the stream programming model. We address the lack of a formal complexity model that properly accounts for memory contention, address coalescing in memory accesses, or the serial control of instruction flows. We study the impact of K-model rules on algorithm design. We devise a coalesced and low contention data access technique for Batcher's networks, and we evaluate the effectiveness of this technique within our K-model. To evaluate the benefits in using K-model in evaluating solutions for streaming architectures, we compare the complexity of a sorting network built using our technique, and quick sort. Although in theory quick sort is more efficient than bitonic sort, empirically, our bitonic sorting network has been shown to be faster than the state-of-the-art implementation of quick sort on graphics processing units (GPUs). We use our K-model to prove that this observation should generally hold. As a side result, our technique to perform a Batcher's network on GPUs improves the performance of one the fastest comparison-based solution for integers sorting.
Septic Thrombophlebitis of the Portal Venous System: Clinical and Imaging Findings in Thirty-Three Patients

Aim Our purpose was to review the clinical and imaging findings in a series of patients with septic thrombophlebitis of the portal venous system in order to define criteria that might allow more confident and timely diagnosis.
Automated external versus blind manual defibrillation by untrained lay rescuers.

Abstract Introduction: sudden cardiac death is an important cause of mortality in the United States today. A major determinant of survival from sudden cardiac death is rapid defibrillation. Communities with high rates of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and early defibrillation enjoy the highest survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. First responders and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) have been trained to use automated external defibrillators (AEDs). The period of instruction for successful use of the AED remains to be determined. It was the purpose of this study to compare AED versus blind manual defibrillation (BMD) by untrained lay rescuers using a simple instruction sheet and following a 20-min training period. Methods: 50 employed volunteers were confronted with a simulated cardiac arrest and asked to attempt defibrillation using either AED or BMD by following a written instruction sheet. Success was defined as delivery of three countershocks during the simulated resuscitation. Time to first and third shocks were recorded. Results: 24 of 25 volunteers (96%) were successful in operating the AED compared to none in the BMD group. Time to delivery of first shock averaged 119.5 ± 45.0 s and time to third shock averaged 158.7 ± 46.3 s. A 95% confidence interval for time to first shock for untrained lay rescuers was 100.5–138.4 s. Conclusions: untrained lay rescuers demonstrated a very high success rate using the AED during simulated cardiac arrest. Success with BMD by untrained rescuers is poor. This study suggests that prehospital personnel can be successfully trained in the use of AED in a substantially shorter period of time than in current practice. Strategic placement of AEDs like fire hoses and pool-side life preservers could result in improved survival from sudden cardiac death.
Type A Behavior and Cancer Mortality. Theoretical Considerations and Preliminary Data

If stress and cancer are related by coping failure, that connection presumably involves the immune system. This involvement has already been shown in animals. It can be hypothesized that Type A personalities (driving, impatient, sometimes hostile) go through states of repeated frustration because of unachieved goals. From that point of view, Type A individuals are alternately able to cope and unable to cope. Such a pattern would theoretically tend toward repeated episodes of suppression and recovery of the immune system, with increased probability of growth of transformed cells. An opposing hypothesis, derived from human survival studies, suggests that a subgroup of Type B individuals (termed "Type C"--accepting, giving-up) are more likely to suffer a poor prognosis. A preliminary study relating Type A/B behavior pattern to cancer mortality was done in a cohort of 3154 men from the Western Collaborative Group Study (WCGS). The cancer mortality rate for the period 1960-1977 was 0.037 for Type A subjects (58 cancer deaths/1589 Type A subjects), and 0.025 for Type B subjects, yielding an odds ratio of 1.55. The odds ratio dropped to 1.29 (95% confidence interval = 0.84-1.96) when controlled for age, cigarette smoking, serum cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, and education. Preliminary analysis from a follow-up to mid-1983 shows a similar association. The findings suggest that, if anything, Type A subjects are more likely to die of cancer than Type B subjects. Although the finding is not strongly suggestive of a clinically or theoretically significant association between Type A/B behavior pattern and cancer mortality, it is sufficiently interesting to warrant further investigation.
A study of porcelain surfaces as utilized in fixed prosthodontics

Thirty-six specimens of porcelain, including 18 vacuum-fired and 18 air-fired specimens, were brought to a high bisque bake under like conditions. Both types were divided into six groups to identify the dependent variables, while employing the usual procedures for "polishing" porcelain. These specimens were studied with a scanning electron microscope with the following results: (1) An unpolished, highly fired porcelain surface has a rather smooth appearance. (2) Treating the porcelain surface with sandpaper creates a rough surface with exposed bubbles. (3) The roughness of the porcelain surface after sanding is greatly improved with the use of polishing mediums. (4) A good smooth surface is not obtained unless the procedures are followed by a final glaze. (5) In each stage of polishing, the vacuum-fired porcelain has a smoother surface than the air-fired porcelain. Therefore, our conclusions are that vacuum-fired porcelain will tend to have a smoother surface, as viewed microscopically, than air-fired porcelain. The relative absence of bubbles in the former apparently allows the porcelain to be sanded and polished to a significantly superior finish. However, this study shows that, regardless of the usual polishing techniques, a final glaze presents the most acceptable surface.
SU‐E‐T‐256: Evaluation of Silver Dressing as Bolus

Purpose: Anti‐microbial silver wound dressing may be useful as a bolus material. This study measures the water‐equivalent‐thickness of a silver wound dressing to characterize it for clinical use. This nylon‐mesh dressing, with its permanently plated silver surface (546 mg Ag/100 cm2) may meet the need for bolus with fine variability of thickness and self‐sterilization. Methods: A percent depth dose (PDD) curve was measured in plastic water (CNMC Best Medical) using a parallel plate chamber (PTW N34001) for an 8×8 cm field size, 6 MV beam, 100 cm SSD with a linear accelerator. Measurements were repeated under varying thicknesses (0.5 mm, 1mm, and 2 mm) of silver dressing material, 10 cm × 11 cm (Silverlon™ Antimicrobial silver wound contact dressing WCD‐466). Control measurements were also made in a small water tank. Results: For every layer of dressing added (∼0.5mm) the PDD shifts to the left along the depth axis. A 2 mm offset applied to the position values of the 2 mm (4‐layers) PDD curve causes superposition with the control PDD. This suggests that 2 mm of silver dressing performs similarly to 2 mm of plastic water. This was verified with measurements under clinical setup conditions, 100 cm to the top of the parallel plate chamber, ie. to skin, with bolus placed on top, under 2 mm plastic water (73.40%) and under 2 mm silver dressing (73.41%). Measurements in a water tank for this equivalent depth agree within 1%. Conclusion: The bolus properties of silver‐mesh dressing appear to be water‐equivalent. Silver dressings can be used as bolus and may be particularly beneficial when fine variations are desired or when maintaining an anti‐microbial environment is of particular value.
Spin Polarization Experimental Studies In Heusler Alloys

Atomically clean and flat surfaces of poly- and single-crstalline metallic Ni and half-metallic NiMnSb and PtMnSb are studied by electron capture spectroscopy (ECS) and by magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE). Long-ranged ferromagnetic order is found at all surfaces.The measured ECS-data for the electron spin polarization are consistent with predictions from recent spin-polarized band structure calculations. MOKE data ob-tained at surfaces of the Heusler alloys PtMnSb and NiMnSb contrast strikingly to data measured at Ni surfaces. At surfaces of single-crystalline PtMnSb, the Kerr effect (Kerr rotation and ellipticity) is approximately 20 times stronger compared to single-crystalline Ni(100) surfaces. This dramatic effect is attributed to the peculiar band structure of PtMnSb.
Prediction of separated flows with a new backflow turbulence model

A recently introduced backflow turbulence model for separated flows has been used to calculate the reattaching flow over a backward facing step and the shock-induced separation over an axisymmetric bump. Results are compared with experimental data and with calculations using the k-e turbulence model and the JohnsonKing model. It is concluded that the new backflow turbulence model performs as well as the Johnson-King model and better than the k-e model.
Scale‐dependent energy conservation and its connection to flow field instability in porous media

It has been known for decades that isothermal flow fields in porous media can become unstable, resulting in the growth of preferential flow paths and nonmonotonic moisture profiles. The standard approach to modeling isothermal fluid transport in a porous systems is to use Richards equation with equilibrium relationships for the driving potential and monotonic transport coefficients. However, it is well known that under these conditions, solutions to Richards' equation are unconditionally stable. This has left open the question of whether Richards' equation could predict the onset of flow field instability, and what is required to model it. Importantly, past work has shown that pore scale processes can actually cause nonequilibrium driving potentials to arise in unsaturated media. How these can lead to flow field instability can be understood using a form of spectral perturbation theory. Here the driving potential is represented using a Fourier expansion, which is then substituted into Richards equation. The result shows that the evolution of perturbations to the flow field are affected by the interaction between different wavelength components in the Fourier expansion. In particular, there are situations where nonequilibrium driving potentials can set up conditions that would allow the onset of instability in solutions to Richards' equation.
Characterization of high thermal conductivity carbon fibers and a self-reinforced graphite panel

Abstract Extremely high thermal conductivity graphitic materials from mesophase pitch precursors (K-1100 fibers, four experimental high thermal conductivity fibers, and a ThermalGraph® panel) were examined utilizing X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high resolution field emission (FE) scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Of the four experimental fibers, two were produced from Amoco's standard petroleum pitch, and two were produced from an Amoco experimental pitch precursor. The low d-spacings, narrow peaks, and presence of three-dimensional reflections in the XRD patterns of the five fibers and the ThermalGraph® panel indicate that they are all highly graphitic. The thermal conductivities of these materials correlate best with the graphite inter-basal-plane spacing (d002). All of the materials studied appear very graphitic in high resolution SEM micrographs of their transverse fracture surfaces. Well-developed graphene layer planes are clearly seen. High resolution SEM examination of the ThermalGraph® panel shows that the precursor fibers have coalesced into a continuous three-dimensional structure. The result of this fiber fusion is a “self-reinforced”, graphitic structure.
Postprandial angina pectoris: Clinical and angiographic correlations

Abstract Objectives . This study was designed to determine the severity of coronary artery disease in patients with postprandial angina pectoris. Background . Postprandial angina is a manifestation of coronary artery disease. Although seen in clinical practice, very little has been published about the syndrome, and no anatomic correlations have been described. Methods . Questionnaires were given to 408 patients with chest pain and objective evidence of ischemia. Thirty-five patients (8.6%) were identified as having postprandial angina (Group A). The other 373 patients (Group B) had nonpostprandial angina and served as the control group. Coronary angiography was performed in all patients, and the results were analyzed. Results . Postprandial angina was observed predominantly in men (91% vs. 66%, p = 0.0036). It was associated with a high incidence of rest angina (83% in Group A vs. 51% in Group B, p = 0.0005) and a very high incidence of left main (34% vs. 10%, p = 0.0001) and three-vessel (82% vs. 54%, p = 0.001) coronary artery disease. The ejection fraction was lower as well in these (0.39 vs. 0.47, p = 0.046). Postprandial angina occurred at rest and on exertion, most commonly after dinner. Conclusions . Postprandial angina is a likely marker of severe coronary artery disease and should be considered an indication for coronary angiography.