cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Incidence and Clinical Significance of Inducible Atrial Tachycardia in Patients with Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia

Signie cance of Atrial Tachycardia. Introduction: The purpose of this prospective study was to determine the prevalence and clinical signie cance of inducible atrial tachycardia in patients undergoing slow pathway ablation for AV nodal reentrant tachycardia who did not have clinically documented episodes of atrial tachycardia. Methods and Results: Twenty-seven (15%) of 176 consecutive patients who underwent slow pathway ablation for AV nodal reentrant tachycardia were found to have inducible atrial tachycardia with a mean cycle length of 351 6 95 msec. The atrial tachycardia was sustained in 7 (26%) of 27 patients and was isoproterenol dependent in 20 patients (74%). The atrial tachycardia was not ablated or treated with medications, and the patients were followed for 9.7 6 5.8 months. Six (22%) of the 27 patients experienced recurrent palpitations during follow-up. In one patient each, the palpitations were found to be due to sustained atrial tachycardia, nonsustained atrial tachycardia, recurrence of AV nodal reentrant tachycardia, paroxysmal atrial e brillation, sinus tachycardia, and frequent atrial premature depolarizations. Thus, only 2 (7%) of 27 patients with inducible atrial tachycardia later developed symptoms attributable to atrial tachycardia. Conclusion: Atrial tachycardia may be induced by atrial pacing in 15% of patients with AV nodal reentrant tachycardia. Because the vast majority of patients do not experience symptomatic atrial tachycardia during follow-up, treatment for atrial tachycardia should be deferred and limited to the occasional patient who later develops symptomatic atrial tachycardia. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 12,
Interfacial optimization of fiber-reinforced hydrogel composites for soft fibrous tissue applications.

Meniscal tears are the most common orthopedic injuries to the human body, yet the current treatment of choice is a partial meniscectomy, which is known to lead to joint degeneration and osteoarthritis. As a result, there is a significant clinical need to develop materials capable of restoring function to the meniscus following an injury. Fiber-reinforced hydrogel composites are particularly suited for replicating the mechanical function of native fibrous tissues due to their ability to mimic the native anisotropic property distribution present. A critical issue with these materials, however, is the potential for the fiber–matrix interfacial properties to severely limit composite performance. In this work, the interfacial properties of an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber-reinforced poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogel are studied. A novel chemical grafting technique, confirmed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, is used to improve UHMWPE–PVA interfacial adhesion. Interfacial shear strength is quantified using fiber pull-out tests. Results indicate significantly improved fiber–hydrogel interfacial adhesion after chemical grafting, where chemically grafted samples have an interfacial shear strength of 256.4 ± 64.3 kPa compared to 11.5 ± 2.9 kPa for untreated samples. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy of fiber surfaces after fiber pull-out reveal cohesive failure within the hydrogel matrix for treated fiber samples, indicating that the UHMWPE–PVA interface has been successfully optimized. Lastly, inter-fiber spacing is observed to have a significant effect on interfacial adhesion. Fibers spaced further apart have significantly higher interfacial shear strengths, which is critical to consider when optimizing composite design. The results in this study are applicable in developing similar chemical grafting techniques and optimizing fiber–matrix interfacial properties for other hydrogel-based composite systems.
Surface facial electromyography, skin conductance, and self-reported emotional responses to light- and season-relevant stimuli in seasonal affective disorder

Background Learned associations between depressive behavior and environmental stimuli signaling low light availability and winter season may play a role in seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The purpose of this study was to determine whether light and season environmental cues elicit emotional responses that are distinct in individuals with SAD.
Reversible Segmental Cerebral Arterial Vasospasm and Cerebral Infarction Possible Association With Excessive Use of Sumatriptan and Midrin

Objective To describe a patient who developed reversible segmental cerebral arterial vasospasm and cerebral infarction while taking excessive amounts of sumatriptan succinate and a combination drug (Midrin) consisting of isometheptene mucate, 65 mg, dichloralphenazone, 100 mg, and acetaminophen, 325 mg. Design Case report. Setting Tertiary care center. Patient A 43-year-old man who developed a left occipital infarct after taking a total of 23 sumatriptan succinate tablets (25 mg per tablet) and 32 Midrin tablets during a 7-day period and who on digital subtraction angiography was shown to have segmental cerebral arterial narrowing in multiple vessels. An extensive evaluation for other possible risk factors for cerebral infarction was unrevealing. Main Outcome and Results Discontinuation of sumatriptan and Midrin regimens and administration of nicardipine hydrochloride led to nearly total resolution of the angiographic findings, and the patient had no recurrent strokes. Conclusions One should consider the diagnosis of drug-induced vasospasm in patients with cerebral infarction and a history of excessive use of sumatriptan and Midrin. The initial angiographic abnormalities may resemble those found in patients with primary angiitis of the central nervous system.
The Compatibility of Man in the Microwave Environment

The behavior of the human body in response to microwave irradiation is complex. The conversion of microwave energy into heat is a principal mode of damage to living organisms, especially to the eyes, but much recent research supports the view that non-thermal effects are substantive. Russian workers continue to report a wider variety of effects than American workers, and they are more concerned with the effect of microwave fields on information storage in living systems. This greater concern is reflected in the published Russian exposure limits, which are lower than the limits generally used in this country. Organizations whose personnel are exposed to microwave fields are urged to promulgate, and observe, suitable safety regulations.
Nucleolar localization and dynamic roles of flap endonuclease 1 in ribosomal DNA replication and damage repair.

Despite the wealth of information available on the biochemical functions and our recent findings of its roles in genome stability and cancer avoidance of the structure-specific flap endonuclease 1 (FEN1), its cellular compartmentalization and dynamics corresponding to its involvement in various DNA metabolic pathways are not yet elucidated. Several years ago, we demonstrated that FEN1 migrates into the nucleus in response to DNA damage and under certain cell cycle conditions. In the current paper, we found that FEN1 is superaccumulated in the nucleolus and plays a role in the resolution of stalled DNA replication forks formed at the sites of natural replication fork barriers. In response to UV irradiation and upon phosphorylation, FEN1 migrates to nuclear plasma to participate in the resolution of UV cross-links on DNA, most likely employing its concerted action of exonuclease and gap-dependent endonuclease activities. Based on yeast complementation experiments, the mutation of Ser 187 Asp, mimicking constant phosphorylation, excludes FEN1 from nucleolar accumulation. The replacement of Ser 187 by Ala, eliminating the only phosphorylation site, retains FEN1 in nucleoli. Both of the mutations cause UV sensitivity, impair cellular UV damage repair capacity, and decline overall cellular survivorship.
Overview of: “For whom does a transitional jobs program work?

Research Summary This study documents that a transitional jobs program for former prisoners had its strongest reductions in recidivism among those in the program with the highest risk of reoffending. The New York City-based Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) is a transitional jobs program designed to help former prisoners increase longer term employment and, consequently, reduce recidivism. Interim results from MDRC's rigorous impact evaluation of CEO showed reduced recidivism in both the first and the second year of follow-up. The current study • expanded on the interim results by using regression-based analysis to identify whether CEO had its greatest impact among low-, medium-, or high-risk offenders—with risk levels defined by participants’ characteristics before random assignment that are associated with recidivism after random assignment. • found that CEO had its strongest reductions in recidivism for former prisoners who were at the highest risk of recidivism. For high-risk former prisoners, participation in CEO reduced significantly the probability of rearrest, the number of rearrests, and the probability of reconviction 2 years after random assignment to the program. Policy Implications The findings suggest important implications for policy, practice, and future evaluation research. 1 The limited resources available to transitional jobs programs for former prisoners should be targeted toward people at the highest risk of recidivating because they are helped most by this intervention. 2 Age and criminal history are critical determinants of recidivism risk, and programs for former prisoners should consider assessing the likelihood of reoffending using tools that measure both characteristics. Although specific to our sample, the average-aged offender (33 years old) was considered at a high risk of recidivism if he had nine or more prior arrests; similarly, those with seven prior arrests (the sample average), were at high risk of recidivism if 28 years old or younger. 3 Because CEO interim evaluation results did not show an effect on increases in unsubsidized employment, it is not clear what is causing the recidivism effects. Thus, future evaluation research should examine the mechanisms by which this transitional jobs program reduces recidivism among its clients, and particularly, the highest risk clients.
Maintaining consistency in partially self-maintainable views at the data warehouse

A data warehouse is a global repository, which stores facts originating from multiple, possibly heterogeneous sources in materialized views. Keeping these views up-to-date incrementally in response to the changes in the source data is referred to as incremental view maintenance. In such a dynamic environment, maintaining the consistency of warehouse is challenging because of the heterogeneity of data sources. The paper presents a scheme for maintaining data consistency at the warehouse. It does so by storing some additional information at the data sources as well as at the data warehouse. We achieve partial self-maintainability of materialized views at the data warehouse by exploiting the already existing key dependencies in the views. We identify the problems in maintaining consistency and present an algorithm that minimizes blocking of sequential updates to be installed in a materialized view at the data warehouse and thus reduces the view maintenance time.
Use of Lactobacillus-GG in paediatric Crohn's disease

The potential role of luminal bacteria in initiating the abnormal immune response seen in inflammatory bowel disease is stressed by many observations. A defect in mucosal barrier function could allow luminal bacterial antigens to initiate the chronic relapsing inflammation in Crohn's disease. The potential role of luminal bacteria in initiating the abnormal immune response seen in inflammatory bowel disease is stressed by many observations. A pilot study to investigate the possible effect of Lactobacillus GG in children with active Crohn's disease was conducted. Four male patients were enrolled, median age 14.5 years (range 10-18). In terms of clinical outcome, the patients showed significant improvement. In three patients on Lactobacillus GG, it was possible to taper the dose of steroids. Thus, although our data are obviously very preliminary, Lactobacillus GG appears to be effective in improving the clinical status of children with Crohn's disease. A multicentre study is currently being carried out in 7 US University centres in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled fashion to establish the efficacy of this probiotic in children with Crohn's disease.
Exploring the design space of power-aware opto-electronic networked systems

As microprocessors become increasingly interconnected, the power consumed by the interconnection network can no longer be ignored. Moreover, with demand for link bandwidth increasing, optical links are replacing electrical links in inter-chassis and inter-board environments. As a result, the power dissipation of optical links is becoming as critical as their speed. In this paper, we first explore options for building high speed optoelectronic links and discuss the power characteristics of different link components. Then, we propose circuit and network mechanisms that can realize power-aware optical links -links whose power consumption can be tuned dynamically in response to changes in network traffic. Finally, we incorporate power control policies along with the power characterization of link circuitry into a detailed network simulator to evaluate the performance cost and power savings of building power aware optoelectronic networked systems. Simulation results show that more than 75% savings in power consumption can be achieved with the proposed power aware optoelectronic network.
A New Species of Leporinus (Characiformes: Anostomidae), from the Orinoco Basin, Venezuela

A new species of Leporinus in the L. cylindriformis group is described from the Rio Orinoco basin, Venezuela. This new species can be separated from congeners by the combination of an extremely dorsoventrally slender body, the presence of a prominent midlateral spot positioned ventral to the dorsal fin, and the absence of any other intense dark pigmentation. The new species is most similar to L. aripuanaensis from the Rio Aripuana, Brazil, but can be most easily differentiated from that species by the absence (79% of specimens) or faint presence (21% of specimens) of a circular dark spot over the hypural plate in the new species, versus the presence of an intensely pigmented dark spot in that position, respectively. It can be further distinguished from L. aripuanaensis by the modal number of predorsal scales (12 versus 11). Small juveniles of the two species do not differ morphometrically, but their allometric growth trajectories differ. Above 70 mm SL, the new species differs from L. aripuanaensis in int...
Methadone and Opioid Rotation

Opioid rotation entails the change from one opioid to another with the objective of recovering analgesic efficacy that may have been lost due to the development of tolerance over time. This is a common practice and for that reason it is useful to be familiar with some basic principles related to this strategy. Although opioid rotation for most opioids is relatively straightforward, the rotation to methadone has peculiarities that are related to its unique pharmacokinetics.
The development of location based services in mobile commerce

With the more than one billion cellular phones in the world in 2002, joined by other wireless handheld computing devices like personal digital assistants (PDAs) and pocket PCs, there are significant opportunities for mobile commerce growth. Although mobile commerce enables access to goods and services regardless of the location of either buyer or seller, in many situations the specific location of the buyer and seller is critical to the transaction. A host of new location-aware applications and services are emerging with significant implications for the future of e-commerce. Much like the experience with the dot corn era, however, the development of location-based services has fallen somewhat short of expectations. In this chapter, we attempt to provide a realistic assessment of the potential for location-based services, examining the market opportunity, technological origins, likely services, emerging policy issues, and potential future directions.
Proton MR spectroscopy and magnetization transfer ratio in multiple sclerosis: correlative findings of active versus irreversible plaque disease.

PURPOSE To characterize plaques of multiple sclerosis (MS) using both proton MR spectroscopy and magnetization transfer (MT) imaging. METHODS The magnetization transfer ratio (MTR) was calculated from two series of three-dimensional gradient-recalled acquisition in the steady state (GRASS) images obtained with and without an MT saturation pulse. Proton spectra were acquired using the point-resolved spectroscopy (PRESS) sequence with a voxel size of 1.5 x 1.5 x 1.5 cm3. A total of 28 spectra were obtained in 13 patients who had clinically definitive MS. The spectra were analyzed together with the MTR. RESULTS A positive relationship was found between the N-acetylaspartate (NAA)/creatine (Cr) ratio and the MTR in MS plaques, whereas no significant correlation was found between the metabolite ratios and the signal intensity on fast spin-echo T2-weighted MR images. CONCLUSION Small changes in the MTR of MS plaques relative to the MTR of normal white matter may reflect inflammatory changes and edema, whereas larger changes in MTR correlate with decreased NAA/Cr ratio and therefore suggest demyelination and irreversible damage from chronic MS plaques.
Analysis of Behavior of Steel Liner Anchorages

A method is presented to analyze the load-deflection behavior of liner anchorage systems used in the design and construction of steel-lined concrete containment structures in nuclear power plants. The PAFEC 75 computer program with its bilinear stress-strain capability produced analytically similar results to those measured in anchorage tests conducted at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Three different analyses were made. Two of these were variations in the angle anchorage system and the third was an analysis of a structural tee. In large measure, crushing of the concrete occurs as the load approaches the maximum peak. Rough approximations of the results of concrete crushing were made by successive analyses where selected elements of the concrete mesh were eliminated. The eliminated elements were those that first reached strains where crushing of the concrete could occur. This analytical approach gave conservative results compared to the data.
Role of prostaglandins in renal sensory receptor activation by substance P and bradykinin

In anesthetized rats increasing ureteral pressure results in an increase in ipsilateral afferent renal nerve activity and a reflex increase in contralateral urine flow rate and urinary sodium excretion that is dependent on intact prostaglandin synthesis. Activation of renal pelvic substance P receptors contributes to the renorenal reflex responses to increased ureteral pressure. Because these data suggested that renal sensory receptors could be activated by both prostaglandins and substance P we examined whether activation of renal sensory receptors by substance P was dependent on intact prostaglandin synthesis. The renal pelvis was perfused with capsaicin, 2.5 micrograms/ml, or substance P, 4 micrograms/ml, before and during renal pelvic perfusion with the prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor indomethacin, 50 micrograms/ml. Indomethacin reduced the peak ipsilateral afferent renal nerve activity responses to capsaicin and substance P by 83 +/- 15% and 81 +/- 8%, respectively, as well as the contralateral diuretic and natriuretic responses. We also examined the effects of renal pelvic administration of indomethacin on the responses to renal pelvic perfusion with bradykinin. Bradykinin, 20 micrograms/ml, increased peak ipsilateral afferent renal nerve activity by 197 +/- 47% and contralateral urine flow rate and urinary sodium excretion by 31 +/- 6 and 20 +/- 6%, respectively. Indomethacin reduced the ipsilateral afferent renal nerve activity response by 76 +/- 9% and abolished the contralateral diuretic and natriuretic responses to bradykinin. We conclude that renal sensory receptor activation by capsaicin, substance P, and bradykinin is dependent on intact renal prostaglandin synthesis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Reason and Political Power

In times of crisis and transition the common man is a political philosopher. An example of how, as part of the widespread concern with the basic problems of our politics, the learned world and the world of practical politics today find themselves close neighbors, was the Tenth International Congress of Philosophy. That this Congress, meeting in Amsterdam in August, 1948, has been described by Professor F. H. Heinemann of Oxford in an article entitled “The West in Search of a Metaphysics,” may also indicate how those who think in terms of practical political leadership for the West and those concerned with wider inquiries concerning life and nature have not yet found acceptable common answers. On the one hand at the meeting were the Thomists, or Neo-Thomists, who had already at their disposal some twenty-five Thomist periodicals and who were, in general, “the best organized contemporary philosophical school.” There were also the Marxists and socialists, who, although they had recently gained some professorships in the French and Italian universities, aroused no very great interest. A third organized element was that of Unesco, the leadership of which achieved for itself an organizational control to extend over future Congresses and their affiliated activities; yet Unesco, with its attempted promotion of a scientific humanism, failed to make progress toward either the integration of a western outlook or the building of a bridge between East and West. The speech of its director-general, Julian Huxley, advocating his well-known evolutionary humanism, “fell flat,” evincing, as Dr. Heinemann put it, that “this sort of naturalism … is totally inadequate for the solution of the spiritual crisis of our time.” It appeared also that a spiritual regeneration probably cannot be achieved by means which are largely political.
SEXUAL SELECTION AND DIMORPHISM IN TWO DEMES OF A SYMBIOTIC, PAIR-BONDING SNAPPING SHRIMP.

Highly polygamous and promiscuous species have been the subjects of most of the published studies on sexual selection (Bateman, 1948 [Drosophila]; Wiley, 1973 [sage grouse]; Le Boeuf, 1974 [elephant seals]; Parker, 1974 [dung flies]; Trivers, 1976 [Anolis]). Among monogamous species only the Arctic skua (O'Donald, 1972) and the feral pigeon (Burley, 1977) have been intensively studied with respect to the operation of sexual selection. Neglect of more monogamous species stems from the less spectacular differences between the sexes (Selander, 1972; Ralls, 1977) and from uncertainty as to whether sexual selection can operate in the absence of the potential for multiple matings (Mayr, 1972). This neglect is unfortunate as monogamous species offer valuable opportunities for examining sexual selection when the costs and benefits of mating adaptations are more closely balanced. This paper provides evidence for sexual selection in the snapping shrimp Alpheus armatus (Caridea, Alpheidae), an obligate symbiont of the Caribbean anemone Bartholomea annulata (Clarke, 1955). Adult shrimp are typically found in male-female pairs, a fact which suggests a primarily monogamous mating system. Data on sexual dimorphism in behavior and morphology, on differences between two areas in sexual dimorphism, and on the natural history needed to interpret these patterns will be presented. The overall purpose is to show how differences between the sexes in the importance of mate choice and in the potential for multiple matings interact with environmental constraints to produce sexual dimorphism.
11 DIABETIC FOOT CARE EDUCATION MATERIALS FOR PATIENTS IN WAHKIAKUM COUNTY, WASHINGTON.

Purpose The number of patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy is increasing in Wahkiakum County, Washington. Nationwide, estimates of the lifetime incidence of diabetic foot ulcers are as high as 25%, and as many as 30% of patients with ulcers eventually undergo amputation. With such morbidity and treatment costs in thousands of dollars per ulcer, prevention is important; patient education about foot self-care is part of this pursuit. A community medicine project was undertaken by the author in July 2005 to create clear, concise patient reference materials to help clinicians provide consistent education to all diabetics about the benefits of following a foot care plan. The materials target patients at Wahkiakum Family Practice Clinic (WFPC) in Cathlamet, Washington, the only medical clinic in Wahkiakum County. Methods Current foot care recommendations were compiled from NIH, American Diabetes Association, and local care providers. Topics include routine diabetes management, daily foot inspection, skin and nail care, and footwear selection. The material was organized under subheadings that can be used to guide a clinician/patient discussion. There was agreement among local clinicians that the information was accurate and would be useful in patient education efforts. Results The content was adapted to a brochure format for use at WFPC. The illustrations, level of detail, and simple language allow the brochure to stand alone, although it is intended to be initially reviewed during an office visit. A clinician may use this resource in providing individualized instruction relevant to each patient9s risk of complications, level of understanding, and motivation for self-care activities. Conclusion Printed reference materials may be useful in delivering consistent patient education. Providing this guidance is an important component of prevention endeavors.
Numerical Simulation on 3D Flow Characteristic of Direct Air-cooled Condenser

Based on the unit analysis on the direct air-cooled condenser of A font style with single row tube bundle,a physical mathematical model of 3D-flow inside the unit of direct-cooled condenser has been established.Moreover,the numerical simulation calculation was also carried out.The laws of the environmental factors(ambiance temperature) and different working conditions(like rotation speed of fan,setting angle of fan blade) affecting the unit flow characteristics of direct air-cooled condenser have also been analyzed so as to offer a scientific basis for the design of the direct-cooled condenser and its optimization.
Adult Mental Health

Mental health problems can occur more commonly in the LGBT community than in other populations, so clinicians need to be aware of these differences in order to appropriately screen and diagnose patients and effectively intervene. LGBT individuals are much more likely to attempt suicide or be diagnosed with depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, disorders of body image, eating disorders, personality disorders, or substance use disorders. The mental health field has a long history of involvement with the LGBT community, especially in regards to hypotheses about the etiology of sexual orientation and gender identity, so current evidence in this area will be reviewed. Finally, there are many unique aspects of relationships in the LGBT community, and between LGBT individuals and the rest of society. These can have profound effects on both mental and physical health. Clinicians need to be aware of these issues in order to more effectively care for LGBT individuals.
Modeling Occupant-Building-Appliance Interaction for Energy Waste Analysis

Abstract The objective of this paper is to discover the emergent energy performance and determinants of energy waste in buildings. Electricity consumption in the U.S. attributes to 73% of energy waste in buildings and much of this waste is due to improper design, operation, and use of appliances. In particular, the operation or use phase of buildings and the way occupants behave significantly contribute to energy waste. Understanding the determinants of energy waste during the operation phase of buildings is a challenging task due to the complex interactions between the occupants, building units, and appliances. To decode these complex interactions and facilitate a better understanding of the determinants of energy waste, a simulation approach is used in this study. An agent-based simulation model was developed to capture the diverse attributes and dynamic behaviors of building occupants at the interface of human-building-appliance interactions. The application of the proposed model is demonstrated in a case study. Using simulation experiments, the interactions between occupant, building unit and appliance on energy consumption were investigated. The simulation model also was used for estimating determinants of energy waste. In addition, the simulation model includes a visualization interface that facilitates communication of strategies between the buildings users and facility managers. The results will highlight the significant attributes and effective strategies for energy waste reduction at the interface of human-building-appliance interactions. This information has potentially significant implications for building designers, facility managers, and users through a better understanding of emergent energy performance of buildings.
Microfluidics for Tissue Engineering Microvasculature: Endothelial Cell Culture

Development of an integrated blood supply is a critical step towards tissue engineering vital organs. We are attempting to engineer microvasculature using microfluidic networks for the guidance of endothelial cell growth. In this work, we have focused on fabrication of the microfluidic scaffold, in vitro seeding, and extended cell culture in the device. Capillary networks were fabricated in biocompatible PDMS, sterilized, coated with cell adhesion molecules, and seeded with cells. Cell-containing devices were then connected to a closed-loop bioreactor for long term culture. We have used the device to demonstrate continuous-flow culture of endothelial cells for up to 4 weeks without occlusion or contamination.
Evaluating Juvenile Offender Programs

Many different types of juvenile offender treatment programs have emerged during the past decade. One of the primary concerns among policy makers and high-level administrators in juvenile justice is the cost-effectiveness and cost-benefits of juvenile treatment programs. This chapter examines national survey data on 11 different program types. It provides a useful and meaningful way of dealing with missing information when evaluating alternative juvenile justice policies and programs. This chapter describes the use of best-worst-midpoint analysis, threshold analysis and convergence analysis. It is the first application of these evaluation methods to a national study of juvenile offender treatment programs.
Mestizaje and the Significance of Phenotype in Guatemala

Ethnic issues in Guatemala are commonly analyzed using theoretical frameworks that underscore the role of Maya activism in promoting Mayan identification. However, these frameworks often pay insufficient attention to the local significance of phenotype. In this study, I propose an alternative framework to explain ethno-racial status in contexts of mestizaje. Based on this framework, I investigate whether phenotype, captured by skin color, is a significant dimension of ethno-racial status in Guatemala using nationally representative survey data and regression analysis. I specifically examine the association between skin color and ethnic self-identification, and differences by ethno-racial characteristics in the perception of skin color discrimination and in the desire for a whiter skin color. I find evidence of a direct association between skin color and ladino self-identification, evidence of a greater perception of skin color discrimination by individuals with more indigenous characteristics, and evidenc...
Charge Density Wave and Narrow Energy Gap at Room Temperature in 2D Pb3–xSb1+xS4Te2−δ with Square Te Sheets

We report a new two-dimensional compound, Pb3–xSb1+xS4Te2−δ, that has a charge density wave (CDW) at room temperature. The CDW is incommensurate with q-vector of 0.248(6)a* + 0.246(8)b* + 0.387(9)c* for x = 0.29(2) and δ = 0.37(3) due to positional and occupational long-range ordering of Te atoms in the sheets. The modulated structure was refined from the single-crystal X-ray diffraction data with a superspace group P1(αβγ)0 using (3 + 1)-dimensional crystallography. The resistivity increases with decreasing temperature, suggesting semiconducting behavior. The transition temperature (TCDW) of the CDW is ∼345 K, above which the Te square sheets become disordered with no q-vector. First-principles density functional theory calculations on the undistorted structure and an approximate commensurate supercell reveal that the gap is due to the structure modulation.
DEPLOYING RESOURCES TO SAVE LIVES:PARTNERS TELE-STROKE SERVICE

Innovative ICT applications such as patient-present telemedicine consultation services can save lives, yet following pilot-testing few have achieved long-term viability. Partners Health Care’s TeleStroke service, in full operation, is financially self-sustaining. Interviews with clinical, technical and administrative personnel at Partners and two “spoke” hospitals revealed practical lessons learned. Analysis through the lens of the Resource Based View reveals that many valuable assets and capabilities that Partners and its spoke hospitals developed are necessary for a successful TeleStroke program yet could be acquired or copied (they are not rare or inimitable). We note further that Partners’ overriding goal for TeleStroke is to achieve clinical success in its catchment area, without depleting financial resources; competitive advantage is sought within the catchment area but not beyond it. Resource analysis reveals that other institutions could develop successful telemedicine services for acute stroke care, since the needed assets are readily available, most of the capabilities can be imitated, and viable substitutes are limited. We contend that the lessons learned in this case study -about the effective deployment of assets and capabilities -are broadly applicable to other settings, in health care and other industries.
A Two-List Framework for Accurate Detection of Frequent Items in Data Streams

The problem of detecting the most frequent items in large data sets and providing accurate frequency estimates for those items is becoming more and more important in a variety of domains. We propose a new two-list framework for addressing this problem, which extends the state-of-the-art Filtered Space-Saving (FSS) algorithm. An algorithm called FSSA giving an efficient array-based implementation of this framework is presented. An adaptive version of this algorithm is also presented, which adjusts the relative sizes of the two lists based on the estimated number of distinct keys in the data set. Analytical comparison with the FSS algorithm showed that FSSA has smaller expected frequency estimation errors, and experiments on both artificial and real workloads confirm this result. A theoretical analysis of space and time complexity for FSSA and its benchmark algorithms was performed. Finally, we showed that FSS2L framework can be naturally parallelized, leading to a linear decrease in the maximum frequency estimation error.
Inducing labor with a sustained-release PGE2 vaginal insert. Experience at a community hospital.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the safety of initiating labor using a sustained-release prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) vaginal insert at a nonuniversity-based community hospital. STUDY DESIGN: Data were compiled from a chart review of all cases in which the insert (Cervidil) was used during a 16-month period. Continuous uterine activity and fetal heart rate (FHR) tracings were evaluated for 12 hours after dosing. The onset of regular uterine contractions or of active labor and the reason for any premature removal of the insert were sought. RESULTS: Regular contractions ensued in 62 (35.8%) of 173 pregnancies. Primary reasons for removal of the insert in 59 (34.1%) cases were active labor (38), ruptured membranes (11), uterine hyperstimulation (7) and a non reassuring FHR tracing. The average time from insertion until premature removal was 5.7±1.3 (SD) hours (95% confidence interval, 3.3-8.2). The insert fell out in nine (5.2%) cases. Cesarean delivery for failed labor induction was necessary in five (2.9%) cases. All immediate neonatal outcomes were reassuring. Following inservice training, nurses were capable of inserting and removing the insert. CONCLUSION: This PGE 2 vaginal insert, administered and removed by attending nurses, is associated with very low rates of uterine hyperstimulation and failed induction. Premature removal of the insert occurred in 34.1% of cases.
Use of Assistive Technology by Students with Visual Impairments: Findings from a National Survey.

This study investigated the use of assistive technology by students in the United States who are visually impaired through a secondary analysis of a nationally representative database. It found tha...
Prompt Lightweight VPN Session Resumption for Rapid Client Mobility and MTD Enablement for VPN Servers

TLS-based VPN are increasingly used to establish a secure communication channel between VPN clients and server. However, they are not designed to handle the mobility VPN clients in efficient manner. OpenVPN, a widely deployed TLS VPN, binds VPN sessions with the clients and server IP addresses. A vertical handover will require an inactivity timeout to be triggered and full TLS handshake thereafter for the mobile client to resume the VPN session. Moreover, A VPN server that changes its IP address frequently as part of an MTD strategy will require the VPN clients to reconnect after their inactivity timeouts trigger with yet full TLS handshake. In this work, we developed and evaluated a lightweight VPN session resumption protocol that allows a VPN client or server to request an IP address update on-demand, maintaining the original TLS/VPN session. We implemented our protocol as part of MobiVPN which is a variation of OpenVPN. Our evaluation shows that VPN sessions can be maintained and resumed after an IP address change with an average of 97.19% decrease in time required to resume the VPN session in MobiVPN compared to the original OpenVPN.
Agronomic Response of Corn (Zea mays L.) Hybrids to Plant Populations

Field studies were conducted in 2016 and 2017 under rain-fed conditions in south-central Louisiana, (a) to determine the effects of plant density levels on plant height, ear height, stalk diameter, lodging, corn grain yield, test weight, and photosynthetically active radiation with modern corn hybrids in central Louisiana and (b) to test the hypothesis that the response of grain yield to plant population density would depend on the reproductive plasticity (flex, semiflex, or fixed ear) of the hybrids evaluated. Rainfall was above average while air temperatures were below average during the growing season in both years. Grain yield showed a hybrid response in one of two years (fixed ear greater than semiflex ear) while yields increased as plant populations increased. Test weights were less with the fixed ear hybrid and the effect of plant populations was inconsistent with increased populations resulting in greater test weight in one of two years. Lodging increased as plant populations increased with the fixed ear hybrid resulting in greater lodging in one of two years. There was a hybrid by plant population interaction for ear height and seed weight. The effect of plant populations is an important factor for corn yield; however, yield gains associated with higher plant populations may be dependent on the genetic predisposition of corn hybrids (regardless of the reproductive plasticity) to tolerate various environmental conditions and stresses associated with higher populations.
Introducing xSub: A new portal for cross-national data on subnational violence:

Researchers today have access to an unprecedented amount of geo-referenced, disaggregated data on political conflict. Because these new data sources use disparate event typologies and units of anal...
Aqua­(pyridine N‐oxide‐κO)[tris(2‐hydroxy­amino­propyl)­amine‐κ4N]­nickel(II) dinitrate

The title complex, [Ni(C5H5NO)(C9H18N4O3)(H2O)](NO3)2, is a six-coordinate pseudo-octahedral nickel(II) complex containing a tripodal amine ligand framework with three oxime donors, as well as pyridine N-oxide and aqua ligands. This complex displays crystallographic mirror symmetry and O—H⋯O hydrogen bonding between the cation and anion.
Asymmetric Calcification in Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis and Implications for Balloon Valvuloplasty

Abstract A 50-year-old man with severe rheumatic mitral stenosis was deemed too high risk for surgery and was referred for percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty. The valvuloplasty was successful in reducing the transmitral gradient and improving the patient’s symptoms; however, it was complicated by a tear in the posteromedial commissure and moderate mitral regurgitation. (Level of Difficulty: Beginner.)
Spectrum Misuse Detection in Cooperative Wireless Networks

Cooperative wireless networks, enabled by Cognitive Radios, facilitate mobile users to dynamically share access to spectrum. However, spectrum bands can be accessed illegitimately by malicious users. Therefore, the success of dynamic spectrum sharing relies on automated enforcement of spectrum policies. While the focus has been on ex ante spectrum enforcement, this work explores new approaches to address efficient ex post spectrum enforcement. The main objective of this work is to ensure maximum coverage of the area of enforcement and accurate detection of spectrum access violation. The first objective is achieved with the help of Lloyd's algorithm to divide the enforcement area into a set of uniformly sized coverage regions. The interference detection accuracy is achieved through crowdsourcing of the spectrum access monitoring to volunteers, based on their computational capabilities, location attributes and reputation. A simulation framework was developed in CSIM19 (C++ version) to analyze the performance of the proposed system over the entire area of enforcement. The results show that the proposed scheme ensures efficient coverage of all the channels and regions in the area of enforcement and a high average accuracy of detection.
Usability Evaluation of an EHR to Improve Physician Performance

This study aims to determine usability issues experienced by primary care resident physicians when using an electronic health record (EHR) to improve physician performance. Primary care resident physicians participated in two rounds of usability tests to identify changes in the learning curve associated with the EHR. Sub-task analysis was instrumental in identifying multiple usability concerns. Novices and expert resident physicians experienced significantly fewer usability issues in round 2 than in round 1. These results highlight the areas of difficulty resident physicians with different experience levels are currently facing, which may increase physicians’ performance when using an EHR.
Estimating the technical feasibility of fuel cell and battery electric vehicles for the medium and heavy duty sectors in California

Abstract Transitioning the medium and heavy-duty vehicle fleet to electric vehicles (EVs) such as battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) is an important step in supporting greenhouse gas and regional air pollutant emission reduction goals. Travel demand patterns for medium and heavy-duty vehicles, however, have a more diverse and stricter set of requirements compared to light duty vehicles. Therefore, it is critical to understand the technical feasibility of using BEVs and FCEVs to meet the medium and heavy duty vehicle travel demands as a function of vehicle capabilities and infrastructure availability. This work develops and applies a representative dataset of California-based medium and heavy duty vehicles trips to evaluate (1) potential electric load demand of future BEVs and (2) the feasibility of EVs to meet state-wide medium and heavy duty travel demand. From a technical perspective, EVs can support between 62 and 76% of commercial Class 2B-7 vehicle miles traveled with technologies in development today. Further increases will require increasing vehicle range, improving fuel efficiency, and/or expanding available charging locations. Class 8 trucks have a much lower BEV feasibility compared to FCEVs due to their weight and longer trip distances, with 100-mile vehicles meeting up to 8% of vehicle miles travelled with home base charging. Class 8 FCEVs with the same range can meet up to 27% and are likely to have expanded ranges that facilitate up to 68% due to inherent benefits of storing on-board hydrogen relative to batteries. Feasibility results indicate that EVs can significantly contribute to reducing emissions from the medium and heavy duty sectors but cannot fully meet demand under the configurations considered.
People who need people: the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and mental health among college students.

This study investigates the association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and mental health among a sample of college students. It also explores whether health behaviors and social suppo...
Spirituality, sexuality and identity: A story of dis-possession

Taking an autoethnograpic approach, this story begins with a personal account of the experience of growing up with a working-class North of England background in the late 1950s, and the emergence o...
Female Military Officers Report a Desire for Menstrual Suppression During Military Training.

Introduction Service women face female-specific challenges that present physiological and logistical burdens and may impact readiness. The stress of training can change menstrual patterns and symptoms, and limited access to hygienic, private facilities can hinder menstrual management. Therefore, suppressing menses with continuous hormonal contraception may be of interest. Materials and methods The 9-item "Military Women's Attitudes Toward Menstrual Suppression." questionnaire was administered to female officers upon entry (baseline) and graduation (post) from a 6-month secondary training course. Respondents rated their attitudes about menstruation and the stress of training, the desire for menstrual suppression, and the logistical burden of menstruation on a 1 (strongly agree) through 5 (strongly disagree) scale. Wilcoxon Signed Rank Tests determined changes in the distribution of responses from baseline to post. Results Female officers (n = 108) completed baseline and post questionnaires (age 25.2 ± 0.3 years). At baseline, the majority disagreed/strongly disagreed that the stress of training "makes periods worse than usual" (n = 77, 71%), "increases menstrual symptoms and bleeding" (n = 77, 71%), or "magnifies premenstrual syndrome" (PMS; n = 69, 64%). Although 50% (n = 54) agreed/strongly agreed that "stopping periods while women are training is a good idea," 37% (n = 40) disagreed/strongly disagreed. The majority agreed/strongly agreed that menstrual suppression would prevent "the worry about menstrual supplies" (n = 75, 70%) and "the inconvenience of having a period during training" (n = 69, 64%). Many agreed/strongly agreed that it is difficult to deal with periods during training because "there is no privacy" (n = 52, 48%), "the inability to find adequate facilities" (n = 70, 65%), and "the lack of opportunity to use adequate facilities" (n = 52, 48%). Opinions remained largely consistent from baseline to post. Conclusions The desire for menstrual suppression among service women during training is high. Military health care providers should be prepared to counsel service women about strategies to manage menstruation, including the efficacy of continuous hormonal contraception for menstrual suppression. Future studies investigating benefits or risks of continuous hormonal contraception for menstrual suppression in service women should inform the clinical recommendations.