cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Social-Ecological Correlates of Excessive TV Viewing: Difference by Race and Sex

Background:The primary and secondary purposes were to examine social-ecological correlates of excessive TV viewing (>2hr/day) in American children 1) between race/ethnic groups and 2) between boys and girls. Methods:Children (n = 48,505) aged 6 to 18 years from the 2007 National Survey of Children’s Health were included. Social-ecological correlates included individual-, family-, and community-level variables. Logistic regression analyses were used for race/ethnicity [Non-Hispanic White (NHW), Non-Hispanic Black (NHB), Hispanic, other] and sex groups (boys, girls), to determine associated correlates. Results:By race/ethnicity, 16.6%, 37.8%, and 24.5% of NHW, NHB, and Hispanic exceeded recommendations. For boys and girls, 23.7% and 18.2% viewed excessive TV. Having a TV in the bedroom and higher poverty level were associated with excessive TV in all groups. Differences by race/ethnicity were age, sex, TV in the bedroom, extracurricular activities, physical activity, adequate sleep, family structure, family...
Hippocampus and Hippocampal Neurons

Abstract The hippocampal formation is a phylogenetically primitive cortical complex located in the temporal lobe of humans and in the caudal portion of rodent forebrain. This structure is essential for the formation of new declarative and episodic memories, and it also has a well-characterized role in spatial navigation. This chapter introduces the main neuronal types (principal cells and interneurons) of the hippocampal formation (hippocampus, dentate gyrus, and subiculum) and places those cells in a neuroanatomical, neurochemical, neurophysiological, and overall functional context. The principal neurons of the hippocampus, dentate gyrus, and closely associated entorhinal cortex form a relatively simple cross-sectional trisynaptic neurocircuit. Study of this functional neurocircuit led to the discovery of long-term potentiation, and continues to drive new understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neuroplasticity. Given the extensive study of stress effects on hippocampal function and neuronal plasticity, this detailed overview should be a useful resource to the reader.
Admission characteristics predictive of in-hospital death from hospital-acquired sepsis: A comparison to community-acquired sepsis

Abstract Purpose Healthcare associated (HA) sepsis is associated with increased resource utilization and mortality compared with community acquired (CA) sepsis. The purpose of this study was to identify independent predictors of in-hospital mortality from HA-sepsis. Materials and methods Retrospective study of adult patients admitted with HA or CA-sepsis. Predictors were identified using logistic regression. Results There were 3917 sepsis encounters, of which 3186 were CA and 731 were HA. History of stroke (83/731, 11%) and myocardial infarction (70/731, 10%) were higher in HA than CA-sepsis (stroke: 258/3186, 8%, p = .005; myocardial infarction: 213/3186, 7%, p = .007). HA-sepsis patients required more mechanical ventilation (153/731, 21%) than CA-patients (218/3186, 7%, p Conclusions Liver disease and CHF were independent predictors of in-hospital mortality in HA-sepsis. HA-sepsis patients had increased prevalence of previous stroke, myocardial infarction, and liver disease.
Analyzing the Security of Bluetooth Low Energy

Internet of Things devices have spread to near ubiquity this decade. All around us now lies an invisible mesh of communication from devices embedded in seemingly everything. Inevitably some of that communication flying around our heads will contain data that must be protected or otherwise shielded from tampering. The responsibility to protect this sensitive information from malicious actors as it travels through the air then falls upon the standards used to communicate this data. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is one of these standards, the aim of this paper is to put its security standards to test. By attempting to exploit its vulnerabilities we can see how secure this standard really is. In this paper, we present steps for analyzing the security of BLE devices using open-source hardware and software.
A cyclophane bridged by an inwardly pyramidalized olefin

Abstract 2,8,17-Trithia[4 5,12 ][9]metacyclophan-4-ene, a cyclophane with a tertiary olefin strapped across the face of a benzene ring, has been prepared and its X-ray structure determined. The olefin is pyramidalized toward the benzene ring. The X-ray structure of the corresponding saturated phane ( in -2,8,17-trithia[4 5,12 ][9] metacyclophane, which was synthesized previously) has also been determined. The structure and reactivity of the in -olefin are discussed in the context of other structures and the results of computational studies.
Georgia's healthcare system and integration of complementary medicine.

Abstract Background An increasing number of people in the Republic of Georgia use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). CAM has long been practiced in the country, but is not currently part of the formal medical system. The aim of this study was to explore patients’ CAM use and their perspectives of CAM complementation of existing services in Georgia’s health care system. Methodology We conducted a qualitative study exploring patient needs and wants by performing in-depth, contextual interviews with patients using CAM. We recruited participants at CAM clinics and collected data until we reached saturation. A thematic analysis involving line by line coding explored perspectives and allowed us to formulate recommendations of CAM integration in Georgia. Results Study participants voiced that they pursued cure beyond symptom relief; their disappointment in that regard with conventional medicine in Georgia directed them towards CAM as a safe and effective care setting. Most sought natural approaches as a sustained approach to their health and perceived CAM as empathetic therapeutic and preventive space. Participants were in favor of integration of CAM with conventional health services through government support and regulation. They saw coverage of payments for CAM visits and treatments as important aspect for an effective and sustainable integration. Conclusion Patients favor an integration of CAM into Georgia’s current healthcare systems to ensure CAM’s broad availability as well as effective regulation and financing, including coverage by health insurance.
Optimal Dietary Strategies for Prevention of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in Diabetes: Evidence and Recommendations

This review presents the current available evidence of the effects of several dietary patterns on atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Evidence demonstrates improvements in cardiovascular risk factors with some dietary patterns in the general population. However, evidence is limited for glycemic control and cardiovascular benefit in patients with T2D for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension and plant-based dietary patterns. Evidence suggests that carbohydrate-restricted dietary patterns improve glycemic control and decrease the use of anti-hyperglycemic medications. The Mediterranean dietary pattern has the most evidence for glycemic control and decreased ASCVD risk in patients with T2D. There is no evidence on ASCVD outcomes in patients with T2D for any other dietary pattern. The Mediterranean dietary pattern has the most evidence for cardiovascular benefit in patients with T2D. Future research should examine the effect of dietary patterns on ASCVD outcomes.
Kinematic Model of a Magnetic-Microrobot Swarm in a Rotating Magnetic Dipole Field

This letter describes how a rotating magnetic dipole field will manipulate the location and shape of a swarm of magnetic microrobots, specifically microrobots that convert rotation into forward propulsion, such as helical swimmers and screws. The analysis assumes a swarm that can be described by a centroid and a covariance matrix, with the swarm comprising an arbitrary and unknown number of homogenous microrobots. The result of this letter is a kinematic model that can be used as an a priori model for motion planners and feedback control systems. Because the model is fully three-dimensional and does not require any localization information beyond what could realistically be determined from medical images, the method has potential for in vivo medical applications. The model is experimentally verified using magnetic screws moving through a soft-tissue phantom, propelled by a rotating spherical permanent magnet.
Postural Directionality and Head Tremor in Cervical Dystonia

Background: Although abnormal head and neck postures are defining features of cervical dystonia (CD), head tremor (HT) is also common. However, little is known about the relationship between abnormal postures and HT in CD. Methods: We analyzed clinical data and video recordings from 185 patients enrolled by the Dystonia Coalition. We calculated the likelihood of their HT and HT type (“regular” vs. “jerky”) given directionality of abnormal head postures, disease duration, sex, and age. Results: Patients with retrocollis were more likely to have HT than patients with anterocollis (X2 (1, N = 121) = 7.98, p = 0.005). There was no difference in HT likelihood given left or right turning in laterocollis and rotation. Patients with HT had longer disease duration (t(183) = 2.27, p = 0.024). There was no difference in age between patients with and without HT. In a logistic regression model, anterocollis/retrocollis direction (X2 (1, N = 121) = 6.04, p = 0.014), disease duration (X2 (1, N = 121) = 7.28, p = 0.007), and the interaction term between age and disease duration (X2 (1, N = 121) = 7.77, p = 0.005) collectively contributed to HT likelihood. None of the postural directionality or demographic variables were associated with differential likelihood of having regular versus jerky HT. Discussion: We found that HT is more likely for CD patients with a specific directionality in their predominant posture. Our finding that CD patients with longer disease duration have a higher likelihood of HT also raises the question of whether HT becomes more likely over time in individual patients.
Behavior of slip-critical bolted connections subjected to impulsive loads

Abstract Bolted structural steel connections are one of the most common connection types in structures due to their low cost and efficient installation. However, experimental research on the behavior of bolted connections subjected to impulsive loads (e.g., blast, shock, impact) and their residual load carrying capability after the impulse is limited. Most prior research is focused on quantifying the capacity of the bolt material at high rates and less on the energy dissipation of the connection system. In most connections, the bolts are pretensioned to varying levels, which creates a clamping force on the connected members. The friction associated with this clamping force significantly contributes to the overall impulse-resisting force of the system. An experimental program was developed using an impulsive shear apparatus with two loading phases to investigate the effects of friction in slip-critical connections. The objectives of this test series were to collect data to begin to quantify the energy dissipation of an impulsive load through friction, to quantify the residual clamping force, and to determine the force required to initiate slip after such an event. A total of twelve experiments were conducted using the experimental method. This article describes the materials and methods used in the test series, presents the significant findings and observations from the experiments, and discusses key conclusions and recommendations. These initial experiments support the recommendation that structural bolts in relevant structures, including those in bearing-type connections, be installed with the minimum bolt tension required in slip-critical connections, providing a low cost, effective safety measure for protection against extreme loads.
Educating the Public on Hemorrhage Control: Methods and Challenges of a Public Health Initiative

We aim to determine the various models of training and identify educational strategies that would be efficacious in teaching bleeding control to the public. Recent studies have examined various educational strategies of bleeding control education including lectures, web-based classes, and hands-on training. The effectiveness of these trainings can not only be measured in increases in knowledge, but also in feelings of confidence, preparedness, and willingness to assist in a bleeding emergency. When looking at retention or skills and knowledge, we found that multiple studies showed decreases in ability to stop life-threatening bleeding when retested weeks or months after training. These issues of retention and a lack of education in general lead to a discussion about the possible benefits of having just-in-time (JiT) information during a bleeding emergency. Based on the recent findings, bleeding control trainings have proven to be a very effective method of providing the general public with necessary skills. Therefore, moving forward, it is crucial to look at retention and the use of JiT information in longitudinal studies.
A combinatorial solution of discrete time multi-server queueing systems with Markov sources

This paper investigates the discrete time queueing systems with multiple servers. Such models arise frequently in the teletraffic analysis of modern computer and communication networks. The arrival process is considered to be a general discrete Markovian source capturing the correlation in number of arrivals in successive discrete time slots. We provide a novel solution for such models based on the new methodology introduced in [3], which is quite distinct from the traditional methods. We present an explicit analytical formula of the survivor function of the queue length distribution which is readily computable. Some analytical and numerical examples are also provided to illustrate the results.
Development of a Short Form: The Ball Aptitude Battery.

The development of the short-form Ball Aptitude Battery (BAB; Y. Sung & R. Dawis. 1981) indicates comparable results to the long-form BAB in terms of reliability, validity, and adverse impact.
Irreconcilable Differences: Black Teachers’ Lives and K-12 Schools

University-based teacher education programs struggle with recruitment and retention of Black teachers. While the enrollment of children of color in K-12 public schools has held steady for over a decade, Black teachers continue to represent only a small percentage of classroom teachers and leave the classroom at higher rates than their White counterparts. In this article, drawing from an in-depth interview sequence (Seidman in Interviewing as qualitative research: a guide for researchers in education and the social sciences, Teachers College Press, New York, 2013), we theorize one Black teacher’s racialized lived experience with colleagues and institutions to explore the factors that contributed to her early exit from the profession. With a Subject-Object Theory analytic framework (Kegan and Lahey, in: Lyons (ed) Handbook of reflection and reflective inquiry: mapping a way of knowing for professional reflective inquiry, Springer, Boston, 2010), our analysis underscores how a series of racially hostile encounters undermined her motivation and ability to enact change at the institutional level. Findings suggest that focusing primarily on consciousness and awareness raising in teacher education programs may fall short for Black educators.
Optimal parametric design of delayless subband active noise control system based on genetic algorithm optimization

Active noise control systems are generally application-specific, and an appropriate algorithm with an optimal configuration is desirable in the first stage of active noise control system design and...
Collaborative Effort to Decrease Pressure Injuries in the NICU

Background: Working in collaboration with the NICU Skin team to evaluate pressure injury rates (HAPI Healthcare acquired pressure injury) it was discovered that a large amount of the injuries was related to respiratory therapy devices. With these results, a literature review was conducted to evaluate the findings compared to published results. The Journal of Neonatal Nursing found 247 neonatal patients were reviewed, of these infants 77 were identified as having a skin injury (a prevalence rate of 31.2%). The Respiratory therapy noninvasive CPAP delivery devices were associated with 14.0% of those HAPI. The mean gestational age was 28 weeks. A Literature review on prevention of HAPI found the use Hydrocolloid dressing to be beneficial in the preventing nasal trauma secondary to nasal CPAP in preterm infants. (2) Along with continuous education to nursing and respiratory therapy were found to be beneficial to decreasing the rate of HAPI events (3). Methods: Continue to perform NICU skin assessments and collect data starting January 1st 2017 till April 2019 with a total of 812 babies assessed. Starting January 2017 event reports were completed for all issues including redness. Prior to 2017 multiple changes were implemented to include standardizing equipment to use only Fisher & Paykel Flexi trunk CPAP system. Starting simultaneous RN and RT skin assessment along with nasal prong and mask sizing any changes occurred at this time. The team instituted the use of Septal H, a hydrocolloid barrier device. Results: The NICU HAPI rate was
Examining the Utility and Cost of Routine Type and Screen Prior to Minimally Invasive Hysterectomy.

Background and objectives Pre-operative type and screen (TS however, in cases of minimal blood loss, routine TS if routine T&S was eliminated prior to MIH, cost savings is projected to be ∼$11,590 annually. Conclusion Approximately 42.7% of MIH had T&S ordered, but only 2.9% received transfusions. Most patients who required a transfusion had a history of anemia. Significant cost savings could be incurred if routine T&S was eliminated prior to MIH.
Mass Shootings and Peer-to-Peer Lending: How Do Local Shocks Affect Platform Lending Behavior?

This paper analyzes the effect of mass shootings on peer-to-peer lending behavior and credit access. The study uses data from a national gun violence tracker and a major peer-to-peer online lending...
Gynecologic oncology clinical trials: study the studies to terminate the terminations

Objectives: Clinical trials are paramount to safely advancing the standard of care. Trials that are not completed represent a potential misallocation of resources. The objectives of this study are to assess reasons for clinical trial non-completion, and to identify attributes associated with non-completion for trials in gynecologic oncology. Methods: Clinical trials in gynecologic oncology were identified by searching ClinicalTrials.gov for the following cancer types: ovarian, uterine, endometrial, cervical, vaginal, and vulvar. Data collection was performed in February 2020. Data on these trials were downloaded from the website and supplemented with manual codification. We excluded trials that were currently active, duplicative, and/or not enrolling patients with gynecologic malignancies. Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models were fit to identify trial attributes associated with trial non-completion. Attributes assessed include cancer type, trial phase, sponsor, funding, geography, size, intervention type, purpose, primary outcomes, and NCI involvement. Results: A total of 1882 trials met inclusion criteria. Overall, 1480 (79%) of trials were completed and 402 (21%) were either withdrawn, suspended, or terminated. The most common reasons for non-completion were low accrual (n=124, 31%), no reason given (n=89, 22%) or discretion of study principal investigator (n=52, 13%). Thirty-five trials (9%) were not completed due to lack of efficacy at interim analysis, and 17 (4%) due to safety concerns. In unadjusted analysis, trials that were associated with a higher odds of non-completion were those that (1) enrolled ovarian cancer patients, (2) evaluated drug/biologic interventions, (3) had survival as a primary outcome, (4) were early phase 1/2 or 2, and (5) received industry funding. Cervical cancer, NIH funding, and screening/prevention trials were all associated with lower odds of trial non-completion. After mutual adjustment, phase 1/2 or 2 trials (OR = 1.54; 95% CI = 1.13 - 2.11, ref = early phase 1 or 1), industry funded trials (OR = 1.45; 95% CI = 1.03 - 2.03), and exclusive domestic enrollment (OR = 1.35; 95% CI = 1.02 - 1.77) were all associated with higher odds of non-completion. Trials that enrolled at 2-5 sites (OR = 0.66; 95% CI = 0.47 - 0.93), as compared to single site, was the only attribute associated with lower odds of non-completion. Download : Download high-res image (56KB) Download : Download full-size image Conclusions: Over 20% of gynecologic oncology clinical trials are not completed. The most common reason for trial non-completion is inadequate accrual. Trials are rarely terminated for safety or efficacy concerns. In multivariate analysis, trials located exclusively in the United States had 35% higher odds of not being completed compared to international trials, and industry funded trials had 45% higher odds of non-completion when compared to trials without industry funding. Insights into why trials are not completed may inform future clinical trial design and ultimately maximize likelihood of completion.
The Boundary and Taxonomy of Integrator Reach Sets.

Over-approximating the forward reach sets of controlled dynamical systems subject to set-valued uncertainties is a common practice in systems-control engineering for the purpose of performance verification. However, specific algebraic and topological results for the geometry of such sets are rather uncommon even for simple linear systems such as the integrators. This work explores the geometry of the forward reach set of the integrator dynamics subject to compact set-valued uncertainties in its control inputs. Our contribution includes derivation of a closed-form formula for the support functions of these sets. This result, then enables us to deduce the parametric as well as the implicit equations describing the \emph{exact} boundaries of these reach sets. Specifically, the implicit equations for the bounding hypersurfaces are shown to be given by vanishing of certain Hankel determinants. Finally, it is established that the integrator reach sets are semialgebraic as well as translated zonoids. These results should be useful to benchmark existing reach set over-approximation algorithms, and to help design new algorithms for the same.
Late-maturity α-amylase (LMA): exploring the underlying mechanisms and end-use quality effects in wheat.

A comprehensive understanding of LMA from the underlying molecular aspects to the end-use quality effects will greatly benefit the global wheat industry and those whose livelihoods depend upon it. Late-maturity α-amylase (LMA) leads to the expression and protein accumulation of high pI α-amylases during late grain development. This α-amylase is maintained through harvest and leads to an unacceptable low falling number (FN), the wheat industry’s standard measure for predicting end-use quality. Unfortunately, low FN leads to significant financial losses for growers. As a result, wheat researchers are working to understand and eliminate LMA from wheat breeding programs, with research aims that include unraveling the genetic, biochemical, and physiological mechanisms that lead to LMA expression. In addition, cereal chemists and quality scientists are working to determine if and how LMA-affected grain impacts end-use quality. This review is a comprehensive overview of studies focused on LMA and includes open questions and future directions.
Sunspots and Magnetohydrodynamic Flows

Theoretical techniques are developed to study compressible, steady-state, magnetically aligned gas flows in sunspot regions. The flows are adiabatic and occur in a known streamline configuration. The non-linear parabolic partial differential equation describing the flow reduces to an ordinary linear differential equation. The solutions are briefly discussed.
Pharmacotherapy of Preterm Labor

Preterm labor is defined as the onset of uterine contractions in a woman who has completed less than 37 weeks of pregnancy. It may be due to maternal, placental, fetal, or idiopathic causes, and it is associated with a number of risk factors. Nondrug measures such as bedrest and hydration have been used alone or in combination with drug therapy to treat the disorder. Pharmacologic (tocolytic) agents include ethanol, progesterone, indomethacin, nifedipine, beta-adrenergic agonists, and magnesium salts. The three most commonly used drugs are ritodrine, terbutaline, and magnesium.
Immunotherapeutic Approaches in Prostate Cancer: Combinations and Clinical Integration

Despite multiple immunologic approaches with peptide, protein, and DNA vaccines, no single therapy has induced complete remission or maintained durability of response in patients with castration-re...
Using programmable logic devices in the digital electronics laboratory

A report is given of how programmable logic devices (PLDs) can be applied in custom logic designs using inexpensive software and programming hardware and be effectively integrated into a digital laboratory. Purdue University's Electrical Engineering Technology program requires a two-semester freshman sequence in digital fundamentals. The first course covers combinational logic circuits and the second course primarily covers sequential logic circuits. Beginning with the Spring 1988 semester, the combinational logic course included electrically erasable PLDs as an additional component for logic-circuit design in the laboratory. >
Subchronic oral toxicity of cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) in male Sprague-Dawley rats

The mycotoxin cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) is a potential contaminant of processed foods, grain and poultry. Twelve male Sprague-Dawley rats were given oral doses of 0, 0.2, 0.6, 2.0 or 4.0 mg CPA/kg body weight/day for 13 consecutive weeks to study its potential subchronic toxicity. No dose-related mortality or morbidity occurred. General appearance, behavior, body weight gain and food consumption of all groups were similar. CPA had no definite adverse hematologic or serum chemistry effects, although serum creatinine concentrations of rats given 2.0 and 4.0 mg CPA/kg BW were increased after seven and 13 weeks. Mild to focally moderate acute inflammation of the lamina propria and submucosa of the gastric epithelium was found in animals given ≥ 0.6 mg CPA/kg BW. No other dose-related microscopic lesions were found. Ultrastructural examination of the livers revealed subtle disruption of the cisternal pattern of the endoplasmic reticulum with ribosomal detachment in animals receiving 4.0, but not 2.0, mg CPA/kg BW. These data suggest that the toxic effects in rats of repeated, daily oral exposure to CPA may be less than previously reported. The possible relationship between toxicity and CPA epimerization is considered.
B7-2 expression on tumor cells is important for the acquisition of cytotoxic T lymphocyte activity by spleen cells from low-dose-melphalan-treated MOPC-315 tumor bearers via a mechanism that requires either B7-1 or B7-2 expression on host antigen-presenting cells

We have previously shown that B7-2 (CD86) and, to a lesser extent, B7-1 (CD80) contribute to the curative effectiveness of low-dose melphalan (L-phenylalanine mustard) for mice bearing a large MOPC-315 tumor under conditions that lead to the acquisition of potent cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity at the tumor site. Since B7-1 and B7-2 are expressed on both tumor cells and host antigen-presenting cells (APC), the current studies were undertaken to examine the relative importance of each costimulatory molecule on tumor cells and on host APC for the acquisition of anti-MOPC-315 CTL activity. Utilizing an in vitro system for the acquisition of CTL activity, we found that B7 expression on host APC is important for the development of CTL activity in stimulation cultures of spleen cells from low-dose-melphalan-treated MOPC-315 tumor bearers, although the expression of either B7-1 or B7-2 is sufficient. In addition, we found that B7-2, which is expressed at high levels on stimulator tumor cells, but not B7-1, which is expressed at much lower levels, is also important for the acquisition of CTL activity. However, the vast majority of the CTL activity acquired in vitro in response to stimulation with the B7-2-expressing MOPC-315 tumor cells was found to depend on B7-expressing host APC. Thus, it is likely that B7-2, which is expressed at high levels on MOPC-315 tumor cells, promotes the rapid lysis of MOPC-315 stimulator tumor cells, thereby making tumor-associated antigens more readily available for efficient presentation by B7-expressing host APC which, in turn, stimulate the acquisition of CTL activity by spleen cells from low-dose-melphalan-treated MOPC-315 tumor bearers.
Systemic Therapies for Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma in Older Adults

The introduction of targeted therapies has radically changed the treatment paradigm for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). However, multiple clinical dilemmas have emerged. For instance, limited data are available to juxtapose the safety and efficacy profile of targeted therapies between older and younger adults. Herein, pivotal trials of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)- and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)-directed therapies are assessed in the context of their implications in treating older adults with mRCC. In general, subset analyses from these pivotal studies suggest similar efficacy of targeted therapies amongst older adults. Aging is accompanied by a multitude of physiological changes, as well as an increased prevalence of co-morbidities. The age-related toxicity profiles of targeted agents for mRCC are detailed to provide a framework for the risks and benefits of these therapies in older adults. Ultimately, tools such as the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) that account for physiological (as opposed to chronological) age may prove useful in the evaluation and treatment of older adults with mRCC.
Society's valuation of life saving in radiation protection and other contexts.

Various situations are described in which societal action may be interpreted as a dollar value placed on averting a human fatality, and numerical values are derived in each case. Situations included are a variety of medical screening and medical care programs and of automobile and highway safety measures, food for overseas relief, air pollution control, fire prevention, industrial safety, and several radiation-related activities including standards for radium in drinking water, radwaste systems in nuclear plants, and defense and civilian high-level waste management. Values varying from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of millions of dollars per fatality averted are obtained. An attempt to derive data of this type from polling is described. The problem of discounting when money is spent now to save lives far in the future (as with nuclear waste) is discussed. It is concluded that nearly all of the vast variation in the results is unjustified and represents a need for educating the public, especially in the area of radiation protection. Language: en
Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of spinal meningoceles and arachnoid cysts

Though the nomenclature regarding spinal arachnoid cysts and meningoceles is confusing and sometimes overlapping, spinal arachnoid cysts and meningoceles are distinct entities with different presentations and etiologies. Meningoceles are usually congenital lesions discovered at infancy with a high incidence of associated anomalies. Spinal arachnoid cysts are most often asymptomatic but can cause nerve root and/or cord compression. We review the presentation, pathophysiology, and management of these lesions.
Long-term ambulatory therapy with prazosin versus placebo for chronic heart failure: Relation between clinical response and left ventricular function at rest and during exercise☆

Abstract The effects of oral prazosin (PZ), 15 to 20 mg/day, on symptoms, exercise performance and left ventricular (LV) function were assessed in a 6-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of patients in New York Heart Association functional class III. Ejection fraction (EF) was measured at rest and during upright bicycle exercise by equilibrium radionuclide angiography; end-diastolic volume, stroke volume and cardiac output were derived from corresponding count measurements. Although there was no statistically significant difference between clinical responses in the prazosin and placebo groups, qualitative differences suggested a clinical response to prazosin. Of the 9 patients who received PZ, 5 improved to functional class II and 2 became asymptomatic; the 2 nonresponders deteriorated to functional class IV when PZ was stopped. Four of 9 patients who received placebo improved to functional class II and 2 deteriorated to class IV. Exercise time tended to increase in the prazosin group (from 541 ± 204 to 630 ±100 seconds at 6 months) and decrease in the placebo group (from 539 ± 141 to 435 ±148 seconds at 6 months), but neither change was significant. Prazosin effected a sustained decrease in mean blood pressure of approximately 10 mm Hg at rest, and a quantitatively similar but insignificant decrease during exercise. Radionuclide EF increased and LV end-diastolic counts decreased significantly at rest and during exercise in the prazosin group, but not in the placebo group. Because changes in EF and end-diastolic counts were similar, stroke counts and count output were unchanged. Thus, long-term oral PZ therapy caused sustained changes in blood pressure and LV function in most patients in functional class III, but these changes were not uniformly translated into clinical improvement or increased exercise tolerance. Prazosin does not appear to increase cardiac output during exercise in patients with heart failure.
Temperature dependent transport parameters in short GaN structures

We present the mobility and diffusion constant in short GaN structures. Differential mobility decreases with increasing temperature while it increases with decreasing sample size. Theoretically calculated transconductance of an AlGaN/GaN HEMT, using the short channel mobility, is in good agreement with experimental data.
RENAL RESPONSE TO TOLAZOLINE IN NORMAL AND HYPOXEMIC NEWBORN PUPPIES

The present study was designed to investigate the effect of tolazoline (T), hypoxia (H), and tolazoline and hypoxia (TH) on renal functions. Each animal served as its own control. Hypoxia was induced by administering 5% O2 and 95% N2O for 45 minutes. Following a bolus injection of tolazoline (2mg/kg), a continuous infusion was given (2mg/kg/hr). Blood pressure (BP), renal blood flow (RBF), glomerular filteration rate (GFR), fractional excretion of sodium (FEna), and urine volume (UV) were measured by conventional methods. The change in PaO2 were similar in H and TH groups. In T, there were no changes in BP, RBF, GFR, FEna, and UV during control and experimental periods. In H, at the onset of the experiment, BP increased from a mean value of 50±10mmHg to 65±20mmHg, then remained at 50±10mmHg. In TH, following the administration of tolazoline, BP decreased from 49±5mmHg to 29±2 mmHg and remained low thereafter. A greater than 40% decrease in GFR was observed in H and 60% in TH group. RBF decreased 1.5 fold (P < .05) in H while 4 fold in TH (P <.05). FEna and UV however, increased 17 and 6 fold in H (P < .05) while the increase was 21 (P < .05) and 2.4 fold in TH. These results suggest: 1. Tolazoline does not have an adverse effect on BP and renal functions. 2. Hypoxia produces decrease in GFR and RBF. 3. Tolazoline in the presence of hypoxia produces more severe changes in renal functions.
Rotational knee laxity: reliability of a simple measurement device in vivo.

Background Double bundle ACL reconstruction has been demonstrated to decrease rotational knee laxity. However, there is no simple, commercially-available device to measure knee rotation. The investigators developed a simple, non-invasive device to measure knee rotation. In conjunction with a rigid boot to rotate the tibia and a force/moment sensor to allow precise determination of torque about the knee, a magnetic tracking system measures the axial rotation of the tibia with respect to the femur. This device has been shown to have acceptable levels of test re-test reliability to measure knee rotation in cadaveric knees.
The impact of statistical leakage models on design yield estimation

Device mismatch and process variation models play a key role in determining the functionality and yield of sub-100nm design. Average characteristics are often of interest, such as the average leakage current or the average read delay. However, detecting rare functional fails is critical for memory design and designers often seek techniques that enable accurately modeling such events. Extremely leaky devices can inflict functionality fails. The plurality of leaky devices on a bitline increase the dimensionality of the yield estimation problem. Simplified models are possible by adopting approximations to the underlying sum of lognormals. The implications of such approximations on tail probabilities may in turn bias the yield estimate. We review different closed form approximations and compare against the CDF matching method, which is shown to be most effective method for accurate statistical leakage modeling.
Cofiring from the TVA public power perspective

Abstract The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), created by Act of Congress in 1933, has responsibility for generating electricity, providing flood control, and promoting agricultural and industrial development for the Tennessee Valley. In the generation of electricity, TVA initially developed extensive hydroelectric facilities throughout the valley and, subsequently, extensive fossil and nuclear facilities. In the changing regulatory and economic environment associated with electricity generation, TVA has created the Public Power Institute (PPI). The PPI has responsibility for advancing energy generation and pollution reduction; it has responsibility for renewable energy development. In carrying out its renewable energy commitment, the PPI extends the leadership in biomass cofiring started in 1992, with studies and testing performed in cooperation with the Electric Power Research Institute at such locations as the Kingston Fossil Plant and the Allen Fossil Plant. It extends the activities associated with using tire-derived fuel at the Allen Fossil Plant. Through the PPI, TVA will continue to take a leadership role in the development of biomass systems.
Learning from the Life Experiences of Male-to-Female Transsexuals

In this exploratory study, we sought to increase mental health professionals’ understanding and awareness of the life and transition experiences of male-to-female transsexuals. A sample of 9 predominately European male-to-female transsexuals, who were mostly middle-aged (M = 33.8, SD = 15.4) and residing in the Midwest region of the United States, were interviewed about their life experiences. Interview data were analyzed using consensual qualitative research (CQR) methods (Hill, Thompson, & Williams, 1997). The results indicated that on average participants realized at five-and-a-half years old that their biological sex was incongruent with their gender identity; they dated women and pursued marriage in order to comply with prescribed gender roles and battled depression and suicidal ideation. Results also revealed that following their decision to transition, participants reported increased quality of life and overall happiness, and varied changes in relationships with family members. Suggestions to inclu...
Swarming on Random Graphs II

We consider an individual-based model where agents interact over a random network via first-order dynamics that involve both attraction and repulsion. In the case of all-to-all coupling of agents in \(\mathbb {R}^{d}\) this system has a lowest energy state in which an equal number of agents occupy the vertices of the \(d\)-dimensional simplex. The purpose of this paper is to sharpen and extend a line of work initiated in [56], which studies the behavior of this model when the interaction between the \(N\) agents occurs according to an Erdős–Renyi random graph \(\mathcal {G}(N,p)\) instead of all-to-all coupling. In particular, we study the effect of randomness on the stability of these simplicial solutions, and provide rigorous results to demonstrate that stability of these solutions persists for probabilities greater than \(Np = O ( \log N )\). In other words, only a relatively small number of interactions are required to maintain stability of the state. The results rely on basic probability arguments together with spectral properties of random graphs.
Hectd1 is required for development of the junctional zone of the placenta

The placenta plays a critical role in the growth and survival of the fetus. Here we demonstrate that the Homologous to the E6-AP Carboxyl Terminus (HECT) domain E3 ubiquitin ligase, Hectd1, is essential for development of the mouse placenta. Hectd1 is widely expressed during placentation with enrichment in trophoblast giant cells (TGCs) and other trophoblast-derived cell subtypes in the junctional and labyrinth zones of the placenta. Disruption of Hectd1 results in mid-gestation lethality and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Variable defects in the gross structure of the mutant placenta are found including alterations in diameter, thickness and lamination. The number and nuclear size of TGCs is reduced. Examination of subtype specific markers reveals altered TGC development with decreased expression of Placental lactogen-1 and -2 (Pl1 and Pl2) and increased expression of Proliferin (Plf). Reduced numbers of spongiotrophoblasts and glycogen trophoblasts were also found at the junctional zone of the Hectd1 mutant placenta. Finally, there was an increase in immature uterine natural killer (uNK) cells in the maternal decidua of the Hectd1 mutant placenta. Proliferation and apoptosis are differentially altered in the layers of the placenta with an increase in both apoptosis and proliferation in the maternal decidua, a decrease in proliferation and increase in apoptosis in the labyrinth layer and both unchanged in the junctional zone. Together these data demonstrate that Hectd1 is required for development of multiple cell types within the junctional zone of the placenta.
“Scratchin’ and Surviving” or “Movin’ on Up?” Two Sources of Change in Children’s Neighborhood SES

This research investigates the extent to which racial and ethnic inequality in children’s neighborhood socioeconomic status (SES) is exacerbated or attenuated via two mechanisms: changing neighborhood characteristics for residentially nonmobile children, and differences in the SES of destination versus origin neighborhoods for residentially mobile children. I use longitudinal data to estimate year-to-year change via these two mechanisms in four measures of neighborhood SES for white, black, and Latino children. I find that nonmobile white children experience greater improvement in neighborhood SES than statistically comparable black and Latino children. However, I find lower levels of inequality in neighborhood SES returns to residential mobility; in fact, in many cases those returns are greater for minority children than for white children. These findings suggest that continued inequality in children’s neighborhood contexts is not due primarily to inequality in outcomes of residential moves, but rather to the greater tendency of white children to reside in neighborhoods with higher levels of SES, and the greater likelihood of those neighborhoods to maintain or improve their levels of SES over time.
Energy dependence of the beta asymmetry in the decay of 8Li

Abstract The energy dependence of the asymmetry in the beta decay of 8 Li to the first excited state of 8 Be has been measured. Expectations based on the conserved-vector-current hypothesis and the spherical shell model are in good agreement with the measured asymmetry for beta energies above ∼5 MeV. No second class currents are needed to explain the data but the present experiment is not a very sensitive test.
Spatial Distribution Patterns of Planktonic Fish Eggs in Lower Mobile Bay, Alabama

Abstract A 12-month survey of planktonic fish eggs in lower Mobile Bay yielded 110 samples containing over 105 eggs. Fourteen taxa were represented, of which eight were abundant enough for analysis. By normal and inverse schemes of numerical classification, two distinct assemblages (station groups), coastal and estuarine, were found. The coastal assemblage was influenced by high-salinity tidal intrusions, whereas the estuarine assemblage was influenced by low-salinity estuarine water and river discharge. The spawning location of adult fish, circulation patterns, and salinity gradients (due to river discharge) were responsible for delineating the two assemblages. There also were two species associations (species groups). Eggs of Anchoa mitchilli, Sciaenidae, and Symphurus sp. were ubiquitous in both the estuarine and coastal assemblages. The eggs of Harengula jaguana , Anchoa hepsetus, Anchoa sp., Chloroscombrus chrysurus, and Trinectes maculatus were found predominantly in the coastal assemblage. Month-to...
On the Sidelines of Guidelines: Further Thoughts on the Fit Between Clinical Guidelines and Social Work Practice

Professors Howard and Jenson identify numerous potential benefits of clinical practice guidelines. We welcome the opportunity to join the dialogue and organize our comments around five questions: (a) Do guidelines ensure positive client outcomes? (b) Are published treatment outcome studies adequately representative of the universe of empirical knowledge about what works with diverse client problems and populations? (c) How can guidelines be integrated with professional decision making? (d) Will implementing guidelines translate into greater client compliance? (e) What is the fit between guidelines and paradigms of direct social work practice?
Evaluation of soldered connectors of two base metal ceramic alloys

Soldered connectors for two base metal ceramic alloys (nickel-chromium and cobalt-chromium) were compared by use of four different techniques: (1) infrared preceramic soldering, (2) gas and oxygen preceramic soldering, (3) porcelain furnace postsoldering under vacuum, and (4) porcelain furnace postsoldering without vacuum. A control group was established with solid cast specimens of each alloy. No statistically significant difference was noted between infrared and torch preceramic soldering techniques for either of the two alloys. However, the joints postsoldered under vacuum were significantly superior to postsoldered connectors without vacuum (p < 0.0001). No significant differences were observed among techniques 1, 2, and 3, although the three groups were substantially superior to technique 4 for both alloys (p = 0.05). The control group for both alloys was appreciably stronger than the soldered groups (p < 0.0001), and the nickel-chromium samples within the control group were significantly stronger than the Co-Cr samples.
Experimental Atheromatosis: Acid Mucopolysaccharide Content of the Aorta

Histochemical and chemical studies of the acid mucopolysaccharide content of the aorta were made in rabbits fed cholesterol for up to seven months. Colloidal iron staining suggested an increase in acid mucopolysaccharide content of the aortas with mild atheromatous lesions but not when severe lesions were present. Chemical determination, however, revealed no increase in the concentration of acid mucopolysaccharide in early lesions, but did reveal a significant increase in the more severely atheromatous aortas of rabbits fed cholesterol for 6 months or more.