cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Ionic Salt Photodefinable Polyimides As Mcm-D Dielectrics with Copper Metallization

The excellent film properties given by BPDA/PPD make it a prime candidate for the dielectric material in MCM-D fabrications, and photodefinable versions offer the additional advantages of reduced labor and material costs. However, less than adequate adhesion to the preferred copper metallurgy coupled with prolonged development times may limit widespread adoption of this chemistry. Modifications to the BPDA/PPD backbone were made in a series of photodefinable polyimides prepared as the ionic salt precursors, and key performance and processing parameters were determined. Significant adhesion of the highly rigid BPDA/PPD backbone to copper metal was only achieved after substantial incorporation of either more flexible co-monomers, especially those containing fluorine substituents, or by incorporation of an assumed surface reactive, hydroxyl-substituted co-monomer. These modifications generally also resulted in reduced development times. Self-adhesion of polyimide to polyimide layers was optimized by using a partial cure process for the bottom polyimide layer, and appropriate cure temperatures were determined for each structure to prevent solvent-induced cracking of the bottom layer upon application of the top layer while retaining self-adhesion. Operable processing windows were found for several candidates which maximized adhesion and minimized cracking.
A test of structural features of granovetter's strength of weak ties theory

Abstract Granovetter's ‘strength of weak ties’ theory offers a satisfying approach to the study of integration in networks of face-to-face interaction consisting of multiple subgroups. The present paper tests five hypotheses of this theory in the setting of a multidisciplinary social network of biological scientists. Considerable support for the theory is indicated: the local bridges and intergroup ties in the network are disproportionately weak ties.
Understanding Sponsored Search: Core Elements of Keyword Advertising

This book addresses the underlying foundational elements, both theoretical and methodological, of sponsored search. As such, the contents are less affected by the ever-changing implementation aspects of technology. Rather than focusing on the how, this book examines what causes the how. Why do certain keywords work, while others do not? Why does that ad work well, when others that are similar do not? Why does a key phrase cost a given amount? Why do we measure what we do in keyword advertising? This book speaks to that curiosity to understand why we do what we do in sponsored search. The content flows through the major components of any sponsored search effort, regardless of the underlying technology or client or product. The book addresses keywords, ads, consumers, pricing, competitors, analytics, branding, marketing, and advertising, integrating these separate components into an incorporated whole. The focus is on the critical elements, with ample illustrations, and with enough detail to lead the interested reader to further inquiry.
Effect of Bariatric Surgery on Hypertension: A Meta-analysis

Purpose: Obesity is a growing epidemic leading to worldwide public health concerns. Bariatric surgery is an option for patients with a body mass index (BMI) >40 kg/m2 or BMI of >35 kg/m2 with serious comorbid conditions. This meta-analysis examines the effect of bariatric surgery on the improvement or resolution of hypertension. Methods: Two independent investigators conducted a literature search of PubMed (1990-2013) and Cochrane databases using the terms bariatric surgery and hypertension to identify appropriate human adult studies published in English. Studies were included if they reported the number of patients with hypertension prior to undergoing any bariatric surgery procedure and whether the hypertension improved or resolved postsurgery. The number of patients with hypertension and their response rates were extracted and analyzed using RevMan 5.2.5. Results: In all, 31 prospective and 26 retrospective studies met all criteria. The types of bariatric surgery performed included Roux-en-Y, gastric b...
Does Unconscious Racism Exist

This essay argues for the existence of a form of unconscious racism. Research on implicit prejudice provides good evidence that most persons have deeply held negative associations with minority groups that can lead to subtle discrimination without conscious awareness. The evidence for implicit attitudes is briefly reviewed. Criticisms of the implicit prejudice literature raised by Arkes and Tetlock (2004) are discussed, but found to be inconsistent with several findings of prejudice research.
An image processing hardware design environment

Verilog HDL and XV is used to create an image processing design environment. The traditional HDL design simulation process where expected signal values are compared to those generated by the simulator is not sufficient, efficient, nor adequate to design and verify an image processing application hardware system for rapid implementation; e.g., using FPGAs. With a scalable image processing hardware architecture and the new design environment, rapid HDL modeling and simulation of image processing applications is feasible.
MAX II: A low-cost, high-performance LUT-based CPLD

This paper describes the MAX II CPLD architecture. Departing from traditional CPLD product-term logic elements and global routing, it instead employs FPGA-like look-up tables and channel-based routing. It integrates a flash memory for configuration and a voltage regulator for core power flexibility, and delivers 2.9/spl times/ higher logic density, 2.2/spl times/ greater performance, and consumes >15/spl times/ less power in 1/6 the die size of its predecessor, the MAX 7000A.
Notice of Violation of IEEE Publication Principles FPGA-based fast real time simulation of power systems

Real-time simulation of complex electrical systems represents a challenge for several reasons. However, the main one is that electrical systems require small simulation time steps for accurate results. More problems arise when dealing with power converters like PWM motor drives or FACTS converters. The presence of sharp discontinuities given by the switching events pushes the simulation step down to sub-mus precision. In this paper, an FPGA-based real-time digital simulator is proposed to simulate transients in z power distribution system. A simple test system is used to verify the principle. The mathematical model for the power system under consideration is implemented in Xilinx ISE8.2 and ModelSim simulator. A description of a scalable hardware architecture for very complex systems is also introduced.
Breast cancer detection using image processing techniques

We describe the use of segmentation with fuzzy models and classification by the crisp k-nearest neighbor (k-nn) algorithm for assisting breast cancer detection in digital mammograms. Our research utilizes images from the digital database for screening mammography. We show that supervised and unsupervised methods of segmentation, such as k-nn and fuzzy c-means, in digital mammograms will have high misclassification rates when only intensity is used as the discriminating feature. Adding window means and standard deviations to the feature suite (visually) improves segmentation produced by the k-nn rule. While our results are encouraging, other methods are needed to detect smaller pathologies such as microcalcifications.
Early hemodynamic and humoral effects of lofexidine.

Hemodynamic and humoral effects of lofexidine were assessed in 11 patients with essential hypertension after a total of 1.5 mg were given orally over 24 hr. Heart rate (bpm) slowed (−12 ± 6 [SEM], p < 0.05) and cardiac output (liters per minute) was reduced (−0.78 ± 0.18, p < 0.01) irrespective of blood pressure response; the latter was related to changes in systemic resistance (TPR) (r = 0.72, p < 0.01). Cardiac performance judged from ejection fraction (0.61 ± 0.03 to 0.59 ± 0.03, NS) and mean transit time (8.73 ± 0.53 sec to 9.20 ± 0.35, NS) were not altered. Plasma volume was expanded more than 10% in two patients but not changed in the others. Supine plasma catecholamines determined in five patients were reduced in all but one with no correlation to changes in either TPR or diastolic blood pressure. On the other hand, there was an increase in plasma catecholamines during head-up tilt in four of five patients, indicating normal catecholamine release. Orthostatic hypotension occurred de novo in three patients; two of them had simultaneous slowing of heart rate (vasovagal attack). Results suggested that reduction of blood pressure by lofexidine depended on lack of increase in TPR in response to reduction of cardiac output; the hemodynamic pattern of this centrally acting adrenergic blocker closely resembled that reported for beta blockers. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1981) 29, 498–504; doi:10.1038/clpt.1981.69
Constrained linear quadratic regulation

The paper is a contribution to the theory of the infinite-horizon linear quadratic regulator (LQR) problem subject to inequality constraints on the inputs and states, extending an approach first proposed by Sznaier and Damborg (1987). A solution algorithm is presented, which requires solving a finite number of finite-dimensional positive definite quadratic programs. The constrained LQR outlined does not feature the undesirable mismatch between open-loop and closed-loop nominal system trajectories, which is present in the other popular forms of model predictive control (MPC) that can be implemented with a finite quadratic programming algorithm. The constrained LQR is shown to be both optimal and stabilizing. The solution algorithm is guaranteed to terminate in finite time with a computational cost that has a reasonable upper bound compared to the minimal cost for computing the optimal solution. Inherent to the approach is the removal of a tuning parameter, the control horizon, which is present in other MPC approaches and for which no reliable tuning guidelines are available. Two examples are presented that compare constrained LQR and two other popular forms of MPC. The examples demonstrate that constrained LQR achieves significantly better performance than the other forms of MPC on some plants, and the computational cost is not prohibitive for online implementation.
The PB1 Domain in Auxin Response Factor and Aux/IAA Proteins: A Versatile Protein Interaction Module in the Auxin Response

An integral part of auxin-regulated gene expression involves the interplay of two types of transcription factors, the DNA binding auxin response factor (ARF) activators and the interacting auxin/indole acetic acid (Aux/IAA) repressors. Insight into the mechanism of how these transcription factors interact with one another has recently been revealed from crystallographic information on ARF5 and ARF7 C-terminal domains (i.e., a protein-protein interaction domain referred to as domain III/IV that is related to domain III/IV in Aux/IAA proteins). Three-dimensional structures showed that this domain in ARF5 and ARF7 conforms to a well-known PB1 (Phox and Bem1) domain that confers protein-protein interactions with other PB1 domain proteins through electrostatic contacts. Experiments verifying the importance of charged amino acids in conferring ARF and Aux/IAA interactions have confirmed the PB1 domain structure. Some in planta experiments designed to test the validity of PB1 interactions in the auxin response have led to updated models for auxin-regulated gene expression and raised many questions that will require further investigation. In addition to the PB1 domain, a second protein interaction module that functions in ARF-ARF dimerization and facilitates DNA binding has recently been revealed from crystallography studies on the ARF1 and ARF5 DNA binding domains.
A Study in the Measurements of Odors and the Deodorizing Effects of Certain Materials

The effects of air contaminations caused by certain standard odorants on the surface tension of a liquid drop were determined with and without the presence of deodorants. An attempt to develop a standardized statistically sound technique for measuring the effect of deodorants was made.
Explanation for Cooperative Information Systems

Cooperative Information Systems provide approximate answers when exact answers are unavailable and provide summary answers when answer sets are too large. Yet without an explanation of how and why such answers were derived, it is hard to estimate their usefulness. Further, the timing and level of detail of such explanations should be user and context dependent. In this paper, we present the architecture, representation, and process of an explanation system which provides such explanations of approximate answers. This explanation system has been implemented and integrated into the Cooperative Information System CoBase (UCLA) for a transportation planning and an electronic warfare domain. Our experience reveals that explanation generation is efficient and receives positive feedback from users.
Transport of a charged molecule across the human epidermis due to electroporation

Abstract Transport of a charged molecule (calcein; z = −4; 623 g/mol) across the epidermis can be caused and controlled by an electric pulse protocol. Our interpretation is that the stratum corneum (SC) is altered by the field, such that a series of regularly spaced exponential electric field pulses (time constant τpulse = 1.1 ms) resulting in Uskin≈80–230 V causes a tremendous enhancement in molecular transport. Upon beginning a pulse protocol, the flux increases from negligible values, and exponentially approaches a quasi-steady state flux with a lag time constant, τlag, that depends on the pulse spacing, but not the transdermal voltage magnitude. Above a threshold of Uskin ≈ 80 V across the skin for the pulse conditions used here, molecular transport increases almost linearly with Uskin, and then levels off at higher voltages (Uskin > 250 V) or shorter spacing (
Heat generation during the fatigue of a cellular Al alloy

The heat generation from a notch during the compression-compression fatigue of a cellular Al alloy has been measured and compared with a model. The measurements indicate that heat is generated because of hysteresis occurring in narrow cyclic plastic zones outside the notch. This process continues until the notch closes. At closure, a brief period of heat generation arises because of friction along the notch faces. A plasticity model based on the Dugdale zone is shown to provide a reasonably accurate characterization of the heat generated, with the proviso that an “ineffective” zone be transposed onto the notch tip. It is found that the temperatures generated are too small to cause fatigue by thermal softening. A fatigue mechanism based on either geometric softening of the cells or crack growth in the cell walls is implied.
Mechanisms of cancer drug resistance

The design of cancer chemotherapy has become increasingly sophisticated, yet there is no cancer treatment that is 100% effective against disseminated cancer. Resistance to treatment with anticancer drugs results from a variety of factors including individual variations in patients and somatic cell genetic differences in tumors, even those from the same tissue of origin. Frequently resistance is intrinsic to the cancer, but as therapy becomes more and more effective, acquired resistance has also become common. The most common reason for acquisition of resistance to a broad range of anticancer drugs is expression of one or more energy-dependent transporters that detect and eject anticancer drugs from cells, but other mechanisms of resistance including insensitivity to drug-induced apoptosis and induction of drug-detoxifying mechanisms probably play an important role in acquired anticancer drug resistance. Studies on mechanisms of cancer drug resistance have yielded important information about how to circumvent this resistance to improve cancer chemotherapy and have implications for pharmacokinetics of many commonly used drugs.
Comparative Study of Elemental Transport and Distribution in Soils Amended with Fly Ash and Sewage Sludge Ash

Disposal of various coal combustion and municipal by-products is a serious and challenging problem due to strict environmental regulations. This is due to the threat of accumulation of certain heavy metals in soils, plants and groundwater when these products are used as soil amendments or disposed of in landfills. This chapter describes a study that was undertaken on a coarse and medium textured soils amended with single rate of (74.1 Mg ha−1) fly ash (FA), sewage sludge (SS) and sewage sludge ash (SSA) to compare the transport and leaching potential of various elements and their distribution within 30-cm soil columns. Transport and leaching potential of macro nutrient elements were highest in SSA amended soils followed by SS and FA. Leaching potential of Cr, Cd and Ni were the lowest in SSA followed by SS and FA. In addition, the total quantity of metals in the leachate (total of 2640 mL) were generally greater when the amendments were applied to coarse textured soil compared to medium textured soil with the exception of Pb. The results also suggest that binding sites created by the interaction between soil and amendments may modify metal adsorption-desorption and solubility, with a consequential effect on leaching and downward transport of various elements.
The herpes simplex viruses.

The Herpes Simplex Viruses (HSVs) are neurotropic viruses that establish lifelong latent infections in the peripheral nerve ganglia of humans. While these viruses most commonly result in asymptomatic infections, they are associated with a wide spectrum of clinical diseases ranging from cold sores and genital lesions to encephalitis and blindness. The latent virus that is present in the nerve ganglia reactivates periodically and is shed virus at the initial site of infection, often in the absence of clinical symptoms. There are currently antivirals that reduce the frequency and severity of the recurrences, but there is no vaccine or cure.
Choosing a Bearing Material for Hip Arthroplasty

During the 1970s and 1980s, the great majority of hip prostheses in clinical use incorporated a polyethylene acetabular liner bearing against a femoral ball of metal or ceramic. By the early 1990s, it had become apparent that the most common cause of failure of this type of hip prosthesis was an osteolytic reaction to the hundreds of billions of sub-micrometer polyethylene particles generated by wear1, and several types of alternative bearings were introduced with, hopefully, substantially greater resistance to wear. These alternatives included highly crosslinked, thermally stabilized polyethylenes (XL polyethylenes) against metal or ceramic, metal-on-metal, and ceramic-on-ceramic. In their study, Milosev and colleagues compared the clinical performance of a single type of hip prosthesis (an SL-PLUS grit-blasted titanium alloy femoral stem and a BICON-PLUS grit-blasted commercially pure titanium acetabular shell [Plus Orthopedics, Rotkreuz, Switzerland, now Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics]) using three types of bearings: either a conventional polyethylene (i.e., gamma-radiation sterilized in a nitrogen atmosphere) bearing against a stainless steel ball (MoP), a cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloy liner and ball (MoM), or a Biolox forte alumina ceramic (CeramTec, Plochingen, Germany) liner and ball (CoC), …
Reclaiming the Faravahar: Zoroastrian Survival in Contemporary Tehran

The title Reclaiming the Faravahar refers in part, and importantly, to the necklace with the Zoroastrian symbol that Navid Fozi, a self-identified Bahai, purchased as a reclaiming of Iranian identi...
Perampanel: A new agent for adjunctive treatment of partial seizures

Purpose The pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety, and place in therapy of perampanel are reviewed. Summary Perampanel, a first-in-class antiepileptic agent, was recently approved for use as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of resistant partial seizures in patients 12 years of age and older. It acts as a selective, noncompetitive antagonist at postsynaptic α-amino-3-hydroxyl-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionate (AMPA) receptors. Perampanel exhibits linear pharmacokinetics and has a half-life of approximately 105 hours. The drug is rapidly and nearly completely absorbed after oral administration, achieving its maximum serum concentration in approximately 1 hour. Its bioavailability is nearly complete. Several efficacy studies have consistently demonstrated the utility of perampanel as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of refractory partial seizures with or without secondary generalization. Drug interactions have been noted with agents that induce cytochrome P-450 hepatic enzymes, including other antiepileptics, and alterations in perampanel dosing may be necessary when these medications are used concurrently. Adverse effects associated with perampanel use are primarily related to the central nervous system, and slow dosage adjustment and bedtime administration are recommended to maximize patient tolerance. The drug’s labeling includes a boxed warning about the possible induction of serious adverse psychiatric and behavioral reactions that necessitate close monitoring. Perampanel is not recommended for individuals with severe liver disease or severely compromised kidney function, including those undergoing hemodialysis. Conclusion Perampanel is a novel antiepileptic agent specifically designed to exhibit selective noncompetitive antagonist activity at AMPA receptors. Perampanel has consistently demonstrated the ability to control treatment-refractory partial seizures in many patients.
Influence of Nickel on Magnetic and Electric Properties of Melt-Processed YBa2Cu3Oy/Ni Superconducting Composites

To assess a Ni-clad melt-processed YBa2Cu3Oy (YBCO) conductor approach, a systematic study was made on commercially available YBCO powder mixed and co-sintered with nickel oxide (NiO). Our research effort has focused on the effect of nickel on the critical current density in the YBCO/Ni composites. Four series of YBCO samples mixed with 0.3, 0.7, 1, 1.3, 2 and 3 wt% of high purity NiO were prepared, and optimized conditions for the melt process were established. These samples were characterized by resistivity, AC susceptibility and DC magnetization measurements. The highest magnetization critical current density (Jcm∼3x105 A/cm2 at T=4.2K and H=0 was observed in melt-processed samples with ∼ 1 wt% Ni (or -1.3 wt% NiO) subjected to a cooling rate of 2°C/hr from 1040°C to 980°C. This Jcm was found near the middle of the Ni-solubility range (about 2 wt% Ni is the solubility limit of Ni in YBCO) which may be attributed to the local Ni/Cu compositional fluctuation leading to an increased pinning force density in these composites.
Preservation of DNA in nuclease-rich samples using magnetic ionic liquids

Nucleic acids are important diagnostic molecules for a variety of applications, but are exceedingly sensitive to enzymatic degradation by nucleases. Very recently, hydrophobic magnetic ionic liquids (MILs) have shown considerable promise in the area of DNA extraction. Here, we show that MILs can also serve as DNA preservation media in nuclease-rich environments. DNA samples treated with deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) were found to retain their molecular weight for up to 72 h at room temperature within the benzyltrioctylammonium bromotrichloroferrate(III) ([N888Bn+][FeCl3Br−]) and trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium tetrachloroferrate(III) ([P66614+][FeCl4−]) MILs, whereas DNA in aqueous samples suffered complete enzymatic degradation under similar conditions. Using a single drop extraction (SDE) technique, DNase I was found to partition between aqueous solution and MIL with a smaller amount of the enzyme extracted by the [N888Bn+][FeCl3Br−] MIL relative to the [P66614+][FeCl4−] MIL. Plasmid DNA (pDNA) exhibited structural stability for up to 1 week in the [N888Bn+][FeCl3Br−] and [P66614+][FeCl4−] MILs, even when treated with 20 U of DNase I. pDNA stored within the MIL solvent under these conditions was successfully amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), whereas pDNA in aqueous solutions of DNase I yielded no detectable amplicon. Furthermore, pDNA stored within the trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium tetrachloromanganate(II) ([P66614+]2[MnCl42−]) MIL was capable of conveying antibiotic resistance to competent E. coli following 24 h incubation with DNase I at room temperature, demonstrating that the biological activity of pDNA was preserved.
Treatment of acute pulmonary edema.

Abstract When possible, the management of acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema should be started before the patient reaches the hospital. Simple measures such as having the patient sit up with the legs dependent, administering oxygen by nasal prongs, giving sublingual nitroglycerin and small doses of morphine, and rotating tourniquets on the limbs may reduce the need for more intensive procedures. Digoxin and other inotropic agents, aminophylline, furosemide, and vasodilators are given as appropriate during hospitalization. A minority of patients need endotracheal intubation and pressure monitoring with a Swan-Ganz catheter. If the arterial PO2 cannot be maintained at 60 mm Hg or more during face mask ventilation, the PCO2 rises, and the arterial pH declines, the patient should be intubated. Pressure monitoring with a Swan-Ganz catheter is indicated if the patient does not immediately respond to treatment or in special situations such as cardiogenic shock with pulmonary edema. Pulmonary edema caused by diastolic dysfunction is managed differently than that caused by systolic dysfunction. The cause and precipitating factors of the acute pulmonary edema should be sought and treated as early as possible to prevent recurrences.
Kazak Nomadism: A Review of Kazak Society, Culture, and Economy

Kazak nomadism and culture as they existed in the late nineteenth early twentieth centuries provides the necessary contextual references for understanding the Kazak intelligentsia’s social and economic grievances and programs. Kazak national identity, both prerevolutionary and Soviet, was configured by the intelligentsia around the cultural symbols (real and imagined) of a nomadic past. Recognizing these symbols, and their functions within the nomadic society, is crucial to discerning the complex effort required by the Kazak intelligentsia to define a national identity and to disseminate their program among the Kazak population.
Detection for norovirus genotype II with RT-LAMP

Objective To establish a rapid detection method, RT-LAMP, for norovirus detection at the grassroots level, and apply it to detect clinical stool samples of adults diagnosed with viral diarrhea, in order to provide the scientific data for understanding the prevalence of norovirus-induced viral diarrhea in Nanjing. Methods The RT-LAMP method was established with the norovirus positive samples conserved in the lab. Fifty-seven stool samples from patients diagnosed with viral diarrhea in a hospital of Nanjing in the autumn and winter of 2011 were detected and analyzed for norovirus genotypeⅡ, including quantitative PCR method and reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification(RT-LAMP) method. And the positive PCR samples were sequenced.Results Two methods, RT-LAMP and fluorescence quantitative assay were established and they both could detect 10 000 dilution of the positive samples with norovirus virus genotype Ⅱ reserved in the lab, which indicated that two methods had the same sensitivity.Meanwhile, there was no amplification for the norovirus type I, hepatitis A virus and hepatitis B virus with these two methods,which indicated that they had specificity of norovirus II-amplification. A total of 57 cases of fecal samples were detected with quantitative PCR method and LAMP method. Six cases were detected positive with Norovirus genotype Ⅱ by both methods, including five cases with norovirus subtype GⅡ.4 and one case with subtype GⅡ.6. Sequences blast results showed that these six cases came from four original clones and three countries or regions, including Brazil, Russia and Beijing. Conclusion The majority subtype of norovirus of viral diarrhea patients in Nanjing is GⅡ.4 and the minority subtype is GⅡ.6. The results indicate the wide spread of the virus and the difficulty of prevention and control of the disease. Both quantitative PCR and RT-LAMP method can quickly detect pathogens, but the RT-LAMP method is more suitable at grassroots level because of its simplicity, requiring no special equipment,and direct visual observation of the results.
PET in lung cancer staging.

The primary clinical application of FDG-PET is in the evaluation of patients with lung cancer and includes diagnosis, staging and restaging of non-small cell lung cancer. PET has a very high accuracy (sensitivity = 97%, specificity - 78%) for characterizing nodules that are indeterminate by chest radiograph and computed tomography. The major utility of PET in the evaluation of patients with lung cancer is the staging of the entire body. PET is more accurate than the conventional imaging modalities of CT and bone scans in the detection of metastatic disease. PET is accurate in the staging of the mediastinum, adrenal glands, and the skeletal system. PET is not as accurate in the detection of brain metastases because of their small size and the normal cortical accumulation.
“I Am Combined”: Chinese Teachers’ Cultural Identities and Pedagogical Learning

In order to become effective instructors of cultural sensitivity, teachers need spaces to engage in cultural identity work while developing their teaching practice. This qualitative case study analyzed the integration of cultural identity work and pedagogical learning of bicultural teachers of Chinese during a two-week long professional development (PD) course in the US. Data consisted of classroom videos, observations, and student work and was theorized within an identity-as-pedagogy framework. Findings revealed a bidirectional and dynamic relationship between teachers’ cultural identity work and their pedagogical learning: Teachers did - although not consistently - appropriate pedagogical theories (e.g. on curriculum planning) by integrating them with their own cultural experiences and identities and vice versa. These appropriations were not always in line with the goals of the PD course but highlight a need to deliberately and systematically integrate teachers’ cultural identity work with their pedagogical learning.
The Inner Self: Identity, Well-being, and Personality Characteristics of Expectant and New Fathers

In this chapter, the first section focuses on identity as a father and identity change ushered in by the transition to parenthood. Identities are internalized role expectations (Stryker, 1987) and self-meanings in a role (LaRossa & Reitzes, 1993). The second section of the chapter continues with the internal theme by examining aspects of well-being in relation to the timing of fatherhood. Both positive affective elements (e.g., comfort with closeness in relationships) and negative affective elements (e.g., depressive symptoms) are examined. In the final section of this chapter on the inner self, we examine which social and psychological clock indicators are associated with aspects of men’s personalities.
Nutritional aspects of osteoporosis: recommendations for the elderly at risk.

In the midst of growing interest in osteoporosis, the degree of emphasis placed on the role of nutrition has been a continuing source of controversy. In some instances, the importance of diet in the prevention of osteoporosis has been overemphasized by those who stand to benefit from the marketing of certain dietary supplements. In other situations, the role of nutrition in both prevention and treatment of osteoporosis has been underrecognized.
Investigation of Ta 2 C, Nb 2 C, and V 2 C for Superconductivity

Previous investigators have reported that ${\mathrm{Ta}}_{2}$C and ${\mathrm{Nb}}_{2}$C became superconducting at 3.26 and 9.18\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, respectively. In this work, no superconducting transition was found in pure compounds of ${\mathrm{Ta}}_{2}$C and ${\mathrm{Nb}}_{2}$C for measurements down to 1.98\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, but when the metal phase was present, transition temperatures near to the reported transition temperatures were obtained. A sample of ${\mathrm{V}}_{2}$C, containing a slight excess of metal phase, was prepared and found to have a transition temperature of 4.7\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. However, when the sample was treated with boiling hydrochloric acid to preferentially leach out the metal phase, no superconducting transition was observed for measurements down to 1.98\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. In view of these results, and the similarity between the transition temperature of the metal and the $M\ensuremath{-}{M}_{2}\mathrm{C}$ mixture, it appears that pure ${\mathrm{Ta}}_{2}$C, ${\mathrm{Nb}}_{2}$C, and ${\mathrm{V}}_{2}$C are not superconducting down to 1.98\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K.
Lithospheric velocity model of Texas and implications for the Ouachita orogeny and the opening of the Gulf of Mexico

A 3-D shear wave velocity model of Texas has been developed from Rayleigh wave phase velocities by using ambient noise data recorded at the USArray stations. In the upper crust, the Ouachita front separates high velocity in the Laurentia to its west from low velocity in the east and south Texas basins. The Ouachita belt is characterized as a high-velocity zone with local maximums coinciding with known uplifts, which we interpret as accreted island arcs during the Ouachita orogeny. Our model evidences a strong Ouachita lithosphere that helped to buffer crust thinning from the Mesozoic rifting. A significantly low-velocity anomaly is present in southeast Texas in the lower crust and upper mantle. We associate this anomaly with a past asthenosphere upwelling that likely originated from the edge of the subducted slab during the Ouachita collision and was potentially responsible for the opening of the Gulf of Mexico.
Assessing Safety Risk among Different Construction Trades: Quantitative Approach

AbstractThe construction industry has one of the worst occupational health and safety records of all industries. In recognition of this, several innovative safety techniques have been introduced to...
Investment in territorial defence relates to recent reproductive success in common loons Gavia immer

As the value of a limited resource such as a territory increases, animals should invest more in the defence of that resource. Because reproductive success often depends on the quality of a breeding territory, reproductive success or failure may alter the perceived value of territory and affect an animal's investment in territorial defence. We used common loons Gavia immer to test the hypothesis that animals with recent breeding success would show stronger territorial defence than those with no recent breeding success. Surprisingly, successful loons responded less, not more, to a simulated intrusion. However, birds with success in the previous season also increased their territorial response as the breeding season progressed. In conjunction with past data showing that recently successful loons experience an increase in conspecific intrusions on their territories, we interpret our data to suggest that loons with recent success offset the cost of increased intrusions by adopting a more efficient strategy for territorial defence (e.g. limiting investment in resource defence until the time of the season when it is most critical).
What Every Patient Should Know about Prostate Cancer Before He Submits to Biopsy of His Prostate

Prostate cancer increases with each decade of life. Eight percent of men have invasive prostate cancer in their 20s; 80% of men have invasive prostate cancer in their 70s. Prostate cancer is easily cured and the actual death rate is very low. The common development of prostate cancer with aging and low death rate should be explained to every patient before he undergoes biopsy.
Investigation of social, affective, and locomotor behavior of adolescent Brattleboro rats reveals a link between vasopressin's actions on arousal and social behavior.

Abstract Arginine vasopressin (AVP) has recently been implicated in juvenile and adolescent social development. How AVP influences social development, however, is not understood. Adolescent homozygous Brattleboro rats (Hom), which lack AVP due to a mutation in the Avp gene, exhibit fewer active social behaviors (e.g., social play) but more passive social behaviors (e.g., huddling) than their wild type and heterozygous (Het) littermates, raising the possibility that AVP impacts social development through an arousal mechanism. Here, we test whether the atypical social phenotype of adolescent Hom rats is associated with altered behavioral arousal, social approach, or affective behaviors and whether Brattleboro mothers impact these behavioral phenotypes. Male and female Het and Hom adolescents born to Het or Hom mothers were tested in social interaction, open field, novelty-seeking, social approach, and marble burying tests. As reported previously, Hom rats played less and emitted fewer 50 kHz ultrasonic vocalizations while huddling more than their Het littermates. No genotype differences were detected in novelty seeking or social approach, nor were consistent differences found between offspring from Het and Hom mothers. However, Hom rats were less active in the open field and buried fewer marbles than Het rats indicating a hypoaroused, low anxiety phenotype. Open field activity correlated with levels of social play indicating that the effects of the Brattleboro mutation on arousal and social behavior are linked. These data demonstrate that chronic AVP deficiency impacts behavioral arousal during adolescence and support the hypothesis that AVP influences adolescent social development, in part, through its regulation of arousal.
Arbitration in classical Athens

The Classical Athenians developed two formal arbitration procedures. They assigned low stakes disputes to a panel of arbitrators, while high stakes cases were handled by a single arbitrator. Given the information aggregation benefit of collective decision making, one would have expected more individuals to be assigned to more important cases. I develop a theoretical model to provide an explanation for their design. Recognizing that arbitrator competence is endogenous, effort put into making a good decision takes time and effort. In larger groups free riding is a concern. Consequently, there exists environments where the free-riding loss is magnified in higher stakes disputes to the point where the socially optimal panel size is inversely related to the stakes involved.
INFERIOR VENA CAVA DIAMETER MEASUREMENT PROVIDES DISTINCT AND COMPLEMENTARY INFORMATION TO RIGHT ATRIAL PRESSURE IN ACUTE DECOMPENSATED HEART FAILURE

Inferior vena cava (IVC) measurements correlate modestly with right atrial pressure (RAP). Part of this inaccuracy is due to the high compliance of the venous system where a large change in blood volume may result in only a small change in pressure. This uncoupling of pressure and volume is
The Commerce Clause, The Preposition, and the Rational Basis Test

In Gonzales v. Raich, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the application of the federal Controlled Substances Act to bar the use of state-grown marijuana for in-state personal medical use. In so doing, the Court ratified the expansion of Congress’ commerce power beyond any known limits. It abandoned the “substantial effects” test that it had used since 1937 and applied the “rational basis” test. Make no mistake about it, the substantial effects test is the correct test based upon both Supreme Court precedents and the constitutional division of power in our federalist system between the federal government and the states. The rational basis test is fundamentally inconsistent with our federalist system of government. This article will first trace the historical development of substantial effects test as a limit on federal power. It will argue that the test is an important limit on federal power, balancing the need to protect our federalist system and its division of power between the central government and the states with the flexibility that Congress needs to address national issues. Second, the article will develop how the rational basis test became part of the test for federal commerce power and why it is inconsistent with constitutional limits. The article will describe the use of the rational basis test as a means of achieving federal power to protect violations of basic civil rights by private entities totally within one state. This power is denied to the federal government by a narrow view of Congress’ power under Section 5 of the 14th Amendment and by the normal application of the substantial effects test in terms of commerce power. The article will trace the movement of the rational basis test from a test in a few commerce power cases to the all-purpose test it appears to be in the Raich case.
Noise-Induced loudness recruitment and hyperacusis: Insufficient central gain in auditory cortex and amygdala.

Abstract Noise-induced hearing loss generally induces loudness recruitment, but sometimes gives rise to hyperacusis, a debilitating condition in which moderate intensity sounds are perceived abnormally loud. In an attempt to develop an animal model of loudness hyperacusis, we exposed rats to a 16–20 kHz noise at 104 dB SPL for 12 weeks. Behavioral reaction time-intensity functions were used to assess loudness growth functions before, during and 2-months post-exposure. During the exposure, loudness recruitment (R) was present in the region of hearing loss, but subtle evidence of hyperacusis (H) started to emerge at the border of the hearing loss. Unexpectedly, robust evidence of hyperacusis appeared below and near the edge of the hearing loss 2-months post-exposure. To identify the neural correlates of hyperacusis and test the central gain model of hyperacusis, we recorded population neural responses from the cochlea, auditory cortex and lateral amygdala 2-months post-exposure. Compared to controls, the neural output of the cochlea was greatly reduced in the noise group. Consistent with central gain models, the gross neural responses from the auditory cortex and amygdala were proportionately much larger than those from the cochlea. However, despite central amplification, the population responses in the auditory cortex and amygdala were still below the level needed to fully account for hyperacusis and/or recruitment. Having developed procedures that can consistently induce hyperacusis in rats, our results set the stage for future studies that seek to identify the neurobiological events that give rise to hyperacusis and to develop new therapies to treat this debilitating condition.
Mammographic local staging of breast carcinoma: methods and limitations.

Mammographic local staging of invasive carcinoma and DCIS begins during diagnostic mammogra- phy before the first biopsy intervention and continues through the wire localization, excision, and pathologic evaluation of the entire extent of the lesion. Better under- standing of the limitations of mammographic staging can direct future research and development. For the evaluation of pre-existing or novel local staging techniques for breast carcinoma, outcomes not only include breast cancer overall survival and disease-free survival, but local recurrence after breast conservation treatment as well as the need for re- excision after primary excision.
A survey of patients lost to follow-up after inferior vena cava filter placement.

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to determine the demographics and subjective rationale for failure to present for retrieval of patients who had an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter placed. Methods Between January 1, 2010, and September 12, 2017, there were 242 patients who had retrievable IVC filters placed. Demographics and indications for filter placement were retrospectively analyzed. All patients who failed to have the filter retrieved were contacted by Institutional Review Board-approved telephone survey to delineate the reason that the filter was not removed. Results Of 242 patients with IVC filters placed, 53 (22%) patients presented for filter retrieval at Abington-Jefferson Health. Patients who presented for filter retrieval were statistically younger (46 years vs 65 years; P Conclusions Our study documented a disappointingly low rate of filter retrieval. Patients with IVC filters who failed to present for retrieval were more likely to be older and frequently did not understand the complications of leaving a filter in place and the need to have the filter retrieved. Patient education should be increased to better capture patients with IVC filters and to improve retrieval rates, but our study showed that a significant percentage of patients do not have filters retrieved because of comorbidities or they do not want another procedure.
In Reply: Effect of Blood Pressure Variability During the Acute Period of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage on Functional Outcomes.

BACKGROUND The association of blood pressure variation with poor outcomes in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is unknown. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association of systolic blood pressure (SBP) variation and clinical outcomes in aSAH. METHODS We conducted a retrospective chart review of all aSAH patients treated at an academic institution between 2007 and 2016. Patient demographics, aSAH characteristics, and blood pressure observations for the first 24 h of admission in 4-h intervals were obtained. SBP variability metrics assessed were mean, standard deviation, maximum, minimum, peak, trough, coefficient of variation, and successive variation. The primary outcome was a composite of the modified Rankin scale as good (0-2) or poor (3-6) at last follow-up. Comparisons between outcome groups were performed. Logistic regression models for each significant SBP metric controlling for potential confounders were constructed. RESULTS The study population was 202 patients. The mean age was 57 yr; 66% were female. The median follow-up time was 18 mo; 57 (29%) patients had a poor outcome. Patients with poor outcomes had higher standard deviation (17.1 vs 14.7 mmHg, P = .01), peak (23.5 vs 20.0 mmHg, P = .02), trough (22.6 vs 19.2 mmHg, P < .01), coefficient of variation (13.9 vs 11.8 mmHg, P < .01), and lower minimum SBP (101.4 vs 108.4, P < .01). The logistic regression showed that every 1-mmHg increase in the minimum SBP increased the odds of good outcomes (odds ratio = 1.03; 95% CI = 1.001-1.064; P = .04). Models including other SBP metrics were not significant. CONCLUSION Hypotension was found to be independently associated with poor outcomes in patients with aSAH.
Serum neurofilament light chain and optical coherence tomography measures in MS: A longitudinal study.

Objective To study the association between serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) and multiple optical coherence tomography (OCT) measures in patients with MS and healthy controls (HCs). Methods In this prospective study, 110 patients with MS were recruited, together with 52 age- and sex-matched HCs. Clinical evaluation and spectral domain OCT and sNfL were obtained at baseline and after 5.5 years of follow-up. Nested linear mixed models were used to assess differences between MS vs HC and associations between sNfL and OCT measures. Partial correlation coefficients are reported, and p values were adjusted for the false discovery rate. Results At baseline, peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (pRNFLT) and macular ganglion cell and inner plexiform layer thickness (mGCIP) were significantly lower in MS than HC both in MS-associated optic neuritis (MSON) (p = 0.007, p = 0.001) and nonaffected MSON (n-MSON) eyes (p = 0.003, p = 0.018), along with total macular volume (TMV) in n-MSON eyes (p = 0.011). At follow-up, MS showed significantly lower pRNFLT, mGCIP, and TMV both in MSON and n-MSON eyes (p Conclusions This study confirms the ability of sNfL to detect neurodegeneration in MS and advocates for the inclusion of sNfL and OCT measures in clinical trials. Classification of evidence This study provides Class III evidence that sNfL levels were associated with MS neurodegeneration measured by OCT.