cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A parallel processing approach to incremental conceptual clustering

Conceptual clustering summarizes and organizes data allowing for better inference ability. While preferred for their limited memory flavor and adaptability, incremental algorithms are usually bound to sequential execution and little work has been done to explore this artificial limitation. The authors describe a way to map incremental tree-building algorithms on multiprocessors and present an actual implementation, the COBWEB (D.H. Fisher, Machine Learning, vol.2, p.139-72, 1987) based PICC (Parallel Incremental Conceptual Clustering) and its performance. PICC is implemented using the ACTORS-like programming language OODMC on an Encore computer. The MIMD model of computation is analyzed both theoretically and through various experiments Efficiency of multiprocessor use is discussed. The method proves flexible and applicable to a large class of algorithms. >
False memory for context activates the parahippocampal cortex.

Previous studies have reported greater activity in the parahippocampal cortex during true memory than false memory, which has been interpreted as reflecting greater sensory processing during true memory. However, in these studies, sensory detail and contextual information were confounded. In the present fMRI study, we employed a novel paradigm to dissociate these factors. During encoding, abstract shapes were presented in one of two contexts (i.e., moving or stationary). During retrieval, participants classified shapes as previously “moving” or “stationary.” Critically, contextual processing was relatively greater during false memory (“moving” responses to stationary items), while sensory processing was relatively greater during true memory (“moving” responses to moving items). Within the medial temporal lobe, false memory versus true memory produced greater activity in the parahippocampal cortex, whereas true memory versus false memory produced greater activity in the hippocampus. The present results ind...
Perfectly matched layers for time-harmonic elastodynamics of unbounded domains : Theory and finite-element implementation

Abstract One approach to the numerical solution of a wave equation on an unbounded domain uses a bounded domain surrounded by an absorbing boundary or layer that absorbs waves propagating outwards from the bounded domain. A perfectly matched layer (PML) is an unphysical absorbing layer model for linear wave equations that absorbs, almost perfectly, outgoing waves of all non-tangential angles-of-incidence and of all non-zero frequencies. This paper develops the PML concept for time-harmonic elastodynamics in Cartesian coordinates, utilising insights obtained with electromagnetics PMLs, and presents a novel displacement-based, symmetric finite-element implementation of the PML for time-harmonic plane-strain or three-dimensional motion. The PML concept is illustrated through the example of a one-dimensional rod on elastic foundation and through the anti-plane motion of a two-dimensional continuum. The concept is explored in detail through analytical and numerical results from a PML model of the semi-infinite rod on elastic foundation, and through numerical results for the anti-plane motion of a semi-infinite layer on a rigid base. Numerical results are presented for the classical soil–structure interaction problems of a rigid strip-footing on a (i) half-plane, (ii) layer on a half-plane, and (iii) layer on a rigid base. The analytical and numerical results obtained for these canonical problems demonstrate the high accuracy achievable by PML models even with small bounded domains.
Conference review: evolvable hardware 2004

About 100 or so people were present at the conference, which was a bit up on earlier years (e.g., 70, 90, etc). There were 36 talks, a panel discussion, 12 posters, and at least 7 group posters. The first authors of papers, both invited and solicited, came from 13 different countries (US 13, UK 7, Germany 3, Mexico 3, Brazil 2, and 1 each from Czech Republic, Romania, Japan, Switzerland, Spain, Norway, France, Italy, or as is done increasingly lately, the EU (European Union 14)). From these sustained numbers, it is clear that the research field of evolvable hardware is now well established and is a stable component in other conferences such as Evolutionary Computation (EC), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Neural Networks (NNs), Evolutionary Systems (ES) etc. There is already a journal dealing with the field (”Genetic Programming and Evolvable Machines”) and probably about 100 researchers in the specialty, spread worldwide over at least 16 countries (according to Adrian Thompson’s list, to be found at http://www.cogs.susx.ac.uk/users/adrianth/EHW groups.html, last updated, September 2003!). The UK is still the strongest nation in the world in EH with at least 16 groups, closely followed by the US with at least 14 groups, then Germany 5, Italy 3, 2 each for Canada, Japan, Norway, and 1 each for Denmark, Czech Republic, Israel, Holland, Switzerland, Romania, Mexico, Brazil, Australia. The conference was spread over 3 days with 4 invited speakers who spoke an hour each, and 32 ordinary speakers of 25 minutes each. The first evening, a poster session (12 posters) included an additional group poster session (7 of them) that allowed the major EH research groups around the world to show off what they do. The paper sessions were grouped into 7 categories: Evolution of Analog Systems (2 sessions), Evolution of Digital Systems (2 sessions), Revolutionary Technologies for Space (2 special sessions), Fault Tolerance and Survivability, Embryonics and
Brain Gym® Building Stronger Brains or Wishful Thinking?

As part of the accountability movement, schools are increasingly called upon to provide interventions that are based on sound scientific research and that provide measurable outcomes for children. Brain Gym® is a popular commercial program claiming that adherence to its regimen will result in more efficient learning in an almost miraculous manner. However, a review of the theoretical foundations of Brain Gym® and the associated peer-reviewed research studies failed to support the contentions of the promoters of Brain Gym®. Educators are encouraged to become informed consumers of research and to avoid implementing programming for which there is neither a credible theoretical nor a sound research basis.
Development of a calculable capacitor

This paper summarizes the current NIST effort to manufacture a new calculable capacitor, focusing on issues associated with the fabrication of the main electrodes and their alignment as well as development of a high resolution Fabry-Perot interferometer system for displacement measurements of the calculable capacitor. Results presented here for diamond turned aluminum electrodes show useable profiles that deviate from straight by less than 25 nm. We have also achieved a fractional uncertainty of ∼1.25×10−9 for displacement measurements without any optical frequency standard.
Neutrophils control the magnitude and spread of the immune response in a thromboxane A2-mediated process

Neutrophils are obligate cells entering lymph nodes shortly after immunization with protein antigens in adjuvants, starting during the first hour and continuing for several days in two distinct waves. Previously, we demonstrated the strong suppressive effects of neutrophils on CD4 T cell and B cell responses, using either neutrophil-depleting antibodies or genetically neutropenic mice. In this study, we find that neutrophils are the major cells controlling the spread of T cell responses to distal lymph nodes. Although in the presence of neutrophils, ∼75% of the response was restricted to the draining node, in their absence, most of the response was found in distal nodes. Prostanoids were responsible for the rapid entry of neutrophils into the draining nodes, as well as for the two distinct neutrophil effects: the modulation of the magnitude of the cellular response, and in its spread outside the draining nodes. Neutrophil-produced thromboxane A2 was the key eicosanoid controlling both effects. Adoptive transfer of neutrophils into mice genetically deficient in neutrophils indicated their role in both. These functions of neutrophils are important in infections and vaccinations with adjuvants where neutrophils are abundant in the initial stages.
EFFECT OF HEAT TREATMENT AND THREE PESTICIDES UPON THE GROWTH AND REPRODUCTION OF THE MYCORRHIZAL FUNGUS GLOMUS FASCICULATUS

Summary The effects of several heat treatments, a nematicide (DBCP) and two fungicides (ethazole and PCNB) on survival, infection, and sporulation by the mycorrhizal fungus Glomus fasciculatus, were examined. Inocula of G. fasciculatus were killed when exposed for 10 min at 52·5 °C, but not when exposed to 51·5 °C. Although inocula of G. fasciculatus survived a 10 min soaking in PCNB at several concentrations, infection and sporulation on Sudan grass were consistently inhibited by soil drenches with this fungicide. Soil drenches of DBCP (20μg ml−1 H2O) or ethazole (50 μg ml−1 H2O) applied at the time of inoculation with G. fasciculatus did not significantly affect infection and sporulation by the fungus on Sudan grass. However, soil drenches with DBCP (15 to 20 μg ml−1 H2O) and ethazole (10 to 40 μg ml−1 H2O) applied 30 to 60 days after inoculation significantly increased infection and sporulation by G. fasciculatus. All data indicate that the pesticides DBCP and ethazole could be used to reduce contamination and to increase the quantity of inoculum of G. fasciculatus.
User-directed exploration of mining space with multiple attributes

There has been a growing interest in mining frequent itemsets in relational data with multiple attributes. A key step in this approach is to select a set of attributes that group data into transactions and a separate set of attributes that labels data into items. Unsupervised and unrestricted mining, however is stymied by the combinatorial complexity and the quantity of patterns as the number of attributes grows. In this paper we focus on leveraging the semantics of the underlying data for mining frequent itemsets. For instance, there are usually taxonomies in the data schema and functional dependencies among the attributes. Domain knowledge and user preferences often have the potential to significantly reduce the exponentially growing mining space. These observations motivate the design of a user-directed data mining framework that allows such domain knowledge to guide the mining process and control the mining strategy. We show examples of tremendous reduction in computation by using domain knowledge in mining relational data with multiple attributes.
Mechanical Loading and Injury Induce Human Myotubes to Release Neutrophil Chemoattractants

The purpose of this study was to 1) test the hypothesis that skeletal muscle cells (myotubes) after mechanical loading and/or injury are a source of soluble factors that promote neutrophil chemotaxis and superoxide anion (O(2)(-).) production and 2) determine whether mechanical loading and/or injury causes myotubes to release cytokines that are known to influence neutrophil responses [tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), IL-8, and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1)]. Human myotubes were grown in culture and exposed to either a cyclic strain (0, 5, 10, 20, or 30% strain) or a scrape injury protocol. Protocols of 5, 10, and 20% strain did not cause injury, whereas 30% strain and scrape injury caused a modest and a high degree of injury, respectively. Conditioned media from strained myotubes promoted chemotaxis of human blood neutrophils and primed them for O(2)(-). production in a manner that was dependent on a threshold of strain and independent from injury. Neutrophil chemotaxis, but not priming, progressively increased with higher magnitudes of strain. Conditioned media only from scrape-injured myotubes increased O(2)(-). production from neutrophils. Concentrations of IL-8 and total TGF-beta1 in conditioned media were reduced by mechanical loading, whereas TNF-alpha and active TGF-beta1 concentrations were unaffected. In conclusion, skeletal muscle cells after mechanical loading and injury are an important source of soluble factors that differentially influence neutrophil chemotaxis and the stages of neutrophil-derived reactive oxygen species production. Neutrophil responses elicited by mechanical loading, however, did not parallel changes in the release of IL-8, TGF-beta1, or TNF-alpha from skeletal muscle cells.
Flank Pain and Profound Anemia in an 80-Year-Old Female

Patient: 80-year-old Caucasian female Chief Complaint: Fatigue, flank pain, and hematuria History of Present Illness: The patient was admitted to the regional hospital after transfer orders from her primary care physician (PCP) subsequent to results of a CBC and a several week history of fatigue and hematuria. The PCP gave her ciprofloxacin to treat the presumed urinary tract infection (UTI). Upon a 1-month follow-up, the patient’s symptoms had not resolved, and the PCP discontinued the ciprofloxacin and started the patient on cephalexin. The patient again presented to her PCP, prior to this admission, with flank pain, in addition to the previous symptoms. Performance of a CBC revealed a hemoglobin level of 4.6 g/dL, and the patient was subsequently transferred to the hospital for treatment of profound anemia. Past Medical and Surgical History: Hypothyroidism Family History: Multiple myeloma Social History: Tobacco use (quit 15 years ago) Physical Examination Vital Signs: Temperature: 36.2°C; pulse 82 beats per minute; respiratory rate, 20 breaths per minute; blood pressure, 133/65. Principal Laboratory Findings: Table 1 Additional Testing: Reference Lab Pre-transfusion Workup Cell Studies: Direct antiglobulin test (DAT) positive to polyspecific anti-human globulin (AHG), anti-immunoglobulin G (IgG), and anti-complement; elution studies were not performed at the time. Serum/Plasma Studies: Autoantibody Reactivity: positive Adsorption Studies: Alloadsorption performed: no alloantibodies to common antigens detected Recommendations: Group O; Rh (D) compatible; least serologically incompatible; cross-matched red cells. Consideration should be given to the use of a properly monitored blood warmer; keep all fluids warm; keep patient warm. 1. What are the patient’s most striking clinical and laboratory findings? 2. What is the differential diagnosis for a patient with these findings? 3. What is the patient’s most likely diagnosis? 4. What protocol needs to take place to differentiate among the different types of autoimmune hemolytic anemias (AIHA)? 5. What is the recommended treatment and management …
An efficient distributed protocol for online gossiping problem

In this paper, we propose an efficient distributed protocol for online gossiping problem in any types of networks, especially for mobile networks and fault-tolerant networks. The nodes in the networks have limited information of the entire network. Each node knows its neighboring nodes. The proposed gossiping protocol is fully distributed and tolerates node or link failures as well as topology changes (mobility). We show that the protocol completes in O(n/sup 2/) time in any types of networks, even when the networks contain multiple failures.
Diffusion Tensor Imaging Abnormalities in the Cerebellum of Children with ADHD and Epilepsy/ADHD

Diffusion tensor imaging was used to investigate cerebellar structure in children with combined epilepsy/ADHD and ADHD alone, at the University of Basel, Switzerland.
The 1990s: A Critical Decade in Tsunami Research and Mitigation

The Member States of the United Nations unanimously proclaimed the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction (IDNDR) by UN resolution 46/182 on 22 December 1989. The same resolution adopted an IDNDR International Framework of Action for 1990–99 with the objective of stimulating concerted international action, especially in developing countries, to reduce the loss of life, property damage, and social economic disruption caused by natural disasters. The Decade was established on the basic understanding that sufficient scientific and technical knowledge already exists which, with more extensive application, could save thousands of lives and prevent millions of dollars in property losses from natural and similar disasters.
Cutaneous manifestations and management of hematologic neoplasms

Many malignant hematologic neoplasms can directly and indirectly involve the skin with lesions that are disfiguring, painful, and compromise integumentary function. The majority of lymphomas that directly infiltrate the skin are of T-cell origin but B-cell lymphomas, and other hematologic neoplasms, including acute myeloid and lymphoblastic leukemias, can also have cutaneous involvement, whereas some have an indolent course, eg, mycosis fungoides and marginal zone lymphoma, and easily respond to localized therapy with overall survival (OS) measured in years to decades. Others have a more clinically aggressive course, eg, natural killer (NK)/T-cell lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, leg type, that require high-dose multimodality therapy, and have an OS measured in months to a few years. Lymphoma can also lead to secondary cutaneous alterations, including a variety of paraneoplastic phenomena. We present an overview of direct and indirect skin involvement by malignant lymphocytes and other hematologic neoplasms. We also describe molecular and immunophenotypic aspects of these diseases and how they are treated.
RNA conformation: Lightening up invisible states.

The versatility of RNA is achieved in part through its ability to adopt various shapes of structures. A new technology called X-ray scattering interferometry enables the detection of 'invisible' states by lighting up gold pairs tagged to RNA molecules.
Educação, Democracia e Justiça no Neopragmatismo de Rorty

Os temas estritos da educacao, ainda que nao abordados de modo direto por Rorty, estao contemplados em suas obras. Isso porque, engajado na conversacao filosofica e politica – ambas compreendidas como atividades da esfera publica, do jogo de dar e solicitar razoes –, o autor prefere um genero de argumentacao que nao autoriza uma disciplina que ofereca ou permita fundamentos para a educacao. Nao obstante, reconhece que a atividade filosofica e a atividade politica possuem potencial educacional: mediante as vozes polifonicas da filosofia pos-moderna e dos encontros e desencontros da politica democratica liberal, almeja um tipo de educacao que designa por edificacao. Assinala, oportunamente, que nao e uma proposta para a educacao basica, mas para a educacao superior nao profissional. Dirigese a intelectuais humanistas que buscam oferecer elementos para a esperanca social e para o progresso moral das pessoas, particularmente dos estudantes. A funcao desses intelectuais, afirma Rorty, e instilar duvidas nas pessoas a respeito de suas proprias autoimagens e sobre a sociedade a qual pertencem. Tal proposito demanda compreender o que Rorty entende por democracia e por justica.
Isolated adrenal cells: corticosterone production in response to cyclic AMP (adenosine-3',5'-monophosphate).

SummaryCyclic AMP and dibutyryl cyclic AMP stimulate corticosterone production when added to suspensions of isolated rat adrenal cells. Theophylline enhances the action of cyclic AMP but not that of ACTH. Adenosine, 5′-AMP, and ATP exhibit no or very slight steroidogenic activity in the isolated cell system.
A New Safer and More Effective Triphenylethylene Antiestrogen (SS1020) for the Treatment and Prevention of Breast Cancer.

Background: Tamoxifen (TAM) is widely used as a first-line endocrine therapy for breast cancer patients and as a prophylactic agent for women at high risk of developing this disease. Besides the significant benefit, long-term administration of TAM has serious side effects, including endometrial cancer. These side-effects are due to the DNA damaging and/or estrogenic action of the drug. Raloxifene (RAL) approved as a chemopreventive agent for postmenopausal women at high risk for invasive breast cancer retains an estrogenic action. RAL has a poor bioavailability. This makes it difficult to achieve adequate bioavailability by oral administration in humans. High doses are required to obtain an efficacy quivalent to that achieved with TAM. Several other antiestrogens were dropped out from the clinical trials due to their undesirable effects on the uterus. Therefore, development of new antiestrogen alternatives, but free of genotoxic and estrogenic potential, having significant antitumor potential beyond TAM and RAL is urgently required for breast cancer therapy and prevention.Results: SS1020 was developed as a new triphenylethylene antiestrogen in our laboratory. Although TAM is a hepatic carcinogen and produces a high level of DNA damage in rats, SS1020 did not produce such DNA damage. Unlike TAM and RAL, SS1020 had no detectable uterotrophic activity in OVX-rats even treated with a high dose (10 mg/kg). These indicate that SS1020 is free of genotoxic and estrogenic activities. The antitumor potential of SS1020 against 7,12-dimethyl-benz(a)anthracene (DMBA)-induced mammary carcinoma in rats and human MCF-7 breast cancer xenograft in athymic nude mice was superior to that of TAM and RAL. In addition, the development of estrogen-induced mammary tumor in rats was completed inhibited by dietary intake of SS1020, indicating that this compound has preventive potential. The bioavailability of SS1020 was approximately 35 times higher than that of RAL. The maximum blood concentration (493 ng/ml serum) of SS1020 was observed at 2 hour after the oral treatment while that of RAL (15.6 ng/ml) was at 6 hours, indicating that SS1020 is absorbed rapidly into the body. SS1020 has a much higher bioavailability than RAL, endowing it with higher antitumor potential than RAL.Conclusion: Taken together, SS1020 lacking genotoxic and estrogenic actions has anti-breast cancer activity superior to that of TAM and RAL and has a preventive potential. SS1020 is a safer and more effective antiestrogen candidate for breast cancer therapy and prevention. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 4085.
Recognition and resolution of errors in the radioisotopic assay of serum vitamin B12.

The radioisotopic saturation analysis assay has demonstrated its applicability to the determination of serum vitamin B12 levels; however, several potential problems have existed in the assay. These are the basis of this report. It has been demonstrated that modification of the conditions of the assay will improve the separation of endogenous B12 from its binding proteins and reduce potential nonspecific binding of the liberated B12. Pooled, Millipore-filtered, normal serum serves as an excellent binder for the assay. The problems of alternate binders are reviewed. Since occasional recovery values varied, an extraction control has been included. Finally, the problems of identification of radiochemical purity of the 57CoB12 are reviewed and a method of detection of impurities is described.
Free radical injury to skeletal muscles of young, adult, and old mice

We tested the hypotheses that 1) muscles of old mice are more susceptible to injury than muscles of young and adult mice, and 2) secondary or delayed onset injury results from free radical damage. Extensor digitorum longus muscles were injured in situ by lengthening contractions. Injury was assessed by measurement of maximum isometric tetanic force (Po) expressed as a percentage of the control value and by morphological damage. Mice were treated with a free radical scavenger, polyethylene glycol-superoxide dismutase (PEG-SOD). Three days postinjury, the Po of 44% for muscles of nontreated old mice was significantly lower than the Po of 58 and 61% for those of young and adult mice. In each group, the secondary injury at 3 days was alleviated by treatment with PEG-SOD. For treated muscles of young, adult, and old mice, values for Po were 88, 80, and 70%, respectively. We conclude that muscles of old mice are more susceptible to injury than muscles of young or adult mice and that free radicals contribute to the secondary or delayed onset injury.
Global and Attribute-Specific Attitudinal Correlates of Made-in Labels

A survey of Saudi consumers was conducted to determine if attribute-specific or global attitudes have a stronger effect on the preference for locally produced goods over imports. The paper reports the results of the survey and discusses their implications.
The Study on the Medication Compliance and Healih Service Utilization in Eledrly Community Patients with Hypertension in Tianjin

[Objective]To evaluate the medication compliance and health service utilization in elderly community patients with hypertension in Tianjin.[Methods] 727 elderly patients with hypertension of two community were surveyed by questionnaires and measuring the blood pressure(Bp) in 2010.Treatment and adherence,persistence of antihypertensive medication and level of continuous blood pressure control were investigated.[Results]388 take drugs.The rates of good medication persistence was 22.35%.Forgotten is the main reason,accounting for 33.54%,in the 322 patients who are not good compliance.In 727 investigator objects,44.57% of the patients preferred to normal big hospital and 24.21% account for community health service center.Social health insurance is the main form of payment for medical expenses(60.11%),medical expenses accounted for 33.43% full at their own expense.[Conclusion] The elderly hypertensive patients in the community drug compliance needs to be strengthened,should increase their awareness of self-care,and to further play the role of community health centers.
229 DIETARY AND LIFESTYLE EDUCATION FOR HEALTHY CHOLESTEROL IN POLSON, MONTANA.

Purpose of Study Polson, Montana, like most communities in the US, has a high incidence of cardiovascular disease. Not surprisingly, the prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors, including hyperlipidemia, is also high in the community. It was noted that hyperlipidemic patients are often treated with medication but that the underlying cause of their illness is not always addressed. A community health project was designed to educate the people of Polson regarding strategies to improve cholesterol through diet and exercise. Methods A review of the literature was conducted using MEDLINE to investigate dietary approaches to improving cholesterol. This search identified soluble fiber and plant sterols as well as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids as having potential cholesterol-lowing effects. Conversely, saturated fats and trans -fats were identified as having harmful effects on cholesterol. A two-pronged approach was implemented to relay these findings to the community. First, individual consultations were used to assess patients9 current diet and exercise habits and to suggest healthier alternatives when appropriate. In addition, the larger community was targeted with an educational article that appeared in the local newspaper. Summary The ultimate goal of this project was to encourage patients to take a proactive role in improving their cholesterol by arming them with helpful dietary information and impressing on them the importance of diet and exercise on cardiovascular health. Patients were individually counseled regarding current diet and lifestyle habits and were encouraged to make adjustments in order to improve their cholesterol. A health education article, entitled “Prescription for Healthy Cholesterol: Diet & Exercise,” communicated similar information to the larger community in the local newspaper. Conclusions Given the current epidemic of cardiovascular disease, it is imperative that Americans make healthier decisions regarding diet and exercise. This is a daunting challenge as long-lived habits are hard to change. Health care providers have an opportunity to help patients in this struggle through dietary and lifestyle education.
Validation of birth outcomes from the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System (SART CORS): population-based analysis from the Massachusetts Outcome Study of Assisted Reproductive Technology (MOSART).

Objective To assess the validity of outcome data reported to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System (SART CORS) compared with data from vital records and the birth defects registry in Massachusetts. Design Longitudinal cohort. Setting Not applicable. Participant(s) A total of 342,035 live births and fetal deaths from Massachusetts mothers giving birth in the state from July 1, 2004, to December 31, 2008; 9,092 births and fetal deaths were from mothers who had conceived with the use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and whose cycle data had been reported to the SART CORS. Intervention(s) Not applicable. Main Outcome Measure(s) Percentage agreement between maternal race and ethnicity, delivery outcome (live birth or fetal death), plurality (singleton, twin, or triplet+), delivery date, and singleton birth weight reported in the SART CORS versus vital records; sensitivity and specificity for birth defects among singletons as reported in the SART CORS versus the Massachusetts Birth Defects Monitoring Program (BDMP). Result(s) There was >95% agreement between the SART CORS and vital records for fields of maternal race/ethnicity, live birth/fetal death, and plurality; birth outcome date was within 1 day with 94.9% agreement and birth weight was within 100 g with 89.6% agreement. In contrast, sensitivity for report of any birth defect was 38.6%, with a range of 18.4%–50.0%, for specific birth defect categories. Conclusion(s) Although most SART CORS outcome fields are accurately reported, birth defect variables showed poor sensitivity compared with the gold standard data from the BDMP. We suggest that reporting of birth defects be discontinued.
IV Insulin Infusions: How to Use an “Insulin Drip”

Several clinical scenarios mandate the use of an IV insulin infusion (often informally referred to as an “insulin drip”). Any inpatient with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) requires an IV insulin infusion for proper management; simply continuing subcutaneous injections is not the standard of care in the hospital. Also, a patient with hyperosmolar nonketotic hyperglycemia should be initially managed with IV insulin.
Ten Pages that Changed the World: Deconstructing Ricardo∗:

Powerful ideas that shape the world become taken-for-granted verities, in two senses of the term: as the only world that is known; and as the only world that can be imagined. When hegemony controls...
Outcomes of concomitant ventral hernia repair performed during bariatric surgery

Currently there is no consensus on management of ventral hernias encountered during bariatric surgery (BS). This study aims to evaluate the incidence and outcomes of concomitant ventral hernia repair (VHR) during BS at our institution. Patients who had concomitant VHR during BS from 2004 to 2015 were identified. Data collected included baseline demographics, comorbidities, perioperative parameters, surgical approach and postoperative outcomes. A total of 159 patients underwent concomitant VHR during the study period at the time of BS. One hundred and one (64 %) patients were female; median age was 53 years (IQR 45.0–60.3) and median BMI was 48.2 kg/m2 (IQR 41.6–54.1). Comorbidities included: hypertension (n = 124, 78 %), type 2 diabetes (n = 103, 65 %), hyperlipidemia (n = 100, 63 %), obstructive sleep apnea (n = 98, 62 %) and reflux disease (n = 54, 34 %). Out of 159 patients, 41 patients (26 %) had a prior VHR. Out of 103 patients, 69 patients (67 %) had a previous abdominal surgery. Of the concomitant VHR, 144 (91 %) were completed laparoscopically, 12 (7 %) patients were converted to open surgery and 3 (2 %) patients underwent primary open procedures. Technique included primary suture closure in 115 (72 %) and mesh repair in 44. Early postoperative complications ( 30 days) complication. Surgery for recurrent hernia was performed in 31/42 patients during follow-up. At 12-month follow-up, median BMI and % excess weight loss were 34.2 kg/m2 (IQR 29.5–40.9) and 59.6 % (IQR 44.9–74.8 %), respectively. Ventral hernia is a common finding in patients undergoing BS. Both primary suture repair and mesh repair result in acceptable results, both in terms of recurrence and perioperative complications.
The Setting of the Decline

This book tells the story of the deterioration of the U.S. economy. In this work, I contend that the difficulties that the U.S. economy faces today reflect long-term problems that have been festering for many decades. We cannot remedy these ills by short-term policy adjustments.
Red cell metabolic changes in acute and chronic exposure to high altitude.

The red blood cell has occupied a central position in studies of how man adapts to high altitudes. With the discovery that the level of DPG has important implications for erythrocyte oxygen affinity, the study of red cell metabolism at high altitudes has taken on new and greater significance. Change in the level of DPG is most certainly related to changes in the levels of other red cell glycolytic intermediates. The appropriate next steps in understanding the mechanism of the increase in DPG are to ascertain which of the enzymes of glycolysis are activated by altitude exposure, and to identify the stimuli which are operating on this enzyme or enzymes. We initiated this next step with studies in Leadville, Colorado, elevation 10,200 feet.
Para uma história plebeia do liberalismo

Resenha do livro: SARTORI, Andrew. Liberalism in Empire: An Alternative History. Oakland: California University Press, 2014.
Institutionalism as a Way to View Higher Education Organizations: Organizational Change/Organizational Stability

This chapter provides an examination of the community colleges and new universities through the lens of institutional theory to explain both organizational stability and organizational change. Institutionalized views and practices provide stability for the community college and the university. Yet, in the face of new practices, policies, and initiatives, the core views and practices are challenged. New practices, policies, and initiatives can become rationalized and then institutionalized, or they can be dismissed.
Measuring Multiple Symptoms and Inflammatory Cytokines Related to Acute GVHD in AML/MDS Patients under Allogeneic BMT.

Abstract The objective of this study was to prospectively assess the relationship between symptom severity and changes in inflammatory cytokines around the time of diagnosis of acute GVHD in AML/MDS patients during the first 100 days of allo-BMT. Methods: Weekly symptom assessment with the M. D. Anderson Symptom Inventory was done for 30 patients over time of BMT. A panel of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1ra, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, TNF-a) was assayed at multiple time points (pre BMT, conditioning, BMT day, Day 1, nadir, Day 7, 14, 21, 28, 60, 90–100, also including days 1, 3, 5, 10 and 15 after diagnosis of a GVHD for the 26 patients who developed it). Results: Of the 26 patients, 69% had grade 1 GVHD, 27% had grade 2, and 4% had grade 3. 42% were treated with 2mg/kg of steroids, 31% with topical steriods. Figure 1 displays Loess curves that show the multiple symptom pattern for the 26 GVHD patients. These nonspecific symptoms reached their highest levels before the day of diagnosis. Immediate symptom reduction after diagnosis was most likely caused by administration of steroids. The Lowess curves in Figure 2 show the changes in serum cytokines levels pre- and post-GVHD (log based 10). IL-8 was significantly correlated with some symptoms before and after GVHD (Table 1). Conclusion: During development of GVHD in the acute phase of allo-BMT, there is an observed relationship of certain symptom severity and increased or decreased inflammatory cytokine levels in this pilot study. Further study is warranted for a causal link between general sickness and specific cytokines during human GVHD development. Table 1 . Correlations between symptoms severity and cytokines Levels before and after the Development of GVHD in the First 100 Days after Allo-BMT IL-8 Pre-GVHD Shortness of breath r = −0.708, P Dry mouth r = 0.667, P Sadness r = 0.631, P Post-GVHD Sleep Disturbance r = 0.564, P Drowsiness r = −0.565, P Vomiting r = −0.558, P Download : Download high-res image (100KB) Download : Download full-size image Download : Download high-res image (89KB) Download : Download full-size image
Segmentations of the cartilaginous skeletons of chondrichthyan fishes by the use of state-of-the-art computed tomography

Segmentations of the cartilaginous skeletons of chondrichthyan fishes by the use of state-of-the-art computed tomography
Economic Americanness and defensive inclusion: social location and young citizens’ conceptions of national identity

What does it mean to be ‘American’? Drawing on in-depth interviews with 76 undergraduates attending elite universities and 72 teenaged citizen children of immigrants living in mostly low-income hou...
Modeling of a Turbofan Engine With Ice Crystal Ingestion in the NASA Propulsion System Laboratory

The main focus of this study is to apply a computational tool for the flow analysis of the turbine engine that has been tested with ice crystal ingestion in the Propulsion Systems Laboratory (PSL) at NASA Glenn Research Center. The PSL has been used to test a highly instrumented Honeywell ALF502R-5A (LF11) turbofan engine at simulated altitude operating conditions. Test data analysis with an engine cycle code and a compressor flow code was conducted to determine the values of key icing parameters, that can indicate the risk of ice accretion, which can lead to engine rollback (un-commanded loss of engine thrust). The full engine aerothermodynamic performance was modeled with the Honeywell Customer Deck specifically created for the ALF502R-5A engine. The mean-line compressor flow analysis code, which includes a code that models the state of the ice crystal, was used to model the air flow through the fan-core and low pressure compressor. The results of the compressor flow analyses included calculations of the ice-water flow rate to air flow rate ratio (IWAR), the local static wet bulb temperature, and the particle melt ratio throughout the flow field. It was found that the assumed particle size had a large effect on the particle melt ratio, and on the local wet bulb temperature. In this study the particle size was varied parametrically to produce a non-zero calculated melt ratio in the exit guide vane (EGV) region of the low pressure compressor (LPC) for the data points that experienced a growth of blockage there, and a subsequent engine called rollback (CRB). At data points where the engine experienced a CRB having the lowest wet bulb temperature of 492 degrees Rankine at the EGV trailing edge, the smallest particle size that produced a non-zero melt ratio (between 3 percent - 4 percent) was on the order of 1 micron. This value of melt ratio was utilized as the target for all other subsequent data points analyzed, while the particle size was varied from 1 micron - 9.5 microns to achieve the target melt ratio. For data points that did not experience a CRB which had static wet bulb temperatures in the EGV region below 492 degrees Rankine, a non-zero melt ratio could not be achieved even with a 1 micron ice particle size. The highest value of static wet bulb temperature for data points that experienced engine CRB was 498 degrees Rankine with a particle size of 9.5 microns. Based on this study of the LF11 engine test data, the range of static wet bulb temperature at the EGV exit for engine CRB was in the narrow range of 492 degrees Rankine - 498 degrees Rankine , while the minimum value of IWAR was 0.002. The rate of blockage growth due to ice accretion and boundary layer growth was estimated by scaling from a known blockage growth rate that was determined in a previous study. These results obtained from the LF11 engine analysis formed the basis of a unique “icing wedge.”
Abstract 21081: Coffee Intake Affects Heart Failure and Stroke Survival and is Significant in Predicting Heart Failure and Stroke Risk

Introduction: Heart Failure (HF) and stroke are complex diseases with multiple phenotypes. While many risk factors for these diseases are well known, it is likely that there are as-yet unidentified...
A grid-tied reconfigurable battery storage system

This paper presents a grid-tied reconfigurable battery storage system, which consists of a single-phase two-stage bidirectional PWM converter and a reconfigurable battery pack (RBP). The two-stage PWM converter provides an interface between the AC power grid and the RBP and operates in two different modes: (1) grid to battery (G2B) mode, in which the RBP is charged from the AC power grid; and (2) battery to grid (B2G) mode, in which the RBP delivers the stored energy to the grid. In the RBP, fault tolerance and state of charge (SOC) equalization among battery cells can be realized by dynamically configuring the connections of battery cells, no additional SOC equalization circuit is required. A laboratory prototype of the proposed battery system was designed and fabricated. Experimental results on the prototype are provided to validate the features of the proposed battery system.
The perils of standardizing infant weight to assess weight change differences across exposure groups.

Abstract Purpose When conducting analyses of child weight growth trajectories, researchers commonly use Z-scores from a standard instead of the observed weights. However, these Z-scores, calculated from cross-sectional data, may introduce methodological limitations when used in the context of longitudinal analyses. We assessed analytic limitations when analyzing infant growth data with three anthropometric measures: weight and the corresponding Z-scores and percentiles from a standard. Methods We undertook a series of Monte Carlo simulations and compared tests of differences in postnatal weight change across time (growth velocity) between two exposure groups. Models with the observed weight outcome were compared to the corresponding weight World Health Organization (WHO) Z-score or weight percentile outcomes. We calculated power, type I error, and median product term coefficient estimates to assess differences between the models. Results There was lower power to detect velocity differences across exposure groups for WHO Z-scores and percentiles as outcomes compared to the use of observed weight values. We also noted instances in which velocity differences between exposed and unexposed groups were in the opposite direction in analyses with WHO Z-score outcomes. Conclusions In our simulations of infant weight velocity differences across exposure groups, we observed lower power and effect inconsistencies when applying a standard-derived Z-score transformation. These results emphasize the need for careful consideration of the appropriate scale when assessing infant growth trajectories across categorical groups.
Noise isolation with phononic crystals to enhance fatigue crack growth detection using acoustic emission

The background noise imposes difficulties in monitoring crack activities in real-time monitoring of structures using the acoustic emission (AE) method. Here, a two-dimensional phononic crystal (PC) is designed to enhance fatigue crack growth detection capability of acoustic emission technique in plate-like structures, such that a single AE sensor is sufficient to monitor the crack activity. PCs, also known as acoustic metamaterials, are artificial composite, man-made periodic systems creating new responses through physical constraints in the constituent materials such that certain frequencies are prohibited by local the resonance of the periodic system. The integration of PC design with AE method can be utilized to block unwanted noise signals and enhance the crack detection ability of the AE method. The proposed PC structure to block certain frequencies is numerically studied using COMSOL Multiphysics software through applying two approaches: the unit cell analysis and the transmission loss. It is concluded that the primary reason of the band gap formation through the designed PC structure is the local resonance phenomenon. The final geometry is selected to provide a band gap near 150 kHz, which is a common frequency to monitor crack growth in metallic structures. The stubs forming the PC structure are placed on the compact specimen periodically, except along the crack growth path and sensor position, to block the friction emissions coming from the grip locations. The performance of the designed PC structure is demonstrated experimentally through the fatigue testing of aluminum standard compact tension specimens. The cumulative numbers of hits and AE energy obtained from the specimen integrated with the PC structure demonstrate the successful implementation of noise blocking in the AE testing of detecting active cracks.
Applications of magnesium alloys in automotive engineering

Abstract: This chapter discusses the material properties and mass-saving potential of magnesium alloys in comparison with major automotive materials: mild steel, advanced high strength steel (AHSS), aluminium, polymers and polymer composites. The alloy development and manufacturing processes of magnesium extrusion and sheet products are summarized. The opportunities and challenges of wrought magnesium alloys for automotive applications are discussed.
On the Application of the SDLE to the Analysis of Complex Time Series

Complex systems often generate highly nonstationary and multiscale signals because of nonlinear and stochastic interactions among their component systems and hierarchical regulations imposed by the operating environments. Rapid accumulation of such complex data in life sciences, systems biology, nano-sciences, information systems, and physical sciences has made it increasingly important to develop complexity measures that incorporate the concept of scale explicitly, so that different behaviors of signals on varying scales can be simultaneously characterized by the same scale-dependent measure. The scale-dependent Lyapunov exponent (SDLE) discussed here is such a measure and can be used as the basis for a unified theory of multiscale analysis of complex data. The SDLE can readily characterize deterministic low-dimensional chaos, noisy chaos, random 1 ∕ f α processes, random Levy processes, stochastic oscillations, and processes with multiple scaling behavior. It can also readily deal with many types of nonstationarity, detect intermittent chaos, and accurately detect epileptic seizures from EEG data and distinguish healthy subjects from patients with congestive heart failure from heart rate variability (HRV) data. More importantly, analyses of EEG and HRV data illustrate that commonly used complexity measures from information theory, chaos theory, and random fractal theory can be related to the values of the SDLE at specific scales, and useful information on the structured components of the data is also embodied by the SDLE.
The Vaccine Misinformation Landscape in Family Medicine

The chapter on vaccine misinformation in family medicine is designed to review the mounting anti-vaccine sentiment seen in both the public and in some family practice settings. The chapter offers a brief overview of post-modernism and the anti-vaccination movement, family physician-generated difficulties in complying with the unified vaccination schedules, and some patient-generated concerns. Also included is a brief overview of difficulties generated through utilization of the Internet to find advice on recommended vaccinations. Scattered throughout the chapter are bits of advice on how to increase immunization education for practicing physicians. Methods to increase vaccination rates in office practice are also briefly reviewed.