cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transition to a steady state of repeated acquisition

Pigeons obtained food reinforcement via a four-response chain that require pecking different keys in the presence of different colors. The sequence of correct key positions changed from session to session. Errors gradually decreased across sessions until a constant minimum range of variability in error levels was reached (steady state). Other characteristics of the transition and steady state of repeated acquisition (e.g., within-session rate of error reduction) were described.
A multifactorial analysis of risk factors for recurrence of ischemic stroke.

Risk factors for stroke recurrence have usually been evaluated as single variables. This study is a multivariate analysis of five risk factors (hypertension, myocardial infarction, cardiac arrhythmia, diabetes mellitus, and transient ischemic attacks) for second stroke after an initial ischemic stroke.Six hundred twenty-one patients with an acute ischemic stroke were followed prospectively first at 4 months after onset and then at approximately 6-month intervals until death, recurrence of stroke, or the end of the study. The five risk factors were measured at each visit. A Cox multifactorial regression analysis was conducted using the risk factor status at enrollment and adjusted for age and sex.Follow-up averaged 24 months (range, 1 to 48 months). Men comprised 52% of the cohort and were slightly older; 97% of the cohort was white, and 57% had multiple risk factors. Hypertension occurred in 59%, cardiac arrhythmia in 47% (of which 16% had atrial fibrillation), diabetes mellitus in 30%, myocardial infarct...
Effects of thin films on interferometric step height measurements

Optical profiling instruments utilizing phase-shifting interferometry offer one the opportunity to obtain a large amount of surface texture data quickly without damaging the measured surface. Unfortunately, the presence of dissimilar surface materials or even spatial variations in the subsurface morphology can result in spurious optical measurements. This paper presents equations that can be used to calculate the reflection of electromagnetic radiation from thin film structures. These equations are utilized to determine what minimum metal overcoat thickness will ensure accurate optical step height measurements. Interferometric and stylus- based measurements of three thin film steps are presented and discussed. An opaque metal overcoat is found to be essential to the accurate optical measurement of step heights.
STAKEHOLDER REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAFFIC SIGNAL PREEMPTION AND PRIORITY IN WASHINGTON, D.C., REGION

The needs, issues, and concerns are identified of local elected officials and transportation and emergency personnel from the Washington, D.C., area about signal priority and preemption systems. These needs, issues, and concerns are used to generate a set of system objectives and general requirements that state and local decision makers might use in evaluating these systems in the future. As reported, although emergency and transit agency personnel are actively interested in this technology, they and the other stakeholders have significant questions and reservations to be considered in the adoption and deployment of preemption and priority systems.
Changes in epithelial secretory cells and potentiation of neurogenic inflammation in the trachea of rats with respiratory tract infections

In rats respiratory tract infections due to Sendai virus and coronavirus usually are transient, but they can have long-lasting consequences when accompanied by Mycoplasma pulmonis infections. Morphological alterations in the tracheal epithelium and a potentiation of the inflammatory response evoked by sensory nerve stimulation ("neurogenic inflammation") are evident nine weeks after the infections begin, but the extent to which these changes are present at earlier times is not known. In the present study we characterized these abnormalities in the epithelium and determined the extent to which they are present 3 and 6 weeks after the infections begin. We also determined the magnitude of the potentiation of neurogenic inflammation at these times, whether the potentiation can be reversed by glucocorticoids, and whether a proliferation of blood vessels contributes to the abnormally large amount of plasma extravasation associated with this potentiation. To this end, we studied Long-Evans rats that acquired these viral and mycoplasmal infections from other rats. We found that the tracheal epithelium of the infected rats had ten times as many Alcian blue-PAS positive mucous cells as did that of pathogen-free rats; but it contained none of the serous cells typical of pathogen-free rats, so the total number of secretory cells was not increased. In addition, the epithelium of the infected rats had three times the number of ciliated cells and had only a third of the number of globule leukocytes. In response to an injection of capsaicin (150 micrograms/kg i.v.), the tracheas of the infected rats developed an abnormally large amount of extravasation of two tracers, Evans blue dye and Monastral blue pigment, and had an abnormally large number of Monastral blue-labeled venules, particularly in regions of mucosa overlying the cartilaginous rings. This abnormally large amount of extravasation was blocked by dexamethasone (1 mg/day i.p. for 5 days). We conclude that M. pulmonis infections, exacerbated at the outset by viral infections, result within three weeks in the transformation of epithelial serous cells into mucous cells, the proliferation of ciliated cells, and the depletion of globule leukocytes. They also cause a proliferation of mediator-sensitive blood vessels in the airway mucosa, which is likely to contribute to the potentiation of neurogenic inflammation that accompanies these infections.
Effect of a nonionic surface-active agent on blood viscosity and platelet adhesiveness.

The effects of Pluronic F68, a nonionic surface-active agent, on blood viscosity and platelet adhesiveness during extracorporeal circulation were investigated. Blood viscosity was significantly decreased. Platelet adhesiveness decreased markedly in six patients within ten minutes after intravenous injection. Pluronic F68 has many properties and actions which make it a useful additive to perfusion systems. Its potential in the treatment of diseases in which high viscosity or increased platelet adhesiveness are present deserves investigation.
Design of a Superconducting 28 GHz Ion Source Magnet for FRIB Using a Shell-Based Support Structure

The Superconducting Magnet Program at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) is completing the design of a 28 GHz NbTi ion source magnet for the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB). The design parameters are based on the parameters of the ECR ion source VENUS in operation at LBNL since 2002 featuring a sextupole-in-solenoids configuration. Whereas most of the magnet components (such as conductor, magnetic design, protection scheme) remain very similar to the VENUS magnet components, the support structure of the FRIB ion source uses a different concept. A shell-based support structure using bladders and keys is implemented in the design allowing fine tuning of the sextupole preload and reversibility of the magnet assembly process. As part of the design work, conductor insulation scheme, coil fabrication processes and assembly procedures are also explored to optimize performance. We present the main features of the design emphasizing the integrated design approach used at LBNL to achieve this result.
WalMart and Local Economic Development A Survey

This article reviews the literature that evaluates WalMart’s impacts on local economies. The authors first describe the methods used to account for potential reverse causality of WalMart’s store lo...
Differential Detection of Ingested Items Evacuated from Genus Gila Cyprinids by Two Nonlethal Alimentary Tract Lavage Techniques

ABSTRACT Two nonlethal alimentary tract lavage techniques were conducted on ten bonytail chub (Gila elegans, 211–241 mm TL) that had previously ingested 2–4 rainbow trout (Onchorynchus mykiss, ∼40 mm TL) to evaluate their capabilities of detecting piscivory in the field. Each fish was initially lavaged with water down its buccal cavity and out its anal vent using the Wasowicz and Valdez (W-V) technique and then immediately flushed in the opposite direction with the Baker and Fraser (B-F) method. Microscopic examination of evacuated material revealed only three identifiable rainbow trout scales and other assorted clumps of presumably well-digested body material. Overall, 30% of bonytail chub expelled rainbow trout scales andlor other body material during the initial W-V lavage, and 60% expelled material during the B-F flush. Dissections of four bonytail, seven humpback (G. cypha), and four roundtail chubs (G. robusta) revealed that their intestines were similarly curved and tapered to ≤50% of the anterior ...
Digital tomosynthesis rendering of joint margins for arthritis assessment

PURPOSE: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) of the hand is a significant healthcare problem. Techniques to accurately quantity the structural changes from RA are crucial for the development and prescription of therapies. Analysis of radiographic joint space width (JSW) is widely used and has demonstrated promise. However, radiography presents a 2D view of the joint. In this study we performed tomosynthesis reconstructions of proximal interphalangeal (PIP), and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints to measure the 3D joint structure. METHODS: We performed a reader study using simulated radiographs of 12 MCP and 12 PIP joints from skeletal specimens imaged with micro-CT. The tomosynthesis technique provided images of reconstructed planes with 0.75 mm spacing, which were presented to 2 readers with a computer tool. The readers were instructed to delineate the joint surfaces on tomosynthetic slices where they could visualize the margins. We performed a quantitative analysis of 5 slices surrounding the central portion of each joint. Reader-determined JSW was compared to a gold standard. As a figure of merit we calculated the average root-mean square deviation (RMSD). RESULTS: RMSD was 0.22 mm for both joints. For the individual joints, RMSD was 0.18 mm (MCP), and 0.26 mm (PIP). The reduced performance for the smaller PIP joints suggests that a slice spacing less than 0.75 mm may be more appropriate. CONCLUSIONS: We have demonstrated the capability of limited 3D rendering of joint surfaces using digital tomosynthesis. This technique promises to provide an improved method to visualize the structural changes of RA.
New revenue‐recognition model

On June 24, 2010, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) and the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) issued a joint exposure draft on revenue recognition. It marks a significant step toward international convergence. But the new revenue model may have a significant impact on the way some entities recognize revenue—and new disclosure guidance as to the amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenues and cash flows arising from customer contracts. Therefore, cash and treasury management should carefully analyze the impact that this new model can have on their particular entity. The authors explain how to apply the new model. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Differential sorting and post-secretory targeting of proteins in parasitic invasion

Toxoplasma gondii uses a highly coordinated arsenal of three structurally and biochemically distinct secretory granules to invade and develop in a wide range of host cells. Proteins of these secretory granules are sorted to strategic subcellular locations using distinctive sorting signals and are then triggered differentially for exocytosis. These secreted proteins are subsequently targeted and inserted into membrane domains.
Response to the Letter by Sovari and Dudley

In response to the Letter by Sovari and Dudley, we agree with their proposal that increased transforming growth factor (TGF)-β expression correlates with increased myocardial fibrosis and may serve as a useful prognostic marker for the development of myocardial fibrosis ultimately resulting in heart failure. However, we also feel that additional research must be performed to thoroughly examine the risk stratification potential of TGF-β, considering the vast number of signaling networks involved, as well as the contribution of other signaling pathways that lead to …
FTO genotype, dietary protein, and change in appetite: the Preventing Overweight Using Novel Dietary Strategies trial

Background: A common obesity-risk variant rs9939609 in the fat mass– and obesity-associated (FTO) gene was recently shown to affect appetite, and the gene is sensitive to the regulation of amino acids. Objective: We examined the interaction between FTO genotype and protein intake on the long-term changes in appetite in a randomized controlled trial. Design: We genotyped FTO rs9939609 in 737 overweight adults in the 2-y Preventing Overweight Using Novel Dietary Strategies trial and assessed 4 appetite-related traits including cravings, fullness, hunger, and prospective consumption. Results: We showed that dietary protein significantly modified genetic effects on changes in food cravings and appetite scores at 6 mo after adjustment for age, sex, ethnicity, baseline body mass index, weight change, and baseline value for respective outcomes (P-interaction = 0.027 and 0.048, respectively). The A allele was associated with a greater decrease in food cravings and appetite scores in participants with high-protein–diet intake (P = 0.027 and 0.047, respectively) but not in subjects in the low-protein–diet group (P = 0.384 and 0.078, respectively). The weight regain from 6 to 24 mo attenuated gene-protein interactions. Protein intakes did not modify FTO genotype effects on other appetite measures. Conclusion: Our data suggest that individuals with the FTO rs9939609 A allele might obtain more benefits in a reduction of food cravings and appetite by choosing a hypocaloric and higher-protein weight-loss diet. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00072995. Am J Clin Nutr 2014;99:1126–30.
Holocene environmental history and evolution of a tidal salt marsh in San Francisco Bay, California

Abstract Analyses of three sediment cores collected from a tidal salt marsh located on the western edge of San Pablo Bay in the San Francisco Bay estuary have produced long-term records of late Holocene marsh development. The records from these cores include a suite of elements, organic carbon content, fossil seeds, pollen, and stable carbon isotopes. The stratigraphy indicates fresher water conditions than present between 3400 and 2000 cal YBP. A tidal marsh became established at China Camp after about 2000 cal YBP; between 2000 cal YBP and approximately 700 cal YBP, conditions in the estuary were apparently more saline and variable. This interval was terminated by at least three or possibly five flood events, as evidenced by coarse clastic materials most likely washed down from the surrounding uplands. These floods represent high rainfall events, possibly El Nino years, and occurred during the late Medieval Climatic Anomaly. Greater plant diversity and pollen from some species with low salt tolerance ar...
Advanced germanium MOSFET technologies with high-/spl kappa/ gate dielectrics and shallow junctions

Various advanced germanium (Ge) metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) technologies with high-permittivity (high-/spl kappa/) gate dielectrics and shallow junctions have been demonstrated. Numerous novel Ge technologies on surface cleaning, gate dielectric, and dopant incorporation are presented In addition, we disclose an innovative self-aligned gate-last fabrication process not only to demonstrate functional Ge MOSFETs, but also to provide a vehicle to characterize many novel material integration schemes.
A methodology for computer model building

System performance evaluation techniques are of vital importance in the system design process. As depicted schematically in Figure 1, the selection of the design variables is generally accomplished by an iterative process in which the evaluation of the system cost and performance plays a crucial part.
The selective in vitro cytotoxicity of carcinoma cells by AZT is enhanced by concurrent treatment with delocalized lipophilic cations.

Abstract This study assessed the selective growth inhibitory effect on cultured carcinoma cells by 3′-azido-3′-deoxythymidine (AZT), as a single agent, and in combination with delocalized lipophilic cations (DLCs) that are known to inhibit mitochondrial function. In cytotoxicity assays, treatment of cells with varying concentrations of AZT induced a dose-dependent inhibition of cell growth of the human carcinoma lines DU-145 (prostate; IC50 at 24 μM), MCF-7 (breast; IC50 at 22 μM), and CX-1 (colon; IC50 at 23 μM), yet caused no significant effect on the growth of the control epithelial cell line CV-1 (monkey kidney) at a concentration as high as 50 μM AZT. Combination treatment employing a constant concentration (1.25 μM) of the DLC dequalinium chloride (DECA) plus varying concentrations of AZT (0–50 μM) enhanced the AZT-induced cytotoxicity of carcinoma cells at least fourfold for MCF-7 and CX-1 cells (IC50 at 5 μM AZT), and twofold for DU-145 cells (IC50 at 11 μM AZT). Similar results were obtained in DU-145 cells using a constant concentration of the DLC MKT-077 (1.0 μM) and varying concentrations of AZT (IC50 at 12.5 μM). As expected, the drug combination of constant DLC and varying AZT had no significant effect on the growth of CV-1 cells. Clonogenic assays demonstrated up to 20-fold enhancement of selective carcinoma cell killing by combination vs. single agent treatment, depending on the specific drug combination and concentrations used. It is hypothesized that the efficacy of the AZT/DLC drug combination in carcinoma cell killing may be based on a dual selectivity involving inhibition of mitochondrial energy metabolism and inhibition of DNA synthesis due to limited deoxythymidine monophosphate availability.
Molecular H2 trapped in AlH3 solid

Abstract Solid aluminum hydride, AlH 3 , has been proposed and studied for applications in hydrogen storage. In some samples, a comparatively narrow feature in the proton NMR spectrum is observed; we demonstrate here that this peak is due to molecular hydrogen (H 2 ) trapped within the solid, presumably from earlier processing procedures or partial decomposition. Static and magic-angle spinning NMR show that the responsible species is highly mobile, even at 11 K. Neutron-energy-gain spectra obtained at 3.5 K yield a feature at or near the free-rotor H 2 energy difference between the J = 1 and J = 0 states. Both NMR and neutron scattering demonstrate ortho – para conversion at low temperatures. Similar NMR signatures in other hydrogen-storage solids such as NaAlH 4 may also be due to trapped H 2 .
Model Specification in Instrumental-Variables Regression

In many applications of instrumental-variables regression, researchers seek to defend the plausibility of a key assumption: the instrumental variable is independent of the error term in a linear regression model. Although fulfilling this exogeneity criterion is necessary for a valid application of the instrumental-variables approach, it is not sufficient. In the regression context, the identification of causal effects depends not just on the exogeneity of the instrument but also on the validity of the underlying model. In this article, I focus on one feature of such models: the assumption that variation in the endogenous regressor that is related to the instrumental variable has the same effect as variation that is unrelated to the instrument. In many applications, this assumption may be quite strong, but relaxing it can limit our ability to estimate parameters of interest. After discussing two substantive examples, I develop analytic results (simulations are reported elsewhere). I also present a specification test that may be useful for determining the relevance of these issues in a given application.
NEW RIDGED, CONICAL, FISSICULATE BLASTOID FROM THE PERMIAN OF TIMOR

Abstract Permian rocks from the Indonesian island of Timor contain an abundant and diverse pelmatozoan echinoderm fauna that was extensively monographed in the first half of the twentieth century. Recent collections have produced specimens of Corrugatoblastus savilli, n. gen. n. sp., the first new genus of blastoid described from Timor in 70 years. Corrugatoblastus savilli is a ridged and furrowed, conical, fissiculate blastoid with a highly unusual thecal morphology mimicking a small, solitary, rugose coral. We have placed C. savilli in the Family Codasteridae, although it has several morphological features that are unique when compared to other genera in the family and to other blastoid genera regardless of familial assignment.
Commentary: Sir Arthur Mitchell—pioneer of psychiatric epidemiology and of community care

He alsomade contributions in many other fields, fromMedical Meteorology to Archeology, and was aProfessor of Ancient History.A large part of Mitchell’s work was devoted to whatwe would now call psychiatric epidemiology and psy-chiatric care in the community. With respect to psy-chiatric epidemiology, Mitchell’s study of people withmental illness living in the community is describedhere, and his study of mortality rates among psychi-atric patients is in the reprint that precedes this com-mentary.
Promiscuous partnerships in Ewing's sarcoma.

Ewing's sarcoma is a highly aggressive bone and soft tissue tumor of children and young adults. At the molecular genetic level Ewing's sarcoma is characterized by a balanced reciprocal translocation, t(11;22)(q24;q12), which encodes an oncogenic fusion protein and transcription factor EWS/FLI. This tumor-specific chimeric fusion retains the amino terminus of EWS, a member of the TET (TLS/EWS/TAF15) family of RNA-binding proteins, and the carboxy terminus of FLI, a member of the ETS family of transcription factors. In addition to EWS/FLI, variant translocation fusions belonging to the TET/ETS family have been identified in Ewing's sarcoma. These studies solidified the importance of TET/ETS fusions in the pathogenesis of Ewing's sarcoma and have since been used as diagnostic markers for the disease. EWS fusions with non-ETS transcription factor family members have been described in sarcomas that are clearly distinct from Ewing's sarcoma. However, in recent years there have been reports of rare fusions in "Ewing's-like tumors" that harbor the amino-terminus of EWS fused to the carboxy-terminal DNA or chromatin-interacting domains contributed by non-ETS proteins. This review aims to summarize the growing list of fusion oncogenes that characterize Ewing's sarcoma and Ewing's-like tumors and highlights important questions that need to be answered to further support the existing concept that Ewing's sarcoma is strictly a "TET/ETS" fusion-driven malignancy. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of action of the various different fusion oncogenes will provide better insights into the biology underlying this rare but important solid tumor.
Operational experience and techniques for controlled longitudinal phase space dilution in the AGS using a high harmonic cavity

A fixed-frequency, 930-MHz harmonic cavity has been installed in the alternating gradient synchrotron (AGS) ring. The primary purpose of this harmonic cavity is to increase (dilute) the longitudinal phase space area occupied by the beam by as much as a factor of four (to 4.0 eV-s) in a controlled, rapid manner while maintaining a smooth local density. This will then permit essentially lossless passage through transition energy (8.0 GeV) at intensities higher than previously achieved. Although the system controls permit as many as five dilutions per AGS cycle, only one is used at present. Effects of the various phase modulation programs, excitation period, and RF voltage programs on the dilution rate have been modeled. The parameters predicted to yield the best dilution have been implemented with satisfactory results. Further, the parameter space is being explored experimentally in order to determine the programs leading to the desired degree of dilution without loss of beam in the minimum time. >
Considering alternative life history modes and genetic divergence in conservation: a case study of the Oklahoma salamander

Alternative life history strategies can provide important variation for the long-term persistence of a lineage. However, conservation of such lineages can be complicated because each life history mode may have different habitat requirements and may be vulnerable to different environmental perturbations. The Oklahoma salamander (Eurycea tynerensis) is endemic to the Ozark Plateau of North America, and has two discrete life history modes, biphasic (metamorphic) and aquatic (paedomorphic). Until recently, these modes were considered separate species and conservation attention focused only on paedomorphic populations. We perform phylogenetic analyses of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b (Cytb) and nuclear gene proopiomelanocortin (POMC) to assess patterns of historical isolation in E. tynerensis, and test whether life history mode is randomly distributed with respect to the phylogeny and geography. We find three divergent Cytb lineages and significant shifts in POMC allele frequencies between the eastern, western, and southwestern portions of the distribution. Life history mode varies extensively, but paedomorphosis is largely restricted to the widespread western clade. Therefore, the two most divergent and narrowly distributed clades (southwestern and eastern) were previously overlooked due to their metamorphic life history. Paedomorphosis has allowed E. tynerensis to drastically increase its niche breadth and distribution size. Nevertheless, metamorphosis is also an important attribute, and metamorphic populations are the ultimate source for paedomorphic evolution. Preservation of divergent genetic lineages, and regions that include adjacent habitat for both life history modes, may be the most effective way to maintain historical and adaptive variation and provide gateways for ongoing life history evolution.
On the status of two species of the diplopod genus Amplinus described by J. F. Brandt (Platyrhacidae: Euryurinae)

The diagnostic genitalic characters of two polydesmoid species from Mexico, described by J. F. Brandt in 1839 and of uncertain status down to the present time, are illustrated from the original type specimens. Neither of these species, P. klugii and P. erichsonii, have been redescribed under other names, but the name klugii has been misapplied to a variety of amplinids. The status of one of them, A. pococki (Cook) is also clarified.
Electrocardiographic st‐t wave patterns, extent of coronary artery disease, and left ventricular performance following non‐q‐wave myocardial infarction

Subendocardial, nontransmural, or non-Q-wave myocardial infarction (NQMI) carries a serious prognosis. Many previous studies of NQMI include only patients without new Q waves at the time of infarction. Since the site of transmural MI (by Q waves) has implications concerning extent of coronary disease (CAD) and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, we wondered what the extent of CAD and LV dysfunction is among acute MI patients who have neither new nor old Q waves. Furthermore, we sought to determine whether ST-T wave patterns or resting LV ejection fraction (EF), alone or combined, could separate NQMI patients with significant CAD from those with normal or nearly normal coronaries. Therefore, we retrospectively examined angiographic and electrocardiographic data in 55 symptomatic patients with NQMI. ST-T wave patterns on admission were classified as either ischemic (transient ST elevation, persistent horizontal ST depression, or persistent deep T wave inversion) or nonspecific. Eleven patients (20%) had normal or nearly normal coronaries (N); ten patients (18%) had one, seven patients (13%) had two, and 19 patients (34%) had three vessel CAD; eight patients (15%) had left main (LM) disease. Six of the 11 N patients had ergonovine tests and all six were negative. Segmental LV wall motion abnormalities (WMA) were commonly observed; however, diffuse LVWMA were present only among patients with three vessel and LM disease. EF was below 0.50 in 48% of patients with three vessel or LM disease. Although ischemic ST-T wave patterns were more common (P < 0.05) among patients with significant CAD than among N patients, neither the ST-T wave pattern nor EF, alone or in combination, allowed confident separation of N patients from significant CAD patients. We conclude 1) A large proportion of NQMI patients have LM disease, three vessel disease, or normal or nearly normal coronaries. 2) Despite the absence of Q waves, LV dysfunction is common and the degree of LV impairment is worse among patients with more extensive CAD. 3) NQMI patients who may have normal or nearly normal coronaries cannot be reliably separated from NQMI patients with significant CAD on the basis of ST-T wave patterns or resting LVEF. 4) Coronary angiography appears warranted to assess the extent of CAD in symptomatic NQMI patients.
Silo science and portable XRF in archaeology: a response to Frahm

Abstract A recent study by Frahm (2013) on the application of portable XRF (PXRF) for chemical characterization of obsidian ignores fundamental issues of reliability and validity in the measurements, and justifies “internally consistent” measurements as acceptable. We argue this form of science is unacceptable, point out several flaws in Frahm's paper, and provide some examples of PXRF measurements that are valid and reliable and conform to international standards as published.
A phenomenological study of family influence on Millennial college students' money beliefs and behaviors

Although family systems theorists have long emphasized the family as an important influence on the individual’s life choices, there is minimal qualitative research relating to Millennial college students and the impact of their families, particularly in the area of financial beliefs and behaviors. The purpose of this qualitative study was the exploration of the phenomenon of family influence on Millennial college students regarding how money messages from parents and grandparents have influenced their own money beliefs and behaviors. Seven college students between the ages of 21-23 were interviewed to gain insight into the perceived impact of family money messages. The literature review informed the study by describing family systems theory and the role of family and consumer sciences education in financial literacy. Characteristics of Millennial college students in general and how they tend to handle money specifically were explored. Obstacles to success for Millennial college students, such as credit card debt, student loans, gambling on campus, and attrition due to financial problems, were described. For this qualitative study, rigorous data collection incorporated questionnaires, genograms, written reflections, data forms, and multiple semi-structured, guided interviews. These face-to-face personal interviews provided rich descriptions of the students’ experiences constructing their money genograms and reflecting on the perceived impact of the money messages received from their grandparents and parents. The group of seven students was diverse in ethnicity and gender. The transcribed data from the recorded interviews were coded, analyzed, interpreted, and synthesized into a composite textural description of the family influence
Tree Size and Drought Affect Ponderosa Pine Physiological Response to Thinning and Burning Treatments

Thinning and burning treatments based on presettlement (prior to Euro- American settlement) stand conditions have been proposed for improving the vigor and growth of Pinus ponderosa. No study has examined effects of different levels of such thinning treatments on tree water, carbon, and nitrogen relations, or compared effects between postsettlement (trees established after Euro-American settlement) and presettlement (estab- lished before Euro-American settlement) trees. We investigated responses of presettlement and postsettlement trees to three levels of thinning and burning (unthinned/unburned control, light thinning/burning, heavy thinning/burning) over 2 yr that differed in precipitation in northern Arizona. Both thinning treatments consistently increased predawn water potential of both tree sizes compared with the control. Effects of thinning on leaf gas exchange varied between tree sizes and measurement times. Thinning increased net photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance only when soil water availability was lowest, and increases were greater for postsettlement than presettlement trees. In contrast, thinning had no effect on foliar nitrogen concentration. Our results suggest greater positive effects of restoration thinning on tree water and carbon relations for postsettlement versus presettlement trees, and under drought versus nondrought conditions. Photosynthetic response to thinning in old trees may be constrained by physiologi- cal factors associated with large size such as low soil-to-leaf hydraulic conductance. FOR. SCI. 50(1):81-91.
Inversion Problems In Pyramidal Classification

Pyramidal classification of multidimensional data allows the construction of overlapping clusters. The pyramidal representation is a natural extension of the hierarchical classification. The graphical representaion of indexed hierarchies by dendrograms is well-known. For the graphical representation of indexed pyramids a similar procedure can be used. Milligan (1979) has shown that the most used agglomerative hierarchical techniques single and complete linkage generate hierarchical structures with monotonically increasing distance values so the resulting dendrogram is free of inversions. Transferring this agglomerative techniques to the pyramidal classification it can be shown that only the complete linkage technique generates pyramidal structures with monotonically increasing distance values. Using the single linkage technique inversions are possible in the graphical representation. For the existence of an inversion a necessary and sufficient condition is formulated.
Recent advances in solid dispersions and the formulation of poorly absorbed drugs.

In this special issue, we have selected outstanding manuscripts that represent recent advances in the field of bioavailability enhancement. Specifically, the articles highlighted herein are focused...
Land Use Regulation by Contract

In recent years the use of contracts, known as development agreements, to establish land use regulations has grown rapidly. Both municipalities and development interests have found it in their interests to support the increased use of these agreements. This article, however, suggests that the use of contract as a means of making land use decisions marks a key turning point in the evolution of land use regulation. The article examines the effects of such contracts on four sets of norms that underlie the current land use system. The article concludes that contracts have important effects on whether local governments comply with these norms in making land use decisions.
Graph theory and cognition: A complementary avenue for examining neuropsychological status in epilepsy

The recent revision of the classification of the epilepsies released by the ILAE Commission on Classification and Terminology (2005-2009) has been a major development in the field. Papers in this section of the special issue explore the relevance of other techniques to examine, categorize, and classify cognitive and behavioral comorbidities in epilepsy. In this review, we investigate the applicability of graph theory to understand the impact of epilepsy on cognition compared with controls and, then, the patterns of cognitive development in normally developing children which would set the stage for prospective comparisons of children with epilepsy and controls. The overall goal is to examine the potential utility of this analytic tool and approach to conceptualize the cognitive comorbidities in epilepsy. Given that the major cognitive domains representing cognitive function are interdependent, the associations between neuropsychological abilities underlying these domains can be referred to as a cognitive network. Therefore, the architecture of this cognitive network can be quantified and assessed using graph theory methods, rendering a novel approach to the characterization of cognitive status. We first provide fundamental information about graph theory procedures, followed by application of these techniques to cross-sectional analysis of neuropsychological data in children with epilepsy compared with that of controls, concluding with prospective analysis of neuropsychological development in younger and older healthy controls. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "The new approach to classification: Rethinking cognition and behavior in epilepsy".
The Modern Evolutionary Theory

Of all of Darwin's evolutionary theories, the one that encountered the greatest resistance, and was therefore the last one to be accepted, was the theory of natural selection. It was only about 1940 that it was adopted by the majority of biologists. In order to understand why it encountered this resistance, it is necessary to survey the history of evolutionary biology. When Darwin, in 1859, proposed his theory of natural selection, it was opposed at once not by just one but actually by four different counterproposals. One, of course, was Creationism, the other three were purely scientific theories, without any invocation of supernatural factors. These three theories were trans-
Multimedia teaching of advanced mathematics

Multimedia teaching of advanced mathematics can arouse the interest of the students and mobilize the enthusiasm of the teacher and the students.It is favorable for training the students'mathematics quality and developing the students'ability to analyze and solve problem.It is significative for promoting the teaching quality of advanced mathematics.
Epidemiology of AIDS in Huzhou,Zhejiang,1998-2012

Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics of AIDS in Huzhou,Zhejiang province,from1998 to 2012,and provide evidence to take effective control measures.Methods Descriptive epidemiological analyssi was conducted on AIDS incidence data in Huzhou from 1998 to 2012.Results The first case of HIV infection was detected in 1998,and a total of 380 HIV infection cases had been reported by the end of 2012.The male to female ratio of the cases was 3.2:1.Sexual contact was the major transmission route(82.6%).Among the HIV infection cases,the majority(83.4%) were aged from 20 to 49 years old,54.0%got married,36.1%were local residents and 60.0%were from other provinces,Workers(including migrant workers)(31.8%) were affected mostly,followed by farmers(29.2%).About 79.3%of the HIV infection cases were with education level lower than middle school.The samples were mainly collected from preoperative tests in hospitals(24.4%).since 2007,sexual contact has become the major transmission route,while the proportion of drug injection transmission was in decline,the proportion of the transmission through male homosexual contacts increased significantly during past 3 years.Conclusion AIDS epidemic in Huzhou is in increase.Sexual contact has become the major transmission route of HIV,the HIV infection rate increased rapidlyamong men who have sex with men.AIDS education and HIV test should be strengthened.Early detection and treatment of HIV/AIDS cases should be conducted to control AIDS epidemic.
A Validation of Macneil’s Relational Norms in an Indian Context

This exploratory study empirically examines the validity of three of Macneil’s relational norms within the context of Indian buyer-seller relationships. Results provide support for the contention that the relational norms scales developed in North America and Northern Europe are exportable to other regions of the globe. However, the underlying structure of relationalism between buyers and sellers in India possesses both an immediate and a long-term perspective, tangible and intangible monitoring, and general versus specific performance expectations.
Scalable supervisory control of building energy systems using generalized gossip

This paper presents a novel distributed optimization framework to achieve energy efficiency in large-scale buildings. The modular problem formulation presented in this paper decouples the supervisory optimization scheme from the data-driven micro-level modeling aspect leading to significant scalability and flexibility. Recently developed generalized gossip protocol is used as a robust distributed optimization technique. A supervisory control design problem for multi-zone temperature regulation and energy usage minimization is considered as a case study to describe the generic framework. Numerical simulation results, presented based on a physical testbed in the Iowa Energy Center, demonstrate the advantages of the distributed optimization methodology compared to a typical baseline strategy. The paper also outlines a software architecture based on the VOLTTRON platform, recently developed by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), for real-life implementation of the proposed framework.
The Use of MR Perfusion Imaging in the Evaluation of Tumor Progression in Gliomas

Objective Diagnosing tumor progression and pseudoprogression remains challenging for many clinicians. Accurate recognition of these findings remains paramount given necessity of prompt treatment. However, no consensus has been reached on the optimal technique to discriminate tumor progression. We sought to investigate the role of magnetic resonance perfusion (MRP) to evaluate tumor progression in glioma patients. Methods An institutional retrospective review of glioma patients undergoing MRP with concurrent clinical follow up visit was performed. MRP was evaluated in its ability to predict tumor progression, defined clinically or radiographically, at concurrent clinical visit and at follow up visit. The data was then analyzed based on glioma grade and subtype. Resusts A total of 337 scans and associated clinical visits were reviewed from 64 patients. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value were reported for each tumor subtype and grade. The sensitivity and specificity for high-grade glioma were 60.8% and 87.8% respectively, compared to low-grade glioma which were 85.7% and 89.0% respectively. The value of MRP to assess future tumor progression within 90 days was 46.9% (sensitivity) and 85.0% (specificity). Conclusion Based on our retrospective review, we concluded that adjunct imaging modalities such as MRP are necessary to help diagnose clinical disease progression. However, there is no clear role for stand-alone surveillance MRP imaging in glioma patients especially to predict future tumor progression. It is best used as an adjunctive measure in patients in whom progression is suspected either clinically or radiographically.
Metastatic lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the lung treated with nivolumab: a case report and focused review of literature

In recent years, significant advances have been made in cancer immunotherapy. Here, we present the first report of a patient with lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (LELC) of the lung, an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated lung cancer, who was treated with nivolumab, a fully human IgG4 anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody. We also carry out a focused review to identify and examine studies of LELC of the lung in the literature. This case report highlights the need to further assess the role of immune checkpoint inhibitors in LELC of the lung.
Application of the Delphi Method in Computer Science Principles Rubric Creation

Growing public demand for computer science (CS) education in K-12 schools requires an increase in well-qualified and well-supported computing teachers. To alleviate the lack of K-12 computing teachers, CS education researchers have focused on hosting professional development workshops to prepare in-service teachers from other disciplines to teach introductory level computing courses. In addition to the curriculum knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge taught in the professional development workshops, these new teachers need support in computer science subject matter knowledge throughout the school year. In particular, these new teachers find it difficult to grade programs and labs. This research study uses two variations of the Delphi Method to create learning-oriented rubrics for Computer Science Principles teachers using the Beauty and Joy of Computing curriculum. To perform this study we implemented (1) a heavy-weight, heterogeneous wide-net Delphi, and (2) a lower-weight, homogeneous Delphi composed of master teachers. These methods resulted in the creation of two systematically- and rigorously-created rubrics that produce consistent grading and very similar inter-rater reliabilities.
Racial Safety and Cultural Maintenance: The Childcare Concerns of Employed Mothers of Color

When employed mothers of color transfer the care of their children to childcare providers, their needs and concerns reflect their status as members of historically subordinated racial ethnic groups in the United States. This paper introduces two new concepts—racial safety and cultural maintenance—to show how racial ethnic group membership and traditional cultural practices and values are critical concerns that influence the decisions and choices that employed mothers of color make about who will provide care for their children in their absence. This analysis is based on in-depth interviews with Mexican American, African American and Guamanian American employed mothers of infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children.
Exploring U.S. Veterans’ post-service employment experiences

Although most U.S. veterans transition to civilian life successfully, securing employment and reintegrating into civilian communities, some veterans face transition challenges that can lead to or e...
Simultaneous WAXS/SAXS study on semi-crystalline Poly(ethylene furanoate) under uniaxial stretching

Abstract A time-resolved study of uniaxial deformation process of semi-crystalline poly (ethylene furanoate) (PEF) at 200 °C was carried out using synchrotron simultaneous wide- and small-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS/SAXS) techniques. The stretching was able to dissociate existing lamellar crystal assemblies in the early stages of stretching (for strains less than ≈ 0.6), causing a slight decrease of crystallinity, and an increase of inter-lamellar distance. As stretching proceeded, an increase of crystallinity and at the same time a decrease of inter-lamellar distance was observed. Preferred orientation behavior in the early stages of stretching was complex, but could be approximated using oblique b-axis orientation associated with intra-lamellar slip along the [100] direction. In the late stages of deformation, new lamellar crystals were formed with their normal, i.e., the c -axis direction, parallel to the stretching direction.
In-Hospital Outcomes in Large for Gestational Age Infants at 22-29 Weeks of Gestation.

Objective To estimate the risks of mortality and morbidities in large for gestational age (LGA) infants relative to appropriate for gestational age infants born at 22-29 weeks of gestation. Study design Data on 156 587 infants were collected between 2006 and 2014 in 852 US centers participating in the Vermont Oxford Network. We defined LGA as sex-specific birth weight above the 90th centile for gestational age measured in days. Generalized additive models with smoothing splines on gestational age by LGA status were fitted on mortality and morbidity outcomes to estimate adjusted relative risks and their 95% CIs. Results Compared with appropriate for gestational age infants, being born LGA was associated with decreased risks of mortality, respiratory distress syndrome, patent ductus arteriosus, necrotizing enterocolitis, late-onset sepsis, severe retinopathy of prematurity, and chronic lung disease. Early onset sepsis and severe intraventricular hemorrhage were increased among LGA infants, but these risks were not homogeneous across the gestational age range. Conclusions Being born LGA was associated with lower risks for all the examined outcomes except for early onset sepsis and severe intraventricular hemorrhage.