cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relation of Cotton Fiber Properties to Sliver Cohesion

A statistical evaluation was made of the relationship of certain fiber properties to cohesive force and coefficient of variation of cohesive force. Significant positive correlations were found betw...
Feminist Research in the Public Domain Risks and Recommendations

This article offers a feminist perspective on public sociology that suggests that the potential risks of going public with feminist sociological research are more pervasive and serious than proponents of public sociologies have previously acknowledged. At the same time, the promise of public sociologies for furthering feminist goals has been largely untapped. Here, the authors recount their own experience with widely publicized research that, while neither unique nor typical, serves to highlight potential risks of making feminist sociological research public. Feminist scholars must be made aware of these risks as feminist research, which challenges existing gender inequalities and arrangements, is especially likely to encounter negative public reaction. The authors recommend collective and conscientious attention to both the medium and the message. The perspective on public sociologies presented here can help further the goals of public sociology and holds special promise for feminist sociologists who see...
The Association Between Social Disorganization and Rural Violence Is Sensitive to the Measurement of the Dependent Variable

A widely cited study by Osgood and Chambers appeared to extend the generalizability of social disorganization theory to youth violence in rural areas. The results of a very similar study we conduct...
The development of a biological novelty: a different way to make appendages as revealed in the snout of the star-nosed mole Condylura cristata

The nose of the star-nosed mole Condylura cristata is a complex biological novelty consisting of 22 epidermal appendages. How did this new set of facial appendages arise? Recent studies find remarkable conservation of the genes expressed during appendage formation across phyla, suggesting that the basic mechanisms for appendage development are ancient. In the nose of these moles, however, we find a unique pattern of appendage morphogenesis, showing that evolution is capable of constructing appendages in different ways. During development, the nasal appendages of the mole begin as a series of waves in the epidermis. A second deep layer of epidermis then grows under these superficial epidermal waves to produce 22 separate, elongated epidermal cylinders embedded in the side of the mole’s face. The caudal end of each cylinder later erupts from the face and rotates forward to project rostrally, remaining attached only at the tip of the snout. As a result of this unique ‘unfolding’ formation, the rostral end of each adult appendage is derived from caudal embryonic facial tissue, while the caudal end of each appendage is derived from rostral facial tissue. This developmental process has essentially no outgrowth phase and results in the reversal of the original embryonic orientation of each appendage. This differs from the development of other known appendages, which originate either as outgrowths of the body wall or from subdivisions of outgrowths (e.g. tetrapod digits). Adults of a different mole species ( Scapanus townsendii) exhibit a star-like pattern that resembles an embryonic stage of the star-nosed mole, suggesting that the development of the star recapitulates stages of its evolution. Summary
Measurement of Work-Related Outcomes for Students with Severe Disabilities

Measuring employment outcomes for persons with severe disabilities has advanced in scope and effort during recent years. The initial focus on task performance in sheltered settings has been replaced with the measurement of a number of other individual outcomes within the context of supported employment. Additionally, measurement reflects an ecological perspective; that is, individual outcomes, such as job-task performance, integration, economic benefits, and consumer satisfaction are considered within the context of group and organizational variables that can affect those outcomes. In this article, measurement considerations for individual, group, and organizational factors are described and discussed. As students with severe disabilities enter complex employment environments, it is clear that more than one measurement strategy will be needed to document meaningful outcomes.
Polymorphism in Genes That Influence Sperm Displacement

Paternity of offspring of multiply inseminated females is in many organisms highly skewed, with an advantage generally going to the male that most recently mated. Variation in sperm competitive ability can result in strong natural selection, and one expects that a gene that offers an advantage in sperm displacement would, all else being equal, be rapidly fixed, leaving low equilibrium levels of variability in sperm competition. However, empirical studies have demonstrated genetic variation in sperm displacement, begging the question of how this variation can be maintained. Here we develop a population genetic model to find conditions that maintain polymorphism in alleles that influence sperm displacement. We consider a one-locus model in which allelic variants have pleiotropic effects on fecundity and mating ability in addition to sperm displacement. This model can admit more than one stable polymorphism, and we find conditions for protected polymorphism. Induced overdominance is not necessary for stable polymorphism. These results have direct bearing on the observed variation in the ability of resident sperm to defend against displacement.
Distribution of infrared light power for indoor broadband wireless communications

There has been a growing interest in using infrared light for broadband indoor wireless communications. There are two major limitations for establishing a wideband infrared communications link. The first and most important limit is the power requirements of such a link. The second important impairment is the intersymbol interference caused by multipath dispersion. We address the issue of designing an optimized transmission system to provide the best power efficiency for an infrared link. Important parameters that should be considered for this design and some examples of efficient link designs are discussed. The suggested designs can improve the power efficiency of an indoor infrared link up to 4 to 8 dBo while providing a smaller RMS delay spread, more robustness to shadowing and more uniform distribution of power.
Bcl-2 Blocks Accretion or Depletion of Stored Calcium but Has No Effect on the Redistribution of IP3 Receptor I Mediated by Glycoprotein E of Herpes Simplex Virus 1

We examined the status of stable, resting intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) and the calcium that can be released from intracellular stores in HEp-2 or VAX-3 cells overexpressing Bcl-2 after infection with wild-type or mutant herpes simplex viruses. The mutants included viruses lacking ICP4 or ICP27 and known to induce apoptosis. We report the following. Stable Ca2+ levels decrease after infection with wild-type or mutant viruses in both HEp-2 and VAX-3 cells. The histamine-sensitive calcium stores became depleted in wild-type and mutant virus-infected cells late in infection but increased significantly in DeltaICP4- or DeltaICP27-infected cells prior to depletion. In VAX-3 cells, the depletion in calcium stores did not take place as late as 24 h after infection, concomitant with lack of visually detectable cytopathic effects. Concurrent analyses showed that the amounts of IP3 Ca2+-receptor type I (IP3R-I) remained stable throughout infection, but the intensity of the signal increased and intracellular distribution changed dramatically in both HEp-2 and VAX-3 cells infected with the wild-type and all mutant viruses, except for the mutant lacking glycoprotein E (DeltagE). In transfected HEp-2 cells, gE and gI were more effective at augmenting the signal intensity and redistribution of IP3R-I than gE or gI alone. We conclude the following. (i) Depleted histamine-sensitive calcium stores correlate with appearance of cytopathic effects. (ii) Apoptosis, the calcium stores, and cytopathic effects are regulated by Bcl-2. (iii) The changes in the distribution of IP3R-I are mediated by the viral Fc receptor complex, but the redistribution is not related to changes in stored calcium.
RESPECT-Mil: feasibility of a systems-level collaborative care approach to depression and post-traumatic stress disorder in military primary care.

ABSTRACT Background: U.S. military ground forces report high rates of war-related traumatic stressors, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression following deployment in support of recent armed conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Affected service members do not receive needed mental health services in most cases, and they frequently report stigma and significant structural barriers to mental health services. Improvements in primary care may help address these issues, and evidence supports the effectiveness of a systems-level collaborative care approach. Objective: To test the feasibility of systems-level collaborative care for PTSD and depression in military primary care. We named our collaborative care model “Re-Engineering Systems of Primary Care for PTSD and Depression in the Military” (RESPECT-Mil). Methods: Key elements of RESPECT-Mil care include universal primary care screening for PTSD and depression, brief standardized primary care diagnostic assessment for those who screen positive, an...
Energy efficiency of Zipf traffic distributions within Facebook's data center fabric architecture

Open architectures like the one recently unveiled by Facebook allow a detailed assessment of the energy efficiency of commercial data centers. This paper explores the fit of Zipf-like distributions typical of network traffic, to updates of user pages and the entity graph, for the new Facebook data center network architecture. We find that network resource consumption could be reduced by as much as 40–50% through several changes, either to the software, or to the data center design. Of these, employing a connected hub-and-spoke subgraph representation for each popular node, with each pod operating locally on its node of the subgraph, appears to hold the most energy savings potential. This work is part of a larger effort to more completely characterize the efficiency of data center computer-and network architectures beyond the normal reporting of facility power utilization efficiency (PUE), which is blind to energy proportionality and other aspects of the efficiency within the computer- and network architecture, or IT portion, of the data center.
SINGLE BOOK REVIEWS

Waiting for Wolves in Japan: An Anthropological Study of People–Wildlife Relations. John Knight. Honolulu: University of Hawai`i Press, 2006. 296 pp.
Extended-cycle oral contraception: a new option for routine use

Extended use of oral contraceptive (OC) pills can successfully suppress endometrial activity and prevent menstruation for several months. Given that missed menses in women not using hormonal contraception may be of medical concern, understanding how hormonal contraceptives eliminate these concerns is important for both patient and healthcare provider acceptance. OC withdrawal bleeding is an artificial, iatrogenic event, which results from the deliberate, periodic interruption of hormonal support of the endometrium. Historically, it was important to provide periodic bleeding to reassure OC efficacy, but today it is recognized that these bleeding episodes are medically unnecessary and cause patient discomfort and out-of-pocket expenses. Decades of experience with prolonged use of OCs have been accumulated for women with specific menstrual-related problems such as endometriosis, dysmenorrhea, and menstrual migraine headaches. Today there is a US FDA-approved product to routinely reduce the number of withdrawal periods. Clinical trials show that there is an initial increase in unscheduled bleeding and spotting days with extended-cycle OC use, but an absolute decrease in total days of bleeding and spotting from the first cycle of use. Over time, unscheduled bleeding and spotting decreases to rates found with the use of conventional-cycle regimens. Every woman who is interested in using OC pills should be offered the opportunity to choose how to use them, to determine if and when she will have withdrawal bleeding.
Idelalisib for treatment of B-cell malignancies

Purpose The pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, safety and tolerability, dosing and administration, and place in therapy of idelalisib, a targeted therapy for certain types of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), are reviewed. Summary Historically, conventional cancer chemotherapy agents were recommended for the management of progressive lymphomas requiring systemic treatment; in recent years, however, emerging targeted therapies have altered the landscape of lymphoma treatment. Idelalisib, a novel oral phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, disrupts downstream signaling pathways involved in cancer cell growth and survival. Inhibition of PI3K has been demonstrated to produce durable treatment responses and improved survival outcomes in clinical trials involving patients with indolent forms of NHL. Idelalisib is indicated for use in combination with rituximab for treatment of relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and as monotherapy for relapsed small lymphocytic leukemia and follicular lymphoma after the failure of at least two systemic treatments. The recommended dosage of idelalisib is 150 mg orally twice daily; the medication can be taken without regard to mealtimes. The most common adverse effects of idelalisib include diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, cough, and pyrexia. Severe hepatotoxicity and gastrointestinal toxicities, including colitis and intestinal perforation, have also been reported in association with idelalisib use. Ongoing clinical studies are exploring the potential for expanded use of idelalisib in the management of other B-cell malignancies. Conclusion Idelalisib is a well-tolerated and effective treatment for patients with relapsed or refractory CLL or indolent NHL, providing a novel targeted therapeutic option for the management of these hematologic malignancies.
Serum enzyme alterations in cancer.

SummaryData have been presented on alterations in serum enzyme activity in patients with malignant and non-malignant diseases as compared to normal controls. Patterns of change have been established for the various groups. The patterns for the malignant groups differ statistically from those of the non-malignant ones. The malignant groups differ from each other.Every individual in each group does not show all the changes described for the group. There is considerable overlap between pathological and control values. These discrepancies are discussed in terms of what is meant by “normal” range. Data are presented on the “normal” range of controls.
Transmission Electron Microscopy and X-Ray Diffraction Studies of a,b-Axis Oriented YBa2Cu3O7-δ Films

Quantitative high resolution transmission electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction have been used to study films of YBa2Cu3O7-δ grown on LaAlO3 substrates at low substrate temperatures. Based on analysis of high-resolution micrographs, it is asserted that the films are b-axis oriented near the film-substrate interface, and switch to a-axis oriented at some distance away from the interface, in a manner which varies from sample to sample. Thus, the films undergo a change in orientation as a function of distance from the substrate. X-ray diffraction confirms that these films contain both a-axis oriented and b-axis oriented components normal to the plane of the substrate, consistent with the high-resolution microscopy data.
Boll Weevil: Correlations Between Diet and Triacylglycerols and LD50s of Toxaphene-DDT (2:1) and Permethrin123

The data show that the percentage of triacylglycerols and LD50 to toxaphene-DDT has the highest correlation in the survivors and that there is a linear relationship between triacylglycerol and LD50 to toxaphene-DDT. It is shown that boll weevils, Anthonomus grandis grandis Boheman, fed squares or low-sugar diets are more susceptible to permethrin than those fed bolls or high-sugar diets. It is suggested that, because of this, weevils are harder to kill with permethrin late in the growing season.
Case records of the Massachusetts General Hospital. Case 11-2013. A 4-year-old boy with fever and abdominal pain.

A 4-year-old boy was admitted to this hospital because of fever and abdominal pain. Imaging revealed a periappendiceal mass; purulent fluid was aspirated, and symptoms resolved with antibiotics. One week later, pain recurred. A diagnostic procedure was performed.
Coupling Effect of Top Smoke Discharging and Water Mist on Characteristics of Fire Smoke

A tunnel model( 6 m ×1. 5 m ×2 m) was designed to do the fire-suppression experiment under the joint action of top smoke discharging and water mist. The temperature of the smoke and flame,the concentration of CO,as well as the visibility of smoke were measured to analyze the suppression and cooling effect on fire and smoke under different coupling modes of water mist and top smoke discharging. The results show that top smoke discharging accelerates the burning rate of diesel oil,and cooling effect is obvious under the coupling mode. In the fire growth stage( 50 s),water mist coupled with top smoke discharging has the optimal control effect on smoke. Whereas it is easy to lead boil over and flashover in the fire fully-developed stage( 90 s). Meanwhile,the flame enhancement is most obvious and the concentration of CO increases sharply. Top smoke discharging can greatly improve the visibility,and water mist alone can control the smoke effectively but decrease the visibility. The increasing rate of visibility can be accelerated because of the sedimentation of smoke absorbed by water mist combined with top smoke discharging.
Evaluation and Management of the Newly Diagnosed Patient with Type-2 Diabetes

1. To learn the diagnostic criteria for type-2 diabetes. 2. To understand the components of the initial evaluation of an individual with type-2 diabetes. 3. To learn how to manage newly diagnosed individuals with type-2 diabetes.
Beyond the Border Management Programme for Central Asia (BOMCA)

Since 2003, the EU has been exporting border management assistance to the Central Asian Republics via the Border Management Programme for Central Asia (BOMCA), which has sought to train border guards, provide key technology and infrastructure at border crossings, and prod states in managing their borders jointly. BOMCA is funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme through a network of five in-country teams wholly dedicated to BOMCA. While the programme’s continued presence in all Central Asian states is itself a success and measures well in comparison to initiatives in the EU’s Central Asia Strategy for a New Partnership, 2007-2013, this policy brief assesses BOMCA’s mission and achievements so far and provides recommendations designed to bolster the EU’s impact on border management assistance.
Impaired sensitivity to pain stimuli in plasma membrane calcium ATPase 2 (PMCA2) heterozygous mice: a possible modality- and sex-specific role for PMCA2 in nociception

Plasma membrane calcium ATPase 2 (PMCA2) is a calcium pump that plays important roles in neuronal function. Although it is expressed in pain-associated regions of the CNS, including in the dorsal horn (DH), its contribution to pain remains undefined. The present study assessed the role of PMCA2 in pain responsiveness and the link between PMCA2 and glutamate receptors, GABA receptors (GABARs), and glutamate transporters that have been implicated in pain processing in the DH of adult female and male PMCA2+/+ and PMCA2+/- mice. Behavioral assays evaluated mechanical and thermal pain responsiveness. Mechanical sensitivity was significantly increased by 52% and heat sensitivity was reduced by 29% in female, but not male, PMCA2+/- mice compared with PMCA2+/+ controls. There were female-specific changes in metabotropic glutamate receptor 1, NMDA receptor 2A, α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor subunit GluR1, GABABR1, and GABABR2 levels, whereas metabotropic glutamate receptor 5, NMDA receptor 2B, GluR2, and GABAARα2 levels were not altered. Glutamate aspartate transporter levels were higher and glial glutamate transporter 1 levels were lower in the DH of female, but not male, PMCA2+/- mice. These findings indicate a novel role for PMCA2 in modality- and sex-dependent pain responsiveness. Female-specific molecular changes potentially account for the altered pain responses.-Khariv, V., Ni, L., Ratnayake, A., Sampath, S., Lutz, B. M., Tao, X.-X., Heary, R. F., Elkabes, S. Impaired sensitivity to pain stimuli in plasma membrane calcium ATPase 2 (PMCA2) heterozygous mice: a possible modality- and sex-specific role for PMCA2 in nociception.
Framework for tracking and analysis of soccer video

In this paper, we present a complete framework for automatic analysis of soccer video by using domain specific information. In the proposed framework, following shot boundary detection, soccer shots are classified into 3 classes using the ratio of grass-colored pixels in a frame, and the size and number of soccer objects detected in a shot. These classes are long shots, in-field medium shots, and others, such as out-of-field of close-up shots. The long shots and in-field medium shots are further processed to analyze their semantic content. We observe that different low-level processing algorithms may be required to process different shot classes. For example, we introduce different tracking algorithms for the long shots and in- field medium shots. Furthermore, frame registration onto a reference field model is not usually applicable to in-field medium shots, because the field lines may not be visible. The proposed framework enables development of more effective low-level processing algorithms for high-level scene understanding, which perform nearly in real time. The results show the increased accuracy and efficiency of the proposed methods.
PET image reconstruction using LOR-OSEM with a 3D spatially variant system matrix

A point source was used to sample the point spread function (PSF) at over 6000 locations within the field of view (FOV) of a General Electric Discovery ST PET scanner (DST) in 2D high sensitivity acquisition mode. These measurements were used to optimize the derivation of a system matrix for the DST. We found for 2D acquisition mode that a system matrix using a PSF with radial, depth, axial, and azimuthal dependence produced reconstructed images with greatly improved spatial resolution and contrast-noise ratios over the entire FOV, as compared to the use of a geometrically derived system matrix. The main improvements in resolution and contrast-noise resulted from the inclusion of depth dependence in the model, which accounts for large variations in sensitivity in the DST that are due to the septa and a span of 11 present in 2D acquisition. Finally, we determined that exploitation of symmetries, particularly along the axial dimension, allow a system matrix of similar quality to what we achieved with over 6000 samples to be created with just over 1000 samples, i.e. with an almost 80% reduction in sample size.
Uncovering state-dependent relationships in shallow lakes using Bayesian latent variable regression

Ecosystems sometimes undergo dramatic shifts between contrasting regimes. Shallow lakes, for instance, can transition between two alternative stable states: a clear state dominated by submerged aquatic vegetation and a turbid state dominated by phytoplankton. Theoretical models suggest that critical nutrient thresholds differentiate three lake types: highly resilient clear lakes, lakes that may switch between clear and turbid states following perturbations, and highly resilient turbid lakes. For effective and efficient management of shallow lakes and other systems, managers need tools to identify critical thresholds and state-dependent relationships between driving variables and key system features. Using shallow lakes as a model system for which alternative stable states have been demonstrated, we developed an integrated framework using Bayesian latent variable regression (BLR) to classify lake states, identify critical total phosphorus (TP) thresholds, and estimate steady state relationships between TP and chlorophyll a (chl a) using cross-sectional data. We evaluated the method using data simulated from a stochastic differential equation model and compared its performance to k-means clustering with regression (KMR). We also applied the framework to data comprising 130 shallow lakes. For simulated data sets, BLR had high state classification rates (median/mean accuracy >97%) and accurately estimated TP thresholds and state-dependent TP-chl a relationships. Classification and estimation improved with increasing sample size and decreasing noise levels. Compared to KMR, BLR had higher classification rates and better approximated the TP-chl a steady state relationships and TP thresholds. We fit the BLR model to three different years of empirical shallow lake data, and managers can use the estimated bifurcation diagrams to prioritize lakes for management according to their proximity to thresholds and chance of successful rehabilitation. Our model improves upon previous methods for shallow lakes because it allows classification and regression to occur simultaneously and inform one another, directly estimates TP thresholds and the uncertainty associated with thresholds and state classifications, and enables meaningful constraints to be built into models. The BLR framework is broadly applicable to other ecosystems known to exhibit alternative stable states in which regression can be used to establish relationships between driving variables and state variables.
Non-Specific Orbital Inflammation and Sclerosing Variant

This systematic review of biopsy proven cases of non specific orbital inflammation and sclerosing variant from 2010-2016 attempts to elucidate new findings regarding the demographic profile of the diseases. Discussion of histopathology is emphasized, as to describe the most common presenting features of non-specific orbital inflammation as well as to discuss its molecular make-up . This review also discusses the therapeutic approach and discusses the “steroids vs. biopsy first” controversy regarding non-specific orbital inflammation. The incidence of IgG4 and its relationship to non-specific orbital inflammation is also discussed.
Distance between the left atrium and the vertebral body is predictive of esophageal movement in serial MR imaging

MRI or CT imaging can be used to identify the esophageal location prior to left atrial ablation, but the esophagus may move making the location unreliable when ablating to minimize esophageal injury. The aim of this study was to evaluate esophageal position and movement based on serial MRI imaging with the goal of identifying imaging and clinical characteristics that can predict the esophageal movement. Fifty patients undergoing 190 MRI scans were analyzed. The relative position of the esophagus in each MRI along with clinical and imaging characteristics was quantified, including the gap between the left atrium (LA) and the vertebral body (GAP), an anatomic space in which the esophagus can move. A mean of 3.8 MRIs was analyzed per patient. Sixteen patients (32.0%) experienced significant lateral esophageal movement of more than 10 mm. In the significant movement group, body mass index (BMI) was higher (33.0 ± 6.5 vs 28.8 ± 5.3, p = 0.02) and the GAP was significantly larger (7.1 ± 2.5 vs 4.8 ± 5.1 mm, p = 0.04). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the GAP ≤ 4.5 mm was the only independent predictor of the esophagus not moving (odds ratio = 9.25, 95% confidence interval = 1.72 to 49.67, p = 0.0095). A GAP of less than 4.5 mm between the LA and the vertebral body is associated with lack of esophageal movement (< 10 mm). This suggests that the measurement of GAP < 4.5 mm may be used to predict the esophageal location in patients undergoing atrial ablation.
Ocular complications following treatment in the Postnatal Growth and Retinopathy of Prematurity (G-ROP) Study.

Purpose To determine the prevalence of treatment-related ocular complications and disease progression following treatment for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of eyes treated for ROP at 29 North American neonatal intensive care units in the Postnatal Growth and ROP (G-ROP) Study. Data from the time of treatment through 15 months were abstracted from medical records by certified data collectors. Treatment-related complication (cataract, hyphema, glaucoma, corneal abrasion/opacity), and disease-progression (retinal fold, dragging, or stage 4 or 5 detachment) were calculated by treatment modality. Vitreous hemorrhage was classified separately, because it can relate to treatment or disease progression. Results Of 7,483 infants included in the study, 1,004 eyes (512 infants) underwent ROP treatment: 970 eyes received laser as initial therapy; 34 eyes received intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB). Median follow-up after treatment was 18 weeks. Overall, one or more complications occurred in 2.6% (95% CI, 1.8%-3.8%) laser treated eyes and no (0%; 95% CI, 0.0%-10.1%) IVB eyes. Disease-progression occurred in 9.2% (95% CI, 7.6%-11.2%) laser treated eyes, no (0%; 95% CI, 0.0-12.9%) IVB-only eyes. Vitreous hemorrhage occurred in 5.4% (95% CI: 4.1% - 7.0%) laser treated eyes, no IVB-only eyes. Conclusions Rates of complications are very low following ROP treatment with either laser or IVB. Of laser-treated eyes, 9% experienced disease progression despite treatment.
Instrumenting Competition-Based Exercises to Evaluate Cyber Defender Situation Awareness

Cyber defense exercises create simulated attack and defense scenarios used to train and evaluate incident responders. The most pervasive form of competition-based exercise is comprised of jeopardy-style challenges, which compliment a fictional cyber-security event. Multiple competitions were instrumented to collect usage statistics on a per-challenge basis. The competitions use researcher-developed challenges containing over twenty attack techniques, which generate forensic evidence and observable second-order effects. The following observations were made: (1) a group of defenders performs better than an individual; (2) situation awareness of the fictional event may be measured; (3) challenge complexity does not imply difficulty. This research introduces a novel application of system instrumentation on competition-based exercises and describes an exercise development methodology for effective challenge and competition creation. Effective challenges correctly represent difficulty and reward competitors with objective points and optional forensic clues. Effective competitions compliment training goals and appropriately improve the knowledge and skill of a competitor.
Perpendiculars and Inequalities

There are many theorems to prove, here and in the next several chapters, in order to fully understand the implications of adding the powerful SAS to our axiom system. We begin with a theorem motivated by Euclid’s Proposition 1.11 and Proposition 1.12.
4. Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

The laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy has emerged over the last decade as a widely accepted bariatric surgical procedure. It is a purely restrictive stapling procedure that eliminates the foreign body risks seen with adjustable gastric banding and the risks associated with intestinal bypass procedures. It is indicated as a lower risk, staged option in complex or higher BMI patients and as a primary procedure in lower BMI patients. The gastric resection may offer a unique hormonal benefit that modifies satiation to yield a more durable weight loss than anticipated. Currently, the main controversy surrounding this procedure is the lack of standardization of pouch size and the limited weight loss results beyond 5 years.
Using the online and offline change model to improve efficiency for fast-track patients in an emergency department.

Article-at-a-Glance Background In 1998 the emergency department (ED) Work Group at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center (Baltimore) worked to reinvigorate the fast-track program within the ED to improve throughput for patients with minor illnesses and injuries who present for care. There had been two prior unsuccessful attempts to overhaul the fast-track process. Methods The work group used a change model intended to improve both processes and relationships for complex organizational problems that span departments and functional units. Before the first work group meeting, the work group evaluated the institutional commitment to address the issue. The next step was to find data to fully understand the issues and establish a baseline for evaluating improvements—for example, patients with minor illnesses and injuries had excessively long total ED (registration to discharge) times: 5hours 57minutes on average for nonacute patients. Online and offline meetings The work group identified process problems, but relationship barriers became evident as the new processes were discussed. Yet offline work was needed to minimize the potential for online surprises. The work group leaders met separately in small groups with nursing staff, lab staff, x-ray staff, registrars, and physician's assistants to inform them of data, obtain input about process changes, and address any potential concerns. The group conducted four tests of change (using Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles) to eliminate the root causes of slow turnaround identified previously. Results Total ED time decreased to an average of 1hour 47minutes; the practice of placing nonacute patients in fast track before all higher-acuity patients were seen gained acceptance. The percentage of higher-acuity patients sent to fast track decreased from 17% of all patients seen in fast track in January 1998 to 8.5% by February 1999. Patients with minor illnesses and injuries no longer had to wait behind higher-acuity patients just to be registered. The average wait for registration decreased from 42minutes in January 1998 to 14minutes in February 1999. Physician's assistant, nursing, and technician staff all report improved working relationships and feeling a team spirit. Discussion The offline component of the integrated model helped to improve organizational relationships and dialogue among team members, thereby facilitating the effectiveness of online efforts to improve processes. This model has also been applied to improve patient registration (revenue recovery) and the emergency transfer and admissions process.
Method development for the certification of a ginsenoside calibration solution via liquid chromatography with absorbance and mass spectrometric detection.

Abstract The research presented here describes the development of two analytical methods for use in the certification of a ginsenoside calibration solution Standard Reference Material (SRM) 3389 consisting of seven ginsenosides: Rg1, Re, Rf, Rb1, Rc, Rb2, and Rd. The new methods utilized the liquid chromatographic (LC) separation of ginsenoside mixtures with absorbance detection (UV) and mass spectrometry (MS). Ginsenosides Rb3, Rg2, Rg3, Rh1, and Rh2 were evaluated for use as internal standards for LC/MS measurements. The 12 ginsenosides were baseline resolved by gradient elution LC/UV, with an initial mobile phase composition of 22% acetonitrile and 78% water, flow rate of 0.7 mL/min, and column temperature of 25 °C. The work presented here includes a detailed investigation into the optimization of the chromatographic conditions to minimize measurement biases that result from unresolved constituents. Temperature and mobile phase composition are known to play a significant role in column selectivity; however, flow rate is expected to influence primarily the separation efficiency and detection sensitivity. In the current study, column selectivity changed with changes in flow rate and the relative retention of ginsenoside Rg2 and Rh1 changed as the flow rate increased from 0.6 mL/min to 1.0 mL/min.
Compact Analog-To-Digital Converter (ADC) Using Quantum Dot Gate-Quantum Dot Channel Field Effect Transistor (QDG-QDCFET)

The generation of four states in their transfer characteristic of QDG-QDCFET makes them useful to implement four state logic or quaternary logic. On the other hand, the number of device count in a circuit like ADC can also be decreased using this multistate semiconductor device. This work shows the design of a compact analog-to-digital comparator (ADC) where QDG-QDCFET replaces the quantization circuit and reduces the device count. The device-integration increases, which is a major issue for the semiconductor industry. This paper also highlights process variation of the device, different performance parameters and different linearity analysis, such as differential nonlinearity (DNL), integral nonlinearity (INL) of the designed ADC.
Enhancing L2 Learning through a Mobile Assisted Spaced-Repetition Tool: An Effective but Bitter Pill?.

We tested the effectiveness of the spaced-repetition flashcard application, Anki, on improving 62 university-level learners’ second language (L2) learning in a semester-long beginning Spanish cours...
A Critique of the Interpretation of Nuclear Overhauser Effects of Duplex DNA

The shape of a duplex DNA molecule can be modeled as a cylinder with symmetry axis z. The effective correlation time of an internuclear vector depends on the orientation of the vector to the symmetry axis as well as the internuclear distance and extent of internal motion. Calculations are presented which illustrate these principles. Since the effective correlation times can depend on the orientation of internuclear vectors so do NMR relaxation parameters such as the rate of buildup of nuclear Overhauser effects and the rates of spin diffusion. The approach is illustrated using a model nucleotide to show how the magnetization transfer can be affected by the orientation and spin diffusion rates.
Rafted pumice: A new model for the formation of the Medusae Fossae Formation, Mars

Abstract The Medusae Fossae Formation (MFF), Mars, could be deposits of materials originally formed as hyaloclastites erupted from vents which formed the basal units of Olympus Mons volcano, and subsequently collapsed as landslides to form the aureole materials. These low density hyaloclastites subsequently floated on the northern sea as pumice rafts and drifted to the southwest, where they encountered the boundary of the southern highlands to form the MFF.
Late Protective Effect of Netrin-1 in the Murine Acetaminophen Hepatotoxicity Model.

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose-induced acute liver failure is an important clinical problem in the United States and the current antidote N-acetylcysteine, has a short early therapeutic window. Since most patients present late to the clinic, there is need for novel late-acting therapeutic options. Though the neuronal guidance cue netrin-1, has been shown to promote hepatic repair and regeneration during liver ischemia/reperfusion injury, its effect in APAP-induced hepatotoxicity is unknown. In the quest for a late-acting therapeutic intervention in APAP-induced liver injury, we examined the role of netrin-1 in a mouse model of APAP overdose. Male C57BL/6J mice were cotreated with exogenous netrin-1 or vehicle control, along with 300 mg/kg APAP and euthanized at 6, 12, and 24 h. Significant elevations in alanine aminotransferase indicative of liver injury were seen in control mice at 6 h and this was not affected by netrin-1 administration. Also, netrin-1 treatment did not influence mitochondrial translocation of phospho-JNK, or peroxynitrite formation indicating that there was no interference with APAP-induced injury processes. Interestingly however, netrin-1 administration attenuated liver injury at 24 h, as seen by alanine aminotransferase levels and histology, at which time significant elevations in the netrin-1 receptor, adenosine A2B receptor (A2BAR) as well as macrophage infiltration was evident. Removal of resident macrophages with clodronate liposomes or treatment with the A2BAR antagonist PSB1115 blocked the protective effects of netrin-1. Thus, our data indicate a previously unrecognized role for netrin-1 in attenuation of APAP hepatotoxicity by enhancing recovery and regeneration, which is mediated through the A2BAR and involves resident liver macrophages.
“I Know How to Read and All, but . . .”: Disciplinary Reading Constructions of Middle School Students of Color:

This study explores the disciplinary literacy perspectives of middle school students of color attending urban parochial schools and the reader subject positions they took up across content-area cla...
A Patient with Papillary Microcarcinoma Undergoing Active Surveillance

The traditional approach to the management of thyroid carcinoma has been total thyroidectomy followed by radioactive iodine ablation and levothyroxine suppressive therapy. However, there is cumulative evidence to suggest that the prognosis of unresected, biopsy-proven papillary microcarcinomas is excellent and an active surveillance approach can be considered as an alternative to immediate surgery. Tumor characteristics including size, location, capsular invasion, and proximity to the recurrent laryngeal nerve; patient characteristics including comorbidities, willingness to follow-up, age, and pregnancy potential; and medical team characteristics such as sonographic equipment, medical expertise in the follow-up of patients with thyroid cancer, and agreement among different patient providers define optimal, adequate, and inappropriate patients to be followed with an active surveillance approach. Molecular markers are being optimized as an additional risk-stratifying variable. The parameters that favor discontinuation of an active surveillance approach and the indication for surgery including tumor growth, spread to cervical lymph nodes, extension outside the thyroid capsule, and markers of clinical aggressiveness need to be clearly defined upfront.
Coupled Atmosphere–Ocean Reconstruction of the Last Millennium Using Online Data Assimilation

We use online data assimilation to combine information from a linear inverse model of coupled atmosphere-ocean dynamics with proxy records to create a new annual-resolution reconstruction of atmosp...
Variations in Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS) device types and association with cigarette quit attempts

Abstract This study examined electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) devices classified as disposable, non-refillable cartridge, refillable cartridge, refillable tank, and refillable mod systems and examined if cigarette quit attempts varied by device type among daily and non-daily ENDS users. Data from Wave 3 (2015–16) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study, a nationally representative study in the U.S. was used to explore ENDS device types among past 12 month adult cigarette and ENDS users (n = 4952). Multivariate models were fitted to predict cigarette quit attempts among daily (n = 474) and nondaily (n = 1074) ENDS users by ENDS device types. Analyses were conducted in April 2020. Refillable tank system (38.5%) was the most prevalent and refillable cartridge was the least prevalent (3.3%) device type among past 12 month cigarette and ENDS users. Adults who used disposable ENDS were least likely to use ENDS as “an alternative to quitting all tobacco” (p
The Role of Protein Adduction in Toxic Neuropathies of Exogenous and Endogenous Origin

The peripheral (axonal) neuropathy associated with repeated exposure to aliphatic and aromatic solvents that form protein-reactive γ-diketones shares some clinical and neuropathological features with certain metabolic neuropathies, including type-II diabetic neuropathy and uremic neuropathy, and with the largely sub-clinical nerve damage associated with old age. These conditions may be linked by metabolites that adduct and cross-link neuroproteins required for the maintenance of axonal transport and nerve fiber integrity in the peripheral and central nervous system.
Self-Determination in Autistic Transition-Aged Youth without Intellectual Disability.

Self-determination refers to an individual's capacity and opportunities to act as a causal agent in their own lives to make choices, decisions, and set goals. The current study examined self- and parent-reports of the AIR Self-Determination Scale in transition-aged autistic youth (Based on stakeholder preferences, we use identity-first(autistic) or neutral language (on the autism spectrum) (Bottema-Beutel in JAMA 3:18–29, 2020)). Autistic youth completed depression and executive function measures, and parents rated their child's social-communication and executive function difficulties. Despite differences between youth and parent reports, both youth and their parents reported lower self-determination skills (capacity) than opportunities to practice self-determined behaviors. Both depression and executive function skills were related to self-determination capacity, highlighting potential intervention targets for transition-aged youth to facilitate increased self-determination and potentially improved adult outcomes.
Intercultural Competence for International Teaching Assistants: Embracing Cultural Differences for an Improved Inclusive Undergraduate Student Learning Experience in Chemistry

Intercultural competence (IC) training in the professional development of international graduate Teaching Assistants (ITAs) can pave the way for more inclusive chemistry classroom environments that...
On Generic differential _{}-extensions

Let C be an algebraically closed field with trivial derivation and let F denote the differential rational field C , with Y ij , 1 < i < n - 1, 1 ≤ j ≤ n, i < j, differentially independent indeterminates over C. We show that there is a Picard-Vessiot extension e ⊃F for a matrix equation X' = XA.(Y ij ), with differential Galois group SO n , with the property that if F is any differential field with field of constants C, then there is a Picard-Vessiot extension E D F with differential Galois group H < SO n if and only if there are fij ∈ F with A(f ij ) well defined and the equation X' = XA(fij) giving rise to the extension E ⊃ F.
Higher Order Finite Elements for the Accurate Prediction of Temperature Gradients in Heat Conduction Problems

When the Finite Element Method (FEM) is used to solve heat conduction problems in solids, the domain is typically discretized using elements that only include the nodal values of the temperature as Degrees of Freedom (DOFs). If the values of the spatial temperature gradients are needed, they are typically computed by differentiating the functional representation for the temperature inside the elements. Unfortunately, this differentiation process usually leads to less accurate results for the temperature gradients as compared to the temperature values.For elliptic problems, like steady state heat conduction, with Neumann Boundary Conditions (BCs), recent research related to Adini’s element suggests that higher order elements that include spatial derivatives of the primary field variable as nodal DOFs are promising for obtaining accurate values for those quantities as well as providing a higher order of convergence than conventional elements.In this paper, steady state and transient heat conduction problems which involve Dirichlet BCs or both Dirichlet and Neumann BCs are studied and a new auxiliary BC is proposed to increase the accuracy of the FE solution when Dirichlet BCs are present. Examples are used to illustrate that Adini’s elements converge faster and are more computationally economical than the conventional Lagrange linear elements and Serendipity quadratic elements when auxiliary BCs are used.Copyright © 2014 by ASME