cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fertility Behavior of American Women

The recent low fertility of U.S. women has been much heralded. The crude birth rate for 1972 was 15 (below that of the Depression) and the period total fertility rate is below replacement. The crucial question is whether this low fertility is merely a transitory product of delays in marriages and births or whether basic long-run changes have occurred. Although predictions are highly vulnerable, I think recent declines reflect a revolution in the fertility regime. I will outline the argument upon which that conclusion is based and then report briefly on findings which are relevant to points in that argument and concern the relationship between employment and fertility expectations among recently married women.
Independent sampling genetic algorithms

Premature convergence is the loss of diversity in the population that has long been recognized as one crucial factor that hinders the efficacy of crossover. In this paper, a strategy for independent sampling of building blocks is proposed in order to nicely implement implicit parallelism. Based on this methodology, we developed a modified version of GA: independent sampling genetic algorithms (ISGAs). Simply stated, each individual independently samples candidate schemata and creates population diversity in the first phase; subsequently we allow individuals to actively select their mates for reproduction. We will present experimental results on two benchmark problems, "Royal Road" functions of 64-bits and bounded deception of 30-bits, to show how the performance of GAs can be improved through the proposed approach.
Same stats, different graphs: (Graph statistics and why we need graph drawings)

Data analysts commonly utilize statistics to summarize large datasets. While it is often sufficient to explore only the summary statistics of a dataset (e.g., min/mean/max), Anscombe’s Quartet demonstrates how such statistics can be misleading. We consider a similar problem in the context of graph mining. To study the relationships between different graph properties and statistics, we examine all low-order (\(\le \)10) non-isomorphic graphs and provide a simple visual analytics system to explore correlations across multiple graph properties. However, for graphs with more than ten nodes, generating the entire space of graphs becomes quickly intractable. We use different random graph generation methods to further look into the distribution of graph statistics for higher order graphs and investigate the impact of various sampling methodologies. We also describe a method for generating many graphs that are identical over a number of graph properties and statistics yet are clearly different and identifiably distinct.
Association Between Primary Payer Status and Survival in Patients With Stage III Colon Cancer: An National Cancer Database Analysis.

Abstract Background Colon cancer is the third most frequent cancer diagnosis, and primary payer status has been shown to be associated with treatment modalities and survival in cancer patients. The goal of our study was to determine the between-insurance differences in survival in patients with clinical stage III colon cancer using data from the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Materials and Methods We identified 130,998 patients with clinical stage III colon cancer in the NCDB diagnosed from 2004 to 2012. Kaplan-Meier curves and multivariable Cox regression models were used to determine the association between insurance status and survival. Results Patients with private insurance plans were 28%, 30%, and 16% less likely to die than were uninsured patients, Medicaid recipients, and Medicare beneficiaries, respectively. Medicare patients were 14% were less likely to die compared with uninsured patients. Patients receiving chemotherapy were, on average, 65% less likely to die compared with the patients not receiving chemotherapy. Conclusion Private insurance and a greater socioeconomic status were associated with increased patient survival compared with other insurance plans or the lack of insurance. Future research should continue to unravel how socioeconomic status and insurance status contribute to the quality of care and survival of oncologic patients.
Solar-plus-storage economics: What works where, and why?

Abstract This paper explores the economics of solar-plus-storage projects for commercial-scale, behind-the-meter applications. It provides insight into the near-term and future solar-plus-storage market opportunities across the U.S. We explore the impacts of location, building load profile, technology cost, utility rate structure, and policies on solar-plus-storage economic viability, and identify which factors are most significant to project economics. While savings from storage-only projects are largely derived from demand charge reductions, solar combined with storage also provides significant energy charge savings. A common assumption is that load profiles with peaks are likely candidates for savings from storage, due to the opportunity for demand charge reduction. Our results indicate that potential for savings from combining solar with storage is independent of building load variability, likely due to the energy cost reductions from the solar. Systems are more often economical under time of use and demand charge rates, particularly when demand charges are >$10 per kilowatt. Where systems were found to be economical, expected lifetime savings averaged between 7%–10%, with savings of 30% in numerous cases. Near term markets exist for solar-plus-storage in locations such as California and New York. As technology prices drop, the number of building types that can benefit increase, and additional markets appear in Colorado, New Mexico, and Alaska. All data from the study and interactive modeling results are available at: https://openei.org/wiki/Solar+Storage .
Role of intrinsic disorder in muscle sarcomeres.

Abstract The role and utility of intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) is reviewed for two groups of sarcomeric proteins, such as members of tropomodulin/leiomodin (Tmod/Lmod) protein homology group and myosin binding protein C (MyBP-C). These two types of sarcomeric proteins represent very different but strongly interdependent functions, being responsible for maintaining structure and operation of the muscle sarcomere. The role of IDRs in the formation of complexes between thin filaments and Tmods/Lmods is discussed within the framework of current understanding of the thin filament length regulation. For MyBP-C, the function of IDRs is discussed in the context of MYBP-C-dependent sarcomere contraction and actomyosin activation.
Complex genetic network underlying the convergent of Rett Syndrome like (RTT-L) phenotype in neurodevelopmental disorders

Abstract Mutations of the X-linked gene encoding methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) cause classical forms of Rett syndrome (RTT) in girls. Patients with features of classical Rett syndrome, but do not fulfill all the diagnostic criteria (e.g. absence of a MECP2 mutation), are defined as atypical Rett syndrome. Genes encoding for cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) and forkhead box G1 (FOXG1) are more commonly found in patients with atypical Rett syndrome. Nevertheless, a subset of patients who are recognized to have an overlapping phenotype with RTT but are lacking a mutation in a gene that causes typical or atypical RTT are described as having Rett syndrome like phenotype (RTT-L). Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) of 8 RTT-L patients from our cohort revealed mutations in the genes GABRG2, GRIN1, ATP1A2, KCNQ2, KCNB1, TCF4, SEMA6B, and GRIN2A, which are seemingly unrelated to Rett syndrome genes. We hypothesized that the phenotypic overlap in RTT and RTT-L is caused by mutations in genes that affect common cellular pathways critical for normal brain development and function. We annotated the list of genes identified causing RTT-L from peer-reviewed articles and performed a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis. We also investigated their interaction with RTT (typical or atypical) genes such as MECP2, CDKL5, NTNG1, and FOXG1. We found that the RTT-L-causing genes were enriched in the biological pathways such as circadian entrainment, the CREB pathway, and RET signaling, and neuronal processes like ion transport, synaptic transmission, and transcription. We conclude that genes that significantly interact with the PPI network established by RTT genes cause RTT-L, explaining the considerable feature overlap between genes that are indicated for RTT-L and RTT.
Stochastic response determination of nonlinear structural systems with singular diffusion matrices: A Wiener path integral variational formulation with constraints

Abstract The Wiener path integral (WPI) approximate semi-analytical technique for determining the joint response probability density function (PDF) of stochastically excited nonlinear oscillators is generalized herein to account for systems with singular diffusion matrices. Indicative examples include (but are not limited to) systems with only some of their degrees-of-freedom excited, hysteresis modeling via additional auxiliary state equations, and energy harvesters with coupled electro-mechanical equations. In general, the governing equations of motion of the above systems can be cast as a set of underdetermined stochastic differential equations coupled with a set of deterministic ordinary differential equations. The latter, which can be of arbitrary form, are construed herein as constraints on the motion of the system driven by the stochastic excitation. Next, employing a semi-classical approximation treatment for the WPI yields a deterministic constrained variational problem to be solved numerically for determining the most probable path; and thus, for evaluating the system joint response PDF in a computationally efficient manner. This is done in conjunction with a Rayleigh-Ritz approach coupled with appropriate optimization algorithms. Several numerical examples pertaining to both linear and nonlinear constraint equations are considered, including various multi-degree-of-freedom systems, a linear oscillator under earthquake excitation and a nonlinear oscillator exhibiting hysteresis following the Bouc-Wen formalism. Comparisons with relevant Monte Carlo simulation data demonstrate a relatively high degree of accuracy.
Neural network segmentation of interstitial fibrosis, tubular atrophy, and glomerulosclerosis in renal biopsies

Glomerulosclerosis, interstitial fibrosis, and tubular atrophy (IFTA) are histologic indicators of irrecoverable kidney injury. In standard clinical practice, the renal pathologist visually assesses, under the microscope, the percentage of sclerotic glomeruli and the percentage of renal cortical involvement by IFTA. Estimation of IFTA is a subjective process due to a varied spectrum and definition of morphological manifestations. Modern artificial intelligence and computer vision algorithms have the ability to reduce inter-observer variability through rigorous quantitation. In this work, we apply convolutional neural networks for the segmentation of glomerulosclerosis and IFTA in periodic acid-Schiff stained renal biopsies. The convolutional network approach achieves high performance in intra-institutional holdout data, and achieves moderate performance in inter-intuitional holdout data, which the network had never seen in training. The convolutional approach demonstrated interesting properties, such as learning to predict regions better than the provided ground truth as well as developing its own conceptualization of segmental sclerosis. Subsequent estimations of IFTA and glomerulosclerosis percentages showed high correlation with ground truth.
[Disease burden of influenza in schools and child care settings in rural areas of Hangzhou, 2016-2018].

Objective The objective of this study was to analyze the disease burden of influenza in schools and child care settings in rural areas of Hangzhou. Methods Hospital visit influenza cases aged 3-17 years in hospitals that reported based on influenza surveillance system from 2016 to 2018 in Chun′an county, Hangzhou city were selected as study subjects and a total of 294 confirmed cases of influenza were selected using system sampling method. Questionnaires were designed to investigate the basic information and data on inpatients and outpatients among, health care and life quality, etc.. Direct and indirect economic burden and disability adjusted life year (DALY) were analyzed and compared among different age groups. Results The mean age of investigated subjects was (8.88±3.92) years. A total of 143 (48.64%) investigated cases were male. In total of 283 (96.26%) cases were outpatients. The total economic burden was 124 743.95 CNY. The mean economic burden was 424.30 CNY per person. The mean direct and indirect economic burden was 361.33 and 62.97 CNY per person respectively. The difference of the mean direct, indirect and total economic burden per person between different age group was statistically significant (P<0.001). The 3-5 years age group showed the highest economic burden with the median value of direct, indirect and total economic burden per person being 276.24, 50.98 and 321.26 CNY, respectively, while the 12-17 years age group showed the lowest values with 175.30, 26.54, 201.79 CNY, respectively. The DALY of 294 influenza cases was 1.18, and the median of burden strength was 3.21 DALY/thousand. The difference of the burden of strength between different age group influenza case was statistically significant (P<0.001), of which the 12-17 years age group showed the highest value with 4.25 DALYs/thousand while the 3-5 years age group showed the lowest value with 2.60 DALY/thousand. Conclusion The disease burden of influenza was heavy in schools and kindergartens in rural areas of Hangzhou city, with the cases aged from 3 to 5 years showing higher economic burden and cases aged from 12 to 17 years showing greater burden strength. Key words: Influenza, human; Burden of disease; Disability adjusted life year
UNOS/OPTN data guided assessment of IgA nephropathy recurrence after kidney transplantation and evaluation of immunosuppressive protocols in a steroid free center

Abstract Immunoglobulin A (IgA) Nephropathy (IgAN) is one of the most common recurrent glomerulopathies associated with graft loss and patient survival after kidney transplantation (KT). Steroid withdrawal regimens in KT have been associated with improvements of patient outcomes. The Scripps Center for Organ Transplantation (SCOT) utilizes a rapid low-dose steroid withdrawal immunosuppression (IS) protocol for KT maintenance. We assessed the impact of our protocol on IgAN recurrence over a 10-year period to reassess our steroid withdrawal and IS protocols to see if outcomes diverged from available UNOS data. Therefore, we used IS and induction matched retrospective data from UNOS to investigate patient and graft survival for IgAN. SCOT recurrence rates for IgAN was 13.6%. Overall outcomes of graft failure and recipient death did not differ between SCOT patients and data obtained from steroid free transplants from UNOS. Our results differ from earlier studies showing IgAN was associated with a higher risk of graft loss, perhaps due to selection of a SCOT IS matched dataset. Based on our analysis, we believe that it is safe to continue the steroid avoidance protocols at SCOT and think that it may be beneficial, given the adverse effects and toxicities associated with steroid use.
Algorithms for implementing elastic tasks on multiprocessor platforms: a comparative evaluation

The elastic task model enables the adaptation of systems of recurrent real-time tasks under uncertain or potentially overloaded conditions. A range of permissible periods is specified for each task in this model; during run-time a period is selected for each task from the specified range of permissible periods to ensure schedulability in a manner that maximizes the quality of provided service. This model was originally defined for sequential tasks executing upon a preemptive uniprocessor platform; here we consider the implementation of sequential tasks upon multiprocessor platforms. We define algorithms for scheduling sequential elastic tasks under the global and partitioned paradigms of multiprocessor scheduling for both dynamic and static-priority tasks, and we provide an extensive simulation-based comparison of the different approaches.
Maximum Spectral Flatness Control of a Manipulandum for Human Motor System Identification

System identification of a dynamic environment using a robotic device utilizes physical perturbations in the form of displacement or force. To obtain an accurate system model, physical perturbations must be informative, which can be characterized by their spectral properties. The process of generating physical perturbations by using a robotic device often leads to spectral property degradation in the high-frequency region due to the dynamics of robot motion control and discrete-time signal processing. Spectral flatness is a metric applicable to quantifying the fidelity of the robotic system and quality of physical perturbations on an external object. This letter introduces a new metric named Band-limited Spectral Flatness Gain (BLSFG) to evaluate the physical perturbation quality relative to the input reference over a frequency band of interest. Motion control of a manipulandum that generates pseudorandom position perturbations for human sensorimotor system identification is considered as a representative example. The closed-loop system dynamics of the position control is characterized and optimized based on the BLSFG. Results suggest that a certain underdamped closed-loop property is advantageous to improve the spectral flatness of a degraded continuous-time pseudorandom reference. A high BLSFG is achieved when the resonance frequency of the closed-loop system is close to the update frequency of the pseudorandom sequence.
A Flexible, Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D Printed and Coated Microneedle Array (CμNA) for Precision Delivery of Novel Nanotherapeutics to Plant Tissue

This work reports on the design, fabrication, and characterization of a flexible digital light processing (DLP) 3D-printed and coated microneedle patch, which is utilized in transporting copper-based novel nanotherapeutics to the stem tissue of Huanglongbing (HLB)-affected trees. HLB has decimated the previously robust a nd profitable citrus industry in the state of Florida and is caused by a phloem -limited bacterium "Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus" (CLas). Any treatment for HLB must be precision delivered to phloem tissue, demanding an innovative delivery mechanism that is user friendly and can bridge the gap between the lab and the grove. It is hypothesized that a coated microneedle array (cμNA) will efficiently create penetrations into the stem tissue by which treatments can reach the underlying thin phloem tissue. Based on multiple therapeutic selection criteria, metallic copper was selected and used for this study. Copper is formulated in a way that follows sustained release kinetics and can travel through the plant vascular system without causing phytotoxicity. The microneedles were designed to have an optimized surface area for maximizing the uptake of the formulated copper coating. These microneedles were subsequently characterized in a series of in vitro water studies that shows the sustained release of copper over time.
Piketty and the Political Origins of Inequality

We examine Thomas Piketty's explanations for steady and rising inequality in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the decline of inequality in the half-century after World War I, and the return of high levels of inequality since the 1970s. We specify empirical and conceptual problems with his analysis, which stem from his presentation of causality at a highly general and vague level. That leads him to confuse rather than clarify the causal relations among implacable economic forces, changes in technological innovation and population growth, ideology, and governmental policies and the outcomes that he seeks to explain. We identify social scientists and historians who are able to account for temporal and geographic variations in the political coalitions that propelled egalitarian reforms, and that in their absence cleared the terrain for reactionary anti-egalitarian policies that the rich incited for their narrow benefit. We explain why Piketty's limited conception of ideology is insufficient for explaining how mass opposition to inequality is mobilized. We show that if we want to combine the study of capital in the twenty-first century with that of politics, we need a broader conception of ideology than what Piketty offers, one that will allow us to specify how ideology affects parties, states, voters, and activists.
Role of Guideline Directed Medical Therapy Doses and Optimization in Patients Hospitalized With Decompensated Systolic Heart Failure.

Despite significant advances in evidence-based treatments for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), the use of guideline directed medical therapy (GDMT) at recommended doses remains suboptimal. We examine the usage and modification of inpatient GDMT and its effect on outcomes in patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of acute on chronic HFrEF between 2013 and 2018. Overall use and modification of GDMT, which included heart failure appropriate beta-blockers (BB), renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi) and aldosterone blockers (MRA) during the hospitalization were collected. Target dosages were based on guideline recommendations. Primary endpoints included 30-day hospitalization-free survival and 1-year survival. Among 1,655 patients, discharge use of BB, RASi, and MRA was 73.4%, 55.9% and 13.8%, respectively. Upon discharge, ≥50% target dose of BB, RASi, and MRA was used in 25.3%, 15.6%, and 13.7%, respectively. In multivariable analyses, there was a statistically significant improvement in 1-year survival and 30-day hospitalization-free survival in patients discharged on increasing number of medication classes optimized at ≥50% target dose (per extra medication, HR 0.74, 0.64-0.86, p
Statement by Michael A. Carrier to House Judiciary Committee (Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial and Administrative Law)

This testimony discusses five types of conduct in the pharmaceutical industry: (1) product hopping, (2) pay-for-delay settlements, (3) citizen petitions, (4) biosimilar disparagement, and (5) consolidation. For each, it explains the harms and offers solutions.
Objektiver Idealismus und Theismus

In Auseinandersetzung mit Thomas Nagels Mind and Cosmos, Ronald Dworkins Religion without God und Holm Tetens’ Gott denken zeigt der Aufsatz, dass der Theismus nur auf objektiv-idealistischer Grundlage eine sinnvolle Position ist, wahrend dagegen ein nicht-theistischer objektiver Idealismus viel plausibler ist als ein Theismus ohne objektiven Idealismus. Aber er argumentiert, dass eine theistische Interpretation des objektiven Idealismus durchaus moglich, ja, naturlich ist.
Designing, Disseminating and Evaluating a New Online High School Curriculum about COVID-19

As COVID-19 accelerated through spring of 2020 the question became how will schools cope with protracted closure? Devising strategies to engage and educate students through full-time, online learning became a priority. At Tufts CSE we specialize in creating high school biomedical science curricula that foster engagement with science and build scientific and health literacy, however our popular ‘Great Diseases’ curricula is wholly classroom-based. In response our scientist/teacher co-design team created a new, fully online curriculum: ‘The Great Pandemic of 2020’. The materials are targeted to 10th -12th grades and use student-centered and self-paced approaches to learning. It retains our signature format of Socratic inquiry, multiple pedagogical approaches, and extensive scientific reading and math while focusing on both the underlying science and public health measures needed to mitigate COVID-19. Here we describe how we created the curriculum and the challenges we encountered: Which emerging information is reliable? Which topics do we select and how do we keep them current? What constitutes an engaging, effective and seamless online learning experience? How can teachers monitor and assess student work? How can we instill confidence to use the curriculum when teachers may lack the basic information underlying it? How can we evaluate and disseminate it effectively? We also discuss lessons learned in the context of teaching about 21st century biomedical science, and the growing acknowledgement by teachers and students that it is encroaching constantly on daily life.
Use of the Professional Fulfillment Index in Pharmacists: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis

Most research on pharmacist professional wellbeing has focused on measuring burnout. However, using valid and reliable instruments to assess professional fulfillment in pharmacists can expand understanding of pharmacists’ professional wellbeing. This study aimed to (1) establish the validity of the Professional Fulfillment Index (PFI) for a sample of pharmacists licensed in the United States (US) using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and (2) compare the professional wellbeing of pharmacists across demographics and work settings. Data for this study were obtained from the 2019 National Pharmacy Workforce Survey (NPWS). The survey assessed pharmacist professional wellbeing using the PFI. The model fit of the PFI was assessed using CFA. Multiple linear regression was used to compare pharmacist wellbeing across demographics and work settings. The CFA affirmed that the PFI possesses a satisfactory model fit for use in pharmacists. Regression analysis showed higher burnout (work exhaustion and interpersonal disengagement) was associated with decreasing age, being female, working more hours, and working in a community pharmacy. Higher professional fulfillment was associated with men, and working in non-community pharmacy work settings. The PFI is a psychometrically reliable and valid instrument for assessing the professional wellbeing of pharmacists.
Developing a Personal Strategy: The Alumni Reunion

This case describes the thoughts and reflections of five MBA alumni on their way back to their alma mater for a 20-year reunion event. As invited speakers, they will advise the upcoming graduating class on what to expect after graduation. The case provides a brief background on the career trajectories and family circumstances of each of the five protagonists as well as their personal reflections on their accomplishments and their regrets. The case is an excellent starting point for thought and discussion on the goals and motivations of MBA students, and what they expected to achieve and how they would measure success over the medium to long term.This case would be appropriate either alone or in conjunction with the technical note “Are You Ready? Devising a Personal Strategy for Life after Business School” (UVA-S-0342) as an effective reinforcement exercise. Excerpt Jun. 10, 2021 Developing a Personal Strategy: The Alumni Reunion Alumni Reunion Weekend It was a beautiful spring weekend in Charlottesville, Virginia, and the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business was bustling with activities. It was the weekend of the annual alumni reunion. Former Darden students had arrived, families in tow, from all corners of the world for a much-anticipated pilgrimage back to their alma mater. Over Flagler Court an enormous white tent stood in contrast against the stately red brick of Saunders Hall. Beyond the customary eating, drinking, and retelling of old stories, five alumni had been asked to share with the graduating class their perspectives on life and career after Darden. It promised to be a thought-provoking session, offering deep insight and wisdom based on the alums' 20 years of experiences since bidding farewell to the Darden grounds for far-flung jobs and ventures. . . .
The Moral Dilemmas About Trying Pinochet in Spain

In 1998, in response to an application from Spanish Judge Baltasar Garzon, a British court placed former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet Ugarte under arrest while he was receiving medical treatment at a London clinic. The probe clearly singled out the general as the key figure in thousands of abuses perpetrated by military and paramilitary personnel in Chile. The Spanish court had also gathered evidence that implicated Pinochet in the commission of an assortment of crimes beyond his country's borders.1
Influence of pH extremes on sporulation and ultrastructure of Sarcina ventriculi.

Distinct morphological changes in the ultrastructure of Sarcina ventriculi were observed when cells were grown in medium of constant composition at pH extremes of 3.0 and 8.0. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that at low pH (less than or equal to 3.0) the cells formed regular packets and cell division was uniform. When the pH was increased (to greater than or equal to 7.0), the cells became larger and cell division resulted in irregular cells that varied in shape and size. Sporulation occurred at high pH (i.e., greater than or equal to 8.0). The sporulation cycle followed the conventional sequence of development for refractile endospores, with the appearance of a cortex and multiple wall layers. The spores were resistant to oxygen, lysozyme, or heating at 90 degrees C for 15 min. Spores germinated within the pH range of 4.6 to 7.0.
Randomized clinical trial of perioperative cefoxitin in preventing maternal infection after primary cesarean section

Abstract To determine the efficacy of perioperative cefoxitin in preventing infections after primary cesarean section, a randomized placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial was performed. Among 266 participants, those who received three perioperative 2 gm doses of cefoxitin (138) had significantly fewer serious infections (19.5% vs. 4.3%), fewer urinary tract infections (10.7% vs. 4.4%), less standard febrile morbidity (9.4% vs. 3.6%), and fewer courses of antibiotics postoperatively (23.4% vs. 11.6%). There was no reduction in the length of hospitalization. Use of perioperative cefoxitin was not accompanied by more side effects. Three doses of cefoxitin beginning as soon as the umbilical cord is clamped are safe and efficacious in preventing infection after primary cesarean section.
Small-molecule modulators of the constitutive androstane receptor

Introduction: The constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) induces drug-metabolizing enzymes for xenobiotic metabolism.Areas covered: This review covers recent advances in elucidating the biological functions of CAR and its modulation by a growing number of agonists and inhibitors.Expert opinion: Extrapolation of animal CAR function to that of humans should be carefully scrutinized, particularly when rodents are used in evaluating the metabolic profile and carcinogenic properties of clinical drugs and environmental chemicals. Continuous efforts are needed to discover novel CAR inhibitors, with extensive understanding of their inhibitory mechanism, species selectivity, and discriminating power against other xenobiotic sensors.
Screening for variations in anterior digastric musculature prior to correction of post-traumatic anterior open bite by injection of botulinum toxin type A: a technical note

It has recently been reported that long-standing post-traumatic open bite can be successfully corrected with botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) injection into the anterior belly of the digastric muscle (ABDM). The report documented an individual with bilaterally symmetrical and otherwise unremarkable anterior digastric musculature. However, the existence of variant anterior digastric musculature is common and may complicate the management of anterior open bite with BTX-A injection. Screening for variant ABDM can be accomplished via ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Screening for variant ABDM should be performed prior to BTX-A injection in order to account for musculature that may exert undesired forces, such as inferolateral deviation, on the anterior mandible in patients with anterior open bite.
The Increasing Virulence of Man-Made Crises: Financial Crises and Global Instability

In this article, we examine financial crises after the Bretton Woods period using a new virulence index. After summarizing financial crises after Bretton Woods, we analyze aspects of four separate crises in a virulence index. The index includes measures of contagion, as well as impacts on economic, financial and social indicators. We find that financial crises have increased in virulence over time.
The Framingham predictive instrument in chronic kidney disease.

Objectives We sought to determine the utility of the Framingham equations in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Background The Framingham equations predict incident coronary disease. The utility of these equations is unknown in CKD. Methods We pooled individuals without pre-existing coronary disease age 45 to 74 years from the ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities) and CHS (Cardiovascular Health Study) trials with CKD, defined by an estimated glomerular filtration rate of 15 to 60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Using gender-specific models, we determined 5- and 10-year risk of incident myocardial infarction and fatal coronary disease, and evaluated discriminative and calibration ability of the Framingham equations for predicting coronary events. Results There were 577 women and 357 men with CKD. Thirty-five men (9.8%) and 30 women (5.2%) and 74 men (20.7%) and 56 women (9.7%) had cardiac events within 5 and 10 years, respectively; 5-year events were predicted in 6.0% and 1.9% and 10-year events in 13.9% and 4.8% of men and women, respectively. For 5-year events, C-statistics assessing discrimination were 0.62 and 0.77, while 10-year C-statistics were 0.60 and 0.73 for men and women, respectively. Calibration was also poor, with Framingham scores generally underpredicting events in individuals with CKD at 5 and 10 years. Discrimination was significantly improved by refitting models with population-specific coefficients, while recalibration improved prediction in women. Conclusions The Framingham instrument demonstrates poor overall accuracy in predicting cardiac events in individuals with CKD, although refit models can substantially improve discrimination. Calibration in women can be moderately improved with adjustment for higher event rates. Development of CKD-specific equations is needed.
Experimental methods to determine in-plane material properties of polyurethane-coated nylon fabric

Experimental procedures have been developed to obtain the mechanical stiffness and strength properties of an orthotropic polyurethane-coated nylon fabric for use in a finite element analysis of an inflatable, deployable structure. A method that utilizes a specialized material test fixture and photogrammetry to collect the linear and angular displacement data has been employed. Different material holding methods were compared with the objective of producing strength values not influenced by gripping and that allow for use of machine displacement to estimate longitudinal strains during cyclic testing. A series of tension and bias tension tests provided material properties such as Young’s modulus in both warp and fill directions, Poisson’s ratios in plane and through the thickness, and shear modulus. Results obtained from the photogrammetry method show good correlation to machine readings using a pinched gripping method. Additionally, cyclic tests gave the continuous load–unload response and the hysteresis c...
Enhancing the Quality of Individualized Education Plan (IEP) Goals and Objectives

Individualized service is a cornerstone of early childhood special education. A primary mechanism used to individualize services is the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Unfortunately, many studies report that IEP goals and objectives tend to be poorly written and question the individualized nature of the IEP. The purpose of this study was to validate a strategy for improving the quality of written IEP goals and objectives. A diverse group of early childhood special educators was trained on writing quality IEP goals/objectives and using a curriculum-based measure called the Assessment, Evaluation, and Programming System (AEPS) for Three to Six Years. Results indicate the quality of written IEP goals and objectives improved following the IEP goal writing training and use of the AEPS Test.
Testbed measurements of subcarrier OQPSK versus digital OOK laser intensity modulation at 266 to 1244 Mbps

We report here on measurements made on a lasercom crosslink hardware testbed built on internal MITRE funds. Laser diodes rated at 150 mwatts were characterized to be flat to 100 MHz, rolling off 5 dB at 500 MHz. A microstrip laser driver with equalizer was implemented to provide flat, highly linear frequency response for analog modulation out to 550 MHz. Microstrip and hybrid versions of APD receivers were also fabricated with flat, linear response to 700 MHz (typically -3 dB at 850 - 1000 MHz), suitable for datarates up to 1.25 Gbps. The optical crosslink testbed with equalized driver, laser, and APD receiver exhibits +/- 0.25 dB flatness, +/- 2.5 degrees phase linearity deviation, and +/- 0.25 (eta) sec group delay variation over the full bandwidth for 650 Mbps. This testbed was evaluated with two modulation approaches: analog laser intensity modulation using an OQPSK subcarrier scheme, and baseband digital NRZ OOK laser intensity modulation, at datarates from 266 to 1244 Mbps. The QPSK subcarrier hardware characterization includes the high speed modem/demodulator and a pair of frequency converters. The digital NRZ hardware characterization includes the clock recovery and amplitude/timing decision circuit. Both the subcarrier QPSK and the digital OOK tests used the same laser and equalized laser driver, the same modulated laser power with 95% intensity modulatino depth, and the same APD receiver for these tests. As such, the comparison between these modulation schemes is an even-handed comparison of the end-to-end performance. Results and conclusions are presented.
A new species of Monodelphis (Didelphimorphia: Didelphidae) from southeastern Peru

Summary A new species of short-tailed opossum ( Monodelphis ) is described from the lowland forest of southeastern Peru. The new species is similar and more related to Monodelphis adusta Thomas, 1897, but is comparatively larger, and lighter in color. Other species known to occur in the area ( M.emiliae and M.glirina ) have no closer resemblance to the new species. Other characters useful to distinguish this new species are a heavy, broad, and extremely flattened skull, with a conspicuous sagittal crest. The premaxilla is short and the upper incisor rows are wide apart. During the comparisons of the new species with M.adusta , it became clear that two subspecies of the latter could be recognized and morphologically diagnosed: Monodelphis a.adusta and M.a.peruviana . Their distributions are limited to the south and to the north, respectively, by the Amazon River. The name M.melanops , described from Panama is a junior synonym of M.a.adusta , but M.osgoodi , described from the highlands of Bolivia is a valid species, and probably has no close relationships to either M.adusta or the new species here described.
Advances in the Biology of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

We have initiated an in-depth, comprehensive study of non-SCLC in the expectation that improvements in clinical management and diagnosis of lung cancer patients will follow. We have established and characterized over 30 such tumors in long-term culture and as xenografts in athymic nude mice. These models usually retain the morphologic and other properties of the tumors from which they were derived. With the use of fully defined medium, most SCLC and adenocarcinomas can be established as long-term cultures. The growth conditions for squamous cell carcinomas have not been fully defined, and the success rate is low. In contrast to SCLC, there is considerable heterogeneity of non-SCLC tumors, with more than 12 phenotypes identified among the first 30 lines established. In addition, there is considerable overlap of properties, both within the non-SCLC types as well as between non-SCLC and SCLC. These findings indicate a common origin for all lung cancers. Radiation and drug sensitivity studies suggest that cell line data may correlate with clinical responses. Clinical protocols utilizing our ability to culture and drug test individual tumors are currently under way. They represent the first steps in a combined clinico-laboratory approach to the management of lung cancer.
Neurotransmission: harnessing fusion machinery at the synapse

Abstract Neurotransmission requires the docking of synaptic vesicles to the presynaptic plasma membrane, and their signal-dependent fusion. These processes use a general ‘machinery’ operating at several intracellular vesicular transport steps and, in addition, use a set of unique components that characterizes this specific form of regulated secretion. This review summarizes recent progress that has significantly increased our understanding of how intracellular transport vesicles dock and fuse with their target membrane, both in the synapse and elsewhere.
Muscle growth in sheep

Growth rates of muscle relative to empty body weight were computed for the Peppin Merino, a breed of sheep considered unimproved for meat production. Rates of muscle increase in the Merino sheep were comparable to growth coefficients reported for the Romney and Southdown breeds which were tabulated separately by sex. Pooled data for the Lincoln, Hampshire, Southdown, Suffolk and Welsh breeds were analyzed relative to empty body weight. No significant difference in muscle growth rates were found in direct comparisons based on “starved” body weights for the Romney and Southdown breeds (Fourie et al., 1970). From the standpoint of conformation these breeds might be expected to differ in muscle growth rate as the Romney is considered a “leggy” sheep and the Southdown a “blocky” animal. Growth coefficients for muscle in the Romney, Southdown and several other breeds were very similar to the Peppin Merino.
Catalytic decomposition of sodium chlorate

Abstract Thermogravimetry (TG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used to study the catalytic decomposition kinetics of sodium chlorate. Cobalt oxide (Co 3 O 4 ) preparations of known crystal structure, particle size, surface area, electrical conductivity, and chemical composition were used for catalysts. Co 3 O 4 powder prepared from cobalt carbonate was found to be a sufficiently active catalyst to initiate decomposition of solid NaClO 3 as well as sodium perchlorate. As much as 60% of the total amount of NaClO 3 decomposed was found to occur in the solid state with 6.84% Co 3 O 4 using TG at various heating rates. A change in phase from solid to liquid NaClO 3 was accompanied by an increase in the catalytic decomposition rate. The Freeman-Rudloff mechanism for the decomposition of chlorates is used to explain the high activity of the p -type semiconductor, Co 3 O 4 . The apparent activation energy for the catalytic decomposition of solid NaClO 3 increased from 28.5 to 47.6 kcal/mole in the range from 5 to 50% decomposition with 6.84% catalyst. Gamma preirradiation of the catalysts in air decreased their activity. There was no evidence of an induction period in the catalytic decomposition of solid NaClO 3 thus showing rapid nucleation of decomposition. The average measured heat of fusion of NaClO 3 using DSC was 5330 cal/mole with an average deviation of ±144 cal/mole.
Fibronectin Matrix Assembly Regulates Shear Stress-Induced Structural Remodeling and Motility

Complex spatial profiles of shear stress have been implicated in focal development of atherosclerotic lesions by mechanisms involving force transmission through endothelial cell (EC) focal adhesions to cytoskeleton. Fibronectin is a primary component of the provisional extracellular matrix (ECM) deposited in atherosclerotic lesions. Integrin-mediated mechanosignaling pathways in ECs are required for both adaptation to shear stress and fibronectin fibrillogenesis, but how fibronectin assembly state modulates EC responses to shear stress remains unknown. To investigate this question, focal adhesion displacement, cytoskeletal reorganization, and migration were measured before and after a step increase from 0 to 12 dyn/cm2 steady unidirectional shear stress acting on ECs interacting with either assembled, fibrillar fibronectin matrix or unassembled, fragmented fibronectin on glass. Shear stress onset induced the arrest of focal adhesion displacement in ECs on unassembled fibronectin but not in cells on assembled fibronectin. In subconfluent layers, ECs on unassembled fibronectin migrated downstream after shear stress onset, but cells on assembled fibronectin migrated in random directions associated with local fibril orientations. In confluent monolayers, ECs interacting with unassembled fibronectin aligned in the flow direction faster than in monolayers on fibrillar fibronectin matrix, suggesting that fibronectin assembly regulated shear stress-induced cytoskeletal remodeling. Since cytoskeletal remodeling and focal adhesion displacement reflect early mechanosensing events after the onset of shear stress, these data suggest that fibronectin assembly regulates mechanosensitivity at the cell-matrix interface, which leads to shear stress-induced adaptation of cell motility and alignment.
Riparian vegetation and fluvial geomorphic processes

Abstract Riparian vegetation and fluvial-geomorphic processes and landforms are intimately connected parts of the bottomland landscape. Relations among vegetation, processes, and landforms are described here for representative streams of four areas of the United States: high-gradient streams of the humid east, coastal-plain streams, Great Plains streams, and stream channels of the southwestern United States. Vegetation patterns suggest that species distributions in the humid east are largely controlled by frequency, duration, and intensity of floods. Along channelized streams, vegetation distribution is largely controlled by variation in fluvial geomorphic processes (cycles of degradation and aggradation) in response to increases in channel gradient associated with channelization. Similarly, riparian vegetation of Great Plains streams may be controlled by fluxes in sediment deposition and erosion along braided streams. Patterns of riparian vegetation in semi-arid regions may be most closely related to patterns of water availability, unlike most other streams in more humid environments. Channel-equilibrium conditions control stability of the coincident fluvial landform and attendant vegetation pattern throughout the continent. In most situations, riparian-vegetation patterns are indicative of specific landforms and, thus, of ambient hydrogeomorphic conditions.
Determining the optimal parameters of bonding polyvinylchloride to stainless steel in automotive applications with the use of full factorial design of experiment

Abstract This study investigated the optimal parameters for bonding polyvinylchloride (PVC) to stainless steel in automotive applications using full factorial design of experiment (DOE). The bonding of glass to stainless steel is a common process in the automotive industry for outside window trims. Recently, several high-end vehicle models have incorporated the bonding of PVC to stainless steel to create a more customized vehicle appearance. A case study is provided that describes a DOE methodology that was applied to reduce the use of full factorial design to investigate the conditions that lead to bond failure. The results of the DOE study indicated that ambient temperature, humidity, the primer application process, and the application of a pre-treating heat process positively impact bond quality. The results of this study will improve the bonding process, the bond quality, and reduce quality failure costs for automotive glass supply companies.