cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Are Some Prima Facie Duties More Binding than Others

In The Right and the Good, W. D. Ross commits himself to the view that, in addition to being distinct and defeasible, some prima facie duties are more binding than others. David McNaughton has argued that there appears to be no way of making sense of this claim that is both coherent and consistent with Ross's overall picture. I offer an alternative way of understanding Ross's remarks about the comparative stringency of prima facie duties, which, in addition to being compatible with his view as presented in the text, provides us with a coherent, and indeed plausible, account of what it means for some duties to be more binding than others.
The thermodynamics for the formation of americium-iminodiacetic acid complexes as determined by spectrophotometric and pH techniques

Abstract The changes in the spectra and the pH of four solutions of Am 3+ and iminodiacetic acid (IDA) have been observed over the 15–90°C range. Equilibrium constants for the reaction forming the 1 : 1 complex AmIDA + have been determined, and ΔH for the reaction was calculated to be 6·9 kcal mole −1 from the linear plots of ln K vs. 1 T . The free energy decreases from 3 to 2 kcal mole −1 while the entropy is constant, 13·1±3·7 e.u., over the 15–90°C range. The heat of reaction for the first ionization of IDA was determined to be −1 kcal mole −1 , and the second ionization of IDA was indicated to also be exothermic. Therefore, the ionization of IDA cannot induce the endothermic character of reaction forming the 1 : 1 complex. The thermodynamics is likely controlled by the heat of dehydration of Am 3+ which is expected to be about 200 kcal mole −1 .
Bowel motility after primary resection for colonic obstruction

The duration of postoperative ileus and changes in contractile frequency of circular muscle were recorded in the colon of monkeys before and after primary resection for distal large bowel obstruction. Obstruction was induced gradually by an implanted device. Resection and primary anastomosis resulted in reduced contractile frequency (postoperative ileus) lasting less than 48 h, significantly shorter than the period of ileus after a control laparotomy.
Is the conjunction fallacy tied to probabilistic confirmation

Crupi, Fitelson, and Tentori (CFT, forthcoming) offer three conditions that constitute an attempted confirmation-theoretic explanation of the conjunction fallacy. I present experimental results to show that CFT’s conditions are neither necessary nor sufficient for the fallacy. There exist cases that do not meet their three conditions in which subjects still tend to commit the fallacy. Also, there exist cases that meet all three of CFT’s conditions in which subjects do not tend to commit the fallacy. In light of these experiments, CFT’s account of the conjunction fallacy cannot be right as it stands.
Culture and the public: A yiddish perspective

This article explores the concept of the public as imagined by two prominent Yiddish cultural critics, Shmuel Niger and Mikhl Weichert. The article argues that both were heavily influenced by the Russian critical tradition, and were intimately engaged with the question of the relationship between culture and the public. Both adopted scholarly modes of discourse in their works, while seeking to use their criticism to bring together a Yiddish public that was conscious of itself as a public. Both saw an intimate relationship between culture, scholarship and the public.
Stereoselective synthesis of 1,2,3-trisubstituted cyclopropanes as novel dipeptide isosteres

Abstract The design and stereoselective synthesis of a novel peptide structural replacement containing a 1,2,3-trisubstituted cyclopropane is described.
Ask the consumer: an innovative approach to dementia-related adult day service evaluation.

Historically, family caregivers have been considered the “consumers” when evaluating respite programs for persons with dementia offered by adult day service (ADS) centers. The purpose of this article is to describe a unique evaluation of ADS conducted directly with persons with dementia. Seventeen persons who regularly attended the Silver Club, an ADS program associated with the University of Michigan Turner Geriatric Clin ic, were interviewed by an independent, trained interviewer using a single group, one-time, cross-sectional administration of a consumer satisfaction survey. Fifteen persons were able to complete the interview successfully. The implication of this evaluation is that when specially designed procedures are used, persons with dementia are capable of contributing usable data to consumer satisfaction surveys. Including the voice of this vulnerable population improves the quality of an agency's overall evaluation process and supports the basic philosophy of ADS to preserve the self-worth, ind...
A device for overcoming discoordination with metered-dose inhalers

Abstract Background: Despite widespread acceptance of metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) in the treatment of asthma, many patients fail to operate these devices correctly. Inability to properly coordinate activation with onset of inhalation is regarded as the major factor in suboptimal MDI therapy. Methods: We evaluated Autohaler Inhalation Device (3M Pharmaceuticals, St. Paul, Minn.), a breath-activated MDI that is typically activated at a triggering flow rate of approximately 0.5 L/sec. We compared bronchodilator effect of pirbuterol acetate (Maxair), inhaled from Autohaler and a standard MDI, under conditions that ensured optimal technique in 20 patients with asthma. Spirometric variables (forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV 1 ], forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of vital capacity [FEF 25–75 ], forced vital capacity [FVC]) were measured before and at 15, 30, 60, and 90 minutes after two inhalations of full inspiratory reserve volume for each device. Results: Both devices produced significant and similar bronchodilation. Mean FEV, increased 32% above baseline 60 minutes after use of Autohaler and 31 % after use of a standard MD1. Similar changes were noted in FEF 25–75 and FVC for the two devices. Differences between devices for all spirometric variables were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Autohaler provides a promising alternative to the standard MD1 by overcoming breath-hand discoordination.
High-energy-photon dose measurements using exposure-calibrated ionization chambers.

The current method for determining absorbed dose from high‐energy photons is to use in water a Cobalt‐60 exposure‐calibrated ionization chamber and C λ. Recently questions have arisen about the correctness of currently recommended C λ values and whether or not the Cobalt‐60 buildup cap should be used for in‐water dose measurements. The effect of the buildup cap on C λ was obtained by measuring Farmer chamber response in water with and without the buildup cap. Results show no measurable change at Cobalt‐60 or 4 MV but an increase of 1%–2% above 20 MV. The effects of the wall materials and the displacement factors on C λ are also considered. It is shown that at high energies errors of 3%–5% can be made in determining dose in water using commercially available Farmer or Farmer‐like chambers and currently recommended C λ. The exact size of the error depends upon the materials and thicknesses of the wall and cap, the chamber cavity volume, and whether or not the buildup cap is used.
Genitourinary and sexual adverse effects of psychotropic medication.

Objective:We review the adverse effects on genitourinary and sexual function associated with antidepressants, neuroleptics, lithium, and benzodiazepines, and suggest treatment strategies that may be used for their management.Method:This article is based on systematic review of the existing literature, including more than 130 relevant articles on genitourinary and sexual effects of psychotropic medications.Results:We find that genitourinary function, including effects on continence and flow, and sexual function, including libido, erection, ejaculation and orgasm, may be altered by psychotropic administration. Many of these effects may be consequent to the impact of these medications on neurophysiologic systems.Conclusions:Genitourinary and sexual adverse effects associated with psychotropic therapy are important areas of study and clinical concern that may affect patient comfort and compliance with treatment.
On the Performance of Location-Centric Storage in Sensor Networks

In this paper, we study the performance of location-centric storage (LCS) theoretically. Our results indicate that LCS utilizes network resource efficiently. In particular, the storage load of sensors is independent of the network size, and is evenly distributed across the network. Moreover, the communication distance for getting event information is small. Therefore, the protocol has great scalability. In addition, we also propose algorithms for data retrieval in LCS. Our analysis shows that both the number of queries and the response cost involved in the algorithms could approach to the theoretical lower bound.
Full-Dose Gemcitabine With Concurrent Radiation Therapy in Patients With Nonmetastatic Pancreatic Cancer: A Multicenter Phase II Trial

Purpose Gemcitabine is effective in the treatment of pancreatic cancer and is a potent radiosensitizer. This study assessed safety and efficacy of full-dose gemcitabine administered before and during concurrent three-dimensional conformal radiation (3D-CRT) in patients with nonmetastatic pancreatic cancer. Patients and Methods During cycles 1 and 3, patients received gemcitabine at 1,000 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle. Cycle 2 included the same dose of gemcitabine on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle with concurrent 3D-CRT at 36 Gy, administered in 15 fractions of 2.4 Gy, over 3 weeks. Resectable patients underwent surgery 4 to 6 weeks after treatment. The primary objective was evaluation of toxicity. Tumor response, CA 19-9, and 1-year survival were also assessed. Results Forty-one patients enrolled at six institutions between April 2002 and October 2003. Among the 39 treated patients, the most common toxicities were grade 3 neutropenia (12.8%), grade 3 nausea (10.3%), and grade 3 vomiting ...
Meiosis: When even two is a crowd

Recent studies in Caenorhabditis elegans show that crossover interference, which usually limits the number of exchanges per meiotic bivalent to just 'one', requires the continuity of both homologs. One 'function' of crossover interference may be the prevention of crossover events that might not effectively hold homologs together.
Finite deformation post-buckling analysis involving inelasticity and contact constraints

This paper is concerned with the numerical solution of large deflection structural problems involving finite strains, subject to contact constraints and unilateral boundary conditions, and exhibiting inelastic constitutive response. First, a three-dimensional finite strain beam model is summarized, and its numerical implementation in the two-dimensional case is discussed. Next, a penalty formulation for the solution of contact problems is presented and the correct expression for consistent tangent matrix is developed. Finally, basic strategies for tracing limit points are reviewed and a modification of the arc-length method is proposed. The good performance of the procedures discussed is illustrated by means of numerical examples.
Chronological Benchmarks in Cross-Cultural Psychology. Foreword to the Encyclopedia of Cross-Cultural Psychology

Prefatory Remarks Researchers and persons interested in culture almost inevitably are asked questions such as: “When did interest in this area begin?” “Why did it start, and how?” “Who were the main people in this area?” “What is its current status, and where is it going?” Of course, answering these questions, and many more like them, would take hours and hours of lectures, visits to libraries and hundreds of books, and other excursions into the history of psychology, anthropology, sociology and other fields. With respect to cross-cultural psychology, there were definite significant events and developments that contributed to its current status. One of the more recent developments – and indeed a very noteworthy one – is the new three-volume Encyclopedia of Cross-Cultural Psychology (ECCP). Edited by Kenneth D. Keith and published by Wiley-Blackwell, this set of books covers hundreds of terms and concepts as well as brief biosketches of hundreds of scholars who have made important contributions to modern cross-cultural psychology in theory, research, applications, teaching, and service. Ken Keith, as editor of the ECCP, invited me to write the Foreword to this ground-breaking effort. He gave me free reign in this project, and I decided it would be appropriate to provide a chronological perspective. Toward the end of the project I thought it would be appropriate for the ORPC. With thanks to him, Danielle Descoteaux (Senior Editor at Wiley-Blackwell) and of course the publisher, my Foreword follows. By agreement, it appears here exactly as it appears in the ECCP. The six articles in subunit 1.1 provide additional information about events leading to the development of the IACCP. Creative Commons License This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License. This article is available in Online Readings in Psychology and Culture: http://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/orpc/vol1/iss2/1
Economics and Politics: Introduction to the Literature and Basic Modeling of Political Macroeconomics

This is a survey of the literature linking economics and politics. In the introduction, I explain why it is necessary to study these issues as a separate course in economics. I then proceed to analyze voting models, the political business cycle and international and foreign policy issues. The survey relies on, takes excerpts from and paraphrases much of the work put forth in Alesina (1988), Alesina and Rosenthal (1995), Alesina and Roubini (1992), Alesina Roubine and Cohen (1992), Blomberg and Cohen (1996), Blomberg and Hess (1996) and Hess and Orphanides (1995).
An Extension of Cauchy's Arm Lemma with Application to Curve Development

Cauchy's "Arm Lemma" may be generalized to permit nonconvex "openings" of a planar convex chain. Although this (and further extensions) were known, no proofs have appeared in the literature. Here two induction proofs are offered. The extension can then be employed to establish that a curve that is the intersection of a plane with a convex polyhedron "develops" without self-intersection.
On wavelength assignment in WDM optical networks

We address the problem of assigning wavelengths to paths (connections) in optical wavelength division multiplexed networks. The problem is formulated as follows: given the physical topology of a network with each edge of two opposite directed fiber links and a set of directed paths with no more than L paths over any fiber link, we assign a wavelength to each path in such a way that no two paths are assigned the same wavelength if they share a directed physical link. In this paper, we first prove that the problem is NP-complete for arbitrary network topologies. Our NP-completeness result is obtained through a polynomial time reduction from the graph k-colorability problem. This reduction implies that no polynomial time algorithm can solve the problem with the number of wavelengths bounded by a constant times L for the class of network topologies including meshes. We then consider tree topologies. For star networks (i.e. the length of any path is bounded by two), we give a polynomial time algorithm that requires L wavelengths. For trees with path lengths larger than two, we show that the problem is NP-complete and present a heuristic algorithm based on the polynomial time algorithm for star topologies. Our heuristic algorithm may require 2L wavelengths in the worst-case, but the simulation result shows that the average-case performance significantly outperforms the worst-case bound. This suggests that fewer excess wavelengths are required when most of the load is local.
Clickers in the Classroom: A Review and a Replication

This article reviews 66 clicker technology–based studies focusing on student perceptions/outcomes. Eight major perceptions/outcomes are noted, including high levels of performance (actual and perceived), student attention span, attendance, and participation, as well as student perceptions of satisfaction, feedback, and ease of use. Because the review revealed that studies involving clickers within the management discipline were nonexistent, an empirical study was conducted to determine whether the perceptions/outcomes of clickers realized in other disciplines could be duplicated in the management discipline. The results of the empirical study indicate that the same perceptions/outcomes can be attained within the management discipline.
Using String-Kernels for Learning Semantic Parsers

We present a new approach for mapping natural language sentences to their formal meaning representations using string-kernel-based classifiers. Our system learns these classifiers for every production in the formal language grammar. Meaning representations for novel natural language sentences are obtained by finding the most probable semantic parse using these string classifiers. Our experiments on two real-world data sets show that this approach compares favorably to other existing systems and is particularly robust to noise.
A variational expression for the terminal admittance of a semi-infinite dielectric rod

The reflection that the abrupt termination of a semi-infinite circular dielectric rod produces on the TM_{0.1} surface wave is determined here by calculating the terminal admittance of the surface wave at the end of the rod. The semi-infinite dielectric rod is regarded as an open waveguide partially filled with dielectric. The half space at the end of the rod is analyzed as a homogeneous open waveguide. The complete sets of proper and improper eigenfunctions are found for both waveguides and used to represent the transversal fields. Finally, a variational expression is set up for the admittance and an approximate value is obtained using as trial field the pure TM_{0.1} surface wave.
Is the Sky 2? Contextual Priming in Grapheme-Color Synaesthesia

Grapheme-color synaesthesia is a neurological phenomenon in which particular graphemes, such as the numeral 9, automatically induce the simultaneous perception of a particular color, such as the color red. To test whether the concurrent color sensations in grapheme-color synaesthesia are treated as meaningful stimuli, we recorded event-related brain potentials as 8 synaesthetes and 8 matched control subjects read sentences such as “Looking very clear, the lake was the most beautiful hue of 7.” In synaesthetes, but not control subjects, congruous graphemes, compared with incongruous graphemes, elicited a more negative N1 component, a less positive P2 component, and a less negative N400 component. Thus, contextual congruity of synaesthetically induced colors altered the brain response to achromatic graphemes beginning 100 ms postonset, affecting pattern-recognition, perceptual, and meaning-integration processes. The results suggest that grapheme-color synaesthesia is automatic and perceptual in nature and a...
Antenna selection for differential unitary space-time modulation

This paper studies receive antenna selection (AS) for multi-antenna systems that employ differential unitary space-time signals, where the channel state information (CSI) is neither known at the transmitter nor at the receiver. We perform AS only at the receiver and the selection is based on a maximum-norm criterion, i.e. a subset of receive antennas that have the largest received signal power is chosen. Using a Chernoff bound approach, we present theoretical performance analysis based on the pairwise error probability (PEP) and quantify the asymptotic performance at high SNR by giving the diversity and coding gain expressions. We prove that with no CSI at the receiver, the diversity gain with AS is preserved for differential unitary space-time codes with full spatial diversity, the same as the case with known CSI. Corroborating simulations validate our analysis.
RELATIONSHIP OF WING BEAT FREQUENCY AND TEMPERATURE DURING TAKE-OFF FLIGHT IN TEMPERATE-ZONE BEETLES

In 24 species of temperate-zone beetles thoracic temperatures ( T th ), and wing beat frequency ( n ) were measured over a range of ambient temperatures ( T a ) during take-off flight. The sensitivity of wing beat frequency to thoracic temperature varied greatly in different species: Q 10 values ranged from 0.8 to 1.3. The wing beat frequency of beetles with higher average n was more sensitive to thoracic temperature. It is suggested that the temperature sensitivity of wing beat frequency results from temperature-dependent changes in the resonant properties of the beetle flight system rather than from changes in the temperature sensitivity of the muscle or nervous system. There was large variability in thermoregulatory precision. Beetles with higher n tended to thermoregulate more precisely than beetles with lower n . Measurements of thoracic temperature before and after flight indicated endothermic heat production during pre-flight activity, but not during the brief take-off flights.
The relationship between arrhythmogenesis and impaired contractility in heart failure: role of altered ryanodine receptor function.

Aims In heart failure (HF), abnormal myocyte Ca2+ handling has been implicated in cardiac arrhythmias and contractile dysfunction. In the present study, we investigated the relationships between Ca2+ handling, reduced myocyte contractility and enhanced arrhythmogenesis during HF progression in a canine model of nonischemic HF. Methods and Results Key Ca2+ handling parameters were determined by measuring cytosolic and intra-sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) [Ca2+] in isolated ventricular myocytes at different stages of HF. The progression of HF was associated with an early and continuous increase in ryanodine receptor (RyR2)-mediated SR Ca2+ leak. The increase in RyR2 activity was paralleled by an increase in the frequency of diastolic spontaneous Ca2+ waves (SCWs) in HF myocytes under conditions of β-adrenergic stimulation. In addition to causing arrhythmogenic delayed afterdepolarizations, SCWs decreased the amplitude of subsequent electrically-evoked Ca2+ transients by depleting SR Ca2+. At late stages of HF, Ca2+ release oscillated essentially independent of electrical pacing. The increased propensity for generation of SCWs in HF myocytes was attributable to reduced ability of the RyR2 channels to become refractory following Ca2+ release. The progressive alterations in RyR2 function and Ca2+ cycling in HF myocytes were associated with sequential modifications of RyR2 by CaMKII-dependent phosphorylation and thiol oxidation. Conclusions These findings suggest that destabilized RyR2 activity due to excessive CaMKII phopshorylation and oxidation resulting in impaired post-release refractoriness is a common mechanism involved in arrhythmogenesis and contractile dysfunction in the failing heart.
Noninvasive brain stimulation in stroke rehabilitation

Stroke is a common disorder that produces a major burden to society, largely through long-lasting motor disability in survivors. Recent studies have broadened our understanding of the processes underlying recovery of motor function after stroke. Bilateral motor regions of the brain experience substantial reorganization after stroke, including changes in the strength of interhemispheric inhibitory interactions. Our understanding of the extent to which different forms of reorganization contribute to behavioral gains in the rehabilitative process, although still limited, has led to the formulation of novel interventional strategies to regain motor function. Transcranial magnetic (TMS) and DC (tDCS) electrical stimulation are noninvasive brain stimulation techniques that modulate cortical excitability in both healthy individuals and stroke patients. These techniques can enhance the effect of training on performance of various motor tasks, including those that mimic activities of daily living. This review looks at the effects of TMS and tDCS on motor cortical function and motor performance in healthy volunteers and in patients with stroke. Both techniques can either enhance or suppress cortical excitability, and may move to the clinical arena as strategies to enhance the beneficial effects of customarily used neurorehabilitative treatments after stroke.
Studies of Ni and Co Doped Amorphous AlN for Magneto-Optical Applications

Magneto-optical properties of Ni- and Co-doped amorphous AlN thin films were investigated as a function of post grown annealing temperature using magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) spectroscopy. The x-ray diffraction spectra confirmed that the as-grown material is amorphous and retained its morphology after thermal treatment; however the sample morphology strongly depends on the concentration of incorporated transition metals. We observed with help of transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy that the films surface containing TMs with concentrations larger than ∼10 at.% undergo morphological changes suggesting possible Ni and Co atom clustering. Significant enhancement of the polar Kerr rotation signal was observed for Ni- and Co-doped a-AlN materials annealed above 300 °C in nitrogen. The studied materials have shown strong magnetic isotropy in polar geometry whereas the MOKE measurements in longitudinal geometry did not show an explicit signal for the transition metals doped a-AlN studied.
Computational models of neuromodulation

Computational modeling of neural substrates provides an excellent theoretical framework for the understanding of the computational roles of neuromodulation. In this review, we illustrate, with a large number of modeling studies, the specific computations performed by neuromodulation in the context of various neural models of invertebrate and vertebrate preparations. We base our characterization of neuromodulations on their computational and functional roles rather than on anatomical or chemical criteria. We review the main framework in which neuromodulation has been studied theoretically (central pattern generation and oscillations, sensory processing, memory and information integration). Finally, we present a detailed mathematical overview of how neuromodulation has been implemented at the single cell and network levels in modeling studies. Overall, neuromodulation is found to increase and control computational complexity.
Theoretical hyperfine structure of the muonic /sup 3/He and /sup 4/He atoms

The hyperfine structures of the muonic /sup 3/He atom (/sup 3/He..mu../sup -/e/sup -/) and the muonic /sup 4/He atom (/sup 4/He..mu../sup -/e/sup -/) are calculated with the use of variational wave functions. Relativistic and radiative corrections are included. The theoretical hyperfine structure interval is ..delta nu.. = 4166.8 +- 0.3 MHz for the muonic /sup 3/He atom, and ..delta nu.. = 4465.0 +- 0.3 MHz for the muonic /sup 4/He atom; these values are in good agreement with the experimental values.
Chapter 28 – Defects in Post-Transcriptional Modification of Mitochondrial Transferase RNA: A Patient with Possible Mitochondrial-tRNA Translation Optimization Factor 1, MTO1 Dysfunction

Abstract Mitochondrial-tRNA transcriptional optimization factor 1, MTO1 , encodes an enzyme involved in post-transcriptional modification of mitochondrial transfer RNA (tRNA). The case presented at 2.5 months of age with seizures. He developed medically refractory seizures, hypotonia, gastrointestinal dysmotility, cortical visual impairment, and severe global developmental delay. Over time, he developed cardiac arrhythmias and later hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. He has persistent dystonia. Biochemical testing revealed lactic acidosis and significant dysfunction of complex IV and modest decreases of complexes I and III of the respiratory chain. Using next-generation gene sequencing, compound heterozygote mutations were found in MTO1 .
Fabrication of Piezoelectric Ceramic / Polymer Composite Transducers using Fused Deposition of Ceramics

The Fused Deposition of Ceramics (FDC) technique was used to fabricate ceramic skeletons for development of piezoelectric composite transducers for medical imaging. The green parts were designed in order to have 30 vol% of PZT-5H ceramic in the final composites. Physical characterization of the sintered samples revealed that 96% of the theoretical density was achieved. Optical microscopy showed that defects, such as small roads and bubbles were eliminated due to powder processing improvements. The electromechanical properties of the final composites were found to be similar to properties obtained for conventionally made composites.
Risk Factors for Venous Thromboembolism following Thoracolumbar Surgery: Analysis of 43,777 Patients from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program 2005 to 2012.

Study Design Retrospective clinical study of a prospectively collected, national database. Objective Determine the 30-day incidence, timing, and risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) following thoracolumbar spine surgery. Methods The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Participant Use File identified 43,777 patients who underwent thoracolumbar surgery from 2005 to 2012. Multiple patient characteristics were identified. The incidence and timing (in days) of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolus (PE) were determined. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to identify significant risk factors. Results Of the 43,777 patients identified as having had thoracolumbar surgery, 202 cases of PE (0.5%) and 311 cases of DVT (0.7%) were identified. VTE rates were highest in patients undergoing corpectomy, with a 1.7% PE rate and a 3.8% DVT rate. Independent risk factors for VTE included length of stay (LOS) ≥ 6 days (odds ratio [OR] 4.07), disseminated cancer (OR 1.77), white blood cell count > 12 (OR 1.76), paraplegia (OR 1.75), albumin 40 (OR 1.49), and operative time > 193 minutes (OR 1.43). LOS Conclusions We report an overall 30-day PE rate of 0.5% and DVT rate of 0.7% following thoracolumbar spine surgery. Patients undergoing corpectomy were at highest risk for VTE. Multiple VTE risk factors were identified. Further studies are needed to develop algorithms to stratify VTE risk and direct prophylaxis accordingly.
GoTa-the future-oriented digital trunking technology

Based on CDMA technology,GoTa is a "new generation" digital trunk communication system,oriented to future technological evolution. By converging common network trunk with professional dispatching,the system can improve integrated network competitiveness. It can be used by common trunk network operators to construct their private networks to provide trunk services. Also,it can be applied to professional trunk dispatching systems,for example,city emergency response system. In this paper,GoTa and the related system,terminal and service are introduced on the basis of the analysis for the development of trunk communications technology and market.
The Economic Person Hypothesis:Its Theoretical Review and Enlightenment

Since Adam Smith put forth the idea of economic person,the Economy Person Hypothesis has undergone a long course of development from the "Classical economic person" to "Neo-classical economic person " and again to "New economic person".In the period of classical economics,the idea of "economic person" was developed by totally relying on the utilitarianism.In the period of neo-classical economics,the idea of "economic person" gradually took off the outer clothing of the utilitarian ethno-economics and was increasingly abstracted into a mathematical-crystal type of economic person.In the recent 30 years,the Economic Person Hypothesis has been developed in non-economic fields.Even though this Hypothesis has been criticized and blamed by non-mainstream economists,its indomitable vital power has brought various theoretical enlightenments to us.
Distance-sensitive bloom filters

A Bloom filter is a space-efficient data structure that answers set membership queries with some chance of a false positive. We introduce the problem of designing generalizations of Bloom filters designed to answer queries of the form, "Is x close to an element of S?" where closeness is measured under a suitable metric. Such a data structure would have several natural applications in networking and database applications. We demonstrate how appropriate data structures can be designed using locality-sensitive hash functions as a building block, and we specifically analyze the performance of a natural scheme under the Hamming metric.
A Nested Dual Ascent Procedure For The Dynamic Single File Allocation Problem

AbstractIn this paper we consider the dynamic file allocation problem, where query and update costs vary from one time period to the next. We develop a mixed integer linear program to model this problem. The model incorporates startup costs which are incurred if a location maintains a file copy in a given time period, but did not maintain it the previous time period. We develop a branch-and-bound algorithm to solve this problem optimally. Our algorithm uses a new nested dual ascent procedure to solve the dual of the LP relaxation quickly and provide good feasible solutions. Our computational results show that the proposed solution procedure outperforms MPSX by many orders of magnitude and is able to solve large problems in a reasonable amount of time.
Rethinking creativity: Present in expression in creative learning communities*

AbstractOften defined as originality and innovation and desired for the economic profits it can produce for both individuals and their societies, creativity has been examined in order to find ways in which it can be promoted through various instructional practices in and beyond schools. Nonetheless, creativity as a fundamental basis of human existence and learning in a shared world is largely understudied. In this article, I examine the commonly held assumptions of creativity as it is incorporated into educational practices—that is, the notion of creativity as developable and achievable, and often as measurable and evaluable. I explore some of the (negative) consequences of understanding creativity in this way and assert the need to reclaim the notion of creativity in order to recognize the ways in which creativity is a part of our everyday lived experiences, always including interactions with the bodily self, co-existing others, and the phenomenal world. Understanding creativity as an expressive mode and...
Reoperative Aortic Valve Replacement in a Previous Biologic Composite Valve Graft

Structural valve deterioration with biologic composite valve grafts previously required reoperative aortic root replacement. We present a technique for avoiding repeated root replacement. Exposure is by a transverse incision through the Dacron graft. The valve is disassembled within the graft, and a new prosthesis is implanted. We used this technique in 11 patients with good success.
Proximity effect of a conducting plane in electro-optic field probe measurements

Electric stresses are of critical importance in high voltage apparatus. Their measurement can be valuable, especially in situations where calculations are approximate, such as in three dimensional geometries or when transient impedances are not well known. This paper presents results of a study which examined the use of an electro-optic field probe for field measurements.
Potential epigenetic biomarkers of obesity-related insulin resistance in human whole-blood.

ABSTRACTObesity can increase the risk of complex metabolic diseases, including insulin resistance. Moreover, obesity can be caused by environmental and genetic factors. However, the epigenetic mechanisms of obesity are not well defined. Therefore, the identification of novel epigenetic biomarkers of obesity allows for a more complete understanding of the disease and its underlying insulin resistance. The aim of our study was to identify DNA methylation changes in whole-blood that were strongly associated with obesity and insulin resistance. Whole-blood was obtained from lean (n = 10; BMI = 23.6 ± 0.7 kg/m2) and obese (n = 10; BMI = 34.4 ± 1.3 kg/m2) participants in combination with euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamps to assess insulin sensitivity. We performed reduced representation bisulfite sequencing on genomic DNA isolated from the blood. We identified 49 differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs; q < 0.05) that were altered in obese compared with lean participants. We identified 2 sites (Chr.21:46,957...
Quality of life after surgery for intracranial meningioma

Background To the authors' knowledge, limited data exist regarding long-term quality of life (QOL) for patients diagnosed with intracranial meningioma. Methods The data in the current study concerned 1722 meningioma cases diagnosed among residents of Connecticut, Massachusetts, California, Texas, and North Carolina from May 1, 2006 through March 14, 2013, and 1622 controls who were frequency matched to the cases by age, sex, and geography. These individuals were participants in a large, population-based, case-control study. Telephone interviews were used to collect data regarding QOL at the time of initial diagnosis or contact, using the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36 Health Survey. QOL outcomes were compared by case/control status. Results Patients diagnosed with meningioma reported levels of physical, emotional, and mental health functioning below those reported in a general healthy population. Case participants and controls differed most significantly with regard to the domains of Physical and Social Functioning, Role-Physical, Role-Emotional, and Vitality. Conclusions In the current study, patients with meningioma experienced statistically significant decreases in QOL compared with healthy controls of a similar demographic breakdown, although these differences were found to vary in clinical significance. Cancer 2018;124:161-6. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Two New Species of Viburnum (Viburnaceae) from the Tropical Andes

Viburnum obtectum H. Vargas and V. stipitatum H. Vargas are described as new species. They differ from all other Ecuadorian species of Viburnum L. by having marginal teeth along the whole margin of the leaves, while such teeth in other species are restricted to either the basal or apical half of the leaf. Differences between the two new species are expressed particularly on the abaxial leaf surface. Viburnum obtectum is extremely densely pubescent; the indument completely obscures the abaxial leaf surface, and the stellate trichomes are almost always sessile. Viburnum stipitatum has a visible abaxial leaf surface, with long-stalked stellate trichomes having a forest-like appearance. A key to the Viburnum species in Ecuador is provided, as well as illustrations of the new proposed species.
BK viremia is not associated with adverse outcomes in the absence of BK nephropathy

There are limited data regarding the association of different levels of BK viremia and BK nephropathy (BKN), and graft outcomes. We studied the BK plasma PCR levels of all kidney transplant recipients (KTR) transplanted at our institution between 01/01/2006 and 06/30/2014. Patients were divided into groups based on their highest BK plasma PCR level within the first year following transplantation: undetectable, low ( 10 000-100 000 copies/mL), very high (>100 000 copies/mL), and those that had biopsy-proven BKN. There were a total of 1146 KTR during the study period: 813 with undetectable BK levels and 333 with any detectable BK level (87 with low, 79 with moderate, 88 with high, 34 with very high level BK, and 45 that had BKN). Compared to KTR with an undetectable BK level, incidence of mortality, graft failure, rejections,and infections were not significantly different for those with low, moderate, high, or very high BK level. Patients with BKN had a higher rate of infection and higher rates of total graft failure or death-censored graft failure compared to those with undetectable BK levels. BK viremia in the absence of BKN does not significantly increase the risk of rejection, infections, or graft failure compared to an undetectable BK level.
Genetic Susceptibility to Thirdhand-Smoke-Induced Lung Cancer Development.

Author(s): Hang, Bo; Mao, Jian-Hua; Snijders, Antoine M | Abstract: Recently, potential health concerns have been raised about thirdhand smoke (THS), a much less well-understood type of smoke exposure defined as residual tobacco smoke sorbed onto indoor surfaces after active smoking has ceased. THS exposure is derived from the involuntary inhalation, ingestion, or dermal uptake of indoor pollutants. The timescale for exposure to THS pollution is generally much longer than secondhand smoke, and could stretch to days, months, or years (long-term, low-level exposure). Recent studies showed that exposure to THS at early age in mice can affect body weight, immunity, and lung cancer development. However, adverse health effects of THS in human populations remain poorly understood and many questions remain unanswered. One major question is how genetic factors influence susceptibility to THS-induced health effects, especially tumor development and whether there is an age-specific window of susceptibility for these effects. By addressing these questions, we will provide a better understanding of the effects of THS on human health and disease. This information would address critical knowledge gaps that are required for the formulation of policies related to indoor air quality.ImplicationsTHS, the residual tobacco smoke remaining in the environment after tobacco has been smoked, represents an underestimated public health hazard. Evidence supports its widespread presence in indoor environments. Vulnerable populations are believed to include infants and children living in a smoking household exposed to THS and/or secondhand smoke, and exposure has been identified as a risk factor for lung cancer later in life. These and future studies will provide novel and important evidence of how early-life exposure to THS affects cancer development and other diseases, which should be useful for framing and enforcing new policies against passive smoking in the world.
ULTRAFAST VIBRATIONAL ENERGY TRANSFER IN MOLECULAR SOLIDS

Vibrational relaxation (VR) and multiphonon up pumping play an important role in determining the behavior of molecules in solids just behind the shock front, and the properties of the front itself. Although ultrafast VR studies are not new, the more difficult up pumping experiments are only now becoming feasible. Recent results on molecular materials are presented and the relationship between this work and the understanding of shock wave dynamics and shock-induced chemistry is discussed here.
Panic Disorder, Trait Anxiety, and Risk Drinking in Pregnant and Non-Pregnant Women

PANIC DISORDER, TRAIT ANXIETY, AND RISK DRINKING IN PREGNANT AND NON-PREGNANT WOMEN by Sarah Meshberg-Cohen, B.A. A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science at Virginia Commonwealth University. Virginia Commonwealth University, 2006 Major Director: Dace S. Svikis, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Psychology Anxiety disorders, including Panic Disorder, and alcohol problems co-occur at greater rates than chance in the general population. It has also been suggested that alcohol is used to cope with anxiety symptoms, such as trait anxiety. While pregnancy may be a protective period against Panic Disorder and panic symptoms, trait anxiety remains relatively stable during pregnancy. The purpose of the present study was to examine differences in rates of current Panic Disorder, panic attacks, and trait anxiety in pregnant and non-pregnant women receiving care at an urban OBIGYN clinic. The study also examined correlates and differences in alcohol use and at-risk drinking among these women. In addition, the study assessed whether meeting diagnostic criteria for Panic Disorder, having had a recent panic attack, and trait anxiety influence alcohol use and atrisk drinking among women, and whether pregnancy status moderates these associations. Participants included pregnant (N = 412) and non-pregnant (N = 139) women receiving care at VCU Health Systems' OBIGYN clinics. As predicted, pregnant women were less likely than non-pregnant women to have current Panic Disorder and/or a recent panic attack. There were no differences in trait anxiety levels between pregnant and nonpregnant women, and women with Panic Disorder andlor a recent panic attack had higher trait anxiety compared to women without Panic Disorder and/or a recent panic attack, regardless of pregnancy status. After controlling for demographics, Panic Disorder and higher trait anxiety were significant predictors of greater amounts of alcohol consumption in pregnant and non-pregnant women. In addition, non-pregnant women with high trait anxiety cons~~nied greater aniounts of alcohol than pregnant women with high trait anxiety. Furthermore, race and panic attacks were both predictors of being at-risk for problematic drinking. Overall, current study findings support the need to examine Panic Disorder, panic attacks, and trait anxiety, as potential risk factors for alcohol use among pregnant and non-pregnant women in the community. Study findings have important implications for assessment and treatment of panic, anxiety, and alcohol use.
A Multi-Component Sensor System for Detection of Amphiphilic Compounds

Many biologically important compounds are amphiphilic in character. Glycolipids, for example, represent a biologically important class of amphiphiles. Receptors and sensors for such compounds must also be amphiphilic making them a challenge to prepare. Here, a cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8])-based sensor system has been prepared and tested for detection of amphiphilic compounds. This multi-component system consists: a CB[8], which acts as a hydrophobic lipid receptor, a hydrophilic pyridinium-based carbohydrate receptor, and a fluorescent indicator. The system self-assembles in aqueous solution. The pyridinium quenches the fluorescence of the indicator giving a strong turn-on response when it is displaced by the analyte. The sensor system was characterized by NMR, X-ray crystallography, and fluorescence titrations.
A 1–2-MHz 150–400-V GaN-Based Isolated DC–DC Bus Converter With Monolithic Slope-Sensing ZVS Detection

This paper presents a wide-range high-voltage (HV) isolated phase-shifted full-bridge dc–dc bus converter with eGaN power FETs driven by an integrated synchronous CMOS gate driver. The monolithic slope-sensing zero-voltage switching detector (SS-ZVSD) is developed to automatically provide adaptive deadtime control with near-constant short turn-on delay for enabling ZVS of synchronous power transistors during switching transitions under different input voltages and load currents. This not only minimizes the switching loss and the reverse conduction loss but also supports high-frequency operation, leading to high-frequency high-efficiency converters. A HV-level shifter with differential-mode noise blanking scheme is also proposed in the gate driver to enhance the converter reliability in high input voltages. To verify the performances of the isolated converter using 650-V eGaN power FETs, the gate drivers were implemented in a 1.45- $\mu \text{m}$ 700-V BCD process. The converter supports the input voltage from 150 to 400 V and delivers a maximum output power of 250 W. The proposed SS-ZVSD achieves adaptive deadtime with about 13-ns turn-on delay over wide ranges of the input voltage and load current, thereby enabling the converter running up to 2 MHz with 1.6-W power saving. The proposed converter operates 14 $\times $ faster than the prior art with comparable power efficiency.