cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Remote triggering of thermoresponsive PNIPAM by iron oxide nanoparticles

A thorough study on the elements that affect the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) solutions during alternating magnetic field (AMF) heating, using iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (IO MNPs) is reported. Several PNIPAM solutions with different concentrations of IO MNPs were prepared and characterized using transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and Raman spectroscopy. While increasing the IO MNP concentration was observed to decrease the specific absorption rate (SAR), the presence of PNIPAM in the solution facilitated the dispersal and disaggregation of IO MNPs leading to a slight improvement in the SAR. In situ transmission measurements were used to determine the LCST of PNIPAM under various aqueous concentrations with dispersed IO MNPs. A systematic decrease in the LCST from 34 °C to 31 °C was observed as the concentration of PNIPAM was increased from 0.3 wt% to 1.0 wt%, while keeping the concentration of IO MNPs constant. On the other hand, varying the ion concentration of the PNIPAM solutions by adding adjusted KOH pellets, showed a pronounced lowering of the LCST by 3–4 °C at all PNIPAM concentrations, which has been shown to be further affected by the presence of the nanoparticles. The remote triggering of volume phase transition in PNIPAM solutions by raising the temperature above the LCST using IO MNPs as reported here is important in targeted drug-delivery applications using thermo-responsive polymers.
Vasopressin-induced suppression of renal sympathetic outflow depends on the number of baroafferent inputs in rabbits.

We tested the hypothesis that the inhibitory action of arginine vasopressin (AVP) on renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) is related to the number of baroreceptor stations. The role of baroreceptor afferents was determined by comparing the effects of AVP on the baroreflex function curves [mean arterial pressure (MAP) vs. %RSNA] obtained in intact conscious rabbits with those obtained in rabbits with one carotid sinus and one aortic nerve intact (1CSN + 1AoN) and in rabbits with only a single carotid sinus nerve intact (1CSN). Baroreflex curves were obtained by relating %RSNA to MAP during ramp increases and decreases in MAP. MAP was increased with phenylephrine and decreased with caval occlusion. In the intact state (n = 7), AVP infusions (0.4, 1.5, and 3.0 mU.kg-1 x min-1) produced dose-dependent reduction in the maximum %RSNA (97 +/- 1 to 85 +/- 6, 68 +/- 6, and 57 +/- 5%, respectively) at minimum MAP and the gain of the baroreflex curve (5.7 +/- 0.2 to 3.9 +/- 0.2, 3.2 +/- 0.3, and 2.2 +/- 0.2 mmHg, respectively) and shifted the midrange of the curves (72 +/- 3 to 68 +/- 4, 68 +/- 2, and 63 +/- 3 mmHg, respectively). However, in the 1CSN + 1AoN state (n = 6), the medium dose of AVP (1.5 mU.kg-1 x min-1) did not significantly alter the maximum %RSNA, the gain of the curve, or the midrange of the curve. The highest dose of AVP (3.0 mU.kg-1 x min-1) still reduced the maximum %RSNA (98 +/- 3 to 75 +/- 3) and the gain of the curve (4.1 +/- 0.4 to 2.7 +/- 0.2).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Programmably Shaped Carbon Nanostructure from Shape-Conserving Carbonization of DNA

DNA nanostructures are versatile templates for low cost, high resolution nanofabrication. However, due to the limited chemical stability of pure DNA structures, their applications in nanofabrication have long been limited to low temperature processes or solution phase reactions. Here, we demonstrate the use of DNA nanostructure as a template for high temperature, solid-state chemistries. We show that programmably shaped carbon nanostructures can be obtained by a shape-conserving carbonization of DNA nanostructures. The DNA nanostructures were first coated with a thin film of Al2O3 by atomic layer deposition (ALD), after which the DNA nanostructure was carbonized in low pressure H2 atmosphere at 800–1000 °C. Raman spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM) data showed that carbon nanostructures were produced and the shape of the DNA nanostructure was preserved. Conductive AFM measurement shows that the carbon nanostructures are electrically conductive.
An Explanation of Geographic Variation in Litter Size

Our explanation of the latitudinal and altitudinal variation in litter sizes of small mammals invokes the effect of length of season and parental mortality related to reproduction. It may be assumed that a portion of the maternal mortality rate varies directly as the size of litter produced. Short seasons limit the maximum number of times a female can reproduce in her lifetime and give an advantage to phenotypes producing large litters. Long seasons favor producers of small litters. The contribution to the total rate of increase of the litters produced in the additional time afforded by long seasons is greater for producers of small litters because a larger proportion of parents of small litters survive to produce throughout the periods. The increment provided is sufficient to overcome the initial advantage of parents producing large numbers of young in their first litters.
Effect of Antibiotic-Impregnated Shunts on Infection Rate in Adult Hydrocephalus: A Single Institution's Experience

Background Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt infection remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the treatment of hydrocephalus. Studies have demonstrated the efficacy of antibiotic-impregnated shunt (AIS) systems in reducing CSF shunt infections in pediatric patients. Fewer studies evaluate the efficacy of AIS systems in adult hydrocephalus. Objective : To determine whether categorical conversion to AIS shunt systems reduced the incidence of shunt infection in adults. Methods All adult patients undergoing CSF shunt insertion over a 7-year period were retrospectively reviewed (2004-2009). In 2006, a categorical switch to AIS catheters was made. Before 2006, standard nonimpregnated shunt catheters were used. We retrospectively reviewed the first 250 cases of AIS catheter implantation and compared them with the immediately preceding 250 non-AIS cases to assess 1-year incidence of CSF shunt infection. Results Five hundred shunt surgeries were performed for normal-pressure hydrocephalus in 378 patients (76%), pseudotumor cerebri in 83 patients (17%), and various obstructive/communicating hydrocephalus etiologies in 40 patients (8%). All patients were followed for 12 months. The mean age was 60 ± 18 years. Baseline characteristics were similar between AIS (n = 250) and non-AIS (n = 250) cohorts. Overall, 13 patients (2.6%) experienced CSF shunt infection, occurring a mean of 2 ± 2 months postoperatively. Shunt infection incidence was decreased in AIS (1.2%) vs non-AIS (4.0%) cohorts (P = .0492). Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most common pathogen in AIS and non-AIS cohorts. Oxacillin resistance was not increased in the AIS cohort. Conclusion Categorical conversion to AIS catheters was associated with a reduced incidence of shunt infection. AIS catheters may be a reliable instrument for decreasing perioperative shunt colonization and subsequent infection in adults with hydrocephalus.
Influence of calf removal on the serum luteinizing hormone response to naloxone in the postpartum beef cow.

Twelve anestrous, postpartum beef cows were used to determine the effect of calf removal on the effect of naloxone on serum luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations. On d 1, six cows were injected iv with saline and six with 200 mg naloxone dissolved in saline. Blood samples were taken at 15-min intervals for 2 h before and 2 h after naloxone or saline administration. At the beginning of blood sampling, calves were removed from three cows in each treatment. At 48 h after calf removal (d 3), all cows were injected iv with 200 mg naloxone and blood samples were collected as on d 1. On d 1, naloxone treatment increased (P less than .01) serum LH concentrations from 1.2 +/- .3 ng/ml at time 0 to 4.3 +/- .6 ng/ml and 4.7 +/- .8 ng/ml at 15 and 30 min, respectively. Injection of saline had no effect on serum LH concentrations. Forty-eight-hour calf removal increased (P less than .01) serum LH concentrations in five of six cows (1.7 +/- .8 vs 4.4 +/- 1.2 ng/ml). Naloxone treatment failed to increase serum LH concentrations in these cows. Injection of naloxone increased (P less than .01) serum LH concentrations in the one cow that did not exhibit an LH increase after calf removal and in six cows whose calves were not removed (1.4 +/- .2 vs 4.4 +/- .5 ng/ml). The present study provides additional evidence that endogenous opioids regulate LH in the postpartum beef cow. We hypothesize that suckling stimulates an opioid inhibition of LH secretion and removal of the suckling stimulus removes the opioid inhibitory tone.
Overview of Organizational Commitment: Conceptualization, Antecedents, Consequences, and Implication for Sport Organizations

As organizational commitment is one of the most studied constructs in the field of management, it is important to understand how the studies on organizational commitment have evolved over the years. Therefore, this paper provides a historical overview of the study of organizational commitment focusing on the shifts in the conceptualization of commitment. In addition, various work related variables are examined as antecedents and consequences of organizational commitment. Further, organizational commitment studies in sport management are reviewed and the implication of studying organizational commitment is discussed.
Mathematical Properties of the Multivariate t Distribution

The known mathematical properties of the multivariate t distribution are reviewed. We believe that this review will serve as an important reference and encourage further research activities in the area.
SU‐C‐204‐07: Radiation Therapy as a Potential Treatment for Obesity: Initial Data from a Preclinical Investigation

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility of Yttrium-90 (90Y) radionuclide therapy as a potential treatment for obesity in a porcine model. As the only appetite-stimulating hormone, localized targeting of ghrelin-producing X/A cells in the fundus of the stomach using 90Y may reduce serum ghrelin levels and decrease hunger. Methods: Under approval of the University of Tennessee IACUC, 8 young female pigs aged 12–13 weeks and weighing 21.8–28.1 Kg were included in this study. Six animals underwent transfemoral angiography as part of a two-day procedure involving: (1) infusion of 99mTc-MAA, followed by nuclear scintigraphy and contrast-enhanced CT for treatment-planning and (2) administration of resin 90Y microspheres into the stomach fundus. Calibrated 90Y activities were infused into the main left gastric and the gastric artery arising from the splenic to yield predetermined fundal absorbed doses. Control animals underwent a sham procedure with saline and contrast. Weekly animal weight and serum ghrelin were measured along with post-euthanasia histologic analyses of mucosal integrity and ghrelin immunoreactive cell-density. Results: 90Y radioembolization was administered to six pigs in dosages from 46.3 to 105.1 MBq resulting in average fundal absorbed doses between 35.5 and 91.9 Gy. No animal showed any signs of pain or GI complication through the duration of the study. Ghrelin immunoreactive cell-density was significantly lower in treated vs. control animals in both the stomach fundus (13.5 vs 34.8, P < 0.05) and body (11.2 vs 19.8, P < 0.05). A trend towards decreased weight gain in treated animals as well as a decrease in explanted stomach volume was also noted. Conclusion: The safety and technical feasibility of radiation therapy using 90Y radioembolization as a potential treatment for obesity has been demonstrated at fundal absorbed doses over 90 Gy. Preliminary data is suggestive of short-term safety and potential efficacy, however, further animal studies are required. Project was funded by SIRTex medical ltd
Structured Instruction With Modified Storybooks to Teach Morphosyntax and Vocabulary to Preschoolers Who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing

Children who are deaf/hard of hearing (D/HH) are at risk for diminished morphosyntactical and vocabulary development. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of repeated reading combined with structured instruction. Targets were a morphosyntactical form and novel vocabulary words. Participants were 3 preschoolers who are D/HH who were receiving instruction with an oral approach. Data from a multiple baseline design indicated that all children acquired the targeted skills and demonstrated high levels of generalization of these skills to untrained context. Implications for teaching young children who are D/HH using repeated storybook reading are discussed.
Some Trouble with Transparency: An Analysis of Student Errors with Object-oriented Python

We investigated implications of transparent mechanisms in the context of an introductory object-oriented programming course using Python. Here transparent mechanisms are those that reveal how the instance object in Python relates to its instance data. We asked students to write a new method for a provided Python class in an attempt to answer two research questions: 1) to what extent do Python's transparent OO mechanisms lead to student difficulties? and 2) what are common pitfalls in OO programming using Python that instructors should address? Our methodology also presented the correct answer to the students and solicited their comments on their submission. We conducted a content analysis to classify errors in the student submissions. We find that most students had difficulty with the instance (self) object, either by omitting the parameter in the method definition, by failing to use the instance object when referencing attributes of the object, or both. Reference errors in general were more common than other errors, including misplaced returns and indentation errors. These issues may be connected to problems with parameter passing and using dot-notation, which we argue are prerequisites for OO development in Python.
Coltrane’s Giant Steps

This chapter deals with an analysis of John Coltrane’s famous composition Giant Steps from 1959, released in 1960 on the synonymous LP.
An ocean sensor for measuring the seawater electrochemical response of 8 metals referenced to zinc, for determining ocean pH.

We describe the use of a multi-metal electrochemical cell for measuring ocean pH. The sensor was designed to be robust, inexpensive, and capable of 0.02 sensitivity to pH in the narrow ranges required for marine pH monitoring. A prototype sensor has undergone an extended ocean deployment with promising results.
CONTEMPORARY PATTERNS OF GP IIB/IIIA INHIBITOR USE IN PATIENTS WITH ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION UNDERGOING PCI: INSIGHTS FROM THE TRANSLATE ACS STUDY

Introduction: Concomitant use of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPI) and P2Y12 inhibitors increases bleeding risk. How GPIs are currently used with faster onset, higher potency P2Y12 inhibitors is unknown. Methods: We studied 10,455 MI patients undergoing PCI in 233 sites in the US in TRANSLATE
Navigating Postsecondary Pathways: The College Choice Experiences of First-Generation Latina/o Transfer Students

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study was to explore the college choice and transfer decision-making processes of six high-achieving first-generation Latina/o transfer students who began their postsecondary studies at a community college and later transferred to a four-year Hispanic Serving Institution. Utilizing interpretative phenomenological analysis, four themes emerged from data analysis to explain the factors that influenced participants’ decisions to enroll in community college: (a) Inadequate Guidance from School Personnel, (b) Financial Concerns, (c) Familial Factors, and (d) Community College as an Appropriate Match. Additionally, two themes related to the decision to transfer to a four-year institution emerged: (a) Access to Greater Opportunities, and (b) Support and Motivation. The findings of this study will aid researchers and educators alike in understanding and supporting the college choice decisions of high-achieving first-generation Latina/o students.
Whole-Breast Radiation Following Breast-Conserving Surgery in Noninvasive Cancer

Noninvasive breast cancer is labeled as a cancer, or sometimes a precancer, found in the breast but lacking the ability to invade beyond its origin or to spread beyond the breast. The cancers that originate in the lobules are called lobular carcinomas in situ, and those that originate in the duct structures are called ductal carcinomas in situ.
Developing a Campus Academic Integrity Education Seminar

This article examines the process of one institution’s efforts to develop an educational academic integrity seminar through an ethnographic study approach. The educational program developed allowed the institution to transition from a punitive sanctioning system to an educational one. The institution cultivated cross-campus partnerships to develop the program. Both quantitative and qualitative data revealed that students had a positive experience attending the program and found it useful. This article serves as a framework for institutions to utilize when building their own educational-based academic integrity on-campus seminar and sanctioning program.
Caregiver depression and trajectories of behavioral health among child welfare involved youth.

Abstract Child welfare involvement has been linked to child behavioral health issues, including increased likelihood of internalizing mental health problems such as depression and anxiety, and externalizing behavioral problems such as oppositional behaviors and substance use problems. One predictor of child behavioral health is caregiver mental health. Although, there remains a specific gap associated with identification of factors among caregivers that are associated with longitudinal child behavioral health trajectories. Using LONGSCAN, we explore the effects of caregiver depression on the behavioral health of children over time. Multilevel mixed-effects linear regression models showed that children with a caregiver who reported depression showed significantly higher internalizing behavioral problems over time, and significantly larger decreases in externalizing behavioral problems over time, compared to children with a caregiver who reported no depression. These findings emphasize that early interventions geared towards jointly assessing and treating parent and child mental health issues in the child welfare system may be successful at improving future behavioral health outcomes.
Venous Thromboembolism Following Total Knee Arthroplasty: Does Race Matter?

Abstract Background Venous thromboembolism (VTE) (deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism) is a known complication following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Recent literature has identified differences in VTE risk based on race with African Americans having higher risk of VTE. This study evaluated the impact of race on VTE following TKA using a large multicenter database. Methods We queried the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program to identify patients who underwent primary TKA in 2010-2014. Patients were stratified based on race: Asian, Black/African American, White, and Other. Demographics were compared to determine the impact on 30-day postoperative complications. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to control for confounding demographics and comorbidities between races. Primary outcomes included overall complications and VTE. Results In total, 96,230 patients were included. Univariate analysis demonstrated that Blacks had a significantly higher rate of any complication (5.5%), deep venous thrombosis (1.3%), and pulmonary embolism (1.1%) than other races (P = .007, P Conclusion Blacks have a significantly higher risk of VTE following primary TKA than other races. Future studies should investigate causes for this disparity.
Molecular and excited state properties of isomeric scarlet disperse dyes

Abstract This work was part of an investigation aimed at characterizing the molecular and excited state properties of currently available disperse dyes developed to provide stability to extensive sunlight exposures when adsorbed on poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) fibers. Having completed the characterization of yellow, magenta, and cyan disperse dyes for PET-based fabrics used outdoors, our attention turned to the colors designed to enhance the color gamut of a standard 4-member (cyan/yellow/magenta/black) color set. The present study pertained specifically to the characterization of commercially available scarlet dyes. In this regard, HPLC analysis showed that a scarlet product used for PET coloration was mainly a 70/30 mixture of dyes, and the use of HRMS and single crystal X-ray diffraction analyses indicated that these two dyes were azo compounds derived from isomeric pyridine-based couplers which differed in the location of the primary amino ( NH2) and anilino ( NHPh) groups attached to the pyridine ring. One dye structure has the NHPh group para to the azo group (Sc2), while the other has that group in the ortho position (Sc3). The presence of either ortho substituent provides photostabilization through intramolecular H-bonding with the azo moiety. Further, results from molecular modeling studies showed that the lower excited state oxidation potential of Sc3 relative to that of Sc2 allows Sc3 to function as an energy quencher for the excited state of Sc2 – through thermodynamically favorable electron transfer.
The effect of clomiphene citrate and menopausal gonadotropins on cervical mucus in ovulatory cycles

Objective To determine the effect of clomiphene citrate (CC) and hMG on cervical mucus (CM), optimally sampled in the periovulatory period from confirmed ovulatory cycles, in the dosage range commonly employed for ovulation induction. Design Controlled, observational. Setting Infertility treatment center at a university medical center. Patients One hundred fifty-four infertile patients undergoing 161 treatment cycles in which postcoital test was performed in a documented ovulatory cycle. Intervention One hundred six patients received CC at dosages of 50 to 200 mg. Twenty patients received hMG at dosages of 75 to 225 IU. Thirty-seven patients sampled during spontaneous ovulatory cycles served as controls. Main Outcome Measure Cervical mucus score using standardized scoring criteria. Results Subjects receiving CC at all dosages had significantly lower CM scores 8.6 ± 0.5, compared with patients receiving hMG 11.0 ± 0.6 or spontaneous cycles 12.1 ± 0.5. The incidence of unfavorable CM (score Conclusions Cervical mucus scores are reduced in ovulatory cycles after CC administration compared with both spontaneous ovulatory cycles and in patients undergoing superovulation with hMG. The reduction in CM scores was similar at all dosages of CC studied. The lack of adverse effects on CM during hMG therapy supports a local antiestrogenic effect of CC at the level of the cervix.
Enron, Titanic, and The Perfect Storm (Enron book version)

In this essay (updated from the earlier Fordham Law Review version, I explore the contention of Jeffrey Skilling, former Enron CEO, that Enron's debacle was due to a perfect storm of events. I reject his contention, arguing instead that Enron's downfall was more like Titanic's - hubris and an over-reliance on checks and balances led to Enron's downfall. I then explore how character (especially of those at the top of an organization) can lead to Enron-like disasters, and I talk about how cognitive dissonance can lead to very smart people making very stupid decisions. I end with some musings about how lawyers can learn from Enron.
Altered DNA-protein relaxation complex in a replication mutant of plasmid ColE1.

Approximately 200,000 clones of Escherichia coli carrying mutagen-treated colicinogenic plasmid E1 (ColE1) were examined for irreversible loss of the plasmid at 43°. Thirty of these clones that appeared to be most defective in plasmid DNA replication at the non-permissive temperature were selected for the study of: (a) the kinetics of plasmid and chromosomal DNA replication during a temperature shift in either the presence or absence of chloramphenicol; (b) the temperature stability of the plasmid DNA-protein relaxation complex; and (c) the temperature effect on F-promoted conjugal transfer. Two mutant plasmids, pJC307 and pJC301, showed defects in their relaxation complex. The relaxation complex of pJC307 exhibited an altered temperature stability in vitro. Reversion to temperature resistant replication resulted in four out of five cases in a concomitant change in the temperature stability of the relaxation complex. Conjugal mobility of this mutant was not markedly reduced at the permissive or non-permissive temperature. Plasmid pJC301 could not be isolated in the form of a relaxation complex and it was very poorly mobilized in an F′-promoted conjugation. These results indicate that the ColE1 plasmid codes for at least one of the proteins of the relaxation complex and that the relaxation complex is involved in ColE1 DNA replication. In addition, the properties of the mutant plasmid pJC301 are consistent with a role for the complex in the mobilization of ColE1 during conjugation.
Mechanistic Elucidation of Two Catalytically Versatile Iron(II)- and α-Ketoglutarate-Dependent Enzymes: Cases Beyond Hydroxylation

Iron(II)- and α-ketoglutarate-dependent (Fe/αKG) enzymes catalyze a large array of reactions. Although hydroxylation reaction catalyzed by these enzymes has been investigated in great details, invo...
Mysteriously puffy hand: puffy hand syndrome

A 59-year-old man with a history of intravenous drug use (DU) presented with a 3-day history of right-hand swelling, redness, warmth and pain. Physical examination was notable for a tensely oedematous hand with non-pitting oedema, warmth, blanching erythema and decreased range of motion ([figure 1][
Pancreatic Cancer Lymph Node Resection Revisited: A Novel Calculation of Number of Lymph Nodes Required.

Background Pancreatic cancer is the third leading cause of cancer related deaths in the US. Although lymph node (LN) metastasis is a prognostic indicator, the extent of LN resection is still debated. Our goal was to use the distribution of the ratio of positive to negative LNs to derive a more adequate number of necessary examined LNs based on the target LN threshold (TLNT). Study Design Using the National Cancer Database, we performed a retrospective study of surgically resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma (2010 to 2015). We evaluated the number of positive LNs and total LNs examined and the log of the ratio of positive LNs to negative LNs (LODDS). The distribution of LODDS was examined to determine a target LNs examined threshold sufficient to detect N1 disease. Using the LODDS distribution of N1 cases, target LNs examined threshold were calculated to encompass 90 of the N1 group distribution. Results Of the total 24,038 resected patients included in this study, 26% underwent operation only, 18% received neoadjuvant therapy, and 56% underwent adjuvant therapy. In all, 8,144 (34%) patients had N0 disease and 15,894 (66%) had N1 disease. To capture 90% to 95% of the N1 group, the minimum number of LNs examined would be 18 (LODDS −2.74) to 24 (LODDS −3.04), respectively. Conclusions Although previous studies have suggested 11 to 17 LNs required for adequate LN sampling in pancreatic cancer, our findings suggest that to capture 90% of cases with N1 disease, 18 LNs is more appropriate.
Abstract 61: Non-enzymatic Fragmentation of the Amino Terminus of NOTCH3 in Inherited Cerebral Small Vessel Disease

Introduction: Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is the most common genetic cause of cSVD, stroke, and vascular dementia. CADASIL i...
The Interface Between Sleep and Epilepsy

To highlight the role sleep plays in epilepsy and the importance for evaluating and treating sleep issues in patients with epilepsy. Recent studies show that patients with epilepsy have a twofold greater prevalence of sleep complaints. These complaints can stem from the epilepsy or its treatment. The identification of sleep disorders may require further inquiry as some standard questionnaires are not as accurate in patients with less perceived symptoms. Further work suggests that discharges from the epileptic focus during sleep or wake may have differentiating effects on the physiological sleep processes. This offers new insights to the possible mechanisms contributing to the development of resistant epilepsies. Additional studies suggest treating sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, benefits some patients, as does treating epilepsy may improve sleep. Sleep disorders are prevalent in patients with epilepsy. Recognizing and treating comorbid sleep disorders affect patient quality of life and seizure freedom.
Estimates of Ta strength at ultrahigh pressures and strain rates using thin-film graded-density impactors

We present results from an experimental technique used to estimate the strength of Ta at extreme pressures (150 GPa) and strain rates (${10}^{7}\phantom{\rule{0.28em}{0ex}}{\mathrm{s}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$). A graded-density impactor (GDI) was fabricated using sputter deposition to produce an approximately $40\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{m}$-thick film containing alternating layers of Al and Cu. The thicknesses of the respective layers are adjusted to give an effective density gradient through the film. The GDIs were launched with a 2-stage light gas gun, and shock-ramp-release velocity profiles were measured over timescales of $\ensuremath{\sim}10$ ns. Results are presented for the direct impact of the film onto LiF windows, which allows for a dynamic characterization of the GDI, as well as from impact onto thin ($\ensuremath{\sim}40\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{m}$) sputtered Ta samples backed by a LiF window. The measurements were coupled with mesoscale numerical simulations to infer the strength of Ta, and the results agree well with other high-pressure platforms, particularly when strain-rate, microstructural, and thermodynamic-path differences are considered.
Pharmacologic Approaches to Pain Management with IUD Insertion

Concerns about pain during IUD insertion are a major barrier to use of IUDs among adolescent and young adult patients who may otherwise be interested in this method. Although few studies of pain control options have been conducted in this population, available data suggest that several pharmacologic interventions discussed in this chapter may be beneficial. Pre-procedure naproxen, ketorolac, or tramadol can help to reduce post-procedure discomfort. Paracervical nerve blockage with lidocaine-based anesthetics, topical lidocaine spray, or EMLA cream also appears to reduce pain with IUD insertion. Intravaginal 2% lidocaine gel may reduce pain with tenaculum and speculum placement. This chapter will discuss the complex nature of pain in gynecological procedures, including IUD placement, and the impact of anxiety and fear on pain perception. It will also review clinical guidelines to assist with pain control during procedures and describe evidence-based pharmacological pain control modalities that can be used during IUD procedures.
Biomagnification of α- and γ-Hexabromocyclododecane Isomers in a Lake Ontario Food Web

The extent of bioaccumulation of hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) isomers (alpha, beta, and gamma) was determined in the Lake Ontario pelagic food web using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). Concentrations of the alpha-isomer were consistently higher than that of the gamma-isomer. The beta-isomer was below method detection limits in all samples. Whole body concentrations (ng/g, wet wt) of alpha- and gamma-HBCD were highest in the top predator lake trout samples ranging from 0.4 to 3.8 ng/g for the alpha-isomer and 0.1 to 0.8 ng/g for the gamma-isomer. For the prey fish species, the trends in alpha- and gamma-HBCD levels were slimy sculpin > smelt > alewife. Mean concentrations of total (sigma) HBCD (sum of alpha- and gamma-isomers) in the macrozooplankter Mysis relicta (0.14 +/- 0.02 ng/g wet wt) and in the benthic invertebrate Diporeia hoyi (0.16 +/- 0.02 ng/g, wet wt) were similar and approximately twice as high as in plankton (0.06 +/- 0.02 ng/g, wet wt). A strong positive linear relationship was found between sigmaHBCD concentrations (wet wt) and trophic level based on delta15N suggesting that HBCD biomagnifies in the Lake Ontario food web. The trophic magnification factor (TMF = 6.3) derived from the slope of the sigmaHBCD - trophic level relationship was slightly higher than TMFs for p,p'-DDE (6.1) and sigmaPCBs (5.7) found previously. Biomagnification factors (BMF, calculated as the ratio of lipid corrected concentration in predator/lipid corrected concentration in prey) were variable between feeding relationships and ranged from 0.4 to 10.8 for the alpha-isomer and from 0.2 to 10 for gamma-isomers.
Comparing Methods for Record Linkage for Public Health Action: Matching Algorithm Validation Study.

Background: Many public health departments use record linkage between surveillance data and external data sources to inform public health interventions. However, little guidance is available to inform these activities, and many health departments rely on deterministic algorithms that may miss many true matches. In the context of public health action, these missed matches lead to missed opportunities to deliver interventions and may exacerbate existing health inequities. Objective: This study aimed to compare the performance of record linkage algorithms commonly used in public health practice. Methods: We compared five deterministic (exact, Stenger, Ocampo 1, Ocampo 2, and Bosh) and two probabilistic record linkage algorithms (fastLink and beta record linkage [BRL]) using simulations and a real-world scenario. We simulated pairs of datasets with varying numbers of errors per record and the number of matching records between the two datasets (ie, overlap). We matched the datasets using each algorithm and calculated their recall (ie, sensitivity, the proportion of true matches identified by the algorithm) and precision (ie, positive predictive value, the proportion of matches identified by the algorithm that were true matches). We estimated the average computation time by performing a match with each algorithm 20 times while varying the size of the datasets being matched. In a real-world scenario, HIV and sexually transmitted disease surveillance data from King County, Washington, were matched to identify people living with HIV who had a syphilis diagnosis in 2017. We calculated the recall and precision of each algorithm compared with a composite standard based on the agreement in matching decisions across all the algorithms and manual review. Results: In simulations, BRL and fastLink maintained a high recall at nearly all data quality levels, while being comparable with deterministic algorithms in terms of precision. Deterministic algorithms typically failed to identify matches in scenarios with low data quality. All the deterministic algorithms had a shorter average computation time than the probabilistic algorithms. BRL had the slowest overall computation time (14 min when both datasets contained 2000 records). In the real-world scenario, BRL had the lowest trade-off between recall (309/309, 100.0%) and precision (309/312, 99.0%). Conclusions: Probabilistic record linkage algorithms maximize the number of true matches identified, reducing gaps in the coverage of interventions and maximizing the reach of public health action.
Effects of myocardial ischemia on cardiac contractility and ion transport in working and Langendorff rabbit heart.

Myocardial ischemic injury causes initially reversible cellular changes that may gradually become fixed when the unrelieved ischemia progresses to irreversible myocardial injury and permanent myocardial infarction. Previous research has been focused on the early detection of the ischemic injury, determination of the extent of the damage, and the reversibility of the damage after an induction of experimental ischemia in different animal models (Jennings et al., 1969; Lucchesi et al., 1976; Schaper et al., 1979). Fortunately, we now have an impressive body of knowledge about the characteristics of cardiac ischemic injury and subsequent cell death in terms of biochemistry (Opie, 1976; Rovetto and Neely, 1977; Chua et al., 1979), pathophysiology (Muller et al., 1979; Philips et al., 1975; Roberts et al., 1977), and histology (Jennings et al., 1975; Budd et al., 1978). Recently nucleotide fluorescence (Williamson et al., 1977); and phosphorus-31 nuclear magnetic resonance (Nunnally and Bottomley, 1981) technique have been used for the biochemical characterization of the ischemic injury.
Models of Social Order: Mechanical vs. Creative

This chapter contrasts the standard treatment of macroeconomics where all economic activity is fully synchronized with a diachronic alternative where economic activity is not synchronized. Instead, novelty is continually injected into society through the births and deaths of enterprise plans, which renders ideas about emergent phenomena central for macroeconomics. Parades and pedestrian crowds are both orderly, but their sources of orderliness differ. A parade is a planned order, but the orderliness of a pedestrian crowd emerges through interaction among the crowd’s participants. In contrast to traditional macro theory, it is the pedestrian crowd and not the parade that offers the better analytical template for macro theory.
Elevated red cell distribution width is associated with negative P wave amplitude in lead V1: national health and nutrition examination survey (NHANES III).

INTRODUCTION Red cell distribution (RDW) is associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) incidence. However, its relationship with precursors of AF has not been established. We aim to investigate if association exists between RDW and negative P wave amplitude in V1, a marker of left atrial abnormality. METHODS NHANES III is a complex, multistage, clustered design survey of noninstitutionalized United States population between 1988-94. A Sample of 6403 individuals was extracted after excluding missing demographic, laboratory, anthropometric and ECG data and major ECG abnormalities. Variables were selected and univariate analysis was done first with a level of significance at P<0.01 (99% confidence). All the significant variables were included in a multivariate linear regression model. RESULTS 53.58% of subjects were female. Racial distribution was caucasian 50.2%, hispanic 23.9% and african american 21.7%. Age, PR interval, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, red cell distribution width, glycated hemoglobin, serum cholesterol, serum ferritin, and body mass index showed a significant correlation with negative P wave amplitude in V1 (P<0.001). After including all these variables in a multivariate regression model, only age, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, PR interval, heart rate and red cell distribution width had a P≤0.001. CONCLUSIONS Increased RDW is independently associated with negative P wave amplitude in V1 after correcting for other cardiovascular risk factors. Further studies are required to analyze the reason for this correlation.
TECHNO-ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF THE INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT OPERATING CONDITIONS ON GAS TURBINE CENTRIFUGAL COMPRESSOR SET PERFORMANCE

In today’s world where fuel prices have increased drastically and there are great concerns about environmental issues, there is the need to properly match centrifugal compressors to their Gas Turbine (GT) drivers, so as to achieve an efficient overall package, lower turbine fuel consumption, longer time between overhauls, and most importantly, package operational flexibility in meeting alternate process conditions. This study highlights the influence of operating and environmental conditions on the overall performance of the gas turbine compressor set. GasTurb and CMap simulation softwares were employed to model and simulate the performances of the GT and centrifugal compressors respectively. The outcome of the performance plots show that at a design inlet flow volume of 15928 cubic meters per hour, the compressor required power from the gas turbine drive to transport RaNatGas is approximately 7450kW as against 7065kW and 6500kW for MaNatGas and LaNatGas mixtures respectively. Techno-economic analysis of the gas turbine compressor set shows that the fuel cost of transporting a given volume flow of RaNatGas to a specific location for a year gives about $13.5million when compared with MaNatGas and LaNatGas mixtures which cost about $13.02million and 12.3million respectively. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v39i4.23
Footwear Design Sketchbook Practice for a Portfolio

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of students’ skills in shoe design sketching through a series of practice tasks in in-class activities and assignments in a footwear design course. A total of 12 undergraduate students attended a shoe design course. The course consisted of three main sections (sketching, patternmaking, and 3D printing) with the goal of completing a shoe prototype at the end of the semester. This study focused on evaluating students’ learning experiences when sketching shoe designs in the three main sections through in-class activities and assignments. The questionnaire consists of demographic information, open-end questions, and 17 evaluation questions regarding sketching practices. All students indicated positive attitudes and were satisfied with the sketching tasks. Sketchbook practice will be necessary for unskilled students to strengthen their shoemaking skills in shoe design courses, enhance students’ sketching skills, and create their shoe design prototypes.
Three Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Natural Convection in a Cylindrical Envelope With an Internal Concentric Cylinder With Slots

Three-dimensional model is developed for natural convection heat transfer in a cylindrical envelope with an internal concentric cylinder with slots.Three and two dimensional numerical results arc compared with Wang's experimental results.When the Raylcigh number is lower,the system is steady,three and two dimensional numerical solutions are consistent with experimental solutions.When the Raylcigh number is higher,the system is unsteady with steady and symmetric boundary condition.Those oscillated solution shows three characteristics of flow and heat transfer.The discrepancy between two-dimensional numerical and experimental results increases gradually with the increasing Ra numbers,but the three-dimensional numerical results is more continent with experimental results.
System of Systems Engineering Approach for Complex Deterministic and Nondeterministic Systems (ACDANS)

As new commercial and military systems evolve, engineers face significant challenges that require solutions beyond traditional systems engineering. For example, military commanders recognize that in order to confront threats from high-tech adversaries, an advanced system of systems (SoS) is required to coordinate combat across multiple battlefield domains: land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace. System of Systems Engineering (SoSE), along with associated Modeling and Simulation (M&S) tools, can fill some of this need, especially for operational decision-support for complex multi-domain environments. This paper presents an M&S-based SoSE approach for complex SoS composed of deterministic and non-deterministic subsystems supported with reinforcement learning. The paper presents this new methodology, use cases, and preliminary results that address specific SoS challenges for a set of complex decision-support challenges.
Nutrition from biblical Adam to the present time

Background The purpose of this review is not to defend or disprove the generally accepted belief that for maintaining their health humans need prebiotics in the form of a dietary fiber most of all vegetable fiber This view is so deeply rooted among both experts and the general public that it can be almost comparable to a dogma of faith It is not surprising that it is also a subject of never ending fight between advocates of various forms of vegetarianism and advocates for eating meat We are trying to answer the question of who is right or is the truth somewhere in the middle What exactly are prebiotics A common definition suggests that prebiotic is an indigestible part of food which supports growth or activity of intestinal micro flora and therefore improves health status of the consumer The first prebiotic in our life is lactose Vegetable based prebiotics appear in our food later They provide no energy for the organism but serve as a substrate for intestinal microbiota support peristaltic adsorb water and bind cholesterol and lipids
The COVID-19 Pandemic Highlighted the Need for Mandated ESG Disclosures: Now What?

This is not simply your run-of-the-mill COVID-19 article. No, instead, this article highlights a salient point that has been right in front of our eyes this whole time and COVID-19 simply took our blinders off. ESG—short for environmental, social, and governance—is gaining significant momentum both at the firm level and in investment strategy, yet the SEC is trailing behind in ensuring the market is adequately informed of firms’ ESG information. The COVID-19 pandemic initially threw the market into a downward spiral, but most ESG funds outperformed the market in the midst of financial downturn. Why is that and where do we go from here?
Genetic Approaches with Methanogens Important in Mesophilic Anaerobic Digestion

The methanogens are strictly anaerobic archaebacteria which utilize hydrogen or acetate for the production of methane. They are of biotechnological importance since their activities are rate-limiting in the anaerobic digestion of soluble wastes; removal of hydrogen controls the degradation of volatile fatty acids such as propionic and butyric while removal of acetate controls the pH within the digester. The anaerobic digestion process may be improved by genetic manipulation of the methanogens and thus our work is directed towards developing gene-transfer systems in both hydrogenotrophic (Methanobacterium, Methanobrevibacter) and acetotrophic (Methanosarcina) species occurring in mesophilic anaerobic digesters.
Group Problem Solving1

Publisher Summary This chapter provides an overview of the experimental evidence on group problem solving, factors that inhibit and promote the effective problem solving, and the present state of group problem solving research. The major barriers to effective problem solving are those conditions, which prevent the free expression of ideas in a group. Factors both obvious and subtle, such as pressures toward uniformity may be detrimental to the group's effectiveness if it prevents search for and discussion of alternative possibilities. The sources of pressures could be personnel characteristics, group member's perceived ability, or prior experience. The larger the group the more inhibited the introverted people are, unless they have a strong stake in the outcome; and power structures in groups, while possibly mitigating the negative effects of personality factors, may also create new barriers to effective problem solving. Another contributor to ineffective problem solving is the failure of most groups to organize or plan their attack on the problem. There are several factors that promote the effective problem solving, such as intellectual ability of the group members, the member's motivation to work cooperatively on the problem, and the diversity of the points of view and information relevant to the problem within the group. A formally appointed leader can also enhance a group's effectiveness by ensuring the free expression of ideas; however, he hinders the group's operation, if he tends to dominate the discussion. The efforts directed to inventing and testing new ways of encouraging creative group problem solving should advance our understanding of the problem-solving process and, when successful, would have practical value for society as well.