cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Should I Stay Or Should I Go? The importance of electricity rate design for household defection from the power grid

Abstract The cost declines of solar and storage technologies have led to concerns about customers disconnecting from utility service and self-supplying electricity. Prior research addressing this issue focused on average electricity tariffs, solar profiles, and demand without considering detailed customer heterogeneity. This paper fills the gap by analyzing how electricity tariffs that shift cost recovery away from variable charges towards fixed charges influence a customer’s decision to disconnect from utility service. A linear optimization model is developed to size an off-grid solar/storage system. Technology cost and reliability parameters of the optimization model are then adjusted to calculate a range of off-grid costs. Unique rate structure information for over 2000 utilities in the United States is then used to compare grid costs to off-grid costs. The results show limited ability for solar/storage systems to economically substitute for grid services. However, 1% of households might disconnect from utility service in a scenario that accounts for future off-grid costs and updated tariff designs. We find that 3% of households in the Southwest and California have private economics that favor defection in this scenario, rising to as much as 7% in Hawaii. Grid defection could increase from 1% to 7% of United States households in a slightly reduced reliability scenario. These results indicate that utilities and regulators seeking to limit rooftop solar adoption by lowering variable charges face a significant possibility that the corresponding increase in fixed charges could lead to inefficient grid defection.
Benign Tracheoenteric Fistula to a Zenker's Diverticulum With Complete Esophageal Obstruction

A fistula between a Zenker's diverticulum and the trachea has only been reported once, in 1983. Here, we report a case of a fistula between a large Zenker's diverticulum and the trachea with complete occlusion of the esophagus. The fistula was repaired, first by an esophageal myotomy, followed by proximal resection of the diverticulum, completion of the esophageal myotomy, transection of the fistula, and repair of the trachea. The surgical repair provided complete resolution of symptoms without complications.
Operating room time as a limited resource: ethical considerations for allocation.

Scheduling surgical procedures among operating rooms (ORs) is mistakenly regarded as merely a tedious administrative task. However, the growing demand for surgical care and finite hours in a day qualify OR time as a limited resource. Accordingly, the objective of this manuscript is to reframe the process of OR scheduling as an ethical dilemma of allocating scarce medical resources. Recommendations for ethical allocation of OR time—based on both familiar and novel ethical values—are provided for healthcare institutions and individual surgeons.
Standards-based assessment for secondary choral ensembles: a framework to document student learning

Though one of the first disciplines to incorporate national standards in its curricula, the field of music education has not traditionally shown much consistency in its assessments, with disparitie...
What We Owe to NietzscheHope, Pessimism, and the Tragic-Art of the Greeks

to explore his Nietzsche's early and later response to nihilism and pessimism focused on reading I.This essay is focused on Nietzsche’s unique reading of the Pandora myth as it appears in Human, All Too Human and develops an interpretation of Hope, the most profound evil of the many evils released by Pandora infecting the human condition, as it might be understood in relation to Nietzsche’s analysis of the ancient Greeks in The Birth of Tragedy. In reading this early work of Nietzsche, modes of comportment that fall under two specific categories are considered: Passive Nihilism-Pessimism of Decline and Active Nihilism-Pessimism of Strength as understood by Nietzsche in the late compilation of his notes published as The Will to Power. Ultimately, this essay explores the artistic responses to the bleak and pessimistic conditions of the Greeks’ lives found in the Apolline art in the Homeric Greeks and the tragic-art of the Greeks, which Nietzsche argues is the ultimate expression of art as the merging of the “aesthetic” principles of the Apolline and Dionysiac. These aesthetic responses are elucidated in and through the comparison to modes of existence that impede the spirit’s optimal, flourishing development, specifically, as expressed through Christianity and “Socratic optimism” in the superior power of human reason.
Feasibility and Acceptability of a Language Concordant Health Coaching Intervention Delivered by Nurses for Latinx With Type 2 Diabetes.

Background Latinx immigrants have high rates of type 2 diabetes (T2D), exhibit out-of-range glycemic control, and have higher rates of diabetes-related complications than non-Latinx whites, with limited English proficiency (LEP) being a major barrier to care. Aims We tested the feasibility and acceptability of a language concordant (provider that is proficient in the patient's preferred language) health coaching intervention delivered by nurse and nurse practitioner students in a pilot study of Latinx immigrants with T2D and LEP. Methods A sample of 17 Latinx immigrants with T2D and LEP were split into intervention and control groups. The control group received basic diabetes care and written educational materials on diabetes self-management in Spanish. Individuals in the intervention group received the standard diabetes care offered by the clinic and six biweekly health coaching sessions (intervention) with a trained language concordant health coach. Results The language concordant health coaching intervention was both feasible (delivery) and acceptable (satisfactory) to Latinx immigrants with T2D and LEP and resulted in clinically meaningful differences in key diabetes-related outcomes. Linking evidence to action Our findings suggest that lack of language concordance between provider and patient has an important and meaningful impact on the ability of an LEP Latinx patient to receive, and perhaps act upon, adequate education for T2D management. Receiving biweekly coaching calls could have offered further emotional support for participants to discuss living with T2D, which may have helped to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety that individuals with T2D frequently endure.
Ecological Catastrophe and the Neoliberal Imagination

This paper considers the way in which the predominance of neo-liberalism as a social and economic model has framed thinking about the available options with regard to address of the ecological crisis — what is seen as possible, plausible and desirable. The paper specifically argues that neo-liberalism discouraged thought about large-scale, public, action in favor of more "market-friendly" solutions (as with the theoretical possibility of the redress of "externalities" via mechanisms like cap-and-trade arrangements, reliance on consumer choice and technological palliatives like point-source carbon capture) — and in the absence of those solutions' plausibility, despair.
Radiation Belt Electron Precipitation: Recent BARREL Observations and Future Missions

Resonant wave-particle interactions with plasma waves (e.g. plasmaspheric hiss, whistler mode chorus, and electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves) are often cited as one of the main loss processes that drive the variability of electron fluxes in the Earth's radiation belts . The evolution of our understanding of the radiation belt electron precipitation, the driving mechanism for such events, and its relative impact on radiation belt particle fluxes has moved from single point measurements to the dawn of simultaneous multi-point measurements and conjunction studies. The BARREL mission, as a mission of opportunity to the Van Allen Probes mission, deployed an array of balloon borne detectors to observe radiation belt electron losses into the atmosphere. This mission offered extended periods of time in conjunction with Van Allen Probes and polar LEO orbiting satellites. Conjunction studies have been used to correlate observed plasma waves on Van Allen Probes with electron precipitation observed on BARREL and further constrained the spatial scale of electron precipitation [1-3]. These studies, in combination with theoretical modeling, have shown that the parameter space involved in wave-particle interaction extends beyond our measurements. Therefore, in order to further advance our understanding of these phenomena and their impact on the radiation belts we need to broaden the scope of our measurements and narrow the assumptions and undefined parameters that go into the theory.
Genetically Determined Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Risk of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage.

We evaluated whether genetically elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels are associated with lower risk of intracranial aneurysms and subarachnoid hemorrhage (IA/SAH). We conducted a 2-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study. Our primary analysis used the inverse-variance weighted method. In secondary analyses, we implemented the MR-PRESSO method, restricted our analysis to LDL-C-specific instruments, and performed multivariate MR. A 1-mmol/l increase in genetically instrumented LDL-C levels was associated with a 17% lower risk of IA/SAH (odds ratio = 0.83, 95% confidence interval = 0.73-0.94, p = 0.004). Results remained consistent in secondary and multivariate analyses (all p < 0.05). Our results provide evidence for an inverse causal relationship between LDL-C levels and risk of IA/SAH. ANN NEUROL 2021.
Free-Radical Reactions

A free-radical reaction is a chemical process in which molecules having unpaired electrons are involved. The radical species could be a starting compound or a product, but in organic chemistry, the most common cases are reactions that involve radicals as intermediates. Most of the reactions discussed to this point have been heterolytic processes involving polar intermediates or transition states in which all electrons remain paired throughout the course of the reaction. In radical reactions, homolytic bond cleavages occur.
Patterns of care for clinically distinct segments of high cost Medicare beneficiaries.

Abstract Background Efforts to improve the efficiency of care for the Medicare population commonly target high cost beneficiaries. We describe and evaluate a novel management approach, population segmentation, for identifying and managing high cost beneficiaries. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional analysis of 6,919,439 Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries in 2012. We defined and characterized eight distinct clinical population segments, and assessed heterogeneity in managing practitioners. Results The eight segments comprised 9.8% of the population and 47.6% of annual Medicare payments. The eight segments included 61% and 69% of the population in the top decile and top 5% of annual Medicare payments. The positive-predictive values within each segment for meeting thresholds of Medicare payments ranged from 72% to 100%, 30% to 83%, and 14% to 56% for the upper quartile, upper decile, and upper 5% of Medicare payments respectively. Sensitivity and positive-predictive values were substantially improved over predictive algorithms based on historical utilization patterns and comorbidities. The mean [95% confidence interval] number of unique practitioners and practices delivering E&M services ranged from 1.82 [1.79–1.84] to 6.94 [6.91–6.98] and 1.48 [1.46–1.50] to 4.98 [4.95–5.00] respectively. The percentage of cognitive services delivered by primary care practitioners ranged from 23.8% to 67.9% across segments, with significant variability among specialty types. Conclusions Most high cost Medicare beneficiaries can be identified based on a single clinical reason and are managed by different practitioners. Implications Population segmentation holds potential to improve efficiency in the Medicare population by identifying opportunities to improve care for specific populations and managing clinicians, and forecasting and evaluating the impact of specific interventions.
Severe allergic reaction following histrelin implant (Supprelin LA)

The histrelin implant (Supprelin LA) is an efficacious, safe and well tolerated medication for the treatment of central precocious puberty (CPP). Minor reactions such as bruising, redness, and pain at the implant site have commonly occurred, but only two cases of systemic allergic reaction leading to emergent removal of device have previously been reported. An otherwise healthy eleven-year-old female with CPP and no history of prior supprelin implantation, and a nine-year-old female with CPP and history of two prior supprelin implantations without complications, had a supprelin implant inserted on the same day. Within days of the procedure both presented with severe allergic reaction and underwent removal of the device. A few months after removal, both children had another supprelin implant placed without complications. It was determined that the device was not the cause of the allergic reaction, but rather the dressing material included in the implantation kit that was the offending agent. This report describes two patients with a severe systemic allergic reaction after histrelin implant necessitating urgent implant removal with resolution of allergic symptoms. It was later determined that the allergic reaction was caused by a substance in the self-adhering dressing wrap.
Repeated stimulation of amygdala in awake monkeys

Abstract In 11 rhesus monkeys amygdaloid and hippocampal regions were electrically stimulated for 1.5 sec every 15 sec for periods of from 3 h to 43 days. In most cases the evoked motor responses persisted reliably. Electroencephalographic disturbance were recorded in the first hours of stimulation and disappeared when the experiment was continued for longer periods. Repeated stimulation of 38 out of 53 points in the limbic system did not modify spontaneous behavior. Positive and negative reinforcement induced by sensory or by brain excitation were not affected by repeated amygdala excitation. Repeated stimulation of 15 other limbic points produced a considerable and lasting inhibition, including decrease in spontaneous mobility, in sensory reactivity, and in aggression induced by central gray excitation. In one monkey a smile-like motor response was elicited more than 400, 000 times, inducing hypertrophy of the contracting muscles, and a transitory increase of brain impedance. No histological lesions could be detected in any of the stimulated areas. Feasibility and safety of limbic stimulation for indefinite periods of time are supported by these experiments.
Data audit by a regulatory agency: its effect and implication for others.

There has been much discussion about the prevalence of scientific misconduct. Investigational drug trials and cancer clinical trials have been audited systematically in recent years. Review of the results of these audits indicates that misconduct is not uncommon: serious deficiencies have been identified in 11% of audits of drug trials by the United States Food and Drug Administration. The trend has been toward fewer of the most serious problems in the most recent years of the audit program, suggesting that it is having a deterrent effect. Still, many problems remain. A series of possible strategies for addressing them are critically assessed. The experience of this program of fers a model approach to evaluating potential misconduct in science against which programs in other agencies and other areas of science should be measured.
Interpolating splines as limits of polynomials

Abstract Let the points (1) (x i ,y i ) (i= l ,…, k; k⩾2), a⩽x 1 ≤x 2 ≤⋯ ≤x k ⩽b, I= [a,b] (−∞≤a≤b≤∞) be prescribed. Furthermore, let m and n be integers such that l⩽n⩽k⩽m , and define the polynomial class Π m ={P(x):P(x)eπ m ,P(x i )=y i (i= l ,…, k)} . Within Π m we determine P m ( x ) as the solution of the extremum problem ∫ I [P (n) (x)] 2 dx= minimum for P(x)eM m . Finally, let S ( x ) = S 2 n − 1 ( x ) be the natural spline interpolant of degree 2 n − 1 of the k points (1). Our main result is: (1) there is a unique polynomial P m ( x ) which is the solution of the minimum problem (2); (2) we have lim m→∞ P m (x)=S(x) uniformly in xeI .
Multiple rhythms from one network: phase plane and stochastic analyses of rhythmic activity in turtle motor circuits

A central pattern generator (CPG) is a population of neurons producing rhythmic or repetitive behavior (i.e. scratching, walking) without requiring rhythmic input to the population. Turtles are observed to produce several rhythmic motor patterns in response to stimuli, in particular rostral scratch and pocket scratch (see Figure ​Figure1B1B inset) [1,2]. The rostral scratch and pocket scratch rhythms are created through the activity of three motoneurons: hip extensor, knee extensor, and hip flexor. A CPG (see Figure ​Figure1A)1A) to produce both rhythms has been proposed, featuring a layer of populations of excitatory and inhibitory interneurons projecting to a layer of motoneurons [1]. We implement the CPG as a system of relaxation oscillators. The system successfully reproduces the desired rhythms by changing inputs to the layer of interneurons (see Figure ​Figure1B).1B). We consider a dynamical systems approach to determine the mechanisms underlying rhythm generation. We analyze a proposed central pattern generator’s ability to produce differing motor patterns from a single pool of neurons under different tonic drives. A key issue is the knee extensor motoneuron’s response to different phasic synaptic inputs. We study the impact of these phasic inputs on motoneuron phase space and on properties of associated trajectories and show how these yield sufficient conditions for reproduction of observed rhythms. A contraction argument leads to existence of a stable solution. We also present preliminary results from stochastic analysis to examine the role of strong synaptic conductances. Figure 1 A. Implemented network architecture, adapted from [1] featuring a layer of populations of excitatory (EP, ER) and inhibitory (IP, IR) receiving external stimulation and driving a layer of populations of motoneurons (HE, KE, HF). Dashed arrows indicate ...
Heterophile Reactive Antigen in Infectious Mononucleosis

Specific heterophile reactive antigen has been localized by means of indirect immunofluorescence in 12 of 13 kidney biopsy specimens obtained during the acute phase of infectious mononucleosis. I feel that this may represent the identification of infectious agent antigen. Evidence is also presented for the possible existence of two different strains of the agent of infectious mononucleosis.
Local mitochondrial DNA haplotype databases needed for domestic dog populations that have experienced founder effect

Abstract Biological material from pets is often collected as evidence from crime scenes. Due to sample type and quality, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is frequently evaluated to identify the potential contributor. MtDNA has a lower discriminatory power than nuclear DNA with multiple individuals in a population potentially carrying the same mtDNA sequence, or haplotype. The frequency distribution of mtDNA haplotypes in a population must be known in order to determine the evidentiary value of a match between crime scene evidence and the potential contributor of the biological material. This is especially important in geographic areas that include remote and/or isolated populations where founder effect may have lead to a decrease in genetic diversity and a non-random distribution of haplotypes relative to the population at large. Here we compared the haplotype diversity in dogs from the noncontiguous states of Alaska and Hawaii relative to the contiguous United States (US). We report a greater proportion of dogs carrying an A haplotype in Alaska relative to any other US population. Significant variation in the distribution of haplotype frequencies was discovered when comparing the haplotype diversity of dogs in Hawaii to that of the continental US. Each of these regions exhibits reduced genetic diversity relative to the contiguous US, likely due to founder effect. We recommend that specific databases be created to accurately represent the mitochondrial haplotype diversity in these remote areas. Furthermore, our work demonstrates the importance of local surveys for populations that may have experienced found effect.
Perception, Action, and Roelofs Effect: A Mere Illusion of Dissociation

A prominent and influential hypothesis of vision suggests the existence of two separate visual systems within the brain, one creating our perception of the world and another guiding our actions within it. The induced Roelofs effect has been described as providing strong evidence for this perception/action dissociation: When a small visual target is surrounded by a large frame positioned so that the frame's center is offset from the observer's midline, the perceived location of the target is shifted in the direction opposite the frame's offset. In spite of this perceptual mislocalization, however, the observer can accurately guide movements to the target location. Thus, perception is prone to the illusion while actions seem immune. Here we demonstrate that the Roelofs illusion is caused by a frame-induced transient distortion of the observer's apparent midline. We further demonstrate that actions guided to targets within this same distorted egocentric reference frame are fully expected to be accurate, since the errors of target localization will exactly cancel the errors of motor guidance. These findings provide a mechanistic explanation for the various perceptual and motor effects of the induced Roelofs illusion without requiring the existence of separate neural systems for perception and action. Given this, the behavioral dissociation that accompanies the Roelofs effect cannot be considered evidence of a dissociation of perception and action. This indicates a general need to re-evaluate the broad class of evidence purported to support this hypothesized dissociation.
Dexamethasone suppression of sexual behavior in the ovariectomized mare.

Abstract The influence of steroids of adrenal cortical origin on estrous behavior in the ovariectomized mare was evaluated by adrenal suppression via dexamethasone (DEX) administration in two experiments. In Experiment I, 12 mares (six DEX, six control) were tested for sexual behavior in harem groups (two DEX and two control mares plus one stallion per group) for 9 consecutive days. In Experiment II, estradiol (E 2 ) was given to a group of DEX-treated mares as an additional control. Twelve mares (four DEX, four DEX + E 2 , and four control) were tested in harem groups (one DEX, one DEX + E 2 , and one control mare plus one stallion per group) for 10 days. All DEX mares showed a clear suppression of sexual response compared to control or DEX + E 2 mares, indicating that the estrous behavior seen in ovariectomized mares may be due to steroids from the adrenal cortex. The control and DEX + E 2 mares were similar in all measures of proceptivity. Despite being more receptive, as indicated by fewer negative responses, the DEX + E 2 mares received fewer intromissions and ejaculations than did the control animals. The ability of estradiol to induce estrous behavior in the dexamethasone-suppressed mare notwithstanding, other adrenal steroids, e.g., androgens, may be involved in estrous behavior in the untreated, ovariectomized mare.
Generalization of Levinson's Theorem to Three-Body Systems

Levinson's theorem is generalized to systems of three particles. The usual two-body result relates the number of bound states of given angular momentum to the corresponding eigenphase shifts of the $S$ matrix. Because of disconnected diagrams the three-body $S$ matrix has continuous eigenphase shifts in addition to any discrete ones; however, it is possible to define a unitary connected matrix that has only discrete eigenphase shifts. Levinson's theorem is given in terms of these phase shifts, and it is the same as the usual multichannel result, except that there are an infinite number of eigenphase shifts to be summed over for each value of the total angular momentum. The proof is carried out within the framework of the Faddeev equations by generalizing Jauch's proof for two-body systems.
Magnetized laboratory plasma jets: experiment and simulation.

Experiments involving radial foils on a $1 \mathrm{M}\mathrm{A}$, $100 \mathrm{n}\mathrm{s}$ current driver can be used to study the ablation of thin foils and liners, produce extreme conditions relevant to laboratory astrophysics, and aid in computational code validation. This research focuses on the initial ablation phase of a $20 \ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{m}$ Al foil (8111 alloy), in a radial configuration, driven by Cornell University's COBRA pulsed power generator. In these experiments ablated surface plasma (ASP) on the top side of the foil and a strongly collimated axial plasma jet are observed developing midway through the current rise. With experimental and computational results this work gives a detailed description of the role of the ASP in the formation of the plasma jet with and without an applied axial magnetic field. This $\ensuremath{\sim}1$ $\mathrm{T}$ field is applied by a Helmholtz-coil pair driven by a slow, $150 \ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{s}$ current pulse and penetrates the load hardware before arrival of the COBRA pulse. Several effects of the applied magnetic field are observed: (1) without the field extreme-ultraviolet emission from the ASP shows considerable azimuthal asymmetry while with the field the ASP develops azimuthal motion that reduces this asymmetry, (2) this azimuthal motion slows the development of the jet when the field is applied, and (3) with the magnetic field the jet becomes less collimated and has a density minimum (hollowing) on the axis. PERSEUS, an XMHD code, has qualitatively and quantitatively reproduced all these experimental observations. The differences between this XMHD and an MHD code without a Hall current and inertial effects are discussed. In addition the PERSEUS results describe effects we were not able to resolve experimentally and suggest a line of future experiments with better diagnostics.
Protected marine areas and low-lying atolls

Abstract The isolated atolls of the Pacific have been an inviting target during this century for the hazardous activities of the developed world. Bikini, Enewetak, Christmas, Johnston, Moruroa, and Fangataufa have all been used for nuclear tests, and these tests are continuing at Moruroa and Fangataufa. Johnston now contains thousands of canisters of nerve gas, and a large chemical disposal facility has been built to incinerate these substances and other chemical weapons now stored elsewhere. The small islands of Palau have been looked at as the possible site for an oil superport and may be used for a US military base in the future. Most recently, the government of the Marshall Islands has suggested that Bikini, Enewetak, and Erikub Atolls might be used as storage sites for nuclear wastes. These missions are hazardous to the marine environment and are incompatible with the protection of the unique ecosystems found at these atolls. A low-lying atoll cannot be distinguished from its surrounding marine environment and must be thought of as an inherent part of the ocean ecosystem. An atoll is inevitably subject to typhoons and tsunamis (tidal waves), and any hazardous substances on its narrow land area can be swept into the surrounding ocean system. Particularly when one is dealing with long-lived radioactive nuclides, or highly toxic chemical weapons, it is unrealistic to imagine that these materials can be separated from the ocean environment during the entire period that they present dangers. The 1982 Law of the Sea Convention and all the ‘regional seas’ treaties drafted with the assistance of the United Nations Environment Program, including the Convention for the Protection of the Natural Resources and Environment of the South Pacific Region (Article 14), require member nations to ‘take all appropriate measures to protect and preserve rare or fragile ecosystems…’ Substantial efforts are now being made at the global, regional, and national level to identify appropriate ‘specially protected areas’ and to define the types of protection that should be provided for these areas. An isolated low-lying atoll is, almost by definition, a ‘rare or fragile ecosystem’ and all these atolls should be designated as ‘specially protected areas’ deserving of careful planning, management, and protection.
Critical buckling length versus persistence length: what governs biofilament conformation?

We numerically study the length dependence in the bending stiffness of $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ helices, coiled coils, and a linear chain model. As the length approaches what we named the critical buckling length ${l}_{c}$, the chain appears to become increasingly more flexible. This is due to weak nonbonded attractions that eventually lead to buckling instability and alter the chain's conformational ensemble. For $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ helices and coiled coils, ${l}_{c}$ is much less than their respective persistence lengths, so ${l}_{c}$ is the defining length scale for their conformations. These results elucidate the importance of weak nonspecific attractions that are inherent in many biofilaments in physiological conditions.
Budgeting and Monitoring Pension Fund Risk

This article describes a set of mean–variance procedures for setting targets for the risk characteristics of components of a pension fund portfolio and for monitoring the portfolio over time to detect significant deviations from those targets. Because of the significant correlations of the returns provided by the managers of a typical defined-benefit pension fund, the risk of the portfolio cannot be characterized as simply the sum of the risks of the individual components. Expected returns, however, can be so characterized. I show that the relationship between marginal risks and implied expected excess returns provides the economic rationale for the risk budgeting and monitoring being implemented by a number of pension funds. I then show how a fund's liabilities can be taken into account to make the analysis consistent with goals assumed in asset/liability studies. I also discuss the use of factor models and aggregation and disaggregation procedures. The article concludes with a short discussion of practi...
Comparison of injection drug users accessing syringes from pharmacies, syringe exchange programs, and other syringe sources to inform targeted HIV prevention and intervention strategies.

Abstract Objective To describe injection drug users (IDUs) who access syringes through different outlets to help inform the prevention needs of IDUs who underuse safe syringe sources in New York City (NYC), where syringe availability is high compared with other U.S. cities. Design Cross sectional. Setting NYC, 2005–2007. Participants 285 IDUs. Intervention Participants were recruited using random street-intercept sampling in 36 socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Main outcome measures IDUs using syringe exchange programs (SEPs), pharmacies, or other outlets as a primary syringe source were compared based on sociodemographic characteristics, injection practices, and medical service use. Results Chi-square tests and polytomous logistic regression were used to compare IDUs with different self-reported primary syringe sources used in the 6 months preceding study entry. Compared with IDUs using other syringe sources, those primarily using SEPs were less likely to be black (adjusted odds ratio 0.26 [95% CI 0.11–0.57]), more likely to inject daily (3.32 [1.58–6.98]), and more likely to inject with a new syringe (2.68 [1.30–5.54]). Compared with IDUs using other syringe sources, those primarily using pharmacies were less likely to be black (0.39 [0.17–0.90]). Conclusion These data suggest that pharmacies and SEPs may be reaching different populations of IDUs and highlight a subpopulation of highly marginalized IDUs (i.e., black race, infrequent injectors) who are underusing safe syringe sources in NYC. Targeted interventions are needed to reduce racial disparities and increase use of safe syringe outlets.
The Black-White Malleability Gap in Implicit Racial Evaluations: A Nationally Representative Study

This study replicates and extends the experimental design originated by Dasgupta and Greenwald (2001), who found a decrease in implicit pro-White biases after exposure to pictures of admired Black individuals. A nationally representative sample was analyzed comparing implicit pro-White biases among Black and White participants. Hypothesis 1 (H1) predicted a replication of previous research among White participants, and H2, derived from the balanced identity theory, predicted an increased pro-Black bias among Blacks after exposure to admired Black individuals. Results provided partial support for H1 and a lack of support for H2. This is the first study to use a nationally representative sample to examine implicit pro-White biases. System justification theory was used to explain the malleability gap in Black and White pro-racial biases.
Orbiting lidar simulations. 1: Aerosol and cloud measurements by an independent-wavelength technique.

Aerosol and cloud measurements have been simulated for a Space Shuttle lidar. Expected errors - in signal, transmission, density, and calibration - are calculated algebraically and checked by simulating measurements and retrievals using random-number generators. By day, vertical structure is retrieved for tenuous clouds, Saharan aerosols, and boundary layer aerosols (at 0.53 and 1.06 micron) as well as strong volcanic stratospheric aerosols (at 0.53 micron). By night, all these constituents are retrieved plus upper tropospheric and stratospheric aerosols (at 1.06 micron), mesospheric aerosols (at 0.53 micron), and noctilucent clouds (at 1.06 and 0.53 micron). The vertical resolution was 0.1-0.5 km in the troposphere, 0.5-2.0 km above, except 0.25-1.0 km in the mesospheric cloud and aerosol layers; horizontal resolution was 100-2000 km.
A short-beam shear fracture approach to measure the mode II fracture toughness of materials with preferred interfaces

A short-beam shear fracture approach is developed to characterize the mode II fracture toughness, (KIIC) of materials with preferred interfaces such as wood, fiber composite materials and bonded materials. This approach is easy to implement using the Iosipescu shear fixture and is free of friction between the cracked faces thereby offering a more reasonable value of KIIC than previous methods. Another feature of our new approach is the measurement of accurate crack initiation load due to a clear load drop. Additionally, calibration charts for bonded polymers and composite materials are generated. Finite element analysis along with cohesive elements is used to validate experimental load-displacement curves which are obtained by testing bonded polymers. This new approach is compared with the four-point bending fracture experiment, and the measured fracture toughnessess of the same bonded materials of two kinds of approaches are shown to be close (15–25% difference).
A proposal for a textbook about the history and methodology of British and American lexicography

Abstract Our proposal for a textbook and casebook designed for the study of British and American lexicography is based on our teaching of a course about the topic and our work as editors of the Middle English Dictionary. The first part of the textbook is an attempt to integrate the study of the methods and history of lexicography. In the case of defining, for example, we would first explain how a lexicographer derives a definition from citations and then present the evolution of defining from medieval glosses to definitions of the type found in current historical or unabridged commercial dictionaries. The second part of the textbook will treat the cultural, biographical, and organizational aspects of the various periods in the development of lexicography.
Relating applied strain to the type and severity of structural damage in the rat median nerve using second harmonic generation microscopy.

Introduction: Stretch injuries in peripheral nerves can cause pain, paralysis, and loss of sensation. Although optimal treatment depends on the degree of injury, it is difficult to determine the severity of induced nerve damage. Methods: The load–deformation curves of rat median nerves were generated from monotonic load-to-failure experiments to determine low, medium, and high strain levels. Additional excised median nerves were then elongated to induce damage at low (4%), medium (10% and 12%), and high (14% and 20%) tensile strains and the resulting structural damage was evaluated using second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging and light microscopy. Results: No substantial structural changes occurred at 4% strain, but higher strain values resulted in disruption of the normal collagen architecture. Conclusions: The results demonstrate a spectrum of structural damage that can be monitored using SHG, a non-destructive imaging modality, and that the pattern of damage may correspond to functional deficit. Muscle Nerve, 2012
SU‐FF‐I‐17: Methodology for Image Quality Characterization of Cone‐Beam CT Systems Using a Novel Adaptation of Fundamental Imaging Metrics

Purpose: A methodology to characterize reconstructed image quality in cone‐beam computed tomography(CBCT) is presented in which, imaging performance is characterized using fundamental imaging metrics: modulation transfer function(MTF),noise power spectrum (NPS), and detective quantum efficiency (DQE). Traditionally, imagingMTF, NPS and DQE have only been used to describe spatial resolution, noise and contrast in 2D imaging. In a novel adaptation to 3D imaging, the MTF and NPS are measured using a conventional CatPhan phantom. An effective DQE parameter is then evaluated by normalization to incident beam flunece characteristics using a dose index. Method and Materials: The modulations from CatPhan line‐pairs are used to calculate the MTF using a technique that we recently validated for megavoltage imaging. Blank/uniform slices are used to calculate the NPS, while the DQE is obtained from MTF and NPS measurements normalized by a quantum fluence term. While the fluence normalization is relatively straightforward with unscattered beams in 2D imaging, its evaluation in CBCTimaging is complicated by the effects of collimators, compensators, and scatter. In our calculations, we obtain an effective incident fluence term for each beam combination based on its weighted CT dose index (CTDIw) and by using Monte Carlo simulations to generate a transmitted fluence to CTDI dose ratio. The methodology was implemented for clinical CBCTsystems to observe the influence of image acquisition parameters. Results: CatPhan based MTF, NPS and DQE measurements of clinical CBCTsystems were found to be useful in evaluating the effects of various image acquisition and reconstruction parameters. The technique was extended to near automated metric analysis with minimal hindrances from scatter and associated CBCT artifacts. Conclusions: The use of fundamental imaging metrics to characterize CBCTimage quality can be effective in optimizing image acquisition parameters and ensure optimal imaging performance at the lowest possible dose.
Elective Global Surgery Rotations for Residents: A Call for Cooperation and Consortium

Background International elective experiences are becoming an increasingly important component of American general surgery education. In 2011, the Residency Review Committee (RRC) approved these electives for credit toward graduation requirements. Previous surveys of general surgery program directors have established strong interest in these electives but have not assessed the feasibility of creating a national and international database aimed at educational standardization. The present study was designed to gain in-depth information from program directors about features of existing international electives at their institution and to ascertain interest in national collaboration.
Overcoming the Inflexibility of Most-Probable-Number Procedures

(...) The results presented in this paper are from a computer program, the Most Probable Number Enumeration System (MPNES), which generates solutions and confidence limits (P=0.05) for population estimates of MPN data. Tables generated by MPNES agreed with existing tables yet MPNES was able to generate other tables and discrete solutions for design combinations that have not been published. The program was also used to generate population estimates from fractional base dilution ratios. (...)
Coordination number changes during powder densification

Abstract The number of touching neighbors for each particle, known as the coordination number, increases with densification. Models for coordination number versus compact density differ significantly. Some treatments of powder consolidation ignore coordination number changes during densification, others inappropriately assume ordered packing, and others apply linear interpolations from loose random to full density. The minimum coordination, evident when gravitational forces are relatively weak, such as with nanoscale powders is about 3 contacts per particle. Larger particles with relatively strong gravitational forces randomly pack to about 6 to 7 contacts at fractional densities near 0.58 to 0.64. Terminal, full density structures converge to grains with an almost 14 contacting neighbors. The link between coordination number and density is critical to mathematical treatments in sintering, pressure-assisted consolidation, and compaction. Further, properties such as compact strength or electrical conductivity depend on the coordination number. Data collected over a wide range of experiments lead to a generalized relation between the coordination number and the square of the fractional solid density, providing a simple but accurate relation for embedding in powder consolidation calculations.
Implementing and testing a complex interactive MOLP algorithm

Many business decisions can be modeled as multiobjective linear programming (MOLP) problems. MOLP algorithms seek solutions to these problems by interacting with decision makers to arrive at an acceptable solution. However, due in part to the increasing complexity of these algorithms, and in part to the failure of developers to use graphical user interfaces, testing and comparison of competing algorithms has been minimal. We present herein results of research designed to address this circumstance. Using widely available microcomputer tools, we designed and built a Decision Support System (DSS) capable of running MOLP algorithms, and conducted a field test which asked 98 decision makers to solve a business case using the system. Two algorithms were programmed into the DSS, one a new and more mathematically complex algorithm, and one a previously used benchmark. Results demonstrate that the more complex algorithm was preferred as a decision-making aid over the benchmark. Additionally, results show that users found the DSS equally easy to work with for both algorithms, suggesting that the graphical user interface sufficiently masked the complexity of the new algorithm. This result is encouraging for the possibility of the implementation and testing of increasingly sophisticated MOLP algorithms.
Realization of high-value dynamic resistors using pn-junctions in the ±4(kT/q) bias range

Abstract High-value dynamic resistors (typically 10 9 –10 12 Ω) are often required for monitoring small currents and their changes in many measurement systems. It is shown that such resistors can be realized by operating silicon pn -junction diodes within the ± 100 mV bias range. The diode shot noise, in this range of operation, does not pose anymore of a problem than the thermal noise in equivalent ideal resistors. Extremely low current operation also ensures an acceptable level of the flicker or 1 ƒ noise.
The structure of the Si(100)-(4 × 3) In surface studied by STM and ICISS

Abstract When indium is deposited onto the Si(100)-(2 × 1) surface and annealed at temperatures between 200 and 500°C, scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) images show (4 × 3) reconstruction for coverages from 0.5 to 25 monolayers (ML). Although the STM images of the (4 × 3) geometry are not atom-resolved, an arrangement of atoms with a bow-tie like structure can be postulated. We use impact-collision ion-scattering spectrometry (ICISS) to carry out polar angle scans on the Si(100)-(4 × 3)In surface and perform computer-simulated fits using different atomic models of the bow-tie structure. A best fit to the experimental ICISS polar angle scans is obtained for one of the models tested.
Phosphatidylcholine-Mediated Aqueous Diffusion of Cellular Cholesterol Down-Regulates the ABCA1 Transporter in Human Skin Fibroblasts.

ATP-binding cassette protein A1 (ABCA1) is a cholesterol transporter that contributes to the active transport/removal of excess cellular cholesterol. ABCA1 expression is up-regulated when cells accumulate cholesterol. Aims The purpose of this study was to determine any correlation between extracellular phospholipid levels and ABCA1 expression and function. Methodology Human foreskin fibroblasts were incubated with cholesterol alone or cholesterol and phosphatidylcholine. Total RNA was isolated and subjected to end-point RT-PCR to compare ABCA1 transcript levels. Cell lysates were subjected to Western blot analysis to compare ABCA1 protein levels. Cells were loaded with radiolabeled cholesterol and cellular cholesterol efflux was measured in the presence and absence of apoE, a cholesterol acceptor. ApoE-dependent efflux was calculated as a measure of ABCA1-mediated efflux. Results Here we show that incubation of cholesterol-loaded human skin fibroblasts with L-α-phosphatidylcholine (PC) decreases ABCA1 mRNA and protein levels by 93% and 57%, respectively, compared to cells loaded with cholesterol alone. Similarly, PC treatment results in a 25% reduction in ABCG1 mRNA levels compared to cells treated with cholesterol alone, but there is no change in SR-BI transcript levels. Subsequent incubation of phospholipid-treated cells with a cholesterol acceptor such as apoE for 24 hours shows a 65% reduction in ABCA1-mediated cholesterol efflux compared to efflux in cells not treated with PC. During the lipid treatment itself, there is a 2.7-fold greater loss of cholesterol from PC treated cells compared to cells treated with cholesterol alone. Measurement of cholesterol in cellular lipid extracts reveals that cells incubated in the presence of phosphatidylcholine are significantly depleted of cholesterol having only 20% of the cholesterol compared to cells loaded with cholesterol alone. Conclusion Thus, phosphatidylcholine facilitates removal of cellular cholesterol, thereby negating the cholesterol-dependent induction of ABCA1 message, protein and function.
Knowledge, Virtue, and Method in Republic 471c–502c

The last third of Plato’s Meno has been an enigma for readers of Plato for centuries. After leading Meno to the recognition of his own ignorance (of the nature of virtue) and persuading Meno that rectifying that ignorance is possible (by offering the theory of recollection and the conversation with the slave in response to Meno’s paradox), Socrates sets about determining whether virtue is teachable. He first offers an argument to the effect that it is teachable on the grounds that virtue is knowledge and knowledge is teachable. Next he offers an argument that it is not teachable, on the grounds that what is teachable has teachers and there are no teachers of virtue. He concludes by indicating that the first argument contains a flaw and maintaining that virtue is true belief acquired by divine dispensation.