cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Complication and Reoperation Rates Following Surgical Management of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy in Medicare Beneficiaries.

Study design Retrospective database review. Objective To compare complication and reoperation rates after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), posterior cervical fusion (PCFs), and anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF) for cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) using a large national database of Medicare beneficiaries. Summary of background data CSM is the most common cause of myelopathy in patients over 55 years and is considered the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in the world. Surgical treatment includes ACDF, PCF, or ACCF procedures. Methods The PearlDiver database (2005-2012) was utilized to determine revision rates after surgical treatment of CSM by one of the aforementioned surgical treatments. Specifically, 1 to 2 level ACDF, ACCF, and PCF and 3+ level PCF cohorts were included. Each cohort was stratified by the age of 65 years. Survivorship curves were graphed and compared. Results Of the patients younger than 65 years of age, there were 10,557 patients treated with 1 to 2 level ACDF procedures, 1319 patients with 1 to 2 level PCF procedures, 1203 patients with 1 to 2 level ACCF procedures, and 2312 patients treated with 3+ level PCF procedures. Of the elderly patients, 24,310 patients were treated with 1 to 2 level ACDFs, 4776 with 1 to 2 level PCF procedures, 3109 with 1 to 2 level ACCFs, and 7760 with 3+ level PCFs. Patients younger than 65 years of age were significantly more likely to have a reoperation procedure, than those 65 years or older when analyzing ACCF, ACDF, and 3+ level PCF procedures. ACCFs were significantly more likely than ACDFs to require reoperation. Patients treated with PCF were consistently more likely to have nondysphagia-related complications than those treated with ACDF. Rates of transfusion, dysphagia, and hematoma/seroma formation were significantly increased with ACCF compared with ACDF within the elderly population. Conclusion The elderly are significantly less likely to have a revision surgery after surgical treatment for CSM. Patients treated with ACCF are more likely to need a revision than those treated with ACDF. Level of evidence 3.
Health Promotion Programs and Healthy Lifestyle: First Generation African Black Males' Perspectives.

BACKGROUND: It is well documented that black males are more likely to suffer from heart disease, type II diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic diseases than any other racial group in the United States. It is also undeniable fact that physical activity, healthy eating behavior, and accessing routine medical checkups can help prevent or control some of those chronic diseases. However, little is known about black African males' physical activity, nutritional and health screening behaviors in the US. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to determine the first generation black African males' perceptions, beliefs and attitudes about healthy lifestyle and preventive care and culturally appropriate way to promote health promotion programs among them. METHODS: Convenient sample and snowball methods were used to recruit 50 (mean age=38 years) first generation black African males to participate in an one hour long face-to-face interview. Fifteen semi-structured open ended questions were used but there were other follow-up questions. The interview data were descriptively analyzed to find trends. RESULTS: The study reveals obesity and overweight problem among the participants. However, most of the participants; lead sedentary behavior, engage in poor eating habit, and do not access routine physical checkups. More than half (n=28) of the participants reported that they do not do exercise or engage in physical activities because of: lack of time, laziness, lack of discipline, and lack of understanding of the importance of physical activities. Some of the participants also indicated that having a physical activity regimen is foreign to their African culture. Most of the respondents reported that they do not eat balanced diet regularly and most of their daily food intake contains too much carbohydrate. In addition, they eat similar food almost every day, skip meals which results in eating large portion size at irregular eating time. On accessing routine health screening behaviors, most respondents stated lack of trust in the healthcare system, the fear of knowing their health status, lack of health insurance were some of the reasons that prevent them from accessing regular health screening. CONCLUSION: Healthy lifestyle promotion programs which are based on the culture of first generation black African males stand a better chance of having a greater impact on this targeted population as opposed to a "one-size-fits-all" approach. Language: en
The Effect on the Growth and Neurobehavioral Development in Mice Offspring by Maternal Exposure to Low Level Methylmercury in Drinking Water

[ Objective] To study the potential effect of low-level methylmercury on the growth and neurobehavioral development in offspring,ICR mice were given low-level methylmercury through drinking water.[ Methods] The pregnant ICR mice were randomly divided into three groups( control,low-level and high-level group),and exposed to 0 mg/L,0.01 mg/L and 0.1 mg/L methylmercury in drinking water from pregnant day 6 continued to postnatal day 21. The development of physical and neurobehavioral status,and the cognitive capability were observed.[ Results] No developmental defect was observed. There was no significant difference in neurobehavioral development among three groups of tested mice. However,the cognitive capability of the litters received lighter dose of methylmercury was retarded(P 0.05).[ Conclusion] Low level methylmercury does not affect the growth and neurobehavioral development in mice offspring,while the development for the learning ability is affected.
321 INFLUENCE OF METABOLIC SYNDROME ON BLOOD VESSELS IN WOMEN WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY

Individuals with spinal cord injury are at higher risk for developing cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction and death. Increased body mass, stress, abnormal glucose metabolism and lipid abnormalities, components of metabolic syndrome, are seen commonly in these individuals. Reduced ability to exercise is at least in part responsible for changes in body composition and metabolism. The prevalence of these abnormalities and its effect on blood vessels in women with spinal cord injury is unknown. Methods and Results Sixty-five women with chronic spinal cord injury, age 43 ± 11 years, predominately Hispanic (40%) underwent laboratory testing, for lipid profile, glucose metabolism and the carotid artery intima-media thickening a surrogate for coronary artery disease. Abnormal lipid profile was present in 59% particularly high triglycerides, mean value of 105± 35 mg/dl. Fasting glucose and Hemoglobin A1C were in high normal range (95 ± 21 mg/dl and 4.7 ± 1.8) respectively. Significant correlations were found between intima-media thickening and age (r = .22, p ≤ 0.04) and with fasting glucose (r = .78, p≤ 0.002) in high spinal cord injury. No correlations existed between intima-media thickening and any lipid fractions. Conclusion Although 59% of women with spinal cord injury had lipid abnormalities these were in mild to moderate range and did not affect blood vessels. Abnormal glucose metabolism had significant effect on cardiovascular system, as measured by intima-media thickening and may lead to future adverse events.
Iodine Nourishment Surveillance among Rural Population in Qinhuangdao City in 2008

[Objective]To evaluate the iodine nutrition status of rural residents of Qinhuangdao City,after eliminating IDD in 2000.[Methods]The thyroid size of 100 schoolchildren aged 8 to 10 years and women of childbearing age was detected by palpation,improved acid digestion arsenic-cerium method was used for detection of urinary iodine.Salt iodine was measured by direct titration according to the standard of GB/T 13025.7-1999.The level of water iodine was measured by arsenic-cerium spectrophotometry.[Results]The median of urinary iodine of rural children and women of childbearing age was 211.26 μg/L and 187.15 μg/L,respectively.6.28% of the children' urinary iodine was lower than 50 μg/L.The median of water iodine was 3.74 mg /kg.The qualified rate of iodine salt was 96.30%.The prevalence rate of goiter in children aged 8 to 10 years was 2.5%.[Conclusion]The rural areas of Qinhuangdao City are Iodine-deficient areas.The iodine nourishment in school-age children and women of childbearing age has reached a suitable level through consumption of iodized salt.
Attitudes to Price Risk and Uncertainty: The Earnest Search for Identification and Policy Relevance

After several decades of neglect, the food crises of 2007–08 and 2010–11 have brought food price volatility back on the policy agenda. The study of price volatility, however, is really the study of price risk and uncertainty as they relate to individuals, households, and firms. Because the study of behavior in the face of risk and uncertainty has mostly focused on behavior in the face of income risk and uncertainty, we first review the theoretical and empirical literatures on behavior in the face of price risk and uncertainty. Then, because policy recommendations are only as good as the empirical findings on which they are based, and because market-level phenomena such as price risk do not lend themselves well to randomization, we discuss the ways in which experimental economics can inform our understanding of price risk. Finally, because expected utility—the workhorse model used to study behavior in the face of risk and uncertainty—fails to account for a number of behaviors, we discuss how insights from behavioral economics could be incorporated into the study of price risk, with the ultimate goal of generating more policy-relevant findings. Apres avoir ete negligee pendant plusieurs decennies, la volatilite des prix alimentaires a ete remise a l'ordre du jour par les crises alimentaires de 2007-2008 et 2010-2011. L'etude de la volatilite des prix est toutefois equivalente a l'etude du risque et de l'incertitude relatifs aux prix et de leurs consequences en ce qui a trait aux individus, aux menages, et aux firmes. Comme l'etude du comportement face au risque et a l'incertitude a surtout porte sur le risque et l'incertitude relatifs au revenu, nous offrons tout d'abord une revue de la litterature portant sur le risque et l'incertitude relatifs aux prix. Ensuite, parce que les recommandations de politique economique ne sont aussi bonnes que les resultats empiriques sur lesquelles elles sont fondees, et parce que les phenomenes de marche comme la volatilite des prix sont difficiles a etudier par randomisation, nous expliquons comment les economies experimentale et comportementale peuvent ameliorer notre comprehension du comportement face au risque et a l'incertitude des prix. Finalement, parce que la theorie de l'utilite esperee—le modele de reference en ce qui a trait a l'etude du risque et de l'incertitude—peine a expliquer plusieurs comportements, nous presentons la facon dont certains resultats en economie comportementale peuvent etre incorpores dans l'etude du risque et de l'incertitude relatifs aux prix, dans le but de generer des recommandations de politique economique qui sont plus utiles.
Novel measures of continental-scale avian migration phenology related to proximate environmental cues

Rapid changes in seasonal avian migrations provide compelling examples of biotic response to climate change. Seasonal waves of land surface phenology and temperature are thought to be primary exogenous cues that migrants use to fine tune migration timing. Exploration of the role that these cues play in regulating migration timing requires better spatial, temporal, and taxonomic sampling than is typically available. We analyze weather surveillance radar (WSR) and eBird citizen science data in an effort to understand the macroscale relationships among migration phenology, seasonal waves of land surface phenology and seasonality of temperature. We demonstrate that both WSR and eBird data provide similar estimates of migration timing at local (within 100 km) and macro scales (>20° of latitude). These measures of avian phenology were positively correlated with spring temperatures and land surface phenology (extended spring index of first leaf date), which followed a south to north wave. Start-of-spring, estimated from a remotely sensed index of vegetation greenness, did not show the expected pattern from south to north and appears unlikely to be a useful exogenous migration cue within the study region. Future analyses of WSR and eBird data have the potential to provide high-resolution phenology data that may be useful in understanding spatiotemporal dynamics of migration systems and the response of these systems to climate change.
God's Omnipresence

I defend Christian classical theism’s view that God is aspatial in the strict sense but omnipresent only in a loose sense. I consider ten different proposals according to which God is strictly omnipresent and reject them all. I then present two arguments for the claim that God is strictly aspatial. Finally, I argue that, given God creates and sustains all else, God is loosely omnipresent.
Video Analysis Verification of Head Impact Events Measured by Wearable Sensors.

Background:Wearable sensors are increasingly used to quantify the frequency and magnitude of head impact events in multiple sports. There is a paucity of evidence that verifies head impact events r...
A Massively Parallel Fluorescence Assay to Characterize the Effects of Synonymous Mutations on TP53 Expression.

Abstract: Although synonymous mutations can affect gene expression, they have generally not been considered in genomic studies that focus on mutations that increase the risk of cancer. However, mounting evidence implicates some synonymous mutations as driver mutations in cancer. Here a massively parallel assay, based on cell sorting of a reporter containing a segment of p53 fused to green fluorescent protein (GFP), was used to measure the effects of nearly all synonymous mutations in exon 6 of TP53. In this reporter context, several mutations within the exon caused strong expression changes including mutations that may cause potential gain or loss of function. Further analysis indicates that these effects are largely attributed to errors in splicing, including exon skipping, intron inclusion, and exon truncation, resulting from mutations both at exon-intron junctions and within the body of the exon. These mutations are found at extremely low frequencies in healthy populations and are enriched a few-fold in cancer genomes, suggesting that some of them may be driver mutations in TP53. This assay provides a general framework to identify previously unknown detrimental synonymous mutations in cancer genes. Implications: Using a massively parallel assay, this study demonstrates that synonymous mutations in the TP53 gene affect protein expression, largely through their impact on splicing.
Senior Leaders and Teaching Environments: Faculty Perceptions of Administrators’ Support of Innovation

We used data from the 2012 administration of the Faculty Survey of Student Engagement to measure faculty perceptions of senior leaders’ (e.g., deans, provosts, presidents) support for innovation in teaching. Specifically, this study explored what faculty characteristics predict faculty perceptions of leaders’ support for innovation in teaching and how those perceptions relate to several teaching practices (e.g., active classroom practice). The goal for this study was to gain additional insight into how faculty members approach teaching. The implications of these findings are presented along with some considerations for future research.
Mortality and survival of white-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus fawns on a north Atlantic coastal island

Mortality and survival of white-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus fawns (N = 29) were studied from birth to one year of age during 1991–95 on Mount Desert Island (MDI), Maine, where deer hunting is prohibited, coyotes Canis latrans have become recently established, and protected U.S. National Park lands are interspersed with private property. The rate of predator-caused mortality was 0.52, with coyote predation (N = 8) accounting for at least 47% of mortalities from all causes (N = 17). Mortality rate from drowning was 0.24 (N = 3), and from vehicles 0.14 (N = 3). For fawns radio-collared as neonates, 10 of 14 mortalities occurred during the first two months of life. Annual rate of fawn survival was 0.26. Survival rate from six months to one year was 0.65 and four mortalities (two predation, two drowning) were observed during this interval. A subgroup of fawns (N = 11) captured near a residential area and along the periphery of a coyote territory had a higher rate of survival to one year of age (S = 0.67) than did fawns from all other areas (N = 18, S = 0.00). Recruitment to one year of age was lower than that observed in other deer populations in the northeastern United States. Low recruitment associated with coyote predation and mortality sources associated with humans appears to be limiting white-tailed deer populations in some segments of this insular landscape.
Prediction and Prevention of Drug-Nutrient Interactions Using Theoretical Models

Until the present time, drug-nutrient interactions have been predicted on the basis of past experience. Indeed, the risk has been considered from the standpoint of the drugs used rather than user characteristics and conditions of usage. The need for better methods of risk assessment is related to our need to predict when drug-nutrient interactions are likely to occur and how to prevent adverse outcomes. We would like to be able to forecast interactions of new drugs from our knowledge of drugs in current usage. Currently we have a knowledge base which includes the attributes of drugs, drug users, and dosage, but we have not established the interrelationships between these variables.
Breast tumor segmentation in DCE-MRI using fully convolutional networks with an application in radiogenomics

Breast tumor segmentation based on dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) remains an active as well as a challenging problem. Previous studies often rely on manual annotation for tumor regions, which is not only time-consuming but also error-prone. Recent studies have shown high promise of deep learning-based methods in various segmentation problems. However, these methods are usually faced with the challenge of limited number (e.g., tens or hundreds) of medical images for training, leading to sub-optimal segmentation performance. Also, previous methods cannot efficiently deal with prevalent class-imbalance problems in tumor segmentation, where the number of voxels in tumor regions is much lower than that in the background area. To address these issues, in this study, we propose a mask-guided hierarchical learning (MHL) framework for breast tumor segmentation via fully convolutional networks (FCN). Our strategy is first decomposing the original difficult problem into several sub-problems and then solving these relatively simpler sub-problems in a hierarchical manner. To precisely identify locations of tumors that underwent a biopsy, we further propose an FCN model to detect two landmarks defined on nipples. Finally, based on both segmentation probability maps and our identified landmarks, we proposed to select biopsied tumors from all detected tumors via a tumor selection strategy using the pathology location. We validate our MHL method using data for 272 patients, and achieve a mean Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) of 0.72 in breast tumor segmentation. Finally, in a radiogenomic analysis, we show that a previously developed image features show a comparable performance for identifying luminal A subtype when applied to the automatic segmentation and a semi-manual segmentation demonstrating a high promise for fully automated radiogenomic analysis in breast cancer.
The Completed Double Layer BIEM: A Boundary Integral Method for Complex Microstructures in a Viscous Fluid

A boundary integral equation for the Stokes (linearized Navier-Stokes) equations has been developed. In contrast to the classical integral representation of Lorentz (which follows from a Green’s identity) the integral representation employed here consists of an aphysical dipole distribution, and a combination of point forces and torques. The existence of this class of representations follows from the Fredholm-Riesz-Schauder theory. In the problems of greatest interest in particle hydrodynamics, the classical representation leads to a Fredholm integral equation of the first kind, whereas the new method leads to that of the second kind. Upon performing Wielandt deflations, the compact operator that appears in the governing equation may be cast as a contraction mapping, leading to rapidly converging iterative solutions. Preliminary experiments on high-performance parallel computers suggest that the algorithm can be adapted to scalable parallel computer architectures.
Community Participation and Diabetes Control

Public health professionals have implemented behavioral and policy change interventions focusing on diet and exercise to reduce the prevalence of diabetes in the United States. Yet, the epidemic of diabetes has not abated. Drawing from the scientific evidence and her work with Hispanic communities in the US Southwest and Border regions, the author argues that only comprehensive, socio-ecological approaches that take social determinants of health into consideration and conscious community participation can reverse the diabetes epidemic.
High-order finite element–integral equation coupling on embedded meshes

Abstract This paper presents a high-order method for solving an interface problem for the Poisson equation on embedded meshes through a coupled finite element and integral equation approach. The method is capable of handling homogeneous or inhomogeneous jump conditions without modification and retains high-order convergence close to the embedded interface. We present finite element–integral equation (FE–IE) formulations for interior, exterior, and interface problems. The treatments of the exterior and interface problems are new. The resulting linear systems are solved through an iterative approach exploiting the second-kind nature of the IE operator combined with algebraic multigrid preconditioning for the FE part. Assuming smooth continuations of coefficients and right-hand-side data, we show error analysis supporting high-order accuracy. Numerical evidence further supports our claims of efficiency and high-order accuracy for smooth data.
Colombians in the United States: History, Values, and Challenges

This chapter focuses on Colombian Americans and presents a brief historical background, available demographic information, and current concerns and successes regarding their post-migration experiences in the United States (e.g., acculturative stress, identity development, and potential clinical issues). Colombian immigrants’ connection to family as a cultural anchor is noted as essential for clinicians to consider. We conclude our chapter by considering the future regarding the ongoing success stories represented by many Colombians in the United States.
Blunt Thoracic Aortic Injury: Endovascular Repair Is Now the Standard

Background Incidence and treatment of blunt thoracic aortic injury (BTAI) has evolved, likely from improved imaging and emergence of endovascular techniques; however, multicenter data demonstrating this are lacking. We examined trends in incidence, management, and outcomes in BTAI. Study Design The American College of Surgeons National Trauma Databank (2003 to 2013) was used to identify adults with BTAI. Management was categorized as nonoperative repair, open aortic repair (OAR), or thoracic endovascular repair (TEVAR). Outcomes included demographics, management, and outcomes. Results There were 3,774 patients. Median age was 46.0 years (interquartile range [IQR] 29.3, 62.0 years), with 70.8% males, and median Injury Severity Score (ISS) of 34.0 (IQR 26.0, 45.0). The number of BTAIs diagnosed over the decade increased 196.8% (p Conclusions The diagnosis of BTAI has increased, likely due to more sensitive imaging. Nearly 70% of patients get nonoperative care. Treatment with TEVAR improves outcomes relative to OAR. Part of the proportional increase in TEVAR use may represent overtreatment of lower grade BTAI amenable to medical management, and warrants further investigation.
Focal breast pain: imaging evaluation and outcomes.

Abstract Objectives To determine the number and characteristics of cancers detected and the optimal imaging evaluation in women presenting with focal breast pain (FBP). Materials and methods We performed a retrospective review of 4720 women who underwent imaging for FBP from 2001 to 2013. Women 18 and over with one or two foci of breast pain and no concurrent breast symptoms were included. 944 patients met criteria. We recorded the imaging work-up, presence and type of finding at the site of pain, BI-RADS® assessment, and pathological outcomes. Subsequent imaging and clinical follow up was recorded. Results Imaging evaluation consisted of sonogram alone in 286 women, mammogram alone in 231 women, and both in 427 women. 113 women had an imaging finding at the site of pain; 103 were designated benign or probably benign. 12 biopsies of corresponding findings were performed: 9 benign, 1 invasive lobular carcinoma, 1 invasive ductal carcinoma, 1 ductal carcinoma in situ. All three malignancies were seen mammographically; 2 had an ultrasound correlate. At initial evaluation, 4 incidental breast cancers were diagnosed remote from the site of FBP. All were seen on mammogram and 2 of 4 had an ultrasound correlate. On follow up evaluation, 9 cancers were diagnosed at the site of pain and 13 incidental cancers were diagnosed. Conclusion FBP is rarely associated with malignancy. Targeted ultrasound may be deferred in women 40 and older with FBP, no other clinical findings, and a negative mammogram.
A Network Approach to the Formation of Self-assembled Teams

Which individuals in a network make the most appealing teammates? Which invitations are most likely to be accepted? And which are most likely to be rejected? This study explores the factors that are most likely to explain the selection, acceptance, and rejection of invitations in self-assembling teams. We conducted a field study with 780 participants using an online platform that enables people to form teams. Participants completed an initial survey assessing traits, relationships, and skills. Next, they searched for and invited others to join a team. Recipients could then accept, reject, or ignore invitations. Using Exponential Random Graph Models (ERGMs), we studied how traits and social networks influence teammate choices. Our results demonstrated that (a) agreeable leaders with high psychological collectivism send invitations most frequently, (b) previous collaborators, leaders, competent workers, females, and younger individuals receive the most invitations, and (c) rejections are concentrated in the hands of a few.
Shipwrecked with John Rawls: Decision Making behind a Veil of Ignorance in a Classroom Simulation

In a classroom simulation that asks students to allocate scarce resources among a group of varied characters, evidence shows that ignorance of one’s character assignment is strongly associated with a more Rawlsian pattern of distribution. When students do not know which character is their own, they tend to support the most vulnerable as they redistribute resources to ensure that nearly all of the characters can survive and thrive. This is particularly the case when students know that a small portion of their grade is determined by the fate of their character. In contrast, a control group of students who worked through the simulation without consequence for their grades were significantly less redistributive and were more willing to sacrifice weak characters. Implications of students’ choices in the simulation segue nicely with class discussions of American social policy.
Physical Activity as Play: How Active Living Should Be

This article makes the case that physical inactivity and sedentary living can be called a ‘weapon of mass destruction’ and examines how most people do not meet the minimum recommended levels of phy...
Time-Frequency Spectroscopy of Ga As Transient Dispersion Using Few-Cycle Pump-Probe Reflectometry

The rapid development of new photonic materials calls for simple yet effective approaches to characterize ultrafast dynamics in materials and devices. Here we demonstrate time-frequency transient reflectometry based on a compact, few-cycle pump-probe reflectometer. The system simultaneously features a broad spectral range (300 nm) and fine temporal resolution (10 fs), and it requires only a femtosecond oscillator. With this capability, we report a time-frequency spectroscopic measurement of the transient dispersion of $\mathrm{Ga}\mathrm{As}$ near its band gap. Our results map important carrier dynamics such as carrier cooling, carrier decay, band filling, and band-gap renormalization on a single two-dimensional graph, offering a comprehensive picture of these processes and revealing details unattainable with conventional methods.
A Silver Lining: An Italian Debt Restructuring in the Wake of COVID-19

As the global economy has become more integrated and increasingly complex, the need for a system that administers government default has become more and more apparent. The body of "sovereign debt law" that has emerged to fill this need in the context of the Eurozone is an amalgamation of treaty obligations, domestic law constitutional principles, and tensions between state government and supranational government actors. Using a hypothetical Italian restructuring, this paper seeks to explore how these different bodies of law operate together to create a system that protects government function as opposed to guaranteeing creditor recovery. Further, this paper explores how an exogenous shock as the COVID-19 pandemic effects the analyses undertaken at various points in the sovereign debt legal framework. This analysis reveals a silver lining: although Italy has suffered horrible losses as the result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the effects of the pandemic will help mitigate the legal challenges faced by Italy in the course of a local-law restructuring effort and thus smooth the path to a successful post-COVID recovery.
Breast cancer risk factors by mode of detection among screened women in the Cancer Prevention Study-II.

Identifying risk factors for women at high risk of symptom-detected breast cancers that were missed by screening would enable targeting of enhanced screening regimens. To this end, we examined associations of breast cancer risk factors by mode of detection in screened women from the Cancer Prevention Study (CPS)-II Nutrition Cohort. Among 77,206 women followed for a median of 14.8 years, 2711 screen-detected and 1281 symptom-detected breast cancer cases were diagnosed. Multivariable-adjusted associations were estimated using joint Cox proportional hazards regression models with person-time calculated contingent on screening. Factors associated with higher risks of symptom-detected and screen-detected breast cancer included current combined hormone therapy (HT) use (HR 2.07, 95% CI 1.72–2.48 and 1.45, 1.27–1.65, respectively) and history of benign breast disease (1.85, 1.64–2.08 and 1.43, 1.31–1.55, respectively). Current estrogen-only HT use was associated with symptom-detected (1.40, 1.15–1.71) but not screen-detected (0.95, 0.83–1.09) breast cancer. Higher risk of screen-detected but not symptom-detected breast cancer was observed for obese vs. normal body mass index (1.22, 1.01–1.48 and 0.76, 0.56–1.01, respectively), per 3 h/day sitting time (1.10, 1.04–1.16 and 0.97, 0.89–1.06, respectively), and ≥ 2 drinks per day vs. nondrinker (1.40, 1.16–1.69 and 1.27, 0.97–1.66, respectively). Differences in risk factors for symptom-detected vs. screen-detected breast cancer were observed and most notably, use of combined and estrogen-only HT and a history of benign breast disease were associated with increased risk of symptomatic detected breast cancer. If confirmed, these data suggest that such women may benefit from more intensive screening to facilitate early detection.
Fiber Layup Generation on Curved Composite Structures

Abstract We present a new two-step process for defining optimal composite fiber paths for use in automated fiber placement machines and finite element analysis models. Building upon work done previously in the area of discrete geodesic path generation, we present a method for predicting minimum strain energy paths initialized by fast approximate geodesic paths on triangular meshes. We compare the effectiveness of this process with those already discussed in the literature and show how this process is fast, accurate, and ready to use in commercial applications. This study also shows how this process effectively finds optimal fiber paths on complex, non-developable surfaces, which will improve finite element analysis models and provide composite manufacturers with the ability to create components with complex geometry. We have also implemented our proposed method on the GPU, which speeds up the process for large surface mesh sizes by computing geodesic paths in parallel. The algorithms developed in this study are available freely online and have been successfully integrated into an automated finite-element model-building software called De-La-Mo ( https://idealab-isu.github.io/autofiber/ ).
Predicting Well-being Using Short Ecological Momentary Audio Recordings

To quickly and accurately measure psychological well-being has been a challenging task. Traditionally, this is done with self-report surveys, which can be time-consuming and burdensome. In this work, we demonstrate the use of short voice recordings on smartphones to automatically predict well-being. In a 5-day study, 35 participants used their smartphones to make short voice recordings of what they were doing throughout the day. Using these recordings, our model can predict the participants’ well-being scores with a mean absolute error of 14%, relative to the self-reported well-being (“ground truth”). Both audio and text features from the recordings, especially, MFCC and semantic features, are important for prediction accuracy. Based on the work, we provide suggestions for future research to further improve the prediction result.
Human B-Cell Development in a Mouse Environment

B lymphocytes are the source of pathogen-specific and neutralizing antibodies (Abs), and they also regulate the development of lymphoid tissue and the activity of T cells and other hematopoietic cell types. Hematopoietic humanized mice (hu-mice) represent a relevant experimental tool to explore basic and translational mechanisms of human B-cell development, B-cell activation, and B-cell function. These animals readily generate human B cells in high proportion relative to other hematopoietic lineages. All stages of B-cell maturation can be found in hu-mice, including naive, activated, IgM memory, and class-switched B cells, and furthermore these mice produce significant amounts of secreted immunoglobulin. However, the majority of B cells only progress to the immature/transitional stage suggesting that only some of the factors necessary for human B-cell maturation are present and functional in the mouse environment. Thus, in addition to providing a model for understanding human B-cell responses to infections and vaccines and for testing B-cell-specific therapies, the hu-mouse also affords a great opportunity to learn which cell types and molecules are critical for B-cell maturation and function. Here, we review the kinetics, characteristics, and limitations of human B-cell development in hu-mice and summarize what these uniquely translational animal models have taught us about human B-cell biology.
Sweet Dreams Are Made of This? A HOT Response to Sebastián

Sebastian (this issue) argues that data from dream research undermines a prominent version of the higher-order representation theory of consciousness. In this commentary, I argue that Sebastian’s attack falls short, for three main reasons. First, the data from dream studies is notoriously hard to interpret, leaving ample space for the higher-order theorist to contest Sebastian’s claims. Second, even accepting the dream data as given, there is still enough brain activity present in the dreaming brain to vindicate higher-order claims. And third, it is not clear that the higher-order theory must be committed to the anatomical claims exposing it to Sebastian’s critique.
Tubal reimplantation—In retrospect

Abstract 1. 1. A simple, safe and, so far uniformly successful method of tubal sterilization is reviewed, sixty cases being analyzed as to morbidity and end-results. 2. 2. The operation should never be undertaken in the presence of any acute abdominopelvic infection, but subacute or chronic pathologic conditions can be removed at the same time without increasing the incidence of mortality or morbidity. 3. 3. The principle of the operation is based on the belief that preservation of tubal excretion prevents the possible formation of an aseptic hydrosalpinx. 4. 4. Ovarian function is not disturbed. 5. 5. On theoretical grounds the operation can be used as a temporary means of sterilization.
Genetic control of the immune response to haemoglobin. II. Studies using purified alpha-chain and beta-chain as immunogens.

Mice of independent haplotypes and several recombinant inbred strains were immunized with highly purified preparations of either the alpha-chain or beta-chain subunit of human adult haemoglobin. Cells from the sensitized lymph nodes were challenged in vitro with the appropriate subunit (or in some cases both chains) and cell proliferation assessed by 3H-thymidine incorporation. Mice of the H-2b and H-2d haplotypes were high responders to alpha-chain while mice of the H-2f, H-2j, H-2k, H-2r, H-2s, H-2u, and H-2v haplotype were low responders. the low responsivenesss of B10.A(4R) and B 10.MBR and high responsiveness of B10 indicated that the Ir gene(s) determining responsiveness to the alpha-chain subunit resides in the I-A subregion of the mouse major histocompatibility complex. Mice of the H-2d, H-2f, and H-2s haplotypes were high responders and H-2b, H-2j, H-2a, and H-2u haplotype mice were low responders to beta-chain. H-2k, H-2p, H-2r, and H-2v haplotype mice were intermediate responders to beta-chain. The low responsiveness of B10.S(8R) and B10.TL and the high responsivenes of B10.S(9R) mapped the Ir gene(s) to beta-chain to the I-A subregion. Data collected from challenging high responder cells with both subunit indicated that alpha-chain and beta-chain do not crossreact. These results are discussed in reference to earlier observations suggesting that the low responsiveness of some strains of mice to priming and challenging using the intact haemoglobin molecule might be due to a negative regulatory influence mediated by one of the subunits. In the absence of this influence these mice would respond normally.
Cytosolic phospholipase A2α reigns supreme in arthritis and bone resorption

Abstract The superfamily of phospholipase A 2 (PLA 2 α) enzymes implicated in arachidonic acid release has grown in number with members having different structural characteristics, substrate specificity, calcium dependency and cellular localization. Despite this growing complexity and multiple attacks on its position as the reigning monarch of this superfamily, the 85 kDa cytosolic PLA 2 α continues to rule supreme, having a primary role in many pathophysiological conditions. The most recent addition to the list of accolades of this enzyme is reflected in two important papers in which the use of the cytosolic cPLA 2 α ( cPLA 2 α )-null mouse demonstrates crucial roles of this enzyme in collagen-induced arthritis and prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 )-mediated bone resorption associated with inflammation.
THE ROLE OF TASK ANALYSIS IN UNDERSTANDING PROBLEM-SOLVING BEHAVIOR

We report the beginning of a research program for understanding cognitive processes required for applying financial accounting knowledge to specific problem solving situations. Task analysis which is a thorough and systematic dissection and description of the cognitive components of any task is demonstrated as a useful technique for identifying the relevant cognitive processes. After carefully describing the cognitive components of accounting using task analysis one may then specify what parts of this description are relevant to the immediate behavioral objective. These cognitive descriptions can then be used to design instructional materials or teaching strategies.
COMPARISON OF MICROTHRIX ULTRASTRUCTURE AND MORPHOLOGY ON THE PLEROCERCOID AND ADULT SCOLEX OF CALLIOBOTHRIUM CF. VERTICILLATUM (TETRAPHYLLIDEA: ONCHOBOTHRIIDAE)

The distal bothridial surfaces of adult triloculate onchobothriids are covered with short structures that have been tentatively classified as very short filitriches, but this hypothesis has never been tested. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to investigate microthrix morphology in the plerocercoid and adult forms of Calliobothrium cf. verticillatum, a triloculate onchobothriid tapeworm from Long Island Sound (Connecticut). Plerocercoids of C. cf. verticillatum were collected from the anterior midgut ceaca of Pagurus pollicaris Say, 1817 (flat-clawed hermit crab), and adults were collected from the spiral intestine of the dusky smooth hound Mustelis canis (Mitchell, 1815). Two plerocercoids and 2 adults were examined using SEM; 2 plerocercoids and 2 adults were examined using TEM. Microthrix distribution and morphology (including measurements of total length, base length, shaft length, and base width) were investigated on all surfaces of the plerocerco...
North American disputes about research on learning from media

Abstract In North America, some of the more important media disputes focus on: (1) the effects of different media on learning; (2) whether media play any essential role in the cultivation of or transfer of cognitive skills; (3) the motivating properties of media; and (4) the economic benefits of different media. This review suggests that American media researchers tend to belong to either a ‘strong’ or a ‘weak’ media theory group. Evidence for each of the two extreme theory positions is examined and it is concluded that sufficient evidence has not been advanced to support a ‘strong’ theory of media effects on learning, motivation or cost.
Need for cognition is related to higher general intelligence, fluid intelligence, and crystallized intelligence, but not working memory

Abstract Need for Cognition (NFC) is a trait-level measure of how much individuals enjoy engaging in effortful cognition. It has previously been reported to have a small to moderate association with aspects of intelligence but this has not been fully explored. The current study presents a comprehensive evaluation of the relation between NFC and intelligence and is the first to also examine working memory. Our results corroborate aspects of what has previously been reported but also contrast with some previous findings. We found NFC to be significantly correlated with fluid intelligence ( β = .40) and crystallized intelligence ( β = .32), but not working memory ( β = .12). Possible ways NFC influences aspects of intelligence are discussed, including increasing test-taking persistence and increasing exposure to educational media.
The Role of the Tangent Mapping in Analyzing Bifurcation Behaviour

In the study of solution manifolds of parameter-dependent nonlinear equations extended systems of equations play an important role, especially for the computation of singular points, such as turning points, bifurcation points, etc. Various extended systems have been proposed in the literature. Here it is shown that a central feature in the construction of extended systems is the tangent map of differential geometry. A theory of extended equations based on the tangent map is presented which also exhibits the close connection with the choice of local coordinate systems. The ideas and results are illustrated with an example of a continuously stirred chemical reactor. In Untersuchungen von Losungsmanigfaltigkeiten von parameterabhangige nichtlinearen Gleichungen spielen erweiterte Gleichungssysteme eine wichtige Rolle, insbesondere zur Berechnung von singularen Punkten, wie Umkehrpunkten, Verzweigungspunkten, usw. Verschiedene solche Systeme sind in der Literatur angegeben worden. Hier wird gezeigt, das die Tangenten-Abbildung der Differentialgeometrie eine zentrale Rolle in der Konstruktion von erweiterten Systemen spielt. Eine Theorie von erweiterten Gleichungssystemen auf der Basis der Tangenten-Abbildung wird entwickelt, die auch den engen Zusammenhang mit der Wahl des lokalen Koordinatensystems aufzeigt. Die Ideen und Resultate werden am Beispiel eines chemischen Reaktors illustriert.
Polymerization of alkyl acrylates and alkyl methacrylates with starch

A series of C4-C12 alkyl acrylates and methacrylates was polymerized with starch by irradiating starch–monomer mixtures with 60Co. Homopolymers were extracted with cyclohexane. The amounts of insoluble versus soluble synthetic polymer in polymerization run with alkyl acrylates varied less with the chain length of the alkyl substuent than in the polymerizations run with alkyl acrylates varied less with the chain length of the alkyl substituent than in the polymerizations run with alkyl methacrylates; and the poly(alkyl acrylate) contents of cyclohexane-insoluble fractions were all in the 38–45% range. Synthetic polymer contents of the products from butyl, hexyl, and decyl methacrylates were also close to this range. Octyl and lauryl methacrylate, however, gave high conversions to cyclohexane-soluble poly(alkyl methacrylate) along with little or no unextractable synthetic polymer in the starch-containing fractions. Poly(lauryl methacrylate) could be rendered insoluble by incorporating a small amount of tetramethylene glycol dimethacrylate in the polymerization mixture. In a series of polymerizations run with hexyl acrylate and hexyl methacrylate, lower irradiation doses led to more cyclohexane-soluble polymer and less synthetic polymer in the starch-containing fractions. Enzymatic digestion of starch-soluble polymer and less synthetic polymer in the starch-containing fractions. Enzymatic digestion of starch-containing polymers gave synthetic polymer fractions that were largely insoluble in cyclohexane. Crosslinking is, therefore, probably taking place during these polymerizations; however, we could not eliminate the possibility that reduced solubility was caused by small amounts of residual carbohydrate in these polymer fractions. Ceric ammonium nitrate-initiated polymerizations of butyl acrylate, hexyl acrylate, and butyl methacrylate with starch gave cyclohexane-insoluble polymers that contained 33–39% synthetic polymer. The higher alkyl acrylates and methacrylates produced little or no polymer under these conditions. Starch-containing fractions were tested as absorbents for hydrocarbons. Products prepared from decyl acrylate and lauryl acryle acrylate absorbed about 9 g of isooctane per 1 g of polymer, whereas the lowrer alkyl monomers gave polymers with lower absorbency.
Cemento-osseous dysplasia, a radiological mimic of periapical dental abscess

In the imaging evaluation of Emergency Department patients presenting with facial pain, there is a condition that can mimic the radiographic appearance of a periapical dental abscess. This condition, cemento-osseous dysplasia, may appear similar on dental X-rays, panoramic radiographs, and computed tomography examinations to and must be distinguished from the more common periapical abscess in order to avoid inappropriate intervention. This review highlights the easy confusion of these two entities based on radiographic appearance and the clinical implications of such a mistake and suggests some approaches to avoid this error.