cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Measurement of Chronic Pain and Opioid Use Evaluation in Community-Based Persons with Serious Illnesses

Abstract Background: Chronic pain associated with serious illnesses is having a major impact on population health in the United States. Accountability for high quality care for community-dwelling patients with serious illnesses requires selection of metrics that capture the burden of chronic pain whose treatment may be enhanced or complicated by opioid use. Objective: Our aim was to evaluate options for assessing pain in seriously ill community dwelling adults, to discuss the use/abuse of opioids in individuals with chronic pain, and to suggest pain and opioid use metrics that can be considered for screening and evaluation of patient responses and quality care. Design: Structured literature review. Measurements: Evaluation of pain and opioid use assessment metrics and measures for their potential usefulness in the community. Results: Several pain and opioid assessment instruments are available for consideration. Yet, no one pain instrument has been identified as “the best” to assess pain in seriously ill ...
Size effects in lattice structures and a comparison to micropolar elasticity

Abstract This work models periodic thin walled cellular materials using either a discrete beam element lattice model or nominally equivalent micropolar elastic model. When the material properties of cellular materials are tested, small samples may have different apparent material properties than large samples. This difference is known in the literature as a size effect. The predictions of size effects from discrete and micropolar simulations are examined. Although the literature explains size effects arising from the effects simulated in the micropolar model, the micropolar model typically under predicts the stiffness due to size effects seen in the lattice model by an order of magnitude. The lattice size effects are examined for patterns and the size effect patterns found can be explained by the shape of the free edges, and by the specifics of how material is distributed within the material domain. These are causes for size effects that are not captured in the micropolar model.
Nonstationary linear discriminant analysis

Changes in population distributions over time are common in many applications. However, the vast majority of statistical learning theory takes place under the assumption that all points in the training data are identically distributed (and independent), that is, non-stationarity of the data is disregarded. In this paper, a version of the classic Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) classification rule is proposed for nonstationary data, using a linear-Gaussian state space model. This Nonstationary LDA (NSLDA) classification rule is based on the Kalman Smoother algorithm to estimate the evolving population parameters. In case the dynamics of the system are not fully known, a combination of the Expectation-Maximization (EM) algorithm and the Kalman Smoother is employed to simultaneously estimate population and statespace equation parameters. Performance is assessed in a set of numerical experiments using simulated data, where the average error rates obtained by NSLDA are compared to the error produced by a naive application of LDA to the pooled nonstationary data. Results demonstrate the promise of the proposed NSLDA classification rule.
ATP13A2-Related Heriditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP) (P6.044)

Objective: To describe the clinical features of ATP13A2-related HSP. Background: Biallelic mutations in the ATP13A2 gene cause Kufor-Rakeb syndrome, a juvenile-onset parkinsonian syndrome associated with spasticity and dementia. Recently, loss of ATP13A2 function has been reported to cause an autosomal recessive form of complicated HSP with cerebellar ataxia, axonal polyneuropathy and, in 1 of 5 patients, mild parkinsonism (Brain 2017; 140:287–305). The rarity of ATP13A2-related HSP however has limited its clinical characterization. Design/Methods: Case report of two siblings. Results: These brothers, ages 33 and 32 years, reported gradual onset of leg stiffness at ages 17 and 22 years, respectively. Both described lifelong attentional deficits affecting school performance. In both, neurological examination showed spastic paraplegia without cerebellar signs, overt neuropathy, parkinsonism or supranuclear gaze palsy. Their psychometric testing revealed deficits in executive function; MRI of the brain showed cerebellar and spinal cord atrophy; and dopamine transporter imaging showed symmetrically reduced putaminal uptake. There are no other siblings and family history is otherwise normal. Exome sequencing of the siblings identified compound heterozygous mutations in the ATP13A2 gene resulting in protein truncations (c.2391delC → p.T798QfsX3; c.212G>A → p.W71X). While neither mutation is previously described, both meet American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics criteria for pathological variants. Conclusions: Imaging studies in both patients showed evidence of cerebellar and dopaminergic dysfunction, yet the clinical presentation was consistent with uncomplicated HSP (apart from lifelong attentional deficits). Accordingly, ATP13A2 mutations may cause HSP in relative isolation. A trial of L-dopa has been initiated (response not yet known, but dopamine replacement therapy was unhelpful in one of the few previously reported cases of ATP13A2-related HSP). It is not clear what drives phenotypic differences in patients with ATP13A2 mutations and why some patients with evidence of nigral pathology on dopamine transporter imaging lack parkinsonism. Disclosure: Dr. Jamil has nothing to disclose. Dr. Siddiqui has nothing to disclose. Dr. Sollinger has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ferrara has nothing to disclose.
Use of an Emergency Manual During an Intraoperative Cardiac Arrest by an Interprofessional Team: A Positive-Exemplar Case Study of a New Patient Safety Tool.

Background An emergency manual (EM) is a set of evidence-based crisis checklists, or cognitive aids, that can improve team performance. EMs are used in other safety-critical industries, and health care simulation studies have shown their efficacy, but use in clinical settings is nascent. A case study was conducted on the use of an EM during one intraoperative crisis, which entailed the assessment of the impact of the EM's use on teamwork and patient care and the identification of lessons for effectively using EMs during future clinical crises. Methods In a case study of a single crisis, an EM was used during a cardiac arrest at a tertiary care hospital that had systematically implemented perioperative EMs. Semistructured interviews were conducted with all six clinicians present, interview transcripts were iteratively coded, and thematic analysis was performed. Results All clinician participants stated that EM use enabled effective team functioning via reducing stress of individual clinicians, fostering a calm work environment, and improving teamwork and communication. These impacts in turn improved the delivery of patient care during a clinical crisis and influenced participants' intended EM use during future appropriate crises. Conclusion In this positive-exemplar case study, an EM was used to improve delivery of evidence-based patient care through effective clinical team functioning. EM use must complement rather than replace good clinician education, judgment, and teamwork. More broadly, understanding why and how things go well via analyzing positive-exemplar case studies, as a converse of root cause analyses for negative events, can be used to identify effective applications of safety innovations.
Building a model for augmented design documentation

Abstract Project-specific knowledge is the rationale behind the project data and specifications, including the design decisions that link elements of basic data, design data, project-specifications, domain knowledge, and general knowledge to explain the design. This information should be available in design documentation, but usually it is missing. The paper describes an approach for improving design documentation in which the computer acts as an apprentice to the designer to capture the rationale during the design process. The initial focus of the work is on HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) design. We are using videotape analysis of design sessions along with structured interviews to develop a model of design rationale in this domain.
Effect of electrolytes on growth of mutant bacteria.

In many microbial systems, it has been observed that the phenotypes of certain mutants can be corrected by increasing the electrolyte concentration (or in some cases merely the osmotic strength) of their growth medium. The basis of these effects is not fully understood, but an understanding of these phenomena promises to shed light on how cells respond to such enviornmental stress.
The Problem of Voter Fraud

Voter ID laws have provoked a fierce controversy in politics and public law. Supporters claim that such laws deter fraudulent votes and protect the integrity of American elections. Opponents, on the other hand, argue that such laws, like poll taxes and literacy tests before them, intentionally depress turnout by lawful voters. A vast literature, including legal scholarship and opinions of the Supreme Court, accept these two narratives. But these narratives are wrong, or at least incomplete. Voter ID laws can have many effects, including surprising ones like this: they can exacerbate fraud. To illustrate, suppose that without a voter ID law candidates A and B would receive 13 and 10 lawful votes, respectively, and B would receive two fraudulent votes. Candidate A wins non-fraudulently, 13 to 12. Now suppose that with a voter ID law, candidates A and B would get nine and nine lawful votes, respectively (less than before because of depressed turnout), and B would get one fraudulent vote (less than before because of fraud deterrence). Candidate B wins fraudulently, 10-9. The conditions necessary for ID laws to have this effect are simple and may be common. The paper captures this risk with a formula, the Election Integrity Ratio, which judges and scholars could use to determine when ID laws protect elections — and when they cause the very problem they purport to solve. The paper has implications for constitutional law and public policy. It also has broad reach. Any law that deters fraudulent votes, depresses lawful votes, or does both — citizenship and residency requirements, for example, which are used throughout the United States and around the world — are subject to the analysis herein.
The role of trace metal ions in aflatoxin B1 degradation by Flavobacterium aurantiacum.

Flavobacterium aurantiacum NRRL B-184 possesses the ability to degrade aflatoxin B 1 in solution and in several food items. Aflatoxin B 1 is a potent carcinogen that causes significant economic losses to the agricultural and food industry. The role of trace metal ions (Cu 2+ , Mn 2+ , Zn 2+ , and CO 2+ ) were studied in an effort to understand the enzymatic system involved in aflatoxin B 1 degradation by F. aurantiacum. The effect of divalent chelators (EDTA and 1,10-phenanthroline [OPT]) in the presence of the trace metal ions was studied as well. Aflatoxin B 1 (10 μg/ml) was added to 72-h cultures of F. aurantiacum that had been washed and resuspended in phosphate buffer (pH 7.0). HPLC was used to determine aflatoxin B 1 concentration in these cultures. Incubating cells at 30°C with 1 and 10 mM Cu 2+ , Mn 2+ , and Zn 2+ significantly decreased aflatoxin B 1 degradation after 4 and 24 h (P 1 mM) of EDTA and OPT for the removal of their inhibitory effect.
Plots and Devices

Crime fiction is known as the plot-driven genre, par excellence, which has often excluded crime fiction from a place on the academic curriculum because the question “what happened?” is considered only a superficial reading of a text (Milhorn, 2006, Writing Genre Fiction: A Guide to the Craft). As a methodology invested in explicating ways of communicating “what happened,” narrative theory provides a productive avenue for attending to crime fiction plots and genre devices. Using core concepts applied to crime fiction by narrative theory, “Plots and Devices” offers strategies to enrich class discussions of crime fiction plots, demonstrating their complexity in the genre and their value to literary studies generally.
Introduction and Definitions

This chapter takes a brief look at the history of the intersection of political scandal and pop culture starting with the editorial cartoon era, with particular note of Grover Cleveland and the work of Thomas Nast. A definition of pop culture which focuses on transmission of an idea or symbol to a large audience via a contemporary mechanism is followed by a definition of scandal that dismisses ordinary corrupt behavior from the more narrow construction of scandal used to focus the discussion in subsequent chapters.
Acetate promotes microbial reductive debromination of tetrabromobisphenol A during the startup phase of anaerobic wastewater sludge bioreactors

The detection of increasing concentrations of tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) in wastewater treatment plants is raising concerns as TBBPA has been identified as a potentially toxic flame retardant. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of acetate biostimulation on TBBPA microbial reductive debromination, and the response of anaerobic sludge associated microbial communities repeatedly exposed to TBBPA. Results indicate that the bulk of the microbial community did not experience significant shifts as a result of TBBPA exposure, and that only a small fraction of the community responded to the presence of TBBPA. Taxa most likely responsible for TBBPA transformation affiliated to Clostridiales and the wastewater sludge group Blvii28. The biostimulating effect of acetate was only observed during reactor startup, when acetogenesis was likely not yet occurring. However, when acetate likely started to be microbially generated in the reactor, acetate addition resulted in a slight but significant inhibiting effect on TBBPA transformation. A significant increase of hydrogenotrophic methanogens in the TBBPA-spiked reactor overtime implies that TBBPA degraders were not in direct competition with methanogens for H2. These results strongly suggest that TBBPA degrading taxa might have been primarily using acetate as an electron donor for the reductive debromination of TBBPA.
Daytime Compared With Nighttime Differences in Management and Outcomes of Postpartum Hemorrhage.

Objective To assess whether postpartum hemorrhage management or subsequent morbidity differs based on whether delivery occurred during the day or night. Methods We conducted a secondary analysis of a multicenter observational obstetric cohort of more than 115,000 mother-neonate pairs from 25 hospitals (2008-2011). This analysis included women delivering singleton or twin births who experienced postpartum hemorrhage (estimated blood loss greater than 500 cc for vaginal delivery, estimated blood loss greater than 1,000 cc for cesarean delivery, or documented treatment for postpartum hemorrhage). Nighttime delivery was defined as that occurring between 8 PM and 6 AM. The primary outcome was a composite of maternal morbidity (death, hysterectomy, intensive care unit admission, transfusion, or unanticipated procedure for bleeding). Secondary outcomes included estimated blood loss, uterotonic use, and procedures to treat bleeding that occurred during the postpartum hospitalization. Multivariable logistic, linear, quantile, and multinomial regression models were used to assess associations between nighttime delivery and outcomes, adjusting for potential patient-level confounders and hospital as a fixed effect. Results In total, 2,709 (34.2%) of 7,917 women with postpartum hemorrhage delivered at night. Women who delivered at night were younger, had a lower body mass index, and were more likely to have government-sponsored insurance, be nulliparous, have hypertension, use neuraxial analgesia, and deliver vaginally. After adjusting for potential confounders, the primary composite outcome of maternal morbidity was similar regardless of night compared with day delivery (15.5% night vs 17.5% day; adjusted odds ratio 0.89, 95% CI 0.77-1.03). Some secondary outcomes, including mean EBL, frequency of uterotonic use, and time from delivery to first uterotonic dose, differed on unadjusted analyses, but these associations did not persist in multivariable analysis. The study had limited power to assess differences in uncommon outcomes. Conclusion Nighttime delivery was not associated with significant differences in postpartum hemorrhage-related management or morbidity.
Negotiating a common language and shared understanding about core practices: The case of discussion

Abstract This paper illustrates how creating shared specifications of core practices and making the practice of teacher education public allowed members of the Core Practice Consortium to work through tensions created by institutional, subject-matter, and grade level differences. This supported the negotiation of shared understandings around core practice and teacher education pedagogies. Building shared understanding and common language did not mean standardizing practice or language. Rather, it involved constructing processes that allowed teacher educators to understand the practice of others and grow from that understanding by adopting and modifying tools and concepts so they fit the demands of their own context.
Building blocks of infant-toddler conversation skills: using the Conversation Compass© to drive innovation in Early Head Start classroom conversations

We collaborated with Early Head Start (EHS) coaches to qualitatively explore the feasibility delivering a professional development approach designed to enhance the quality of conversations in infan...
Omnipresence of inflammasome activities in inflammatory bone diseases

The inflammasomes are intracellular protein complexes that are assembled in response to a variety of perturbations including infections and injuries. Failure of the inflammasomes to rapidly clear the insults or restore tissue homeostasis can result in chronic inflammation. Recurring inflammation is also provoked by mutations that cause the constitutive assembly of the components of these protein platforms. Evidence suggests that chronic inflammation is a shared mechanism in bone loss associated with aging, dysregulated metabolism, autoinflammatory, and autoimmune diseases. Mechanistically, inflammatory mediators promote bone resorption while suppressing bone formation, an imbalance which over time leads to bone loss and increased fracture risk. Thus, while acute inflammation is important for the maintenance of bone integrity, its chronic state damages this tissue. In this review, we discuss the role of the inflammasomes in inflammation-induced osteolysis.
Probabilistic fragility and resilience assessment and sensitivity analysis of bridges incorporating aftershock effects

This paper discusses a computationally efficient methodology for probabilistic fragility and resilience analysis of bridges explicitly incorporating the effects of aftershock seismic events, based ...
Study of the stability of lead halide perovskite under two different fluoropolymer top coatings

In this work, lead halide perovskite photodetectors were fabricated by a laser-assisted rapid fabrication method. A microchannel was engraved on an indium tin oxide (ITO) coated polyethylene terephthalate (PET) conductive flexible substrate using a CO2 laser source. The channels were filled by methylammonium lead halide perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3) using the capillary motion of perovskite first-step method precursor. CYTOP and the low-cost commercially available FluroPel were used as a top protective coating layer to suppress the decomposition of the perovskite channel. X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD) was used to measure the stability of the perovskite. Strong humidity resistant and self-healing behavior were observed in both devices. The performance of the photodetectors was compared by measuring electrical and optical characteristics over time. This study will help in the low-cost fabrication of perovskite-based devices.
A Self-Immobilizing NIR Probe for Non-invasive Imaging of Senescence

Abstract Cellular senescence, a process that arrests the cell cycle, is a cellular stress response to various stimuli and is implicated in aging and age-related diseases. However, the understanding of senescence in living organisms is insufficient, largely due to the scarcity of sensitive tools for the detection of cellular senescence in vivo. Herein, we describe the development of a self-immobilizing near-infrared (NIR) probe that can be activated by senescence-associated β- Galactosidase (SA-β-Gal), a widely accepted senescence marker. The NIR fluorophore is turned on in the presence of SA-β-Gal, and the self-immobilizing group, based on quinone methide chemistry, retains the fluorescence signal to the site of activation. This strategy significantly improves the sensitivity of the probe from the one we developed before. We demonstrate the non-invasive imaging of drug-induced senescence in mice models.
Aberrant regulation of complement by the erythrocytes of hereditary erythroblastic multinuclearity with a positive acidified serum lysis test (HEMPAS)

Susceptibility to hemolysis in acidified serum is a pathognomonic feature of hereditary erythroblastic multinuclearity with a positive acidified serum lysis test (HEMPAS, congenital dyserythropoietic anemia type II). The purpose of the studies reported herein was to determine if aberrant regulation of complement contributes to the susceptibility of HEMPAS erythrocytes to acidified serum lysis. The results of these experiments have demonstrated that regulation of both the C3 convertase of the alternative pathway and the membrane attack complex of complement by HEMPAS erythrocytes is aberrant. However, these abnormalities are not a consequence of quantitative or functional deficiencies of the erythrocyte complement-regulatory proteins, decay accelerating factor (DAF, CD55), or membrane inhibitor of reactive lysis (MIRL, CD59). Our recent studies have shown that glycophorin A (GPA), the major erythrocyte sialoglycoprotein is a complement regulatory protein. Analysis by radioimmunoprecipitation suggested that GPA on HEMPAS erythrocytes is abnormally glycosylated. Further analysis indicated that the abnormality involves the O-linked oligosaccharide moiety. Together, these studies show that complement regulation by HEMPAS erythrocytes is abnormal and that constituents other than DAF and MIRL participate in controlling complement activation on the erythrocyte membrane. Additionally, these studies suggest that the glycosylation defect that is characteristic of HEMPAS involves GPA.
Fentanyl and carfentanil permeation through commercial disposable gloves

In 2018, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that opioid overdose deaths (including fentanyl and carfentanil) comprised 46,802 (69%) of the 67,367 total drug overdose deaths. Th...
A Comparison of Methods for High-Spatial-Resolution Diffusion-weighted Imaging in Breast MRI.

Axially reformatted simultaneous multislice imaging produced diffusion-weighted images and apparent diffusion coefficient maps with improved image quality, resolution, and coverage compared with a ...
Constructing a typology of male-on-male child molestation: a qualitative analysis of victims’ narratives within the Boy Scouts of America

This study examined details of behavioural sequences that constitute male-on-male child molestation within the Boy Scouts of America based on the narratives reported by child victims. Previous stud...
Residential Segregation at the Dawn of the Great Migration: Evidence from the 1910 and 1920 Census

The second decade of the twentieth century is viewed as the pivotal period for ghetto formation in the United States. This decade witnessed the onset of the Great Migration and it was during this time that modern ghettos, massive agglomerations of tens of thousands of Blacks and virtually only Blacks, became visible. Despite the importance of this period for ghetto formation and the subsequent segregation experienced by Blacks, our understanding of the dynamics of segregation during this period is incomplete. We utilize recently released fine-grained census data to present a more precise and complete picture of segregation in American cities in the second decade of the twentieth century and in doing so make several contributions to the historical literature on residential segregation. First, we document how segregation varied across the full range of American cities, including Southern and smaller cities overlooked in most historical accounts. Second, we assess how the influx of Southern Black migrants into Northern cities was related to increasing segregation. Third, we ascertain the role of Blacks’ socioeconomic status in determining proximity to Whites. Fourth, we examine racial zoning’s impact on segregation. Finally, we consider how the presence of immigrants in a city was related to the residential segregation experienced by Blacks. This research thus adds to the literature on residential segregation by providing more reliable estimates of the degree of residential segregation experienced by Blacks at the beginning of the Great Migration as well as exploring other factors associated with varying levels of segregation at that time.
Experimental measurements of the spectral absorption coefficient of infrared optical fibers

Abstract Infrared optical fibers are used in numerous applications in various industries. Knowledge of the radiative properties of optical fiber materials is important for the design and analysis of the processes in which the fibers are used. An experimental method for measuring the spectral absorption coefficient of infrared optical fibers using FTIR spectroscopy is presented. Blackbody radiation from a calibration source at different temperatures is transmitted through an optical fiber into an FTIR spectrometer. A mathematical model of the radiative heat transfer in the fiber is used to develop a linear spectral instrument response function relating the radiative energy from the calibration source to the output signal of the detection system. The spectral absorption coefficient of an infrared optical fiber is estimated from the ratio of the slopes of the instrument response functions for fibers of differing length. The method is used to estimate the room-temperature spectral absorption coefficient of infrared optical fibers made of arsenic trisulfide chalcogenide glass, ZBLAN glass, and indium fluoride glass.
Acute Kidney Injury After Repeated Exposure to Contrast Material for Coronary Angiography.

Abstract Objective To assess the incidence of contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CAAKI) after repeated exposure to contrast material for computed tomography (CT) and conventional coronary angiography within short intervals. Methods We studied 651 patients enrolled in the CorE-64 (November 5, 2005–January 30, 2007) and CORE320 (October 21, 2009–August 17, 2011) multicenter studies. Participants with suspected obstructive coronary heart disease were referred for diagnostic cardiac catheterization and underwent coronary CT angiography for research before invasive angiography. Nonionic, low-osmolality iodinated contrast material was used for all imaging. Results The median age of the patients was 62 years, and 190 (29%) were women. Major risk factors for acute kidney injury were present in 277 of 651 (43%) patients. The median interval between CT imaging and invasive angiography was 3.1 days (interquartile range, 0.9-8.0 days). The median volume of contrast material was 100 mL for each test. In 16 (2.5%) of 651 patients, CAAKI developed. Of these cases, 1 occurred after the CT scan, whereas 6 were documented after invasive angiography (compared with post-CT creatinine concentration assessment). In 9 patients, CAAKI was found in comparing creatinine concentration after completion of both tests with baseline values (but not compared with post-CT imaging). Conclusion Acute kidney injury after repeated exposure to iodinated contrast media within a few days is uncommon even in a population of patients with highly prevalent risk factors. Withholding of clinically indicated contrast-enhanced imaging may therefore not be justified in this setting.
An improved model for the spectra of discs of nova-like variables

The spectra arising from the disks of nova-like variables show many of the features seen in stellar atmospheres. They are typically modelled either from an appropriated weighted set of stellar atmospheres or a disk atmosphere with energy is dissipated near the disk plane, with the effective temperature distribution expected from a steady state accretion disk. However these models generally over-predict the depth of the Balmer jump and the slope of the spectrum in the ultraviolet. The problem is likely due to energy dissipation in the disk atmosphere, which produces a flatter vertical temperature profile than is observed in stars. Here, we provide validation for this hypothesis in the form of spectra generated using the stellar atmosphere code TLUSTY using a parametric prescription for energy dissipation as a function of depth and closely match the spectrum of the nova-like IX Vel over the wavelength range 1150-6000 A.
Assessing personal protective equipment needs for healthcare workers.

Background Personal protective equipment (PPE) is critical for healthcare workers (HCWs) since it acts as a barrier to infection transmission; however, current PPE is not ideally suited to their needs due to limitations in protection and comfort. Thus, the purpose of this study was to identify major issues of current PPE for body protection and assess its needs within health care. Methods An online survey was conducted with a convenience sample of 200 U.S. healthcare professionals who interact with patients. The survey was designed to identify the types of PPE that HCWs currently use, assess current PPE design features for body protection, examine the effect of PPE design features for body protection, and HCWs' years of work experiences on overall PPE acceptability, and explore current PPE maintenance practices. Both quantitative and qualitative data were used for analyses. Results This study showed the need for current PPE improvement in terms of fit, comfort, mobility, and donning and doffing for HCWs' safety and health. Donning and doffing plays an important role in HCWs' overall acceptance of PPE for body protection. This study revealed that most HCWs dispose of their PPE in a trashcan in a healthcare unit and non-disposed PPE is laundered at home, which may expose their family members to a health risk if a proper precaution is not followed. Conclusion This study provides critical insights for the needs of (a) novel PPE design research and (b) proper donning and doffing training and its strict regulatory effort to ensure HCWs' safety and health.
Pathways to Positive Peacebuilding

This chapter presents the pathways to positive peacebuilding in Nigeria’s oil region. The presumptions of positive peacebuilding derive from the shortcomings of a peace process that is trapped in the impasse of technical interventions designed to stabilize the fragile post-conflict environment by transforming the political realities of peacebuilding into an economic enterprise that makes recourse to violence a lucrative endeavor. These interventions eventually punctuate the progression of positive peace because any group with a grievance can easily mobilize arms to destabilize the oil region as a strategy to negotiate their access to the peace economy or defend vested interests. This chapter outlines the implications of this book and then proposes pathways to positive peacebuilding in the oil region.
Oxytocin during Development: Possible Organizational Effects on Behavior

Oxytocin (Oxt) is a neurohormone known for its physiological roles associated with lactation and parturition in mammals. Oxt can also profoundly influence mammalian social behaviors such as affiliative, parental, and aggressive behaviors. While the acute effects of Oxt signaling on adult behavior have been heavily researched in many species, including humans, the developmental effects of Oxt on the brain and behavior is just beginning to be explored. There is evidence that Oxt in early postnatal and peripubertal development, and perhaps during prenatal life, affects adult behavior by altering neural structure and function. However, the specific mechanisms by which this occurs remain unknown. Thus, this review will detail what is known about how developmental Oxt impacts behavior as well as specific neurochemicals and neural substrates that are important to these behaviors.
Proliferating cell nuclear antigen and Msh2p-Msh6p interact to form an active mispair recognition complex.

Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) is required for mismatch repair (MMR) and has been shown to interact with complexes containing Msh2p or MLH1 (refs 1–4). PCNA has been implicated to act in MMR before and during the DNA synthesis step, although the biochemical basis for the role of PCNA early in MMR is unclear1,3,5. Here we observe an interaction between PCNA and Msh2p-Msh6p mediated by a specific PCNA-binding site present in Msh6p. An msh6 mutation that eliminated the PCNA-binding site caused a mutator phenotype and a defect in the interaction with PCNA. The association of PCNA with Msh2p-Msh6p stimulated the preferential binding of Msh2p-Msh6p to DNA containing mispaired bases. Mutant PCNA proteins encoded by MMR-defective pol30 alleles were defective for interaction with Msh2p-Msh6p and for stimulation of mispair binding by Msh2p-Msh6p. Our results suggest that PCNA functions directly in mispair recognition and that mispair recognition requires a higher-order complex containing proteins in addition to Msh2p-Msh6p.
Expanding outcomes assessment using input from students, accreditation commissions, and industry

The electronics engineering technology (EET) program at the Kansas City DeVry University campus has an outcomes assessment process designed to validate whether the students are achieving the program goals and objectives. Additional assessment steps continue to be developed and added to the current EET assessment process. The expanded EET assessment program steps are designed to support three specific outcomes: increasing the enrollment of the EET program; providing additional data that will be used in the re-accreditation process; and strengthening the placement of the EET graduates. This work-in-progress develops procedures to gather the appropriate and valid components of an assessment process that monitor the changing EET students' program selection criteria, the TAC of ABET and NCA assessment guidelines, and the electronics technology employment requirements.
SITE INVESTIGATION WITH STATIC CONE PENETROMETER

A geotechnical investigation of a 100-acre (404,700 sq m) site adjacent to the Savannah River in Augusta, Ga., is described. Extensive and economical use was made of the static cone penetrometer with friction jacket in establishing subsurface conditions and estimating geotechnical engineering properties of micaceous sands and organic clays for design purposes. The results of eight full-scale lateral pile load tests are compared to predictions based on the design engineering properties. The study indicated that the relationship between E (Young's modulus) and q sub c (the static cone penetration resistance) for an overconsolidated sand is significantly different than for a normally consolidated sand. Also, the shear strengths determined by laboratory tests were significantly different than those determined by the static cone penetrometer. Calibration of the static cone resistance to individual site conditions is considered a necessity. /ASCE/
Navigating the Structures of Elementary School in the United States and Japan: An Ethnography of the Particular

This study uses an ecological framework to map one Japanese child's transition between elementary school life in the United States and Japan. I privilege the child's perspective while weaving in parent and teacher views, as well as observation and document data. Implicit and explicit expectations in the focal student's classrooms and schools are also examined. I argue for recognition and appreciation of children's dexterity navigating complex systems.
Regulation of human vascular smooth muscle cell migration by beta-adrenergic receptors.

Abstract Migration and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are two events involved in atherosclerosis, restenosis after balloon angioplasty, and stenosis of grafted vessels. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) found in stenotic vessels is known to induce migration of VSMCs. VSMCs express both alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors on their surface, and blood vessels are innervated by the adrenergic nervous system and exposed to circulating epinephrine. We examined the role of these receptors on PDGF-induced migration of VSMCs. VSMCs were cultured from saphenous vein segments. Migration was stimulated by PDGF. Effect of pretreatment of VSMCs with the beta-agonist isoproterenol, the alpha-agonist phenylephrine, or forskolin on PDGF-induced migration was examined with a modified Boyden chamber. Cell migration was quantitated by spectrophotometry. Intracellular cyclic AMP was determined by radioimmunoassay. PDGF significantly induced VSMC migration. Isoproterenol (0.1 and 1.0 microM) inhibited PDGF-induced migration by 30 per cent and 50 per cent, respectively. Forskolin (10 microM) completely blocked PDGF-induced migration. The migration inhibition by isoproterenol or forskolin was associated with a significant elevation of intracellular cyclic AMP. In contrast, phenylephrine had no effect on PDGF-induced migration or on cyclic AMP. Activation of beta-adrenergic receptors and the consequent rise in intracellular cyclic AMP inhibits migration of VSMCs induced by PDGF. These results are consistent with the notion that adrenergic agonists with substantial beta-receptor affinity, such as isoproterenol, can inhibit smooth muscle cell migration.
Scalar-velocity correlations in a turbulent premixed flame

Measurements are described of the correlations between fluctuations in velocity, static pressure and temperature in a premixed turbulent jet flame. Two component laser velocimetry, thermocouples and a cooled microphone Pitot probe are employed along with appropriate response compensation and spectral analysis techniques to obtain the correlations from time-resolved measurements. Axial and radial surveys of the flame are presented. Evidence is found of counter-gradient diffusion in some regions of the flame. The pressure-velocity correlation is seen to be negative, and its values are comparable to those of other quantities entering the turbulent kinetic energy balance.
Comparison of fascial and vaginal wall slings in the management of intrinsic sphincter deficiency

Abstract Objectives To compare safety and efficacy of fascial versus vaginal wall slings in the management of women with intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD). Methods The hospital and office records of 79 consecutive women with ISD were retrospectively analyzed from January 1991 to September 1995. There were 43 fascial slings (group A) and 36 vaginal wall slings (group B). Parameter of evaluation included efficacy based on postoperative presence of stress or urge incontinence and number of pads used, complications, and miscellaneous factors, including length of catheterization time, length of hospitalization, quantity of analgesics used, and loss of work days. Results Baseline clinical and urodynamic data were the same for both groups. Pad use decreased from 6.9 to 0.6 for group A and from 5.7 to 0.3 for group B. Persistent stress and urge incontinence was present in 5% and 16% of group A patients and in 3% and 11 % of group B patients, respectively. Group A (89%) and group B (94%) patients were either very satisfied or satisfied with their surgical outcome. The operative time, hospital days, and days lost from work for group B patients (42.3 ± 13.4 minutes, 1.4 ± 0.9 days, 18.4 ±3.2 days, respectively) were significantly lower than for group A patients (84.2 ± 17.8 minutes, 3.7 ± 1.9 days, 28.4 ±7.8 days, respectively). Conclusions Both fascial and vaginal wall slings are effective in treating women with ISD. However, the use of vaginal wall slings resulted in significantly shorter hospital stay, decreased catheterization time, decreased use of analgesics, and decreased loss of days of work compared with fascial slings. Therefore, the vaginal wall sling should be the preferred surgical method of treating intrinsic sphincter deficiency.
Alpha-2A-adrenergic receptors are present on neurons in the central nucleus of the amygdala that project to the dorsal vagal complex in the rat.

The descending pathway between the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) and the dorsal vagal complex (DVC) is an important substrate for autonomic functions associated with emotion. Activity in this circuit is crucially modulated by catecholamines and agonists of the alpha-2A-adrenergic receptor (alpha(2A)-AR), which relieve cardiovascular and gastrointestinal symptoms associated with experience of aversive stimuli. The subcellular distribution of alpha(2A)-AR within the CeA, however, has not been characterized. It is also not known if any alpha(2A)-AR-expressing neurons in the CeA project to the dorsal vagal complex. In order to address these questions, we examined the immunocytochemical labeling of alpha(2A)-AR in the CeA of rats receiving microinjection of the retrograde tracer fluorogold (FG) into the dorsal vagal complex at the level of the area postrema, an area involved in cardiorespiratory and gastrointestinal functions. Of all alpha(2A)-AR-labeled profiles in the CeA, the majority were either dendrites (42%) or somata (24%). alpha(2A)-AR labeling was often present on the plasmalemma in dendrites and was mainly found in endosome-like organelles in somata. Of all alpha(2A)-AR immunoreactive somata, 62% also contained immunolabeling for FG and 23% of all dendrites also showed labeling for the retrograde tracer. The intracellular distribution of alpha(2A)-AR did not differ in somata or dendrites with or without detectable FG. The remaining singly labeled alpha(2A)-AR profiles consisted of axons (11%), axon terminals (12%), and glial processes (13%). In numerous instances, alpha(2A)-AR-labeled glia or axon terminals were apposed to DVC projecting neurons. Together, this evidence suggests that the principal site for alpha(2A)-AR activation is at extrasynaptic sites on dendrites of CeA neurons, many of which project to the DVC and also show endosomal receptor labeling. In addition, these results indicate that activation of alpha(2A)-AR in the CeA may influence the activity of DVC projecting neurons through indirect mechanisms, including changes in presynaptic transmitter release or glial function. These results suggest that alpha(2A)-AR agonists in the CeA may modulate numerous processes including stress-evoked autonomic reactions and feeding behavior.
Analysis of a radial infusion model for in-plane permeability measurements of fiber reinforcement in composite materials

The principal components of in-plane permeability of fiber reinforcement during resin infusion can be determined by unidirectional or by radial flow experiments. Using unidirectional flow, two separate experiments are required to determine both components if the directions of principal axis are known. The main drawback of this method is related to the edge flow that may significantly affect the accuracy of measurements. In radial flow, both principal components can be determined by performing one experiment when the directions of principal axis are known. However, developed models that apply to this method require iterative procedures and are highly sensitive to the radius of the injection port. Measurements of the flow front displacement have to be taken when the wetted area becomes large enough in comparison with the size of the inlet gate. This analysis is based on a quasi-steady radial infusion model developed by Adams et al., Int. J. Multiphase Flow, 14, 203 (1988), which is used for calculation of the principal components of in-plane permeability. It is shown that the anisotropy coefficient and consequent permeability may be evaluated at any stage of the flow front displacement. This implies that the pressure difference does not necessarily need to be constant during the experiment, as usually required for most previous models. Asymptotic analysis for very small and very large flow front displacements is also conducted and comparison with point source algorithms is provided. Three accurate and relatively simple algorithms that do not require iterative procedures for evaluation of in-plane components of permeability are proposed. POLYM. COMPOS., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
The clinical thermoregulatory sweat test induces maximal sweating.

Although thermoregulatory sweat testing is commonly used to assess the autonomic nervous system, the power of this stimulus to induce sweating has not been studied. In 8 healthy male subjects, the authors quantitated sweat rates, core temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure during clinical thermoregulatory sweat testing, a separate exercise protocol, and with exercise added to thermal conditions. The authors found that (1) the addition of exercise to the thermal environment produced no further increase in sweat rate (3,841±948 versus 3,888±866 nl/mn-cm2); (2) maximum sweat rates closely corresponded to the theoretical maximum (6,000 nl/mn-cm2) derived from single gland studies; (3) sweat rates vary across subjects, but are similar across sites in any one individual; (4) core temperature rise is a major determinant of cardiovascular load in both thermal and exercise settings; (5) blood pressure decreased 28/11 mm Hg during thermal load, but increased 26/10 mm Hg with exercise, in agreement with current understanding of muscle and skin vascular physiology. The authors conclude that clinical thermoregulatory testing conditions produce maximum sweat rates in humans.