cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A two-dimensional analytical model and experimental validation of garter stitch knitted shape memory alloy actuator architecture

Active knits are a unique architectural approach to meeting emerging smart structure needs for distributed high strain actuation with simultaneous force generation. This paper presents an analytical state-based model for predicting the actuation response of a shape memory alloy (SMA) garter knit textile. Garter knits generate significant contraction against moderate to large loads when heated, due to the continuous interlocked network of loops of SMA wire. For this knit architecture, the states of operation are defined on the basis of the thermal and mechanical loading of the textile, the resulting phase change of the SMA, and the load path followed to that state. Transitions between these operational states induce either stick or slip frictional forces depending upon the state and path, which affect the actuation response. A load‐extension model of the textile is derived for each operational state using elastica theory and Euler‐Bernoulli beam bending for the large deformations within a loop of wire based on the stress‐strain behavior of the SMA material. This provides kinematic and kinetic relations which scale to form analytical transcendental expressions for the net actuation motion against an external load. This model was validated experimentally for an SMA garter knit textile over a range of applied forces with good correlation for both the load‐extension behavior in each state as well as the net motion produced during the actuation cycle (250% recoverable strain and over 50% actuation). The two-dimensional analytical model of the garter stitch active knit provides the ability to predict the kinetic actuation performance, providing the basis for the design and synthesis of large stroke, large force distributed actuators that employ this novel architecture. (Some figures may appear in colour only in the online journal)
Abdominal obesity and coronary artery calcification in young adults: The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study

Background: Whether abdominal obesity is related to coronary artery calcification (CAC) is not known. Objective: We investigated the relations of waist girth and waist-hip ratio (WHR) to CAC in 2951 African American and white young adults from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study. Design: The present study was a cross-sectional and observational cohort study. Using standardized protocols, we measured CAC in 2001-2002 by using computed tomography and measured waist and hip girths in 1985-1986 (baseline), 1995-1996 (year 10), and 2001-2002 (year 15, waist girth only). CAC was classified as present or absent, whereas waist girth and WHR were placed in sex-specific tertiles. Results: After adjustment for age, sex, race, clinical center, physical activity, cigarette smoking, education, and alcohol intake, baseline waist girth and WHR were directly associated with a higher prevalence of CAC 15 y later (P for trend < 0.001 for both). The odds ratios (ORs) for CAC in the highest versus lowest tertiles of waist girth and WHR were 1.9 (95% CI: 1.36, 2.65) and 1.7 (1.23, 2.41), respectively. Waist girth and WHR at year 10 and waist girth at year 15 similarly predicted CAC. These associations persisted after additional adjustment for systolic blood pressure, fasting insulin concentrations, diabetes, and antihypertensive medication use but became nonsignificant after additional adjustment for blood lipids. Conclusions: Abdominal obesity measured by waist girth or WHR is associated with early atherosclerosis as measured by the presence of CAC in African American and white young adults. This is consistent with an involvement of visceral fat in the occurrence of coronary artery calcium in young adults.
Professional development in physical education: introducing the Sport Education Model to teachers in Taiwan.

The purpose of this study was to examine how a physical education teacher in Taiwan might benefit from a professional development initiative that began onsite and was then continued through a long-distance, Web-based platform. The program was based on principles of effective professional development and followed the recommended three-phase approach. A male physical education teacher taught a Sport Education season of volleyball to 11th-grade students in northwestern Taiwan. Seven different data sources were collected and analyzed using the standard interpretive methods and guided by the model of teacher change. The virtual omnipresence of the professional development team allowed for a successful iteration of a Sport Education season and resulted in a new vision about teaching and learning for a physical education teacher. These findings suggest the viability of innovative approaches for professional development albeit situational constraints.
Geochemistry and petrology of mafic volcanic rocks from olistostromes in the basal Great Valley Group, northern California Coast Ranges

The Mysterious Valley formation (MVF) is a 1-km-thick accumulation of chaotic olistostromes, consisting of ophiolitic blocks set in a mudstone and serpentinous mudstone matrix, in the basal Great Valley Group of the northern California Coast Ranges. The MVF overlies serpentinite of the Middle Jurassic Coast Range Ophiolite (CRO). Most igneous blocks from the MVF are mid-ocean-ridge-type tholeiitic basalts (MORB9s) with moderate TiO 2 contents (1.0%-2.5%) and depletions in light (relative to heavy) rare-earth elements (REE9s). Relict clinopyroxenes in these blocks are low-Ti augites. Rare blocks that are light-REE enriched and contain titanaugite probably represent ocean-island-type basalts. Coarse-grained plutonic blocks have not been found; however, abundant blocks of mafic breccia, similar to breccia overlying intact CRO elsewhere in the northern Coast Ranges, contain clasts of ultramafic rock and both cumulus and noncumulus gabbro. Diabase intrusions into the underlying CRO serpentinite are chemically identical to MVF basalts, suggesting a possible relationship between CRO igneous rocks and MVF blocks. Because most MVF basalt blocks are more Ti rich and, in general, more MORB-like than are CRO extrusive basalts, however, the MVF olistostromes are not easily explained as being derived from the uplift and erosion of the ancient CRO. Our chemical data indicate that either (1) MVF basalt blocks were not derived from the CRO; (2) our samples, which are from a geographically limited area, are not representative of the MVF; or (3) the MVF was derived from a more MORB-like part of the CRO that is not well represented in the few analyses presently available from the northern CRO.
Functional analysis of SIRPα in the growth cone

The `signal regulatory protein9 SIRPα is an Ig superfamily, transmembrane glycoprotein with a pair of cytoplasmic domains that can bind the phosphatase SHP-2 when phosphorylated on tyrosine. SIRPα is prominent in growth cones of rat cortical neurons and located, together with the tetraspanin CD81, in the growth cone periphery. SIRPα is dynamically associated with Triton-X-100-sensitive, but Brij-98-resistant, lipid microdomains, which also contain CD81. Challenge of growth cones with the integrin-binding extracellular-matrix (ECM) protein, laminin, or with the growth factors, IGF-1 or BDNF, increases SIRPα phosphorylation and SHP-2 binding rapidly and transiently, via Src family kinase activation; phosphorylated SIRPα dissociates from the lipid microdomains. A cytoplasmic tail fragment of SIRPα (cSIRPα), when expressed in primary cortical neurons, also is phosphorylated and binds SHP-2. Expression of wild-type cSIRPα, but not of a phosphorylation-deficient mutant, substantially decreases IGF-1-stimulated axonal growth on laminin. On poly-D-lysine and in control conditions, axonal growth is slower than on laminin, but there is no further reduction in growth rate induced by the expression of cSIRPα. Thus, the effect of cSIRPα on axon growth is dependent upon integrin activation by laminin. These results suggest that SIRPα functions in the modulation of axonal growth by ECM molecules, such as laminin.
Shape effects in the ferromagnetic resonance of nanosize rectangular Permalloy arrays

In-plane and out-of-plane ferromagnetic resonance measurements were performed on arrays of Permalloy rectangles, prepared by interference lithography. In the absence of crystalline anisotropy, the shape anisotropy dominates the angular dependence of the resonance and the linewidth. The 60-70-mT in-plane anisotropy follows the increase of the aspect ratio. The uniaxial out-of-plane anisotropy fields are on the order of 500 mT. The linewidth has a strong angular dependence, both in the in- and out-of-plane rotation, ranging from about 17 to 23 mT along the easy and hard axes and decreasing with increasing shape anisotropy. Two distinct resonance modes observed in the perpendicular orientation are associated with the main volume mode and shape mode of magnetostatic origin.
2‐(2′‐Dicyclohexylphosphinophenyl)‐2‐ methyl‐1,3‐dioxolane

[221187-50-4] C22H33O2P (MW 360.47) InChI = 1S/C22H33O2P/c1-22(23-16-17-24-22)20-14-8-9-15-21(20)25(18-10-4-2-5-11-18)19-12-6-3-7-13-19/h8-9,14-15,18-19H,2-7,10-13,16-17H2,1H3 InChIKey = ZQASITYRQOCACA-UHFFFAOYSA-N (hemi-labile phosphine ligand used in palladium-catalyzed amination of aryl halides and in the Suzuki cross-coupling reaction)1, 2 Solubility: soluble in diethyl ether, ethyl acetate, chloroform, and methanol. Form Supplied in: white crystalline solid. Analysis of Reagent Purity: 31P{H}NMR.1 Preparative Methods: phosphine 1 can be prepared from commercially available 2′-bromoacetophenone in two steps (eq 1):1 (1) Purification: recrystallized from methanol. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: store in a dry, cool place under argon atmosphere. Incompatible with acids. Decomposes upon prolonged exposure to air. Irritant.
Actigard Increases Fungicide Efficacy Against Tobacco Blue Mold

LaMondia, J. A. 2008. Actigard increases fungicide efficacy against tobacco blue mold. Plant Dis. 92:1463-1467. Blue mold, caused by Peronospora tabacina, can be economically damaging to cigar wrapper tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum). We evaluated acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM) as Actigard 50WG alone and in combination with a standard fungicide program for efficacy against blue mold on shade-grown cigar wrapper tobacco in Windsor, CT. The standard fungicide program consisted of dimethomorph (Acrobat MZ or Forum) plus mancozeb (Dithane), alternated with azoxystrobin (Quadris), and applied at label rates on six occasions at 14-day intervals. Treated and untreated 5-by-5-m plots were replicated four times in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2007. ASM treatments were applied alone or in combination with fungicides at the third, fourth, and fifth spray dates at rates ranging from 1.1 to 17.5 g a.i./ha. Disease was greatest in nontreated plots and reduced in all fungicide, Actigard, or combination treatments. The combination of three ASM applications at rates of 17.5 g a.i./ha down to 4.4 g a.i./ha with the standard fungicide program was more efficacious than either fungicides or ASM alone (P < 0.001) in reducing the number of blue mold lesions per plot or number of diseased leaves harvested. The combination of fungicides and low rates of ASM (2.2 or 1.1 g a.i./ha) was similar to either fungicides or ASM (17.5 g a.i./ha) applied alone. Combining low rates of ASM with fungicide applications greatly increased efficacy and marketable yield.
Evidence-Based Management of Common Gallstone-Related Emergencies.

Gallstone-related disease is among the most common clinical problems encountered worldwide. The manifestations of cholelithiasis vary greatly, ranging from mild biliary colic to life-threatening gallstone pancreatitis and cholangitis. The vast majority of gallstone-related diseases encountered in an acute setting can be categorized as biliary colic, cholecystitis, choledocholithiasis, and pancreatitis, although these diagnoses can overlap. The management of these diseases is uniquely multidisciplinary, involving many specialties and treatment options. Thus, care may be compromised due to redundant tests, treatment delays, or inconsistent management. This review outlines the evidence for initial evaluation, diagnostic workup, and treatment for the most common gallstone-related emergencies. Key principles include initial risk stratification of patients to aid in triage and timing of interventions, early initiation of appropriate antibiotics for patients with evidence of cholecystitis or cholangitis, patient...
Backpropagation Convergence Via Deterministic Nonmonotone Perturbed Minimization

The fundamental backpropagation (BP) algorithm for training artificial neural networks is cast as a deterministic nonmonotone perturbed gradient method. Under certain natural assumptions, such as the series of learning rates diverging while the series of their squares converging, it is established that every accumulation point of the online BP iterates is a stationary point of the BP error function. The results presented cover serial and parallel online BP, modified BP with a momentum term, and BP with weight decay.
Analysis of parametric drift of a MESFET-based GaAs MMIC due to 125 degrees C storage

The authors point out that microwave attenuation drifted significantly for two out of twenty-nine GaAs MESFET-based variable voltage attenuator MMICs (VVAs) after ten weeks of storage at temperatures of either 125 degrees C or 150 degrees C. Poststorage analysis of VVAs which drifted and others that were stable showed that the drift was due to a die-wide shift of the FET I/sub DS/-V/sub G/ characteristics toward greater pinchoff voltage. The effect does not appear to be due to contamination. Experiments with a different MMIC circuit produced with the same process found drifts in some FET I/sub DS/-V/sub G/ characteristics similar to those inferred from the RF attenuation changes of the VVAs. The Schottky barrier is stable, and not responsible for the drift. The drift is due to a change in the gate-controlled portion of the channel. The ohmic contacts in FETs which drifted were misaligned with respect to the gates, suggesting an interaction between the channels and ohmic contacts. The experiments also show that drift in this technology has been eliminated by improved lithography. >
Finite-element analysis of axisymmetric cavity resonator using a hybrid edge element technique

A modified finite-element technique for the analysis of axisymmetric cavities is presented. In this analysis an edge element approach is used in conjunction with a nodal approach to represent all electric field components in the cavity. A bilinear functional is formulated from which resonant frequencies and/or field distributions are obtained. Several geometries are investigated and corresponding results are presented as verification of the method. >
Atomized Lidocaine as Topical Anesthesia for Nasogastric Tube Placement: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Abstract Study objective: To evaluate the efficacy of topical atomized 4% lidocaine in reducing the pain associated with nasogastric tube (NGT) placement. Methods: This prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in the emergency department of a university teaching hospital. Study participants were alert, hemodynamically stable adult patients requiring NGT placement for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. Atomized 4% lidocaine or normal saline solution was administered in the nasopharynx and oropharynx before NGT placement. All patients also received topical 2% lidocaine jelly intranasally after atomization. The pain of NGT placement was measured using a standard 100-mm visual analog scale. Results: A total of 40 patients were enrolled in the study, with 20 in the lidocaine group and 20 in the placebo group. Mean pain scores were 37.4 mm (95% confidence interval [CI] 25.4 to 49.4) for atomized lidocaine and 64.5 mm (95% CI 51.8 to 77.1) for placebo with a mean difference of 27.1 mm (95% CI 14.8 to 39.4), achieving both clinical and statistical significance. Conclusion: Atomized nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal 4% lidocaine results in clinically and statistically significant reductions in pain during NGT placement. [Wolfe TR, Fosnocht DE, Linscott MS. Atomized lidocaine as topical anesthesia for nasogastric tube placement: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Ann Emerg Med. May 2000;35:421-425.]
The Opportunity for Post-Copulatory Sexual Selection in the Ectoparasitic Pea Crab, Dissodactylus primitivus (Brachyura: Pinnotheridae)

Pea crabs, Dissodactylus primitivus, inhabit multiple echinoid (heart urchin) hosts. Male and female crabs move among hosts in search for mates, and both sexes mate multiple times, creating opportunities for post-copulatory sexual selection. For such selection to occur, only a fraction of the males who succeed in mating can also succeed in siring progeny. Jossart et al. 2014 used 4 microsatellite loci to document parentage and mating frequencies of both sexes in D. primitivus. From these data we identified the mean and variance in female offspring numbers, as well as the proportions of the female population that were gravid and not bearing offspring. We next identified the proportions of the male population who had (1) mated and sired offspring, (2) mated but failed to sire offspring, and (3) failed to mate altogether. We used these results to estimate the opportunity for selection on males and females in terms of mate numbers and offspring numbers, and estimated the sex difference in the opportunity for selection (i.e., the opportunity for sexual selection) using both forms of data. We then partitioned the total variance in male fitness into pre- and post-copulatory components and identified the fraction of the total opportunity for selection occurring in each context. Our results show that the opportunity for selection on each sex was of similar magnitude (0.69–0.98), consistent with this polyandrogynous mating system. We also found that 37% of the total opportunity for sexual selection on males occurred within the context of post-copulatory sexual selection. However, the fraction of the total opportunity for selection that was due to sexual selection, estimated using both mate numbers and offspring numbers, was 9% and 23% respectively. Thus, we further reduced our estimate of the opportunity for post-copulatory sexual selection in D. primitivus to less than 10% of the total opportunity for selection (0.37 of 0.09 and 0.23 = 0.03 and 0.09). Our results provide the first estimate of the maximum possible strength of post-copulatory sexual selection in crustaceans using this approach.
Convergence in Multispecies Interactions

The concepts of convergent evolution and community convergence highlight how selective pressures can shape unrelated organisms or communities in similar ways. We propose a related concept, convergent interactions, to describe the independent evolution of multispecies interactions with similar physiological or ecological functions. A focus on convergent interactions clarifies how natural selection repeatedly favors particular kinds of associations among species. Characterizing convergent interactions in a comparative context is likely to facilitate prediction of the ecological roles of organisms (including microbes) in multispecies interactions and selective pressures acting in poorly understood or newly discovered multispecies systems. We illustrate the concept of convergent interactions with examples: vertebrates and their gut bacteria; ectomycorrhizae; insect-fungal-bacterial interactions; pitcher-plant food webs; and ants and ant-plants.
Shattered, Cracked, or Firmly Intact? Women and the Executive Glass Ceiling Worldwide by Farida Jalalzai

The political ascent of women to the highest levels of leadership has fueled a belief that the executive glass ceiling has been shattered; women are now, many believe, just as likely to win a presi...
Connecting Older Adults through Voice-Based Interfaces

My dissertation work focuses on increasing access to online communication and enabling self-expression for older adults with vision impairments. This population experiences barriers including technology cost and learnability of accessible software required for going online. My dissertation draws on research in accessibility, social computing, and aging along with my background in computer science, human-computer interaction, and communication studies. I will design, build, and evaluate a voice-based online platform that allows older adults to share content and express themselves through a traditional phone interface. I will study how sharing through this platform impacts social support, isolation, and quality of life as people age with vision impairments.
Integration of Biological and Chemical Control Tactics for Apple Pests Through Selective Timing and Choice of Synthetic Pyrethroid Insecticides

A two-part study was conducted to assess the potential use of synthetic pyrethroid (SP) insecticides in an integrated pest management (IPM) program for apple orchards. The first test evaluated the effects of application timing of fenvalerate (112 g [AI]/ha) on the control of the tufted apple budmoth (TABM), Platynota idaeusalis (Walker), and the impact of these applications on the predator-prey interaction between Stethorus punctum (LeConte) and the European red mite (ERM), Panonychus ulmi (Koch). Two to three applications of fenvalerate were effective for TABM control, but these applications decimated S. punctum populations and resulted in higher ERM populations. The second test evaluated the differential activity of six Sp’s for pest control and predator-prey disruption. All Sp’s controlled TABM and various other apple pests as well as or better than did the standard organophosphorus insecticide azinphosmethyl. Only the SP permethrin allowed substantial survival of S. punctum when applied for control of TABM Broods I and II.
Constitutive stimulation of vascular smooth muscle cells by angiotensin II derived from an adenovirus encoding a furin-cleavable fusion protein.

Background To fill the gap between acute and chronic stimulation methods of angiotensin II (Ang II) and obtain relevant signaling information, we have made an adenovirus vector encoding a furin-cleavable Ang II fusion protein. Methods Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were infected with adenovirus to evaluate Ang II production. Also, expression of early growth response-1 (Egr-1) and hypertrophic responses were examined in VSMCs. Results Acute stimulation of VSMCs with synthetic Ang II showed the peptide had a half-life of less than 1 h. Infection of VSMCs with Ang II adenovirus showed a time-dependent production of Ang II as early as 2 days and up to 7 days postinfection. The Ang II adenovirus induced VSMC hypertrophy, stimulated Egr-1 expression, and suppressed Ang II type 1 receptor mRNA expression. Chronic Ang II infusion in mice for 2 weeks markedly enhanced Egr-1 immunostaining in carotid artery compared with the control saline infusion. Conclusion Application of the Ang II adenovirus vector to cultured cells will be useful to elucidate molecular and signaling mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases associated with enhanced Ang II production.
“Don't Know” Item Nonresponse in a Telephone Survey: Effects of Question Form and Respondent Characteristics:

Effects of question form, question content, and respondent experience/involvement factors on indicators of “don't know” item nonresponse to attitude questions were investigated in a split-ballot ex...
Human cell knockouts

One of the most productive areas of biologic research has been the utilization of model organisms for the systematic study of gene function. Although the experimental manipulation of these model genetic systems has provided important insights into the function of homologous genes in humans, such studies are necessarily limited by the need to extrapolate among divergent species and cell types. Researchers have now begun to apply the technology of gene targeting to human cell lines. Recently, studies of human cell knockouts have yielded important new information about how the cell cycle is regulated and how this regulation can go awry in cancer cells. The targeting of human genes promises to be a powerful tool in the characterization of the molecular pathways relevant to cancer.
Editorial: Epstein-Barr Virus: New Insights

The article by Walling et al. [ 1] in this issue of the Journal provides further molecular evidence that immune-compromised and even healthy humans can be infected with multiple strains of both Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) types and that the EBV genome can undergo recombination and deletions in humans. The study raises epidemiologic issues of the spread of EBV, medical issues of a potential role of persistent high-level EBV infection in disease, microanatomic questions about how multiple EBV strains come to infect a single cell, pathophysiologic issues of the role of defective virus in infection and of the extent to which virus is bidirectionally transferred between sites of replication in the oropharyngeal epithelium and sites of latent infection in lymphocytes, and issues of the biochemical mechanisms of intraand intermo-
Klaus Scherpe, Werther und Wertherwirkung: Zum Syndrom bürgerlicher Gesellschaftsordnung im 18. Jahrhundert

(1972). Klaus Scherpe, Werther und Wertherwirkung: Zum Syndrom burgerlicher Gesellschaftsordnung im 18. Jahrhundert. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 47, No. 4, pp. 297-299.
Recent technological advancements in ligand-based and structure-based modeling: BCL: Cheminfo and rosetta ligand

B ligand-based and structure-based computational methods are invaluable tools in computer aided drug discovery. This presentation will introduce technological advancements in both disciplines. First, we introduce BCL: ChemInfo, a comprehensive machine learning-based quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) modeling framework featuring novel molecular descriptors, diverse automated feature selection, GPU acceleration, and consensus model analysis. Public availability of high-throughput screening (HTS) data is rapidly increasing highlighting the need for ligand-based computational methods, such as BCL: ChemInfo, to accelerate probe development and drug discovery while reducing costs. The framework was benchmarked on publically available HTS data (PubChem) for nine targets, selected as representatives for the major protein families most commonly targeted by therapeutics, to investigate the influence of size and composition of training data, the choice of objective function, effectiveness of several feature selection techniques, as well as the predictive power of consensus predictors using different machine learning techniques. Second, recently advancements in the small molecule docking using RosettaLigand will be presented including simultaneous docking of explicit interface water molecules, and small molecule docking into comparative models. A study performed on protein-centric water docking shows an improvement in ligand placement at a ratio of 9:1 while ligand-centric water docking allows for the recovery of up to 56% of failed docking studies using 341 structures from the CSAR benchmark of diverse protein-ligand complexes. A study on docking into comparative models found RosettaLigand was successful in recovering a native-like binding mode among the top ten scoring binding modes for 21 of 30 cases while template selection based on ligand occupancy rather than template-target identity was discovered to increase success.
A Comparison of Six Selective Media for the Enumeration and Isolation of Staphylococci 1.

The efficacy of Baird-Parker agar, Baird-Parker agar with bacitracin (0.8 μg/ml), Baird-Parker agar supplemented with acriflavin (7 μg/ml), polymyxin (20 units/ml) and sulphonamides (55 μg/ml), KRANEP agar, mannitol salt agar, and Staphylococcus medium 110 agar for the isolation and enumeration of Staphylococcus species was investigated. Bovine blood agar was used as the control medium. Thirty-seven staphylococci strains representing 23 species and 19 non- Staphylococcus species were tested. None of the six selective media supported the growth of all 37 Staphylococcus strains. The number of Staphylococcus species that grew on a specific medium ranged from only the S. aureus strains on Baird-Parker agar supplemented with acriflavin, polymyxin, and sulphonamides, to all but S. warneri BG 647 on Staphylococcus medium 110 agar. Strains of Bacillus , Corynebacterium , and Micrococcus grew on all six selective media.
Outcomes of open and endovascular lower extremity revascularization in active smokers with advanced peripheral arterial disease

Abstract Objective Concern over perioperative and long-term durability of lower extremity revascularizations among active smokers is a frequent deterrent for vascular surgeons to perform elective lower extremity revascularization. In this study, we examined perioperative outcomes of lower extremity endovascular (LEE) revascularization and open lower extremity bypass (LEB) in active smokers with intermittent claudication (IC) and critical limb ischemia (CLI). Methods Active smokers undergoing LEE or LEB from 2011 to 2014 were identified in the American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) targeted vascular data set. Patient demographics, comorbidities, anatomic features, and perioperative outcomes were compared between LEE and LEB procedures. Subgroup analysis was performed for patients undergoing revascularization for IC and CLI independently. Results From 2011 to 2014, 4706 lower extremity revascularizations were performed in active smokers (37% of all revascularizations). In this group, 1497 were LEE (55.6% for CLI, 13.4% for below-knee pathology) and 3209 were LEB (68.9% CLI, 34.7% below-knee). Patients undergoing LEE had higher rates of female gender, hypertension, end-stage renal disease, and diabetes (all P ≤ .02). LEE patients also had a higher frequency of prior percutaneous interventions (22.7% vs 17.2%; P P = .02). On risk-adjusted multivariate analysis, LEE patients had higher need for reintervention on the treated arterial segment than LEB (5.1% vs 5.2%; odds ratio [OR], 1.52; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08-2.13; P = .02) but had lower wound complications (3.1% vs 13.2%; OR, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.23-0.45; P P = .03), although no difference was found in the CLI subgroup (2.8% vs 1.4%; OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.37-1.52; P = .42,). Also in IC group, there was a trend for lower major amputation rates ≤30 days in the LEE group, whereas in the CLI group, LEE had a trend toward higher risk of early amputation compared with LEB. Conclusions In active smokers, LEB for IC and CLI requires fewer reinterventions but is associated with a higher rate of postoperative wound complications compared with LEE revascularization. However, the risk for limb amputation is higher in actively smoking patients when treated by LEE compared with LEB for CLI. Importantly, cardiovascular complications are significantly higher in actively smoking patients with IC undergoing LEB compared with LEE. This additional cardiovascular risk should be carefully weighed when proposing LEB for actively smoking patients with nonlimb-threatening IC.
Thermopower of Mg, Cd and Zn between 1.2° and 300°K☆

Abstract The two independent components of the thermopower tensors for the hexagonal group II metals Mg, Zn, and Cd have been measured between 1.1° and 300°K. Throughout this temperature range the results are highly anisotropic. Extrema at low temperatures (
Humor: The Self, Sociality, Temporality

Consciousness in humor is bifurcated, over against the working self in which it had been immersed. In contrast to the working self, the humorous self is delighted by unfulfilled expectations, and it functions flexibly, in rebellion or resignation, freeing the working self from its anxieties while it pursues pragmatic goals or from its recriminations should it fail to realize them. Humor is operative within religion and in relationship to one’s body, and it provides perspective upon the experience of what Simon Critchley calls the “abject” body that pointedly disillusions the ego agens. It can relieve one from the seriousness of rehabilitation in reaction to addiction—a seriousness that often undermines rehabilitation. Social relations within humor depend upon roles and upon an intimacy that results when parties build from scratch their relationship in the face of the dangers to relationship that occur insofar as with the humorous sphere the ordinary rules of politeness do not apply and aggressions can be expressed, albeit obliquely. Humor affects political relationships, and it is expressed through traditions, as Jewish and African-American styles of humor illustrate. As far as the time-perspective of humor is concerned, the figures in humorous fables are often timeless, and an unusual temporal paradox occurs when one discovers after the fact that one has been involved for a period of time in a humorous interchange with an interlocutor who gave no indication that might have served as an epoche.
In Vitro Amplification Methods in Molecular Diagnostics

In vitro amplification of genomic DNA is essential in molecular genetic testing. In the following chapter, we will discuss the concepts underlying targeted PCR amplification and related methods, provide an example of a clinical test for Huntington disease that utilizes targeted PCR, and briefly introduce whole-genome amplification.
Neurohormonal Procedures in Obesity Treatment

Bariatric surgery is one of the most effective methods for achieving sustainable weight loss, though it can be associated with treatment failures, risks, and potential side effects that are not negligible. Neuromodulation techniques offer a novel approach to the treatment and prevention of obesity and related comorbidities through less invasive means while simultaneously offering a lower side effect profile. Vagal blockade, deep brain stimulation, and bariatric vascular embolization are three of the most promising techniques currently emerging in the field of neuromodulation for the treatment of obesity. Here we review the pathophysiology and rationale behind these approaches, as well as the current evidence in the literature and future applications for their use.
Experiential Growth Group in Counselor Education: A Review of Its Pedagogy, Research, and Ethical Dilemmas

The experiential growth group (EGG) is a common pedagogical activity employed in counselor education and is required by CACREP and ASGW standards. However, various parameters of such a training modality were not specified. The author first reviewed the multitude of current EGG delivery methods and student experiences in EGG. Then, 3 aspects of the EGG practice (i.e., pedagogy, research, and ethical dilemmas) were discussed by incorporating the existing theoretical and empirical literature. Implications for each aspect were discussed. This review highlighted the need for an intentional integration of theoretical perspectives and empirical evidence in future EGG practice.
Supercomputer Implementations of Preconditioned Krylov Subspace Methods

Preconditioned Krylov subspace methods are among the preferred iterative techniques for solving large sparse linear systems of equations. As computer architectures are evolving and problems are becoming more complex, iterative techniques are undergoing several mutations. In particular, there has been much recent work on new preconditioned that yield higher parallelism or on new implementations of the standard ones. In the past, a conservative and well understood approach has consisted of porting standard preconditioners to the new computers. However, in addition to their limited parallelism, such preconditioners have other drawbacks. The simple ILU(O) pre-conditioner may fail to converge for realistic problems arising from applications such as Computational Fluid Dynamics. The more robust analogues ILU(k) [30] or ILUT(k) [40] that allow more fill-in are not always a good alternative since they tend to be sequential in nature. In this paper we discuss these issues and give an overview of the standard approaches. Then we will propose a number of alternatives. It will be argued that some approaches based on multi-coloring can offer good compromises between generality and efficiency.
Development density-based optimization modeling of sustainable land use patterns

Current land use patterns with low-density, single-use, and leapfrogging urban growth on city outskirts call for more efficient land use development strategies balancing economy, environmental protection, and social equity. In this paper, we present a new spatial multiobjective optimization model with a constraint based on the level of neighborhood development density. The constraint encourages infill development and land use compatibility by requiring compact and contiguous land use allocation. The multiobjective optimization model presented in this paper minimizes the conflicting objectives of open space development, infill and redevelopment, land use neighborhood compatibility, and cost distance to already urbanized areas.
Disseminated tuberculosis masquerading as a neuroendocrine tumour

We describe the case of a 61-year-old man from the Dominican Republic admitted with diarrhoea, fevers and weight loss who was found to have lab studies and imaging (including radiolabeled somatostatin positron emission tomography/CT scan) initially consistent with a metastatic neuroendocrine tumour. However, after weeks of workup and multiple inconclusive biopsies, he was diagnosed with disseminated extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Here we examine the data for neuroendocrine tumour and tuberculosis labs and imaging to delineate where these studies overlap. We also analyse the biases and pitfalls in this case that led to a protracted diagnosis.
Open Borders for Business? Causes and Consequences of the Regulation of Foreign Entry

While an extensive literature examines the regulation of entry by domestic firms, the causes and consequences of the regulation of entry by foreign firms have not been previously considered. First, we analyze the roles of culture, legal origin, democracy, and geographic openness as determinants of regulation of foreign entry. Strong evidence illustrates that more individualist cultures and geographically open countries regulate foreign entry less. Our findings also show that cultural values matter more in countries with common law traditions. In contrast, the association between democracy and the regulation of foreign entry is fragile. Next, we examine the consequences from foreign entry regulation. Evidence suggests a strong, negative, and economically significant association between the regulation of foreign entry and inward foreign direct investment (FDI). The regulation of domestic entry, however, is positively associated with FDI inflows. This result is robust to controlling for a variety of economic, cultural, and institutional variables.
Judge Kavanaugh and the Fifth Criteria

This version has been supplemented with an addendum addressing the report issued by Rachel Mitchell on September 30, 2018, which I only recently obtained. This short essay provides a framework for Senators to use when thinking about standards of proof and contested facts in a proceeding to provide advice and consent for a nominee to the United States Supreme Court. The essay begins with consideration of an essay written by Senator Mitch McConnell in 1970 in which he outlines the appropriate criteria for evaluation of a Supreme Court nominee. The important fifth criteria of the conduct of life outside the professional and legal world is examined. Because the standard by which facts are to be found in advice and consent proceedings is virtually non-existent, the standards used in Senate trials of impeachment are considered as a starting point to examine this difficult problem. An argument is made that the appropriate standard for evaluation of contested facts in an advice and consent situation is not the criminal standard of "beyond a reasonable doubt". Rather, the case is made for use of a "material possibility" standard--which is likened to that used to find probable cause for a search warrant or issuance of an indictment. In the context of what amounts to a job interview, such a standard finds the appropriate balance between protecting the Republic and its institutions, while at the same time guarding against giving credence to unsupported allegations.
The information content of scene categories

Abstract Visual scenes, like other natural kinds, have a rich category structure. How do observers use this structure to aid perception? In this chapter, I will examine the link between scene category labels and perceptual processes. Scenes in the same category tend to share a number of features that can help the observer classify the scene. However, this process is bi-directional: given a scene label, observers are better able to classify visual content. Altogether, these results illustrate that visual perception and semantic knowledge are intimately connected, and that shared information between the two help disambiguate the complexities of the visual world.
Evaluation of weight change and hypoglycaemia as mediators in the association between insulin use and death.

AIM To evaluate whether weight change or hypoglycaemia mediates the association between insulin use and death. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a retrospective cohort of veterans who filled a new prescription for metformin and added insulin or sulphonylurea (2001-2012), we assessed change in body mass index (BMI) and hypoglycaemia during the first 12 months of treatment intensification. Cox proportional hazards models compared the risk of death between treatment groups. Using the difference method, we estimated the indirect effect and proportion mediated through each mediator. A sensitivity analysis assessed mediators in the first 6 months of intensified therapy. RESULTS Among 28 892 patients surviving 12 months, deaths per 1000 person-years were 15.4 for insulin users and 12.9 for sulphonylurea users (HR 1.20, 95% CI 0.87, 1.64). Change in BMI and hypoglycaemia mediated 13% (-98, 98) and -1% (-37, 71) of this association, respectively. Among 30 214 patients surviving 6 months, deaths per 1000 person-years were 34.8 for insulin users and 21.3 for sulphonylurea users (HR 1.66, 95% CI 1.28, 2.15). Change in BMI and hypoglycaemia mediated 9% (1, 23) and 0% (-9, 4) of this association, respectively. CONCLUSIONS We observed an increased risk of death among metformin users intensifying treatment with insulin versus sulphonylurea and surviving 6 months of intensified therapy, but not among those surviving 12 months. This association was mediated in part by weight change.
Optimal Hemoglobin Level for Pediatric Sickle Cell Patients Who Undergo Adenotonsillectomy

Abstract Background:The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) in children with sickle cell disease (SCD) is higher than in the general pediatric population. Adenotonsillectomy involves significantly increased risks in patients with SCD because of the need for general anesthesia,which could induce a vaso-occlusive event. Various preoperative regimens have been suggested to reduce peri-operative risks for SCD patients. Objective: We retrospectively reviewed the perioperative management for pediatric SCD patients undergoing adenotonsillectomy. We sought to identify the optimal preoperative hemoglobin (Hb) level for patients to have lowest risk of post-operative complications. Methods: Children between 1 and 18 years old with SCD including HbSS, HbSC, HbS beta thalassemia (Sβ0 and Sβ+) who underwent adenotonsillectomy from 2007 to 2017 were identified at Holtz Children's Hospital. Patients without these diseases who underwent the procedures were collected as a control. The study was approved by the University of Miami Institutional Review Board (IRB). De-identified data were exported to GraphPad Prism version 5.02 to perform the statistical analyses. Means were analyzed by student t test, rates by Chi-squared test. p Results: Thirty-four patients with SCD (mean 7.1 yrs) and 145 controls (mean 7.0 yrs) were identified with adenotonsillectomy (see Table 1). SCD patients had significant longer hospital stay (2.6 versus 0.9 days, p = 11.5 g/dL (11.5% vs 60%, p=0.04; see Figure 1). Complication rates were also lower in the Hb 9-11.5 g/dL group, but without statistical difference (19.2% vs 40%, p=0.3). Data is limited by small sample size in the SCD group. Conclusion(s): We concluded that for pediatric SCD patients planning for adenotonsillectomy, it is better to keep the posttransfusion Hb level at least above 9 mg/dL but less than 11.5 g/dL before procedure to avoid significant post operational complications. If pretransfusion Hb level is above 9 mg/dL, exchange transfusion by partial phlebotomy or simple transfusion (not to exceed 11.5 g/dL) may be considered. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
GUIDEPOST: From Environmental Strategy to Environmental Impact

Three decades of scholarship focused on organizations and the natural environment has enhanced our understanding of internal organizational strategies and processes to reduce negative impacts on th...
Individual Education Programs: What Music Teachers Need to Know When Working With Students With Disabilities:

Since the original passing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in 1975, students with disabilities are required to have services that are individualized to meet their needs as docume...
Predictors of Failed Conscious Sedation in Patients Undergoing an Outpatient Colonoscopy and Implications for the Adenoma Detection Rate

Guidelines to triage patients to conscious sedation (CS) or monitored anaesthesia care (MAC) for colonoscopy do not exist. We aimed to identify the CS failure rate, predictors of failure, and its impact on the adenoma detection rate (ADR). Strict (based on patient experience) and expanded (based on doses of sedative medications) definitions of CS failure were used. Patient and procedure-related variables were extracted. Multivariable logistic regression identified predictors for CS failure and the ADR. Among 766 patients, 29 (3.8%) and 175 (22.8%) patients failed CS by strict and expanded definitions, respectively. Female gender (OR 3.50; 95% CI: 1.37–8.94) and fellow involvement (OR 4.15; 95% CI: 1.79–9.58) were associated with failed CS by the strict definition. Younger age (OR 1.27, 95% CI: 1.07–1.49), outpatient opiate use (OR 1.71; 95% CI 1.03–2.84), use of an adjunct medication (OR 3.34; 95% CI: 1.94–5.73), and fellow involvement (OR 2.20; 95% CI: 1.31–3.71) were associated with failed CS by the expanded definition. Patients meeting strict failure criteria had a lower ADR (OR 0.30; 95% CI: 0.12–0.77). Several clinical factors may be useful for triaging to MAC. The ADR is lower in patients meeting strict criteria for failed CS.
Robust Frequency Control of Power Systems Under Time-varying Loads

In this paper, the load frequency control of multi-region power systems is studied. We propose a robust controller based on the frequency deviation between different regions. Using the non-smooth theory, we analyze the conditions for the feedback parameters of the proposed controller. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the proposed controller is evaluated on a four-region power system.