cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An Analytical Solution for Transient Thermal Response of an Insulated Structure

An analytical solution was derived for the transient response of an insulated aerospace vehicle structure subjected to a simplified heat pulse. This simplified problem approximates the thermal response of a thermal protection system of an atmospheric entry vehicle. The exact analytical solution is solely a function of two nondimensional parameters. A simpler function of these two parameters was developed to approximate the maximum structural temperature over a wide range of parameter values. Techniques were developed to choose constant, effective properties to represent the relevant temperature and pressure-dependent properties for the insulator and structure. A technique was also developed to map a time-varying surface temperature history to an equivalent square heat pulse. Using these techniques, the maximum structural temperature rise was calculated using the analytical solutions and shown to typically agree with finite element simulations within 10–20% over the relevant range of parameters studied.
Experimental demonstration of a magnetic bipolar junction transistor

The field of semiconductor spintronics has pursued the development of novel device architectures exploiting the spin degree of freedom in addition to, or in place of, traditional charge based functionality. In particular, theoretical modeling has predicted that the addition of a magnetic base layer to a bipolar junction transistor has the potential to serve as an exceptionally efficient spin filter, add intrinsically non-volatile functionality and exhibit extremely fast switching. Here, we present the experimental implementation of this scheme via the inclusion of a digitally-doped (Ga,Mn)As layer into the p region of an n-p-n III-As heterojunction bipolar transistor. These proof of principle devices exhibit gain greater than one, concurrent with robust ferromagnetism, which demonstrates a critical step in the development of an active spin functional device architecture.
Characteristics of a Favorable Weight Status Change From Adolescence to Young Adulthood.

Abstract Purpose To explore 10-year longitudinal predictors (personal, psychological, behavioral, and socioenvironmental) of exiting obesity from adolescence to young adulthood. Methods Data were collected from a population-based cohort of adolescents (n = 2,287) attending middle/high schools in Minneapolis–St. Paul in 1998–1999 (mean age = 14.9) and again in 2008–2009 (mean age = 25.3) participating in Project Eating and Activity Among Teens and Young Adults. Self-reported height and weight were used to calculate weight status change between adolescence and young adulthood, among participants with obesity at baseline (n = 175). Questionnaires assessed personal, psychological, behavioral, and socioenvironmental factors hypothesized to play a role in obesity. Modified Poisson regressions estimated adjusted relative risks (RRs) for exiting obesity as a function of each baseline and 10-year change in predictor, controlling for relevant covariates. Results Thirty-two percent of adolescents exited obesity in young adulthood. Reductions in fast food intake (RR = .73, 95% confidence interval [CI] = .61–.87) and screen time (RR = .98, 95% CI = .96–.99), and increases in fruit/vegetable intake (RR = 1.06, 95% CI 1.01–1.12), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (RR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.00–1.12), home fruit/vegetable availability (RR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.19–2.09), family meals (RR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.03–1.22), and serving vegetables at dinner (RR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.10–1.92) were associated with exiting obesity. Not dieting as an adolescent and improvements in body satisfaction, depressive symptoms, self-esteem, and weight teasing were also associated with exiting obesity. Conclusions Promoting healthy eating and activity, and improving the healthfulness of home food environments may be promising intervention targets for promoting healthier weights in adolescents and young adults with obesity. Addressing dieting behavior and the psychosocial health of adolescents with obesity may also be needed throughout the transition to young adulthood.
Differences in Susceptibilities of Virulent Strains and Avirulent Strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae to Antimicrobial Agents

Abstract Virulent cells (T1 colony type) and avirulent cells (T4 colony type) of Neisseria gonorrhoeae were grown in a defined liquid medium in the presence of different antimicrobial agents. Bacteria of T1 colony type were found to be more resistant than bacteria of T4 colony type to the inhibitory effects of specific concentrations of ampicillin (0.50 μg/ml) and penicillin (0.01 μg/ml). Bacteria of T4 colony type, however, were found to be more resistant to the effects of chloramphenicol (0.40 μg/ml), erythromycin (0.10 μg/ml), spectinomycin (10.00 μg/ml), and tetracycline (0.30 μg/ml). The differences in susceptibilities of these bacteria to the antibiotics investigated were not due to differences in growth rate or to differences in permeability. The data suggest that virulent gonococci and avirulent gonococci have unique properties that affect their susceptibilities to certain antimicrobial agents.
Effects of Reactor Decontamination Complexing Agents On Soil Adsorption-Column Studies (JJ5.4)

Previous studies show that some radionuclides present in reactor decontamination wastes form strong complexes with the organic complexing agents used to decontaminate reactor cores and piping. Further, the metal-ligand complexes exhibit reduced adsorption to soils. Flow through column tests were used to study the adsorption of metal-organic ligand complexes to two soils. The breakthrough curves for metals and organic ligands for four tests are shown. In all the column tests, the adsorption of the organic ligand-metal complex, or the free organic ligand and free metal (disassociated species) was reversible. That is, close to the total mass injected was recovered in the flushing stage with untraced background solution. Two tests that used the iron oxide coated sand show complicated behavior that was interpreted as being caused by ligand (both EDTA and picolinate) interacting with the ferric oxides. The Ni-organic ligand complex in both cases appears to exchange Ni for Fe to some extent such that free Ni+2 is produced and Fe (III)-organic complexes are formed that adsorb with different strengths. Further, we suspect that the organic ligand is dissolving some of the ferric oxide coatings and destroying sorption sites. The combination of all these reactions leads to rather complicated breakthrough curves. In tests with picolinate there is partial disassociation of the metal and ligand such that the breakthrough curves for the metal and ligand are different A recommendation is made to not bury EDTA-laden decontamination wastes with cement. Another observation is that predictions that use simple constant Kd and constant source release constructs may not be exclusively conservative in predicting concentrations of contaminants in water down-gradient from disposal sites.
Sustainable multi-robot patrol of an open polyline

We present an algorithm that maintains coverage of an open polyline patrolled by a team of robots. While previous work has focused on the uniformity of patrolling, we focus on ensuring the longevity of the system in the face of robot failures. A central control tower monitors the battery levels of the robots, and recalls them when they are low on power replacing them with fully charged robots. We compare two methods for replacement, both of which aim to keep coverage interruptions to a minimum. We present results obtained through physical experiments and simulations.
Tubeless Barcat: a patient-friendly hypospadias procedure.

Abstract Objectives To determine whether the distinct advantages of a catheter-free hypospadias repair can be obtained with a Barcat procedure without an adverse effect on surgical outcome. Methods A retrospective review was performed on consecutive patients who had undergone a catheter-free Barcat repair from July 1998 to May 2002. Patient records were examined for information regarding age, meatal location, primary or secondary procedure, operative time, postoperative follow-up, and complications. Results Thirty-six consecutive catheter-free Barcat hypospadias repairs were performed in the review period. Patient age ranged from 6 months to 9 years (mean 26 months). All patients either had a coronal meatus or a subcoronal meatus. Thirty-three patients (92%) underwent a primary repair. Three patients (8%) underwent the repair as a secondary procedure after a previous failed procedure. The mean follow-up was 25 months. One patient required a single catheterization in the immediate postoperative period for urinary retention. Another patient had glans separation and meatal retrusion requiring a revision procedure. All the other patients achieved a satisfactory cosmetic result with an orthotopic slit-like meatus. Conclusions The Barcat hypospadias repair may be performed in patients with distal hypospadias without the use of a postoperative urethral catheter. Foregoing a catheter had no adverse effect on the surgical outcome with reduced patient discomfort.
First generation decline: downward mobility among refugees and immigrants

Although immigration researchers, like other social scientists who study mobility, usually look only at upward mobility, immigrants and refugees often suffer from downward mobility. This is particularly true of new arrivals who were professionals in their country of origin and now work as technicians, although newcomers of lower status may experience it as well. For some immigrants and refugees, downward mobility is temporary; others may suffer from it all their lives and even pass the pain on to their children. This paper discusses the various impacts of downward mobility, the ways immigrants and refugees cope with them successfully or not, and the consequences of their class and status decline for their children. The paper can be read as a follow up to my earlier articles in Ethnic and Racial Studies, ‘Second Generation Decline’, (1992) and ‘Acculturation, Assimilation and Mobility’ (2007).
The Philosopher’s Stone of Reprogramming

The 16th-century Swiss alchemist Paracelsus (Philippus Aureolus Theophrastus Bombastus von Hohenheim) was a great believer in the philosopher’s stone or alkahest, which he thought was an undiscovered element that could convert stone into gold. The philosopher’s stone remained a dream for centuries but seems to have reemerged at least within the realm of cell biology. A new study by Wapinski et al . brings us closer to understanding the mechanisms underlying the direct conversion of mouse embryonic fibroblasts (stones) into priceless neurons (gold). Using a genome-wide chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing approach, the authors discovered a clear hierarchy among the three neuronal transcription factors Ascl1, Brn2, and Myt1l during conversion of embryonic fibroblasts to a neuronal fate. The transcription factor Ascl1 was able to “unlock” the closed chromatin on genes required for neuronal differentiation. Whereas transcription factors usually bind to different sets of target genes depending on the cellular context, the authors revealed a trivalent chromatin signature that appeared to predict the permissiveness in embryonic fibroblasts for Ascl1-dependent neuron conversion. Binding of Ascl1 led to the subsequent recruitment of Brn2 and Myt1l, which were unable to access their neuronal target genes in the absence of Ascl1. The successful recruitment of Brn2 and Myt1l was, however, critical for efficiency during the subsequent stages of neuron maturation. Although many questions about the exact mechanism of transcriptional reprogramming have still to be addressed, the study is a major step toward the high-efficiency generation of neurons that could be used as replacement therapy for a variety of neurodegenerative diseases. O. L. Wapinski et al ., Hierarchical mechanisms for direct reprogramming of fibroblasts to neurons. Cell 155 , 621–635 (2013). [[Abstract]][1] [1]: http://www.cell.com/abstract/S0092-8674%2813%2901165-3?switch=standard
Seeing double: reconstructing obscured typed input from repeated compromising reflections

Of late, threats enabled by the ubiquitous use of mobile devices have drawn much interest from the research community. However, prior threats all suffer from a similar, and profound, weakness - namely the requirement that the adversary is either within visual range of the victim (e.g., to ensure that the pop-out events in reflections in the victim's sunglasses can be discerned) or is close enough to the target to avoid the use of expensive telescopes. In this paper, we broaden the scope of the attacks by relaxing these requirements and show that breaches of privacy are possible even when the adversary is around a corner. The approach we take overcomes challenges posed by low image resolution by extending computer vision methods to operate on small, high-noise, images. Moreover, our work is applicable to all types of keyboards because of a novel application of fingertip motion analysis for key-press detection. In doing so, we are also able to exploit reflections in the eyeball of the user or even repeated reflections (i.e., a reflection of a reflection of the mobile device in the eyeball of the user). Our empirical results show that we can perform these attacks with high accuracy, and can do so in scenarios that aptly demonstrate the realism of this threat.
Information fusion in biometrics

User verification systems that use a single biometric indicator often have to contend with noisy sensor data, restricted degrees of freedom, non-universality of the biometric trait and unacceptable error rates. Attempting to improve the performance of individual matchers in such situations may not prove to be effective because of these inherent problems. Multibiometric systems seek to alleviate some of these drawbacks by providing multiple evidences of the same identity. These systems help achieve an increase in performance that may not be possible using a single biometric indicator. Further, multibiometric systems provide anti-spoofing measures by making it difficult for an intruder to spoof multiple biometric traits simultaneously. However, an effective fusion scheme is necessary to combine the information presented by multiple domain experts. This paper addresses the problem of information fusion in biometric verification systems by combining information at the matching score level. Experimental results on combining three biometric modalities (face, fingerprint and hand geometry) are presented.
Temperature stable voltage controlled current source

This paper proposes a complementary bipolar junction transistor circuit that supplies a nominally temperature invariant output current whose value is linearly related to a user defined static control voltage. The circuit developed herein is a true current source, as opposed to a current sink. It effectively functions as a static transconductor in that the controlling voltage is not limited to small signals, very little current is conducted by the controlling port, and very high static output resistance characterizes the controlled port. Moreover, the effective input-to-output transconductance is virtually independent of the absolute values of transistor parameters. Instead, its value is determined by a designable circuit resistance. >
Inadequacies in time–temperature equivalence

The activation energy of the low temperature relaxation in polytetrafluoroethylene is obtained from creep experiments by using the analytical procedure known as time temperature superposition. The activation energy obtained is 25 kcal./mole which is rejected in favor of the value determined in internal friction experiments, 18 kcal./mole. The discrepancy is attributed to temperature variation of the limiting compliances which cause the value obtained using time–temperature superposition to be too high. Comparable discrepancies are anticipated for relaxations in crystalline polymers and amorphous polymers at temperatures below the glass transition.
A new approach to video bandwidth prediction

We discuss a fundamentally new approach to digital packetized video bandwidth prediction (i.e., bandwidth forecasting). This fundamentally new approach provides an accurate bandwidth forecast at the expense of increased queueing delay. We outline this new forecasting method we call feedforward bandwidth indication (FFBI), compare it to existing forecasting methods, and analyze the tradeoffs associated with its use. Finally, we outline future avenues of research.
Diffuse electrical injury: Questioning the scientific basis

Published reports postulate the existence of an electrical injury syndrome or pattern whereby clinical and physical manifestations of a shock injury occur remote to the actual current pathway, and may present in the absence of related acute findings. It is suggested that the extent of such injury is unrelated to the magnitude of shock current and that the timing of the ldquodiffuse electrical injuryrdquo may be indefinitely delayed with respect to the time of the sustained shock. Other reports refer to possible shock injury mechanisms that manifest solely with neuropsychological symptoms. A critical examination of this literature reveals no mechanistic basis for the association of the proposed physical symptoms of diffuse electrical injury with remote injury. Additionally, serious errors in the stated methodology of the publications citing the existence of diffuse electrical injury cast doubt upon the scientific basis for the stated conclusions.
In vivo measurement of translational stiffness of rabbit knees

This paper describes the design, evaluation, and preliminary results of a specialized testing device and surgical protocol to determine translational stiffness of a rabbit knee, replicating the clinical anterior drawer test. Coronal-plane transverse pins are inserted through the rabbit leg, two in the tibia and one in the distal femur, to hold and reproducibly position the leg in the device for tests at multiple time points. A linear stepper motor draws the tibia upward then returns to the home position, and a load cell measures the resisting force; force-displacement knee stiffness is then calculated. Initial evaluation of this testing device determined the effects of preconditioning, intra-operator repeatability, rabbit-to-rabbit variability, knee flexion angle (90° vs. 135°), and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) sectioning (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%). Knee stiffness generally decreased as ACL sectioning increased. This testing device and surgical protocol provide an objective and efficient method of determining translational rabbit knee stiffness in vivo, and are being used in an ongoing study to evaluate the effect of knee instability (via partial to complete ACL sectioning) on the development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis.
The leech receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase HmLAR2 is concentrated in growth cones and is involved in process outgrowth

Developing neurons extend long processes to specific distal targets using extracellular molecules as guidance cues to navigate through the embryo. Growth cones, specialized structures at the tip of the extending processes, are thought to accomplish this navigation through receptors that recognize guidance cues and modulate growth accordingly. In Drosophila, several receptor tyrosine phosphatases (rPTPs), including DLAR, have been shown to participate in directing neurite outgrowth. As yet, however, it is not known how rPTPs act to affect navigation. To gain insight into the mechanisms of rPTP-mediated outgrowth guidance, we have investigated the role of HmLAR2, a Hirudo medicinalis homologue of DLAR, in process outgrowth. HmLAR2 is expressed by, among other cells, a transient neuron-like template cell, the Comb cell. Here we present evidence that HmLAR2 protein becomes concentrated within their growth cones at a stage when C cell processes undergo rapid outgrowth. When antibodies raised against the extracellular domain of HmLAR2 were injected into intact embryos, they bound specifically to the C cell surface at growth cones and along processes and caused the partial internalization of HmLAR2 receptors. Moreover, the C cell processes were found to project aberrantly, to deviate from their normally highly regular trajectories and to extend shorter distances in the presence of the antibodies. We propose that HmLAR2 is required by the C cell for guidance and extension and suggest that it functions via its ectodomain to transduce extracellular guidance cues.
Sequential Sampling Enhanced Composite Likelihood Approach to Estimation of Social Intercorrelations in Large-Scale Networks

The increasing access to large social network data has generated substantial interest in the marketing community. However, due to its large scale, traditional analysis methods often become inadequate. In this paper, we propose a sequential sampling enhanced composite likelihood approach for efficient estimation of social intercorrelations in large-scale networks using the spatial model. The proposed approach sequentially takes small samples from the network, and adaptively improves model parameter estimates through learnings obtained from previous samples. In comparison to population-based maximum likelihood estimation that is computationally prohibitive when the network size is large, the proposed approach makes it computationally feasible to analyze large networks and provide efficient estimation of social intercorrelations among members in large networks. In comparison to sample-based estimation that relies on information purely from the sample and produces underestimation bias in social intercorrelation estimates, the proposed approach effectively uses information from the population without compromising computation eciency. Through simulation studies based on simulated networks and real networks, the authors demonstrate significant advantages of the proposed approach over benchmark estimation methods and discuss managerial implications.
Paper vs. Computer-based Exams: A Study of Errors in Recursive Binary Tree Algorithms

This paper reports on a study of goal-plans and errors produced by students who wrote recursive solutions for a binary tree operation. This work extends a previous study of difficulties CS2 students experienced while writing solutions on paper-based exams. In this study, participants solved the same recursive binary tree problem as part of a hands-on computer-based exam where students had access to an IDE and Java API documentation. Not surprisingly, students who took the computer-based exams were more successful than those who took the paper-based exams (58% vs. 17% correct solutions). However, even with the advantage of access to an IDE, documentation, and test cases, 42% of students taking the computer-based exam still made errors, indicating that students exhibit persistent errors even with support. The most common errors observed included incorrect calculations, missing method calls and missing and incorrect base cases.
Abstract A39: Development and validation of an integrated genomic classifier to predict sensitivity to the IGF‐1R/IR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, OSI‐906, in colorectal cancer

Background: The role of the IGF‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R) pathway in mediating proliferative, invasive and pro‐survival responses in cancer has led to a plethora of agents targeting this pathway, including antibodies and small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors. In order to maximize the clinical utility of such agents, it is imperative that patient selection strategies be applied. The goal of this study was to develop and characterize predictive biomarkers for the small molecule IGF‐1R/IR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, OSI‐906, in colorectal cancer (CRC). Methods and Results: Twenty‐seven human CRC cell lines were exposed in vitro to OSI‐906 and classified according to the IC50 value as sensitive ( 1.5 mol/L). Immunoblotting and immuno‐histochemistry for effector proteins was performed on all CRC cell lines as well as fluorescent in‐situ hybridization (FISH) to assess IGF‐1R gene amplification and KRAS/BRAF/PI3K mutation sequencing. Baseline expression levels of effector proteins were not predictive of OSI‐906 sensitivity. Although IGF‐IR FISH did not reveal amplification, the OSI‐906 sensitive CRC cell lines displayed an “unbalanced gain” of IGF‐IR based upon ploidy. Likewise, there was a trend toward KRAS wildtype status and sensitivity to OSI‐906. Next, the baseline gene expression of selected in vitro and in vivo sensitive or resistant cell lines was analyzed using Affymetrix U133 Plus 2.0 gene arrays. These transcriptional profiling data led to the development of a k‐Top Scoring Pair (k‐TSP) classifier which identified three gene pairs as the final classifier: (PROM1>MT1E), (LY75> OXCT1) and (HSD17B2>CALD1). Pathway analysis at baseline indicated IGF‐IR signaling and insulin pathways were among the top 20 up regulated BioCarta pathways whereas in the resistant cells, the ErbB, MAPK, VEGF, and multiple cell adhesion/motility signaling pathways were prominently represented. From these data an integrated genomic classifier of FISH, KRAS status, and the k‐TSP was developed and tested against 5 human CRC explants in vivo. The classifier was able to predict with 100% accuracy the responsiveness of these explants to OSI‐906. Conclusions: These results indicate that an integrated approach to the development of individualized therapy is feasible and should be applied early in the development of this and other novel classes of anticancer agents. Additionally, such data may be used to develop rationale combination partners, such as VEGF or MEK inhibitors, to enhance responsiveness to OSI‐906. Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(12 Suppl):A39.
Effects of Load and Posture on the Recruitment of Trunk Muscles

Seven male subjects performed 8 cable lifting and hanging tasks, while trunk kinematics and electromyographic data often trunk muscles were obtained. The objectives of the study were to evaluate trunk muscle recruitment and spine loads resulting from performance of this task in different postures and with different load magnitudes. The eight tasks were combinations of four postures (standing, stooping, kneeling on one knee or both knees) and two levels of load (0 N or 100 N load added to existing cable weight). Results indicated that changes in posture and changes in load magnitude both affected muscle co-activation; however, the influence of these variables were quite different in nature. Increased load magnitude resulted in a generalized increase in the co-activation of all trunk muscles, no matter which posture was employed (p < 0.05). Changes in posture significantly affected trunk muscle recruitment patterns (p < 0.05); however, the posture effect typically involved a relatively small subset of trunk...
CONTROL OF INFECTIONS IN THE NEWBORN NURSERY.

The most hopeful approach to control of infections in neonates is prevention. This should begin with recognition and therapy of infections in pregnant women. Signs of infection in young infants are subtle; early recognition requires close observation, a high index of suspicion, and use of laboratory aids such as blood cultures, cerebrospinal fluid examinations, and sensitivity studies. Besides antimicrobial therapy, supportive measures are necessary. Bactericidal agents are better than bacteriostatic ones. The drugs selected should be effective against the common pathogens if the invading microorganism is unknown. Their potential beneficial effect must outweigh their potential toxicity.
Surgery for seizures.

Of the approximately 2 million Americans with a diagnosis of epilepsy who are treated with antiepileptic drugs, 20 percent continue to have seizures1; this group of patients accounts for over 75 percent of the cost of epilepsy in the United States.2 For many of those with medically refractory epilepsy, their disability can be completely eliminated by surgical intervention. Only a small percentage of potential surgical candidates, however, are currently referred to epilepsy-surgery centers.3 Overview The classic 1886 paper of Victor Horsley4 heralded the modern era of epilepsy surgery, and the introduction of electroencephalography (EEG) in the first half of . . .
Role of surgery in managing local recurrence following external-beam radiation therapy.

SUMMARY Salvage surgery for radiation failure in prostate cancer has improved over the last 10 to 15 years owing to earlier detection of failure and better selection of patients. Regardless of the percentage of complications associated with this procedure, it presents the only viable alternative for potential cure of patients failing radiation therapy.
SOME APPLICATIONS OF MULTILEVEL MODELS TO EDUCATIONAL DATA

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the applications of multilevel models of educational data. Multilevel models are powerful tools for the applied statistician involved in educational research. Several examples of multilevel analyses of data from Educational Testing Service is presented in the chapter, in which multilevel analysis using a Bayesian approach provides better answers than methods based on sampling theory ideas such as un-biasedness and minimum variance. Multilevel models lie between standard models—between the extremes associated with the significant/not-significant dichotomy arising from the testing of standard models. Multilevel models can be used when data are thin without invoking awkward rules regarding the minimum sample size required for some form of analysis. Multilevel models make the quantities to be estimated random variables. The best confirmation is honest validation: make predictions to new data sets and see how accurate the predictions are. The consideration of conceptual replications can then be useful by eliminating inappropriate models. Diagnostics, such as frequentist-based examination of residuals, or posterior predictive model monitoring are, thus, necessary adjuncts to a successful multilevel analysis.
Percutaneous Management of Malignant Bone Tumors

This section provides a comprehensive procedural report for percutaneous management of malignant bone tumors procedure with up-to-date explanatory notes, synopsis of the indications and contraindications, and potential complications in an organized and practical format.
NormalTouch and TextureTouch: High-fidelity 3D Haptic Shape Rendering on Handheld Virtual Reality Controllers

We present an investigation of mechanically-actuated hand-held controllers that render the shape of virtual objects through physical shape displacement, enabling users to feel 3D surfaces, textures, and forces that match the visual rendering. We demonstrate two such controllers, NormalTouch and TextureTouch, which are tracked in 3D and produce spatially-registered haptic feedback to a user's finger. NormalTouch haptically renders object surfaces and provides force feedback using a tiltable and extrudable platform. TextureTouch renders the shape of virtual objects including detailed surface structure through a 4×4 matrix of actuated pins. By moving our controllers around while keeping their finger on the actuated platform, users obtain the impression of a much larger 3D shape by cognitively integrating output sensations over time. Our evaluation compares the effectiveness of our controllers with the two de-facto standards in Virtual Reality controllers: device vibration and visual feedback only. We find that haptic feedback significantly increases the accuracy of VR interaction, most effectively by rendering high-fidelity shape output as in the case of our controllers.
The Threshold of Conscience: A Radical Challenge for Education in Theological Ethics … and Beyond

In this article I propose that the phenomenon of conscience, as understood in Catholic theological ethics, functions as a threshold concept within that discipline. As such, it shares the characteristics identified by Meyer and Land [2006a. “Threshold Concepts and Troublesome Knowledge: An Introduction.” In Overcoming Barriers to Student Understanding: Threshold Concepts and Troublesome Knowledge, edited by J. Meyer and R. Land, 3–18. Hoboken: Taylor & Francis] as pertaining to threshold concepts, and thereby presents substantial challenges for education within theological ethics. The article begins by analysing conscience as a threshold concept. It then puts forward a teaching intervention which is informed by threshold concepts theory and other relevant pedagogical research.
Methotrexate and/or Rituximab in a New Nude Rat Central Nervous System Lymphoma Model: Efficacy, Toxicity and Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy and toxicity of methotrexate (MTX) and/or rituximab treatment in a novel central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma model, using either intravenous (IV) or intraarterial (IA) drug administration in conjunction with osmotic blood-brain barrier disruption (BBBD). Female athymic nude rats (rnu/rnu) were inoculated with human MC116 B-cell lymphoma cells in the caudate putamen. On the day of treatment and first magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (day 16–20), rats were randomized into 7 groups: 1. control group with saline IV (n = 15) or 2. IA/BBBD (n = 7); 3. rituximab 375 mg/m2 IV (n = 6) or 4. IA/BBBD (n = 3); 5. MTX 1000 mg/m2 IV (n = 6) or 6. IA/BBBD (n = 6); and 7. rituximab 375 mg/m2 IV + MTX 1000 mg/m2 IV (n = 6). A second MRI scan was done 1 week after treatment. Study end points included tumor response on MRI (defined as ≤75% tumor volume on post-treatment MRI), toxicity, and tumor volumes on histology. In the IV groups, the percent change in tumor volume on T2/FLAIR images in the control versus rituximab group was statistically significant (p = 0.0051). In the IA/BBBD groups, there was a statistically significant difference between control and rituximab (p = 0.0167) for absolute and percent changes in tumor volumes on both T2/FLAIR and T1 with gadolinium sequences. For T1 with gadolinium, the difference between control and MTX was also significant for both absolute change (p = 0.0066) and percent change (p = 0.0043). Response rates in the IV groups differed significantly between controls and rituximab (p = 0.0017 on T2/FLAIR and p = 0.0049 on T1 with gadolinium). A good correlation between tumor volumes (in log mm3) on histology and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR)/T2 (R2 = 0.83) or contrast-enhanced T1 weighted images (R2 = 0.73) for tumors located in the caudate putamen was observed. Results of complete blood counts at sacrifice did not differ significantly between the groups. The MC116 CNS lymphoma model is valuable for preclinical testing of efficacy and toxicity of various treatment regimens. Rituximab and MTX were particularly effective in this model, regardless of the route of administration.
Robust Regression Analysis of Longitudinal Data under Censoring

We consider regression analysis of longitudinal data when the temporal correlation is modeled by an autoregressive process. Robust R estimators of regression and autoregressive parameters are obtained. Our estimators are valid under censoring caused by detection limits. Efficient computation of the estimators is discussed. Theoretical and simulation studies of the estimators are presented. We analyze a real data set on air pollution using our methodology.
The Relationship of Head Start Teachers’ Academic Language Use and Children’s Receptive Vocabulary

ABSTRACTResearch Findings: This study examines lexical- and sentence-level dimensions of academic language to describe teachers’ natural use of academic language and its association with vocabulary growth in 489 at-risk 4-year-olds enrolled in Head Start preschool classrooms. Using transcripts derived from video recordings of book-reading sessions in 52 classrooms, we developed measures to assess the relationships among teachers’ use of lexical elements (amount, sophistication, and diversity of vocabulary) and utterance length (mean length of utterance in words) and children’s end-of-year receptive vocabulary scores. Hierarchical linear models indicated that children in classrooms where teachers used more lexical elements had higher end-of-year receptive vocabulary scores than those who heard less. Conversely, children in classrooms where shorter utterances were used had higher end-of-year receptive vocabulary scores. Classroom factors also played a role in children’s vocabulary scores, indicating a need ...
White, queer and female: using intersectionality as a tool for teaching social justice in the Deep South

AbstractIn this critical autoethnography, I discuss and critically reflect on some of my personal identities, specifically being a white, queer woman in the Deep South of the United States, that inform how I interact with the world and my students. I then discuss how the interplay of these identities has led me to particular pedagogical strategies for teaching social justice. In particular, as a white scholar, I seek to decentre whiteness in my teaching. To this end, I ask student to reflect on their own intersecting identities to create empathy and perspective, to investigate the experiences of others to create understanding and ultimately to plan and implement actions that disrupt systems of power and oppression. I conclude this piece with opportunities for action, particularly when working with educational leadership students.
Management of Idle Cash Can Generate Handsome Returns

This paper describes realistic procedures for a small business to follow in the management of idle cash for handsome returns. The cash management method described in this paper has been thoroughly tested and has obtained excellent results.A small business should find this method to be relatively simple and rewarding.
A 1-V 0.25- $\mu \text{W}$ Inverter Stacking Amplifier With 1.07 Noise Efficiency Factor

This paper presents a highly power-efficient amplifier. By stacking inverters and splitting the capacitor feedback network, the proposed amplifier achieves six-time current reuse, thereby significantly boosting the transconductance and lowering noise but without increasing the current consumption. A novel biasing scheme is devised to ensure robust operation under 1-V supply. A prototype in 180-nm CMOS has 5.5- $\mu \textrm {V}_{\textrm {rms}}$ noise within 10-kHz BW while consuming only 0.25- $\mu \text{W}$ power, leading to a noise efficiency factor of 1.07, which is the best among reported amplifiers.
C. elegans—An Emerging Model to Study Metal-Induced RAGE-Related Pathologies

The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), a multi-ligand receptor, is mostly associated with promoting inflammation and oxidative stress. In addition to advanced glycation end products (AGEs), its ligands include High mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB-1), S-100 proteins and beta-sheet fibrils. The effects of several metals and metalloids on RAGE expression and activation have been recently studied: in vivo and in vitro exposure to methylmercury, selenium, zinc, manganese, and arsenic was associated with a variety of RAGE-related alterations and behavioral impairments, which are mostly dependent upon the administration procedure (local vs. systemic) and age during exposure. Recently, C. elegans has been proposed as a potential novel model for studying RAGE-related pathologies; preliminary data regarding such model and its potential contribution to the study of metal-induced RAGE-related pathologies are discussed.
Techniques for boron determination and their application to the analysis of plant and soil samples

This paper reviews techniques for determining B concentration and isotopic ratio and their application to soil and plant samples. Boron concentration has been determined utilising spectrophotometry, potentiometry, chromatography, flame atomic emission and absorption spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma (ICP) optical emission (OES) and mass spectrometry (MS), and neutron activation analysis using neutron radiography and prompt-γ activation analysis. Isotopic ratios of B have been measured by ICP–MS, thermal ionisation mass spectrometry (TIMS) and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). For isotopic measurements, TIMS and SIMS are more sensitive and provide higher degrees of accuracy and resolution than ICP–MS, however, extensive sample preparation and purification, and time-consuming measurements limit their usefulness for routine analyses.
Examining the Impact of Psychological Factors on Hospital Length of Stay for Burn Survivors: A Systematic Review

Recovery of burn patients may be impeded by mental health problems. By gaining a better understanding of the impact that psychological factors may have on hospital length of stay, providers may be better informed to address the complex needs of burn survivors through effective and efficient practices. This systematic review summarizes existing data on the adverse psychological factors for the length of burn patients' hospitalization, and assesses the methodological quality of the extant literature on mental health conditions of burn survivors. A literature search was conducted in four electronic databases: PubMed, PsychINFO, Science Direct, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. Results yielded reports published between 1980 and 2016. Methodological quality was assessed by using an 11-item methodological quality score system. Seventy-four studies were identified by search; 19 articles were eligible for analysis. Findings demonstrate paucity of evidence in the area. Reports indicate longer hospital stay among burn patients with mental health problems. Substance use was the most consistent mental-health predictor of longer hospital stay. Heterogeneity in data on mental health conditions rendered impossible estimation of effect sizes of individual psychological factors on length of hospitalization. Many studies over-relied on retrospective designs, and crude indicators of psychological factors. Findings indicate that mental health problems do have an impact on the trajectory of burn recovery by increasing the length of hospital stay for burn survivors. Inpatient mental health services for burn patients are critically needed. Prospective designs, and more sensitive psychological indicators are needed for future studies.
Comparing Outcomes of Active Student and Observer Roles in Nursing Simulation

Background Because of large class sizes and limited resources, students participating in high-fidelity simulation experiences may be assigned to an observer role as opposed to an active nursing role. Purpose Educators need to determine if anxiety levels and student learning outcomes are comparable for students in active and observer roles. Methods A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 132 prelicensure baccalaureate students. Active nursing roles consisted of primary care, documentation, and medication nurse roles. Observer role students were provided with resources to guide them with developing their observational skills and achieving the simulation objectives. Results There were no significant differences between simulation roles for anxiety levels, satisfaction with learning, self-confidence in learning, clinical ability, problem solving, confidence in clinical practice, and collaboration. Conclusions These findings suggest that either role is an appropriate assignment during simulation. Educators should identify ways to be supportive and reduce anxiety in students during simulation experiences.
An analysis of homeless patients in the United States requiring ICU admission.

Abstract Purpose To assess how homelessness impacts mortality and length of stay (LOS) among select the intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Methods We used ICD-9 code V60.0 to identify homeless patients using the Premier Perspective Database from January 2010 to June 2011. We identified three subpopulations who received critical care services using ICD-9 and Medicare Severity Diagnosis Related Groups (MS-DRG) codes: patients with a diagnosis of sepsis who were treated with antibiotics by Day 2, patients with an alcohol or drug related MS-DRG, and patients with a diabetes related MS-DRG. We used multivariable logistic regression to predict mortality and multivariable generalized estimating equations to predict hospital and ICU LOS. Results 781,540 hospitalizations met inclusion criteria; 2278 (0.3%) were homeless. We found homelessness had no significant adjusted association with mortality among sepsis patients, but was associated with substantially longer hospital LOS: (3.7 days longer; 95% CI (1.7, 5.7, p Conclusions Critically ill homeless patients with sepsis had longer hospital LOS but similar ICU LOS and mortality risk compared to non-homeless patients. Homelessness was not associated with increased LOS in the diabetes or alcohol and drug related groups.
Team‐Based Medicine: Incorporating a Clinical Pharmacist into Pain and Opioid Practice Management

BACKGROUND The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that death from opioids has increased by more than five times since 1999. In response, federal and state organizations have released guidelines recommending best practice standards to combat the opioid epidemic. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of a clinical pharmacist in a team-based care model on the adherence to best practice standards and access to care for management of patients prescribed chronic opioid therapy (COT). DESIGN Retrospective chart review study. SETTING An outpatient physical medicine and rehabilitation clinic in a tertiary hospital. PATIENTS Three hundred eighty-three patients presenting to the clinic between January 2012 and August 2016 with chronic, noncancer pain. METHODS Comparison of adherence to best practice standards-including changes in morphine equivalent dose (MED), compliance with urine drug screenings, documentation of medication agreements, initiation of nonopioid medications, and the impact of comorbidities-was analyzed before and after a clinical pharmacist was added to the team. Data were gathered from the electronic medical record and the Prescription Monitoring Program. A control group of patients who did not see the pharmacist and were managed only by the physician section head was also compared to the group of patients managed by a clinical pharmacist. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS The primary outcome measurement evaluates the change in MED values over time. Secondary outcome measurements are to review compliance with annual urine drug screening, documentation of the medication agreement, initiation of nonopioid medications by the pharmacist, and assessment of the access to care for patients with chronic opioid therapy needs. RESULTS A clinically significant reduction in MED with an average decrease of 207 mg was seen after five or more visits with the pharmacist. The pharmacist initiated nonopioid medications at 209 unique patient visits (19.5%). The pharmacist completed 1197 visits during the study time frame, increasing physician access by at least two additional visits per patient per year. Completion of urine drug screens and medication agreement reviews improved over time (P < .001). There was an increase in MED for patients who did not complete this monitoring, whereas the MED remained stable in patients who did complete the monitoring. CONCLUSIONS The addition of a clinical pharmacist to an interdisciplinary team managing COT patients resulted in a MED reduction after five or more visits with the pharmacist, improved adherence to best practice standards, optimization of opioid and nonopioid medication therapy, and increased patient access. Developing a role for advanced practitioners, such as clinical pharmacist providers, working with patients on COT can result in significant improvements in patient access to care, adherence to best practice standards, and patient safety. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III.
Proceedings of the 15th Conference on Formal Methods in Computer-Aided Design

The International Conference on Formal Methods in Computer-Aided Design (FMCAD) is a series of meetings presenting groundbreaking results on the theory and application of rigorous formal techniques for the automated design of systems, in the broadest sense of the word. FMCAD covers the spectrum of formal aspects of specification, verification, synthesis, and testing, and is intended as a leading forum for researchers and practitioners in academia and industry alike.