cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Numerical Optimal Control Via Smooth Penalty Functions

The use of first order necessary conditions to solve optimal control problems has two principal drawbacks: a sufficiently close initial approximation is required to ensure local convergence and this initial approximation must be cHosen so that the convergence is to a local optimum. We present a class of algorithms which resolves both of these difficulties and which is ultimately based on the solution of first order necessary conditions. The key ingredients are three smooth penalty functions (the quadratic penalty for equality constraints and the log barrier or quadratic loss for inequality constraints), a parameterized system of nonlinear equations, and efficient predictor-corrector continuation techniques to follow the penalty path to optimality. This parameterized system of equations is essentially a homotopy which is derived from these penalty functions, contains the penalty path as a solution, and represents a perturbation of the first order necessary conditions. However, it differs significantly from Homotopies for nonlinear equations in that an unconstrained optimization technique is required to obtain an initial point.
Dynamic patterns of clonal evolution in tumor vasculature underlie alterations in lymphocyte-endothelial recognition to foster tumor immune escape

Although tumor blood vessels have been a major therapeutic target for cancer chemotherapy, little is known regarding the stepwise development of the tumor microenvironment. Here, we use a multicolor Cre-dependent marker system to trace clonality within the tumor microenvironment to show that tumor blood vessels follow a pattern of dynamic clonal evolution. In an advanced melanoma tumor microenvironment, the vast majority of tumor vasculature clones are derived from a common precursor. Quantitative lineage analysis reveals founder clones diminish in frequency and are replaced by subclones as tumors evolve. These tumor-specific blood vessels are characterized by a developmental switch to a more invasive and immunologically silent phenotype. Gene expression profiling and pathway analysis reveals selection for traits promoting upregulation of alternative angiogenic programs such as unregulated HGF-MET signaling and enhanced autocrine signaling through VEGF and PDGF. Furthermore, we show a developmental switch in the expression of functionally significant primary lymphocyte adhesion molecules on tumor endothelium, such as the loss in expression of the mucosal addressin MAdCAM-1, whose counter receptor a4β7 on lymphocytes controls lymphocyte homing. Changes in adhesive properties on tumor endothelial subclones are accompanied by decreases in expression of lymphocyte chemokines CXCL16, CXCL13, CXCL12, CXCL9, CXCL10, and CCL19. These evolutionary patterns in the expressed genetic program within tumor endothelium will have both a quantitative and functional impact on lymphocyte distribution that may well influence tumor immune function and underlie escape mechanisms from current antiangiogenic pharmacotherapies.
Örn B. Bodvarsson & Hendrik Van den Berg, The Economics of Immigration: Theory and Policy,

Abstract. The Economics of Immigration: Theory and Policy (Second edition) is designed as a survey book that addresses all facets of immigration. Though there is a great amount of information regarding immigration, the complexity of the topic has resulted in an absence of any comprehensive book the covers a wide range of issues. The book covers immigration theory, empirical evidence regarding those theories, special issues in immigration, and immigration policy throughout the world. Designed as a resource for both graduate students and researchers in the field, this book is successful at compiling all of the various literature and policy on immigration in a cohesive manner. Keywords. Migration, Labor, Immigration policy, International economics. JEL. F00, F22, J00.
Adaptive-partitioning QM/MM for molecular dynamics simulations: 4. Proton hopping in bulk water.

By reclassifying atoms as QM or MM on-the-fly, adaptive QM/MM dynamics simulations can utilize small QM subsystems whose locations and contents are continuously and automatically updated. Although adaptive QM/MM has been applied in studies of a variety of ions, dynamics simulations of a hydrated proton in bulk water remain a challenge. The difficulty arises from the need to transfer structural features (the covalent and hydrogen bonding networks) via the Grotthuss mechanism instead of the given proton. One must therefore identify an appropriate reference point from which the QM subsystem can be positioned that continuously follows the structural variations as the proton hops. To solve this problem, we propose a proton indicator that serves as the needed reference point. The location of the proton indicator varies smoothly from the hydronium oxygen in the resting (Eigen) state to the shared proton in the transition (Zundel) state. The algorithm is implemented in the framework of a modified permuted adaptive-partitioning QM/MM. As a proof of concept, we simulate an excess proton solvated in bulk water, where the QM subsystem is defined as a sphere of 4.0 A radius centered at the proton indicator. We find that the use of the proton indicator prevents abrupt changes in the location and contents of the QM subsystem. The new method yields reasonably good agreement in the proton solvation structure and in the proton transfer dynamics with previously reported conventional QM/MM dynamics simulations that employed a much larger QM subsystem (a sphere of 12 A radius). Also, the results do not change significantly with respect to variations in the time step size (0.1 or 0.5 fs), truncation of the many-body expansion of the potential (from fifth to second order), and absence/presence of thermostat. The proton indicator combined with the modified permuted adaptive-partitioning scheme thus appears to be a useful tool for studying proton transfer in solution.
With the Declining Significance of Labor, Who Is Producing our Global Cities?

This article engages the question of what happens to labor as Indian cities become transformed into “global cities.” It does so by focusing on the convergence of three interrelated trends over the past few decades: the informalization of labor, the making of global cities, and the financialization of the economy. The article explains the effect on labor, capital, and urban space of this concatenation of trends. It challenges the conclusion of urbanization scholars who emphasize how labor has been largely excluded and bypassed by the growing urban economy. Instead, the article demonstrates, by using nationwide data as well as examples from Bangalore, that as labor is being displaced from formal employment and as wages become compressed, the urban commons is becoming a more valued terrain. On the one hand, displaced urban and rural workers must increasingly rely on subsistence practices and depend more upon the city's public spaces and goods to survive. On the other hand, these spaces, vital to city life, are becoming attractive to indebted municipal governments and aggressive financial investors for their speculative land values, and hence have led to greater insecurity and dispossession. The global city, therefore, is being built in large part with workers' wageless labor. Consequently, the struggle between capital and labor has reached far “beyond the factory” and farm, to the urban commons, sites simultaneously key to the majority's survival and integral to the urban speculative project of financialization.
Critical review of factors governing data quality of integrative samplers employed in environmental water monitoring.

Abstract Integrative sampling enables the collection of analyte mass from environmental liquids over extended timeframes from hours to months. While the incentives to complement or replace conventional, time-discrete sampling have been widely discussed, the data quality implications of employing alternative, integrative methods have not yet been systematically studied. A critical analysis of contemporary literature reports showed the data quality of integrative samplers, whether active-advection or passive-diffusion, to be governed by uncertainty in both sampling rate and analyte recovery. Derivation of two lumped parameters, representing the coefficient of accumulation (α) of a contaminant from an environmental fluid and the coefficient of subsequent recovery (ρ) of its mass from the sampler, produced a conceptual framework for quantifying error sources in concentration data derived from accumulative samplers. Whereas the precision associated with recovery was found to be fairly consistent across eight passive-diffusion and active-advection devices (averaging 5–16% relative standard deviation, RSD), active-advection samplers effectively improve precision in sampling rate (analyte uptake), as determined for two active-advection devices (2–7% average RSD) and five passive devices (12–42% average RSD). In summary, an approach is presented whereby the data quality implications of integrative sampler design can be compared, which can inform the selection, optimization, and development of sampling systems to complement the state of the art.
Stem cell therapies in cardiovascular disease A “realistic” appraisal

The possibility of reconstituting the damaged heart has introduced a new paradigm in cardiovascular biology and created the potential for a new therapeutic approach in the cardiovascular field, where there is a compelling need for innovative treatments. While the results of animal and early clinical studies are encouraging, the more direct use of cell-based therapies in patients is still long-reached. Gaps in our basic understanding of mechanisms, lack of important randomized, double blind, and controlled clinical trials, as well as technology development for cell production are among challenges to be overcome before full translation of cell based therapies in clinical arena. This review focuses on summarizing the latest knowledge in stem cell therapy for cardiovascular diseases.
Fate of Hexosemonophosphate During Aerobic Recovery of Frog Muscle.

SummaryMore hexosemonophosphate disappears during aerobic recovery of frog muscle, either unpoisoned or poisoned with iodoacetate, than is accounted for by the total oxygen consumption. Glycogen determinations show that hexosemonophosphate is resyn-thesized to glycogen.
Performance assessment of U.S. residential cooking exhaust hoods

This study assessed the performance of seven new residential cooking exhaust hoods representing common U.S. designs. Laboratory tests were conducted to determine fan curves relating airflow to duct static pressure, sound levels, and exhaust gas capture efficiency for front and back cooktop burners and the oven. Airflow rate sensitivity to duct flow resistance was higher for axial fan devices than for centrifugal fan devices. Pollutant capture efficiency (CE) ranged from 98%, varying across hoods and with airflow and burner position for each hood. CE was higher for back burners relative to front burners, presumably because most hoods covered only part of the front burners. Open hoods had higher CE than those with grease screen and metal-covered bottoms. The device with the highest CE--exceeding 80% for oven and front burners--had a large, open hood that covered most of the front burners. The airflow rate for this hood surpassed the industry-recommended level of 118 L·s(-1) (250 cfm) and produced sound levels too high for normal conversation. For hoods meeting the sound and fan efficacy criteria for Energy Star, CE was <30% for front and oven burners.
The promise of tailoring incentives for healthy behaviors

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe how tailoring financial incentives for healthy behaviors to employees’ goals, values, and aspirations might improve the efficacy of incentives. Design/methodology/approach – The authors integrate insights from self-determination theory (SDT) with principles from behavioral economics in the design of financial incentives by linking how incentives could help meet an employee’s life goals, values, or aspirations. Findings – Tailored financial incentives could be more effective than standard incentives in promoting autonomous motivation necessary to initiate healthy behaviors and sustain them after incentives are removed. Research limitations/implications – Previous efforts to improve the design of financial incentives have tested different incentive designs that vary the size, schedule, timing, and target of incentives. The strategy for tailoring incentives builds on strong evidence that difficult behavior changes are more successful when integrated with imp...
On the Contribution of Respiratory Gases to Cerebral Autoregulation

Autoregulation has been defined as the occurrence of vasodilation when cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) decreases and the occurrence of vasoconstriction when CPP increases. 2 Two main mechanisms, myogenic and metabolic, have been proposed to explain autoregulation. In the metabolic theory several metabolites have been proposed and each may contribute to the vascular readjustments, but no single metabolite appears to account for all of the changes that result from either a raising or a lowering of CPP. The principle event initiating a change in vasoactive metabolite level is in each case a disturbance in tissue oxygen (O2) concentration.
Analysis and Control of Productive Dust Existed in the Workplaces of a Thermal Power Plant in Yunfu City

Objective To analyze and investigate the current status of dust hazard and its control measures in a thermal power plant, and provide scientific evidence for evaluating excursion limits of the productive dust. Methods On the basis of epidemiologic field investigation of occupational hygiene, we determined and evaluated the time-weighted average limit(TWA)and short-term exposure limit(STEL)concentration of the productive dust existed in personal dust work posts and dust workplaces of the thermal power plant. Results TWA concentration was determined in 10 personal dust work posts, with the qualified rate of 60.0%. STEL concentration was determined in 32 dust workplaces and 25 accorded with excursion limits of the productive dust, with the accordance rate of 78.1%. Conclusions The productive dust hazard mainly concentrated on the coal transport belt and the dust and ash elimination systems in the thermal power plant. The comprehensive protective measures should be strengthened in order to ensure the workplaces' dust concentration according with the requirements of the national occupational health standards and control the dust hazard.
Impact of Brief Intervention Services on Drug-Using Truant Youths' Self-Reported Delinquency and Arrest Charges: A Longitudinal Study

The issue of delinquency among truant youth is insufficiently documented in the literature. There is a need to elucidate this issue, and assess the efficacy of interventions to reduce this problem behavior. The present, NIDA-funded study addressed this gap by examining the impact of a Brief Intervention (BI), originally designed to address youth substance use, on their delinquent behavior over an 18-month follow-up period (for self-reported delinquency) and a 24-month follow-up period (for official record delinquency). A number of significant BI intervention effects with sizable effect sizes were found, as well as a number of marginally significant BI effects. In particular, significant reductions in arrest charges at 24-month follow-up for youth receiving BI services compared to controls were among the key findings of this study. Service delivery implications and directions for future analyses are discussed.
Posttransfusion purpura due to an alloantibody reactive with glycoprotein Ia/IIa (anti-HPA-5b)

A 38-year-old woman (JT) was diagnosed with posttransfusion purpura and significant posthysterectomy vaginal bleeding 9 days after the transfusion of 2 U of packed red blood cells. Analysis of JT's serum by a monoclonal antibody-antigen capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method showed the presence of anti-HPA-5b (anti-Bra) antibodies directed against an epitope on platelet glycoprotein (GP) la of the GPIa/IIa complex. The patient's serum immunoprecipitated two proteins from 125I-labeled HPA-5b positive platelets that migrated under both nonreducing and reducing conditions on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gels at molecular weights characteristic of GPIa (150 Kd and 165 Kd, respectively) and GPIIa (120 Kd and 145 Kd, respectively). These bands were not precipitated when 125I-labeled HPA-5b negative platelets were used. Platelet typings performed on JT and her three children showed that the patient was HPA-5b negative and one of her children was HPA-5b positive. Platelets obtained from one of the donors who provided blood for the inciting transfusion also typed as HPA-5b positive. These findings demonstrate that posttransfusion purpura may be induced by antibodies directed against an alloantigenic epitope, namely HPA-5b (Bra), located on GPIa/IIa. Moreover, clinically significant bleeding can be associated with antibody reactions directed against this GP complex.
What is the BMI threshold for open ventral hernia repair

Overweight and obese patients are often asked to lose weight prior to ventral hernia repair (VHR). Improved outcomes are the reasons behind this strategy. Data regarding weight loss targets are scant, and it is not known at what body mass index (BMI) threshold postoperative complications increase. This study aimed to determine the threshold to allow proper patient counseling. All patients who underwent open VHR at our institution between 2002 and 2015 captured in the NSQIP database were included. The primary outcome was defined as any (≥1) of 18 captured postoperative complications. Patients were divided into five groups based on BMI: group 1 (<25 kg/m2); 2 (25–29.99 kg/m2); 3 (30–34.99 kg/m2); 4 (35–39.99 kg/m2); and 5 (≥40 kg/m2). Multivariable, adjusted logistic regression was performed to evaluate the association between BMI categories and postoperative complications. Sixty seven of 922 patients (7.3 %) had at least one postoperative complication following VHR. The adjusted odds of complications in group 5 was 2.89 times greater compared to group 1 (OR 2.89; 95 % CI = 1.22–6.84), while there was no significant differences in odds of postoperative complications for groups 2, 3, or 4 compared to group 1. BMI category was also significantly associated with undergoing recurrent VHR, with 28.7 % of patients in group 5 having a recurrent repair compared to 14 % in patients in group 1 (p = 0.03). After VHR, complications are most likely to occur in patients with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2. This subset of patients also had a significantly higher risk of undergoing surgery for a recurrent hernia, suggesting that this group of patients is likely to experience adverse outcomes after VHR and should be counseled to consider bariatric surgery prior to attempts at VHR. VHR at lower BMIs appears appropriate, and delaying therapy to achieve preoperative weight loss will likely offer no advantage.
Lateral Femoral Circumflex Arterial System as Donor Vessels for Extremity Replantation

Background Forearm replantation presents with many challenges, including the need for vascular graft material for revascularization. Although frequently harvested for vascular reconstruction, the saphenous vein is often suboptimal for use as vascular conduit due to peripheral vascular disease, atherosclerosis, or size and length limitations. Methods We describe the use of the lateral femoral circumflex arterial (LFCA) system for arterial and venous graft in the case of a proximal forearm replantation. Results The LFCA system provided significant amounts of arterial and venous graft after the saphenous vein was found to be suboptimal for conduit in the case of forearm replantation. Postoperatively, the patient developed wound-healing complications at the saphenous vein harvest site but not at the LFCA donor site. The forearm revascularization was successful with recovery of sensation in his digits by 15 months postoperative. Conclusion The LFCA system is a viable and possible superior alternative to the saphenous vein in vascular reconstruction, providing significant amounts of venous and arterial graft with potentially decreased donor site morbidity and through a well-known approach.
Toll-like receptors in CNS viral infections

Protection against viral infections is critically dependent upon the early production of significant levels of type 1 interferons and the expression of interferon-stimulated genes that function as the effectors of innate antiviral immunity. Activation of Toll-like receptors on cells of the immune system is known to play an important role in this process. In this chapter we review evidence for a role of TLRs in innate immune responses against viral infections of the central nervous system. By far the most extensive literature pertains to TLR3. Data from various laboratories have shown that TLR3 is expressed in cells endogenous to the CNS, particularly in astrocytes and microglia. Triggering TLR3 by synthetic dsRNA, poly I:C effectively induces innate antiviral responses as well as boosts adaptive immune responses. Additional experiments show cooperative responses between TLRs (3, 7/8 and 9) in mounting an effective antiviral immune response in the periphery. Perhaps the most exciting data are from patient populations that document the critical role that specific TLRs play in specific CNS infections. Studies also suggest that inappropriate activation of the TLRs can result in a pathogenic outcome rather than a protective one. Since TLR ligands are being actively considered for their antiviral and potential adjuvant effects, this will be an important issue to address in the context of the CNS environment.
Real-time intraoperative evaluation of implant quality and dose correction during prostate brachytherapy consistently improves target coverage using a novel image fusion and optimization program

Abstract Purpose Our purpose was to describe the process and outcome of performing postimplantation dosimetric assessment and intraoperative dose correction during prostate brachytherapy using a novel image fusion–based treatment-planning program. Methods and materials Twenty-six consecutive patients underwent intraoperative real-time corrections of their dose distributions at the end of their permanent seed interstitial procedures. After intraoperatively planned seeds were implanted and while the patient remained in the lithotomy position, a cone beam computed tomography scan was obtained to assess adequacy of the prescription dose coverage. The implanted seed positions were automatically segmented from the cone-beam images, fused onto a new set of acquired ultrasound images, reimported into the planning system, and recontoured. Dose distributions were recalculated based upon actual implanted seed coordinates and recontoured ultrasound images and were reviewed. If any dose deficiencies within the prostate target were identified, additional needles and seeds were added. Once an implant was deemed acceptable, the procedure was completed, and anesthesia was reversed. Results When the intraoperative ultrasound-based quality assurance assessment was performed after seed placement, the median volume receiving 100% of the dose (V100) was 93% (range, 74% to 98%). Before seed correction, 23% (6/26) of cases were noted to have V100 90%. Conclusions In these patients, postimplantation evaluation during the actual prostate seed implant procedure was successfully applied to determine the need for additional seeds to correct dose deficiencies before anesthesia reversal. When applied, this approach should significantly reduce intraoperative errors and chances for suboptimal dose delivery during prostate brachytherapy.
Novel non-peptidic opioid compounds with immunopotentiating effects.

Central nervous system mediated indirect effect of opioids have been shown to suppress immune function when administered through a central loci such as the periaqueductal gray region of the mesencephalon.(1-4) Paradoxically, the direct effect of opioids on leukocytes enhance, suppress, or have no effect on in vitroparameters of immune function. It is widely accepted that opioids play an immunomodulatory role both in vivo and in vitro. (1)Three distinct types of neuronal opioid receptors, e, δ, and K, have been cloned and sequenced which account for the pharmacological distinctions.(5) With the cloning of opioid receptors on leukocytes we are able to examine the direct effects of opioids on immune cells.(6-9) However, classical neuronal opioid receptor characterization may not be appropriate.(3, vn6, 9-12) Leukocyte activation, natural killer cell activity and altered monocyte chemotaxis have been shown to be altered by the direct effect of opioids on leukocytes. (13-17) We have focused on the direct effect of opioids on cells of the immune system. Cloning of both neural- and immune-derived opioid receptors will assist in the discovery of the molecular mechanisms underlying this pathway.
Ethics and Organizational Identity in a Cancer Care Setting

Abstract In this chapter, we identify some of the distinct ethical challenges that cancer care institutions face, and suggest that one way cancer care institutions can respond to these challenges is by incorporating ethical thinking into their organizational identity in a manner that explicitly responds to the distinct challenges of cancer care. We propose that an institution’s mission statement, code of ethics, institutional decision-making procedure, and leadership structure all provide opportunities for incorporating ethical thinking into a cancer care institution’s organizational identity. We conclude by identifying several challenges that cancer care institutions may face when attempting to implement their ethical vision so as to motivate individuals to act in accordance with these visions. While these challenges do not tell against the institution’s effort to incorporate ethical thinking into their organizational identity, they do indicate a need for an implementation strategy that directly engages with the way that individuals make ethical decisions.
Optical coherence tomography findings in methanol toxicity

Methanol toxicity poses a significant public health problem in developing countries, and in Southeast Asia, where the most common source of poisoning is via adulterated liquor in local drinks. Methanol toxicity can have devastating visual consequences and retinal specialists should be aware of the features of this toxic optic neuropathy. The authors report a case of severe systemic methanol toxicity and relatively mild optic neuropathy demonstrating unique retinal changes on optical coherence tomography (OCT). A previously healthy student developed ataxia, difficulty breathing and loss of consciousness hours after drinking homemade alcohol while traveling in Indonesia. She was found to have a serum pH of 6.79 and elevated methanol levels. She was treated with intravenous ethanol, methylprednisolone and sodium bicarbonate. When she awoke she had bilateral central scotomas. At presentation, she had central depression on visual field testing. OCT of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) was normal but ganglion cell layer analysis (GCL) showed highly selective loss of the nasal fibers in both eyes. Further, OCT of the macula demonstrated inner nuclear layer (INL) microcysts in the corresponding area of selective GCL loss in both eyes. The selective involvement of the papillomacular bundle fibers is common in toxic optic neuropathies and represents damage to the small caliber axons rich in mitochondria. Despite severe systemic toxicity, the relative sparing of the optic nerve in this case enabled characterization of the evolution of methanol toxicity with segmental GCL involvement and preservation of the RNFL, corresponding to the papillomacular bundle. This is the first reported case of INL microcysts in methanol optic neuropathy and supports that they are a non-specific finding, and may represent preferential damage to the papillomacular bundle.
Top Management Turnover: The Role of Governing Board Structures

The convergence of performance accountability policies, a graying bureaucracy, and shorter executive tenures highlights the timeliness of investigating executive turnover. Prior public administration research has examined pull and push factors linked to these departures, but it has yet to fully explore the influence of governing board structures and political pressures that stem from such structures. Using data on 123 public four-year research universities in the United States from 1993 to 2012, this article finds that governing board structures play a pivotal role in predicting the departure decisions of university presidents. While the size of the board increases the risk of departure, boards overseeing multiple institutions and boards with a faculty or student representative lower the risk of departure. Additional evidence suggests that both the share of gubernatorial and legislative appointees on the board and the party division of the legislature have a direct influence on departure.
STOCHASTIC MODELING OF PHYTOPLANKTON–ZOOPLANKTON INTERACTIONS WITH TOXIN PRODUCING PHYTOPLANKTON

We construct models of continuous-time Markov chain (CTMC) and Ito stochastic differential equations of population interactions based on a deterministic system of two phytoplankton and one zooplank...
Musculoskeletal modeling of crouch gait

Crouch gait affects older adults following stroke and is common in children with cerebral palsy. Contracture, spasticity, and increased activation of the hamstrings are often implicated in pediatric crouch gait. Instrumented prosthetics have measured tibiofemoral contact forces in older adults walking in a crouched posture, but contact forces experienced during clinical crouch gait may be much higher. The effect of abnormal muscle forces on knee arthrokinematics and loading of individual knee structures is important to understanding the consequences of crouch gait on developing knees and in older patients with prosthetic components. This project used computational methods that concurrently consider knee anatomy and prosthetic geometry, muscle activation, and body motion to simulate the effect of altered muscle activations on knee loading during crouch gait for a person with an instrumented total knee prosthetic. Measured EMG signals were decomposed into muscle synergies and alterations to synergy weightings provided a means to modify neural command signals in forward dynamics simulations of crouch gait. Open-chain seated leg extension exercises were used to adjust certain muscle properties from generic values and the resulting musculoskeletal model predicted medial and lateral tibiofemoral contact forces within 0.33 and 0.38 bodyweight of measured over one crouch gait cycle. Increasing hamstring activation during stance increased knee loading, posterior tibia translation, and loading on the posterior cruciate ligament.
Ethnic Differences in the Influence of Peers on Weight-Related Behavior

There is no doubt that peers have an influence on individual weight gain. This article seeks to find if the influence of peers is consistent across ethnic groups or whether certain groups are influ...
The economic burden and symptom manifestations of chronic rhinosinusitis.

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to delineate patient symptoms and economic burdens of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).MethodsAdult patients with CRS were assessed prospectively with a survey instr...
TMN implementation issues

A major theme of the RACE II TMN implementation projects is practical coexistence and inter-working to ensure smooth deployment and maintenance of TMN systems to support the evolving IBC. The papers presented here represent only a small part of the work being done by the RACE II TMN implementation projects, as it is unfortunately impossible to present results of all the projects. However, the papers selected represent an important aspect of TMN — the importance of defined interfaces.
Writing Amish culture into genes: biological reductionism in a study of manic depression.

Critical realism is used to explore the problem of reductionism in a classic (the Amish Study) andwidely-cited study of manic depression. Along withrelated ideas drawn from the works of R.C.Lewontin, Arthur Kleinman, and Byron Good, it isshown that natural and social scientists deployatomistic and holistic reductionism; this, in turn,leads to the construction of artificially ’closedsystems' through the control of variables orexogenous forces. The psychiatric genetic studies ofthe Amish were predicated on the assumption thatAmish society is homogeneous and unchanging and,therefore, closed. We conclude by arguing thatinteractions between behaviors and genes, where theyexist, take place only within open systems, characterizedby multiple mechanisms – social andbiological – that together co-determineany event. To move forward, it is argued, behavior and generesearch requires recognition and resolution of thephilosophical conundrums that accompany reductionism.
Genetic analysis of adenoviruses.

Adenovirus mutants have provided key insights into the functional roles of viral gene products. They have facilitated the dissection of numerous viral processes, including transcription, translation, DNA replication, assembly, and transformation. Additional variants will allow these processes to be studied in ever greater detail.
Economic Growth, Agriculture and Food Systems: Explaining Regional Diversity

Despite India’s per capita GDP doubling over the last decade, states like Goa compare to countries in Latin America, while states like Uttar Pradesh compare to low-income countries in sub-Saharan Africa in terms of their development outcomes. In this chapter, we identify that comparative advantages that arise due to resource availability, agro-climatic conditions, investments in human capital and the differential growth of the non-agricultural sector explain this subnational divergence. We show that states that continue to develop economic sectors in which they have no comparative advantages will remain locked into a low growth equilibrium. Reorienting agriculture based on comparative advantages in agricultural production, reducing entry barriers into the urban labor market and upskilling the rural and urban workforce are keys to develop equitable food systems for the future.
Exploring racial–ethnic pride and perceived barriers in positive youth development: A latent profile analysis

This study sought to identify profiles of positive youth development (PYD) integrating racial–ethnic factors, specifically racial–ethnic pride and perceived racial–ethnic barriers in a sample of Af...
Adsorption of lubricity improver additives on sliding surfaces

Abstract Lubricity improver additives are adsorbed on sliding surfaces and form boundary films. Although for most additives, the films are monolayers, multilayer adsorption does occur in tribological contacts. However, to date, the isotherms adopted to study the adsorption thermodynamics for tribological systems are limited to monolayer films. To address this, the original Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) gas adsorption isotherm was modified for use in dilute liquid solutions. The modified BET isotherm was used to fit experimental wear data collected using high frequency reciprocating rig (HFRR) for ultra-low sulphur diesel (ULSD) fuels containing trace levels of commercial lubricity improving additives. The results suggested that for certain additives in ULSD, the boundary film is multilayer.
Brandon C. Yen, The Excursion and Wordsworth’s Iconography

Review by Brandon Wernette (Tufts University) of Brandon C. Yen, The Excursion and Wordsworth’s Iconography . Liverpool: Liverpool University Press, 2018. Pp. 316. £95. ISBN 9781786941336.
Chemical and Enzymatic Mechanisms of Firefly Luminescence

The chemistry of firefly luminescence is gradually being resolved. After a number of years of intensive work by a large number of investigators it is now possible to propose a reasonable organic mechanism for the overall reaction leading to light emission (1,2,3,4). The most recent findings which are of considerable interest to all investigators in the field of bioluminescence concern the mechanism of the chemical processes leading to the excited state and the identification and synthesis of the product emitter (4,5).
A Common Research Policy? Launching the Debate

This chapter shows how the newly created European Commission adopted the research policy ideas propagated by the OECD in the early 1960s. It demonstrates how the Commission and other advocates for European integration in the field of research used the pursuit of growth, the conviction of the economic benefits of science, and last but not least, the fears of European lag in sectors of high technology, as imperatives for new European Community action. The first Council meeting, bringing together the ministers responsible for research from all Community member states in 1967, demonstrated that, in principle, the member states were open to the prospect of broadening the EC’s activities in the field. The creation of the European Commission’s General Directorate for Research (DG Research), also in 1967, set the necessary institutional foundation for future overtures.
In persistent sciatica and lumbar disk herniation, surgery vs. conservative care reduced leg pain at 6 mo.

SOURCE CITATION Bailey CS, Rasoulinejad P, Taylor D, et al. Surgery versus conservative care for persistent sciatica lasting 4 to 12 months. N Engl J Med. 2020;382:1093-102. 32187469.
Applying Bayesian cognitive models to decisions to drive after drinking.

Background and aims Despite widespread negative perceptions, the prevalence of alcohol-impaired driving (AID) in the United States remains unacceptably high. This study used a novel decision task to evaluate whether individuals considered both ride service cost and alcohol consumption level when deciding whether or not to drive, and whether the resulting strategy was associated with engagement in AID. Design A two-sample study, where sample 1 developed a novel AID decision task to classify participants by decision strategy. Sample 2 was used to cross-validate the task and examine whether decision strategy classifications were predictive of prior reported AID behavior. Setting A laboratory setting at the University of Missouri, USA. Participants Sample 1 included 38 student participants from introductory psychology classes at the University of Missouri. Sample 2 included 67 young adult participants recruited from the local community. Measurements We developed a decision task that presented hypothetical drinking scenarios that varied in quantity of alcohol consumption (one to six drinks) and the cost of a ride service ($5-25). We applied a Bayesian computational model to classify choices as consistent with either: integrating both ride cost and consumption level (compensatory) or considering only consumption level (non-compensatory) when making hypothetical AID decisions. In sample 2, we assessed established AID risk factors (sex, recent alcohol consumption, perceived safe limit) and recent (past 3 months) engagement in AID. Findings In sample 1, the majority of participants were classified as using decision strategies consistent with either a compensatory or non-compensatory process. Results from sample 2 replicated the overall classification rate and demonstrated that participants who used a compensatory strategy were more likely to report recent AID, even after accounting for study covariates. Conclusions In a hypothetical alcohol-impaired driving (AID) decision task, individuals who considered both consumption level and ride service cost were more likely to report recent AID than those who made decisions based entirely on consumption level.
Terrified by Technology: How Systemic Bias Distorts U.S. Legal and Regulatory Responses to Emerging Technology (preprint)

Americans are becoming increasingly aware of the systemic biases we possess and how those biases preclude us from collectively living out the true meaning of our national creed. But to fully understand systemic bias we must acknowledge that it is pervasive and extends beyond the contexts of race, privilege, and economic status. Understanding all forms of systemic bias helps us to better understand ourselves and our shortcomings. At first glance, a human bias against emerging technology caused by systemic risk misperception might seem uninteresting or unimportant. But this Article demonstrates how the presence of systemic bias anywhere, even in an area as unexpected as technology regulation, creates inefficiencies and inequalities that exact heavy costs in the form of human lives, standards of living, and lost economic opportunities. The decision to regulate or implement an emerging technology, like any other complex decision, naturally involves some form of cost-benefit or risk-reward analysis. However, in the context of emerging technology, that analysis is biased by systemic risk misperception. Immutable characteristics existing in emerging technology combine with interrelated characteristics in human decisionmakers and regulators to inflate perceptions of risks and depress perceptions of benefits. This artificial shifting of cost-benefit curves results in suboptimal legislative and regulatory responses to emerging technology, and ultimately, in the loss of American lives.
Promoting Family Centered Support Assessment and Intervention

This paper describes a new paradigm for addressing threats of school violence. We advance a family-centered approach to supporting students to address the contextual characteristics of school viole...
A Fifteen-Year Retrospective Series of Patients with Leptomeningeal Spread of Glioma at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) (P1.161)

Objective: To assemble a retrospective series of glioma patients with leptomeningeal disease (LMD) at MSKCC to examine risks and prognosis. Background: Glioma patients rarely develop LMD, making it difficult to investigate prognosis and differences in histology and molecular features. Design/Methods: We identified LMD in a glioma cohort of 891 patients from 2001 to 2016 using queries for: (1) clinical LMD, (2) positive CSF cytology, and (3) ICD codes. 669/891 did not have LMD and were eliminated. In 222 patients with LMD, we evaluated: (1) tumor histology; (2) whether LMD was disseminated versus subependymal enhancement on MRI; (3) MGMT status; and (4) ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) placement. We evaluated survival, time from glioma diagnosis to LMD diagnosis, and last follow-up or death. Results: Median overall survival was similar to previously reported: 17.3, 44.3, and 121.5 months for glioblastoma, grade II/III astrocytoma, and grade II/III oligodendroglioma, respectively, p Conclusions: Survival following LMD in glioma is better than previously reported, particularly when disease spreads via subependymal regions. The strongest predictor of survival was original histology, with oligodendrogliomas surviving a median of a year after LMD. Future studies will investigate specific mutations and the influence of therapy. Disclosure: Dr. Andersen has nothing to disclose. Dr. Miller has nothing to disclose. Dr. Miranda has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hatzoglou has nothing to disclose. Dr. DeAngelis has received personal compensation for activities with Juno Therapeutics as a member of the Medical Advisory Board, Sapience and Roche as a member of the Scientific Advisory Board.
Assessing Mental Competency in the Elderly

Publisher Summary This chapter examines various definitions of mental competence in the elderly and evaluates their advantages and limitations. The chapter presents an overview of diseases/disorders and the consequences of the normal aging process that can affect mental competence in order to provide a context in which questions of competence emerge and to forge a pathway for conceptualizing the assessment process. It also presents specific recommendations for the assessment process and reviews commonly used assessment methods. Legal definitions of competency have a critical role in assessing suspects' ability to waive any of their legal rights. Federal courts in the United States require that defendants have a basic understanding of interrogation rights as opposed to an appreciation of the consequences of waiving these rights. Most definitions of competence include multiple criteria and refer to a condition that is causing mental impairment. The Multidimensional Functional Assessment of Older Adults is designed to assess competency using a multi-component approach. This assessment battery utilizes the OARS Multidimensional Functional Assessment Questionnaire (OMFAQ) and a questionnaire administered in an interview format to examine functioning in specific areas relevant to competence. The chapter concludes with a discussion of ethical issues in research and health care with cognitively impaired persons.
Does Eating Breakfast Affect the Performance of College Students on Biology Exams

This study examined the breakfast eating habits of 1,259 college students over an eleven year period to determine if eating breakfast had an impact upon their grade on a General Biology exam. The study determined that there was a significant difference in the performance on the exam with a higher percent of the participants, who had eaten breakfast passing the exam. The study found that only 65.6 percent of the students participating in the study had eaten breakfast. This finding supports the results of several other studies that people of college age show an increase in the percent skipping breakfast over individual of a younger age.
What, Me Worry: The Multi-Front Assault on Privacy

Americans are concerned about their privacy. However, there is no clear or comprehensive vision of how to express the concern for privacy. There is no consensus about a single definition that captures all of privacy's ambit. This article does not proffer a definition, but follows the example of Alan Westin and suggests that we should look to the functions that privacy performs as the best way to understand privacy and how we should devise means to protect it from encroachments. This article describes some of the challenges that face privacy in our technology rich society, using the four “basic states of individual privacy” articulated by Westin. Westin's four basic states are: solitude, intimacy, anonymity, and reserve. With solitude, “the individual is separated from the group and freed from the observation of other persons.” With intimacy, the person is a member of “a small unit that claims and is allowed to exercise corporate seclusion so that it may achieve a close, relaxed, and frank relationship.” The traditional husband-wife relationship is a clear instance, but work cliques also qualify. With anonymity, “the individual is in public places or performing public acts but still seeks, and finds, freedom from identification and surveillance.” Lastly, reserve is “the creation of a psychological barrier against unwanted intrusion.” Reserve is the most elusive of the four states, however, despite the difficulty of specifying a definition, it is an important part of our functional expectations for privacy.