cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Are Nursing Home Regulations Like Cobwebs

=2205111 Stevenson, D. G., Spittal, M. J., & Studdert, D. M. (2013). Does litigation increase or decrease health care quality? A national study of negligence claims against nursing homes. Medical Care, 51, 430–436. doi:10.1097/MLR.0b013e3182881ccc U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. (2013). Skilled nursing facilities often fail to meet care planning and discharge requirements, OIE-02-02-00201 Retrieved from http://oig.hhs.gov/oei/reports/oei-02-09-00201.pdf. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. (2014a). Adverse events in skilled nursing facilities: National incidence among Medicare beneficiaries, OIE-06-1100370 Retrieved from http://oig.hhs.gov/oei/reports/oei-06-11-
A search algorithm for motion planning with six degrees of freedom

Abstract The motion planning problem is of central importance to the fields of robotics, spatial planning, and automated design. In robotics we are interested in the automatic synthesis of robot motions, given high-level specifications of tasks and geometric models of the robot and obstacles. The “Movers'” problem is to find a continuous, collision-free path for a moving object through an environment containing obstacles. We present an implemented algorithm for the classical formulation of the three-dimensional Movers' problem: Given an arbitrary rigid polyhedral moving object P with three translational and three rotational degrees of freedom, find a continuous, collision-free path taking P from some initial configuration to a desired goal configuration. This paper describes an implementation of a complete algorithm (at a given resolution) for the full six degree of freedom Movers' problem. The algorithm transforms the six degree of freedom planning problem into a point navigation problem in a six-dimensional configuration space (called C-space). The C-space obstacles, which characterize the physically unachievable configurations, are directly represented by six-dimensional manifolds whose boundaries are five-dimensional C-surfaces. By characterizing these surfaces and their intersections, collision-free paths may be found by the closure of three operators which (i) slide along five-dimensional level C-surfaces parallel to C-space obstacles; (ii) slide along one- to four-dimensional intersections of level C-surfaces; and (iii) jump between six-dimensional obstacles. These operators are employed by a best-first search algorithm in C-space. We will discuss theoretical properties of the algorithm, including completeness (at a resolution). This paper describes the heuristic search, with particular emphasis on the heuristic strategies that evaluate local geometric information. At the heart of this paper lie the design and implementation of these strategies for planning paths along level C-surfaces and their intersection manifolds, and for reasoning about motions with three degrees of rotational freedom. The problems of controlling the interaction of these strategies, and of integrating diverse local experts for geometric reasoning provide an interesting application of search to a difficult domain with significant practical implications. The representations and algorithms we develop impact many geometric planning problems, and extend to Cartesian manipulators with six degrees of freedom.
External Shocks, Structural Change, and Economic Growth in Mexico, 1979-2007

Summary. — This article finds that shocks to net financial inflows, world oil prices, the US growth rate, and the lagged real exchange rate explain most of the fluctuations in Mexico’s annual growth since 1979. The article also estimates how the effects of these external constraints have changed since Mexico’s liberalization policies of the late 1980s and the formation of NAFTA in 1994. Estimates of an investment function and other tests show that growth drives investment but not conversely, in the short run. Investment is driven mainly by oil prices and the accelerator effect; foreign direct investment has no significant impact. 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Axial-mode instability in tunable external-cavity semiconductor lasers

The axial-mode instability of a tunable external-cavity semiconductor laser was studied experimentally and theoretically. Optical and radio-frequency (rf) spectra and time-domain traces show the laser output in progressive stages of instability. The optical sidemode ratio was used to experimentally characterize the wavelength and current dependencies of the instability. Measurements show a strong tendency for the sidemode ratio to degrade when the laser was tuned within wavelength bands occurring at the periodicity of the laser diode mode spacing. The probability of instability also increased with injection current. Analysis of the single-mode strong feedback rate equations shows that stability of an external-cavity mode is determined by the sign of the chirp reduction factor. A model for the physical origin of instability is provided. Calculations show that for facet reflectivities above a threshold value dependent on the external feedback level and the linewidth broadening factor, unstable and stable axial modes coexist in wavelength regions whose locations agree with regions where sidemode ratio degradation is observed. The stability boundary at which unstable axial modes appear is shown as a surface in the parameter space of facet reflectivity, feedback level, and linewidth broadening factor. >
Knowledge-based classification and tissue labeling of MR images of human brain

Presents a knowledge-based approach to automatic classification and tissue labeling of 2D magnetic resonance (MR) images of the human brain. The system consists of 2 components: an unsupervised clustering algorithm and an expert system. MR brain data is initially segmented by the unsupervised algorithm, then the expert system locates a landmark tissue or cluster and analyzes it by matching it with a model or searching in it for an expected feature. The landmark tissue location and its analysis are repeated until a tumor is found or all tissues are labeled. The knowledge base contains information on cluster distribution in feature space and tissue models. Since tissue shapes are irregular, their models and matching are specially designed: 1) qualitative tissue models are defined for brain tissues such as white matter; 2) default reasoning is used to match a model with an MR image; that is, if there is no mismatch between a model and an image, they are taken as matched. The system has been tested with 53 slices of MR images acquired at different times by 2 different scanners. It accurately identifies abnormal slices and provides a partial labeling of the tissues. It provides an accurate complete labeling of all normal tissues in the absence of large amounts of data nonuniformity, as verified by radiologists. Thus the system can be used to provide automatic screening of slices for abnormality. It also provides a first step toward the complete description of abnormal images for use in automatic tumor volume determination. >
Examining Preservice Music Teachers’ Perceptions of Initial Peer- and Field- Teaching Experiences:

The purpose of this study was to examine phenomenologically a peer-teaching and a field-teaching experience as perceived by six participants. The research questions guiding this study were (a) How ...
Soil Conservation with Uncertain Revenues and Input Supplies

Shortle and Stefanou provide a conceptual extension of the single-period, static generalized meanvariance model (GMVM) to the multiperiod, dynamic case. In doing so, they illustrate the linkage between the selection of activities in the first period to production opportunities in the second and, by extension, subsequent time periods. In the context of analyzing the adoption of soil-loss control practices, they correctly argue that the static model employed in our analysis ignores any benefits that adopting these practices might have on future production opportunities. Their criticisms, however, are essentially no different than those levied against static models used in other types of analyses, regardless of the type of risk attitudes attributed to the representative decision maker. That is, their comments hold equally well for risk-neutral static models of soil conservation behavior. The purpose of our work, however, was to demonstrate the effects of uncertainty and risk aversion on the selection of crop and soil-loss control activities as compared to the risk-neutral case. Our purpose was not to analyze the time path of BMP adoption or erosion, although we agree that this is an interesting research topic. In the context of our
Dynamics of a multilevel molecular absorber interacting with a train of optical pulses

The spatial and temporal dynamics of multilevel systems are studied by combining a multilevel rate equation model with a finite difference propagation code. Special attention is given to multiple pulse laser sequences. By studying the complex material response, the nonlinear absorption characteristics are explored for both picosecond and nanosecond pulse trains. The complex interrelationship between the multilevel decay rate parameters and the time scales describing the multipulse excitation sequence reverses the reverse saturation effect. By tracking of the dynamics of the level populations, we optimize the time scales of the photophysical parameters to produce a particular transmission response.
Characterization of glucagon-like peptide 2 pathway member expression in bovine gastrointestinal tract.

Glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2), secreted by enteroendocrine cells, has several physiological effects on the intestine of monogastric species, including promotion of growth of intestinal epithelium, reduction of epithelial cell apoptosis, and enhancement of intestinal blood flow, nutrient absorption, and epithelial barrier function. The regulatory functions of GLP-2 in the ruminant gastrointestinal tract (GIT) have not been well studied. The objectives of this investigation were to characterize the mRNA expression of 4 members of the GLP-2 pathway throughout the bovine GIT, including (1) proglucagon (GCG), the parent peptide from which GLP-2 is derived through cleavage by prohormone convertase; (2) prohormone convertase (PCSK1); (3) GLP-2 receptor (GLP2R); and (4) dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP4), the enzyme that inactivates GLP-2. Gene expression was evaluated in rumen, reticulum, omasum, abomasum, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecum, and rectum collected at slaughter from prepubertal heifers, mature cows in early, mid, and late lactation, and nonlactating cows (n = 3 per stage) by a gene expression profiling assay. In addition, mRNA expression of 14 genes involved in nutrient transport, enzyme activity, blood flow, apoptosis, and proliferation were evaluated in the 9 GIT tissues for their association with GCG and GLP2R mRNA expression. Immunohistochemistry was used to localize GLP2R protein in tissues of the lower GIT. Results indicated that mRNA expression of GCG, PCSK1, GLP2R, and DPP4 varies across the 9 GIT tissues, with greatest expression in small and large intestines, and generally nondetectable levels in forestomachs. Expression of DPP4 and GLP2R mRNA varied by developmental stage or lactational state in intestinal tissues. Expression of GCG or GLP2R mRNA was correlated with molecular markers of proliferation, apoptosis, blood flow, enzyme activity, and urea transport, depending on the tissue examined, which suggests a potential for involvement of GLP-2 in these physiological processes in the ruminant GIT. The GLP2R protein was expressed in intestinal crypts of the bovine GIT, which is consistent with the distribution in monogastric species. Our findings support a functional role of the GLP-2 pathway in bovine GIT and the potential for use of GLP-2 as a therapy to improve intestinal function and nutrient absorption in ruminants.
Techniques and Procedures: Surgical Treatment for Severe Obesity: The State-of-the-Art for the New Millennium

Obesity is becoming an ever-increasing health concern for the Western world. As the incidence rises, so do the health care costs. For patients with extreme obesity, surgical treatments have evolved into safe and effective options. The current procedures have grown from the experience obtained over 30 years of evolution. This accumulated knowledge, along with the introduction of minimally invasive techniques, may further improve the safety of these procedures. As we enter the new millennium, the current surgical techniques, in conjunction with the many aspects of a multidisciplinary approach to patient screening, preparation, and aftercare, offer the best treatment option for these patients. A thorough understanding of the procedures, including the potential long-term considerations, is also critical to minimize problems and maximize success.
Positional distribution of fatty acids in glycerophosphatides of bovine gray matter

Glycerophosphatides were isolated from ox brain gray matter by column chromatography. The fatty acid compositions of ethanolamine glycerophosphatides (EGP), serine glycerophosphatides (SGP), and choline glycerophosphatides (CGP) were determined by gas-liquid chromatography. The positional distribution of fatty acids in these glycerophosphatides were determined by phospholipase A hydrolysis (Habu habu venom). C(20) and C(22) polyunsaturated acids were confined almost exclusively to the 2-position of these lipids, where they comprised the majority of 2-substituents in EGP and SGP (oleic acid predominated in this position in CGP). In the 1-position, palmitoyl was the major substituent in CGP, stearoyl in SGP, and stearoyl or the corresponding alk-1-enyl group in EGP.
Kinetic and mechanistic study of the reaction of O(1D) with CF2HBr

A laser flash photolysis–resonance fluorescence technique has been employed to investigate the kinetics and mechanism of the reaction of electronically excited oxygen atoms, O(1D), with CF2HBr. Absolute rate coefficients (k1) for the deactivation of O(1D) by CF2HBr have been measured as a function of temperature over the range 211–425 K. The results are well described by the Arrhenius expression k1(T) = 1.72 × 10−10 exp(+72/T) cm3molecule−1 s−1; the accuracy of each reported rate coefficient is estimated to be ±15% (2σ). The branching ratio for nonreactive quenching of O(1D) to the ground state, O(3P), is found to be 0.39 ± 0.06 independent of temperature, while the branching ratio for production of hydrogen atoms at 298 K is found to be 0.02−0.02+0.01. The above results are considered in conjunction with other published information to examine reactivity trends in O(1D) + CF2XY reactions (X,Y = H, F, Cl, Br). © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 33: 262–270, 2001
The interaction of radiation and bleomycin in intestinal crypt cells

Abstract Using the intestinal crypt cell system, the effects of bleomycin (BLM) with radiation have been determined. The LD 5060 in LAF, mice used was 167 units/kg and the MTD (LD 01 ) was 100 units/kg. Survival of crypt cells was reduced to 40% of radiation alone when drug was given 3 hr after a dose of 1100 rad, but to less than 1% when the drug was given 2 hr before. When maximum tolerated doses (MTD) were given from −48 to +48 hr relative to a dose of 843 rad, the combination was much more effective when drug was given from −12 to −2 hr before irradiation, survival dropping from 100 to 5 cells per circumference. This increased cell kill could be due to synchrony, interference with repair of BLM damage, or other factors. A radiation survival curve determined 2 hr after drug administration had a slope similar to controls, but was shifted toward lower doses. The extrapolated D q was 0 rad. A 3 hr split dose experiment yielded survival ratios of 6 for controls and 2 for mice given the MTD 2 hr before irradiation. There appears to be a marked interaction of bleomycin and radiation, with possible inhibition of repair of the radiation damage by bleomycin and possible inhibition of repair of the bleomycin damage by radiation.
Asian and Pacific Islander Americans: An Overview of Demographic Characteristics and Health Care Issues.

PURPOSE: To review the demographic characteristics of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans lAPIAsr and their health care needs. METHODS: The author reviewed the 1990 Census data, later Current Population Surveys, monographs, books, and the medical literature on APIAs based on MEDLINE and other sources. FINDINGS: APIAs are the fastest growing minority in the U.S. They are mostly foreign­born, highly diversified, heterogeneous, bipolar in socioeconomic status, and concentrated in the West and metropolitan areas. APIAs have many health care needsc lack of health data, ethnocultural barriers, and high frequency of hepatitis B and tuberculosis and certain genetic disorders such as thalassemia and lactase deficiency. It is also questionable whether some U.S. norms and standards based on non­APIA subjects are appropriate for APIAs. CONCLUSIONS: APIAs are a fast growing minority whose many unmet health care needs have been overshadowed by the myth of a model minority. The health care system should address these needs and assure equal access to health services for all minorities. KEY WORDS: Asian Americans, Culture, Ethnicity, Health Services Accessibility, Health Education, Health Policy, Hepatitis B, Minority Groups, Thalassemia, Tuberculosis
The shrimpfish as a model for a novel, highly maneuverable AUV

The shrimpfish, Aeoliscus strigatus, is an Indo-Pacific marine fish with a highly unusual posture - vertical with its head down - and remarkable maneuvering capabilities. It can translate straight up and down, turn in place and hover. These capabilities enable the shrimpfish to maneuver through complex tropical marine environments such as coral reefs and eel grass beds, and insert itself between the spines of sea urchins. Shrimpfish also use their maneuverability to track and capture tiny mobile crustaceans within the water column. An autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) with such capabilities would have a number of interesting and potentially important applications in underwater inspection, sensing and sensor deployment. It will also serve to push the field of marine robotics into a challenging new area. We present the first results of a two-pronged biology and engineering research effort with the ultimate goal of developing an AUV with shrimpfish-like maneuverability. Biological measurements on real shrimpfish were performed to determine its hydrostatic stability. On the engineering side, a simple shrimpfish-inspired vehicle was developed as a testbed to study how fin motion can generate the different swimming behaviors seen in living Aeoliscus.
Incidence and definition of sepsis and associated organ dysfunction.

AimsTo discuss the incidence, outcome and predisposing factors to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), sepsis, and multiple organ failure.MethodsA qualitative review of the literature.Re...
Persistent Infection of Three Salmonid Cell Lines with Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis Virus (IPNV)

Persistent infections were established with infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV) in chinook salmon (CHSE-214), steelhead trout (STE-137) and in rainbow trout (RTG-2) cell lines. Viral persistence was characterized by the release of infectious virus, positive immunofluorescence, resistance to superinfection with homologous virus and susceptibility to challenges with heterologous viruses.The morphology and growth characteristics of persistently infected (PI) and uninfected cell lines was indistinguishable. PI CHSE-214 and STE-137 cell lines produce little or no interferon. Activity suggesting interferon was detected in culture fluids from PI RTG-2 cells.Temperature-sensitive virus was not detected in the culture fluids of PI CHSE-214 or STE-137 cell lines and the RTG-2 line has not been tested. Virus in the culture fluids of both PI STE-137 and RTG-2 cell lines demonstrated autointerference when inoculated onto uninfected control cells. The autointerfering component from PI STE-137 cells was removed from the culture fluid by ultracentrifugation and had a bouyant density of 1.29 g/cc in a cesium chloride gradient. Infectious virus also produced by PI STE-137 cells had a density of 1.33 g/cc. The production of defective interfering (DI) virus during viral persistence was further supported by electron microscopic examination of PI STE-137 cells. The production of DI virus by PI STE-137 cells as well as interferon in the PI RTG-2 cells were proposed as two mechanisms by which the cytocidal course of infection in these cell lines is prevented.
O1-S11.05 Adolescent sexual intercourse and neighbourhood social disorder

Background Little is known about how and where an adolescent lives and spends time relates to her health-related behaviours. Social disorder, or where crime occurs, is associated with various health outcomes but few have considered its association with adolescent sexual behaviour. Our objective was to assess whether contextual exposure to social disorder is correlated with self-reported sexual intercourse among adolescent girls. Design and Methods Girls (N=48), aged 14–16, were recruited from a single geographic urban area and monitored for 1 week using a GPS-enabled cell phone. Adolescents completed an ACASI survey on self-reported sexual intercourse in the last 30 days. In addition to recorded home and school address, phones transmitted location data every 5 min (travel points). Using ArcGIS, we defined social disorder as aggregated point-level Unified Crime Report data within a 200 metre Euclidian buffer from home and each travel point. Using Stata, we analysed how social disorder exposures differed among girls who reported having sex or not. Results Girls reporting sexual activity spent less time at home (30.9% vs 55.7%, p Conclusions Even within neighbourhoods, social disorder surrounding the home as defined by crime within a 1-block radius correlates with adolescent sexual intercourse behaviour. Although adolescents reporting having sex are less likely to spend time at home and more likely to be further from home than girls not reporting sex, the areas where they travel to are not different in terms of social disorder.
Evaluation and Management of “functional” Nasolacrimal Blockage: Results of a Survey of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

A survey was mailed to members of The American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) concerning the diagnosis and management of patients with epiphora. Specifically, the respondent was asked about his or her work-up and management of an older patient with epiphora whose nasolacrimal system was patent on irrigation. Some pertinent findings were that 48 respondents did not choose the Jones test as one of the diagnostic procedures they employ. A small percentage of respondents do only a Jones test in their evaluation and believe that a dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is indicated with a negative Jones test. Technetium scan and dacryocystogram are used by only 13 and 10% of respondents, respectively. Forty-one percent of respondents would treat a pump "functional" block with DCR; 25% would use either Silastic tubing, lid tightening, or a combination of both. Most respondents believed that the success rate of Silastic tubing was fair, at best.
Grave Crimes and Weak Evidence: A Fact-Finding Evolution in International Criminal Law

International criminal courts carry out some of the most important work that a legal system can conduct: prosecuting those who visited death and destruction on millions. Despite the significance of their work – or perhaps because of it – international courts face tremendous challenges. Chief among them is accurate fact-finding. With alarming regularity, international criminal trials feature inconsistent, vague, and sometimes false testimony that renders judges unable to assess with any measure of certainty who did what to whom in the context of a mass atrocity. This article provides the first-ever empirical study quantifying fact-finding in an international criminal court. The study shines a spotlight both on the testimonial deficiencies that impede accurate fact-finding and on the judges’ assessments of deficient witness testimony. Although the author’s previous work on fact-finding was generally critical of international criminal courts, this large-scale, rigorous empirical study provides far more reason for optimism. The study reveals a host of interesting and sometimes unexpected findings, but taken as a whole it depicts a criminal justice system that labors in the face of severe fact-finding challenges but that has, over the years, appropriately altered its fact-finding practices to respond to those challenges.
Broad & Capacious: A New Norm for Instructional Development in a Research Setting

As a matter of principle, broadening professional scholarly development for future faculty logically follows from the interest in broadening the concept of scholarship to include teaching and learn...
Pharmacokinetics of cocaine: considerations when assessing cocaine use by urinalysis.

Changes in a patient’s patterns of cocaine use are generally considered an important outcome measure of treatment efficacy. Other treatment outcome measures are important as well, but if a treatment does not stop or significantly decrease the intensity of a cocaine addict’s cocaine use, many would question the treatment’s efficacy. Examination of a patient’s urine for evidence of cocaine or cocaine metabolites is an objective index of cocaine use. Like many biochemical measures useful in medical practice, urinalysis to measure cocaine or its metabolites, although relatively simple and straightforward from an analytic standpoint, is subject to misinterpretation and erroneous conclusions if the underlying biological principles are not properly considered.
Attentional Control Scale for Children: Factor Structure and Concurrent Validity Among Children and Adolescents Referred for Anxiety Disorders

Objective The present study examined the factor structure and concurrent validity of the Attentional Control Scale for Children (ACS-C; Muris, de Jong, & Engelen, 2004), a youth self-rating scale of attentional control. Method A multisource assessment approach was used with 186 children and adolescents referred to an anxiety disorders specialty clinic. Results Exploratory factor analysis yielded a 2-factor structure with internally consistent and moderately correlated subscales of Attentional Focusing and Attentional Shifting. Total ACS-C and subscale scores demonstrated significant associations with youth and parent ratings of youth anxiety symptoms, youth self ratings of depressive symptoms, and youth diagnosis of attention deficit–hyperactivity disorder. Conclusions These findings support use of the ACS-C as a self-rating scale of attentional control among referred youth. Future research is encouraged to examine retest reliability of the ACS-C and to evaluate whether its internal structure could be enhanced by removing or modifying items that performed poorly.
Diagnosing snow accumulation errors in a rain‐snow transitional environment with snow board observations

Diagnosing the source of errors in snow models requires intensive observations, a flexible model framework to test competing hypotheses, and a methodology to systematically test the dominant snow processes. We present a novel process-based approach to diagnose model errors through an example that focuses on snow accumulation processes (precipitation partitioning, new snow density, and snow compaction). Twelve years of meteorological and snow board measurements were used to identify the main source of model error on each snow accumulation day. Results show that modeled values of new snow density were outside observational uncertainties in 52% of days available for evaluation, while precipitation partitioning and compaction were in error 45% and 16% of the time, respectively. Precipitation partitioning errors mattered more for total winter accumulation during the anomalously warm winter of 2014-2015, when a higher fraction of precipitation fell within the temperature range where partition methods had the largest error. These results demonstrate how isolating individual model processes can identify the primary source(s) of model error, which helps prioritize future research.
Comparing Public Quality Ratings for Accredited and Nonaccredited Nursing Homes.

Abstract Objectives Compare quality ratings of accredited and nonaccredited nursing homes using the publicly available Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Nursing Home Compare data set. Methods This cross-sectional study compared the performance of 711 Joint Commission–accredited (TJC-accredited) nursing homes (81 of which also had Post-Acute Care Certification) to 14,926 non–Joint Commission–accredited (non–TJC-accredited) facilities using the Nursing Home Compare data set (as downloaded on April 2015). Measures included the overall Five-Star Quality Rating and its 4 components (health inspection, quality measures, staffing, and RN staffing), the 18 Nursing Home Compare quality measures (5 short-stay measures, 13 long-stay measures), as well as inspection deficiencies, fines, and payment denials. t tests were used to assess differences in rates for TJC-accredited nursing homes versus non–TJC-accredited nursing homes for quality measures, ratings, and fine amounts. Analysis of variance models were used to determine differences in rates using Joint Commission accreditation status, nursing home size based on number of beds, and ownership type. An additional model with an interaction term using Joint Commission accreditation status and Joint Commission Post-Acute Care Certification status was used to determine differences in rates for Post-Acute Care Certified nursing homes. Binary variables (eg, deficiency type, fines, and payment denials) were evaluated using a logistic regression model with the same covariates. Results After controlling for the influences of facility size and ownership type, TJC-accredited nursing homes had significantly higher star ratings than non–TJC-accredited nursing homes on each of the star rating component subscales (P Discussion Despite recent changes made to the CMS NHC star-rating methodology, results confirm previous findings that demonstrate a consistent pattern of superior performance among nursing homes accredited by The Joint Commission when compared to non–TJC-accredited facilities across a broad range of indicators in the Nursing Home Compare data set. It is important to note, however, that a cross-sectional study cannot determine causation, so it is unclear if accreditation assists nursing homes in achieving better care, or if higher-performing nursing homes are more likely to pursue accreditation. Conclusions Accreditation status remains a significant predictor of nursing home quality across multiple dimensions, independent of facility size and ownership type.
Robust Multivariable Control System Designs Through Real-Time Supervisory Knowledge-Based Systems

Abstract A supervisory knowledge-based system (KBS) is utilized to provide robust multivariable control of a chemical reaction process with reduced conservatism. The KBS monitors the process in order to detect control system faults or deterioration in controlled system performance due to changes in the process operation. If a fault or change in performance is detected, the KBS formulates and implements the necessary corrective action such as controller tuning or restructuring. This paper focuses on control loop tuning. The underlying mechanisms are discussed and validation results, using a rigorous simulation of the chemical reactor process, are presented.
Toward a U.S. Analytic Latino Concept

In this paper, we advance an analytical model for pan-Latino identity formation. We argue that because of the unbounded nature of Latino as an analytical concept, the term has come to mean everything and anything in the popular discourse. Using two processes that foster Latino identity formation in the U.S. (e.g., racialization and identity formation) we identify four analytical categories. The four analytical categories move us beyond a simplistic conceptual apparatus that conflates the folk and analytical meanings of Latino. We argue that the four heuristic categories provide a conceptual framework that more accurately captures the experience and dimensions of Latino identity and solidarity in the U.S.
Goal attainability and performance: Evidence from Boston marathon qualifying standards

Abstract In this paper we test if performance improves once goals become more attainable. Goal-setting literature suggests that workers respond to challenging but achievable goals with increased performance. Empirical evidence supports the notion of goals increasing performance; however the evidence on how attainability of goals affects performance is mixed. This paper tests whether efforts increase, improving performance as the goals become more attainable. We are employing a unique set of publicly available marathon data from 1970 to 2015 to directly analyze the effect of goal attainability on performance. With the probable goal of qualifying for the Boston Marathon, we test if runners increase their effort, and consequently improve their performance if they enter a new age group and as a result have a more attainable goal. We find that runners who enter a new age group perform better than the runners whose qualifying time did not change. This effect is seen with runners in younger age groups, but not found in the results of runners in more advanced years.
Special Considerations in Older Surgical Patients

As the population is aging, more individuals are living into advanced old age. A greater number of older adults, including those in the oldest old (>85 years) segment of the population, are undergoing surgical procedures. Prior to surgery, especially in the geriatric population, it is important to obtain a clear understanding of the indication and goals of the procedure. As part of the presurgery preparation, special attention should be given to ensuring the patient is cognitively able to engage in the informed consent process. It is often helpful to include health-care agents and involved family members in this conversation. In addition, instead of automatically rescinding do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders in the perioperative setting, conversations should occur to establish alignment between the overall and operative goals of the patient and the practices of the surgical team.
Low-Pathogenic Influenza A Viruses in North American Diving Ducks Contribute to the Emergence of a Novel Highly Pathogenic Influenza A(H7N8) Virus

Introductions of low-pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) viruses of subtypes H5 and H7 into poultry from wild birds have the potential to mutate to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses, but such viruses' origins are often unclear. In January 2016, a novel H7N8 HPAI virus caused an outbreak in turkeys in Indiana, USA. To determine the virus's origin, we sequenced the genomes of 441 wild-bird origin influenza A viruses (IAVs) from North America and subjected them to evolutionary analyses. The results showed that the H7N8 LPAI virus most likely circulated among diving ducks in the Mississippi flyway during autumn 2015 and was subsequently introduced to Indiana turkeys, in which it evolved high pathogenicity. Preceding the outbreak, an isolate with six gene segments (PB2, PB1, PA, HA, NA, and NS) sharing >99% sequence identity with those of H7N8 turkey isolates was recovered from a diving duck sampled in Kentucky, USA. H4N8 IAVs from other diving ducks possessed five H7N8-like gene segments (PB2, PB1, NA, MP, and NS; >98% sequence identity). Our findings suggest that viral gene constellations circulating among diving ducks can contribute to the emergence of IAVs that affect poultry. Therefore, diving ducks may serve an important and understudied role in the maintenance, diversification, and transmission of IAVs in the wild-bird reservoir. IMPORTANCE In January 2016, a novel H7N8 HPAI virus caused a disease outbreak in turkeys in Indiana, USA. To determine the origin of this virus, we sequenced and analyzed 441 wild-bird origin influenza virus strains isolated from wild birds inhabiting North America. We found that the H7N8 LPAI virus most likely circulated among diving ducks in the Mississippi flyway during autumn 2015 and was subsequently introduced to Indiana turkeys, in which it evolved high pathogenicity. Our results suggest that viral gene constellations circulating among diving ducks can contribute to the emergence of IAVs that affect poultry. Therefore, diving ducks may play an important and understudied role in the maintenance, diversification, and transmission of IAVs in the wild-bird reservoir. Our study also highlights the importance of a coordinated, systematic, and collaborative surveillance for IAVs in both poultry and wild-bird populations.
Designation of a new genus Michaelimenes (Decapoda: Caridea: Palaemonidae), with new host record and range extension of its type species, M. perlucidus (Bruce, 1969)

Abstract A new palaemonid shrimp genus, Michaelimenes n. gen., is established for three Indo-West Pacific species, Periclimenes latipollex Kemp, 1922, Periclimenes perlucidus Bruce, 1969 (type species) and Periclimenes platydactylus Li, 2008. The present new genus can be immediately distinguished from other related genera by the combination of the second pereiopod with the dorsal flange on the dactylus, the proximal excavation on the fixed finger and the smooth propodus, and the unarmed, non-subspatulate fingers of the first pereiopod. The type species, Michaelimenes perlucidus, is recorded from Japan for the first time on the basis of 34 specimens associated with the alcyonacean genus Chironephthya Studer, 1887. The intraspecific morphological variation and host specificity of M. perlucidus are commented upon. Periclimenes involens Bruce, 1996 is regarded as a junior synonym of M. perlucidus.
The impacts of the Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion programs

Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) and Local Food Promotion Program grants are awarded by the US Department of Agriculture to bolster local food markets. We assess the impacts of these program...
A flow-through, elevated-temperature and -pressure NMR apparatus for in-situ CO2 sequestration studies.

Abstract We report an apparatus for in-situ nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies of chemical reactions of dissolved 13 CO 2 with minerals (rock or powder) under continuous flow. The operating range of the apparatus is 18–150 °C and 1–140 bar. A flow pump is used to circulate a CO 2 -water solution, with a heated mixing vessel where CO 2 gas equilibrates with a water solution. The NMR probe is built around a strong zirconia ceramic vessel, with o-ring sealed connections; the mineral is contained inside. The horizontal orientation of the zirconia vessels allows use of a radio frequency (rf) solenoid for improved spin sensitivity.
Red Fighting Blue: How Geography and Electoral Rules Polarize American Politics

The national electoral map has split into warring regional bastions of Republican red and Democratic blue, producing a deep and enduring partisan divide in American politics. In Red Fighting Blue, David A. Hopkins places the current partisan and electoral era in historical context, explains how the increased salience of social issues since the 1980s has redefined the parties' geographic bases of support, and reveals the critical role that American political institutions play in intermediating between the behavior of citizens and the outcome of public policy-making. The widening geographic gap in voters' partisan preferences, as magnified further by winner-take-all electoral rules, has rendered most of the nation safe territory for either Democratic or Republican candidates in both presidential and congressional elections - with significant consequences for party competition, candidate strategy, and the operation of government.
Enterprise and labor markets: the border and the metropolitan areas

Utilizando datos de la Encuesta Nacional de Empleo Urbano de 1986/87, el autor compara los mercados de trabajo en cuatro ciudades fronterizas (Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez. Nuevo Laredo y Matamoros) con los mercados respectivos en tres ciudades del interior del pais, (la ciudad de Mexico, Guadalajara y Monterrey). Se examinan las caracteristicas e ingresos de cuatro clases de trabajadores: empresarios de pequena escala (con menos de 50 empleados); trabajadores por cuenta propia; trabajadores en pequenas empresas, y trabajadores en grandes empresas. El analisis pone a prueba la siguiente hipotesis: que el sector de pequena escala ofrece ingresos superiores en relacion al empleo para sus miembros en la frontera en comparacion a las ciudades del interior, especialmente para aquellos que trabajan por cuenta propia. A traves de regresiones logisticas se identifican las caracteristicas sobresalientes de las distintas clasificaciones de trabajadores. Al interior del pais, los empresarios de pequena escala tienden a ser hombres casados con pequenas familias, con una amplia experiencia laboral en trabajo artesanal y con bajos niveles educativos. Esto se contrasta con la situacion fronteriza, donde los empresarios tendian a cumplir ocupaciones profesionales y tecnicas, y haber alcanzado niveles mas altos de educacion, y estos varian entre la frontera y las principales ciudades. ABSTRACT Data from the Encuesta Nacional de Empleo Urbano of 1986 /7 are used to compare labor markets in four border cities (Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, Nuevo Laredo, and Matamoros) with those of the three principal cities of Mexico (Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey). The characteristics and incomes of four classes of workers are examined: small-scale entrepreneurs (those owning firms of less than 50 workers), the self -employed, workers in small-scale enterprises, and workers in large-scale enterprises. The hypotheses are tested that the small-scale sector offers higher incomes relative to employment to all its members on the border as compared to the three principal cities, particularly for the self-employed. Logistic regressions were used to determine the salient characteristics of the different classes of worker. In the principal cities, small-scale entrepreneurs were more likely to be found amongst married males in small families, with long work experience in craft occupations, and with low levels of education. In contrast, on the border, entrepreneurs were more likely to be found amongst those with professional and technical occupations and to have higher levels of education. Migration status had effects on the probability of being in particular job statuses and these varied between the Border and the Principal Cities.
The impact of intergovernmental transfers on local revenue generation in sub-Saharan Africa: evidence from Tanzania.

Abstract Do intergovernmental transfers reduce revenues collected by local government authorities (LGAs)? There is already a well-established body of literature in public finance, which argues that intergovernmental grants “crowd out” local revenues. Most existing studies, however, explore the fiscal implications of intergovernmental transfers in high-income countries where sound fiscal systems are taken for granted. In this paper, I explore the impact of intergovernmental transfers on local revenues in sub-Saharan Africa, a region where local fiscal capacity is limited and endogenously determined by financial support from international donors and the central government. I argue that in places where the existing capacity of LGAs to administer tax collection is weak and political costs of enforcing taxation are low—which are perennial features of many rural districts in Africa—intergovernmental transfers facilitate local revenue generation instead of undermining it. Analyzing newly available quarterly fiscal data on local revenues in Tanzania, I show that intergovernmental grants improve the mobilization of local revenues, and also that the positive effect of fiscal transfers on local revenue collection seems to be more pronounced in rural districts.
Grapevine ( Vitis spp.)

Grapevine somatic embryogenesis is a precious tool in breeding programs as well as in functional genomics studies, embryo tissues being the best sources for regeneration of genetically modified plants. It has also been proposed as a strategy aimed at induction of somaclonal variation, separation of periclinal chimeras, cryopreservation, virus eradication. A reliable technique for the production of somatic embryos and regenerated plantlets from an ample number of Vitis genotypes is an essential pre-requisite for any application of somatic embryogenesis. Main developmental phases can be identified: (a) Induction of callogenesis and embryogenic competence in cultured explants; (b) Culture of embryogenic calli and expression of the embryogenic program; (c) Long term culture of embryogenic callus and preservation of the embryogenic ability of the cultures or re-initiation of embryogenic calli from somatic embryos; (d) Development of somatic embryos into plantlets. The protocol for grapevine plant regeneration via somatic embryogenesis described in this chapter proved efficient for many cultivars; details are also given on the steps requiring further protocol refinements.
Re-Conceptualizing Service as a Critical and Integral Role for Faculty in Recreation and Leisure Studies

Recreation and leisure studies faculty need to engage in more strategically chosen service activities at university, national and community levels. In order for this advice to make sense given the ...
Genetic Analysis of Cyanobacteria

In recent years great strides have been made in developing genetic systems for the analysis of various aspects of cyanobacterial physiology and development. Transformation, electroporation and conjugation systems provide effective means for gene transfer in diverse cyanobacterial strains. Gene transfer, combined with the ability to clone and inactivate genes in cyanobacteria, has opened the door to advanced studies of photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation, heterocyst development and metabolism in these unique and important procaryotic microorganisms.
Effect of Uridine Diphosphoglucose on Levels of 5-Phosphoribosyl Pyrophosphate and Uridine Triphosphate in Murine Tissues

The purpose of the present investigation was to determine whether a single bolus intravenous injection (2000 mg/kg) of uridine diphosphoglucose (UDPG) could affect levels of PRPP in a transplanted mammary adenocarcinoma and in liver of CD8FI mice. Six hours following a single intravenous injection of UDPG, 2000 mg/kg, tumor PRPP was lowered to 80 pmol/mg protein, a 53% decrease compared to saline control tumors. Liver was more sensitive than tumor to the 5-phosphoribosyl pyrophosphate (PRPP)-depleting effects of a single bolus intravenous injection of UDPG, since significantly lower levels of PRPP were found in liver, but not in tumor, at doses of 500–1000 mg/kg of UDPG. Maximal depression (30% of saline control) or PRPP occurred in liver 6 hr after intravenous UDPG at 1000–2000 mg/kg. Enhanced levels of UDPG in plasma (half-life less than 10 min) and tumor was detected at 30 min after intravenous UDPG at 2000 mg/kg. There was no detectable increase in endogenous levels of UDPG in liver at this time, probably as a result of rapid metabolism of UDPG by liver. At this same time, a twofold increase in uridine triphosphate (UTP) was measured in liver after intravenously administered UDPG. In contrast, the level of UTP was not increased significantly above control values in tumor. These data suggest the potential use of UDPG to elevate UTP pools in normal tissues in the delayed rescue of cancer chemotherapeutic drugs such as 5-fluorouracil which function as a uridine analogue in these tissues.