cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Investor Responses to IMF Program Suspensions: Is Noncompliance Costly?*

Objective. This article reinvestigates the ‘‘catalytic’’ effects of IMF programs on investment controlling for the implementation of the program, allowing us to ascertain if capital markets respond to the mere announcement of a Fund program or its sustained positive implementation. Methods. Using a panel of data based on the experience of 106 developing countries entering Fund programs between 1979 and 1995, I employ both probit and tobit estimations to assess the effects of the announcement of a Fund program (and performance under it) on inflows of portfolio investment. Results. I find mixed evidence that good implementation serves to slow capital flight. I find consistently strong evidence that failed Fund programs produce portfolio flight. Conclusion. The findings suggest that we should think about the Fund’s influence (both positive and negative) in light of how capital markets respond to its signals. One of the most visible international economic organizations is the International Monetary Fund (IMF or Fund). IMF programs in developing countries have become the focus of protest and controversy. The Fund has often been pilloried by politicians as ineffective or causing harm, but there have been few systematic attempts to understand the broader influence of IMF programs on developing countries. 1 This article aims to address this shortcoming by focusing on the effects of Fund program implementation on the behavior of potential investors. To understand the influence that the Fund has over developing countries, I focus on how investors respond to signals from the IMF. The Fund claims that its programs have ‘‘catalytic’’ effects, and that signing a program opens the door for inflows of investment, which are an added benefit for states to use the IMF. Unfortunately, there has been little empirical evidence suggesting this effect actually exists.
ENERGY ALLOCATION AND POSTNATAL GROWTH IN CAPTIVE ELEGANT TERN (STERNA ELEGANS) CHICKS: RESPONSES TO HIGH-VERSUS LOW-ENERGY DIETS

Abstract Effects of variable energy intake on chick growth, organ development, and gut-passage time in seabirds were investigated by raising Elegant Tern (Sterna elegans) chicks in the laboratory on three diets involving a major prey species, northern anchovy (Engraulis mordax), and a minor prey species, topsmelt (Atherinops affinis). Anchovies are ∼25% higher in energy content than topsmelt and represent a more abundant but highly fluctuating prey resource. Chicks were raised from age 15 to age 35 days posthatch on one of three diets (n = 8): (1) high-energy anchovy at the average daily intake rate, (2) low-energy topsmelt at the same intake rate, and (3) high-energy topsmelt (i.e. at a biomass equal in energy content to the anchovy diet). Chicks raised on the high-energy anchovy diet had a significantly faster gain of body mass and wing length. All three groups, however, had attained a statistically similar wing length at 35 days posthatch and did not differ in lean dry mass or pectoral muscle mass, ind...
To make the four hundred million move : The late Qing Dynasty origins of modern Chinese sport and physical culture

There is no athletic movement in China... Caspar Whitney, in Harper's Weekly, 1898” and “Just as our women [swimmers] dominate... Zhou Ming, Head Coach, PRC National Swim Team, 1997. There is little doubt that, after a century's exposure, Chinese have absorbed and understand quite clearly the greater meanings of the realm of sport—the connections between competitive athletic endeavor, imperialist bluster, and economic standing in the world community. This article is an exploration of the late Qing Dynasty origins of this modern global culture of physical culture and sport.
Microwave Synthesis of Poly(L-lactic acid)

Synthesis of poly(L-lactic acid) typically requires a long process time with the use of tin octoate as a catalyst. In this study microwave-assisted polymerization of lactic acid has been studied both with the aid and without the aid of tin octoate catalyst. While the presence of tin octoate assists in the polymerization process, it is not a pre-requisite to polymerization with microwaves. Molecular masses in excess of 25 kDa were possible over process times as little as 2.5 h without the need for a controlled environment. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and gel-permeation chromatography were used to follow the polymerization process. Microwave-assisted polymerization of lactic acid to yield poly(L-lactic acid) has been shown to be a viable and quicker alternative to tradition approaches to the synthesis of poly(L-lactic acid).
Predicting course performance in freshman and sophomore physics courses: Women are more predictable than men

This study investigated the extent to which thinking skills and mathematical competency would predict the course performance of freshman and sophomore science majors enrolled in physics courses. Multiple-regression equations revealed that algebra and critical thinking skills were the best overall predictors across several physics courses. Although arithmetic skills, math anxiety, and primary mental abilities scores also correlated with performance, they were redundant with the algebra and critical thinking. The most surprising finding of the study was the differential validity by sex; predictor variables were successful in predicting course performance for women but not for men.
Effect of 90° counterclockwise rotation of the endotracheal tube on its advancement through the larynx during nasal fiberoptic intubation in children: a randomized and blinded study.

Summary Background Resistance to the passage of the endotracheal tube (ETT) is frequently encountered in children as it is advanced over the fiberoptic scope for placement into the trachea because it gets hung up at the laryngeal inlet. Literature in adults indicates that a 90° counterclockwise rotation (CCR) of the ETT before advancing results in smooth passage. We found no literature in children. Objectives Our aim was to study if a 90° counterclockwise rotation (CCR) of the ETT before advancement leads to smooth passage of the ETT into the larynx in children. Methods Following IRB approval, we performed this study in two parts: Part 1: An unblinded, observational, pilot study on 20 children scheduled for oral rehabilitation where we concurrently used a fiberoptic scope nasally and GlideScope orally. We visualized the ETT path and observed that 90° CCR allowed smooth passage without hang up. Part 2: A blinded and randomized study on 40 children to confirm if 90° CCR from the outset would improve passage of the ETT during nasal intubation with a fiberoptic scope in children. All children were divided into two groups: group S, ETT bevel facing left; group R, ETT bevel facing down. Results In Part 1, we observed that the ETT got hung up in 57% of children with standard bevel direction (facing left) and in 0% of children when prerotated. In Part 2, efficacy of prerotation was confirmed; the ETT got hung up in 50% of children in group S but in only 10.5% of children in group R. Conclusion A change in ETT tip orientation from bevel facing left to facing down by 90° CCR, leads to a significantly higher first-attempt success rate by nasal approach in children. We believe the ETT should be rotated before insertion into the nostril to ensure that full 90° CCR of the tip has been accomplished.
Injuries of the diaphragm following blunt trauma.

The force required to rupture the diaphragm nearly always produces such serious visceral and other musculoskeletal injuries that the ruptured diaphragm is frequently overlooked, and may go unnoticed for long periods of time — even years. A high index of suspicion and careful initial examination are mandatory, because of the threat to cardiorespiratory function and the possibility of late strangulation of the viscera or intestinal obstruction.
Chicago Park District (B)

The fourth and final case in this series highlights the key events and change initiatives undertaken by Forrest Claypool and his executive staff from 1993 to 1996 in their attempt to revitalize the Chicago Park District. This case is a summary that can be used at the end of the series to identify emerging results from the Claypool administration. Results of operating changes, privatization, personnel changes, financial changes, reorganization efforts, information systems development, and professional training initiatives are described in brief, bullet form. The case ends with Claypool taking another assignment as chief of staff for Mayor Daley. See also the A (UVA-OB-0618), B (UVA-OB-0619), and C (UVA-OB-0620) cases. A CD-ROM ("Chicago Park District," UVA-OB-0618M) is designed for use with this case series.
Stream Pollution in the Ohio River Basin: A Symposium: Sanitation Problems Incidental to Floods

In time of flood, public health authorities and municipal and water-works officials are confronted with a variety of emergency sanitation problems that demand immediate attention. It is important t...
Coordination in large scale multi-agent systems for complex environments

Multi-agent systems allow for robust and flexible solutions, but require complex coordination to operate efficiently. Efficient task allocation is difficult even when agents and tasks are known and unchanging, yet in many circumstances agents might fail or the environment is only partially observable. Our work explores models for large multi-agent systems in partially observable environments to efficiently reduce the complexity of the problem space and uses the RoboCup Rescue Simulator as a testbed. The first model is forming coalitions for extended period of time to allow synergy between agents and the second model is estimating aggregate behavior of growing tasks to minimize the travel time of agents.
Environmental carcinogens. The modifying effect of cocarcinogens on the threshold response.

The acceleration of tumor production in mice by repeated application of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon carcinogens of high and low potency in the presence of cocarcinogenic compounds is described. Experiments exploring the concentration levels of carcinogen and cocarcinogen necessary to produce tumors demonstrate that there is a 1,000-fold increase in the enhancement of potency of low concentrations of benzo[a]pyrene and benz[a]anthracene when n-dodecane is the diluent. The effect of cocarcinogens is most obvious during exposure to low concentrations of carcinogen. The implications of this observation in the environment is discussed.
Evaluation of a Sugarcane Bagasse Larval Diet for Mass Production of the Mediterranean Fruit Fly (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Hawaii

Plans for increased production of the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), in Hawaii have renewed interest in alternative bulking compounds for larval diets. Of particular interest has been the use of sugarcane bagasse because of its local availability. Studies of a sugarcane bagasse diet were conducted at mass production levels where metabolic heat, desiccation, and larval behavior are critical factors affecting recovery of high-quality pupae. Replicated tests indicated recoveries of large numbers of high-quality pupae. No significant differences were found in pupal weight, eclosion, fecundity, or fertility between larvae reared on the sugarcane bagasse diet and those reared on the standard mill feed diet. No decrease in recovery, fecundity, or fertility was noted due to consecutive generations reared on the diet.
Abstract 913: 5,10-Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T allele frequency and childhood leukemia incidence in predominantly European ancestry countries

5,10-Methylentetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been intensely studied as cancer susceptibility alleles. For childhood leukemia, data have indicated that the most commonly studied MTHFR SNP, C677T, is associated with a slightly reduced risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Both childhood leukemia incidence and MTHFR allele frequencies show variation worldwide. Our objective was to conduct an ecologic study to determine whether the MTHFR C677T allele frequency and childhood leukemia incidence are associated. We used cancer incidence data collected by the International Agency for Cancer Research from 22 registries that captured 19,025 leukemia cases diagnosed between the ages of 0 and 14 years from the United States, Canada, Australia, and 18 European countries; data were restricted to registries with majority European ancestry populations in order to minimize confounding by ancestry. MTHFR allele frequencies were gathered from the literature to match as closely as possible the registry populations. We modeled the association between childhood leukemia incidence and MTHFR C677T allele frequency using Poisson regression to calculate rate ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Estimates of the minor C677T allele frequency ranged from 24% in Finland to 44% in Italy. There was a weak inverse correlation between leukemia incidence and MTHFR C677T allele frequency (r=0.19), that was stronger for ALL (r=0.30). Acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia (ANLL) incidence was positively correlated with MTHFR C677T allele frequency (r=0.36). Poisson regression results from linear models showed that the incidence of childhood leukemia decreased by 5% (95% CI 3%-6%) for every 5% increase in the C677T allele frequency. A similar pattern was observed for ALL with a RR of 0.93 (95% CI=0.92-0.95) but not acute non-lymphoblastic leukemia (ANLL) (RR=1.04, 95% CI=1.00-1.07). The significant inverse associations between the C677T allele frequency and leukemia and ALL incidence were specific to incidence rates for children diagnosed This research was supported by NIH grant T32 CA099936. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 913.
Intramolecular hydrogen bonding motifs in deprotonated glycine peptides by cryogenic ion infrared spectroscopy.

The infrared spectra of deprotonated glycine peptides, (Gn–H)− with n = 1–4, in the 1200–3500 cm–1 spectral region are presented. Comparisons between the experimental and calculated spectra reveal the chain length dependent hydrogen bonding motifs that define the geometries of these species. First, an interaction between the terminal carboxylate and the neighboring amide N–H is present in all the peptide structures. This interaction is strong enough to align this amide group in the same plane as the carboxylate. However, we found that the vibrational frequency shift of this hydrogen bonded N–H group is not well reproduced in the calculations. Second, in the longer (G3–H)− and (G4–H)− species, the peptide chain folds such that the terminal NH2 group also interacts with the carboxylate. Both of these folded structures display an interaction between the terminal NH2 and the neighboring N–H as well. Lastly, an amide–amide interaction is observed in the longest (G4–H)− structure. Analysis of the N–H peak posit...
Leaf thickness controls variation in leaf mass per area (LMA) among grazing-adapted grasses in Serengeti

Leaf mass per area (LMA) is a primary plant functional trait that represents the cost of constructing a leaf. Ultimately, plants modify LMA by altering leaf thickness (LT), leaf dry matter content (LDMC), or both. While LMA can be modified through both of these constituents, studies of LMA have found that there is variation in whether LT or LDMC changes are responsible for LMA-and the relationships change depending on the species or functional groups being compared. In this study, we used a phylogenetic framework to determine that evolutionary shifts in LMA are driven by LT, and not LDMC, among 45 Serengeti grass species. We considered two alternative hypotheses that could result in evolutionary correlation of LMA on LT but not LDMC: either (1) LT is more labile than LDMC-and is therefore a less costly means to change LMA or (2) LDMC is tightly coupled to a different dimension of leaf variation (e.g., leaf hydraulics), leaving LT as the source of variation in LMA. LT was not more labile than LDMC, leading us to conclude that the evolution of LMA has been shaped by LT because LDMC is responding to other demands on leaf physiology. We speculate that leaf hydraulics provide this constraint on LDMC. The decoupling of LDMC from LT may allow plants to better optimize resource allocation in ecosystems where gradients in light competition, herbivory, and aridity place competing demands on leaf economics.
Photoluminescence Quenching of Colloidal CdSe and CdTe Quantum Dots by Nitroxide Free Radicals

Quantum dots (QDs) and other quantum confined semiconductor nanomaterials are emerging as an important class of materials for a variety of applications involving electronic processes. Here, we investigate QD–free radical interactions, focusing on II–VI semiconductor QDs (CdSe and CdTe) and TEMPO (2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl) and 4-amino-TEMPO (4-amino-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl). Although these nitroxide free radicals have previously been shown to be efficient QD photoluminescence quenchers, we show here, using a combination of both steady-state and time-dependent photoluminescence studies, that some of these conclusions need to be revised. In particular, we show that TEMPO has no appreciable effect on the photoluminescence of II–VI QDs. Furthermore, we show that whereas 4-amino-TEMPO is indeed an efficient PL quencher for II–VI QDs (as previously reported) it is simultaneously limited by slow diffusion kinetics and low binding affinities to the nanocrystal surfaces. Our results highlig...
Metabolic Acidosis with Ophthalmic Dorzolamide in a Neonate

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are a common cause of normal anion gap metabolic acidosis; however, development is less commonly associated with ophthalmic administration of these agents. We report a case of a premature neonate who was being treated at our institution with betaxolol, dorzolamide, and latanoprost ophthalmic products for suspected bilateral congenital glaucoma. In addition, the patient was also receiving caffeine, ursodiol, and acidified liquid human milk fortifier. The patient developed a normal anion gap metabolic acidosis, and both dorzolamide ophthalmic solution and the acidified human milk fortifier were considered potential causes. Upon discontinuation of the dorzolamide ophthalmic solution and the switching of liquid human milk fortifiers, the normal anion gap metabolic acidosis gradually resolved. As a result of the pH and acidity, the acidified liquid human milk fortifier is thought to be associated with an anion gap acidosis; therefore, dorzolamide is suspected to be the primary cause of a normal gap acidosis. This case demonstrates that systemic effects can occur with ophthalmic administration of dorzolamide in a premature neonate. Ophthalmic agents should not be overlooked as a potential cause of systemic toxicity.
Brushless DC Motors

Brushless DC (BLDC) motors, also called permanent magnet synchronous motors, are used in direct-drive applications mainly due to their large torque producing capability. Compared to conventional DC motors, they have no brushes or mechanical commutators, which eliminates the problems due to mechanical wear of the moving parts [68, 74]. In addition, the better heat dissipation characteristics and ability to operate at high speeds [66] render them superior to the brushed DC motor. However, the brushless DC motor constitutes a more difficult problem than its brushed counterpart in terms of modeling and control system design due to its multi-input nature and coupled nonlinear dynamics.
Genetic Basis of Nonsyndromic and Syndromic Tooth Agenesis.

Human dentition development is a long and complex process which involves a series of reciprocal and sequential interactions between the embryonic stomodeal epithelium and the underlying neural crest–derived mesenchyme. Despite environment disturbances, tooth development is predominantly genetically controlled. To date, more than 200 genes have been identified in tooth development. These genes implied in various signaling pathways such as the bone morphogenetic protein, fibroblast growth factor, sonic hedgehog homolog, ectodysplasin A, wingless-type MMTV integration site family (Wnt), and transform growth factor pathways. Mutations in any of these strictly balanced signaling cascades may cause arrested odontogenesis and/or other dental defects. This article aims to review current knowledge about the genetic mechanisms responsible for selective nonsyndromic tooth agenesis in humans and to present a detailed summary of syndromes with hypodontia as regular features and their causative genes.
Dynamic autocorrelation of intraday stock returns

Abstract We discover three significant periodicities in the autocorrelation of intraday stock returns. We demonstrate that (i) the autocorrelation is 64% more negative during afternoons than during mornings, (ii) the autocorrelation is more negative Tuesdays through Fridays than on Mondays, (iii) overall serial correlation becomes less negative when salient information events arrive, i.e., earnings months, but measures less negative during mornings and on Mondays. Our results support the hypothesis that informational demand is more critical following daily and weekly market closures when information accumulated cannot easily be traded on, while liquidity demand intensifies closer to the no-trading periods.
Research of algorithm for calculating the vector-parametric bispline based on polynomial of the fourth degree

In the course of the audit process of the vector-parametric spline of fourth degree on the basis of a segment of three points and two first derivatives at the end points is easy to see that it cannot be set to the same number of boundary conditions at both ends, as for polynomials of third and fifth degree, because a polynomial of the fourth degree is «unbalanced». New method is proposed to eliminate these disadvantages in the design of fourth degree splines and bisplines (vector parametric surfaces) based on them. It is proposed to consider the next variant of polynomial of the fourth degree for bispline design: the endpoints, derivatives in them and another middle point are given. Based on the proposed functions of the polynomial: Vector parametric spline of fourth degree on the basis of a segment of three points and two first derivatives is noted: Based on the segment of the fourth degree for the portions of the surface recorded this equation is noted: To specify a portion it must have not only first derivatives but also the mixed derivatives at the nodal points. Based on these formulas, it became possible to write a test program for visualization of bispline (vector parametric surface) fourth degree in the language Auto Lisp in AutoCAD, spline of fourth degree showed good «custom» properties, the surface is adequate to the input data, subjectively nice-looking. The paper shows the ability of the splines of the fourth degree to give biplane. Due to the peculiarities of their structure (the ability to give an additional medial condition) the proposed curve has an additional possibility of a more correct and adequate to the task of specifying the conditions. The achieved effect (a new polynomial) gives a method the right to life for designing smooth curves and surfaces.
Proximity of Lateral Critical Structures to the All-Epiphyseal Outside-In Femoral Tunnels in Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Purpose To describe the proximity of the lateral critical structures (peroneal nerve [PN], popliteus tendon [PT], lateral collateral ligament [LCL], and articular cartilage [AC]) to the femoral tunnel for outside-in all-epiphyseal anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in reference to knee flexion angle. Methods All-epiphyseal ACL reconstructions were performed in 12 human cadaveric knees using arthroscopy and outside-in drilling for anatomic femoral tunnel placement that was ensured by identifying the center of the total ACL footprint. Fluoroscopy was used to confirm tunnel position and reconstructions were performed with quadrupled semitendinosus and gracilis autograft with Xtendobutton (Smith & Nephew, Andover, MA) fixation on the femoral side. After reconstruction, the lateral side of the knee was dissected and the LCL, PT, distal and posterior AC, and the PN were identified. The distances of these structures from the center of the exiting femoral tunnel were then measured using a digital caliper at 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120° of knee flexion. Any gross damage to these structures caused by the femoral drilling was also noted. Data were compiled and the mean and standard deviations (SD) of the distances from the pin to the structures of interest were calculated. The normality of the data at each flexion angle was assessed using Shapiro-Wilk tests ( P > .05), and the relationship between flexion angle and average distance was evaluated using repeated measures analysis of variance ( P t -tests ( P P values are reported. A post hoc power analysis was performed. Results The violation of the LCL was noted in 3 specimens and that of the PT in 1 specimen as a result of femoral tunnel drilling at flexion angles ranging from 90° to 120°. The distance between the PT and the femoral tunnel also decreased significantly ( P P P Conclusions The LCL and PT are at significant risk during percutaneous femoral drilling for all-epiphyseal anatomic ACL reconstruction using an outside-in technique. This risk was maximized at 120° flexion and minimized in full extension. These findings suggest that the optimal position for femoral drilling in all-epiphyseal ACL reconstruction is full or near-full extension of the knee that can be accomplished by placing the knee in 30° of flexion (after using fluoroscopic guidance to pass the guide pin past the lateral critical structures) to visualize the footprint of the ACL. Clinical Relevance Information garnered from this study may help clinicians better understand the risk to the lateral critical structures when an outside-in femoral tunnel is not drilled in the appropriate degree of knee flexion.
Elevated Plasma Vasopressin Contributes to Fulminating Hypertension Produced by Functional Impairment of A1 Catecholamine Neurons in Rabbit Medulla

1. Injection of the neurotoxin kainic acid into the region of the A1 noradrenergic neurons in the caudal ventrolateral medulla of rabbit increases blood pressure by 35 mmHg and plasma vasopressin five fold. 2. After cervical spinal cord transection or intravenous injection of phentolamine, kainic acid injected into the A1 area still elevates arterial pressure. 3. The increase in blood pressure produced by injection of kainic acid into the A1 area of the intact rabbit is almost completely reversed by the administration of a vasopressin antagonist. 4. A1 noradrenergic neurons tonically inhibit the release of vasopressin and the amount of vasopressin released by destruction of these cells is sufficient to elevate arterial pressure. 5. Imbalance within the central nervous system can produce hypertension by means of vasopressin release.
Constitutive activation of Nrf2 induces a stable reductive state in the mouse myocardium

Redox homeostasis regulates key cellular signaling pathways in both physiology and pathology. The cell's antioxidant response provides a defense against oxidative stress and establishes a redox tone permissive for cell signaling. The molecular regulation of the well-known Keap1/Nrf2 system acts as sensor responding to changes in redox homeostasis and is poorly studied in the heart. Importantly, it is not yet known whether Nrf2 alone can serve as a master regulator of cellular redox homeostasis without compensation of the transcriptional regulation of antioxidant response element (ARE) genes through alternate mechanisms. Here, we addressed this question using cardiac-specific transgenic expression at two different levels of constitutively active nuclear erythroid related factor 2 (caNrf2) functioning independently of Keap1. The caNrf2 mice showed augmentation of glutathione (GSH), the key regulator of the cellular thiol redox state. The Trans-AM assay for Nrf2-binding to the antioxidant response element (ARE) showed a dose-dependent increase associated with upregulation of several major antioxidant genes and proteins. This was accompanied by a significant decrease in dihydroethidium staining and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the caNrf2-TG mice myocardium. Interestingly, caNrf2 gene-dosage dependent redox changes were noted resulting in generation of a multi-stage model of pro-reductive and reductive conditions in the myocardium of TG-low and TG-high mice, respectively. These data clearly show that Nrf2 levels alone are capable of serving as the master regulator of the ARE. These models provide an important platform to investigate the impact of the Nrf2 system independent of the need to regulate the activity of Keap1 and the consequent exposure to pro-oxidants or electrophiles, which have numerous off-target effects.
First-Year and Non-First-Year Student Expectations Regarding In-Class and Out-of-Class Learning Activities in Introductory Biology

National calls for teaching transformation build on a constructivist learning theory and propose that students learn by actively engaging in course activities and interacting with other students. While interactive pedagogies can improve learning, they also have the potential to challenge traditional norms regarding class participation and learning strategies. To better understand the potential openness of students to interactive teaching practices, we administered a survey during the first week of two sections of an introductory biology course to characterize how students envisioned spending time during class as well as what activities they expected to complete outside of class during non-exam weeks and in preparation for exams. Additionally, we sought to test the hypothesis that the expectations of first-year students differed from those of non-first-year students. Analyses of closed-ended and open-ended questions revealed that students held a wide range of expectations and that most students expressed expectations consistent with some degree of transformed teaching. Furthermore, first-year students expected more active learning in class, more out-of-class coursework during non-exam weeks, and more social learning strategies than non-first-year students. We discuss how instructor awareness of incoming student expectations might be used to promote success in introductory science courses.
Small business challenges and the triple bottom line, TBL: Needs assessment in a Midwest State, U.S.A.

Abstract Few resources or published studies exist identifying the informational needs or motivational factors that would assist small businesses wishing to develop, follow, or institute a business model using sustainable and triple bottom line, TBL practices in the U.S. Further, little was known in this mid-western State about the depth of green business practices or the desire of business owners to learn more. A cross-sectional, convenience sample was surveyed to define the needs and interest of the small business enterprises. Only 10 ( n = 31) percent of the 319 companies contacted completed the short survey. However, for that 10%, a strong interest in gaining knowledge in this area was expressed. Findings indicated that many smaller businesses may not have the efficacy base of knowledge, skills, and resources whereby they can operationalize sustainable or green business practices. Coding the responses in the areas of green business motivation, learning, and hoped for benefits according to the TBL of community, profit, and environment illustrated that profit was a motivator overall 2:1 compared to environment and community. For the small business community, much of the literature, technical expertise and sustainability assessment models remain beyond their resources and time reach. The challenge becomes one of finding ways to broaden the appeal of sustainability and TBL practices and establish a means of peer to peer sharing and benchmarking efficacy and progress in sustainable business practices.
Online machine learning for cloud resource provisioning of microservice backend systems

Microservices are bundled and generating traffic on the backend systems that need to scale on demand. When microservices generate variant and unexpected, the challenge is to classify the workload on the backend systems and adjust the scaling policy to reflect the resource demand timely and accurately. In this paper, we propose a microservice architecture that encapsulates functions of monitoring metrics and learning workload pattern. Then this service architecture is used to predict the future workload for decision making on resource provisioning. We deploy two machine learning algorithms and predict the resource demand of the backend systems of microservices emulated by a Netflix workload benchmark application. This service architecture presents an integrated solution of implementing self-managing cloud data services under variant workload.
Scheduling of Collaborative Sequential Compressed Sensing Over Wide Spectrum Band

The cognitive radio (CR) technology holds promise to significantly increase spectrum availability and wireless network capacity. With more spectrum bands opened up for CR use, it is critical yet challenging to perform efficient wideband sensing. We propose an integrated sequential wideband sensing scheduling framework that concurrently exploits sequential detection and compressed sensing (CS) techniques for more accurate and lower-cost spectrum sensing. First, to ensure more timely detection without incurring high overhead involved in periodic recovery of CS signals, we propose smart scheduling of a CS-based sequential wideband detection scheme to effectively detect the PU activities in the wideband of interest. Second, to further help users under severe channel conditions identify the occupied sub-channels, we develop two collaborative strategies, namely, joint reconstruction of the signals among neighboring users and wideband sensing-map fusion. Third, to achieve robust wideband sensing, we propose the use of anomaly detection in our framework. Extensive simulations demonstrate that our approach outperforms peer schemes significantly in terms of sensing delay, accuracy and overhead.
Investigating FDI Spillover in China Passenger Car Industry

No distinction between diffusion- and competition-related effects and free from dynamics are among significant limitations in previous studies on FDI spillovers to host country indigenous firms. In...
The Modified Mustardé Hypospadias Repair

AbstractThe results are reviewed of 30 boys with distal shaft hypospadias who underwent a modified Mustarde single stage hypospadias repair. A ventral pedicle flap is rolled into a tube and tunneled between the glans and corpora to produce a meatus at the tip of the glans.
Dual-Task Gait and Alzheimer's Disease Genetic Risk in Cognitively Normal Adults: A Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND Dual-task paradigms, in which an individual performs tasks separately and then concurrently, often demonstrate that people with neurodegenerative disorders experience more dual-task interference, defined as worse performance in the dual-task condition compared to the single-task condition. OBJECTIVE To examine how gait-cognition dual-task performance differs between cognitively normal older adults with and without an APOE ɛ4 allele. METHODS Twenty-nine individuals ages 60 to 72 with normal cognition completed a dual-task protocol in which walking and cognitive tasks (executive function, memory) were performed separately and concurrently. Fourteen participants carried APOE ɛ4 alleles (ɛ3/ɛ4 or ɛ2/ɛ4); fifteen had APOE genotypes (ɛ2/ɛ2, ɛ2/ɛ3, or ɛ3/ɛ3) associated with lower risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD). RESULTS The two risk groups did not differ by age, sex, race, education, or gait or cognitive measures under single-task conditions. Compared to low risk participants, APOE ɛ4 carriers tended to exhibit greater dual-task interference. Both the memory and executive function tasks resulted in dual-task interference on gait, but effect sizes for a group difference were larger when the cognitive task was executive function. In the dual-task protocol that combined walking and the executive function task, effect sizes for group difference in gait interference were larger (0.62- 0.70) than for cognitive interference (0.45- 0.47). DISCUSSION Dual-task paradigms may reveal subtle changes in brain function in asymptomatic individuals at heightened risk of AD.
Security as a service: real-time intrusion detection in internet of things

With the increase in number of Internet connected devices, security and privacy concerns are the major obstacles impeding the widespread adoption of Internet of Things (IoT). Securing IoT has become a huge area of concern for all, including the consumers, organizations as well as the government. While attacks on any system cannot be fully prevented forever, real-time detection of the attacks are critical to defend the systems in an effective manner. In this paper, we propose a novel intrusion detection system that uses machine learning algorithms to detect security anomalies in IoT networks. This detection platform provides security as a service and facilitates interoperability between various network communication protocols used in IoT. In this paper, we provide a framework of the proposed system and discuss the intrusion detection process in detail.
7 – Oral Cavity and Teeth

The oral cavity of rodents and humans has similar functions in digestion and sound production (speech). Major differences are primarily in the structure of the dentition, which reflects the divergence in diets between species. The basic components of the oral cavity are the same: the lips, oral mucosa, teeth, tongue, and salivary glands all begin the process of digestion.
A Survey on Brain Biometrics

Brainwaves, which reflect brain electrical activity and have been studied for a long time in the domain of cognitive neuroscience, have recently been proposed as a promising biometric approach due to their unique advantages of confidentiality, resistance to spoofing/circumvention, sensitivity to emotional and mental state, continuous nature, and cancelability. Recent research efforts have explored many possible ways of using brain biometrics and demonstrated that they are a promising candidate for more robust and secure personal identification and authentication. Although existing research on brain biometrics has obtained some intriguing insights, much work is still necessary to achieve a reliable ready-to-deploy brain biometric system. This article aims to provide a detailed survey of the current literature and outline the scientific work conducted on brain biometric systems. It provides an up-to-date review of state-of-the-art acquisition, collection, processing, and analysis of brainwave signals, publicly available databases, feature extraction and selection, and classifiers. Furthermore, it highlights some of the emerging open research problems for brain biometrics, including multimodality, security, permanence, and stability.
Pediatric Emergency Department Visits for Headache 2007-2014: Frequency and Management Trends

Non-traumatic, non-febrile headaches represent 0.9-2.6% of visits to a pediatric emergency department (PED). An investigation of the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey has suggested that pediatric visits to an emergency department for headache have increased from 1995 to 2008. Purpose To confirm a trend in headache visits and to characterize the demographic profile, management and disposition of pediatric patients with headache within a single tertiary care PED from 2007-2014. Methods Children ages 4-20 visiting the …
2019 Ludwig Lecture: Rhythms in sympathetic nerve activity are a key to understanding neural control of the cardiovascular system.

This review is based on the Carl Ludwig Distinguished Lecture, presented at the 2019 Experimental Biology Meeting in Orlando, FL, and provides a snapshot of >40 years of work done in collaboration ...
Protection‐adjusted UV dose estimated for body areas: Daily self‐reported sun protection modification of wearable UV sensor dose

Background During the last 20 years, 50% of adults with sun-sensitive skin have sunburned annually. Reducing the proportion of people who sunburn requires understanding the circumstances and outdoor activities during which at-risk people sunburn. Methods A 7-day observational study of melanoma survivors (n = 20) and young adult first-degree relatives of melanoma survivors (FDRs) (n = 20) captured daily UV exposure, sun protection, and sunburns during spring and summer in the Midwest of the United States (latitude 41.8°N). Participants wore UV and physical activity sensors and completed a daily self-reported survey of sun protection, sunburn, and physical activities. The estimated protection-adjusted UV dose was calculated for each body area by integrating self-reported sun protection with UV sensor dose. Results In 254 days, at least one body area in 9 of 20 (45%) melanoma survivors and 11 of 20 (55%) FDRs was sunburned (erythema at 24 hours). Sunburns were associated with spring and walking for transportation or leisure, especially walking the dog. Melanoma survivors used sunscreen daily on the face; however, forearms and lower legs were not protected during walking. Young adults did not use sun protection on the face, forearms or lower legs during walking for transportation and use was ineffective during sports. Conclusion The sun protection patterns of daily living identified in this study may promote recognition of erythema as sunburn and inform the development of tailored sun protection mobile applications promoting self-monitoring with wearable UV sensors.
Making Killers: Hate Training and the US Army’s War in Europe, 1942-5:

During the Second World War, the US Army was faced with the problem of turning average civilians into soldiers capable of destroying the German army. To ease their adjustment to their new duties an...
Rising Circulating Tumor DNA As a Molecular Biomarker of Early Disease Progression in Metastatic Breast Cancer

PURPOSEAccurate monitoring of therapeutic response remains an important unmet need for patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Analysis of tumor genomics obtained via circulating tumor DNA (c...
Production of aflatoxin B1 and G1 by Aspergillus parasiticus on silica gels.

Silica gels were prepared by acidifying alkaline silicate solutions with phosphoric or tartaric acid. Various combinations of glucose, sucrose, yeast extract, and salts were included in the gels as nutrients. Maximum production of aflatoxins B1 and G1 occurred when silica gel (0.4 to 0.5 cm deep in a petri dish) containing 20% sucrose and 2% yeast extract, and gelled with tartaric acid, was inoculated with approximately 120 to 12000 spores ofAspergillus parasiticus per plate; and plates were incubated at 28° C for 10 days.
Huawei, Internet Governance, and IEEPA Reform

This paper examines the U.S. International Economic Emergency Powers Act (IEEPA) as a source of authority for President Donald Trump’s recent Executive Order restricting the use of telecommunications equipment manufactured by the Chinese company Huawei. The paper concludes that President Trump’s action would likely be upheld under IEEPA as currently written and interpreted by the courts. This conclusion reinforces calls in Congress to reform IEEPA. An “emergency” power should not provide authority for ordinary trade policy or for large policy questions relating to global Internet governance. The U.S. should develop a more consistent, regular process for ensuring the security and reliability of Internet infrastructure, in coordination with the international community.
Polycomb repressive complex 2 mutations predict survival benefit in advanced cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors

Background Numerous biomarkers are being tested to enhance the ability of clinicians to predict responses and prognosis after treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) is a histone methyltransferase family that plays a major role in chromatin silencing. Preclinical evidence implicates PRC2 components such as enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) in immune resistance. This study aimed to assess the clinical relevance of PRC2 mutations in the clinical outcome of ICI-treated patients. Materials and methods Next-generation sequencing (NGS) data from tumor samples of patients treated with ICIs (anti-PD-1/PD-L1, anti-CTLA-4 or both) were interrogated for alterations in PRC2-related genes. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to assess the association between altered and unaltered PRC2-related genes with overall survival. Results Somatic NGS data from 1662 advanced-stage, ICI-treated patients with various primaries (lung, melanoma, bladder, kidney, head neck, esophagogastric, glioma, colorectal, breast, unknown primary) were examined. Seventy patients (4%) harbored truncating or missense mutations or fusions in EZH2 (2.4%), EZH1 (1.2%), SUZ12 (0.9%) or EED (0.7%) genes. Patients carrying alterations in PRC2 genes had significantly longer median overall survival (44 months) compared with those with unaltered tumors (18 months, log-rank P=0.0174). These findings were validated in two additional cohorts of patients (n=313) with various primaries (melanoma, lung, bladder, head neck, anal, sarcoma) who were treated with ICIs. Conclusions Inactivating mutations in the PRC2 chromatin silencing machinery, although rare, may predict favorable outcomes in ICI-treated patients with metastatic cancers. This warrants prospective confirmation, and suggests that epigenetic regulators could serve as surrogate markers to guide ICI treatment decisions.
Sequence model evaluation framework for STARR-seq peak calling

Enhancers are short regions of non-coding DNA that increase transcription rates of genes despite being located distantly from the genes themselves [5]. Enhancers are identified through experimental techniques such as ChIP-Seq or CUT&RUN with H3K4me1 and H3K27ac histone modifications, self-transcribing active regulatory region sequencing (STARR-Seq), and massively parallel reporter assays (MPRA). Machine learning models have been used in conjunction with experimental data to identify enhancer activity from sequences [3], predict enhancer-transcription factor interactions [4], and decode the enhancer regulatory language [2]. We describe a framework that connects peak calling errors to the prediction accuracy of sequence models. The key assumptions of our framework are that (1) enhancers have consistent sequence patterns that can be used to separate enhancers from control sequences, (2) errors in the training data impact prediction accuracies in predictable ways, and (3) prediction accuracy is a useful proxy for evaluating peak calling accuracy. In the framework, data sets are constructed from peak (positive) and randomly sampled (control) sequences. Machine learning models are trained and evaluated on the sequences in a cross-chromosome (cross-fold) setup. Lastly, precision of the originating peaks are evaluated by calculating true and false positive rates. We applied our framework to evaluate peaks for D. melanogaster STARR-Seq data [1] called with the MACS software [6]. Although designed for ChIP-Seq data, MACS can be used to process other types of data, but users must be careful about parameter choices. We evaluated different parameter combinations with our framework and visual comparisons of called peaks. True and false positive rates ranged from a high of 88.0% to a low of 74.7% and from a low of 18.6% to a high of 49.4%, respectively. The default MACS parameters produced the highest true and lowest false positive rates, suggesting that the default parameters are also suitable for STARR-Seq data. Our results demonstrate the utility of our framework through a practical application and provide a base for future development.