cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sweating the Assets: Asset Leanness and Financial Performance in the Motor Carrier Industry

Originally adopted by the automotive manufacturers, lean management practices have since been applied to many other manufacturing industries. This study reviews the different theoretical perspectives on the leanness-performance relationship in the context of the motor carriage industry. Drawing on both the lean management in logistics and organizational slack literatures, we develop hypotheses addressing the link between asset leanness and financial performance. These hypotheses are empirically tested using a comprehensive panel data set of 1,172 firm-quarter observations from the U.S. publicly traded truckload motor carriers. Initially expecting an inverted U-shaped relationship between asset leanness and performance, findings indicated a U-shaped relationship, both for carriers' total assets and the subset of trailer assets.
Postoperative Calcium Management in Same-Day Discharge Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery:

ObjectiveTo describe a safe and effective postoperative prophylactic calcium regimen for same-day discharge thyroid and parathyroid surgery.Study DesignCase series with chart review.SettingTertiary...
A new finding on the role of LiNO3 in lithium-sulfur battery

Abstract Lithium nitrate (LiNO3) is the most studied additive and co-salt for the electrolyte of lithium-sulfur (Li–S) batteries, its known function is to suppress the redox shuttle of soluble lithium polysulfide (PS, Li2Sn), which reflects as an increase in the battery’s coulombic efficiency and cycling stability, as well as a reduced self-discharge rate. The current understanding on this function is that LiNO3 reacts with Li to form a robust surface layer that consequently protects the Li anode from reacting with the dissolved PS. However, little is known on the sulfur cathode except that LiNO3 reduces and adversely affects the battery’s performance when the battery is discharged to lower than 1.7 V. In this paper we report a new finding on the role of LiNO3 in enabling the stable cycling of the sulfur cathode. We show that LiNO3 is capable of catalyzing the conversion of high soluble PS to slightly soluble elemental sulfur near the end of charging process, and that the combination of a soluble nitrate in the electrolyte and an insoluble nitrate in the sulfur cathode leads to synergetic improvement. In addition, a possible mechanism is proposed for the catalysis of LiNO3 on the conversion of PS to elemental sulfur.
Etiology and epidemiological characteristics of hand-foot-mouth disease in Jinan in 2012

Objective To analyze epidemiological features and etiological characteristics of hand-foot-mouth disease(HFMD) in Jinan in 2012 and provide scientific data for HFMD prevention and control.Methods The real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR was used to detect human enterovirus type 71(HEV71),Coxsackievirus A16(CVA16) and other enterovirus(PE) simultaneously.Results Of the 859 specimens with hand-foot-mouth disease collected from hospitals(including 46 severe cases),the positive of human enterovirus was 662,accounting for 77.1%.Children infected with HEV71 and CVA16 accounted for 22.1%(190 /859) and 41.9%(360 /859),respectively.8 cases(0.9%) were found to have a mixed infection with HEV71 and CVA16,and 104 cases were infected with other enterovirus(12.1%).These cases were mostly occured in children less than 6 years old.The common cases were mainly infected with CVA16,while HEV71 was the main pathogen in severe cases,and the ages of the severe cases were mostly below3 years old.Conclusion In 2012,the major pathogen causing HFMD in Jinan was CVA16,and the co-infection of HEV71 and CVA16 existed;while HEV71 was more common in severe cases and the children who suffered were less than 3 years old.
A Conceptual Graphs Framework for Teaching UML Model-Based Requirements Acquisition

Students that first learn multiple-viewed requirements modeling with UML diagrams tend to create incomplete and inconsistent models. Complex requirements and numerous modeling elements in UML often overwhelm students and make it hard for them to even notice such flaws in the models. Useful feedback can help students revise their UML models to be more complete. In this paper, we introduce a novel approach of teaching UML modeling and requirements acquisition. A knowledge-based framework is proposed to help reveal incompleteness and inconsistency in a set of models developed by students. This approach can drive the process of acquiring requirements for each UML model. The proposed framework is based on a central knowledge representation, the conceptual graphs.
Laboratory and Field Measurements of Hoarding Behaviour in the Honeybee

SummaryHoarding behaviour was measured in the laboratory by putting 50 newly emerged bees into a small box-like cage and noting the time the bees required to remove 20 ml of sugar syrup from their feeder, some of which was consumed and some stored in their comb. Bees from brood of the same colony usually required similar times; bees from brood of different colonies varied widely. The time required by bees from 21 colonies in these laboratory tests was negatively correlated with the weight gained by the colonies in the field (r = −0·33). It is suggested that the laboratory test may therefore provide an indication of colony hoarding behaviour, which directly affects the weight gained and consequently the honey production by the colony.
Feasibility of Quantitative and Morphometric Bone Analysis Using a Next Generation Digital PET/CT Platform

1990 Objectives Despite the frequent use of whole-body PET/CT imaging in oncologic patients and their common risk for disease- and treatment-related changes in bone microarchitecture and density, CT imaging associated with PET scanning is not evaluated regarding its potential for morphometric bone change. There is a clinical need to assess and identify patients who are at risk of fractures related to those changes. One of the standard techniques for assessing bone morphometrics at different skeletal sites is quantitative CT. The objective of this study is to generate feasibility data showing that a next-generation digital PET/CT platform can also be used to provide additional quantitative and morphometric assessment of skeletal structures. Methods The 6th rib and tibia of cadavers (n=55) were imaged using a digital PET/CT (Vereos) with the following CT parameters: 120 kV, 1024x1024=matrix, slice thickness=0.67 mm, pixel size=0. 0.335 mm, and a dose of 358 (rib) or 262 mA (tibia). All reconstructed images were converted and analyzed using Bruker Skyscan CTAn software. Volumes-of-interest (10 slices=6.7 mm) were defined in the tibia at 38% segment length proximal to the distal plate and at the mid-shaft (50%) of the 6th rib. One subject was run every day over a five day time period in order to evaluate reproducibility. Additionally, one tibia and one rib was cut (3 mm sample) and micro-CT performed. The accuracy was determined by comparing the microCT data to the clinical CT. All VOIs were re-oriented in the xy direction and aligned along the z-axis prior to analysis. Binarisation and automated edge detection were used to isolate the cortical bone. Results The reproducibility, as reflected by relative standard deviation (%RSD), was better than 1% for all parameters in the tibia Likewise, precision in the 6th rib was better than 5.5%. Comparison to the microCT to the CT revealed a variance of less than 5% for the following parameters in the tibia: BV/TV (%), cortical bone area (B.Ar, mm2), total bone area (T.Ar, mm2), moment of inertia (MMIpolar, mm4), and BMD. For the rib, the variance was 0.8, n=55) were observed between MMIpolar vs B.Ar and MMIpolar vs T.Ar. Conclusions Quantitative and morphometric CT assessment of osseous structures is feasible using a modern digital PET/CT platform and can facilitate the ready morphometric assessment of bones from the spinal column to extremities. This opens up the use of quantitative CT-based bone metrics in conjunction with specific PET radiotracer uptake (e.g., Na18F, 18F-FDG) to assess and monitor disease-/treatment-related osteoporosis, osseous metastases and pathologic fractures.
Accidental Intrathecal Injection of Ionic Contrast: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Background Ionic contrast, if accidentally injected into the intrathecal space during routine imaging studies or interventional procedures, may significantly interfere with neuronal activity, potentially causing ascending tonic-clonic seizure syndrome and even death. As a result, ionic contrast is strictly contraindicated for intrathecal use. Rapid recognition of the condition followed by prompt management, typically involving aggressive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage, is critical to improving patient outcome. Lumbar drain has previously been well described as a management strategy. Case Description We present a case of accidental intrathecal injection of an ionic contrast agent, iothalamate meglumine, in a patient undergoing cervical epidural steroid injection. This patient was managed successfully with drainage of CSF using an external ventricular drain alone. Conclusion Our literature review and analysis of the previously published cases demonstrate that aggressive CSF drainage is essential to improve outcomes, and in some cases an external ventricular drain alone may be effectively used.
Mainstreaming usability in lower level undergraduate design courses

Usability is an important and well recognized consideration within the design process in fields such as industrial design and human factors but until recently has received more limited attention within engineering. The topic of usability is often relegated to the senior capstone design project where the project topic might not be amenable to a broad in depth discussion of the topic. This paper emphasizes the need to include usability in lower level design courses and suggests possible methods for including the topic in both lecture and project based design courses without substantially altering the existing overall course objectives.
Cretaceous partial melting, deformation, and exhumation of the Potters Pond migmatite domain, west-central Idaho

The Potters Pond migmatite domain (PPMD) is a heterogeneous zone of migmatites located ∼10 km southwest of Cascade, Idaho, within the western Idaho shear zone (WISZ). The PPMD is the only known exposure of migmatites within the WISZ over its ∼300 km length, occurring where the shear zone orientation changes from 024° south to 005° north of the migmatite domain. Structural mapping within the PPMD has identified multiple generations of migmatite with varied structural fabrics. Leucosome layers were sampled from distinct migmatite localities and morphologies (e.g., metatexite and diatexite) to determine the timing and duration of partial melting in the PPMD. U-Pb age determinations of zircon by means of laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) document two periods of protracted migmatite crystallization during the Early and Late Cretaceous. Early Cretaceous (ca. 145–128 Ma) migmatite crystallization ages are coeval with the collision and suturing of oceanic terranes of the Blue Mountains province with North America and the formation of the Salmon River suture zone (SRSZ). Migmatite crystallization ages from ca. 104–90 Ma are associated with Late Cretaceous dextral transpression in the WISZ. Field observations and geochronology of crosscutting leucosome relationships are interpreted to record deep crustal deformation and anatexis associated with formation of the SRSZ, subsequently overprinted by solid-state deformation and renewed anatexis during the evolution of the WISZ. These data are the first direct evidence of the synmetamorphic fabric related to the SRSZ east of the initial Sr 0.706 isopleth and indicate that the WISZ is a temporally distinct overprinting structure.
Progress in Nurturing Human Well-Being

Substantial evidence in the behavioral and social sciences has accrued in support of numerous intervention programs and policies bearing on improving the lives of children and families. To this end, Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review features a special journal issue on "Evolving Toward a More Nurturing Society." The field has achieved numerous advances regarding how to create and promote nurturing environments that foster successful development and prevent psychological and behavioral problems in children and youth. Such advances cut across multiple strategies (e.g., programs and interventions, practices, and public policies), settings (e.g., family, school including preschool and K-12, service sectors, community), domains (e.g., behavioral health, parenting, cognitive and academic functioning, nutrition, physical activity, obesity, safety, and many other domains), and developmental periods of childhood. The special journal issue showcases a sampling of strategies and domains relevant to producing optimal conditions of nurturance for children and families.
Lattice Boltzmann simulation of pressure-driven two-phase flows in capillary tube and porous medium

Abstract In this study, we present lattice Boltzmann simulations of two-phase immiscible displacements driven by constant pressure differentials. The method to implement the pressure boundary condition is based on bounce-back of the total non-equilibrium distribution. Simulations show that phase and pressure distributions are consistent with the imposed pressure boundaries. The accuracy was verified by simulating flows in a capillary tube, a problem with a moving interface for which an analytical solution is available. Following the verification, we simulated two-phase immiscible displacements in a random sphere packing and characterized the effects of capillary number, viscosity ratio, and wettability on the dynamics of displacement and the relative permeability.
The “Grey Area”: A Computational Approach to Model the Zone of Proximal Development

In this paper, we propose a computational approach to model the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) using predicted probabilities of correctness while students engage in reflective dialogue. We employ a predictive model that uses a linear function of a variety of parameters, including difficulty and student knowledge, as students use a natural-language tutoring system that presents conceptual reflection questions after they solve high-school physics problems. In order to operationalize our approach, we introduce the concept of the “Grey Area”, that is, the area of uncertainty in which the student model cannot predict with acceptable accuracy whether a student is able to give a correct answer without support. We further discuss the impact of our approach on student modeling, the limitations of this work and future work in systematically and rigorously evaluating the approach.
The Identity and Demography of the Plains-Ojibwa

One of the largest Indian tribes of the northern praries is the Bungi or Plains-Ojibwa, Despite their importance in the historic period they go unmentioned in most histories. In large part this is ...
Pulsatile pipe flow transition: Flow waveform effects

Although transition is known to exist in various hemodynamic environments, the mechanisms that govern this flow regime and their subsequent effects on biological parameters are not well understood. Previous studies have investigated transition in pulsatile pipe flow using non-physiological sinusoidal waveforms at various Womersley numbers but have produced conflicting results, and multiple input waveform shapes have yet to be explored. In this work, we investigate the effect of the input pulsatile waveform shape on the mechanisms that drive the onset and development of transition using particle image velocimetry, three pulsatile waveforms, and six mean Reynolds numbers. The turbulent kinetic energy budget including dissipation rate, production, and pressure diffusion was computed. The results show that the waveform with a longer deceleration phase duration induced the earliest onset of transition, while the waveform with a longer acceleration period delayed the onset of transition. In accord with the findings of prior studies, for all test cases, turbulence was observed to be produced at the wall and either dissipated or redistributed into the core flow by pressure waves, depending on the mean Reynolds number. Turbulent production increased with increasing temporal velocity gradients until an asymptotic limit was reached. The turbulence dissipation rate was shown to be independent of mean Reynolds number, but a relationship between the temporal gradients of the input velocity waveform and the rate of turbulence dissipation was found. In general, these results demonstrated that the shape of the input pulsatile waveform directly affected the onset and development of transition.Although transition is known to exist in various hemodynamic environments, the mechanisms that govern this flow regime and their subsequent effects on biological parameters are not well understood. Previous studies have investigated transition in pulsatile pipe flow using non-physiological sinusoidal waveforms at various Womersley numbers but have produced conflicting results, and multiple input waveform shapes have yet to be explored. In this work, we investigate the effect of the input pulsatile waveform shape on the mechanisms that drive the onset and development of transition using particle image velocimetry, three pulsatile waveforms, and six mean Reynolds numbers. The turbulent kinetic energy budget including dissipation rate, production, and pressure diffusion was computed. The results show that the waveform with a longer deceleration phase duration induced the earliest onset of transition, while the waveform with a longer acceleration period delayed the onset of transition. In accord with the find...
Many-Good Multiplier Analysis Under Traditional, Classical and Neo-Keynesian Conditions

The existence, uniqueness and stability of equilibrium are shown for an effective demand system with fixed prices and wages. This corresponds to a very short run, underemployment equilibrium which has four variants, with and without a transaction demand for money and with and without financial intermediaries. Later, with modest success, we allow for variable price levels but fixed relative prices and fixed real rates of interest. A tabulation is made of comparative statics and government stabilization policies in these cases. A major novelty is that aside from any associated increase in government spending, government open-market operations, namely selling bonds, are basically inflationary. This contrasts with the analysis in the IS-LM model, where real interest rates are variable and government open-market operations are deflationary. In the author’s opinion, experience supports the fixed real interest rate postulate and thus we have a strong criticism of the neo-Keynesian approach to short run stabilization policy.
Biological electron transport goes the extra mile.

Microorganisms stand out by the creative ways in which they gain energy during respiration. Using versatile metabolic networks, respiratory microorganisms harvest electrons from organic or inorganic donor molecules and transfer them to specialized electron transport chains, which redirect their flow toward a terminal electron acceptor. Respiratory electrons move with a purpose: to generate a transmembrane ion gradient, most often of protons, that drives the synthesis of ATP by the ATP synthase complex. Thus, the electron carriers team up and transfer electrons in sequential steps to minimize energy losses to heat while simultaneously pumping protons, consuming them in the cytoplasm, and/or releasing them outside the membrane (Fig. 1). In PNAS, Bjerg et al. (1) report that the electron transport chain of some marine bacteria sequentially transfers electrons at several millimeters, something long believed to be unattainable in biological systems. Fig. 1. Electron transport chains for the cytoplasmic reduction of O2 and fumarate in E. coli ( Left ) and the extracellular reduction of Fe(III) oxide minerals in G. sulfurreducens ( Right ). Abbreviations: bo3, cytochrome bo3; Frd, fumarate reductase complex; IM, inner membrane; MQ, menaquinone; MQH2, menaquinol; NDH I, NADH dehydrogenase complex I; OM, outer membrane; Omc, outer membrane cytochrome; PccB/C, porin-cytochrome complex B or C; PpcA–E, periplasmic cytochromes A–E; PS, periplasmic space; Qox, one of two putative quinol oxidases (ImcH and CbcL); UQ, ubiquinone; UQH2, ubiquinol. The traditional view of microbial electron transport chains is that of a set of membrane-bound electron carriers organized from high to low redox potentials to permit the spontaneous flow of electrons to the terminal electron acceptor (Fig. 1). The membrane carriers are not structurally linked so they can diffuse laterally in the membrane and collide with one another to promote the rapid exchange of electrons (2). The model bacterium Escherichia coli … [↵][1]1Email: reguera{at}msu.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Some Analysis of Microsegregation by Surface Transport during Sintering

Microsegregation in an homogeneous alloy during sintering was first demonstrated by Kuczynski et al. (1), for a bulk transport process. The effectiveness of bulk transport in causing segregation at internal voids has been explored by Anthony (2), and his analysis (3) of the transport process in the sintering geometry working from a grain boundary source is satisfactorily complete. That microsegregation can also be obtained by surface transport has recently been demonstrated most satisfactorily by Mishra et al., (4) in the preceding paper. Here the situation is somewhat more complex since the segregation that is developed by surface transport in the early stages of sintering tends to be obliterated by the bulk diffusion that takes place during the later stages of sintering. Moreover the deficit of the faster diffusing component in the erosion region disappears early while in the region of the sintering neck the excess of the faster component persists much longer.
Cross-Linking of Epidermal Fibrous Protein

The presence of the e-(γ-glutamyl)lysine cross-link in stratum corneum structural proteins was suggested by the finding of blocked lysine groups [5] and confirmed by the isolation of the cross-link in protein digests [1, 8, 11]. Steinert and Idler [10] proposed that cross-linked fibrous polypeptides existed by demonstrating high-molecular-weight components in SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) patterns of extracted stratum corneum protein. This project was undertaken in order to characterize and quantitate the number of cross-linked stratum corneum fibrous proteins.
Human behavior in mixed human-agent societies

Agents are increasingly being implemented on the many processors embedded in our environment, resulting in more frequent interactions between agents and humans and the emergence of mixed human-agent societies. We are attempting to cultivate an interdisciplinary understanding of productive human-agent societies by investigating characteristics of human cooperation toward software agents. The contribution of this work is an exploration characterizing direct and indirect behavior of humans toward agents by way of experimentation on human subjects. Preliminary investigation into human-agent interactions reveals that in a context involving direct and indirect behavior, humans will exhibit prosocial behaviors toward agents on par with those they exhibit toward humans. These results seem to support Reeves and Nass's media equation describing human interactions with media entities as equivalent to human interactions with humans.
Sea Urchins as Drivers of Shallow Benthic Marine Community Structure

Abstract Sea urchins may be the single most important consumer affecting shallow marine communities worldwide. Vast seagrass beds and kelp forests have been denuded by foraging aggregations of sea urchins resulting in loss of habitat, food and changes to the physical environment. On coral reefs, sea urchins shift algal communities from fleshy algae, hostile to corals, to encrusting coralline algae that facilitates coral recruitment and reef resilience. Sea urchins evolved unique foraging capabilities in the Mesozoic Era but their relatively small size, limited mobility and modest defenses made them susceptible to large Cenozoic vertebrate predators including sea otters and large fish. Global fishery-induced declines of predators over the past century may have contributed to sea-urchin hyperabundances. This trend reversed rapidly in recent decades by the global sea-urchin fishery. Fishing on predators and sea urchins altered the strength of interactions in food webs and in some places has created alternative stable states from which sea urchin population are slow or unable to recover.
The Explicit Nature of Educational Goals for the Twenty-first Century

This chapter includes the evidence of a shift in education towards an endorsement of the value of the acquisition of generalisable skills by students in their formal years of education. The skills of interest are often referred to as twenty-first century skills. The central question raised in this chapter concerns how education systems need to shift to accommodate an explicit focus on the development of twenty-first century skills rather than the adoption of broad frameworks. The position taken is that this shift cannot be successfully undertaken by focus on curriculum alone. The issue is discussed through highlighting the evidence of the shift and challenges to the shift. Two sources of data are brought to the discussion, in addition to the relevant literature. The first source of data is drawn from a global mapping of education systems’ adoption of a skills agenda; the second source of data is drawn from a regional study which explored the assessment of twenty-first century skills. These data are analysed to demonstrate both the ubiquity of the movement and the complexity of its implementation. Recommendations include the defining of key skills, development of practical approaches to early implementation through use of learning progressions and active pedagogies, and consideration of implications for teacher education.
Effects of ingestive mastication on particle dimensions and weight distribution of coastal bermudagrass hay fed to steers at four levels.

Coastal bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon [L.] Pers.) hay was fed in the long form to four ruminally cannulated steers to evaluate the effects of intake level on the physical reduction of feed particles during ingestive mastication. The experimental design was a 4 x 4 latin square with 18-d periods. Treatments based on previous intakes were set at 50, 70, 90 and 110% of feed consumed per animal and fed at 12-h intervals. Boli of ingested, masticated hay were collected at the cardia and separated by wet-sieving into fragments retained on sieves of .0027 to 4.0 mm (mesh aperture). In addition, particles retained on the 4.0-mm and 2.0-mm sieves were scanned by image analysis. Ingestive mastication resulted in a linear decrease (P less than .05) in the proportion of boli particles retained on the top (4.0-mm) sieve and linear increases on the 2.0- (P less than .02), 1.0- (P less than .06) and .25-mm (P less than .06) sieves with increasing level of intake. Sixteen to 21% of the ingested hay particles passed through a 1.0-mm sieve. Mean particle size, as determined by sieving data, decreased linearly (P less than .05) as feeding level increased. Image analysis showed no differences in length (L) or width (W) of particles retained on the 4.0- and 2.0-mm sieves as feeding level increased, but L/W decreased linearly (P less than .05) on both sieves. The frequency of jaw movements following feeding was very similar across feeding levels and averaged 71.3 chews/min.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Queering Tactical Technical Communication: DIY HRT

Given the barriers for transgender people to access affordable gender-transition care, online environments have witnessed a rise in user-generated instruction sets providing direction on the self-a...
Comparison of Subscapularis Management and Repair Techniques.

Management of the subscapularis tendon is a crucial step during the approach for total shoulder arthroplasty. The method of mobilizing the tendon and the technique used to repair it determine the i...
Long-term survival of dogs treated for gallbladder mucocele by cholecystectomy, medical management, or both.

BACKGROUND Gallbladder mucoceles (GBM) typically are treated by cholecystectomy. Medical management rarely has been reported and medical and surgical management have not been compared. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES To compare survival of dogs treated for GBM by medical management or cholecystectomy or both. ANIMALS Eighty-nine client-owned dogs diagnosed with GBM that received cholecystectomy or medical treatment or both from 2011 to 2017. METHODS Potential cases were identified by searching the medical records database. Data collected included signalment, clinicopathologic results, treatments, and ultrasonographic images and reports. Dogs were grouped according to the treatment received (medical management, surgical treatment, or both) that was chosen at the discretion of the attending veterinarian. Survival analysis was performed and prognostic variables identified and compared between treatment groups. RESULTS Of dogs surviving at least 14 days after diagnosis, median survival times were 1802 (95% confidence interval [CI], 855-not reached) days, 1340 (95% CI, 444-1340) days, and 203 (95% CI, 18-525) days, for the surgical, medical, and medical then surgical treatment groups, respectively, and differed significantly (P < .0001). Gallbladder mucocele type (P = .05), serum alkaline phosphatase activity (P = .0001), and serum creatinine (P = .002) and phosphorus (P = .04) concentrations were associated with decreased survival across groups. Suspicion of biliary rupture on abdominal ultrasound (AUS) examination was correlated with increased survival in the surgical group (P = .02). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Cholecystectomy for the treatment of GBM results in the best long-term survival in dogs surviving the immediate postoperative period (14 days) compared to medical management. Although medical management is associated with shorter survival compared to surgical treatment, it is a reasonable alternative when surgery cannot be pursued.
Establishment of brain natriuretic peptide ‐ based criteria for evaluating cardiac response to treatment in light chain (AL) amyloidosis

Severity of cardiac involvement remains the leading determinant of survival in light chain (AL) amyloidosis. Until recently, cardiac response after treatment relied on reduction of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). In this study, 94 patients with AL amyloidosis (baseline BNP ≥150 pg/ml) had BNP measured at 6 months following treatment. Median overall survival was not reached for cardiac response (≥50 pg/ml and ≥ 30% decrease in BNP), 9·2 years for cardiac stability (<50 pg/ml and <30% change in BNP) and 2·8 years for cardiac progression (≥50 pg/ml or ≥30% increase in BNP) (log-rank P < 0·001). Cardiac response and progression, as measured by BNP values, are significantly associated with survival in AL amyloidosis.
Street-Level Realities of Data Practices in Homeless Services Provision

Quantification and standardization of concepts like risk and vulnerability are increasingly being used in high-stakes, client-facing social services, also presenting the potential for data-driven tools for decision-making in this context. These trends necessitate an understanding of the role of quantitative data in the work of street-level decision-makers in social services. We present a qualitative study of existing data practices and perceptions of potential data-driven tools in housing allocation, engaging the perspective of service providers and policymakers in homeless services in a large urban county in the United States. Our findings highlight participants' concerns around centering clients' choices and ensuring integrity in a resource-constrained, high-stakes context. We also highlight differences between the perspectives of policymakers and service providers on standardization and fairness in the decision-making process. We discuss how use of and policies around data in social services need to consider the importance of the relationships that client-facing service providers have with other workers in the organization, with their work, and with clients.
An Evolving (Dis)Information Environment – How an Engaging Audience Can Spread Narratives and Shape Perception: A Trident Juncture 2018 Case Study

This chapter provides an overview of the evolving YouTube information environment during the NATO Trident Juncture 2018 exercise. The spread of information is no longer solely driven by information actors publishing content on social media, but also by the audience that interacts with it. Engagement features, such as comments and replies, allow an audience to interact with the publisher and other users. This research focuses on the impact that commenters on YouTube have on boosting influence for channels. YouTube channels are able to interact with their audience in the comment section which can be used and abused to spread messages and disinformation. This study focuses specifically on YouTube comments posted around the 2018 Trident Juncture exercise, the largest NATO exercise in recent decades, and identifies how commenters propel video’s popularity while potentially shaping human behavior through perception. YouTube is the most popular social media site for video sharing. With that, YouTube channels influence human network behavior by shaping perceptions; simultaneously, commenters on these channels boost search engine results which promulgates higher returns on search engines. Presented is an in-depth analysis of comments and commenters on YouTube channels covering Trident Juncture. Comments by individuals drove both popularity and perception. Additionally, commenters helped in amplifying the messages of the channels. This research reveals effective communication strategies that are often overlooked but highly effective to gain tempo and increase legitimacy in the overall information environment.
A rapid PCR-RFLP method for species identification of the eastern Pacific horn sharks (genus Heterodontus)

Accurate species identification is essential for the successful implementation of species conservation strategies and research. East Pacific horn sharks (genus Heterodontus) may be subject to overfishing and depletion in some areas, mandating an assessment of risk and vulnerability to exploitation. Unfortunately, morphological identification of the three eastern Pacific species can be challenging, creating uncertainty about species identifications and the true extent of their respective ranges. To address this problem, we developed a PCR-RFLP method to quickly and accurately identify the three species of Heterodontus occupying the coastlines and islands of the eastern Pacific (H. francisci, H. mexicanus, and H. quoyi). The PCR-RFLP assay requires only a single amplification of the mitochondrial NADH2 locus (1216 bp) and a single digestion step with restriction enzyme AluI. The assay was tested on 67 individuals representing all three species and resulted in unambiguous species identification for 100% of individuals tested.
Power outage prediction for natural hazards using synthetic power distribution systems

Abstract Power outage prediction for natural hazards usually relies on one of two approaches, statistical models or fragility-based methods. Statistical models have provided strong predictive accuracy, but only in an area-aggregated manner. Fragility-based approaches have not offered strong prediction accuracy and have been limited to systems for which system topology or performance models are available. In this paper, we create an algorithm that (1) generates a synthetic power system layout for any U.S. city based only on public data and then (2) simulates power outages at the level of individual buildings under hazard loading using fragility functions. This approach provides much more localized, building-level estimates of the likelihood of losing power due to a natural hazard. We validate our model by comparing the network properties and power outage events based on our approach with data from a real power system in Ohio. We find that our model relies on less input data comparing to statistical learning approaches yet can make accurate predictions, provided accurate fragility curves are available.
MHD micropolar nanofluid with non Fourier and non Fick's law

Abstract The present study addresses the magnetohydrodynamic micropolar nanofluid past a stretching sheet. All the analysis are carried out by using non-Fourier and non-Fick's models. The effect of viscous dissipation, thermal radiation and Ohmic heating have also been incorporated in the energy equation. After using similarity transformations the modeled PDEs are converted into ODEs and solution is achieved via shooting approach. The solution of these transformed equations is used to obtain the distribution of the heat and mass transfer coefficient over the sheet. The impact of different parameters on dimensionless profiles are analyzed graphically for different range of values. Our simulations depicts that the concentration relaxation parameter declines the energy and the concentration profiles.
Effects of dietary fiber and distillers grains on enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli hide contamination prior to slaughter in feedlot steers

Hides of cattle at slaughter serve as an important source for carcass contamination by enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC). The objective of this study was to determine whether the presence of distillers grains (DGS) or the level of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) affects hide contamination by EHEC prior to slaughter in feedlot steers.
Is a HIP Always a HIP? The Case of Learning Communities

With the increasing adoption of learning communities, it is imperative to document their effectiveness. Using a large, longitudinal, multi-institutional dataset, we found that linked-learning commu...
Improving Learning Outcomes and Metacognitive Monitoring: Replacing Traditional Textbook Readings with Question-Embedded Videos

When students effectively engage with textbooks or videos prior to class, more active and collaborative learning activities can be incorporated into subsequent face-to-face learning. Such pre-lecture assignments are particularly important in flipped classrooms, where a portion of the content is delivered primarily before face-to-face instruction. While a large amount of research has addressed the need to improve active learning during lectures, little work has examined the need to improve out-of-class preparation. Most often, out-of-class preparation consists of videos or assigned textbook readings, but question-embedded videos have also been shown to be effective. When using question-embedded videos, students must pause the video and solve problems as they watch the video, transforming their passive video watching into an active learning experience. Here, we present the results of a randomized control trial study that compares learning behaviors and outcomes between students using content-equivalent resources: organic chemistry textbook readings or question-embedded videos. We found that students who used question-embedded videos for their preparation had significantly higher learning gains and metacognitive monitoring proficiencies than students who used textbook readings. These results indicate that question-embedded videos enforce more productive feedback-driven problem-solving behaviors than textbook readings, which leads to substantial gains in performance and metacognitive monitoring, better preparing students for in-class instruction.
Upright walking has driven unique vascular specialization of the hominin ilium.

Background A novel physis in hominins modulates broadening and shortening of the ilium. We report analysis of a vascular canal system whose origin may be associated with this physis and which appears to be also unique to hominins. Its presence is potentially identifiable in the fossil record by its association with a highly enlarged foramen that is consistently present in modern humans and hominin fossils. Methods We measured the diameter of this foramen in humans, fossil hominins, and African great apes and corrected for body size. Results The mean relative human foramen diameter is significantly greater than those of either Pan or Gorilla. Moreover, eight of the nine values of the Cohen's d for these differences in ratios are highly significant and support the ordering of magnitudes: Pan < Gorilla < Homo. The relative foramen diameter of A.L. 288-1 is above the 75th percentile of all other hominoids and at the high end of humans. The foramen is also present in ARA-VP-6/500. Conclusions We posit that the presence and significant enlargement of this foramen in fossils can reasonably serve as an indicator that its anterior inferior iliac spine emerged via the unique hominin physis. The foramen can therefore serve as an indicator of hominin iliac ontogenetic specialization for bipedality in fossil taxa.
Effects of diabetes and obesity on cognitive impairment and mortality in older mexicans.

Abstract Background Diabetes is a risk factor for dementia and mortality, while obesity later in life is associated with a reduced risk. Their co-occurrence, diabesity, is common, but its association with dementia and mortality is unclear. Methods Using data from the Mexican Health and Aging Study, we used multinomial logistic regression to examine the associations of diabetes and body mass index (BMI), and diabesity, in 2012, with cognitive impairment and mortality in 2018, among participants aged ≥60 years with normal cognition at baseline (n = 7,885). Results Diabetes was associated with cognitive impairment, compared to not having diabetes (RRR=1.83, 95% CI=1.48–2.26). BMI was not associated with cognitive impairment. Regarding mortality, diabetes was associated with an increased risk (RRR=2.28, 95% CI=1.98–2.63) and being overweight or having obesity was associated with a reduced risk (RRR=0.74, 95% CI=0.65–0.86; RRR=0.79, 95% CI= 0.66–0.95). When BMI and diabetes were combined, having diabetes only (RRR=2.01, 95% CI=1.40–2.87), being overweight with diabetes (RRR=1.42, 95% CI=1.02–1.97) or having diabesity (RRR=1.50, 95% CI=1.08–2.06) were associated with cognitive impairment, compared to having a normal BMI without diabetes. Diabetes, regardless of BMI, was associated with an increased risk of mortality, while being overweight or having obesity was associated with a reduced risk of mortality. Conclusions With the increase in the prevalence of obesity and diabetes among Mexicans, it is important to understand how these conditions and their co-occurrence impact cognitive impairment and mortality. Among older Mexicans, diabesity is associated with 6-year mortality and cognitive impairment onset, likely driven by the effect of diabetes.
Carotid spot sign: an early marker of carotid artery injury (P5.162)

Objective Exploring the importance of urgent vascular imaging in traumatic brain injury (TBI) Background Hyperdense artery sign on Computed tomography (CT) is a well-established marker of acute thrombo-embolic occlusion. Traumatic vascular injury (TVI) is a potentially devastating complication of TBI. We discuss a patient with TVI secondary to TBI who had a carotid hyperdense sign. Methods Thirty-one year old male involved in a motorcycle accident. He arrived the Emergency department intubated with Glasgow coma scale (GCS) of 8. On exam he had anisocoria, facial injuries, and able to move all extremities. A head CT was unrevealing. The next morning he was noted to be flaccid on the right side with dilated fixed left pupil. A repeat CT revealed a left cerebral ischemic stroke. CT angiogram (CTA) revealed left internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion. The patient had a prolonged hospital course and was discharged with NIHSS of 18. A careful retrospective review of his first CT reviled a left ICA hyperdense sign. Result TVI though a rare complication of TBI has high mortality and morbidity. Diagnosis of TVI is usually delayed due to lack of presenting neurologic deficits, the need to manage more visible life-threatening injuries and poor neurologic examination in intubated and sedated patients. Clinical signs that are suggestive of TVI include anisocoria, lateralizing neurologic deficits, neck tenderness, cervical bruit and cervical spine injury. CTA, MRI with fat suppression and digital subtraction cerebral angiography can aid in diagnosis of TVI. The case above illustrates a TBI patient with a hyperdense carotid sign at presentation; about 18 hours later, he was diagnosed with a large ischemic stroke which was due to TVI. Conclusion TBI patients need prompt evaluation for TVI. A hyperdense artery sign is an early indicator of TVI in patients with otherwise normal CT and non-focal exam. Disclosure: Dr. Gyang has nothing to disclose. Dr. Latorre has nothing to disclose.
The potential of asset-based development strategies for poverty alleviation in Sub-Saharan Africa

Ssewamala FM, Sperber, ES, Zimmerman JM, Karimli L. The potential of asset-based development strategies for poverty alleviation in Sub-Saharan Africa Int J Soc Welfare 2010: 19: 433–443 © 2010 The Author(s), Journal compilation © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd and International Journal of Social Welfare. This article explores the potential of a relatively new approach to social development as a poverty alleviation strategy in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA): asset-based development, an integrated approach to human, social, and economic capital formation. It considers the theoretical framework guiding asset-based development and the accompanying set of programmatic and policy-level tools for poverty alleviation in SSA. After considering the recent historical and theoretical contexts of the approach, the authors examine the potential of asset-based development programs, specifically savings-led microfinance programs for the poor, to engender development and, more specifically, poverty alleviation in the region. Major challenges and directions for future research are presented.
Pervasive Application Development and the WYSIWYG Pitfall

Development of application front-ends that are designed for deployment on multiple devices requires facilities for specifying device-independent semantics. This paper focuses on the user-interface requirements for specifying device-independent layout constraints. We describe a device independent application model, and detail a set of high-level constraints that support automated layout on a wide variety of target platforms. We then focus on the problems that are inherent in any single-view direct-manipulation WYSIWYG interface for specifying such constraints. We propose a two-view interface designed to address those problems, and discuss how this interface effectively meets the requirements of abstract specification for pervasive applications.
Association Rule Based Feature Extraction for Character Recognition

Association rules that represent isomorphisms among data have gained importance in exploratory data analysis because they can find inherent, implicit, and interesting relationships among data. They are also commonly used in data mining to extract the conditions among attribute values that occur together frequently in a dataset [1]. These rules have wide range of applications, namely in the financial and retail sectors of marketing, sales, and medicine.