cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Increased risk of 30-day hospital readmission among patients discharged against medical advice: a nationwide analysis

Abstract Purpose Annually, 1%–2% of hospitalized patients are discharged against medical advice (AMA), positioning them at an increased risk of readmission, morbidity, and mortality. Our study aim was to examine 30-day all-cause readmission rates and estimate readmission odds among AMA discharges in the United States, across clinically distinct diagnostic subgroups. Methods We conducted a retrospective, serial cross-sectional analysis of data from the 2010–2017 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Descriptive statistics and 30-day all-cause readmission rates for hospitalizations among adults aged 18 years or older were estimated by major diagnostic subgroup, discharge disposition, and patient and hospital characteristics. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using multipredictor logistic regression. Results We found the AMA discharge to be an independent predictor of hospital readmission within 30 days, with a 25.6% readmission rate and an overall adjusted likelihood of readmission that was almost double to quadruple that of routine discharges. Furthermore, although hospitalizations experienced decreased odds of readmission after the Hospital Readmission Reduction Program implementation (October 1, 2012), our results demonstrate that the Hospital Readmission Reduction Program did not modify the impact of an AMA discharge on readmission. Conclusion These findings have implications for practice, policies, and interventions aimed at improving care quality, preventing AMA discharge, and reducing hospital readmissions in inpatient settings.
Estimation for heterogeneous traffic using enhanced particle filters

This article explores the state estimation problem for heterogeneous traffic (vehicles with distinct driving behaviours) using particle filtering (PF) approaches. We consider three variations of PF...
Abstract P641: Risk and Predictors of New Cancer Diagnoses After Acute Ischemic Stroke

Introduction: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) may be the first sign of occult cancer. We aimed to better define the incidence of cancer in the year after AIS and to identify clinical factors associated...
Exact and fast solution of ultrarelativistic multibunch instabilities in a constant gradient accelerator

The electromagnetic wakefields excited by the bunches of charged particles in the particle accelerators may cause instability in the longitudinal and transverse motion of these bunches leading to the beam loss. These multibunch effects need to be analyzed carefully in an accelerator design to ensure the stability of the charged particle beams. This paper presents an analytical method describing the multibunch transverse instabilities for ultrarelativistic electron bunches whose energy changes linearly through the accelerating section of interest. Fast algorithmic implementations of this analytical method are presented for the general as well as the specific cases and this method is demonstrated with an example. This tool can also be applied to study single-bunch beam breakup.
Private Bond Restructurings : Lessons for the Case of Sovereign Debtors

This paper reviews recent experience with both sovereign and private bond restructurings. It also summarizes the literature on private bond restructurings and describes the “typical” process for a voluntary exchange of new bonds for existing obligations. From this information some conclusions are drawn as to the possibility of concluding voluntary restructuring agreements for sovereign bonds within relatively short periods of time.
The Alzheimer's gene SORL1 is a key regulator of endosomal recycling in human neurons

Background: Loss of the Sortilin-related receptor 1 (SORL1) gene seems to act as a causal event for Alzheimer9s disease (AD). Recent studies have established that loss of SORL1, as well as mutations in autosomal dominant AD genes APP and PSEN1/2, pathogenically converge by swelling early endosomes, AD9s cytopathological hallmark. Acting together with the retromer trafficking complex, SORL1 has been shown to regulate the recycling of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) out of the endosome, contributing to endosomal swelling and to APP misprocessing. We hypothesized that SORL1 plays a broader role in neuronal endosomal recycling and used human induced pluripotent stem cell derived neurons (hiPSC-Ns) to test this hypothesis. We examined endosomal recycling of three transmembrane proteins linked to AD pathophysiology: APP, the BDNF receptor Tropomyosin-related kinase B (TRKB), and the glutamate receptor subunit AMPA1 (GLUA1). Methods: We used isogenic hiPSCs engineered to have SORL1 depleted or to have enhanced SORL1 expression. We differentiated neurons from these cell lines and mapped the trafficking of APP, TRKB and GLUA1 within the endosomal network using confocal microscopy. We also performed cell surface recycling and lysosomal degradation assays to assess the functionality of the endosomal network. Finally, we analyzed alterations in gene expression in SORL1 depleted neurons using RNA-sequencing. Results: We find that as with APP, endosomal trafficking of GLUA1 and TRKB is impaired by loss of SORL1. Conversely, increased SORL1 expression enhances endosomal recycling for APP and GLUA1. Our unbiased transcriptomic data further support SORL19s role in endosomal recycling. We observe altered expression networks that regulate cell surface trafficking and neurotrophic signaling Conclusion: Collectively, and together with other recent observations, these findings suggest that SORL1 is a key and broad regulator of retromer-dependent endosomal recycling in neurons, a conclusion that has both pathogenic and therapeutic implications for Alzheimer9s disease.
A Deep Signed Directional Distance Function for Object Shape Representation.

Neural networks that map 3D coordinates to signed distance function (SDF) or occupancy values have enabled high-fidelity implicit representations of object shape. This paper develops a new shape model that allows synthesizing novel distance views by optimizing a continuous signed directional distance function (SDDF). Similar to deep SDF models, our SDDF formulation can represent whole categories of shapes and complete or interpolate across shapes from partial input data. Unlike an SDF, which measures distance to the nearest surface in any direction, an SDDF measures distance in a given direction. This allows training an SDDF model without 3D shape supervision, using only distance measurements, readily available from depth camera or Lidar sensors. Our model also removes post-processing steps like surface extraction or rendering by directly predicting distance at arbitrary locations and viewing directions. Unlike deep view-synthesis techniques, such as Neural Radiance Fields, which train high-capacity black-box models, our model encodes by construction the property that SDDF values decrease linearly along the viewing direction. This structure constraint not only results in dimensionality reduction but also provides analytical confidence about the accuracy of SDDF predictions, regardless of the distance to the object surface.
Exhibiting Benin Court Art in London: Three Case Studies

Using a comparative approach, this paper considers how three museums in London engage with the complicated ethical issues involved when Western museums display works of art from the Benin Kingdom. As is well known, nearly all of the Benin court art on display in Western collections arrived by way of the Benin Punitive Expedition of 1897, a brutal display of military might on the cusp of British colonization of the region. The continued presence of Benin court art in Western collections remains, of course, highly contested. The three museums considered in this paper--the British Museum, the Horniman Museum, and the National Maritime Museum--take radically different approaches to the display of Benin court art. While the British Museum seeks to emphasize the aesthetic qualities of the works, the National Maritime Museum weaves the looting of the Benin court into a larger analysis of trade between Africa and Europe. The Horniman Museum, on the other hand, strives to develop new narratives by inviting guest curators to provide African perspectives. This paper will provide an analysis of the curatorial decisions made evident in these three cases, focusing on the ethical considerations involved in exhibiting Benin court art in modern-day Great Britain.
MYOCARDIAL ISCHEMIA AFTER MAXIMAL EXERCISE IN HEALTHY MEN. A METHOD FOR DETECTING POTENTIAL CORONARY HEART DISEASE

Abstract A study of 433 asymptomatic men emphasizes the value of strenuous exercise testing in the early detection of myocardial ischemia. The sensitivity of the maximal exercise capacity test was nine times greater than that of the double Master's two-step test in eliciting electrocardiographic evidence of myocardial ischemia in 201 “normal” men who were over 34 years of age. Improved detection of potential coronary heart disease by this method is illustrated by comparison with several epidemiologic studies. If the reliability and specificity of this electrocardiographic abnormality in predicting clinical coronary heart disease is confirmed by future follow-up examinations, a method of detection and study of potential coronary heart disease and factors influencing its course will be available.
Experimental Tests of QED in Positronium: Recent Advances

The current experimental situation regarding tests of fundamental physics using positronium is reviewed. Five measurements are discussed and compared with theoretical predictions: the singlet and triplet annihilation decay rates, the ground state and the n = 2 energy intervals, and the Doppler-free two-photon excitation of the 1S to 2S transition. Previous results, recent progress (where appropriate), and the outlook for future improvements in these measurements are discussed.
Iron Enzymes and Models

In recent years, iron complexes of designed ligands have been synthesized as mimics of the active sites of the various non-heme iron enzymes. The reactions of these model complexes have been studied to establish the mechanisms of the enzymatic reactions as well as the identities of the intermediates involved in the biocatalytic processes. The ultimate goal in these endeavors is to isolate functional mimics that could be employed in biomimetic catalysis under mild conditions. This review provides key references to the burgeoning literature on the results of research performed by various groups in the area of oxygen activation, oxygenation of organic substrates, amide hydrolysis, and other useful chemical transformations. Examples of good structural and functional models have been included along with brief descriptions of the enzymes. The role of the coordination spheres of the iron centers and the nature of the key iron-peroxo and/or hypervalent iron-oxo intermediates have been discussed. Results of the attempted catalysis by the functional model complexes have also been discussed to highlight the challenge involved in bio-inspired catalysis as well as the success of the modeling work completed so far. Keywords: non-heme iron enzymes; model complexes; functional mimics; oxygen activation; oxygenation; epoxidation; catalysis
Of Logos, Owners, and Cultural Intermediaries: Defining an Elite Discourse in Re-branding Practices at Three Private Canadian Television Stations

This article explores the relationship between local television stations and national networks through a careful study of station re-branding. The relationship is explored through case studies of the three privately owned English-speaking television stations in Winnipeg, Canada. Through in-depth interviews with station and network executives, the author investigates the critical factors that facilitated the re-branding of Canada’s private television networks between 1997 and 2005. This period saw many English-speaking television networks unite their respective affiliate stations under a single logo and brand. Influenced by branding theory and scholarship on Canadian broadcasting, this article examines the shift away from local identification in Canadian broadcasting and the benefits, challenges, and resistances therein. Cet article explore le rapport entre les stations de television locales et les reseaux nationaux au moyen d’un examen meticuleux des changements de marque des stations. Pour ce faire, l’auteur a mene des etudes de cas sur les trois stations de television privees de langue anglaise a Winnipeg, Manitoba. En se fondant sur des entretiens en profondeur avec des cadres de stations et de reseaux, l’auteur explore les facteurs critiques qui ont permis les changements de marque des reseaux de television prives au Canada entre 1997 et 2005. C’est durant cette periode que plusieurs reseaux de television anglophones ont uni leurs stations affiliees respectives sous la banniere d’un seul sigle et d’une seule marque. Influence par les theories sur les strategies de marque et les recherches sur la radiodiffusion canadienne, cet article examine la distanciation prise dans la radiodiffusion canadienne par rapport a l’identification locale, ainsi que les bienfaits, defis et resistances qui decoulent de cette distanciation.
A Framework for Data Quality in Data Warehousing

Despite the rapid growth in development and use of Data Warehousing (DW) systems, the data quality (DQ) aspects are not well defined and understood. Organizations rely on the information extracted from their DW for their day-to-day as well as critical and strategic business operations. Creating and maintaining a high level data quality is one of the key success factors for DW systems. This article examines the current practices of DQ, and proposes a research and experienced-based framework for DQ in DW, which describes an approach for defining, creating, and maintaining DQ management within DW environment.
Experiments in Psychotherapy: I. Theoretical Considerations

(1948). Experiments in Psychotherapy: I. Theoretical Considerations. The Journal of Psychology: Vol. 25, No. 1, pp. 137-169.
Synthesis and characterization of YSZ thin film electrolytes

Abstract Dense, homogeneous and crack-free thin films (0.2−2 microm in thickness) of (ZrO2)0.84(YO1.5)0.16 (YSZ) were deposited on porous or dense substrates, at temperatures not exceeding 600°C, using a solution-deposition technique. The structural evolution and microstructure of the deposited films were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Raman spectroscopy revealed the presence of fine-grain cubic YSZ at annealing temperatures as low as 600°C. Grain growth occurred at higher temperatures as detected by atomic force microscopy (AFM). ac impedance spectroscopy was used to study the electrical characteristics of the YSZ films as a function of temperature. The ionic conductivity and activation energy of the deposited film are similar to YSZ bulk material, but no grain-boundary effect was observed in the film. The deposited films may be considered for electrolyte application in intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs).
Second Harmonic Generation, Sum Frequency Generation, and χ(3): Dissecting Environmental Interfaces with a Nonlinear Optical Swiss Army Knife

This review discusses recent advances in the nonlinear optics of environmental interfaces. We discuss the quantitative aspects of the label-free approaches presented here and demonstrate that nonlinear optics has now assumed the role of a Swiss Army knife that can be used to dissect, with molecular detail, the fundamental and practical aspects of environmental interfaces and heterogeneous geochemical environments. In this work, nonlinear optical methods are applied to complex organic molecules, such as veterinary antibiotics, and to small inorganic anions and cations, such as nitrate and chromate, or cadmium, zinc, and manganese. The environmental implications of the thermodynamic, kinetic, spectroscopic, structural, and electrochemical data are discussed.
Uncertainties in parameter estimation and optimal control in batch distillation

Abstract Optimal control problems in batch distillation involve finding a trajectory for the reflux ratio so as to maximize a performance index. Then the controller is asked to follow this trajectory in an open loop fashion. It is important to minimize the effect of uncertainties in thermodynamic models on the optimal control profiles to achieve a better operating performance. The non-linear parameter estimation problem in vapor–liquid equilibrium modeling involves determining the values of model parameters, which provide the best fit to experimental data. It was shown previously by Gau et al. [Fluid Phase Equilibria, 168, 1–8, (2000)] that, using a global optimization procedure based on interval-Newton technique combined with interval-branch-and-bound can significantly reduce the error between the predicted and experimental data. Using this method, it was also shown that for some of the data sets published in DECHEMA, the parameters estimated correspond to local minima. The effect of locally and globally optimal parameter estimates on batch distillation optimal control profiles is demonstrated in this work. Since batch distillation is a dynamic process, the static (parametric) uncertainties are translated into time-dependent uncertainties. The time-dependent changes in relative volatility for the two cases are analyzed and represented by Ito processes. Next, the optimal control problem is solved using the maximum principle and NLP approach. Numerical case studies show that using globally optimal parameter estimates versus locally optimal parameter estimates results in a better product yield and the minimum error between the specified purity and the purity that is achieved.
Genetics of a Drosophila phenoloxidase.

An electrophoretic mobility variant of phenoloxidase in a lz stock of Drosophila melanogaster was identified as the A3 component of the phenoloxidase complex by using two different activators to study enzyme activity — natural activator isolated from pupae and 50% 2-propanol. The structural gene for the A3 proenzyme, Dox-3, was not associated with lz on the X chromosome; it mapped to the right of rdo (53.1) and left of M(2)m in the second linkage group.
Arsenic‐induced exencephaly in the mouse and associated lesions occurring during neurulation

Early tissue damage following a teratogenic dose of arsenic to the dam was studied in mice with the objective of detecting the primary lesion associated with the development of exencephaly. Animals were killed 6 to 21 h after a single 45 mg/kg intraperitoneal injection of sodium arsenate on day 8 of pregnancy and neurulation-stage embryos were fixed for histological and ultrastructural examination. In the prospective hindbrain, the most consistent feature associated with arsenate treatment was the widely separated neural folds which were not positioned for closure. Intracytoplasmic inclusions, interpreted as necrotic debris, were most numerous in the apical portion of the neural folds, sometimes extending into the mesenchyme, but they were not extensive in most embryos. In the prospective forebrain, necrotic debris was found throughout the neuroepithelium, in contrast to the posterior portions of the developing brain. It is not clear that necrosis of the neuroepithelium or mesenchyme would in itself be the primary lesion associated with exencephaly, although death of specific cells such as those participating in the fusion process could be involved. The potential effect of arsenate on physiological and biochemical processes which could affect neural tube closure is discussed.
Iodination of (E)-2,2,5,5-Tetramethyl-3,4-diphenylhex-3-ene: Catalytic Effects of Silver Triflate and Water in the I2/Ag2SO4 Iodination

Abstract (E)-2,2,5,5-Tetramethyl-3,4-diphenylhex-3-ene does not iodinate under normal conditions. Silver trifluoromethanesulfonate catalysis of the silver sulfate/iodine promoted reaction is shown to add versatility to this reation and successfully produce (E)-3-(4'-iodophenyl)-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-4-phenylhex-3-ene and (E)-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-3,4-di(4'-iodophenyl)hex-3-ene in good yield under mild conditions. Success is shown to be dependent upon the presence of a trace of water in the dichloromethane solvent.
Age-specific migration and regional diversity.

This author examines patterns of age-specific migration between 1980 and 1990 for a small growing region the Pacific Northwest of the U.S.A. with the purpose of assessing the degree of geographic diversity in experience. A simple typology of the expected spatial and structural pattern of age-specific migration is proposed. Cluster analysis is used to group counties on the basis of age-specific rates of net migration. Even this fairly small region is found to exemplify most of the patterns that might be expected to occur in the nation as a whole. (EXCERPT)
The effects of customs unions on the pattern and terms of trade in a Ricardian model with a continuum of goods

Abstract This paper adapts the Dornbusch-Fischer-Samuelson continuum-of-goods Ricardian model to three countries. The pattern of trade and the terms of trade are determined endogenously in this general-equilibrium model. We derive comparative statics effects of endowment and tariff changes on trade patterns and terms of trade, and apply the results to customs union theory. Trade creation and trade diversion impacts of unions are shown to be determined by the position of countries' traded goods on the continuum. In addition, the desirability of economic integration is found to depend on the level of country development.
Dissonance-Based Interventions for Substance Using Alternative High-School Youth.

This article describes an innovative new intervention tailored to older youth who are already abusing drugs, but who are not diagnostically ready for treatment. The basic tenet of this intervention is to utilise adolescents engaged in drug use as ‘experts’ in the prevention curriculum adaptation activity. This activity then serves as a mechanism for their dissonance-based change. This process is designed to intervene with drug abusing youth prior to their development of substance dependence. The community-based design grew from a United States federally funded NIDA project (National Institute of Drug Abuse Mentored Research Scientist Award) which found that the youth who conduct programme adaptations were effectively engaged, animatedly discussing the payoffs and downsides of drug and alcohol abuse. It is maintained through this research that dissonance between their role of ‘Preventionist’ and their own substance abuse behaviours lead to shifts in attitudes and behaviours. Dissonance-based interventions ...
E-Business and Management Science: Mutual Impacts (Part 1 of 2)

This begins a two-part commentary on management science and e-business, the theme of this two-part special issue. After explaining the topical clusters that give organization to both parts, we pose two key questions concerning the impact of the emerging digital economy on management science research: What fundamentally new research questions arise, and what kind of research enables progress on them. We sketch the papers appearing in this part from the perspective of both these questions, and offer summary comments on the first question based on the papers in both parts. The principal conclusion is that the digital economy is giving birth to new research questions in three main ways (not all independent): by enabling and popularizing several types of technology-mediated interactions, by spawning large-scale digital data sources, and by creating recurring operational decisions that need to be automated.
What is “language” that can facilitate the flow of information? a contribution to a fundamental theory of language and communication☆

Abstract A theory of language is derived for complex systems by contrasting the difference between “hard” systems and “soft” systems. Complexity in a field system made up of atomistic entities is defined by the capability of the atomistic-like entities in soft systems to absorb energy internally into fluid-like, gel-like, dissipative processes rather than to equipartition energy rapidly among all degrees of atomistic freedom. Language then emerges as the “mechanistic” linkages that can catalytically switch or evoke changed atomistic states in such “soft” systems. A note on the source of syntax is also provided.
The Antisubstitution Laws and Physician-Ownership of Drug Repackagers

During the 1964 Hearings on Physician-Ownership held by the Senate Subcommittee on Antitrust and Monopoly witnesses charged that certain medical doctors were establishing firms that purchased prepared drugs in bulk, packaged them, and then marketed the drugs in smaller quantities under brand names. Physicians with interests in drug repackagers would write prescriptions specifying brands marketed by their firms, and antisubstitution laws would prevent the pharmacist from using other brands. Critics of the practice argue that physicians purchase drug repackagers and tie drugs to extend their monopoly power into the ethical drugs market with the resulting foreclosure of independent firms. This paper argues that physicians purchase drug interests not to create a new monopoly, but rather to extract more monopoly profits from their original markets. But evidence exists that in doing so physician-owners impose a welfare loss on their patients. The paper concludes with an analysis of efforts made thus far to end the practice and suggests that amendment of state antisubstitution laws would make it more difficult for physician-repackager owners to tie drugs.
Running Away: A Rite of Passage?

While on the street, youth encounter many circumstances that have the potential to bring physical, psychological, and spiritual harm to them. Homelessness for youths seems to occur as a process or journey that appears to parallel a Rite of Passage Framework. This article develops a conceptual model called the Runaway Rite of Passage Framework, which may provide service providers with a way to categorize the stages through which homeless youth transition. Also, this article explores the typologies of homeless youth. Assessment strategies at the different stages in the runaway rite of passage are discussed to assist in identifying possible intervention buffers that may help the youth. The focus of this theoretical reflection addresses how to reverse the transition toward homelessness with strategies that will lead to stable living situations for street youth.
Understanding How Community Organizing Leads to Social Change: The Beginning Development of Formal Practice Theory

Community organizing practice can be traced back to the settlement house era. Although the literature of community organizing is rich in approaches to practice built from practice wisdom, case studies, and conceptual frameworks, the literature lacks formal practice theory. This article provides beginning results from research with a long–range aim of building formal practice theory for social workers engaged in community organizing practice with empowerment related social change goals.
Characterization of instrument spectral resolution by the spectral modulation transfer function

Comparison of the spectral resolving power of different types of spectrometer can be facilitated by the use of the spectral modulation transfer function (SMTF). It is the Fourier transform of the instrument spectral response function. The SMTF's of the two imaging spectrometers included in the Advanced Land Imager of the EO-1 satellite are shown as examples. The SMTF offers a way to specify the spectral resolution required for the detection of known spectral features. It can also be used to determine the ultimate resolution that can be achieved through processing signals form any given instrument and observation.
Optical-to-Tactile Image Conversion for the Blind

This paper describes two optical-to-tactile imageconversion systems being developed for the blind. The first is a reading aid in which an area on the printed page about the size of a letterspace is translated into a corresponding vibratory tactile image. The tactile image is produced by a 24-by-6 array of pins driven by piezoelectric bimorphs. The array of 144 pins fits on the distal and a portion of the middle phalanges of one finger. The piezoelectric bimorphs cause the pins to impact the skin in a nonlinear manner. Precise measurements on this bimorph-finger system are given. These measurements also show that shades of "grey" can be displayed by sequentially varying the threshold level. Three experiments conducted with the reading aid involved measurement of legibility, reading rate, and the effect of field of view. Legibility in the 92-98 percent range was obtained at the design magnification. A reading rate of 50 words per minute was achieved with one subject after roughly 160 hours of practice. Three other subjects achieved reading rates of over 10 words per minute after about 40 hours of practice. Reading rate increased markedly as the number of columns in the array was varied from one to six. The second optical-to-tactile image-conversion system is merely an extension of the first to permit information to be acquired from the environment. In fact, ultimately only one system with two sets of optics, one appropriate for the printed page and one appropriate for environment sensing, would be used.
Endoscopic electrocauterization of pyriform fossa sinus tracts as definitive treatment

Abstract Objective To (1) update the technique of endoscopic electrocauterization of patients with pyriform fossa sinus tracts and (2) evaluate its effectiveness as a definitive treatment. Methods Retrospective case series with nine patients (age range, 3.3–16.1 years) who were diagnosed with pyriform fossa sinus tracts between 2000 and 2007 at a single tertiary care children's hospital and underwent endoscopic electrocauterization of the sinus tract. Data collected including age of diagnosis, presenting symptoms, time from presentation to diagnosis, diagnostic studies, prior and subsequent treatments, length of hospital stay, and recurrence, were reviewed and analyzed with descriptive statistics. Results All nine patients presented with recurrent left or midline neck masses or abscesses. Seven patients (78%) had at least one previous incision and drainage procedures for abscess treatment. All patients had a computed tomography scan with findings suspicious for left-sided pyriform fossa sinus tract. The diagnosis was confirmed with laryngoscopy. For seven patients (78%), endoscopic electrocauterization was definitive treatment with no recurrences to date. Two patients (22%) had recurrent left neck abscesses after endoscopic treatment; these patients ultimately underwent excision of sinus tract with left thyroid lobectomy without complications or further recurrences. Conclusions Endoscopic electrocauterization of pyriform fossa sinus tracts is a safe and definitive treatment for most patients. We advocate this minimally invasive procedure as first line of treatment for pyriform fossa sinus tracts, reserving open excision with or without thyroid lobectomy for failures.
Multiobjective trajectory optimization for electric trains

This paper develops a method for generating Pareto efficient trajectories that provide optimal tradeoffs between two conflicting attributes-the total energy consumed and the total time taken to complete each trajectory. Straightforward formulations of the multiobjective optimization problem in these attributes are difficult to solve because of certain nonlinearities in train models and certain constraints on train trajectories. A discrete reformulation is developed to circumvent these difficulties and produce computationally feasible algorithms. The results from the algorithms can be used to develop operating strategies for existing systems and to compare hardware alternatives in planning new systems. An illustration is included.
Size of orchard trees as a factor affecting behavioural control of apple maggot flies (Dipt., Tephritidae) by traps

Over a 3-year period (1997-1999), we examined the influence of tree size on effectiveness of traps for behaviourally controlling apple maggot flies, Rhagoletis pomonella (Walsh), in small blocks of trees in Massachusetts commercial apple orchards. Traps were red spheres coated with Tangletrap and baited with an attractive synthetic host fruit odour (butyl hexanoate). Traps were placed 6 m apart on perimeter apple trees of each block and were designed to intercept apple maggot flies immigrating into blocks from unmanaged host trees. Based on captures of adults by unbaited red spheres placed near the centre of each block to monitor degree of adult penetration into the interior and on percentages of fruit injured by apple maggot, traps surrounding blocks of small trees (1.5 m canopy diameter) planted at high density were more effective in controlling apple maggot flies (relative to control obtained by insecticide sprays used in comparison blocks) than were traps surrounding blocks of large trees (3.7 m canopy diameter) planted at low density, with traps surrounding blocks of medium-size trees (2.5 m canopy diameter) planted at medium density generally providing an intermediate level of control.
A structural mechanics study of single-walled carbon nanotubes generalized from atomistic simulation

A new structural mechanics model is developed to closely duplicate the atomic configuration and behaviours of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). The SWCNTs are effectively represented by a space frame, where primary and secondary beams are used to bridge the nearest and next-nearest carbon atoms, to mimic energies associated with bond stretching and angle variation, respectively. The elastic properties of the frame components are generalized from molecular dynamics (MD) simulation based on an accurate ab initio force field, and numerical analyses of tension, bending, and torsion are carried out on nine different SWCNTs. The space-frame model also closely duplicates the buckling behaviours of SWCNTs in torsion and bending. In addition, by repeating the same process with continuum shell and beam models, new elastic and section parameters are fitted from the MD benchmark experiments. As an application, all three models are employed to study the thermal vibration behaviours of SWCNTs, and excellent agreements with MD analyses are found. The present analysis is a systematic structural mechanics attempt to fit SWCNT properties for several basic deformation modes and applicable to a variety of SWCNTs. The continuum models and fitted parameters may be used to effectively simulate the overall deformation behaviours of SWCNTs at much larger length- and timescales than pure MD analysis.
Preliminary examination of non-occlusal dental microwear in anthropoids: implications for the study of fossil primates.

Most studies of microscopic wear on non-human primate teeth have focused on the occlusal surfaces of molars. Recent analyses of the buccal surfaces of human cheek teeth have demonstrated an association between diet and dental microwear on the these surfaces as well. In the current study, we examine microwear on both the buccal and lingual surfaces of non-human primate molars to assess the potential of these surfaces to reveal information concerning anthropoid feeding behaviors. We compare frequency of microwear occurrence in 12 extant and 11 fossil anthropoid species. Among the living primates, the occurrence of microwear on non-occlusal surfaces appears to relate to both diet and degree of terrestriality. The implications of this research for the inference of feeding behaviors and substrate use in fossil cercopithecoids are discussed. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Somatropin in short bowel syndrome: opening the door to trophic factor use

The management of short bowel syndrome is complex and frequently requires parenteral nutrition support to ensure the sufficient administration of nutrients and fluids. Despite advances in the provision of parenteral nutrition, this mode of nutritional support carries with it significant risks to the patient, impairs quality of life and is very costly. Since intestinal adaptation plays a key role in the successful management of patients with short bowel syndrome, recent investigations have focused on the use of trophic substances to enhance intestinal adaptation and increase the absorptive function of the remaining gut. Published reports from a number of studies conducted in animal models and humans with short bowel syndrome evaluating the efficacy of recombinant human growth hormone (i.e., somatropin) in this regard have demonstrated conflicting findings. However, substantial methodologic differences among the studies limit definitive conclusions regarding the benefit of this therapy on intestinal adaptat...
World oil production trend: : Comparing Hubbert multi-cycle curves

Worldwide shale oil resources in the U.S., China, Russia, Poland and France could mean that potential world oil production could double or triple in the next few decades. However, not all of these new reserves may be as large or as productive as North Dakota's Bakken shale oil. In addition reserves of shale oil look to be a lot less in relative terms than the reserves of shale gas as evidenced by the price of natural gas in the U.S. compared to the price of oil. This suggests that the U.S. and world supplies of shale oil may be limited. In this article, we will look to attempt a different type of forecast for oil using a modified Hubbert curve oil production forecast. We look at possible world oil production trends rather than just U.S. oil production trends. Two interesting comparisons of the world oil production trend to other regional trends are the former Soviet Union's oil production trend and the U.S. oil production trend. If we compare the current world oil production trend to those previous trends using indexation, then we can get an idea of what may happen to world oil production in the future.
Altered hepatic metabolic response to carbohydrate loads in rats with hepatic branch vagotomy or cholinergic blockade

Hepatic pyruvate, lactate and glycogen concentrations were measured 40 min after gavage of 5 ml 35% fructose or glucose to rats with sham surgery or section of the hepatic branch of the vagus nerve. Other animals were treated with saline or the peripheral anticholinergic drug, atropine methyl nitrate, prior to gavage of fructose. The increase in pyruvate concentration produced by the carbohydrate loads was attenuated by both hepatic vagotomy and cholinergic blockade. The increase in lactate concentration after a fructose load was attenuated by hepatic branch vagotomy but not atropine injection. The increase in glycogen deposition after a fructose load was attenuated by atropine injection but not hepatic branch vagotomy. These results suggest that the hepatic metabolic response to fructose and glucose loads in rats depends on a functional parasympathetic nervous system.
Transcatheter Valve Repair

Ziyad M. Hijazi, Philipp Bonhoeffer, Ted Feldman, Carlos E. Ruiz, eds 382 pages. London, UK: Taylor & Francis; 2006. $95.00. ISBN 1-84184-472-1 Modern interventional cardiology is grounded in the performance of percutaneous coronary interventions. However, beginning with the introduction of atrial septostomy and then followed by percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty, noncoronary interventions have provided a growing contribution to general procedures in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. Today, up to 30% of all interventions reflect a growing list of both peripheral procedures and cardiac noncoronary interventions for structural and valvular heart disease. The first successful valvular interventions, namely balloon valvuloplasty for pulmonic, mitral, and aortic stenosis, were performed more than 20 years ago, but only recently have successful interventions for aortic stenosis and regurgitant valvular disease been developed and attempted. The combination of these valvular interventions, other interventions for patients with structural heart disease, and the growing population of adults with congenital heart disease provide the basis for a whole new subspecialty within interventional cardiology. This book is one of the first to specifically address this new subspecialty. It was compiled by a who’s who of …
Do older drivers with visual and cognitive impairments drive less

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether older drivers with poorer cognitive and/or visual function drive fewer miles or avoid driving in situations that pose higher crash risks, such as at nighttime, in rush hour traffic, or when weather conditions are bad. DESIGN: A cross-sectional data analysis conducted as part of a larger prospective study. SUBJECTS: A total of 3238 drivers aged 65 and older applying for renewal of their driver's license at one of eight participating North Carolina driver's license offices. MEASUREMENTS: Subjects were administered a battery of brief tests of cognitive and visual function, which included the Trail Making Test Parts A and B, the Short Blessed Orientation-Memory-Concentration test, and measures of high and low contrast visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and peripheral vision. Participants were also asked to complete a brief driving survey containing questions about the number of miles they drove and whether they avoided driving under certain conditions, such as after dark or on busy, multi-lane roadways. Driver age and gender were covariates in the analyses. RESULTS: Results of multivariate logistic regression models show a clear pattern of reduced driving exposure--lower annual miles and greater avoidance of high-risk driving situations--associated with lower levels of cognitive and visual function. In general, the prevalence odds of reduced driving exposure were higher for the cognitive function variables than for the visual function variables, and higher for males than for females. Men who scored in the lowest quartile of performance on one of the cognitive tests were six to seven times more likely to report driving fewer than 3000 miles a year than were men scoring in the highest quartile, and women with low scores were one-and-one-half to two times more likely to report driving less than 3000 miles than women with higher scores. CONCLUSIONS: While the findings of this study are reassuring, they do not guarantee that all drivers with cognitive and visual impairments are limiting their driving exposure appropriately, and geriatricians and other health professionals should be encouraged to evaluate their patients' cognitive and visual fitness for driving and provide counsel where indicated.
A Path Analysis of Reading Comprehension for Adults With Low Literacy

Adult literacy interventions often rely on models of reading validated with children or adult populations with a broad range of reading abilities. Such models do not fully satisfy the need for intervention research and development for adults with low literacy. Thus, the authors hypothesized that a model representing the relationship between reading component skills would be predictive of reading comprehension for an adult population with low literacy and beneficial to adult literacy researchers. Using data from 174 adults participating in adult basic education and secondary education programs, the authors performed a path analysis of component skills' contribution to reading comprehension. The findings are clear that existing reading models do not describe this population. The implications are discussed in terms of instructional and curricular interventions.
Active and Passive Determinants of Capillary Density: A Historical Perspective

Capillary density has historically been an important issue, beginning with the discovery of the circulation and extending to the present day. Determination of capillary density provided key evidence supporting the concept that the entire cardiac output passed through microscopic channels in the tissue and returned to the heart. Subsequently, control of capillary density by contractility of the capillaries themselves was proposed by Krogh. Later investigators disputed the notion of capillary contractility and proposed that changes in capillary density were secondary to changes in arteriolar tone or to passive mechanical factors. While this is still the prevailing view, the concept that the capillaries are not totally passive and may, through shape changes of the endothelia, alter the distribution of flow through the capillary network is under active consideration. While views of underlying mechanism vary, there is agreement that capillary density and its control are of fundamental importance to our understanding of the function of the microcirculation.
Development of a theory of retailer response to manufacturers' everyday low cost programs

Abstract Manufacturers' everyday low cost (EDLC) programs have been prescribed as a means of eliminating inefficiencies associated with trade deals. However, the long-term success of EDLC programs is largely dependent upon favorable responses from retailers. In an effort to investigate retailer response to manufacturers' EDLC programs, in-depth interviews were conducted with executives of retail and manufacturing firms. Data analysis was guided by Glaser and Strauss' grounded theory approach. These efforts resulted in theory detailing antecedents and consequences of the focal construct, “retailer attitude toward the EDLC program.” Research findings indicate that retailers' attitudes toward EDLC programs are based on an assessment of the compatibility between the program and their marketing environment. Several factors including retailer characteristics (e.g., perceived weakness in buying power, commitment to forward buying) and program characteristics (e.g., whether program is optional, product storage costs) were found to influence retailers' assessments of program/environment compatibility and in turn their attitudes toward EDLC programs. Whether retailers' attitudes toward EDLC programs led to supportive, nonsupportive, or adaptive behaviors was found to be contingent upon the relative dependence existing within the channel relationship. The implications of these findings on the development and diffusion of pricing/promotion initiatives are discussed.
Buffering in evacuation management for optimal traffic demand distribution

This paper presents a new framework for managing congestion during emergency evacuations. The algorithm allows a long link of the network to be used as a buffer to keep the traffic flow moving in. Concurrently, a detour trigger time is estimated to keep the traffic under-saturated in the buffer zone and minimize the total travel time. The integration algorithm presented in this paper is an efficient mathematical solution for travel time cost calculation. A case study is presented to demonstrate the efficacy of the traffic demand buffering strategy developed in this research for managing the evacuation flow.
A multi-objective approach to data sharing with privacy constraints and preference based objectives

Public data sharing is utilized in a number of businesses to facilitate the exchange of information. Privacy constraints are usually enforced to prevent unwanted inference of information, specially when the shared data contain sensitive personal attributes. This, however, has an adverse effect on the utility of the data for statistical studies. Thus, a requirement while modifying the data is to minimize the information loss. Existing methods employ the notion of "minimal distortion" where the data is modified only to the extent necessary to satisfy the privacy constraint, thereby asserting that the information loss has been minimized. However, given the subjective nature of information loss, it is often difficult to justify this assertion. In this paper, we propose an evolutionary algorithm to explicitly minimize an achievement function given constraints on the privacy level of the transformed data. Privacy constraints specified in terms of anonymity models are modeled as additional objectives and an evolutionary multi-objective approach is proposed. We highlight the requirement to minimize any bias induced by the anonymity model and present a scalarization incorporating preferences in information loss and privacy bias as the achievement function.