cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bee genetics and conservation

The emerging threat of pollinator decline has motivated research on bee conservation biology in order to both understand the causes of declines and to develop appropriate conservation strategies. The application of genetics to the conservation of diploid animals has proven to be important for both overcoming genetic threats to population viability and for providing tools to guide conservation programs. However, the haplodiploid bees have several unusual genetic properties of relevance to their conservation, which warrant special attention. Here I review how haplodiploidy and complementary sex determination affect genetic parameters pertinent to the viability and future evolutionary potential of bee populations. I also review how genetic tools can improve the conservation management of bees. I find that bees are especially prone to extinction for genetic reasons, and that genetics can provide invaluable tools for managing bee populations to circumvent pollinator decline.
Interactions of Spin Finishes with Partially Oriented Poly ( ethylene Terephthalate) Fibers: Part I: The Nature of Finish/Fiber Interactions

A low temperature dyeing technique that was developed as a characterization method for poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) partially oriented yarns revealed thermally activated interactions between the fibers and spin finishes containing pure or close derivatives of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) that bring about dye blocking. Similar effects were also exerted by these spin finishes on the critical dissolution times and amine etching resistance of the fibers. The PEG interaction with the fibers is most effective in the narrow molecular weight range of Mn = 500 ± 100 g/mol. Specific thermal (shrinkage, shrinkage stress relaxation) and other structural characterization techniques (WAXS, DSC, Raman, IR) indicated that the PEG interactions bring about higher degrees of intermolecular cohesion and order in the PET fibers. The PEG molecular weight dependence of the dyeblocking is rationalized in terms of the permeability and compatibility of PEG.
Mouse ether: accelerating the acquisition of targets across multi-monitor displays

When acquiring a target located on a different screen, multi-monitor users face a challenge: differences in resolution and vertical and horizontal offsets between screens cause the mouse pointer to get warped, making the attempt to acquire the target difficult. Mouse ether eliminates warping effects by applying appropriate transformations to all mouse move events. In our user study, mouse ether improved participants' performance on a target acquisition task across two screens running at different resolutions by up to 28%. 7 of the 8 participants also strongly preferred using mouse ether to the control.
Supplemental Oxygen Needs During Sleep. Who Benefits

The physiologic changes that occur in ventilation during sleep contribute to nocturnal oxygen desaturation in those with lung disease. Nocturnal supplemental oxygen is often used as therapy, although convincing data exist only for those who are hypoxemic both during sleep and wake. Ongoing trials may help address whether oxygen should be used in those with only desaturation during sleep. If used, oxygen should be dosed as needed, and patients should be monitored for hypercapnia. Because of its prevalence, obstructive sleep apnea may commonly overlap with lung disease in many patients and have important consequences. Patients with overlap syndromes may be good candidates for noninvasive ventilation during sleep.
Effects of 1-year treatment with cyclophosphamide on outcomes at 2 years in scleroderma lung disease.

Rationale: The Scleroderma Lung Study enrolled 158 patients with scleroderma-related interstitial lung disease in a placebo-controlled trial of oral cyclophosphamide (CYC). Although treatment-related benefits in pulmonary function, skin scores, and patient-centered outcomes were demonstrated after 1 year of therapy, the duration of benefit beyond 1 year was unclear.Objectives: A second year of follow-up was performed to determine if these effects persisted after stopping treatment.Methods: A detailed analysis of data obtained over the two years of the study was performed.Measurements and Main Results: Using a longitudinal joint model, we analyzed FVC, total lung capacity, transitional dyspnea index, Rodnan skin scores, and the Health Assessment Questionnaire–Disability Index during the second year, after adjusting for baseline values, baseline fibrosis score, and nonignorable missing data. Evaluable subjects (72 CYC; 73 placebo) included 93 who completed all visits plus 52 who completed at least 6 months ...
Relation of depression to anger and hostility constructs.

To understand better the relationship between depression and various constructs of anger and hostility, 112 university students were administered the MMPI Depression scale, the Hostility and Direction of Hostility Questionnaire, the Overcontrolled Hostility Scale, the Anger Expression Scale, and the State-Trait Anger Scale. Among depressed subjects there was a more intense experience of hostility, particularly inwardly directed hostility, and a diminished sense of control over anger or a disinclination to manage anger.
Microbial breakdown of halogenated aromatic pesticides and related compounds

Considerable progress has been made in the last few years in understanding the mechanisms of microbial degradation of halogenated aromatic compounds. Much is already known about the degradation mechanisms under aerobic conditions, and metabolism under anaerobiosis has lately received increasing attention. The removal of the halogen substituent is a key step in degradation of halogenated aromatics. This may occur as an initial step via reductive, hydrolytic or oxygenolytic mechanisms, or after cleavage of the aromatic ring at a later stage of metabolism. In addition to degradation, several biotransformation reactions, such as methylation and polymerization, may take place and produce more toxic or recalcitrant metabolites. Studies with pure bacterial and fungal cultures have given detailed information on the biodegradation pathways of several halogenated aromatic compounds. Several of the key enzymes have been purified or studied in cell extracts, and there is an increasing understanding of the organization and regulation of the genes involved in haloaromatic degradation. This review will focus on the biodegradation and biotransformation pathways that have been established for halogenated phenols, phenoxyalkanoic acids, benzoic acids, benzenes, anilines and structurally related halogenated aromatic pesticides. There is a growing interest in developing microbiological methods for clean-up of soil and water contaminated with halogenated aromatic compounds.
Occupational exposures to styrene vapor in a manufacturing plant for fiber-reinforced composite wind turbine blades.

Objectives: A utility-scale wind turbine blade manufacturing plant requested assistance from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in controlling worker exposures to styrene at a plant that produced 37 and 42 m long fiber-reinforced wind turbine blades. The plant requested NIOSH assistance because previous air sampling conducted by the company indicated concerns about peak styrene concentrations when workers entered the confined space inside of the wind turbine blade. NIOSH researchers conducted two site visits and collected personal breathing zone and area air samples while workers performed the wind turbine blade manufacturing tasks of vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM), gelcoating, glue wiping, and installing the safety platform. Methods: All samples were collected during the course of normal employee work activities and analyzed for styrene using NIOSH Method 1501. All sampling was task based since fullshift sampling from a prior Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliance inspection did not show any exposures to styrene above the OSHA permissible exposure limit. During the initial NIOSH site visit, 67 personal breathing zone and 18 area air samples were collected while workers performed tasks of VARTM, gelcoating, glue wipe, and installation of a safety platform. After the initial site visit, the company made changes to the glue wipe task that eliminated the need for workers to enter the confined space inside of the wind turbine blade. During the follow-up site visit, 12 personal breathing zone and 8 area air samples were collected from workers performing the modified glue wipe task. Results: During the initial site visit, the geometric means of the personal breathing zone styrene air samples were 1.8 p.p.m. (n 5 21) for workers performing the VARTM task, 68 p.p.m. (n 5 5) for workers installing a safety platform, and 340 p.p.m. (n 5 14) for workers performing the glue wipe task, where n is the number of workers sampled for a given mean result. Gelcoating workers included job categories of millers, gelcoat machine operators, and gelcoaters. Geometric mean personal breathing zone styrene air samples were 150 p.p.m. (n 5 6) for millers, 87 p.p.m. (n 5 2) for the gelcoat machine operators, and 66 p.p.m. (n 5 19) for gelcoaters. The geometric mean of the personal breathing zone styrene air samples from the glue wipe task measured during the follow-up site visit was 31 p.p.m. (n 5 12). Conclusions: The closed molding VARTM process was very effective at controlling worker exposures to styrene. Personal breathing zone styrene air samples were reduced by an order of magnitude after changes were made to the glue wipe task. The company used chemical substitution to eliminate styrene exposure during the installation of the safety platform. Recommendations were provided to reduce styrene concentrations during gelcoating.
A registration aid

Although the iterative closest point algorithm is very effective in registering range data, the quality of registration depends on the geometry of the sampled surfaces. This work presents a registration aid which can greatly reduce the possibility of catastrophic registration failure, increase the quality of registration and register range data which does not overlap. By placing the aid into the scene along with the object(s) of interest, range images taken from any vantage point within the range scanner's workspace can be registered onto a model of the aid and thus into a common reference frame. By considering the causes of registration failure, the surface of the aid is designed so that any range image taken of it from any point in the scanner's workspace will properly register with a model of the aid. The reliability of the aid is demonstrated with a Monte Carlo experiment and its utility is demonstrated with examples from an automated surface acquisition system.
Bacterial leaf symbiosis in dioscorea sansibarensis morphology and ultrastructure of the acuminate leaf glands

Abstract The symbiosis between a bacterium and the West African rain forest yam Dioscorea sansibarensis is described for the first time at the ultrastructural level. The bacteria are harboured in glands which run the entire length of the pronounced ‘drip-tip’ leaf acumenae of the host plant. Each acumen, which may be up to 12 cm long in very large mature leaves, contains from two to six bacterial glands. The glands are kidney-shaped in cross section and contain numerous multicellular simple trichomes which arise from the epidermis of the gland floor and project into the lumen of the gland. The bacteria are Gram-negative and variously rod, ovoid, and coccoid in shape. The bacterial cells contain mesosomes, polyhydroxybutyrate granules and large electron-dense bodies. Bacteria-free plants grow more slowly and produce one yellowish-green leaf per node in contrast to the vigorous growth habit of infected plants, with two deep green leaves per node. Infected plants exposed to a variety of atmospheres containing acetylene, both in the light and in the dark, failed to reduce acetylene to ethylene, indicating that nitrogen fixation is not a function of this symbiosis.
Truly Inclusive or Uniformly Liberal? An Analysis of the Politics of the Emerging Church

The emergent church movement has fashioned itself as an alternative for Christians who do not want to walk away from their faith, but feel uncomfortable with the dogmatic conservatism found in mainstream evangelicalism. The emerging church movement has portrayed itself as diverse and inclusive, which is a direct result of evading ingroup-outgroup boundaries. However, despite the desire for a plurality of opinions, the movement's leaders have been known to take political positions that are largely left-leaning. We use the first dataset known to gather this identity from a sample of Protestant clergy, and assess whether denominationally connected emergent church clergy do, in fact, present a distinctive political profile. Emergent clergy are what they say they are—diverse and inclusive—while they are, on average, more liberal than nonemergent clergy in the sample.
Hamiltonian Structure and Linear Stability of Solitary Waves of the Green-Naghdi Equations

We investigate linear stability of solitary waves of a Hamiltonian system. Unlike weakly nonlinear water wave models, the physical system considered here is nonlinearly dispersive, and contains nonlinearity in its highest derivative term. This results in more detailed asymptotic analysis of the eigenvalue problem in presence of a large parameter. Combining the technique of singular perturbation with the Evans function, we show that the problem has no eigenvalues of positive real part and solitary waves of small amplitude are linearly stable. It has long been an issue to model and understand the full water wave problem due to its broad applications to coastal engineering, and fluid mechanics. The full water wave problem is imposed as a fully nonlinear system. A great deal of effort has been made to directly tackle it both numerically and analytically, the problem is still not completely well understood due to the complexity of its nonlinearity. Approximate model equations of this problem have been developed to understand its physical ramifications. One primary approach was linear approximation under the assumption of a small perturbation from a quiescent state. While using a higher order approximation, weakly nonlinear models have been developed in the parameter regime of small amplitude and long wave length. Among them are the well-known Korteweg-de Vries (KdV) and Boussinesq equations [19]. The derivation of these equations confirmed the existence of solitary waves for the the full water wave problem, as a consequence, leading to the development of theories on solitons, integrability and inverse scattering transform [1]. Despite both physical and mathematical importance of the weakly nonlinear approximation for the full water wave problem, it has limitations to model higher nonlinear phenomena, including high-amplitude waves and wave breaking. Efforts have been made to obtain higher nonlinear model equations. Among them, the Green-Naghdi (GN) equations [10], [11], [6], [7]
Intrauterine device use and endometrial cancer risk.

IUDs invoke acute and chronic inflammatory responses in the endometrium. The authors therefore explored whether the prolonged insertion of an IUD increases ones risk of developing endometrial cancer. The relation between the use of an IUD and endometrial cancer risk was examined using data from a multicenter case-control study involving 405 endometrial cancer cases and 297 population controls. 20 cases and 34 controls reported using an IUD. After adjusting for potential confounders IUD use was not associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer. A small reduction in risk was observed among women who last used an IUD within 10 years of the index date with the risk further reduced among women who last used an IUD more than 10 years ago. Risk did not vary consistently with the number of years of IUD use or with years since first use. Furthermore the level of risk was not increased among women who used inert devices or those who used copper-containing devices.
Estimator performance for a class of nonlinear estimation problems

The state estimation problem for a certain class of nonlinear stochastic systems with white Gaussian plant and observation noise is considered. The optimal (minimum variance) estimators for these systems are recursive and finite dimensional. A particular nonlinear system which contains a polynomial nonlinearity is presented. Both optimal and suboptimal estimators and an estimation lower bound for such a system are derived. The performance of the optimal and suboptimal estimators and the lower bound are compared both analytically and by computer simulation.
Ocean Heat Uptake in Transient Climate Change: Mechanisms and Uncertainty due to Subgrid-Scale Eddy Mixing

Abstract The ocean heat uptake (OHU) is studied using the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) ocean general circulation model (OGCM) with idealized ocean geometry. The OGCM is coupled with a statistical–dynamic atmospheric model. The simulation of OHU in the coupled model is consistent with other coupled ocean–atmosphere GCMs in a transient climate change when CO2 concentration increases by 1% yr–1. The global average surface air temperature increases by 1.7°C at the time of CO2 concentration doubling (year 70). The ocean temperature increases by about 1.0°C near the surface, 0.1°C at 1000 m in the Pacific, and 0.3°C in the Atlantic. The maximum overturning circulation (MOTC) in the Atlantic at 1350 m decreases by about 4.5 Sv (1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s–1). The center of MOTC drifts upward about 300 m, and therefore a large OTC anomaly (14 Sv) is found at 2700 m. The MOTC recovers gradually, but the OTC anomaly at 2700 m does not seem to recover after CO2 concentration is kept constant during 400-yr simulat...
Patterns of shelter use and their effects on the relative survival of subadult California spiny lobster (Panulirus interruptus)

Spiny lobsters use refuge habitat and gregarious behaviour to reduce predation risk, particularly in their vulnerable juvenile and subadult stages. We characterised patterns of sheltering behaviour in the California spiny lobster (Panulirus interruptus (Randall)) on southern California rocky reefs and used manipulative experiments to examine how these behaviours affect the survival of subadult lobsters and shelter selection. Lobsters generally were gregarious and subadults were commonly found inhabiting shelters with adult lobsters. Tethering experiments with subadults indicated that communal denning increases the odds of survival only when adult lobsters are part of aggregations. This corresponded to results from a shelter choice experiment in the laboratory, where the presence of predators caused subadults to shelter more often with adult conspecifics rather than other subadults. Despite the gregarious nature of P. interruptus, solitary subadults were common at all sites. Although field experiments clearly indicated that solitary lobsters increased their odds of survival by inhabiting shelters scaled to body size, evidence that lobsters exhibit shelter scaling on natural reefs was mixed. Our results indicate that subadult P. interruptus exhibit similar behavioural strategies as other spiny lobsters to reduce predation risk, and they provide a more comprehensive examination of P. interruptus behaviour than previously available.
Laboratory diagnosis of viral infections: general principles.

The three approaches to the laboratory diagnosis of viral infection are presented in very broad terms. These broad approaches may be categorized as (1) methods for isolation of the causal agent, (2) microscopic examination of clinical specimens for the presence of characteristic lesions, pathognomonic inclusion bodies, viral elementary bodies, etc., and (3) methods of determining the occurrence of rises in specific antibody. The advantages and disadvantages of each are discussed and it is pointed out that a definitive diagnosis, i.e. , one based on specific identification of the virus, is not always a requisite for clinical management, but in certain situations, e.g. , rubella or herpes genitalis in the pregnant woman, it may be mandatory. The general microbiologic or immunologic principle upon which each test or procedure is based is briefly discussed.
Lengthening of the Femur with a Remote-Controlled Magnetic Intramedullary Nail: Retrograde Technique.

Overview Introduction Femoral lengthening with an intramedullary nail inserted through a retrograde approach offers the unique benefit of accurate deformity correction and distraction osteogenesis without the need for external fixation with its inherent challenges. Indications & Contraindications Step 1: Planning the Deformity Correction and Nail Insertion The key to a successful deformity correction and proper nail placement is preoperative planning. Step 2: Insert the Rotation Marker Pins and Blocking Screws Insert 2 Steinmann pins or half-pins into the proximal and distal aspects of the femur to mark any rotational deformity that is being corrected or to ensure that no rotational deformity is created. The Steinmann pins need to be ≥3 mm in diameter to prevent bending with loss of rotational reference. We prefer 5-mm or 6-mm Schanz pins for this role. These sturdy pins may be used as a “joystick” for manipulating the distal fragment to achieve a correction. Step 3: Prepare the Distal Fragment This step includes the approach to and reaming of the distal fragment, which is critical to the limb alignment. Step 4: Osteotomy Perform the percutaneous osteotomy, which allows for correction of the deformity, prior to reaming the proximal segment. Step 5: Prepare the Proximal Fragment While holding the distal fragment in the reduced position, prepare the proximal fragment for nail insertion. Step 6: Nail Insertion Insert the nail in a standard fashion, avoiding excessive force that could damage it or jam it into the proximal fragment. Step 7: Lock the Nail Lock the nail from the distal or proximal end first. The femoral distractor helps to keep the rotation accurate during locking and helps to serve as a handle to obtain perfect overlapping circles of the locking screw site on fluoroscopy. However, the external fixator may be obstructive for distal locking in particular. The fixator can be removed for distal locking and reattached for proximal locking. Step 8: Final Blocking Screws Check the anteroposterior and lateral fluoroscopic images and decide how stable the nail is in the bone. Will the fragment shift into varus, valgus, or flexion? Step 9: Mark the Magnet and Test the Nail Mark the position and orientation of the magnet in the nail on the patient’s skin to indicate where to place the external magnet for lengthening. Step 10: Postoperative Care and Lengthening Postoperative management involves nail distraction, venous thromboembolic (VTE) prophylaxis, and adherence to a specific weight-bearing protocol. Results Femoral lengthening with the remote-controlled magnetic intramedullary nail has had excellent clinical efficacy 3 . Pitfalls & Challenges
Could Geometry Demystify Patterns of Earth Quakes and Aftershocks? An Answer is Yes

In this article, a pioneering (geometric) approach based on a new what is named here Glued Bivariate Poisson (GBP) distribution is constructed to demystify the 21st century incidences of earthquakes and their aftershocks. A warning risk index for an earthquake or an aftershock to occur is formulated and computed for each of the thirteen major tectonic plates. This article reports a surprise and it is that there exists a geo angle constancy, 1.571 in the results pertaining to earthquakes or aftershocks in all the tectonic plates no matter what varying interlocked “glue level” among the African, Antarctica, Arabian, Australian, Caribbean, Coco’s, Eurasian, Indian, North American, Pacific, Philippine, South American and Scotia tectonic plates. The contents of this article identified higher risk plates, which include Eurasian, India, Pacific and Philippines plates, where earthquakes of Kathmandu, Nepal (on 26 April 2015) and Chich-Shima, Japan (on 30 May 2015) occurred as validations of the contents of this article. An interesting geologic-constancy of 1.571 is noticed based on our statistical approach and an appropriate representative random sampling.
Missed psychiatric appointments: who returns and who stays away.

Objective This study investigated reasons for missed psychiatric appointments, rescheduling of appointments, adverse outcomes, and the association of specific diagnoses and treatments with missed appointments. Method A prospective survey covering all individual outpatient visits to seven mental health clinic psychiatrists was conducted during a 3-month period in 1991. Of the 1,620 scheduled visits, 142 (8.8%) were missed, representing 130 separate patients. For each missed appointment, the psychiatrist involved completed a questionnaire on the type of visit, the patient's DSM-III-R diagnosis, the reason for missing the appointment, the date of patient recontact, and adverse outcome, if any. Results Of the 142 missed appointments, 71.1% were rescheduled spontaneously by the patients; of these, most (73.3%) were rescheduled within 2 weeks. The remaining missed appointments represented various outcomes, including dropping out of treatment. The most common stated reason for missing an appointment was patient error, such as forgetting, oversleeping, or getting the date wrong. Patients with PTSD and/or substance abuse were significantly more likely than others to miss appointments, and those with major depression were somewhat less likely to do so. Conclusions Most patients quickly reschedule missed appointments, and those in more intensive treatments miss fewer appointments. Missed appointments for initial evaluation are not rescheduled most often. Patients in ongoing treatment who do not return may have histories of noncompliance with treatment. The high rate of rescheduling suggests that follow-up of patients who miss appointments should be a clinical decision rather than a routine policy.
Surface Radiation Budget

The incoming and net shortwave radiation (NSW) at the ocean surface can now be estimated from satellite data with a reasonable accuracy (5–10 w/m2) for climate studies. The accurate computations are however computer intensive and strategies should be established (sampling, averaging?) to limit the computation burden.
What You Should Know About Retirement Plans

The landscape of retirement planning is undergoing significant change. Companies are adopting new plan types, freezing existing plans, and even terminating plans to ensure their corporate survival. This paper may be used to familiarize students and others with the difference between qualified and nonqualified plans, the major types of retirement plans offered by companies, and the significant trends and issues facing employers and employees in today’s turbulent work environment.
Observatoire des risques émergents et identification de « moteurs de l’émergence »

Introduction Afin de remplir sa mission, l’EU-OSHA a besoin d’informations sur l’emergence des nouveaux risques qui menacent la securite et la sante au travail (SST). C’est pourquoi elle a lance une serie d’etudes sur ces themes depuis le debut des annees 2000. L’Observatoire europeen des risques a ete mis en place afin de disposer d’une vue d’ensemble paneuropeenne des tendances et defis communs, danticiper les changements et d’evaluer l’evolution technologique et sociale et l’impact potentiel sur le travail. Il fournit egalement des informations aux decideurs politiques, aux chercheurs et aux praticiens, aux gouvernements des Etats membres, et aux partenaires sociaux, afin de les aider a prevoir les risques emergents et a prendre des mesures. Une etude de definition et de priorisation de themes a pris en compte les changements imprevisibles dans la nature du travail, l’incertitude economique permanente liee a la crise financiere mondiale et les changements de nature societale, politique, economique et technologique pour identifier les themes d’etudes futures et animer le debat. L’EU-OSHA a aussi recemment realise une etude prospective des risques emergents dans les emplois verts, et publie une serie d’articles et d’expertises sur l’effet sur la SST de la robotique, de l’externalisation a grande echelle crowdsourcing), ou l’utilisation des drogues ameliorant la performance, vu dopants, en lieux de travail. Recemment, l’agence a entame un projet d’analyse de systemes d’alerte et de sentinelle des Etats membres. Un certain nombre de pays ont mis en place ces systemes afin de determiner des expositions et des maladies emergentes, d’identifier les groupes a risque, de mettre en place des regimes de prevention fondes sur des preuves et mieux cibler les efforts de prevention, et de contribuer a la reconnaissance de certaines maladies ne pouvant actuellement pas etre indemnisees. L’objectif de l’etude est d’etablir une typologie des systemes en place afin de mieux identifier les defis et avantages de l’utilisation d’un tel systeme. Ce projet devrait egalement contribuer a la mise en commun des informations sur les nouveaux problemes de sante lies a des expositions specifiques et d’identifier quelles sont actuellement les priorites des Etats membres pour l’identification des maladies emergentes secteurs, expositions, types de maladies). Enfin, il vise a contribuer a une meilleure comprehension de la relation de cause a effet et au developpement d’instruments de surveillance de sante cibles pour soutenir la reconnaissance precoce des risques au travail.
Visitor expenditure within a mountain bike event portfolio: Determinants, outcomes, and variations

ABSTRACTGradually community and scholarly support for large-scale sport events is declining as sustainability and efficiency are becoming primary concerns. Thus, a drive for the creation of small-scale event portfolios that comply with a community’s resources and infrastructure is developing. In the current study, a portfolio of four small-scale mountain bike events located in the Northwest United States were investigated to better understand their impact on the local economy. An online survey was conducted after each event that assessed visitor spending, travel behavior, and participant demographics resulting in a total sample of N = 614. Through general linear modeling, chi-square testing, and multiple regression each of the four events were compared with each other and determinants of visitor expenditure were tested. The results demonstrated the four events significantly differed in regards to total expenditure, daily expenditure, daily expenditure per person, trip duration, amount of travel party even...
A multiple scale neural system for boundary and surface representation of SAR data

A neural network model of boundary segmentation and surface representation is developed to process images containing range data gathered by a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensor. SAR sensors can produce range imagery of high spatial resolution under difficult weather conditions but the data presents some interpretation difficulties. These include the large dynamic range of the sensor signal, which requires some type of nonlinear compression. Another problem is image speckle, which is generated by coherent processing of radar signals and has characteristics of random multiplicative noise. Our approach uses the form-sensitive operations of a neural network model in order to detect and enhance structure based on information over large, variably sized and variably shaped regions of the image. In particular, the multiscale implementation of the neural model reported here is capable of exploiting and combining information from several nested neighborhoods of a given image location to determine the final intensity value to be displayed for that pixel. By "neighborhood" is here meant a region whose form varies as a function of nearby image data, not some fixed (weighted) radial function for all pixel locations.
A Bayesian approach to biomechanical modeling to optimize over large parameter spaces while considering anatomical variability

We present the Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) approach in the context of a musculoskeletal model of the thumb. With special consideration for the complexities of biomechanical modeling, we present this approach as an alternative to standard parameter estimation techniques that produce a single, in some way optimal, set of parameter values. In contrast, MCMC methods are derived from a Bayesian philosophy, in which each "true" model parameter is actually a random variable with its own probability distribution. With MCMC we can (1) address challenges of model parameter estimation that are difficult for gradient-based methods to meet, (2) estimate the inherent biomechanical capabilities of a specific "model topology" for large, variable parameter spaces (e.g. 50-dimensional for the assumed thumb model), and (3) determine the functional consequences of the unavoidable anatomical variability across subjects in a population. Using the MCMC approach with a Metropolis-Hastings sampling algorithm we explored a 50-D musculoskeletal parameter space and successfully achieved convergence. We found the relatively small subspace of the expansive 50-D space that, for a hinged serial linkage model of the thumb, predicts functional outcomes that best-fit the experimental data.
Engineering and In Vivo Applications of Riboswitches

Riboswitches are common gene regulatory units mostly found in bacteria that are capable of altering gene expression in response to a small molecule. These structured RNA elements consist of two modular subunits: an aptamer domain that binds with high specificity and affinity to a target ligand and an expression platform that transduces ligand binding to a gene expression output. Significant progress has been made in engineering novel aptamer domains for new small molecule inducers of gene expression. Modified expression platforms have also been optimized to function when fused with both natural and synthetic aptamer domains. As this field expands, the use of these privileged scaffolds has permitted the development of tools such as RNA-based fluorescent biosensors. In this review, we summarize the methods that have been developed to engineer new riboswitches and highlight applications of natural and synthetic riboswitches in enzyme and strain engineering, in controlling gene expression and cellular physiology, and in real-time imaging of cellular metabolites and signals.
Nonprofessional Investors’ Reactions to the PCAOB's Proposed Changes to the Standard Audit Report

As part of its efforts to improve the informational value of the standard audit report, the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) proposed a new auditing standard that would require the auditor to report critical audit matters (CAMs) in the body of the audit report. The proposal met with approval from investor groups, while preparers have suggested the new disclosures could negatively affect the quality of the audit and the informational content of the audit report. This study examines how the proposed standard influences experienced, nonprofessional investors’ perception of the readability of the audit report, their valuation judgments, and their evaluations of management’s credibility. We find that the disclosure of a CAM negatively impacts the readability of the audit report, but does not, either directly or through its effect on readability, incrementally inform investors’ valuation judgments. Instead, investors focused on earnings benchmark performance when making valuation judgements. The disclosure of a CAM does, however, lower investors’ perceptions of management’s credibility when earnings just meet expectations. Our results suggest that the PCAOB’s proposed standard will have a significant, negative effect on the readability of the audit report but only a limited impact on the informational content of the audit report for investors.
FEASTING, RITUAL PRACTICES, SOCIAL MEMORY, AND PERSISTENT PLACES: NEW INTERPRETATIONS OF SHELL MOUNDS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Shell mounds have not been investigated as prominent ritual features in southern California, despite evidence to the contrary. The largest extant shell mound in the region is on Santa Cruz Island, measures 270 by 210 m (44,532 m² in area), is 8 m higher than the terrace it rests on, is covered with 50 house depressions, and dates to 6000–2500 B.P. In the 1920s, three cemeteries were excavated at the top of El Monton; one young woman stood out among the over 200 individuals in that she was buried with 157 stone effigies. Analysis of multiple lines of evidence, including stratigraphic profiles of features, 85 radiocarbon dates, ground penetrating radar, and mortuary data, supports my claim that the mound was a persistent place where early visitors had significant feasts, constructed dwellings, buried their dead, and performed ceremonies where select groups of infants, children, and adults were revered. These mortuary rites conveyed the symbolic power of the place and created a history of events that became part of a mythical and real past that was repeatedly visited, modified, and (re)interpreted as social relationships were reinforced. This study supports the idea that shell mounds are socially constructed landscapes, not just accumulations of refuse.
Increasing Feedback Receptivity by Moderating Negative Valence

Content creators frequently encounter negative feedback that significantly harms their online feedback collection experience. My dissertation examines how negative information influences the perception of the feedback, and how we can increase content creators' resilience to negative feedback. For the next step, I plan to explore ways to solicit more positive content from feedback providers in online environment.
Subjects of modernity: time-space, disciplines, margins

Critique and criticism are often hard to distinguish in scholarly accounts of modernity, especially when such accounts are written avowedly within a postcolonial tradition. Saurabh Dube's Subjects ...
Flail Chest: Less Deadly than Originally Thought.

Flail chest is considered a highly morbid condition with reported mortality ranging from 10 to 20%. It is often associated with other severe injuries, which may complicate management and interpretation of outcomes. The physiologic impact and prognosis of isolated flail chest injury is poorly defined. This is a National Trauma Databank study. All patients from 1/2007 to 12/2014 admitted with flail chest were extracted. Patients with head or abdominal AIS ≥3, dead on arrival, or transferred, were excluded. Primary outcome was mortality; secondary outcomes were need for mechanical ventilation and pneumonia. Of the 1,047,519 patients with blunt chest injury, 14,718 (1.4%) patients presented with flail chest, and 8098 (0.77%) met inclusion criteria. The most commonly associated intrathoracic injuries were hemothorax (57.9%) and lung contusions (63.0%), while sternal fracture (8.8%) and cardiac contusion (2.5%) were less common. In total, 29.8% of patients required mechanical ventilation, and 11.2% developed pneumonia. Overall mortality was 5.6%. On multivariable analysis, age >65 and need for mechanical ventilation were independent risk factors for mortality (OR 6.02, 3.75, respectively, p 65 is an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes, and these patients may benefit by more aggressive monitoring and treatment.
Gene Mapping and Gene Transfer in Mammalian Cells

Somatic cell genetics provides a new approach to the genetic analysis of mammalian species* During the first decade of its use the rapid and simple methods of somatic cell genetics have been used to map over 200 genes in man (1,2). The total number now stands at more than 400. Somatic cell genetics depends on parasexual events detectable in somatic cells in vitro. These parasexual events result in the transfer of genetic information, and its fate in the recipient cell. Moreover, these methods, in combination with current recombinant DNA technology, provide different levels of genetic resolution, ranging from the chromosomal location of genes to the fine structural mapping of individual genes.
An Object-Oriented View of Action Systems

Action systems are used in chapter 2 to represent a message communicating process (Merge), a fragment of an operating system (mutual exclusion), a process controller (odometer), and even solutions to combinatorial problems (gcd, shortest path). The syntax and semantics of action systems are sparse, yet we developed succinct programs for several well-known problems. This chapter extends the programming model of chapter 2 to make it easier to describe process interactions. Additionally, we address the issue of program composition in some detail.
Alteration of Aroclor 1248 in foundry waste by volatilization

PCB mixtures in surface deposits composed of core sand and ash from an aluminum foundry are enriched (3.6–9.4%) in chlorine percentage relative to deeper horizons. The deeper materials closely match (R2 = 0.902–0.962) Aroclor 1248, the aroclor used on-site and recovered from the floor inside the foundry (R2 = 0.998). This similarity suggests the more deeply buried PCBs have been stable and immobile for a 20–40 yr period. Chlorine enrichment upward is interpreted as the result of volatilization of lower and orthochlorinated congeners from surficial materials during repeated water evaporation. These results suggest surficial deposits contaminated by PCBs may be a significant source of lower ortho-chlorinated PCB congeners to the atmosphere and that buried PCBs can remain unchanged for decades. Comparison with sediments contaminated with Aroclor 1248 and known to have undergone anaerobic microbial dechlorination, indicates that Aroclor 1248 can be transformed to PCB mixtures enriched or depleted in chlorine by environmental processes.
Sensory Integration Theory in Psychotherapy: A Case Study

As emotional beings in a physical body, human consciousness and perception are bombarded with information from within and without. Information comes from the body’s sensory systems, which helps a human know if a situation is safe or not safe, pleasurable or painful, with which to engage or to avoid. As situations become common, the body lessens the response in deference to new situations. The push and pull of neural focus impacts perception, behavior, and emotions. This paper uses sensory integration theory to examine a psychotherapeutic case study and make connections to perceptions and worldview that stem from the body responses to the environment. Sensory systems are explained in the context of the lived experience of an adult and his reflection on childhood. This case study sheds light on the maladaptive behaviors that may arise from misperceptions and suggests a therapeutic approach that uses the connection of mind and body to build rapport, work through client resistance, and ultimately bring subconscious body processes that impact perception into consciousness.
Relationship between the Track and Structural Evolution of Hurricane Sandy (2012) Using a Regional Ensemble

AbstractAn ensemble of 72 Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model simulations is evaluated to examine the relationship between the track of Hurricane Sandy (2012) and its structural evolution....
Estimating the quality of crowdsourced translations based on the characteristics of source and target words and participants

Text-based media possess a wealth of insights that can be mined to understand perceptions and actions. Researchers and public officials can use these data to inform development policy and humanitarian action. An important step in analyzing text-based databases, such as social media, is the creation of taxonomies which are used to filter information relevant to topics of interest. We worked with thousands of online volunteers to translate 2,137 keywords or phrases in English to formal or vernacular expressions in 29 different languages with the aim of understanding human responses to natural disasters, as well as developing sets of corpus on non popular languages (non English and non EU languages) which still has limited studies. In processing the data set, we faced a challenge in selecting a set of quality translations for each language. This paper aims to estimate the quality of the crowdsourced translations by non-professional translators. This paper presents an extensive empirical study using 91 features from 29 languages corpora to describe (a) translators, (b) source expressions, and (c) translated expressions. Our results show that our approach exploring two regression models and two supervised learning methods produces better results than a baseline approach with a commonly used metric, namely peer-review scores.
Performance comparison of state-of-the-art high-speed video cameras for scientific applications

Time-resolved visualization of fast processes using high-speed digital video-cameras has been widely used in most fields of scientific research for over a decade. In many applications, high-speed imaging is used not only to record the time history of a phenomenon but also to quantify it, hence requiring dependable equipment. Important aspects of two-dimensional imaging instrumentation used to qualitatively or quantitatively assess fast-moving scenes include sensitivity, linearity, as well as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Under certain circumstances, the weaknesses of commercially available high-speed cameras, i.e., sensitivity, linearity, image lag, etc., render the experiment complicated and uncertain. Our study evaluated two advanced CMOS-based, continuous-recording, high-speed cameras available at the moment of writing. Various parameters, potentially important toward accurate time-resolved measurements and photonic quantification, have been measured under controlled conditions on the bench, using scientific instrumentation. Testing procedures to measure sensitivity, linearity, SNR, shutter accuracy, and image lag are proposed and detailed. The results of the tests, comparing the two high-speed cameras under study, are also presented and discussed. Results show that, with careful implementation and understanding of their performance and limitations, these high-speed cameras are reasonable alternatives to scientific CCD cameras, while also delivering time-resolved imaging data.
HIV risk behaviors among deaf people with mental illness

ABSTRACTHIV-related prevention and intervention efforts for deaf adults with mental illness have been developed in the absence of empirical data regarding the risk behaviors in which this group eng...
Dynamics of a squid-inspired swimmer in free swimming

The untethered swimming performance of a two-dimensional squid-inspired swimmer is studied. Our model includes fully-coupled fluid-structure interaction and an idealized activation algorithm that drives periodic shape change of the body. We present results of both escape jetting via a single deflation-coasting motion and long-distance swimming via repeated inflation-deflation cycles. In both cases added-mass-related force is found to contribute significantly to thrust generation. Moreover, we find that the increase of the jet speed and oscillation frequency leads to higher swimming velocity. This, however, is achieved at the cost of reduced propulsion efficiency (i.e. higher cost of transport). During long-distance swimming, the system experiences three successive stages, acceleration, steady-state swimming, and off-track swimming caused by symmetry-breaking instability in the wake. Associated with these stages, three wake patterns are observed, nozzle-vortex-dominated wake, transit wake, and asymmetrical wake.