cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Red or blue? A potential kilonova imprint of the delay until black hole formation following a neutron star merger

Mergers of binary neutron stars (NSs) usually result in the formation of a hypermassive neutron star (HMNS). Whether- and when this remnant collapses to a black hole (BH) depends primarily on the equation of state and on angular momentum transport processes, both of which are uncertain. Here we show that the lifetime of the merger remnant may be directly imprinted in the radioactively powered kilonova emission following the merger. We employ axisymmetric, time-dependent hydrodynamic simulations of remnant accretion disks orbiting a HMNS of variable lifetime, and characterize the effect of this delay to BH formation on the disk wind ejecta. When BH formation is relatively prompt (~ 100 ms), outflows from the disk are sufficiently neutron rich to form heavy r-process elements, resulting in ~ week-long emission with a spectral peak in the near-infrared (NIR), similar to that produced by the dynamical ejecta. In contrast, delayed BH formation allows neutrinos from the HMNS to raise the electron fraction in the polar direction to values such that potentially Lanthanide-free outflows are generated. The lower opacity would produce a brighter, bluer, and shorter-lived ~ day-long emission (a `blue bump') prior to the late NIR peak from the dynamical ejecta and equatorial wind. This new diagnostic of BH formation should be useful for events with a signal to noise lower than that required for direct detection of gravitational waveform signatures.
Doctors and society: a Northern Thailand study.

Abstract This paper presents findings from a survey together with other observations to characterize the medical profession in Northern Thailand. Data were obtained in early 1976 using a self-administered questionnaire which was completed by 132 physicians in three Northern Thai provinces. Officially approved Thai medicine is ‘Western’ in nature and is predominantly an urban phenomenon. Practitioners of indigenous medicine are widespread and although illegal, they are tolerated. Training of doctors conforms very largely to WEstern standards. This plus the limited demand for private medical care results in a high proportion of the graduates of Thai medical schools migrating abroad. Results of the survey indicate that doctors in Northern Thailand were predominantly government employees or staff of a private hospital. Less than 5% were solely in self-employment. However, most ‘employee’ doctors had a private ‘after hours’ practice. Two types of medical professionals were identified: the ‘cosmopolitan’ and the ‘local’ doctor. Difficulties in communicating with patients were indicated by about 30% of the respondent doctors. The level of dissatisfaction expressed by the doctors surveyed was relatively high—43%. Items most often mentioned were over-work, low compensation and lack of cooperation of patients. Satisfactions most often mentioned were: service to others, independent occupation and prestige with which doctors are regarded. In the analysis, the influence of several independent variables on type of professionalism and on satisfaction-dissatisfaction was determined.
Attitude Dynamics and Control of an Apogee Motor Assembly with Paired Satellites

The Apogee Motor Assembly with Paired Satellites (AMAPS) technique takes advantage of a well-known instability of spinning bodies to deploy pairs of satellites into high-circular orbits from either a low-orbiting space shuttle or a launch vehicle which performs the apogee transfer injection. A spinning semirigid body, free of applied torques and active controls, is stable only when rotating about its axis of maximum moment of inertia, because energy dissipates until a minimum energy state is reached. This principle has been widely used in the passive attitude control of Earth satellites and has been disastrous to those who ignored it. In this application, the instability associated with rotation about the minor principal axis is used to passively control spin axis reorientation of the payload assembly. An investigation of associated attitude dynamics and energy dissipation processes is reported here. Dissipation is simulated with viscous ring dampers. Approximate and numerical methods for predicting time of spin axis reorientation from minor to major principal axis are reviewed and examples presented.
ASSESSMENT OF PREFERENCE FOR VARIED VERSUS CONSTANT REINFORCERS

One method that has been demonstrated to improve the effectiveness of reinforcement is stimulus (reinforcer) variation (Egel, 1980). Egel found that bar pressing increased and responding occurred more rapidly during varied reinforcement than during constant reinforcement when identical stimuli were used across phases for 10 individuals with autism. The purpose of the current investigation was to assess the preferences of 7 individuals for varied presentation of slightly lower quality stimuli relative to constant access to the highest quality stimulus. Varied presentation was preferred over constant reinforcer presentation with 4 participants, and the opposite was true for 2 participants. One participant did not demonstrate a preference. These results suggest that stimulus variation may allow less preferred reinforcers to compete effectively with a more highly preferred reinforcer for some individuals.
The effects of multiprogramming on barrier synchronization

One of the most common ways to share a multiprocessor among several applications is to give each application a set of dedicated processors. To ensure fairness, an application may receive fewer processors than it has processes. Unless an application can easily adjust the number of processes it employs during execution, several processes from the same application may have to share a processor. The authors quantify the performance penalty that arises when more than one process from the same application runs on a single processor of a NUMA (Non Uniform Memory Access) multiprocessor. They consider programs that use coarse-grain parallelism and barrier synchronization because they are particularly sensitive to multiprogramming. They quantify the impact on the performance of an application of quantum size, frequency of synchronization, and the type of barrier used. They conclude that dedicating processors to an application, even without migration or dynamic adjustment of the number of processes, is an effective scheduling policy for programs that synchronize frequently using barriers. >
Climate change and community disassembly: impacts of warming on tropical and temperate montane community structure

Both tropical and temperate species are responding to global warming through range shifts, but our understanding of the consequences of these shifts for whole communities is limited. Here, we use current elevational range data for six taxonomic groups spanning 90 in latitude to examine the potential impacts of climate-driven range shifts on community change, or disassembly, across latitude. Elevational ranges are smaller at low latitudes for most groups and, as a consequence, tropical communities appear to be more sensitive to temperature increases compared with temperate communities. Under site-specific temperature projections, we generally found greater community disassembly in tropical compared with temperate communities, although this varied by dispersal assumptions. Mountain height can impact the amount of community disassembly, with greater change occurring on smaller mountains. Finally, projected community disassembly was higher for ectotherms than endotherms, although the variation among ectotherms was greater than the variation separating endotherms and ectotherms.
A radiated susceptibility test technique for PC boards implementing built-in-test or boundary scan designs

The authors describe a test technique and procedure for performing radiated susceptibility testing of printed circuit (PC) boards which implement built-in-test (BIT) or boundary scan designs. The measurement technique involves illumination of the circuit-under-test (CUT) with an electromagnetic plane wave generated in a TEM (transverse-electromagnetic) cell using a fiber-optic input/output (I/O) interface to the external test equipment. By isolating the CUT from the rest of the test environment, flaws in the EMI (electromagnetic interference) design/layout of PC boards can readily be identified and quickly retested using the recommended technique. Only a limited number of I/O pins must be interfaced to the digital test equipment when testing in BIT mode. A specific example of the use of these techniques and procedures as applied to a self-testing Am29034-bit microprocessor slice test circuit is also given. >
Link spam alliances

Link spam is used to increase the ranking of certain target web pages by misleading the connectivity-based ranking algorithms in search engines. In this paper we study how web pages can be interconnected in a spam farm in order to optimize rankings. We also study alliances, that is, interconnections of spam farms. Our results identify the optimal structures and quantify the potential gains. In particular, we show that alliances can be synergistic and improve the rankings of all participants. We believe that the insights we gain will be useful in identifying and combating link spam.
Improving low visibility operations

Low visibility is a major limiting factor on aircraft operations. Although there are several definitions of low visibility, in this paper it is defined as values less than a runway visual range (RVR) of 2400 feet. These conditions only occur a small percentage of the time, but they can have a major impact on the National Airspace System (NAS). The impact of reduced arrival rates as a result of low visibility operations at a major hub airport impacts a large geographic area. Departure airports, enroute airspace, diversion airports and adjacent smaller airports can all be significantly impacted from the reduction of capacity at the primary destination. The costs associated with the resultant delays, cancellations and diversions are substantial. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), in an effort to reduce these impacts and harmonize with Europe's Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA), has undertaken the task of updating the requirements for low visibility operations. This activity focuses on utilizing advanced flight deck technologies in lieu of ground based lighting and navigation components. Specific advanced flight deck technologies such as head-up displays (HUD), flight directors, auto-land systems, and enhanced flight vision systems for use in low visibility approach and landing in civil operations are being researched by the FAA and The MITRE Corporation's Center for Advanced Aviation System Development (CAASD). Benefits are enabled for operators by allowing certain Category I instrument approaches to be flown with suitable advanced flight technology in lower visibility conditions and to operate to lower decision heights. This paper reports on the extent of benefits found through analysis of weather conditions, equipage rates, demand for access, and the importance of flight schedule integrity. This paper also discusses related technologies and research that can be utilized for low visibility operations and the key considerations important to utilizing these systems for the approach and landing phases of flight.
Postoperative diarrhea and high ostomy output impact postoperative outcomes after elective colon and rectal operations regardless of Clostridium difficile infection

Abstract Background We aimed to review and compare outcomes of patients with and without Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) after elective colorectal operations. Methods Retrospective cohort study of patients with CDI after elective colon and rectal operations from 2007 to 2012 (Group A) was conducted. Outcomes were compared with patients with a negative C. difficile toxin assay performed for postoperative diarrhea or high stoma output (Group B) and matched controls (Group C). Results Forty-four patients (median age 53 years) developed CDI postoperatively (Group A). Fourteen patients (32%) had surgical site infections. Both Group A and Group B patients received ertapenem as preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis significantly more often than matched controls ( P P = .004), longer hospital stays ( P = .003), and more readmissions ( P = .02) compared with Group C patients. Conclusions In this study, postoperative CDI was uncommon, of low morbidity, and no mortality. Postoperative diarrhea and high stoma output, whether in patients who are C. difficile positive or not, appear to impact postoperative outcomes.
Stationary-sparse causality network learning

Recently, researchers have proposed penalized maximum likelihood to identify network topology underlying a dynamical system modeled by multivariate time series. The time series of interest are assumed to be stationary, but this restriction is never taken into consideration by existing estimation methods. Moreover, practical problems of interest may have ultra-high dimensionality and obvious node collinearity. In addition, none of the available algorithms provides a probabilistic measure of the uncertainty for the obtained network topology which is informative in reliable network identification. The main purpose of this paper is to tackle these challenging issues. We propose the S2 learning framework, which stands for stationary-sparse network learning. We propose a novel algorithm referred to as the Berhu iterative sparsity pursuit with stationarity (BISPS), where the Berhu regularization can improve the Lasso in detection and estimation. The algorithm is extremely easy to implement, efficient in computation and has a theoretical guarantee to converge to a global optimum. We also incorporate a screening technique into BISPS to tackle ultra-high dimensional problems and enhance computational efficiency. Furthermore, a stationary bootstrap technique is applied to provide connection occurring frequency for reliable topology learning. Experiments show that our method can achieve stationary and sparse causality network learning and is scalable for high-dimensional problems.
ADJUSTING AGE AND STAGE DISTRIBUTIONS FOR MISCLASSIFICATION ERRORS

Ecologists often use samples from the age or stage structure of a population to make inferences about population-level processes and to parameterize matrix models. Typically, researchers make a simplifying assumption that age and stage classes are determined without error, when in fact some level of misclassification often can be expected. If unaccounted for, misclassification will lead to overly optimistic levels of precision and can cause biased estimates of age or stage structure. Although several studies have used information from known-age individuals to quantify errors in age or stage distribution, the problem of estimating the age or stage structure in face of such errors has received comparably little attention. In this paper, we describe a general statistical framework for estimating the true stage distribution of a sample when misclassification rates can be estimated. The estimation process requires auxiliary information on misclassification rates, such as data from individuals of known age. We analyze age-structured harvest records from black bears in Pennsylvania to illustrate how incorporating misclassification errors leads to changes in point estimates and provides a measure of precision.
'Collective memory': A memoir and prospect

This article reflects on the past, present and future states of social memory studies. Despite the proliferation of work employing the term `collective memory', the field retains the `non-paradigma...
Simultaneous Detection of Four Human Pathogenic Microsporidian Species from Clinical Samples by Oligonucleotide Microarray

Microsporidian species have been rapidly emerging as human enteric pathogens in immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals in recent years. Routine diagnostic techniques for microsporidia in clinical laboratories are laborious and insensitive and tend to underestimate their presence. In most instances, they are unable to differentiate species of spores due to their small sizes and similar morphologies. In this study, we report the development of another protozoan oligonucleotide microarray assay for the simultaneous detection and identification to the species level of four major microsporidian species: Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Encephalitozoon cuniculi, Encephalitozoon hellem, and Encephalitozoon intestinalis. The 18S small-subunit rRNA gene was chosen as the amplification target, labeled with fluorescence dye, and hybridized to a series of species-specific oligonucleotide probes immobilized on a microchip. The specificity and sensitivity of the microarray were clearly demonstrated by the unique hybridization profiles exhibited by each species of microsporidian tested and its ability to detect as few as 10 spores. In order to assess the applicability of this microarray in a clinical setting, we conducted microarray assays of 20 fecal samples from AIDS patients. Twelve of these samples were positive for the presence of microsporidia and could be confidently identified; 11 of them were positive for more than one species. Our results suggested that this microarray-based approach represents an attractive diagnostic tool for high-throughput detection and identification of microsporidian species in clinical and epidemiological investigations.
Ambient fluid motions influence swimming and feeding by the ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi

Planktonic organisms are exposed to turbulent water motion that affects the fundamental activities of swimming and feeding. The goal of this study was to measure the influence of realistic turbulence levels on (i) swimming behavior and (ii) fluid interactions during feeding by the lobate ctenophore, Mnemiopsis leidyi, a highly successful suspension-feeding predator. A laboratory turbulence generator produced turbulence (e = 0.5–1.4 × 10^(−6) W kg^(−1)) representative of a field site in Woods Hole, MA, USA. Compared with still water, M. leidyi avoided regions in the experimental vessel where turbulence was greatest (e = 1.1–1.4 × 10^(−6) W kg^(−1)) by increasing its swimming speeds and accelerations. Both laboratory and in situ particle image velocimetry data demonstrated that feeding currents of M. leidyi were eroded by ambient fluid motions. Despite this, the overall flux to the feeding structures remained constant due to higher swimming speeds in turbulent conditions. Instantaneous shear deformation rates produced by background turbulence were higher than those produced by ctenophore feeding currents and frequently exceeded the published escape thresholds of copepod prey. Feeding current erosion and fluid mechanical signal noise within turbulent flows affect the mechanics of predator–prey interactions during suspension feeding by the ctenophore M. leidyi.
Optical Dispersion Compensator With $&#8811;$ 4000-ps/nm Tuning Range Using a Virtually Imaged Phased Array (VIPA) and Spatial Light Modulator (SLM)

We present an optical tunable chromatic dispersion compensator based on a virtually imaged phased-array and spatial light modulator providing both positive and negative dispersion. We demonstrate tunable dispersion compensation of 10-Gb/s positively chirped nonreturn-to-zero data signal over a range of -4080~+850ps/nm (240-km single-mode fiber to 9.5-km dispersion-compensating fiber), which operates independent of the input state of polarization and has potential capability for wavelength-division multiplexing
Bringing an Organizational Perspective to the Optimal Number of Colorectal Cancer Screening Options Debate

Improving colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates represents a challenge for primary care providers. Some have argued that offering a choice of CRC screening modes to patients will improve the currently low adherence rates. Others have raised concerns that offering numerous CRC screening options in practice could overwhelm patients and thus dampen enthusiasm for screening. In this article we assemble evidence to critically evaluate the relative merit of these opposing views. We find little evidence to support the hypothesis that the number of options offered will affect adherence (either positively or negatively), or that expanding the modalities offered beyond FOBT and colonoscopy will improve patient satisfaction. Therefore, we assert future decisions about the number of CRC screening modes to offer would more productively be focused on considerations such as what benefit the health-care organization would derive from offering additional modes, and how this change would affect other critical components of a successful screening program such as timely diagnosis. In light of these organizational level considerations, we agree with the assertion made by others that a screening program limited to FOBT and colonoscopy is likely to be ideal in most settings.
Involvement of PPARγ co-activator-1, nuclear respiratory factors 1 and 2, and PPARα in the adaptive response to endurance exercise

Endurance exercise training induces an increase in the respiratory capacity of muscle, resulting in an increased capacity to generate ATP as well as improved efficiency of muscle contraction. Such adaptations are largely the result of a coordinated genetic response that increases mitochondrial proteins, fatty acid oxidation enzymes and the exercise- and insulin-stimulated glucose transporter GLUT4, and shifts the contractile and regulatory proteins to their more efficient isoforms. In recent years a number of the transcriptional regulators involved in this genetic response have been identified and these factors can be classified into two different groups. The first group comprises transcription factors such as nuclear respiratory factors (NRF) 1 and 2 and PPAR alpha that bind DNA in a sequence-specific manner. The second group, referred to as transcriptional co-activators, alter transcription without directly binding to DNA. The PPAR gamma co-activator (PGC) family of proteins have been identified as the central family of transcriptional co-activators for induction of mitochondrial biogenesis. PGC-1 alpha is activated by exercise, and is sufficient to produce the endurance phenotype through direct interactions with NRF-1 and PPAR alpha, and potentially NRF-2. Furthering the understanding of the activation of PGC proteins following exercise has implications beyond improving athletic performance, including the possibility of providing targets for the treatment of frailty in the elderly, obesity and diseases such as mitochondrial myopathies and diabetes.
Augustus: Introduction to the Life of an Emperor

Augustus, Rome's first emperor, is one of the great figures of world history and one of the most fascinating. In this lively and concise biography Karl Galinsky examines Augustus' life from childhood to deification. He chronicles the mosaic of vicissitudes, challenges, setbacks and successes that shaped Augustus' life, both public and private. How did he use his power? How did he manage to keep re-inventing himself? What kind of man was he? A transformative leader, Augustus engineered profound change in Rome and throughout the Mediterranean world. No one would have expected such vast achievements from the frail and little-known eighteen-year-old who became Caesar's heir amid turmoil and crisis. A mere thirteen years later, after defeating Antony and Cleopatra, he had, in his words, 'power over all things'.
Thermoelectric Assisted Adsorption Cooling Systems for Harsh Environment Electronics: Issues With Heat Regeneration

Adsorption cooling systems can be made compact enough to fit into electronic enclosures by the use of Thermo-Electric (TE) devices for heat regeneration and recovery. While such systems have been studied for near room temperature cooling of electronics, their straightforward application to harsh (high temperature) environments can prove detrimental to the TE devices. Cyclic temperature variations coupled with heat pump requirements can greatly reduce the performance of a TE device. Moreover the temperature overlap between adsorption and desorption processes, that is usually desired for greater heat recovery, increases the temperature variations that a TE device has to go through. Hence in the context of using TE device to regenerate and recover heat in between the adsorbent beds, it becomes important to balance the advantages and drawbacks of thermal overlap. In the present work the suitability of temperature overlap for thermoelectric assisted heat regeneration and recovery has been theoretically examined. It was found that greater temperature overlap in between adsorption and desorption processes is not beneficial for TE device assisted heat regeneration and recovery.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Bias in Problem Solving and the Social Process of Student Study Teams A Qualitative Investigation

Multidisciplinary teams (MDTs), such as student study teams, are mandated to (a) support students' educational functioning through systematic group problem solving and intervention and (b) offer protection against bias to students who may be referred for special education assessment. Given the proportional overrepresentation of African American students who receive special education services, however, there are concerns about the actual objectivity and fairness of the MDT process. This study is a microethnographic investigation of how the social process and context of MDTs in two rural, southern elementary schools inhibited the teams' thorough and unbiased discussion of some African American students' psychoeducational functioning. Although ethnic bias was not documented, four themes related to the social context of the team and bias in the problem-solving process were identified.
Radiometric measurements of air-sea and air-ice temperature differences in the Arctic

The polar regions are considered to be particularly sensitive to climate change. The complex interactions between the surface and the overlying atmosphere are important aspects of the local heat budget, and through the atmospheric and oceanic general circulations, to global scales. The temperature difference between the surface and the lowest layer of the air is an important parameter in the surface heat budget, but difficult to measure, especially in conditions of mixed sea-ice and open water. Both surface temperature and near-surface air temperature can be determined radiometrically from measurements of the infrared emission spectra of the surface and atmosphere. The use of a Fourier-transform infrared spectroradiometer, the M-AERI (Marine-Atmospheric Emitted Radiance Interferometer) on ships can provide such data.
A Multi-Agent View of Strategic Planning Using Group Support Systems and Artificial Intelligence

The strategic planning process is dynamic and complex. Including a Group Support System (GSS) in the problem-solving process can improve the content quality of the strategic plan by allowing increased participation by more members of the organization. However, it can also add to the complexity of the problem by increasing the quantity of textual information that can result from group activity. Added complexity increases cognitive overload and frustrations of those participants negotiating the contents of the strategic plan. This article takes a multi-agent view of the strategic planning process. It considers group participants as multiple agents concerned with the content quality of the strategic plan. The facilitator agent is responsible for guiding groups in the strategic plan construction process as well as for solving process problems such as cognitive overload. We introduce an AI Concept Categorizer agent, a software tool that supports the facilitator in addressing the process problem of cognitive overload associated with convergent group activities by synthesizing group textual output into conceptual clusters. The implementation of this tool reduces frustrations which groups encounter in the process of classifying textual output and provides more time for discussion of the concepts themselves. Because of the large amount of convergent activity necessary for strategic planning, the addition of the AI Concept Categorizer to the strategic planning process should increase the quality of the strategic plan and the buy-in of the participants in the strategic planning process.
Mutations of the RNase H C Helix of the Moloney Murine Leukemia Virus Reverse Transcriptase Reveal Defects in Polypurine Tract Recognition

Both the RNase H domain of Moloney murine leukemia virus (Mo-MLV) reverse transcriptase (RT) and Escherichia coli RNase H possess a positively charged alpha-helix (C helix) and a loop that are not present in the RNase H domains of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) RT or avian sarcoma virus RT. Although a mutant Mo-MLV RT lacking the C helix (DeltaC RT) retains DNA polymerase activity on homopolymeric substrates and partial RNase H activity, reverse transcription of the viral RNA genome in vivo is defective. To identify the essential features of the C helix, a panel of Mo-MLV RT mutants was generated. Analyses of these mutant viruses revealed the importance of residues H594, I597, R601, and G602. The mutants were tested for their ability to synthesize viral DNA after acute infections and to form proper 5' and 3' viral DNA ends. The mutant RTs were tested in vitro for exogenous RT activity, minus-strand strong-stop DNA synthesis in endogenous RT reactions, nonspecific RNase H activity, and finally, proper cleavage at the polypurine tract-U3 junction. The R601A mutant was the most defective mutant both in vivo and in vitro and possessed very little RNase H activity. The H594A, I597A, and G602A mutants had significant reductions in RNase H activity and in their rates of viral replication. Many of the mutants formed improper viral DNA ends and were less efficient in PPT-U3 recognition and cleavage in vitro. The data show that the C helix plays a crucial role for overall RNase H cleavage activity. The data also suggest that the C helix may play an important role in polypurine tract recognition and proper formation of the plus-strand DNA's 5' end.
Development and optimization of neutralizing antibody assays to monitor clinical immunogenicity

The development of an unwanted immune response to a protein therapeutic is a constant concern and necessitates careful monitoring of this class of drugs during clinical development. Neutralizing antibodies can have a significant impact on bioavailability, efficacy and safety of a protein therapeutic. Consequently, immunogenicity testing is required prior to obtaining regulatory approval and in some cases even after a product is marketed. Given the importance of this testing, it is critical that sensitive and robust assays are developed for detection of clinically relevant neutralizing antibodies. This review will describe considerations and current best practices for developing assays to detect neutralizing antibodies to protein therapeutics.
Parent and Teacher Opinions of Bilingual Education: Comparisons and Contrasts.

This paper examines the level of correspondence between parent and teacher opinions of bilingual education program characteristics. Six hundred Mexican American parents of children in bilingual education classrooms and sixty Mexican American teachers in bilingual classrooms were participants in this study. The general results for this study show that while parents and teachers may agree on rationales for bilingual education programs, they disagree regarding the operative features of bilingual education in the classroom.
A New Name for the Hawaiian Antipatharian Coral Formerly Known as Antipathes dichotoma (Cnidaria: Anthozoa: Antipatharia)

A Hawaiian species of antipatharian coral previously identified as Antipathes dichotoma Pallas, 1766, is described as Antipathes griggi Opresko, n. sp. The species forms tall, bushy colonies with elongate, upright terminal branches, often arranged uniserially. Spines are conical, mostly 0.20 to 0.26 mm tall, apically bifurcated, multilobed to jagged in appearance, and covered over most of their surface with small roundish to elongate papillae. Minute secondary spines may occur on some of the thicker branches. Polyps are 1 to 1.6 mm in transverse diameter. The species resembles A. fruticosa Gray in branching pattern, size of spines, and presence of secondary spines but differs in morphology and density of the spines (thicker, more crowded primary spines and fewer secondary spines in A. griggi). Other related species differ from A. griggi in having more widely spreading and irregularly arranged branches, no secondary spines, and either smaller spines with fewer apical lobes (A. curvata van Pesch, A. arborea Dana, and A. galapagensis Deichmann) or larger spines with the apical lobes arranged in a somewhat coronate pattern [A. spinulosa (Schultze) and A. lentipinna Brook].
The disruption of dictyosomal integrity by caffeine in the green algal flagellate, Gloeomonas kupfferi

The endomembrane system of the green algal flagellate, Gloeomonas kupfferi , is a highly ordered complex of endoplasmic reticulum sheets, 14–18 dictyosomes, vesicles and 8–12 peripheral vacuoles centered around a large nucleus. Each dictyosome is a highly polar cisternal stack with distinct cis and trans faces and an assortment of different-sized vesicles. The methylxanthine, caffeine, in concentrations of 1–2 mM, has been shown to be an effective disrupting agent of dictyosome integrity. For short treatments (1 h), caffeine causes an inhibition of typical trans -face vesiculation. Dictyosomes expand laterally and trans -face cisternal edges fuse. The resultant morphological products include exaggerated circular profiles and multidictyosomal masses. During longer treatment times (3–4 h), cis -face cisternae swell and ultimately disintegrate into large vesicles. Trans -face cisternae also vesiculate but do so into masses of tiny vesicles. The caffeine effects are reversible for up to 12 h, after which time cytological changes result in cell death. Phosphatase cytochemistry was also employed in this study to help reveal localized effects of caffeine. A putative explanation of the action of caffeine is presented.
Sun Batteries, Inc.

The purpose of this case is to illustrate the numerous financial accounting and reporting issues associated with the purchase of corporate bonds that may or may not be held to maturity. It requires students to calculate the effective semiannual interest rate and to prepare a bond premium amortization schedule. It should be used with the Solar Scientific, Inc., case (UVA-C-2119).
Evaluation of steel fiber distribution in cement-based mortars using active microwave thermography

The non-uniform distribution of steel fibers in fiber-reinforced cement-based mortars (FRCMs) can lead to heterogeneous properties of hardened material with direct impact on mechanical properties. Among various nondestructive testing techniques, the active microwave thermography (AMT) has shown good potential for inspection of cement-based materials. AMT utilizes combination of microwave energy to generate controlled and localized heating and uses commercially-available infrared cameras to capture surface thermal images in real-time. Utilizing AMT, four FRCM samples made with different steel fiber volumes ranging from 0 to 3 % were investigated to evaluate the feasibility of this method for detecting and quantifying fiber distribution. Full-wave coupled electromagnetic-thermal numerical modeling was also conducted to evaluate the effect of dielectric properties, fiber depth, and fiber clumping on surface thermal profile. The results of simulations indicate that increase in fiber depth results in lower surface temperature, due to lower heating associated with induced surface current. Based on AMT measurement results, samples with higher fiber contents were shown to undergo greater increase in surface temperature, as observed for samples with 1 and 2 % fibers. However, this tendency was reversed with further fiber addition from 2 to 3 %, due to the potential of fiber clumping. Furthermore, the fiber clumping and lower level of fiber homogeneity for FRCM with 3 % fiber resulted in 55 % lower flexural toughness compared to the FRCM containing 2 % fiber. The results of fiber homogeneity measured from freshly cast prism were found to correlate well with those obtained from AMT technique determined on hardened samples.
Reaction of rheumatoid sera with fragments of papain-digested rabbit gamma globulin.

SummaryMost of the reactivity of rabbit γ-globulin with a pool of sera from rheumatoid arthritics was found to be associated with Fraction III of the papain-digested globulin molecule. Fraction II showed a low degree of reactivity while Fraction I appeared to be completely inactive.
Characteristic Mode Analysis of a Class of Empirical Design Techniques for Probe-Fed, U-Slot Microstrip Patch Antennas

In this paper, characteristic mode analysis (CMA) of three empirical design techniques for the probe-fed, symmetrically located, U-slot microstrip patch antenna, on a single-layer grounded substrate, is presented with supporting experimental data. The first method, resonant frequency (ResF), utilizes the existence of the four distinct ResFs, while the second one, dimensional invariance (DI), relies on the property of DI, for the design of the U-slot microstrip patch. In both these methods, the optimization of the probe location is necessary for further enhancement of the 10-dB return loss bandwidth. The third method, dimensionally invariant ResF, that optimally combines the features of the previous two is developed here and shown to yield better bandwidth performance with minimal or no probe location optimization, and hence is superior to the other two for rapid prototyping. CMA is carried out for critical parameters, such as substrate electrical thickness, slot width, probe radius, and feed location variations, to assess their dominant influence on the characteristics of the U-slot microstrip patch antenna.
Use of electronic healthcare records to identify complex patients with atrial fibrillation for targeted intervention

Background: Practice guidelines recommend anticoagulation therapy for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who have other risk factors putting them at an elevated risk of stroke. These patients remain undertreated, but, with increasing use of electronic healthcare records (EHRs), it may be possible to identify candidates for treatment. Objective: To test algorithms for identifying AF patients who also have known risk factors for stroke and major bleeding using EHR data. Materials and Methods: We evaluated the performance of algorithms using EHR data from the Partners Healthcare System at identifying AF patients and 16 additional conditions that are risk factors in the CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED risk scores for stroke and major bleeding. Algorithms were based on information contained in problem lists, billing codes, laboratory data, prescription data, vital status, and clinical notes. The performance of candidate algorithms in 1000 bootstrap resamples was compared to a gold standard of manual chart review by experienced resident physicians. Results : Physicians reviewed 480 patient charts. For 11 conditions, the median positive predictive value (PPV) of the EHR-derived algorithms was greater than 0.90. Although the PPV for some risk factors was poor, the median PPV for identifying patients with a CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥2 or a HAS-BLED score ≥3 was 1.00 and 0.92, respectively. Discussion: We developed and tested a set of algorithms to identify AF patients and known risk factors for stroke and major bleeding using EHR data. Algorithms such as these can be built into EHR systems to facilitate informed decision making and help shift population health management efforts towards patients with the greatest need.
Reciprocal Relationships: the Genetic Counselor-Patient Relationship Following a Life-Limiting Prenatal Diagnosis

Utilizing the tenet, “Relationship is integral to the genetic counseling process” from the Reciprocal Engagement Model (REM) of genetic counseling practice, this study sought to explore the relationship between the genetic counselor and patient following a “life-limiting” prenatal diagnosis that resulted in a major loss (termination, stillbirth/miscarriage, or neonatal death). The specific aims of this study were to: 1) Understand and describe aspects of the genetic counselor-patient relationship in the context of the life-limiting prenatal diagnosis, and identify characteristics and actions of the 2) genetic counselor and 3) patient that influence the relationship. Genetic counselor (GC) participants were recruited via a web-based survey distributed by NSGC and the NSGC Prenatal SIG. Eligible GCs maintained a relationship with a patient beyond the prenatal diagnosis and had a willing patient participant. Individual 60-min audio-recorded telephone interviews were conducted with eight GC and 8 respective patients (n = 16) using parallel interview guides (n = 16). Transcriptions underwent thematic content analysis for systematic coding and identification of emergent themes. The GC-patient relationship was characterized by the evolution of communication and promoted by the supportive needs of the patient, the nature of the diagnosis, and characteristics and supportive actions of the participants. This exploratory study highlights the unique service of support offered by genetic counselors in the context of a life-limiting prenatal diagnosis.
Formation of limit-periodic structures by quadrupole particles confined to a triangular lattice.

We have performed Monte Carlo (MC) simulations on two-dimensional systems of quadrupole particles confined to a triangular lattice in order to determine the conditions that permit the formation of a limit-periodic phase. We have found that limit-periodic structures form only when the rotations of the particles are confined to a set of six orientations aligned with the lattice directions. Related structures including striped and unidirectional rattler phases form when $\ensuremath{\pi}/\phantom{\ensuremath{\pi}6}\phantom{\rule{0.0pt}{0ex}}6$ rotations or continuous rotations are allowed. Order parameters signaling the formation of the limit-periodic structure and related structures are measured as a function of temperature. Our findings on the formation of the limit-periodic structure elucidate features relevant to the experimental creation of such a structure, which is expected to have interesting vibrational and electromagnetic modes.
Alar Pinning in Rigid External Distraction for Midfacial Hypoplasia.

BackgroundDistraction osteogenesis with a rigid external distractor is a widely accepted treatment for midfacial hypoplasia. In this study, the authors introduce the utilization of alar pinning with the external halo distractor for maxillary advancement, in place of an oral splint.MethodsA retrospec
Behavior Toward E-Communication Tools: A New Theoretical Model Based on Evolution Theory

This paper presents a new theoretical model to explain behavior toward electronic communication tools based on evolution theory. The model proposes that inherited biological traits acquired by the human species through Darwinian evolution bias an individual’s choice of preferred communication toward face-to-face communication. The model also suggests that e-communication media that selectively incorporate elements of actual unencumbered face-to-face interaction (e.g., physical presence, ability to see and hear others, synchronicity) will be perceived as more adequate for communication than other media devoid of those elements, and therefore as demanding less individual cognitive effort to be used, particularly in tasks requiring intense communication.
PROVIDER PRACTICE HABITS AND BARRIERS TO CARE IN OBESITY MANAGEMENT IN A LARGE MULTICENTER HEALTH SYSTEM.

Objective: To identify provider recommendations and barriers in obesity management in a multicenter academic health system with extensive weight-loss management resources. Methods: A 26-question on...
Focus on Professional Expertise Acquisition: Simulation Training

Simulation-based medical education and simulation-based validation of training are growing tools to allow for skill development in an environment where mistakes can result in harm to patients and physicians or staff. While the method has been slow to be adopted by subspecialties, medical schools and residencies are developing robust programs as a response to a changing paradigm in healthcare where hours are restricted but efficiency and quality are expected. To accommodate the growing demands of learners and create a high-yield teaching environment, simulation-based medical education is being developed for many cardiac procedures. Unfortunately, simulators are often used solely as a method to familiarize a learner with the device. However, when used properly and within a planned curriculum, a comprehensive simulation-based medical education program can be an effective tool, enhancing the learner’s engagement, and can be developed with the goal of improving measured healthcare outcomes. Lastly, simulation-based medical education and training may be used to validate particular skill sets and define proficiency, and may even have a future role in accreditation.
Agent Orange During the Vietnam War: The Lingering Issue of Its Civilian and Military Health Impact.

The article discusses the impact of agent orange used during the Vietnam War on civilian and military health. Topics include the lack of reliable data and research on the relationships between herbicide exposures and diseases for which veterans can receive medical attention and benefits, the Institute of Medicine's creation of data sets related to spraying, troop locations, and exposure opportunity, and concerns regarding increased rates of birth defects and risk of diabetes resulting from herbicide exposure.
21st Century Electronica: MIR Techniques for Classification and Performance.

The performance of electronica by Disc Jockys (DJs) presents a unique opportunity to develop interactions between performer and music. Through recent research in the MIR field, new tools for expanding DJ performance are emerging. The use of spectral, loudness, and temporal descriptors for the classification of electronica is explored. Our research also introduces the use of a multitouch interface to drive a performance-oriented DJ application utilizing the feature set. Furthermore, we present that a multi-touch surface provides an extensible and collaborative interface for browsing and manipulating MIRrelated data in real time.
Time-Dependent Complex Networks: Dynamic Centrality, Dynamic Motifs, and Cycles of Social Interactions

We develop a new approach to the study of the dynamics of link utilization in complex networks using data of empirical social networks. Counter to the perspective that nodes have particular roles, we find roles change dramatically from day to day. “Local hubs” have a power law degree distribution over time, with no characteristic degree value. We further study the dynamics of local motif structure in time-dependent networks, and find recurrent patterns that might provide empirical evidence for cycles of social interaction. Our results imply a significant reinterpretation of the concept of node centrality and network local structure in complex networks, and among other conclusions suggest that interventions targeting hubs will have significantly less effect than previously thought.