cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Informing the Use of Vibrotactile Feedback for Information Communication: An Analysis of User Performance across Different Vibrotactile Designs

Feedback is important for Human Factors and Human-Computer Interaction designs. Since vibrotactile feedback has its own advantages such as no requirements of visual/auditory attention and robustness to surrounding noise, it is a valuable alternative to visual and auditory feedback designs. A literature review was conducted on empirical vibrotactile studies. Based on the 24 studies identified, a statistical analysis was conducted to investigate user performance across vibrotactile designs. Results indicated that using on/off vibration feedback for notification of new events resulted in the fastest responses (M = 1.1 sec.). In contrast, mapping vibrations to complex information yielded slower responses (M = 3.0 sec.) but still high accuracy (~84.8%). Moreover, no significant moderator effect of decision complexity, cue availability, decision urgency, and vibration location was found. Overall, the study findings can shed light on further vibrotactile designs for information communication. Results also provid...
Worst case analysis of nonlinear systems

The authors work out a framework for evaluating the performance of a continuous-time nonlinear system when this is quantified as the maximal value at an output port under bounded disturbances-the disturbance problem. This is useful in computing gain functions and L/sub /spl infin//-induced norms, which are often used to characterize performance and robustness of feedback systems. The approach is variational and relies on the theory of viscosity solutions of Hamilton-Jacobi equations. Convergence of Euler approximation schemes via discrete dynamic programming is established. The authors also provide an algorithm to compute upper bounds for value functions. Differences between the disturbance problem and the optimal control problem are noted, and a proof of convergence of approximation schemes for the control problem is given. Case studies are presented which assess the robustness of a feedback system and the quality of trajectory tracking in the presence of structured uncertainty.
Chromosome 15q24 microdeletion syndrome

Chromosome 15q24 microdeletion syndrome is a recently described rare microdeletion syndrome that has been reported in 19 individuals. It is characterized by growth retardation, intellectual disability, and distinct facial features including long face with high anterior hairline, hypertelorism, epicanthal folds, downslanting palpebral fissures, sparse and broad medial eyebrows, broad and/or depressed nasal bridge, small mouth, long smooth philtrum, and full lower lip. Other common findings include skeletal and digital abnormalities, genital abnormalities in males, hypotonia, behavior problems, recurrent infections, and eye problems. Other less frequent findings include hearing loss, growth hormone deficiency, hernias, and obesity. Congenital malformations, while rare, can be severe and include structural brain anomalies, cardiovascular malformations, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, intestinal atresia, imperforate anus, and myelomeningocele. Karyotypes are typically normal, and the deletions were detected in these individuals by array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH). The deletions range in size from 1.7-6.1 Mb and usually result from nonallelic homologous recombination (NAHR) between paralogous low-copy repeats (LCRs). The majority of 15q24 deletions have breakpoints that localize to one of five LCR clusters labeled LCR15q24A, -B, -C, -D, and -E. The smallest region of overlap (SRO) spans a 1.2 Mb region between LCR15q24B to LCR15q24C. There are several candidate genes within the SRO, including CYP11A1, SEMA7A, CPLX3, ARID3B, STRA6, SIN3A and CSK, that may predispose to many of the clinical features observed in individuals with 15q24 deletion syndrome. The deletion occurred as a de novo event in all of the individuals when parents were available for testing. Parental aCGH and/or FISH studies are recommended to provide accurate genetic counseling and guidance regarding prognosis, recurrence risk, and reproductive options. Management involves a multi-disciplinary approach to care with the primary care physician and clinical geneticist playing a crucial role in providing appropriate screening, surveillance, and care for individuals with this syndrome. At the time of diagnosis, individuals should receive baseline echocardiograms, audiologic, ophthalmologic, and developmental assessments. Growth and feeding should be closely monitored. Other specialists that may be involved in the care of individuals with 15q24 deletion syndrome include immunology, endocrine, orthopedics, neurology, and urology. Chromosome 15q24 microdeletion syndrome should be differentiated from other genetic syndromes, particularly velo-cardio-facial syndrome (22q11.2 deletion syndrome), Prader-Willi syndrome, and Noonan syndrome. These conditions share some phenotypic similarity to 15q24 deletion syndrome yet have characteristic features specific to each of them that allows the clinician to distinguish between them. Molecular genetic testing and/or aCGH will be able to diagnose these conditions in the majority of individuals.
Transitioning patients from efalizumab to alternative psoriasis therapies: findings from an open-label, multicenter, Phase IIIb study.

Background Rebound in psoriasis is, by definition, a rapid worsening of disease following the discontinuation of therapy for psoriasis; it occurs following the abrupt discontinuation of many therapies. To prevent rebound on discontinuation of efalizumab, this study evaluated the effectiveness of transitioning patients to an alternative psoriasis therapy. Methods Patients (n = 130) received subcutaneous efalizumab 1 mg/kg/week for 12 weeks. Efalizumab was discontinued at 12 weeks; patients were evaluated for improvement from baseline in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) and a 12-week transition period was begun. Patients who achieved PASI improvement of 75% or more (PASI-75) at week 12 of efalizumab treatment were observed during the transition period and treated only if psoriasis recurred. Patients who did not attain PASI-75 at week 12 of efalizumab treatment were immediately transitioned to an alternative psoriasis therapy at the physician's discretion. All patients were evaluated for signs of rebound following efalizumab discontinuation. Results Rebound was not observed in any PASI-75 responder (n = 46). Rebound was observed in two of 32 patients who achieved between PASI-50 and PASI-75, and was more common in nonresponders (14/49). Rebound was observed in none of the eight patients treated with cyclosporine and in two of the 12 patients treated with methotrexate during the transition period. Conclusions These results suggest that efalizumab-responsive patients are less likely to experience rebound than nonresponders and may not require treatment until disease recurrence following efalizumab discontinuation. Efalizumab nonresponders are at higher risk of developing rebound and thus should be considered for transition to an appropriate psoriasis therapy immediately following efalizumab discontinuation.
Effects of tablet computers and collaborative classroom software on student engagement and learning

This research centers on an intervention designed to elevate the depth of learner engagement in mathematics classrooms in order to enhance studentspsila mathematical growth. The design blends tablet personal computers with collaborative workspaces and reports on the implementation of personal digital assistants for carrying out an experience sampling research method designed to measure student engagement. We report recent research developments in which engagement sampling is carried out electronically, employing an experience sampling research method first developed in the late 1970s. In our study, engagement sampling is carried out electronically in calculus classrooms that covered subject matter prerequisite for most engineering coursework. Results show statistically significant increases in learner engagement related to the implementation of tablet computer technologies and collaborative software and these quantitative results are supported by classroom observations, interviews, and an on-line student survey. The paper closes with observations on how to increase student engagement and promote learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics classrooms.
RTOG 9003: legacies of a landmark trial.

Designed almost 20 years ago, the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) 9003 head and neck fractionation trial is an important accomplishment that continues to influence current practice and current trial design. RTOG protocol 9003 compared conventional fractionation to 3 altered fractionation schemes: concomitant boost (AFX-C), developed by Gilbert Fletcher and colleagues at MD Anderson; split-course accelerated, by C. C. Wang at Massachusetts General; and hyperfractionation (HFX). Hyperfractionation originated in Paris by Regaud (1) and was tested by a number of centers and organizations including the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer and RTOG. Marcial et al (3) and Cox et al (4) conducted the first prospective clinical trials (RTOG 7913 and 8313, respectively) of HFX. The hyperfractionation schedule used in RTOG 9003 contains as much acceleration as several other altered schedules that do not use lower dose per fraction. It has an added feature of 6% to 12% total dose escalation. This extra dose may explain why HFX has a slightly better hazard ratio (0.79) than AFX-C (0.82) in the 9003 analysis. It should be noted that RTOG 9003 was not designed for a direct statistical comparison between HFX and AFX-C. However, considered within the contemporary context of intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) cost, convenience, statistical design, and power, we believe both are acceptable schedules in 2014. A clinical trial tests a specific hypothesis. The outcome is a rigorously tested treatment which may or may not be clinically practical or preferred at the time the data are
College Students' Perspectives on Their Career Decision Making:

This mixed methods study examined how college student participants discussed their approach to making career decisions, with a focus on how their perspective may be consistent with various models of career decision making. Brief telephone interviews were conducted with 20 college students, and the narrative data were analyzed using qualitative methods informed by grounded theory and consensual qualitative research (CQR). Based on themes generated by qualitative analysis, a ratings instrument was developed. The instrument was used by two individuals who dually served as auditors of the qualitative findings and as independent raters. Themes, as well as correlations and frequency data derived from the ratings, are discussed. It was found that the views of the participants, in terms of how they thought decisions should be made and how they were approaching their own decisions, were consistent with models of career decision making that include notions of interdependence, experience, intuition, and emotion.
SCHEDULING JOBS ON PARALLEL PROCESSORS WITH DYNAMIC PROGRAMMING

The problem of scheduling jobs on M-parallel processors is one of selecting a set of jobs to be processed from a set of available jobs in order to maximize profit. This problem is examined and a dynamic programming solution is presented which decomposes it into a sequencing problem within an allocation problem. The computation required for solution is found to depend on the sequencing problem as it is affected by the waiting cost function. Various forms of the waiting cost function are considered. The solution procedure is illustrated by an example, and possible extensions of the formulation are discussed.
Experimental manipulations to reduce the negative effects of money

People generally consider money a necessary evil because it invokes dual effects. On one hand, it increases people's productivity and performance, but it also decreases people's sensitivity to others. I conducted three experimental studies with an attempt to reduce the negative effects of money. Results indicated that when money was framed as a social incentive, its negative effect was attenuated and people exerted more helping behavior in both hypothetical and real-life scenarios. However, when a social incentive was framed in monetary terms, the negative effect of money prevailed in hypothetical but not in real-life scenarios. Results suggested that money itself is not the root of evil or good, but rather its effects are influenced by our perceptions of its role.
Design and characterization of an electrochemical peptide-based sensor fabricated via “click” chemistry

We report an electrochemical peptide-based sensor fabricated via ‘click’ chemistry for detection of anti-p24 antibodies. Our results also allude to a signaling mechanism similar to that of the linear probe electrochemical DNA sensor.
Pressure-Sensitive Microvalves Made from Polymer Brushes

We describe a novel microvalve, constructed from polymer chains end-grafted onto opposing surfaces of a narrow slit. The assembly of polymer chains acts as both sensor and valve for microflow control and bypasses the need to construct an external feedback mechanism. This microflow control results from densely grafted chains which repel one another and stretch away from the surface, forming a brush which acts as an elastic and impenetrable layer. The height of a sheared brush increases or decreases depending upon solvent quality, i.e the layer can show a negative Poission’s ratio. The discharge through the brushlined conduit is a non-linear function of pressure enabling different modes of valve operation. For brushes which extend moderately into the inter-slit region the valve assembly maintains constant discharge over a wide range of pressure. For brushes which extend far into the inter-slit region the valve assembly cuts off flow above a critical pressure, limiting the maximum discharge.
High order absorbing boundary conditions without high order derivatives

The application of high order absorbing boundary conditions in numerical simulations of wave propagation will generally result in good absorption of outgoing waves. However, high-order absorbing boundary conditions usually have complicated expressions and involve high order derivatives which can be quite troublesome in their implementation. A technique called the multi-absorbing boundary condition is presented. This technique involves the implementation of absorbing boundary conditions in such a way that high order derivatives are not involved. The application of the proposed method to Higdon's (1987) and Lindman's (1975) boundary conditions is considered by way of illustration. >
PROGRAMMING THE DROSOPHILA EMBRYO

Although development is a single hierarchical process, scientists tend to study only one level at a time: molecular, cellular, or organismal. The data and theory are available to integrate molecular, cellular, and organismal levels into a series of maps for development of the Drosophila embryo. These maps link the transcriptional cascade with mitotic and phenotypic fate maps to trace hiera-archical mechanisms of development from the genotype in the egg to the phenotype in the larva.
Thioredoxin-1 gene delivery induces heme oxygenase-1 mediated myocardial preservation after chronic infarction in hypertensive rats.

Background Hypertension, the major risk factor for many cardiovascular diseases, is a result of multiple causes along with excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting in imbalance of redox status. Methods In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of Adenoviral-Thioredoxin-1 (Adeno-Trx-1) in spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHRs) at a dosage of 1 x 10(9) pfu. The rats were assigned as normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY), SHR, SHR + Adeno-Lac-Z (SHRLac-Z), and SHR + Adeno-Trx-1 (SHRTrx-1). Echo-guided injection of adeno virus was done 48 h before permanent myocardial infarction (MI) by left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) occlusion. Results Decreased infarct size (52 +/- 4.1% vs. 67 +/- 6.1%), number of apoptotic cardiomyocytes (161 +/- 14.8 vs. 240 +/- 22.2), left ventricular inner diameter (7 +/- 0.33 vs. 9 +/- 0.46 mm), increased ejection fraction (52 +/- 6.3 vs. 42 +/- 3.3%), and fractional shortening (28 +/- 1.8 vs. 22 +/- 2.04 %) was observed in the SHRTrx-1 compared to SHR. Western Blot and immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated increased expression of Trx-1, HO-1, and Bcl-2 in the SHRTrx-1 compared to SHR. In addition, increased HO-1 activity was also observed in SHRTrx-1 as compared to SHR and SHRLac-Z groups. Conclusion Our study demonstrates that the cardioprotective effect of Adeno-Trx-1 gene therapy in SHR is Trx-1/HO-1/Bcl-2 mediated and may represent future target to develop therapy against hypertension associated cardiac failure.
Root-N consistent semiparametric estimators of a dynamic panel-sample-selection model

Abstract This paper considers the problem of identification and estimation in panel-data sample-selection models with a binary selection rule when the latent equations contain possibly predetermined variables, lags of the dependent variables, and unobserved individual effects. The selection equation contains lags of the dependent variables from both the latent and the selection equations as well as other possibly predetermined variables relative to the latent equations. We derive a set of conditional moment restrictions that are then exploited to construct a three-step sieve estimator for the parameters of the main equation including a nonparametric estimator of the sample-selection term. In the second step the unknown parameters of the selection equation are consistently estimated using a transformation approach in the spirit of Berkson's minimum chi-square sieve method and a first-step kernel estimator for the selection probability. This second-step estimator is of interest in its own right. It can be used to semiparametrically estimate a panel-data binary response model with a nonparametric individual-specific effect without making any other distributional assumptions. We show that both estimators (second and third stage) are n -consistent and asymptotically normal.
Additive manufacturing of graded dielectrics

A method for the fabrication of graded dielectrics within a structural composite is presented. This system employs an ultrasonic powder deposition head to print high dielectric powders onto a woven fabric composite substrate. It is shown how this system can integrate 3D variations of dielectric properties at millimeter resolution within a mechanically rugged substrate. To conclude, the system's practical application is demonstrated with experimental results from a graded index lens.
Predictions Based on Maximum Oscillator Frequency

Considerable difficulty is encountered in directly measuring the parameters of a transistor at very high frequencies. An approximate high-frequency equivalent circuit for a transistor is presented, and several techniques for measuring the alpha-cutoff frequency are discussed. An indirect technique is presented involving the measurement of the maximum frequency at which the transistor can oscillate, and it is shown that this leads to a simple and accurate determination of the alpha-cutoff frequency. This maximum frequency of oscillation can also be used to predict the approximate gain obtainable from a transistor at high frequencies, and the efficiency which may be realized from the transistor used as a high frequency oscillator.
Apology, sympathy, and empathy: The legal ramifications of admitting fault in U.S. public relations practice

Abstract This study examines the litigation ramifications of apologies given during a crisis. Examining federal and state laws on the evidentiary issues affecting apology, this study shows that in 38 jurisdictions apologies are not admitted into evidence at trial if the apology contains certain characteristics. From this analysis practical suggestions are given to PR practitioners on how to craft legally protected apologies during a crisis.
Arthropod predators of Galerucella calmariensis L. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae): An assessment of biotic interference

Galerucella calmariensis L. is a leaf-feeding beetle introduced into North America for biological control of purple loosestrife, Lythrumsalicaria L. It is well known that existing natural enemy communities can reduce herbivore establishment andlimit their impacts as weedbiocontrol agents. Although such biotic interference can often initially be avoided through inundative releases or use of exclusion cages, successful biological control of L. salicaria will ultimately rest on natural coloni- zation of new host patches. The objectives of this study were: 1) identify potential arthropod predators in Michigan wetlands; 2) test predator propensity to attack G. calmariensis; and3) assess importance of biotic interference by simulating G. calmariensis colonization in wetlandhabitats. Fieldsurveys showedthat Coleomegilla maculata De Geer, Coccinella septempunctata L., and Harmonia axyridis L. (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) were most abundant potential predators of G. calmariensis, followedby Pterostichus melanarius Illiger (Coleoptera: Carabidae) and Podisus maculiventris Say (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). In laboratory tests, 24-h attack rates on eggs andlarvae rangedfrom 10 to 100%, with C. maculata and Forficula auricularia L. consuming the greatest number of G. calmariensis. Increasingly realistic laboratory trials d emonstratedthat several pred ators effectively locatedandconsumed immature stages of G. calmariensis under more complex conditions. In the Þeld study, predator abund ance andattack rates were low, ranging from 0.63 to 1.63 egg masses consumed(10 Ð27%). Survival of individuals to the adult stage in caged (53Ð90%) versus open treatments (24 Ð 42%) revealed a signiÞcant effect of predation. However, even the lowest survival rate observed is probably adequate to ensure effective colonization. We conclude that predation can signiÞcantly reduce G. calmariensis population increase in the Þeld , but is unlikely to prevent establishment andspreadund er the conditions studied.
An Examination Of Global Market Segmentation Bases And Strategic Positioning Decisions

This paper examines the conceptual linkages between global segmentation strategy and brand positioning from the perspective of firms operating in increasingly globalized markets. The manuscript suggests the combined use of macro/country-level as well as micro/behavioral-level bases of segmentation in order to leverage similar strategic positioning across global markets. The analysis presented paves the way for embarking on future research to enrich the academic understanding and managerial practice of linking global segmentation with strategic positioning decisions.
Optimal dynamic allocation of mobile plants to monetize associated or stranded natural gas, part I: Bakken shale play case study

Abstract Associated or stranded natural gas presents a challenge to monetize due to its low volume and lack of supporting infrastructure. Recent proposals for deploying mobile, modular plants, such as those which perform GTL (gas-to-liquids) conversion or produce LNG (liquefied natural gas) on a small scale, have been identified as possible attractive routes to gas monetization. However, such technologies are yet unproven in the marketplace. To assess their potential, we propose a multi-period optimization framework which determines the optimal dynamic allocation and operating decisions for a decision maker who utilizes mobile plants to monetize associated or stranded gas. We then apply this framework to a case study of the Bakken shale play. Our framework is implemented to determine the optimal NPV (net present value) which would be realized over a twenty-year time frame. Sensitivity studies on the technology costs and conversion inputs conclude that the profitability and viability of mobile technologies remain valid for a wide range of possible inputs.
Predicting South Korean University Students’ Happiness through Social Support and Efficacy Beliefs

This study investigated the adversity and coping experiences of 198 South Korean university students and takes a cultural lens in understanding how social and individual factors shape their happiness. Hierarchical linear regression analyses suggest that Korean students’ perceptions of social support significantly predicted their happiness, particularly in their closer social circles. Additionally, their happiness was significantly shaped by their beliefs in their abilities to overcome difficult experiences, but not by their beliefs in maintaining their relationships. Findings demonstrate the importance of better preparing close family and friends to recognize and respond to warning signs, as well as exploring ways to build students’ internal coping assets within family and peer group settings.
An Investigation of Factors Underlying Practitioners' Attitudes Toward Comparative Advertising

The use and relative effectiveness of comparative advertising has been extensively studied and reported on in the marketing and advertising literature. However, few studies have specifically dealt with this topic from the advertising practitioner's perspective. This paper reports the findings of an empirical investigation aimed at determining some of the factors and underlying perceptions contributing to American advertisers' and agency representatives' attitudes toward comparative advertising. Often-cited criticisms/concerns about comparative advertising as well as past and future plans to use a comparative format were specifically considered.
ROBUSTIFIED CONTROL DESIGN BY AN APPROXIMATE MIN-MAX TECHNIQUE

A design method for controllers that utilizes a Linear Quadratic Gaussian (LQG) cost function with approximated worst-case real parameter uncertainty is developed. The method aims to reduce the sensitivity of closed-loop performance to uncertainty of real open-loop parameters. Given a performance criterion, the best controller of a given structure is designed by finding the design whose worstcase open-loop parameters yield a cost that is lower than any other controller's worst-case cost. The parameters are assumed to be constant but unknown and bounded by a hyper-ellipse. The cost function is the LQG cost function expanded in a Taylor series with respect to the uncertain parameters out to the quadratic terms. An important property of this cost function is that its global maximum with respect to parameter variations can be calculated analytically for a given controller design. A second cost function, one that depends only on controller design parameters, is defined as the maximum of the original cost function with respect to the uncertain open-loop parameters. Controller design is carried out by using nonlinear programming techniques to minimize the latter cost function with respect to the controller design parameters. This cost function can have a discontinuous first derivative when two equal global maxima occur during the worst-case parameter calculations, but this situation can be handled by appropriate techniques from the field of non-smooth optimization. The new design technique is applied to two example problems.
Relationships between physicians and Pharma: Why physicians should not accept money from the pharmaceutical industry

If we have learned anything from a decade's worth of litigation, it is that the pharmaceutical industry pays the vast majority of physicians for one reason: to market their drugs. And why would we have ever thought otherwise? Pharma companies are not charitable organizations. They are not in the business of education, or philanthropy, or poverty relief, or even—let's be honest—health care. Their business is to manufacture and sell drugs. Unlike most any other businesses, however, pharmaceutical companies must go through an intermediary in order to sell their product. This places physicians in a position of singular trust. They stand between corporations and the vulnerable, sometimes desperate patients that those corporations call “customers.”
Learning to Teach in an Urban Teacher Residency

In this article, I employ sociocultural theory to analyze the learning to teach process of two novice teachers enrolled in one Urban Teacher Residency (UTR). Findings show that Genesis and Jackie w...
Along-fault migration of the Mount McKinley restraining bend of the Denali fault defined by late Quaternary fault patterns and seismicity, Denali National Park & Preserve, Alaska

Abstract The tallest mountain in North America, Denali (formerly Mount McKinley, 6,190 m), is situated inside an abrupt bend in the right-lateral strike-slip Denali fault. This anomalous topography is clearly associated with the complex geometry of the Denali fault, but how this restraining bend has evolved in conjunction with the regional topography is unknown. To constrain how this bend in the Denali fault is deforming, we document the Quaternary fault-related deformation north of the Denali fault through combined geologic mapping, active fault characterization, and analysis of background seismicity. Our mapping illustrates an east–west change in faulting style where normal faults occur east of the fault bend and thrust faults predominate to the west. The complex and elevated regional seismicity corroborates the style of faulting adjacent to the fault bend and provides additional insight into the change in local stress field in the crust adjacent to the bend. The style of active faulting and seismicity patterns define a deforming zone that accommodates the southwestward migration of this restraining bend. Fault slip rates for the active faults north of the Denali fault, derived from offset glacial outwash surfaces, indicate that the Mount McKinley restraining bend is migrating along the Denali fault at a late Pleistocene/Holocene rate of ~ 2–6 mm/yr. Ongoing thermochronologic and structural studies of the Mount McKinley restraining bend will extend these constraints on the migration and evolution of the restraining bend deeper in time and to the south of the Denali fault.
Immune response to basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas

Recent studies are starting to give us some insight into the immune response to basal and squamous cell carcinomas of the skin. There appear to be local as well as systemic mechanisms that effect local tumor growth. The local response may be analogous to delayed-type hypersensitivity with recognition of tumor antigens and a subsequent cell-mediated response. This response may be blunted by suppressor cell activity that has been well documented in the animal model related to UV-induced tumors and also suggested in certain patients with multiple BCCs. Continued research efforts in these areas will help us better understand the immune response to these two very common skin cancers.
Crossing the "Yellow Void" - Spatially Resolved Spectroscopy of the Post-Red Supergiant IRC+10420

IRC+10420 is a post–red supergiant at the empirical luminosity boundary in the HR diagram. It has now reached a stage in its blueward evolution where increasing opacity and partial ionization destabilize its atmosphere leading to rapid mass loss. Indeed, its wind is so dense that it is opaque and hides the underlying star. We have obtained HST/STIS spectroscopy with spatial resolution good enough to separate the star from its complex ejecta with numerous arcs, knots and jet-like features. The ejecta form essentially a reflection nebula, allowing us to view the star from a range of directions. The kinematics of the ejecta cannot be reconciled with existing models with either an equatorial disk or a bipolar outflow. Therefore we propose a model with a uniform spherically symmetric outflow of gas with random, asymmetric ejections superimposed. In our model, local instabilities allow for inflowing and outflowing material to coexist.
MicroRNAs in Skin Fibrosis

Abstract The pathogenesis and maintenance of skin fibrosis is a result of complex interactions between a number of cellular pathways, cell types, and extracellular matrix molecules. miRNAs regulate these pathways and contribute to skin fibrosis through TGF-β signaling, ECM deposition, fibroblast proliferation and differentiation, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Some miRNAs up-regulate these processes and are known as profibrotic; others, known as antifibrotic, inhibit them, leading to skin fibrosis. miRNA therapies are aimed at either increasing the levels of antifibrotic miRNAs or decreasing those of profibrotic miRNAs. There are few effective treatments for fibrotic skin diseases, and we believe that future miRNA therapies might alter the management paradigm of skin fibrosis and improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Robotics and Art, Computationalism and Embodiment

Robotic Art and related practices provide a context in which real-time computational technologies and techniques are deployed for cultural purposes. This practice brings the embodied experientiality, so central to art hard up against the tacit commitment to abstract disembodiment inherent in the computational technologies. In this essay I explore the relevance of post-cognitivist thought to robotics in general, and in particular, questions of materiality and embodiment with respect to robotic art practice—addressing philosophical, aesthetic-theoretical and technical issues.
The Prediction of Program Change in Community Welfare Agencies

In each of the studies reported in the preceding chapters we focused upon a separate grouping of variables. Our procedure was to determine the common sources of variance of each grouping of variables and then to describe the relationship between these common sources of variance (factors) and the implementation of program change in community welfare agencies (IPCI scores). However, we did not at the time of each study determine the relationship of each individual variable to program change.
Optimal timing for hepatitis C therapy in US patients eligible for liver transplantation: a cost‐effectiveness analysis

BACKGROUND Recurrence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) following liver transplantation (LT) is universal for those with ongoing viraemia and is associated with higher rates of allograft failure and death. However, the optimal timing of HCV treatment for patients awaiting transplant remains unclear. AIM To evaluate the comparative cost-effectiveness of treating HCV pre-LT vs. post-LT (pre-emptive or after HCV recurrence). METHODS A Markov state-transition model was created to simulate the progression of a cohort of HCV-genotype 1 or 4 cirrhotic patients from the time of transplant listing until death. We then used this model to study the cost-effectiveness of ledipasvir-sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF) with ribavirin for 12 weeks, administered for three separate treatment strategies: (i) pre-LT; (ii) post-LT preemptively prior to HCV recurrence; or (iii) post-LT after HCV recurrence. RESULTS In the base-case analysis using a median model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score <25 at the time of transplant, we found that pre-LT treatment of HCV led to more QALYs for fewer dollars compared to other strategies. Analysis limited to living donor LT recipients revealed that pre-LT treatment was also the most cost-effective strategy. When the analysis was repeated for MELD ≥25, decompensated disease (Child-Pugh class B or C), and hepatocellular carcinoma cases, preemptive post-LT strategy was more cost-effective. CONCLUSIONS Treatment of HCV prior to liver transplantation appears to be the most cost-effective strategy for patients with a MELD score <25. For patients with a MELD ≥25 or decompensated cirrhosis, preemptive post-liver transplantation treatment before HCV recurrence is the most cost-effective strategy.
Developing School Leaders Amid a New World Order: Lessons for Researchers and Practitioners

Abstract If ever there were a time to think critically about the development of public school leaders and the universities that prepare them, it is now. That is the message that saturated my mind as I reflected on the articles for this special issue. The U.S. educational setting, where I reside and work, is unlike the Norwegian one. However, our experiences are not completely foreign to Norwegian students in school leadership development. This collection of articles helps to illuminate these differences and similarities, as well as the path for all countries toward more democratic, humanistic models of leadership that our students, governments, and global community need now more than ever.
Bridging the gap: induced pluripotent stem cell derived endothelial cells for 3D vascular assembly

As cardiovascular disease continues to take the lives of so many patients, it is paramount that scientists and engineers construct reliable, lasting vascular therapies. Stem cell therapies for cardiovascular disease have the potential to provide patient-specific treatments in order to heal or replace the diseased vasculature. This review highlights recent advances in endothelial cell (EC) differentiation from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). We then describe in vitro studies focusing on understanding three-dimensional vascular assembly using human primary ECs and biomaterials developed for these systems. Finally, we highlight the unprecedented opportunity that hPSC- derived ECs provide to study human vascular development for fundamental understanding and toward the development of therapeutics.
Platform Stabilization with Novel Active Suspension

Abstract It is widely held in industry that the ride and handling of current production automobiles has reached a point of technical development where marked improvements in vehicle performance using passive technology are doubtful. Ride motion of the occupant and roll angle of the vehicle muing cornering are traded-off during the vehicle development process. This paper discusses the novel approach for suspension system design and control that permits improvement in ride motion using reduced ride frequency and a decrease in vehicle roll gain, with the required increase in roll stiffness. The resulting system solution skillfully combines the required control, control strategy and mechanical actuator configuration
Dementia, Decision Making, and Capacity

LEARNING OBJECTIVES After participating in this activity, learners should be better able to:• Assess the neuropsychological literature on decision making and the medical and legal assessment of capacity in patients with dementia• Identify the limitations of integrating findings from decision-making research into capacity assessments for patients with dementia ABSTRACT: Medical and legal professionals face the challenge of assessing capacity and competency to make medical, legal, and financial decisions in dementia patients with impaired decision making. While such assessments have classically focused on the capacity for complex reasoning and executive functions, research in decision making has revealed that motivational and metacognitive processes are also important. We first briefly review the neuropsychological literature on decision making and on the medical and legal assessment of capacity. Next, we discuss the limitations of integrating findings from decision-making research into capacity assessments, including the group-to-individual inference problem, the unclear role of neuroimaging in capacity assessments, and the lack of capacity measures that integrate important facets of decision making. Finally, we present several case examples where we attempt to demonstrate the potential benefits and important limitations of using decision-making research to aid in capacity determinations.
Relationship of clinical severity to packed cell rheology in sickle cell anemia

There is wide variation in the clinical manifestations of sickle cell disease (SCD) from one affected individual to another. Many investigators have sought to discern parameters that would explain this variability. In the present studies we have attempted to correlate the frequency of painful events and the extent of end organ failure in SCD with rheologic properties of packed suspensions of sickle cells, using a magneto-acoustic ball microrheometer developed in our laboratory. Using this device we have measured the steady-state viscosity, and the viscous and elastic moduli of cell suspensions in 16 individuals with hemoglobin SS disease who were untransfused and in their steady state. The rheologic parameters were then correlated with clinical parameters. The clinical parameters measured were emergency department visits, hospitalizations, hemoglobin, reticulocyte count, age, and end organ failure (nephropathy, avascular necrosis of bone, stroke, retinopathy, resting hypoxemia after acute chest syndrome(s), leg ulcer, and priapism with impotence). The P value for the correlation between the steady state viscosity and end organ failure was .001 with a correlation coefficient (R value) of .73. The P value for the correlation between the viscous modulus of viscosity and end organ failure was .00006 with an R value of .83. The P value for the correlation between the elastic modulus of viscosity and end organ failure was .0006 with an R value of .76. However, there was no significant correlation between any component of packed cell rheology and emergency department visits or hospitalizations for pain.
Renal Adenosine in Health and Disease

Adenosine-dependent regulation of renal function in healthy and diseased kidney is mediated by activation of the four types of P1 purinergic adenosine receptors (A1AR, A2AAR, A2BAR, A3AR). The dominant effect of an elevation of plasma adenosine in the renal vasculature is an A2AAR- and A2BAR-mediated vasodilatation that increases global as well as medullary renal blood flow and is in part endothelium-dependent. In addition, a high expression of A1AR in afferent glomerular arterioles can cause a localized vasoconstriction, especially when accessed from the vessel outside, a reaction most evident in the tubuloglomerular feedback response. Effects of adenosine on tubular transport are most pronounced in the proximal tubule where the nucleoside stimulates NaCl reabsorption in the subnormal concentration range while inhibiting transport at elevated levels. Because adenosine production increases in hypoxia, the issue of a role of the nucleoside in the renal injury following ischemia reperfusion has been studied extensively. Experimental evidence supports the notion that adenosine protects against ischemia-induced acute kidney injury by directly acting on renal endothelial and tubular A1AR. Moreover, adenosine protects against renal ischemic reperfusion injury by the anti-inflammatory effect of enhancing the activity of regulatory T cell and by attenuating the inflammatory injury produced by neutrophils via A2AR activation.
Access to the Medical Home Among Children With and Without Special Health Care Needs

OBJECTIVES: The medical home is central to providing quality health care for children. Access to the medical home has historically been tracked by using the National Survey of Children With Special Health Care Needs and the National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH). Between 2012 and 2015, the NSCH was redesigned, combining the 2 surveys into a single, annual assessment. In this study, we provide the latest estimates of medical home access among children in the United States. METHODS: We used data from the 2016 NSCH (N = 50 212). Medical home access was defined as a composite measure composed of 5 subcomponents (usual source of care, personal doctor or nurse, referral access, receipt of care coordination, and receipt of family-centered care) for 50 177 US children aged 0 to 17 years. We conducted bivariate analyses and logistic regression to examine the sociodemographic and health characteristics associated with reported attainment of the medical home composite measure and each subcomponent. Analyses were survey weighted. RESULTS: In 2016, 43.2% of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) and 50.0% of non-CSHCN were reported to have access to a medical home. Attainment of the medical home composite measure varied significantly by sociodemographic characteristics among both CSHCN and non-CSHCN, as did attainment rates for each of the 5 subcomponents. The medical complexity of CSHCN was also associated with attainment rates of all outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The medical home incorporates elements of care considered necessary for providing comprehensive, quality care. Our results indicate that there is still room to improve access to the medical home among all children.
Abstract WP529: Anticoagulation Therapy Reduces Recurrent Stroke in Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source (ESUS) Patients With Elevated Markers of Coagulation and Hemostatic Activation

Introduction: Markers of coagulation and hemostatic activation (MOCHA) have previously been shown to identify ESUS patients who are more likely to have subsequent diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (...
Evaluation of different dispersion models for correlation of spectroscopic ellipsometry and X-ray reflectometry.

The importance of proper modeling of the materials' optical properties for interpretation of spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) data is pretty much impossible to underestimate. In this study, the thickness-dependent titanium nitride (TiN) optical properties were represented by the multiple-oscillator Drude-Lorentz, Forouhi-Bloomer, and Lorentz optical dispersions with different numbers of parameters. The dielectric function of thin TiN films with intermediate behavior can be appropriately expressed in terms of 9-13 model parameters. Using X-ray reflectometry (XRR) as a reference technique and taking into account surface roughness of TiN films, it has been shown that three-term Lorentz dispersion model provides not only the best fit quality for the nominal thicknesses ranging from 125 A to 350 A but also an extremely good SE-XRR linear correlation with slope 1.05 ± 0.01, intercept -9.88 ± 2.06 A, and R2 = 0.9998. Use of other dispersion models results in a somewhat worse correlation with XRR measurements. Thus, an appropriate modeling of the film optical properties is one of the factors needed to be considered to establish well-grounded and credible SE and XRR correlation in case of using XRR as a reference technique, i.e., calibrating SE using x-ray reflectivity.
Optical propagation through layered anisotropic materials using effective medium theory

Anisotropic materials can be multilayer stacks made from isotropic-isotropic, uniaxial-uniaxial or uniaxial-isotropic layers. Under certain conditions, these multilayer stacks can be modeled as a bulk anisotropic medium using effective medium theory. In this work, the effective permittivity tensor of arbitrary anisotropic layers is first derived using effective medium theory. Thereafter the Berreman matrix method is used to analyze electromagnetic propagation in this effective bulk medium. The overall transmittance and reflectance are investigated as a function of the thickness of the layers, number of layers, wavelength and the incident angle. Illustrative examples of stacks made from uniaxial-uniaxial layers and uniaxial-isotropic layers are provided. The uniaxial layers are, in turn, made from a sandwich of two isotropic layers. An example of a transmission filter comprising a multilayer stack on a substrate is also discussed, along with comparison with experimental observations.
Generic Bank: Accounting for Debt Securities Sales and Impairments

ABSTRACT This case examines the accounting rules for debt security impairments with a particular focus on the role of securities sales in determining whether debt securities are impaired. Generic B...