cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Precision Tracking via Joint Detailed Shape Estimation of Arbitrary Extended Objects

A novel approach to estimating the detailed shape of arbitrary extended objects jointly with their kinematics in the absence of a priori information is presented. The proposed shape model represents the tightest enclosing bound of the object projected into the ego motion plane as a polygon with an unknown number of vertices. Probabilistic inference techniques are employed to overcome various sources of uncertainty by rigorously estimating the joint distribution over the object shape and kinematic states, rather than estimating these variables directly. Simulation and experimental results are presented for objects with complex shapes tracked from an autonomous vehicle research platform. In addition to providing a richer set of information for higher level reasoning about extended objects (e.g. about object type, or occupied space), the results demonstrate that detailed shape estimates enable efficient use of sensor information by way of explicit surface-based sensor models; this efficient use of sensor information improves observability of latent object states, thereby improving tracking precision.
The Role of Partner Support Among Women with Depressive Symptoms

Scarce research has explored how sex partners and their provision of social support impact depression among women. The purpose of this study is to examine the role of social support (overall and specific types of support) provided by a sex partner on depressive symptoms among a sample of women (n = 295). We assessed depression using the Centers for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale and used a social network inventory to evaluate partner characteristics and types of support provided. Overall 76% (n = 225) of the sample experienced depressive symptoms in the past 90 days. Approximately one-third of the sample had a partner who provided emotional support (33.9%), financial support (36.6%), or socialization support (40.0%). About 41% of women said their partner offered no support while 16.3% had a partner who gave all three types of support. These findings demonstrate that partners and the level and types of support provided should not be discounted in mental health assessments.
Increasing clarity where it is needed most: articulating and evaluating theoretical contributions

ABSTRACTImproved communication clarity is needed in the presentation and critical evaluation of proposed theory advancements in the field of communication. We encourage communication scholars to be more explicit in detailing the nature of their theoretical pursuits and to utilize with greater frequency established criteria for the assessment of theory. Engaging in these practices will foster more reasoned debate between scholars, produce better informed judgments concerning publication worthiness, allow weaker work to be discarded with less error, and provide an efficient means for the building of stronger, more cogent lines of research.
The arithmetic recursive average as an instance of the recursive weighted power mean

The aggregation of multiple information sources has a long history and ranges from sensor fusion to the aggregation of individual algorithm outputs and human knowledge. A popular approach to achieve such aggregation is the fuzzy integral (FI) which is defined with respect to a fuzzy measure (FM) (i.e. a normal, monotone capacity). In practice, the discrete FI aggregates information contributed by a discrete number of sources through a weighted aggregation (post-sorting), where the weights are captured by a FM that models the typically subjective ‘worth’ of subsets of the overall set of sources. While the combination of FI and FM has been very successful, challenges remain both in regards to the behavior of the resulting aggregation operators — which for example do not produce symmetrically mirrored outputs for symmetrically mirrored inputs — and also in a manifest difference between the intuitive interpretation of a stand-alone FM and its actual role and impact when used as part of information fusion with a FI. This paper elucidates these challenges and introduces a novel family of recursive average (RAV) operators as an alternative to the FI in aggregation with respect to a FM; focusing specifically on the arithmetic recursive average. The RAV is designed to address the above challenges, while also facilitating fine-grained analysis of the resulting aggregation of different combinations of sources. We provide the mathematical foundations of the RAV and include initial experiments and comparisons to the FI for both numeric and interval-valued data.
Securing Augmented Reality Output

Augmented reality (AR) technologies, such as Microsoft's HoloLens head-mounted display and AR-enabled car windshields, are rapidly emerging. AR applications provide users with immersive virtual experiences by capturing input from a user's surroundings and overlaying virtual output on the user's perception of the real world. These applications enable users to interact with and perceive virtual content in fundamentally new ways. However, the immersive nature of AR applications raises serious security and privacy concerns. Prior work has focused primarily on input privacy risks stemming from applications with unrestricted access to sensor data. However, the risks associated with malicious or buggy AR output remain largely unexplored. For example, an AR windshield application could intentionally or accidentally obscure oncoming vehicles or safety-critical output of other AR applications. In this work, we address the fundamental challenge of securing AR output in the face of malicious or buggy applications. We design, prototype, and evaluate Arya, an AR platform that controls application output according to policies specified in a constrained yet expressive policy framework. In doing so, we identify and overcome numerous challenges in securing AR output.
A methodology for geologic testing for land disturbance: Acid-Base Accounting for surface mines

Abstract Acid mine drainage and acid sulfate soils are common consequences of disturbing earth materials containing pyrite and other sulfide-bearing minerals. In order to predict the acid-producing potential of geologic layers in eastern US coal mining regions, Acid-Base Accounting (ABA) was developed by researchers at West Virginia University. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the use of this method and its interpretation as a prediction tool, and to evaluate its accuracy from literature sources. ABA is an analytical procedure that provides an assessment of the acid-producing and acid-neutralizing potential of soils, sediments and rocks prior to coal mining, highway construction, and other large-scale earth-moving excavations. ABA includes techniques that measure the reactive sulfur content (which is converted to the acid-producing potential, Maximum Potential Acidity or MPA) and the reactive carbonate content (which is converted to acid-neutralizing potential, Neutralization Potential or NP). These two quantifiable properties in ABA are primarily used to predict the quality of drainage and soil quality by subtracting MPA from NP, resulting in a net NP value (either positive or negative). If the MPA value is higher for the sample (negative net NP), the rock sample is predicted to produce acidic drainage upon weathering and leaching. If the number for NP is higher (positive net NP), the rock is predicted to produce alkaline drainage. Other parameters such as rock type, color and paste pH help to refine the interpretation and prediction of net NP. After passage of laws requiring an assessment of surface mining on water quality, ABA became the preferred method to predict post-mining water quality, and permit decisions for surface mines are largely based on the net NP values of ABA. With this information, mining plans are developed which may include mixing overburden materials during mining and reclamation or removing acid-producing materials from the site, selective handling of these materials and placing in specific areas within the backfill, and amending these acid materials with alkaline material. ABA has proven to be a good tool to predict overburden quality that allows the application of prevention procedures to alleviate post-mining water and soil quality problems. Studies comparing the post-mining water quality with predictions made by ABA have confirmed the utility of ABA for permit decisions, pre-mine planning and reclamation practices.
Challenges to Engaging Diverse Participants in Community-Based Aging in Place Initiatives

Naturally Occurring Retirement Community Social Service Programs (NORC programs) and Villages focus on strengthening community-based systems to support aging in place. This study examined data from...
Bayesian linearized petrophysical AVO inversion

ABSTRACTSeismic reservoir characterization aims to provide a 3D model of rock and fluid properties based on measured seismic data. Petrophysical properties, such as porosity, mineral volumes, and w...
Hypophosphatemia in a Malnourished Child: When Renal Fanconi Syndrome Does Not Stand for Refeeding Syndrome

Refeeding syndrome is diagnosed based on the onset of multiple laboratory abnormalities (most commonly hypophosphatemia) and clinical signs in the setting of nutrition rehabilitation of malnourished patients. Because definitions are not uniform, a broad differential diagnosis should always include renal tubular dysfunction. Our report details a 3 year-old child with undiagnosed renal tubular dysfunction who presented with the clinical picture of refeeding syndrome with refractory electrolyte abnormalities. A diagnosis of renal Fanconi syndrome was made after urinalysis that revealed glucosuria and urine electrolyte losses. Thus, urinalysis can aid in making a positive diagnosis of refeeding syndrome.
Status of regulatory issues and research in light water reactor surveillance dosimetry in the U.S

Operating experience with light water reactors has generated regulatory needs for more precise information on neutron radiation embrittlement of vessel beltline material. Accurate prediction of fluence exposure continues to be required for setting pressure-temperature limits for start-up and cool down operations of reactors and for improved surveillance programs. But, the emergence of the pressurized thermal shock issue has established a new impetus for more precise and accurate flux and fluence determinations and predictions at specific locations of the vessel wall. Such issues have led NRC to establish a cooperative research program to validate and improve methodologies used to predict radiation damage in pressure vessel steels. The program includes the validation of experimental and analytical methods of fluence determination in surveillance programs, data bases, and estimates of uncertainties in predictive methods using well-defined, reproducible benchmark facilities traceable to standard fields. Finally, the program culminates in a set of ASTM standards for analysis of LWR vessel irradiation surveillance.
Infrastructure and Authoritarianism in the Land of Waters: A Genealogy of Flood Control in Guyana

Although often viewed as serving as a public good, infrastructure can have important political effects resulting from the way in which it is designed, built, and managed that preexist its stated or...
PUF family proteins FBF-1 and FBF-2 regulate germline stem and progenitor cell proliferation and differentiation in C. elegans

ABSTRACT Stem cells support tissue maintenance, but the mechanisms that balance the rate of stem cell self-renewal with differentiation at a population level remain uncharacterized. Through investigating the regulation of germline stem cells by two PUF family RNA-binding proteins FBF-1 and FBF-2 in C. elegans, we find that FBF-1 restricts differentiation, while FBF-2 promotes both proliferation and differentiation. FBFs act on a shared set of target mRNAs; however, FBF-1 destabilizes target transcripts, while FBF-2 promotes their accumulation. These regulatory differences result in complementary effects of FBFs on stem cells. We identify a mitotic cyclin as one of the targets affecting stem cell homeostasis. FBF-1-mediated translational control requires the activity of CCR4-NOT deadenylase. Distinct abilities of FBFs to cooperate with CCR4-NOT depend on protein sequences outside of the conserved PUF family RNA-binding domain. We propose that the combination of FBF activities regulates the dynamics of germline stem cell proliferation and differentiation.
Perioperative management of the diabetic patient.

The diabetic patient has major surgery more frequently than nondiabetic patients. Although many of these operations are done on an elective basis, desirable perioperative control of blood glucose (ranging from 120-180 mg/dL) remains a therapeutic challenge. In planning the management, the type of diabetes, current treatment, the degree of recent control, the presence of complications, and the type of surgical procedure must all be considered. All insulin-dependent patients and many noninsulin-dependent patients need insulin therapy perioperatively. The variable stress associated with major procedures makes a flexible insulin regimen desirable. This can be provided using a continuous insulin (regular) infusion system and frequent bedside blood glucose monitoring.
18. Training in Adolescent Substance use and Opioid Misuse in US Pediatric Residency Programs: A National Survey

Electronic survey distributed to associate program directors and chief residents of pediatric residency programs.
Investigating the Benefits of Student Question Generation in Data Science MOOC Assessments

Question generation is an important metacognitive learning activity for students that encourages the development of higher-order thinking skills. Question generation can also serve as an alternative assessment method. Yet, it is rarely incorporated into learning settings. I propose a study to investigate the effects of using Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) generation in data science MOOC assessments in two different settings where - i) MCQ generation is a required task, and ii) students have a choice between creating an MCQ and answering MCQs. The findings from this study are intended to provide evidence of the learning benefits of MCQ generation in MOOC assessments, the impact of giving students a choice on the quality of the MCQs they create, and the factors that influence students' choice.
Measurement System Analysis: Gage R&R Analysis

The decisions made in manufacturing and service settings heavily rely on the data collected through measurement systems. The main goal of measurement systems is to make sure that the data are collected through valid and reliable measurement systems. Chapter 6 focuses on how to conduct measurement system analysis in Six Sigma projects. The measurement systems are analyzed through Gage RR (2) identify and isolate the variability causes in the measurement system; and (3) evaluate if the measure system is capable, adequate, accurate, and appropriate (Montgomery, D. C., Introduction to statistical quality. Wiley, New York, 2013). The idea behind Gage R&R is to differentiate measurement system variability from process variability. Several examples are presented to demonstrate how to conduct Gage R&R analysis.
HIV-1-Associated Dementia

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the role of chemokine receptors and their ligands in the disease mechanisms. HIV-1-associated dementia (HAD) results from complex interactions between viral and host factors. Four chemokine receptors and their ligands (CXCR4 / SDF-1, CCR5 / MIP-1α and β, RANTES, CCR2 / MCP-1, and CX3CR1 / fractalkine) are of particular importance in HAD. HIV-1 infection of macrophages and microglia in the CNS is primarily mediated by CCR5. A subset of strains can infect macrophages and microglia via CXCR4. Increased monocyte trafficking into the CNS of patients with HAD is likely to result from increased expression of MCP-1, in addition to CCR5 chemokines. Neurodegenerative mechanisms in HAD may involve interactions between the HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins (Env) and CXCR4, or possibly other chemokine receptors on neurons, and possibly other CNS cell types. CCR5 and CXCR4 are promising targets for the prevention and treatment of HAD. Several compounds that selectively block virus entry without affecting physiological functions of these receptors are being developed, and some are in early clinical trials. Understanding the role of CCR5, CXCR4 and other chemokine receptors and their ligands in HIV-1 neuropathogenesis will be important for advancing the development of new therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment of HAD and other neurological complications of HIV-1 infection.
Examining prospective mediational relationships between momentary rumination, negative affect, and binge eating using ecological momentary assessment.

Abstract Background Rumination is linked to negative affect (NA), and there is accumulating support for an association between rumination and eating disorder (ED) behaviors. However, no research has examined the dynamic interrelationships between negative affect, rumination, and binge eating in naturalistic settings. Methods The present study used ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to assess the hypotheses that momentary rumination would mediate relationships between NA and binge eating, and momentary NA would mediate relationships between rumination and binge eating. Given that rumination may be focused on weight, shape, and food in ED samples, models were examined separately for general and ED-specific rumination. Forty women completed a 10-day EMA protocol that included measures of NA, general and ED-specific rumination, and binge eating. Results Multilevel mediation models indicated significant within-subjects indirect effects, such that momentary general rumination mediated the association between NA and binge eating, and NA also mediated the association between general but not ED-specific rumination and binge eating. Between-subjects effects indicated women with higher overall NA reported greater ED-specific rumination, which was associated with greater binge eating. Limitations The study was limited by a modest sample size, and the design precludes causal inferences. Conclusions Results highlight the momentary interplay between rumination and NA as a mechanism underlying binge eating, as well as the specificity of ruminative thought content in relationship to binge eating. Future work is needed to address the construct of rumination in the context of eating disorder interventions.
Valence Bond Methods: Theory and Applications

Preface Part I. Theory and Two-Electron Systems: 1. Introduction 2. H2 and localised orbitals 3. H2 and delocalised orbitals 4. Three electrons in doublet states 5. Advanced methods for larger molecules 6. Spatial symmetry 7. Varieties of valence bond treatments 8. The physics of ionic structures Part II. Examples and Interpretations: 9. Selection of structures and arrangement of bases 10. Four simple three-electron systems 11. Second row homonuclear diatomics 12. Second row heteronuclear diatomics 13. Methane, ethane and hybridization 14. Rings of hydrogen atoms 15. Aromatic compounds 16. Interaction of molecular fragments Appendix Bibliography.
Response of Cultured Mammalian Cells to Diphtheria Toxin III. Inhibition of Protein Synthesis Studied at the Subcellular Level

Diphtheria toxin inhibited protein synthesis in intact KB cells. The action of the toxin upon the cell did not result in disaggregation of polyribosomes, or in impairment of their ability to function in protein synthesis. A reduction in single ribosomes and a concomitant increase in polyribosomes did result from the action of toxin. Nascent peptides were not cleaved from polyribosomes by the action of toxin, but treatment of fully intoxicated cells with puromycin resulted in cleavage of these peptides, and caused accelerated polyribosome breakdown. Our data indicated that the toxin must enter the cell to exert its effect. The component or components sensitive to toxin were localized in the 100,000 × g supernatant fraction of cytoplasmic extracts. When extracts from intoxicated cells were treated with nicotinamide, a significant proportion of their capacity to synthesize protein was restored. The specificity of this reaction suggested that nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide is involved in the action of toxin in the intact cell, and that one component inactivated by toxin is soluble transferase II.
A NEW STARTING POINT?: Investigating Formulaic Use and Input in Future Expression

The use of formulaic expressions by second language learners has received little attention from second language acquisition research investigating interlanguage temporal systems. Instead, this field of inquiry has emphasized the productive use of verbal morphology by employing type-token analyses. This paper considers the proposed developmental sequence of formula > low-scope pattern > construction in the emergence of future expression in a longitudinal study of 16 adult learners of English as a second language. The findings suggest that the use of formulaic expressions may be subject to individual variation and that learners may use formulaic expressions to different degrees when developing form-meaning associations even in the same grammatical subsystem, such as the tense-aspect system. The findings also suggest, however, that the practice of favoring type over token analysis as a matter of course may eliminate valuable information about the emergence and development of temporal expression.
New Aspects of the Trophic Action Of Gastrointestinal Hormones

This paper deals with several new findings regarding the trophic action of gastrointestinal hormones. Naturally occurring gastrins (G-17 I, G-17 II, G-34 II) stimulated DNA synthesis and increased total DNA content of gastric mucosa. These were several times more potent than pentagastrin on a molar basis. In a survey of various tissues from the gastrointestinal tract, pentagastrin exerted trophic effects on mucosa of the oxyntic gland area, duodenum, and colon; it had no effect on the esophagus, antrum, or diaphragm. Maximal stimulation (200% of control) of colonic DNA synthesis was produced by 250 µg of pentagastrin per kg. Vasoactive intestinal peptide did not stimulate DNA synthesis when given alone and inhibited the trophic effect of pentagastrin when administered simultaneously. Glucagon stimulated DNA synthesis in both colon and oxyntic gland mucosa to 40% of the increase caused by pentagastrin and did not inhibit the effects of pentagastrin when administered concurrently.
Surface Chemical Processes in Chemical Mechanical Polishing Relationship Between Silica Material Removal Rate and the Point of Zero Charge of the Abrasive Material

Chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) of a silica substrate Is visualized as a two-step process involving release of substrate-derived species into solution (dissolution), followed by adsorption of these species by abrasive particles. The adsorption is quantified by treating it as a surface complexation process. Mass action equations are provided for the complex-formation reaction as well as protonation and deprotonation of surface hydroxyls present on the abrasive particles. By combining these equations with mass balances on surface sites and dissolved species, it is shown that the surface concentration of substrate-derived species (and, therefore, the material removal rate) goes through a maximum as the point of zero charge (pzc) of the abrasive particle increases. Further, it is shown that the surface concentration of substrate-derived species (and, therefore, the material removal rate) is highest for the abrasive material whose pzc coincides with the pH of the polishing slurry.
An alternate approach to the management of tracheal perforation in a child

Tracheal perforation can be difficult to manage when standard approaches are not feasible. We present a case report of a 2-year-old child who sustained a traumatic laceration of the intrathoracic trachea in the face of tracheitis and bronchitis. Accepted management techniques could not be employed because the child developed mediastinitis and respiratory distress syndrome. The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) facilitated ventilation and oxygenation when standard modes of ventilation failed. ECMO also provided a compliant low-pressure environment that allowed primary tracheal repair by wrapping the tracheal tear with a pedicle of intercostal muscle. A brief overview of the management of intrathoracic tracheal disruption is presented.
Treatment outcomes of Asian- and White-American clients in outpatient therapy

This study was the first to examine extensively the outcomes of Asian-American clients in mental health treatment. The research evaluated the short-term effects of outpatient individual psychotherapy. The focus on shortterm outcome was particularly appropriate in view of earlier utilization studies that have consistently found higher premature termination rates and shorter treatment stays for Asian clients relative to White clients. The study used multiple outcome criteria from two different sources: Client self-reports of symptomatology and satisfaction with services and therapist evaluations of client symptomatology and adjustment. To better interpret ethnic effects, client and therapist variables (e.g., social class and pretreatment adjustment) that often have been confounded with ethnicity were accounted for in a multiple regression design. Results indicated poorer short-term treatment outcomes for Asian-American clients. Asian clients were less satisfied than White clients on all five satisfaction indices and reported greater depression, hostility, and anxiety after four sessions of treatment. No ethnic differences were found on the therapist-rated outcome measures, but there was a tendency for therapists to evaluate Asian clients as having lower levels of psychosocial functioning than White clients after short-term treatment. The findings underscore the need for culturally responsive therapies because Asian-American clients are experiencing worse outcomes, and these outcomes cannot be attributed to cultural differences between Asian and White clients that exist prior to treatment.
Pax genes in Caenorhabditis elegans: a new twist

Thanks to Claude Desplan for comments on the manuscript. O.H. was supported by a Human Frontiers in Science Fellowship.
Diabetes Induced with Low Doses of Streptozotocin is Mediated by Vβ8.2+ T-Cells

T-cells have been shown to cause insulitis and ultimately be responsible for the destruction of β-cells in animal models of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). In one murine model, insulitis and hyperglycemia occur after administration of five low doses of streptozotocin (STZ) (multidose STZ-induced diabetes mellitus [MDSM]). Insulitis can first be identified in the islets after the final (fifth) daily dose of STZ is given. We have studied the T-cells that infiltrate the islets of Langerhans during the early stages of diabetes by preparing Southern blots of T-cell receptor (TCR) β-chain genes amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from islets from C57BL/KsJ mice given multiple doses of STZ. The relative abundance of TCR gene products in islets was compared with spleen cells stimulated with anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody (mAb). We found that after the fourth dose of STZ, there was a striking increase in the amount of V β 8.2 TCR gene product (37 ± 4% of total PCR signal) compared with T-cells in the spleen (9 ± 2%, P < 0.01), which increased further 2 days after the final dose of STZ (47 ± 5%, P < 0.001). We studied the heterogeneity of the size of the V β 8.2 TCR CDR3 region and found primarily products with only two lengths compared with a heterogeneous population in the spleen. Treatment with anti-Vβ8 mAb, but not anti-V β 9 and anti-V β 13 mAbs, prevented development of hyperglycemia ( P < 0.0001) and insulitis ( P < 0.0005) after STZ administration. We conclude that there is limited heterogeneity of the T-cell response that causes diabetes in MDSDM. A limited number of Vβ8.2+ cells are preferentially expanded in the islets in the early stages. Our results suggest that in this model of IDDM, a limited number of T-cells cause the disease.
Montaigne and the interrogative

A l'heure de la Reforme et de l'Inquisition, l'utilisation particulierement frequente de formules interrogatives dans les Essais exprime, au-dela de la simple prudence de rigueur, une epistemologie de l'indetermination tout en renouvelant la rhetorique socratique
“What Are You Reading?”: How School Libraries Can Promote Racial Diversity in Multicultural Literature

While many educators state beliefs about the importance of selecting fiction that will engage a diverse student population, use of multicultural titles in secondary classrooms has lagged, in part due to increasing focus on the Common Core State Standards in the United States. The purpose of this study was to determine if high school students in a Southern California district were using school libraries to access multicultural literature characterized by racial diversity. Four years of circulation data from the district's five comprehensive high schools were examined. Analysis revealed that the titles with the highest circulation were overwhelmingly written by White authors and about White protagonists. Suggested are ways that educators can use resources within school libraries to promote more racially diverse multicultural literature, even as classroom titles remain static. Included are recommendations for how teachers and teacher-librarians can encourage students to select from a wider range of texts, as...
A Surgeons' Guide to Renal Transplant Immunopathology, Immunology, and Immunosuppression

The response to allografting involves adaptive and innate immune mechanisms. In the adaptive system, activated T cells differentiate to cytotoxic effectors that attack the graft and trigger B cells to differentiation to plasma cells that produce anti-HLA antibodies. The innate immune system recognizes antigens in a non-specific manner and recruits immune cells to the graft through the productions of chemotactic factors, and activation of cytokines and the complement cascade. In the kidney the tubules and the endothelium are the targets of the rejection response. Immune suppression is effective in modulating the adaptive immune system effect on graft histology.
SU-GG-BRC-02: Theoretical Analysis of Fiber-Optic Scintillation Glass Arrays for High Quantum Efficiency Megavoltage Imaging and Image Guided Radiotherapy

Purpose: In this work, we present a comprehensive theoretical analysis of a high performance megavoltage imager based on a fiber‐optic scintillation glass array (FOSGA), a potential candidate for megavoltage computed tomography (MVCT) as part of image guided radiation therapy(IGRT). The FOSGA imager was studied in several prototype configurations using Monte Carlo simulations and linear cascaded systems analyses, and imaging performance was characterized by its modulation transfer function(MTF) and detective quantum efficiency (DQE). Method and Materials: Our imager consists of Tb‐doped scintillation glass fibers inserted into a polymer‐tungsten grid‐housing. Material and structural specifications of the array are specially geared towards patented fabrication technologies for automated mass production and cost‐benefit. Radiation detection characteristics were modeled using radiation transport simulations and coupled to a custom‐written optical transport simulation program developed to specifically model the fiber‐optic coupling mechanism in our detector. A linear cascaded systems analysis was conducted to evaluate the effects of all proposed system components, design parameters, and imaging performance metrics (MTF & DQE) were determined for these configurations. Results: Radiation transport calculations indicated high intrinsic imaging performance typical of thick high‐Z scintillators with > 40% quantum efficiency for 5 cm thick arrays. Light transport simulations indicated limited coupling loss and optical cross‐talk from scatter as optical conduction was dominated by Fresnel and total‐internal‐reflection events. Cascaded systems analyses revealed no significant quantum sinks while indicating that detector thickness was the limiting parameter affecting overall performance [DQE(0) > 0.25 and MTF > 0.5 at 1 cy/mm, significantly improved over current megavoltage detectors with DQE(0) ∼ 0.01]. Conclusions: With high DQE and significant cost‐benefit compared to current megavoltage detectors and contemporary prototypes, a FOSGA imager can provide high portal image quality at low dose, which facilitates its extension to 3D verification via MVCT as a cost‐effective IGRT solution.
Rate Capabilities of Composite Gel Electrolytes Containing Fumed Silica Nanoparticles

Rate capabilities are reported of Li/V 6 O 13 cells at room temperature (22°C) using composite gel electrolytes. The performance of cells containing base liquid electrolyte are compared with composite gel electrolytes that are formed by adding fumed silica nanoparticles to a solution of poly(ethylene glycol)dimethylether + lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonylimide). The discharge-charge rate capabilities are improved with addition of fumed silica. The average Coulombic efficiencies using gel electrolytes containing 10% A200, which have a native silanol surface, and 10% R805, which have an octyl-modified surface, remain at approximately 99% up to a C/2 rate, while the average Coulombic efficiency for the base liquid electrolyte decreases with increasing C rate. The improved rate capabilities for composite gel electrolytes are suggested to be related to their ability to inhibit lithium dendrite formation and form stable interfaces between electrolyte and electrodes.
Early Failures in Life Testing

Abstract Data from certain life test experiments exhibit such an unusually high concentration of failures near time 0 that the assumption of an over-all exponential density is unwarranted. One hypothesis for this phenomenon is that due to faulty construction or defective parts, certain test items fail prematurely; these items are termed “early failures.” To handle this type of data, an early failure model is postulated in which one failure rate is assumed to be in effect for an initial time interval [0, T 0) and another, lower failure rate is operative thereafter. Estimators for the two failure rates are given in the case where T 0 is known and in the case where T 0 is not known exactly but can be assumed to be within a specified interval. Methods for obtaining approximate large sample confidence regions are outlined and procedures for handling small samples are described.
Jamming Dynamics Of Stretch-induced Surfactant Secretion By Alveolar Epithelial Cells

Secretion of molecules by cells is a fundamental process of life that maintains the cellular micro-environment. In the lung, secretion of surfactant by alveolar epithelial type II cells is vital for the reduction of interfacial surface tension, thus preventing lung collapse. We find evidence of complex secretory dynamics of these cells in culture when exposed to cyclic mechanical stretch which is the primary stimulus for surfactant secretion. We find that (a) during and immediately following stretch, cells secreted less surfactant than unstretched cells and (b) cells stretched for 15 minutes secreted significantly more surfactant than unstretched cells after 45 min of rest. The subsequent increase in secretion suggests that stretch indeed induces an enhancement of surfactant secretion, but the delay implies that the rate of secretion is in fact decreased. To explain these dynamic features, we develop a model based on the hypothesis that stretching leads to jamming of surfactant traffic, escaping the cell through a limited number of channels. We solve the model analytically and show that its dynamics are consistent with experiments. The proposed mechanism of jamming highlights the importance of dynamics in cellular secretory response to applied stretch and could also be relevant to the dynamics of stimulated secretion from other cells in vivo.
Increased reporting of occupational hearing loss: workers' compensation in Washington State, 1984-1998.

Background Workers’ compensation claims for hearing loss increased two-fold during 1984–1991 in Washington State. Methods This population-based descriptive study examined 27,019 claims filed during 1984–1998 and accepted for hearing loss, in the workers’ compensation jurisdiction that covers nearly all non-federal workers in Washington State. Results The number of claims increased 12-fold during 1984–1998. The annual incidence reached 2.6/1,000 workers statewide, and 70/1,000 in the most impacted industry. The increase involved all ages over 35 years, especially claimants over 65 years. Only 4% of providers accounted for 66% of claims. Most claimants (90%) received permanent partial disability compensation. In 1998, identifiable costs exceeded $57 million dollars. Conclusions The striking increase in claims is probably largely due to reporting phenomena unrelated to current work circumstances. However, occupational hearing loss is probably much more common than usually recognized, and contemporary workers may still face substantial risk for hearing loss. Am. J. Ind. Med. 42:502–510, 2002. 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Adapting systems of care for child welfare practice with immigrant Latino children and families

Recent reform efforts in the child welfare system have called for child welfare agencies to provide community-based services and to increase the involvement of external stakeholders in identifying and developing services within the community. At the same time, child welfare agencies are faced with the challenge of providing services to an increasingly diverse population of children and families. As a result, there is a need for evidence-based practice models that respond to these challenges and promote positive outcomes for children and families. This paper describes the development of a program designed to train child welfare staff on the application of an existing evidence-based framework, systems of care, to practice with immigrant Latino children and families as a means of responding to these multiple calls for systems change and practice improvement. Immigrant Latino children and families represent the largest and fastest-growing population in the United States, and thus require the attention of child welfare systems and the development of evidence-based practices designed to respond to the unique needs of this population. Recommendations for program planners and evaluators on the application of systems of care to child welfare practice with immigrant Latino children and families are provided.
Trends in pharmaceutical targeting of clinical indications: 1930–2013

An analysis of FDA-approved new molecular entities (NMEs) reveals trends in therapeutic applications. Four groupings (infectious diseases, cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune/inflammatory diseases and cancer) capture more than 60% of NMEs. Infectious diseases are the most targeted indications. Near the turn of the new millennium, the rate of new approvals for infectious diseases decreased. The absolute and relative number of NMEs targeting psychiatric, neurological and pain/itch indications also declined. By contrast, NMEs targeting cancer have risen in the past two decades as have NMEs targeting orphan indications. These results suggest the drug development community has largely been responsive to public health and market needs. However, finite resources might indicate emphasis on some unmet needs could come at the cost of others.
The National Plant Diagnostic Network: Partnering to Protect Plant Systems

The National Plant Diagnostic Network (NPDN) has developed into a critical component of the plant biosecurity infrastructure of the United States. The vision set forth in 2002 for a distributed but coordinated system of plant diagnostic laboratories at land grant universities and state departments of agriculture has been realized. NPDN, in concept and in practice, has become a model for cooperation among the public and private entities necessary to protect our natural and agricultural plant resources. Aggregated into five regional networks, NPDN laboratories upload diagnostic data records into a National Data Repository at Purdue University. By facilitating early detection and providing triage and surge support during plant disease outbreaks and arthropod pest infestations, NPDN has become an important partner among federal, state, and local plant protection agencies and with the industries that support plant protection.
Comparing the Effectiveness of Intensive and Traditional Courses

The present study investigated differences in the effectiveness of instructors from a variety of departments who taught the same course in both intensive and traditional formats within the same year, while controlling for many confounding variables. Results indicated that intensive courses did not significantly differ from traditional courses in overall instructor ratings on student evaluations of teaching effectiveness when confounding variables were taken into account. Conversely, intensive courses received significantly higher overall course ratings on student evaluations than did traditional courses, even after controlling for class size and probable grade in course. These findings provide further evidence that negative beliefs concerning intensive courses may be unjustified, and intensive courses may be as or more effective than those presented in traditional formats.
Not Yet Comfortable in the Classroom: A Study of Academic Computing at Three Land-Grant Universities.

Classroom usage, among known faculty users, of computers was studied in three land grant universities to determine the level at which computers have been integrated into the instructional process. Among the 302 faculty surveyed across six collegiate categories, at best only one of four actually integrates computing into the classroom experience. One in three uses computers for laboratory teaching. The majority assign students to use computing outside of the classroom. Availability of resources is seen as the greatest barrier, but training and incentives also deter computer use in the classroom. Somewhat surprising is the finding that these users of computing are not totally convinced that classroom use of computers is worthwhile.
Locally Advanced Breast Cancer

Patients undergo CT simulation in the treatment position with both arms extended above their head using an Alpha Cradle or breast board immobilization; IV contrast is not necessary. In cases where the patient has an intact breast, wires are placed around the borders of the breast on the patient’s skin prior to scanning. Patients are scanned from the cricoid through 5 cm below the clinically marked inferior port edge. The entire lung must be included.
Three-year clinical study of UV-cured composite resins in posterior teeth

Four proprietary composite resins cured with ultraviolet light were inserted into Class I and II cavity preparations. The restorations were evaluated over a 3-year period for color match, interfacial staining, secondary caries, loss of anatomic form, marginal adaptation, and surface texture. The percent of restorations exhibiting no generalized loss of anatomic form ranged from 47% to 93%.
Recent Developments in Bering Sea Fisheries Conservation and Management

Abstract The pace of developments in national and international policies for the conservation and management of the living marine resources of the Bering Sea has accelerated dramatically, while key stocks have evidenced severe population declines. These developments stem from overcapitalization of the U.S. domestic fishery and overexploitation of straddling stocks within the central Bering Sea high seas “donut hole.”; In waters under U.S. jurisdiction, a unique limited entry management system is being readied for the sablefish and halibut fisheries. At the same time, internal changes in Russia have created the preconditions for a convergence of interests with the United States regarding maritime regimes and coordination mechanisms for the region. That convergence was manifested in a joint effort to negotiate a voluntary suspension of pollock fishing in the central Bering Sea with noncoastal fishing states. As a result, the distant water fishing fleets of Japan, China, South Korea, and Poland have departed...
Do workers want OSHA’s ergonomics regulations?

OSHA’s proposed Ergonomics Rule will clearly impose serious costs on firms across many industries, but industries where MSD risk is highest will face much greater costs. OSHA recognizes this by excluding some high-risk industries. For the higher risk indus-tries that are covered by the proposal, OSHA suggests that benefits to firms and employ-ees will outweigh these costs. We argue that OSHA has ignored the importance of differences in individual preferences for accepting risk and that compensating wage differentials allow different individuals to maximize their utility by making trade-offs between safety and wages.
Identification of Rfp-Y (Mhc-like) Haplotypes in Chickens of Cornell Lines N and P

Two strains of chickens selected for differential Marek's disease (MD) resistance or susceptibility were studied for the presence of the recently described Rfp-Y major histocompatibility complex (Mhc-like) haplotypes. MD resistant chickens from line N were fixed for the classical Mhc B(21) haplotype, whereas MD susceptible line P chickens were fixed for the B(19) haplotype. The Rfp-Y haplotypes were identified by restriction fragment polymorphism (RFP) analysis using enzymes and Mhc probes for B-G, B-L beta II, and B-FIVnv. In addition an Rfp-L beta III clone was developed that differentiated Rfp-L beta from B-L beta genes. Three Rfp-Y haplotypes, defined for both class I and class II Mhc-like loci, were identified in line N (Rfp-Y(5), Rfp-Y(7), and Rfp-Y(8)) and in line P (Rfp-Y(5), Rfp-Y(8), and Rfp-Y(9)),respectively. The Rfp-Y(7), Rfp-Y(8), and Rfp-Y(9) haplotypes have not been described previously. The Rfp-Y(5) haplotype was most frequent (0.70) in line N, but existed in low frequency (approximately 0.04) in line P; the Rfp-Y(9) haplotype was most frequent in line P (0.63), but was absent in line N. The Rfp-Y haplotypes segregated in a Mendelian fashion in each line on analysis of progeny from Rfp-Y heterozygous matings. The frequency of recombination between the Rfp-Y F and L loci was estimated to be less than 0.25%.
The renal lesions of tuberosclerosis (cysts and angiomyolipoma) — screening with sonography and computerized tomography

The two most common sonographic abnormalities in the kidneys of 23 tuberous sclerosis (TS) patients ranging in age from newborn to 30 years are angiomyolipomas (12/23) (AML) and renal cysts (10/23). These usually both occur in the same patient with only 9 cases (39%) having sonographically normal kidneys. Of the 14 affected patients, 2 had cysts without AML and 4 others had AML without cysts. The sonographic appearance of an AML varied from a large 6 cm solid mass with little increased echogenicity (1/12) to subtle small (4 mm) extremely echogenic regions in the periphery of the kidney (11/12). The sonographic appearance of the cysts were anechoic lesions varying in size from 2 mm to 2 cm with thin uniform posterior walls and posterior enhancement. Renal lesions are found more frequently with increasing age. Sonography is the preferred screening procedure for the renal lesions of T.S.