cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clinician and Parent Perspectives on Educational Needs for Increasing Adolescent HPV Vaccination

Human papillomavirus (HPV)-related morbidity and mortality remain a significant public health burden despite the availability of HPV vaccines for cancer prevention. We engaged clinicians and parents to identify barriers and opportunities related to adolescent HPV vaccination within a focused geographic region. This mixed-method study design used an interviewer-administered semi-structured interview with clinicians (n = 52) and a written self-administered survey with similar items completed by parents (n = 54). Items focused on experiences, opinions, and ideas about HPV vaccine utilization in the clinical setting, family, and patient perceptions about HPV vaccination and potential future efforts to increase vaccine utilization. Quantitative items were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative content was analyzed thematically. Suggested solutions for achieving higher rates of HPV vaccination noted by clinicians included public health education, the removal of stigma associated with vaccines, media endorsements, and targeting parents as the primary focus of educational messages. Parents expressed the need for more information about HPV-related disease, HPV vaccines, vaccine safety, sexual concerns, and countering misinformation on social media. Results from this mixed-method study affirm that educational campaigns targeting both health care professionals and parents represent a key facilitator for promoting HPV vaccination; disease burden and cancer prevention emerged as key themes for this messaging.
Iterative MAP Multi-User OFDM over Rapidly-Varying Frequency-Selective Channels

In this paper, we introduce an Expectation Maximization (EM) based iterative multi-user OFDM detector, the detector works in tandem with an a posteriori probability (APP) channel decoder to form a Turbo processor, suitable for use in a rapidly changing multi- path fading environment. The system uses spatial diversity at the receiver, by employing a number of uncorrected (independent) antennas. The normalized Doppler frequencies are in the order of 0.02 to 0.04, i.e. fast changing channel conditions. The system uses a single pilot slot every 10 - 15 slots, for initial channel estimation (acquisition) per user, so only minimal overhead is required. We show that this configuration achieves very high gains first by virtue of the EM detector that simultaneously detects user data and tracks the channel changes, and second by employing the APP decoder, while at the same time it converges very closely to the ideal, perfect channel side information receiver.
Class Size Effects on Reading Achievement in Europe: Evidence from PIRLS

Abstract Some researchers have suggested that reducing class size may result in increases in student achievement. However, the empirical evidence about class-size effects from experimental or quasi-experimental studies has been mixed overall. This study sheds more light on whether class size reduction impacts reading achievement in eight European countries: Bulgaria, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia. We examine class size effects on reading achievement using national probability samples of fourth graders. All eight European countries had participated in the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS) in 2001, 2006 and 2011. Overall, the results indicate that class size effects on reading achievement are not significant across countries and years. One exception was Romania where class size effects in 2001 and 2011 were significant and negative suggesting that reducing class size corresponded to increases in reading achievement. Trends in class size effects over time were not observed.
Carbon-fiber-wrapped synchronous reluctance traction motor

Synchronous reluctance machines are very appealing for high speed traction applications due to their robustness, simple structure, absence of magnets, and simple control. The absence of magnets means that synchronous reluctance machines are not susceptible to price variability and sustainability of rare-earth materials. Also, there are no concerns about demagnetization or uncontrolled generation mode. However, the challenge of achieving a good constant power to speed ratio is dependent on the mechanical aspects of the design. Conventional synchronous reluctance designs perform poorly compared to permanent magnet machines due the presence of bridges and/or center posts that provide a path for performance-robbing leakage flux. Elimination or reduction of these features presents a challenge for rotor mechanical retention due to the reduction in radial stiffness that these members provide. A carbon-fiber sleeve on the rotor will provide the needed mechanical strength to enable a reduction of bridges and/or center posts. This paper will present the design details, analysis, manufacturing and test results of a proof-of-concept carbon-fiber-wrapped synchronous reluctance machine targeting traction applications.
Effectiveness of Corporate Communication and Improving the Corporate Communication Strategies in Commercial Banking

Corporate communication is an important aspect of communication, which needs to be studied and put to use in every organizations for greater efficiency and effectiveness in the work. Corporate communication refers to the communication processes which are meant for corporate or business objectives. It means the communication within the organization (internal) and communication between the different corporate (external) entities.
Direct numerical simulation of a temporally evolving air/n-dodecane jet at low-temperature diesel-relevant conditions

Abstract We present a direct numerical simulation of a temporal jet between n-dodecane and diluted air undergoing spontaneous ignition at conditions relevant to low-temperature diesel combustion. The jet thermochemical conditions were selected to result in two-stage ignition. Reaction rates were computed using a 35-species reduced mechanism which included both the low- and high-temperature reaction pathways. The aim of this study is to elucidate the mechanisms by which low-temperature reactions promote high-temperature ignition under turbulent, non-premixed conditions. We show that low-temperature heat release in slightly rich fuel regions initiates multiple cool flame kernels that propagate towards very rich fuel regions through a reaction-diffusion mechanism. Although low-temperature ignition is delayed by imperfect mixing, the propagation speed of the cool flames is high: as a consequence, high-temperature reactions in fuel-rich regions become active early during the ignition transient. Because of this early start, high-temperature ignition, which occurs in fuel-rich regions, is faster than homogeneous ignition. Following ignition, the high-temperature kernels expand and engulf the stoichiometric mixture-fraction iso-surface which in turn establish edge flames which propagate along the iso-surface. The present results indicate the preponderance of flame folding of existing burning surfaces, and that ignition due to edge-flame propagation is of lesser importance.. Finally, a combustion mode analysis that extends an earlier classification [1] is proposed to conceptualize the multi-stage and multi-mode nature of diesel combustion and to provide a framework for reasoning about the effects of different ambient conditions on diesel combustion.
Predicting NFRs in the early stages of agile software engineering

Non-Functional requirements (NFRs) are overlooked whereas Functional Requirements (FRs) take the center stage in developing agile software. Research has shown that ignoring NFRs can have negative impacts on the software and could potentially cost more to fix at later stages. This research extends the Capture Elicit Prioritize (CEP) methodology to predict NFRs in the early stages agile software development. Research in other fields such as the medical field have shown that historical data can be beneficial in the long run. In the medical field it was found that historical data can be beneficial in determining patient treatments. The Capture Elicit Prioritize (CEP) methodology extended the NERV and NORMAP methodologies in previous research. The CEP methodology identified 56 out of 57 requirement sentences and was successful in eliciting 98.24% of the baseline an improvement of 10.53% of the NORMAP methodology and 1.75% improvement over the NERV methodology. The NFRs count for the CEP methodology was 86 out of 88 NFRs which was an improvement of 12.49% over the NORMAP methodology and 4.55% over the NERV methodology. The CEP was used and utilized the EU eProcument requirements document. The CEP methodology utilized the capture methodology by gathering potential NFRs using OCR from requirements images. The elicit part took the NFR Locator plus and takes sentences from documents and places them in distinct categories. The NFR categories are defined from the Chung's NFR framework utilizing a set of keywords utilized for training to locate NFRs. The e αβγ-framework was utilized to prioritize the NFRs. Utilizing the data from previous research of the CEP methodology and extending the CEP methodology to include a decision tree to predict future NFRs. A simple decision tree was utilized to make a prediction utilizing the past NFRs data. If a certain NFR appears three times or higher in the requirements document. It is most likely that NFRs will appear in the next iteration of the software requirements specification. If the NFRs is equivalent to three times it is likely it will appear in the next iteration. If the NFRs is between one and two it is not likely to appear in future iteration. The path can be traced from the root of the tree to a decision tree's leaf (yes or no) that determines whether the NFRs will appear in future iterations. This research showed that using the data available can be beneficial for the next iteration of software development. This research showed that historical metadata can help in predicting NFRs utilizing a decision tree to make a prediction where NFRs appear multiple times in a set of the EU procurement documents can predict the next iteration of software development. The NFRs Availability, Compliance, Confidentiality, Documentation, Performance, Security, and Usability were found and these NFRs are most likely to appear in the next iteration of the EU procurement software.
2.36 – Infant Memory

This chapter reviews research on the ontogeny of memory between birth and 2 years of age and the factors that affect it. Methods traditionally used to study associative and long-term memory (visual recognition tasks, classical and operant conditioning, delayed nonmatching-to-sample, deferred and elicited imitation) are discussed briefly. Systematic contributions from recent studies of deferred imitation and operant conditioning are emphasized. Reminder effects, spacing effects, accessibility, and infantile amnesia receive special consideration. Evidence indicates that the same fundamental principles underlie memory processing in infants and adults. Recent research on latent learning necessitates a major revision of prior conceptions of infant memory.
Tomography with Diffusion

On the occasion of the celebration of seven centuries in the life of the University of Montpellier it is appropriate for the participants in the traditional Reucontres on Inverse Problems to thank its “soul and spirit” Professor Pierre Sabatier for many years of organizational and scientific leadership, past and future.
Wetland Indices of Biological Integrity

Quantifying the biological response to wetland stressors and anthropogenic influences, as well as restoration, enhancement, compensatory mitigation, and other activities is critical to evaluating the impact of an activity or tracking trends over time. Without being able to do so, judging the success or failure in an ecological context of best-management practices during development activities, or that of a wetland mitigation bank would be indefensible in terms of scientific integrity and rigor. However, developing a systematic approach with repeatable and meaningful results takes time, forethought, and a lot of baseline effort. We examine the history of indices of biological integrity (IBIs), how they evolved and are applied, and what utility they can provide into the future. Furthermore, we outline one approach taken in West Virginia, and its relevancy nested within wetland policy. In doing so, we hope readers are able to not only understand the important study design questions and challenges associated with creating IBIs but also the valuation and importance of such a tracking tool to wetland resource managers.
Genetic factors in the etiology of mental retardation

Mental retardation is a condition with multiple, disparate causes, both environmental and genetic. In this article we have tried to characterize, in a general fashion, the nature of the genetic factors through a discussion of polygenic inheritance, single gene errors, and chromosomal anomalies. Despite the existence of a large and complex body of knowledge, which has only been touched upon here, it is sobering to realize that we cannot diagnose almost half of the mentally retarded. Even in those in whom a genetic etiology is obvious, we know little about the intervening processes that operate between the gene and the mental deficiency it produces. Under the conditions, therapy holds little promise, while prevention assumes a high priority. Prevention of mental retardation due to genetic factors requires the physician to have a basis knowledge of genetic principles and syndromes, of prenatal diagnostic technology, and a determination to inform, even when the patient does not ask.
Sparsity-Constrained Mixed $H_{2}/H_{\infty}$ Control

We propose an algorithm for designing sparsity-constrained controllers for linear time-invariant systems with model uncertainties using a mixed $H_{2}/H_{\infty}$ objective. We first improve a previously proposed descent algorithm for mixed $H_{2}/H_{\infty}$ control using a modified Zoutendijk's method. Thereafter, we impose a sparsity constraint on this design by combining it with a greedy gradient support pursuit (GraSP) method. The proposed algorithm guarantees a predetermined level of sparsity while maintaining acceptable $H_{2}$ performance as well as $H_{\infty}$ robustness to uncertainties in the open-loop model. The effectiveness of the proposed method is illustrated through simulations.
Prognostic relevance of tumor sequencing in metastatic lung adenocarcinomas.

9049Background: Routine next generation sequencing (NGS) testing for patients with lung cancer allows the rapid identification of a broad array of targetable molecular drivers. We hypothesized that...
Incidence of pneumonitis in patients with solid tumors treated with everolimus: A systematic review and meta- analysis of randomized controlled trials.

e22220Background: Aberrant signaling through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of multiple cancers. Everolimus (E), an mTOR inhibitor, has been employed in...
Taking PRIDE in Your Home: Implementing Home-Based Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) with Fidelity

Clinically significant externalizing behaviors in young children is an increasingly common issue with estimates ranging from 4% to 15% affected, yet roughly only 3% of young children with a mental health problem receive any treatment whatsoever. Due to the underutilization of outpatient therapy, attrition rates ranging from 30% to 70%, and a host of barriers that preclude families from using mental health services (e.g., stigma, transportation), a need exists to make evidence-based interventions for disruptive behaviors more available and transportable to least restrictive environments. This is particularly important for highly stressed, limited resourced families. As the empirical focus has shifted from treatment efficacy trials to examining effective ways to disseminate and implement validated treatments, the investigation of evidence-based intervention models in “real world” settings, such as home-based PCIT, is now becoming critical to ensure children and families receive the most proven mental health treatments. This chapter presents an overview of home-based models, outlines a rationale for home-based PCIT, reviews the home-based PCIT literature and presents practice parameters and clinical modifications to adapt to the home setting while maintaining fidelity to core components of the model.
Which Methods for Determining Glomerular Filtration Rate Most Strongly Associate with Risk of Progression of Kidney Disease

Estimation of glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)3 by measurement of creatinine has become the mainstay approach to clinical assessment of kidney function. eGFR is used for screening for acute kidney injury, diagnosis and monitoring of chronic kidney disease (CKD), as an indication for initiation of hemodialysis, and for assessment of kidney function to determine whether patients can tolerate imaging contrast or whether certain nephrotoxic medicines are safe to administer. Measurement of creatinine and estimation of GFR has thus become one of the most widely used and useful tests in the modern clinical chemistry laboratory. Renal filtration rate and kidney function was originally measured by administering renally filtered (and not secreted) substances, such as inulin, and measuring their clearance in the urine compared to circulating concentrations (1). This approach, although accurate, has not been applicable for routine clinical use. In 1948, Jan Brod and Jonas Sirota proposed that renal filtration rate and function could be evaluated based upon urinary clearance of endogenous creatinine (2), allowing doctors to measure kidney function without having to administer inulin or other exogenous substances. Their original validation studies demonstrated that renal clearance of endogenous creatinine was approximately equal to that of exogenous inulin and that creatinine was primarily filtered by the glomerulus and not resorbed or actively secreted. Thus, measuring serum and urine creatinine allowed for a reasonable estimation of renal filtration rate. The only limitation of their method was that it required accurate measurement of urinary creatinine excretion through a 24-h timed collection of urine, lessening its practicability. In 1976, Cockcroft and Gault proposed that creatinine clearance could instead be estimated based …
Measurement and Analysis of Human Body Communication for Bio-Medical Application

Human Body Communication (HBC) is the medium to communicate transfer the health informatics by using human body tissue. The Body Area Network (BAN) requires promising physical layer solution. The human centric nature of HBC offers an innovative method to transfer the health care data, transmission requires low interference and reliable data link. HBC electrodes play a role of wireless antennas in other communication standards. In this paper, health monitoring device is designed, the health data collected from wearable sensors (worn on the body) and transmit it through human body to receiver device. The healthiness information is communicated via human to machine contact. By using HBC based wearable health monitoring system is utilizes propose restrains and signal convey distinctiveness can be calculated and evaluated in this system. Finally, calculation of reactance of capacitance among transmitter and receiver electrodes can be done successfully. In this paper is important issues related to HBC data transmission such as signal propagation model, communication performance, and experimental considerations is conducted and necessary results are presented.
Mapping the Elastic-plastic Contact and Adhesion

This paper is a review of current understanding of the behavior of elastic-plastic spheres in contact - with or without adhesion. The emphasis is on recent computational advances. The results are presented in the form of behavior maps, which provide qualitative and quantitative description of the behavior, for a range of parameters. The gaps in understanding of contact and adhesion are identified.
Clamping Force Effects on the Performance of Mechanically Attached Piezoelectric Transducers for Impedance-Based NDE

Impedance-based non-destructive evaluation (NDE) constitutes a generalization of structural health monitoring (SHM), where comparisons between known-healthy reference structures and potentially-defective structures are used to identify damage. The quantity considered by impedance-based NDE is the electrical impedance of a piezoelectric element bonded to the part under test, which is linked to the dynamic vibrational response of the part under test through electromechanical coupling. In this work, the piezoelectric element is not bonded directly to the part under test, but rather to a c-shaped clamp, which is then mechanically attached to the part under test. Under this attachment condition, the effect of clamping force on the sensitivity of the impedance-based evaluation is investigated for machined steel blocks with varying levels of damage severity. The highest clamping force tested (600 lb, 2670 N) was the only condition exhibiting increasing damage metric values with increasing damage severity in the parts under test, suggesting that higher clamping force increases sensitivity to damage.
An Interlayer Interconnect BIST and Diagnosis Solution for Monolithic 3-D ICs

Monolithic 3-D (M3D) integration offers higher-density integration compared to 3-D integration based on through-silicon vias. Advances in testing are however needed to screen defects in M3D integration without significantly impacting manufacturing cost. We propose a built-in-self-test (BIST) solution to target shorts and opens in interlayer vias (ILVs). In the proposed solution, scan cells at the interface of two layers are stitched into a twisted-ring counter (TRC) using their functional outputs and ILVs. The interface-register cells launch and capture tests, and a test path consists of ILVs and a multiplexer. We map the problem of minimizing the length of the wires added to stitch the TRC to that of finding a minimum-cost Hamiltonian circuit in a weighted bipartite graph. Since the weighted Hamiltonian circuit problem is NP-Complete, we propose a heuristic algorithm for this problem. We also propose a framework based on artificial neural network to carry out diagnosis when a chip fails the proposed test. We show using simulations that the proposed BIST solution can detect all opens and shorts. We also show using simulations that the proposed diagnosis framework can accurately estimate the size of defects in ILVs.
Abstract P3029: A Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating a Novel Just-In-Time Contextual Mobile Application Intervention to Reduce Sodium Intake in Hypertension: The Lowsalt4life Trial

Introduction: Interventions that lower sodium intake can decrease blood pressure and improve cardiovascular outcomes. Methods: This single center, prospective, open-label study evaluated a new mobi...
An examination of blameworthiness on the federal sentencing of organizations to implement corporate compliance programs

Abstract In federal courts in the U.S., judges can require criminal organizations to implement corporate compliance programs, ideally to decrease future crime occurrences. However, it is unclear of the circumstances that merit this sentence. This study examines a primary consideration when sentencing criminal organizations that is drawn from the focal concerns framework: the blameworthiness of the organization in the commission of the crime. The study uses data compiled by the U.S. Sentencing Commission from federal documents for 1,125 organizations that were sentenced in federal criminal courts between October 1, 2010, and September 30, 2017. Results showed that several measures of blameworthiness were significantly related to the sentencing of corporate compliance programs, showing partial support for the focal concern of blameworthiness. The policy implications of these findings are also discussed.
The Effects of Discipline Membership and Experience in the Field on Scholars’ Book and Journal Format Preferences

Using data from Ithaka S + R US Faculty Survey 2015, the current study examined the influence of disciplinary differences and experience levels as well as their interactions on scholars’ attitudes ...
The effect of radiation therapy on the objective response and outcomes with nivolumab for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a leading cause of cancer death worldwide [1]. While current first line therapy for unresectable HCC consists of molecularly targeted agents including sorafen...
Posttraumatic stress disorder symptom clusters, suicidal ideation, and social support in a clinical adolescent sample.

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a risk factor for adolescent suicidal ideation (SI). This study explored the relation between PTSD symptom clusters and SI, and whether social support modera...
Efficient Process or 'Chilling Effects'? Takedown Notices Under Section 512 of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act

We analyzed nearly 900 DMCA (17 USC 512) takedown notices from a variety of sources, including all notices received by Google through 2006. Our findings comprise a rather negative snapshot of the ways in which the Section 512 process is being used, and reveal little benefit to some of the constituencies it was intended to support.
Novel CNN and Hybrid CNN-LSTM Algorithms for UWB SNR Estimation

Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology is an excellent solution for short-range communication and localization systems in the next generation of cognitive radio (CR) paradigm. In such systems, received signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR), as an important channel state information (CSI) parameter, provides tremendous information about the communication environments. In this context, it is essential to have an accurate SNR estimation at the receiver end of the wireless networks. In this paper, two novel convolutional neural network (CNN) and hybrid CNN long-short-term-memory (LSTM) algorithms are proposed for UWB SNR estimation. The proposed models are capable of exploiting spatial and sequential information from the received signal where in contrast to traditional rule-based algorithms, suitable discrepancy feature for SNR estimation is extracted automatically. The performance of the proposed models is investigated against the IEEE 802.15.4a UWB standard model by evaluating mean absolute error (MAE), mean square error (MSE), and precision metrics.
Fine Particulate Matter and Dementia Incidence in the Adult Changes in Thought Study

Background: Air pollution may be associated with elevated dementia risk. Prior research has limitations that may affect reliability, and no studies have evaluated this question in a population-base...
Cultural Heritage Sites and Their Looting and Destruction Through an Economics Lens

This study discusses a topic that is relatively understudied in economics: cultural heritage sites and their obliteration. While economics literature on culture, cultural practices, and cultural institutions is long-standing, overlooked is the role of heritage sites in developing countries and during periods of violent conflicts. Heritage sites during peace times turn into blood antiquities during violent conflicts and illicit excavations in one country end up garnishing museums in another. Covering a bird-eye’s view of these topics, the study also highlights prospects for future research and the unique opportunity they may provide for reconciliation in post-conflict countries.
PINK1: Multiple mechanisms of neuroprotection

Abstract PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) is a serine-threonine kinase in which mutations have been identified in patients with early-onset recessive Parkinson's disease. Since its discovery, PINK1 has been heavily studied in the context of mitochondrial dysfunction and mitophagy. More recently, PINK1 has become increasingly appreciated as a signaling factor, regulating neuronal morphogenesis and titering the cellular response to stress via both autophagy-dependent and -independent mechanisms. Extensive advances have been made in understanding mitophagy regulation by PINK1 using predominantly proliferative, non-neuronal cell types, with additional functions emerging as studies shift to primary neurons and iPSC-derived neurons. Here, we review the literature supporting multiple functions of PINK1 in neuronal maturation, remodeling, and pathological states. Taken as a whole, emerging evidence indicates that PINK1 is critical for regulating dendritic morphology and preventing neurite retraction. Moreover, reduced expression of PINK1 has been observed in the absence of gene mutations in cases of sporadic dementia, broadening the scope of PINK1 a druggable target for neurodegenerative diseases beyond Parkinson's disease.
Women entrepreneurs in bankruptcy

Women represent one of the fastest growing business-owner groups in the United States. The number of female-owned firms grew at a faster rate than the overall number of firms in the United States between 1997 and 2002. 4 Similarly, between 1985 and 2000, female-owned sole proprietorships grew much faster than their male-owned counterparts in terms of number of businesses, gross receipts, and net income. 5 By the end of the 1990s, the number of female-owned businesses was estimated to have increased in the United States by eighty-nine percent compared to a decade earlier, and reached six and a half million enterprises by 2002. 6
The Serum High Density Lipoproteins of Macacus rhesus I. ISOLATION, COMPOSITION, AND PROPERTIES

Abstract The serum high density lipoproteins, HDL2 (d 1.063 to 1.125 g per ml) and HDL3 (d 1.125 to 1.21 g per ml), of normal Macacus rhesus kept on a low fat diet were isolated by ultracentrifugal flotation and their properties compared with those previously reported on human products. Both monkey and human lipoproteins proved very similar, in terms of hydrodynamic, spectroscopic, immunological, and morphological criteria. However, the HDL2:HDL3 ratio in M. rhesus was 2:1, as compared to the 1:3 ratio in humans. Moreover, the sphingoymelin content of monkey HDL2 and HDL3 was significantly lower than that in man. Thus, the high density lipoproteins of M. rhesus are similar, but not identical, to those in man.
Nonerosive reflux disease.

Abstract Nonerosive reflux disease (NERD) is the most common phenotype of gastroesophageal reflux disease. By definition, patients with NERD have typical reflux symptoms caused by the intraesophageal reflux of gastric contents but have no visible esophageal mucosal injury. This is in contrast to patients with erosive reflux disease (ERD) or Barrett's esophagus (BE) who have obvious esophageal mucosal injury on endosco-py. Only 50% of patients with NERD have pathologic esophageal acid exposure as detected on 24-h pH monitoring. NERD patients with physiologic esophageal acid exposure and good temporal correlation of symptoms with reflux events are considered to have esophageal hypersensitivity, while patients with no symptom-reflux correlation are considered to have functional heartburn. It is possible yet uncommon for NERD to progress to severe ERD (i.e. LA Grade C or D) or BE. Patients with NERD and pathologic esophageal acid exposure have motor dysfunction and acid reflux abnormalities that are similar to patients with ERD and BE, whereas NERD patients with physiologic esophageal acid exposure have minimal abnormalities and are not much different than healthy controls. The pathological feature most indicative of NERD is the presence of dilated intercellular spaces within squamous epithelium, an ultrastructural abnormality readily identified on transmission electron microscopy but also on light microscopy. A symptomatic response to an empiric trial of high-dose proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy is a simple and useful strategy to establish the diagnosis of NERD, although histology and pH monitoring may be useful in confirming the diagnosis. Patients with NERD suffer similar decrements in quality of life as do patients with erosive esophagitis. Therapy is aimed at eliminating or reducing symptoms and improving quality of life. PPIs are the most effective agents for the treatment of NERD although they are less effective in providing symptom relief than in patients with erosive esophagitis. Laparoscopic antireflux surgery is an effective therapy for selected patients with NERD and outcomes are better when performed in high volume centers.
Testing SQL Server's Query Optimizer: Challenges, Techniques and Experiences.

Query optimization is an inherently complex problem, and validating the correctness and effectiveness of a query optimizer can be a task of comparable complexity. The overall process of measuring query optimization quality becomes increasingly challenging as modern query optimizers provide more advanced optimization strategies and adaptive techniques. In this paper we present a practitioner’s account of query optimization testing. We discuss some of the unique issues in testing a query optimizer, and we provide a high-level overview of the testing techniques used to validate the query optimizer of Microsoft’s SQL Server. We offer our experiences and discuss a few ongoing challenges, which we hope can inspire additional research in the area of query optimization and DBMS testing.
Abstract 3793: Effects of DCA and metformin on murine colon cancer growth

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA Background: Dichloroacetate (DCA) and metformin (M) have been reported to have many effects on cancer cells including alterations in pH homeostasis and glucose metabolism, cell cycle arrest, induction of autophagy and modulation of the tumor microenvironment. These effects have been shown to increase tumor apoptosis, inhibit neoplastic cell proliferation, improve the immune response against tumor cells and decrease the protective inflammatory response in tumors, which has led to the investigation of these drugs as anticancer agents. This study examines the effects of DCA and metformin in a murine colon cancer model both in vivo and in vitro. Methods: Murine colon cancer cell lines (ATCC CT26-CL25, CT26-WT) and cells isolated from subcutaneous metastatic colon cancer tumors (CT71911) were grown in the presence of DCA (serial concentrations from 12 mM to 192mM) and M (serial concentrations from 8 mM to 48 mM). Viable cells were counted and averaged for 3 separate assays. Balb/c mice in triplicate were injected IP with serial concentrations of DCA and M (8,24,48 mM) beginning one day prior to tail vein administration of 7.5 x 103 colon cancer cells (CT26-WT, CT71911). Daily IP injections of DCA and M were continued for 6 weeks or until the mice succumbed to metastatic cancer. All mice were autopsied and cause of death was recorded. Results: All three cell lines demonstrated a linear reduction in growth and increased apoptosis with increasing concentrations of DCA. All tumor cells were killed at concentrations above 96 mM. M was cytostatic but not cytotoxic for all three cell lines with minimal growth at 8 mM and no growth at higher concentrations. In vivo, administration of IP DCA prolonged survival by 80 - 89% (days after tumor challenge), while IP metformin prolonged survival by 35 - 38%. Increased survival with both DCA and M was not dose dependent with variation between concentrations less than 10%. All mice died of lung metastases. Conclusion: Both DCA and M demonstrated beneficial effects on murine colon cancer cells with reductions in cell growth and increased apoptosis in vitro and increased survival in vivo. M exhibited cytostatic activity and a lower improvement in survival while DCA exhibited cytotoxic activity and a longer survival benefit. Further investigation in the use of these agents as adjunct therapies for colon cancer is warranted. Citation Format: Robert P. Sticca, Tonya C. Murphy. Effects of DCA and metformin on murine colon cancer growth. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 3793. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-3793
'Mandatory Detention?' Why the Colloquial Name for INA § 236(c) is a Misnomer and how Alternatives to Detention Programs can Fulfill its Custody Requirement

As an immigration enforcement tool, the "mandatory detention" statute requires that noncitizens convicted of certain crimes in the United States be subject to mandatory immigration "custody." The Department of Homeland Security's ("DHS") current interpretation of the statute, however, requires that individuals falling within the mandate be institutionally-detained. This Paper contends that DHS may use Alternatives to Detention ("ATD") programs involving such measures as electronic monitoring and remain in compliance with the current version of the statute. The Paper provides a comprehensive review of Congress's use the terms "detain" and "custody" within this and other related provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act ("INA"); the legislative history of the laws which enacted the statute; arguments demonstrating that DHS may appropriately rely on habeas corpus jurisprudence in interpreting the statute's key term; this interpretation's consistency with recent Board of Immigration Appeals ("BIA") precedent; an immigration court case exemplifying how "custody" may be interpreted to allow ATD programs for those subject to the statute; and an overall analysis of how this interpretation would further the purpose of the statute itself.
Parallel Data Vault Methods for Larger Scale Stochastic Dynamic Programming

The decomposition of the finite difference approximation to stochastic dynamic programming problems is described for the optimal control of nonlinear, continuous time dynamical systems. The stochastic components include both Gaussian and Poisson random white noise. A parallel data vault mass storage method is developed to take advantage of the decomposition, and therefore to help alleviate Bellman's curse of dimensionality in dynamic programming computations. It is shown that data vault memory on the data parallel Connection Machine type computational model can be enhance the efficiency of the decomposition performance. Extension of the data vault technique to a more general stochastic optimal control problem is discussed. Performance on the Connection Machine for larger scale stochastic dynamic programming problems, such as resource management problems with up to a projected six states, are illustrated and discussed.
Using C. elegans to Identify the Protease Targets of Serpins In Vivo

Most serpins inhibit serine and/or cysteine proteases, and their inhibitory activities are usually defined in vitro. However, the physiological protease targets of most serpins are unknown despite many years of research. This may be due to the rapid degradation of the inactive serpin:protease complexes and/or the conditions under which the serpin inhibits the protease. The model organism Caenorhabditis elegans is an ideal system for identifying protease targets due to powerful forward and reverse genetics, as well as the ease of creating transgenic animals. Using combinatorial approaches of genetics and biochemistry in C. elegans, the true in vivo protease targets of the endogenous serpins can be elucidated.
Controlling cyclic combustion variations in lean-fueled spark-ignition engines

This paper describes the reduction of cyclic combustion variations in spark-ignited engines, especially under idle conditions in which the air-fuel mixture is lean of stoichiometry. Under such conditions, the combination of residual cylinder gas and parametric variations (such as variations in fuel preparation) gives rise to significant combustion instabilities that may lead to customerperceived engine roughness and transient emissions spikes. Such combustion instabilities may preclude operation at air-fuel ratios that would otherwise be advantageous for fuel economy and emissions. This approach exploits the recognition that a component of the observed combustion instability results from a noisedriven, nonlinear deterministic mechanism that can be actively stabilized by small feedback control actions which result in little if any additional use of fuel. Application of this approach on a test vehicle using crankshaft acceleration as a measure of torque and fuel pulse width modification as a control shows as much as 30% reduction in rms variation near the lean limit.
Fiscal Freedom in Transition Economies and the OECD: A Comparative Study

Each year the Heritage Foundation and The Wall Street Journal publish the Index of Economic Freedom. This major study compiles economic data on more than 150 countries. The compilers divide the data into ten categories, ranging from business freedom to labor freedom. One of the ten categories is fiscal freedom. The variables for fiscal freedom include individual income and corporate income taxation and tax revenues as a percentage of GDP. These three variables are weighted equally. The range for each variable is 0 to 100. Table 1 shows the extent of fiscal freedom for the transition economies that were included in the study. The figures are for the 2007 study. The perfect score is 100. The scoring of fiscal freedom is computed using a quadratic cost function where each component is converted to a 100-point scale, using the following equation: FFij = 100 - 200(Componentij)2 where FFij represents fiscal freedom in country i for component j and Componentij represents the raw percentage value, which is between 0 and 1, in country i for component j. The present study analyzes the scores and compares them between countries and between years for 28 transition countries. A comparison is also made with OECD countries to determine how well or how poorly transition economies are doing in the total scheme of things.
Free boundary problems arising in industry

In this article we review some free boundary problems that came to our attention at the IMA. The origin of some of these problems is described in [13]. Our purpose here is to state the mathematical formulation of these problems, to summarize the main results obtained so far, and to mention the problems that are still open.
Delayed Hyphema and Intravitreal Blood Following Intrableb Autologous Blood Injection After Trabeculectomy

Purpose To report delayed hyphema and intravitreal blood as complications following intrableb autologous blood injection after trabeculectomy. Methods Case report. A 44-year-old woman with hypotony and maculopathy after trabeculectomy with mitomycin C received an intrableb autologous blood injection. Results Three days after the blood injection, a hyphema formed and subsequently dispersed into the vitreous. Conclusions Although immediate hyphema from autologous blood injection is common, hyphema may be delayed and associated with intravitreal blood.
Aerobically purified hydrogenase from Azotobacter vinelandii: activity, activation, and spectral properties.

Abstract The hydrogenase from Azotobacter vinelandii is typically purified under anaerobic conditions. In this work, the hydrogenase was purified aerobically. The yields were low (about 2%) relative to those of the anaerobic purification (about 20%). The rate of enzyme activity depended upon the history of the enzyme. The enzyme preparations were active as isolated in H2 oxidation, and isotope exchange. The activity increased during the assay to a new maximal level (turnover activation). Treatment with reductants (e.g., H2, dithionite, dithiothreitol, indigo carmine) resulted in greater activation (reductant activation). Activation of the hydrogenase was accompanied by decrease in visible light absorption (300–600 nm) with maximal decreases at 450 and 345 nm which indicated the reduction of iron-sulfur clusters. The aerobically purified hydrogenase was susceptible to irreversible inactivation by cyanide. Pretreatment with acetylene did not influence activation of the hydrogenase. Once activated, the aerobically purified hydrogenase was indistinguishable from the anaerobically purified hydrogenase with respect to the catalytic properties tested.
Adenovirus infections after BMT

Adenovirus infections are a common complication of allogeneic hematopoietic transplantation. In many patients, the infections are self-limited and resolve spontaneously, but in other transplant recipients, adenovirus disease occurs, which is relentlessly progressive and ultimately fatal. There is no
A comparison of micro versus macro point estimators for markov-process models

We compare, by means of factorially designed Monte Carlo simulation experiments, the performance of (macro-data) restricted least-squares point estimators with that of (micro-data) maximum likelihood estimators for Markov-process models. We find, by various measures of estimator accuracy, that micro data are approximately ten times more valuable than macro data. We also find evidence that a small state space, a long time series, and a large number of entities observed enhance performance.
Subcellular distribution of aspartate transaminase, alanine amino transferase, glutamate dehydrogenases, and lactate dehydrogenase in Tetrahymena.

SYNOPSIS. Mitochondria and peroxisomes were isolated from homogenates of Tetrahymena pyriformis by sedimentation through a sucrose gradient. Succinate dehydrogenase was used as a mitochondrial marker; catalase and isocitrate lyase were used to mark the peroxisomal fraction. Lactate dehydrogenase, glutamate dehydrogenase, and alanine aminotransferase were found only in the mitochondrial fraction. Aspartate transaminase was found in both mitochondrial and peroxisomal fractions.
Instrumental neutron activation analysis of tree rings for dendrochemical studies

Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) was employed to determine zinc, cadmium and potassium concentrations in the growth rings of ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Dougl.) trees growing along the shores of Lake Roosevelt in Washington State, U.S.A. where mineral processing activities have resulted in high burdens of zinc and cadmium in the lake sediments. The tree growing along the contaminated waterway display elevated concentrations of zinc in its growth rings relative to a tree growing along an uncontaminated tributary of Lake Roosevelt. Cadmium concentrations in the growth rings from both sites are similar from 1988 to 1993. Water quality data indicate an increased concentration of cadmium in the lake from 1984 to 1988. The increased concentrations of cadmium in the lake water were reflected in apparent increases in concentrations of cadmium in individual rings of the tree sampled at the contaminated site. This suggests that translocation of cadmium in the sapwood of heartwood-forming species does not occur in the short term, and thus may not be a limiting factor in using trees as environmental monitors for cadmium. In addition, five-year tree ring segments were analyzed and subsequently reanalyzed as individual single-year ring segments. The analytical data obtained for the pooled individual rings are essentially the same as for the five-year segments, demonstrating the utility of NAA for dendrochemical studies.
Characterization of full length and truncated type I human methionine aminopeptidases expressed from Escherichia coli.

Methionine aminopeptidase (MetAP) carries out an essential posttranslational modification of nascent proteins by removing the initiator methionine and is recognized as a potential target for develo...