cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Selecting Optimal Training Programs in a Hospital for the Mentally Retarded

This paper describes the development and application of a quantitative model to aid in selecting optimal training programs for mentally retarded children in a California state hospital. The model is a constrained version of R.A. Howard's Markov decision model. In this application five training programs are compared on a benefit-less-cost measure of performance. Tradeoffs between programs are found in terms of net benefit and annual cost to the hospital. The model is found to be additionally useful in evaluating contemplated new programs or modifications to existing programs where only their expected effects may be known.
GnRH effects on placental hormones during gestation. III. Prostaglandin E, prostaglandin F, and 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F.

We studied the release of prostaglandin E (PGE), prostaglandin F (PGF) and 13, 14-dihydro-1 5-keto-prostaglandin F (MPF) from explants of human placentas of different gestational ages and the effect of gonadotropinreleasing hormone (GnRH) on this release. The greatest basal release of PGE, PGF and MPF was in the cultures from 9- to 13-wk placentas, with the release on the second and third days of culture increasing 4- to 10-fold from that of the first day. In cultures from 15-wk to term placentas, the initial basal release (Day 1) of these prostaglandins was only slightly higher than in cultures from 6-wk placentas. In cultures from term placentas, the later increase with extended culture was absent or very small. Addition of synthetic GnRH to the cultures from 6- to 9-wk placentas effected no significant change in release of PGE, PGF or MPF. However, GnRH added to the cultures from 13-wk placentas effected a doserelated inhibition of these prostaglandins. After 15 wk, we observed a stimulation of these prostaglandins by GnRH that was as much as 50-fold; stimulation was highly significant in the cultures from 16- and 17-wk, as well as in those from the term placentas. These data demonstrate an action of GnRH on prostaglandin release and indicate that both the basal release of PGE, PGF and MPF and the response to GnRH are related to the gestational age of the placenta.
State of the Art: Seismic Behavior of Wood-Frame Residential Structures

AbstractThere are about 80 million single-family dwellings (SFDs) in the United States, predominantly of wood-frame construction. Of these, 68% are owner-occupied. A home is typically the largest single investment of a family, and is often not covered by earthquake insurance, even where it is available. Of all the houses in America, 50% were built before 1974, and 76% built before 1990. Most wood-frame SFDs (WFSFDs) were built to prescriptive code provisions before seismic requirements were introduced. After the introduction of seismic design requirements, the importance of examining structures as an assembly of connected elements became more common. Much of the seismic design information on SFD construction is based on educated opinion or limited research. This review examines research that can be applied to WFSFD seismic analysis and the design and retrofit of existing WFSFDs. The review is intended to cover most readily available papers published in major U.S. journals and at major conferences in the a...
Evaluating program change

Fremont James Lyden, Ph.D., is Associate Pro fessor, Graduate School of Public Affairs, Uni versity of Washington, Seattle, Washington. Lawrence K. Lee, Ph.D., is Assistant Professor, Political Science Department, California State University, Los Angeles, California. This study was part of a larger project undertaken by a multidisciplinary team at the University of Washington under Office of Economic Oppor tunity contract 1375. In the past twenty-five years the role of federal agencies has been undergoing a quiet revolution.1 The traditional role of providing governmental services has dimin ished in importance. These agencies are now emerging as energizers or catalysts that strive to encourage states and local com munities to make better use of their own
Neospora caninum Infection in a Free-Ranging Raccoon (Procyon lotor) with Concurrent Canine Distemper Virus Infection

During a canine distemper virus (CDV) outbreak in raccoons (Procyon lotor) from Cook County, Illinois, a juvenile female suffering from seizures was killed and necropsied. Gross and histologic findings of necrotizing encephalitis and proliferative bronchopneumonia were attributed to CDV infection and considered the cause of clinical signs. A section of cerebellum stained immunohistochemically for Neospora caninum revealed an approximately 40 μm diameter, round to oval cyst with a 2- to 3-μm-thick wall and filled with 1–2 μm diameter, round to oval bradyzoites. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results were positive for N. caninum using DNA extracted from the brain. Specific PCR for the closely related organisms Toxoplasma gondii and Hammondia heydorni yielded negative results. This case report provides histologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular evidence that raccoons are a naturally occurring intermediate host of N. caninum.
DNA damage-induced cytotoxicity is mediated by the cooperative interaction of phospho-NF-κB p50 and a single nucleotide in the κB-site

Phosphorylation of the NF-κB subunit, p50, is necessary for cytotoxicity in response to DNA methylation damage. Here, we demonstrate that serine 329 phosphorylation regulates the interaction of p50 with specific NF-κB binding elements based on the identity of a single κB-site nucleotide. Specifically, S329 phosphorylation reduces the affinity of p50 for κB-sites that have a cytosine (C) at the -1 position without affecting binding to sequences with a -1 adenine. The differential interaction between phospho-p50 and the -1 base regulates the downstream transcriptional response and underlies the inhibition of anti-apoptotic gene expression following DNA damage. In genes with multiple κB-sites, the presence of a single -1C κB-site enables inhibition of NF-κB-dependent activity. The data suggest that interaction between phospho-p50 and the -1 κB nucleotide facilitates cytotoxicity in response to DNA damage. Moreover, although conservation of the entire κB-site sequence is not seen across species, the identity of the -1 nt in critical anti-apoptotic genes is conserved such that the overall response to DNA damage is maintained.
Identifying Populations at Risk of Zinc Deficiency: the Use of Supplementation Trials

Zinc supplementation trials assessing the response of growth and immunity have assisted in identifying populations at risk of zinc deficiency and the factors that contribute. A recent trial in Ethiopia demonstrated a high risk of zinc deficiency among young children, particularly among those who were stunted.
Investigating Consumer Purchase Behavior in Related Technology Product Categories

We present a framework of durable goods purchasing behavior in related technology product categories that incorporates the following aspects unique to technology product purchases. First, it accounts for consumers' anticipation of declining prices (or increasing quality) over time. Second, the durable nature of technology products implies that even if two categories are related as complements, consumers may stagger their purchases over several periods. Third, the forward-looking consumer decision process, as well as the durable nature of technology products, implies that a consumer's purchase in one category will depend on the anticipated price and quality trajectories of all categories. As a potential aid to future researchers, we also lay out the data requirements for empirically estimating the parameters of our model and the consequences of not having various elements of these data on our ability to estimate the parameters. The data available for our empirical analysis are household-level information on category-level first-time adoption decisions in three categories---personal computers, digital cameras, and printers. Our results reveal a strong complementary relationship between the three categories. Policy simulations based on a temporary price decrease in any one category provide interesting insights into how consumers would modify their adoption behavior over time and also across categories as a consequence of the price decrease.
The ARF tumor-suppressor controls Drosha translation to prevent Ras-driven transformation

ARF is a multifunctional tumor suppressor that acts as both a sensor of oncogenic stimuli and as a key regulator of ribosome biogenesis. Recently, our group established the DEAD-box RNA helicase and microRNA (miRNA) microprocessor accessory subunit, DDX5, as a critical target of basal ARF function. To identify other molecular targets of ARF, we focused on known interacting proteins of DDX5 in the microprocessor complex. Drosha, the catalytic core of the microprocessor complex, has a critical role in the maturation of specific non-coding RNAs, including miRNAs and ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs). Here, we report that chronic or acute loss of Arf enhanced Drosha protein expression. This induction did not involve Drosha mRNA transcription or protein stability but rather relied on the increased translation of existing Drosha mRNAs. Enhanced Drosha expression did not alter global miRNA production but rather modified expression of a subset of miRNAs in the absence of Arf. Elevated Drosha protein levels were required to maintain the increased rRNA synthesis and cellular proliferation observed in the absence of Arf. Arf-deficient cells transformed by oncogenic Ras(V12) were dependent on increased Drosha expression as Drosha knockdown was sufficient to inhibit Ras-dependent cellular transformation. Thus, we propose that ARF regulates Drosha mRNA translation to prevent aberrant cell proliferation and Ras-dependent transformation.
Analysis of waveguide aperture coupling using the finite-difference time-domain method

The finite-difference-time-domain (FDTD) method is applied to an interior propagation and coupling problem given in the form of aperture coupled waveguides. This problem demonstrates the method's ability to model a rather complex problem where energy not only propagates in a waveguide, but couples to and then propagates within a second waveguide. The coupling consists of a single and a double aperture. The first case establishes modeling requirements and the second case is compared to experiment. Agreement is typically within experimental error, thereby validating the method for this application. Results showed little sensitivity to either mesh dimensions or simulation duration and were achieved using 32 cells for the broad side of the waveguide, 12 cells for the aperture diameter, and 8192 timesteps. >
"They Come in Peasants and Leave Citizens": Urban Villages and the Making of Shenzhen, China

When at dusk the neon lights come on in Shenzhen, China, they look from the top of its tallest building like small fires dotting a mist-shrouded landscape. The massive city of dreams lends itself to naturalistic metaphor—the eye scans skyscraper groves amid fields of striated worker housing and middle-class midrises like dragons playing, according to one interpretation, or like the undulating peaks of Guilin, interrupted by the clusters of tight, jumbled, low-growth of the so-called urban villages (chengzhongcun). Sixty-nine stories below the cityscape sparks, oozes, and shudders along rivulets of light refracted in the humidity, the inky black of Hong Kong’s New Territories across the border accentuating the lustrous Leviathan that is Shenzhen. It all fuses together in urban rhythm and meter,remindingmeofadescriptionIencounteredinagovernment-issuedcoffeetable book about Shenzhen’s Central Business District: “Construction is a poem, written by poets, who wrote them with steel and cement” (Shenzhen Municipal Government 2005a:14). A hoary slogan, but with echoes of early 20th‐century fascinations with urbanization and form, from Russian constructivists to Bauhaus. Construction as poem captures Shenzhen as a paean to modernity, for it is, in its ownway,theveryequivalentof1920sBerlinorNewYorkinitsurbanintoxication,
Model reference adaptive and non-adaptive control of multivariable linear time-varying plants: the exact matching case

In this paper we address the adaptive and nonadaptive model reference control problem for a class of linear time-varying plants, namely the index-invariant ones. We show that, under appropriate controllability and observability conditions, this class of plants admits a fractional description in terms of polynomial differential operators and, as such, allows for a polynomial equation-based controller design. We also show that, for a control objective of the model reference type, the controller can be designed by solving a set of algebraic equations. Further, in the case where the plant parameters are only partially known, we employ a gradient-based adaptive law with projection and normalization to update the controller parameters and establish the stability and tracking properties of adaptive closed-loop plant. >
On ‘Sino-Bodic’ and other symptoms of neosubgroupitis

In a recent article entitled 'Sino-Bodic' (BSOAS 60/3, 1997, 456-88), the Dutch linguist Sjors van Driem, a leading specialist in the Himalayan branch of Tibeto-Burman, makes far-reaching claims for an especially close relationship between Chinese and the 'Bodic' branch of TB, which is understood as comprising languages including Tibetan and the Kiranti group of Eastern Nepal. On the one hand, Van Driem's comparisons rely on his own close familiarity with the Kiranti languages, and on the other, William Baxter's reconstructions of Old Chinese. Unfortunately, however, the comparisons offered do not prove a special Sino-Bodic relationship. Many of the cognate identifications are uncertain or incorrect. Even when genuine cognates are involved, usually the TB root is found in other branches of the family besides 'Bodic'. In the present state of our knowledge of comparative TB, we should avoid jumping to conclusions about the internal supergrouping of the major branches of the family. After all, even Indo-Europeanists are still disagreeing about such matters after 200 years of scholarship
Usefulness of a slurry/type fischer‐tropsch reactor for processing synthesis gas of low hydrogen‐carbon monoxide ratios

The ability of a slurry-type Fischer-Tropsch reactor to process satisfactorily a feed synthesis gas of low H/sub 2//CO ratio is intimately associated with a high degree of mixing in the reactor and the use of a catalyst active for the water-gas shift reaction. It is noteworthy that when the feed ratio exceeds the usage ratio in such a reactor, the highest degree of conversion results in the highest ratio of dissolved H/sub 2/ to CO in the liquid. This should minimize the extent of carbon formation and catalyst disintegration caused by disproportionation of CO. Thus high conversion is desired not only for economic performance but also to help maintain catalytic activity.
Secure data aggregation and collaboration in wireless sensor networks

Data aggregation is a technique used to conserve battery power in wireless sensor networks (WSN). When securing such a network, it is important that we minimize the number of computationally expensive security operations without compromising on the security. This talk deals with the test-bed implementation of our end to end secure data aggregation algorithm. Unlike previous algorithms which required separate phases for secure aggregation and integrity verification, ours does not require an additional phase for verification. This saves energy by avoiding additional transmissions and computation overhead on the sensor nodes. We have implemented our secure data aggregation algorithms on mica2 motes. To sum up our objectives as follows: 1. An encryption algorithm for data confidentiality which will allow us to aggregate encrypted data in a wireless sensor network. 2. An aggregate digital signature algorithm to preserve data integrity which allows us to aggregate digital signatures. 3. An implementation of these algorithms which is efficient in computational and communicational aspects in energy constrained environments.
Cell-specificity of transforming growth factor-β response is dictated by receptor bioavailability

Members of the transforming growth factor- (TGF) family control diverse cellular responses including differentiation, proliferation, controlled cell death and migration. The response of a cell to an individual ligand is highly restricted yet the signaling pathways for TGF, activin and bone morphogenic proteins share a limited number of receptors and activate similar intracellular cytoplasmic co-regulators, Smads. A central question in the study of this family of ligands is how cells titrate and integrate each TGF-like signal in order to respond in a cell- and ligand-specific manner. This study uses the pituitary gonadotrope cell line, LT2, as a model to delineate the relative contribution of TGF and activin ligands to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) biosynthesis. It was found that pituitary gonadotrope cells do not express the TGF type II (TRII) receptor and are therefore not responsive to the TGF ligand. Transfection of the receptor restores TGF signaling capabilities and the TGF-mediated stimulation of FSH gene transcription in LT2 cells. Consequently, we evaluated the presence of the TRII in the adult mouse pituitary. TRII does not co-localize with FSH-producing cells; however it is detected on the cell surface of prolactin- and growth hormone-positive cells. Taken together, these results suggest that the bioavailability of the TGF-specific receptor rather than TGF dictates pituitary gonadotrope selectivity to activin, which is necessary to maintain normal reproductive function. It is likely that the ligand-restricted mechanisms employed by the gonadotrope are present in other cells, which could explain the distinct control of many cellular processes by members of the TGF superfamily.
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles - Power electronics, battery management, control, optimization, and V2G

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) involve the use of larger battery packs and larger electric drivetrain components than regular HEVs. The control and management of the vehicular power electronics and energy storage systems are therefore more complicated and more challenging than those in conventional HEVs. This tutorial will explore the different design and control requirements and challenges of PHEV drivetrain components. The tutorial will cover topics such as PHEV topology, control, design, performance optimization, battery management, battery cell balancing, battery life extension, and cold weather performance enhancement. Vehicle to grid (V2G) concepts will be discussed along with the system requirements and impact of PHEV on the power grid. Some OEM and aftermarket PHEVs, such as the Chrysler Aspen PHEV and Prius PHEV will be used as case studies.
Radiometallating Antibodies and Autoantigenic Peptides

We have developed methods to radiolabel large molecules, using porphyrins as bifunctional chelating agents for radiometals. The porphyrins are substituted with an N-benzyl group to activate them for radiometallation under mild reaction conditions. Porphyrins that have one functional group for covalent attachment to other molecules cannot cause crosslinking. We have examined the labeling chemistry for antibodies and have developed methods to label smaller biologically active molecules, such as autoantigenic peptides (fragments of the acetylcholine receptor), which are pertinent to myasthenia gravis research. The methods of covalent attachment of these bifunctional chelating agents to large molecules, the radiometallation chemistry, and biological characterization of the radiolabeled compounds will be discussed.
Implementation of an Integrated Neuroscience Unit

Many challenges exist in today's health care delivery system, and much focus and research are invested into ways to improve care with cost-effective measures. Specialty-specific dedicated care units are one solution for inpatient hospital care because they improve outcomes and decrease mortality. The neuroscience population encompasses a wide variety of diagnoses of spinal to cranial issues with a wide spectrum of needs varying from one patient to the next. Neuroscience care must be patient-specific during the course of frequent acuity changes, and one way to achieve this is through a neuroscience-focused unit. Few resources are available on how to implement this type of unit. Advanced practice nurses are committed to providing high-quality, safe, and cost-effective care and are instrumental in the success of instituting a unit dedicated to the care of neuroscience patients.
The Shelter Island Conferences Revisited: “Fundamental” Physics in the Decade 1975–1985

The focus of this broad historical overview of “the steady evolution of theoretical ideas” from Shelter Island I in 1947 to Shelter Island II in 1983 is some of the developments in “fundamental” physics after the establishment of the standard model, in particular, the adoption of the view that all present day field theories are “effective field theories” based on the gauge concept; taking seriously big bang cosmology, grand unified field theories (GUTs), and inflation; and the emergence of a new symbiosis of physics and mathematics.
Spectral properties of Ca-sulfates: Gypsum, bassanite, and anhydrite

This study of the spectral properties of Ca-sulfates was initiated to support remote detection of these minerals on Mars. Gypsum, bassanite, and anhydrite are the currently known forms of Ca-sulfates. They are typically found in sedimentary evaporites on Earth, but can also form via reaction of acidic fluids associated with volcanic activity. Reflectance, emission, transmittance, and Raman spectra are discussed here for various sample forms. Gypsum and bassanite spectra exhibit characteristic and distinct triplet bands near 1.4–1.5 μm, a strong band near 1.93–1.94 μm, and multiple features near 2.1–2.3 μm attributed to H2O. Anhydrite, bassanite, and gypsum all have SO4 combination and overtone features from 4.2–5 μm that are present in reflectance spectra. The mid-IR region spectra exhibit strong SO4 ν3 and ν4 vibrational bands near 1150–1200 and 600–680 cm−1 (~8.5 and 16 μm), respectively. Additional weaker features are observed near 1005–1015 cm−1 (~10 μm) for ν1 and near 470–510 cm−1 (~20 μm) for ν2. The mid-IR H2O bending vibration occurs near 1623–1630 cm−1 (~6.2 μm). The visible/near-infrared region spectra are brighter for the finer-grained samples. In reflectance and emission spectra of the mid-IR region the ν4 bands begin to invert for the finer-grained samples, and the ν1 vibration occurs as a band instead of a peak and has the strongest intensity for the finer-grained samples. The ν2 vibration is a sharp band for anhydrite and a broad peak for gypsum. The band center of the ν1 vibration follows a trend of decreasing frequency (increasing wavelength) with increasing hydration of the sample in the transmittance, Raman, and reflectance spectra. Anhydrite forms at elevated temperatures compared to gypsum, and at lower temperature, salt concentration, and pH than bassanite. The relative humidity controls whether bassanite or gypsum is stable. Thus, distinguishing among gypsum, bassanite, and anhydrite via remote sensing can provide constraints on the geochemical environment.
Airway complications after lung transplantation: Contemporary survival and outcomes

Background Airway complications are rare and cause increased morbidity and mortality after lung transplantation (LT). We sought to examine risk factors associated with this complication and its impact on survival. Methods We retrospectively evaluated United Network for Organ Sharing data from 2000 to 2012. A backward stepwise logistic regression was performed on recipient-, donor-, and transplant-related variables to select independent risk factors associated with airway complications and mortality. Survival was evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Results We evaluated 16,156 consecutive adult LT recipients, among whom 233 (1.4%) developed airway complications. Predictors of increased risk of airway complications included male gender (odds ratio [OR] 1.61, p = 0.001), advancing recipient age (OR 1.02, p p p = 0.001), 90-day (69.9% vs 93.1%, p p p p p p = 0.01), diagnosis of cystic fibrosis (HR 1.22, p = 0.01), glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 60 to 90 ml/min/1.73 m 2 (HR 1.61, p 2 (HR 1.13, p = 0.01), non-ICU hospitalization (HR 1.32, p p p p p p = 0.008). Conclusion Airway complications are associated with a significant mortality burden.
Consideration about Improve the Social Serve Ability of Geological Information Resources

Geological document is a kind of important information resource,also is a kind of potential productivity.As its advantage of accuracy and reliability,it shows the strong renewed spirit.The development of the new period's society and economy requires the geological document works to afford more timely and active service,the key of service is satisfy the requirement of the customers.In this paper,is discusses the character and function of the new period's geological document.Finally,some suggestions is carried for each aspects of the social service.
Cardiovascular effects of total hip placement in man; With observations on the effects of methyl methacrylate on the isolated rabbit heart

The cardiovascular effects of total hip placement were evaluated in 10 surgical patients, aged 55 to 82, while receiving fluroxene-N2O-O2 anesthesia. The anesthetic regimen caused mild cardiovascular depression. The placement of the acrylic cement into the acetabulum and femoral shaft also induced mild cardiovascular depression, but these changes were not significant at p less than 0.05. In one 67-yr-old woman, there were significant reductions of cardiac output and stroke volume 2 min after the insertion of acrylic into the femoral shaft, despite careful replacement of intravascular loss and careful anesthetic management. Methylmethacrylate (1 X 10(-6) to 1 X 10(-4), v/v) was administered to 24 isolated perfused rabbits hearts. These concentrations of methylmetacrylate are of the same order as measurable blood levels in surgical patients. There was a dose-dependent depression of left ventricular dP/dt correlated with a depression of the spontaneous heart rate. When the bradycardia was prevented by electrically pacing the hearts or the administration of atropine, the depressed dP/dt rose to control levels. Reduction in myocardial temperature and heart rate by means of reduction in perfusate temperature of the isolated hearts reduced the myocardial depressant effect of methylmethacrylate.
The Nature of Science

Because formal neuropsychology is based on science, the nature of science is reviewed. The essence of science is to demonstrate the existence of knowledge by means of objective observation methods that are repeatable, testable, and verify predictions. There are two forms of science: discovery and justification. Discovery introduces constructs or theories and methods to science, which are often incorrect. Consequently, to be reliable, science must justify its procedures by a validation process that usually determines their accuracy. All discovered methods and information must be justified to be reliable. Thus, justification is the essence of science. To accomplish this process, science requires instrumentation. Instruments sample an area of nature, isolate it, transform it into a quantitative form, and record it as objective information. This entire process is not dependent on human judgment. Instrumentation is also the basis for validation procedures. They are objective testing processes that determine the accuracy and thus the reliability of the relevant knowledge.
Pattern of Inheritance of Tourette Syndrome

The frequency and pattern of bilineal transmission in families of 153 consecutive patients with Tourette syndrome (TS) (TS in both parents in 51 family sets), compared with 60 normal control subjects selected from public schools (20 family sets), were evaluated by interview and questionnaire for evidence of TS and associated OCD and ADD at Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX.
Polarization insensitive nonlinear optical loop mirror demultiplexer using twisted fiber

We reduce the polarization sensitivity of a nonlinear optical loop mirror from 5 dB to 0.5 dB by twisting fiber at 8 turns/m. Twisted fiber equates the nonlinear phase-shift terms of the parallel and orthogonal polarizations.
Effect of pivot location and passive heave on propulsion from a pitching airfoil

What would it take to have an underwater vehicle propel itself like a fish or whale? Using a simplified model---an airfoil that pivots back and forth around some axis to produce thrust---the effect on propulsion when the axis of rotation is changed and when springs (passive dynamics) are added to such a system is investigated.
Is Bikesharing Contagious?: Modeling Its Effects on System Membership and General Population Cycling:

Bikeshare systems are relatively new, highly visible additions to urban transportation systems that provide opportunities to cycle or combine cycling with other modes of transportation. The research reported here presents new evidence about the role of bikeshare systems in travel behavior on the basis of diffusion of innovation theory. The study hypothesized that bikeshare systems have spatial contagion or spillover effects on (a) the propensity of individuals to adopt bikeshare and (b) the propensity to bicycle within the general population. The first hypothesis (H1) was tested by modeling membership growth as a function of system expansion and the existing, proximate membership base. The second hypothesis (H2) was tested by using bikeshare activity levels near home in a model of household-level bicycle participation and trip frequency. The study yielded mixed results. Bikeshare membership growth appeared to be driven in small part by a contagion effect of existing bikeshare members nearby, even after co...
Differentiability Conditions for Stochastic Hybrid Systems with Application to the Optimal Design of Microgrids

This article considers the regularity of expected value minimization problems subject to discrete-time stochastic hybrid systems. A primary motivation is the optimal design of microgrids subject to detailed operational simulations with renewable resources and discrete dispatching. For such problems, hybrid behavior can make the cost function discontinuous for any fixed realization of uncertainty, which has led to the widespread use of derivative-free optimizers with well-known limitations. In contrast, we provide sufficient conditions under which the expected value of the cost is continuously differentiable. We verify these conditions for a simple example and show promising preliminary optimization results using a stochastic gradient-descent method.
IRB and Review Process for Multisite Trials

Institutional review boards (IRB) play a key role in the oversight of clinical trials. They play many functions, including adjudication and policy-making. They are crucial in maintaining ethical standards and protecting vulnerable populations in individual institutional as well as multisite research. The National Institutes of Health currently recommends the use of a single IRB in multisite clinical trials. When considering national as well as international clinical trials, researchers must be sensitive to cultural and social factors that influence patient autonomy and nonmaleficence. Research must be carefully designed to not exploit poorer resourced regions and populations. Conducting pre-research ethics reviews and ensuring information transparency are two key guidelines in approaching international clinical research.
Rectus Femoris Echo Intensity Correlates with Muscle Strength, but Not Endurance, in Younger and Older Men.

Abstract We examined correlations between echo intensity and muscle strength and endurance. Rectus femoris echo intensity, maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) force and time to task failure during a 50% MVC task were determined for 12 younger (mean age = 25 y) and 13 older (mean age = 74 y) men. Bivariate correlations between echo intensity and normalized MVC force were similar for younger and older men, but was only statistically significant for the latter (younger r = −0.559, p = 0.059; older r = −0.580, p = 0.038). When all patients were combined, the correlation was significant ( r = −0.733, p r = −0.382, p = 0.221; older r = −0.347, p = 0.246; all patients r = −0.229, p = 0.270). Rectus femoris echo intensity is associated with muscle strength, but not endurance, in younger and older men.
A microcontroller-based simulation of dural venous sinus injury for neurosurgical training

OBJECTIVE Surgical simulation has the potential to supplement and enhance traditional resident training. However, the high cost of equipment and limited number of available scenarios have inhibited wider integration of simulation in neurosurgical education. In this study the authors provide initial validation of a novel, low-cost simulation platform that recreates the stress of surgery using a combination of hands-on, model-based, and computer elements. Trainee skill was quantified using multiple time and performance measures. The simulation was initially validated using trainees at the start of their intern year. METHODS The simulation recreates intraoperative superior sagittal sinus injury complicated by air embolism. The simulator model consists of 2 components: a reusable base and a disposable craniotomy pack. The simulator software is flexible and modular to allow adjustments in difficulty or the creation of entirely new clinical scenarios. The reusable simulator base incorporates a powerful microcomputer and multiple sensors and actuators to provide continuous feedback to the software controller, which in turn adjusts both the screen output and physical elements of the model. The disposable craniotomy pack incorporates 3D-printed sections of model skull and brain, as well as artificial dura that incorporates a model sagittal sinus. RESULTS Twelve participants at the 2015 Western Region Society of Neurological Surgeons postgraduate year 1 resident course ("boot camp") provided informed consent and enrolled in a study testing the prototype device. Each trainee was required to successfully create a bilateral parasagittal craniotomy, repair a dural sinus tear, and recognize and correct an air embolus. Participant stress was measured using a heart rate wrist monitor. After participation, each resident completed a 13-question categorical survey. CONCLUSIONS All trainee participants experienced tachycardia during the simulation, although the point in the simulation at which they experienced tachycardia varied. Survey results indicated that participants agreed the simulation was realistic, created stress, and was a useful tool in training neurosurgical residents. This simulator represents a novel, low-cost approach for hands-on training that effectively teaches and tests residents without risk of patient injury.
The role of intracellular compartmentalization on tRNA processing and modification

A signature of most eukaryotic cells is the presence of intricate membrane systems. Intracellular organization presumably evolved to provide order, and add layers for regulation of intracellular processes; compartmentalization also forcibly led to the appearance of sophisticated transport systems. With nucleus-encoded tRNAs, it led to the uncoupling of tRNA synthesis from many of the maturation steps it undergoes. It is now clear that tRNAs are actively transported across intracellular membranes and at any point, in any compartment, they can be post-transcriptionally modified; modification enzymes themselves may localize to any of the genome-containing compartments. In the following pages, we describe a number of well-known examples of how intracellular compartmentalization of tRNA processing and modification activities impact the function and fate of tRNAs. We raise the possibility that rates of intracellular transport may influence the level of modification and as such increase the diversity of differentially modified tRNAs in cells.
The Relationships Between Hindrance Stressors, Problem Drinking, and Somatic Complaints at Work:

Problem drinking is an important behavioral phenomenon with numerous implications for employees’ health and well-being within and outside the workplace. Although recent research has demonstrated th...
A New Paradigm for Diagnosing Contributions to Model Aerosol Forcing Error

A new paradigm in benchmark absorption-scattering radiative transfer is presented that enables both the globally averaged and spatially resolved testing of climate model radiation parameterizations in order to uncover persistent sources of biases in the aerosol instantaneous radiative effect (IRE). A proof of concept is demonstrated with the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory AM4 and Community Earth System Model 1.2.2 climate models. Instead of prescribing atmospheric conditions and aerosols, as in prior intercomparisons, native snapshots of the atmospheric state and aerosol optical properties from the participating models are used as inputs to an accurate radiation solver to uncover model-relevant biases. These diagnostic results show that the models' aerosol IRE bias is of the same magnitude as the persistent range cited (~1 W/m2) and also varies spatially and with intrinsic aerosol optical properties. The findings underscore the significance of native model error analysis and its dispositive ability to diagnose global biases, confirming its fundamental value for the Radiative Forcing Model Intercomparison Project.
Force reconstruction using the inverse of the mode-shape matrix

Force reconstruction is a process in which response signals from a dynamic event are used to infer what the applied force must have been to produce these responses. Force reconstruction is of interest when the input force cannot be directly measured, while the response signals are easily obtained using transducers such as accelerometers or strain gages. In many evaluation tests of a structure, the dynamic response is not sufficient information; one may really need a description of the input force. A new technique for force reconstruction is developed. To estimate the externally applied force, this technique sums the weight-scaled acceleration signals, and is referred to as the Sum of Weighted Accelerations Technique (SWAT). To obtain the scalar weights the inverse of the mode shape matrix is used. Application of this technique is illustrated with both numerical calculations using a mass-spring model and experimental data from a structure impacting a rigid barrier. 16 refs., 13 figs.
Wetland science and observations

Presented are an overview of wetland processes related to atmospheric methane and terrestrial water storage, and a review remote sensing methods for wetland observations. Beyond known pathways of methane emission from wetlands, other pathways related to subterranean pressures from rising groundwater level and from subsurface transport flux in the aquifer are hypothesized. In synergy with current capabilities for wetland remote sensing with multiple satellite sensors, new advances such as global navigation satellite system reflectometry are necessary to quantify and to monitor global wetland change and impacts.
Origin of Plasmon Lineshape and Enhanced Hot Electron Generation in Metal Nanoparticles

Plasmon-generated hot carriers are currently being studied intensively for their role in enhancing the efficiency of photovoltaic and photocatalytic processes. Theoretical studies of the hot electrons subsystem have generated insight, but we show that a unified quantum-mechanical treatment of the plasmon and hot electrons reveals new physical phenomena. Instead of a unidirectional energy transfer process in Landau damping, back energy transfer is predicted in small metal nanoparticles (MNPs) within a model-Hamiltonian approach. As a result, the single Lorentzian plasmonic line shape is modulated by a multipeak structure, whose individual line width provides a direct way to probe the electronic dephasing. More importantly, the hot electron generation can be enhanced greatly by matching the incident energy to the peaks of the modulated line shape.
The Relevance of Proprioception to Chronic Neck Pain: A Correlational Analysis of Flexor Muscle Size and Endurance, Clinical Neck Pain Characteristics, and Proprioception.

Background Impairment in the cervical proprioception and deep flexor muscle function and morphology have been regarded to be associated with chronic neck pain (CNP). Objective The aim of the study is to assess the relationship between proprioception and flexor endurance capacity and size and clinical CNP characteristics. Design This was an observational, cross-sectional study. Setting Rehabilitation hospital laboratory. Subjects Sixty subjects with or without CNP participated in the study. Methods Joint position error, clinical deep flexor endurance test score, longus colli/capitis and sternocleidomastoid muscle size, pain intensity, neck pain-related disability, and fear of movement were assessed. Multivariate analysis of variance and Pearson correlation tests were used to compare the groups and quantify the strength of the associations among variables, respectively. Logistic regression analysis was performed to test the predictive value of the dependent variables for the development of neck pain. Results CNP patients showed lower flexor endurance (P = 0.01) and smaller longus colli size (P < 0.01). The joint position error was not statistically different between the groups. Longus colli size was correlated with local flexor endurance in both CNP (P = 0.01) and control (P = 0.04) groups. Among clinical CNP characteristics, kinesiophobia showed fair correlation with joint position error (r = 0.39, P = 0.03). Left rotation error and local flexor endurance were significant predictors of CNP development (β = 1.22, P = 0.02, and β = 0.97, P = 0.02, respectively). Conclusions The results indicated that cervical proprioception was associated neither with deep flexor muscle structure/function nor with clinical CNP characteristics. Left rotation error and local flexor endurance were found relevant to neck pain development.
Effect of adjuvant radiotherapy treatment center volume on overall survival.

Abstract Objectives to examine the impact of radiotherapy center volume on overall survival in patients with oral cavity and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma getting adjuvant radiation therapy after receiving surgery at a high-volume center. Materials and Methods a retrospective study was conducted on patients with oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma or oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma treated surgically at a tertiary institution from 2000 to 2012 who received adjuvant radiotherapy. The outcome variable was overall survival and the independent variable was location of adjuvant radiation therapy: high-volume center (HVC) versus low-volume center (LVC). Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess associations between predictors of death. Variables that were found to be significant at the α = 0.10 were included in a multivariable model. Results 336 patients met inclusion criteria. One-hundred thirty-nine patients received adjuvant radiation therapy at HVC and 197 patients received adjuvant radiation therapy at LVC. A univariate Cox proportional hazards model identified the variables location, age, marital status, subsite, T stage, extracapsular extension, and smoking status to include in a multivariable model. Age, subsite, T stage, and extracapsular extension were independent predictors of overall survival (p Conclusion After surgery at a HVC, the volume of adjuvant radiation therapy center was not significantly associated with overall survival. Significant predictors of survival included age, subsite, T stage, and extracapsular extension.
Characteristics of Graduating Family Medicine Residents Who Intend to Practice Maternity Care

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Prior research found that 24% of graduating family medicine residents intend to provide obstetrical deliveries, but only 9% of family physicians 1 to 10 years into practice are doing so. Our study aims to describe the individual and residency program characteristics associated with intention to provide obstetrical deliveries and prenatal care. METHODS Cross-sectional data on 2014-2016 graduating residents were obtained from the American Board of Family Medicine certification examination demographic questionnaire that asked about intended provision of specific clinical activities. A hierarchical model accounting for clustering within residency programs was used to determine associations between intended provision of maternity care with individual and residency program characteristics. RESULTS Of 9,541 graduating residents, 22.7% intended to provide deliveries and 51.2% intended to provide prenatal care. Individual characteristics associated with a higher likelihood of providing deliveries included female gender, graduation from an allopathic medical school, and participation in a loan repayment program. Residency characteristics included geographic location in the Midwest or West region, training at a federally qualified health center (FQHC)-based clinic, funding as a teaching health center (THC), more months of required maternity care rotations, larger residency class size, and maternity care fellowship at residency. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that increasing the proportion of graduating family medicine residents who intend to provide maternity care may be associated with increased exposure to maternity care training, more family medicine training programs in FQHCs and THCs, and expanded loan repayment programs.
1041-LBP: Establishment of a consistent single antigen bead (SAB) IgG subtype alloantibody assay. Correlation with C1q complement fixing alloantibody

Aim Clinically relevant assays that help assessing the risk of rejection in transplanted patients remain a priority in the transplantation field. In this study we determined the frequency of different complement and non-complement fixing HLA antibody (Ab) subtypes in transplanted patients. We also examined the correlation of these assays with C1q-binding alloantibodies. Methods Sera from patients with high titers of HLA antibodies were tested for standard total IgG SAB and C1q-alloantibody binding according to the manufacturer’s protocol (OneLambda). The frequency of each Ab subtype was determined using the same SAB Luminex technology, but replacing the secondary Ab conjugated to PE for human IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 and IgG4 subclasses from Southern Biotech. A titration analysis was performed using 1:5 and 1:100 dilutions of the standard concentration. Saturating secondary titers were chosen for evaluation. Samples were pre-heat inactivated for all the assays. Results The distribution of IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 and IgG4 in the population analyzed was 59%, 26%, 9% and 6% respectively. Complement-fixing IgG subtypes (IgG1 and IgG3) accounted for 68% of the anti-HLA Ab present in the analyzed patients, while non-fixing complement IgG subtypes (IgG2 and IgG4) accounted for 32%. Correlation between the total IgG SAB and the IgG subtypes assays were 78% for class I and 92% for class II Ab, and 37% for class I and 67% for class II Ab between IgG subtypes and C1q assays. Conclusions This study reveals the potential clinical application of IgG subtype analysis for the risk rejection assessment of transplanted patients.