cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Homotopy continuation methods, intrinsic localized modes, and cooperative robotic workspaces

This dissertation considers three topics that are united by the theme of application of geometric and nonlinear mechanics to practical problems. Firstly we consider the parallel implementation of numerical solution of nonlinear polynomial systems depending on parameters. The program written to do this is called Paramotopy, and uses the Message Passing Interface to distribute homotopy continuation solves in another program called Bertini across a supercomputer. Paramotopy manages writing of Bertini input files, allows automatic re-solution of the system at points at which paths failed, and makes data management easy. Furthermore, parameter homotopy nets huge performance gains over fresh homotopy continuation runs. Superlinear speedup was achieved, up to hard drive throughput capacity. Various internal settings are demonstrated and explored, and the User's Manual is included. Second, we apply nonlinear theory and simulation to nanomechanical sensor arrays. Using vibrating GaAs pillars, we model Intrinsic Localized Modes (ILMs), and investigate ILM-defect pinning, formation, lifetime, travel and movement, and parameter dependence. Intrinsic Localized Modes have been analyzed on arrays of nonlinear oscillators. So far, these oscillators have had a single direction of vibration. In current experiments for single molecule detection, arrays made of Gallium Arsenide will be innately bidirectional, forced, dissipative. We expand previous full models to bidirectionality, and simulate using ODE solvers. We show that small regions of a very large parameter space permit strong ILM formation. Additionally, we use Hamiltonian mechanics to derive new simplified models for the monodirectional ILM travel on an infinite array. This monodirectional ILMs of constant amplitude have unrealistic behavior. Permitting the amplitude of the ILM to vary in time produces much more realistic behavior, including wandering and intermittent pinning. The final set of problems concerns the application of numerical algebraic geometric methods to untangle the phase space of cooperating robots, and optimize configuration for fault tolerance. Given two robots in proximity to each other, if one experiences joint failure, the other may be able to assist, restoring lost workspace. We define a new multiplicity-weighted workspace measure, and use it to solve the optimization problem of finding the best location for an assistance socket and separation distance for the two robots, showing that the solution depends on robot geometry, which link is being grasped, and the choice of objective function.
Is a shortened length of stay and increased rate of discharge to home associated with a low readmission rate and cost-effectiveness after primary total knee arthroplasty?

Abstract Background It is controversial whether shortening the average length of hospital stay and increasing discharge from a rehabilitation facility to home with either health care or outpatient physical therapy is safe and cost-effective. Methods We computed the average length of hospital stay; the rate of discharge to a rehabilitation facility, home with health care, or home with outpatient physical therapy; the all-cause readmission rate within 30 days of discharge per year; and cost savings for 2328 consecutive patients treated with a unilateral primary total knee replacement between 2009 and 2014. Results The average length of hospital stay per year shortened from 2.0 to 1.3 days (P Conclusions A shorter length of hospital stay and an increased rate of discharge to home was not associated with an increased rate of readmission within 30 days and was cost-effective. Level of Evidence Level IV, Therapeutic study
Security Think

The author discusses the problem of how a security specialist should think. In particular, such a person should know how to evaluate complex systems and look for vulnerabilities created by interactions. It's hard to do, and even harder to teach.
On the Feasibility of Quantifying Fibrous Cap Thickness With Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) Ultrasound

Acute cerebrovascular accidents are associated with the rupture of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid arteries. Fibrous cap (FC) thickness has been shown to be an important predictor of plaque rupture but has been challenging to measure accurately with clinical noninvasive imaging modalities. The goals of this investigation were first, to evaluate the feasibility of using transcutaneous acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) ultrasound to quantify FC thickness and second, to optimize both imaging and motion-tracking parameters to support such measurements. FCs with varying thickness (0.1–1.0 mm) were simulated using a simple-layered geometry, and their mechanical response to an impulse of radiation force was solved using finite-element method (FEM) modeling. Ultrasound tracking of FEM displacements was performed in Field II utilizing three center frequencies (6, 9, and 12 MHz) and eight motion-tracking kernel lengths ( $0.5\lambda-4\lambda$ ). Additionally, FC thickness in two carotid plaques imaged in vivo was measured with ARFI and compared to matched histology. The results of this study demonstrate that 1) tracking pulse frequencies around 12 MHz are necessary to resolve caps around 0.2 mm; 2) large motion-tracking kernel sizes introduce bias into thickness measurements and overestimate the true cap thickness; and 3) color saturation settings on ARFI peak displacement images can impact thickness measurement accuracy substantially.
Time Course and Diagnostic Accuracy of Glial and Neuronal Blood Biomarkers GFAP and UCH-L1 in a Large Cohort of Trauma Patients With and Without Mild Traumatic Brain Injury.

Importance Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1) have been widely studied and show promise for clinical usefulness in suspected traumatic brain injury (TBI) and concussion. Understanding their diagnostic accuracy over time will help translate them into clinical practice. Objectives To evaluate the temporal profiles of GFAP and UCH-L1 in a large cohort of trauma patients seen at the emergency department and to assess their diagnostic accuracy over time, both individually and in combination, for detecting mild to moderate TBI (MMTBI), traumatic intracranial lesions on head computed tomography (CT), and neurosurgical intervention. Design, Setting, and Participants This prospective cohort study enrolled adult trauma patients seen at a level I trauma center from March 1, 2010, to March 5, 2014. All patients underwent rigorous screening to determine whether they had experienced an MMTBI (blunt head trauma with loss of consciousness, amnesia, or disorientation and a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 9-15). Of 3025 trauma patients assessed, 1030 met eligibility criteria for enrollment, and 446 declined participation. Initial blood samples were obtained in 584 patients enrolled within 4 hours of injury. Repeated blood sampling was conducted at 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 36, 48, 60, 72, 84, 96, 108, 120, 132, 144, 156, 168, and 180 hours after injury. Main Outcomes and Measures Diagnosis of MMTBI, presence of traumatic intracranial lesions on head CT scan, and neurosurgical intervention. Results A total of 1831 blood samples were drawn from 584 patients (mean [SD] age, 40 [16] years; 62.0% [362 of 584] male) over 7 days. Both GFAP and UCH-L1 were detectible within 1 hour of injury. GFAP peaked at 20 hours after injury and slowly declined over 72 hours. UCH-L1 rose rapidly and peaked at 8 hours after injury and declined rapidly over 48 hours. Over the course of 1 week, GFAP demonstrated a diagnostic range of areas under the curve for detecting MMTBI of 0.73 (95% CI, 0.69-0.77) to 0.94 (95% CI, 0.78-1.00), and UCH-L1 demonstrated a diagnostic range of 0.30 (95% CI, 0.02-0.50) to 0.67 (95% CI, 0.53-0.81). For detecting intracranial lesions on CT, the diagnostic ranges of areas under the curve were 0.80 (95% CI, 0.67-0.92) to 0.97 (95% CI, 0.93-1.00)for GFAP and 0.31 (95% CI, 0-0.63) to 0.77 (95% CI, 0.68-0.85) for UCH-L1. For distinguishing patients with and without a neurosurgical intervention, the range for GFAP was 0.91 (95% CI, 0.79-1.00) to 1.00 (95% CI, 1.00-1.00), and the range for UCH-L1 was 0.50 (95% CI, 0-1.00) to 0.92 (95% CI, 0.83-1.00). Conclusions and Relevance GFAP performed consistently in detecting MMTBI, CT lesions, and neurosurgical intervention across 7 days. UCH-L1 performed best in the early postinjury period.
Case Study: User Adoption of a Product Configuration Management System at a Modular Playground Equipment Producer

Product platform and product family strategies place tremendous demands on the efficient capture, storage, and retrieval of information in the form of product data. The user’s adoption of an information management system for product families and mass customization is critical for allowing the system to perform as it ought. The following is a case study at a major modular playground equipment producer undergoing the implementation of a new graphical-based configurator for managing its mass customized products. The case study examines the proliferation of software packages to perform configuration and the flow of information in the configuration process. Next, the new configurator is evaluated on its new features to capture, store, and reuse configurations and its visual appeal. Last, the paper addresses the personal behaviors and training methods used for increasing adoption and their success.© 2006 ASME
Zener Pinning of Grain Boundaries and Structural Stability of Immiscible Alloys

Immiscible Cu-Ta alloys produced by mechanical alloying are currently the subject of intensive research due to their mechanical strength combined with extraordinary structural stability at high temperatures. Previous experimental and simulation studies suggested that grain boundaries (GBs) in Cu-Ta alloys are stabilized by Ta nano-clusters coherent with the Cu matrix. To better understand the stabilization effect of Ta, we performed atomistic computer simulations of GB–cluster interactions in Cu-Ta alloys with various compositions and GB velocities. The study focuses on a single plane GB driven by an applied shear stress due to the shear-coupling effect. The results of the simulations are in close quantitative agreement with the Zener model of GB pinning. This agreement and the large magnitude of the unpinning stress confirm that the structural stability of these alloys is due to the drastically decreased GB mobility rather than a reduction in GB energy. For comparison, we simulated GB motion in a random solid solution. While the latter also reduces the GB mobility, the effect is not as strong as in the presence of Ta clusters. GB motion in the random solution itself induces precipitation of Ta clusters due to short-circuit diffusion of Ta in GBs, suggesting a possible mechanism of cluster formation inside the grains.
The role of brachytherapy in the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme

Brachytherapy (BT) for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) involves the use of radioactive isotopes to deliver ionizing radiation directly into the tumor bed. Its application as a means to prolong survival in GBM patients over the past few decades has come with variable success. The objective of this review is to describe the utility of BT in GBM, and to report the outcomes and adverse events associated with its use in different multimodal treatment approaches. A search of the literature was conducted using the PubMed database. The most recent search was performed in September 2015. Thirty-two series involving 1571 patients were included in our review. The longest median overall survival (MOS) following BT for newly diagnosed GBM reached 28.5 months. Overall, 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates were 46-89 %, 20-57 %, and 14-27 %. For recurrent GBM, the longest reported MOS after BT was 15.9 months. One-, 2- and 3-year survival rates for recurrent GBM were 10-66 %, 3-23 %, and 9-15 %. Adverse events were reported in 27 % of patients. Reoperation for radiation necrosis occurred in 4 and 27 % of patients following low- and high-dose rate BT, respectively. BT is a feasible option for extending survival in carefully selected GBM patients. As patient outcomes and overall survival improve with more aggressive radiotherapy, so does the risk of radiation-related complications. The most effective use of BT is likely as a part of multimodal treatment with other novel therapies.
Imaging in radio interferometry by iterative subset scanning using a modified AMP algorithm

Imaging techniques in radio interferometry often face a significant challenge posed by the large number of antenna signals received, from which the image information needs to be extracted. Beamforming is envisaged to reduce the rate required for transporting data from groups of antennas to a central site for further processing. We propose a novel method for image reconstruction based on the iterative scanning of a region of interest, combined with randomized beamforming. A modified approximate message-passing algorithm is adopted to extract relevant image information from beamformed signals received at the antenna stations. The method is illustrated by simulations, with reference to the LOFAR radio interferometer, and compared with the CLEAN algorithm.
Glomerular and tubular function in children with ileal conduit urinary diversion.

AbstractChildren with ileal conduit urinary diversion usually have adequate postoperative assessment of glomerular but not tubular function. Deterioration of tubular function usually precedes deterioration of glomerular function in most urologic conditions. We herein assess and compare deterioration of glomerular and tubular function in children with ileal conduits. Recommendations for functional postoperative evaluation are made.
Association of ketamine-induced psychosis with focal activation of the prefrontal cortex in healthy volunteers.

Objective: Agents that antagonize the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor, such as phencyclidine and ketamine, produce an acute psychotic state in normal individuals that resembles some symptoms of schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to determine which brain regions are involved in NMDA receptor-mediated psychosis. Method: Positron emission tomography with [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose was used to determine cerebral metabolic activity in 17 healthy volunteers while an acute psychotic state was induced simultaneously by the administration of subanesthetic doses of ketamine. Results: Ketamine produced focal increases in metabolic activity in the prefrontal cortex and an acute psychotic state. A change in one psychotic symptom, conceptual disorganization, was significantly related to prefrontal activation. Conclusions: These data suggest that the prefrontal cortex may be involved in mediating NMDA receptor-induced psychosis. (Am J Psychiatry 1997; 154:805‐811)
Thermodynamically Leveraged Tandem Catalysis for Ester RC(O)O–R′ Bond Hydrogenolysis. Scope and Mechanism

Rapid and selective formal hydrogenolysis of aliphatic ester RC(O)O–R′ linkages is achieved by a tandem homogeneous metal triflate + supported palladium catalytic system. The triflate catalyzes the mildly exothermic, turnover-limiting O–R′ cleavage process, whereas the exothermic hydrogenation of the intermediate alkene further drives the overall reaction to completion.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Oxidative Dehydrogenation Options

The world-wide market for light olefins will approach one trillion pounds per year by the year 2020. Light olefins are conventionally produced by the steam cracking of hydrocarbons from ethane to gas oil. This technology is decades old and results in a wide range of by-products, some valuable, some with fuel value, and some requiring waste treatment before disposal. An economic analysis was performed using a cost of production procedure commonly called a required netback analysis. These results were compared with the expected performance of a novel catalytic route with very high selectivity, running at much lower temperatures and similar pressures. The new route uses a mixed metal oxide catalyst in packed tubes with a heat transfer fluid in the reactor shell for heat management. Results indicate that the new route has much lower variable cost, fixed costs and capital recovery reaching shutdown economic level.
Bronchoscopy and Tracheobronchial Disorders

Tracheobronchial disorders refer to a wide variety of both congenital and acquired diseases involving the lower airway. Rigid and flexible bronchoscopy plays a role in both the diagnosis and treatment of many of these disorders. Foreign body aspiration is the most commonly encountered entity. This chapter provides an overview of many of the tracheobronchial disorders, as well as equipment and technique.
From Training to Learning: Developing Student Employees Through Experiential Learning Design

Abstract In this chapter, the authors argue for moving student employee training programs beyond a sole focus on training students for effective service, to training based on experiential learning principles. The authors describe the development of an experiential approach for two student positions in the Ohio University Libraries’ social media and video production work. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the challenges in this approach, and addresses issues of scaling the model to larger student employment programs.
Reactive attachment/disinhibited social engagement disorders: Callous-unemotional traits and comorbid disorders.

Abstract Background DSM-5 Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) and Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED) are rare, understudied, and controversial disorders. Methods Comorbidity in children diagnosed with RAD or DSED was compared with comorbidity in ADHD and autism to determine if RAD/DSED comorbidity differed from that for the two most common disorders in child psychiatric clinics. Samples included 4–17-year-olds, 20 with RAD and/or DSED, 933 with autism, and 895 with ADHD. Children with RAD/DSED were removed from their neglectful environments at a mean of 4 years and were a mean 10 years when studied. Mothers rated the children on the Pediatric Behavior Scale assessing oppositional behavior, conduct problems, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other symptoms. Results Five of the 20 children with RAD/DSED had DSED without RAD, 15 had RAD with DSED, and none had RAD without DSED. All children with RAD had callous-unemotional traits (CU) and 73% had conduct disorder (CD). No children with DSED-no RAD had CU or CD. Children with RAD + DSED were considerably more impaired than children with DSED-no RAD, autism, and ADHD. Conclusions Findings are consistent with other studies indicating high CD/CU comorbidity in RAD and extreme rarity of RAD without DSED, findings which are not noted in the DSM-5.
Inner Asian polities and their built environment

Abstract By 200 BCE the eastern steppe regions centered on Mongolia saw the development of expansive and complex political systems usually referred to as empires. The origins of these polities and the processes of consolidation can be described within the concept of a political community, reflecting the actions of competing groups in expansive social network. For Inner Asia, community was linked to issues of mobility, dispersed control hierarchies, and the economics of multi-resource pastoralism. Together, these patterns offer an alternative vision of the origin and operation of early complex polities. Archaeologically, the pastoralist way of using the built environment provides a window into the dynamics of political processes that operated within a particular polity, but also within multiple polities across long stretches of time. Based on a sample of 76 sites within 13 steppe polities several patterns emerge that highlight how distinctive political processes altered and incorporated community and place in the building of fortified settlements, palaces, military posts, and other constructions. The evidence from these places suggests that these polities operated as inclusive spatial networks that relied more on mobility than the direct interactions seen in urban centers in sedentary societies. The urban centers of the steppe tended to be the byproduct of polity formation, rather than the source.
Dielectric screening effect of electronic polarization and intramolecular hydrogen bonding

Recent site-resolved hydrogen exchange measurements have uncovered significant discrepancies between simulations and experimental data during protein folding, including the excessive intramolecular hydrogen bonds in simulations. This finding indicates a possibility that intramolecular charge–charge interactions have not included sufficient dielectric screening effect of the electronic polarization. Scaling down peptide atomic charges according to the optical dielectric constant is tested in this study. As a result, the number of intramolecular hydrogen bonds is lower than using unscaled atomic charges while reaching the same levels of helical contents or β-hairpin backbone hydrogen bonds, because van der Waals interactions contribute substantially to peptide folding in water. Reducing intramolecular charge–charge interactions and hydrogen bonding increases conformational search efficiency. In particular, it reduces the equilibrium helical content in simulations using AMBER force field and the energy barrier in folding simulations using CHARMM force field.
SUCCESSIVE BLOODMEALS ENHANCE VIRUS DISSEMINATION WITHIN MOSQUITOES AND INCREASE TRANSMISSION POTENTIAL

The recent Zika virus (ZIKV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV) epidemics highlight the explosive nature of arthropod-borne (arbo) viruses transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Vector competence and the extrinsic incubation period (EIP) are two key entomological parameters used to assess the public health risk posed by arboviruses. These are typically measured empirically by offering mosquitoes an infectious bloodmeal and temporally sampling mosquitoes to determine infection and transmission status. This approach has been used for the better part of a century; however, it does not accurately capture the biology and behavior of many mosquito vectors which refeed frequently (every 2-3 days). Here we demonstrate that administration of a second non-infectious bloodmeal significantly shortens the EIP of ZIKV-infected Ae. aegypti by enhancing virus escape from the mosquito midgut. Similarly, a second bloodmeal increased the competence of this species for dengue virus and CHIKV. This effect was also observed for ZIKV in Aedes albopictus, suggesting that this species might be a more important vector than once thought and that this phenomenon may be common among other virus-vector pairings. Modeling of these findings reveals that a shortened EIP would result in a significant increase in the basic reproductive number, R0. This increase helps explain how Ae. aegypti can sustain an explosive epidemic like ZIKV despite its relatively poor vector competence in single-feed laboratory trials. Together, these data demonstrate a direct and unrecognized link between mosquito feeding behavior, EIP, and vector competence.
Local DNA Sequence Controls Asymmetry of DNA Unwrapping from Nucleosome Core Particles.

Abstract DNA is tightly wrapped around histone proteins in nucleosome core particles (NCPs) yet must become accessible for processing in the cell. This accessibility, a key component of transcription regulation, is influenced by the properties of both the histone proteins and the DNA itself. Small angle x-ray scattering with contrast variation is used to examine how sequence variations affect DNA unwrapping from NCPs at different salt concentrations. Salt destabilizes NCPs, populating multiple unwrapped states as many possible unwrapping pathways are explored by the complexes. We apply coarse-grained Monte Carlo methods to generate realistic sequence-dependent unwrapped structures for the nucleosomal DNA with thermal variations. An ensemble optimization method is employed to determine the composition of the overall ensemble as electrostatic interactions are weakened. Interesting DNA-sequence-dependent differences are revealed in the unwrapping paths and equilibrium constants. These differences are correlated with specific features within the nucleic acid sequences.
Enhanced adsorption of anionic surfactants on negatively charged quartz sand grains treated with cationic polyelectrolyte complex nanoparticles

Abstract The objective of this study is to examine the potential of using polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) nanoparticles to enhance the adsorption of anionic surfactants on negatively charged surface of quartz sand grains. The hypothesis is that a cationic PEC layer formed on the negatively charged quartz surface can enhance the adsorption of anionic surfactants on quartz sand grains. Both static adsorption tests and a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) were used to test the hypothesis. We measured the rate and extent of adsorption of an anionic sulfate surfactant onto bare quartz sand grains versus sand grains pre-treated with PECs. Total organic carbon (TOC) and total nitrogen (TN) analyses were used to quantitatively measure the adsorption of surfactant and PECs. Real-time adsorption monitoring was performed on silica model surfaces by QCM-D. Consistent with our hypothesis, the results showed that the level of adsorption of the anionic sulfate surfactant on PEC treated quartz sand grains (21.5 mg/g of sand) was indeed significantly higher than that on bare untreated sand grains (negligible adsorption). Our results also confirmed a proposed four-stage adsorption mechanism for the enhanced adsorption of anionic surfactants on negatively charged quartz sand grains treated with PEC nanoparticles.
Smoothing and mixed models

Smoothing methods that use. basis functions with penalisation can be formulated as maximum likelihood estimators and best predictors in a mixed model framework. Such connections are at least a quarter of a century old but, perhaps with the advent of mixed model software, have led to a paradigm shift in the field of smoothing. The reason is that most, perhaps all, models involving smoothing can be expressed as a mixed model and hence enjoy the benefit of the growing body of methodology and software for general mixed model analysis. The handling of other complications such as clustering, missing data and measurement error is generally quite straightforward with mixed model representations of smoothing.
Elucidation of Protein Structure and Processing Using Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry

Traditionally, structural analysis by mass spectrometry has been limited to small organic molecules that are volatile and thermally stable, since the initial step involves heating the sample in a vacuum. During the past several years, new ionization methods have been developed that can produce gas-phase molecular and fragment ions from nonvolatile samples; these are presented to the mass spectrometer as liquids (solutions) or solids. As a consequence of these developments, mass spectrometry has come to play an increasing role in the biological sciences.
A Rare Entity: TSH-Secreting Adenoma

TSH-secreting adenomas are rare but must be considered in the differential diagnosis of inappropriately normal to elevated TSH in the presence of elevated free serum thyroid hormone levels (FT4, FT3), which is termed central hyperthyroidism. The diagnosis of TSH-secreting adenoma in a patient with central hyperthyroidism is usually made based on clinical and family history, α-subunit testing, SHBG levels, and pituitary MRI after ruling out other thyroid-related conditions as discussed in this chapter. A full pituitary hormone evaluation must be completed upon diagnosis of a TSH-secreting adenoma, and neuroophthomology evaluation should be obtained in the presence of a macroadenoma with concern for contact with the optic nerve or chiasm. Therapeutic options for patients with TSH-secreting adenomas include transsphenoidal pituitary surgery, medical treatment with somatostatin analogs (SSAs), radiation therapy, or a combination of these modalities. Regardless of treatment, these patients should have long-term endocrine follow-up with continued biochemical and radiologic surveillance.
Intercation spacing and side chain effects on phosphonium polymers: Thermal, supramolecular, and bactericidal properties

The properties of phosphonium polyelectrolytes (PELs) were evaluated in an effort to assess the influence of both side chain and main chain composition. The influence of side chain was examined by comparing properties of a series of PELs having hydrophobic octyloxy side chains to those of structural analogues lacking the side chains. The influence exerted by backbone flexibility/length of spacer between charges was revealed by comparing properties of two series of polymers with a variable number of methylene units between phosphonium charge‐bearing sites. Side chain composition and spacing between phosphonium units lead to noteworthy influence on thermal stability, glass transition, and crystallinity. The molecular structure of PELs also correlates with trends in film morphology and critical surface energy of PEL dip‐cast films. Sensitivity of morphology to humidity or water in the casting solvent was observed. Supramolecular assembly of films via layer‐by‐layer deposition of PELs alternating with anionic polythiophene derivative layers was also undertaken. The linearity of film growth, amount of material deposited in each bilayer, polycation:polyanion ratio, and film roughness all show noteworthy trends that depend on both the presence/absence of side chains and on spacing between ionic centers. The relationship between side chain and spacer on bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was assessed. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 24–34
Blue intensity as a temperature proxy in the eastern United States: A pilot study from a southern disjunct population of Picea rubens (Sarg.)

Abstract Annual surface air temperatures across the eastern United States (US) have increased by more than 1 °C within the last century, with the recent decades marked by an unprecedented warming trend. Tree-rings have long been used as a proxy for climate reconstruction, but few truly temperature-sensitive trees have been documented for the eastern US, much less the Appalachian Mountains in the Southeast. Here, we measure blue intensity (BI) and ring width (RWI) in red spruce growing at the southernmost latitudinal range margin of the species on the North Carolina-Tennessee border to test the efficacy of using either metric as a temperature proxy in the eastern US. The BI and RWI chronologies spanned 1883–2008 and had an interseries correlations of 0.42 and 0.54, respectively, but time series were trimmed to the period 1950–2008 due to low sample depth. We discovered strong, positive, and stable correlations between both current-year early fall (September–October) Tmax (r = 0.62; p
Accurate Estimation of Program Error Rate for Timing-Speculative Processors

We propose a framework that estimates the error rate experienced by an application as it runs on a timing-speculative processor. The framework uses an instruction error model that is comparable in accuracy to low-level simulations---as it considers the effects of operand values, preceding instructions, datapath configuration, and error correction scheme, as well as process variation, including its spatial correlation property---and yet efficient enough to allow its application in Monte Carlo experiments to characterize large program input datasets. We then use statistical limit theorems to estimate program error rate and quantify the effect of inter-instruction correlations.
Analyzing Factors of Breast Cancer Screening Adherence among Korean American Women Using Andersen's Behavioral Model of Healthcare Services Utilization.

Objectives: Regular uptake of mammogra­phy screening reduces the risk of advanced stage diagnosis of breast cancer (BC). How­ever, BC screening rates remain suboptimal among Korean American (KA) women. Using the Andersen’s Behavioral Model of Healthcare Services Utilization, this study examined factors associated with mammog­raphy screening among KA women aged 50 to 80 years in the state of Georgia, USA. Methods: We used purposive sampling to recruit study participants in the Atlanta met­ropolitan area from May 2015 to February 2016. A total of 303 KA women completed a cross-sectional, self-report survey about their sociodemographics, health care access information, knowledge, self-efficacy, deci­sional balance, and mammography history. Results: Descriptive analyses confirmed low rates of mammography screening in the participants. Multiple logistic regression analyses showed that having a mammogram within the past year was associated with greater BC knowledge, higher scores of decisional balance and fewer annual health check-ups among KA women without any cancer history. Conclusions: The findings offer implica­tions for health policy aimed at increas­ing BC screening by leveraging enabling factors among medically underserved KA women at both structural and cultural levels. Ethn Dis .2019;29(Suppl 2):427-434; doi:10.18865/ed.29.S2.427
Severity of heterotopic ossification in patients following surgery for hip fracture: a retrospective observational study

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is a relatively common complication following hip surgery treated with open reduction and internal fixation, total arthroplasty or hemiarthroplasty. Development of HO after hip surgery is an important clinical issue as it can affect functional status. We aimed to determine whether there was association between severity of heterotopic ossification about the hip and the interval between the time of hip fracture and surgery. Our retrospective study included 151 patients (age range 33–95 years) treated for hip fractures by hemiarthroplasty. Medical records were reviewed for time interval to surgery, laterality, surgical approach, and patient age. Patients who had any post-operative complications were excluded. Radiographs were semiquantitatively assessed for the degree of heterotopic ossification based on Brooker Classification (5-point scale). Statistical analysis was performed utilizing Chi-square, Kruskal-Wallis, and Score tests, and also a proportional odds model (significance level set at 0.05). Thirty eight patients had no heterotopic ossification, 43 had class 1, 55 had class 2, and 15 had class 3 or greater heterotopic ossification. The majority of patients (59.6%) had surgery within 2 days of acute injury. Severe heterotopic ossification (HO 3+) was associated with the longer interval between the time of acute hip fracture and surgery (median 6 days) vs. median 2 days in all other groups (HO classes 0–2) (p = 0.0015). The odds ratio and 95% CI for one level higher HO class was 1.296 (1.152, 1.459), which meant that the odds of having HO class one level higher increased by about 29.6% for every one-day increase in the days to surgery. No significant association was found for other variables. Class 3 or greater HO was associated with longer time interval between time of acute hip fracture and surgery compared to all other groups (HO class 0–2).
Changes in ions and proteins in pith of internodes of a shrunken2 sweet maize at four developmental stages

Physiological processes change as plants age. This study was conducted to determine how concentration of ions, and distribution of proteins, change in senescing stalk internodes of a sweet maize (Zea mays L.). ‘Mini Gold’, a shrunken2 hybrid, was monitored from mid-whorl (V9; internodes completely juvenile) to fresh-market maturity (FM; internodes exhibiting stages of senescence). Internodes near the base of the stalk, just below the ear, and between an ear and tassel were rated for senescence. These same tissues were extracted and analyzed by SDS-PAGE electrophoresis and automated ion analysis. Senescence rating in internodes increased from V9 or VT to FM. Concentrations of NO3−, Na+, total Fe, and total Mn were unchanged, while those of total N, in a Kjeldahl digest (TKN), and K+ were reduced in all internodes as plants aged. In one or more internodes, concentrations of total P, in a Kjeldahl digest (TKP), HPO42−, Mg2+, Ca2− and SO42− either were unchanged, fluctuated, or decreased as plant aged. Concentrations of TKN, TKP, HPO42− Mg2+, and SO42− were negatively correlated with senescence rating in one or more internodes. The least number of protein bands, between 14.4 and 97.4 kD, were found on gels at FM. Changes in concentration of some ions, and distribution of proteins may indicate the onset of senescence.
An evaluation of synchronous reinforcement for increasing on‐task behavior in preschool children

A synchronous-reinforcement schedule is a type of schedule of covariation in which the onset and offset of the reinforcer covaries with the onset and offset of behavior. This study was a proof-of-concept demonstration of the efficacy of synchronous reinforcement for on-task behavior (completing a preacademic skill) and an evaluation of preschoolers' preference for this schedule in comparison to a more traditional schedule of reinforcement. Specifically, we compared the effects of a synchronous-reinforcement schedule to one in which continuous access to stimuli was delivered at the end of the session and yoked to the duration of on-task behavior that occurred during the session (accumulated reinforcement). Results showed the synchronous-reinforcement schedule was more effective for increasing on-task behavior and preferred by most participants.
Chapter 4 – Neoplasia

It is now recognized that cancer, in its simplest form, is a genetic disease or, more precisely, a disease of abnormal gene expression. Recent research efforts have revealed that different forms of cancer share common molecular mechanisms governing uncontrolled cellular proliferation, involving loss, mutation, or dysregulation of genes that positively and negatively regulate cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation (generally classified as protooncogenes and tumor suppressor genes). This chapter introduces basic and essential concepts related to neoplastic disease as a foundation for more detailed treatment of the molecular carcinogenesis of major cancer types. It provides an overview of cancer statistics and epidemiology, highlighting cancer types of importance to human health in the United States and worldwide, with a brief review of risk factors for the development of cancer. It discusses the classification of neoplasms, focusing on the general features of benign and malignant neoplasms, with an overview of nomenclature for human neoplasms, a description of preneoplastic conditions, and consideration of special subsets of neoplastic disease (cancers of childhood, hematopoietic neoplasms, and hereditary cancers). It also describes the distinguishing characteristics of benign and malignant neoplasms, with a focus on anaplasia and cellular differentiation, rate of growth, local invasiveness, and metastasis. The chapter further discusses the clinical aspects of neoplasia, giving an overview of cancer-associated pain, cancer cachexia, paraneoplastic syndromes, and methods for grading and staging of cancer.
Validation of the Sport Fan Model of Goal-Directed Behavior: Comparison to Theory of Reasoned Action, Theory of Planned Behavior, and Model of Goal-Directed Behavior

The Sport Fan MGB was developed by incorporating sport fan-specific variables to predict millennial sport fan consumption behaviors. However, the efficacy and usefulness of this Sport Fan MGB remai...
Trend of income inequality in Asia and effects of education

This study considers how education and globalization affect income inequality in Asia, with the unbalanced panel data. The evidence supports the validity of Kuznets inverted-U hypothesis for the connection between the income level and income inequality. However, when more variables are integrated into the model, the consistency of inverse U-shaped curve becomes weaker. The empirical results suggest that educational variables are highly influential in affecting income distribution. Our analysis indicates that a higher level of education achieved by the population aged 15 and over has improved income distribution in Asia, while educational inequality, measured by the educational Gini, has a negative effect on income distribution. Higher levels of globalization are correlated with higher levels of income inequality, while freedom, either political or economic, has marginal effects on the level of inequity in income distribution. Key words: Education inequality, globalisation, income inequality
Txnip C247S mutation protects the heart against acute myocardial infarction

Abstract Rationale Thioredoxin-interacting protein (Txnip) is a novel molecular target with translational potential in diverse human diseases. Txnip has several established cellular actions including binding to thioredoxin, a scavenger of reactive oxygen species (ROS). It has been long recognized from in vitro evidence that Txnip forms a disulfide bridge through cysteine 247 (C247) with reduced thioredoxin to inhibit the anti-oxidative properties of thioredoxin. However, the physiological significance of the Txnip-thioredoxin interaction remains largely undefined in vivo. Objective A single mutation of Txnip, C247S, abolishes the binding of Txnip with thioredoxin. Using a conditional and inducible approach with a mouse model of a mutant Txnip that does not bind thioredoxin, we tested whether the interaction of thioredoxin with Txnip is required for Txnip's pro-oxidative or cytotoxic effects in the heart. Methods and results Overexpression of Txnip C247S in cells resulted in a reduction in ROS, due to an inability to inhibit thioredoxin. Hypoxia (1% O2, 24 h)-induced killing effects of Txnip were decreased by lower levels of cellular ROS in Txnip C247S-expressing cells compared with wild-type Txnip-expressing cells. Then, myocardial ischemic injuries were assessed in the animal model. Cardiomyocyte-specific Txnip C247S knock-in mice had better survival with smaller infarct size following myocardial infarction (MI) compared to control animals. The absence of Txnip's inhibition of thioredoxin promoted mitochondrial anti-oxidative capacities in cardiomyocytes, thereby protecting the heart from oxidative damage induced by MI. Furthermore, an unbiased RNA sequencing screen identified that hypoxia-inducible factor 1 signaling pathway was involved in Txnip C247S-mediated cardioprotective mechanisms. Conclusion Txnip is a cysteine-containing redox protein that robustly regulates the thioredoxin system via a disulfide bond-switching mechanism in adult cardiomyocytes. Our results provide the direct in vivo evidence that regulation of redox state by Txnip is a crucial component for myocardial homeostasis under ischemic stress.
Teamwork and Collaboration

Teamwork and collaboration in quality improvement efforts are critically important to successful improvement work in the healthcare setting. Quality improvement teams have unique features and structure compared to many traditional clinical teams. Moreover, team members must have or develop specific skill sets and familiarity with formal methods of improvement science to be most effective. As in all teams, team dynamics will largely influence the productivity and success. Finally, collaboration with patients and families and their role on teams leading to coproduction of care is emphasized.
Cost-effectiveness of Dapagliflozin for the Treatment of Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction.

Importance Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction produces substantial morbidity, mortality, and health care costs. Dapagliflozin is the first sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor approved for the treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Objective To examine the cost-effectiveness of adding dapagliflozin to guideline-directed medical therapy for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction in patients with or without diabetes. Design, setting, and participants This economic evaluation developed and used a Markov cohort model that compared dapagliflozin and guideline-directed medical therapy with guideline-directed medical therapy alone in a hypothetical cohort of US adults with similar clinical characteristics as participants of the Dapagliflozin in Patients with Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction (DAPA-HF) trial. Dapagliflozin was assumed to cost $4192 annually. Nonparametric modeling was used to estimate long-term survival. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses examined the impact of parameter uncertainty. Data were analyzed between September 2019 and January 2021. Main outcomes and measures Lifetime incremental cost-effectiveness ratio in 2020 US dollars per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) gained. Results The simulated cohort had a starting age of 66 years, and 41.8% had diabetes at baseline. Median (interquartile range) survival in the guideline-directed medical therapy arm was 6.8 (3.5-11.3) years. Dapagliflozin was projected to add 0.63 (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 0.25-1.15) QALYs at an incremental lifetime cost of $42 800 (95% UI, $37 100-$50 300), for an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of $68 300 per QALY gained (95% UI, $54 600-$117 600 per QALY gained; cost-effective in 94% of probabilistic simulations at a threshold of $100 000 per QALY gained). Findings were similar in individuals with or without diabetes but were sensitive to drug cost. Conclusions and relevance In this study, adding dapagliflozin to guideline-directed medical therapy was projected to improve long-term clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and be cost-effective at current US prices. Scalable strategies for improving uptake of dapagliflozin may improve long-term outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Refractive Surgery.

Purpose of review In this article, we review the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on refractive surgery. Recent findings COVID-19 infection frequently causes eye symptoms, most commonly conjunctivitis or mild irritation. While virus can be detected in tears of symptomatic patients, the risk of transmission via this route appears low. Summary Refractive surgery consultations were significantly reduced during the pandemic; however, volume is rebounding quickly likely due to a number of lifestyle, health, and financial factors. Laser refractive and intraocular surgery likely confer a low risk of virus spread, especially in asymptomatic patients. Screening prior to the refractive consultation and surface disinfection in the clinic and operating room can help reduce transmission risk further.
Using a Health Information Exchange System for Imaging Information: Patterns and Predictors

Health information exchange (HIE) systems may address the challenges that prevent easy access to patients' existing radiological information at the point of care. However, little is known about the factors associated with usage of HIE for radiology reports, nor about how reports are shared with an exchange network. We analyzed the system log files from a regional health information organization in upstate New York matched with insurance claims files using network analysis and regression modeling. The exchange network was dominated by a few key information sources. Outpatient users overall accessed 17 times more radiology reports than inpatient and ED users combined. Additionally, as the number of exchange partners increased per organization, the average number of reports exchanged by that organization also increased. Radiology reports were most likely to be accessed by physicians and other clinical users. These findings have implications for those operating and fostering exchange activity.
DPSK demodulation using coherent perfect absorption

We propose a scheme for on-chip DPSK demodulation with balanced detection by using coherent perfect absorption (CPA) in a microring resonator. Device operation is demonstrated with finite-difference time-domain simulations.