cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Robust Rls with Round Robin Regularization Including Application to Stereo Acoustic Echo Cancellation

This paper introduces a new algorithm for implementing subband, adaptive filtering using recursive least squares (RLS) with round robin regularization. We show that modern microprocessors with SIMD (Single Instruction, Multiple Data) instructions can now implement RLS for practical problems thereby avoiding the numerical stability issues associated with fast RLS (FRLS). The desired signal may be multichannel as in the stereo, acoustic echo cancellation (AEC) problem where the separate channels of the playback signals are often highly correlated. In this case, the recursive computation of the inverse correlation matrix in RLS will diverge. To avoid this problem, we extend adaptive subband RLS to include round robin regularization. The new, regularized RLS (RRLS) algorithm has been implemented in real-time on a personal computer (PC) for the stereo AEC problem and performs well in typical PC scenarios.
A Content Analysis of the Journal of Sports Economics

The purpose of this study was to examine the contents of the literature published in the Journal of Sports Economics (JSE), the first academic journal exclusively focused on the economics of sport. Content analysis methodology was used to examine every journal issue (N = 10) published from the inaugural issue in 2000 through the second issue in 2002. Collectively, the 10 issues yielded 55 articles representing the work of 77 authors (95.3% male, 4.7% female). The majority of the articles reviewed were quantitative (94.1%), and the preferred statistical methodology utilized was regression analysis (64%). The highest percentages of articles focused on team performance and payrolls (20%) as well as labor market research (12.9%). Additional content areas analyzed in this study included measures related to editor, reviewers, authors, sport industry segmentation, gender, scholarly productivity, geographical and institutional makeup, and professional level. Findings and implications are discussed.
Isolated tarsal navicular fracture dislocation: a case report.

Injuries to the midtarsal joints are rare. They occur in the form of various combinations such as frac- ture, fracture subluxation, and frac- ture dislocation. The largest series of 71 cases has been reported by Main and Jowett in 1975. Isolated tarsal navic- ular dislocations are rare injuries. Being rare, these injuries remain poorly understood. Only few case reports exist, which describe the probable mech- anism of injury and optimal treat- ment. Of the few case reports, only one describes closed reduction with exter- nal fixator and percutaneous fixation as the treatment modality. This case report emphasizes the use of external fixation with pins in the calcaneum and not in talus as described by the earlier report. Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV
Plasma ketosteroid studies in normal mice.

ZIMMERMANN (1), Dumazert and Valensi (2), and Gardner (3) described methods for the measurement of neutral 17-ketosteroids 17-Ks) in human plasma. Migeon and Plager (4) described a method for the fractionation and measurement of 17-Ks in human plasma This report concerns the measurement of 17-Ks in mouse plasma. The procedure was developed to facilitate the study of the relationship between plasma 17-Ks and tumor growth in transplantable mouse tumors. The method to be described has been applied to normal male and female Swiss Webster mice, adrenalectomized male and female Swiss Webster mice, ACTH stimulated Swiss Webster mice, normal female DBA2 mice, and normal female C-57 black mice. materials 1. 2N. alcoholic KOH prepared as described by Wilson (5). 2. Meta-dinitrobenzene recrystallized from alcohol. A 0.2% solution is prepared in redistilled ethanol. 3. Dehydroepiandrosterone standards, 100, 200, 400 μg./ml. ethanol. 4. Purified corticotrophin gel, 40 U.S.P. units/ml. The National Drug Company, Philad...
A Gravitational Diffusion Model without Dark Matter

In this model, without dark matter, the flat rotation curves of galaxies and the mass-to-light ratios of clusters of galaxies are described quantitatively. The hypothesis is that the agent of gravitational force is propagated as if it were scattered with a mean free path of approx 5 kiloparsecs. As a result, the force between moderately distant masses, separated by more than the mean free path, diminishes as the inverse first power of the distance, following diffusion equations, and describes the flat rotation curves of galaxies. The force between masses separated by <1 kiloparsec diminishes as the inverse square of distance. The excess gravitational force (ratio of 1/r:1/r2) increases with the scale of structures from galaxies to clusters of galaxies. However, there is reduced force at great distances because of the approx 12 billion years that has been available for diffusion to occur. This model with a mean free path of approx 5 kiloparsecs predicts a maximum excess force of a few hundredfold for objects the size of galactic clusters a few megaparsecs in size. With only a single free parameter, the predicted curve for excess gravitational force vs. size of structures fits reasonably well with observations from those for dwarf galaxies through galactic clusters. Under the diffusion model, no matter is proposed in addition to the observed baryons plus radiation and thus the proposed density of the universe is only a few percent of that required for closure.
Teacher Technology Change: How Knowledge, Confidence, Beliefs, and Culture Intersect

Despite increases in computer access and technology training, technology is not being used to support the kinds of instruction believed to be most powerful. In this paper, we examine technology integration through the lens of the teacher as an agent of change: What are the necessary characteristics, or qualities, that enable teachers to leverage technology resources as meaningful pedagogical tools? To answer this question, we discuss the literature related to four variables of teacher change: knowledge, self-efficacy, pedagogical beliefs, and subject and school culture. Specifically, we propose that teachers’ mindsets must change to include the idea that “teaching is not effective without the appropriate use of information and communication technologies (ICT) resources to facilitate student learning.” Implications are discussed in terms of both teacher education and professional development programs. (Keywords: teacher change, teacher knowledge, teacher beliefs, technology integration)
Statistical analysis of morphological openings

Statistical analysis of morphological openings is carried out to study noise-suppression and edge-preserving properties of binary and gray-scale structuring elements. Based on the fact that basis functions are a general representation of any morphological mapping that is translation-invariant and increasing, it is shown that a statistical analysis using this representation is feasible and more general than the threshold decomposition approach. >
Comparison of measures of lead exposure, dose, and chelatable lead burden after provocative chelation in organolead workers.

OBJECTIVES--To describe 6 h urinary lead excretion (6 h PbU) after 1 g intravenous ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) in organolead manufacturing workers with mixed exposure to organic and inorganic lead; to determine the predictors of lead excretion (PbU); and to determine the extent to which internal lead stores and ongoing external exposure govern blood concentrations of lead (PbB). METHODS--A case series of 21 active workers were studied. Personal industrial hygiene data, grouped by 29 exposure zones, in combination with personal interviews about work location and times were used to derive several measures of recent and cumulative exposure to organic and inorganic lead. The average exposure intensities assigned to the 29 zones ranged from 4 to 119 micrograms/m3 (0.02-0.57 mumol/m3 as lead) for organic lead and from 1 to 56 micrograms/m3 (0.004-0.27 mumol/m3) for inorganic lead. RESULTS--After controlling for age, 6 h PbU was significantly and positively correlated with summary measures of PbB--for example, lifetime peak PbB, time weighted PbB--and zinc protoporphyrin concentrations--for example, lifetime peak zinc protoporphyrin, time weighted zinc protoporphyrin--but not with measures of estimated external exposure--for example, duration of exposure and cumulative exposure to inorganic or organic lead. Among workers with higher chelatable lead burdens (6 h PbU > or = 212.4 micrograms (1.03 mumol) divided at the median), there was no apparent relation between recent inorganic lead exposure and PbB at the time of chelation. Among workers with lower chelatable lead burdens (6 h PbU < 212.4 micrograms (1.03 mumol) however, there was a significant relation between exposure and effect between recent exposure to inorganic lead and PbBs. CONCLUSION--These findings are consistent with the concept of physiological dampening. The high chelatable lead burden, a source of internal exposure, dampens the effect of external exposure on PbBs. The data suggest that in organolead workers with high chelatable lead burdens, PbBs may be more influenced by internal lead stores than by variations in airborne exposure to organic and inorganic lead.
Commentary: Adherence Matters

included graduate students, interns, post-doctoral fellows, and faculty. They were asked about their use of adherence assessment and intervention strategies, theories used to guide their clinical approach, information sources about strategies, and barriers, facilitators, and resources related to adoption of adherence assessments and interventions. Respondents reported that the most common adherence assessment strategy was interviews with patients and the most common intervention strategies were problem solving, education, and parent training. The most common theories used to guide clinical practice included the Health Belief Model, the Transtheoretical Model of Change, and Social Cognitive Theory. The most common information sources about adherence were journal articles, peer consultations, and books. The top barriers to implementing assessment and intervention strategies included time limitations, logistical challenges, and not being familiar with available strategies to assess and enhance adherence for a specific population. The top facilitators were adherence being the primary referral question, the medical team valuing the role of adherence in treatment, and the availability of specific assessments and interventions for select populations. Strengths of this study include a focus on what pediatric psychologists do to assess and enhance adherence in clinical practice and the theories that guide their clinical approach. Limitations include those of any survey study, namely the representativeness of the sample and how closely self-reports match what people actually do in their practice.
Zinc Supplementation Reduces Iron Absorption through Age-Dependent Changes in Small Intestine Iron Transporter Expression in Suckling Rat Pups

Zinc (Zn) supplementation negatively affects iron (Fe) absorption; however, the molecular mechanisms are not understood. We determined effects of Zn supplementation during mid- and late infancy on intestinal Fe transport mechanisms using a suckling rat model. Suckled rat pups were supplemented with 0 (control), 300 (low), or 750 (high) microg Zn/d until weaning at postnatal day (PN) 20. At mid-(PN10) and late (PN20) infancy, tissue Fe distribution, Fe absorption, intestine DMT1, ferroportin-1 (FPN) and hephaestin expression, and localization and liver hepcidin expression were measured. During early infancy, DMT1 and FPN were localized intracellularly. Negative effects of Zn supplementation on Fe absorption were associated with increased small intestine Fe retention, decreased hephaestin, and increased FPN expression. During late infancy, both DMT1 and FPN were appropriately localized to the apical and basolateral membrane, respectively, and negative effects of Zn supplementation on Fe absorption were absent. Although FPN protein level was lower in Zn-supplemented pups, hephaestin protein level was increased, which may have facilitated enhanced Fe efflux. These results indicate that Zn supplementation reduced Fe absorption during early infancy as a consequence of increased intestinal Fe retention due to reduced hephaestin levels. These effects were age-dependent, further demonstrating that Fe transport regulation is not fully developed until weaning, which may have important implications regarding the safety and efficacy of Zn supplementation programs for infants.
The role of non-violent action in the downfall of apartheid

Against enormous odds, non-violent action proved to be a major factor in the downfall of apartheid in South Africa, and the establishment of a democratic black majority government, despite predictions that the transition could come only through a violent revolutionary cataclysm. This was largely the result of conditions working against a successful armed overthrow of the system, combined with the ability of the anti-apartheid opposition to take advantage of the system's economic dependence on a cooperative black labour force. This article traces the history of nonviolent resistance to apartheid, its initial failures, and the return in the 1980s to a largely non-violent strategy which, together with international sanctions, forced the government to negotiate a peaceful transfer to majority rule.
Nonpenetrating clips for coronary anastomosis

Background. A nonsuture clip technique (nonpenetrating titanium clips applied to everted tissue edges at high compressive forces) was used to perform coronary anastomoses in a clinical setting. Methods. Clipped coronary anastomoses were performed in 10 patients. The anastomoses incorporated the left internal mammary artery to the left anterior descending artery (n = 1) and the saphenous vein to the right coronary artery (n = 5), the posterior descending artery (n = 2), the diagonal artery (n = 2), and one vein-to-vein proximal anastomosis (n = 1). Results. The mean duration for completion of the anastomoses was 15 minutes (range, 7 to 20 minutes). This time was reduced from 20 minutes at the beginning of the clinical experience to 7 minutes for the last 3 patients. No technical complication was related to clip application and all patients had uneventful outcomes. Three anastomoses studied by coronary angiography were patent without stenosis. Conclusion. The clipped anastomotic technique has a rapid learning curve, the same safety as suture methods, and the potential for facilitating endoscopic vascular reconstructions.
ALLELE-SPECIFIC ADAPTATION OF POLIOVIRUS VP1 B-C LOOP VARIANTS TO MUTANT CELL RECEPTORS

Previous work has shown that three different mutations in domain 1 of the poliovirus receptor (Pvr), two in the predicted C'-C" ridge and one in the D-E loop, abolish binding of the P1/Mahoney strain. All three receptor defects could be suppressed by a mutation in the VP1 B-C loop of the viral capsid that was present in all 16 P1/Mahoney isolates adapted to the mutant receptors. To identify allele-specific mutations that enable poliovirus to utilize mutant receptors, and to understand the role of the VP1 B-C loop in adaptation, we selected mutant receptor-adapted viruses derived from two P1/Mahoney variants, one which lacks the VP1 B-C loop and one in which the VP1 B-C loop is replaced with the corresponding sequence from the P2/Lansing strain. Six adapted viral isolates were obtained after passage on mutant receptor-expressing cell lines. Sequence analysis revealed that each virus contained three to five mutations, and a total of 18 amino acid changes at 17 capsid residues were identified. Site-directed mutagenesis was used to evaluate the role of these mutations in adaptation to mutant Pvr. The results demonstrate that mutations in the viral canyon floor and rim are allele specific and compensate only for receptor defects in the C'-C" ridge of Pvr, suggesting that these sites interact in the virus-receptor complex. Furthermore, mutations in the VP1 E-F loop suppressed Pvr D-E loop defects, implying that the Pvr D-E loop contacts the VP1 E-F loop. Most of the other mutations mapped to interior capsid residues, some interacting with the fivefold- or threefold-related protomers. These mutations may regulate receptor interaction by controlling the structural flexibility of the viral capsid. In viruses lacking the VP1 B-C loop, single mutations were not sufficient to confer the adapted phenotype, in contrast to the 414 virus, which contains the B-C loop. Although the VP1 B-C loop appeared to be dispensable for adaptation, it may have provided a selective advantage in adaptation of P1/Mahoney to mutant Pvr.
Selectivity of a C-Terminal Peptide Antiserum for Different DNA-Binding States of the Vitamin D Receptor

Abstract Antisera against peptides from the extreme N- and C-terminal regions of the VDR were evaluated. The N-terminal antiserum Ab192 functioned as a general-purpose antibody, being able to supershift the rhVDR in heterodimeric or homodimeric binding complexes in the EMSA, and detect both recombinant and native forms of the receptor on Western blots. The C-terminal antiserum, Ab195, also identified the receptor on Western blots, but in contrast, it displayed differential sensitivity to the conditions employed in the EMSA. In the presence of 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 , rhVDR, rhRXRα, and nonspecific DNA, Ab195 produced a weak supershift of the heterodimer complex in the EMSA. Significantly, omission of hormone from the binding buffer resulted in a complete shift of the bound complex with the antiserum. A complete supershift was also observed if only the nonspecific DNA was removed. Together these results indicate antiserum sensitivity to the ligand status in the rhVDR C-terminus as part of a DNA-bound heterodimer complex. Inclusion of 9-cis RA resulted in a modest increase in the amount of shifted product relative to 1,25(OH) 2 D 3 alone. Finally, Ab195 completely supershifted the rhVDR homodimer binding complex under all tested conditions, including those analogous to where it was largely ineffective in shifting the heterodimer. Thus, Ab195 is sensitive to the ligand binding status of the VDR, discriminates heterodimer and homodimer binding interactions, and should provide an additional tool for exploring conformational changes induced in the receptor.
Wide-Scale Population Sampling Identifies Three Phylogeographic Races of Basin Wildrye and Low-Level Genetic Admixture with Creeping Wildrye

Basin wildrye ( Leymus cinereus (Scribn. & Merr.) A. Love) and creeping wildrye ( Leymus triti- coides (Buckley) pilg.) are outcrossing peren - nial grasses native to western North America. These divergent species are generally adapted to different habitats but can form fertile hybrids. Cultivars of both species are used in agricul - ture and conservation, but little is known about genetic diversity and gene flow among these species. Therefore, multilocus amplified frag - ment length polymorphism (AFLp) genotypes and chloroplast DNA sequences were evaluated from 536 L. cinereus and 43 L. triticoides plants from 224 locations of western United States and Canada. Bayesian-cluster analysis detected three L. cinereus races corresponding to the Columbia, rocky Mountain, and Great Basin regions. possible admixture between species was detected in specific areas, but only 2.2% of the plants showed more than 10% introgres - sion. The Columbia and Great Basin races were predominantly octoploid whereas most of the rocky Mountain accessions were tetraploid. Approximately 36 and 7% of the AFL p variation was apportioned among species and races, respectively, but no discrete marker differences were detected among these groups. Although species can be distinguished using a relatively small set of AFLp markers showing divergent allele frequencies, at least 30 markers were needed to classify plants by race. Approximately 8 and 11% of the chloroplast DNA sequence variation was apportioned among species and races, but these markers were not practically useful for species or race identification.
Structural bioinformatics of DNA: a web-based tool for the analysis of molecular dynamics results and structure prediction

Summary: We report here the release of a web-based tool (MDDNA) to study and model the fine structural details of DNA on the basis of data extracted from a set of molecular dynamics (MD) trajectories of DNA sequences involving all the unique tetranucleotides. The dynamic web interface can be employed to analyze the first neighbor sequence context effects on the 10 unique dinucleotide steps of DNA. Functionality is included to build all atom models of any user-defined sequence based on the MD results. The backend of this interface is a relational database storing the conformational details of DNA obtained in 39 different MD simulation trajectories comprising all the 136 unique tetranucleotide steps. Examples of the use of this data to predict DNA structures are included. Availability: http://humphry.chem.wesleyan.edu:8080/MDDNA Contact: sdixit@wesleyan.edu Supplementary information: Supplementary data including color figures are available at Bioinformatics online.
Interactions between gaze-evoked blinks and gaze shifts in monkeys

Rapid eyelid closure, or a blink, often accompanies head-restrained and head-unrestrained gaze shifts. This study examines the interactions between such gaze-evoked blinks and gaze shifts in monkeys. Blink probability increases with gaze amplitude and at a faster rate for head-unrestrained movements. Across animals, blink likelihood is inversely correlated with the average gaze velocity of large-amplitude control movements. Gaze-evoked blinks induce robust perturbations in eye velocity. Peak and average velocities are reduced, duration is increased, but accuracy is preserved. The temporal features of the perturbation depend on factors such as the time of blink relative to gaze onset, inherent velocity kinematics of control movements, and perhaps initial eye-in-head position. Although variable across animals, the initial effect is a reduction in eye velocity, followed by a reacceleration that yields two or more peaks in its waveform. Interestingly, head velocity is not attenuated; instead, it peaks slightly later and with a larger magnitude. Gaze latency is slightly reduced on trials with gaze-evoked blinks, although the effect was more variable during head-unrestrained movements; no reduction in head latency is observed. Preliminary data also demonstrate a similar perturbation of gaze-evoked blinks during vertical saccades. The results are compared with previously reported effects of reflexive blinks (evoked by air-puff delivered to one eye or supraorbital nerve stimulation) and discussed in terms of effects of blinks on saccadic suppression, neural correlates of the altered eye velocity signals, and implications on the hypothesis that the attenuation in eye velocity is produced by a head movement command.
Differential effects of ketamine/xylazine anesthesia on the cerebral and cerebellar cortical activities in the rat

Cerebellum is a highly organized structure with a crystalline morphology that has always intrigued neuroscientists. Much of the cerebellar research has been conducted in anesthetized animals, parti...
Take a deep breath: peptide signalling in stomatal patterning and differentiation

Stomata are pores in the leaf surface that open and close to regulate gas exchange and minimize water loss. In Arabidopsis, a pair of guard cells surrounds each stoma and they are derived from precursors distributed in an organized pattern on the epidermis. Stomatal differentiation follows a well-defined developmental programme, regulated by stomatal lineage-specific basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors, and stomata are consistently separated by at least one epidermal cell (referred to as the 'one-cell-spacing rule') to allow for proper opening and closure of the stomatal aperture. Peptide signalling is involved in regulating stomatal differentiation and in enforcing the one-cell-spacing rule. The cysteine-rich peptides EPIDERMAL PATTERNING FACTOR 1 (EPF1) and EPF2 negatively regulate stomatal differentiation in cells adjacent to stomatal precursors, while STOMAGEN/EPFL9 is expressed in the mesophyll of developing leaves and positively regulates stomatal development. These peptides work co-ordinately with the ERECTA family of leucine-rich repeat (LRR) receptor-like kinases and the LRR receptor-like protein TOO MANY MOUTHS. Recently, specific ligand-receptor pairs were identified that function at two different stages of stomatal development to restrict entry into the stomatal lineage, and later to orient precursor division away from existing stomata. These studies have provided the groundwork to begin to understand the molecular mechanisms involved in cell-cell communication during stomatal development.
The atmospheric-pressure plasma jet: a review and comparison to other plasma sources

Atmospheric-pressure plasmas are used in a variety of materials processes. Traditional sources include transferred arcs, plasma torches, corona discharges, and dielectric barrier discharges. In arcs and torches, the electron and neutral temperatures exceed 3000/spl deg/C and the densities of charge species range from 10/sup 16/-10/sup 19/ cm/sup -3/. Due to the high gas temperature, these plasmas are used primarily in metallurgy. Corona and dielectric barrier discharges produce nonequilibrium plasmas with gas temperatures between 50-400/spl deg/C and densities of charged species typical of weakly ionized gases. However, since these discharges are nonuniform, their use in materials processing is limited. Recently, an atmospheric-pressure plasma jet has been developed, which exhibits many characteristics of a conventional, low-pressure glow discharge. In the jet, the gas temperature ranges from 25-200/spl deg/C, charged-particle densities are 10/sup 11/-10/sup 12/ cm/sup -3/, and reactive species are present in high concentrations, i.e., 10-100 ppm. Since this source may be scaled to treat large areas, it could be used in applications which have been restricted to vacuum. In this paper, the physics and chemistry of the plasma jet and other atmospheric-pressure sources are reviewed.
Targeted True Lumen Re-Entry With the Outback Catheter: Accuracy, Success, and Complications in 100 Peripheral Chronic Total Occlusions and Systematic Review of the Literature.

Purpose: To report a single-center experience with the Outback re-entry device for targeted distal true lumen re-entry during subintimal recanalization of chronic total occlusions (CTOs) and compare the results with a systematic review of the literature. Methods: Between February 2011 and July 2013, 104 Outback devices were employed in 91 patients (mean age 64±9 years; 57 men) for subintimal recanalization of 100 vessels with CTOs after initial failure of spontaneous reentry. Fifty-two cases involved a retrograde approach to aortoiliac occlusions and 48 were re-entry attempts in infrainguinal CTOs. Outcome measures included complications and technical success, defined as successful targeted re-entry at the preplanned site of the distal true lumen. To evaluate device accuracy, the re-entry distance (between the point of true vessel reconstitution and the eventual re-entry point) was measured. Results: Outback success was 93% (93/100); only 7 cases failed owing to heavy calcification (5/52 aortoiliac vs 2/4...
Effect of Halogen Doping on Optical Properties for ZnO Thin Film Prepared by Thermal Oxidation

Undoped and halogen-doped zinc oxide thin films are prepared by the thermal oxidation process. Zinc acetate dihydrate, ethanol, and Diethanolamine are used as precursor, solvent, and stabilizer, respectively. In the case of ZnO:Hal. dopant Ammonium chloride NH 4Cl 99%, Benzene Bromide C 6H5Br, or Benzene Iodide C 6H5I for making dopant ZnO thin film with Cl, Br, I respectively is added to the precursor solution with an atomic percentage equal to 2-10.% hal. The transparent solution sprayed onto glass substrates, and are transformed into ZnO upon annealing at 500°C. XRD spectra of ZnO thin films, and optical properties of them as a function of halogen content have been investigated using U.V spectroscopy ( transmittance , refractive index, extinction coefficient and energy band gap ) for undoped and halogen-doped zinc oxide thin films.
Paternalism, Liberal Theory, and Suicide

(1982). Paternalism, Liberal Theory, and Suicide. Canadian Journal of Philosophy: Vol. 12, No. 2, pp. 335-352.
Young children revise explanations in response to new evidence

Abstract Revising explanations when faced with new evidence is essential to the learning process. Two studies with 3- to 6-year-olds examined the capacity to generate and revise explanations in response to different kinds of evidence within and across domains. In Study 1 ( N = 60) children were presented with new evidence about an alternative individual preference that was inconsistent with children’s prior beliefs. In Study 2 ( N = 60) the new evidence was biological rather than psychological. The data demonstrate that children are more likely to first explain inconsistent than consistent psychological outcomes and that children revise explanations for inconsistent outcomes in response to new evidence, both within and across domains.
Deeply Understanding and Implementing of "Three Words" Said by President Hu Jintao

"Three words" said by President Hu is profound in meaning.The implementation of "three words" requires three things to be done.The first one is to build a loyal fire force;the second one is to abide by the principle of serving the people;and the third the establishment of the image of a fire force committed to the party and the people.
Risk factor analysis of the relapse of children's primary nephrotic syndrome

Objective To identify risk factors of recurrence in children with primary nephrotic syndrome(PNS).Methods The clinical and laboratory data of 176 patients with PNS were retrospectively analyzed by single-factor and non-conditional logistic regression analysis.Results Among 176 patients included in the study,107 relapsed(60.8%).Single and multiple regression analysis revealed the following significant risk factors:the initial onset age younger than 3 years;higher serum IgE level;higher levels of 24-hour urinary protein;serum albumin below 30 g/L;response to steroid therapy appeared more than 7 days;poorer awareness level of PNS and the nursing degree in the patient's families.Infection is still the first inductive factors to PNS relapse.Conclusions Full attention should be paid to these indicators,clinical features and glucocorticoid efficacy when children present with the first episode of PNS.Early intervention may reduce the incidence of recurrence.
Predictors of Pregnancy Outcome in Renal transplant Recipients

Abstract Objective: To identify preconceptional risk predictors specific to renal transplant patients. Methods: Preconception selection criteria which influenced the perinatal outcome in 23 pregnancies in 20 renal transplant patients at British Columbia's Women's and Children's Hospital in the period 1989 to 1999 were retrospectively analyzed. Successful pregnancy outcome in this series was defined as delivery after 34 weeks, birth weight appropriate for gestational age, stable renal graft function, and no evidence of rejection within at least two years after the pregnancy. Results: Seventy-five percent of patients with preconceptional serum creatinine of less than 125 µmol/L had successful pregnancy outcomes compared to 25 percent of those with serum creatinine greater than 125 µmol/L (p = 0.11). Fifteen percent of patients with pre-existing proteinuria of one to three g per day had worsening proteinuria, renal graft function, and hypertension, and subsequently had graft rejection (p = 0.0006). Seventy-two percent of patients with poorly controlled hypertension delivered prior to 34 weeks (p = 0.008). Renal graft rejection was strongly associated with prepregnancy creatinine more than 125 µmol/L (p = 0.004), preexisting proteinuria more than one g per day (p = 0.001), and poorly controlled chronic hypertension (p = 0.04). Prematurity due to obstetric intervention with worsening maternal or fetal condition (28%) was the major contributor to perinatal morbidity and mortality. Intrauterine growth restriction was observed in 23 percent of these pregnancies. Conclusion: Pregnancy does not have a detrimental effect on renal graft survival, provided that renal graft function is normal at the time of conception.
Effect of graded narrowing of left main coronary artery on left ventricular function

The relationship between left ventricular function and coronary blood flow was studied in 16 chloralose-anesthetized dogs with an intact coronary circulation and left ventricle. Left ventricular dimensions, hemodynamic function indices, and coronary blood flow were measured simultaneously as the origin of the left coronary artery was narrowed by a calibrated snare. With a left coronary blood flow reduction of 17% (average), left ventricular minor axis diameter increased and maximum aortic blood flow acceleration and maximum rate of rise of left ventricular pressure decreased. Other measured indices of ventricular function did not change significantly. Larger coronary flow decrements caused a decrease in aortic systolic and diastolic pressures, stroke volume, and cardiac output and an increase in heart rate and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure. These results confirm a close relationship between left ventricular function and blood supply.
ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF FATIGUE DATA

INTRODUCTORY REMARKS ARE MADE ON THE EXISTENCE AND IMPORTANCE OF FATIGUE CRACKS AND FAILURE. IN THE ABSENCE OF AN ALL-ENCOMPASSING THEORY, FATIGUE DATA ARE GENERATED AND ANALYZED FROM AN ENGINEERING VIEWPOINT. STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS ARE USUALLY TESTED IN LABORATORIES UNDER SIMULATED SERVICE LOADING CONDITIONS OR UNDER CONSTANT STRESSES. FACTORS INVOLVED IN INVESTIGATIONS ARE MATERIALS, GEOMETRY OF MEMBERS AND COMPONENTS, LOAD MAGNITUDE AND HISTORY, AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS. STRESS MAGNITUDES OR STRESS RANGES ARE RELATED TO FAILURE THROUGH AN S-N CURVE OR A MODIFIED GOODMAN DIAGRAM FOR THE INTERPRETATION OF TEST RESULTS. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS OFTEN IS ESSENTIAL FOR THE FORMULATION OF DESIGN RULES. /ASCE/
Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy

PCV was first described in 1990 by Yannuzzi and colleagues, as a diagnosis distinct from exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD) characterized as a bilateral exudative age-related macular disease characterized by orange-red subretinal nodules, with associated subretinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and/or subretinal serous fluid or hemorrhage.
Taming a Menagerie of Heavy Tails with Skew Path Analysis

The discovery of stable, heavy-tailed distributions of activity on the web has inspired many researchers to search for simple mechanisms that can cut through the complexity of countless social interactions to yield powerful new theories about human behavior. A dominant mode of investigation involves fitting a mathematical model to an observed distribution, and then inferring the behaviors that generate the modeled distribution. Yet, distributions of activity are not always stable, and the process of fitting a mathematical model to empirical distributions can be highly uncertain, especially for smaller and highly variable datasets.In this paper, we introduce an approach called skew-path analysis, which measures how concentrated information production is along different dimensions in community-generated data. The approach scales from small to large datasets, and is suitable for investigating the dynamics of online behavior. We offer a preliminary demonstration of the approach by using it to analyze six years of data from an online health community, and show that the technique offers interesting insights into the dynamics of information production. In particular, we find evidence for two distinct point attractors within a subset of the forums analyzed, demonstrating the utility of the approach.
The Institutional Review Board: Do’s, Don’ts, and Nevers

To the uninitiated, the institutional review board, or IRB, can seem like a fearsome entity. In fact, with just a simple action, they can entirely close down a multimillion dollar, multisite research study. They can suspend the ability of investigator to do any kind of human-related research for months or years. And somewhat less drastically, they can put you through a surprise, detailed audit. Simply put, the IRB can make your life very difficult. But the purpose of this chapter is to try to show that, in fact, IRBs are in general very reasonable. And what they do is actually good and necessary. Plus my main purpose in discussing IRBs is not to make you worry, but rather to provide some practical advice for working most effectively with them.
Research on Test Technology of Security and Stability Control Technology of UHVDC Based on Real-Time Digital Simulation

A real-time digital simulation research and closed-loop testing platform for the security and stability control devices is built based on RTDS in this paper, which includes the simulation models for Lingzhou-Shaoxing (Lingshao) ±800 kV UHVDC transmission system, and the 3-level functions of the master control, pole control, and valve control is simulated. Based on the research and testing platform, the security and stability control strategies for N-2 faults occurring in AC transmission lines and other DC system faults of the Lingshao UHVDC system are tested. The research and testing results verify the accuracy of the control strategies and the accuracy of the simulation models. And the new research and testing method need no access to actual UHVDC control and protection system, which saves the testing cost and time significantly.
Progress Monitoring Using Direct Behavior Rating Single Item Scales in a Multiple-Baseline Design Study of the Daily Report Card Intervention:

Direct behavior rating (DBR) may be a viable assessment for documenting current areas of impaired functioning and progress monitoring students’ response to a behavioral intervention. Challenging be...
Intrinsic Bond Energies from a Bonds-in-Molecules Neural Network

Neural networks are being used to make new types of empirical chemical models as inexpensive as force fields, but with accuracy similar to the ab initio methods used to build them. In this work, we present a neural network that predicts the energies of molecules as a sum of intrinsic bond energies. The network learns the total energies of the popular GDB9 database to a competitive MAE of 0.94 kcal/mol on molecules outside of its training set, is naturally linearly scaling, and applicable to molecules consisting of thousands of bonds. More importantly, it gives chemical insight into the relative strengths of bonds as a function of their molecular environment, despite only being trained on total energy information. We show that the network makes predictions of relative bond strengths in good agreement with measured trends and human predictions. A Bonds-in-Molecules Neural Network (BIM-NN) learns heuristic relative bond strengths like expert synthetic chemists, and compares well with ab initio bond order mea...
Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease: Lessons Learned and Applied

Alzheimer's disease (AD) affects more than 5 million Americans, with substantial consequences for individuals with AD, families, and society in terms of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. With disease-modifying treatment trials unsuccessful at the present time and only medications to treat symptoms available, an emerging approach is prevention. Advances in diagnostic criteria, biomarker development, and greater understanding of the biophysiological basis of AD make these initiatives feasible. Ongoing pharmacological trials using anti-amyloid therapies are underway in sporadic and genetic forms of AD, although a large number of modifiable risk factors for AD have been identified in observational studies, many of which do not appear to exert effects through amyloid or tau. This suggests that prevention studies focusing on risk reduction and lifestyle modification may offer additional benefits. Rather than relying solely on large-sample, long-duration, randomized clinical trial designs, a precision medicine approach using N-of-1 trials may provide more-rapid information on whether personalized prevention plans can improve person-centered outcomes. Because there appear to be multiple pathways to developing AD, there may also be multiple ways to prevent or delay the onset of AD. Even if these precision approaches alone are not successful in preventing AD, they may greatly improve the likelihood of amyloid- or tau-specific therapies to reach their endpoints by reducing comorbidities. Keeping this in mind, dementia may be a disorder that develops over a lifetime, with individualized ways to build a better brain as we age.
Speer: Hitler's Architect. By Martin Kitchen. (New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 2015. Pp. xii, 442. $37.50.)

For thirty‐five years, from his trial for war crimes at Nuremberg in 1946 to his death in 1981, Albert Speer carefully constructed a legend about his conduct in the Third Reich that perfectly suite...
Do safety performance functions used for predicting crash frequency vary across space? Applying geographically weighted regressions to account for spatial heterogeneity.

Abstract Safety Performance Functions (SPFs) provide a basis for identifying locations where countermeasures can be effective. While SPFs in the Highway Safety Manual (HSM) were calibrated based on data from select states, calibration factors can be developed to localize SPFs to other states. Calibration factors typically provide a coarse adjustment—time and space stationarity of associations between crash frequencies and various factors is still assumed, implying that the SPF functional form is transferable. However, with increasing availability of statewide geo-referenced safety data, new spatial analysis methods, and increasing computational power, it is possible to relax the stationarity assumption. Specifically, to address spatial heterogeneity in SPFs, this study proposes relaxing SPFs (referring to them as Localized SPFs (L-SPFs)) that can be developed by using sophisticated geo-spatial modeling techniques that allow correlates of crash frequencies to vary in space. For demonstration, a 2013 geo-referenced freeway crash and traffic database from Virginia is used. As a potential methodological alternative, crash frequencies are predicted by estimating Geographically Weighted Negative Binomial Regressions. This model significantly outperforms the traditional negative binomial model in terms of model goodness-of-fit, providing a better and fuller understanding of spatial variations in modeled relationships. Our study results uncover significant spatial variations in parameter estimates for Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) and segment length. Ignoring such variations can result in prediction errors. The results indicate low transferability of a single statewide SPF highlighting the importance of developing L-SPFs. From a practical standpoint, L-SPFs can better predict crash frequencies and support prioritizing safety improvements in specific locations.
Making sense of public-private partnerships (p3s)

This article argues that confusion exists as to exactly what constitutes a public-private partnership (P3). This confusion, it is maintained, creates problems for public procurement professionals when advising elected officials and government administrators on the appropriate uses of P3s. The article looks first at the imprecise language used by organizations (governments and others) to define, describe and discuss P3s. A proposed consensus definition of P3s is then introduced together with an accompanying proposed taxonomy of P3 types. The article then demonstrates how the proposed consensus definition and taxonomy can bring more clarity to discussions about P3s and their uses. The article concludes by suggesting that some public procurement standard setting organization should undertake the task of developing and promulgating more prescriptive guidance on P3s.
Fluorescent photoreceptors of transgenic Xenopus laevis imaged in vivo by two microscopy techniques.

PURPOSE. To develop a method for imaging individual photoreceptors in an intact transgenic Xenopus eye, thus allowing in vivo observation of the effects of various transgenes on photoreceptor development, degeneration, or both. METHODS. Albino and pigmented transgenic Xenopus laevis that express enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP) in the major (red) rods were generated. The distribution of GFP throughout the retina and within the rods was evaluated by confocal microscopy of frozen sections and immunoelectron microscopy. In vivo images of photoreceptors were obtained using conventional fluorescence microscopes to image through the lens of the eye or a laser scanning confocal microscope to image through the hypopigmented iris of albino eyes. RESULTS. Confocal and immunoelectron microscopy of tissue sections showed that GFP was predominantly localized to the inner segments of the major rods; a smaller amount was in the outer segments. In a number of animals, not all the major rods expressed GFP. It was possible to identify these animals by obtaining fluorescence images of the retinas of intact, living tadpoles with conventional fluorescence microscopes, using the lens of the tadpole as part of the optical path. Confocal images of living animals could be used to visualize the distribution of GFP within the photoreceptors. CONCLUSIONS. The ability to observe individual photoreceptors noninvasively allows in vivo longitudinal microscopic analysis of photoreceptor development in transgenic Xenopus tadpoles.
Mining the Bibliome

Biomedical literature offers a systematic catalogue of interpretations about data that can be used to infer new knowledge. The analysis of this literature (referred to in this chapter as the “bibliome”) in light of the exponential growth of biomedical data necessitates methodologies to transform data into knowledge. Such techniques are wrought with challenges, but offer some promise for transforming the big data deluge into novel hypotheses that can lead to new knowledge. This chapter provides an overview of the knowledge discovery process in the context of biomedical literature, and explains how such a process (referred to as “bibliome mining”) can be seen as an integral part of a learning healthcare system.
Early-onset retinal dystrophy and chronic dermatitis in a girl with an undiagnosed congenital disorder of glycosylation (SRD5A3-CDG)

ABSTRACTPurpose: Early-onset retinal dystrophy is usually isolated but can also be the presenting manifestation of an undiagnosed systemic disease. The purpose of this report is to highlight the initial presentation of a girl with early-onset retinal dystrophy and chronic dermatitis who was found to have an undiagnosed congenital disorder of glycosylation (SRD5A3-CDG).Methods: Retrospective case report.Results: A 13-year-old Baluchi girl was referred for evaluation of low vision since soon after birth. Clinical exam confirmed retinal dystrophy. She also had developmental disability and chronic dermatitis. Brain MRI was normal. Whole exome and confirmatory Sanger sequencing uncovered homozygosity for a SRDA3 deletion (p.Gln96delinsX) that was previously reported in two other Baluchi SRDA3-CDG families with ocular coloboma, optic atrophy, atopic dermatitis, cerebellar hypoplasia, and developmental disability. Early-onset retinal dystrophy was not mentioned in those two families but has since been documented...