cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mother-infant play at six months as a predictor of attachment security at thirteen months.

Links between mother-infant face-to-face play at 6 months and infant attachment security at 13 months were studied via discriminant function analysis. Securely attached (B) dyads' play pattern differed from anxious-resistant (C) dyads' in having had more mother instigation of play bouts in the first "normal play" segment of the procedure, less infant distress in the second segment "mother unresponsive," but more fussing in the third segment, "low-key play." Anxious-avoidant (A) dyads differed from both B and C dyads in having had less positive mutuality and more short bouts in segment 1, but more infant positive affect in segment 3. The major difference between A and C groups was that A infants showed more positive affect in segment 3 than did C infants. The predictions were significant and generally consistent with theory, but not strong.
Phase transitions and tricritical points: an exactly soluble model for magnetic or distortive systems

We present and solve exactly a lattice model for magnetic or for structural phase transitions. The model proposed here can be seen as an extension of the spherical model. We obtain the following results: (i) The free energy of the system is calculated rigorously in a general case for lattices of any dimensionality $d$ or structure. (ii) The critical properties are worked out explicitly for a special case of the interaction on a cubic $d$-dimensional lattice ($d$ may be a fractional number). If $dg2$, second-order phase transitions may occur. The critical exponents are those of the sperical model. (iii) For a special choice of the interaction and if $d\ensuremath{\ge}3$, the existence of a line of tricritical points can be demonstrated. The tricritical exponents are computed explicitly; they are identical to the exponents of the "Gaussian" model. (iv) Finally, first-order phase transitions are shown to exist in one and two dimensions.
Evaluating topic quality using model clustering

Topic modeling continues to grow as a popular technique for finding hidden patterns, as well as grouping collections of new types of text and non-text data. Recent years have witnessed a growing body of work in developing metrics and techniques for evaluating the quality of topic models and the topics they generate. This is particularly true for text data where significant attention has been given to the semantic interpretability of topics using measures such as coherence. It has been shown however that topic assessments based on coherence metrics do not always align well with human judgment. Other efforts have examined the utility of information-theoretic distance metrics for evaluating topic quality in connection with semantic interpretability. Although there has been progress in evaluating interpretability of topics, the existing intrinsic evaluation metrics do not address some of the other aspects of concern in topic modeling such as: the number of topics to select, the ability to align topics from different models, and assessing the quality of training data. Here we propose an alternative metric for characterizing topic quality that addresses all three aforementioned issues. Our approach is based on clustering topics, and using the silhouette measure, a popular clustering index, for characterizing the quality of topics. We illustrate the utility of this approach in addressing the other topic modeling concerns noted above. Since this metric is not focused on interpretability, we believe it can be applied more broadly to text as well as non-text data. In this paper however we focus on the application of this metric to archival and non-archival text data.
Corticosteroids for Prevention of Postextubation Laryngeal Edema in Adults

Objective:To evaluate the efficacy and safety of prophylactic corticosteroid therapy in preventing postextubation laryngeal edema (PELE) and the need for reintubation in adults.Data Sources:Literature was accessed through MEDLINE (1966-January 2008) and the Cochrane Library using the terms laryngeal edema, airway obstruction, postextubation stridor, intubation, glucocorticoids, and corticosteroids. Bibliographies of cited references were reviewed and a manual search of abstracts from recent pulmonary and critical care meetings was completed.Study Selection and Data Extraction:All English-language, placebo-controlled, randomized studies evaluating the use of prophylactic corticosteroids for the prevention of postextubation laryngeal edema or postextubation stridor (PES) in adults were reviewed.Data Synthesis:Although laryngoscopy is the gold standard method for diagnosing PELE, PES is more commonly used for diagnosis in clinical practice. While 3 older studies failed to demonstrate benefit with the prophyl...
Phylogenetic comparative analysis of RNA structure on Macintosh computers

A Macintosh Hypertalk program (Hypercard 'stack') for use in phylogenetic comparative analysis of RNA structure is described. The program identifies covariations and compensatory changes in RNA sequence alignments, for use in the construction of secondary structure models or the identification of tertiary interactions. The results of an analysis are presented either as a list of positions in the alignment which covary, or as a 2-dimensional matrix in which potential helices in the secondary structure appear as diagonal patterns.
Increasing physical activity through self‐monitoring, goal setting, and feedback

Excess body weight, especially obesity, is a problem of increasing social significance, and weight gain is often correlated with age. Because physical activity can both decrease current body weight and prevent weight gain, it is an especially suitable target for behavioral intervention. A package intervention consisting of self-monitoring, goal setting, and feedback was used to increase the physical activity of healthy adults. A combined multiple-baseline and reversal design was arranged to evaluate the effects of the intervention on the number of steps taken each day by participants, as recorded by a pedometer. The intervention increased the number of steps taken across participants, but there were no changes in participant body weight during the intervention. The results suggest that a relatively simple and low-cost intervention can be used to increase the physical activity of some adults. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The phosphoinositol-3-kinase-protein kinase B/Akt pathway is critical for Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain PAK internalization

Several Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains are internalized by epithelial cells in vitro and in vivo, but the host pathways usurped by the bacteria to enter nonphagocytic cells are not clearly understood. Here, we report that internalization of strain PAK into epithelial cells triggers and requires activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase B/Akt (Akt). Incubation of Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) or HeLa cells with the PI3K inhibitors LY294002 (LY) or wortmannin abrogated PAK uptake. Addition of the PI3K product phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate [PtdIns(3,4,5)P3] to polarized MDCK cells was sufficient to increase PAK internalization. PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 accumulated at the site of bacterial binding in an LY-dependent manner. Akt phosphorylation correlated with PAK invasion. The specific Akt phosphorylation inhibitor SH-5 inhibited PAK uptake; internalization also was inhibited by small interfering RNA-mediated depletion of Akt phosphorylation. Expression of constitutively active Akt was sufficient to restore invasion when PI3K signaling was inhibited. Together, these results demonstrate that the PI3K signaling pathway is necessary and sufficient for the P. aeruginosa entry and provide the first example of a bacterium that requires Akt for uptake into epithelial cells.
What’s new in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery

Abstract " What's New in Surgery" evolves from the contributions of leaders in each of the fields of surgery. In every instance the author has been designated by the appropriate Council from the American College of Surgeons' Advisory Councils for the Surgical Specialties. This feature is now presented in issues of the Journal throughout the year .
Rewarding safety belt usage at an industrial setting: Tests of treatment generality and response maintenance.

An incentive program to motivate seat belt use was implemented at a large munitions plant. Seat belt usage was assessed daily at an entrance/exit gate of the industrial complex when employees arrived for work in the morning and departed in the afternoon. During treatment incentive fliers, which prompted seat belt usage and gave belt wearers opportunities to win prizes, were distributed only in the afternoon. Seat belt wearing increased from baseline means of 20.4% and 17.3% during the morning and afternoon, respectively, to averages of 55.5% during afternoon departures and 31.1% during morning arrivals. During follow-up, mean belt use dropped almost to baseline levels. Categorizing vehicles according to driver sex and license plate number enabled a study of belt wearing practices of individuals, and revealed that the incentive program influenced some drivers to wear their seat belts during morning arrival when incentives were not distributed (i.e., treatment generalization) and during a follow-up period after the incentives were withdrawn (i.e., response maintenance).
Mechanisms of Plaque Stabilization for a Charged Calcium Channel Blocker in Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD) results from atherosclerosis, a systemic vascular disorder that is the leading cause of death and disability throughout much of the developed world. Because cellular changes associated with vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque are characterized by a loss of normal calcium regulation, there is strong interest in a potential antiatherosclerotic role for calcium channel blockers. This hypothesis has been supported by investigational studies conducted in well-defined cellular and animal models of atherosclerosis. In addition, several clinical studies have tested the benefit of calcium channel blockers among patients with mild-to-moderate CAD. More recent trials have shown reductions in cardiovascular events after treatment with amlodipine, a long-acting, dihydropyridine-type calcium channel blocker. The Prospective Randomized Evaluation of the Vascular Effects of Norvasc Trial (PREVENT) demonstrated that patients with documented CAD treated with amlodipine experienced marked reductions in cardiovascular events compared with patients receiving placebo. Amlodipine also was associated with significant slowing of carotid atherosclerosis, an important surrogate marker for CAD, independent of blood pressure modification. These results have renewed interest in potential plaque stabilization properties of third-generation calcium channel blockers and their possible therapeutic role in CAD.
Chemical and Microstructural Characterization of 20‐Month‐Old Alkali‐Activated Slag Cements

Chemical and microstructural characterization of environmentally friendly alkali-activated slag cement pastes and fine-limestone aggregate concretes have been carried out after aging for 20 months and compared with 55-day-old cement pastes. Although the production of crystalline phases slowed, the cement paste continues to react. Si moves to more ordered positions, and formulae activated by Na2CO3 undergo recarbonation, producing both calcite and aragonite, of which the latter occurs mainly in the recarbonation of Ca-rich building materials known to have high durability. The reaction continues little in samples activated by NaOH/waterglass after 55 days. Elemental analysis shows the Ca/Si ratio decreasing from the center of unreacted slag grains to the outer product (Op). Elemental analyses of the cementing phase in the cement paste as well as the cementing phase in concrete specimens were quite similar. Peak shifts observed in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy imply greater durability due to increased polymerization of Si in C–S–H, which may contain Na. Over time, more Ca dissolves from the slag and enters the Op, which was observed to be homogeneous.
Three‐Dimensional Fast Acquisition With Sonographically Based Volume Computer‐Aided Analysis for Imaging of the Fetal Heart at 18 to 22 Weeks' Gestation

Objective. The purpose of this study was to determine how frequently cardiac images derived from 3dimensional (3D) volume sets, acquired by fast acquisition and evaluated with sonographically based volume computer-aided analysis (sonoVCAD), were satisfactory for prenatal screening at 18 to 22 weeks’ gestation. Methods. A prospective study of 100 women with singleton pregnancies was undertaken. Three fast acquisition 3D volume sets were obtained from each patient. Four reviewers independently evaluated the 4-chamber and 5 extracted VCAD views. Factors contributing to unsatisfactory screening were also evaluated. Results. The frequency with which adequate views for cardiac screening could be obtained varied widely; some single views, such as that of the stomach, were well seen frequently, whereas others, such as the ductal arch, were well seen significantly less frequently (P < .05). A satisfactory screening examination, defined as a visualized 4-chamber, left ventricular outflow tract, right ventricular outflow tract, and axial stomach view, was obtained for 43% to 65% of patients (dependent on reviewer). Logistic regression revealed that obesity (odds ratio, 3.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.7–5.0) and a fetus with the spine toward the maternal abdomen (odds ratio, 1.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.1–2.5) were independently associated with an unsatisfactory screening examination Conclusions. Three-dimensional fast acquisition volumes evaluated with sonoVCAD did not allow a satisfactory fetal cardiac screening examination to be obtained a high percentage of the time in a general obstetric population during the second trimester. Certain patient factors, such as body habitus and fetal position, are associated with unsatisfactory 3D imaging. Key words: computer-aided analysis; fetal heart; 3-dimensional screening.
Patterns in spatial extent of gap influence on understory plant communities

Gap formation in forests can have impacts on forest ecosystems beyond the physical boundary of the canopy opening. The extent of gap influence may affect responses of many components of forest ecosystems to gap formation on stand and landscape scales. In this study, spatial extent of gap influence on understory plant communities was investigated in and around 0.1 and 0.4 ha harvested canopy gaps in four young Douglas-fir (Psuedotsuga menziesii) dominated stands in western Oregon. In larger gaps, the influence of gap creation on understory plant communities in surrounding forests was minimal. The area showing evidence of gap influence extended a maximum of 2 m beyond the edge of the canopy opening, suggesting that the area affected by gap creation did not differ greatly from the area of physical canopy removal. In smaller gaps, influence of the gap did not extend to the edge of the canopy opening. In fact, the area in which understory vegetation was influenced by gap creation was smaller than the physical canopy opening. Gap influence appears to be limited to areas where ruderal or competitor species are able to replace stress-tolerator species, likely due to elimination or reduction of these species by physical disturbance or competition. The limited gap influence extent exhibited here indicates that gap creation may not have a significant effect on understory plant communities beyond the physical canopy opening. This suggests a limited effectiveness of gaps, especially smaller gaps, as a tool for management of understory plant diversity, and perhaps biodiversity in general, on a larger scale. # 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Femoral Radiographic Landmarks for Lateral Collateral Ligament Reconstruction and Repair: A New Method of Reference

BackgroundLittle work has been made regarding the use of radiographic landmarks in fibular collateral ligament reconstruction. Radiographic tools can be of use to the surgeon in posterolateral reconstruction as secondary checks in the setting of tissue and bony attrition.HypothesisUsing standardized radiographic imaging, a zone for femoral tunnel placement in lateral collateral ligament (LCL) reconstruction can be identified.Study DesignDescriptive laboratory study.MethodsEight fresh-frozen unmatched knees, free of any osseous or articular pathological changes, were selected for dissection (mean age, 61.3 years). Skin and surrounding soft tissues were left intact. Subsequent dissection was carried out to identify the true origin of the LCL. A radiographic marker was applied. True lateral radiographs of the distal femur (posterior condyles overlapping) were taken. Digital radiographic images were obtained and analyzed.ResultsThe Blumensaat line was found to be closely associated with the LCL origin on late...
SET-LRP of semifluorinated acrylates and methacrylates

Single electron transfer-living radical polymerization (SET-LRP) of 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyl acrylate, 2,2,3,3,4,4,4-heptafluorobutyl acrylate, and 1H,1H,5H-octafluoropentyl methacrylate up to [M]0/[I]0 = 30 and 1H,1H,5H-octafluoropentyl acrylate up to 93% monomer conversion targeting [M]0/[I]0 = 260 with excellent control of molecular weight and molecular weight distribution was accomplished in 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol (TFE) at 25 °C for the acrylates and 50 °C for the methacrylate. These experiments demonstrated that TFE serves as a very good solvent for SET-LRP of semifluorinated monomers using hydrazine activated Cu(0) wire as a catalyst, bis(2-bromopropionyl)ethane and p-toluene sulfonyl chloride as initiators, and Me6-TREN as a ligand. Analysis of the kinetics of polymerization and of the polymer chain ends by a combination of 1H-NMR, GPC, MALDI-TOF and chain-end functionalization by “thio-bromo” click reaction demonstrated the synthesis of perfect or near-perfect chain-end functional semifluorinated homopolymers.
Implementing the Responsibility to Protect

During January 15-17, 2010, the Stanley Foundation convened a conference in Tarrytown, New York, to discuss the way forward in implementing the Responsibility to Protect. The meeting provided a forum for reflection and discussion among representatives of United Nations member states, Secretariat officials, and experts on this important topic. The conference started with a keynote address by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. This report provides a synthesis of the discussions at the conference and highlights key conclusions and recommendations that surfaced in the course of three days of substantive dialogue.
Three‐Dimensional Reconstruction of Anomalous Beige Mouse Macrophage Lysosomes

Cells of the beige mouse, the murine counterpart of the Chediak-Higashi Syndrome, contain enlarged anomalous lysosomes. The three-dimensional structure of these lysosomes from peritoneal macrophage was ascertained by study of electron micrographs taken in a series of serial sections combined with computer-assisted analysis. The most common basic structural units identified were biconcave discs and hollow cup/ovoid-shaped structures. Other more bizarre forms were represented by the fusion of these basic lysosomal variants. Anomalous lysosomal forms were found in both beige resident and exudate peritoneal macrophage. A similar study of lysosomes in animals not carrying the beige mutation revealed the presence of smaller but structurally similar forms of the basic lysosomal variants. This latter finding indicates that the presence of lysosomal variants per se in the beige animal is not a finding unique to these animals but rather that their distinctiveness derives from their increased size and propensity to undergo fusion with each other. The usefulness of computer-assisted three-dimensional reconstruction is demonstrated.
Comparative performance of community health centers and other usual sources of primary care.

Objective To determine how Community Health Centers (CHCs) perform relative to other primary care providers. Research design A retrospective cohort study of Medicaid claims comparing provider groups on the basis of avoidable hospitalizations and costs. Results Avoidable hospitalization rates did not differ significantly across care settings. Hospital outpatient departments and CHCs had comparable total costs, whereas physicians had slightly but significantly lower total costs. Conclusions Understanding determinants of care cost differences could inform future performance improvement initiatives. Care quality variance within provider groups may be more significant than care quality performance across care settings.
The Biology and Behavior of Triatoma Barberi (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) in Mexico II. Influence of a single versus a double feeding on the time that blood meal antigens remain serologically detectable

The number of days that blood meal antigens remained serologically detectable following single and double feedings from known host sources was determined for all nymphal instars and adults of Triatoma barberi using the capillary precipitin test technique. Antigens of a single blood meal from rat were identifiable 15 to 95 days, with the maximum period of antigen detection occurring in unmolted 5th-instar nymphs. For all nymphal instars, blood meal antigens remained identifiable 2 to 47 days following the molting period. For bugs offered 2 blood meals from different hosts, the 2nd blood meal from chicken increased the maximum period of antigen detection for the 1st blood meal from rat by 15 to 65 days. This “booster effect” of multiple feeding on the duration of blood meal identification resulted in detectable antigens to rat after 2 successive molting periods in instars 2 through 4. Blood meal antigens from the 2nd feeding on chicken were not detectable as long as antigens from the 1st blood meal on rat. However, antigens from chicken were identifiable longer as part of a multiple host blood meal than antigens from rat, where rat was the only blood meal source offered. Multiple feeding increased successful identification of mixed blood meals in T. barberi by boosting the period of time in which component blood meal antigens remained serologically identifiable.
Abstract B31: Collaborative breast health education addressing an alarming public health concern in the District of Columbia

B31 Background Washington D.C. has the highest breast cancer mortality rate in the country(30.3 per 100,000 )*. Project Early Awareness is a breast health education program of Howard University Cancer Center supported by the Prevent Cancer Foundation that serves to address this disparity. The program is designed for 10th-12th grade students in Washington, D.C.. Methods PEA sessions follow a standardized format. The class begins with a young breast cancer survivor’s story, followed by information on breast health topics including risk factors, breast growth and development, clinical breast exams, and mammography. The students are shown an age and culturally appropriate video on how to perform a breast self-exam. Students are then given breast models to practice breast self-exam techniques. The session ends with a question and answer period and a discussion on myths about breast cancer. At the completion of the program, they are handed an information packet to take home and share with their female relatives. Results Since 2001, 2,880 public high school students and their relatives have received breast health information through PEA. Pre and post-test evaluations have been enormously positive, showing a measurable impact in knowledge for the girls attending. Overall, the program generated improvements in specific knowledge elements. A 69% improvement was shown when asked if the age of menarche was a risk factor. The overall increase in self-efficacy for BSE was 39%. Conclusion The high breast cancer mortality rates of African American women living in the District of Columbia mandates the implementation of programs such as this, which focus on long term solutions towards reducing health disparities. PEA is able to reach these young women in a culturally sensitive manner and increase awareness, as well as the understanding of the key screening tools available to women as they age. *American Cancer Society, Surveillance Research , 2007 Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2008;1(7 Suppl):B31.
'Shovel-Ready' applications of stem cell advances for pediatric heart disease.

Purpose of reviewThe past decade has seen remarkable advances in the field of stem cell biology. Many new technologies and applications are passing the translational phase and likely will soon be relevant for the clinical pediatric cardiologist.Recent findingsThis review will focus on two advances i
Ultrastructure of Cyathus Stercoreus

Cyathus stercoreus was grown in the laboratory and basidiocarps produced in culture were prepared for study with the scanning and transmission electron microscopes. The peridium consisted of three morphologically distinct layers. The funiculus consisted of three regions. The hyphae in these regions, the funicular cord and hapteron showed a special modification in the clamp connections. The peridioles had a wall consisting of three layers. The spores were surrounded by special nurse hyphae. Cyathus stercoreus structure is far more complex than light microscopy has revealed in the past. Ultrastructural study shows the nature of some previously described structures to be in error.
A phase 1, open‐label, dose‐escalation study of pralatrexate in combination with bortezomib in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma

Pralatrexate inhibits folic acid metabolism, and preclinical studies have shown that it is cytotoxic to multiple myeloma cells. This phase 1 study investigated the safety and efficacy of pralatrexate in combination with bortezomib in adults with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. A standard 3 + 3 design was used. Patients received intravenous pralatrexate at doses ranging from 10 to 30 mg/m(2) and intravenous bortezomib at a dose of 1·3 mg/m(2) on days 1, 8 and 15 of each 4-week cycle. Eleven patients were enrolled and completed a median of two cycles. The maximum tolerated dose was 20 mg/m(2) . Two patients experienced dose-limiting toxicity of mucositis. The most frequent non-haematological toxicities were fatigue (55%) and mucositis (45%). There were three serious adverse events in three patients: rash, sepsis and hypotension. One patient (9%) had a very good partial response, 1 (9%) had a partial response, 1 (9%) had minimal response and two (18%) had progressive disease. The median duration of response was 4 months, the median time to next treatment was 3·4 months and the median time to progression was 4 months. Pralatrexate, in combination with bortezomib, was generally safe and demonstrated modest activity in relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT01114282.
The design of an electronic circuit and plot of a printed circuit board with CAD

This paper introduces the design of an electronic circuit and the plot of a printed circuit board with CAD computer aid design
Impact of the Addition of Redox-Active Salts on the Charge Transport Ability of Radical Polymer Thin Films

Radical polymers (i.e., macromolecules composed of a nonconjugated polymer backbone and with stable radical sites present on the side chains of the repeat units) can transport charge in the solid state through oxidation–reduction (redox) reactions that occur between the electronically localized open-shell pendant groups. As such, pristine (i.e., not doped) thin films of these functional macromolecules have electrical conductivity values on the same order of magnitude as some common electronically active conjugated polymers. However, unlike the heavily evaluated regime of conjugated polymer semiconductors, the impact of molecular dopants on the optical, electrochemical, and solid-state electronic properties of radical polymers has not been established. Here, we combine a model radical polymer, poly(2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidinyloxy methacrylate) (PTMA), with a small molecule redox-active salt, 4-acetamido-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-oxopiperidinium tetrafluoroborate (TEMPOnium), in order to elucidate the effect ...
Towards Learning a Knowledge Base of Actions from Experiential Microblogs.

While today’s structured knowledge bases (e.g., Freebase) contain a sizable collection of information about entities, from celebrities and locations to concepts and common objects, there is a class of knowledge that has minimal coverage: actions. A large-scale knowledge base of actions would provide an opportunity for computing devices to aid and support people’s reasoning about their own actions and outcomes, leading to improved decision-making and goal achievement. In this short paper, we describe our first efforts towards building a distributional representation of actions and their outcomes, as learned from the timelines of individuals posting experiential microblogs.
Draft Genome Sequence of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica Serovar Kiambu Strain CRJJGF_00061 (Phylum Gammaproteobacteria)

We report a 4.58 Mbp draft genome sequence of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Kiambu strain CRJJGF_00061 isolated from cattle in 2004.
HOTMAC: Model Performance Evaluation by Using Project WIND Phase I and II Data

A three-dimensional mesoscale model, HOTMAC (Higher Order Turbulence Model for Atmospheric Circulation), was applied to simulate the data collected during Project WIND. Project WIND collected comprehensive meteorological data over complex terrain and variable land use on a scale ranging from 200 km × 200 km to 5 km × 5 km in and around the Sacramento River valley of northern California (Cionco 1991). (See also chapter 8.)
The Selective Enforcement of Government Regulation: Battleground States and the EPA

This paper examines whether government regulation is selectively enforced. In the United States, the Electoral College system determines the outcome of presidential elections. This system creates incentives for politicians to direct policy favors to those states that represent the median voter in the Electoral College (so-called "battleground" or "swing" states). In this paper, we examine whether regulators treat battleground states more favorably than non-battleground states. Specifically, we examine the probability that the EPA will find a facility in violation of the Clean Water Act if it is located in a battleground state relative to those located in non-battleground states. We find that violation rates for facilities located in battleground states are significantly lower than those in non-battleground states. Identification is obtained by the analysis of the violation rates of similar facilities located across the border between battleground and non-battleground states using a number of analytical frameworks, including difference-in-difference estimates for facilities located in states that change battleground status.
Development and evaluation of traffic signal algorithms to support future Measure of Effectiveness (MOE)

Traditional traffic control systems using sensors is associated with the problems of maintenance, limited information, and, non-real time data. Vehicle to infrastructure (V2I) communication has eliminated most of the above problems. With the advent of SAE J2735 standard and IntelliDriveSM, more real time as well as vehicle specific information is available to a traffic signal controller. Two such pieces of information (vehicle occupancy and the engine capacity) are expected to be supported by the standard. The new technology enables periodical collection of approaching vehicles' data within the communication range. This paper involves development and evaluation of adaptive traffic signal control algorithms utilizing those data elements. Main objective of designing adaptive traffic signal control is to optimize appropriate metric at an intersection. The paper presents design of such algorithms and results of their simulation. Simulation reveals that adaptive algorithms perform better (about 2.5%) than the normal algorithm in optimizing a metric.
Near-Optimal Smoothing of Structured Conditional Probability Matrices

Utilizing the structure of a probabilistic model can significantly increase its learning speed. Motivated by several recent applications, in particular bigram models in language processing, we consider learning low-rank conditional probability matrices under expected KL-risk. This choice makes smoothing, that is the careful handling of low-probability elements, paramount. We derive an iterative algorithm that extends classical non-negative matrix factorization to naturally incorporate additive smoothing and prove that it converges to the stationary points of a penalized empirical risk. We then derive sample-complexity bounds for the global minimizer of the penalized risk and show that it is within a small factor of the optimal sample complexity. This framework generalizes to more sophisticated smoothing techniques, including absolute-discounting.
Hippocampal Contributions to Language Use and Processing

Recent advances in understanding the functionality of the human hippocampus has led to a number of proposals for how hippocampus may support a range of cognitive abilities beyond memory. Building on these advances, we offered a new account of the memory-language interface [Duff and Brown-Schmidt (Front Hum Neurosci 6:69, 2012)]. We proposed that the same processes by which the hippocampal declarative memory system creates and flexibly integrates representations across diverse sources in the formation of new memories, and maintains representations on-line to be evaluated and used in service of behavioral performance, are the same processes necessary for the flexible use and on-line processing of language. This proposal leads to a set of testable predictions and hypotheses about how language and memory work together and argues that efforts to examine the relationship between memory and language are best served by broad-scope approaches that include the study of a range of communicative activities, including those that are characteristic of everyday language use. In this chapter we review the evidence for hippocampal contributions to language use across communicative phenomena (e.g., semantic representation, gesture, perspective-taking) and a range of language related processes (e.g., on-line processing, statistical learning). The present represents a time of tremendous potential for discovery and progress in the study of memory and language and for more representative, biologically plausible, and ecologically valid investigations of memory-and-language-in-use in every-day life.
A Quantitative Model of Dynamic Moral Hazard

We develop a firm-dynamics model with moral hazard, which arises because some productivity shocks are privately observed by firm managers only. We characterize the optimal contract and its implications for firm size, growth, and managerial pay-performance sensitivity, which allow us to quantify the severity of the moral hazard problem. Our estimation suggests that unobservable shocks are relatively modest and account for about 30% of the total variation of firm output. Nonetheless, moral-hazard induced incentive pay is quantitatively significant and accounts for 51% of managerial compensation. Eliminating moral hazard would result in about 3% increase in aggregate output.
Enhanced Daylighting for Deep-Plan Office Buildings

This paper presents the preliminary findings of the daylighting performance of an optical light pipe system placed in the ceiling plenum of a deep plan office space (10m x 6m x 3m). The south-facing light pipe system can efficiently deliver daylight at the back of the space; between 5m to 10m from window plane for locations between latitudes 24–66°N-S under clear sky conditions. Two identical large scale models (1:4) were used to assess the daylight performance of the light pipe over long-term periods. Results showed that the light pipe can introduce adequate light levels for visual tasks in office environments in climates with predominantly clear sky conditions. Light levels of 300–1,500 lux can be achieved at the back of the space (24 ft from window wall) for solar azimuths 60° East and West of true South (Northern Hemisphere) or true North (Southern Hemisphere) under clear sky conditions.
Topological band engineering of graphene nanoribbons

Topological insulators are an emerging class of materials that host highly robust in-gap surface or interface states while maintaining an insulating bulk1,2. Most advances in this field have focused on topological insulators and related topological crystalline insulators3 in two dimensions4-6 and three dimensions7-10, but more recent theoretical work has predicted the existence of one-dimensional symmetry-protected topological phases in graphene nanoribbons (GNRs)11. The topological phase of these laterally confined, semiconducting strips of graphene is determined by their width, edge shape and terminating crystallographic unit cell and is characterized by a [Formula: see text] invariant12 (that is, an index of either 0 or 1, indicating two topological classes-similar to quasi-one-dimensional solitonic systems13-16). Interfaces between topologically distinct GNRs characterized by different values of [Formula: see text] are predicted to support half-filled, in-gap localized electronic states that could, in principle, be used as a tool for material engineering11. Here we present the rational design and experimental realization of a topologically engineered GNR superlattice that hosts a one-dimensional array of such states, thus generating otherwise inaccessible electronic structures. This strategy also enables new end states to be engineered directly into the termini of the one-dimensional GNR superlattice. Atomically precise topological GNR superlattices were synthesized from molecular precursors on a gold surface, Au(111), under ultrahigh-vacuum conditions and characterized by low-temperature scanning tunnelling microscopy and spectroscopy. Our experimental results and first-principles calculations reveal that the frontier band structure (the bands bracketing filled and empty states) of these GNR superlattices is defined purely by the coupling between adjacent topological interface states. This manifestation of non-trivial one-dimensional topological phases presents a route to band engineering in one-dimensional materials based on precise control of their electronic topology, and is a promising platform for studies of one-dimensional quantum spin physics.
The Non-ILD Pulmonary Manifestations of RA

Pulmonary manifestations in RA can involve any of the intrathoracic compartments including the lung parenchyma, airways, pleura, and the pulmonary vasculature. Parenchymal lung disease consists of interstitial lung disease (ILD) and rheumatoid lung nodules. Rheumatoid lung nodules can be confused for malignancy. Airway diseases include cricoarytenoiditis, bronchiectasis, and small airway disease including constrictive bronchiolitis which can cause progressive airflow obstruction resulting in respiratory failure. Other forms of intrathoracic involvement include pleuritis, pleural effusion, and pulmonary vasculitis. In addition, drug-induced lung disease and pulmonary infections are relatively common in this patient population. Appropriate management of pulmonary disease in patients with RA depends on identifying the exact nature of the pulmonary involvement and its severity as well as the underlying cause and individual patient context.
A Generally Efficient HAL-TMLE

We will present a TMLE of ψ0 that is asymptotically efficient at any \(P \in \mathcal{M}\). This is a remarkable statement since we only assume strong positivity, some global bounds, and a finite variation norm of \(\bar{Q}_{0},\bar{G}_{0}\). This estimation problem for the treatment specific mean will be our key example to demonstrate a general one-step TMLE that is guaranteed to be asymptotically efficient for any model and pathwise differentiable target parameter, essentially only assuming a positivity assumption, also guaranteeing strong identifiability of the target parameter.
Specific regional differences of in vitro β-endorphin metabolism in schizophrenics

Abstract Incubation of β-endorphin (β-E; 25μM) with twice-washed brain membrane homogenates leads to the formation of several biologically active peptide fragments which have been shown to be present in the brain. Based on clinical studies, some of these endorphin fragments have been shown to be active in patients with neuropsychiatric disease states. We studied the regional specificity of β-E metabolism in frontal cortex versus putamen from sex and age matched controls versus subjects with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. The present study demonstrates that cortical tissue has a lower rate of γ-endorphin production from β-E and a similar rate of des-tyrosine-γ-endorphin production. Significant differences were noted in the production of other active fragments (β-E (1-16, 2-16, 6-21)). These results support the hypothesis that there is a regional specificity of β-E metabolism in the brain, and these differences may have important functional consequences to secreted peptides and important clinical consequences in schizophrenia.
Timelessness and Divine Action

In our discussion of the personalist objection to divine timelessness, we deliberately restricted ourselves to a consideration of that state of affairs—which according to Christian theology is metaphysically possible—of God’s existing alone sans creation, and we saw no reason to think that in such a state God could not be both timeless and personal. We had to resist the natural impulse to press the question of God’s timelessness with regard to a state of affairs of the co-existence of God and a temporal world. But now we want to address that question squarely.
Language: Being Fluid

Many scientists and engineers mistakenly believe that scientific writing must be dull. Unfortunately, their writing reflects that misconception. It is dull, needlessly dull. Many scientists and engineers undercut the purpose of scientific writing—to inform—with sentences and paragraphs that drag and with discontinuities in language that trip readers. Scientists and engineers study the most fascinating subjects in the world: solar systems, animal and plant kingdoms, the inner workings of atoms and nuclei. Why then do so many scientists and engineers resign themselves to prose styles that are sluggish, that are without life?
Correlating Radiographical and Pathological Response to Immunotherapy in Primary Brain Tumors (P4.157)

Objective: The radiographic response of primary brain tumors to immunotherapy is poorly understood. This study investigates the imaging and pathological characteristics of primary brain tumors after exposure to immunotherapy. Background: Immunotherapy amplifies the innate immune response to solid cancers. For example, inhibitors of immune checkpoints PD-1 and CTLA-4 block signals to inhibitory T cells, thus increasing the T-cell mediated response to non-self antigens. In prior studies, a subset of systemic cancers treated with immunotherapy demonstrate radiographic worsening prior to pathological/clinical response to treatment. While this phenomenon of “pseudo-progression” has been described in primary brain tumors after temozolomide and radiation, the radiographic response to immunotherapy is poorly characterized. Design/Methods: Inclusion criteria are 1) primary brain cancer diagnosis, 2) second resection, and 3) use of immunotherapy prior to re-resection. “Immunotherapy” includes PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors, or dendritic cell vaccines. Patients can utilize other chemotherapies and/or tumor treating fields, concurrently. Radiographical response on MRI is defined by RANO (Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology ) criteria. Pathological diagnosis is defined by WHO criteria. Results: At our center, 90 patients with primary brain cancers received immunotherapy during the course of cancer treatment. 10 of these patients (9 glioblastoma and 1 anaplastic astrocytoma) had re-resection after initiation of immunotherapy, with radiographical progression at 0.6–9.6 months, and repeat resection at 0.7–12.6 months. Of the 10 patients, resection pathology was characterized as predominantly treatment effect in 4 patients, and predominantly recurrent tumor in 6 patients. Further analysis will be done to characterize the molecular and genetic characteristics of resection tissue. Conclusions: Given promise in other cancer fields, immunotherapy is becoming increasingly popular in the treatment of primary brain cancer. In this limited case series, 4 out of 10 patients treated with immunotherapy had radiographic progression without significant pathologic progression. This suggests that immunotherapy may be continued past radiographic progression. Disclosure: Dr. Schulte has nothing to disclose. Dr. Canoll has nothing to disclose. Dr. Lignelli has nothing to disclose. Dr. Iwamoto has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Merck, Abbvie, Novocure.
Declining Versus Increasing Access to American Aviation Technology: Syria and Saudi Arabia in the 20th Century

AbstractThis article uses Syria and Saudi Arabia as contrasting examples of how different Arab states interacted with United States aviation technology, involving aviation technology companies, air...
Fostering scholarship in doctoral education: Using a social capital framework to support PhD student writing groups.

Abstract The shortage of nurse scientists in the United States complicates nursing's ability to sustain research-intensive environments, build knowledge for translation, and advance nursing science. More emphasis is needed on the preparation of PhD doctoral students to better equip them for a career of scholarship. Four recent PhD graduates participating in a writing group, examined the influence of social capital on their ability to develop capacity for scholarship. They found that a strong social factor supported their efforts to engage as scholars, be accountable for their writing, and make contributions to the research community. Although the writing group provided a space to practice scholarly writing and increased scholarly productivity, the experience was transformative in building capacity for scholarship. This article includes recommendations for academic leaders to both create and support writing groups within doctoral nursing programs using a social capital framework. Strategies are provided using the three dimensions of social capital: structural, relational, and cognitive. Investing in strategies that build social capital within a community can directly impact the advancement of science by elevating capacity for scholarship.
Strain-specific altered nicotine metabolism in 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM) exposed mice

Two indole compounds, indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and its acid condensation product, 3,3'-diindolymethane (DIM), have been shown to suppress the expression of flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMO) and to induce some hepatic cytochrome P450s (CYPs) in rats. In liver microsomes prepared from rats fed I3C or DIM, FMO-mediated nicotine N-oxygenation was decreased, whereas CYP-mediated nicotine metabolism to nicotine iminium and subsequently to cotinine was unchanged. Therefore, it was hypothesized that in mice DIM would also suppress nicotine N-oxygenation without affecting CYP-mediated nicotine metabolism. Liver microsomes were produced from male and female C57BL/6 J and CD1 mice fed 2500 parts per million (ppm) DIM for 14 days. In liver microsomes from DIM-fed mice, FMO-mediated nicotine N-oxygenation did not differ from the controls, but CYP-mediated nicotine metabolism was significantly increased, with results varying by sex and strain. To confirm the effects of DIM in vivo, control and DIM-fed CD1 male mice were injected subcutaneously with nicotine, and the plasma concentrations of nicotine, cotinine and nicotine-N-oxide were measured over 30 minutes. The DIM-fed mice showed greater cotinine concentrations compared with the controls 10 minutes following injection. It is concluded that the effects of DIM on nicotine metabolism in vitro and in vivo differ between mice and rats and between mouse strains, and that DIM is an effective inducer of CYP-mediated nicotine metabolism in commonly studied mouse strains.