cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Capacity of a Class of Cognitive Radio Channels: Interference Channels With Degraded Message Sets

This correspondence is motivated by two different scenarios. The first is a cognitive radio system where a cognitive radio knows a ldquodumbrdquo radio's message and the second is a sensor network in a correlated field where sensors possessing a nested message structure assist one another's information transmission. Both scenarios are modeled using the framework of discrete memoryless interference channels with degraded message sets (IFC-DMS), a setting where one of the two transmitters in an interference channel knows both the messages to be conveyed to the receivers. Both inner and outer bounds are provided for a class of IFC-DMS channels. The case of the Gaussian interference channels with degraded message sets is also investigated. In this case, achievability and converse arguments are presented for a class of ldquoweakrdquo interference channels, resulting in a characterization of this class' capacity region.
Well-ordered self-assembled monolayer surfaces can be used to enhance the growth of protein crystals.

A series of hydrophobic self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) was generated by the adsorption of undecanethiol, dodecanethiol, and octadecanethiol onto transparent gold-coated glass microscope slides. Protein crystallization trials using droplets deposited on the surfaces of the optically transparent SAMs were compared to those for which the droplets were deposited on the surfaces of conventional silanized glass microscope slides. For the five distinct proteins examined in the crystallization trials (i.e., lysozyme, -lactalbumin, hemoglobin, thaumatin, and catalase), the SAMs generally afforded, (1) a faster rate of crystallization, (2) a larger crystal size; and (3) a broader range of crystallization conditions than that afforded by silanized glass. The greatest enhancements were observed with the highly ordered SAMs derived from octadecanethiol, which are evaluated here for the first time. © 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Effects of long-term moderate alcohol consumption on agonistic and affiliative behavior of socially housed female cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis).

Rationale: The most widely used drug in the US is alcohol. Most people who use alcohol are light-to- moderate drinkers. One or two drinks/day is thought to be not only safe but potentially health-promoting. However, little is known about the chronic effects of moderate alcohol consumption. Alcohol, even in moderate doses, has immediate and robust effects on behavior. Objec- tive: To determine the effects of long-term moderate alcohol consumption on the social interactions of adult monkeys. Methods: Forty-nine adult, ovariectomized monkeys lived in small, stable social groups for 31 months and voluntarily consumed a 2-drink/day equiva- lent (0.5 g/kg ethanol), 5 days/week for 24 months. Alcohol was presented in a sweet tasting non-nutritive vehicle to half the monkeys, while the other half received vehicle plus maltose-dextrin isocalorically substituted for alcohol. Social behavior was recorded 1 h before, 1 h after, and 5 h after alcohol. Results: Alcohol caused chronic changes in aggressive and affiliative behavior that were not dependent upon the presence of circulating alcohol. Alcohol increased physical aggression. A subset of the animals was at higher risk for alcohol-induced physical aggression. Alcohol decreased positive affiliative behaviors, increased time spent alone, and increased the frequency of extragroup vigilance. Acutely, alcohol increased the rate of behavioral pathology, i.e. stereotypic behaviors, such as hair plucking, which are normally observed only under adverse environmental conditions. Conclusions: Long-term moderate alcohol consumption caused chronic deleterious changes in the social interac- tions of primates in small, stable social groups. These data suggest that chronic moderate alcohol consumption can compromise optimal social interactions in primate spe- cies, including human beings.
Recent advances in nanopore sequencing

The prospect of nanopores as a next-generation sequencing platform has been a topic of growing interest and considerable government-sponsored research for more than a decade. Oxford Nanopore Technologies recently announced the first commercial nanopore sequencing devices, to be made available by the end of 2012, while other companies (Life, Roche, and IBM) are also pursuing nanopore sequencing approaches. In this paper, the state of the art in nanopore sequencing is reviewed, focusing on the most recent contributions that have or promise to have next-generation sequencing commercial potential. We consider also the scalability of the circuitry to support multichannel arrays of nanopores in future sequencing devices, which is critical to commercial viability.
A 7T spine array based on electric dipole transmitters.

Purpose The goal of this study was to explore the feasibility of using an array of electric dipole antennas for RF transmission in spine MRI at high fields. Method A two-channel transmit array based on an electric dipole design was quantitatively optimized for 7T spine imaging and integrated with a receive array combining eight loop coils. Using mapping, the transmit efficiency of the dipole array was compared with a design using quadrature loop pairs. The radiofrequency energy deposition for each array was measured using a home-built dielectric phantom and MR thermometry. The performance of the proposed array was qualitatively demonstrated in human studies. Results The results indicate dramatically improved transmit efficiency for the dipole design compared with the loop excitation. A gain of up to 76% was achieved within the spinal region. Conclusion For imaging of the spine, electric dipole–based transmitters provide an attractive alternative to the traditional loop-based design. Easy integration with existing receive array technology facilitates practical use at high fields. Magn Reson Med 74:1189–1197, 2015. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Some applications of algebra to combinatories

Stanley, R.P., Some applications of algebra to combinatorics, Discrete Applied Mathematics 34 (1991) 241-277.
Should Policy Makers Strive for Neighborhood Social Mix? An Analysis of the Western European Evidence Base

The paper presents an analytical framework for elucidating the equity and social efficiency criteria that might be used to justify a housing policy aiming for a substantial mix of neighborhood residents by income, ethnicity and/or immigrant status. This framework permits the classification of multivariate statistical studies comprising the Western European evidence base and shows the importance of distinguishing intra- and extra-neighborhood processes when evaluating evidence related to the efficiency criterion. Evaluation of the evidence base in light of this framework reveals that it sufficiently supports a mixing policy aimed at avoiding concentrations of disadvantaged individuals if, and only if, policy makers emphasize equity grounds (i.e. improving the well-being of the disadvantaged absolutely). The evidence base does not support a mixing policy on efficiency grounds, regardless of whether intra-neighborhood social interactions or extra-neighborhood stigmatization/resource restrictions are presumed...
Selective Oestrogen Receptor Modulators Differentially Potentiate Brain Mitochondrial Function

The mitochondrial energy-transducing capacity of the brain is important for long-term neurological health and is influenced by endocrine hormone responsiveness. The present study aimed to determine the role of oestrogen receptor (ER) subtypes in regulating mitochondrial function using selective agonists for ERα (propylpyrazoletriol; PPT) and ERβ (diarylpropionitrile; DPN). Ovariectomised female rats were treated with 17β-oestradiol (E(2) ), PPT, DPN or vehicle control. Both ER selective agonists significantly increased the mitochondrial respiratory control ratio and cytochrome oxidase (COX) activity relative to vehicle. Western blots of purified whole brain mitochondria detected ERα and, to a greater extent, ERβ localisation. Pre-treatment with DPN, an ERβ agonist, significantly increased ERβ association with mitochondria. In the hippocampus, DPN activated mitochondrial DNA-encoded COX I expression, whereas PPT was ineffective, indicating that mechanistically ERβ, and not ERα, activated mitochondrial transcriptional machinery. Both selective ER agonists increased protein expression of nuclear DNA-encoded COX IV, suggesting that activation of ERβ or ERα is sufficient. Selective ER agonists up-regulated a panel of bioenergetic enzymes and antioxidant defence proteins. Up-regulated proteins included pyruvate dehydrogenase, ATP synthase, manganese superoxide dismutase and peroxiredoxin V. In vitro, whole cell metabolism was assessed in live primary cultured hippocampal neurones and mixed glia. The results of analyses conducted in vitro were consistent with data obtained in vivo. Furthermore, lipid peroxides, accumulated as a result of hormone deprivation, were significantly reduced by E(2) , PPT and DPN. These findings suggest that the activation of both ERα and ERβ is differentially required to potentiate mitochondrial function in brain. As active components in hormone therapy, synthetically designed oestrogens as well as natural phyto-oestrogen cocktails can be tailored to improve brain mitochondrial endpoints.
A description of an effective process for dealing with complex ethical dilemmas in a tertiary children's hospital

Background ‘A’ was referred to the hospital clinical ethics committee; with a rare, genetic, severely life-limiting condition with learning difficulties, endocrine, metabolic and skeletal problems; leading to multi-systemic complications. The key issues were: –To determine the limits of medical treatment in complex cases, involving several professionals. –Dealing with conflict when there was a discrepancy between parental and clinician views –How to determine the best interests of the child. Aims To discuss analytically, the ethical issues identified in the case of a child presenting with a rare and complex syndrome, with repeated admissions. To disseminate learning around the process used in a tertiary Children9s Hospital, of dealing with complex ethical dilemmas. Methods An analysis of the issues was undertaken, using principles and concepts of medical ethics and law. The process involved detailed, critical and reflective discussions between the referring team and the members of the clinical ethics committee over a continuous period. Parental views as well as ‘A9s wishes were ascertained using specialist input. Results The process was felt to be very helpful for all involved with the following benefits and learning points: –It was a good experience to learn to “hear the voice of the mute child” and make ‘A’ central to decision-making, rather than professional or parental views. –A consensus was achieved on a management plan which felt quite enabling and supportive to the clinical team –It optimised use of clinical and legal resources in the Trust. –It contributed to embed the ethics committee more firmly within the clinical governance arrangements of the hospital contributing towards good quality care. –It helped sustain a fragile therapeutic relationship with the family at a difficult juncture –It potentially helped change practice in a positive way. –Important to involve all the clinical team members rather than the referrer alone. –Flexibility needed in arranging meetings repeatedly and at short notice. Conclusions There is experiential evidence that referring complex clinical dilemmas to an ethics committee improves clinical effectiveness and patient experience. This needs to be formally evaluated.
Solution of a module orientation and rotation problem

The authors study a module orientation and rotation problem. They assume that a set of rectangular modules has been placed according to proximity requirements while they still have the freedom to choose the orientation of the modules, to rotate the modules, and to shift the pins along the boundary of each module. They propose a fast heuristic algorithm to solve the problem, minimising the total length of the connecting wires. Their algorithm produces very good experimental results in no more than two minutes of computation time for problems with hundreds and even thousands of modules. >
The Influence of Job Satisfaction, Organizational Commitment, and Fairness Perceptions on Organizational Citizenship Behavior

Abstract Previous research has indicated that job satisfaction, perceptions of procedural justice, and organizational commitment are all significant correlates of organizational citizenship behavior (OCB). Those variables were studied collectively to determine their relative effects on OCB. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that when all three of the variables were considered concurrently, only organizational commitment accounted for a unique amount of variance in OCB.
Reply from authors re: Homayoun Zargar, Riccardo Autorino, Oktay Akca, Jihad H. Kaouk. Anatomic complexity of renal masses and outcomes of minimally invasive partial nephrectomy: do we have an answer? Eur Urol 2014;66:894-6: contact surface area, a novel parameter, may outperform nephrometry systems in predicting complexity of partial nephrectomy surgery.

[7] Venkatesh R, Weld K, Ames CD, et al. Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for renal masses: effect of tumor location. Urology 2006;67: 1169–74, discussion 1174. [8] Porpiglia F, Volpe A, Billia M, Renard J, Scarpa RM. Assessment of risk factors for complications of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. Eur Urol 2008;53:590–6. [9] Autorino R, Khalifeh A, Laydner H, et al. Robotic partial nephrectomy for completely endophytic renal masses: a single institution experience. BJU Int 2014;113:762–8. [10] Khalifeh A, Autorino R, Hillyer SP, et al. Comparative outcomes and assessment of trifecta in 500 robotic and laparoscopic partial nephrectomy cases: a single surgeon experience. J Urol 2013;189: 1236–42. [11] Ficarra V, Bhayani S, Porter J, et al. Predictors ofwarm ischemia time and perioperative complications in a multicenter, international
DISTRIBUTION OF FLOW AND PLASMA SKIMMING IN ISOLATED PERFUSED GILLS OF THREE TELEOSTS

Distribution of flow and red cells between the efferent (epibranchial) and venous pathways was examined with an isolated perfused gill adapted to collect the two effluents separately. Gills from two fish species (Ictalurids) with abundant prelamellar arteriovenous anastomoses (AVAs) were compared with those of the trout which contain few AVAs. The gills were perfused with Ringer or Ringer containing 51Cr-tagged red cells (blood). In Ringer-perfused gills, efferent outflow decreased as efferent pressure increased. Epinephrine prevented the decrease in efferent flow at elevated efferent pressures. In all species around one-third of the control blood perfusing the gill drained via the venous pathway. At constant efferent pressure epinephrine increased and acetylcholine decreased efferent outflow. These results suggest that tonic adrenergic stimulation is necessary for normal branchial perfusion. The haematocrit of efferent effluent was greater than venous effluent in all species. No consistent effects of epinephrine or acetylcholine on plasma skimming were observed. Comparison of measured microhaematocrit and haematocrit values calculated from 51Cr red cell space suggests that the red cells in the venous effluent are larger than those from the efferent pathway and supports the concept of a nutritive function for the venous pathway.
Multi-sensor Acquisition, Data Fusion, Criteria Mining and Alarm Triggering for Decision Support in Urban Water Infrastructure Systems

Frequent adjustment of the drinking water treatment process as a simultaneous response to climate variations, and the impact those variations have on water quality, has been a grand challenge in water resource management in recent years. An early warning system with the aid of satellite remote sensing and local sensor networks, which provides timely and quantitative knowledge to monitor the quality of water, may be a soluition to this challenge. The development of such an early warning system is addressed to discover and evaluate the severity in a discrete event mode in this paper. The early warning system in the current study is able to empower the urban water ifrastructure systems with the integration of advanced data science, environmental monitoring, computational intelligence, and satellite remote sensing data. By developing a graphical user interface, end-users who do not have knowledge or skill in the field of integrated sensing, monitoring, networking, modeling can take advantage of the user-friendly early warning system. Practical implementation of the proposed early warning system was assessed at the largest resrvoir, Lake Mead, in Las Vegas in the United States. It uniquely demonstrates how such a system can benefit the drinking water treatment plant throughout decision support actions via multi-sensor acquisition, data fusion, criteria mining and alarm trigerring.
Abstract 3308: Endovascular Treatment For Distal Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusions In Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Comparative Analysis.

Background: While, endovascular treatment is advocated for proximal arteries including M1 segment of middle cerebral artery (MCA), the role in distal middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusions which are not always amenable to mechanical thrombectomy remains controversial. Objective: To compare outcomes in endovascularly treated patients with distal MCA occlusions (M2 or beyond) with those treated with IV rt-PA or no treatment Methods: Consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke with distal MCA (M2 and beyond) occlusions diagnosed by either computed tomographic angiography (CTA) or catheter angiography over the last seven years were analyzed. We compared the rates of favorable outcome and mortality between the two groups. Favorable outcome was defined by discharge modified Rankin scale (mRS) score of 0-2. Multivariate logistical regression was performed to compare the outcomes after adjusting for potential confounders. Results: 96 patients were included; mean age of 66.7±16.4, 44 (45.8%) were women. Of these 96 patients, 44 (45.8%) patients underwent endovascular treatment and 52 patients were treated with IV rt-PA or no treatment. There was no statistical difference in age, or cardiovascular risk factors between the two groups. Favorable outcome defined by mRS at discharge was similar 46% vs. 43%, p-value = 0.7. After adjusting for age, gender, cardiovascular risk factors, and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score on admission, patients with endovascular treatment had a trend towards higher rates of favorable outcome; odds ratio (OR) 2.912 (confidence interval [CI] 0.807- 10.507) and lower rates of in-hospital mortality; OR 0.416 (CI 0.086 - 2.018). Conclusion: Endovascular treatment may improve outcomes in patients with distal MCA occlusions and should be explored in future studies.
Behavioral and emotional factors: comparisons of anovulatory infertile women with fertile and other infertile women

This controlled study compared behavioral and emotional factors in a group of anovulatory infertile women requesting treatment to achieve pregnancy. The sample comprised 49 women with secondary amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea in the treatment group, 141 women in the fertile comparison group, and 104 women with diagnoses other than anovulation in an infertile comparison group. Scores on the Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL-90), the Eysenck Personality Inventory, the Langner Screening Scale, a Mood Analog Scale, and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) were in the normal range and did not differ significantly between the groups. On other measures, the treatment group rated itself significantly less potent than to partner, mother, or father and reported more inhibited sexual attitudes than the comparison groups. Conclusions were that neurotic personality structure or psychopathology were not significantly greater in the treatment group than in the comparison groups. Whether the lower self-esteem and inhibited sexual attitudes of the treatment group resulted from or preceded infertility could not be determined.
Sleep loss and performance in residents and nonphysicians: a meta-analytic examination.

Study Objectives: To explore the effect of sleep loss on cognitive function, memory, and vigilance in resident physicians and nonphysicians and on residents' clinical performance. Design: Meta-analysis of 60 studies on the effect of sleep deprivation, with a total sample of 959 physicians and 1,028 nonphysicians and 5,295 individual effect indexes. Outcome Measures: Cognitive performance and performance on clinical tasks under acute and partial chronic sleep deprivation. Additional analyses stratified the data by physician/nonphysician, type of performance, and length and type of sleep loss and assessed the combined effect of several of these factors. Results: Sleep loss of less than 30 hours reduced physicians' overall performance by nearly 1 standard deviation and clinical performance by more than 1.5 standard deviations. The effect of sleep deprivation was larger in nonphysicians than in physicians (corrected d value -.995 vs -.880), with these smaller effects likely resulting from study factors, primarily variation in the hours without sleep prior and chronically reduced sleep in the rested controls in physician studies. Conclusions: The weekly hours and continuous wakefulness permitted under the current national minimum standards for residents may not completely guard against the negative effect of sleep loss on cognitive and clinical performance. Research is needed to explore the effect of continuous duty periods and chronic partial sleep loss in residents and to assess the clinical and educational consequences of sleep loss. The goal should be to combine scientifically based duty-hour limits with broader efforts to enhance patient safety and resident learning.
Saphenous vein bypass graft in the treatment of renovascular hypertension.

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS The aortorenal bypass graft is not a new technique and has been used by others in treating renovascular hypertension with varying degrees of success. The saphenous vein is re adily available and easy to work with surgically. The ovarian and spermatic veins are too thin-walled and may rupture when placed under arterial blood pressure. The internal iliac and splenic arteries make excellent bypass grafts and when available and free of disease they may be used. The Dacron graft is more difficult to work with and has a greater tendency to thrombose in the early postoperative period, particularly when the runoff to the kidney is poor because of disease in the smaller renal vessels as is seen with arteriolar nephrosclerosis.8 Long-term results with the Dacron graft appear to be quite satisfactory, with patency being maintained for long periods of time.6 Aortorenal bypass grafts have been used to treat 81 patients with renovascular hypertension. The operative procedure has been described and the complications discussed. The overall results have been 52 per cent cured, 36 per cent improved (88 per cent cured or improved), and 12 per cent failures. The best results were generally obtained in patients with one of the fibrous diseases affecting the renal artery. In patients with bilateral disease only one kidney should be revascularized initially, selecting the side with the most severe degree of stenosis and/or the highest renal vein renin. In many of these patients, cure (46 per cent) or improvement (37 per cent) may be achieved without repair of the contralateral renal artery. The contralateral artery is repaired if the hypertension is not cured or easily controlled with medication, or if the patient develops progressive renal insufficiency. Revascularization of the kidney by aortorenal bypass grafts has proved to be a sound surgical procedure for the treatment of renovascular hypertension. Autogenous artery is probably the best material to be used for bypass grafts, but unfortunately it is often not available. The saphenous vein bypass graft has proved to be an excellent choice in those patients with renovascular hypertension.
The economics of uncomplicated mitral valve surgery.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS OF THE STUDY Comparisons of mitral valve (MV) replacement and reconstruction have demonstrated lower overall complication rates, better left ventricular (LV) function, and inferred overall lower cost for the latter procedure compared with the former. However, assessment of economic differences between the two procedures in routine cases, without complications, has not been reported. This study retrospectively evaluates the economic impact of uncomplicated MV repair versus replacement. METHODS As this study seeks only to evaluate economic comparisons between routine cases of mitral repair versus replacement, those patients having concomitant procedures performed (coronary revascularization or other valve procedure) or postoperative complications (i.e. pulmonary failure, wound infections, new-onset atrial fibrillation, return for bleeding, or neurologic sequelae) were excluded from the study. Among patients who underwent uncomplicated MV procedures, 30 were selected at random and reviewed. RESULTS Variables for MV replacement versus reconstruction included aortic cross-clamp time (112 +/- 54 versus 92 +/- 20 min; p = NS), cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time (189 +/- 70 versus 128 +/- 18 min; p < 0.05), total hospital stay (8.3 +/- 1.6 versus 5.6 +/- 1.6 days; p < 0.0001), and total hospital charges ($44,697 +/- 4903 versus $31,337 +/- 4484; p < 0.0001), respectively. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that, beyond the recognized benefits of MV reconstruction, namely preservation of LV function and avoidance of long-term anticoagulation, there is an economic advantage to MV reconstruction for patients and payors, even in uncomplicated cases. These differences may become more apparent with longer follow-up and in patients having poor function or combined procedures. This finding reinforces the idea that MV reconstruction is the option of choice for patients with mitral regurgitation.
The Mancunian Paradigm, James Peake and the Hawkshead of William Wordsworth

For Wordsworth, the soul of education was certainly not ‘the little that can be learned from books and a master’; what mattered was ‘all that life and nature teach’ (LY II: 19). We have noticed that Wordsworth felt himself an outsider at Cambridge, that he was ‘not for that hour, / Nor for that place’ (Prelude 3.81-2). Did Wordsworth similarly feel estranged at Hawkshead and simply learn from nature? Perhaps the answer is in the following from The Prelude: the earth And common face of Nature spake to me Rememberable things; sometimes, ‘tis true, By chance collisions and quaint accidents (Like those ill-sorted unions, work supposed Of evil-minded fairies), yet not vain Nor profitless, if haply they impressed Collateral objects and appearances, Albeit lifeless then, and doomed to sleep Until maturer seasons called them forth To impregnate and to elevate the mind. (1.586-96)
Metrics for Developing Functional Requirements and Selecting Design Parameters in Axiomatic Design

Abstract This work studies the systematic use of metrics for developing design decompositions in axiomatic design (AD). The supposition is that a rigorous use of metrics will guide the formulation of superior functional requirements (FRs), and the selection of the best design parameters (DPs). Good FRs are essential for satisfying the customer needs (CNs). The metrics and equations relating FRs to their parents and to the corresponding DPs can be useful for complying with the axioms and for verbalizing FRs. Quantitative value chains, along with targeting and tolerancing chains, which start with the CNs, are proposed The use of adaptive designs, whereby a design solution can evolve to respond to changing circumstances, are also mentioned.
Beyond acceptability and feasibility: moving mHealth into impact.

In this issue of Mhealth , Jenkins et al . (1) offer a summary describing attitudes of 60 stroke patients towards the use of mobile phone tools—specifically smart phones—to monitor blood pressure and facilitate medication adherence.
A LEMMA ON OPTIMIZATION OF A MATRIX FUNCTION AND A REVIEW OF THE UNIFIED THEORY OF LINEAR ESTIMATION

Abstract A method of computing the minimum of the matrix valued function A′VA - F′ A - A′ F of a matrix argument A subject to a constrainst of the form X′ A = P is proposed. The solultion is used to develop a unified theory of estimation in the mixed effects linear model Y ˜ = X β ˜ +U ξ ˜ +ɛ without making any assumptions on the ranks of the matrices X, U or of the dispersion matrices of ξ ˜ and ∈ ˜ . The estimates of X β ˜ , U ξ ˜ and ∈ ˜ depend on the elements of a g-inverse of a partitioned matrix as in the case of the fixed effects model (see Rao (1971, 1972, 1973, 1985)). A New concept of conditioned equations (similar to that of normal equations) is introduced for simultaneous estimation of fixed effects ( X β ˜ ), random effects (U ξ ˜ ), and the error ( ∈ ˜ ). The paper is self contained and simplifies the approach presented in earlier papers of the author on a unified theory of linear estimation based on minimizing a quadratic form.
Global change in flood and drought intensities under climate change in the 21 st century

Global warming is expected to intensify the Earth’s hydrological cycle and increase flood and drought risks. Changes in global high and low streamflow extremes over the 21st century under two warming scenarios are analyzed as indicators of hydrologic flood and drought intensity, using an ensemble of bias-corrected global climate model (GCM) fields fed into different global hydrological models (GHMs). Based on multi-model mean, approximately 37 % and 43 % of global land areas are exposed to increases in flood and drought intensities, respectively, by the end of the 21st century under RCP8.5 scenario. The average rates of increase in flood and drought intensities in those areas are projected to be 24.5 % and 51.5 %, respectively. Nearly 10 % of the global land areas are under the potential risk of simultaneous increase in both flood and drought intensities, with average rates of 10.1 % and 19.8 %, respectively; further, these regions tend to be highly populated parts of the globe, currently holding around 30 % of the world’s population (over 2.1 billion people). In a world more than 4 degrees warmer by the end of the 21 st century compared to the pre-industrial era (RCP8.5 scenario), increases in flood and drought intensities are projected to be nearly twice as large as in a 2 degree warmer world (RCP2.6 scenario). Results also show that GHMs contribute to more uncertainties in streamflow changes than the GCMs. Under both forcing scenarios, there is high model agreement for significant increases in streamflow of the regions near and above the Arctic Circle, and consequent increases in the freshwater inflow to the Arctic Ocean, while subtropical arid areas experience reduction in streamflow.
La selección del subjuntivo español: su análisis y desarrollo en los aprendices de segunda lengua

Este estudio examina las dificultades que tienen los aprendices adultos de espanol como segunda lengua para adquirir el modo subjuntivo. En contextos formales de ensenanza y para aquellos cuya lengua materna es el ingles, este modo presenta retos particulares pues los aprendices cuentan con modelos pobres sobre los cuales elaborar hipotesis de su uso. El diseno experimental involucro veinticuatro hablantes distribuidos en los niveles intermedio y avanzado de espanol como segunda lengua y un grupo de control compuesto por doce hablantes nativos del espanol. Adicionalmente, se utilizaron dos pruebas para la recoleccion de los datos: una prueba de produccion controlada y otra de comprension basada en juicios de aceptabilidad. Los resultados muestran que los aprendices experimentan dificultades por la forma en que representan los factores semanticos asociados al modo subjuntivo espanol y desarrollan diversas etapas en la adquisicion del mismo que pueden estar eventualmente influidas por la instruccion.
Pedagogy of the anxious: rethinking critical pedagogy in the context of neoliberal autonomy and responsibilization

AbstractCritical pedagogy, and the work of Paulo Freire in particular, understands the struggle for emancipation as involving the emergence, as historical subjects, of those who have been marginalized. In this regard, this tradition could be said to foreground a politics of the subject as central to its philosophy. However, scholars of critical pedagogy have not adequately attended to the reorganization of subjectivity that neoliberalism itself proposes. In the context of a pervasive anxiety produced by contemporary processes of precarity and fragmentation, neoliberalism asks us to understand ourselves on the basis of principles of individual responsibility, autonomy, and competition. Starting from the Foucauldian notion of governmentality and the Lacanian notions of drive and desire, I describe how this neoliberal recomposition of the subject poses a challenge to key principles in critical pedagogy. Thus, Freire’s account of the paralysis that characterizes the oppressed stands in contrast to the particu...
Regularity with interior point control. Part I: Wave and Euler-Bernoulli equations

We study the regularity of wave equations and Euler-Bernoulli equations defined on an open bounded domain Ω, dim Ω=1, 2, 3, and subject to the action of point control (through the Dirac distribution 6) at an interior point of Ω. A general approach is used which applies to other dynamics as well (e.g., Kirchhoff equations as in Part II [T.1]). For waves and Kirchhoff equations the results are “1/2+e” sharper in space Sobolev regularity over those that can be obtained by simply using that 6 e [Hα (Ω)]', α=3/2+E, 1+E, 1/2+E, for N=3, 2, 1. Instead, in the case of Euler-Bernoulli or Schrodinger equations, the sharp approach produces only an “e-improvement.”
Impact of Cardiovascular Risk on the Relative Benefit and Harm of Intensive Treatment of Hypertension

Abstract Background The lower rate of primary outcome events in the intensive treatment group in SPRINT (Systolic Pressure Intervention Trial) was associated with increased clinically significant serious adverse events (SAEs). In 2017, the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association issued risk-based blood pressure treatment guidelines. The authors hypothesized that stratification of the SPRINT population by degree of future cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk might identify a group which could benefit the most from intensive treatment. Objectives This study investigated the effect of baseline 10-year CVD risk on primary outcome events and all-cause SAEs in SPRINT. Methods Stratifying by quartiles of baseline 10-year CVD risk, Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the associations of treatment group with the primary outcome events and SAEs. Using multiplicative Poisson regression, a predictive model was developed to determine the benefit-to-harm ratio as a function of CVD risk. Results Within each quartile, there was a lower rate of primary outcome events and no significant differences in all-cause SAEs for the intensive treatment group compared to the standard treatment group. From the first to fourth quartiles, the number needed to treat to prevent primary outcomes decreased from 91 to 38. The number needed to harm for all-cause SAEs increased from 62 to 250. The predictive model demonstrated significantly increasing benefit-to-harm ratios (± SE) of 0.50 ± 0.15, 0.78 ± 0.26, 2.13 ± 0.73, and 4.80 ± 1.86, for the first, second, third, and fourth quartile, respectively (p for trend Conclusions In SPRINT, those with lower baseline CVD risk had more harm than benefit from intensive treatment, whereas those with higher risk had more benefit. With the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association blood pressure treatment guidelines, this analysis may help providers and patients make decisions regarding the intensity of blood pressure treatment.
Michele Swanson: A Rewarding Career and Life in Balance

Michele Swanson credits Title IX for providing her the opportunity for a university education, during which she began the scientific training that has led to her current position as president-elect of the American Society for Microbiology. Michele’s story is inspirational, for she has charted a unique, rewarding, and balanced path. Michele has contributed in many significant ways to the field of microbiology, recognized and seized opportunities, and done so by making wise professional and personal choices. This chapter, by Brian Hammer, is a reflection on his Ph.D. mentor during her early career as an assistant professor, looking at her scientific influences prior to and her accomplishments since that time.
Distal Predominance of Electrodiagnostic Abnormalities in Early-Stage Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.

INTRODUCTION In this study we compared the electrodiagnostic (EDX) yield of limb muscles in revealing lower motor neuron (LMN) dysfunction by electromyography (EMG) in early-stage amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). METHODS This investigation was undertaken as a retrospective review at a single center. RESULTS Our study included 122 consecutive patients with possible ALS, as defined by revised El Escorial criteria. Distal limb muscles showed more frequent EMG abnormalities than proximal muscles. EDX yield was found to be higher in the limb where weakness began and when clinical signs of LMN dysfunction were evident. Adoption of the Awaji criteria significantly increased the yield of EMG-positive segments in the cervical (P < 0.0005) and lumbosacral (P < 0.0001) regions, and upgraded 19 patients into the probable category and 1 patient into the definite category. DISCUSSION EMG abnormalities are predominant in the distal limb in early-stage ALS. A redefinition of an EDX-positive cervical or lumbosacral segment, with an emphasis on distal limb muscles, may result in an earlier ALS diagnosis. Muscle Nerve 58: 389-395, 2018.
Tools Matter: Mediated Writing Activity in Alternative Digital Environments:

This study examines the experiences and perceptions of writers who composed text using “distraction-free” writing tools that stand as alternatives to standard word processing programs. The purpose ...
Post-injection strategies for gasoline compression ignition combustion under high load conditions: Understanding the role of premixed, main, and post-injections in soot mitigation and load extension

Abstract Engine experiments and computational fluid dynamics modeling (CFD) were used to isolate and understand the role of premixed, main, and post-injections in soot mitigation and load extension for high-load GCI operation. Results showed that for all the three injection strategies soot emissions increased with increasing load. For the post-injection cases, soot emissions increased as the dwell time between the main and the post-injection increased. However, adding load through post-injections resulted in higher soot emissions compared to the baseline injection strategy irrespective of the SOI timing of the post-injection. Premixing a portion of the main injection fuel reduced the soot emissions for the post-injection cases, but they remained higher compared to the baseline injection strategy. The CFD modeling showed that the post-injection cases resulted in lower soot formation when compared to the baseline injection strategy. However, the increased injection durations at high-load conditions resulted in soot being formed late in the cycle from the post-injection where the temperatures dropped rapidly, slowing down the soot oxidation rates. This resulted in higher net soot production for the post-injection cases compared to the single long main injection cases. This temperature effect on soot emissions was enhanced, as the post-injection SOI timing was delayed, resulting in increased soot emissions with increasing dwell time. Premixing a portion of the main injection fuel reduced the soot emissions for the post-injection strategies, as the well-mixed premixed fuel combusts without forming any soot. When a similar study was repeated under low- and mid-load conditions using the validated CFD model, post-injections showed a benefit with a maximum reduction in soot of ∼62% compared to the baseline strategy. This was because, similar to the high-load conditions, the fuel from the post-injection was targeted at a different region in the combustion chamber relative to the main injection, which provided better access to the oxygen to both the main and the post-injections. However, compared to high-load conditions, since the duration of the main and the post-injection is shorter, it allowed the SOI timing of the post-injection to be advanced closer to TDC without overlapping with the main injection. The advanced post-injection timing, combined with the shorter duration of the post-injection, resulted in the fuel being delivered sufficiently early in the cycle. This provided enough residence time in the high-temperature regions to oxidize the soot formed from the post-injection completely, resulting in reduced soot emissions compared to the case without the post-injection.
Family Medicine Preceptorships for First Year Medical Students: Durable Educational Value Amid Healthcare Transformation

In existence for decades, the first year required Family Medicine Preceptorship at the Duluth regional campus of the University of Minnesota Medical School has provided students with opportunities to work with regional family physicians. Exposing medical students to excellent primary care of patients early in the curriculum remains an educational priority. This time series analysis for the years 1992, 2002 and 2012 examines the physician’s practice structure (physician-owner versus employed physician) along with physician willingness to participate. As anticipated, the data demonstrate a transition from independent practice to larger health systems; physicians in large health systems at 22.9% (1992); 28.8% (2002); and 64.3% (2012). In addition, a downward trend in the percentage of physicians agreeing to serve as preceptors is reported (1992 at 83.61%; 2002 at 70.97%; and 2012 at 61.22%). This time series analysis also provides comparative data summarizing student opinion and evaluation of these experiences from the years 1992, 2012 and 2015. Despite changes in practice structure and fewer physicians agreeing to precept, the data demonstrate consistently high ratings by medical students over time.
Extracting Factors: The Algebraic Picture

Typically, the factor analyst takes a careful choice of variables in the area of behavior in which he is out to test a theory or to explore structure, e.g., primary ability variables; marker variables for a supposed extravert temperament; measures which psychologists have thought to be indicators of strength of motivation; or representatives of an hypothesized learning gain pattern. As he looks at the square matrix of all correlations among, say, thirty such variables, he wants to know how many distinct independent influences—presumably decidedly fewer than thirty—can be considered responsible for the observed covariations in this domain of behavior.
Machine Learning for Predicting the Procurement of an Audit at Small Private Banks: Is the Decision to Procure an Audit Systematic?

Absent regulatory requirements, 64% of small private commercial banks voluntarily procured an independent audit in our dataset. Hence, it can be argued that an independent audit may have a perceived value. In our study, we examine whether the decision to procure an audit is systematic. First, we model and predict the decision to procure a voluntary audit using classification learning algorithms. We find, in particular, that the IBK and Random Forest learning algorithms have the highest cross-validated prediction accuracy of 81% and 80% respectively, thus supporting the claim that the decision to procure an audit is not made arbitrarily, but rather systematically, and therefore is amenable to analysis. Second, we use logistic regression to identify those characteristics that may systematically influence the decision to procure an independent audit. Generally, we find that bank size, profitability, growth, leverage, complexity of operations, and type of ownership may systematically influence the decision to procure an independent audit. In contrast, banks that are less capitalized are less likely to procure an audit.
Combination of capillary isoelectric focusing and liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry for protein characterization

On-line capillary isoelectric focusing (CIEF)-electrospray ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (ESI-TOFMS) as a two-dimensional separation system is employed for high resolution analysis of model proteins (myoglobin and b-lactoglobulin) and human hemoglobin variants C, S, F, and A. The focused proteins in a polyacrylamide-coated capillary are mobilized by replacing the sodium hydroxide catholyte with a sheath liquid solution containing methanol-water-acetic acid in a volume ratio of 80:19:1. The use of sheath liquid also establishes the electrical connection at the CIEF capillary terminus, which serves to define the elearic field along the CIEF capillary and apply an electric voltage for electrospray ionization. At the end of the CIEF capillary, the mobilized protein zones are analyzed and directly identified by ESI-TOFMS. The TOFMS accumulates spectra at 5000 Hz frequency
“OMICS”: PROTEOMICS | Imaging MS in Proteomics

The development of mass spectrometric imaging (MSI) as a tool to study the native distribution of molecules within a biological tissue presents an intriguing method for proteomic studies. Within a single experiment, the distribution of hundreds of compounds such as peptides and proteins may be studied including both known and previously uncharacterized compounds. MSI typically uses a microprobe ionization source to collect mass spectra from hundreds or thousands of spatially defined locations across a sample which enables the creation of distribution maps of selected signals following data acquisition. Although relatively little sample preparation is required for such analyses, retaining the native distribution of compounds of interest is required and specific steps must be taken to limit analyte redistribution during tissue processing. Here we present a review of MSI methods and instrumentation, protocols for sample preparation, and experimental considerations that are requires for successful MSI experiments.
A Tale of Two Stabilities: How One Boron Atom Affects a Switch in Bonding Motifs in CeO2Bx– (x = 2, 3) Complexes

Boronyl (B≡O) ligands have garnered much attention as isoelectronic and isolobal analogues of CO and CN-, yet successful efforts in synthesizing metal boronyl complexes remain scarce. Anion photoelectron (PE) spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations were employed to investigate two small CeO2B x- ( x = 2, 3) complexes generated from laser ablation of a mixed Ce/B pressed powder target. The spectra reveal markedly different bonding upon incorporation of an additional B atom. Most interestingly, CeO2B2- was found to have a Ce(I) center coordinated to two monoanionic boronyl ligands in a bent geometry. This result was unexpected as previous studies suggest electron-rich metals are most suitable for stabilizing such ligands; furthermore, it is one of the first examples of an experimental metal-polyboronyl complex. Introducing another boron atom, however, favors a much different geometry in which Ce(II) coordinates an O2B33- unit through both the O and B atoms, which was evident in the markedly different PE spectra.
Evaluation of Driver Comprehension and Visual Attention of the Flashing Yellow Arrow Display for Permissive Right Turns

This research explored driver comprehension and behaviors in Oregon with respect to right-turn signal displays focusing on the Flashing Yellow Arrow (FYA) in a driving simulator. A counterbalanced,...