cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Clinical evaluation and validation of laboratory methods for the diagnosis of Bordetella pertussis infection: Culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and anti-pertussis toxin IgG serology (IgG-PT).

Introduction The appropriate use of clinically accurate diagnostic tests is essential for the detection of pertussis, a poorly controlled vaccine-preventable disease. The purpose of this study was to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of different diagnostic criteria including culture, multi-target polymerase chain reaction (PCR), anti-pertussis toxin IgG (IgG-PT) serology, and the use of a clinical case definition. An additional objective was to describe the optimal timing of specimen collection for the various tests. Methods Clinical specimens were collected from patients with cough illness at seven locations across the United States between 2007 and 2011. Nasopharyngeal and blood specimens were collected from each patient during the enrollment visit. Patients who had been coughing for ≤ 2 weeks were asked to return in 2–4 weeks for collection of a second, convalescent blood specimen. Sensitivity and specificity of each diagnostic test were estimated using three methods—pertussis culture as the “gold standard,” composite reference standard analysis (CRS), and latent class analysis (LCA). Results Overall, 868 patients were enrolled and 13.6% were B. pertussis positive by at least one diagnostic test. In a sample of 545 participants with non-missing data on all four diagnostic criteria, culture was 64.0% sensitive, PCR was 90.6% sensitive, and both were 100% specific by LCA. CRS and LCA methods increased the sensitivity estimates for convalescent serology and the clinical case definition over the culture-based estimates. Culture and PCR were most sensitive when performed during the first two weeks of cough; serology was optimally sensitive after the second week of cough. Conclusions Timing of specimen collection in relation to onset of illness should be considered when ordering diagnostic tests for pertussis. Consideration should be given to including IgG-PT serology as a confirmatory test in the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE) case definition for pertussis.
Towards autonomic computing: adaptive job routing and scheduling

Computer systems are rapidly becoming so complex that maintaining them with human support staffs will be prohibitively expensive and inefficient. In response, visionaries have begun proposing that computer systems be imbued with the ability to configure themselves, diagnose failures, and ultimately repair themselves in response to these failures. However, despite convincing arguments that such a shift would be desirable, as of yet there has been little concrete progress made towards this goal. We view these problems as fundamentally machine learning challenges. Hence, this article presents a new network simulator designed to study the application of machine learning methods from a system-wide perspective. We also introduce learning-based methods for addressing the problems of job routing and scheduling in the networks we simulate. Our experimental results verify that methods using machine learning outperform heuristic and hand-coded approaches on an example network designed to capture many of the complexities that exist in real systems.
Stem Rust of Wheat

An interesting question to pose is: What is the most important plant disease? Your answer may depend on whether you live in Kansas City or Hong Kong, eat rice or wheat, or make money selling cotton. Of greatest significance are the diseases which cause the greatest losses of our most important food crops such as rice and wheat. History records this with early investigations on diseases of rice in Japan, cabbage in Russia, potatoes in Ireland, and wheat and barley in Europe. Important plant diseases were noted and respected for their significance in even earlier times. For example, pagan celebrations were held in honor of the God Rubigo during the days of the Caesars in Rome, for this god brought about the rust of wheat.
Comparison of Minimum Cross-Entropy Inference with Minimally Informative Information Systems

The Minimum Cross-Entropy (MXE) inference rule leads to information systems which are inconsistent, and which may have an expectation less than the prior. The Min-Score rule (a generalization of maximum entropy) applied to information systems generates consistent systems and has a guaranteed expectation at least as great as the prior. The guaranteed expectation for the Min-Score rule is always at least as great as that for MXE.
Logarithmic Sobolev Inequalities

There is an interesting connection between our considerations here and L. Gross’s theory of logarithmic Sobolev inequalities. For our purposes, it is best to describe a logarithmic Sobolev inequality in the following terms. Let {Px: x ∈ E} satisfy (S.C.) with respect to m ∈ m1 (E). A logarithmic Sobolev inequality is a statement of the form: $$ {J_m} \leqslant \alpha {J_{\sigma }} $$ (9.1) for some α > 0, where Jm: m1(E) → [0, ∞) ∪ {∞} is defined by: Obviously, (9.1) has interesting implications for the large deviation theory associated with {Px: x ∈ E}.
A Hexagonal Processor and Interconnect Topology for Many-Core Architecture with Dense On-Chip Networks

Network-on-Chips (NoCs) are used to connect large numbers of processors in many-core processor architecture because they perform better than less scalable methods such as global shared buses. Among all NoC design parameters, NoC topologies define how nodes are placed and connected and greatly affect the performance, energy efficiency, and circuit area of many-core processor arrays. Due to its simplicity and the fact that processor tiles are traditionally square or rectangular, 2D mesh is mostly used for existing on-chip networks. However, efficiently mapping applications can be a challenge for cases that require communication between processors that are not adjacent on the 2D mesh. Motivated by the fact that applications often have largely localized communication patterns, we have proposed an 8-neighbor mesh topology and a 6-neighbor topology with hexagonal-shaped processor tiles, both of which increase local connectivity while keep much of the simplicity of a mesh-based topology. We have physically designed a 16-bit DSP processor and the corresponding processor arrays which utilize all three topologies. A 1080p H.264/AVC residual video encoder and a 54 Mbps 802.11a/11g OFDM wireless LAN baseband receiver are mapped onto all topologies. The 6-neighbor hexagonal grid topology incurs a 2.9% area increase per tile compared to the 4-neighbor 2D mesh, but its much more effective inter-processor interconnect yields an average total application area reduction of 21%, an average power reduction of 17%, and a total application inter-processor communication distance reduction of 19%.
Electrodermal Activity and Antisocial Behavior: Empirical Findings and Theoretical Issues

A common finding in psychophysiological approaches to psychopathology has been that of electrodermal hyporeactivity among individuals variously described as psychopathic, sociopathic, antisocial, delinquent, hyperactive, or aggressive. The present chapter will review this literature. Special attention will be given to the conditions under which electrodermal hyporesponsivity is seen and the potential theoretical interpretations of the hyporesponsivity.
Methods for engineering sulfate reducing bacteria of the genus desulfovibrio

Sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB) are physiologically important given their nearly ubiquitous presence and have important applications in the areas of bioremediation and bioenergy. This chapter provides details on the steps used for homologous-recombination mediated chromosomal manipulation of Desulfovibrio vulgaris Hildenborough, a well-studied sulfate reducer. More specifically, we focus on the implementation of a "parts" based approach for suicide vector assembly, important aspects of anaerobic culturing, choices for antibiotic selection, electroporation-based DNA transformation, as well as tools for screening and verifying genetically modified constructs. These methods, which in principle may be extended to other SRB, are applicable for functional genomics investigations, as well as metabolic engineering manipulations.
Carbon fibers from polyacrylonitrile/cellulose nanocrystal nanocomposite fibers

Abstract Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers containing up to 40 wt% cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) have been successfully stabilized and carbonized to make carbon fibers. Under the batch process, PAN/CNC based carbon fibers exhibit a tensile strength in the range of 1.8–2.3 GPa, and tensile modulus in the range of 220–265 GPa, which are comparable to the control PAN-based carbon fibers. Based on the transmission electron microscopy study, individually distributed CNC regions surrounded by PAN matrix were observed in the stabilized and carbonized fibers. Carbonized fibers show two distinct stabilized and carbonized regions. This study shows that biphasic carbon fibers can be made from the PAN/CNC system.
Collaborating to "Grow Our Own": The Helios STEM Middle School Residency Program.

In this article, the authors explain the need for clinically rich middle school STEM teacher preparation. They describe how one university and school district with an established partnership collab...
Outcomes of Bladder Preservation Following Treatment for Rhabdomyosarcoma

Genitourinary rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a relatively uncommon pediatric urologic oncologic condition with significant implications for both short- and long-term bladder functions. It is important for both pediatric and adult urologists to be aware of the pathophysiology, treatment, and long-term prognosis of this tumor and its potential impact on bladder function in both pediatric and adult survivors. Abnormalities in bladder function may arise secondary to surgical or medical management. Typical presenting complaints include lower urinary tract symptoms, which may be more common in pediatric RMS survivors than in survivors of other childhood cancers. Post-treatment evaluation of urinary function should include a baseline urodynamics study and an assessment of symptom severity and bother using validated, age-appropriate questionnaires. Upper tract monitoring should include renal/bladder ultrasound and serum creatinine. Hemorrhagic cystitis, which often develops acutely in patients receiving alkylating agents, may also present as a late effect. Lastly, urinary diversion may be required in patients with bladder/prostate (BP)-RMS either due to initial or delayed cystectomy or due to radiation-related loss of bladder function. Recent data suggest that diversion can maintain excellent quality of life in these patients. Both BP-RMS and its treatments have the potential for profound impacts on long-term bladder function. Most BP-RMS patients will survive beyond their initial diagnosis and treatment, and it is therefore important for both pediatric and adult urologists to be aware of the pathophysiology, treatment, and long-term prognosis of this tumor and its potential impact on bladder function in both pediatric and adult survivors.
Interaction of Cannabis Use and Aging: From Molecule to Mind.

Given the aging Baby Boomer generation, changes in cannabis legislation, and the growing acknowledgment of cannabis for its therapeutic potential, it is predicted that cannabis use in the older pop...
Hemispherectomy in adults and adolescents: Seizure and functional outcomes in 47 patients.

Objective To examine longitudinal seizure and functional outcomes after hemispherectomy in adults and adolescents. Methods We reviewed 47 consecutive patients older than 16 years who underwent hemispherectomy between 1996 and 2016 at our center. Clinical, electroencephalographic (EEG), imaging, neuropsychological, surgical, and functional status data were analyzed. Results Thirty-six patients were 18 years or older at surgery; 11 were aged between 16 and 18 years. Brain injury leading to hemispheric epilepsy occurred before 10 years of age in 41 (87%) patients. At a mean follow-up of 5.3 postoperative years (median = 2.9 years), 36 (77%) had Engel class I outcome. Longitudinal outcome analysis showed 84% seizure freedom (Engel IA) at 6 months, 76% at 2 years, and 76% at 5 years and beyond, with stable longitudinal outcomes up to 12 years from surgery. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that acute postoperative seizures and contralateral interictal spikes at 6-month follow-up EEG were associated with seizure recurrence. Patients who could walk unaided preoperatively and had no cerebral peduncle atrophy on brain magnetic resonance imaging were more likely to experience worsening of motor function postoperatively. Otherwise, postoperative ambulatory status and hand function were unchanged. Of the 19 patients who completed neuropsychological testing, 17 demonstrated stable or improved postoperative outcomes. Significance Hemispherectomy in adults is a safe and effective procedure, with seizure freedom rates and functional outcome similar to those observed in children.
Professional education in the field of injury prevention

One of the defining characteristics of a profession is that its members take responsibility for enabling, educating and training emerging professionals in their field. This education role goes hand-in-hand with a profession’s responsibility to monitor members’ adherence to ethical, technical and professional standards. In the field of injury prevention, there are many who have incorporated this service role into their professional DNA. We can all identify mentors whose passion for educating future injury prevention researchers and practitioners seems to have grown as their experience and opportunity to contribute does too. Yet surprisingly, there are very few opportunities for injury education enthusiasts to share their teaching methodologies and approaches for other educators to learn from. There are …
Payment Reform in the Era of Advanced Diagnostics, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning

Health care is undergoing a profound transformation driven by an increase in new types of diagnostic data, increased data sharing enabled by interoperability, and improvements in our ability to interpret data through the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Paradoxically, we are also discovering that our current paradigms for implementing electronic health-care records and our ability to create new models for reforming the health-care system have fallen short of expectations. This article traces these shortcomings to two basic issues. The first is a reliance on highly centralized quality improvement and measurement strategies that fail to account for the high level of variation and complexity found in human disease. The second is a reliance on legacy payment systems that fail to reward the sharing of data and knowledge across the health-care system. To address these issues, and to better harness the advances in health care noted above, the health-care system must undertake a phased set of reforms. First, efforts must focus on improving both the diagnostic process and data sharing at the local level. These efforts should include the formation of diagnostic management teams and increased collaboration between pathologists and radiologists. Next, building off current efforts to develop national federated research databases, providers must be able to query national databases when information is needed to inform the care of a specific complex patient. In addition, providers, when treating a specific complex patient, should be enabled to consult nationally with other providers who have experience with similar patient issues. The goal of these efforts is to build a health-care system that is funded in part by a novel fee-for-knowledge-sharing paradigm that fosters a collaborative decentralized approach to patient care and financially incentivizes large-scale data and knowledge sharing.
ASSESSMENT OF AMBIENT NEUTRON DOSE EQUIVALENT IN SPATIALLY FRACTIONATED RADIOTHERAPY WITH PROTONS USING PHYSICAL COLLIMATORS.

New technique is trending in spatially fractionated radiotherapy with protons to utilize the spot scanning together with a physical collimator to obtain minibeams. The primary goal of this study is to quantify ambient neutron dose equivalent (${H}^{\ast }(10)$) due to the secondary neutrons when physical collimator is used to achieve desired minibeams. The ${H}^{\ast }(10)$ per treatment proton dose (D) was assessed using Monte Carlo code TOPAS and measured using WENDI-II detector at different angles (135, 180, 225 and 270 degrees) and distances (11 cm, 58 and 105 cm) from the phantom for two cases: with and without physical collimation. Without collimation $\frac{H^{\ast }(10)}{D}$ varied from 0.0013 to 0.242 mSv/Gy. With collimation $\frac{H^{\ast }(10)}{D}$ varied from 0.017 to 3.23 mSv/Gy. Results show that the secondary neutron dose will increase tenfold when the physical collimator is used. Regardless, it will be low and comparable to the neutron dose produced by conventional passive-scattered proton beams.
On Point Mass Sources, Null Naked Singularities and Euclidean Gravitational Action as Entropy

It is rigorously shown how the static spherically symmetric solutions of Einstein's equations can furnish a $null$ naked singularity associated with a point mass source at $ r = 0$. The construction relies in the possibility of having a metric $discontinuity$ at the location of the point mass. This result should be contrasted with the spacelike singularity described by the textbook black hole solution. It has been argued by some authors why one cannot get any information from the null naked singularity so it will not have any undesirable physical effect to an outside far away observer and cannot cause a breakdown of predictability. In this way one may preserve the essence of the cosmic censorship hypothesis. The field equations due to a delta-function point-mass source at $ r = 0 $ are solved and the Euclidean gravitational action (in $ \hbar $ units) corresponding to those solutions is evaluated explicitly. It is found that it is precisely equal to the black hole entropy (in Planck area units). This result holds in any dimensions $ D \ge 3 $. We finalize by arguing why the Noncommutative Gravity of the spacetime tangent (co-tangent) bundle is the proper arena to study point masses.
Review article : A mathematical model of tumor growth. III. Comparison with experiment

Abstract In this paper a model of nonuniform inhibitor production is used to discuss some experimental results obtained by Folkman and Hochberg for multicellular spheroids (of V-79 Chinese hamster lung tissue). Built into mathematical model is a parameter b which is a measure of the degree of nonuniformity of the inhibitor production rate. The “inverse problem” is solved by finding the value of b necessary to account for results with which the uniform model is incompatible [6]. The resulting value of b enables a good estimate to be made for the observed width of peripheral mitotic zones in the V-79 spheroids, and the resulting stability parameters lie in approriate ranges for the model to be a significant improvement over uniform models. Further improvements are discussed, including a heuristic model for estimating the destabilizing effect of vascularization on tissue growth.
Two Dimensions for Organizing Immersive Analytics: Toward a Taxonomy for Facet and Position.

As immersive analytics continues to grow as a discipline, so too should its underlying methodological support. Taxonomies play an important role for information visualization and human computer interaction. They provide an organization of the techniques used in a particular domain that better enable researchers to describe their work, discover existing methods, and identify gaps in the literature. Existing taxonomies in related fields do not capture or describe the unique paradigms employed in immersive analytics. We conceptualize a taxonomy that organizes immersive analytics according to two dimensions: spatial and visual presentation. Each intersection of this taxonomy represents a unique design paradigm which, when thoroughly explored, can aid in the design and research of new immersive analytic applications.
Boys & Sex: Young Men on Hookups, Love, Porn, Consent, and Navigating the New Masculinity.: by Peggy Orenstein. New York: Harper. $28.99 (HB).

Peggy Orenstein’s book, Boys and Sex describes would-be men struggling with how to manage relationships and sexuality with little guidance from the adults in their lives. The situation is dire. Chi...
Daily hypoxia forecasting and uncertainty assessment via Bayesian mechanistic model for the Northern Gulf of Mexico

Abstract. Low bottom water dissolved oxygen conditions (hypoxia) occur almost every summer in the northern Gulf of Mexico due to a combination of nutrient loadings and water column stratification. Several models have been used to forecast the midsummer hypoxic area based on spring nitrogen loading from major rivers. However, sub-seasonal forecasts are needed to fully characterize the dynamics of hypoxia over the summer season, which is important for informing fisheries and ecosystem management. Here, we present an approach to forecast hypoxic conditions at daily resolution through Bayesian mechanistic modeling that allows for rigorous uncertainty quantification. Within this framework, we develop and test different representations and projections of hydro-meteorological model inputs. We find that May precipitation over the Mississippi River Basin is a key predictor of summer discharge and loading that substantially improves forecast performance. Accounting for spring wind conditions also improves forecast performance, though to a lesser extent. The proposed approach generates forecasts for two different sections of the Louisiana–Texas shelf (east and west), and it explains about 50 % of the variability in total hypoxic area when tested against historical observations (1985−2016). Results also show how forecast uncertainties build over the summer season, with longer lead times from the nominal forecast release date of 31 May, due to increasing stochasticity in riverine and meteorological inputs. Consequently, the portion of overall forecast variance associated with uncertainties in data inputs increases from 26 % to 41 % from June–July to August–September, respectively. Overall, the study demonstrates a unique approach to assessing and reducing uncertainties in dynamic hypoxia forecasting.
Acute Tolerance to the Analgesic Effects of Alcohol.

Objective: The goal of this study was to determine whether the acute analgesic effects of alcohol intake are moderated by acute alcohol tolerance, characterized by differing subjective and neurobeh...
Recent Progress in Lattice Parton-Distribution Calculations

The large-momentum effective theory (LaMET) framework has been widely used to determine the Bjorken-$x$ dependence of parton distribution functions (PDFs) in lattice-QCD hadron-structure calculations. In this proceeding, I highlighted selected recent lattice-QCD results on parton distributions from MSULat group. We use clover valence fermions on ensembles generated by MILC Collaboration with lattice spacing $a \approx 0.06$, 0.09, and 0.12 fm, with $M_\pi L \approx 4$, and with pion masses including 135, 220 and 310 MeV and $N_f=2+1+1$ flavors of highly improved staggered dynamical quarks. Results include the continuum-physical isovector nucleon PDF, a first study of the strange and charm PDFs and the pion and kaon valence-quark PDFs. We also reported results on the $Q^2$ and $x$ dependence of nucleon isovector unpolarized and helicity GPDs calculated directly at physical pion mass; we also make a comparison of the GPDs with the traditional moment methods from other lattice calculations.
Sexual dichotomy in calcium buffering capacity may be dependent on the severity of endoplasmic reticulum stress in the skeletal muscle of the vitamin D3 deficient transgenic G93A mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

BackgroundWe previously demonstrated that dietary vitamin D3 (D3) restriction hastened the decline in functional capacity following disease onset in the G93A mouse model of amyotrophic lateral scle...
Early Rehabilitation in the Intensive Care Unit

Delivery of rehabilitation to critically ill patients early in their intensive care unit (ICU) stay is now recommended by critical care expert guidelines. The physiatrist has an important role to play in both implementation and development of “Early Mobilization” programs that utilize many members of the traditional PMR team. Understanding the evolution of ICU rehabilitation in the context of modern sedation practices is essential for any provider involved in these programs. The intent of this review is to introduce the principles of early mobilization and summarize the compelling literature supporting their use.
North-South: The implications for multinational banking

Abstract International finance should be of great value to developing countries because their potential growth paths are ‘out of step’ with the world economy and because the gambles they must take to develop are much more diversifiable in the context of the world economy than locally. However, the actual benefits of North-South finance have been limited by an overreliance on non-specific bank credit with the inherent limitations and by errors in judgement by both borrowers and lenders. In fact, the current crisis threatens to reverse many of the earlier gains. While the current crisis is primarily the result of the world recession, the severity of its effects on lenders and borrowers reflects three key aspects of bank credits: (1) its perverse real repayment patterns, (2) its specific nature which implies that risks are transferred only through generalized non-performance with its attendant deadweight costs, and (3) its concentration in a small but critical segment of capital markets. These characteristics would be serious even with ideal behavior by lenders and borrowers, but they also can lend to inappropriate and possibly erratic behavior. Specific suggestion for restructuring the system of North-South finance are given including (1) smoothing repayment patterns, (2) increasing repayment flexibility, (3) increasing risk-bearing non-specific finance, (4) increasing non-recourse financing, and (5) increasing project-specific risk capital.
Example-Based Chinese Text Filtering Model

This paper briefly describes the background of text filtering and proposes an example-based Chinese text filtering model. It analyzes the structure of the texts as example, extracts the keywords from the texts by means of the text hierarchical analysis presented in this paper, constructs the user profiles which consist of the keywords above, and then filters the new text collections. Consequently, based on the user feedback, it expands the number of example texts, applies the approach of Latent Semantic Indexing to filter texts, and updates the user profiles to improve the efficiency of text filtering systems.
Broader management principles for U.S. fisheries urged

Structural engineers can teach a thing or two to fisheries managers and others who believe in the concept of “maximum sustained yields,” or MSYs, of fish, according to Larry Crowder, professor of marine biology at Duke University. MSYs are among the management principles that some people blame for the decline of U.S. fisheries. “We continue to make decisions that put severe pressure on these [fisheries] resources and that fail to buffer the fish—and the fishing industry—from variability wrought by both natural forces and human hands,” Crowder told the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Fisheries, Conservation, Wildlife, and Oceans, on June 14.
Physics of the Neutron Star

Some characteristics of neutron star models are described. These include: the physics of the crystalline crust, the superfluid properties of the neutrons and protons, and the presence of rotational vortices in these superfluids. The possible relationship of some of these properties to the behavior of the Crab Nebula pulsar is described.
The effect of confinement on days to puberty in gilts.

In the late fall and winter of 1982 to 1983, 112 crossbred gilts were used in a factorially arranged experiment to determine the effect of confinement on the age at which a gilt reaches first estrus (puberty). Two environments (confinement and non-confinement) and three ages at movement to non-confinement (100, 140, and 180 d) were studied. No differences were detected (P greater than .05) between confinement and non-confinement in the proportions of gilts reaching puberty by 210 d of age. Gilts were older at puberty (P less than .05) in confinement than in non-confinement (192.0 vs 187.7 d) and had a longer interval (P less than .05) from first boar contact to first estrus (12.1 vs 7.8 d). Age at puberty (192.1 vs 187.0 vs 190.5 d) and the proportion reaching puberty (56.4 vs 45.7 vs 65.8%) were not different (P greater than .05) between age-of-movement groups. However, a higher (P less than .05) proportion of the non-confinement gilts reached puberty within 10 d after the beginning of boar exposure than confinement (44.6 vs 26.8%). Moving gilts from confinement to non-confinement (pasture) at 180 d appeared to be the most effective method tested for inducing puberty in gilts.
Regulation of Immunoglobulin Gene Transcription

Publisher Summary This chapter examines regulation of immunoglobulin gene transcription. It provides an overview of cis -acting DNA sequence elements and the trans -acting factors that interact with them, with emphasis on factors that are likely to be critical in the stage-specific activation of the immunoglobulin genes. Promoters required for transcription of immunoglobulin genes are located 5′ of all variable region gene segments and can be brought into the proximity of the constant region-associated enhancers by recombination. The most striking feature of immunoglobulin promoters is the presence of a conserved octanucleotide motif. Deletion of this site in the heavy chain promoter results not only in loss of promoter activity in transient transfection assays, but in complete loss of lymphoid expression of a heavy chain transgene in mice. The analysis of the immunoglobulin gene suggests that their expression is controlled through the combinatorial action of tissue- and stage-specific factors (OTF-2, TF-μB) and more widely expressed E motif-binding factors such as E47/E12. An additional level of regulation is imparted by combinatorial mechanisms such as adjacent DNA-binding elements and factors that may alter activity and “cofactors” that, by forming a complex with the bound factor, affect its activation of a gene in a particular cell type.
The SFC editor a graphical tool for algorithm development

This paper describes The SFC Editor, a graphical algorithm development tool for both beginning and advanced programmers. Flowcharts have long been used by programmers as a format for designing and visualizing the logic of an algorithm. Since drawing flowcharts by hand can be very tedious, most programmers use software for creating their flowcharts; usually the technique employed by the software package involves selecting the graphical components of a flowchart and manually creating the lines of flow among them. The SFC (Structured Flow Chart) Editor differs from other flowchart creation software because its focus is on the design of flowcharts for structured programs; using a building block approach, the graphical components of a flowchart are automatically connected and structured pseudo-code is simultaneously generated for each flowchart. While SFC was originally designed as a tool for beginning to intermediate programmers, it has been used by students in upper level classes and by professional system designers. This paper presents anecdotal evidence of the effectiveness of the SFC Editor in a computer science overview course and a summary of future directions for the project.
Acute and Delayed Effects of Transient Global Cerebral Ischemia on Rat Brain Capillary Endothelial Cells in Vivo

The role of brain capillary endothelial cells in the reperfusion injury that follows transient global ischemia is not well understood. In a rat model of cardiac arrest and resuscitation, we observed an acute swelling of pericapillary astrocytes and accumulation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF1α). We found brainstem edema 1–2 days following reperfusion that was associated with elevated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) localized to pericapillary astrocytes. We propose the hypothesis that HIF 1 α accumulating in response to oxidative stress during reperfusion upregulates VEGF. Elevated levels of VEGF lead to increased capillary permeability and hence vasogenic edema. As a result of brain stem vasogenic edema, critical autonomic functions such as respiration and blood pressure control may become compromised, increasing the risk of death during the first few days after resuscitation from cardiac arrest.
A method to increase the design assurance level of software by means of FMEA

Software that is used in airborne systems, especially those systems that require certification by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), is developed in accordance with DO-178B. The development and verification objectives imposed by DO-178B depend on the criticality level of the software. The cost of development, and especially of verification, is significantly higher each step the criticality is increased. Developers want to produce software to the lowest criticality level possible, consistent with a safety analysis, to keep development costs down. It may be desirable to increase the design assurance level of software without incurring the full cost of verification at the next higher criticality level. This paper presents a method of locating undetected software defects, that could cause a hazardous condition, in software that has been verified to DO-178B level D criticality. Locating and removing such defects has the effect of increasing the design assurance level of the software, at about 10% of the cost of a full verification to level C.
Array sensor localization and calibration by cyclic regression

Two methods for integrating prior information about the signal directions of arrival and the sensor locations and intrinsic phases into the cyclic regression method for signal direction-finding as well as sensor self-localization and calibration are presented. Only coherent signals are considered. The methods demonstrate the versatility of the cyclic regression method. >
On the $L^p$ continuity of singular Fourier integral operators

We derive L p continuity of Fourier integral operators with one-sided fold singularities. The argument is based on interpolation of (asymptotics of) L 2 estimates and H 1 → L 1 estimates. We derive the latter estimates elaborating arguments of Seeger, Sogge, and Stein's 1991 paper. We apply our results to the study of the L p regularity properties of the restrictions of solutions to hyperbolic equations onto timelike hypersurfaces and onto hypersurfaces with characteristic points.
Class orientations to child neglect

Norman A. Polansky, Ph.D., is Regents' Professor, School of Social Work, University of Georgia, Athens. David P. Williams, MSW, is a doctoral student, Department of Counseling and Human Relations Development, University of Georgia, Athens. The authors are grateful to Linda DeLuca and Gina Scharff, who helped with interviewing, and to Sam Snyder, who assisted in the statistical analyses. When presented with a case involvthat social class has more effect on
The Past and Future Evolution of the Dental Workforce Team

This article looks at changes in the number and mix of providers in the dental workforce over the past sixty years. First, enrollment trends in dental education programs are investigated. These educational programs feed directly into the dental workforce. Then, the changes in the dental workforce are examined. The focus of this investigation is the composition of the dental workforce and how the components of the workforce have changed over time. The forces that are responsible for these changes in the workforce are explored next. Finally, the possibility for workforce changes in the future is considered.
Give the Winds a Mighty Voice: Evangelical Culture as Radio Ecology

The Evangelical movement in the United States arose as an interpretive community in the late 19th century when the penny press permitted mass dissemination of shared media texts. Network radio in the early and mid-20th century then furnished an ecology for Evangelicals to share real-time media rituals and be socially integrated into a broadly coherent subculture. This study presents a new history of Evangelicalism organized around its media, following the movement through its three “waves.” In the present era, radio continues to sustain the subculture, even as Evangelicals have tactically “reread” their media texts in response to societal change.
Electrostatic partitioning in slit pores by Gibbs ensemble Monte Carlo simulation

Equilibrium partitioning of spherical solutes between slit pores and bulk solution is investigated by the Gibbs ensemble Monte Carlo method. Two types of perturbatins are performed in this simulation: a random displacement of solutes that ensures equilibrium within both bulk and pore regions, and random interchanges of solutes that equalize the interaction potentials between the two regions. To study the effects of electrostatic interactions, interaction energies between the solutes and pore walls and between pairs of solutes are evaluated by using a singularity method. Partition coefficients calculated for neutral solutes, which experience purely steric interactions, increase with increasing solute concentration and agree well with existing theoretical results. For pores and solutes of like charge, results for the limit of infinitely dilute solute concentration show a sharp decline in partition coefficient with decreasing ionic strength of solution. As the solute concentration increases, the interplay of solute–wall and solute–solute interactions becomes increasingly important, and the partition coefficient increases accordingly. The density profiles indicate unambiguously that, whether solutes and proes are uncharged or of like charge, solute–solute interaction promotes enhanced concentrations near the wall, causing the partition coefficient to increase. Even at solute concentrations as low as 5%, effects of solute–solute interactions caused by electrostatic charge can more than compensate for sphere–wall repulsive interactions, indicating that concentration effects should be considered at least as important as electrostatic effects in partitioning phenomena.
Public priorities for evaluating air quality management measures

The results of a pilot study of the priorities that concerned parties assign to a number of criteria for evaluating air quality management measures (AQMM) are reported. The analysed priorities were those of the members of: (a) two task forces appointed to assist the implementation of the Air Quality Management Plan of the South Coast Air Quality Management District of California; and (b) the gallery , during the meetings of these task forces. Major findings include: (a) that there is not a single criterion that predominates; (b) the concern that supports the legal requirement for an almost exclusive economic efficiency valuation is not shared by the public; (c) concerned parties with similar special interest affiliations and expertise hold statistically different priorities; and (d) distinct patterns of priorities exist necessitating separate evaluations of AQMM in order better to understand the reasons for support (opposition) of each measure and the strength of this support. An important consequence of these findings is that no charge that air quality management decisions may cater to special interests can be supported. Hence, the challenge emerges for all concerned parties to determine the factors, other than those associated with conventional special interest labels, which actually influence public values regarding air quality management.
Parity mixing in atomic hydrogen

Abstract Unified theories of electromagnetic and weak interactions predict a possible parity mixing of atomic states. We investigate such an effect in the n = 2 level of atomic hydrogen. Measurement of this effect could determine the spin- dependent weak interaction coupling constant between electron and proton.
Clinical e-mail in an academic dermatology setting

Background Use of e-mail among patients and physicians is limited by reservations over issues such as medicolegal aspects, reimbursement, and time-management. Objective Our purpose was to identify the content of patient-related e-mails in an academic dermatology practice and determine whether clinical questions could be answered by e-mail. Methods The first 100 e-mails received each year that related to patients from January 1, 2000 to June 1, 2005 (plus any messages received in e-mail threads started in the original 100) were studied (N = 614). E-mails were sent by patients, potential patients, or physicians in reference to a patient. E-mails were divided into 8 categories on the basis of content. E-mails were subdivided as relating to new (patients who had never been seen in-person) or established patients. All clinical questions were categorized as to whether they were answered by e-mail. The average number of e-mails received per e-mail thread was tallied. Results E-mails were distributed as follows: clinical question from a physician (20%), clinical question from a patient (17%), appointment request (18%), request for referral to another physician (7%), prescription refill (3%), research inquiry (2%), thank-you correspondence (31%), other (17%). Percentages do not equal 100 because some e-mails contained more than one subject. Clinical questions were more likely to be answered when posed by physicians (100%) than patients (70%; P = .001), and when from established (79%) versus new patients (60%; P = .02). There were fewer e-mails per thread for queries from physicians (1.6 messages received) versus patients (2.2; P P Limitations This study was limited to the experience of one dermatologist in an academic setting. Conclusion E-mail broadens communication between patients and their dermatologist. E-mail may facilitate consultation with other physicians and management of patients with chronic disease. "Thank-you" responses engage a substantial amount of e-mail resources.
Reproducibility of Bone Microstructure and Stiffness Measurements in Rats by In Vivo Micro Computed Tomography and Finite Element Analysis

Micro computed tomography (μCT) has been widely used to study 3-dimensional (3D) microstructure of bone specimens. In the recent decade, in vivo μCT scanners have become available to monitor longitudinal bone changes in rodents (1,2). The current in vivo μCT scan can obtain images with an isotropic voxel size up to 10.5 μm, which is high enough for direct 3D bone microstructural analyses. Moreover, based on these high-resolution images, micro finite element (μFE) models can be generated to estimate mechanical properties of bone. Therefore, by using in vivo μCT imaging and μFE analysis techniques, changes in geometry, microstructure, and mechanical properties of rodent bone, in response to either diseases or treatments, can be visualized and quantified over time.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Pilot feasibility and safety study examining the effect of medium chain triglyceride supplementation in subjects with mild cognitive impairment: A randomized controlled trial

Background Impaired brain glucose metabolism appears to be a potential pathogenic feature of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This study examined the potential for increasing circulating ketone bodies through medium chain triglyceride (MCT) supplementation, as a means to beneficially modulate brain homeostasis in subjects with MCI.
Protein-mediated synthesis of the conducting polymer PEDOT:PSS

We report the first use of iron-containing proteins, rather than enzymes, as oxidants for the synthesis of PEDOT:PSS. Both denatured catalase, which lacks enzymatic activity, and transferrin result in polymerization. These results demonstrate that enzymatic activity is not necessary for the synthesis of PEDOT:PSS, greatly expanding the range of biomolecules that can be used as oxidants for the synthesis of conducting polymers.
Toward an Amphiphilic Bilirubin: The Crystal Structure of a Bilirubin E-Isomer

A new bilirubinoid analog (1) with two methoxy beta-substituents on the lactam ring of each dipyrrinone was synthesized and examined spectroscopically. It is more soluble in CH3OH and CHCl3 than bilirubin, which is insoluble in CH3OH but soluble in CHCl3. The solubility of 1 is approximately 10 microg/mL in CH3OH (vs < or =1 microg/mL for bilirubin) and approximately 3 mg/mL in CHCl3 (vs approximately 0.6 mg/mL for bilirubin). Vapor pressure osmometry indicates that 1, like bilirubin, is monomeric in CHCl3, and NMR studies show that the most stable structure has the syn-4Z,syn-15Z configuration, with the pigment's dipyrrinones engaged in intramolecular hydrogen bonding to the propionic acid carboxyl groups. And, like bilirubin, Z,Z-1 adopts a conformation that is bent in the middle into a ridge-tile shape. For the first time, a crystal structure of a bilirubin E-isomer has been obtained. Crystallization of 1 under dim room lighting gave an X-ray quality crystal of the anti-4E,syn-15Z-(photo) isomer, in which only the Z-dipyrrinone half is engaged in intramolecular hydrogen bonding to a propionic acid. Hydrogen bonding is nearly completely disengaged in the E-dipyrrinone half; yet, the ridge-tile conformation persists.
Extensive deletions in the Q region of the mouse major histocompatibility complex.

By use of Southern blot analyses and low copy number probes, the fine structure of the Q region of the mouse major histocompatibility complex was studied in more detail. With a probe recognizing the even-numbered genes Q4, Q6, and Q8, it was evident that Q4 and/or the regions flanking Q4 are polymorphic, whereas Q6 and Q8, and their flanking regions are nonpolymorphic. Perhaps the most noteworthy finding is that at least two strain haplotypes, H-2k and H-2f, possessed extensive deletions in the Q region. The most striking deletion was found in the H-2f haplotype, where the QI through Q9 genes appear to be missing. Because of these extensive deletions the functional importance of the Q region is questioned.
Making the country work for the city: Von Thunen's ideas in geography, agricultural economics and the sociology of agriculture

Von Thunen's Isolated State is a predictive model of how rural hinterlands organize agricultural production in relation to an urban center. Despite today's globalized food provisioning system, there are still some agricultural commodities that remain in US city hinterlands. The most prominent of these is milk. The spatial organization of dairying is therefore a topic in which von Thunen's notions of centrality are still pertinent. This paper will examine von Thunen and notions of centrality in the formulation of dairy policy in the US. His contribution has been very important to agricultural economists and agricultural geographers but less important to sociologists of agriculture, who see the spatial organization of food production around cities due as much to contingent, local political outcomes as to law-like notions of centrality.