cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimal reconfiguration of satellite constellations with the auction algorithm

Abstract Traditionally, satellite constellation design has focused on optimizing global, zonal or regional coverage with a minimum number of satellites. In some instances, however, it is desirable to deploy a constellation in stages to gradually expand capacity. This requires launching additional satellites and reconfiguring the existing on-orbit satellites. Also, a constellation might be retasked and reconfigured after it is initially fielded for operational reasons. This paper presents a methodology for optimizing orbital reconfigurations of satellite constellations. The work focuses on technical aspects for transforming an initial constellation A into a new constellation, B , typically with a larger number of satellites. A general framework was developed to study the orbital reconfiguration problem. The framework was applied to low Earth orbit constellations of communication satellites. This paper specifically addresses the problem of determining the optimal assignment for transferring on-orbit satellites in constellation A to constellation B such that the total Δ V for the reconfiguration is minimized. It is shown that the auction algorithm, used for solving general network flow problems, can efficiently and reliably determine the optimum assignment of satellites of A to slots of B . Based on this methodology, reconfiguration maps can be created, which show the energy required for transforming one constellation into another as a function of type (Street-of-Coverage, Walker, Draim), altitude, ground elevation angle and fold of coverage. Suggested extensions of this work include quantification of the tradeoff between reconfiguration time and Δ V , multiple successive reconfigurations, balancing propellant consumption within the constellation during reconfiguration as well as using reconfigurability as an objective during initial constellation design.
Architecture for Real-time HDTV Video Decoding

In this paper we present an architecture for digital HDTV video decoding based on dual decoding data paths controlled in a block layer synchronization manner and an efficient write-back scheme for anchor pictures. Unlike other decoding approaches such as the slice bar decoding method and the crossing-divided method, this scheme eliminates many problems, such as the memory access contention problem and the enormous extra local memory required. Our simulation shows that with an 81 MHz clock, our architecture uses fewer than the 332-cycle upper bound for MPEG-2 MP@HL real-time decoding for each macroblock.
Association between venous thromboembolism and perioperative allogeneic transfusion.

Hypothesis Perioperative allogeneic blood product transfusion would be associated with venous thromboembolic complications in surgical patients. Design Observational study using a state discharge database. Setting Nonfederal acute care hospitals in Maryland performing colorectal cancer resections between January 1, 1994, and December 31, 2000. Patients We obtained data on 14 014 adult patients having a primary diagnosis code for colorectal cancer and a primary procedure code for colorectal resection. Main Outcome Measures The primary outcome variable was a discharge diagnosis of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Results Venous thromboembolism occurred in 1% of patients and was associated with an adjusted 3.8-fold increase in mortality (odds ratio, 3.8; 95% confidence interval, 2.1-6.8), a 61% increase in mean hospital length of stay, and a 72% increase in mean total hospital charges. Risk factors for VTE after adjustment included transfusion, female sex, age 80 years or older, moderate to severe liver disease vs no liver disease, admission through the emergency department, and low annual surgeon case volume. Transfusion was associated with an increase in the odds of developing VTE in women (odds ratio, 1.8; 95% confidence interval, 1.2-2.6) but not in men (odds ratio, 0.9; 95% confidence interval, 0.5-1.9). In the absence of transfusion, female compared with male sex was not associated with an increased risk of VTE (odds ratio, 1.2; 95% confidence interval, 0.8-1.7). Conclusions In this large observational study of patients undergoing colorectal cancer resection, perioperative allogeneic blood transfusion was associated with an increased risk of VTE in women but not in men. Given the substantial morbidity and mortality associated with VTE and the implication that this finding has for postoperative management in women, this association must be confirmed in independent studies.
PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF SYMPHYTUM OFFICIALE ON MICE BEARING SPONTANEOUS AND TRANSPLANT TUMORS.

SummaryA cold water extract of leaves of the plant Symphytum officiale was given to mice bearing spontaneous or transplanted tumors. The tests involved 73 control and 52 experimental mice bearing spontaneous mammary tumors of various initial sizes, and 71 control and 63 experimental animals bearing transplanted mammary tumors. Survival time of the spontaneous tumor mice that received comfrey extract was increased an average of 59% as compared with the controls. In the transplanted tumor tests, tumor weight at autopsy averaged 24% less in the comfrey extract mice as compared with the controls. These differences between control and experimental groups are statistically significant.
Adhesive Properties of YapV and Paralogous Autotransporter Proteins of Yersinia pestis

Yersinia pestis is the causative agent of plague. This bacterium evolved from an ancestral enteroinvasive Yersinia pseudotuberculosis strain by gene loss and acquisition of new genes, allowing it to use fleas as transmission vectors. Infection frequently leads to a rapidly lethal outcome in humans, a variety of rodents, and cats. This study focuses on the Y. pestis KIM yapV gene and its product, recognized as an autotransporter protein by its typical sequence, outer membrane localization, and amino-terminal surface exposure. Comparison of Yersinia genomes revealed that DNA encoding YapV or each of three individual paralogous proteins (YapK, YapJ, and YapX) was present as a gene or pseudogene in a strain-specific manner and only in Y. pestis and Y. pseudotuberculosis. YapV acted as an adhesin for alveolar epithelial cells and specific extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, as shown with recombinant Escherichia coli, Y. pestis, or purified passenger domains. Like YapV, YapK and YapJ demonstrated adhesive properties, suggesting that their previously related in vivo activity is due to their capacity to modulate binding properties of Y. pestis in its hosts, in conjunction with other adhesins. A differential host-specific type of binding to ECM proteins by YapV, YapK, and YapJ suggested that these proteins participate in broadening the host range of Y. pestis. A phylogenic tree including 36 Y. pestis strains highlighted an association between the gene profile for the four paralogous proteins and the geographic location of the corresponding isolated strains, suggesting an evolutionary adaption of Y. pestis to specific local animal hosts or reservoirs.
Performance on Two Attention Tasks as a Function of Sex and Competition

Effects of sex and competition on receptive attention and Stroop task performance of 59 college students were investigated. 33 participants in a competitive condition were informed that performance...
Autologous bone marrow transplantation with 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide purging for acute myeloid leukaemia beyond first remission: a 10-year experience.

Summary. Between January 1987 and January 1997, 69 eligible patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) in either second (CR2) or third (CR3) complete remission (CR2 = 60, CR3 = 9) underwent 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide-purged autologous bone marrow transplantation (BMT) at the Johns Hopkins Oncology Center. The patients' median age was 27 years (range 1–62) and all received busulphan and cyclophosphamide as their preparative regimen. The probability of event-free survival (EFS) at 5 years was 30%[95% Confidence Interval (CI): 19–42%] for CR2 patients and 22% (3–51%) for those in CR3, with a median follow up of 8 years in the surviving group. The median time to an absolute neutrophil count of 0·5 × 109/l was 45 d (range 20–185). Relapse was the major cause of failure with a relapse rate of 55% in CR2 and 44% in CR3, while the non-relapse, transplant-related mortality rate was 15% in CR2 and 33% in CR3. In univariate analysis, patient age, cytogenetics, white blood cell count at presentation, CR1 duration and the sensitivity of clonogeneic leukaemia (CFU-L) in the graft to 4HC were all prognostic for EFS. Using each of these significant variables in multivariate modelling, patient age and sensitivity of CFU-L to 4HC were determined to be predictors of EFS. 4HC-purged autologous BMT produced results similar to allogeneic BMT for AML patients beyond first remission.
A fast algorithm for performance-driven placement

An algorithm was developed for the placement of small-cell ICs subject to performance constraints that is efficient in terms of speed and memory usage. The approach models wirelength using a nonlinear cost function similar to that of R.S. Tsay et al. (1988) and a timing model which uses a block-oriented representation of paths like that of M.A.B. Jackson and E.S. Kuh (1989). The timing constraints are implicitly represented using a network and nonlinear programming techniques are used to solve the wirelength minimization problem while satisfying the constraints. This allows critical paths to dynamically adjust while the placement changes to minimize wirelength. The solution of the nonlinear programming problem yields an initial placement of cells that may violate slot constraints. The authors propose hierarchical solution techniques to resolve the slot constraints. By exploiting structure inherent in the formulation, a large reduction is achieved in the number of variables that represent the problem. Additionally, developing special techniques to take advantage of the interaction between the timing model and the physical position of the cells enabled the authors to achieve a speed-up of 10-15 times over Jackson and Kuh (1989) even with a crude implementation of the algorithm. >
Religion, Morality, Evolution

How did religion evolve? What effect does religion have on our moral beliefs and moral actions? These questions are related, as some scholars propose that religion has evolved to enhance altruistic behavior toward members of one's group. I review here data from survey studies (both within and across countries), priming experiments, and correlational studies of the effects of religion on racial prejudice. I conclude that religion has powerfully good moral effects and powerfully bad moral effects, but these are due to aspects of religion that are shared by other human practices. There is surprisingly little evidence for a moral effect of specifically religious beliefs.
Solid Waste Management in Indian Country: Multiple Sovereigns and Multiple relationships at the nexus of federalism and Tribal Governance

Indian tribes are sovereign governments having their own governance structures. At the nexus or intersection where federalism and tribal governance meet, many complex relationships occur as in the case of solid waste management. Analysis of research data suggests that three patterns of relationships may emerge among these sovereigns:
5′ Heterogeneity in epithelial sodium channel α-subunit mRNA leads to distinct NH2-terminal variant proteins

The amiloride-sensitive epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is composed of three subunits: α, β, and γ. The human α-ENaC subunit is expressed as at least two transcripts (N. Voilley, E. Lingueglia, G....
Variety and solubility of phosphorus forms in animal manure and their effects on soil test phosphorus

Animal manure has been recognized as one of the best sources of nutrients for crop production for centuries. However, only over the last few decades have we started to fully understand and recognize the negative environmental impacts of agricultural use of manure. Although all essential nutrients required for plant growth can be found in a manure sample, there are primarily two that are well known to negatively impact the environment the most, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Both of these nutrients have considerably high mobility while within the manure matrix; however, their mobility significantly decreases once manure is incorporated into the soil. Phosphorus is found in two forms in animal manure, inorganic (Pi) and organic (Po). The Po can be further categorized as enzymatically hydrolysable or non-hydrolysable Po. The Pi and Po can be found dissolved in solution and also precipitated as minerals or complexed with organic compounds and metals in the manure matrix. The relative amount of each P form is highly variable and depends among other factors on the animal species, animal age, growth stage, animal diet, and manure storage conditions. When manure is applied to soils, most often there is an increase in soil test phosphorus (STP) levels. However, the magnitude of the increase in STP will depend on soil and manure properties. Understanding how manure and soil properties interact is key to minimize the negative impact of manure on the environment. This chapter will discuss the variety and solubility of manure P and also how the different forms of Pi and Po can affect the increase in STP.
Microscopic and histochemical studies on the Auer bodies in leukemic cells.

(1) Seventeen cases of acute leukemia with Auer bodies have been reported. Studies were carried out on 7 cases of acute monocytic leukemia and 3 cases of subacute myelogenous leukemia. (2) Histochemical studies showed the Auer bodies to be oxidase, peroxidase, and periodic acid-Schiff positive; sudanophilic, slightly metachromatic and to give positive tests for acetal lipids and ribonucleic acid. (3) The Auer bodies were negative for acid and alkaline phosphatase, lipase, glycogen, desoxyribonucleic acid and were non-birefringent. (4) A change in the chemical nature of the Auer body from an acid condition to a more neutral state was noted. This change corresponded with the changes of the normal cytoplasmic granulation of the myelocytes and monocytes during maturation. (5) The effects of cellular movements, trauma, and temperature changes upon the Auer bodies were studied. (6) Several leukemic cells, containing Auer bodies, were studied during the process of mitosis. (7) A theory as to the formation and disintegration of the Auer bodies has been presented. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The author wishes to express his thanks to Dr. B. K. Wiseman, Dr. B. C. Houghton, Dr. R. A. Knouff, and Dr. E. R. Hayes for their help and suggestions, and to Dr. J. D. Thomas, Dr.J. F. Gamble, Dr. R. J. Rohn, Dr. H. Schiro, Mrs. Jo Myers, M.Sc., Miss Georgia Gwinner, M.T., Mrs. Susan Ragsdale, M.T. and Mrs. Jeanne Marie Willison, M.T., for their help in securing the experimental material.
A Preliminary Evaluation of REACH: Training Early Childhood Teachers to Support Children’s Social and Emotional Development

This paper describes the development, implementation and preliminary evaluation of the Reaching Educators and Children (REACH) program, a training and coaching intervention designed to increase the capacity of early childhood teachers to support children’s social and emotional development. We evaluated REACH with 139 teachers of toddler and preschool classrooms. Teacher attendance and survey results suggest that teachers were highly satisfied with the training and materials. Data from classroom observation scales conducted pre- and post-REACH implementation suggest significant improvements in the sensitivity of teachers’ interactions with children in the classroom, and increased teacher use of targeted social and emotional supports (such as teaching children to resolve conflicts). Further, data from observations of children’s classroom behavior suggest increases in children’s prosocial behaviors and small but significant decreases in verbal aggression. These findings provide preliminary evidence that the REACH program may be effective in building teachers’ capacity to support social–emotional development of young children, and point to the need for additional research.
Analysis of heat conduction in bridge slab

An analytical procedure is presented for the heat transfer in a bridge slab of finite dimensions and arbitrary initial temperature distribution. The thermal conductivity and surface conductance may be different on the top and bottom surfaces of the slab. The ambient temperature and heat input into the slab may vary both spacewise and timewise.
Salvador Alvarado and the Roman Catholic Church: Church-State Relations in Revolutionary Yucatán, 1914–1918

An issue that led to civil unrest in Mexico during the greater part of the nineteenth century was the conflict between the Lib erals and the Conservatives over the Roman Catholic Church's role in society. Liberals associated the Church and its priesthood with an archaic colonial heritage that was transferred from Spain and, thus, regarded those elements as obstacles to progress. Lib erals, therefore, wished to restrict the Church's role not only with respect to its fueros (privileges) and religious functions, but also to its educational, political, and economic spheres. These efforts resulted in a civil war that left matters unresolved. Furthermore, the Liberal 1857 Constitution, which defined church-state relations in Mexico, was never fully implemented because dictators Porfirio Diaz (1876-1911) and Victoriano Huerta (1913-14) allowed the Church to regain some of its lost influence. Thus, during the course of the 1910 Mexican Revolu tion, the Church once again became a target, on this occasion of anticlerical revolutionaries, who viewed it as a pillar of the old order. This was especially true in Yucatân. It is, therefore, not surprising that with the demise of the usurper Huerta in 1914, nationally, the Church felt the brunt of anticlerical attacks.1 Constitutionalist generals accused the Church of opposing the revolution and supporting Huerta's
VTVL Suborbital RLV Upper Stage's Range Maximization

This article investigates a different way of finding the maximum range trajectory for a VTVL suborbital RLV in real time. Instead of evaluating terminal constraints and transversality conditions at the end point of the final coast arc, these values are evaluated at the end point of a burn arc based on the spherical geometry formulas. This modification offers several advantages. First, the free terminal time is changed to be a fixed terminal time and coast arc propagation is avoided in finding the optimal initial costate. Second, the Hamiltonian for the time invariant system along the trajectory is a constant with only one arc involved in the optimization process. As there is no discontinuity involved, the convergence is easier to be achieved. Third, compared with Vinh’s method, the 2D scenario is extended be 3D without singularities associated with 0o inclination. Simulation results demonstrate that the use of this method is proper for rapid maximum range trajectory planning. Nomenclature b 1 = thrust direction a = semi-major axis, m drag a = atmospheric drag acceleration, 2
Differential habitat use byCebus apella andSaimiri sciureus in central surinam

Cebus apella, the black-capped or tufted capuchin, andSaimiri sciureus, the squirrel monkey, are frequently found in mixed species feeding and foraging groups throughout tropical South America and have been reported previously to show marked differences in techniques of insect foraging. Individuals of these taxa observed in central Surinam show numerous additional species-specific differences in other aspects of habitat utilization including gross dietary preferences, utilization of forest strata, locomotor behavior and arboreal support preferences.Cebus apella is more frugivorous, frequents the middle and lower levels of the main canopy, is predominantly quadrupedal and moves on medium-sized arboreal supports. By contrast, the smallerSaimiri sciureus is more insectivorous, frequents the lower strata of the forest, is more saltatory and moves on the smallest arboreal supports. Many of these differences in habitat use are interrelated and accord with patterns of habitat use seen in other primate taxa. The differences betweenCebus apella andSaimiri sciureus also accord with the types of behavioral differences frequently associated with differences in body size.
Energetics of Litter Size in Five Species of Peromyscus with Generalizations for Other Mammals

The energetic cost and efficiency of lactation in five species of Peromyscus ( P. maniculatus, P. leucopus, P. polionotus, P. eremicus , and P. floridanus ) were investigated in the laboratory. Among these species, litter size was significantly correlated with the mass-specific rate of energy expenditure for lactation but not with the mass-specific amount of energy allocated to each offspring, the efficiency of converting food into offspring, the extent of body reserve utilization, nor weaning time. Reproductive efficiency was correlated with the rate of energy gain of the young relative to their energy content at birth. These results are contrasted with intraspecific comparisons and do not appear to be merely secondary effects of body size variation among the species. Similar energetic patterns are seen for interspecific comparisons of various cricetid rodents and mammals in general. However, the available data for cricetid rodents do not show a correlation between reproductive efficiency and the relative energetic growth rate of the young. The general mammalian comparison also suggests that there is an upper limit for the energetic cost of lactation at large litter sizes (>5), and that the postnatal energetic cost of individual offspring (as reflected in their weaning weight and preweaning growth rate) is inversely correlated with litter size. The ecological implications of the present findings are discussed in relation to environmental resource levels, latitude, and r - and K -selection. Mammal species with large litter sizes are more likely to have more food available or to take greater risks at obtaining additional food for lactation than species with small litters.
129 CARING FOR KIDS: A CASE STUDY OF EXPANDED HEALTH INSURANCE IN A RURAL ALABAMA COUNTY

Background In 1996, the average number of uninsured children in Bibb County was higher than for the state as a whole. Several key industries had left the area, unemployment had risen, and community-wide effects included declining school performance and child illness. The Bibb County Child Caring Initiative (BCCCI), created by a coalition of interested parties in 1996, coordinated two preexisting federal health plans (Medicaid, All-Kids) and offered insurance to other uninsured children through a state plan. By 2000, the goal of providing health coverage to all children in Bibb County seemed within reach. The present study was conducted as an evaluation of this program. Objectives To evaluate the BCCCI program using parent satisfaction and community information on saturation levels as the defining measures. Methods Qualitative research methods were used in this study. In 2003, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 248 parents and with 23 key informants (employers, policy-makers, teachers, physicians, and a school nurse). Additionally, two focus groups of parents were conducted for in-depth information on child health insurance in Bibb County. Results The total number of uninsured children in Bibb County decreased over the study period and parents were grateful for the opportunity to enroll their children in a health plan. Some discrepancies were reported, such as parents not receiving forms, not knowing about the BCCCI program, lengthy waiting periods, ineligibility, providers who billed patients, and in a few cases, discriminatory practices. Conclusions The BCCCI apparently improved access to health care for children in Bibb County. Currently, these gains are being threatened by the fiscal crisis affecting states9 ability to fund insurance plans, unemployment, and rising premiums that affect parents9 ability to provide health insurance for their children.
Designing an online environment for all teachers: supporting teachers in learning to learn online

Online collaborative environments have the potential to transform how teachers are supported in their professional learning and work. Yet, many teachers fail to fully or productively participate in these opportunities. To address this challenge, A Learning Community of Teachers (ALCOT), an online professional collaboration environment, was designed to support mentors and leaders in providing guidance to novices as they learn to develop and share ideas online.
Vegetation Sensing Using GPS Interferometric Reflectometry: Experimental Results With a Horizontally Polarized Antenna

Measurement of vegetation state is required both for modeling and for satellite data validation. GPS Interferometric Reflectometry (GPS-IR) is a passive microwave remote sensing technique that has been applied to several applications, such as sensing soil moisture, snow depth, ocean roughness and wind speed, and vegetation growth. Previous studies proposed that geodetic GPS data could be used to measure vegetation biophysical parameters, for example, vegetation height and vegetation water content (VWC). However, the measurement range and accuracy are limited because the geodetic GPS antenna is designed to suppress reflections. In this paper, the antenna design for vegetation sensing via GPS-IR is discussed. Then, a customized dipole antenna is developed specifically for vegetation sensing. A field experiment is conducted at Boulder, CO, USA to evaluate the performance of the proposed antenna. The GPS metric, which is the normalized signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) amplitude ${A_{{\rm{norm}}}}$ , shows a linear relationship with in situ measurements of VWC over a range of 0—6 kg/m2, which is much greater than the range from the geodetic data (0—1.0 kg/m 2). The sensitivity of ${A_{{\rm{norm}}}}$ to VWC change is −0.11 (W/W)/(kg/m2), and the average measurement error of VWC is ∼12.4%. Thus, the horizontally polarized antenna is suitable for vegetation monitoring in most environments, including agricultural settings. The effects of soil moisture on GPS SNR amplitude are also documented, but these are minor compared to the decrease in amplitude resulting from vegetation growth.
Expression, processing and secretion of a proteolytically-sensitive insect diuretic hormone by Saccharomyces cerevisiae requires the use of a yeast strain lacking genes encoding the Yap3 and Mkc7 endoproteases found in the secretory pathway

A system is described for the heterologous expression of peptides in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. A synthetic gene encoding a precursor of the 41 amino acid Manduca sexta diuretic hormone (Mas-DH) was expressed at 0.8 mg/l purified peptide. A precursor of a mutant peptide of Mas-DH, Mas-DH[K22Q] was also expressed. The peptides were purified, then treated with peptidylglycine alpha-amidating enzyme to generate the alpha-amidated, mature, form of Mas-DH or Mas-DH[K22Q], which were biologically active. Successful expression of full-length Mas-DH+Gly depended upon the use of a protease-deficient yeast strain. In wild-type strains, Mas-DH+Gly was recovered only as proteolytic fragments, even in the presence of various protease inhibitors. Expression of Mas-DH+Gly in strains deficient in either the Mkc7 or the Yap3 protease reduced proteolysis, while no proteolysis of Mas-DH+Gly was detectable in a strain lacking both proteases. This protease-deficient strain may prove of general utility for expression of peptides. Analysis of recovered proteolytic fragments revealed a complex pattern of cleavage sites. Both the Yap3 and Mkc7 proteases preferred to cleave at a single Glu-Lys downward arrow-Glu-Arg site. Analysis of secondary cleavage sites showed that Yap3 preferred to cleave after either Lys or Arg and Mkc7 after Lys. This paper is the first report on the in vivo activity and specificity of Yap3 and Mkc7 expressed at physiological levels.
Improving pain management in neonates exposed to intravenous insertions: A quality improvement initiative

Abstract Background From the time a neonate is admitted into the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), they are exposed to several painful procedures especially, intravenous (IV) catheter insertions. An increase use of sucrose is essential to improve pain management in neonates exposed to IV insertions. The proper administration and storage location of sucrose plays an integral role in neonatal pain management. Purpose The purpose of implementing the quality improvement (QI) project is to improve the quality of care within the neonatal population by improving neonatal nurses' beliefs, knowledge, and practices regarding neonatal pain. Methods A quality improvement process to re-locate sucrose from the Pyxis (medication dispenser) to central supply unit to increase sucrose usage was completed along with distributing a 40-item pre and post questionnaire regarding neonatal pain to a convenience sample of nurses in a level II/III NICU in the Southeast Florida region. Pre and post intervention observation audits were also utilized to differentiate practice change throughout the QI initiative in the level II NICU. Results Twenty nurses agreed to participate in the QI initiative and completed both pre and post intervention questionnaires. Results reflect an increase in nurses' knowledge and beliefs and improved pain management practices. As a group, there was a significant difference between the utilization of sucrose two minutes prior to insertion of intravenous catheter (p Conclusion There is significant evidence that increased knowledge in neonatal pain management, the proper administration of sucrose including increased sucrose utilization will result in better pain management among neonates exposed to intravenous insertions.
Electrical properties of polymers

The preparation and organization of the 1974 survey of literature dealing with the electrical properties of polymers is similar to that of preceding years. A major difference is the inclusion of the subject of electrets as a separate topic. It is hoped that this will improve the chapter since over the past few years the subject of electrets has become a major field of study and references tend to have been scattered over three or four chapters. Additionally, the sectioning of some general topics has been altered.
Impact of treatment variability on survival in immuno-competent and immuno-compromised patients with primary central nervous lymphoma.

Patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) treated in the 'real-world' setting do not represent those treated on clinical trials and might not be treated similarly. We studied characteristics and variability in care for 113 newly diagnosed PCNSL patients treated at 5 institutions in the Chicago area between 2000 and 2012. In 111 patients, single modality therapy with a high dose methotrexate (HD-MTX) regimen +/- rituximab, was most commonly employed (n = 65), and 34 underwent radiotherapy (+/- systemic therapy). Fifty-eight of 108 patients received rituximab. Twenty-nine of 110 patients (26%) received intrathecal chemotherapy (ITC). Overall response rate was 80% (47% complete responses). With a median follow-up of 18·7 months, median overall survival (OS) was 65·2 months. In univariate analysis, HD-MTX (median OS 72·7 vs. 2·7 months, P < 0·001) and rituximab (median not reached versus 28·4 months, P = 0·005) impacted OS favourably. This significance was sustained regardless of immune status and in multivariate analysis. Whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) resulted in a trend for improved OS as compared with systemic therapy alone (P = 0·09), while ITC did not impact survival. Clinical practice has evolved to exclude WBRT and ITC while incorporating rituximab with clinical outcomes comparable in immuno-competent/compromised patients and similar to those achieved in recent clinical trials.
Wellbeing differences between students in China, Thailand and the USA

In this exploratory study, subjective wellbeing (SWB) differences between college students in China, Thailand and the USA are examined. Utilising a convenience sample of 314 students, data show that significant predictors of wellbeing for all students are enjoying good mental health, regularly seeing family and friends, reporting good physical health, feeling positively about having enough resources for future needs, and feeling positively about their past year of college. For Chinese students, SWB is positively associated with regularly seeing family and friends and reporting their past year of college was a good one. Like Chinese students, US students enjoy greater SWB if they regularly see family and friends. SWB among the US sample is also positively shaped by having enough resources to meet future needs and reporting good mental health. Finally, Thai students who report good physical health and who ranked their income as very good in the past year experience greater SWB than others, all else equal.
Experiments on Self-Aerated Flow in Open Channels

Measurements of distribution of air concentration in self-aerated flows are presented in this paper. The experiments were made in a rough channel of sand-grain type surface at various slopes and discharges, and the data were used as a basis for study of the mechanism of entrainment of air and to relate the air content and distribution to the characteristics of the flow. The analysis of the data shows that the air distribution can be adequately described by relationships based upon a simplified concept of turbulent transport and thus are functions of the flow characteristics. The maximum depth and the mean velocity are both shown to increase above those of a corresponding nonaerated flow.
A New Direction for Agriculture in Japan

The only means available to Japan to increase the total production value of the nation’s agriculture is the expansion of the sector of farm management which generates the highest production value, in particular “advanced agricultural management,” which generates sales of over 50 million yen per year.
Altered Microbiome Leads to Significant Phenotypic and Transcriptomic Differences in a Lipid Accumulating Chlorophyte.

Given the challenges facing the economically favorable production of products from microalgae, understanding factors that might impact productivity rates including growth rates and accumulation of desired products, for example, triacylglycerols (TAG) for biodiesel feedstock, remains critical. Although operational parameters such as media composition and reactor design can clearly effect growth rates, the role of microbe–microbe interactions is just beginning to be elucidated. In this study an oleaginous marine algae Chlorella spp. C596 culture is shown to be better described as a microbial community. Perturbations to this microbial community showed a significant impact on phenotypes including sustained differences in growth rate and TAG accumulation of 2.4 and 2.5 fold, respectively. Characterization of the associated community using Illumina 16S rRNA amplicon and random shotgun transcriptomic analyses showed that the fast growth rate correlated with two specific bacterial species (Ruegeria and Rhodobacte...
Radiographic evaluation of the pregnant trauma patient: What are We willing to miss?

Abstract Objective Trauma is the leading cause of non-obstetrical causes of death in pregnant patients. The use of radiographic imaging for evaluation in the trauma bay is a controversial topic. However, in some cases the benefits of using radiographic imaging to ensure maternal survival outweigh the risks of radiation exposure to the fetus. This study explores whether sparing fetal exposure to radiation by minimizing use of ionizing radiographic imaging to the mother will put the mother at risk for a delayed diagnosis of injury. We hypothesize that minimizing the use of radiographic imaging in the initial assessment of pregnant trauma patients does not lead to a higher incidence of delayed diagnosis. Study Design A retrospective chart review at an urban level 1 trauma center reviewing pregnant patients involved in blunt trauma and a cohort of non-pregnant patients matched for age and ISS. Data points included: number and type of imaging studies performed on initial presentation and the number and type of imaging studies that were delayed. The primary outcome was incidence of delayed diagnosis in the pregnant trauma patient compared to the non-pregnant patient. Results 83 pregnant and 167 non-pregnant patients were examined. Average average ISS was 2.7 in both groups. 95.2% of the pregnant population had at least one imaging study done versus 100% of the control group (p = 0.004). The pregnant population had an average of 4.3 images performed compared with an average of 6.8 images in the non-pregnant cohort (p= Conclusion Our study shows that bluntly injured pregnant trauma patients receive significantly fewer radiographic images upon presentation than their non-pregnant counterparts. However, this led to insignificant difference in delay of injury diagnosis between pregnant and non-pregnant patients when matched for age and ISS. Though the ISS was low for both patient cohorts, this study suggests that mitigated radiographic imaging in the pregnant trauma patient is safe and does not result in delayed diagnosis of injury.
Toward a computational model for the automatic generation of character personality in interactive narrative

This paper introduces an approach for the incorporation of interesting and compelling characters in automatically generated interactive narrative. The approach is based on the development of a computational model that enables virtual characters to have distinct and well-defined personalities. In this model, character personality is founded on the hypothesis that choices that lead to actions can be used in interactive narrative to significantly influence a character's perceived personality.
Identifiability in causal Bayesian networks: a sound and complete algorithm

This paper addresses the problem of identifying causal effects from nonexperimental data in a causal Bayesian network, i.e., a directed acyclic graph that represents causal relationships. The identifiability question asks whether it is possible to compute the probability of some set of (effect) variables given intervention on another set of (intervention) variables, in the presence of non-observable (i.e., hidden or latent) variables. It is well known that the answer to the question depends on the structure of the causal Bayesian network, the set of observable variables, the set of effect variables, and the set of intervention variables. Our work is based on the work of Tian, Pearl, Huang, and Valtorta (Tian & Pearl 2002a; 2002b; 2003; Huang & Valtorta 2006a) and extends it. We show that the identify algorithm that Tian and Pearl define and prove sound for semi-Markovian models can be transfered to general causal graphs and is not only sound, but also complete. This result effectively solves the identifiability question for causal Bayesian networks that Pearl posed in 1995 (Pearl 1995), by providing a sound and complete algorithm for identifiability.
Hydrogenated Star Block Copolymers of Butylstyrene — Isoprene and Divinylbenzene

Anionically prepared triblock and star block copolymers of styrene with butadiene and isoprene have been widely synthesized and thoroughly studied by many investigators.1 These systems have also provided a basis for many commercially important thermoplastic elastomers, including KRATON, SOLPRENE, etc. The thermal and mechanical sproperties of these materials are well established in their microphase-separated morphologies, which may be tailored, along with other polymer parameters, to achieve specific physical properties. Anionic polymerization allows the controlled synthesis of block polymers, and thus facilitates the precise engineering of mechanical properties, such as tensile strength and modulus by controlling parameters, such as block molecular weight, purity, and microstructure.
BIOCHEMICAL EVIDENCE FOR KAPPA AND SIGMA OPIATE RECEPTORS

Binding of [3H] ethylketocyclazocine (EKC) and [3H] N-allyl normetazocine (SKF 10,047) to rat brain membranes each shows biphasic characteristics by Scatchard analysis. Biochemical and pharmacological evidence indicates that the complex Scatchard plots result from binding to independent sites. Competition analyses indicate that in both cases the lower-affinity binding site is sensitive to displacement by σ opiates and by phencyclidine (PCP)-like drugs. Binding to the higher-affinity sites is sensitive to displacement by μ ligands in both cases, more completely so for SKF 10,047. High-affinity EKC binding also appears sensitive to displacement by κ ligands. Thus, μ, κ, and σ subclasses of opiate receptors may be directly demonstrable by biochemical techniques.
Searching for Operational Concept Descriptions in BAR, MetaLEX, and EBG

Abstract The search control problem in concept learning consists of guiding the search for an operational description of a given target concept. We compare how three concept learning programs address this problem: BAR, MetaLEX, and the PROLOG-EBG implementation of explanation-based generalization. They use domain knowledge, theories of operationality, and training examples to constrain the search, but no one program fully exploits all these sources of constraint. Scaling up to richer knowledge bases and harder learning problems may require integrating these and other constraints into a comprehensive control strategy.
Autophagy: An Endogenous Survival Mechanism and Cardioprotective Response to Ischemic Stress

Cardiac autophagy is a survival process that allows for the elimination of protein aggregates and the selective removal of damaged mitochondria that occur as a result of ischemia/reperfusion. Evidence for this comes from studies performed in cultured cells exposed to anoxia/re-oxygenation and ischemia/reperfusion experiments conducted in isolated perfused hearts and in vivo preparations. In the acute setting, upregulation of autophagy is associated with decreased LDH release, decreased apoptosis, smaller infarct sizes, and improved cardiac function. In the chronic setting, activation of autophagy is associated with a decrease in infarct size and less adverse post-infarction remodeling. Cardiac autophagy has also been shown to be required for ischemic and pharmacologic preconditioning in a variety of cell culture and animal models. Taken together, these findings indicate that autophagy is a cardio-protective and adaptive process. A better understanding of the factors that affect various aspects of the machinery could lead to an entirely new approach to the treatment of ischemic heart disease.
Design optimization of hull size for spar-based floating offshore wind turbines

A newly evolving concept in utility-scale floating wind turbines is investigated through design optimization. The ideal hull length is selected from seven new designs, based on optimizing the trade-off between minimizing structural weight and maximizing electricity harvest. The seven new spar-buoy designs have drafts ranging from 62 to 120 m. Each floater hull has been developed in conformance with industry-standard structural guide API Bulletin 2U. Performance is assessed with the Loose software using time-domain analysis and irregular winds and waves. The simulation method is based on multi-body theory in Euler space, which does not rely on small-angle assumptions. Nonlinear hydrostatic restoring forces and moments are derived for large rotational angles in the pitch-roll-yaw Euler angle sequence. Environmental forcing by wind is computed using aero-elastic theory. A new individual pitch control (IPC) method based on DISCON control routine (Jonkman) is investigated as a possible means to improve generating efficiency. The pitch angle of each blade is individually controlled relative to a mean angle computed by DISCON to maintain the ideal angle of attack by removing the angle change caused by inclining tower. A comparison of the generating efficiency between IPC and traditional collective pitch control shows that IPC is not an effective way to increase output power.
Improving Detection of Rapid Cystic Fibrosis Disease Progression–Early Translation of a Predictive Algorithm Into a Point-of-Care Tool

The clinical course of cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease is marked by acute drops of lung function, defined clinically as rapid decline. As such, lung function is monitored routinely through pulmonary function testing, producing hundreds of measurements over the lifespan of an individual patient. Point-of-care technologies aimed at improving detection of rapid decline have been limited. Our aim in this early translational study is to develop and translate a predictive algorithm into a prototype prognostic tool for improved detection of rapid decline. The predictive algorithm was developed, validated and checked for 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year forecast accuracies using data on demographic and clinical characteristics from 30 879 patients aged 6 years and older who were followed in the U.S. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry from 2003 to 2015. Predictions of rapid decline based on the algorithm were compared to a detection algorithm currently being used at a CF center with 212 patients who received care between 2012–2017. The algorithm was translated into a prototype web application using RShiny, which resulted from an iterative development and refinement based on clinician feedback. The study showed that the algorithm had excellent predictive accuracy and earlier detection of rapid decline, compared to the current approach, and yielded a prototype platform with the potential to serve as a viable point-of-care tool. Future work includes implementation of this clinical prototype, which will be evaluated prospectively under real-world settings, with the aim of improving the pre-visit planning process for CF point of care. Likely extensions to other point-of-care settings are discussed.
Weight self-stigma and weight loss during behavioural weight loss intervention.

Objective Despite the myriad negative effects of weight self-stigma, its role in weight loss intervention has not been thoroughly examined. The aim of this study was to examine the association between weight self-stigma and weight loss. Methods This longitudinal study examined the association between weight loss and changes in self-stigma, assessed by the Weight Self-Stigma Questionnaire, which distinguished between self-devaluation and fear of enacted stigma. Participants were adults with overweight or obesity enrolled in a 24-month weight loss intervention trial (groups were collapsed for this post hoc analysis) who were assessed at baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Results Baseline levels of self-stigma were not associated with weight loss outcomes. However, mixed models analysis showed that reductions in one aspect of weight self-stigma, self-devaluation, was associated with greater weight loss (p = 0.01). Cross products mediation analysis showed that increases in use of weight control strategies mediated the association between reductions in self-devaluation and greater weight loss (F = 14.86, p < 0.001; CI 0.09-0.37). Conclusions Results suggest that there may be potential for incorporating intervention methods targeting the reduction of self-stigma in order to improve weight loss outcomes.