cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of output data

This paper describes, in general terms, methods for interpreting the output from simulation models. Statistical methods are described for several different purposes, and related problems like design, comparison, variance reduction, sensitivity estimation, metamodeling, and optimization are mentioned. The main point is to call attention to the challenges and opportunities in using simulation models carefully and effectively.
Exploring Students Intentions to Study Computer Science and Identifying the Differences among ICT and Programming Based Courses.

Computer Science (CS) courses comprise both Programming and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) issues; however these two areas have substantial differences, inter alia the attitudes and beliefs of the students regarding the intended learning content. In this research, factors from the Social Cognitive Theory and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology were selected as important motivating factors in students’ behavior and attitude towards CS courses. This hybrid framework aims to a) investigate the influence of these factors on students’ intention to study CS and b) identify potential differences on these effects among ICT and Programming based courses. Responses from the total of 126 Greek students, (71 attending ICT courses and 55 attending Programming Courses) were used to measure the variables and to identify the differences between ICT and Programming students. Results revealed the influence of most of the motivating factors, on students’ intention to study CS and indicated the moderating effect in the enrolment with ICT or Programming course on the relationship among students’ Perceived Behavioral Control and their intention to study CS. The outcomes of this study are expected to open new avenues to understanding students’ intentions to pursue computing and IT related careers.
Enhanced Solar Energy Absorption by Internally-Mixed Black Carbon in Snow Grains

Abstract. Here we explore light absorption by snowpack containing black carbon (BC) particles residing within ice grains. Basic considerations of particle volumes and BC/snow mass concentrations show that there are generally 0.05–10 9 BC particles for each ice grain. This suggests that internal BC is likely distributed as multiple inclusions within ice grains, and thus the dynamic effective medium approximation (DEMA) (Chýlek and Srivastava, 1983) is a more appropriate optical representation for BC/ice composites than coated-sphere or standard mixing approximations. DEMA calculations show that the 460 nm absorption cross-section of BC/ice composites, normalized to the mass of BC, is typically enhanced by factors of 1.8–2.1 relative to interstitial BC. BC effective radius is the dominant cause of variation in this enhancement, compared with ice grain size and BC volume fraction. We apply two atmospheric aerosol models that simulate interstitial and within-hydrometeor BC lifecycles. Although only ~2% of the atmospheric BC burden is cloud-borne, 71–83% of the BC deposited to global snow and sea-ice surfaces occurs within hydrometeors. Key processes responsible for within-snow BC deposition are development of hydrophilic coatings on BC, activation of liquid droplets, and subsequent snow formation through riming or ice nucleation by other species and aggregation/accretion of ice particles. Applying deposition fields from these aerosol models in offline snow and sea-ice simulations, we calculate that 32–73% of BC in global surface snow resides within ice grains. This fraction is smaller than the within-hydrometeor deposition fraction because meltwater flux preferentially removes internal BC, while sublimation and freezing within snowpack expose internal BC. Incorporating the DEMA into a global climate model, we simulate increases in BC/snow radiative forcing of 43–86%, relative to scenarios that apply external optical properties to all BC. We show that snow metamorphism driven by diffusive vapor transfer likely proceeds too slowly to alter the mass of internal BC while it is radiatively active, but neglected processes like wind pumping and convection may play much larger roles. These results suggest that a large portion of BC in surface snowpack may reside within ice grains and increase BC/snow radiative forcing, although measurements to evaluate this are lacking. Finally, previous studies of BC/snow forcing that neglected this absorption enhancement are not necessarily biased low, because of application of absorption-enhancing sulfate coatings to hydrophilic BC, neglect of coincident absorption by dust in snow, and implicit treatment of cloud-borne BC resulting in longer-range transport.
Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Immunomodulatory Therapies

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a large-scale and significant health concern. The combination of subcutaneously administered pegylated interferon and oral ribavirin is the FDA-approved regimen for the treatment of chronic HCV infection. Combination therapy may result in a sustained virologic response leading to HCV eradication, with a reduction in risk for cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation, and hepatocellular carcinoma.9,10 However, the combination of PEG-IFN and ribavirin does not universally result in cure in all patients who undergo treatment. In this article, the authors discuss immunomodulatory therapies and clinical trials in the treatment of HCV infection.
Smoking accelerates aging of the small airway epithelium

Aging involves multiple biologically complex processes characterized by a decline in cellular homeostasis over time leading to a loss and impairment of physiological integrity and function. Specific cellular hallmarks of aging include abnormal gene expression patterns, shortened telomeres and associated biological dysfunction. Like all organs, the lung demonstrates both physiological and structural changes with age that result in a progressive decrease in lung function in healthy individuals. Cigarette smoking accelerates lung function decline over time, suggesting smoking accelerates aging of the lung. Based on this data, we hypothesized that cigarette smoking accelerates the aging of the small airway epithelium, the cells that take the initial brunt of inhaled toxins from the cigarette smoke and one of the primary sites of pathology associated with cigarette smoking. Using the sensitive molecular parameters of aging-related gene expression and telomere length, the aging process of the small airway epithelium was assessed in age matched healthy nonsmokers and healthy smokers with no physical manifestation of lung disease or abnormalities in lung function. Analysis of a 73 gene aging signature demonstrated that smoking significantly dysregulates 18 aging-related genes in the small airway epithelium. In an independent cohort of male subjects, smoking significantly reduced telomere length in the small airway epithelium of smokers by 14% compared to nonsmokers. These data provide biologic evidence that smoking accelerates aging of the small airway epithelium.
Utility of Real-Time PCR for Detection of Exserohilum rostratum in Body and Tissue Fluids during the Multistate Outbreak of Fungal Meningitis and Other Infections

Exserohilum rostratum was the major cause of the multistate outbreak of fungal meningitis linked to contaminated injections of methylprednisolone acetate produced by the New England Compounding Center. Previously, we developed a fungal DNA extraction procedure and broad-range and E. rostratum-specific PCR assays and confirmed the presence of fungal DNA in 28% of the case patients. Here, we report the development and validation of a TaqMan real-time PCR assay for the detection of E. rostratum in body fluids, which we used to confirm infections in 57 additional case patients, bringing the total number of case patients with PCR results positive for E. rostratum to 171 (37% of the 461 case patients with available specimens). Compared to fungal culture and the previous PCR assays, this real-time PCR assay was more sensitive. Of the 139 identical specimens from case patients tested by all three methods, 19 (14%) were positive by culture, 41 (29%) were positive by the conventional PCR assay, and 65 (47%) were positive by the real-time PCR assay. We also compared the utility of the real-time PCR assay with that of the previously described beta-d-glucan (BDG) detection assay for monitoring response to treatment in case patients with serially collected CSF. Only the incident CSF specimens from most of the case patients were positive by real-time PCR, while most of the subsequently collected specimens were negative, confirming our previous observations that the BDG assay was more appropriate than the real-time PCR assay for monitoring the response to treatment. Our results also demonstrate that the real-time PCR assay is extremely susceptible to contamination and its results should be used only in conjunction with clinical and epidemiological data.
Elucidation of the chemical composition of avian melanin

Our understanding of the chemical composition of melanin remains limited, due to a paucity of direct measurements. Avian feathers have an unparalleled diversity of melanin-based color mirroring their complex chemistry. Synchrotron-based photoionization mass spectrometry is used to determine the chemical composition of melanin from samples of black, brown, grey and iridescent feathers.
Educational Perspectives: Introduction to Simulation-based Training

The apprentice model, which has been used to educate physicians since the era of Hippocrates, has survived the test of time and become established as an effective methodology. Simulation-based training represents an evolution of this teaching paradigm in which the needs of adult learners are met more effectively. This type of training holds the potential to increase competency as well as promote and, more importantly, improve patient safety. Simulation involves immersion of the trainee in a realistic situation (the scenario) and the creation of a physical space designed to replicate real life (the simulator) that is sufficiently realistic to achieve suspension of disbelief on the part of the trainee. (1) The compelling effectiveness of simulation lies in the application of educational theory. According to educational research, the most significant learning experiences occur in authentic activity, during immersion in realistic settings, via hands-on training. (2) Malcolm Knowles pioneered the field of adult learning, acknowledging that “adults are self-directed, independent, and internally motivated to learn … they seek immediate application of newly acquired knowledge … they need to connect learning to their knowledge base … they are goal and relevancy oriented.” (3) Three hypotheses must be embraced to comprehend the true value of simulated teaching. The first is that learning is facilitated through experience. (4) The current paradigm of see one, do one, teach one does not afford the learner opportunities to practice or gain experience without risk to patients. …
Asymptotic bounds for an optimal state-dependent retrial rate of the M/M/1 queue with returning customers

In this paper, we examine the zero capacity M/M/1 queue with returning customers. Asymptotic bounds for the optimal state dependent retrial rate are derived, where the state of the process is determined by queue length and server status. This optimal return rate minimizes the penalty cost to a customer for waiting and checking in to verify that the server is busy. It will be shown that the problem reduces to three cases characterized by a linear relationship between four system parameters: customer arrival rate, service rate, competing retrial rate, and cost. In two of these cases, asymptotic bounds are tight.
Implementation of thermoelectric microwave power sensors in CMOS technology

This paper presents two implementations of efficient thermoelectric microwave power sensors fabricated through commercial CMOS processes with additional maskless etching. Two types of thermocouple detectors were fabricated and tested. Both types measure true rms power of signals in the frequency range up to 20 GHz and input power range from -30 dBm to +10 dBm. The devices have linearity better than /spl plusmn/0.4% for output dc voltage vs. input microwave power over this 40 dB dynamic range. Measurements obtained using an automatic network analyzer show an acceptable input return loss of less than -20 dB over the entire frequency range.
Ras and Rap Signaling in Synaptic Plasticity and Mental Disorders

The Ras family GTPases (Ras, Rap1, and Rap2) and their downstream mitogen-activated protein kinases (ERK, JNK, and p38MAPK) and PI3K signaling cascades control various physiological processes. In neuronal cells, recent studies have shown that these parallel cascades signal distinct forms of AMPA-sensitive glutamate receptor trafficking during experience-dependent synaptic plasticity and adaptive behavior. Interestingly, both hypo- and hyperactivation of Ras/ Rap signaling impair the capacity of synaptic plasticity, underscoring the importance of a "happy-medium" dynamic regulation of the signaling. Moreover, accumulating reports have linked various genetic defects that either up- or down-regulate Ras/Rap signaling with several mental disorders associated with learning disability (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, Angelman syndrome, autism, cardio-facio-cutaneous syndrome, Coffin-Lowry syndrome, Costello syndrome, Cowden and Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndromes, fragile X syndrome, neurofibromatosis type 1, Noonan syndrome, schizophrenia, tuberous sclerosis, and X-linked mental retardation), highlighting the necessity of happy-medium dynamic regulation of Ras/Rap signaling in learning behavior. Thus, the recent advances in understanding of neuronal Ras/Rap signaling provide a useful guide for developing novel treatments for mental diseases.
Fire danger rating in the United States of America: an evolution since 1916*

Fire scientists in the United States began exploring the relationships of fire-danger and hazard with weather, fuel moisture, and ignition probabilities as early as 1916. Many of the relationships identified then persist today in the form of our National Fire-Danger-Rating System. This paper traces the evolution of fire-danger rating in the United States, including discussions of significant developmental milestones, innovative instrumentation, and a succession of analogue fire-danger meters, or calculators. Although the primary theme of this paper is an historical review of pioneering efforts leading up to our current state-of-knowledge, a common thread throughout this paper is the desire by every generation of developer to achieve a 'purely analytical system'. A national system was first introduced in 1964. The current system used throughout the USA was implemented in 1978, with optional revisions added in 1988. We present this evolution within the context of three periods of development: first, the pioneering efforts initiated at the Priest River Experiment Station in northern Idaho; second, the implementation of a national, standardised fire-danger-rating system; and third, spatially explicit delivery systems that provide a national view of weather and fire potential, which include national fire-danger and weather maps and satellite-derived maps that reflect the state of live vegetation across the United States.
Relation between potassium-channel kinetics and the intrinsic dynamics in isolated retinal bipolar cells.

Characterization of the intrinsic dynamics of isolated retinal bipolar cells by a whole-cell patch-clamp technique combined with estimation of effective impulse responses across a range of mean injected currents reveals strikingly adaptive behavior. At resting potential, bipolar cells' effective impulse response is slow, high gain, and low pass. Depolarization speeds up response, decreases gain, and, in most cells, induces bandpass behavior. This adaptive behavior involves two K+ currents. The delayed-rectifier accounts for the observed gain reduction, speed increase, and bandpass behavior. The A-channel further shortens the impulse responses but suppresses bandpass features. Computer simulations of model neurons with a delayed-rectifier and varying A-channel conductances reveal that impulse responses largely reflect the flux of electrical charge through the two K+ channels. The A-channel broadens the frequency response and preempts the action of the delayed-rectifier, thereby reducing the associated bandpass features. Admixtures of the two K+ channels produce the observed variety of dynamics of retinal bipolar cells.
Fermionic pentagons and NMHV hexagon

We analyze the near-collinear limit of the null polygonal hexagon super Wilson loop in the planar N = 4 super-Yang–Mills theory. We focus on its Grassmann components which are dual to next-to-maximal helicity-violating (NMHV) scattering amplitudes. The kinematics in question is studied within a framework of the operator product expansion that encodes propagation of excitations on the background of the color flux tube stretched between the sides of Wilson loop contour. While their dispersion relation is known to all orders in ’t Hooft coupling from previous studies, we find their form factor couplings to the Wilson loop. This is done making use of a particular tessellation of the loop where pentagon transitions play a fundamental role. Being interested in NMHV amplitudes, the corresponding building blocks carry a nontrivial charge under the SU(4) R-symmetry group. Restricting the current consideration to twist-two accuracy, we analyze two-particle contributions with a fermion as one of the constituents in the pair. We demonstrate that these nonsinglet pentagons obey bootstrap equations that possess consistent solutions for any value of the coupling constant. To confirm the correctness of these predictions, we calculate their contribution to the super Wilson loop demonstrating agreement with recent results to four-loop order in ’t Hooft coupling. © 2015 The Author. Published by Elsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Funded by SCOAP 3 .
Responses of Single Taste Fibers and Whole Chorda Tympani and Glossopharyngeal Nerve in the Domestic Pig, Sus scrofa

Whole nerve, as well as single fiber, responses in the chorda tympani proper (CT) and glossopharyngeal (NG) nerves of 1- to 7-week-old pigs were recorded during taste stimulation. In the CT acids and in the NG bitter compounds gave the largest responses. Both nerves exhibited large responses to monosodium glutamate (MSG), MSG with guanosine 5′-monophosphate (GMP) and MSG with inositine 5′-monophosphate (IMP) as well as to glycine, xylitol, sucrose, fructose and glucose. Alitame, aspartame, betaine, neohesperedin dihydrochalcone (NHDHC), super-aspartame, saccharin and thaumatin elicited no or little response. Hierarchical cluster analysis of 49 CT fibers separated four major clusters. The M cluster, comprising 28.5% of all fibers, is characterized by strong responses to MSG, KCl, LiCl and NaCl. The responses to NaCl and LiCl were unaffected by amiloride. The H cluster (24.5%) includes units responding principally to acids. The Q cluster (18.5%) responds to quinine hydrochloride (QHCl), sucrose octaacetate (SOA) and salts with amiloride. The S cluster (28.5%) exhibits strong responses to xylitol, glycine and the carbohydrates as well as to MSG alone and to MSG with GMP or IMP. In 31 NG fibers, hierarchical cluster analysis revealed four clusters: the M cluster (10%), responding to MSG and MSG with GMP or IMP; the H cluster (13%), responding to acids; the Q cluster (29%), responding strongly to QHCl, SOA and tilmicosin R ; and the S cluster (48%), responding best to xylitol, carbohydrates and glycine but also to the umami compounds. Multidimensional scaling analysis across fiber responses to all stimuli showed the best separation between compounds with different taste qualities when information from both nerves was utilized.
Laparoscopic staging of ovarian immature teratomas: a report on three cases.

ABSTRACT Background: Ovarian malignant germ cell tumors (MGCT) tend to occur in younger women and are amenable to fertility sparing surgery. Traditionally, most ovarian cancers are staged via laparotomy; however, laparoscopy is a potential alternative to laparotomy for surgical staging in malignant germ cell tumors. Case: Three patients with immature teratoma were surgically staged with laparoscopy over a 1-year period at our institution. All patients underwent an initial surgery, unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, for a complex adnexal mass that demonstrated immature teratoma on final pathology. Laparoscopic surgical staging was performed for all patients, with peritoneal and omental biopsies and pelvic and para-aortic lymph node dissection. Two patients with Stage IA disease secondary to negative biopsies and lymph nodes were observed. One patient was found to have omental disease; she underwent chemotherapy and remains in remission. As of last follow-up, no recurrences have been documented. Conclusion: ...
The Role of Supply Chain Agility in Achieving Supply Chain Fit

The main purpose of this research was to build on Fisher's (1997) seminal article. First, it expands on the Fisher framework by empirically establishing the link between the firm's environmental characteristics and the firm's level of supply chain fit (SCF). The results indicate a negative relationship between environmental uncertainty and SCF indicating that, as the level of environmental uncertainty increases it becomes increasingly challenging to match a product's supply and demand characteristics with its supply chain design characteristics. Second, the key contribution of this research is the introduction of supply chain agility as a capability that helps mitigate the negative relationship between aspects of environmental uncertainty and SCF. Finally, this research contributes to theory development and managerial practice by exploring the complex relationship between SCF, supply chain agility, and financial performance. Developing high levels of supply chain agility and SCF requires deployment of resources for the focal firm. This manuscript provides a better understanding of how such expenditures can generate financial benefits for organizations.
The Economic and Clinical Burden of Respiratory Viral Infections in Hematopoietic Cell Transplant (HCT) Recipients: A Cost Comparison Study Across 19 Major Cancer Centers in the U. S

Results: Based on the 43 patients enrolled, a comparable treatment success rates between the 3 arms was observed. Progression to pneumonia occurred in 10% (2/20) of pts in the no therapy arm, 8% (1/13) in the OR arm, and 30% (3/10) in the AR arm. A total cost-savings of $1,830,348 was estimated for this current trial alone. Conclusions: If proven non-inferior, OR is a good and costeffective alternative to AR for management of RSV infections in HCT recipients. Application of ISI-RSV may lead to significant cost-savings by avoiding antiviral therapy in low-risk patients but needs further validation in multi-center studies.
Investigating the Perceptions of Intellectual Diversity Among Socially Conservative Christian Seniors at Elite U.S. Colleges

ABSTRACTThis study investigated the perceptions of intellectual diversity at elite U.S. universities through the lens of the socially conservative Christian senior. Closely aligned with the principle of academic freedom, intellectual diversity is a foundational value putatively espoused by most if not all colleges and universities in the US. Although studies have consistently shown a professorate that is overwhelmingly Democratic and ideologically left-of-center, many scholars deny that any systematic bias exists. Research has shown a correlation between commitment to Christian/conservative values and perception of professor bias. Using hierarchical generalized linear modeling (HGLM) on a subset of the nationally representative sample (N = 2,789) of “very high” institutions, this current study found corroborative evidence that socially conservative Christian students were disproportionately “dissatisfied” or “very dissatisfied” with their institutions’ respect for the expression of diverse beliefs. Genera...
Bundled Database Subscriptions: Challenges, Opportunities, and Assessment

ABSTRACTThis case study describes the second part of an experiment using a bundled database subscription model. Texas A&M University (TAMU) Libraries pursued a multiyear agreement with ProQuest to address “administrative churn.” This agreement was known as “ProQuest Comprehensive.” During 2014, the final year of the agreement, the TAMU Libraries considered renewal and assessed support for ProQuest Comprehensive. The company is a well-recognized information provider, but to date there are no studies assessing bundled ProQuest content. This article will outline the evaluative criteria developed to assess ProQuest Comprehensive and the steps TAMU Libraries undertook to determine what ProQuest databases to renew, what databases to cancel, and the challenges encountered in the decision-making process.
Simulation of Dynamic Response of Nuclear Power Plant Based on User-Defined Model in PSASP

Based on the energy transformation regularity in physical process of pressurized water reactors(PWR),PWR NPP models are established in PSASP(Power System Analysis Software Package),which are applicable for calculating the dynamic process of PWR NPP and power system transient stabilization.The power dynamic characteristics of PWR NPP is simulated and analyzed,including the PWR self-stability,self-regulation and power step responses under power regulation system.The results indicate that the PWR NPP can afford certain exterior disturbances and 10%Pn step under temperature negative feedbacks.The regulate speed of PWR power can reach 5%Pn/min under the power regulation system,which meets the requirement of peak regulation in Power Grid.
Establishment of multiplex real-time quantitative PCR method for rapid detection of toxigenic Vibrio cholerae serogroup O1 from environmental sample

To establish a TaqMan-based multiplex real-time PCR assay for detection of toxigenic Vibrio cholerae serogroup O1 and construct a method for primary application of environmental samples test,the gene sequences of cholera toxin and specific O antigen biosynthetic gene rfb of serogroup O1 downloaded from the GenBank were aligned using the biologic software,and the specific primers and probe were designed in the conserved region of the CT and rfb-O1 gene for Vibrio cholerae serogroup O1.The reaction conditions were optimized and the sensitivity,specificity and the stability of the assay were evaluated.The clinical specimens collected from the environment were detected by this assay.For specifically detecting the toxigenic Vibrio cholerae serogroup O1,the detection limits of the assay for rfb-O1 and CT gene were 100 cfu/mL and the regression coefficient of the quantitative curve were 0.998 and 0.999,respectively.Five strains of toxigenic Vibrio cholerae serogroup O1 were collected from 352 environmental specimens for the first time by this assay.This assay is a rapid,sensitive and specific one for the widespread detection of toxigenic Vibrio cholerae serogroup O1 from environmental sample.
Lagrangian Field Formalism for Balanced Charges

In this chapter the Lagrangian field formalism is applied to the particular case of interacting balanced charges.
Addressing Barriers to Shared Decision Making Among Latino LGBTQ Patients and Healthcare Providers in Clinical Settings.

Abstract Effective shared decision making (SDM) between patients and healthcare providers has been positively associated with health outcomes. However, little is known about the SDM process between Latino patients who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ), and their healthcare providers. Our review of the literature identified unique aspects of Latino LGBTQ persons’ culture, health beliefs, and experiences that may affect their ability to engage in SDM with their healthcare providers. Further research needs to examine Latino LGBTQ patient–provider experiences with SDM and develop tools that can better facilitate SDM in this patient population.
Biochemical analysis of force-sensitive responses using a large-scale cell stretch device.

ABSTRACTPhysical force has emerged as a key regulator of tissue homeostasis, and plays an important role in embryogenesis, tissue regeneration, and disease progression. Currently, the details of protein interactions under elevated physical stress are largely missing, therefore, preventing the fundamental, molecular understanding of mechano-transduction. This is in part due to the difficulty isolating large quantities of cell lysates exposed to force-bearing conditions for biochemical analysis. We designed a simple, easy-to-fabricate, large-scale cell stretch device for the analysis of force-sensitive cell responses. Using proximal biotinylation (BioID) analysis or phospho-specific antibodies, we detected force-sensitive biochemical changes in cells exposed to prolonged cyclic substrate stretch. For example, using promiscuous biotin ligase BirA* tagged α-catenin, the biotinylation of myosin IIA increased with stretch, suggesting the close proximity of myosin IIA to α-catenin under a force bearing condition...
Estimation of distribution of childhood diarrhoea, measles, and pneumonia morbidity and mortality by socio-economic group in low-income and middle-income countries

Abstract Background Vaccines are one of the most successful interventions in improving population health in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). In addition to the direct improvements in health outcomes, we are interested in their distributional effects—that is, whether vaccines promote or reduce health equity across socioeconomic groups. Empirical data on incidence and mortality of vaccine-preventable diseases across socioeconomic groups is not available. Therefore, we developed a method to estimate the distribution of childhood diseases and deaths across income groups and the benefits of three vaccines—for diarrhoea, measles, and pneumonia—in 41 LMICs. Methods For every country and disease (diarrhoea, measles, pneumonia), we estimated the distribution of cases and deaths that would occur in each income quintile had there been no immunisation or treatment programme, using both the prevalence and relative risk of a set of risk and prognostic factors. Building on these baseline estimates, we assessed the effect of three vaccines (first dose of measles vaccine, pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, and rotavirus vaccine) under five scenarios based on sets of quintile-specific immunisation coverage and uptake of disease treatment. Findings Because the prevalence of risk factors is higher in the poorest two quintiles than in the rest of the population, more disease cases and deaths would occur in the poorest two quintiles for all three diseases when vaccines or treatment are unavailable. However, we noted that current immunisation coverage and treatment utilisation rates have resulted in greater inequity in the distribution of cases and deaths. Even if in absolute terms the poorest quintiles benefit more from vaccines, the wealthier two quintiles sees a higher percentage decrease in cases and deaths. Thus, in terms of overall distribution of remaining cases and deaths with vaccine coverage, the poorest quintiles would see a higher comparative burden of disease than they would without vaccine coverage. Country-specific context, including how the baseline risks, immunisation coverage, and treatment utilisation are currently distributed across quintiles, affects how different policies translate to improvements in the distribution of cases and deaths. Interpretation Our analysis highlights several factors, including risk and prognostic factors, and vaccine and treatment coverage that would substantially contribute to the unequal distribution of childhood diseases, and we found that merely ensuring equal access to vaccines will not reduce the health outcomes gap between income quintiles. Such information can inform policies and planning of programmes that aim to improve equitable delivery of healthcare services. Funding Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
A Metrics-Based Evaluation of Sustainable Manufacturing at Product and Process Levels

In recent years, sustainable manufacturing has emerged as a promising new direction to boost economic growth, while enhancing greater environmental and societal benefits. Promoting sustainable manufacturing requires an emphasis on all product life-cycle stages (premanufacturing, manufacturing, use, and postuse) for closed-loop material flow using 6R methodologies (reduce, reuse, recycle, recover, redesign, and remanufacture) through innovation at the product, process, and system levels. This article presents a summary of the recently developed metrics-based sustainability evaluation methodology for manufactured products and manufacturing processes through Product Sustainability Index ( ProdSI ) and Process Sustainability Index ( ProcSI ) tools. Case studies are used to demonstrate the application of the tools.
Influence of invasive shrubs and deer browsing on regeneration in temperate deciduous forests

While both chronic white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus Zimmermann) overbrowsing and invasive shrubs have been linked to native regeneration failure in temperate hardwood forests, little is kn...
Apical root resorption during orthodontic treatment with clear aligners: A retrospective study using cone-beam computed tomography.

Introduction We aimed to investigate the incidence and severity of orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption (OIIRR) on maxillary incisors with clear aligner therapy using cone-beam computed tomography and to identify possible risk factors. Methods The root lengths of maxillary incisors were measured on orthogonal images from pretreatment and posttreatment cone-beam computed tomography examinations of 160 patients who received comprehensive orthodontic treatment with clear aligners. Results Mean absolute reductions in root length varied between 0.47 ± 0.61 mm and 0.55 ± 0.70 mm and were not significantly different between maxillary central and lateral incisors. The prevalence of severe OIIRR, defined as both maxillary central incisors experiencing greater than a 25% reduction in root length, was found to be 1.25%. Potential risk factors included sex, malocclusion, crowding, and posttreatment approximation of apices to the cortical plates. Race, interproximal reduction, previous trauma to the teeth, elastics, age, treatment duration, and pretreatment approximation of apices to the cortical plates did not significantly affect the amount of OIIRR. Conclusions Comprehensive treatment with clear aligners resulted in minimal root resorption. Sex, malocclusion, crowding, and posttreatment approximation to the cortical plates significantly affected the percentage of change in root length. Posttreatment approximation of root apices to the palatal cortical plate showed the strongest association for increased OIIRR.
Mutational analysis of rhodotorulic acid synthesis in Rhodotorula pilimanae

The current status of research on the aerobactin gene complex of Escherichia coli has been reviewed from the standpoint of its organization and regulation. The reasons for selection of the basidiomycetous yeast, Rhodotorula pilimanae, as the most suitable eukaryotic species to which to extend similar studies have been enumerated. A convenient bio-assay is described for detection of mutants of Rhodotorula pilimanae blocked in the biosynthesis of rhodotorulic acid. The application of the bio-assay to a mutagenized culture of Rhodotorula pilimanae enabled collection of a series of mutants, one of which forms an altered version of the constituent amino acid of rhodotorulic acid, Nδ-acetyl-Nδ-hydroxyornithine.
Axes of Power: Predicting the Reception of Assertions of Presidential War Powers in the Courts

The sphinx-like nature of constitutional war powers are purposefully ambiguous in their allocation and definitions, yet judicial decisions that have faced presidential exertions of these powers consistently rely on three factors, or axes, to determine whether the executive prevails. First, the President’s power over individuals is greatest within an authorized war against a nation, and when the individuals are connected to a foreign state at war with the United States. Second, the further from the homeland the presidential use of force is, the more likely courts are to support the President, except in cases tantamount to an invasion or insurrection. Third, the more defensive the use of force, including against certain terrorists, the more favorably the courts will view presidential powers. Exigency, while itself not an axis, provides the force multiplier, tipping the balance towards the constitutional office most suited to decision, activity, secrecy, and dispatch.
Fuzzy Integer Programming

We did not discuss fuzzy integers in Chapter 2 so we will do this in the next section. Then in Section 24.3 we look at a standard integer programming problem and then fuzzify it. We plan to use our fuzzy Monte Carlo method in Section 24.4 to obtain (approximate) solutions to this fuzzy integer programming problem. There have been a few papers on fuzzy integers and optimization problems and we refer the reader to ([1]-[5]).
Bis(tris(3-isopropylpyrazolyl)methanesulfonato)manganese(II) dichloromethane disolvate

The title compound, [Mn(C19H27N6O3S)2]·2CH2Cl2 or [Mn(TpmsiPr)2]·2CH2Cl2, contains a distorted octa­hedral Mn atom bound to two N atoms and an O atom from each ligand. The Mn atom lies on a center of symmetry. This structure is compared with previously reported octa­hedral complexes of the same ligand and other octa­hedral manganese complexes containing N4O2 donor sets.
Relation between absorption and emission directivities for dipoles coupled with optical antennas

An in-depth theoretical analysis of optical antennas is presented. The study is not only helpful for the understanding of fundamental questions, such as the subtleties of reciprocity between the absorption and emission processes of emitters coupled with optical antennas, but it may also contribute to better design antennas for a given application.
Next up: JPAE Tools

(2015). Next up: JPAE Tools. Journal of Public Affairs Education: Vol. 21, No. 4, pp. 474-474.
Geospatial Framework for Estimating Household Electricity Demand for Urban Infrastructure Planning in Select African Countries

Access to reliable and affordable energy is the backbone of advanced economies all over the world. Such an access is limited in Sub-Saharan African countries such as Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa due to lack of inadequate energy generation infrastructure. Infrastructure planning for energy generation requires accurate estimations of potential energy demand profiles. Such demand profiles are lacking in many developing countries all over the world. This paper presents a geospatial framework for estimating household electricity demand that could inform infrastructure-planning tools. This is an extension of our initial effort to estimate household electricity demand for Uganda. This paper presents power demand estimates for four African countries - South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda. Electricity demand estimates are generated using three (low, average, and high) appliance usage profiles. The analyses indicate a deficit of about 22,630 MW (South Africa), 20,213 MW (Nigeria), 4,153 MW (Kenya), and 2,508 MW (Uganda) compared to the current installed capacity for the high usage profile scenario.
Associations between fine particulate matter and changes in lipids/lipoproteins among midlife women

Abstract Fine particles (PM2.5) are known to increase risks of cardiovascular diseases, but it is unclear how they affect plasma lipid levels. In this study, we examined the associations between PM2.5 exposure and lipid/lipoprotein levels from 2289 midlife women enrolled in the longitudinal Study of Women's Health Across the Nation. The average exposure to PM2.5 and gaseous co-pollutants during the prior one year, six months, 30 days, and one day were estimated for each woman based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ambient monitoring data. Blood samples were collected annually from 1999 to 2005 and analyzed for lipids/lipoproteins. Mixed-effect models were used to account for repeated measures for each woman, adjusted for demographic, health and behavior covariates. PM2.5 exposures, especially the long-term exposure, were negatively associated with protective lipoproteins, and positively associated with atherogenic lipoproteins. For example, each 3 μg/m3 increase of one-year PM2.5 exposure was associated with decreases of −0.7% (−1.4%, −0.1%) in high-density lipoprotein cholesterols and −0.6% (−1.1%, −0.1%) in apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1), as well as increases of 3.8% (1.0%, 6.6%) in lipoprotein(a) and 1.4% (0.5%, 2.3%) in the ratio of apolipoprotein B (ApoB)/ApoA1. In stratified analysis, increased atherogenic lipoproteins were mainly observed in women without dyslipidemia, and both increased atherogenic lipoproteins and reduced protective lipoproteins were observed among women in perimenopause. In summary, PM2.5 exposure was associated with adverse lipid level changes, and thus, may increase cardiovascular risks in midlife women.
Electrical and thermal conductivity improvement of carbon nanotube and silver composites

Abstract Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were mixed with silver particles and nanowires in an effort to produce lightweight conductors of Ag/CNT composites. Silver nanostructures composites with CNTs were achieved through sonication, filtration and infusion processes. Uniform dispersion of silver nanostructures in the composite samples was achieved using different amounts of silver (Ag), and then the samples were characterized under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Both electrical and thermal conductivities were improved by increasing the amount of silver particles and sizes. The samples with silver nanowires (AgNWs) with high aspect ratios had a lower percolation threshold and achieved higher electrical and in-plane thermal conductivity of 1.3 × 104 S/cm and 126 W/mK at 9 vol % of Ag content, respectively, at room temperature. Temperature dependence of resistivity of the resultant CNT/Ag composites can be described using a heterogeneous model with metallic and non-metallic terms. The CNT/AgNW composites showed the dominant metallic transport mechanism down to 17 K. Also, a high in-plane thermal conductivity of the AgNW samples demonstrated good thermal dissipation. The resultant Ag/CNT composites conductors demonstrated low density and high transport properties for potential engineering applications.
How Can We Make Office Hours Better

Most personal student interactions with instructional staff come through office hours. Particularly in large courses, office hours are predominantly run by teaching assistants (TAs). TAs are best advantaged by support and training from more senior instructional staff, especially faculty. This Birds-of-a-Feather session will provide a forum for discussing challenges and innovations in managing office hours towards improving the student learning experience and environment by discussing ideas around (1) personalized support and mentoring for TAs, (2) technological support such as online queues and internal wikis, (3) considerations for remote teaching and learning, and (4) methods for evaluating office hours. It is hoped that these conversations may inspire transformative changes to office hours structure that lead to future educational innovations in research and in practice. While this session will emphasize TA-supported office hours, the discussion may also inspire new ideas for managing instructor office hours as well. During our session we will create breakout rooms for each topic and use a shared document where each room can take notes. After the break out session, each group will report back and create a summary of their discussion notes, which will be publicly archived at https://kevinl.info/office-hours
General revenue sharing loss: alabama local government fiscal responses

This study explores linkage between Alabama local governments’ lost General Revenue Sharing (GRS) and their resultant coping strategies in the years following this federal program’s demise. Previous studies have failed consistently to relate particular coping strategies to how GRS monies were spent and to differing magnitudes of GRS loss among governmental jurisdictions. This study finds a possible linkage between Alabama local governments that cut basic governmental services and their previous GRS “dependency” and spending preferences.
Stochastic regression deterioration models for superstructure of prestressed concrete bridges in California

At the beginning of 2018 about 6% of California’s bridges are structurally deficient, and approximately 17% of California’s bridges are estimated to cost about $12.2 billion for repairs. The subjec...
Listening to the patient: A perspective from narrative medicine:

In this article, an attempt is made to synthesize some insights drawn from the fields of narrative medicine and psychoanalysis regarding the caregiver–patient relationship. All experiences of care ...
Prophylactic cranial irradiation in patients ≥ 70 years old with limited stage small cell lung cancer: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results analysis.

7589 Background: Prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) improves survival in patients with limited stage small cell lung cancer (SCLC) who have a complete response to chemotherapy and radiation (RT...
Long-term Outcomes and Survival in Moderate-severe Portopulmonary Hypertension After Liver Transplant.

Background Portopulmonary hypertension is present in an estimated 5.3% to 8.5% of liver transplant candidates. Untreated, 5-year survival is estimated between 14% and 28%. Moderate-severe disease is a contraindication to liver transplant due to the high perioperative mortality, but patients optimized with pulmonary vasodilator therapy can become eligible for transplant. There is minimal data regarding posttransplant outcomes and ability to discontinue pulmonary vasodilator therapy posttransplant. Methods We performed a single-center retrospective analysis to evaluate long-term outcomes of patients with moderate-severe portopulmonary hypertension who were optimized with pulmonary vasodilator therapy, became eligible for liver transplant, and subsequently underwent transplant. We identified 24 patients optimized with pulmonary vasodilator therapy who underwent subsequent liver transplantation and 25 patients who were treated with pulmonary vasodilator therapy alone. Results In the transplanted cohort, 1-year survival from portopulmonary hypertension diagnosis date: 95.8%, 3-year survival: 90.9%, and 5-year survival: 90.9%. Posttransplant; 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival was 86.9%. Among transplanted patients, 41.6% (10/24) were optimized with nonparenteral therapy. Following transplantation, 100% (14/14) of the surviving patients were able to discontinue parenteral therapy; median time: 7.2 months (interquartile range: 5.1-8.9 mo), while 61.9% (13/21) were able to discontinue pulmonary vasodilator therapy altogether; median time: 13.9 months (interquartile range: 5.1-17.6 mo). Conclusions Patients who are optimized with pulmonary vasodilator therapy before liver transplant can have excellent long-term outcomes posttransplant. Oral pulmonary vasodilator therapy can be effective treatment to qualify a patient for transplant, and the majority are able to wean from pulmonary vasodilator therapy entirely posttransplant.