cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Theorem Concerning Syntactical Treatments Of Nonidealized Belief

In ‘Syntactical Treatments of Modality, with Corollaries on Reflexion Principles and Finite Axiomatizability’, Acta Philosophica Fennica16 (1963), 153–167, Richard Montague shows that the use of a single syntactic predicate (with a context-independent semantic value) to represent modalities of alethic necessity and idealized knowledge leads to inconsistency. In ‘A Note on Syntactical Treatments of Modality’, Synthese44 (1980), 391–395, Richmond Thomason obtains a similar impossibility result for idealized belief: under a syntactical treatment of belief, the assumption that idealized belief is deductively closed, together with certain other plausible conditions on idealized belief, imply that an ideal believer with consistent beliefs cannot believe the truth of Robinson's Arithmetic. In this essay I show that an impossibility result similar to Thomason's can be obtained which does not assume that belief is deductively closed or ideal in any other way.
Adaptive and compressive matched field processing

Matched field processing is a generalized beamforming method that matches received array data to a dictionary of replica vectors in order to locate one or more sources. Its solution set is sparse since there are considerably fewer sources than replicas. Using compressive sensing (CS) implemented using basis pursuit, the matched field problem is reformulated as an underdetermined, convex optimization problem. CS estimates the unknown source amplitudes using the replica dictionary to best explain the data, subject to a row-sparsity constraint. This constraint selects the best matching replicas within the dictionary when using multiple observations and/or frequencies. For a single source, theory and simulations show that the performance of CS and the Bartlett processor are equivalent for any number of snapshots. Contrary to most adaptive processors, CS also can accommodate coherent sources. For a single and multiple incoherent sources, simulations indicate that CS offers modest localization performance improvement over the adaptive white noise constraint processor. SWellEx-96 experiment data results show comparable performance for both processors when localizing a weaker source in the presence of a stronger source. Moreover, CS often displays less ambiguity, demonstrating it is robust to data-replica mismatch.
Weaned pigs experimentally infected with Salmonella display sexually dimorphic innate immune responses without affecting pathogen colonization patterns

Sexually dimorphic innate immune responses have been observed in several species, but have not been studied in response to a live pathogen challenge in pigs. This study aimed to elucidate sexually dimorphic innate immune responses along with Salmonella translocation patterns in newly weaned pigs orally inoculated with Salmonella. Newly weaned pigs (n = 8 gilts and 12 barrows; 6.2 ± 0.2 kg BW) were obtained from a commercial swine facility and were maintained in an environmentally-controlled facility in individual pens equipped with feeders and nipple waterers. Pigs were allowed ad libitum access to a commercial non-medicated starter ration and water throughout the study. On d 12 post-weaning, pigs were anesthetized to allow placement of a temperature measuring device in the abdominal cavity for measurement of intraperitoneal temperature (TEMP). On d 17, pigs were anesthetized and fitted with indwelling jugular vein catheters. On the following day (d 18), pigs were orally inoculated with 4.7×109 Salmonella typhimurium. Blood samples were collected at 0.5-h intervals from -2 to 8 h, and at 8-h intervals from 8 to 72 h post-challenge. Whole blood was analyzed for complete blood cell counts. Serum was isolated for measurement of cortisol. Following collection of the 72 h sample, pigs were humanely euthanized and tissues were collected for Salmonella isolation. There was a sex × time interaction (P 0.05) on Salmonella concentrations from fecal shedding 3 d post-inoculation in the cecum, mesenteric and subiliac lymph nodes, liver, spleen, gallbladder, or kidney tissues. These data demonstrate that weaned gilts appear to produce a stronger acute phase response to a Salmonella challenge compared to barrows, without affecting the tissue translocation or shedding of Salmonella.
Unique identifiers for small molecules enable rigorous labeling of their atoms

Rigorous characterization of small organic molecules in terms of their structural and biological properties is vital to biomedical research. The three-dimensional structure of a molecule, its 'photo ID', is inefficient for searching and matching tasks. Instead, identifiers play a key role in accessing compound data. Unique and reproducible molecule and atom identifiers are required to ensure the correct cross-referencing of properties associated with compounds archived in databases. The best approach to this requirement is the International Chemical Identifier (InChI). However, the current implementation of InChI fails to provide a complete standard for atom nomenclature, and incorrect use of the InChI standard has resulted in the proliferation of non-unique identifiers. We propose a methodology and associated software tools, named ALATIS, that overcomes these shortcomings. ALATIS is an adaptation of InChI, which operates fully within the InChI convention to provide unique and reproducible molecule and all atom identifiers. ALATIS includes an InChI extension for unique atom labeling of symmetric molecules. ALATIS forms the basis for improving reproducibility and unifying cross-referencing across databases.
Recency order judgments in short term memory: Replication and extension of Hacker (1980)

The classic finding from short-term relative JOR tasks is that correct response time (RT) depends on the lag to the more recent item but not to the less recent item (Hacker, 1980). For decades, researchers have argued that this finding is consistent with a self-terminating backward scanning model (Muter, 1979; Hacker, 1980; Hockley, 1984; McElree & Dosher, 1993). This finding has taken on new importance in light of recent proposal that many forms of memory depend on a compressed representation of the past (Howard, Shankar, Aue, & Criss, 2015). This paper replicates and extends the results of the classic papers. A Bayesian t-test showed substantial evidence for the null effect of lag to the less recent item on correct RT. In addition, this paper reports that correct RT is a sub-linear function of lag to the more recent probe and replicates the classic finding that error RT depends on lag to the less recent probe. These findings place new constraints on models of short-term memory scanning.
Inferring the Diets of Extinct Giant Lemurs from Osteological Correlates of Muscle Dimensions

The jaw adductor muscles of extinct mammals are often reconstructed to elucidate paleoecological relationships and to make broad comparisons among taxa. Muscle lever arms, bite load arms, muscle dimensions, and gape are often also reconstructed to better understand feeding. Several different approaches to these and related goals are discussed here. A protocol for reconstructing muscle dimensions and bite force using biomechanically informative skull measurements and osteological proxies of muscle dimensions is described and applied to a case study of subfossil Malagasy lemurs. The results of this case study show that most subfossil lemurs emphasized the masseter and medial pterygoid muscles over the temporalis. This supports the inference that these extinct lemurs depended heavily on tough food like leaves. Exceptions include signals of hard-object feeding in Archaeolemur that vary between A. majori and A. edwardsi. Reconstructions of soft-tissue and function are important for understanding past ecological relationships. Even those based on well-supported osteological proxies from extant analogues have limitations for making precise inferences. Anat Rec, 301:343-362, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation in Prevalent Hemodialysis Patients in the United States: A National Study

Background Arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are the preferred form of hemodialysis vascular access, but maturation failures occur frequently, often resulting in prolonged catheter use. We sought to characterize AVF maturation in a national sample of prevalent hemodialysis patients in the United States. Study Design Nonconcurrent observational cohort study. Setting & Participants Prevalent hemodialysis patients having had at least 1 new AVF placed during 2013, as identified using Medicare claims data in the US Renal Data System. Predictors Demographics, geographic location, dialysis vintage, comorbid conditions. Outcomes Successful maturation following placement defined by subsequent use identified using monthly CROWNWeb data. Measurements AVF maturation rates were compared across strata of predictors. Patients were followed up until the earliest evidence of death, AVF maturation, or the end of 2014. Results In the study period, 45,087 new AVFs were placed in 39,820 prevalent hemodialysis patients. No evidence of use was identified for 36.2% of AVFs. Only 54.7% of AVFs were used within 4 months of placement, with maturation rates varying considerably across end-stage renal disease (ESRD) networks. Older age was associated with lower AVF maturation rates. Female sex, black race, some comorbid conditions (cardiovascular disease, peripheral artery disease, diabetes, needing assistance, or institutionalized status), dialysis vintage longer than 1 year, and catheter or arteriovenous graft use at ESRD incidence were also associated with lower rates of successful AVF maturation. In contrast, hypertension and prior AVF placement at ESRD incidence were associated with higher rates of successful AVF maturation. Limitations This study relies on administrative data, with monthly recording of access use. Conclusions We identified numerous associations between AVF maturation and patient-level factors in a recent national sample of US hemodialysis patients. After accounting for these patient factors, we observed substantial differences in AVF maturation across some ESRD networks, indicating a need for additional study of the provider, practice, and regional factors that explain AVF maturation.
Compressed sensing and differential measurements in interferometry

In this paper, we propose and analyze a new compressive Fourier phase retrieval (PR) technique based on differential measurement, that can provably recover sparse signals with O(s polylog N) phase-less measurements. This measurement technique is easily implementable using interferometric techniques like Holography and Frequency Domain Optical Coherence Tomography. The proposed l1 minimization based recovery is able to achieve the same reconstruction quality as some of the popular PR algorithms with far fewer measurements.
National plan for physical activity: education sector.

BACKGROUND Schools must play a central role in combating the prevalence of overweight and obesity among children and youths. This cannot be achieved without more robust policy and funding programs at both federal and state levels. METHODS Reviews of meta-analyses were used to assess the efficacy of improving PA/MVPA through interventions in school physical education programs. Individual research studies were reviewed to assess the efficacy of improving PA/MVPA in preschool settings, recess, and classroom activity breaks. Legislation at the federal and state levels was reviewed along with surveillance and accountability mechanisms at the state level. RESULTS Physical education interventions produce improvements in PA/MVPA if protocols relating to use of time are followed. PA/MVPA in recess can be increased through careful planning for attractive activity opportunities on carefully designed playgrounds. Classroom activity breaks provide important PA/MVPA daily and improve student on-task behavior. CONCLUSIONS Federal legislation is needed to provide guidelines and financial support for states to improve the quantity and quality of PA in school programs. States need to develop clear expectations for quantity and quality of PA programs in schools, surveillance systems to monitor district compliance in meeting those expectations, and an accountability system aimed at ensuring that state expectations are being met with assistance for districts that do not meet expectations.
A multiprocessor computer architecture for database support

The effects of certain computer architecture design principles upon the design of a back-end database machine architecture have been assessed. The example computer architecture, referred to as REPT (RElational Processing Tree), was designed using the principles of multiple identical processing nodes, minimization of global knowledge, and ease of processing expansion. A binary tree communication topology was investigated for the implementation of relational algebra operations. An indirect search of the database was employed by distributing source relations across leaf node memories. Implementations of complex relational algebra expressions were discussed. Current database computer architectures were surveyed. Response time expressions for a representative query were developed for REPT and for each surveyed machine. The results of this analysis were compared using specific examples of data dependent parameter values. The response time analysis showed a general ranking of currently proposed database machines. Problems associated with large result sets were exhibited in this analysis, and in other cases, the expansion of the number of processing cells reduced the response time. A machine which directly searched the database was found to have the fastest response time when the number of result tuples was small. REPT supported a high degree of parallel processing across leaf nodes and pipelining of source and result relations. It was determined that X-NODES (Sequin et al. Communication in X-TREE, a Modular System. Proceedings of the ACM 1978:130-140) could support the desired capabilities of REPT. Outside of the functions performed during query execution, all node processors were identical. REPT was found to be easily expanded. In terms of response time, REPT was found to be competitive with other database machines in its class. Evidence supported the conclusion that the design principles used for REPT are worthy of future computer architectures.
History of carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common condition surgically treated by hand surgeons. It is interesting to note this condition was only definitively described in years after World War II. Retrospectively, however, this condition did not appear suddenly at that time but was known under a variety of different names in the past. Patients who appear to have suffered from carpal tunnel syndrome are clearly depicted in the surgical literature going back at least o mid-1800s. The evolution of the clinical understanding that led to the current knowledge of carpal tunnel syndrome is an interesting one and represents a pattern that may be typical for many medical conditions. Specifically, early on there was confusion as to the pathophysiology, resulting in a variety of etiological theories, which in turn resulted in a variety of apparently different diagnoses being applied to the same clinical entity. Only later did the clinical threads merge and result in a single coherent clinical picture.
Investigating functional brain network integrity using a traditional and novel diagnostic system for neurodevelopmental disorders

Background: Current diagnostic systems for neurodevelopmental disorders do not have clear links to underlying neurobiology, limiting their utility in identifying targeted treatments for individuals. Several factors contribute to this issue, including the use of small samples in neuroimaging research and heterogeneity within diagnostic categories. Here, we aimed to investigate differences in functional brain network integrity between traditional diagnostic categories (autism spectrum disorder [ASD], attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder [ADHD], typically developing [TD]) and carefully consider the impact of comorbid ASD and ADHD on functional brain network integrity in a large sample. We also assess the neurobiological validity of a novel, potential alternative nosology based on behavioral measures of executive function. Method: Five-minute resting-state fMRI data were obtained from 168 children (128 boys, 40 girls) with ASD, ADHD, comorbid ASD and ADHD, and TD children. Independent component analysis and dual regression were used to compute within- and between-network functional connectivity metrics at the individual level. Results: No significant group differences in within- nor between-network functional connectivity were observed between traditional diagnostic categories (ASD, ADHD, TD) even when stratified by comorbidity (ASD+ADHD, ASD, ADHD, TD). Similarly, subgroups classified by executive functioning levels showed no group differences. Conclusions: Using clinical diagnosis and behavioral measures of executive function, no group differences were observed among the categories examined. Therefore, we suggest that brain imaging metrics may more effectively define clinical subgroups than behavioral metrics, and may contribute to the establishment of a neurobiologically valid nosology for neurodevelopmental disorders.
Ab initio study of the stability of intrinsic and extrinsic Ag point defects in 3CSiC

Abstract We have systematically investigated the energetics and stability of Ag atom in 3C SiC with various charge states using first-principles calculations within large supercells. Up to 18 Ag-defect configurations have been examined, including substitutionals, interstitials, and vacancy-based complexes. A general trend is that the formation energy of Ag-defect complexes is generally lower than interstitial typed defects. With the lowest formation energy, the configuration with Ag_T Si -V C 3+ turns out to be the most stable one. It has also been found a neutral Ag is more likely to substitute a silicon lattice site with a nearest carbon vacancy, thus forming an Ag Si -V C pair. All these data are important inputs in the next coarser-level modeling to understand the Ag migration in and release from 3C SiC under both thermal and radiation conditions.
Forecasting of solar power ramp events: A post-processing approach

Abstract The growing integration level of wind and solar energy resources introduces new regulating and operating challenges in the electric grid. Ramp-rate limits of conventional power plants in the generation mix impose an operating constraint on renewable energy sources to the point that, at high integration levels, the ramp-rates of wind and solar resources must be managed by situational awareness tools that are based on forecasts, especially the ramp events forecasts. To leverage such tools, a post-processing adjusting approach is developed in this paper for improving the capability of hour-ahead combined forecasts of solar power to capture ramp events. The performance evaluation is conducted with several evaluation metrics that consider the accuracy of forecasts in terms of ramp events. The results of a case study demonstrate the efficacy of the adjusting approach. Probabilistic forecasts are also generated to quantify the uncertainty associated with the solar power ramp event forecasts and the uncertainty analysis is carried out.
Le présent altéré

Our working hypothesis is that the digital culture is remodeling a temporal affect of existence. We attempt to describe how our experience of present time is altered by the increase of digital memory, together with the progressive disappearance of « memory recall » and expectation. This altered presence opens up loopholes which could be called dreams, desire, promise, latency or God. Thus anticipatory algorithm and data translation of present actions of the subject are not a definitive tragedy of our time.
Invertebrate serotonin receptors: a molecular perspective on classification and pharmacology

ABSTRACT Invertebrate receptors for the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) have been identified in numerous species from diverse phyla, including Arthropoda, Mollusca, Nematoda and Platyhelminthes. For many receptors, cloning and characterization in heterologous systems have contributed data on molecular structure and function across both closely and distantly related species. This article provides an overview of heterologously expressed receptors, and considers evolutionary relationships among them, classification based on these relationships and nomenclature that reflects classification. In addition, transduction pathways and pharmacological profiles are compared across receptor subtypes and species. Previous work has shown that transduction mechanisms are well conserved within receptor subtypes, but responses to drugs are complex. A few ligands display specificity for different receptors within a single species; however, none acts with high specificity in receptors across different species. Two non-selective vertebrate ligands, the agonist 5-methoxytryptamine and antagonist methiothepin, are active in most receptor subtypes in multiple species and hence bind very generally to invertebrate 5-HT receptors. Future challenges for the field include determining how pharmacological profiles are affected by differences in species and receptor subtype, and how function in heterologous receptors can be used to better understand 5-HT activity in intact organisms.
Conductive Gap-Plasmon Nanocavity

We can design and create conductive gap-plasmon nanocavity structures using vertically stacked nanodisks made of metals or conductive oxides, which can simultaneously serve as nanoelectrodes as well as nanoantennas for hybrid electrical-optical interface.
Towards the Generation of Correct Java Programs (Research Poster)

Proof assistants such as Coq [1] can be used to develop very high assurance software such as a verified C compiler [2] and verified high performance computing programs [3]. Even when not used for a full system, using such a proof assistant to develop critical parts of a system could be interesting, for example security monitors [4] or the reconfiguration mechanism of a component based system.
Does capillary evaporation limit the accessibility of nonaqueous electrolytes to the ultrasmall pores of carbon electrodes

Porous carbons have been widely utilized as electrode materials for capacitive energy storage. Whereas the importance of pore size and geometry on the device performance has been well recognized, little guidance is available for identification of carbon materials with ideal porous structures. In this work, we study the phase behavior of ionic fluids in slit pores using the classical density functional theory. Within the framework of the restricted primitive model for nonaqueous electrolytes, we demonstrate that the accessibility of micropores depends not only on the ionic diameters (or desolvation) but also on their wetting behavior intrinsically related to the vapor-liquid or liquid-liquid phase separation of the bulk ionic systems. Narrowing the pore size from several tens of nanometers to subnanometers may lead to a drastic reduction in the capacitance due to capillary evaporation. The wettability of micropores deteriorates as the pore size is reduced but can be noticeably improved by raising the surface electrical potential. The theoretical results provide fresh insights into the properties of confined ionic systems beyond electric double layer models commonly employed for rational design/selection of electrolytes and electrode materials.
It could happen to you: how perceptions of personal risk shape support for social welfare policy in the American States

Is public support for social welfare programs’ contingent on an individual’s exposure to risk? Prior work has examined whether tough economic times lead people to “reach out” (i.e. become more accepting of government expansion of social welfare programs) or “pull back” (i.e. become less supportive of welfare). However, these studies do not account for the conditional relationship between an individual’s exposure to risk and his or her risk orientation. Using new survey data, we find that an individual’s risk orientation moderates the relationship between risk exposure and public support for welfare spending. When individuals perceive exposure to economic risk, those who are risk averse are highly supportive of welfare expansion; those who are risk acceptant become less supportive. Broadly, these findings suggest that public support for welfare spending is contingent on whether an individual perceives exposure to risk and, if so, the individual’s propensity to tolerate that risk.
YOUNG, Anne: Massachusetts/USA

Anne B. Young Born December 30, 1947 in Evanston, Illinois. A.B. (chemistry) summa cum laude, Vassar College, 1969. M.D., 1973 and Ph.D. (Pharmacology), 1974, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Intern in Medicine, Mt. Zion Hospital, San Francisco, 1975. Neurology Resident, University of California San Francisco, 1975–1978 (Chief Resident during final year). University of Michigan Neurology 1978–1991. Recruited to CHIEF OF NEUROLOGY, MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL, 1991–2012; JULIEANNE DORN PROFESSOR OF NEUROLOGY, HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL, 1991—present. Member: Institute of Medicine; American Academy of Arts and Sciences; and the Royal College of Physicians (Fellow). She is the only person (male or female) to have been president of both the Society for Neuroscience (2003–2005) and the American Neurological Association (2001–2003). As a graduate student, Young provided the first biochemical evidence of glutamate as a neurotransmitter of the cerebellar granule cells. She developed biochemical techniques to measure inhibitory amino acid neurotransmitter receptors in mammalian brain and spinal cord. As a faculty member at the University of Michigan, Young and her late husband (John B. Penney, Jr.) worked together to establish the first biochemical data that glutamate was the neurotransmitter of the corticostriatal, corticobulbar and corticospinal pathways. They developed film-based techniques for quantitative receptor autoradiography. They also provided evidence for the most widely cited model of basal ganglia function (the basal ganglia are the brain regions affected by Huntington’s and Parkinson’s diseases). The model has provided the springboard for testing novel interventions in Huntington’s and Parkinson’s diseases and related disorders such as deep brain stimulation. Dr. Young was a key member of the US-Venezuela Huntington’s disease Collaborative Research Project from 1981–2002 that found the HD gene and more. Dr. Young and her colleagues were the first to demonstrate gene expression changes in Huntington’s and Parkinson’s disease brains. Dr. Young established what is now called the MassGeneral Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease (MIND) in 1999. MIND brings together scientists at MGH concentrating on studies of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s diseases and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Labs are encouraged to translate discoveries into assays for drug discovery and animal models for drug trials. Dr. Young spearheaded the comprehensive drug discovery efforts at the MIND and has been successful in identifying drug targets for Parkinson’s, Huntington’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Optimized application of rotifers Brachionus plicatilis for rearing pikeperch Sander lucioperca L. larvae

This study aimed to optimize the use of euryhaline rotifer Brachionus plicatilis for rearing larval pikeperch Sander lucioperca L. We assessed motility of rotifers under salinities of 0‰, 2‰, 4‰, 8‰, and 16‰ over a 6-h period. Rotifers stocked into freshwater were completely immotile within 2 h. The motility of rotifers after 6 h was 10 ± 2.27% at 2‰, 35 ± 5.58% at 4‰, 79 ± 30.35% at 8‰, and 92 ± 1.98% at 16‰. A second trial quantified the effect of the target salinity levels on pikeperch gut fullness over the course of 11 h. The gut fullness of larvae fed with rotifers was significantly lower at 8‰ salinity than in other tested groups. Salinity of 16‰ resulted in 100% mortality. Survival and growth of pikeperch larvae from 4 to 11 days post-hatching (DPH) was analyzed at low (2‰ and 4‰) and medium (8‰) salinity. Differences in larval performance under tested salinities were found in survival (S), total length, SGR, eye diameter, myotome height, and gut fullness. The highest mean survival (S) and specific growth rate (SGR) were obtained at 2‰ (S = 64%; SGR = 10 ± 5.4% day−1) and 4‰ (S = 65%; SGR = 8.23 ± 3.4% day−1) salinity and significantly differed from 8‰ (S = 36%; SGR = 5 ± 2.3% day−1) and control (S = 34%; SGR = 7 ± 3% day−1) at 11 DPH. At the conclusion of the trial (11 DPH), larvae of all exposures and control presented normal histology with no signs of pathology. Morphometric analyses revealed significant differences in brush border and fold height of anterior intestine among treatment groups. Larvae at 2‰ salinity showed significantly higher intestinal fold height (31.2 ± 5.40 μm) compared to those at 4‰ (26.5 ± 6.11 μm), 8‰ (26.3 ± 4.52 μm), and control (22.8 ± 5.13 μm) (p ˂ 0.05). Larvae at 4‰ salinity had significantly higher brush border height (2.50 ± 0.73 μm) compared to those at 2‰ (2.27 ± 0.63 μm) and 8‰ (1.87 ± 0.44 μm) salinity and control (1.66 ± 0.56 μm) (p < 0.05). The results showed 2‰ and 4‰ salinity supported higher numbers of motile B. plicatilis and higher larval survival and growth rate to 11 DPH.
Psychometric properties of a Chinese version of the Constructivist Learning Environment Survey among secondary-school students in Hong Kong

The study examined the factor structure, reliability and validity of a Chinese version of the Constructivist Learning Environment Survey (C-CLES), an instrument for assessing students’ perceptions of the extent of constructivist approaches prevalent in classrooms. A convenience sample of 967 students in Secondary Three (Grade 9) in Hong Kong participated in this study by completing a self-administered questionnaire in their class time. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported the hypothesised factor structure, indicating five theoretical constructivist environment dimensions that showed goodness-of-fit to 25 items: Personal Relevance, Uncertainty, Critical Voice, Shared Control, and Student Negotiation. Criterion-related validity, involving evidence based on relations to other variables, was assessed by correlations between the constructivist environment dimensions and cognitive strategies and academic ability. Most correlations were statistically significant and in the positive direction. The C-CLES with 25 items provides a useful measure for educational practice and research among school students.
Failure analysis of fretting fracture in frame rails of heavy duty trucks – Case study

Abstract This paper analyzed fatigue fracture of a frame rail during accelerated endurance test of a heavy duty truck. This fracture was noted in an area of high shear stresses where contact and fretting fatigue was suspected. A cross section through the fracture initiation site showed areas of surface contact wear in the microstructure. Fretting wear resulted in crack initiation and propagated to form a through crack under reverse bending fatigue crack growth mechanism. A combination of crack growth simulation tool (FRANC3D) and finite element analysis solver (MSC NASTRAN) was used and automated to handle multiple crack growth iterations. The simulation results obtained showed good correlation to failure crack path and cycles to failure. These simulation results were also used to understand the root cause of failure, identify critical parameters causing failure and recommend design modifications to prevent fretting fatigue in frame of heavy duty trucks. A modified design using the proposed simulation methodology was identified and was shown to provide improved frame durability.
Energy vessel sealant devices are associated with decreased risk of neck hematoma after thyroid surgery.

Postoperative neck hematomas following thyroidectomy occur in up to 6.5% of cases. It is unclear whether the use of energy vessel sealant devices effects the rate of PNH. We hypothesized use of an EVSD to be associated with decreased risk of PNH in patients undergoing thyroidectomy. The 2016–2017 American College of Surgeons Thyroidectomy database was queried for patients undergoing thyroidectomy with and without EVSDs. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate for risk of PNH. From 11,355 patients undergoing thyroidectomy, an EVSD was used for 7460 (65.7%) patients. Age distribution was similar between the two groups (52 vs. 53-years old, p = 0.467). Compared to patients without EVSD used, patients with EVSD used had higher rates of comorbid hypertension (40.6% vs. 34.8%, p < 0.001) and diabetes (14.2% vs. 11.5%, p < 0.001); however, a lower rate of PNH (1.4% vs. 2.4%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for known risk factors for PNH including age, prior neck surgery, and comorbidities, EVSD use was associated with a decreased risk of PNH (OR 0.453, 95% CI 0.330–0.620, p < 0.001). The strongest associated risk factors for PNH were hypertension (OR 1.823, 95% CI 1.283–2.591, p = 0.001) and toxic goiter (OR 1.837, 95% CI 1.144–2.949, p = 0.012). When compared to standard vessel ligation, EVSD use was associated with a lower risk of PNH in patients undergoing thyroidectomy. The strongest associated risk factor for PNH was toxic goiter. Future prospective research is needed to confirm these findings and if corroborated, then increased use of an EVSD should be employed.
Object-Agnostic Dexterous Manipulation of Partially Constrained Trajectories

We address the problem of controlling a partially constrained trajectory of the manipulation frame–an arbitrary frame of reference rigidly attached to the object–as the desired motion about this frame is often underdefined. This may be apparent, for example, when the task requires control only about the translational dimensions of the manipulation frame, with disregard to the rotational dimensions. This scenario complicates the computation of the grasp frame trajectory, as the mobility of the mechanism is likely limited due to the constraints imposed by the closed kinematic chain. In this letter, we address this problem by combining a learned, object-agnostic manipulation model of the gripper with Model Predictive Control (MPC). This combination facilitates an approach to simple vision-based control of robotic hands with generalized models, enabling a single manipulation model to extend to different task requirements. By tracking the hand-object configuration through vision, the proposed framework is able to accurately control the trajectory of the manipulation frame along translational, rotational, or mixed trajectories. We provide experiments quantifying the utility of this framework, analyzing its ability to control different objects over varied horizon lengths and optimization iterations, and finally, we implement the controller on a physical system.
Are Trekking Poles Helping or Hindering Your Hiking Experience? A Review

Hiking is a common recreational activity that provides numerous health benefits, such as reduced risk of heart disease, reduced blood pressure, and improved cardiorespiratory fitness. The use of specifically designed trekking poles has become popular among participants seeking to alleviate sore knees and increase balance and stability while walking. This review provides an overview of physiologic and biomechanical responses elicited when trekking poles are used during outdoor activities, such as hiking or Nordic walking, and discusses the clinical implications of the use of trekking poles. Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases, as well as university library catalogues, were searched for literature published between 1980 and 2019. The keywords used to search the literature were hiking poles, trekking poles, and Nordic walking and their combination with physiological responses, ground reaction forces, joint forces, spatiotemporal parameters, kinematics, electromyography, and/or balance. The related topics included the academic disciplines of biomechanics, sports science, and wilderness medicine. Reference lists of located studies were also reviewed for additional sources. During free, unloaded walking, users should compare the cost and benefit of using poles: Trekking poles decrease lower extremity loading and forces but increase cardiovascular demand. When carrying a large external load, trekking poles may offer benefit by decreasing lower extremity muscle activity and increasing balance and stability.
Nonlinear iterative projection methods with multigrid in photon frequency for thermal radiative transfer

Abstract This paper presents nonlinear iterative methods for the fundamental thermal radiative transfer (TRT) model defined by the time-dependent multifrequency radiative transfer (RT) equation and the material energy balance (MEB) equation. The iterative methods are based on the nonlinear projection approach and use multiple grids in photon frequency. They are formulated by the high-order RT equation on a given grid in photon frequency and low-order moment equations on a hierarchy of frequency grids. The material temperature is evaluated in the subspace of lowest dimensionality from the MEB equation coupled to the effective grey low-order equations. The algorithms apply various multigrid cycles to visit frequency grids. Numerical results are presented to demonstrate convergence of the multigrid iterative algorithms in TRT problems with large number of photon frequency groups.
Private and public ownership in the drive toward digital innovations in newspaper newsrooms

This research explores the impact of ownership on innovations in U.S. newspaper newsrooms by constructing a structural equation model (SEM). The study, using an online survey (N = 1,063), found tha...
Breeding Soundness Examination of the Cow

Treatment or prevention of breeding problems is only possible after making the correct diagnosis. The accuracy of this diagnosis is based on:1. A detailed review of breeding records and compilation of an accurate history.2. A thorough evaluation of the entire reproductive tract.a. external inspection.b. evaluation of internal genitalia per rectum (palpation and ultrasound)c. vaginal examination.
Ultra-high extinction-ratio silicon photonic polarization beam splitter with anisotropic metamaterials

We present an ultra-high extinction-ratio silicon photonic polarization beam splitter with anisotropic metamaterial claddings. Exceptional coupling with anisotropic metamaterial achieved 58- 60 dB (46-48 dB) extinction-ratios for TE (TM) mode and the large birefringence resulted in a short coupling length (14.5 µm).
Cloning of an insecticidal cholesterol oxidase gene and its expression in bacteria and in plant protoplasts.

Abstract We cloned and sequenced structural gene choM, which encodes an insecticidally active cholesterol oxidase in Streptomyces sp. strain A19249. The primary translation product was predicted to be a 547-amino-acid protein whose first 43 amino acids constitute a secretory signal peptide. Expression of the gene with the signal sequence in Escherichia coli resulted in production of a protein that had enzymatic and insecticidal properties which were indistinguishable from those of the cholesterol oxidase secreted by Streptomyces sp. strain A19249. Expression of the gene with or without the signal sequence in tobacco protoplasts resulted in production of an enzymatically active cholesterol oxidase.
Socioemotional wealth in the family farm

Purpose – A family member may work for the family business even though the direct financial benefits he or she may receive in the form of a salary may be lower than what could be earned working for a non-family business. The lower amount may be accepted because of benefits of association with the family business. This psychic non-pecuniary return has been called socioemotional wealth in the family business research literature. The purpose of this paper is to propose a method to estimate socioemotional wealth and apply that technique to a group of family dairy farms to estimate socioemotional wealth for those family farms. Design/methodology/approach – A panel regression method was used to empirically allocate net farm income to the unpaid factors of equity, labor, and management provided by a family member in a family farm partnership. The estimated returns of labor plus management are compared to the market salary earned by farm managers who manage farms. The difference between the higher hired farm mana...
STUDIES OF FIBROCYSTIC DISEASE OF THE PANCREAS (MUCOVISCIDOSIS): CHYMOTRYPSIN ACTIVITY OF DUODENAL FLUID

A study of the chymotrypsin activity of duodenal fluid, using the method of Ravin, Bernstein, and Seligman, is presented. The method is applicable to routine assay and is a reliable reflection of pancreatic function. In addition, this assay is specific for chymotrypsin activity in contrast to the customary tests for protease activity, which use casein or gelatin as substrates. In 40 patients with complete pancreatic insufficiency due to fibrocystic disease of the pancreas the chymotrypsin activity of the duodenal fluid was not measurable (i.e., less than 5 µg. of β-naphthol liberated from the substrate). The chymotrypsin activity in 53 patients with normal pancreatic function and without symptoms referable to fibrocystic disease of the pancreas varied from 11 to 65 µg. of βd-naphthol except for the lowest value in this control group of 8 µg. In another group of 62 children with sufficient symptoms to call for duodenal fluid assay (failure to gain, abnormal feces or repeated respiratory infections) the range of chymotrypsin activity was similar to that of the control group. The duodenal fluid assay and clinical course excluded fibrocystic disease of the pancreas in this group. The chymotrypsin assay is useful in the study of patients with partial pancreatic insufficiency from progressive loss of pancreatic function as the disease progresses. In view of occasional diagnostic failures, based on assay of a single enzyme, it is important to determine the total enzyme activity of duodenal fluid for proper complete evaluation of pancreatic function.
Optical wavelength interchange based on nonlinear photonic crystals

We have theoretically analyzed and experimentally demonstrated the first simultaneous optical wavelength interchange process using a two-dimensional nonlinear photonic crystal. Results from a 1535-1555 nm wavelength interchange lattice fabricated in lithium niobate will be presented.
Incentives for Cell Phone Only Users: What Difference Do They Make?

Providing incentives to potential respondents has been shown to be one of the more effective means of encouraging participation in surveys across modes of data collection. The increasing number of cell-phone only (CPO) households has sparked an interest in best practices for interviewing cell phone respondents. One aspect of interviewing cell phone respondents that has not been adequately addressed is the question of the need to provide some type of remuneration to those who complete the interview on a cell phone. In this research, we provide evidence that suggests that providing such remuneration does not have a significant impact on either response rates or results. Although the literature on this topic is not extensive, there have been several studies of this topic (Dillman 2007; Singer 2002; Trussell and Lavrakas 2004). For example, Brick and his colleagues (2007) found in a national survey of cell phone households that a $10 incentive significantly improved participation over a $5 incentive. Similar studies by Diop and his colleagues (2008a, 2008b) found that a $10 incentive produced a higher rate of production compared to no incentive or to a $5 incentive. These earlier studies were based on unscreened dual-frame designs that included all cell phone users – that is, those both with and without landlines – while our research focused on those in cell phone only households, which may account for some of the difference in the findings. In the early 2000s, most initial approaches to contact cell phone users presumed that some type of incentive or remuneration would be given. This was usually done as a reimbursement for possible charges incurred by the respondent, although in some cases they may have functioned as incentive payments. One of the conclusions from the Cell Phone Sampling Summit II was that “survey respondents reached on their cell phone should be properly reimbursed for their time on a research call” (Lavrakas and Shuttles 2005). As the cost structure of cell phone billing has changed and more users have moved to virtually “unlimited minutes” plans, does reimbursement of cell phone users remain a sine qua non?
Vaginal reconstruction following extensive treatment for pelvic cancer

Abstract Since 1970, 23 patients at UCLA and The City of Hope who have undergone extensive treatment for pelvic malignancy have had vaginal function successfully restored. A combination of methods, including split-thickness skin graft and the construction of an external vulvar pouch; is often necessary to obtain maximal functional results. The external vulvar pouch was very useful, although not as anatomically appealing as internal methods of reconstruction. In young patients who required an exenteration, a new technique using part of the anterior bladder fundus was developed. Preliminary experience with this method was promising. Among the group of 23 patients, there have been no overt failures. By combining restoration of rectal function with vaginal reconstruction, two major steps have been taken toward total rehabilitation of the patient undergoing extensive treatment for pelvic malignancy. Persistence, ingenuity, and planning by the surgeon are essential to obtain a maximum functional result for each patient.
Assessment of shoulder proprioception in the female softball athlete.

BackgroundThere have been reports of overhand throwing athletes having decreased joint position sense in their dominant shoulder as compared with the nondominant shoulder. Very little research, however, exists concerning joint position sense in the female athlete.HypothesisFemale softball athletes have decreased joint position sense in their dominant shoulder as compared with their nondominant shoulder.Study DesignFactorial design with investigation of multiple independent variables.MethodsJoint position sense was assessed in 50 female softball players and 50 nonthrowing female athletes by using an inclinometer during four glenohumeral joint motions. Both the dominant and nondominant shoulders were assessed and error scores were calculated to describe joint position sense. Data were collected during the course of a fall semester and analyzed by using a mixed model analysis of variance with repeated measures on the dependent variable (error scores).ResultsA significant group by movement interaction was obs...
Regulation of ryanodine receptors by FK506 binding proteins

Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are the major sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium-release channels required for excitation-contraction coupling in skeletal and cardiac muscle. Mutations in RyRs have been linked to several human diseases. Mutations in the cardiac isoform of RyR2 are associated with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular arrhythmias (CPVT), and arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia type 2 (ARVD2), whereas mutations in the skeletal muscle isoform (RyR1) are linked to malignant hyperthermia (MH) and central core disease (CCD). RyRs are modulated by several other proteins, including the FK506 binding proteins (FKBPs), FKBP12 and FKBP12.6. These immunophilins appear to stabilize a closed state of the channel and are important for cooperative interactions among the subunits of RyRs. This review discusses the regulation of RyRs by FKBPs and the possibility that defective modulation of RyR2 by FKBP12.6 could play a role in heart failure, CPVT, and ARVD2. Also discussed are the consequences of FKBP12 depletion to skeletal muscle and the possibility of FKBP12 involvement in certain forms of MH or CCD.