cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
How do we change the way we do business for the health of our students

It is time to focus on the linkage to community for preventive care, case-managed care, and follow-up on referrals and resources. As health care reform continues to inch closer every day, schools have to work smarter, not harder, to make a difference in the lives of every child in each and every classroom. Together we can make a difference. I close with this quote from Edward Schor (2007), author of EPSDT and School Readiness: Well-child care seeks to optimize children's health and development, preparing them for school and life beyond. The child health component of Medicaid, EPSDT, was designed with a similar objective, which is reflected in the EPSDT program's comprehensive benefit package, its preventive standard of care, and its case management functions. Given the vulnerability of young children from low-income families to poor health, poor educational attainment, and low-income lifelong productivity or social dependence, comprehensive well-child care represents a good investment for society. EPSDT plays an essential role helping low-income children be ready for school and life beyond. (p. 427).
Magnetic properties of LiBeH 3 and Li 2 BeH 4

${\mathrm{LiBeH}}_{3}$ and ${\mathrm{Li}}_{2}{\mathrm{BeH}}_{4}$ have previously been proposed as candidates for high-temperature superconductivity because positions of hydrogen atoms in the respective crystal structures may lead to the formation of hydrogen-atom-based conduction bands. In the present work, the magnetization of ${\mathrm{LiBeH}}_{3}$ and ${\mathrm{Li}}_{2}{\mathrm{BeH}}_{4}$ was measured as a function of applied magnetic field and temperature with a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometer. Small magnetic-susceptibility values and the highly reactive nature of the samples led to the use of a background correction procedure involving the raw SQUID data. The magnetization data for ${\mathrm{LiBeH}}_{3}$ and ${\mathrm{Li}}_{2}{\mathrm{BeH}}_{4}$ samples appear to exhibit a superposition of both weak diamagnetic and superparamagnetic behaviors, and show no irreversibility with respect to either temperature or applied magnetic field within experimental uncertainty. At $T=300\mathrm{K},$ diamagnetic components of susceptibilities are observed to be $\ensuremath{-}3.3\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}6}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{m}\mathrm{u}/\mathrm{m}\mathrm{o}\mathrm{l}$ for ${\mathrm{LiBeH}}_{3}$ and $\ensuremath{-}3.1\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.1\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}6}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{m}\mathrm{u}/\mathrm{m}\mathrm{o}\mathrm{l}$ for ${\mathrm{Li}}_{2}{\mathrm{BeH}}_{4}.$ Furthermore, the possible origin of the observed superparamagnetic contribution is discussed. These measurements are contrasted with previous work, which had suggested that the magnetic behavior of ${\mathrm{Li}}_{2}{\mathrm{BeH}}_{4}$ could be related to type-II superconductivity.
Hyperbaric oxygen protection against carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity in the rat: Association with altered metabolism*

Abstract Because reports have appeared suggesting that hyperbaric O 2 treatment protects against the hepatotoxicity of CCl 4 in humans, studies were undertaken in rats to assess this possibility and to explore its mechanism. Treatment with 2 atm of O 2 for 6 h after intragastric administration of CCl 4 (2.6 mmol/100 g) improved survival from 31% to 96%. The same treatment administered 24 h after the CCl 4 improved survival from 36% to 50%. The protective effect does not appear to be mediated through changes in excretion or distribution because exhalation of CCl 4 was not increased, and hepatic CCl 4 concentration was not decreased by hyperbaric O 2 . Changes in CCl 4 metabolism were observed, which could explain the protection. Hyperbaric O 2 treatment inhibited in vivo conversion of CCl 4 to its volatile metabolites CHCl 3 and CO 2 by 52% in the 10 h following CCl 4 dosing. The predominant effect was on CO 2 , which is quantitatively the more significant metabolite. Studies with hepatic microsomes isolated from these rats demonstrated that hyperbaric O 2 treatment diminished their capacity to metabolize CCl 4 to CO 2 , an O 2 -dependent process. It had no effect on the metabolism of CCl 4 to CHCl 3 , an O 2 -inhibited process. These results indicate that hyperbaric O 2 suppresses the microsomal mechanism for metabolizing CCl 4 in the presence of O 2 . Because the mechanism of CCl 4 hepatotoxicity is thought to be the same in the rat and in humans, hyperbaric O 2 therapy is recommended for treatment of CCl 4 poisoning in humans.
ANGIOPLASTY OR THROMBOLYSIS FOR ACUTE INFARCTION

The benefit of thrombolytic therapy for acute myocardial infarction has been conclusively established by many trials. Direct angioplasty (without thrombolytic therapy) is often utilized urgently for patients with acute infarction based on observational studies. Recently, three randomized trials compared outcomes of patients undergoing thrombolysis versus direct angioplasty. The results of these trials indicate that either strategy, if applied early, can benefit patients with acute infarction. Specific advantages of angioplasty include slightly higher patency and flow rates in the infarct-related artery. However, thrombolysis is more readily available to large segments of the population. Either therapy must be applied early to be effective.
State-of-the-Art Fracture Characterization. II: Correlations between Charpy V-Notch and the Master Curve Reference Temperature

AbstractMany material toughness specifications, including a fracture control plan (FCP) for highway bridges introduced in 1978, in part rely on Charpy V-notch (CVN) requirements and associated correlations to set material toughness values at acceptable levels that will prevent brittle fracture in bridges. However, it has long been recognized that this is an indirect approach because CVN impact energy is not a direct measure of fracture toughness. Significant advances in the understanding of fracture mechanics and material behavior have taken place in the four decades since the FCP was established. These advancements are in part due to the large amount of fracture toughness data that has been generated, allowing for statistical evaluation. As a result, this provides an opportunity to evaluate CVN toughness correlations. Overall, these advances allow a more rational approach to establishing material toughness requirements for bridge steels including (1) the ability to characterize the scatter of fracture da...
Host Cell Protein Analysis Using CE-MS

Recombinant monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) as drug products are normally expressed in non-human cell lines and then purified by affinity chromatography. Low amount of residual host cell proteins (HCPs) still remain in the final products, causing potential safety risks. Capillary electrophoresis (CE) has been employed as a powerful separation tool coupling with mass spectrometry (MS) for the analysis of protein therapeutics. This chapter introduces studies that take advantages of CE-MS for the identification and quantification of trace amount of HCPs in antibody drug products.
Optimal scheduling of a constellation of earth-imaging satellites, for maximal data throughput and efficient human management

A mixed-integer linear program (MILP) approach to scheduling a large constellation of Earth-imaging satellites is presented. The algorithm optimizes the assignment of imagery collects, image data downlinks, and "health & safety" contacts, generating schedules for all satellites and ground stations in a network. Hardware-driven constraints (e.g., the limited agility of the satellites) and operations-driven constraints (e.g., guaranteeing a minimum contact frequency for each satellite) are both addressed. Of critical importance to the use of this algorithm in real-world operations, it runs fast enough to allow for human operator interaction and repeated rescheduling. This is achieved by a partitioning of the problem into sequential steps for downlink scheduling and image scheduling, with a novel dynamic programming (DP) heuristic providing a stand-in for imaging activity in the MILP when scheduling the downlinks.
The structure of tributyl phosphate solutions: Nitric acid, uranium (VI), and zirconium (IV)

Abstract Diffusion, rheology, and small angle neutron scattering (SANS) data for organic phase 30 v/v % tributyl phosphate (TBP) samples containing varying amounts of water, nitric acid, and uranium or zirconium nitrate were interpreted from a colloidal perspective to give information on the types of structures formed by TBP under different conditions. Taken as a whole, the results of the different analyses were contradictory, suggesting that these samples should be treated as molecular solutions rather than colloids. This conclusion is supported by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations showing the existence of small, molecular aggregates in TBP samples containing water and nitric acid. Interpretation of TBP and nitric acid diffusion measurements from a molecular perspective suggest that nitric acid and metal species formed are consistent with the stoichiometric solvates that have traditionally been considered to exist in solution.
Globalization and Regional Economic Modeling: Analytical and Methodological Challenges

For the philosopher of history, G.W.F. Hegel, the fundamental challenge for any student of societal evolution is to apprehend in thought the spirit of the age (or the zeitgeist)—i.e., to understand the motive force of change while it is still at work (Lauer, 1974). Catching the zeitgeist ‘in the act,’ so to speak, is a matter of practical importance; for gaining such an understanding would seem to be a necessary, if not sufficient, condition for successfully shaping ‘for the better’ any future state of affairs. Hegel does not give us much cause for optimism here. He famously observed that the owl of Minerva, Roman goddess of wisdom, only spreads her wings at dusk.
Elevated MeCP2 in Mice Causes Neurodegeneration Involving Tau Dysregulation and Excitotoxicity: Implications for the Understanding and Treatment of MeCP2 Triplication Syndrome

Expression of MeCP2 must be carefully regulated as a reduction or increase results in serious neurological disorders. We are studying transgenic mice in which the MeCP2 gene is expressed at about three times higher than the normal level. Male MeCP2-Tg mice, but not female mice, suffer motor and cognitive deficits and die at 18-20 weeks of age. MeCP2-Tg mice display elevated GFAP and Tau expression within the hippocampus and cortex followed by neuronal loss in these brain regions. Loss of Purkinje neurons, but not of granule neurons in the cerebellar cortex is also seen. Exposure of cultured cortical neurons to either conditioned medium from astrocytes (ACM) derived from male MeCP2-Tg mice or normal astrocytes in which MeCP2 is expressed at elevated levels promotes their death. Interestingly, ACM from male, but not female MeCP2-Tg mice, displays this neurotoxicity reflecting the gender selectivity of neurological symptoms in mice. Male ACM, but not female ACM, contains highly elevated levels of glutamate, and its neurotoxicity can be prevented by MK-801, indicating that it is caused by excitotoxicity. Based on the close phenotypic resemblance of MeCP2-Tg mice to patients with MECP2 triplication syndrome, we suggest for the first time that the human syndrome is a neurodegenerative disorder resulting from astrocyte dysfunction that leads to Tau-mediated excitotoxic neurodegeneration. Loss of cortical and hippocampal neurons may explain the mental retardation and epilepsy in patients, whereas ataxia likely results from the loss of Purkinje neurons.
Revisión sobre los usos y variables para determinar la calidad del agua pluvial en superficies de cubierta

El articulo profundiza sobre los usos, variables y superficies de cubierta que garantizan la calidad del agua lluvia, los sistemas de captacion y la tecnologia vigente sobre el tema. Se analizan 50 articulos relacionados con la investigacion, siendo Asia y Norte America las regiones con el mayor numero de publicaciones cientificas. La mayor parte de los articulos estan relacionados con el uso final que se da al recurso pluvial en el mundo, en segundo lugar los articulos publicados analizan las variables del agua lluvia para su almacenaje y potencial uso. Y finalmente en menor produccion las publicaciones relacionadas sobre las superficies de captacion en diferentes tipos y materiales de cubierta.
An olfactory virtual reality system for mice

All motile organisms use spatially distributed chemical features of their surroundings to guide their behaviors, but the neural mechanisms underlying such behaviors in mammals have been difficult to study, largely due to the technical challenges of controlling chemical concentrations in space and time during behavioral experiments. To overcome these challenges, we introduce a system to control and maintain an olfactory virtual landscape. This system uses rapid flow controllers and an online predictive algorithm to deliver precise odorant distributions to head-fixed mice as they explore a virtual environment. We establish an odor-guided virtual navigation behavior that engages hippocampal CA1 "place cells" that exhibit similar properties to those previously reported for real and visual virtual environments, demonstrating that navigation based on different sensory modalities recruits a similar cognitive map. This method opens new possibilities for studying the neural mechanisms of olfactory-driven behaviors, multisensory integration, innate valence, and low-dimensional sensory-spatial processing.
Development of a Two-Color Thomson and Rayleigh Scattering Diagnostic for Electron Density Measurements

In many weakly ionized plasmas, the application of light scattering diagnostics requires consideration of both Thomson (electron) and Rayleigh (ion, neutral and molecular) scattering processes. This study develops and demonstrates a two-color light scattering diagnostic which differentiates between the Rayleigh and Thomson scattering processes by wavelength, thereby permitting simultaneous measurement of electron and neutral/ion density without the use of a spectrometer. Unlike path-integrated diagnostics, this approach yields a spatially resolved (point) measurement of electron density. Based on a theoretical analysis of the twocolor scattering diagnostic, it is found that the Thomson scattering total spectral density function can limit measurement accuracy in the coherent scattering regime. Several experimental and analytical approaches to mitigating this issue are presented.
Scribble: A master scaffold in polarity, adhesion, synaptogenesis, and proliferation.

Key events ranging from cell polarity to proliferation regulation to neuronal signaling rely on the assembly of multiprotein adhesion or signaling complexes at particular subcellular sites. Multidomain scaffolding proteins nucleate assembly and direct localization of these complexes, and the protein Scribble and its relatives in the LAP protein family provide a paradigm for this. Scribble was originally identified because of its role in apical–basal polarity and epithelial integrity in Drosophila melanogaster. It is now clear that Scribble acts to assemble and position diverse multiprotein complexes in processes ranging from planar polarity to adhesion to oriented cell division to synaptogenesis. Here, we explore what we have learned about the mechanisms of action of Scribble in the context of its multiple known interacting partners and discuss how this knowledge opens new questions about the full range of Scribble protein partners and their structural and signaling roles.
Combining Smoothing Spline with Conditional Gaussian Graphical Model for Density and Graph Estimation

Multivariate density estimation and graphical models play important roles in statistical learning. The estimated density can be used to construct a graphical model that reveals conditional relationships whereas a graphical structure can be used to build models for density estimation. Our goal is to construct a consolidated framework that can perform both density and graph estimation. Denote $\bm{Z}$ as the random vector of interest with density function $f(\bz)$. Splitting $\bm{Z}$ into two parts, $\bm{Z}=(\bm{X}^T,\bm{Y}^T)^T$ and writing $f(\bz)=f(\bx)f(\by|\bx)$ where $f(\bx)$ is the density function of $\bm{X}$ and $f(\by|\bx)$ is the conditional density of $\bm{Y}|\bm{X}=\bx$. We propose a semiparametric framework that models $f(\bx)$ nonparametrically using a smoothing spline ANOVA (SS ANOVA) model and $f(\by|\bx)$ parametrically using a conditional Gaussian graphical model (cGGM). Combining flexibility of the SS ANOVA model with succinctness of the cGGM, this framework allows us to deal with high-dimensional data without assuming a joint Gaussian distribution. We propose a backfitting estimation procedure for the cGGM with a computationally efficient approach for selection of tuning parameters. We also develop a geometric inference approach for edge selection. We establish asymptotic convergence properties for both the parameter and density estimation. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated through extensive simulation studies and two real data applications.
Food insecurity in a pre-bariatric surgery sample: prevalence, demographics and food shopping behaviour.

Objective To identify the prevalence and demographic characteristics of food insecurity in a presurgical bariatric population. To date there has been no research on food insecurity in a presurgical bariatric population. Design Participants completed the ten-item adult food security survey module created by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), with additional questions related to food shopping behaviours and perceived affordability of post-bariatric supplements. USDA scoring guidelines were used to classify participants as food secure, marginally food secure and food insecure. Setting Academic medical centre bariatric surgery clinic in Central Pennsylvania, USA. Participants Adult bariatric surgery candidates (n 174). Results There was a prevalence of 17·8 % for food insecurity and 27·6 % for marginal food security. Food insecurity was associated with younger age, higher BMI, non-White race/ethnicity, having less than a college education, living in an urban area, receiving Medicaid/Medicare and participating in nutrition assistance programmes. Food-insecure participants endorsed food shopping behaviours that could interfere with postsurgical dietary adherence and perceived post-bariatric supplies as unaffordable or inaccessible. Conclusions These results highlight the importance of screening bariatric surgical patients for food insecurity. Further study of this important problem within the bariatric population should address effects of food insecurity and related shopping behaviours on postsurgical outcomes and inform the development of programmes to better assist these high-risk patients.
Syringomyelia in Patient with Concurrent Posttraumatic Hydrocephalus and Tethered Spinal Cord: Implications for Surgical Management.

Background Posttraumatic syringomyelia is a significant source of disability following spinal cord injury (SCI). Despite this, its etiology and optimal treatment remain controversial. Early identification of and intervention at a presyrinx state may halt progression. Here, we present a unique case illustrating the continuum between presyrinx and syrinx in an adult following severe distraction cervical SCI and traumatic brain injury, resulting in both tethered spinal cord and posttraumatic hydrocephalus and subsequent isolated fourth ventricle. The interplay between these etiologic factors and their therapeutic implications are discussed. Case Description A 48-year-old female developed rapidly progressive cervical spinal cord edema and hydromyelia almost 6 months after severe SCI and traumatic brain injury, with an initial Glasgow Coma Scale score of 3. Imaging demonstrated both ventral tethering of her cord at the site of injury (C5/6), as well as a trapped fourth ventricle following lateral ventricular shunting for posttraumatic hydrocephalus, with diminished flow of cerebrospinal fluid at the craniocervical junction. Additional shunting of the fourth ventricle led to significant clinical improvement and dramatic radiologic regression of her cord abnormality. Conclusions Cognizance of the possible presence of multiple etiologic contributors to posttraumatic syringomyelia and an intricate understanding of their interplay are crucial to the optimal management of this complex pathology.
An REU Experience in Machine Learning and Computational Cameras

In this work in progress paper, we describe an REU summer experience on imaging sensors that involved a female junior level Electrical Engineering student, a graduate student advisor, and three faculty. A research plan was designed to embed the student in a sensor and machine learning research with specific emphasis on energy-efficient cameras. The motivation for submitting this paper is the unique planning and the quality of the overall student experience which resulted in continuous engagement of the REU student with the faculty after the REU summer program completed. The program resulted in a major presentation at an international event, an NSF I/UCRC poster presentation, a research conference submission which is remarkable for an undergraduate student, and finally a new research direction for the graduate mentor and faculty. This paper describes successful strategies for research engagement for undergraduates in state-of-the-art research fields which yield positive outcomes for all participants, and is grounded in contemporary educational methodology and theoretical frameworks.
Regression from prediabetes to normal glucose regulation: State of the science:

Prediabetes, an intermediate stage between normal glucose regulation and type 2 diabetes, is diagnosed based on documentation of impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, or a hemoglobi...
Longitudinal Swept-Source OCT Angiography of Juxtapapillary Retinal Capillary Hemangioblastoma.

Abstract In this case report, SS-OCTA identified the key diagnostic features of JRCH seen with multimodal imaging. Serial SS-OCTA imaging showed transient decreases in vascular congestion and exudation after intravitreal anti-VEGF injections. SS-OCTA may be the sole imaging modality needed for the diagnosis of JRCH, an important entity that is commonly misdiagnosed as disc edema or choroidal neovascularization. Transient responses to anti-VEGF therapy suggests that higher dose or sustained-release anti-VEGF therapy may be effective for retinal capillary hemangioblastomas.
The gut microbiome in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis

This review summarizes existing research on the gut microbiome composition and function in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, exploring potential roles in disease pathogenesis, progression, and management. A strong relationship between skin, joint, and gastrointestinal inflammation exists, as demonstrated by an increased prevalence of psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease co-occurring together; however, the link between them has not been fully elucidated. Studies analyzing the gut microbiome in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis reveal a unique pattern of dysbiosis. With regard to the gut microbiome's role in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis pathogenesis, we discuss several theories including intestinal permeability, altered immune homeostasis, and imbalance of short- and medium-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria. We also discuss how the gut microbiome affects patient risk of psoriatic arthritis and other serious comorbidities, and how fecal microbes could be used clinically as therapeutic targets or markers of disease.
Does the Size or Location of Lumbar Disc Herniation Predict the Need for Operative Treatment

Study Design:Retrospective cohort study.Objective:The goal of this study was to determine whether the absolute size (mm2), relative size (% canal compromise), or location of a single-level, lumbar ...
Intensifying Instruction to Address Treatment Resistance to Early Mathematics Interventions

Previous studies demonstrate the positive effects of explicit mathematics intervention on the mathematics outcomes of students at risk for mathematics difficulties (MD). One such intervention was the Tier 2 Booster Intervention (T2BI), a supplemental mathematics intervention focused on whole number concepts and skills that detailed the explicit and systematic instructional design of T2BI. However, findings from past research suggest that some students do not adequately respond to this purposefully designed intervention. Against that backdrop, the focus of this study is to address this notion of minimal response to intervention by integrating a select set of validated Cognitive Learning Principles (CLPs) into T2BI and investigating the extent to which students with MD respond favorably to the resulting intervention. Employing a multiple baseline design, our results showed a functional relation between the provision of an intervention with CLPs and increasing accuracy scores on both proximal and distal measures across the four participants with MD. These findings and their broader implications using CLPs to reduce minimal response to well-designed mathematics interventions are discussed.
Shrimp Population Densities Within Mobile Bay

Brown shrimp and white shrimp populations available to the shrimp trawl in Mobile Bay were estimated on a monthly basis by two methods: one using existing commercial statistics and the other using experimental trawling. These methods produced similar estimates for brown shrimp whose peak standing crop in Mobile Bay occurred in June-July and was estimated at 200,000-300,000 pounds. Commercial landings peaked in July at about 342,000 pounds and were higher than the standing crop, indicating an extremely fast growth rate. White shrimp data were variable, with commercial statistics indicating a crop in Mobile Bay of about 100,000 pounds from September to November and with experimental trawl data indicating a peak of 267,000 pounds in August. Average monthly harvests approached 100,000 pounds from August to October. Abundance of pink shrimp was erratic and commercial shrimp statistics indicate variation from 475 pounds landed in 1956 to 34,000 pounds landed in 1957.
Generating counter-examples through randomized guided search

Computational resources are increasing rapidly with the explosion of multi-core processors readily available from major vendors. Model checking needs to harness these resources to help make it more effective in practical verification. Directed model checking uses heuristics in a guided search to rank states in order of interest. Randomizing guided search makes it possible to harness computation nodes by running independent searches in parallel in a effort to discover counter-examples to correctness. Initial attempts at adding randomization to guided search have achieved very limited success. In this work, we present a new lowcost randomized guided search technique that shuffles states in the priority queue with equivalent heuristic ties. We show in an empirical study that randomized guided search, overall, decreases the number of states generated before error discovery when compared to a guided search using the same heuristic. To further evaluate the performance gains of randomized guided search using a particular heuristic, we compare it with randomized depth-first search. Randomized depth-first search shuffles transitions and generally improves error discovery over the default transition order implemented by the model checker. In the context of evaluating randomized guided search, a randomized depth-first search provides a lower bound for establishing performance gains in directed model checking. In the empirical study, we show that with the correct heuristic, randomized guided search outperforms randomized depth-first search both in effectively finding counter-examples and generating shorter counterexamples.
Responsibility of the State under International Law for the Breach of Contract Committed by a State-Owned Entity

In many countries, entities that are owned by the state but possess a separate legal personality (“state-owned entities”1) play a key role in strategically important sectors. State-owned entities are especially common in utilities and infrastructure industries such as production and distribution of energy (hydroelectric power, oil, gas, and coal), posts and telecommunications, transportation (railway, airports and airlines), and financial services.2 Foreign investors looking to participate in such businesses frequently enter agreements with state-owned entities. When a state-owned entity breaches the agreement, foreign investors often seek to address their claim directly against the host state. This article analyzes several questions that are relevant for assessing
Data analytics in auditing: Opportunities and challenges

Abstract In this article, I provide background regarding a hot topic in the public accounting profession: the rise of big data and the related field of data analytics (DA). The tax and advisory practices of public accounting firms have embraced the use of DA, and firms have made significant investments in growing these practice areas. Although DA holds great promise for the auditing practice as well, the use of widespread DA on audit engagements has lagged behind other practice areas. This is due to the fact that auditing presents unique challenges in the adoption of DA that are not relevant for other practice areas. Despite the impression that DA is not being embraced as readily in auditing, public accounting firms are continuing to make significant investments in developing audit-related DA, and it is only a matter of time before we start to see the transformational impact of these efforts. The purpose of this article is (1) to explain how DA applies to financial statement audits and why it could represent a game changer in how audits are conducted, and (2) to provide a context for researchers in terms of problems to be addressed related to DA.
Batteries: From Alkaline to Zinc-Air

There is no perfect disposable battery--one that will sit on the shelf for 20 years, then continually provide unlimited current, at a completely constant voltage until exhausted, without producing heat. There is no perfect rechargeable battery--one with all of the above characteristics and will also withstand an infinite overcharge while providing an equally infinite cycle life. There are only compromises. Every battery selection is a compromise between the ideally required characteristics, the advantages, and the limitations of each battery type. General selection of a battery type to power a medical device is largely outside the purview of the biomed. Initially, these are engineering decisions made at the time of medical equipment design and are intended to be followed in perpetuity. However, since newer cell types evolve and the manufacturer's literature is fixed at the time of printing, some intelligent substitutions may be made as long as the biomed understands the characteristics of both the recommended cell and the replacement cell. For example, when the manufacturer recommends alkaline, it is usually because of the almost constant voltage it produces under the devices' design load. Over time, other battery types may be developed that will meet the intent of the manufacturer, at a lower cost, providing longer operational life, at a lower environmental cost, or with a combination of these advantages. In the Obstetrical Doppler cited at the beginning of this article, the user had put in carbon-zinc cells, and the biomed had unknowingly replaced them with carbonzinc cells. If the alkaline cells recommended by the manufacturer had been used, there would have been the proper output voltage at the battery terminals when the [table: see text] cells were at their half-life. Instead, the device refused to operate since the battery voltage was below presumed design voltage. While battery-type substitutions may be easily and relatively successfully made in disposable applications (for example, zinc-air for alkaline--if it is cost-effective), this is absolutely forbidden for secondary cells. Because of the differing cell voltages, charge characteristics and overcharge tolerance between different types of secondary cells, substituting a nickel-cadmium battery pack for the more expensive lithium-ion pack (if it is physically able to fit into the battery compartment), might appear to save money (e.g. $50 vs. $100) but it would be very ill advised. Since the cell characteristics are very different, it would be downright fatal to anyone within the 'kill radius' when the pack explodes. Those outside the kill radius would receive chemical burns from the electrolyte. Substitutions of secondary cell battery packs are generally not a good idea for biomeds to engage in. These are engineering decisions best left to either aftermarket battery pack manufacturers or the medical device manufacturer as a design engineering change.
Design methodologies for VLSI

As the complexity of ICs increases at an exponential rate, the cost and time of design has similarly escalated. Among the evolving layout methods to be compared are the use of standard cells, gate arrays, high level symbolic and structured design techniques.
Dynamic extrafloral nectar production: the timing of leaf damage affects the defensive response in Senna mexicana var. chapmanii (Fabaceae).

UNLABELLED • PREMISE OF THE STUDY Extrafloral nectar (EFN) mediates food for protection mutualisms between plants and defensive insects. Understanding sources of variation in EFN production is important because such variations may affect the number and identity of visitors and the effectiveness of plant defense. We investigated the influence of plant developmental stage, time of day, leaf age, and leaf damage on EFN production in Senna mexicana var. chapmanii. The observed patterns of variation in EFN production were compared with those predicted by optimal defense theory.• METHODS Greenhouse experiments with potted plants were conducted to determine how plant age, time of day, and leaf damage affected EFN production. A subsequent field study was conducted to determine how leaf damage, and the resulting increase in EFN production, affected ant visitation in S. chapmanii.• KEY RESULTS More nectar was produced at night and by older plants. Leaf damage resulted in increased EFN production, and the magnitude of the response was greater in plants damaged in the morning than those damaged at night. Damage to young leaves elicited a stronger defensive response than damage to older leaves, in line with optimal defense theory. Damage to the leaves of S. chapmanii also resulted in significantly higher ant visitation in the field.• CONCLUSIONS Extrafloral nectar is an inducible defense in S. chapmanii. Developmental variations in its production support the growth differentiation balance hypothesis, while within-plant variations and damage responses support optimal defense theory.
Cross-fostering and the extinction of cocaine's conditioned aversive effects: evidence for gene-environment interaction.

Abstract Although genetic and early environmental factors interact to affect drug abuse in humans, surprisingly few tractable laboratory animal models have been developed. Using reciprocal cross-fostering of the inbred Fischer and Lewis rat strains, we recently reported significant gene-environment interaction effects on responses to the aversive properties of 32 mg/kg subcutaneous cocaine, but only in females [Roma PG., Davis CM, Riley AL. Effects of cross-fostering on cocaine-induced conditioned taste aversions in Fischer and Lewis rats. Dev Psychobiol 2007;49:172–9]. The present study describes a follow-up analysis tracking the extinction of the equally acquired cocaine aversions in the adult male Fischer and Lewis rats raised by either Fischer or Lewis dams (n = 11–12/group). Based on mean consumption, after eight saccharin–saline pairings, the in-fostered Fischer rats never extinguished while the Lewis animals fully extinguished; however, the cross-fostered Fischer rats partially extinguished, while extinction was completely suppressed in the cross-fostered Lewis animals. Based on documented strain differences in avoidance behavior and stress reactivity, the data were interpreted in terms of differential sensitivity to conditioned aversive stimulation. These data join other examples of cross-fostering effects on physiology and behavior in these strains and further support the use of the Fischer–Lewis model for exploring gene-environment interaction in drug-induced phenotypes.
THE IMPACT OF GOVERNANCE MECHANISMS ON ESCALATION OF COMMITMENT

There are conflicting opinions on whether the existing US legal and economic environment for pharmaceutical research is conducive for the repurposing of patent-protected drugs. This article therefore addresses the following innovation policy questions: Does US patent law and regulatory policy assign sufficient value to new use patents in the pharmaceutical industry? If present law and regulatory policy does assign sufficient value, what evidence is there that the pharmaceutical industry is actively involved in technology strategies to repurpose existing pharmaceuticals? Based on an evaluation of the extant legal literature, US pharmaceutical firms are generally successful at legally enforcing their new use patents against infringement. Furthermore, the truncating of the time and resources dedicated to the drug discovery, development, and regulatory review process provide sufficient economic "value" on both the front end of the pharmaceutical regulatory approval process, and the back end of the drug patent term for encouraging pharmaceutical industry repurposing.
SOS induction as an in vivo assay of enzyme-DNA interactions

Abstract We have constructed strains which are convenient and sensitive indicators of DNA damage and describe their use. These strains utilize an SOS ::lacZ fusion constructed by Kenyon and Walker [Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 77 (1980) 2819–2823] and respond to DNA damage by producing β-galactosidase. They can be used to characterize restriction systems and screen for restriction endonuclease mutants. Applications include the study of other enzymes involved in DNA metabolism, such as DNA methyltransferases, topoisomerases, recombinases, and DNA replication and repair enzymes.
Polymer Acid Doped Polyaniline Is Electrochemically Stable Beyond pH 9

We report the pH dependence of the electrochemical redox behavior of polyaniline (PANI) that is template synthesized with poly(2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid), PAAMPSA. Cyclic voltammetry and spectroelectrochemistry were used to assess the oxidation and protonation states of PANI−PAAMPSA. Stable and reversible pernigraniline−emeraldine−leucoemeraldine transitions extend beyond pH 7. Direct pernigraniline−leucoemeraldine transitions dominate in alkaline conditions; these transitions are stable and reversible between 7 and 10, extending the pH stability of PANI well beyond those previously reported.
The Impact of Prior Percutaneous Coronary Intervention on Long-Term Survival after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Background: Previous studies examining the influence of prior percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on longterm survival after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) have reported conflicting results. The purpose of this study was to further examine the influence of prior PCI on long-term survival after CABG at a large tertiary referral heart institute. Methods: Long-term survival between 1992 and 2011 was compared in non-emergent CABG cases with and without prior PCI. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed using a Cox regression model. Results: A total of 2532 (19%) patients had prior PCI before CABG (n = 13,354). The median follow-up for study participants was 8.1 years. The median survival for patients with and without prior PCI was 15 years and 14 years, respectively (p < 0.0001). Long-term survival was similar between patients with and without prior PCI after adjusting for age, sex, race, hypertension, coronary artery disease severity, congestive heart failure, and prior stroke (adjusted HR = 0.99, 95%CI = 0.91–1.06). Conclusion: Findings from outcomes research are important in the planning of appropriate postoperative patient care. Our study provides additional evidence that prior PCI is not a significant predictor of long-term survival after CABG.
The effect of dietary water content and feeding rate on the growth and food conversion efficiency of turbot (Scophthalmus maximus L.).

Abstract The effect of dietary water content and feeding rate on the growth and food conversion efficiency of turbot was investigated using diets which contained identical amounts of dry nutrient material but different quantities of water, ranging from 0 to 74%. The dietary water content did not significantly influence the growth, composition, condition factor or food conversion efficiency of the turbot. It appeared that, as long as the basic nutrients were formulated so as to produce an adequate diet, the water content was immaterial. The over-riding factor governing growth was the rate of food intake. Comparisons at feeding rates which in energy equivalents ranged from 24 to 72 calories per gram of fish a day, showed that the higher the energy intake the more rapid the growth. At the highest feeding rate, fast growth was accompanied by a marked increase in the condition factor and an elevated lipid content of the fish. The percentage protein content, however, was relatively stable in relation to the feeding rate. Food conversion efficiency was also relatively stable. On average, 40.3% of the dietary protein and 36.3% of the ingested energy was converted into turbot.
Modeling β-γ coincidence spectra of 131mXe, 133Xe, 133mXe, and 135Xe

In support of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), improvements have been made to the model of the Automated Radioxenon Sampler/Analyzer (ARSA) β-γ coincidence detector for radioxenon monitoring. MCNPX is used to simulate the detector response for all the electrons and photons emitted from 131mXe, 133Xe, 133mXe, 135Xe, and 137Cs signals. A MatLab code was written to incorporate the MCNPX results in the calculation of β-γ coincidence spectra. These will aid in the development of the Spectral Deconvolution Analysis Tool (SDAT)1 and to calibrate β-γ coincidence systems. The models developed for this work include improvements over previous models in their ability to address Compton scattering in the β-cell, and the β-distribution offset in the 31 keV γ-ray region for 133Xe.
A proposed STAR microvertex detector using Active Pixel Sensors with some relevant studies on APS performance

Abstract A vertex detector that can measure particles with charm or bottom quarks would dramatically expand the physics capability of the STAR detector at RHIC. To accomplish this, we are proposing to build the Heavy Flavor Tracker (HFT) using 2×2 cm Active Pixels Sensors (APS). Ten of these APS chips will be arranged on a ladder (0.28% of a radiation length) at radii of 1.5 and at 5.0 cm. We have examined several properties of APS chips, so that we can characterize the performance of this detector. Using 1.5 GeV/ c electrons, we have measured the charge collected and compared it to the expected charge. To achieve high efficiency, we have considered two different cluster finding algorithms and found that the choice of algorithm is dependent on noise level. We have demonstrated that a Scanning Electron Microscope can probe properties of an APS chip. In particular, we studied several position resolution algorithms. Finally, we studied the properties of pixel pitches from 5 to 30 μm.
Segmentation and classification of high resolution imagery for mapping individual species in a closed canopy, deciduous forest

In this paper we investigate the use of a shadow-based delineation program for identifying segments in imagery of a closed canopy, deciduous forest, in West Virginia, USA, as a way to reduce the noise associated with per-pixel classification in forested environments. Shadows typically cluster along the boundaries of trees and therefore can be used to provide a network of nodes for the delineation of segments. A minimum cost path algorithm, where cost is defined as the cumulative sum of brightness values traversed along the connecting route, was used to connect shadow clumps. To test this approach, a series of classifications was undertaken using a multispectral digital aerial image of a six hectare test site and a minimum cost path segmentation. Three species were mapped: oaks, red maple and yellow poplar. The accuracy of an aspatial maximum likelihood classification (termed PERPIXEL classification) was 68.5%, compared to 74.0% for classification using the mean vector of the segments identified with the minimum cost path algorithm (MEAN_SEG), and 78% when the most common class present in the segment is assigned to the entire segment (POSTCLASS_SEG). By comparison, multispectral classification of the multispectral data using the field-mapped polygons of individual trees as segments, produced an accuracy of 82.3% when the mean vector of the polygon was used for classification (MEAN_TREE), and 85.7% when the most common class was assigned to the entire polygon (POSTCLASS_TREE). A moving window-based post-classification majority filter (POSTCLASS_MAJ5BY5) produced an intermediate accuracy value, 73.8%. The minimum cost path segmentation algorithm was found to correctly delineate approximately 28% of the trees. The remaining trees were either segmented, aggregated, or a combination of both segmented and aggregated. Varying the threshold that was used to discriminate shadows appeared to have little effect on the number of correctly delineated trees, or on the overall accuracy of the multispectral classification, although it did have a notable effect on the proportions of aggregated and segmented trees.
Teacher-reported behavioral disturbances in children with traumatic brain injury: an examination of the BASC-2.

Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with behavioral disturbances that can interfere with adjustment in the classroom. As such, standardized assessments of behavioral disturbances following TBI are useful in treatment planning and rehabilitation, although few studies have examined the sensitivity of standardized behavior assessments to behavioral abnormalities in this population. The present study compared the Behavior Assessment System for Children-Second Edition Teacher Rating Scale (BASC-2 TRS) profiles of 25 children who sustained TBI to those of 25 matched controls and to the BASC-2 standardization sample. Results indicated that teachers endorsed externalizing and school-related problems more severely and frequently than internalizing problems, with the greatest elevations on the Hyperactivity, Attention Problems, and Learning Problems subscales. In addition, BASC-2 scores appeared unrelated to IQ but were influenced by achievement functioning. Findings are consistent with previous st...
INVESTMENT RISK AND THE TRANSITION INTO HOMEOWNERSHIP

This paper investigates the extent to which house–price uncertainty affects the transition of renter households into homeownership. Using a 14-year household panel from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics during the years 1984–1997 and measures of the time-varying risk and return to owner-occupied housing, we estimate a Cox proportional hazard model of the effect of house–price volatility on the transition into homeownership. Results indicate that house–price uncertainty has a negative and dramatic impact on transitions into homeownership. In addition, we find that the low-wealth renters are particularly sensitive to house–price risk.