cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Social Learning from Private Experiences: The Dynamics of the Selection Problem

I analyse social interactions that stem from the successive endeavours of new cohorts of heterogeneous decision makers to learn from the experiences of past cohorts. A dynamic process of information accumulation and decision making occurs as the members of each cohort observe the experiences of earlier ones, and then make choices that yield experiences observable by future cohorts. Decision makers face the selection problemas they seek to learn from observation of past actions and outcomes, while not observing the counterfactual outcomes that would have occurred had other actions been chosen. Assuming that all cohorts face the same outcome distributions, I show that social learning is a process of sequential reduction in ambiguity. The specific nature of this process, and its terminal state, depend critically on how decision makers make choices under ambiguity. I use the problem of learning about innovations to illustrate. This paper analyses social interaction processes that stem from the successive endeavours of new cohorts of heterogeneous decision makers to learn from the experiences of past cohorts. Persons newly diagnosed with an illness may seek to evaluate the available treatment alternatives by observing the experiences of persons who were previously diagnosed with the same illness and who were treated in different ways. Youth deciding whether to initiate a risky behaviour such as drug use may draw lessons from the experiences of their peers. These and many similarly recurrent decision problems generate dynamic processes of social learning from private experiences. The members of each new cohort of decision makers attempt to learn from the actions chosen and outcomes realized by past cohorts, and then make decisions that produce new experiences observable by future cohorts. How may decision makers learn from the experiences of past cohorts? This broad question obviously has no single answer. The inferences that a person can draw from empirical evidence necessarily depend on what he observes and on what prior information he brings to bear. For this and other reasons, it is not realistic to think that studies of social learning will ever reveal universal truths. However, such studies can illuminate how learning may occur in varied settings. 1
A decision model for technology transfer

An integer program with an objective criterion of maximizing linkage (value added) is presented as a decision model for technology transfer. The accompanying post-optimality analysis provides a mechanism for structuring feasibility to unfeasible non-optimal decisions.
Thyroid adaptation to chronic tetraglycine hydroperiodide water purification tablet use

Tetraglycine hydroperiodide tablets purify water by liberating 8 mg free iodine/tablet. The effects of ingesting four tablets daily for 3 months on thyroid size, function, and radioactive iodine uptake were studied prospectively in eight healthy volunteers. Serum inorganic iodide increased from 2.7 to approximately 100 micrograms/dL. Urinary iodide excretion rose 150-fold from a pretreatment mean of 0.276 to 40 mg/day. Radioactive iodine uptake was less than 2% after 7 days and remained below 2% in all subjects at 90 days. Mean serum T4 and T3 declined after 7 days. T4 remained below baseline, whereas T3 had recovered by the end of the treatment period. Serum TSH and the TSH response to TRH rose significantly after 7 days and remained elevated at 3 months. The average thyroid volume, determined by ultrasound, increased by 37%. Neither hyperthyroidism nor hypothyroidism was observed. The mean thyroid volume in seven subjects available for repeat determinations an average of 7.1 months after the study was not different from the baseline value. In normal subjects, a reversible TSH-dependent thyroid enlargement occurs in response to the iodine load from daily use of tetraglycine hydroperiodide water purification tablets.
Precursors to Clusters with the Topology of the PN Cluster of Nitrogenase: Edge-Bridged Double Cubane Clusters [(Tp)2Mo2Fe6S8L4]z: Synthesis, Structures, and Electron Transfer Series

Members of the cluster set [(Tp)2Mo2Fe6S8L4]z contain the core unit M2Fe6(μ3-S)6(μ4-S)2 in which two MoFe3S4 cubanes are coupled by two Fe−(μ4-S) interactions to form a centrosymmetric edge-bridged double cubane cluster. Some of these clusters are synthetic precursors to [(Tp)2Mo2Fe6S9L2]3-, which possess the same core topology as the PN cluster of nitrogenase. In this work, the existence of a three-member electron-transfer series of single cubanes [(Tp)MoFe3S4L3]z (z = 3−, 2−, 1−) and a four-member series of double cubanes [(Tp)2Mo2Fe6S8L4]z (z = 4−, 3−, 2−, 1−) with L = F-, Cl-, N3, PhS- is demonstrated by electrochemical methods, cluster synthesis, and X-ray structure determinations. The potential of the [4−/3−] couple is extremely low (<−1.5 V vs SCE in acetonitrile) such that the 4− state cannot be maintained in solution under normal anaerobic conditions. The chloride double cubane redox series was examined in detail. The members [(Tp)2Mo2Fe6S8Cl4]4-,3-,2- were isolated and structurally characterized...
Rebuttal from Daniel Beard and Eric Feigl

Dr. Andrew's proposal (Andrew, 2013) to rename Guyton's venous return curve the ‘venous pressure curve’ seems unlikely to overcome the decades of misinterpretation and confusion that the Guyton model of the systemic circulation has engendered.
Association and Phrase Structure in Sentence Recall.

The effect of within- and between-phrase normative controlled association and phrase structure upon word integration in sentence recall was studied in two experiments. The two experiments differed only with respect to type of two-phrase sentence used. In both experiments, one group of Ss was given 4 study-test trials on a list of 4 sentences containing associatively related words, while another group received a list containing associatively unrelated words. On the assumption that an integrated unit is one in which adjacent words are recalled together, the probability of a word-to-word transitional error (TE) was used as a measure of the tendency to integrate the words within the sentences into larger units. In both experiments, the results suggested that the words in low association (LA) sentences are recoded into phrase units, but that the words in high association (HA) sentences are recoded into units that transcend the phrase boundary. The results indicated further that the probability of a TE at the phrase boundary decreases as associative strength across the phrase boundary increases. In addition, the probability of a TE within phrases was higher for LA sentences in Exp. II than for HA sentences. However, in Exp. I, association did not influence TE probability within phrases.
IoT Privacy: Can We Regain Control?

Privacy is part of the Internet of Things (IoT) discussion because of the increased potential for sensitive data collection. In the vision for IoT, sensors penetrate ubiquitously into our physical lives and are funneled into big data systems for analysis. IoT data allows new benefits to end users - but also allows new inferences that erode privacy. The usual privacy mechanisms employed by users no longer work in the context of IoT. Users can no longer turn off a service (e.g., GPS), nor can they even turn off a device and expect to be safe from tracking. IoT means the monitoring and data collection is continuing even in the physical world. On a computer, we have at least a semblance of control and can in principle determine what applications are running and what data they are collecting. For example, on a traditional computer, we do have malware defenses - even if imperfect. Such defenses are strikingly absent for IoT, and it is unclear how traditional defenses can be applied to IoT. The issue of control is the main privacy problem in the context of IoT. Users generally don't know about all the sensors in the environment (with the potential exception of sensors in the user's own home). Present-day examples are WiFi MAC trackers and Google Glass, of course, but systems in the future will become even less discernible. In one sense, this is a security problem - detecting malicious devices or "environmental malware." But it is also a privacy problem - many sensor devices in fact want to be transparent to users (for instance, by adopting a traditional notice-and-consent model), but are blocked by the lack of a natural communication channel to the user. Even assuming communication mechanisms, we have complex usability problems. For instance, we need to understand what sensors a person might be worried about and in what contexts. Audio capture at home is different from audio capture in a lecture hall. What processing is done on the sensor data may also be important. A camera capturing video for purposes of gesture recognition may be less worrisome than for purposes of facial recognition (and, of course, the user needs assurance on the proclaimed processing). Finally, given the large number of "things", the problem of notice fatigue must be dealt with, or notifications will become no more useful than browser security warnings. In this talk, we discuss all these problems in detail, together with potential solutions.
Restenosis after excellent angiographic angioplasty result for chronic total coronary artery occlusion--implications for newer percutaneous revascularization devices.

Abstract The incidence of restenosis after coronary angioplasty for treatment of chronic total coronary occlusion is unacceptably high. 1 The pathophysiology of restenosis after coronary angioplasty may be conceptually divided into an exuberant myointimal proliferation, 2 and a residual partial obstruction that serves as a platform for atheroma regrowth and may potentiate that process by augmenting blood flow turbulence and platelet deposition. The techniques of atherectomy or laser ablation 3 may lessen the likelihood of restenosis by minimizing the residual stenosis, although currently each may require supplemental balloon angioplasty to achieve this result. However, the effect of these techniques on later myointimal proliferation in human beings is largely unknown. The concept that intracoronary stenting 4 may reduce restenosis is based largely on the supposition that, by forcing and maintaining the obstructive atheroma out of the normal arterial lumen, turbulence and hence platelet deposition would be reduced 5 and a large amount of myointimal proliferation would be required to recreate an obstruction of physiologic consequence.
Mechanism of Enhanced Cardiac Function in Mice with Hypertrophy Induced by Overexpressed Akt

Transgenic mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of active Akt (TG) not only exhibit hypertrophy but also show enhanced left ventricular (LV) function. In 3–4-month-old TG, heart/body weight was increased by 60% and LV ejection fraction was elevated (84 ± 2%, p
Exacerbated metastatic disease in a mouse mammary tumor model following latent gammaherpesvirus infection

Controversy exists as to the ability of human gammaherpesviruses to cause or exacerbate breast cancer disease in patients. The difficulty in conducting definitive human studies can be over come by investigating developing breast cancer in a mouse model. In this study, we utilized mice latently infected with murine gammaherpesvirus 68 (HV-68) to question whether such a viral burden could exacerbate metastatic breast cancer disease using a mouse mammary tumor model. Mice latently infected with HV-68 had a similar primary tumor burden, but much greater metastatic disease, when compared to mock treated mice given the transplantable tumor, 4 T1. This was true for lung lesions, as well as secondary tumor masses. Increased expression of pan-cytokeratin and VEGF-A in tumors from HV-68 infected mice was consistent with increased metastatic disease in these animals. Surprisingly, no viral particles could be cultured from tumor tissues, and the presence of viral DNA or RNA transcripts could not be detected in primary or secondary tumor tissues. Latent HV-68 infection had no significant effect on the size of primary 4 T1 mammary tumors, but exacerbated the number of metastatic lung lesions and secondary tumors when compared to mock treated mice. Increased expression of the tumor marker, pan-cytokeratin, and VEGF-A in tumors of mice harboring latent virus was consistent with an exacerbated metastatic disease. Mechanisms responsible for this exacerbation are indirect, since no virus could be detected in cancerous tissues.
Analysis and validation of a human postural control model

A series of models for human postural control are proposed and assessed as a means of investigating properties of quiet stance in individuals. Linear and nonlinear systems analysis tools, as well as time-frequency analysis techniques, are utilized to evaluate the properties of the model, and simulations are conducted.
Lung Impedance Contributions to the Total Impedance based on a FDM Model and Lead Field Theory

Predicting tissue resistivity is of significance in medical diagnosis due to the fact that disease induces related tissue resistivity change. Studies have shown that the lung and tissues tumors reflect significant impedance change with disease states. It is hypothesized that the impedance measurement with the largest contribution from the organ of interest will result in less error. In this paper, we determined the percentage contribution of the lung impedance to the total impedance for five different external electrode configurations using a high resolution finite difference model (FDM) of the thorax along with lead field theory. The electrode combinations showed a contribution by the lungs of approximately 20% of the total impedance. Many configurations showed contributions of 15%. The results also showed that each lung could be isolated from the opposite lung
Toward noncontacting seismology

] Buried land mines and chemical waste may providethe contrast in elastic properties within the soil needed toachieve detection via near-surface seismic methods. Thehazardous nature of these targets strongly indicates the useof noncontacting sources and receivers. A home-madeultrasonic parametric array allows us to insonify the soilwith an intense beam of sound; this acoustic energy isconverted to elastic waves in the soil. Our noncontactingseismometer is a microwave Doppler vibrometer that candetect seismic waves, even through grass. We believe thatdevelopments along these lines will ultimately lead to theability to probe large areas of the near-surface in a safe andreliable fashion, without physically touching the ground.
On-the-Fly Calculation and Verification of Consistent Steering Transactions

Interactive Steering can be a valuable tool for understanding and controlling a distributed computation in real-time. With Interactive Steering, the user may change the state of a computation by adjusting application parameters on-the-fly. In our system, we model both the programs execution and steering actions in terms of transactions. We define a steering transaction as consistent if its vector time is not concurrent with the vector time of any program transaction. That is, consistent steering transactions occur "between" program transactions, at a point that represents a consistent cut. In this paper, we present an algorithm for verifying the consistency of steering transactions. The algorithm analyzes a record of the program transactions and compares it against the steering transaction; if the time at which the steering transaction was applied is inconsistent, the algorithm generates a vector representing the earliest consistent time at which the steering transaction could have been applied.
Middle East and North African Oil

(1981). Middle East and North African Oil. The Social Studies: Vol. 72, The Arab World, pp. 170-176.
The Seed Is Mine: The Life ofKas Maine, A South African Sharecropper 1894‐1985

The Seed Is Mine: The Life ofKas Maine,. South African Sharecropper 1894-1985 Charles Van Onselen. New York: Hill and Wang, 1996.
Attitudes of deaf and hard of hearing subjects towards genetic testing and prenatal diagnosis of hearing loss.

Hearing loss is an economically and socially important cause of human morbidity. It is estimated that at least 20% of the population develop clinically significant hearing loss at some time during their lives.1 Hereditary hearing loss occurs in approximately 1/2000 newborns.2 During the past five years, dramatic advances have been made in the mapping of more than 60 loci for non-syndromic deafness. Interestingly, quite contrary to the assumption that genetic deafness was caused by a large number of equally rare genes, it has been shown that in many populations mutations at the connexin 26 ( Cx26 ) locus can account for as much as 50-80% of recessive genetic deafness.3 The ability to diagnose specific forms of recessive deafness by molecular testing even in simplex families with only one affected child is rapidly becoming the standard of care for the management of such cases. However, the imminent availability of widespread testing in the deaf community has raised a number of ethical issues, some of which are unique to the genetics of deafness. For instance, some would consider prenatal diagnosis for hearing status unacceptable owing to the unique perspective on hearing loss among different groups. Differences in the way people view the field of genetics and genetic testing for hearing loss are quite likely related to cultural differences in attitudes about hearing loss or deafness. The medical community tends to view deafness as a disability and a condition to be cured. Hearing subjects tend to share this “pathological” perspective on deafness. While most subjects with hearing loss become well integrated into the hearing world, many deaf people regard deafness and manual communication as distinctive features that define the separate, closely knit culture of the Deaf community (denoted with a capital D).4 Sociologists, linguists, and anthropologists now recognise Deaf people as …
First-grade boys' responses to a new task following noncontingent feedback

Abstract Sixty-four first-grade boys trained on a two-choice discrimination task received positive feedback either contingent upon their correct responses or in the same amount but noncontingently. Each child was then asked to choose between two alternate ways of accumulating pennies. He could solve problems and earn pennies for correct responses to a contingent task, or he could collect pennies at the same rate by remaining passive. The purpose of this research was to determine if the usual effects of noncontingent feedback would transfer from a simple training procedure to a different contingent task. It was found that the total amount of time spent at the passive alternative did not differ between training conditions. However, a significantly greater number of noncontingently trained children did choose the passive alternative early during testing; these children either gave all of their time to the passive alternative or, very shortly after attempting the task, switched to the passive response. When the noncontingently trained children did choose to work actively during testing, their performance reflected ineffective problem-solving strategies. These results suggest that even when conditions change, experience with prior noncontingent feedback disrupts the ability to utilize contingent information.
Measuring the economic value of anglers' kept and released catches.

Abstract Economic measures of the value of recreational catch typically have been based on the aggregate number offish caught per unit effort. Fishery management councils, however, regulate recreational catch through bag limits and size restrictions that influence the composition of kept and released fish in the catch, not just the number of fish caught. Statistical tests for pooled site travel cost demand models for anglers of king mackerel Scomberomorus cavalla in the Gulf of Mexico region showed that indicators of kept and released catches outperformed an aggregate indicator. Accounting for the composition of catch had a significant effect on economic measures of the gains and losses from catch regulations and suggested that aggregate indicators may give misleading estimates of the change in economic value due to regulations. Economic studies of the value of recreational catch in other fisheries should give more consideration to the effects of regulations on the composition of kept and released catches...
Tracking UNC-45 Chaperone-Myosin Interaction with a Titin Mechanical Reporter

Myosins are molecular motors that convert chemical energy into mechanical work. Allosterically coupling ATP-binding, hydrolysis, and binding/dissociation to actin filaments requires precise and coordinated structural changes that are achieved by the structurally complex myosin motor domain. UNC-45, a member of the UNC-45/Cro1/She4p family of proteins, acts as a chaperone for myosin and is essential for proper folding and assembly of myosin into muscle thick filaments in vivo. The molecular mechanisms by which UNC-45 interacts with myosin to promote proper folding of the myosin head domain are not known. We have devised a novel approach, to our knowledge, to analyze the interaction of UNC-45 with the myosin motor domain at the single molecule level using atomic force microscopy. By chemically coupling a titin I27 polyprotein to the motor domain of myosin, we introduced a mechanical reporter. In addition, the polyprotein provided a specific attachment point and an unambiguous mechanical fingerprint, facilitating our atomic force microscopy measurements. This approach enabled us to study UNC-45–motor domain interactions. After mechanical unfolding, the motor domain interfered with refolding of the otherwise robust I27 modules, presumably by recruiting them into a misfolded state. In the presence of UNC-45, I27 folding was restored. Our single molecule approach enables the study of UNC-45 chaperone interactions with myosin and their consequences for motor domain folding and misfolding in mechanistic detail.
Angular Velocity Formula for Turbulent Vortex Chamber Flows

Vortex separators are increasingly utilized to remove suspended solids from stormwater runoff. Understanding flow pat- terns in a confined vortex chamber is crucial when investigating the mechanisms of liquid-solid separation. The angular velocity of fluid motion around the vertical axis is a dominant parameter for determining fluid flow patterns and particle trajectories in a rotational flow field. In this paper, an angular velocity formula, based on the angular-impulse momentum principle coupled with the Rankine vortex model, is derived under steady flow conditions. Comparison of predicted results using this formula to experimental data from a previous study indicates a general agreement. The derived formula can be used to estimate the angular velocity of the rotational flow field in vortex separators with tangential inlet and without internal components. DOI: 10.1061/(ASCE)HY.1943-7900.0000547. © 2012 American Society of Civil Engineers. CE Database subject headings: Velocity; Vortices; Hydrodynamics; Shear stress; Stormwater management; Runoff. Author keywords: Angular velocity; Vortex chamber flow; Rotational flow; Hydrodynamic separator; Angular momentum; Average shear stress; Torque.
Multiscale retrograde estimation and forecasting of chaotic nonlinear systems

Chaotic systems are characterized by long-term unpredictability. Previous methods designed to estimate and forecast such systems, such as extended Kalman filtering [a matrix-based approach] and 4Dvar [aka moving-horizon estimation (MHE), a vector-based approach], are essentially based on the assumption that Gaussian uncertainties in the initial state estimate and Gaussian disturbances to the state and measurements lead to uncertainty on the state estimate at later times that is well described by a Gaussian model. This assumption is not valid in chaotic nonlinear systems. A new method is thus proposed which revisits past measurements in order to reconcile them with more recent measurements of the system. This new approach, which we refer to as model predictive estimation (MPE), is a straightforward extension of 4Dvar/MHE, an operational algorithm recently adopted by the weather forecasting community. Our new method leverages backwards-in-time (aka,"retrograde") time marches of the system, a receding-horizon optimization framework, and adaptive adjustment of the optimization horizon based on the quality of the estimate at each iteration.
Thematic Review Series: Lipid Posttranslational Modifications. Prelamin A, Zmpste24, misshapen cell nuclei, and progeria—new evidence suggesting that protein farnesylation could be important for disease pathogenesis

Prelamin A undergoes multistep processing to yield lamin A, a structural protein of the nuclear lamina. Prelamin A terminates with a CAAX motif, which triggers farnesylation of a C-terminal cysteine (the C of the CAAX motif), endoproteolytic release of the last three amino acids (the AAX), and methylation of the newly exposed farnesylcysteine residue. In addition, prelamin A is cleaved a second time, releasing 15 more residues from the C terminus (including the farnesylcysteine methyl ester), generating mature lamin A. This second cleavage step is carried out by an endoplasmic reticulum membrane protease, ZMPSTE24. Interest in the posttranslational processing of prelamin A has increased with the recognition that certain progeroid syndromes can be caused by mutations that lead to an accumulation of farnesyl-prelamin A. Recently, we showed that a key cellular phenotype of these progeroid disorders, misshapen cell nuclei, can be ameliorated by inhibitors of protein farnesylation, suggesting a potential strategy for treating these diseases. In this article, we review the posttranslational processing of prelamin A, describe several mouse models for progeroid syndromes, explain the mutations underlying several human progeroid syndromes, and summarize recent data showing that misshapen nuclei can be ameliorated by treating cells with protein farnesyltransferase inhibitors.
Phasic activation of ventral tegmental neurons increases response and pattern similarity in prefrontal cortex neurons

Dopamine is critical for higher neural processes and modifying the activity of the prefrontal cortex (PFC). However, the mechanism of dopamine contribution to the modification of neural representation is unclear. Using in vivo two-photon population Ca(2+) imaging in awake mice, this study investigated how neural representation of visual input to PFC neurons is regulated by dopamine. Phasic stimulation of dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) evoked prolonged Ca(2+) transients, lasting ~30 s in layer 2/3 neurons of the PFC, which are regulated by a dopamine D1 receptor-dependent pathway. Furthermore, only a conditioning protocol with visual sensory input applied 0.5 s before the VTA dopaminergic input could evoke enhanced Ca(2+) transients and increased pattern similarity (or establish a neural representation) of PFC neurons to the same sensory input. By increasing both the level of neuronal response and pattern similarity, dopaminergic input may establish robust and reliable cortical representation.
Channel Variation and Attitude Change

The purpose of this study was to determine if the channel of presentation for a given message made any differences in the amount of attitude change. Subjects were exposed to three different channels of presentation, a live, a written, and a video-taped message, and their attitudes measured. An analysis of variance was performed and it was determined that the written message produced more change than either the live or the videotaped version. The implications of the findings were two-fold. First, the differences found and attributed to channel variation indicate that generalizability of results from the written to the oral situation lacks empirical justification. Second, the use of video-tapes in place of live presentations was supported, suggesting that video-tapes offer the experimenter more precise control of oral presentation variables in experimental research. Implications for future research are discussed.
Treatments of exceptionally large prostate cancer patients with low-energy intensity-modulated photons.

An inverse planning technique was developed for large-sized prostate cancer patients treatments using 6 MV intensity modulated photon beams. Comparisons of the treatment plans between using 6 MV and 18 MV intensity modulated beams were carried out for a cohort of ten patient cases. The dependence of the plan quality on the beam energies was analyzed for these cases. We found that 6 MV produced equivalent plans as 18 MV for both targets and critical structures such as the rectum and the bladder. The differences in the integral dose and the mean dose to the normal tissue surrounding the target between 6- and 18-MV plans were found to be small in contrast to 3D conformal plans. This shows that the low entrance dose of the high energy photon beams is mostly compensated by the high exit dose for even exceptionally large-size patients. In conclusion, 6 MV intensity modulated beam is a feasible choice for treating large-sized prostate cancer patients provided proper inverse planning techniques are adopted.
A comparative study of QoS routing schemes that tolerate imprecise state information

In large networks, maintaining precise global network state information is almost impossible. Many factors, including non-negligible propagation delay, infrequent link state update due to overhead concerns, link state update policy, resource reservation, and hierarchical topology aggregation, have impacts on the precision of the global network state information. To achieve efficient quality of service (QoS) routing, a practical routing algorithm must be able to make effective routing decisions in the presence of imprecise global network state information. In this paper, we compare five QoS routing algorithms that were proposed to tolerate imprecise global network state information, safety-based routing, randomized routing, multi-path routing, localized routing, and static multi-path routing. The performance of these routing algorithms are evaluated under two link state update policies, the timer based policy and the threshold based policy. The strengths and limitations of each scheme are identified.
Errors in diagnosis of gastric carcinoma.

Summary A considerable error in the radiologic diagnosis of gastric carcinoma exists. Divided attention is the major offender. Poor technic and inexperience are also prominent causes. Since these causes can be combated, it is possible, with free use of re-examination, to further improve the diagnostic accuracy. High figures of diagnostic accuracy published by some workers do not give a true picture of the general situation. They are biased by the material on which the figures are based. No evidence in this study is presented to answer the question whether improved diagnosis will appreciably lower the mortality rate of gastric cancer. That question must wait until more material is gathered over a longer period of time.
Erratum to: Token Reinforcement of Verbal Responses Controlled by Temporally Removed Verbal Stimuli

In the present study we examined the effects of token reinforcement on the convergent control of immediate and temporally removed verbal stimuli over the verbal behavior of three school-age children with autism who showed specific deficits in intraverbal responding. Throughout the study, participants were systematically introduced to a series of visitors to a university-based autism center, and subsequently probed for information about the visitor they had most recently met. Results show that contingent token reinforcement was effective at establishing control by temporally removed verbal stimuli.
Management of hypertension in primary aldosteronism

Hypertension causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, owing to its deleterious effects on the cardiovascular and renal systems. Primary hyperaldosteronism (PA) is the most common cause of reversible hypertension, affecting 5%-18% of adults with hypertension. PA is estimated to result from bilateral adrenal hyperplasia in two-thirds of patients, and from unilateral aldosterone-secreting adenoma in approximately one-third. Suspected cases are initially screened by measurement of the plasma aldosterone-renin-ratio, and may be confirmed by additional noninvasive tests. Localization of aldostosterone hypersecretion is then determined by computed tomography imaging, and in selective cases with adrenal vein sampling. Solitary adenomas are managed by laparoscopic or robotic resection, while bilateral hyperplasia is treated with mineralocorticoid antagonists. Biochemical cure following adrenalectomy occurs in 99% of patients, and hemodynamic improvement is seen in over 90%, prompting a reduction in quantity of anti-hypertensive medications in most patients. End-organ damage secondary to hypertension and excess aldosterone is significantly improved by both surgical and medical treatment, as manifested by decreased left ventricular hypertrophy, arterial stiffness, and proteinuria, highlighting the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment of primary hyperaldosteronism. Although numerous independent predictors of resolution of hypertension after adrenalectomy for unilateral adenomas have been described, the Aldosteronoma Resolution Score is a validated multifactorial model convenient for use in daily clinical practice.
Influence of Menstrual Cycle and Oral Contraceptive Phase on Spinal Excitability.

Abstract Background Rates of musculoskeletal injury differ substantially between the genders, with females more likely to experience conditions such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries than males in the same sports. Emerging evidence suggests a significant hormonal contribution. Most research has focused solely on how hormonal fluctuations affect connective tissue, but a direct link between hormonal shifts, ligamentous laxity, and ACL injury has not been borne out. There is also evidence to suggest that sex hormones can modulate the central nervous system, but how this affects neuromuscular control is not well understood. Objective To determine whether changes in sex hormone concentrations would alter spinal excitability, measured across the menstrual and oral contraceptive pill cycle. We hypothesized that spinal excitability would fluctuate across the menstrual cycle (with increased excitability during the periovulatory phase due to peak estradiol concentration), but that there would be no fluctuation in oral contraceptive users. Design This was a prospective cohort study. Setting The study took place at a biomechanics laboratory at a rehabilitation hospital. Participants A total of 30 healthy women aged 18–35 who were similar in age, body composition, and exercise-training status were included. Fifteen of the women were eumenorrheic and nonusers of oral contraceptives (nonusers), and 15 of the women were taking oral contraceptives (users). Main Outcome Measures H-reflex (Hmax/Mmax ratio), serum estradiol, and progesterone concentrations were measured at 3 time points during the menstrual and contraceptive pill cycle. Results The H-reflex (Hmax/Mmax ratio) remained stable across the menstrual and contraceptive pill cycle. Spinal excitability was lower in the users compared with the nonusers across all testing sessions, but this was not statistically significant. Conclusions Our results suggest that acute fluctuations of endogenous estradiol and progesterone do not modulate spinal excitability. However, long-term exposure to exogenous estrogen and progesterone (oral contraceptives) might have an impact on spinal excitability and neuromuscular control. Further research is necessary to better understand the potential differential effect of endogenous and exogenous sex hormones on spinal excitability.
THE APPLICATION OF SINGLE PARTICLE AEROSOL MASS SPECTROMETRY FOR THE DETECTION AND IDENTIFICATION OF HIGH EXPLOSIVES AND CHEMICAL WARFARE AGENTS

Single Particle Aerosol Mass Spectrometry (SPAMS) was evaluated as a real-time detection technique for single particles of high explosives. Dual-polarity time-of-flight mass spectra were obtained for samples of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazinane (RDX), and pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN); peaks indicative of each compound were identified. Composite explosives, Comp B, Semtex 1A, and Semtex 1H were also analyzed, and peaks due to the explosive components of each sample were present in each spectrum. Mass spectral variability with laser fluence is discussed. The ability of the SPAMS system to identify explosive components in a single complex explosive particle ({approx}1 pg) without the need for consumables is demonstrated. SPAMS was also applied to the detection of Chemical Warfare Agent (CWA) simulants in the liquid and vapor phases. Liquid simulants for sarin, cyclosarin, tabun, and VX were analyzed; peaks indicative of each simulant were identified. Vapor phase CWA simulants were adsorbed onto alumina, silica, Zeolite, activated carbon, and metal powders which were directly analyzed using SPAMS. The use of metal powders as adsorbent materials was especially useful in the analysis of triethyl phosphate (TEP), a VX stimulant, which was undetectable using SPAMS in the liquid phase. The capability of SPAMS to detect high explosives and CWAmore » simulants using one set of operational conditions is established.« less
INDIVIDUAL DISCRETION AND ORGANIZATIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY: Evaluating the Performance of Public Bureaucrats

Individuals within organizations have to confront the con- flict between being accountable for their performance and trying to main- tain autonomy and exercise discretion when accomplishing complex tasks. It is usually assumed that individuals, particularly professionals, face complex tasks that are difficult to evaluate and will resist attempts to control their performance through organizational rules. However, routiniz- ing tasks and decentralizing decision-making authority to the individual may clarify rules and give individuals some control over their jobs, making the individual more amenable to the evaluation of performance. Hypotheses concerning the somewhat conflicting demands of job complexity and organizational control were tested by analyzing attitudes towards a per- formance appraisal system undergoing change in two United States federal agencies. Changes in attitudes were measured by a LISREL panel analysis over five points in time.
Transplantation as salvage therapy for high-risk patients with myeloma in relapse.

Patients with myeloma relapsing after tandem transplant have a poor survival and treatment options are limited. The role of additional salvage transplant procedures for these patients is unknown. To evaluate the benefit and identify prognostic factors, the outcome of 76 consecutive patients with recurrent myeloma after tandem transplant receiving salvage transplants (ST) was analyzed. Prior to ST, 23 patients (30%) had shown chemosensitive response to preceding salvage chemotherapy: two complete remissions (CR); eight near CRs (nCR: only immunofixation positive); 13 partial remissions (PR >or=75% reduction in M protein). Fifty received an autologous transplant, 22 a sibling-matched allogeneic transplant, and four a matched-unrelated allogeneic transplant. Overall response after ST was 59%: eight CRs (11%); 14 nCRs (18%); 23 PRs (30%). Overall survival (OS) at 2 years was 19%; 2 year event-free survival rate (EFS) 7%. On univariate analysis for survival, only pre-transplant chemosensitive relapse (P 3 g/dl (P = 0.001), normal LDH (P = 0.04), and long interval between the second transplant and relapse/progression were significant beneficial factors. In a Cox proportional hazard model, chemosensitive relapse, and albumin >3 g/dl were significant for better OS: hazard ratio (HR) 1.4, 1.7, respectively, while normal LDH, and absence of CA13 were significant for better EFS: HR 1.8, 1.7, respectively. Patients with albumin >3 g/dl who had chemosensitive disease before ST (n = 16) had a median survival of 16 months, compared to 7 months (n = 34) and 2 months (n = 26) for patients with only one (n = 34) or no favorable prognostic factors (n = 28), respectively (P < 0.001). Their survival at 2 years post-ST was 43%, 17% and 11%, respectively. Our study suggests further transplantation should only be considered in the setting of a clinical trial in patients with favorable prognostic factors.
Study of Strain-Induced Crystallization and Enzymatic Degradation of Drawn Poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) Films

Poly(lactic acid) (PLLA) melt-pressed films with low crystallinity were crystallized by stretching at a constant strain rate. The strain-induced crystallization and enzymatic degradation of drawn PLLA films in the presence of proteinase K at 37 °C was investigated using weight loss measurements, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The results show that drawing has a significant effect on the crystallinity, molecular orientation, and enzymatic degradation. The absorbance ratio of the bands at 921 and 956 cm–1 (A921/A956) was chosen to determine the structural changes during strain-induced crystallization and hydrolysis. The DSC crystallinity and A921/A956 showed an increase with the draw ratio. Since we were unable to obtain the transition moment angle for the bands at 921 and 956 cm–1, the dichroic ratios were compared. It was found that the crystalline orientation develops rapidly at lower draw ratios whereas the amorphous orientation develops much...
Systematics, Distribution, and Ecology of an Endemic California Camponotus quercicola (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

The endemic California carpenter ant Camponotus quercicola Smith is a little known component of oak woodland habitats containing Quercus wislizenii de Candolle and Q. agrifolia Nee. Close investigation of one site, Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve, showed that C. quercicola was a dominant, arboreal ant species, foraging primarily at night. The 1st description of the sexual castes of C. quercicola is provided, together with a guide to distinguish all castes of C. quercicola from similar, sympatric Camponotus species. We compiled a distribution map based on our own collections and museum specimens. To test the phylogenetic position of C. quercicola within the North American Camponotus sensu stricto group, we sequenced 385 bp of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase I from 9 Camponotus species. C. quercicola did not form a clade with the North American C. herculeanus species group to which it was previously assigned. Preliminary results of microsatellite analysis suggested a polygynous colony structure in this species.
Development of The Protocol Test Instrument

Based on the analysis of design principle of WPT-2000 WAN protocol test instrument, the paper presents its architecture and hardware configuration and software design. The developed protocol test instrument is provided with the same performance as the international like products.
Practice Based Studio

Carnegie Mellon University's Masters of Software Engineering Program is 25 years old. During this time the program has undergone numerous changes, revisions, and additional software engineering programs have been added to the original program. Today, we have a suite of software engineering programs targeted at different software engineering domains and educational needs. The hallmark of all of our software engineering programs through all these years has been the project course. The project course provides an environment where students can apply core and elective course concepts and principles in a team-oriented, real-world context with industry customers. The student teams are self-directed with coaching from mentors. There are two key challenges that we have faced over the years with project courses. The first is providing the right level guidance for student teams to get started, form teams, and instantiate processes without over or under prescribing how teams should go about this. The second is how to evaluate team-oriented project work in a fair, transparent, and consistent way. In this paper, I will describe Practice Based Studio which is a framework that we have developed to evaluate, measure, and grade team progress and performance in multi-semester, project based courses.
A retrospective review of the Bangour Plastic Surgery Unit, 1941-1991

Bangour has been the home of the Lothian Regional Plastic Surgery Service since 1941. It was originally constructed to be part of the emergency medical service hospitals during the Second World War. The lifetime of the Plastic Surgery Unit in Bangour finished in February 1992 and with it the end of just over 50 years of history. A review of some of the past gives an appropriate historical picture of the unit as well as of the changes in plastic surgery.
Electrorheological Source of Nonlinear Dielectric Effects in Molecular Glass-Forming Liquids

We have measured the dielectric relaxation spectra of eight glass-forming liquids in the presence of electric direct current (dc)-bias fields ranging from 100 to 500 kV/cm. For every sample, we observe two distinct field-induced effects: a reduction in the relaxation amplitude and an increase in the primary structural relaxation time that is associated with viscous flow. Whereas amplitude change is typical of the well-known dielectric saturation, the field-induced increase in viscosity is a source of nonlinear behavior that has been recognized only recently. We find that this electrorheological behavior occurs in all polar liquids of this study, and its magnitude is correlated with the field-induced change in thermodynamic entropy. It constitutes a significant source of nonlinear dielectric behavior, which occurs for both dc and alternating current fields.
Mechanisms of mass transport during coalescence-induced microfluidic drop dilution

A two-phase microfluidic drop dilution system driven by coalescence-induced mass transfer between a moving plug and stationary droplets is modeled. Results show that gutter flows make pass-through streamlines possible where there would otherwise be closed circulation, thereby increasing the rate of mass transfer.
Libraries as Learning Labs in a Digital Age: A Youth Services Conference in an LIS Classroom

In the face of a changing landscape of youth services, LIS education can push the field of librarianship forward by adopting research-based frameworks that are directly applicable to the profession. We combined the Connected Learning framework with Radical Change theory and Outcome-Based Planning and Evaluation (OBPE) to establish the structure and content for a brand-new culminating course in the children’s and youth services track at the University of Washington Information School. We taught the course in Spring 2015 using a conference-like model based on the late Dr. Eliza T. Dresang’s teaching plan. Innovative delivery methods engaged both online and residential students, deliberately seeking to change boundaries, change perspectives, and change formats in how programs for digital-age children and youth are planned, delivered, and evaluated. This paper highlights how applying a radical approach to teaching that focuses on hands-on learning connects practice with pedagogy, and provides takeaways that offer a new model for LIS educational approaches.