cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An evidence-based review: efficacy of safety helmets in the reduction of head injuries in recreational skiers and snowboarders.

BACKGROUND: Approximately 600,000 ski- and snowboarding-related injuries occur in North America each year, with head injuries accounting for up to 20% of all injuries. Currently, there are no major institutional recommendations regarding helmet use for skiers and snowboaders in the United States, in part owing to previous conflicting evidence regarding their efficacy. The objective of this review was to evaluate existing evidence on the efficacy of safety helmets during skiing and snowboarding, particularly in regard to head injuries, neck and cervical spine injuries, and risk compensation behaviors. These data will then be used for potential recommendations regarding helmet use during alpine winter sports. METHODS: The PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases were searched using the search string helmet OR head protective devices AND (skiing OR snowboarding OR skier OR snowboarder) for articles on human participants of all ages published between January 1980 and April 2011. The search yielded 83, 0, and 96 results in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE, respectively. Studies published in English describing the analysis of original data on helmet use in relation to outcomes of interest, including death, head injury, severity of head injury, neck or cervical spine injury, and risk compensation behavior, were selected. Sixteen published studies met a priori inclusion criteria and were reviewed in detail by authors. RESULTS: Level I recommendation is that all recreational skiers and snowboarders should wear safety helmets to reduce the incidence and severity of head injury during these sports. Level II recommendation/observation is that helmets do not seem to increase risk compensation behavior, neck injuries, or cervical spine injuries among skiers and snowboarders. Policies and interventions to increase helmet use should be promoted to reduce mortality and head injury among skiers and snowboarders. CONCLUSION: Safety helmets clearly decrease the risk and severity of head injuries in skiing and snowboarding and do not seem to increase the risk of neck injury, cervical spine injury, or risk compensation behavior. Helmets are strongly recommended during recreational skiing and snowboarding. Language: en
Response of an Integral Granule Membrane Protein to Changes in pH

A key feature of the regulated secretory pathway in neuroendocrine cells is lumenal pH, which decreases between trans-Golgi network and mature secretory granules. Because peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase (PAM) is one of the few membrane-spanning proteins concentrated in secretory granules and is a known effector of regulated secretion, we examined its sensitivity to pH. Based on antibody binding experiments, the noncatalytic linker regions between the two enzymatic domains of PAM show pH-dependent conformational changes; these changes occur in the presence or absence of a transmembrane domain. Integral membrane PAM-1 solubilized from rat anterior pituitary or from transfected AtT-20 cells aggregates reversibly at pH 5.5 while retaining enzyme activity. Over 35% of the PAM-1 in anterior pituitary extracts aggregates at pH 5.5, whereas only about 5% aggregates at pH 7.5. PAM-1 recovered from secretory granules and endosomes is highly responsive to low pH-induced aggregation, whereas PAM-1 recovered from a light, intracellular recycling compartment is not. Mutagenesis studies indicate that a transmembrane domain is necessary but not sufficient for low pH-induced aggregation and reveal a short lumenal, juxtamembrane segment that also contributes to pH-dependent aggregation. Taken together, these results demonstrate that several properties of membrane PAM serve as indicators of granule pH in neuroendocrine cells.
Characterization of SAV7471, a TetR-Family Transcriptional Regulator Involved in the Regulation of Coenzyme A Metabolism in Streptomyces avermitilis

The role of a tetR transcriptional regulatory gene (SAV7471) in avermectin production in the Gram-positive soil bacterium Streptomyces avermitilis was investigated by gene deletion, complementation, and overexpression experiments. Gene deletion of the SAV7471 open reading frame resulted in avermectin overproduction. The deletion also resulted in overexpression of SAV7472-SAV7473 transcripts, which encode a protein of unknown function and a flavoprotein possibly involved in pantothenate and coenzyme A (CoA) metabolism. EMSAs and footprinting assays showed that SAV7471 can bind to two palindromic sequences with high similarity in the intergenic region between SAV7471 and SAV7472, a region that contains the apparent transcription start sites for each gene detected by rapid amplification of 5' cDNA ends (5'-RACE). In addition to SAV7472-SAV7473, at least two genes (SAV1104 and SAV1258) involved in CoA metabolism are negatively controlled by SAV7471. By negatively regulating the transcription of the target genes SAV7472-SAV7473 and other genes involved in CoA metabolism, SAV7471 may affect cellular metabolic flux and may thereby indirectly regulate avermectin biosynthesis.
Using the Intrinsic Chirality of a Molecule as a Label-Free Probe to Detect Molecular Adsorption to a Surface by Second Harmonic Generation

Chiral second harmonic generation (C-SHG) has been used for the label-free detection of (R)-(+)-1,1′-bi-2-naphthol (RBN) and (S)-(+)-1,1′-bi-2-naphthol (SBN) binding to planar-supported lipid bilayers of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphotidylcholine (POPC) based on the intrinsic chirality of the molecules. C-SHG adsorption isotherms of RBN and SBN reveal Langmuir adsorption behavior with binding constants of 2.7 ± 0.2 × 105 M−1 and 3.0 ± 0.1 × 105 M−1, respectively. The kinetics of RBN binding to a POPC bilayer was also measured. It was determined that the adsorption rate for RBN was 5.7 ± 0.4 × 103 s−1M−1 and the desorption rate was 2.1 ± 0.8 × 10−2 s−1. From the kinetic data a binding constant of 2.7 ± 1.0 × 105 M−1 was calculated, which agrees well with the thermodynamic measurement. The C-SHG technique was correlat- ed with surface tension measurements in order to determine the RBN surface excess within the POPC membrane. The maximum surface excess of RBN in a monolayer of POPC was 4.3 ± 0.5 × 10−11 mol cm2. Using the maximum surface excess in conjunction with the C-SHG binding data a lower limit of detection of 1.5 ± 0.1 × 10−13 mols cm−2was calculated. The results of these studies show that C-SHG is a powerful tool for the study of chiral molecular interactions at surfaces.
Theory of thermal solitary vortices in current-carrying edge plasmas

Des tourbillons solitaires thermiques engendres par des excitations convectives du courant existent en presence de dissipation, sous forme de conductivite thermique parallele, si les effets dus a la viscosite dissipative sont negliges
Why Isn't the Whole World Developed?

The worldwide spread of modern economic growth has depended chiefly on the diffusion of a body of knowledge concerning new production techniques. The acquisition and application of this knowledge by different countries has been governed largely by whether their populations have acquired traits and motivations associated with formal schooling. To judge from the historical experience of the worlds 25 largest nations the establishment and expansion of formal schooling has depended in large part on political conditions and ideological influences. The limited spread of modern economic growth before the 2nd World War has thus been due at bottom to important political and economic differences throughout the world that affected the timing of the establishment and expansion of mass schooling. Since the war there has been growing uniformity among the nations of the world modern education systems have been established almost everywhere and the spread of modern economic growth has noticeably accelerated. (authors modified)
Determination of hydrogen density of states in amorphous silicon using fractional evolution experiments

Hydrogen plays an important role in the electronic behavior, structure and stability of amorphous silicon films. Therefore, determination of the hydrogen density of states (DOS) and correlation of the hydrogen DOS with the electronic film properties are important research goals. The authors have developed a novel method for determination of hydrogen DOS in silicon films, based on fractional evolution experiments. Fractional evolution experiments are performed by subjecting a silicon film to a series of linear, alternating heating and cooling ramps, while monitoring the hydrogen evolution rate. The fractional evolution data can be analyzed using two complementary methods, the fixed frequency factor approach and Arrhenius analysis. Using a rigorous, mean-field evolution model, they demonstrate the applicability of the two approaches to obtaining the hydrogen DOS in silicon films. They further validate both methods by analyzing experimental fractional evolution data for an amorphous silicon carbide film. Both types of analysis yield a similar double peaked density of states for the a-Si:C:H:D film.
Flexible electrical power system controller design and battery integration for 1U to 12U CubeSats

The paper presents the power distribution system architecture, hardware and software design and specifications of the electrical power system (EPS) for CubeSats. The sources of power in these CubeSats are solar panels on each of their six faces. The maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques are used to maximize the output of power from these solar panels. The EPS also has two Li-ion batteries mounted on it, the capacity of the batteries depend on the size and configuration of the CubeSat. The EPS has three flexible battery charging modules (FBCM) to charge the battery and seven independent flexible digital point of load (FDPOL) converters to drive the loads. The digital control is provided by TI TMS320F28335 DSP which runs the MPPT algorithms, takes feedback from the loads, runs the battery State of Health (SOH) and State of Charge (SOC) determination algorithms and determines state of health of the EPS.
Implicationally Related Error Patterns and the Selection of Treatment Targets

This paper compares some of the different claims that have been made concerning acquisition by traditional rule-based derivational theories and the more recent framework of optimality theory. Case studies of children with phonological delays are examined with special attention given to two seemingly independent error patterns, namely, place harmony and spirantization. Contrary to the expectations of derivational theories, these (and other) error patterns are argued to be implicationally related. Optimality theory is shown to offer a principled explanation for the facts with novel implications for clinical treatment.
The enzymic mechanism of guanosine 5',3'-polyphosphate synthesis.

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the two initially discovered guanosine derivatives, originally called “magic spot” compounds. It was reported to be guanosine polyphosphates, a tetra- and a pentaphosphate, which, in addition to polyphosphate in the usual 5'-position, contained a pyrophosphate group that was assumed, since the compounds were not split by periodate, to be attached to either the 2'- or the 3'-position on the ribose. These compounds were found to be formed by “stringent” strains of Escherichia coli, strains that are deficient in certain amino acid biosyntheses and, if deprived of the amino acid, not only cease to synthesize proteins but also stop synthesizing RNA. This is in contrast to “relaxed” strains that, on omission of deficient amino acids, only stop synthesizing protein but continue with RNA synthesis. The chapter highlights that future studies is required to understand the problem of how these compounds achieve the metabolic-effect characteristic of the stringent response—namely, that their formation triggers the cessation of synthesis of the bulk of cellular RNA, the tRNA and rRNA.
MagneSil™ Paramagnetic Particles: Magnetics for DNA Purification

MagneSil™ Paramagnetic Particles are silica-paramagnetic particles with an affinity for nucleic acids under defined conditions. Particle structure and solution composition can be altered to selecti...
Lithium diisopropylamide-mediated enolization: catalysis by hemilabile ligands.

Structural, kinetic, and computational studies reveal the mechanistic complexities of a lithium diisopropylamide (LDA)-mediated ester enolization. Hemilabile amino ether MeOCH2CH2NMe2, binding as an η1 (ether-bound) ligand in the reactant and as an η2 (chelating) ligand in the transition structure, accelerates the enolization 10,000-fold compared with n-BuOMe. At the onset of the reaction, a dimer-based enolization prevails. As the reaction proceeds, significantly less reactive LDA-enolate mixed dimers appear and divert the reaction through monomer- and mixed dimer-based pathways. The mechanistic and computational investigations lead to a proof-of-principle ligand-catalyzed enolization in which an ancillary ligand allows the catalytic ligand to re-enter the catalytic cycle.
Candidate Biomarkers of Aging: Age-Sensitive Indices of Immune and Muscle Function Covary in Genetically Heterogeneous Mice

A longitudinal experiment was designed to test the hypothesis that individual mice differ in their aging rate and to validate candidate biomarkers proposed to measure the rate of aging. Mice were bred as the genetically heterogeneous progeny of a cross between CB6F1 mothers and C3D2F1 fathers. Half of the mice were fed ad libitum (AL group), and the other half were subjected to 60% calorie restriction (CR group). Each mouse was tested at about 9 months of age using age-sensitive tests of immune status, and then again at about 12 months of age using age-sensitive tests of muscle function. The data were then analyzed using the method of partial least squares to determine the combinations of test weights that maximize the covariance of the weighted sum of immune measures with the weighted sum of muscle function measures. Both AL and CR mice exhibited a statistically significant relation between the immune status tests and the muscle function tests. Maximal covariance was obtained with a set of weighting coefficients consistent with our working hypothesis: mice with high levels of CD4 memory T cells (which increase with age) also had relatively low levels of muscle strength and endurance. Low strength was associated with low CD8 cells in the AL mice, with high numbers of CD8 memory cells in the CR mice and with low CD3 cells in both diet groups. The partial least squares method generates composite indices of immune status and muscle function that can be evaluated as biomarkers of aging rate in these mice. Further work will be needed to assess whether these tests predict either longevity or the trajectory of change in other age-sensitive molecular and physiological traits.
An Application of EM Algorithm to a Change-Point Problem

We consider the problem of change-point in a classical framework while assuming a probability distribution for the change-point. An EM algorithm is proposed to estimate the distribution of the change-point. A change-point model for multiple profiles is also proposed, and EM algorithm is presented to estimate the model. Two examples of Illinois traffic data and Dow Jones Industrial Averages are used to demonstrate the proposed methods.
Understanding Sociotechnical Implications of Mobile Health Deployments in India, Kenya, and Zimbabwe

Health workers in understaffed and overstrained low-resource environments suffer from complex and demanding workloads. We discuss three mobile health (mHealth) deployments in India, Kenya, and Zimbabwe that we designed to assist frontline health workers. Drawing on rich empirical findings, we describe how we situated the technology, how the workplace relationships were reconfigured as a result, and how the projects grew organically beyond their intended scope. We adopt a reflexive approach to analyze how these projects address longevity as a critical shared goal and discuss how they negotiated the durability of technologies, resulting organizational stability, and sustained community engagement.
Vascular injuries in the orthopaedic patient.

With the trend toward reconstructive vascular surgery, this paper discusses the practicability of blood-vessel repairs in the presence of orthopaedic injuries. The incidence of vascular injuries in the presence of fractures is noted as varying from 10 per cent in civilian injuries to 56 per cent in one group of battlefield injuries. The complications of vascular injuries are presented and their prevention discussed. Operative care of acute vascular injuries and pulsating hematomata should be reconstructive rather than obliterative. It is pointed out that there are still indications for ligation of major vessels. While ligation of an artery feeding a pulsating hematoma is safer than ligation of an acutely injured artery, a high degree of functional vascular insufficiency may result. Care of the injured vessel in the presence of fracture is discussed stressing reconstructive vascular surgery.
Ventilatory responses to specific CNS hypoxia in sleeping dogs.

Our study was concerned with the effect of brain hypoxia on cardiorespiratory control in the sleeping dog. Eleven unanesthetized dogs were studied; seven were prepared for vascular isolation and ex...
A Continuous System Model of Adrenocortical Function

A central concept of modern physiology is that a system of coupled, connected and interacting biological components has properties beyond those that can be discovered by analysis of the components in isolation. The properties of a system of components depend upon the nature of the individual components, the signals and individual signal flow pathways, and the arrangement of components and paths of communication among them. The objective of modern physiology is to determine the dynamic attributes of a biosystem of interest, and to rationalize these dynamic attributes in terms of particular properties of the components, signals, and connections involved. Because of this objective, modern physiology can be properly designated as systems biology.
Software Review: Scanning for Clusters in Space and Time

SaTScan was developed by Martin Kulldorff to scan for temporal, spatial, and spatial temporal clusters. It places circles or ellipses of continuously varying size over a spatial study area and can add time as a continuously varying third-dimension scan. The program offers a wide variety of scanning models. Paraphrasing Kulldorff, SaTScan calculates a Poisson-based model according to a known population at risk, a Bernoulli model which allows for cases and controls, a space-time permutation model that needs only case data, an ordinal model, an exponential model for survival analysis, and a normal model for continuous data. Either the data may be aggregated to a geographic region or each case may have unique coordinates. The end result is quite intuitive and includes the location of a cluster in space and time and the significance of the cluster based on a Monte Carlo simulation. Although analysis is easy to do and interpret, input and output are unnecessarily cumbersome. SaTScan has no direct interface with any statistical, database, or GIS program, but it requires their use.
Vascular Niche in HSC Development, Maintenance and Regulation

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) are multi-potent cells that have ability to self-renew and differentiate to all blood cell lineages. To function properly, HSC are regulated within unique microenvironments, or so called HSC niches , which are composed of specialized supporting cells and extracellular matrix. During mammalian embryogenesis, sites of hematopoiesis change over the course of gestation, as does the HSC niche composition: from extraembryonic yolk sac and placenta, to embryonic aorta-gonad-mesonephros region, fetal liver, and finally fetal bone marrow where HSC predominantly reside postnatally. From their first emergence to their final destination in bone marrow, HSC reside in close proximity to, and interact with vascular cells. There are three main vascular niche types; sinusoidal, arteriolar and perivascular. The interactions between HSC and vascular niche cells have been of great research interest; however, our understanding of the cellular phenotypes within vascular niches, and the molecular basis of vascular niche-HSC interactions, is still rudimentary. In this chapter, we will discuss the developmental relationships between HSC and vascular endothelial cells during HSC ontogeny, and the role of postnatal vascular niches in the regulation of HSC maintenance and function.
Xyce parallel electronic simulator release notes.

The Xyce Parallel Electronic Simulator has been written to support, in a rigorous manner, the simulation needs of the Sandia National Laboratories electrical designers. Specific requirements include, among others, the ability to solve extremely large circuit problems by supporting large-scale parallel computing platforms, improved numerical performance and object-oriented code design and implementation. The Xyce release notes describe: Hardware and software requirements New features and enhancements Any defects fixed since the last release Current known defects and defect workarounds For up-to-date information not available at the time these notes were produced, please visit the Xyce web page at http://www.cs.sandia.gov/xyce.
Scopolamine and reinforcement omission on fixed-interval schedules

Two rats were run on a fixed-interval schedule with occasional blackouts (2–32 sec) substituted for reinforcement. Injections of scopolamine eliminated the fixed-interval scallop and substantially reduced the elevation in response rate which typically follows reinforcement ommission. This result is in agreement with a nonmotivational interpretation of interval-schedule “frustration” effects.
Constrained-Energy Cross-Well Actuation of the Duffing-Holmes Oscillator

In this paper, the dynamics of a bistable structure is investigated. The analysis focuses on the minimum required energy to move a bistable structure between stable equilibrium positions of the system. The investigation is done under a limited scenario for energy and force. The nonlinear behavior of bistable structures have been previously proposed as a method to hold shape with no energy consumption in a variety of applications including common electronic devices such as switches, relays, and in small aerial, land, and underwater vehicles as control surfaces. This paper focuses on the wellknown Duffing-Holmes oscillator as a one-degree-of-freedom representative of a bistable structure. The paper identifies several unique features of the response of the nonlinear system subjected to force and energy constraints. The paper also shows how the required energy for cross-well oscillation varies as a function of damping ratio, frequency ratio, and for different values of excitation force amplitudes. The response of the bistable nonlinear system is compared to a mono-stable linear system with the same parameters. For a linear system, it was observed that the energy function is quantized, and the energy function becomes more continuous and less quantized by increasing the force amplitude. For a bistable structure subjected to a harmonic force amplitude less than the static force, the energy function is scattered and divided into several levels. By increasing the force amplitude to the so-called static force or larger values, the ranges of excitation frequency ratios and damping ratios, which are able to achieve cross-well oscillation, increase significantly, and also the energy requirement becomes less quantized.
Tricyclic Antidepressant Sample Stability and the Vacutainer Effect

The authors studied the effects of different sample handling techniques on 17 tricyclic plasma samples. They found that the samples were stable at room temperature for up to 3 days when kept in a glass tube sealed with Parafilm, but the samples were not stable when stored in a Vacutainer tube with the stopper in contact with the plasma.
Prediction of instantaneous exhaust particulate concentrations

Gaseous emissions usually are available on a continuous basis from diesel vehicle emissions testing, but particulate matter (PM) emissions are usually only available as a single mass number over a test cycle. Continuous PM emissions are valuable for conformity and hot-spot analyses to support roadway project design and to determine the engine-out PM for after treatment retrofit projects. For diesel vehicles without particulate filters one may argue that carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions may be correlated with the elemental carbon and organic carbon fractions in their exhaust. Methodologies for predicting instantaneous PM production rate from heavy-duty diesel vehicles were developed. These methodologies used combinations of instantaneous and idle carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon production rates with integrated PM production to predict instantaneous PM production rates for each specific vehicle. Comparison of results produced by these methodologies with measured PM productions rates is presented. Apportioning total PM mass over a period of vehicle activity using gaseous emissions is shown to be reliable.
Erosion test of Al_2O_3 functional gradient carbon-ceramic composites

The functional gradient carbon-ceramic composite containing Al2O3 is a new type of thermal protection material for rocket nozzle with low thermal conductivity and good heat insulation property. It features good erosion resistance in the oxyen-acetylene erosion test. Because of the worse working condition of solid rocket motors, the erosion rate measurement was carried out by using a test SRM so as to create a true erosion condition. The test results show that the erosion rate data are higher than that in the oxygen-acetylene test. The erosion property and thermal conductivity of the material used in SRM are assessed on the basis of test results.
Evaluation of Protective Effect of General Preventive Footwear on 200 Leprosy Cases With Insensitive Feet

Objective To evaluate the effect of general preventive footwear on insensitive feet,ulcer and chap of leprosy cases and conduct leprosy rehabilitation by using general preventive footwear.Methods Two pairs of general preventive footwear were provided to leprosy patients with ulcer,chap or the insensitive feet(insensitive points 2) every year and regular followed up and analysis were performed.Results The number of the patients with chap decreased by 72 and the number of chaps decreased by 129,the number of the patients with ulcer decreased by 43 and the number of ulcers decreased by 57.The ulcer of 23 leprosy patients were cured.Conclusion The general preventive footwear is effective to protect leprosy patients suffering from insensitive feet,ulcer and crack and can be used widely because of its easy availability.
Investigation of preschoolers' oral health in Hongshan District of Wuhan City

Objective To know the incidence situation of preschoolers' oral common disease in Hongshan District of Wuhan City,in order to provide guidance significance to oral health work of childcare institutions.Methods According to nursery's rank,9 nurseries were chosen randomly in all of nurseries in Hongshan District,and 2 474 children aged 3 to 7 were investigated to know their oral health situation.Results The ratio of preschoolers' decayed tooth was going up with age and had a certain relationship with nursery's rank.This ratio in demonstration and A level's kindergartens were lower than that in B level and no-rank's kindergartens(P 0.012 5).The ratio of ankyloglossia and anti-jaw were compared among all level kindergartens,besides the ratio of anti-jaw in demonstration kindergarten was higher than no-rank kindergarten(P 0.012 5),other indicators had no significant differences among different level kindergartens(P 0.012 5).Conclusion In the aspect of children's oral health care work in Hongshan District,management and propaganda should be strengthened,care physicians and parents should direct to know the importance of chil dren's oral diseases,and cooperate actively with treatment,in order to reduce the ratio of children's oral diseases effectively,ensure the children's physical and mental health,develop the children's health work in Hongshan District.
The Yellow River: The Problem of Water in Modern China

David Pietz has provided the China field with a masterful longue duree examination of the Chinese state's efforts to manage the Yellow River and maintain ecological and social stability on the dens...
Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is safe and feasible in the early postoperative period after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Background Surgeons may be reluctant to perform upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopy in the early post-operative period due to concern for anastomotic disruption. The aim of this study was to determine the safety and feasibility of early (≤ 30 days) post-operative UGI endoscopy after roux-en-y gastric bypass (RYGB). Methods A retrospective data analysis of a prospectively maintained database was completed between May 2002 and March 2015 for patients that had undergone UGI endoscopy within 30 days of their RYGB. Data analysis included baseline patient demographics, Charlson Comorbidity Index, perioperative parameters, indications for endoscopy; indications for any further endoscopic evaluation, interventions performed, and post-endoscopy complications. Results 190 patients underwent early postoperative UGI endoscopy after RYGB during the study period. Nineteen patients (10 %) had undergone revisional surgeries. The median duration to postoperative endoscopy was 22 days [IQR 16–26]. The most common indications included dysphagia (n = 74, 39%), abdominal pain (n = 53, 28%), nausea (n = 55, 29%), and vomiting (n = 47, 25%). Therapeutic interventions were performed in 79 patients (42%). These included balloon dilation (n = 66, 84%), feeding tube placement (n = 7, 9%), evacuation of clot (n = 2, 3%), epinephrine injection (n = 2, 3%) and coagulation of bleeding (n = 1, 1%). There were no post-UGI endoscopy anastomotic disruptions or leaks. Conclusion Endoscopy is helpful for the diagnosis and management of complications after RYGB. Despite the perceived risks, our study demonstrated no complications for both diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy when performed in the early postoperative period.
Rate-Distortion Optimized Vector Spiht Forwavelet Image Coding

In this paper, a novel image coding scheme using rate-distortion optimized vector quantization of wavelet coefficients is presented. A vector set partitioning algorithm is used to locate significant wavelet vectors which are classified into a number of classes based on their energies, thus reducing the complexity of the vector quantization. The set partitioning bits are reused to indicate the vector classification indices to save the bits for coding of the classification overhead. A set of codebooks with different sizes is designed for each class of vectors, and a Lagrangian optimization algorithm is employed to select an optimal codebook for each vector. The proposed coding scheme is capable of trading off between the number of bits used to code each vector and the corresponding distortion. Experimental results show that our proposed method outperforms other zerotree-structured embedded wavelet coding schemes such as SPIHT and SFQ, and is competitive with JPEG2000.
Incidence, Treatment Intensity, and Incremental Annual Expenditures for Patients Experiencing a Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Infection: Evidence From a Large US Payer Database 1-Year Post Implantation.

Background— Because of the increasing use of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), it is important to estimate the incidence and annual healthcare expenditures associated with CIED infections. Methods and Results— Patients with a record of an initial or replacement (full implant or generator only) CIED implant during the calendar years 2009 to 2012 in MarketScan Commercial Claims and Medicare Supplemental database were identified. CIED infections were classified into 4 categories: (1) infection not managed by inpatient admission nor implant removal, (2) infection managed by inpatient admission but no implant removal, (3) infection managed by an implant removal either in an inpatient or in an outpatient setting, and (4) infection with severe sepsis and managed in an inpatient setting with implant removal. Using separate models for initial and replacement cohorts, annualized incidence of infection and incremental annual expenditures by treatment intensity were estimated. Cumulative incidence of infection at 1 year post implant was 1.18% for initial CIED implants and 2.37% for replacement. Median time to infection was 35 days for initial and 23 days for replacement. Incremental healthcare expenditures by treatment intensity categories for initial implant patients at 1 year were $16 651, $104 077, $45 291, and $279 744. For replacement patients, incremental expenditures at 1 year by treatment intensity categories were $26 857, $43 541, $48 759, and $362 606. Conclusions— The management of CIED infections results in a substantial healthcare burden with a significant increase in annual expenditures the year after implant when device infection occurs.
Application of big data analytics for automated estimation of CT image quality

With the increasing applications of Big Data analytics in medical image processing systems, there has been a growing need for quantitative medical image quality assessment techniques. Specifically for computed tomography (CT) images, quantitative image assessment can allow for benchmarking image processing methods and optimization of image acquisition parameters. In this work, large volumes of CT images from phantoms and patients are analyzed using 3 data models that vary in their implementation time complexities. The goal here is to identify the optimal method that scales across data set variabilities for predictive modeling of CT image quality (CTIQ). The first two models rely on spatial segmentation of regions-of-interest (ROIs) and estimate CTIQs in terms of segmented pixel variabilities. The third, convolutional neural network (CNN) model relies on error back-propagation from the training set of images to learn the regions indicative of CTIQ. We observe that for 70/30 data split, the average multi-class classification accuracies for CTIQ prediction using the 3 data models range from 73.6–100% and 50–100% for the phantom and patient CT images, respectively. Using variance of pixels within the segmented ROIs as a CTIQ classification parameter, the spatial segmentation data models are found to be more generalizable that the CNN model. However, the CNN model is found to be more suitable for CT image texture classification in the absence of structural variabilities. Our analysis demonstrates that spatial ROI segmentation data models are consistent CTIQ estimators while the CNN models are consistent identifiers of structural similarities for CT image data sets.
Effects of Midlevel Dry Air on Development of the Axisymmetric Tropical Cyclone Secondary Circulation

AbstractIdealized experiments conducted with an axisymmetric tropical cyclone (TC) model are used to assess the effects of midlevel dry air on the axisymmetric TC secondary circulation. Moist entropy diagnostics of convective parcels are used to determine how midlevel dry air affects the distribution and strength of convection. Analyzing upward and downward motions in the Eulerian radius–height coordinate system shows that the moistest simulation has stronger vertical motions and a wider overturning circulation compared to drier simulations. A Lagrangian entropy framework further analyzes convective motions by separating upward higher-entropy streams from downward lower-entropy streams. Results show that the driest simulation has a weaker mean overturning circulation with updrafts characterized by lower mean entropy compared to moister simulations. Turbulent entrainment of dry air into deep convection at midlevels is small, suggesting that the influence of midlevel dry air on convective strength and the s...
Photoacoustic imaging of voltage responses beyond the optical diffusion limit

Non-invasive optical imaging of neuronal voltage response signals in live brains is constrained in depth by the optical diffusion limit, which is due primarily to optical scattering by brain tissues. Although photoacoustic tomography breaks this limit by exciting the targets with diffused photons and detecting the resulting acoustic responses, it has not been demonstrated as a modality for imaging voltage responses. In this communication, we report the first demonstration of photoacoustic voltage response imaging in both in vitro HEK-293 cell cultures and in vivo mouse brain surfaces. Using spectroscopic photoacoustic tomography at isosbestic wavelengths, we can separate voltage response signals and hemodynamic signals on live brain surfaces. By imaging HEK-293 cell clusters through 4.5 mm thick ex vivo rat brain tissue, we demonstrate photoacoustic tomography of cell membrane voltage responses beyond the optical diffusion limit. Although the current voltage dye does not immediately allow in vivo deep brain voltage response imaging, we believe our method opens up a feasible technical path for deep brain studies in the future.
Monte Carlo calculation of large and small-angle electron scattering in air

Abstract A Monte Carlo method for angle scattering of electrons in air that accommodates the small-angle multiple scattering and larger-angle single scattering limits is introduced. The algorithm is designed for use in a particle-in-cell simulation of electron transport and electromagnetic wave effects in air. The method is illustrated in example calculations.
Culturing precision-cut human prostate slices as an in vitro model of prostate pathobiology.

Due to the complex morphology of the prostate, it was hypothesized that precision-cut tissue slices from human prostate would provide a unique in vitro model. Precision-cut slices were generated from zones of human prostate and their viability was assessed under conditions of different media for up to 120 h. Slices were also exposed to several concentrations of CdCl2, which was used as a model toxicant. Maintenance of both stromal and epithelial cells was noted; however, there was a gradual loss of luminal epithelial cells when the medium was not supplemented with dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Minimal leakage of lactate dehydrogenase occurred throughout the incubation. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was detected in the medium at all time points, although the rates of secretion fell over time. There was a loss of PSA-positive cells when the medium was not supplemented with DHT, consistent with a loss of luminal cells, whereas PSA-positive cells were maintained in the DHT-supplemented media. A proliferation of basal cells was observed in the presence of media containing 10% fetal bovine serum. Exposure of slices to CdCl2 demonstrated a dose-response effect ranging from proliferation to complete cellular necrosis. Given the retention of stromal-epithelial interactions and the use of acquired human tissue, prostate slices represent a unique in vitro model for investigating human prostate pathobiology.
Life-cycle cost analysis for wind power converters

The wind power converter alternative evaluation is a key aspect in decision making process in wind energy conversion system (WECS) planning and design. This work developed the life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA) model for wind power converter with a case study on a 2 MW system considering two semiconductor device alternatives: silicon (Si) devices and silicon carbide (SiC) devices. The developed LCCA model are applicable for decision making and cost-effectiveness evaluation of wind power converters as well as converter design optimization on components selection.
Registration of Five Upland Cotton Mutant Germplasm Lines with Superior Fiber Length, Strength, and Uniformity

Mutant germplasm lines MD 15-Mut 13 (Reg. No. GP-1025, PI 681706), MD 15-Mut 31 (Reg. No. GP-1026, PI 681707), MD 15-Mut 61 (Reg. No. GP-1027, PI 681708), MD 15-Mut 89 (Reg. No. GP-1028, PI 681709), and MD 15-Mut 138 (Reg. No. GP-1029, PI 681710) are unique genotypes of upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). These germplasm lines were developed by the USDA-ARS, Stoneville, MS, and released on 18 Apr. 2017. In 2008, about 5000 seeds of the germplasm line MD 15 were chemically mutagenized with 3.2% (v/v) of ethyl methane sulfonate. The treated seeds were hand planted in the field in 2008 to produce the M₀ generation. One boll was hand-picked from each of 2000 surviving plants, and this bulk was planted in 2009 to produce the M₁. In 2010, 2011, and 2012, the same procedure was followed to produce the M₂, M₃, and M₄ generations, respectively. Individual progeny rows of the best fiber quality mutants, along with the check genotypes, were tested in replicated trials at Stoneville during 2013 to 2016. These tests identified five mutants designated as MD 15-Mut 13, MD 15-Mut 31, MD 15-Mut 61, MD 15-Mut 89 and MD 15-Mut 138 with outstanding fiber length, strength, and uniformity. These mutants have long to extra-long, very strong, and highly uniform fibers.
Remote Sensing and GIS Applications for Precision Area-Wide Pest Management: Implications for Homeland Security

Area-wide pest management essentially represents coordinated adoption of integrated pest management to conduct preventive suppression of a pest species throughout its geographic distribution. Scientists and researchers in area-wide pest management programs have been developing, integrating, and evaluating multiple strategies and technologies into a systems approach for management of field and crop insect pests. Remote sensing, Global Positioning Systems, geographic information systems, and variable rate technology are additional tools that scientists can implement to help farmers maximize the economic and environmental benefits of area-wide pest management through precision agriculture.
Adhesions and Abortion

Asherman syndrome is characterized by intrauterine adhesions in association with symptoms such as infertility and menstrual irregularities. The commonest cause of Asherman syndrome is curettage of a pregnant or recently pregnant uterus. Abortions, especially unsafe abortions, constitute a major cause of Asherman syndrome. The risk of Asherman syndrome increases with the number of abortion procedures performed. While medical and surgical methods of termination of pregnancy exist, Asherman syndrome is unlikely with the medical methods and significantly reduced following a vacuum aspiration. The role of infection in causing Asherman syndrome is unclear but it is logical to believe that post-inflammatory processes could worsen a traumatic endometrial damage. Diagnostic hysteroscopy constitutes the gold standard in the diagnosis of Asherman syndrome, while therapeutic hysteroscopy constitutes the method of choice in the treatment. Female health education, liberalizing abortion laws, and training of health personnel might help in reducing abortion complications, including Asherman syndrome.
Correction to: On Harman’s theory of knowledge

In the original publication of the article, the corresponding author used pseudonym as ‘M. Lisagor’. The correct name is given in this correction.
Poweo: David and Goliath in the French Electricity Market

Charles Beigbeder, the president and founder of Poweo, an alternative electricity and gas operator in France, needs to decide on the company's strategy in light of electricity deregulation and the dominant position of lectricit de France (EDF) in the French market. Can Poweo successfully compete against EDF, with its giant installed nuclear base, and will competition bring benefits to French consumers?Learning Objective:To teach students about the peculiar economics and politics of electricity markets in general, and the difficulties of competing against entrenched incumbents in the electricity market in particular. More specifically, the case deals with the strategic options facing Poweo, the difficulties in introducing competition into electricity markets, the economics of electric power generation, and the politics of energy market reform inside the European Union.
Merging path planners and controllers through local context

This paper presents an implemented approach to robotic tasks involving intermittent contact and changing dynamics in uncertain environments. The approach is to use global planning to find paths in a tesselated representation of the environment, and a set of local controllers to take into account possibly time varying dynamics. The important difference from conventional path-planning in robotic tasks is how this approach uses local sensory information, and the important difference from reactive or behavior-based approaches is that the local controllers are learnt from simulation models or actual trials and are not programmed in a-priori.
The Mandate for Movement: Schools as Agents of Change

We present a compelling evolutionary and scientific rationale for why movement (physical activity) must be viewed as essential in promoting students’ physical and mental health, learning, and education. Because the human genome has encoded evolutionarily mandated cycling between periods of activity and rest, healthy gene expression and physiological function depend on regular movement. Yet our current culture, marked largely by sedentarism, has largely failed to heed the host of evidence that the mind and body require regular physical activity to function optimally. This disconcerting development has caused evolutionary cycles to stall, leading to metabolic derangement, epidemic chronic disease, and insidious patterns of mental disorders and addiction. Catalyzing change to combat this trend requires a global front in which every individual, community, and organization has a role. Schools, in particular, present a uniquely advantageous opportunity to acculturate future generations with the knowledge, skills, and behaviors needed for a lifetime of healthy activity.
Situated Motivation: How institutional logics shape individual behavior

Although research into institutional logics has produced a greater understanding of the macro-level outcomes of institutional processes, the details or specific mechanisms by which logics influence...
The corrosion of solid solution Mg-Sn binary alloys in NaCl solutions

Abstract The corrosion behavior of solid solution Mg-xSn (x = 1, 5, 10 wt%) alloys is explored as a function of Sn content in chloride-containing conditions. A suite of in situ electrochemical techniques and an in situ scanning vibrating electrode technique (SVET) is utilized to assess free corrosion rates and the extent of cathodic activation. The latest advances in improving the corrosion resistance of Mg alloys have demonstrated that micro-alloying with As or Ge can greatly lower corrosion rates compared to pure Mg and retard cathodic activation to a substantial degree. To broaden the options for suitable non-toxic alloying elements beyond Ge, the current article demonstrates a decreasing corrosion rate by 77%, 85% and 95% for Sn additions of 1%, 5% and 10% (wt%) respectively, when compared to HP Mg freely corroding in 0.6 M aqueous NaCl. A corrosion film formed on Mg-10Sn which displays superior barrier properties. Polarization resistance (Rp) values consistently one order of magnitude greater than that obtained on HP Mg, and the other Mg-Sn alloys, over a 24 h immersion period is demonstrated. Furthermore, the extent of cathodic activation for Mg-10Sn is shown to be reduced by 94% relative to HP Mg. The work presented herein provides advancements in the understanding of corrosion resistant Mg alloys and is pertinent to the potential use of Mg-Sn alloys in transport applications, battery electrode materials and as a candidate sacrificial anode for the cathodic protection of Mg alloy AZ31B-H24. Prospects for protection are discussed.