cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Walter Map's Sadius and Galo

WALTER MAP'S De societate Sadii et Galonis' is an outstanding example of the art of fiction in the late twelfth century; but despite its literary excellence, which has been recognized,2 and despite the fame of its author in the Middle Ages and his very considerable reputation in our own time, Sadius and Galo has been almost completely neglected by students of mediaeval romance. No monograph, article, or extensive note has ever been devoted to it. Yet it is the best romance, and the nearest approach to an Arthurian romance, which we have from the pen of a man who had in his own age a preeminent reputation as a storyteller, and who became so famous for his romantic tales that much Arthurian literature was falsely attributed to him. We need to know more about why Walter Map had this reputation; and an analysis of Sadius and Galo will reveal him as a far from mediocre maker of tales. It will also demonstrate that few as the extant products of Map's narrative genius are, he had an extraordinary command over the diverse materials of chivalric story. To explain the skilful construction of Sadius and Galo, and to show how varied the materials were which Map used, it is necessary to break it into parts, and to determine from what kind of material, that is, from what motifs, each part was made. In the following summary I indicate the parts: a frame-story (i and iii) with which the romance begins and ends, and which involves Galo's friend, Sadius, and the wicked queen; and a central narrative (ii) told by the hero in the first person at a banquet. The banquet, as we shall see later, is a part of the central narrative rather than of the frame.
Mastery Frequency, and Interaction of Managerial Behaviors Relative to Subunit Effectiveness

The relationships among mastery and frequency of managerial behaviors, and subunit effectiveness have frequently been confused. This study investigates both main and interactive effects. The results show that the interaction effect can often be the strongest effect and that increasing frequency without improving mastery can sometimes be detrimental. Furthermore, these results offer a possible explanation as to why research of managerial behavior has been so inconclusive. In addition, the results question popular advice given often to managers. Finally, some recommendations are made as to how management development could be made more effective based on the results of this study.
Preliminary comparisons of a unique freezing technology to traditional cryopreservation methodology of equine spermatozoa

With recent large-breed organization acceptance, the use of frozen semen is gaining more attention in the equine industry. However, cryopreserved stallion semen is commonly associated with poor quality and decreased pregnancy rates as compared with those produced during normal mating or with cooled semen techniques. Therefore our objective was to investigate a new unique freezing technique (UFT) with the intent of improving fertility outcomes. A series of experiments tested the UFT compared with traditional liquid nitrogen methodology in combination with influence of the extenders and stallions used. In Experiment 1, post-thaw motility results of UFT variations were compared with those from liquid nitrogen methods. The averaged post-thaw motility percentages of the 4 UFT treatments were similar when compared with the traditional liquid nitrogen control group (P = .845). In Experiment 2, 2 egg-yolk–based freezing extenders, Biladyl AB intended for bovine samples and Freezing Medium Test Yolk Buffer used for human samples, were compared. A significant difference in the average post-thaw motilities was found between Biladyl AB (17%) and Freezing Medium Test Yolk Buffer (25%) (P < .002). In the third experiment, we compared variability among stallions using the UFT with the intention of creating a more consistent outcome. Post-thaw motilities and percent of original motility returns among the 4 stallions were significantly different (P < .001). In a field trial using shipped semen from a regional stallion station, the UFT demonstrated very promising results. In conclusion, the UFT may potentially be used as an alterative freezing method to replace current liquid nitrogen methodology. However, further investigation is needed to refine techniques.
Trouble in Tucson: Using The Hunger Games to teach Freirean principles post HB 2281

This article explores the effects of Arizona’s HB 2281 and Tucson Unified School District’s purging of its Mexican American Studies program on the utilization of Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed in the public K-12 classroom. As the use of the text becomes more controversial, educators who wish to teach Freirean principles must choose between assigning the text to their students, at the risk of career ending consequences, or seeking out a substitute text that embodies Freire’s philosophies. It is suggested that a text popular within current youth culture be assigned in order to help students make personal connections with the content. The Hunger Games is presented as an appropriate alternative text due to having themes parallel to those presented in Freire’s text. The responsibility of teachers to help students integrate Freirean principles into their everyday lives is also discussed. Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
Optimization of nonlinear error for weighted essentially non-oscillatory methods in direct numerical simulations of compressible turbulence

Weighted essentially non-oscillatory (WENO) methods have been developed to simultaneously provide robust shock-capturing in compressible fluid flow and avoid excessive damping of fine-scale flow features such as turbulence. Under certain conditions in compressible turbulence, however, numerical dissipation remains unacceptably high even after optimization of the linear component that dominates in smooth regions. We therefore construct and evaluate WENO schemes that also reduce dissipation due to one source of nonlinear error: the smoothness measurement that governs the application of stencil adaptation away from the linear optimal stencil. Direct numerical simulations (DNS) include a one-dimensional Euler solution and three-dimensional compressible isotropic turbulence. We find that the smoothness measurement modifications that we call the ''relative smoothness limiter'' and the ''relative total variation limiter'' each significantly enhance thez grid-convergence properties of WENO schemes while generating, respectively, small and moderate additional computational expense. Moreover, we observe these techniques to be broadly effective regardless of flow configuration.
Idempotent algorithms for discrete-time stochastic control through distributed dynamic programming

Previously, idempotent methods have been found to be extremely fast for solution of dynamic programming equations associated with deterministic control problems. The original methods exploited the idempotent (e.g., max-plus) linearity of the associated semigroup operator. However, it is now seen that the curse-of-dimensionality-free idempotent methods do not require this linearity. Here, we see that idempotent methods may be used to solve some classes of stochastic control problems. The key is the use of the idempotent distributive property.We demonstrate this approach for a class of nonlinear, discrete-time stochastic control problems.
Survival for 20 years or longer after transmural acute myocardial infarction: Analysis of eight well-documented necropsy patients

Clinical and necropsy findings are described in eight patients who lived 20 to 31 years (mean 24 years) after healing of a transmural acute myocardial infarct. Two had left ventricular aneurysms and one had both right and left ventricular infarcts. Survival for 2 decades or more after healing of a transmural acute myocardial infarct has rarely been documented and descriptions of hearts at necropsy in patients with well-documented infarcts 20 years or more earlier are virtually nonexistent.
A Comparative Study of Child Welfare Adoptions with Other Types of Adopted Children and Birth Children.

ABSTRACT Through parent surveys, the level of adjustment in home, school, health, mental health, and community of children from three types of adoptive and from birth families was compared. The sample groups include: child welfare adoptions (1340), domestic infant adoptions (481), international adoptions (89), and birth families (175). On most measures, particularly in relation to school functioning, adopted children were rated by their parents as having more problems than children from birth families. Children adopted from the child welfare system had significantly higher rates of problems than other types of adopted children. Using the Behavior Problem Index (BPI) as a measure of behavior problems, child welfare adopted children were rated as having a mean of 11.9 problems as compared to 6.2 for birth children and 9.1 and 9.4 respectively for domestic infant and internationally adopted children. Logistic regression analysis demonstrates the odds ratio present for an elevated BPI score for children from ...
Approximating the Effective Protection Coefficient without Reference to Technological Data

When proposals for reform of tariff or subsidy policies are made, attempts to predict the effect on incentives are frequently hampered by the need for input-output technical data. This article develops and illustrates the use of a methodology for approximating effective protection coefficients (EPCs) when such data are unavailable or outdated. It derives the equations which approximate the EPC from statistical analysis of a cross section of existing EPC studies for four agricultural commodities : corn, cotton, rice, and wheat. Informational requirements for computing approximations include the nominal protection coefficients on output and tradable inputs and readily available macroeconomic data. These approximation equations perform well in an out-of-sample test.
On the convexity of probabilistically constrained linear programs

The focal point of this paper is the so-called Probabilistically Constrained Linear Program (PCLP), also known as Chance Constrained Linear Program. We prove that PCLP is a convex program when the uncertain parameters are uniformly distributed over a convex symmetric set Q. By symmetric we mean that if q/spl isin/Q then -q/spl isin/Q. Furthermore, we provide a deterministic equivalent of the PCLP which, in some cases, leads to an implementation that does not require the use of stochastic programming; only commonly available optimization tools are required. Finally, the concept of Probabilistically Robust Linear Program (PRLP) is introduced. The PRLP is a generalization of the PCLP for the case when the distribution of the uncertain coefficients is not known. The only assumption is that their distribution belongs to a known class /spl Fscr/. Since the true distribution of the uncertain parameters is not available, in the PRLP it is required that the probability of satisfaction of the constraints is greater than a given risk level /spl epsi/ for all possible distributions f/spl isin//spl Fscr/. It is proven that the PRLP is also a convex program for the class /spl Fscr/.
Sex-dependent effects of gonadal steroids and cortisol on cardiac contractility in rainbow trout

The purpose of this study was to determine whether steroid hormones modulate cardiac function in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum). We assessed the effects of exogenously administered steroids on isolated ventricle strips and report that physiological concentrations of androgens, 17beta-estradiol and cortisol rapidly (<10 min) enhance inotropism (30-40%) in a sex-specific manner. These effects were specific to the hormones studied, absent if animals were anesthetized chemically and dependent upon steroid concentration and contraction frequency. Based on the use of specific steroid receptor antagonists and key enzyme inhibitors, it appears that testosterone, 11-ketotestosterone and cortisol each act through specific intracellular receptors in males and that the positive inotropism requires the synthesis of polyamines and nitric oxide. Cortisol and 17beta-estradiol, but not androgens, had similar effects in females and also involved similar signaling pathways. Androgen and cortisol effects were additive in males but cortisol and 17beta-estradiol were not additive in females, suggesting sex differences in the pathways through which these hormones stimulate inotropism. In summary, gonadal steroids and cortisol promote ventricular contractility in a sex-dependent manner through mechanisms that appear multifaceted. Ultimately, steroid-mediated improvements in cardiac performance might involve non-genomic pathways and be physiologically important during migration, spawning or stressful periods.
Transforming growth factor beta1 inhibits Fas ligand expression and subsequent activation-induced cell death in T cells via downregulation of c-Myc.

Activation-induced cell death (AICD) is a process that regulates the size and the duration of the primary immune T cell response. In this report, we investigated the mechanisms involved in the regulation of AICD by transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1). We found that TGF-β1 decreased apoptosis of human T cells or T cell hybridomas after activation by anti-CD3. This decrease was associated with inhibition of Fas (Apo-1/CD95) ligand (FasL) expression, whereas Fas signaling was not affected by TGF-β1. In parallel, TGF-β1 inhibited c-Myc expression in T cell hybridomas, and ectopic expression of a chimeric molecule composed of c-Myc and the steroid binding domain of the estrogen receptor (Myc-ER) blocked both the inhibition of FasL and the decrease of AICD induced by TGF-β1, providing that 4-hydroxytamoxifen was present. These results identify one mechanism by which TGF-β1 blocks AICD to allow the clonal expansion of effector T cells and the generation of memory T cells during immune responses.
Is the simultaneous verbal protocol a viable method for studying managerial problem solving and decision making

The article assesses the impact of the simultaneous verbal protocol on problem solving and decision making performance for a complex managerial task. The author believes there has been an increasin...
The Mathworks Distributed and Parallel Computing Tools for Signal Processing Applications

As requirements for technical computing applications become more complex, engineers and scientists must solve problems of increasing computational intensity that frequently outstrip the capability of their own computers. Some are distributed applications (also called coarse-grained or embarrassingly parallel applications), where the same algorithm is independently executed over and over on different input parameters. Others consist of parallel (or fine-grained) applications, which contain interdependent tasks that exchange data during the execution of the application. This article introduces the distributed and parallel computing capabilities in The MathWorks distributed computing tools and provides examples of how these capabilities are applied to signal processing applications.
Reevaluation of the evolutionary events within recA/RAD51 phylogeny

Background: The recA/RAD51 gene family encodes a diverse set of recombinase proteins that affect homologous recombination, DNA-repair, and genome stability. The recA gene family is expressed across all three domains of life - Eubacteria, Archaea, and Eukaryotes - and even in some viruses. To date, efforts to resolve the deep evolutionary origins of this ancient protein family have been hindered by the high sequence divergence between paralogous groups (i.e. ~30% average pairwise identity). Results: Through large taxon sampling and the use of a phylogenetic algorithm designed for inferring evolutionary events in highly divergent paralogs, we obtained a robust, parsimonious and more refined phylogenetic history of the recA/RAD51 superfamily. Conclusions: In summary, our model for the evolution of recA/RAD51 family provides a better understanding of the ancient origin of recA proteins and the multiple events that lead to the diversification of recA homologs in eukaryotes, including the discovery of additional RAD51 sub-families.
Slip velocity over a perforated or patchy surface

Shear flow over a solid surface containing perforations or patches of zero shear stress is discussed with a view to evaluating the slip velocity. In both cases, the functional dependence of the slip velocity on the solid fraction of the surface strongly depends on the surface geometry, and a universal law cannot be established. Numerical results for flow over a plate with circular or square perforations or patches of zero shear stress, and flow over a plate consisting of separated square or circular tiles corroborate the assertion.
4-Hydroxy-PCB106 acts as a direct thyroid hormone receptor agonist in rat GH3 cells.

Abstract Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) may interfere with thyroid hormone (TH) action by interacting directly with the TH receptor (TR). We found that the hydroxylated PCB metabolite, 4-OH-CB106, bound to the human TRβ1 and significantly elevated endogenous growth hormone (GH) expression in GH3 cells in a manner similar to that of T3 itself. This effect was also observed using a consensus TH response element (TRE) in a luciferase expression system, and was blocked by a single base-pair substitution in this TRE. In addition, we found that 4-OH-CB106 did not alter the ability of TRβ1 to physically interact with the TRE in the GH promoter, or with SRC1 or NCoR. These effects were directly parallel to effects of T3, indicating that 4-OH-CB106 exerts a direct agonistic effect on the TRβ1.
THE 'EGASP' METHOD FOR TRAVELING SALESMAN-LIKE RESOURCE ALLOCATION PROBLEMS

In resource allocation problems, it is possible to define the local efficiency of a small change, namely the ratio of change in value to marginal cost. This efficiency can be used to "guide" the exploration of an otherwise stochastic method like simulated annealing. An algorithm embodying this idea, termed EGASP (Efficiency-Guided Addition, Subtraction, and Permutation) is described for problems akin to the traveling salesman problem. I. Introduction We discuss in this paper a method for approximately solving a class of resource allocation problems that are loosely based on the traveling salesman problem. The method and its variants are named "EGASP, an acronym for "EfficiencyGuided Addition, Subtraction, and Permutation". The EGASP method is stochastic, and it is somewhat related to the method of simulated annealing',213. More precisely, EGASP can be thought of as a sub-strategy for choosing random moves within the context of the simulated annealing method.
Adaptive Quantization and Distributed Estimation for Bandwidth-Constraint Sensor Networks

In this paper, the problem of distributed parameter estimation in a wireless sensor network is considered, where due to bandwidth constraint, each sensor node sends only one bit of information per sample to a fusion center. We propose a new distributed adaptive quantization scheme by which each individual sensor node dynamically adjusts the threshold of its quantizer based on earlier transmissions from other sensor nodes. The maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) and the Cramer-Rao bound (CRB) associated with our distributed adaptive quantization scheme are derived. Numerical results depicting the performance and advantages of our approach over a fixed quantization scheme are presented.
A statistical study of magnetic dipolarization for sawtooth events and isolated substorms at geosynchronous orbit with GOES data

Abstract. We investigate whether the dipolarization process during sawtooth events is global or not through an examination of the local time distribution of the magnetic tilt angle (i.e. the angle between the B vector and the equatorial plane in dipole VDH coordinates) at geostationary orbit. From the statistical analysis of 207 individual teeth and 212 isolated substorms, we find that individual teeth follow a dipolarization pattern similar to that observed for isolated substorms. The dipolarization for individual teeth initiates in the sector between 22:00 magnetic local time (MLT) and 00:00 MLT. Then the dipolarization expands both eastward and westward. However, relative to isolated substorms, we find that the nightside magnetosphere is much more stretched prior to the onset, and the change of the tilt angle during the dipolarization process is much larger during individual teeth. The magnetic dipolarization is seen over a wider local time sector during individual teeth than during isolated substorms. However, the magnetic dipolarization is rarely observed near local noon during individual teeth. This suggests that the magnetic dipolarization process during individual teeth is still confined primarily to the nightside.
Strengths-building Public Policy for Children of Divorce

Instead of focusing on the problems associated with divorce, this chapter delineates a strengths, based model of the relations among divorce policies, mediating factors,and children's outcomes. Little research has linked specific divorce policies to child well being following divorce. Based on an extensive review of the literature, several factors such as children's positive coping skills, low parental conflict, high warmth and consistency of the parents, and the quality of the contact with the noncustodial parent appear to mediate the effects of divorce. The chapter illustrates that policies that are designed to influence these mediators to maximize strengths and minimize risks will lead to the most positive child outcomes and concludes with a public health model for integrating research and policy.
Development, CAPTA Part C Referral and Services Among Young Children in the U.S. Child Welfare System Implications for Latino Children

Amendments made to the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act in 2003 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act in 2004 opened the door to a promising partnership between child welfare services and early intervention (EI) agencies by requiring a referral to EI services for all children under age 3 involved in a substantiated case of child abuse, neglect, or illegal drug exposure. However, little research has been conducted to assess the implications of these policies. Using data drawn from a nationally representative study conducted in 2008-2009, we observed less than a fifth of all children in substantiated cases to receive a referral to developmental services (18.2%) approximately 5 years after the passage of the amendments. Of children in contact with the U.S. child welfare system, Hispanic children of immigrants demonstrated the greatest developmental need yet were among the least likely to receive EI services by the end of the study period. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
RAGE-Dependent Signaling in Peripheral Neurons and Macrophages Regulates Peripheral Nerve Repair (IN1-2.004)

Objective: Tested RAGE signalling contributed to axonal regeneration. Background RAGE was expressed in axons and in infiltrating mononuclear phagocytes upon injury, pharmacological blockade of RAGE impaired peripheral nerve regeneration in mice subjected to sciatic nerve crush. Design/Methods: Transgenic mice expressing signaling deficient cytosolic domain deleted RAGE (dominant negative DN RAGE), in macrophage (MSR-A promoter) and peripheral neurons (thy-1 promoter) were generated. Single MSR-A DN RAGE or thy-1 DN RAGE and double transgenic mice (MSR-A/thy-1 DN RAGE) were subjected to sciatic nerve crush. Functional, nerve conduction, morphological study were performed on day 21 after crush to compare difference groups. One way ANOVA, student t test were used. Results: On day 21, double Tg mice displayed significantly reduced motor and sensory nerve conduction velocity compared with single MSR-A, single thy-1 mice or littermates, motor NCV (m/sec): 1.93 ± 0.37, 6.67 ± 0.95, 7.7 ± 0.55 and 12.63 ± 1.81, respectively (resp.), (p Conclusions: Integration of RAGE-dependent signalling in macrophages and neurons is critical in the regeneration program. Supported by: NIH. Disclosure: Dr. Rong has nothing to disclose. Dr. yan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hays has nothing to disclose. Dr. Gooch has received personal compensation for activities with NeuralStem and Neuroregeneration. Dr. Gooch has received research support from Baxter Pharmaceuticals. Dr. Schmidt has nothing to disclose.
Our evolving understanding of late kidney allograft failure.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Dramatic improvement in short-term results after kidney transplantation has fostered a change in focus for clinical research: further improvement in patient outcomes requires better understanding of late allograft failure. RECENT FINDINGS As recently as a decade ago, with clinicians and investigators besot by the mistaken assumption that 'rejection' was under control, most late allograft failure was attributed to calcineurin inhibitor nephrotoxicity. Application of newer laboratory-based techniques (C4d staining, solid-phase antibody assays, and molecular profiling) has resulted in a major shift in understanding late graft failure. New data from both clinic and laboratory indicate immunologic injury, perhaps potentiated by drug minimization, as the predominant cause of late allograft failure. SUMMARY This review traces our evolving understanding of the problem and what looks to be a paradigm change that offers new promise of effective intervention to improve long-term outcomes.
A Formalization of Minimalist Syntax

The goal of this paper is to give a precise, formal account of certain fundamental notions in minimalist syntax. Particular attention is given to the comparison of token-based (multidominance) and chain-based perspectives on Merge. After considering a version of Transfer that violates the No-Tampering Condition (NTC), we sketch an alternative, NTC-compliant version.
Advancing Precision Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging for Lymphoma

PET with fluorodeoxyglucose F 18 (18F FDG-PET) is a meaningful biomarker for the detection, targeted biopsy, and treatment of lymphoma. This article reviews the evolution of 18F FDG-PET as a putative biomarker for lymphoma and addresses the current capabilities, challenges, and opportunities to enable precision medicine practices for lymphoma. Precision nuclear medicine is driven by new imaging technologies and methodologies to more accurately detect malignant disease. Although quantitative assessment of response is limited, such technologies will enable a more precise metabolic mapping with much higher definition image detail and thus may make it a robust and valid quantitative response assessment methodology.
Design of Multi-Carrier Modulation for Doubly Selective Channels Based on a Complexity-Constrained Achievable Rate Metric

Multi-carrier modulation (MCM) is widely studied as a communication technique for time- and frequency selective (hence, doubly selective) channels. MCM schemes are usually designed either to reduce decoding complexity, to exploit diversity gains, or to enhance spectral efficiency. However, no known scheme accounts for all three concerns. In this paper, we propose a design metric based on complexity-constrained achievable rate that accounts for all three of these concerns. We then use this metric to characterize a trade-off between achievable rate and implementation complexity, assuming frequency-domain processing at the receiver. Finally, we use this metric to compare several MCM schemes under the same level of receiver complexity.
Review of stress in marine mammals

There has been a growing concern over the last few decades about theeffects of environmental stress, including anthropogenic impacts, onmarine mammals. This paper provides an overview of the wide range ofanthropogenic stressors that marine mammals may encounter and the levelof understanding on their potential effects. Sources of stress andphysiological responses of the animals are explored. Many of the lifehistory traits of marine mammals (i.e., long-life spans, late maturity,relatively low reproductive potential, and feeding high in the foodchain), make them susceptible to various anthropogenic stressors. Sincemarine mammals are exposed to a diverse array of multiple stressors,this paper focuses on three case studies (acute and chronic effects fromoil spills; chronic effects from environmental contaminants, andfishery-induced stress) to emphasize potential relevant hazards and toprovide a perspective on the use of marine mammals in assessingecosystem health. Additional research to enhance our understanding ofstress on marine mammals and to provide the science needed to guidemanagement decisions is recommended.
Phosphinophosphonates and Their Tris-pivaloyloxymethyl Prodrugs Reveal a Negatively Cooperative Butyrophilin Activation Mechanism.

Butyrophilin 3A1 (BTN3A1) binds small phosphorus-containing molecules, which initiates transmembrane signaling and activates butyrophilin-responsive cells. We synthesized several phosphinophosphonates and their corresponding tris-pivaloyloxymethyl (tris-POM) prodrugs and examined their effects on BTN3A1. An analog of (E)-4-hydroxy-3-methyl-but-2-enyl diphosphate (HMBPP) bound to BTN3A1 with intermediate affinity, which was enthalpy-driven. Docking studies revealed binding to the basic surface pocket and interactions between the allylic hydroxyl group and the BTN3A1 backbone. The phosphinophosphonate stimulated proliferation of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells with moderate activity (EC50 = 26 μM). Cellular potency was enhanced >600-fold in the tris-POM prodrug (EC50 = 0.041 μM). The novel prodrug also induced T cell mediated leukemia cell lysis. Analysis of dose–response data reveals HMBPP-induced Hill coefficients of 0.69 for target cell lysis and 0.68 in interferon secretion. Together, tris-POM prodrugs enhance the cellu...
Prioritizing research topics: a comparison of crowdsourcing and patient registry

A cornerstone of patient-centered outcome research is direct patient involvement throughout the research process. Identifying and prioritizing research topics is a critical but often overlooked point for involvement, as it guides what research questions are asked. We assess the feasibility of involving individuals with low back pain in identifying and prioritizing research topics using two approaches: an existing patient registry and an online crowdsourcing platform. We compare and contrast the diversity of participants recruited, their responses, and resources involved. Eligible participants completed a survey ranking their five highest priority topics from an existing list and supplying additional topics not previously identified. We analyzed their responses using descriptive statistics and content analysis. The patient registry yielded older (mean age 72.4), mostly White (70%), and well-educated (95% high school diploma or higher) participants; crowdsourcing yielded younger (mean age 36.6 years), mostly White (82%), and well-educated (98% high school diploma or higher) participants. The two approaches resulted in similar research priorities by frequency. Both provided open-ended responses that were useful, in that they illuminate additional and nuanced research topics. Overall, both approaches suggest a preference towards topics related to diagnosis and treatment over other topics. Using a patient registry and crowdsourcing are both feasible recruitment approaches for engagement. Researchers should consider their approach, community, and resources when choosing their recruitment approach, as each approach has its own strengths and weaknesses. These approaches are likely most appropriate to supplement or to complement in-person and ongoing engagement strategies.
Renal Oxalate Excretion in Calcium Urolithiasis

AbstractUrinary oxalate was determined in an ambulatory setting in 107 patients with an increased intestinal calcium absorption rate in whom stones formed, 34 patients with normal calcium absorption in whom stones formed and 34 control subjects without stones. Urinary oxalate excretion was not significantly different when the diet was changed from a random to a calcium-restricted diet. Moreover, urinary oxalate was not higher during summer months when intestinal calcium absorption may have been stimulated. Diet history disclosed that many patients with an increased calcium absorption rate had been on a moderate oxalate-restricted diet, often as part of a calcium-restricted regimen for the control of hypercalciuria. The results indicate that renal oxalate excretion in an ambulatory setting is not critically dependent on the state of calcium absorption and intake, and that the imposition of a low calcium dietary regimen in patients with an increased calcium absorption and in whom stones form does not necess...
SDN based in-band adaptive coding by distributed pseudonoise preamble detection in optical networks

In this paper, the challenges and problems for the in-band and off-band adaptive coding will be studied. To provide the agile and fast in-band adaptive coding, the information of the channel is inserted as the preamble into the each frame. Pseudorandom noise is utilized as the preamble and it is distributed and updated by the SDN controller to the transmitters and the receivers. Deploying the parallel preamble mapping distributed by the SDN controller is not only for the channel synchronization and the clock recovery but also for serving the in-band adaptive coding. The proposed scheme for the cross-layer design of the centralized SDN controller for the adaptive coding system is demonstrated and discussed. The proposed adaptive coding system is implemented and tested in the 100Gbps DP-QPSK fiber-optics transmission system. The performances of the system with different codes and adaptive scheme in the system are examined and plotted. Also, the time-domain analysis for the LDPCs changing is performed to demonstrate its operational features based on the different channel conditions signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). By deploying the pseudonoise preamble detection, the system enables the rapidly in-band adaptive coding service with low overhead and short guard time. The cross-layer SDN controlling scheme, for updating the mapping between preamble and codes, provides the agile and robust service in the fiber-optics network.
FOAD: Fast Optimization-based Autonomous Driving Motion Planner

Motion planning is one of the core modules for autonomous driving. Among the current motion planning techniques, optimization-based methods have unique advantages since they allow planning in continuous space and they can evaluate multiple objectives (such as hard constraints) in one formulation. However, it is hard to implement optimization-based methods in real-time in complicated environments due to 1) high computational complexity as the optimization problems are usually non-convex; and 2) difficulty to guarantee closed-loop performance because the low level trajectory tracking controller cannot perform perfect tracking. To solve the first challenge, convex feasible set algorithm (CFS) has been proposed for real time non-convex optimization. To solve the second challenge, a fast optimization-based autonomous driving motion planner (FOAD) is proposed in this paper which implements a soft constrained convex feasible set algorithm (SCCFS) as an enhanced version of CFS. The concept of closed-loop smoothness is defined and analyzed in this paper. Simulations and real vehicle experiments verify the efficiency and capability of the planner.
Student-directed interactive animation for learning cytochrome P450-mediated drug metabolism.

Abstract Introduction In this study, we introduced a student self-directed interactive animation tool created to enhance student understanding of cytochrome P450 (CYP450) mediated drug metabolism. Methods The online learning tool was constructed in HTML5 computer code. It was implemented over four years in a second year pharmacy degree course where CYP450 metabolism was taught. Assessment was by comparing test scores of students using the learning tool with a previous class that did not and through survey data from the student users. Results Use of the Cyber-CYP learning tool enhanced test performance on CYP450 metabolism-related questions in all years tested. Survey responses indicated that the learning tool was easy to use and facilitated student learning of CYP450-mediated drug metabolism. Conclusions This study has shown that complex and dynamic processes, such as CYP450 metabolism, can be more effectively communicated using student-centered, self-paced and interactive animations.
OPTIMIZING OTC MEDICATION USE: PACKAGING, HUMAN FACTORS, PHARMACY REDESIGN

Older adults are at high risk of significant harm associated with over-the-counter (OTC) medication use. Of the estimated 2.2 million older adults who are at risk of a major adverse drug event, more than 50% of these interactions involve an OTC medication. Given the complexity and limited understanding of how older adults select and use OTC medications, different approaches are necessary to support safe OTC medication selection and use. This symposium will provide an overview of research conducted to improve OTC medication use for older adults from the perspective of three disciplines: Packaging, human factors engineering, and pharmacy. The first presentation will share results of projects that focus on the impact of OTC product labeling and packaging on older adult information processing in order to help them make safe OTC medication choices. Results of this work can inform the development of OTC medication labeling that draws attention to critical safety information. The second presentation builds on the first presentation by discussing how all older adults do not make OTC medication decisions the same way. A mobile application tool that accommodates for different decision making processes will be introduced. The third presentation will introduce an intervention that targets systems barriers in retail community pharmacies, where older adults often purchase OTC medications. Finally, the findings will be summarized by the discussant, who will discuss the presented findings in terms of patient safety implications and impact.
Prevention of Proximal Junctional Kyphosis & Failure Using Sublaminar Bands in a Hybrid Construct in Pediatric Kyphosis Deformity.

ABSTRACT Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate short term proximal junctional kyphosis and failure (PJK/PJF) rates and clinical outcomes in patients who underwent posterior spinal fusion (PSF) and deformity correction using sublaminar bands in a hybrid construct. Methods: This is a retrospective review of pediatric spinal deformity cases performed by a single surgeon from January 2008 to December 2012. One hundred thirty-six pediatric deformity patient charts were reviewed for inclusion into the study. All 136 patients reviewed had been operatively managed for a spinal deformity and were younger than 18 years of age. Our study9s inclusion criteria comprised patients with a kyphosis greater than 60°, the use of sublaminar polyester bands in a hybrid surgical construct, and a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. Of the 136 spinal deformity cases reviewed, 17 cases met our inclusion criteria. No cases were excluded because of technical difficulty of band placement or for not using a hybrid construct with sublaminar bands (as it was the primary surgeon9s principal construct of choice). PJK was defined as proximal junction sagittal Cobb angle (PJA) of at least 10° greater than the preoperative measurement. This was assessed by comparison of preoperative and postoperative radiographs. Our hypothesis was that PSF performed with our technique would have a lower rate of PJK than previously reported with other methods of fixation. Results: The range of the preoperative kyphosis was 62°–111°, and postoperative kyphosis was 12°–55°. There was one case of PJK (5.8%) and no cases of PJF. Conclusion: This study on short term outcomes of PSF using sublaminar bands in a hybrid technique for treatment of kyphosis demonstrated a lower rate of PJK than has been reported in prior studies. This technique protects the fixation within the upper instrumented vertebrae of long segment PSFs.
Non-covalent complexes of the peptide fragment Gly-Asn-Asn-Gln-Gln-Asn-Tyr in the gas-phase. Photodissociative cross-linking, Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics, and ab initio computational binding study.

Non-covalent complexes of the short amyloid peptide motif Gly-Asn-Asn-Gln-Gln-Asn-Tyr (GNNQQNY) with peptide counterparts that were tagged with a diazirine ring at the N-termini (*GNNQQNY) were generated as singly charged ions in the gas phase. Specific laser photodissociation (UVPD) of the diazirine tag in the gas-phase complexes at 355 nm generated transient carbene intermediates that underwent covalent cross-linking with the target GNNQQNY peptide. The crosslinking yields ranged between 0.8 and 4.5%, depending on the combinations of peptide C-terminal amides and carboxylates. The covalent complexes were analyzed by collision-induced dissociation tandem mass spectrometry (CID-MS3), providing distributions of cross-links at the target peptide amino acid residues. A general preference for cross-linking at the target peptide Gln-4-Gln-5-Asn-6-Tyr-7 segment was observed. Born–Oppenheimer molecular dynamics calculations were used to obtain 100 ps trajectories for nine lowest free-energy conformers identified by ωB97X-D/6-31+G(d,p) gradient geometry optimizations. The trajectories were analyzed for close contacts between the incipient carbene atom and the X–H bonds in the target peptide. The close-contact analysis pointed to the Gln-5 and Tyr-7 residues as the most likely sites of cross-linking, consistent with the experimental CID-MS3 results. Non-covalent binding in the amide complexes was evaluated by DFT calculations of structures and energies. Although antiparallel arrangements of the GNNQQNY and *GNNQQNY peptides were favored in low-energy gas-phase and solvated complexes, the conformations and peptide–peptide interface surfaces were found to differ from the secondary structure of the dry interface in GNNQQNY motifs of amyloid aggregates.
Preliminary Fluid Dynamic Studies of Accelerated Wear Testing on Bioprosthetic Heart Valves

Objective: For testing the fatigue of bioprosthetic heart valves (BHVs) in a timely manner, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration mandates that BHVs be tested with an accelerated wear tester (AWT),...
The Mystery of Edwin Drood: a case study in creativity theories / El Misterio de Edwin Drood: estudio de un caso en las teorías de la creatividad

This article analyses the Broadway musical The Mystery of Edwin Drood, by Rupert Holmes, as a case study through which to discuss and highlight modern creativity theories. The musical is viewed thr...
The Demystification of Secondary Hypertension: Diagnostic Strategies and Treatment Algorithms.

Hypertension is one of the most common conditions encountered in the primary care setting, affecting 32–46% of people. While essential or primary hypertension is the most common form of the disease, secondary hypertension is quite prevalent, occurring in 10–20% of patients with hypertension. Accurately diagnosing secondary hypertension is a challenging and often time-consuming process that requires considerable expertise and effort. However, once the secondary etiology is identified, the patient benefits profoundly from a potentially curative treatment that may lead to significant improvements in quality of life, morbidity, and mortality. Common causes of secondary hypertension include medication-induced hypertension, renal parenchymal disease, renovascular hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, and primary aldosteronism. Other rarer forms include mineralocorticoid-driven hypertension or its mimics, as well as hypercortisolism and pheochromocytoma. Although complex, standard protocols have emerged for investigation, diagnosis, and treatment of these conditions. The current review aims to elucidate the many causes of secondary hypertension and describe their respective prevalence, clinical presentation, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. By demystifying secondary hypertension, it is hoped that this disease will be more easily identified and treated so that the associated cardiovascular morbidity and end-organ damage may be mitigated.
Predictive validation and forecasts of short-term changes in healthcare expenditure associated with changes in smoking behavior in the United States.

Objectives Out-of-sample forecasts are used to evaluate the predictive adequacy of a previously published national model of the relationship between smoking behavior and real per capita health care expenditure using state level aggregate data. In the previously published analysis, the elasticities between changes in state adult current smoking prevalence and mean cigarette consumption per adult current smoker and healthcare expenditures were 0.118 and 0.108 This new analysis provides evidence that the model forecasts out-of-sample well. Methods Out-of-sample predictive performance was used to find the best specification of trend variables and the best model to bridge a break in survey data used in the analysis. Monte-Carlo simulation was used to calculate forecast intervals for the effect of changes in smoking behavior on expected real per capita healthcare expenditures. Results The model specification produced good-out-of-sample forecasts and stable recursive regression parameter estimates spanning the break in survey methodology. In 2014, a 1% relative reduction in adult current smoking prevalence and mean cigarette consumption per adult current smoker decreased real per capita healthcare expenditure by 0.104% and 0.113% the following year, respectively (elasticity). A permanent relative reduction of 5% reduces expected real per capita healthcare expenditures $99 (95% CI $44, $154) in the next year and $31.5 billion for the entire US (in 2014 dollars), holding other factors constant. The reductions accumulate linearly for at least five years following annual permanent decreases of 5% each year. Given the limitations of time series modelling in a relatively short time series, the effect of changes in smoking behavior may occur over several years, even though the model contains only one lag for the explanatory variables. Conclusion Reductions in smoking produce substantial savings in real per capita healthcare expenditure in short to medium term. A 5% relative drop in smoking prevalence (about a 0.87% reduction in absolute prevalence) combined with a 5% drop in consumption per remaining smoker (about 16 packs/year) would be followed by a $31.5 billion reduction in healthcare expenditure (in 2014 dollars).