cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Advances in mandarin broadcast speech transcription at IBM under the DARPA GALE program

This paper describes the technical and system building advances in the automatic transcription of Mandarin broadcast speech made at IBM in the first year of the DARPA GALE program. In particular, we discuss the application of minimum phone error (MPE) discriminative training and a new topic-adaptive language modeling technique. We present results on both the RT04 evaluation data and two larger community-defined test sets designed to cover both the broadcast news and the broadcast conversation domain. It is shown that with the described advances, the new transcription system achieves a 26.3% relative reduction in character error rate over our previous best-performing system, and is competitive with published numbers on these datasets. The results are further analyzed to give a comprehensive account of the relationship between the errors and the properties of the test data.
Gate-to-channel shorts in BiCMOS logic gates

This paper describes the effects of gate-to-channel breakdown on the operation of BiCMOS logic gates. Both the static and dynamic behaviours of the gates are examined. The influence of the position of the defect within the channel is noted. Expressions for the logic levels and the quiescent current of an inverter in the presence of defects are calculated as an example. SPICE simulations confirmed the results and were used with other logic gates. The experimental results show that gate-to-channel breakdown cannot be modeled by a stuck-at fault. I/sub ddq/ testing is more effective than delay testing in detecting these effects. Test patterns for I/sub ddq/ are given. >
Computational Approximation of Nonlinear Unsteady Aerodynamics Using an Aerodynamic Model Hierarchy

Abstract Modeling nonlinear unsteady aerodynamic effects in the simulation of modern fighter aircraft is still a very challenging task. A framework for approximating nonlinear unsteady aerodynamics with a Radial Basis Function neural network is provided. Training data were generated from a hierarchy of aerodynamic models. At the highest level, solutions of the discretized Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations provide the quantitative and qualitative solution of flow around aircraft, although the results are expensive in terms of computational resources. The Euler simulations are less expensive and provide qualitative data up to moderate angles of attack. The integration of these data is promising for generating accurate aerodynamic models at moderate computational cost. To illustrate the method, an airfoil undergoing pitching and plunging motion is considered. The primary and secondary aerodynamic model data are computed using RANS and Euler equations, respectively. A description for a mapping between the aerodynamic loads and the motion parameters based on the implicit function theorem is described. The mapping is then augmented by adding the secondary data to the input dataset. The selection of training data is then discussed. Once the network is trained, it can compute the unsteady aerodynamic loads from motion descriptions on the order of a few seconds. The framework is examined for different motions, and in all cases, the ROM predictions closely represent the actual aerodynamic responses. It is also demonstrated that the aerodynamic hierarchy aids in the rapid development of a reduced-order model.
Musical style, psychoaesthetics, and prospects for entropy as an analytic tool

Information theory as formulated by Shannon (1948) has been intermittently pursued as a potential tool for musical analysis; however, significant problems have prevented it from coalescing into a fruitful theoretical approach. Papers examining music from the perspective of information theory are widely distributed among journals from different fields (Nettelheim 1997) and do not show a steady, cumulative trajectory in time. Rather, a cluster of papers in the late 1950s and 1960s (Pinkerton 1956; Meyer 1957; Youngblood 1958; Krahenbuehl and Coons 1959; Cohen 1962; Hiller and Fuller 1967), another in the 1980s (Knopoff and Hutchinson 1981, 1983; Snyder 1990), and a few contemporary studies (Huron 2006; Temperley 2007) represent the primary efforts.
Aboveground productivity and root-shoot allocation differ between native and introduced grass species

Plant species in grasslands are often sepa- rated into groups (C4 and C3 grasses, and forbs) with presumed links to ecosystem functioning. Each of these in turn can be separated into native and intro- duced (i.e., exotic) species. Although numerous studies have compared plant traits between the traditional groups of grasses and forbs, fewer have compared native versus introduced species. Introduced grass spe- cies, which were often introduced to prevent erosion or to improve grazing opportunities, have become com- mon or even dominant species in grasslands. By virtue of their abundances, introduced species may alter eco- systems if they diVer from natives in growth and alloca- tion patterns. Introduced grasses were probably selected nonrandomly from the source population for forage (aboveground) productivity. Based on this expectation, aboveground production is predicted to be greater and root mass fraction to be smaller in intro- duced than native species. We compared root and shoot distribution and tissue quality between intro- duced and native C 4 grass species in the Blackland Prairie region of Central Texas, USA, and then com- pared diVerences to the more well-studied divergence between C 4 grasses and forbs. Comparisons were made in experimental monocultures planted with equal-sized transplants on a common soil type and at the same den- sity. Aboveground productivity and C:N ratios were higher, on average, in native grasses than in native forbs, as expected. Native and introduced grasses had comparable amounts of shallow root biomass and tis- sue C:N ratios. However, aboveground productivity and total N were lower and deep root biomass and root mass fraction were greater in native than introduced grasses. These diVerences in average biomass distribu- tion and N could be important to ecosystems in cases where native and introduced grasses have been exchanged. Our results indicate that native-introduced status may be important when interpreting species eVects on grassland processes like productivity and plant N accumulation.
Design of a Platform-based Surface Mobility System for Human Space Exploration

This paper presents results from an analysis and conceptual design of a manned planetary surface mobility systems platform for use at human exploration sites on the Moon, Mars, and in Earth analog environments such as Devon Island in the Canadian high arctic. A comprehensive analysis of architectural options for pressurized and unpressurized surface mobility systems was carried out based on a set of Design Reference Missions and associated requirements. The analysis resulted in the selection of an innovative surface mobility architecture consisting of 2-person unpressurized rovers and 2-person campers, selfpropelled pressurized vehicles which are guided by unpressurized rovers. This architecture was selected because of superior performance and cost characteristics; however, it also enables more flexible surface exploration operations than architecture based on pressurized rovers because of the ability to leave the camper behind at a distance from a base. For the unpressurized rovers and campers a conceptual design was carried out for the Earth, Moon, and Mars environments using a terrain-vehicle-model taking into account the detailed interaction of the planetary surfaces and the suspension / drive system. Analysis of commonality opportunities between the Earth, Moon, and Mars versions suggests that the surface mobility platform could include the suspensions of the unpressurized rover and the camper, internal outfitting of the camper, energy storage and drive units, as well as avionics and communications systems. The platform approach may lead to significant cost and risk reduction over the lifecycle of the exploration program.
Distributed policy resolution through negotiation in ubiquitous computing environments

Ensuring spontaneous ad hoc interoperation in decentralized ubiquitous computing environments is challenging, because of heterogeneous resources and divergent policies. Centralized cross-domain service access agreements can be made with a priori knowledge of the interacting entities' policies, but privacy concerns make this approach impractical. Environments should not be too rigid nor too open in their interactions, and should support varying contexts and scenarios. We describe the modeling, design, and implementation of a general purpose negotiation protocol for cross-domain service access agreements between entities that do not share trust agreements or application level protocols. This protocol resolves the constraints and needs of the participants, described in the form of declarative logical policies, in a fully distributed manner, avoiding the need for a third party. We describe how we tested the system and show how negotiation performance was evaluated against an optimal case computed by a centralized oracle.
Approximately optimal broadcasting in wireless networks

We study a wireless broadcast network, where a single source reliably communicates independent messages to multiple destinations, with the aid of relays. We propose a scheme that can achieve rates within a constant gap away from the cut-set bound. The proposed scheme operates in two steps: the inner code induces a broadcast channel with sufficient mutual information between the source and the destinations, and the outer code is basically a Marton code for broadcast channels. The inner code is constructed by lifting a scheme designed for a corresponding discrete superposition network.
Assessing predation in airline markets with low-fare competition

Abstract Assessment of unfair competitive practices in airline markets has traditionally been based on the analysis of changes in average fares, revenue and traffic following low-fare entry. This paper demonstrates the severe limitations of using such measures. In particular, our case studies show that despite very different perceptions by some analysts of apparent incumbent carrier response to entry, average fares, revenues and traffic measures showed very similar patterns of change. We then use a competitive airline market simulation to illustrate the importance of often ignored factors – revenue management and the flows of connecting network passengers on the flight legs affected by low-fare entry – in explaining the effects of entry on these aggregate measures of airline performance. These simulation results further reinforce the danger in using such measures as indicators of predatory behavior in airline markets.
Circuit and system design guidelines for ultra-low power sensor nodes

Designing an ultra-low power sensor node requires careful consideration of the system-level energy budget. Depending on applications, various components can dominate total energy. In this paper, we review three different system energy budget scenarios where any of the microprocessor, memory, and timer of a sensor node can dominate the energy budget. The design space and corresponding trade-offs for these three components are explored to suggest guidelines for the design of ultra-low power sensor nodes.
SAC architecture for the 2018 Mars Sample Return mission

Reducing the mission risk was our primary driver in developing the Sample Acquisition and Caching (SAC) architecture. In particular, the main goal was to reduce number of steps from the moment the core is acquired to a point where it is inserted into the earth return cache
Optical rotatory dispersion and absolute configuration—XVII

Abstract ORD and CD measurements on α-alkylphenylacetic acids with primary, secondary, and tertiary α-substituents agree with the evidence from gas chromatographie retention times of their diastereoisomeric amides in leading to the conclusion that all (+)- acids of the series possess the same configuration. All members of the series show two positive CD bands in the 210 to 230 nm region, and these are ascribed respectively to the benzene ′ l a , transition, and to a mixed transition involving overlap of the π orbitals of the benzene ring with the 2p y and π* orbitals of the carbonyl portion of the carboxyl group. Conformational effects due to the size of the α-alkyl substituent are shown to influence the intensity of the mixed transition.
Alterations in heavy and light neurofilament proteins in hippocampus following chronic ECS administration.

Chronic administration of electroconvulsive seizures (ECS), one of the most effective treatments for depression, induces sprouting of the mossy fibers in the hippocampus. This sprouting requires chronic ECS administration and appears to occur in the absence of hilar neuronal loss. Dynamic regulation of cytoarchitecture plays a vital role in such profound alterations of neuronal morphology. In particular, alterations in the neurofilament protein subunits have been implicated in neurite sprouting, neuronal regeneration, and growth. The present study was carried out to determine the influence of chronic ECS administration on the neurofilament subunits and other molecular markers of neuronal plasticity. Chronic ECS administration decreases the level of phosphorylated heavy neurofilament subunit (NF-H). In addition, the total level of the light neurofilament subunit (NF-L) but not the medium neurofilament subunit (NF-M) is decreased following chronic ECS treatment. Other cytoskeletal proteins, including actin, microtubule-associated protein (MAP-2), and tau, are not influenced by chronic ECS administration. Expression of the growth-associated protein (F1/GAP-43) also remains unchanged following chronic ECS treatment. The changes observed in neurofilaments may be part of the cytoskeletal remodeling that contributes to the mossy fiber sprouting induced by chronic ECS treatment.
Asymmetric localization of seed storage protein RNAs to distinct subdomains of the endoplasmic reticulum in developing maize endosperm cells

Plant storage proteins are synthesized and stored in different compartments of the plant endomembrane system. Developing maize seeds synthesize and accumulate prolamin (zein) and 11S globulin (legumin-1) type proteins, which are sequestered in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumen and storage vacuoles, respectively. Immunofluorescence studies showed that the lumenal chaperone BiP was not randomly distributed within the ER in developing maize endosperm but concentrated within the zein-containing protein bodies. Analysis of the spatial distribution of RNAs in maize endosperm sections by in situ RT-PCR showed that, contrary to the conclusions made in an earlier study [Kim et al. (2002) Plant Cell 14: 655-672], the zein and legumin-1 RNAs are not symmetrically distributed on the ER but, instead, targeted to specific ER subdomains. RNAs coding for 22 kDa alpha-zein, 15 kDa beta-zein, 27 kDa gamma-zein and 10 kDa delta-zein were localized to ER-bounded zein protein bodies, whereas 51 kDa legumin-1 RNAs were distributed on adjacent cisternal ER proximal to the zein protein bodies. These results indicate that the maize storage protein RNAs are targeted to specific ER subdomains in developing maize endosperm and that RNA localization may be a prevalent mechanism to sort proteins within plant cells.
Cellular and subcellular heterogeneity of [Ca2+]i in single heart cells revealed by fura-2

Digital imaging of calcium indicator signals (fura-2 fluorescence) from single cardiac cells has revealed different subcellular patterns of cytoplasmic calcium ion concentration ([Ca2+]i) that are associated with different types of cellular appearance and behavior. In any population of enzymatically isolated rat heart cells, there are mechanically quiescent cells in which [Ca2+]i is spatially uniform, constant over time, and relatively low; spontaneously contracting cells, which have an increased [Ca2+]i, but in which the spatial uniformity of [Ca2+]i is interrupted periodically by spontaneous propagating waves of high [Ca2+]i; and cells that are hypercontracted (rounded up) and that have higher levels of [Ca2+]i than the other two types. The observed cellular and subcellular heterogeneity of [Ca2+]i in isolated cells indicates that experiments performed on suspensions of cells should be interpreted with caution. The spontaneous [Ca2+]i fluctuations previously observed without spatial resolution in multicellular preparations may actually be inhomogeneous at the subcellular level.
Revisiting the linear programming framework for leakage power vs. performance optimization

This paper revisits and extends a general linear programming (LP) formulation to exploit multiple knobs such as multi-Lgate footprint-compatible libraries and post-layout Lgate-biasing to minimize total leakage power under timing constraints. We minimize positive timing slack for each cell according to its leakage vs. delay sensitivity, so that unnecessary leakage power consumption is saved without degrading circuit performance. A key difference between our work and previous works is that we pre-process timing libraries to estimate the linear relation - in every slew-load condition - between the gate delay and gate length by linear fitting; we then optimize total leakage power by estimating the optimal gate length for each gate using fast linear programming. With a 65GP industry testbed, and directly comparing with commercial tools, we show the QOR and runtime advantages of our method for the multi-Lgate and Lgate-biasing knobs. We also show a promising application to circuit timing legalization, a problem which frequently arises when implementation and signoff timers differ. Overall, our results show strong viability of LP based estimation and optimization: compared with the commercial tools, we: (1) shift the achievable delay-leakage tradeoff curve in a positive way, and (2) more accurately maintain prescribed timing constraints.
Creating Weed-Resistant Plant Communities Using Niche-Differentiated Nonnative Species

Enhancing desired species establishment and persistence is central to rehabilitating invasive plant–infested rangeland. We hypothesized that nonnative desired species (alfalfa [Medicago sativa L., var. Arrow], intermediate wheatgrass [Thinopyrum intermedium {Host} Barkworth & D.R. Dewey], and crested wheatgrass [Agropyron cristatum {L.} Gaertn., var. Hycrest]) increase as desired species richness within seeding mixture increases, and spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa Lam.) decrease as desirable species richness increases. We simultaneously tested the degree of niche differentiation among desired species. Experiments consisted of 7 seeding monocultures and combinations. Treatments were monocultures of each desired species (3 plots), all combinations of 2 desirable species (2 250 seeds·m−2 per species; 3 plots), and 1 plot containing all 3 desirable species (1 500 seeds·m−2 per species). Monocultures or mixtures were replicated 4 times by seeding each treatment with four background densities of spotted knapweed (1 250, 2 500, 3 750, and 7 500 seeds·m−2; 7 treatments × 4 background densities = 28 plots). Analysis included regression with the 7 desired species monocultures or mixtures as a fixed effect and spotted knapweed sowing density as a continuous effect. All desired species established had either low or no negative influence on their neighbor, and differed in niche after 7 years of growing in association. Increasing richness of desired species led to increased productivity. Spotted knapweed density and biomass were low across all monocultures and mixtures at the productive site because shade and litter of desired species reduced light availability to the rosette-forming invasive weed. Combining crested wheatgrass and alfalfa provided lower spotted knapweed density and biomass more than did monocultures or grass mixtures because these 2 species appeared to occupy complementary niches. Increased niche occupation by nonnative desirable species may increase resource use and productivity, thus minimizing establishment and dominance of unwanted invasive plants during rehabilitation on arid, marginally productive rangeland sites.
Dedicated issue on rural health: inspiration, celebration, and a challenge for the future.

areas based on population expectations. Throughout the history of our specialty, family medicine programs have graduated physicians that are capable and willing to provide health care to this underserved population. This issue of Family Medicine, dedicated to rural health education, celebrates that accomplishment by showcasing family medicine programs and educational strategies designed to produce high-quality rural family physicians. What has family medicine learned about identifying, recruiting, and preparing rural physicians? First, both student characteristics and mentoring are important. Students raised in rural areas and students that have rural experiences during medical school are more likely to practice in rural underserved areas. Medical schools have addressed this in various ways, including special admissions programs that target students from rural or underserved areas and educational programs that focus training in rural areas or embed rural experiences into mainstream programs. A brief meta-analysis in this edition, written by Eron Manusov, MD, and colleagues, works toward developing a common definition of rural background to standardize these discussions. Also, two articles in this edition address programs designed to attract and retain rural interest. James Kallail, PhD, and his colleagues describe a successful admissions program from the University of Kansas that targets and
Legg-calvé-perthes disease: Treatments

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a challenging condition to treat. A wide age, variability in the stage of presentation, and the severity of disease, both clinically and radiographically, are diverse making it difficult to apply a standard algorithm to an individual patient who presents to the office. Further complicating this, surgeons often disagree on the treatment for specific patients. Despite all of this, however, there is some evidence to help direct the treatment of LCPD. Current research concerning the biology of the disease and the potential for new treatments is also promising. Even though there is no resounding consensus of the best treatment of LCPD, there is an agreement on the primary goal of treatment – to maintain femoral head sphericity or minimize further deformity if already present. Femoral head deformity while tolerated in the young patient leads to pain, arthritis, and dysfunction in adulthood [1, 2].
Reconstruction of Frontal Accidents Using the CVS-3D Model

Le modele tridimensionnel simulateur de victime au cours de collision permet la simulation des cinematiques et des reponses des occupants de voitures ou des pietons pendant une collision
A New High-Performance Engine Indicator of the Strain-Gage Type

Pressure changes in the working fluid largely determine the performance of heat engines. For this reason, accurate pressure indications are of primary importance for studies of engine operation. Pressure indicators have been in use for many years, but performance defects have restricted their value even for laboratory and test-stand work. The operating limitations have been due to the fact that available pressure receivers have been sensitive not only to pressure but also to temperature, to mechanical strains due to mounting effects, and to mechanical vibrations in the walls of the pressure chamber. I t is the purpose of this paper to describe the features of a new pressure receiver using a high-flexibility catenary-type diaphragm and a temperature-compensating wirewound strain gage to give satisfactory pressure-measuring characteristics with greatly reduced response to temperature and extraneous mechanical effects. (I) PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR ENGINE
Three Stories

We live in an enchanted land of our own making. While much of the world benefits from the technology that has made that enchantment possible, much of the world neither knows nor cares about the inner life of computing.
Electron microscopic study of the role of lipid micelles in intestinal fat absorption

In vitro micellar solutions of oleic acid, monoolein, and sodium taurocholate were studied electron microscopically. They contained osmiophilic particles 30-200A in diameter. Osmium staining alone was sufficient to demonstrate the particles; lead staining had little effect on their appearance. The intestinal intraluminal contents from rats during the absorption of unsaturated fat also contained osmiophilic particles, 40-200A, and numerous similar particles were found between the microvilli and engaged in the fine filamentous coating of microvilli. In the lumen only, larger emulsion-type droplets were also seen. The small particles were demonstrable in osmium-fixed material, with or without lead stains, and staining with lead only increased contrast of the particles. Spherules measuring about 1000A in diameter with walls about 100A thick were observed in the terminal web during fat absorption, at which time they were slightly larger and more numerous than in fasting rats. It is proposed that during fat absorption micellar particles are engaged in the filamentous material covering the microvilli and then enter the absorptive cell either by molecular diffusion across the plasma membrane or by being incorporated into the walls of thick-coated spherules which then pass into the subapical cytoplasm.
Opportunistic fungal infections in patients with HIV disease: combating cryptococcosis and histoplasmosis.

Preview The increasing number of patients surviving with advanced HIV infection presents new challenges to physicians who care for them. As a patient's CD4+ T-lymphocyte count declines, susceptibility to opportunistic fungal infections increases. In this article, Dr Kirchner discusses two commonly encountered pathogens, Cryptococcus neoformans and Histoplasma capsulatum.
The Effects of Exercise on Mood in Older Adults: A Meta-Analytic Review

This meta-analysis examined the exercise-mood relationship in older adults. 158 effect sizes (ESs) from 32 studies were grouped intoexperimental-versus-control, gains, and correlational ESs. Each study was coded for moderator variables related to descriptive, design, participant, exercise, and mood-assessment characteristics. Experimental-versus-control ESs for negative (NA) and positive affect (PA) were 0.35 (p .05), respectively, with an overall ES of 0.34, p < .05. The gains ESs for NA and PA in an exercise group were 0.39 (p < .05) and 0.35 (p < .05), respectively, with an overall ES of 0.38, p < .05. All effects were significantly greater than those for the control groups. Correlational ESs of 0.47 and 0.42 were found for NA and PA. respectively. It was concluded that chronic exercise is associated with improved mood in the elderly. Moderating variables and implications for exercise prescription to improve mood in the elderly are discussed.
3D graphene-based anode materials for Li-ion batteries

Advances in synthesis and processing of nanocarbon materials particularly carbon nanotubes and graphene have presented the opportunity to design novel Li-ion battery (LIB) anode materials that can meet the power requirements of next-generation power devices. This mini-review presents an overview of recent studies on the electrochemical behavior of three-dimensional (3D) nanostructured anode materials formed by coupling graphene sheets with alloying type active materials (metals or metal oxides). A number of promising 3D graphene-based hybrid anodes ranging from sheet-like, core-shaped, to foam-like morphologies are discussed. The significant improvement observed in the LIB performance of the 3D hybrid anodes is largely attributed to the unique properties of graphene and the resulting 3D architecture.
A retrospective study of the prevalence of calcium oxalate crystals in veterinary Aspergillus cases.

Fungi in the genus Aspergillus are some of the most common fungal pathogens in veterinary species, primarily affecting the respiratory tract. In both human and veterinary cases, calcium oxalate crystals have been documented in sites of Aspergillus infection. Cases in multiple species (16 birds, 15 horses, 5 dogs, 1 ox, and 1 dolphin) were identified that had either positive cultures for Aspergillus sp., or had conidiophores present that could be identified as belonging to the genus Aspergillus. Histologic slides were examined to confirm the presence of oxalate crystals and how often they were identified on the original report. Calcium oxalate deposition was detected in 14 of 38 cases examined, including A. fumigatus, A. versicolor, A. niger, and unspecified Aspergillus sp. infections. Calcium oxalate crystals were identified in 11 of 16 avian cases, as well as in 1 of 1 bovine, 1 of 15 equine, and 1 of 5 canine cases. Crystals were described in only 3 of the 14 original pathology reports of these cases, i...
Effects of Air Pollution on Skin: Dermatologic Options

Air pollution is serious problem worldwide, especially in well-developed and industrialized countries. Much evidence exists on the relationship between air pollution and the development or exacerbation of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases; however, fewer studies concern the impact of air pollution and particulate matter on skin integrity. Studies suggest air pollutants such as tobacco smoke, concentrated air particles, volatile organic compounds, ozone, and NO 2 are significantly associated with an inflammatory response, weakened barrier function, and oxidative stress, which can lead to the development or exacerbation of inflammatory skin diseases, skin aging, as well as skin cancer. Topical application of antioxidants, tocopherol, aryl hydrocarbon receptor antagonists, as well as retinoids, can be used to buffer the harmful effects of free radicals and enhance the skin barrier, that is due to air pollutant interactions with the skin.
“Citizen Clough,” the “Soul’s Own Soul,” and the Dangers of Complying

Arthur Hugh Clough shares Barrett Browning’s indignation about economic, educational, and religious injustice. Styling himself as a public pedagogue, he articulates a soul-talk shaped by his spiritual experiences at Tractarian Oxford, where religious freedom was as yet unknown. Experimenting with dramatic forms akin to Browning’s, he uses polyphonic soul-talk in Adam and Eve (1869) to satirize Calvinistic dogma and defend reflective choice as the basis for a just, egalitarian, and spiritually healthy society. While he teaches us the value of public service, he also invites reader-listeners to feel sensually through inventive hexameters the soul-refreshing pleasures of aesthetics exemplified in the bathing scenes of The Bothie of Toper-Na-Fuosich (1848). Moreover, being highly attuned to the differences between rooted cosmopolitanism and the rootless, morally indifferent kind, he transports us in Dipsychus and the Spirit (1865) to post-1848 Venice, where a modern-day Mephisto torments a self-torturing young Englishman with knotty ethico-political quandaries.
Selective Attention to Visual Stimuli: The Need to Combine Theory and Research

Mentally retarded children have been widely characterized by an inability to attend to relevant aspects of a stimulus display. This information has seldom been considered when producing instruction...
The Severity of Ethanol Withdrawal Scale in Scale-Driven Alcohol Withdrawal Treatment: A Quality Assurance Study

ABSTRACTThis quality assurance study compared two scales that drive the medicinal treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS): the new Severity of Ethanol Withdrawal Scale (SEWS) and the default Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol, revised (CIWA-Ar). Prospectively entered outcome data from medical intensive care (SEWS) and acute psychiatric inpatient (CIWA-Ar) units were collected and analyzed. Measures included scale administration patterns, mean lengths of time on treatment medication, and mean medication doses for the first 24 hours and for the total AWS episode. The administration patterns of the two scales were highly associated despite separate ward locations and personnel. Time-on-medication for SEWS patients shortened on average by one hospital day over the CIWA-Ar group. At the same time, however, total chlordiazepoxide doses, or the first 24 hours and over the total AWS episode, averaged twice the magnitude in the SEWS group over the CIWA-Ar. The data suggest that the SEWS sh...
Skeletal Dysplasia: Respiratory Management during Infancy

Abstract Background Skeletal dysplasia encompasses a variety of developmental disorders of the bone and cartilage that manifest as disproportionate shortening of limbs and trunk in the neonate. Many types of skeletal dysplasia are complicated by respiratory failure at or soon after birth and require intensive care and prolonged hospitalization. Respiratory complications in these infants are complex and are characterized by airway anomalies, restrictive lung disease due to a narrow and abnormally compliant chest wall, pulmonary hypoplasia, and central apnea. Appropriate management of these unique patients requires a clear understanding of the pathophysiology and use of pulmonary function tests for early recognition and management of complications. Conclusion This review provides an overview of the underlying respiratory pathology and a practical guide to the newborn care provider for the diagnosis and management of respiratory complications in infants with skeletal dysplasia.
Acclimation and the response of hourly electricity loads to meteorological variables

Abstract Short-term electricity load forecasts and long-term projections of climate change impacts can benefit from understanding the relationship between electricity demand and meteorological conditions. We developed and applied a segmented regression technique to more than ten years of hourly electricity load data to estimate this relationship in two transmission zones in the United States that vary in their spatial extent and population. We empirically determined reference temperatures for cooling- and heating-degree hours. These reference temperatures differ from each other for every hour of the day and vary in accordance with the ambient temperature, which affect electricity loads induced for heating and cooling. Past temperatures and relative humidity have a significant influence on electricity load, and we identified the existence of threshold temperatures for the effect of relative humidity. Our results suggest that accurate predictions of the electricity loads should incorporate a ∼7 °C “comfort zone” where electricity load is less sensitive to temperature than elsewhere in the relationship, include the dependence on relative humidity (which can be negative), and incorporate a path dependence of prior days' temperatures.
What We Know and Need to Know About Immigrant Access to Justice

We have learned much in recent years about the inadequacy of access to justice for immigrants. We now understand quite well the ever-increasing need for good lawyering on behalf of immigrants in removal proceedings. Thanks to the hard work of many commentators, we stand ready with eloquent arguments that immigrants, especially those most vulnerable, should be represented during removal proceedings. In the absence of universal representation, commentators have studied the patchwork solutions that have emerged to meet some immigrants’ needs. Nonetheless, important questions remain about what is and what is not working. This article summarizes some recent contributions to this body of knowledge and charts a path forward.
Access through altruism: A community-based free outpatient surgery program for the working poor in the United States.

Despite healthcare reform, a large population in the United States is without healthcare coverage. The Surgery for People in Need (SPIN) program offers free outpatient surgical procedures to workin...
Mobile Healthcare and People with Disabilities: Current State and Future Needs.

Significant health disparities exist between the general population and people with disabilities, particularly with respect to chronic health conditions. Mobile healthcare—the delivery of healthcare via mobile communication devices—is witnessing tremendous growth and has been touted as an important new approach for management of chronic health conditions. At present, little is known about the current state of mobile healthcare for people with disabilities. Early evidence suggests they are not well represented in the growth of mobile healthcare, and particularly the proliferation of mobile health software applications (mHealth apps) for smartphones. Their omission in mHealth could lead to further health disparities. This article describes our research investigating the current state of mHealth apps targeting people with disabilities. Based on a multi-modal approach (literature review, Internet search, survey of disabled smartphone users), we confirm that people with disabilities are under-represented in the growth of mHealth. We identify several areas of future research and development needed to support the inclusion of people with disabilities in the mHealth revolution.
Unique Anionic Phospholipid Binding Site and Gating Mechanism in Kir2.1 Inward Rectifier Channels

Inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) channels regulate cell excitability and potassium homeostasis in multiple tissues. All Kir channels absolutely require interaction of phosphatidyl-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) with a crystallographically identified binding site, but an additional non-specific secondary anionic phospholipid (PL(-)) is required to generate high PIP2 sensitivity of Kir2 channel gating, but the PL(-) binding site and mechanism are yet to be elucidated. We used docking simulations to identify a putative PL(-) binding site, adjacent to the PIP2 binding site, generated by two lysine residues from neighboring subunits. When either lysine is mutated to cysteine (K64C, K219C), channel activity is significantly decreased in cell membranes and in reconstituted liposomes. By directly tethering the residue to the membrane, modification of the K64C mutant with decyl MTS generates high PIP2 sensitivity in liposomes, even in the complete absence of PL(-)s. The results provide a coherent molecular mechanism for the secondary anionic lipid requirement of Kir2 channel activity: PL(-) interaction with a discrete binding site results in a conformational change that pulls the cytosolic Kir domain closer to the membrane, thereby stabilizing the high-affinity PIP2 activatory site.
How to avoid common problems when using ClinicalTrials.gov in research: 10 issues to consider

ClinicalTrials.gov, a repository of information about clinical studies and their results, together with specialised search tools, provides a unique window into the clinical research enterprise, which includes all initiated, ongoing, and completed or terminated clinical studies. Researchers are increasingly using information from the database to assess research reporting practices, or to characterise the clinical research enterprise. Conducting valid analyses requires an understanding of both the capabilities and limitations of the database (that is, intrinsic factors) as well as reporting policies and other factors external to the database that influence the types of studies in ClinicalTrials.gov in a specified time. This article discusses 10 key issues that researchers need to consider when using the database to conduct research.
Techniques and Theory of Titration Calorimetry

The purpose of this lecture is to outline the techniques used in titration calorimetry and to describe instruments and data evaluation procedures which have been developed to obtain thermodynamic properties for interacting chemical systems.
Pharmaceutics and the Evolving Technology of Drug Delivery-A Perspective

To be the lead speaker at a symposium to honor Professor Takeru Higuchi is of special significance to me. Aside from the enormous impact Dr. Higuchi has had on the pharmaceutical sciences, by virtue of his own research activities, and that of students he has trained, he is also my academic godfather and has had a significant impact on my career. It is also fitting that the topic of drug delivery has been selected to honor Professor Higuchi since his entire career reflects an interest in and impact on the broad issue of drug delivery.
Tour guides’ communication ecosystems: an inferential social network analysis approach

Successful performance by tour guides depends highly on their networking activities and interpersonal skills. Membership in related associations can provide opportunities for establishing and expanding a supportive network in the tour guiding profession. This study explores communication ecosystems used among the members of the largest professional tour guides organization, the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA). Using the data collected from the 17th WFTGA convention in Tehran, Iran, we investigated five types of tour guides’ communications ecosystems (i.e. in-person, online-call, text-message, e-mail, and social networks) and compared them to tour guides’ networks of colleagues (i.e., the network that shows how people know one another and how they are linked). Moreover, we included the complementary no-contact network to enhance the internal validity of the study. Using exponential random graph modeling, all seven networks have been modeled using demographic characteristics such as age, gender, education, marital status, and tenure along with the history of participation in previous WFTGA conventions and WFTGA membership status. The analyses of virtual/digital (i.e., online-call, text-message, e-mail, and online social networks) and natural/traditional (i.e., in-person) communication ecosystems showed interesting similarities and differences among the seven networks, providing valuable insights for practitioners as well as academicians. Findings revealed the formation of networks based on homophily as well as heterophily effects is a function of types of communication ecosystem.
The expanding world of biosynthetic pericyclases: cooperation of experiment and theory for discovery

Covering: 2000 to 2018 Pericyclic reactions are a distinct class of reactions that have wide synthetic utility. Before the recent discoveries described in this review, enzyme-catalyzed pericyclic reactions were not widely known to be involved in biosynthesis. This situation is changing rapidly. We define the scope of pericyclic reactions, give a historical account of their discoveries as biosynthetic reactions, and provide evidence that there are many enzymes in nature that catalyze pericyclic reactions. These enzymes, the “pericyclases,” are the subject of this review.
US Immigration History, Laws, and Protestant Christian Responses

In this chapter we look back at American history to understand patterns of immigration, immigration policymaking, and Protestant reactions, mainline and evangelical, drawing out similarities and distinctions for today’s environment. We make use of historical scholarship, government, think tank, and denominational resources. In the 1700s, 1800s, and 1900s, we consider how the political climate, the religious landscape, the particular resources Protestants could bring to bear, and the ways in which Protestants understood the moral and spiritual significance of immigrants, all affected their engagement on immigration. We find that Protestants, and evangelicals in particular, were driven at times by values of mercy, those of justice, and other times by greed, insecurity, and/or prejudice. We discern ongoing patterns of welcome, rejection, and hesitation.
Nonlinear Equation for Predicting the Settlement of Reinforced Soil Foundations

AbstractA reinforced soil foundation (RSF) consists of layers of geosynthetic reinforcement and compacted granular fill material. The RSF approach is a fast, sustainable, and economical alternative...
Characterization of endogenous amino acid efflux from hippocampal slices during chemically-induced ischemia.

Using sodium (NaN3)-induced anoxia plus aglycaemia as a model of chemically-induced ischemia, we have characterized the endogenous release of excitatory and inhibitory amino acids from superfused hippocampal slices. Chemical ischemia produced an azide (1–30 mM) dose-dependent increase in the efflux of glutamate, aspartate and GABA. These increases were attenuated to varying degrees by removal of Ca2+, or the addition of the voltage dependent Na+-channel blocker tetrodotoxin (TTX), the selective Ca2+ channel blockers conotoxin MVIIA, MVIIC, and nifedipine, the NMDA antagonist MK801, the AMPA antagonist GYKI-52466. Similarly, addition of the GLT-1 glutamate transport inhibitor dihydrokainate (DHK) and the anti-estrogen/anion channel blocker tamoxifen also attenuated the efflux of glutamate and GABA. It would therefore appear that the increases in amino acid efflux induced by chemical ischemia originates from both the neuronal pool, via conventional exocytotic release, and glial sources via reversal of the GLT-1 transporter and anion channel regulated cell swelling.
Comparing Glucose Challenge Test Screening Thresholds in Obese and Overweight Gravidas

Objective Given the paucity of contemporary data examining glucose challenge test (GCT), thresholds for gestational diabetes (GDM) screening in obese and overweight women, we sought to compare the sensitivity and testing characteristics of different screen positive GCT cut-offs in women with a prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m2. Study Design This is a retrospective cohort study of obese and overweight women with singleton pregnancies who underwent GCT between 24 and 296/7 weeks and had a value between 130 and 199 mg/dL necessitating a 3-hour glucose tolerance test (GTT). Exclusion criteria were pregestational diabetes mellitus, multigestation, use of diabetes medications, and bariatric surgery. Results Between August 2015 and January 2016, 19% (n = 496) of women with a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 required a GTT to test for GDM, 27.8% (n = 138) of whom were diagnosed with GDM. Mean age was 30 years, mean BMI = 31.6 kg/m2, and 30.4% were Hispanic. The 130 mg/dL threshold compared with 140 mg/dL was more sensitive (absolute increase: 11.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.7–17%), but less specific (absolute decrease: 6.4%, 95% CI: 5.5–7.5%). Conclusion Shared decision making should be used to determine GCT cut-offs as some patients may prefer to undergo a GTT rather than miss a diagnosis of GDM.