cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Absorption properties along the 70-m isobath in the southeastern Bering Sea during July 2008

The spectral absorption coefficients of particulate matter are important parameters in bio-optical models and to understand the behavior of underwater light field. Particulate (a P (I)), phytoplankton (a PHY (I)) and non-algal particles (NAP) (a NAP (I)) absorption were measured along the 70-m isobath in the southeastern Bering Sea. The surface distribution of a P (I), a mY (X) and a NAP (I) at 443 nm did not reveal any distinct trends, but over the entire water column the northern part showed higher particulate absorption relative to the southern part of the 70-m isobath. The a P (I) at 443 nm was higher at middle depths due to chlorophyll maxima relative to surface samples. The normalized a mY (X) spectra were variable within stations as well as between stations with variability larger in the blue region compared to the red region of the spectrum which suggested change in phytoplankton species or pigment composition or package effect. The generally higher values of the blue to red peak ratios of normalized a mY Q⋆) (> 2) indicated that smaller phytoplankton cells dominated in surface waters relative to middle depths. The spectral slope of a NAP (I) did not portray any trend with a NAP (I), so parameterization of a NAP (I) is possible along the 70-m isobath by using the mean value of spectral slopes. High correlation (R2 =3D 0.81) found between a F (X) and a PHY (I) at 443 nm, indicated that a PHY (I) dominated changes in a P (I). The a NAP (I) also correlated well with a P (I) at 443 nm (R =3D 0.64) though not as good as a mY (k), so a NAP (I) also drives changes in a P (I) to a certain extent. The relative contribution of a mY (X) to a P (I) was greater at 667 nm (35–97%) then at 443 nm (18–88%), however for some samples the contribution of a NAP (I) was almost equal to a PHY (I) corresponding to low chlorophyll biomass samples.
Growth Optimal Investment Strategy: The Impact of Reallocation Frequency and Heavy Tails

The strategy to maximize the long-term growth rate of final wealth (maximum expected log strategy, maximum geometric mean strategy, Kelly criterion) is based on probability theoretic underpinnings and has asymptotic optimality properties. This article reviews the allocation of wealth in a two-asset economy with one risky asset and a risk-free asset. It is also shown that the optimal fraction to be invested in the risky asset (i) depends on the length of the basic return period and (ii) is lower for heavy-tailed log returns than for light-tailed log returns.
Oxidation of ZrB2-Based Ceramics in Dry Air

The oxidation behavior of three different ZrB 2 -based ceramics, a monolithic ZrB 2 and two ZrB 2 -SiC composites, was studied up to 1350°C and under isothermal conditions at 1120°C for 20 h. Oxidation kinetics and microstructural changes in the oxidized specimens indicate that the monolithic zrB 2 has low thermal stability. On the contrary, the introduction of SiC particles markedly improves oxidation resistance due to the formation of an adherent and protective borosilicate glass layer that coats the sample surface, effectively limiting the inward diffusion of oxygen toward the reaction interface. The influence of the secondary grain boundary phases on oxidation is discussed.
Hazard-rate tolerance method for an opportunistic-replacement policy

A model for a system with several types of units is presented. A unit is replaced at failure or when its hazard (failure) rate exceeds limit L, whichever occurs first. When a unit is replaced because its hazard rates reaches L, all the operating units with their hazard rate falling in the interval (L-u,L) are replaced. This policy allows joint replacements and avoids the disadvantages resulting from the replacement of new units, down time, and unrealistic assumptions for distributions of unit life. The long-run cost rate is derived. Optimal L and u are obtained to minimize the average total replacement cost rate. Application and analysis of results are demonstrated through a numerical example. >
Process of Infection with Bacteriophage φX174 XXXV. Cistron VIII

Twenty-two new amber and ochre mutants of {varphi}X174 were isolated and classified into complementation groups. Three ochre mutants gave positive complementation tests with reference mutants in the seven previously defined groups and thus represent an eighth cistron. Studies of the physiology of infection in the nonpermissive condition for mutants in cistron VIII yielded the following information. (i) Replicative-form synthesis proceeds at a normal rate, and is turned off at the usual time. (ii) Synthesis of single-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is delayed until nearly 40 min after infection (in the absence of lysis), at which time a slow synthesis of infectious phage particles commences. The synthesis of infectious particles at late times is interpreted as a consequence of "leakage," and indicates that the cistron VIII product is required in very small quantities. (iii) During the normal period of single-strand synthesis, most of the replicative-form DNA is found in a form with properties similar to those of the transient intermediates of single-strand DNA synthesized during normal infection.
AF10 Regulates Progressive H3K79 Methylation and HOX Gene Expression in Diverse AML Subtypes

Homeotic (HOX) genes are dysregulated in multiple malignancies, including several AML subtypes. We demonstrate that H3K79 dimethylation (H3K79me2) is converted to monomethylation (H3K79me1) at HOX loci as hematopoietic cells mature, thus coinciding with a decrease in HOX gene expression. We show that H3K79 methyltransferase activity as well as H3K79me1-to-H3K79me2 conversion is regulated by the DOT1L cofactor AF10. AF10 inactivation reverses leukemia-associated epigenetic profiles, precludes abnormal HOXA gene expression, and impairs the transforming ability of MLL-AF9, MLL-AF6, and NUP98-NSD1 fusions-mechanistically distinct HOX-activating oncogenes. Furthermore, NUP98-NSD1-transformed cells are sensitive to small-molecule inhibition of DOT1L. Our findings demonstrate that pharmacological inhibition of the DOT1L/AF10 complex may provide therapeutic benefits in an array of malignancies with abnormal HOXA gene expression.
The polarimetric nature of HD 108

V-band polarimetric observations of HD 108 were obtained during 1994 August and September. This is the first time that the temporal polarimetric variability of this star has been investigated. Its percentage polarization and position angle vary randomly, and no evidence of its proposed binary nature is detected. The random variability is consistent with that seen for previously observed Wolf–Rayet stars and OB supergiants. Nightly variations do show some systematic behaviour consistent with the blob ejection model of Underhill & Fehey (1984). From the data it is estimated that the mass-loss rate resulting from blobs is ∼1-10−7 M⊙ yr−1. The total mass-loss rate of the star is estimated to be ∼1-10−5 M⊙ yr−1. The stellar rotation rate is estimated to be Vrot∼400 km s−1 with an inclination of i<20c. The data are also interpreted in terms of perturbations occurring in an equatorial disc plus bipolar jets viewed equatorially (Underhill 1994). It is found that the perturbation mass-loss rate is about ∼3-10−7 M⊙ yr−1, giving a total mass-loss rate for the star of 13-10−5 M⊙ yr−1. Both models are consistent with HD 108 being an OB supergiant or of the class Ofpe/WR9.
A multi-GHz PLL Built-In jitter extraction circuit for deep submicron technologies

This paper proposes a new Built-In Self Test architecture to detect time interval errors (TIE) of Phase-Locked Loops. A transient current sensor utilizing Flipped Voltage Follower (FVF) is used with a comparison block in the proposed topology. It is designed and verified for IBM 65nm technology using 1 V supply voltage and capable of detecting both steady-state and transient currents up to 150 µA and 2 GHz frequency with a good accuracy. The proposed topology relies on the output voltage difference of transient sensors. Thus, it can be scalable as the technology shrinks and still be an effective method to detect new emerging faults.
“The Shrinking Merger Arbitrage Spread: Reasons and Implications”: Author Response

This material comments on “‘The Shrinking Merger Arbitrage Spread: Reasons and Implications’: A Comment”.
The Panama Canal : the crisis in historical perspective

This newly updated edition of Walter LaFeber's widely praised study of the evolution of U.S.-Panama relations contains two new chapters on the events that have occurred since the Panama Canal Treaty in 1978. This new edition offers particularly detailed examinations of the 1988 attempt to oust Manuel Noriega and Noriega's role in aiding the Nicaraguan Contras, as well as invaluable background information for understanding the 1989 crises. LaFeber argues that the interdependent, but turbulent, relationship between Panama and the United States continued into the 1980s with the U.S. using General Manuel Antonio Noriega to overthrow the Sandinista government of Nicaragua. U.S. officials in the Reagan administration also subordinated widespread knowledge of Noriega's drug trafficking in order to keep Panama in line with the U.S. policy towards Nicaragua. But by 1986, the United States both knew and demanded too much of Noriega, and the relationship finally began to fragment. LaFeber's updated volume remains the essential source for anyone who wants a complete picture of U.S.-Panama relations from Balboa to the present.
Configuring Beaconless IEEE 802.15.4 Networks Under Different Traffic Loads

IEEE 802.15.4, a MAC/PHY protocol for low power and low data rate wireless networks, is emerging as the popular choice for various monitoring and control applications. Depending on the application, the traffic load on an IEEE 802.15.4 network may vary over a wide range. Hence, proper configuration is important for successful operation of the protocol under given traffic load conditions. In this paper, we examine the impact of different configuration parameters: namely, macMinBE, macMaxBE and macMaxCSMABackoffs, on the performance of beaconless IEEE 802.15.4 networks. The performance is measured in terms of the packet loss probability and the packet latency as the traffic load on the network increases. Based on this analysis, we suggest IEEE 802.15.4 configuration that results in a good tradeoff between the packet loss probability and the packet latency for a given traffic load range. This analysis is based on ns2 simulations.
Pteropus giganteus (Flying fox)

One pair of autosomes possesses a deep secondary constriction, arranged here as the 7th pair. The constriction is not obvious in this particular female.
Phishing & VAT Fraud in CO2 Permits: DICE in the EU-ETS Now; DICE in Power Tomorrow

In accordance with Directive 2003/87/EC of October 13, 2003, trade in greenhouse gas emissions commenced in the European Union (EU) on January 1, 2005. The EU-Emissions Trading System (EU-ETS) was born. The EU has a Value Added Tax (VAT). VAT is a transaction-based levy on all trade in goods and services. Each Member State has a VAT as a condition of membership. Until January 3, 2017 transactions in CO2 permits are taxed as services. After this date they are exempt as financial instruments. This change in VAT treatment of CO2 permits is directly attributable to rampant fraud in the market. Fraud has been so severe in CO2 permits that public trust in the EU’s emissions trading scheme has been undermined. Important lessons have been learned about controlling fraud from efforts made in the emissions markets. Unfortunately, time and political patience have run out. This paper considers a particular phishing attack in the CO2 market – the January 18, 2011 attack on the Czech registry. The focus of this paper is not on this very sensational fraud; it is on the ETS/ VAT overlap, and the ability to apply what has been learned here to the trade in gas and electricity. Careful consideration of this overlap demonstrates why the Digital Invoice Customs Exchange (DICE) proposal works as an effective fraud prevention mechanism. The moral of this story is that what we have learned can be directly applied to the commodity energy market. We know how that these markets can be secured. We need: (a) an Independent Transaction Log, and (b) a secure self-verifying digital invoice, and (c) a system of automated invoice cross-checking (the customs exchange). Can this be done? Quite simply, “yes.” A call placed to Kim Mayyasi, SmartCloud’s CEO presented this question. Not surprisingly, the response was: “… implementing a real-time transaction database of all power sales in the EU with advanced reasoning for back room analytics could implement the DICE proposal to eliminate MTIC from the EU power markets, and it could do so for the EU CO2 market right now. This is a typical challenge that our technology was designed to handle.”
THE IMPORTANCE OF WORD ORDER IN EXPLAINING TONE PATTERNS IN AVOKAYA VERBS

This paper presents a set of ordered rules accounting for tone changes that occur in Avokaya verbs. The most prevalent shape for Avokaya verbs is monosyllabic. Disyllabilc verbs roots behave the same way as disyllabic verbs which are composed of derivational prefix plus a monosyllabic verb root. The derivational prefixation process is the same for verbs in all grammatical constructions. Verbs in SVO constructions and SOV constructions are treated separately, since different rules apply for these two sets of constructions. Avokaya syllables may carry a high, mid, low or rising tone, but not a falling tone. In this analysis of Avokaya, we show that the expected HL tone pattern has merged to form a M tone in the verbal system.
Minimum Weight Design of Hyperbolic Cooling Towers

The minimum weight design of hyperbolic cooling towers is examined. Taking the duty-performance coefficient as the primary behavior constraint, the design is formulated as a constrained optimization problem, and the critical dimensions of the lightest towers for various values of the duty-performance coefficient are tabulated considering a wide range of shell parameters. In general, the towers with sharper curvature appeared to be lighter when compared to other towers with the same duty-performance coefficient.
Clonal diseases of the myeloid stem cell systems.

The structure and kinetics of the hematopoietic stem cell compartment have long been the subject of considerable speculation. Based on morphologic observations of normal and abnormal human marrow and of a perturbed system in experimental animals, primarily the rabbit, in 1938, Downey [1] concluded there was a stem cell capable of giving rise to all hematopoietic tissue. He believed this cell in turn gave rise to a lymphoid stem cell and to a myeloid stem cell. The myeloid stem cell could give rise directly to erythroid, megakaryocytic and monocytic cell lines and in turn produced a tertiary stem cell which could generate neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils. With the development of functional assays for clonal cell growth in vivo and in vitro and through the use of chromosome marked clones this suggested structure has proved to be correct in substance although certain minor variations are indicated. Most definitive studies of the structure of the stem cell compartment are in mice [2] but, in general, the data generated in human diseases suggest that the human stem cell structure is the same as that of the mouse. In Fig. 1, one current “best guess” is shown. There seems little doubt that at least 3 concatenated precursor compartments exist for all myeloid cells. Whether there are still more intermediate stages and whether or not most cells forming colonies in vitro are stem cells (i.e. capable of self-replication) remain open question.
Effect of Bipolar Plate Cooling on Fuel Cell Heat Generation

Heat generation inside the fuel cell is dependent on current densities at the fuel cell’s electrolyte membrane. When the moisture levels are too high, there is a flooding of the electrolyte membrane which prevents the hydrogen and oxygen gases from reaching the membrane. Whereas if the moisture levels are too low then an increase in ohmic loses across the membrane results in decreased energy production. A numerical study was performed to understand how the fluid velocity and thermal conductivity of the bipolar plates affects energy production inside the fuel cell. This was accomplished by using two models, one for the fuel cell and the other for the bipolar plate. The fuel cell model included both the conductive and convective heat transfer as well as the electrochemical heat generation. This model included calculations for determining moisture content which was included in the electrochemical reaction. After setting the model’s geometric configuration and fuel flow rates, this model required the temperature of the bipolar plate model as its input. The bipolar plate mode included the conductive and convective heat transfer with a fluid flowing through a set micro channel configuration. After setting its geometric configuration and flow rates, its input was the heat flux from the fuel cell model. An iterative approach was used to reach steady state convergence between the two models. The effect of varying the flow rates through the bipolar plate on power production was studied. These studies show how low flow rates inhibit power production.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Nature of the metal insulator transition in ultrathin epitaxial vanadium dioxide.

We have combined hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy with angular dependent O K-edge and V L-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy to study the electronic structure of metallic and insulating end point phases in 4.1 nm thick (14 units cells along the c-axis of VO2) films on TiO2(001) substrates, each displaying an abrupt MIT centered at ∼300 K with width 103. The dimensions, quality of the films, and stoichiometry were confirmed by a combination of scanning transmission electron microscopy with electron energy loss spectroscopy, X-ray spectroscopy, and resistivity measurements. The measured end point phases agree with their bulk counterparts. This clearly shows that, apart from the strain induced change in transition temperature, the underlying mechanism of the MIT for technologically relevant dimensions must be the same as the bulk for this orientation.
A Model for Sampling Yellow Pecan Aphid Populations

A statistical model was developed to study the behavior of yellow pecan aphids within the tree. The various components in the model are discussed as to their meaning biologically.
Accuracy of Student Calibration on Specific Topics: Very Good Students vs. Others

This study examines the relationship between studen ts overall result in a midterm grade in Excel and their ability to predict how well they will per form on specific topics in three Excel tests. The metacognitive skill of predicting performance on sp ecific topics permits appropriate focus in preparing for tests. The hypothesis is that very good students will have significantly more success calibrating specific topics than average and poor s tudents. The results validate the hypothesis.
Kuhn's Structure of Scientific Revolutions at Fifty: Reflections on a Science Classic

Besides being a ‘science classic’, Kuhn's Structure is almost unrivalled as an academic bestseller. It took off more slowly than a mass market novel, but reached a peak during its second decade of ...
Dynamic changes in the clonal structure of MDS and AML in response to epigenetic therapy

Traditional response criteria in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are based on bone marrow morphology and may not accurately reflect clonal tumor burden in patients treated with non-cytotoxic chemotherapy. We used next-generation sequencing of serial bone marrow samples to monitor MDS and AML tumor burden during treatment with epigenetic therapy (decitabine and panobinostat). Serial bone marrow samples (and skin as a source of normal DNA) from 25 MDS and AML patients were sequenced (exome or 285 gene panel). We observed that responders, including those in complete remission (CR), can have persistent measurable tumor burden (that is, mutations) for at least 1 year without disease progression. Using an ultrasensitive sequencing approach, we detected extremely rare mutations (equivalent to 1 heterozygous mutant cell in 2000 non-mutant cells) months to years before their expansion at disease relapse. While patients can live with persistent clonal hematopoiesis in a CR or stable disease, ultimately we find evidence that expansion of a rare subclone occurs at relapse or progression. Here we demonstrate that sequencing of serial samples provides an alternative measure of tumor burden in MDS or AML patients and augments traditional response criteria that rely on bone marrow blast percentage.
On Investigating the Thermomechanical Properties of Cross-linked Epoxy Via Molecular Dynamics Analysis

ABSTRACTIn this work, we demonstrate the feasibility of a computational approach based on first principles for estimating various thermomechanical quantities of a cross-linked epoxy resin. In particular, this work is focused on determining estimated values of the variation in glass transition temperature, coefficient of thermal expansion, volume shrinkage due to curing, Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio, yield strength, and viscosity as a function of temperature and degree of curing via molecular dynamics simulations. In most cases it has been demonstrated that the values predicted by the proposed approach are in good agreement with the respective experimentally measured values. In addition, the validity of the proposed models describing the dependence of the thermomechanical quantities on temperature and curing degree is examined. Throughout this study, we demonstrate that the molecular dynamics–based computational predictive framework can serve as an excellent infrastructure that can enable numerical pre...
Quantitative neoplastic transformation in C3H/10T1/2 cells.

The development of mammalian cell culture systems in which neoplastic transformation can be induced by exposure to chemical and physical carcinogens provided a major stimulus to the study of carcinogenic mechanisms. Furthermore, the potential ability to quantitate the induction of neoplasia on a per cell basis has allowed the study of factors modulating carcinogenesis with a quantitative precision hitherto impossible in animal models. However, problems arise in quantitation of the induced response when the number of cells at risk is varied or when treated cells are replated at various densities. Since in most cases the original rationale behind these cell-number manipulations was to increase the number of cells at risk and thus increase the probability of detecting low level exposure to radiation and chemicals, these problems and the various hypotheses generated to explain it, will be the major focus of this paper.
Evaluating the impacts of farmers' behaviors on a hypothetical agricultural water market based on double auction

Agricultural water markets are considered effective instruments to mitigate the impacts of water scarcity and to increase crop production. However, previous studies have limited understanding of how farmers' behaviors affect the performance of water markets. This study develops an agent-based model to explicitly incorporate farmers' behaviors, namely irrigation behavior (represented by farmers' sensitivity to soil water deficit λ) and bidding behavior (represented by farmers' rent seeking μ and learning rate β), in a hypothetical water market based on a double auction. The model is applied to the Guadalupe River Basin in Texas to simulate a hypothetical agricultural water market under various hydrological conditions. It is found that the joint impacts of the behavioral parameters on the water market are strong and complex. In particular, among the three behavioral parameters, λ affects the water market potential and its impacts on the performance of the water market are significant under most scenarios. The impacts of μ or β on the performance of the water market depend on the other two parameters. The water market could significantly increase crop production only when the following conditions are satisfied: (1) λ is small, and (2) μ is small and/or β is large. The first condition requires efficient irrigation scheduling, and the second requires well-developed water market institutions that provide incentives to bid true valuation of water permits.
Auditory Processing Testing: In the Booth versus Outside the Booth.

Background Many audiologists believe that auditory processing testing must be carried out in a soundproof booth. This expectation is especially a problem in places such as elementary schools. Research comparing pure-tone thresholds obtained in sound booths compared to quiet test environments outside of these booths does not support that belief. Auditory processing testing is generally carried out at above threshold levels, and therefore may be even less likely to require a soundproof booth. The present study was carried out to compare test results in soundproof booths versus quiet rooms. Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine whether auditory processing tests can be administered in a quiet test room rather than in the soundproof test suite. The outcomes would identify that audiologists can provide auditory processing testing for children under various test conditions including quiet rooms at their school. Research design A battery of auditory processing tests was administered at a test level equivalent to 50 dB HL through headphones. The same equipment was used for testing in both locations. Study sample Twenty participants identified with normal hearing were included in this study, ten having no auditory processing concerns and ten exhibiting auditory processing problems. All participants underwent a battery of tests, both inside the test booth and outside the booth in a quiet room. Order of testing (inside versus outside) was counterbalanced. Data collection and analysis Participants were first determined to have normal hearing thresholds for tones and speech. Auditory processing tests were recorded and presented from an HP EliteBook laptop computer with noise-canceling headphones attached to a y-cord that not only presented the test stimuli to the participants but also allowed monitor headphones to be worn by the evaluator. The same equipment was used inside as well as outside the booth. Results No differences were found for each auditory processing measure as a function of the test setting or the order in which testing was done, that is, in the booth or in the room. Conclusions Results from the present study indicate that one can obtain the same results on auditory processing tests, regardless of whether testing is completed in a soundproof booth or in a quiet test environment. Therefore, audiologists should not be required to test for auditory processing in a soundproof booth. This study shows that audiologists can conduct testing in a quiet room so long as the background noise is sufficiently controlled.
Chapter IV-1 – Overview of Potential Hazards

Publisher Summary In manufacturing photovoltaic (PV) cells, health may be adversely affected by different classes of chemical and physical hazards. This chapter focuses on chemical hazards in manufacturing photovoltaic cells. The manufacture of photovoltaic modules uses some hazardous materials which can present health and safety hazards, if adequate precautions are not taken. In the manufacture of wafer-based crystalline silicon solar cells, occupational health issues are related to potential chemical burns and the inhalation of fumes from hydrofluoric acid (HF), nitric acid (e.g., HNO3) and alkalis (e.g., NaOH) used for wafer cleaning, removing dopant oxides, and reactor cleaning. Dopant gases and vapors also are hazardous if inhaled. The main safety hazard of this technology is the use of silane (SiH4) gas, which is extremely pyrophoric. The lower limit for its spontaneous ignition in air ranges from 2% to 3%, depending on the carrier gas. If mixing is incomplete, a pyrophoric concentration may exist locally, even if the concentration of SiH4 in the carrier gas is less than 2%. At silane concentrations equal to or greater than 4.5%, the mixtures are found to be metastable and ignited after a certain delay. In an accident, this event could be extremely destructive as protection provided by venting would be ineffective.
Highly Efficient, Rapid and Co-CRISPR-Independent Genome Editing in Caenorhabditis elegans

We describe a rapid and highly efficient method to generate point mutations in Caenorhabditis elegans using direct injection of CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoproteins. This versatile method does not require sensitized genetic backgrounds or co-CRISPR selection-based methods, and represents a single strategy that can be used for creating genomic point mutations, regardless of location. As proof of principle, we show that knock-in mutants more faithfully report variant-associated phenotypes as compared to transgenic overexpression. Data for nine knock-in mutants across five genes are presented that demonstrate high editing efficiencies (60%), a reduced screening workload (24 F1 progeny), and a rapid timescale (4–5 d). This optimized method simplifies genome engineering and is readily adaptable to other model systems.
The Effects of Features of Survey Measurement on Self-Rated Health: Response Option Order and Scale Orientation

Self-rated health (SRH) is widely used to study health across a range of disciplines. However, relatively little research examines how features of its measurement in surveys influence respondents’ answers and the overall quality of the resulting measurement. Manipulations of response option order and scale orientation are particularly relevant to assess for SRH given the increasing prominence of web-based survey data collection and since these factors are often outside of the control of the researcher who is analyzing data collected by other investigators. We examine how the interplay of two features of SRH influence respondents’ answers in a 2-by-3 factorial experiment that varies (1) the order in which the response options are presented (“excellent” to “poor” or “poor” to “excellent”) and (2) the orientation of the response option scale (vertical, horizontal, or banked). The experiment was conducted online using workers from Amazon Mechanical Turk (N = 2945). We find no main effects of response scale orientation and no interaction between response option order and scale orientation. However, we find main effects of response option order: mean SRH and the proportion in “excellent” or “very good” health are higher (better) and the proportion in “fair” or “poor” health lower when the response options are ordered from “excellent” to “poor” compared to “poor” to “excellent.” We also see heterogeneous treatment effects of response option ordering across respondents’ characteristics associated with ability. Overall, the implications for the validity and cross-survey comparability of SRH are likely considerable for response option ordering and minimal for scale orientation.
Atrial Fibrillation: A Biopsychosocial Approach to Patient Management

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is by far the most common arrhythmia in clinical practice, affecting approximately 2.2 million Americans, with an incidence rate of 160,000 new cases per year (Lloyd-Jones et al., 2009). It is estimated that by the year 2050, AF will affect 5.6 million Americans. The cost of managing AF and its associated complications in Medicare patients has been estimated to be $15.7 billion per year (Lee et al., 2008).
Biochemical and Biologic Problems and Pitfalls in the Prenatal Diagnosis of Inborn Errors of Metabolism

Rapid expansion of our knowledge of the biochemical basis of inherited metabolic disorders during recent years and the development of new diagnostic methods have led to rapid advances in the intrauterine diagnosis of the inborn errors of metabolism. Amniocentesis continues to be the primary tool. Cell-free amniotic fluid, noncultivated amniotic fluid cells, and cultivated amniotic fluid cells have all been utilized in the prenatal diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism, and, given the appropriate circumstances, each may provide important information regarding the status of the fetus. The accuracy of prenatal biochemical diagnosis has generally been very high, but errors have occurred. It is of paramount importance that extreme caution be exercised in the interpretation of prenatal studies. In many instances, a decision as to whether or not a pregnancy will be continued is based on the result of a single laboratory study. The responsibility entrusted to those involved in prenatal diagnostic studies is therefore great. It is essential that everyone involved in such endeavors be thoroughly familiar with the origin and characteristics of normal amniotic fluid and amniotic fluid cells. The normal variability in any biochemical or cytological characteristic must be well defined before the results obtained from a particular analysis can be assumed to represent fetal abnormality.
Sensory Biology: Structure of an Insect Chemoreceptor

Summary Odorant receptors detect a vast diversity of chemical compounds and underlie many aspects of life. The structure of insect odorant receptors, however, has remained unknown. A cryo-EM study now reveals an intriguing architecture.
Enhanced branch and bound approach for receding horizon based planning

In this work, we present an efficient planning algorithm for flexible manufacturing industries. In particular, we modified a traditional branch and bound approach to be used in a receding horizon manner by adopting the terminal cost concept from model predictive control domain. Thus, the proposed algorithm combines best practices from traditional planning and scheduling as well as from process control. The efficacy of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated on job shop problems of different sizes. Results are compared with traditional branch and bound based planning. The initial results are encouraging and demonstrate superior performance as well as scalability for large problems.
Milk and Milk ProductsOpen image in new window

Milk is the first food of young mammals produced by the mammary glands of female mammals. It is a mixture of fat and high-quality protein in water and contains some carbohydrate (lactose), vitamins, and minerals. Milk and milk products may be obtained from different species, such as goats and sheep, although the focus of this chapter is on cow’s milk and milk products.
Functionalized carbon nanotube immobilized membrane for low temperature ammonia removal via membrane distillation

Abstract Enhanced ammonia separation via direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) using carbon nanotube immobilized membranes (CNIMs) is presented. The CNIMs were prepared using raw carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as well as more polar carboxylated carbon nanotubes referred to as f-CNTs. The ammonia removal by both CNIMs were markedly superior to that of the original PTFE membrane, while functionalized CNIM (CNIM-f) showed the best performance in terms of flux, mass transfer coefficients and selectivity. The flux with f-CNTs was 63% higher than the PTFE membrane and 22% higher than raw CNTs. Similar trends were observed for ammonia removal efficiency and mass transfer coefficients that were also significantly higher for the f-CNTs. The ammonia selectivity with respect to water vapor decreased with temperature for the PTFE and CNIM with raw CNTs, but in the presence of f-CNTs the selectivity did not show any decrease with temperature. The enhancement in ammonia removal with f-CNTs is attributed to the favored chemisorption of ammonia on the f-CNTs which was evident from contact angle measurements that showed a dramatic decrease for aqueous ammonia in the presence of the carboxylic groups.
Transverse jet lock-in and quasiperiodicity

An experimental study explores the dynamics of lock-in and quasiperiodicity phenomena associated with upstream shear layer instabilities for a gaseous transverse jet exposed to axisymmetric excitation. Various dynamical responses are dependent on the jet-to-crossflow momentum flux ratio.
Estimation of Cardiovascular Risk from Self-Reported Knowledge of Risk Factors: Insights from the Minnesota Heart Survey.

Background Cost-effective primary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) relies on accuracy of risk assessment. Current risk scores require clinical and laboratory measures, are expensive and are often difficult to apply in the population setting. Objective This study sought to estimate CVD risk from individuals' knowledge of their own CVD risk factors and compare it to the risk calculated from measured risk factors. Methods Using the ACC/AHA Pooled Cohort Risk Equations (PCE), we calculated 10-year CVD risk for 9856 primary prevention individuals aged 40-79 in the Minnesota Heart Survey (MHS). Using log-linear regression models, we estimated PCE risk from the individual's self-reported knowledge of four dichotomous risk factors: hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, and smoking. Age was included in all models, and models were developed separately in women and men. Model performance was assessed internally using leave-one-out cross-validation. Results The median measured PCE CVD risk in women was 2.1% (IQR: 0.8-5.6%), and in men was 6.3% (3.1-13.0%). Using the newly developed equations, the median estimated risk was 2.2% (0.9-5.8%) in women, and 6.9% (3.2-13.1%) in men. Using a threshold of 7.5% to categorize low and high risk, the novel risk calculation gave an accuracy of 95% for women and 87% for men compared to the measured PCE risk. The negative predictive value was 97% for women and 91% in men. Conclusion Self-reported knowledge of risk may be useful in the identification of individuals at low risk for CV events, however, should always be followed up with measurement of risk factors if symptoms or history suggest CVD.
A Fast and Robust System Identification on Compressive Sensing Signal Recovery Based on Multiple Time-Vary Step-size Adaptation Technique

To improve the robustness of the algorithm against unknown sparsity levels, and to reduce the trading-off between complexity and quality of recovering sparse signals, a new technique for sparse signal reconstruction in compressive sensing (CS) is presented. The solution presented in this work based on a recently proposed algorithm that innovatively employs a tap-individualized time-varying stepsize for system identification. It converts the matrix operation of existing approaches to vector implementation and exploits the well-known property of time-varying stepsize algorithms of noise-tolerance in signal reconstruction. The essence is to allocate each tap a unique time-varying stepsize that updates according to the power of each row of the measurement matrix to control the step of decreasing of each stepsize individually. Advantages of the proposed technique such as robustness against sparsity level and noisy signals, and achieving faster convergence rate are demonstrated numerically.
State expenditures to public higher education and regional funding norms: a panel data analysis

Using well understood regional indicators we seek to understand if and how region influences state expenditures to public higher education. We employ an econometric technique that allows for estimation of parameter estimates on time-invariant regressors (Census divisions) from 1995-1996 through 2007-2008. Additionally, we are able to provide solid evidence that region matters while also including other well-known drivers of state expenditures to public higher education. We conclude that these relationships are often overlooked in higher education economics research, for better or for worse, and hence warrant further investigation since implications exist for future and prospective policy.
How much does facilitation matter? Comparing externally and participant-facilitated, MQI-based video clubs

Video clubs have become an increasingly popular professional development model. The literature has suggested that when such video analysis groups lack an external facilitator, teacher participants struggle with focusing on salient aspects of mathematical practice. However, there is little research comparing externally and participant-led facilitation of, otherwise, identical professional development. This paper seeks to add to our understanding of professional development facilitation by reporting on a study in which video clubs were randomly assigned to either externally or participant-led groups for an MQI-based video analysis program. MQI refers to Mathematical Quality of Instruction observational tool, developed by Heather Hill et al. Participants watched lesson segments and scored them using code from the MQI, then discuss their scores using evidence from the clip and the MQI in pairs and then groups. We recorded whole group discussions and coded conversations for research-based, high-quality discourse moves. We also tracked participants MQI scores and coded lesson/video reflections for MQI noticing. We found no differences in either MQI noticing or conversation quality between group types, on average. Despite what current research suggests, we found participant-facilitated groups were able to sustain high-quality conversations as externally facilitated groups, though there was variability within group type. In this paper, we explore some factors which may have contributed to this variation, including the professional development model, itself.
Persistence of abnormal global longitudinal strain in women with peripartum cardiomyopathy.

Objectives Data regarding the longitudinal relationship of global longitudinal strain (GLS) and echocardiographic parameters are lacking in peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). We evaluated GLS and its correlation with change (∆) in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Methods We retrospectively identified women age ≥16 years hospitalized at Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx, NY from 1999-2015 with International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 9th revision codes for PPCM or an occurrence of unexplained heart failure during or up to 5 months postpartum. N = 195 charts were reviewed for inclusion/exclusion criteria, n = 53 patients met criteria for PPCM, and of those, n = 13 had a baseline and follow-up echocardiogram suitable for GLS analysis. Results Of those eligible for strain analysis, the mean age was 30 ± 6 years, 46.2% identified as Black and 38.5% as Hispanic/Latina. Baseline LVEF was 30 (25, 35)%, GLS was -13.2 (-14, -7.6)%. At a mean follow-up time of 1.2 ± 0.7 years, 11/13 had persistently mild -15.6 (-16.3, -12.7)%, and 2/13 severely abnormal GLS -7.05 (-7.1, -7.0)%. There was no correlation between baseline GLS and ∆LVEF (r = .014, P = .965). Conclusions Global longitudinal strain is a sensitive method to identify subclinical myocardial dysfunction. In this series of women with PPCM, GLS remained persistently abnormal over time, even if LVEF improved. Future studies should examine the implication of persistently abnormal GLS in PPCM.
Prepatellar Glomus Tumor of the Knee without an Identifiable Mass on MRI: A Case Report.

Case A 71-year-old man presented with extreme anterior knee pain. His history, physical examination, and imaging were consistent with prepatellar bursitis, but his pain seemed out of proportion for these findings. The patient eventually underwent marginal excision of the inflamed prepatellar bursa which histopathology identified as a glomangioma. Postoperatively, he has complete resolution of his pain and has returned to his daily activities. Conclusion Glomus tumors are a rare cause of severe knee pain that completely resolves after excision. In the patient with extreme, localized knee sensitivity, it is important to consider this pathology even if no mass is identified on imaging.
Gauge Dependence of the S̃ Molecular Orbital Space Decomposition of Optical Rotation.

The measurement of optical rotation (OR) is a foundational technique for the detection and characterization of chiral molecules, but it is poorly understood how the observed property relates to the structure of the molecule. Over the years, several schemes have been developed to decompose the OR into more chemically intuitive contributions. In this paper, we introduce two alternative formulations of our previously developed S molecular orbital space decomposition. These new expressions use the modified velocity gauge-magnetic (MVG-M) and -electric (MVG-E) definitions of OR, rather than the length gauge-magnetic (LG-M) definition used in the original paper. Comparing these formulations across a small set of previously studied chiral molecules, we find that these different definitions produce consistent physical interpretations of the OR. These results demonstrate that the S methodology for investigations of structure-property relationships in chiral molecules is insensitive to the choice of gauge.
School-Based Interventions for Posttraumatic Stress Among Children (Ages 5–11): Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Exposure to trauma at a younger age has been associated with an increased likelihood of developing PTSD. School-based interventions have been utilized to address traumatic stress and PTSD symptoms in children. However, to date, no meta-analyses have been performed to evaluate the strength of intervention impacts on PTS symptoms in school-aged children, ages 5–11. Thus, the current review sought to address these gaps. Nine international databases were searched during the study’s timeframe. Inclusion criteria were: (1) randomized controlled trials of an intervention or prevention program, (2) implementation in a school-based setting, (3) children aged 5–11, and (4) an outcome variable for PTS or PTSD. Although 26 studies met the above criteria, 21 studies met all inclusion criteria, including the data necessary to run the analysis, and were ultimately included in the meta-analysis. Random effects models were used; the standard mean difference was reported at -.30, which was determined as statistically significant (t = − 2.70, p = .01; 95% CI: [− 0.52, -0.07]). The results indicate that school-based interventions can effectively reduce posttraumatic stress in young children. These results indicate that school-based programs to address trauma in children may be an effective strategy to reduce PTS-related symptoms. Some limitations include a small number of studies included in the meta-analysis. Additionally, few studies reported enough detail to determine racial and ethnic demographic and specific age outcomes. As a result, it was not possible to isolate the specific effects on the intended age group and conduct moderator effects for racial and ethnic demographic data.