cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A new learning approach to design fault tolerant ANNs: finally a zero HW-SW overhead

We present a new approach to design fault tolerant artificial neural networks (ANNs). Additionally, this approach allows estimating the final network reliability. This approach is based on the mutation analysis technique and is used during the training process of the ANN. The basic idea is to train the ANN in the presence of faults (single-fault model is assumed). To do so, a set of faults is injected into the code describing the ANN. This procedure yields mutation versions of the original ANN code, which in turn are used to train the network in an iterative process with the designer until the moment when the ANN is no longer sensible to the single faults injected. In other words, the network became tolerant to the considered set of faults. A practical example where an ANN is used to recognize an electrocardiogram (ECG) and to measure ECG parameters illustrates the proposed methodology.
Estimating defects in commercial software during operational use

A new model that accounts for the usage growth of commercial software during the operational phase, and that incorporates a factor to estimate (from field-failure reports) the usage growth is presented. The model can estimate the number of remaining unique defects in wide-distribution commercial software during the operational phase, and the anticipated arrival times of customer-reported failures attributable to these unique defects. The model is based on the Weibull distribution, which assumes that field usage of commercial software increases as a power function of time. The model was fit to the actual failure times for two commercial software products-one that runs on 10/sup 5/ systems, and the other that runs on 10/sup 4/ systems. The model fits the general shape of the arrival distribution for the actual defect discovery times, but there are minor peaks in the example data that are not explained by the model. Some of the minor modes correspond to peak defect discovery times for subsequent releases of the software. >
World Bank experience with tourism projects.

Abstract This paper is concerned with the World Bank's direct support of tourism projects during the decade (ending in June 1979) of the existence of the Bank's specialized tourism department. A selection of four completed projects has been made to illustrate the main categories of projects financed.
Effects of reproduction methods and overstory species composition on understory light availability in longleaf pine–slash pine ecosystems

Abstract The restoration of longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) ecosystem types ranging from xeric uplands to hydric flatwoods is the goal of significant management efforts in the southeastern United States. Overstory species composition across ecosystem types varies from pure longleaf to mixed species stands, with slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) becoming more predominant on hydric soils, though species rich understories are prevalent throughout the landscape. Understory light regime has been determined to be one of many important environmental factors affecting regeneration and understory diversity; however it is not clear how different management regimes across ecosystem types affect light levels during restoration of degraded sites. In this study, we used Digital Hemispherical Photography (DHP) at multiple sites in northwest and north-central Florida to examine understory light availability in longleaf/slash pine forests treated with shelterwood and uneven-aged systems relative to uncut control plots. Basal area in these stands ranged from approximately 5.0 m2 ha−1 to 40 m2 ha−1 and species composition ranged from pure longleaf pine to pure slash pine. As expected, these management systems led to significant decreases in leaf area index (LAI), cover fraction, direct fraction of Absorbed Photosynthetically Active Radiation (fAPAR) and diffuse fAPAR, and increase in visible sky. These changes indicated increased light availability in shelterwood and uneven-aged stands compared to uncut control stands. Mean LAI ranged between 1.7 and 1.8 for control plots and from 0.3 to 0.9 for the various management systems. Shelterwood systems generally had the highest amount of understory light availability, while the greatest variability was observed in the group selection system. The overstory species composition also affected understory light availability. For a given basal area, longleaf pine showed greater understory light availability than slash pine. Light availability in mixed species stands differed significantly from pure longleaf pine stands only when the proportion of slash pine basal area was 70% or higher. Our observations suggest advantages of group selection management over the other management systems when understory restoration is a primary objective, but long-term monitoring of the understory will be needed for confirmation.
Functional scales: summary.

(2002). Functional scales: Summary. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Other Motor Neuron Disorders: Vol. 3, No. sup1, pp. S13-S18.
Ultrastructure of gastric myxofibroma with intracytoplasmic collagen.

Electron microscopy of a small mass removed from the stomach of a 65-year-old woman demonstrated a myxofibroma composed of a pure population of fibroblasts, many of which contained intracytoplasmic, membrane-bound collagen fibers similar to those found in a few other human tumors and in certain experimental conditions. This ultrastructural documentation supports the hypothesis that pure fibrous neoplasms of the stomach do occur. Electron microscopy of gastric mesenchymal tumors almost always allows for confident differentiation among fibrous, neural, and smooth muscle neoplasms.
Functional Changes During Acute Rehabilitation in Patients with Stroke

The purpose of this study was to analyze functional change levels and determine Spearman rank order correlation coefficients about information gleaned from physical therapy discharge notes for a group of 212 patients with stroke who received physical therapy during an acute rehabilitation stay. Functional changes were determined in the categories of wheelchair skills, transfer ability, bed (mat) mobility, and ambulation. Comparisons also were made between a subgroup of the most severely involved patients and a subgroup of the least involved patients. The correlations between these functional changes and days of physical therapy were determined. Four conclusions were deduced: 1) All patients improved functionally after a stroke, 2) the improvement was related to the amount of time spent in physical therapy, 3) the more severely involved patients exhibited a greater relationship between functional gains and days spent in physical therapy than the least involved patients, and 4) the least involved patients exhibited the most gains in function. The implications of these findings were discussed.
Further evidence for addition and numerical competence by a Grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus)

A Grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus), able to quantify sets of eight or fewer items (including heterogeneous subsets), to sum two sequentially presented sets of 0–6 items (up to 6), and to identify and serially order Arabic numerals (1–8), all by using English labels (Pepperberg in J Comp Psychol 108:36–44, 1994; J Comp Psychol 120:1–11, 2006a; J Comp Psychol 120:205–216, 2006b; Pepperberg and Carey submitted), was tested on addition of two Arabic numerals or three sequentially presented collections (e.g., of variously sized jelly beans or nuts). He was, without explicit training and in the absence of the previously viewed addends, asked, “How many total?” and required to answer with a vocal English number label. In a few trials on the Arabic numeral addition, he was also shown variously colored Arabic numerals while the addends were hidden and asked “What color number (is the) total?” Although his death precluded testing on all possible arrays, his accuracy was statistically significant and suggested addition abilities comparable with those of nonhuman primates.
Design, Construction, and Testing of an Inductive Pulsed-Power Supply for a Small Railgun

Advances in high-power-density batteries have rekindled interest in using inductive store as a pulse compression system. Although these batteries are considered very power dense, they lack over an order of magnitude of power density to drive a deployable electric gun. However, one can add an inductive circuit to a battery bank to make a hybrid system that has a much higher power density than batteries alone. A battery-inductor hybrid pulsed-power supply boasts several advantages over pulsed alternators, as inductors are static and relatively easy to cool. Inductors are potentially more energy dense than capacitors, making a battery-inductor hybrid pulsed-power supply an attractive alternative to capacitor-based pulsed-power supplies. The opening switch has been a major obstacle in previous inductive store projects, but in simulation, a new circuit topology-the Slow Transfer of Energy Through Capacitive Hybrid (STRETCH) meat grinder-greatly attenuates the problem. This paper discusses the design, construction, and testing of a small-scale STRETCH meat grinder system, which was successfully used to power a miniature railgun
Enhanced proteolysis of IκBα and IκBβ proteins in astrocytes by Moloney murine leukemia virus (MoMuLV)-ts1 infection: A potential mechanism of NF-κB activation

Moloney murine leukemia virus (MoMuLV)-ts1-mediated neuronal degeneration in mice is likely due to loss of glial support and release of inflammatory cytokines and neurotoxins from surrounding ts1-infected glial cells including astrocytes. NF-κB is a transcription factor that participates in the transcriptional activation of a variety of immune and inflammatory genes. We investigated whether ts1 activates NF-κB in astrocytes and examined the mechanism(s) responsible for the activation of NF-κB by ts1 infection in vitro. Here we present evidence that ts1 infection of astrocytes in vitro activates NF-κB by enhanced proteolysis of the NF-κB inhibitors, IκBα and IκBβ. In in vitro studies using protease inhibitors, IκBα proteolysis in ts1-infected astrocytes was significantly blocked by a specific calpain inhibitor calpeptin but not by MG-132, a specific proteasome inhibitor, whereas rapid IκBβ proteolysis was blocked by MG-132. Furthermore, treatment with MG-132 increased levels of multi-ubiquitinated IκBβ protein in ts1-infected astrocytes. These results indicate that the calpain proteolysis is a major mechanism of IκBα proteolysis in ts1-infected astrocytes. Additionally, ts1 infection of astrocytes in vitro increased expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), a NF-κB-dependent gene product. Our results suggest that NF-κB activation in ts1-infected astrocytes is mediated by enhanced proteolysis of IκBα and IκBβ through two different proteolytic pathways, the calpain and ubiquitin-proteasome pathways, resulting in increased expression of iNOS, a NF-κB-dependent gene.
Aminoimidazole Carboxamide Ribonucleotide (AICAR) Inhibits the Growth of Retinoblastoma In Vivo by Decreasing Angiogenesis and Inducing Apoptosis

5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-4-ribofuranoside (AICAR), an analog of AMP is widely used as an activator of AMP-kinase (AMPK), a protein that regulates the responses of the cell to energy change. Recently, we showed that AICAR-induced AMPK activation inhibits the growth of retinoblastoma cells in vitro by decreasing cyclins and by inducing apoptosis and S-phase arrest. In this study, we investigated the effects of AMPK activator AICAR on the growth of retinoblastoma in vivo. Intraperitoneal injection of AICAR resulted in 48% growth inhibition of Y79 retinoblastoma cell tumors in mice. Tumors isolated from mice treated with AICAR had decreased expression of Ki67 and increased apoptotic cells (TUNEL positive) compared with the control. In addition, AICAR treatment suppressed significantly tumor vessel density and macrophage infiltration. We also showed that AICAR administration resulted in AMPK activation and mTOR pathway inhibition. Paradoxically observed down-regulation of p21, which indicates that p21 may have a novel function of an oncogene in retinoblastoma tumor. Our results indicate that AICAR treatment inhibited the growth of retinoblastoma tumor in vivo via AMPK/mTORC1 pathway and by apoptogenic, anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenesis mechanism. AICAR is a promising novel non-chemotherapeutic drug that may be effective as an adjuvant in treating Retinoblastoma.
The personal experience of pregnancy for African-American women.

This study describes the personal experiences of pregnancy for African-American women. Data were obtained from two group interviews with four African-American nurse-midwives who had experienced pre...
FORWARD PEAK STRUCTURE IN QUASI-TWO-BODY REACTIONS AND LONG-RANGE PION EXCHANGE.

We find that a coherent-droplet model with long-range pion exchange successfully fits the forward peak structure of the differential cross sections for ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\rho}}^{0}{\ensuremath{\Delta}}^{++}$, ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{f}^{0}{\ensuremath{\Delta}}^{++}$, ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\rho}}^{0}n$, ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\rho}}^{+}p$, $\mathrm{pp}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}n{\ensuremath{\Delta}}^{++}$, ${K}^{\ensuremath{-}}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{K}^{*0}(890)n$, and ${K}^{\ensuremath{-}}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{K}^{*\ensuremath{-}}(890)p$. For $\ensuremath{-}{t}^{\ensuremath{'}}l0.02$ ${(\mathrm{G}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}/\mathit{c})}^{2}$, the measured differential cross sections exhibit anomalous behaviors: spikes and dips and no structure. The different behaviors are explained mainly by the kinematic structure of pion-pole residues. In some of the reactions, the known magnitude of the pion-pole residue leads us to expect structures near ${t}^{\ensuremath{'}}=0$ which require data with higher statistical precision for confirmation. In ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{f}^{0}{\ensuremath{\Delta}}^{++}$ at 8 GeV/c, our model can explain the absence of an anomaly near ${t}^{\ensuremath{'}}=0$ in terms of the large distance from the physical region to the pion pole. However, this distance decreases with increasing energy, and our model predicts structure near ${t}^{\ensuremath{'}}=0$ in ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}p\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{f}^{0}{\ensuremath{\Delta}}^{++}$ at 16 GeV/c.
Antibiotic and Deterrent Qualities of Endophyte-Infected Tall Fescue to Two Aphid Species (Homoptera: Aphididae)

Poor survival and reproduction of the aphid Rhopalosiphum padi (L.) was observed on tall fescue plants infected with the endophytic fungus Acremonium coenophialum Morgan-Jones & Gams. Reproduction was always much higher on uninfected plants, but on older infected plants, some R. padi survived long enough to molt and reproduce. In choice studies, R. padi and the greenbug, Schizaphis graminum (Rondani), preferred uninfected fescue plants. Greenbugs quickly destroyed their uninfected hosts and died. Those S. graminum that moved to infected plants also died. High numbers of R. padi on fescue plants could be a reliable indicator for the absence of endophyte-associated alkaloids that cause resistance to a number of other insect herbivores.
A technic for the preparation of isolated rat adrenal cells.

SummaryA simple and reproducible technic for the preparation of active isolated rat adrenal cells has been described. Quartered glands are incubated at 37° with mechanical agitation in the presence of trypsin (0.25%). The dispersed cells are collected by centrifugation and suspended in Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate buffer to which has been added glucose (0.2%), albumin (3.0%) and trypsin inhibitor (2 mg/ml). Aliquots of the suspension are incubated at 37° for 2 hr. ACTH in concentrations of 10, 40, and 160 μU increases corticosterone production by the isolated cells. The regression line relating corticosterone production and log dose of ACTH is straight.
Endemism in the moss flora of North America

PREMISE OF THE STUDY Identifying regions of high endemism is a critical step toward understanding the mechanisms underlying diversification and establishing conservation priorities. Here, we identified regions of high moss endemism across North America. We also identified lineages that contribute disproportionately to endemism and document the progress of efforts to inventory the endemic flora. METHODS To understand the documentation of endemic moss diversity in North America, we tabulated species publication dates to document the progress of species discovery across the continent. We analyzed herbarium specimen data and distribution data from the Flora of North America project to delineate major regions of moss endemism. Finally, we surveyed the literature to assess the importance of intercontinental vs. within-continent diversification for generating endemic species. KEY RESULTS Three primary regions of endemism were identified and two of these were further divided into a total of nine subregions. Overall endemic richness has two peaks, one in northern California and the Pacific Northwest, and the other in the southern Appalachians. Description of new endemic species has risen steeply over the last few decades, especially in western North America. Among the few studies documenting sister species relationships of endemics, recent diversification appears to have played a larger role in western North America, than in the east. CONCLUSIONS Our understanding of bryophyte endemism continues to grow rapidly. Large continent-wide data sets confirm early views on hotspots of endemic bryophyte richness and indicate a high rate of ongoing species discovery in North America.
Isometric Detrusor Pressure during Bladder Filling and its Dependency on Bladder Volume and Interruption to Flow in Control Subjects

AbstractWe characterized the isometric pressures generated by the bladder during voluntary detrusor contraction and interruption of flow. Urodynamic studies were done in 34 healthy female volunteers, with a mean age of 29.6 plus or minus 9.3 years.Control urodynamics were done first to characterize bladder and urethral parameters to filling and voiding. Subsequently, isometric detrusor pressures were elicited during bladder filling at increments of 100ml. by asking subjects to attempt to void against a urethral obstruction produced by an inflated Foley balloon. Isometric pressures also were obtained by interruption of flow through the lumen of the 22F Foley catheter. The results showed that the maximum isometric pressure increase generated remained relatively constant during bladder filling at 39.6 plus or minus 13.1cm. water. This pressure is not significantly different from voiding pressures developed with a 10F urethral catheter. On the other hand, isometric pressure increases during voiding showed tha...
Structural and magnetic properties of granular Cr100 − xFex

Abstract Granular films of Cr-Re have been prepared by d.c. magnetron sputtering over the Cr content range 10–90 at.%, on both heated and water-cooled substrates. Transmission electron microscopy studies, used for the microstructural characterization of the samples, show a composition-dependent grain size, in the range 10–150 A. X-ray studies showed that the CR-rich and Fe-rich samples are b.c.c. Those with intermediate composition showed extra diffraction lines which may be indexed with the Cr s.c. structure. Magnetic properties, such as coecivity H C and giant magnetoresistance, were also found to be strongly composition dependent, with maximum values of 320 Oe and 7.5% respectively, measured at 35 K.
Electrocatalysis Paradigm for Protection of Cathode Materials in High-Voltage Lithium-Ion Batteries

A new mechanistic framework is suggested to account for the protective action of certain electrolyte additives on high-voltage positive electrode (cathode) materials. The mechanism involves inactivation of catalytically active centers on the electrode active materials through fragmentation reactions involving molecules at its surface. The cathode protection additives oxidize before the solvent and serve as sacrificial inhibitors of the catalytic centers. Without the additive, the surface oxidation of the solvent (like solvent oxidation in the bulk) yields H loss radicals and releases the proton that can combine with anions forming corrosive acids. This proton-release reaction is demonstrated experimentally for boronate additives. Specific radical reactions for the latter additives on the electrode surface are suggested. The same approach can be used to rationalize the protective action of other additives and account for various observations regarding their performance.
Psychometric properties of the PACT Scale and relations with symptoms of PTSD.

Objective Healing from trauma has been conceptualized as either facing the trauma head-on or moving beyond the trauma and focusing on the future. Emerging research suggests that the greatest healing may result from the ability to adaptively use both (i.e., coping flexibility). The current study sought to examine the psychometric properties of a self-report scale of coping flexibility: the Perceived Ability to Cope With Trauma (PACT) Scale. Method Participants included 322 undergraduate students enrolled in an introductory psychology course at a large Midwestern university. Analyses used the PACT's 2 scales, Trauma Focus and Forward Focus, as well as its flexibility score that is derived from these scales. Confirmatory factor analysis of the PACT was performed in Mplus. Results The PACT scales demonstrated high internal consistency and convergent validity with measures of experiential avoidance, distress tolerance, self-compassion, perceived stress, and PTSD symptoms. Discriminant validity was demonstrated by nonsignificant relations with fight and flight responding. All 3 PACT scores demonstrated significant relations with PTSD symptom clusters. The 2-factor model of the PACT demonstrated good fit after using item parceling. Conclusion Overall, the current analyses support and replicate the psychometric properties and construct validity of the PACT as a measure of adaptive trauma-related coping. Further, the PACT scales are significantly negatively related to PTSD symptom clusters, suggesting that the greater one's perceived ability to use Trauma Focus and Forward Focus skills flexibly, the less severe he or she will experience symptoms of reexperiencing, avoidance/numbing, and hyperarousal. Future applications are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record
Good Practices in Local Jewish Community Studies

Survey research is both an art and a science. Once the issues to be addressed by a local Jewish community study are defined, one has to deal with questions of sampling, selecting a survey mechanism, designing a questionnaire, producing reports, and presenting results. This paper deals with various aspects of these four major components of conducting a local Jewish community study. Note that the title of this paper refers to “good practices” and not “best practices.” This is mainly a reflection of the fact that all local Jewish community studies are conducted within an environment of limited financial resources. Best practices would require a much larger budget than Jewish federations can muster for such projects. This paper argues for three things: (1) the importance of using a random digit dialing telephone survey to produce a probability sample that can be used to represent the entire Jewish population and to estimate the size of the Jewish population, (2) the importance, while meeting the specific needs of the community commissioning a given study, of maintaining comparability with other studies, and (3) the need to produce reports that communicate all the results to the community.
Comparative Evaluation of the Difco Disc Assay Method for Detecting Penicillin in Milk and Milk Products

The Difco disc assay method to detect antibiotic residues was evaluated and compared with the Bacillus subtilis disc assay and the Sarcinia lutea cylinder plate methods. The Difco method, using both color change and zone of inhibition as indicator, was able to detect penicillin to levels as low as 0.002 units per ml. Of 5200 raw milk samples analyzed for presence of penicillin in a commercial laboratory, the B. subtilis disc assay method identified and confirmed as positive 12 samples (0.239%). The Difco disc assay method identified 61 samples as positive for inhibitor, of which 48 (0.92%) were confirmed as positive for penicillin. Of 37 of these latter samples, analyzed also by the S. lutea cylinder plate method, 29 (78.4%) yielded positive results. The Difco procedure was found effective as a test method for detecting penicillin in finished fluid milk products.
Manganese-enhanced MRI Offers Correlation with Severity of Spinal Cord Injury in Experimental Models

Background Spinal cord injuries (SCI) are clinically challenging, because neural regeneration after cord damage is unknown. In SCI animal models, regeneration is evaluated histologically, requiring animal sacrifice. Noninvasive techniques are needed to detect longitudinal SCI changes. Objective To compare manganese-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI [MEMRI]) in hemisection and transection of SCI rat models with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and histology. Methods Rats underwent T9 spinal cord transection (n=6), hemisection (n=6), or laminectomy without SCI (controls, n=6). One-half of each group received lateral ventricle MnCl2 injections 24 hours later. Conventional DTI or T1-weighted MRI was performed 84 hours post-surgery. MEMRI signal intensity ratio above and below the SCI level was calculated. Fractional anisotropy (FA) measurements were taken 1 cm rostral to the SCI. The percentage of FA change was calculated 10 mm rostral to the SCI epicenter, between FA at the dorsal column lesion normalized to a lateral area without FA change. Myelin load (percentage difference) among groups was analyzed by histology. Results In transection and hemisection groups, mean MEMRI ratios were 0.62 and 0.87, respectively, versus 0.99 in controls (P Conclusion MEMERI results correlated to SCI severity measured by FA and myelin load. MEMRI is a useful noninvasive tool to assess neuronal damage after SCI.
Designing an Undergraduate Minor Program in E-Discovery

While the market for the E-Discovery (Electronic Discovery) is predicted to grow rapidly in coming years, the anticipated shortage of electronic discovery professionals is a result of the lack of education programs in this emerging field. In this paper, an undergraduate minor program in electronic discovery is proposed based on the experience and accomplishment of an established computer forensics program at a public university. Not only will the new program meet the demand of a booming job market, it is also an inspiring practice in expanding computer science education to a non-programming-centric field.
29 Open-pilot of an ed-based multi-session remote therapy intervention (rti) for violence

Statement-of-Purpose Violence is a leading cause of death for urban youth. This pilot evaluated the feasibility of a remote therapy intervention (RTI) for violence and substance use among drug-using youth seeking Emergency Department (ED) care for assault. Methods Youth (age:14–24) with assault-injury were approached in the ED; those screening positive for past 6 month drug use were enrolled in an open pilot. The 8-session RTI combined elements of motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioural therapy for substance use/violence (e.g., refusal skills, conflict resolution, anger management), and strengths-based care management to link youth with community resources. The RTI was delivered in-person by a therapist during the ED visit (~35 min) and remotely (e.g., phone) in the 12 weeks following the visit. Computerised assessments were completed at baseline,~weekly prior to sessions, and at a 4 month follow-up. Results were analysed descriptively and with paired tests (baseline, follow-up). Results 20-youth were enrolled in the pilot [M age=21; 55% female; 60% African-American; 70% public assistance; 90% past 2 month marijuana use]. The RTI was acceptable and feasible, with 91% enrollment of eligible youth, 100% of enrolled youth completing the in-person ED session, 70% completing 5 remote sessions, and >80% completing the 4 month follow-up. Participants rated sessions highly, with 80% reporting that it was very/extremely helpful to have post-ED phone sessions. Paired comparisons demonstrated a decrease in violence (aggression/victimisation) prevalence (90%-vs.-20%;p Conclusion A multi-session violence intervention delivered remotely is acceptable and feasible. Significance/Contribution Effective individual- and community-based interventions are urgently needed to decrease youth violence. Based on our initial pilot, the RTI is a promising theory-based individual-level intervention for high-risk assault-injured ED youth. Further study is needed to determine intervention efficacy on violence outcomes (e.g., violent re-injury, arrests).
A hierarchical Bayesian approach for examining heterogeneity in choice decisions

Abstract There is a vast behavioral decision theory literature that suggests different individuals may utilize and/or weigh different attributes of an object to form the basis of their opinions, attitudes, choices, and/or evaluations of such stimuli. This heterogeneity of information utilization and importance can be due to several different factors such as differing goals, level of expertise, contextual factors, knowledge accessibility, time pressure, involvement, mood states, task complexity, communication or influence of relevant others, etc. This phenomenon is particularly pertinent to the evaluation of stimuli involving large numbers of underlying attributes or features. We propose a new hierarchical Bayesian multivariate probit mixture model with variable selection accommodating such forms of choice heterogeneity. Based on a Monte Carlo simulation study, we demonstrate that the proposed model can successfully recover true parameters in a robust manner. Next, we provide a consumer psychology application involving consideration to buy choices for intended consumers of large Sports Utility Vehicles. The application illustrates that the proposed model outperforms several comparison benchmark choice models with respect to face validity and choice predictive validation performance.
A Tale of Two Slinkies: Learning about Model Building in a Student-Driven Classroom

We describe a set of conceptual and hands-on activities based around understanding the dynamics of a Slinky that is hung vertically and released from rest. This Slinky drop experiment typically lasts a fraction of a second, but when observed in slow motion, one sees the Slinky compress from the top down while the bottom portion remains at rest—naively seeming to defy gravity—until the Slinky has completed its collapse. The motion, or lack thereof, of the bottom of the Slinky after the top is released sparks student curiosity by challenging expectations and provides motivation and context for learning about scientific model building.
Contingent Valuation Design and Results: Option Price and Use Values

Recently, economists have assessed the state of art in contingent valuation. While this assessment has answered some questions, it has identified new ones. This chapter highlights our interpretation of the key contingent valuation issues. This interpretation is important for understanding the motives behind the development of our survey questionnaire. It also provides additional perspective for the empirical results that also are presented in this chapter. Before describing the empirical results, we discuss a technique for identifying influential observations in the survey data, which is becoming an important empirical issue in contingent valuation studies.
The Impact of Atrial Fibrillation on Hospital Length of Stay After Cardiac Surgery

The economic burden of healthcare expenditures remains a substantial concern nationwide. Physicians, third party payers and governmental agencies have begun to focus on methods to contain costs while maintaining high standards of health care delivery. During this era of widespread healthcare reform, considerable emphasis has been placed on cardiac surgery, a major contributor to gross expenditures. Approximately 500,000 cardiothoracic surgery procedures are performed each year [1] at an estimated cost of $45,000 per procedure [2]. Hospital length of stay after cardiac surgery is an important determinant of total hospital charges. The institution of critical pathways including same day admissions, early extubation, early transfer out of the intensive care unit, and early ambulation, has successfully shortened hospital length of stay after surgery without any adverse effects on morbidity or mortality [3-11]. Several reports have demonstrated a significant decrease in total hospital charges related to cardiac surgery as a result of these modifications [6-9].
Residential Segregation and Ethnic Diversity in the United States

This article aims to explore the existing diversity and segregation evident in US housing, and the economic and ethical implications inherent in the discussion. The article begins by reviewing the existing literature relative to diversity and segregation in housing, and the key issues and debates that have brought us to our current state of affairs. The economics of diversity and segregation in US housing has provided mixed evidence for integration policy and little resolution around this key issue, thus relegating housing to the status quo of segmented communities. The implications of homogeneous income and race communities living apart, however, take us beyond the discussion of housing diversity per se, and beckon us to ethically explore greater issues of societal well-being. Inconclusive research as it relates to integration leads to a socially segregated housing stalemate, where inert communities are more vulnerable and exposed to market failures such as the recent subprime financial crisis in the United States. Thus, my intention is to utilise the subprime crisis as a lens by which to critique and reconsider the existing research, and to highlight the implications for the future of housing segregation and the welfare and well-being of housing inhabitants.
Normothermic Myocardial Preservation

Dennis Melrose and his colleagues {1} in 1955 published the initial work in Lancet on “elective cardiac arrest” using potassium ion in the form of potassium citrate administered through the coronary arteries to effect “cardioplegic arrest.” The authors, far in advance of their time, postulated that this approach could be used to permit cardiac procedures to be carried out in the arrested, quiescent heart, permitting reestablishment of normal cardiac function after correction of the intracardiac defect. This report was initially accepted and used in the clinical setting, albeit in a limited fashion since “open-heart surgery” was not widely utilized in the 1950’s. It rapidly became apparent that significant myocardial necrosis was associated with this technique and the approach was abandoned. {2} In fact, it was not until a number of years later that the deficiencies of the Melrose approach were found to be the relatively high concentration of citrate which was toxic and not the technique of potassium cardioplegia itself. {3}
Immunobiology of periprosthetic inflammation and pain following ultra-high-molecular-weight-polyethylene wear debris in the lumbar spine.

Introduction: Wear debris-induced osteolysis is a common cause of arthroplasty failure in several joints including the knee, hip and intervertebral disc. Debris from the prosthesis can trigger an i...
Promoting structural and species diversity in Great Lakes northern hardwoods: a conceptual model and its application

Forest ecosystems are shaped by their historical disturbance regime. Structural and species diversity are driven by disturbance frequency, patch size and microsite disturbance severity in forests across the globe. Forest management in Lake State northern hardwoods, however, has primarily used high-frequency, low- to moderate-severity canopy disturbance and low-severity microsite disturbance harvesting techniques such as single-tree selection. Catastrophic disturbances during European settlement followed by the widespread and long-term use of uniform approaches to forest management have homogenized managed forests and created a need to emulate a fuller range of historically prevalent natural disturbances. We present a conceptual model based on complex adaptive forest management that proposes five primary factors including mean patch size, proportion disturbed, frequency, degree of exposed mineral soil and coarse woody debris input. This model demonstrates the need for a greater range of silvicultural systems to more closely emulate the range of variability associated with natural disturbance regimes. In Great Lakes northern hardwoods, using a greater variety of silvicultural systems including those with larger patch cuts and greater soil disturbance, may restore and promote structural and tree species diversity in these forests by creating greater microsite heterogeneity. Applying this conceptual model to forests more broadly, while still considering regionally specific factors, may help restore species and structural diversity and ultimately, ecosystem resilience.
Why Growing Government is a Greater Political Menace than Growing Inequality

In his important new book, The Crisis of the Middle-Class Constitution, Ganesh Sitaraman argues that growing economic inequality over the last several decades and the resulting decline of the middle class is “the number one threat to American constitutional government.” He also contends that the American Founding Fathers sought to establish a “middle-class constitution” in which the avoidance of extremes of wealth and poverty would ensure the stability of democratic government. These are bold and provocative claims, but large elements of them fail to withstand scrutiny. Economic inequality is not as serious a threat to our political system as the growing size and complexity of government. These forces make it increasingly difficult for ordinary people to exercise effective control over government—or even to understand what it is doing. In addition, Sitaraman’s focus on the Founders’ fear of excessive inequality of wealth leads him to ignore their much stronger concern for protecting liberty and property rights, and limiting and decentralizing government power. These latter ideas can help us address the more dangerous elements of our present situation. While Sitaraman overstates the dangers of inequality, he is right to highlight the perils of declining opportunity for the poor and lower-middle class, and the ways in which the modern state offers all too many opportunities for the wealthy and powerful to enrich themselves at the expense of the public interest. But there are ways to mitigate these problems, while simultaneously reducing the size and complexity of government that have undermined democratic accountability and empowered unscrupulous elites.
In vitro measurements of the effects of anticoagulants on the flow properties of blood: the relationship of these effects to red cell shrinkage.

Citrate and oxalate increased the viscosity of blood as measured in a capillary viscosimeter. The elevated viscosity was accompanied by erytrhocyte shrinkage, manifest by the decreased hematocrit of blood anticoagulated with either of these agents. Plasma viscosity was not affected. EDTA, which does not alter cell size or shape, also failed to alter blood viscosity, while citrate no longer affected viscosity, if utilized in ACD solution, a milieu which prevents cell shrinkage. When erythrocytes were suspended in hypertonic NaCl, "blood" viscosity was also elevated in comparison to that of suspensions in lower concentrations of NaCl. The data indicate that blood viscosity will be elevated by anticoagulants which are permitted to shrink erythrocytes.
Caring for and About Dogs: Animal Welfare Considerations

This chapter begins with a review of prison-based animal programs (PAPs), with an emphasis on the welfare of dogs being cared for and trained in corrections contexts. Next, it explores various methods for engaging in the compassionate and humane care and training of dogs for adoption or service animal work, without any exploitation. For example, program organizers need to understand canine communication, including animal body language and stress signals, as well as basic dog behavior and force-free training techniques. The chapter concludes with best practice recommendations for dog rehabilitation and training programs within correctional facilities. Overall, administrators and trainers must manage the unique needs of innovative programs that incorporate another sentient being into the milieu.
Clinical results and functional outcomes after three-column osteotomy at L5 or the sacrum in adult spinal deformity.

Three-column osteotomies at L5 or the sacrum (LS3COs) are technically challenging, yet they may be needed to treat lumbosacral kyphotic deformities. We investigated radiographic and clinical outcomes after LS3CO. We analyzed 25 consecutive patients (mean age 56 years) who underwent LS3CO with minimum 2-year follow-up. Standing radiographs and health-related quality-of-life scores were evaluated. A new radiographic parameter [“lumbosacral angle” (LSA)] was introduced to evaluate sagittal alignment distal to the S1 segment. From preoperatively to the final follow-up, significant improvements occurred in lumbar lordosis (from − 34° to − 49°), LSA (from 0.5° to 22°), and sagittal vertical axis (SVA) (from 18 to 7.3 cm) (all, p < .01). Mean Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-22r scores in activity, pain, self-image, and satisfaction (p < .05), and Oswestry Disability Index scores (p < .01) also improved significantly. Patients with SVA ≥ 5 cm at the final follow-up experienced less improvement in SRS-22r satisfaction scores than those with SVA < 5 cm. Patients with LSA < 20° at the final follow-up had significantly lower SRS-22r activity scores than those with LSA ≥ 20° (p = .014). Two patients had transient neurologic deficits, and 11 patients underwent revision for proximal junctional kyphosis (5), pseudarthrosis (3), junctional stenosis (2), or neurologic deficit (1). LS3CO produced radiographic and clinical improvements. However, patients who remained sagittally imbalanced had less improvement in SRS-22r satisfaction score than those whose sagittal imbalance was corrected, and patients who maintained kyphotic deformity in the lumbosacral spine had lower SRS-22r activity scores than those whose lumbosacral kyphosis was corrected. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
The behavioral neuroendocrinology of maternal behavior: Past accomplishments and future directions.

Abstract Research on the neuroendocrine-endocrine-neural regulation of maternal behavior has made significant progress the past 50 years. In this mini-review progress during this period has been divided into five stages. These stages consist of advances in the identification of endocrine factors that mediate maternal care, the characterization of the neural basis of maternal behavior with reference to endocrine actions, the impact of developmental and experiential states on maternal care, the dynamic neuroplastic maternal brain, and genes and motherhood. A final section concludes with a discussion of future directions in the field of the neurobiology/neuroendocrinology of motherhood.
Correction to: Hermeneutic Inquiry for Digital Games Research

Since the publication of this article [Tanenbaum J. Hermeneutic Inquiry for Digital Games Research, Comput Game J (2015) 4:59 -80, https://doi.org/10.1007/s40869-015-0005-9, the author Joshua Tanenbaum has now become known by the new legal name Theresa Jean Tanenbaum.
Association of eszopiclone, zaleplon, or zolpidem with complex sleep behaviors resulting in serious injuries, including death

Purpose To identify and analyze postmarketing cases of complex sleep behaviors (CSBs) resulting in serious injuries, including death, associated with eszopiclone, zaleplon, or zolpidem (Z-drugs). Methods Retrospective analysis of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) from 16 December 1992 through 27 February 2018 and medical literature using PubMed and EMBASE. We used random sampling and descriptive statistics. Results We identified 66 cases that met inclusion and exclusion criteria, four of which were identified in the medical literature. Twenty cases reported death and 46 cases reported serious injuries in association with CSBs occurring after the use of a Z-drug. Fatal cases described events, such as carbon monoxide poisoning, drowning, falls, hypothermia, motor vehicle collisions, and apparent completed suicide. Nonfatal cases resulting in serious injuries described events, such as accidental overdoses, falls, gunshot wounds, hypothermia, third-degree burns, and self-injuries or suicide attempts. Twenty-two cases reported a previous episode of a CSB while taking a Z-drug prior to the event reported in this case series. Conclusions The FAERS and medical literature cases support the need for increased awareness of the consequences that may occur because of CSBs associated with the use of Z-drugs. Therefore, to protect public health, regulatory actions were taken, including adding a Boxed Warning, a Contraindication in patients who have experienced a prior episode of a CSB with a Z-drug, and updating the existing Warnings and Precautions. An FDA Drug Safety Communication was also disseminated to alert healthcare professionals and the public of this potential risk.
Duplex ultrasound follow-up after fenestrated and branched endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR and BEVAR)

Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is now the predominant method for treatment of infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms. Although EVAR has numerous advantages over standard open surgical repair, it also exposes patients to risks such as aneurysm sac enlargement, endoleaks, and graft migration, which make surveillance or follow-up mandatory. Fenestrated (FEVAR) and branched (BEVAR) endografts have extended the application of EVAR to juxtarenal, pararenal/paravisceral, and thoracoabdominal aneurysms, with some complex aneurysms requiring combined approaches (F-BEVAR). Duplex ultrasound has been recommended as an alternative to frequent computed tomography imaging for EVAR follow-up when it can provide the clinically necessary information. The major components of a post-EVAR duplex examination include measurement of aortic aneurysm sac size, assessment for endoleak, and evaluation of the endograft for patency and integrity. The duplex protocol for EVAR follow-up can be extended for follow-up after FEVAR, BEVAR, and F-BEVAR, with additional attention to the device components associated with fenestrations and branches. At the University of Washington, the physician-modified endovascular graft approach has been used for FEVAR. During these procedures, covered stents are placed in the renal arteries through fenestrations and the superior mesenteric artery is perfused through a fenestration, but typically remains unstented. Duplex scanning of the renal and mesenteric arteries has been performed preoperatively and at 30 days, 6 months, 1 year, and annually. In a review of patients having covered stents placed in non-stenotic renal arteries during FEVAR, both peak systolic velocity and the renal to aortic velocity ratio remained below the standard significant stenosis threshold in most patients. The duplex velocity criteria for stenosis in native renal arteries appeared to overestimate the severity of stenosis in renal artery covered stents. The unstented superior mesenteric artery remained widely patent in the presence of fenestrations or crossing struts and was not associated with endoleaks. Duplex ultrasound protocols for follow-up after FEVAR, BEVAR, and F-BEVAR can be based on those that have been established for standard EVAR, along with assessment of fenestrations and branches, as well as patency of the renal and mesenteric arteries.