cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bayesian benchmarking with applications to small area estimation

It is well-known that small area estimation needs explicit or at least implicit use of models (cf. Rao in Small Area Estimation, Wiley, New York, 2003). These model-based estimates can differ widely from the direct estimates, especially for areas with very low sample sizes. While model-based small area estimates are very useful, one potential difficulty with such estimates is that when aggregated, the overall estimate for a larger geographical area may be quite different from the corresponding direct estimate, the latter being usually believed to be quite reliable. This is because the original survey was designed to achieve specified inferential accuracy at this higher level of aggregation. The problem can be more severe in the event of model failure as often there is no real check for validity of the assumed model. Moreover, an overall agreement with the direct estimates at an aggregate level may sometimes be politically necessary to convince the legislators of the utility of small area estimates. One way to avoid this problem is the so-called “benchmarking approach”, which amounts to modifying these model-based estimates so that we get the same aggregate estimate for the larger geographical area. Currently, the most popular approach is the so-called “raking” or ratio adjustment method, which involves multiplying all the small area estimates by a constant data-dependent factor so that the weighted total agrees with the direct estimate. There are alternate proposals, mostly from frequentist considerations, which meet also the aforementioned benchmarking criterion. We propose in this paper a general class of constrained Bayes estimators which also achieve the necessary benchmarking. Many of the frequentist estimators, including some of the raked estimators, follow as special cases of our general result. Explicit Bayes estimators are derived which benchmark the weighted mean or both the weighted mean and weighted variability. We illustrate our methodology by developing poverty rates in school-aged children at the state level and then benchmarking these estimates to match at the national level. Unlike the existing frequentist benchmarking literature, which is primarily based on linear models, the proposed Bayesian approach can accommodate any arbitrary model, and the benchmarked Bayes estimators are based only on the posterior mean and the posterior variance-covariance matrix.
Effect of titanium implantation on the friction and surface chemistry of a Co-Cr-W-C alloy☆

The effects of the implantation of titanium ions, to a fluence of 5 × 1017 Ti ions cm-2 at 190 keV, on the tribological behavior of a centrifugally cast cobalt-based alloy (Stoody 3) were investigated by friction tests against a variety of alloy and carbon counterfaces. Dry sliding friction coefficients were compared with those made on similarly prepared, but non-implanted, and fatty-acid-coated samples. High friction coefficients (μK ≈ 0.6) for the alloy-Stoody 3 couples coincided with the formation of debris, with the same composition as the softer of the mating alloys, in the wear scars. Much lower μK values were measured on titanium-implanted (μK ≈ 0.25) and acid-coated (μK ≈ 0.1) surfaces. Optical microscopy indicated a change in the surface texture of the implanted surfaces attributable to sputtering. Auger spectroscopy showed that vacuum carburization of both carbide and matrix phases of the Stoody alloy occurred during implantation. The friction and wear mechanisms involved are discussed.
Skeletal development in Hermesinum adriaticum Zacharias, a flagellate from the Salton Sea, California

Hermesinum adriaticum is a rarely reported unicellular biflagellated organism with a solid siliceous skeleton. Live specimens were not observed but many skeletons were found in sediments and, in small numbers, in cyanobacterial mats and the water column of the Salton Sea, a salt lake in California, U.S.A. Stages of the developing skeleton were studied with scanning electron microscopy, and the progression from small tetraxial daughter skeletons to complete asymmetrical adult skeletons is presented. Some variability in the adult skeletons is illustrated.
Public Interest Litigation in India as a Paradigm for Developing Nations

Public interest litigation (PIL) in India can serve as a vehicle for creating and enforcing rights and is critical to the sustenance of democracy. PIL in India can address the needs of its citizens when legislative inertia afflicts the Indian National Congress. This Note discusses how PIL in India can serve as a model for other developing nations struggling with legislative inertia and can provide recourse to marginalized and disadvantaged communities. Furthermore, while PIL obscures the traditional boundaries of power in a liberal democratic polity, democracy is in fact strengthened by the expansion of standing to include any citizen who has suffered a rights abuse.
Stable isotope ratios in atmospheric CH4: Implications for seasonal sources and sinks

[1] We report δD and δ13C measurements of atmospheric CH4 from air samples collected from two locations in the United States. They are the mid continental site Niwot Ridge, Colorado (40°N, 105°W), and a Pacific coastal site receiving strong westerlies, Montana de Oro, California (35°N, 121°W). Data from multiyear approximately bimonthly sampling provide information relating seasonal cycling of CH4 sources and sinks in background air, record long-term trends in CH4 mixing and isotope ratio related to the atmospheric CH4 loading, and may indicate regional CH4 sources. At Niwot Ridge, δD-CH4 averaged −93.1 ± 3.0‰ from 1999 to 2001, while δ13C-CH4 averaged −47.22 ± 0.13‰ from 1995 to 2001 with distinct seasonal cycles in both isotope ratios. At Montana de Oro, atmospheric CH4 was observed to be more depleted in 13C and D: Measured δD-CH4 averaged −97.3 ± 3.7‰ from 2000 to 2001, while δ13C-CH4 averaged −47.26 ± 0.17‰ from 1996 to 2001, and seasonal cycles were larger than those observed at Niwot Ridge. Mixing ratios observed at Montana de Oro were higher on average than at Niwot Ridge. At both sites, δ13C-CH4 was found to correlate poorly with mixing ratio, an indication that varying CH4 sources are partly responsible for the δ13C-CH4 seasonal signal. In contrast, a strong anticorrelation exists between δD-CH4 and mixing ratio, with maxima and minima approximately 6 months out of phase, indicating a sensitivity of δD to sink processes. The dual isotopic constraint to atmospheric CH4 seasonality implies that these midlatitude sites are annually influenced by a 13C-enriched CH4 source(s) seasonally increasing in late spring and a 13C-depleted CH4 source(s) seasonally increasing in late summer or early fall.
Climate-normalized cotton leaf water potentials for irrigation scheduling

Abstract Pressure chamber measurements of leaf water potential ( ψ 1 ) provide a useful means to quantify plant responses in both research and managerial circumstances. However, day-to-day variation in climatic parameters affect transpiration rate and cause proportionate variability in ψ 1 values that can lead to significant errors in forcasting a needed irrigation. A procedure was developed from field studies in the San Joaquin Valley, California, U.S.A. that allows cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L.) ψ l 's to be adjusted to common climatic evaporative demand conditions. The derived adjustment factors are sensitive to increased soil-plant flow resistances encountered during drying cycles between irrigations. Validation of the procedure was very successful for all climatic conditions and contrasting plant ages of an entire growing season.
Network topology optimization for data aggregation

In this paper, we show that the problem of configuring the topology of a data center network to optimize data aggregation is NP-hard even when the number of aggregators is 1. Further, the approximation ratio of the algorithm proposed by Wang, Ng, and Shaikh [3] for the case of a single aggregator is (k+1)/2, where k is the degree of ToR (top-of-rack) switches and this algorithm also exhibits an anomalous behavior- increase in the switch degree may result in an increase in the aggregation time. By comparison, if topology configuration is done using the longest processing time (LPT) scheduling rule, the approximation ratio is (4/3-1/(3k)). We show that for every instance of the single aggregator topology configuration problem, the time required to aggregate using the LPT configuration is no more than that using the Wang et al. rule. By coupling the LPT rule with the rule of Wang et al., we achieve a better throughput as promised by LPT and at the same time reduce the total network traffic. Experimental results show that the LPT rule reduces aggregation time by up to 90% compared to the Wang et al. rule. The reduction in aggregation time afforded by a known improvement, COMBINE, of LPT relative to Wang et al. is up to 90.5%. More interestingly, when either of the LPT rule or COMBINE is augmented with the Wang et al. rule, total network traffic is reduced by up to 90% relative to using LPT and COMBINE with chains.
Evaluation of change in CD4+ cell counts in AIDS clinical trials

To evaluate the antiretroviral activity of antiretroviral agents and to compare the effects of two different antiretroviral agents, we propose a non-parametric mixed-effects model to investigate change of CD4+ counts. The proposed model and methods are applied to analyse the data from PACTG345 study. Population and individual patterns of change of CD4+ counts and a reference band are obtained. Our results indicate that treatment with high-dose ritonavir is significantly superior compared with low-dose ritonavir.
The role of the tissue omega-6/omega-3 fatty acid ratio in regulating tumor angiogenesis.

Angiogenesis is a necessary step in tumor growth and metastasis. It is well established that the metabolites of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, which must be obtained through the diet and cannot be synthesized de novo in mammals, have differential effects on cellular processes. Omega-6 fatty acid (n−6 FA)-derived metabolites promote angiogenesis by increasing growth factor expression whereas omega-3 fatty acids (n−3 FA) have anti-angiogenic and antitumor properties. However, most studies thus far have failed to account for the role of the n−6 FA/n−3 FA ratio in angiogenesis and instead examined the absolute levels of n−6 and n−3 FA. This review highlights the biochemical interactions between n−6 and n−3 FA and focuses on how the n−6/n−3 FA ratio in tissues modulates tumor angiogenesis. We suggest that future work should consider the n−6/n−3 FA ratio to be a key element in experimental design and analysis. Furthermore, we recommend that clinical interventions should aim to both reduce n−6 metabolites and simultaneously increase n−3 FA intake.
Impact of high resolution water vapor cross‐sectional data on hurricane forecasting

[1] This paper addresses the impact of moisture profile data sets derived from the Lidar Atmospheric Sensing Experiment (LASE) for the assimilation and forecasts of hurricanes. LASE is a vertical profiler for moisture measurements that was developed at NASA Langley Research Center. LASE was deployed on board the NASA DC-8 research aircraft and provided vertical profiles of moisture in a hurricane environment during the Convection and Moisture Experiment-4, which occurred in August and September 2001. In this preliminary study we show results from two types of experiments (with and without LASE data) that show improvements in track and intensity forecasts of hurricanes, Erin, Humberto and Gabrielle. When the LASE moisture profiles are assimilated, track errors are reduced by 100 km and intensity errors are reduced by 20–25% for 3 day forecasts.
Effect of corn preparation methods on dry-grind ethanol production by granular starch hydrolysis and partitioning of spent beer solids.

Abstract Two corn preparation methods, rollermill flaking and hammermill grinding, were compared for efficient processing of corn into ethanol by granular starch hydrolysis and simultaneous fermentation by yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Corn was either ground in a hammermill with different size screens or crushed in a smooth-surfaced rollermill at different roller gap settings. The partitioning of beer solids and size distribution of solids in the thin stillage were compared. The mean particle diameter d50 for preparations varied with set-ups and ranged between 210 and 340 μm for ground corn, and 1180–1267 μm for flaked corn. The ethanol concentrations in beer were similar (18–19% v/v) for ground and flaked preparations, however, ethanol productivity increased with reduced particle size. Roller versus hammermilling of corn reduced solids in thin stillage by 28%, and doubled the volume percent of fines (d50 ∼ 7 μm)in thin stillage and decreased coarse (d50 ∼ 122 μm) by half compared to hammermilling.
Solid $$^$$He: Progress, Status, and Outlook for Mass Flux Measurements

After a brief introduction, what is provided there is brief summary of work with solid $$^4$$ He done at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and an outlook for future work. What is presented here is based on a presentation made at the Quantum Gases Fluids and Solids Workshop in Sao Paulo, Brazil in August of 2014. Our work with solid $$^4$$ He is aimed at the question: Can a sample cell filled with solid $$^4$$ He support a mass flux through the cell? The answer, as will be shown here, is yes. Evidence for this from several types of experiments will be reviewed. There will be an emphasis on more recent work, work that explores how the flux observed depends on temperature and on the $$^3$$ He impurity level. The behavior observed suggests that solid $$^4$$ He may be an example of a material that demonstrates Bosonic Luttinger liquid behavior. The normalized $$^4$$ He flux has a universal temperature dependence. The presence of $$^3$$ He at different impurity levels shows that the $$^3$$ He blocks the flux at a characteristic temperature. The behavior appears to be consistent with the cores of dislocations as the entity that carries the flux, but it is clear that more work needs to be done to fully understand solid $$^4$$ He.
Aldosterone: A Mediator of Myocardial Necrosis and Renal Arteriopathy

To determine the role of aldosterone in mediating cardiovascular damage, we performed ablation/replacement experiments with aldosterone in a rat model of cardiac injury. Administration of angiotensin II and Nomega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME; nitric oxide synthesis inhibitor) to male rats drinking 1% saline caused hypertension, severe biventricular myocardial necrosis, proteinuria, and fibrinoid necrosis of renal and cardiac vessels. Removal of aldosterone by adrenalectomy or through administration of the selective aldosterone antagonist eplerenone markedly reduced the cardiac and renal damage without significantly altering blood pressure. Aldosterone infusion in adrenalectomized, glucocorticoid-replaced L-NAME/angiotensin II-treated animals restored damage. Thus, we identified aldosterone as a critical mediator of L-NAME/angiotensin II induced vascular damage through mechanisms apparently independent of its effects on systolic blood pressure.
Peace Through Commerce, Dynamic Capabilities and Base of the Pyramid Business Strategies

Numerous scholars have observed that the relationship between poverty and violent conflict is endogenous. As a result, the area of Peace Through Commerce argues as one of its central tenets that the institution of business may be able to contribute to sustainable peace by creating economic development where poverty is a critical issue. While this argument may be valid, it leaves the question open -- what is the business case for engaging in poverty alleviation business strategies? Strategic Management scholars are addressing this question, arguing the general proposition that poverty is not only experienced by the people, but also impacts businesses operating in environments where the phenomenon is pervasive. By addressing poverty, businesses can help themselves. Yet, organizational theory justifying this proposition is still emerging, consisting of only a few works that generally suggest that these strategies can help firms develop competitive advantage through the lens of the resource-based view. This paper extends the theoretical application of the resource-based view, suggesting that conditions of poverty directly suppress the value of organizational resources and capabilities that are or could be contributed by people affected by it. In addition, it characterizes poverty alleviation strategic capabilities as dynamic capabilities. Finally, it describes a framework of ‘base of the pyramid dynamic capabilities’ that could guide both future discourse in the area and deductive - disconfirmatory research examining the efficacy of these strategies.
An ecohydrological framework for grass displacement by woody plants in savannas

During the past several decades, woody plants have been encroaching into grasslands around the world. This transition in plant dominance is often explained as a state shift in bistable ecosystem dynamics induced by fire-vegetation feedbacks. These feedbacks occur when woody plants are able to displace grasses because of their better access to soil water and light. On the other hand, grasses can displace woody plants because of their ability to increase fire frequency and of the higher susceptibility of woody plants to fire-induced mortality. In this study, we present an ecohydrological framework to investigate the displacement of grasses by woody plants. Considering the effect of lateral root spread and of soil water and light limitations, we found that woody plant encroachment can substantially suppress grass production even without the presence of grazers. Bistable dynamics emerge as a result of the grass-fire feedback for a wide range of rainfall conditions, fire susceptibility, and woody plant growth rates.
Robust part-of-speech tagging using a hidden Markov model

Abstract A system for part-of-speech tagging is described. It is based on a hidden Markov model which can be trained using a corpus of untagged text. Several techniques are introduced to achieve robustness while maintaining high performance. Word equivalence classes are used to reduce the overall number of parameters in the model, alleviating the problem of obtaining reliable estimates for individual words. The context for category prediction is extended selectively via predefined networks, rather than using a uniformly higher-order conditioning which requires exponentially more parameters with increasing context. The networks are embedded in a first-order model and network structure is developed by analysis of erros, and also via linguistic considerations. To compensate for incomplete dictionary coverage, the categories of unknown words are predicted using both local context and suffix information to aid in disambiguation. An evaluation was performed using the Brown corpus and different dictionary arrangements were investigated. The techniques result in a model that correctly tags approximately 96% of the text. The flexibility of the methods is illustrated by their use in a tagging program for French.
Gender, Time and Inequality: Trends in Women's and Men's Paid Work, Unpaid Work and Free Time

This analysis uses nationally representative time diary data from 1965, 1975 and 1998 to examine trends and gender differences in time use. Women continue to do more household labor than men; however, men have substantially increased time in core household activities such as cooking, cleaning and daily child care. Nonetheless, a 30-minute-per-day free-time gap has emerged. Women and men appear to be selectively investing unpaid work time in the tasks that construct family life while spending less time in routine tasks, suggesting that the symbolic meaning of unpaid work may be shifting. At the same time, access to free time has emerged as an arena of time inequality.
Malabsorption in psoriatic patients: cause or consequence?

Objective. The aetiopathogenesis of psoriasis is still unclear. Associations between gut and skin diseases are well known, since psoriatic patients show a high prevalence of coeliac disease. Small-bowel abnormalities can cause clinical or, more frequently, laboratory alterations that give rise to malabsorption. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of malabsorption in psoriatic patients. Material and methods. Fifty-five (29 M, 26 F, mean age 51±8 years) psoriatic patients in the Dermatology Centre of our hospital and 65 healthy controls (36 M, 29 F, mean age 47±9 years) were screened for malabsorption using a D-xylose test. Psoriatic subjects who resulted positive were further investigated in order to reach a better characterization of the malabsorption using serum antigliadin, antiendomysium and anti-transglutaminase antibodies, H2 lactulose breath test, the parasitological faecal test and colonoscopy with retrograde ileoscopy. Results. Altered D-xylose absorption was found in 60% (33/55) o...
Linear failure criteria with three principal stresses

University of Minnesota M.S. thesis. March 2012. Major: Civil Engineering. Advisor: Professor Joseph F. Labuz. 1 computer file (PDF); iv, 67 pages.
Systemic granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) enhances wound healing in dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB): Results of a pilot trial

Background Chronic nonhealing wounds are the norm in patients with inherited epidermolysis bullosa (EB), especially those with dystrophic EB (DEB). A possible benefit in wound healing after subcutaneous treatment with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) was suggested from an anecdotal report of a patient given this during stem cell mobilization before bone-marrow transplantation. Objective We sought to determine whether benefit in wound healing in DEB skin might result after 6 daily doses of G-CSF and to confirm its safety. Methods Patients were assessed for changes in total body blister and erosion counts, surface areas of selected wounds, and specific symptomatology after treatment. Results Seven patients with DEB (recessive, 6; dominant, 1) were treated daily with subcutaneous G-CSF (10 μg/kg/dose) and reevaluated on day 7. For all patients combined, median reductions of 75.5% in lesional size and 36.6% in blister/erosion counts were observed. When only the 6 responders were considered, there were median reductions of 77.4% and 38.8% of each of these measured parameters, respectively. No adverse side effects were noted. Limitations Limitations include small patient number, more than 1 DEB subtype included, and lack of untreated age-matched control subjects. Conclusions Subcutaneous G-CSF may be beneficial in promoting wound healing in some patients with DEB when conventional therapies fail.
A systems-based approach to technology integration using mentoring and communities of practice

The purpose of this article is to present a systems-based mentoring model of technology integration that follows a research-based path. The model moves teachers through four specific stages of technology adoption toward using technology to support learning in more student-centered ways. The model describes how a mentor can negotiate the interplay of multiple barriers (time, beliefs, access, professional development, culture) on teachers who are learning to integrate technology and suggests a number of strategies for integrating technology, such as establishing a culture of technology integration, modeling technology use, and creating teacher leaders. Unlike previous mentoring approaches to integrating technology into the classroom, this model culminates with the establishment of a teacher-led community of practice that uses the resources currently available at a school to support and sustain the implementation of the system. Suggestions for implementing the model in a variety of K-12 and higher education settings are discussed.
METABOLIC INTERACTIONS BETWEEN OPIATES AND ALCOHOL

1. Acute preperfusion with ethanol does not alter significantly the initial hepatic extraction or subcellular distribution of narcotics, or the immediate biotransformation of the long-acting narcotic, methadone, using the isolated perfused rabbit liver. However, the acute administration of ethanol may alter distribution and/or impair hepatic drug metabolism in perfusion studies of longer duration, or in vivo, as has been suggested by others in studies of several drugs. 2. Following chronic treatment with both ethanol and methadone in the rat, plasma levels of unmetabolized methadone, determined by gas liquid chromatography, are significantly lowered. 3. Following chronic treatment with methadone alone, blood elimination rates of ethanol are accelerated to a greater extent than following chronic treatment with ethanol alone in the rat; following chronic treatment with both methadone and ethanol, rates of ethanol elimination are accelerated to a significantly more rapid rate than following treatment with either agent alone. 4. To date, clinical studies in patients on chronic steady-dose methadone maintenance treatment, without liver disease, polydrug abuse, or heavy use of ethanol, show no significant acute dispositional interactions between methadone and ethanol. 5. Clinical studies in patients on chronic steady-dose methadone maintenance treatment, without liver disease, polydrug abuse, or heavy use of ethanol, show no significant dispositional interactions between methadone and disulfiram (Antabuse) when the latter was given for one week for study purposes only. 6. Clinical studies of possible dispositional interactions between methadone and ethanol in methadone-maintained patients, who are also chronic abusers of alcohol, are now in progress.
The Dose-Response Relationship of Adolescent Religious Activity and Substance Use: Variation Across Demographic Groups

This article addresses two inconsistent findings in the literature on adolescent religious activity (RA) and substance use: whether a dose-response relationship characterizes the association of these variables, and whether the association varies by grade, gender, ethnicity, family structure, school type, and type of substance. Multinomial logistic regression analyses of a large, diverse data set of high school students in metropolitan Columbus, Ohio ( n = 33,007), found marked differences in alcohol, marijuana, and cigarette use among youths who never, occasionally, or regularly participated in RA. Weekly RA was consistently associated with less substance use, yet occasional RA sometimes was associated with greater use. Four groups accounted for variations in the RA-substance use relationship: African American youths, younger White youths, 12th-grade White males, and 12th-grade White females. Researchers should avoid assuming the RA-substance use relationship is dose-response and consider the implications of this complexity for theory and practice.
An Efficient Backup-Overloading for Fault-Tolerant Scheduling of Real-Time Tasks

Many time-critical applications require dynamic scheduling with predictable performance. Tasks corresponding to these applications have deadlines to be met despite the presence of faults. In this paper, we propose a technique called dynamic grouping, to be used with backup overloading in a primary-backup based fault-tolerant dynamic scheduling algorithm in multiprocessor real-time systems. In dynamic grouping, the processors are dynamically grouped into logical groups in order to achieve efficient overloading of backups, there by improving the schedulability. We compare the performance of dynamic grouping with that of static grouping and no-grouping schemes through extensive simulation studies and show the effectiveness of dynamic grouping.
Systematics and Taxonomy of Great Striped-Faced Bats of the Genus Vampyrodes Thomas, 1900 (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae)

The Neotropical bat genus Vampyrodes (Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae: Stenodermatinae) is widely distributed from southern Mexico to southeastern Brazil. Long thought to be monotypic, V. caraccioli Thomas, 1889, was recognized by previous authors as including two subspecies with the nominate form inhabiting South America south and east of the Andes, and another subspecies, V. c. major Allen, 1908, occurring west and north of the Andes. Reexamination of these forms using molecular and morphological methods supports recognition of these lineages as distinct at the species level. We here provide amended descriptions and diagnoses for these taxa. We also report for the first time an example of perikymata (incremental growth lines that appear on the surface of dental enamel as a series of grooves) in Chiroptera. Presence of distinct perikymata is a synapomorphy of the genus Vampyrodes.
Gene function correlates with potential for G4 DNA formation in the human genome

G-rich genomic regions can form G4 DNA upon transcription or replication. We have quantified the potential for G4 DNA formation (G4P) of the 16 654 genes in the human RefSeq database, and then correlated gene function with G4P. We have found that very low and very high G4P correlates with specific functional classes of genes. Notably, tumor suppressor genes have very low G4P and protooncogenes have very high G4P. G4P of these genes is evenly distributed between exons and introns, and it does not reflect enrichment for CpG islands or local chromosomal environment. These results show that genomic structure undergoes selection based on gene function. Selection based on G4P could promote genomic stability (or instability) of specific classes of genes; or reflect mechanisms for global regulation of gene expression.
Defining Clepsis penetralis Razowski (Tortricidae) Using Morphology and Molecules: A Widespread but Overlooked North American Species

ABSTRACT. The taxonomic status of Clepsis penetralis has remained enigmatic since its description in 1979. Using specimens collected or borrowed from across the U.S.A., we examined genitalic and wing characters as well as mitochondrial DNA sequence in order to distinguish C. penetralis from the similar congener C. peritana. The genomic integrity of the two species was strongly supported, and the mtDNA sequence data further suggest a potential additional new species from California. Examinations of collections across the country indicate that C. penetralis is a widespread species that has been widely overlooked.
Federally mandating motorcycle helmets in the United States.

Motorcycle helmets reduce both motorcycle-related fatalities and head injuries. Motorcycle crashes are a major public health concern which place economic stress on the U.S. healthcare system. Although statewide universal motorcycle helmet laws effectively increase helmet use, most state helmet laws do not require every motorcycle rider to wear a helmet. Herein, we propose and outline the solution of implementing federal motorcycle helmet law, while addressing potential counterarguments. The decision to ride a motorcycle without a helmet has consequences that affect more than just the motorcyclist. In an effort to prevent unnecessary healthcare costs, injuries, and deaths, public health efforts to increase helmet use through education and legislation should be strongly considered. Helmet use on motorcycles fits squarely within the purview of the federal government public health and economic considerations.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES ON MUSCULAR RESPONSES OF INNER EAR ORIGIN IN RABBITS

On the normal and decerebrated rabbits, antihistamics (i.e. aminoether, ethylendiamine, phen- otliazine and monoamine), local anesthetics (i.e. cocaine and lalcohol), (i.e. adrenalin, pilocarpine, and atropine), and interneuronal blocking agent (i.e. meprobamate) are so introduced into the tympanic cavities, that the effect of the drugs upon their labyrinths could be studied clinically and electromyographycally. The obtained results were as follows: 1. Clinical findings: The spontaneous nystagmus to the untreated ear side was observed when the aminoether, cocaine, adrenalin and alcohol were introduced. When pilocarpine and alcohol were introduced spontaneous nystagmus to the treated side was observed. But by the application of the other drugs the spontaneous nystagmus was not observed. The head-deviation as the effect of antihistamin drug of aminoether, cocaine, adrenalin, and alcohol in anesthetic period, is shown with the infused ear downwards, and as the effect of pilocarpine and alcohol in stimulating period with the non-infusedd ear downwards. 2. Electromyographical findings: By the effect of antihistamin drug of aminoether, cocaine, adrenalin, and alcohol' in anesthetic period, the spontaneous discharges in the deep nape muscles of the non-infused ear side are decreased, and on the contrary are increased by pilocarpin and alcohol in stimulating period. By the other drugs the spontaneous, discharges in the deep nape muscles of the both sides are not changed. 3. The effect of the antihistamin drug of aminoether and local anesthetics upon the labyrinthine muscle tonus is remarkable, but of sympathetic drugs, i.e. adrenalin and pilocarpine'is slight. (autoreferat)
Creation of an American Holistic Nurses Association Research Consultation Program

A goal of the American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA) Research Committee is to prepare holistic nurses to conduct holistic nursing research. This article describes the creation of a Research Consultation Program and how the knowledge gained from the program will contribute to the development of a formal research mentor program.
Optimizing Sparse Matrix-Vector Multiplication for Large-Scale Data Analytics

Sparse Matrix-Vector multiplication (SpMV) is a fundamental kernel, used by a large class of numerical algorithms. Emerging big-data and machine learning applications are propelling a renewed interest in SpMV algorithms that can tackle massive amount of unstructured data---rapidly approaching the TeraByte range---with predictable, high performance. In this paper we describe a new methodology to design SpMV algorithms for shared memory multiprocessors (SMPs) that organizes the original SpMV algorithm into two distinct phases. In the first phase we build a scaled matrix, that is reduced in the second phase, providing numerous opportunities to exploit memory locality. Using this methodology, we have designed two algorithms. Our experiments on irregular big-data matrices (an order of magnitude larger than the current state of the art) show a quasi-optimal scaling on a large-scale POWER8 SMP system, with an average performance speedup of 3.8x, when compared to an equally optimized version of the CSR algorithm. In terms of absolute performance, with our implementation, the POWER8 SMP system is comparable to a 256-node cluster. In terms of size, it can process matrices with up to 68 billion edges, an order of magnitude larger than state-of-the-art clusters.
CEO Equity-Based Incentives and Shareholder Say-on-Pay in the U.S.

This paper examines the connection between shareholder voting outcome (percent in favor or opposed) and executive equity-based incentives (pay-performance sensitivity and pay-risk sensitivity) as part of the "Say-on-Pay" provision of the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act. Our setting allows us to directly test whether shareholders perceive equity-based incentives as a source of or solution to agency problems. Consistent with our hypotheses, we provide evidence that shareholders tend to approve of compensation packages that are more sensitive to changes in stock price (pay-performance sensitivity) and changes in stock volatility (pay-risk sensitivity). Our findings are generally consistent with theoretical predictions that outside owners approve of equity incentives as a means of aligning managers interests with those of shareholders and as a way to mitigate potential agency costs.
Integration and Polarization since 1760

Our search for the causes of global inequalities during industrial epoch I will be greatly advanced if questions about the timing of these inequalities, as well as their relationship to international integration, can be resolved at the outset.
Single-Cell Phenotypic Screening in Inverse Metabolic Engineering

Contrary to classical approaches centering on debottlenecking flux-limiting steps in a metabolic pathway, inverse metabolic engineering (IME) aims at identifying and modulating all gene factors that contribute to an optimal phenotype. Within IME, mutant libraries are generated and screened in order to select mutants with the desired phenotype. The screening process is traditionally performed using microtiter well plates, a laborious and expensive process of limited throughput. Here, we review emerging screening methods that address these throughput and cost-effectiveness shortcomings, but also operate at the single-cell level. We discuss the importance of single-cell analyses in IME and detail two specific single-cell screening approaches: the first is fluorescence-activated cell sorting for phenotypic discrimination based on cytosolic or cell-membrane-bound products. The second is droplet microfluidics for screening of cells capable of overproducing secreted products or overconsuming substrates, properties that require confinement to isolate mutants with specific secretory phenotypes.
Cardiac Palliative Care Issues

Heart failure follows an unpredictable disease trajectory. Several models now exist to help with prognostication, but accurate prediction remains difficult. Symptom management for pain, dyspnea, and depression is the primary goal of palliative treatment. Palliative treatments for CHF can overlap greatly with disease-modifying therapies such as in the use of diuretics and vasodilators to improve edema and exertional dyspnea. Discussing goals of care along with advance care planning should be done before a crisis. Quality of life for patients should be discussed early in the disease trajectory of heart failure. Patient and family education about the terminal nature of heart failure, hospice as a treatment option, and deactivating implanted devices is critical.
Stroke and Migraine

Abstract Migraine headache affects millions of people and is usually benign. It has been linked with stroke through genetic and vascular studies and epidemiologic observations. Migraine with aura doubles the risk of stroke in women and young adults and is associated with cardiac risk factors, patent foramen ovale, dissection, and small-vessel ischemic stroke. Migraine produces a cortical spreading depression, increases platelet aggregation, causes vasomotor and oligemic instability, and activates inflammatory cascades that may predispose to ischemic stroke. White matter abnormalities on magnetic resonance angiography of the brain of patients with migraine may represent subcortical silent infarctions. The aura of migraine may be prolonged and mimic transient ischemic attack or stroke, acutely complicating emergent treatment decisions. Rare syndromes with stroke and migraine as core manifestations may be difficult to recognize and definitively diagnose. There is immediate need for awareness of the intersecting symptoms of these two conditions for appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Information Processing and Exchange in Mediated Groups

This study examined whether features of mediated group discussion were related to participator judgments. Prior to discussion, participants (N = 138) were asked to memorize a list of qualifications for each of 3 hypothetical candidates for a faculty position. Each list contained shared (given to all members) and unique (given to just 1 member) information. Participants, working in 3-person groups, then interacted via 1 of 2 computer text environments to choose the best candidate. Following discussion, participants rated each other on a set of participator assessment items. Discussions were coded for units that contained shared or unique information. The analysis revealed that shared contributions were related only to self-assessment of participation. Unique contributions had a complex relation with self-assessments—they were positively associated with such judgments only when partners infrequently provided unique information. Technology affected in a variety of ways the relation between the discussion variables and participator assessments. Discussion focuses on the relation between information pooling and interaction, as well as on the role of technology in group process.
Viscosity Measurements of Fluid Food Products

Rheology plays an integral role in product development, quality control, process design, and scale-up of food products. Rheology is a science based on fundamental physical relationships concerned with how all materials respond to applied forces or deformations. Flow behavior is one such response to force or deformation. In this laboratory exercise, the viscosities of two fluid foods, salad dressing and honey, are measured using common rheological instruments widely used throughout the food industry: Brookfield rotational viscometer, Zahn cup, and Bostwick consistometer.
The use of a steerable single-actuator cruciform parachute for targeted payload return

The concept of using an autonomous HAHO (high altitude, high-opening) parafoil-based system as a solution to the final descent phase of an on-demand International Space Station (ISS) sample return concept was tailored to meet specific constraints defined by the NASA Ames Research Center SPQR (Small Payload Quick-Return) study. Difficulties in consistently and safely deploying ram-air parafoils at high altitudes needs to be suitably addressed prior to utilization in space sample return applications. This paper presents an alternative to the ram-air parachute SPQR concept. Specifically, the feasibility of using a cruciform-type canopy design modified to enable a limited steering capability, similar to what has been accomplished with the traditional round canopy-based Affordable Guided Aerial Delivery System (AGAS). In contrast to the AGAS system the cruciform canopy approach requires only a single actuator, providing a wider range of possible control actions and therefore a more robust guidance technique. Preliminary design and flight test results are provided from initial low-altitude testing of the cruciform canopy-based SPQR-compatible system.
Impact of CYP3A5 genomic variances on clinical outcomes among African American kidney transplant recipients.

Little is known about the impact of CYP3A5 polymorphisms on transplantation outcomes among African American (AA) kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). To assess this issue, clinical outcomes were compared between AA CYP3A5*1 expressers and nonexpressers. This retrospective cohort study analyzed AA KTRs. Biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR), delayed graft function (DGF), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), infections, and tacrolimus dosing requirements were examined in 106 immunologically high-risk AA kidney transplant patients over a 2-year follow-up period. In CYP3A5*1 expressers compared to nonexpressers, the incidence of BPAR was significantly higher in the first 6 months (13% vs 0%; P = .016) compared to 24 months (13% vs 7%; P = .521). Tacrolimus total daily dose at first therapeutic level was significantly higher in CYP3A5*1 expressers (12 mg/day) compared to nonexpressers (8 mg/day; P < .001). Compared to CYP3A5*1 nonexpressers, DGF incidence was significantly higher among CYP3A5*1 expressers (27.6% vs 6.7%; P = .006). By contrast, median GFR was significantly higher in CYP3A5*1 expressers compared to nonexpressers (54.5 mL/min vs 50.0 mL/min; P = .003) at 24 months. The findings from this retrospective study suggest that AAs with CYP3A5*1 expression require 50% more tacrolimus and have an increased incidence of DGF and acute rejection.
Correlation of right ventricular multielectrode endocardial unipolar mapping and epicardial scar.

AIMS Prior studies identified a relationship between epicardial bipolar and endocardial unipolar voltage. Whether the relationship is valid with smaller multielectrode mapping catheters has not been reported. We explored the association of right ventricular (RV) endocardial unipolar voltage mapping with epicardial bipolar voltage mapping using a multielectrode mapping catheter. METHODS Electrograms from patients who underwent multielectrode endocardial and epicardial RV electroanatomical mapping during ablation procedures were analyzed. Each endocardial mapping point was matched to the corresponding nearest epicardial point. The correlation between unipolar endocardial voltage and epicardial bipolar voltage was determined. The optimal unipolar threshold to detect epicardial low voltage (< 1.0 mV) and dense scar (0.5 mV) was calculated. RESULTS A total of 4,895 points were analyzed. There was a significant correlation between endocardial unipolar and epicardial bipolar voltage (Spearman rho = 0.499, P = < 0.001). The extent of the correlation was inversely associated with wall thickness. The receiver operator characteristic analysis of endocardial unipolar voltage predicting epicardial bipolar voltage of < 1.0 mV and < 0.5 showed an area under the curve of 0.769 and 0.812, respectively. The endocardial unipolar voltage that had the highest sensitivity and specificity in detecting epicardial bipolar voltage of < 1.0 mV and < 0.5 mV was 3.3 mV (70.3% sensitivity, 70.3% specificity), and 2.8 mV (sensitivity 73.8%, specificity 73.3%), respectively. CONCLUSION Epicardial low voltage of the RV can be assessed by unipolar endocardial voltage using small multielectrode catheters. The strength of the association was inversely correlated with the wall thickness.
A geomorphic approach to 100-year floodplain mapping for the Conterminous United States

Abstract Floodplain mapping using hydrodynamic models is difficult in data scarce regions. Additionally, using hydrodynamic models to map floodplain over large stream network can be computationally challenging. Some of these limitations of floodplain mapping using hydrodynamic modeling can be overcome by developing computationally efficient statistical methods to identify floodplains in large and ungauged watersheds using publicly available data. This paper proposes a geomorphic model to generate probabilistic 100-year floodplain maps for the Conterminous United States (CONUS). The proposed model first categorizes the watersheds in the CONUS into three classes based on the height of the water surface corresponding to the 100-year flood from the streambed. Next, the probability that any watershed in the CONUS belongs to one of these three classes is computed through supervised classification using watershed characteristics related to topography, hydrography, land use and climate. The result of this classification is then fed into a probabilistic threshold binary classifier (PTBC) to generate the probabilistic 100-year floodplain maps. The supervised classification algorithm is trained by using the 100-year Flood Insurance Rated Maps (FIRM) from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA FIRMs are also used to validate the performance of the proposed model in areas not included in the training. Additionally, HEC-RAS model generated flood inundation extents are used to validate the model performance at fifteen sites that lack FEMA maps. Validation results show that the probabilistic 100-year floodplain maps, generated by proposed model, match well with both FEMA and HEC-RAS generated maps. On average, the error of predicted flood extents is around 14% across the CONUS. The high accuracy of the validation results shows the reliability of the geomorphic model as an alternative approach for fast and cost effective delineation of 100-year floodplains for the CONUS.