cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A unified numerical framework model for simulating flow, transport, and heat transfer in porous and fractured media

A Unified Numerical Framework Model for Simulating Flow, Transport, and Heat Transfer in Porous and Fractured Media Yu-Shu Wu Earth Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, One Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA ABSTRACT It has long been recognized that a common ground exists between governing equations used for describing various flow and transport phenomena in porous media. Put another way they are all generally based on the same form of mass and/or energy conservation laws. This implies that there may exist a unified formulation and numerical scheme applicable to modeling all of these physical processes. This paper explores such a possibility and proposes a generalized framework, as well as a mathematical formulation for modeling all known transport phenomena in porous media. Based on this framework, a unified numerical approach is developed and tested using multidimensional, multiphase flow, isothermal and nonisothermal reservoir simulators. In this approach, a spatial domain of interest is discretized with an unstructured grid, then a time discretization is carried out with a backward, first-order, finite-difference method. The final discrete nonlinear equations are handled fully implicitly, using Newton iteration. In addition, the fracture medium is handled using a general dual- continuum concept with continuum or discrete modeling methods. A number of applications are discussed to demonstrate that with this unified approach, modeling a particular porous- medium flow and transport process simply becomes a matter of defining a set of state variables, along with their interrelations or mutual influence. 1. INTRODUCTION Since the late 1950s, significant progress has been made in developing and applying numerical simulation techniques in petroleum engineering [3,1,12,17] and in groundwater literature [9,10]. Because of its generality and effectiveness in handling subsurface multiphase flow and transport problems, the numerical simulation technique has become the major tool used by scientists and engineers in studies of flow and transport processes within a porous medium. Numerical modeling approaches currently used for simulating multiphase flow and transport processes are generally based on methodologies developed for petroleum and geothermal reservoir simulations, as well as groundwater modeling. They involve solving fully coupled formulations describing these processes, using finite-difference or finite-element schemes with a volume-averaging approach. Continual research effort, driven by the need to develop underground natural resources and resolve subsurface contamination problems, has developed and provided many numerical modeling approaches and models for field applications. Mathematical modeling techniques
The Beetle Community of Small Oak Twigs in Louisiana, with a Literature Review of Coleoptera from Fine Woody Debris

Abstract We conducted a study to explore which beetles utilize dead twigs in a Louisiana secondary forest and the effect of debris position on the beetle community. Twigs averaging 14 mm in diameter from one tree of Quercus falcata Michaux (southern red oak) were placed randomly into bundles of ten. At each of three sites, three bundles were laid on the ground, three were propped at the base of a living tree, and three were tied tightly above the ground against the branch of a living woody plant. The bundles were collected 10 months later and each was placed into an emergence chamber. More than 400 adult Coleoptera specimens were collected, representing 35 species within 16 families. Cerambycidae (longhorn beetles) and Curculionidae (weevils) exhibited the highest species richness, with nine and five species, respectively. Species richness was significantly different among treatments. Bundles placed on the ground had the lowest richness, aboveground bundles had the highest, and propped bundles were interm...
Aging and the mechanisms underlying head and postural control during voluntary motion

The quality of sensory information that is necessary for balance and postural stability will depend to a great extent on head stability as the body moves. How older persons coordinate head and body motion for balance during volitional activities is not known. The purposes of this article are to present a basis for understanding the influence of aging on head control during voluntary motion and to discuss some data that demonstrate how elderly people might control head movement to improve gaze and the quality of vestibular inputs. A "top-down" or "head-first" control scheme is proposed as the mechanism that elderly people without disabilities use to maintain head position during self-initiated motion. This type of control ensures that the angular position of the head in space remains relatively constant--through the use of a head-stabilization-in-space (HSS) strategy--regardless of the magnitude or direction of displacements in the body's center of force. The HSS strategy is thought to reduce potential ambiguities in the interpretation of sensory inputs for balance and is derived primarily from a geocentric (orientation to the vertical) frame of reference. Egocentric (orientation of the head with respect to the body) or exocentric (orientation to objects in the environment) frames of reference, however, refine the control of head stabilization. Preliminary research suggests that elderly people use the HSS strategy to control head pitch during difficult balance tasks. These findings, if supported by more definitive studies, may be useful in the treatment of patients with balance disorders. The treatment of patients with balance dysfunction is discussed within the conceptual framework of a "head-first" organization scheme.
Orientation and inertia sensory feedback feasibility using spinning magnetic nanoparticles

A gyroscopic detection system, based on magnetic nanoparticles, is developed. The magnetic nanoparticles are suspended in a solution and exposed to a rotating magnetic field. A nanoparticle experience angular deviation from its axis if an external force is applied to the system. Solution composition and oscillation frequency are varied to attempt to optimize the gyroscopic feedback.
Nonvolatile carbon nanotube memory device with molecular charge storage

Nanoscale, non-volatile, multi-bit memory devices have been fabricated consisting of carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNT-FETs) surrounded by redox active molecules (cobalt porphyrin). Charge was stored in the cobalt center atom of the molecule. Write and erase programming was carried out with back-gate pulses. By varying the back-gate amplitude multi-level memory operation was achieved. Programmed devices were read at zero gate voltage showing distinct logic ON and OFF states at room temperature for several hours. At low temperatures strong increase in retention time was observed and single-electron sensitivity was demonstrated. Charge stability tests show insignificant device change after 105 write and erase cycles.
Event memory in probability learning

On each of 1600 trials of a probability learning experiment, Ss not only predicted the next event but also recalled the event on the xth past trial (x=l,...,9). The frequency distribution of x, f(x), was the main independent variable. Ss did not match event probability but seemed to overshoot as a function of f(x).
Natriuretic effect of atrial natriuretic peptide in diabetes insipidus rats.

AbstractWashout of the solute concentration gradient in the renal medullary interstitium has been suggested to play a role in mediating the natriuretic response to atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP). The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of ANP 8–33 on sodium excretion in Brattleboro diabetes insipidus (DI) rats, in which medullary tonicity is known to be decreased as compared to Long-Evans (LE) control rats. Basal urine osmolality (Uosm) was significantly lower in DI rats as compared to LE rats (123 ± 6 vs 673 ± 38 mOsm/kg). Infusion of ANP 8–33 at a rate of 4 μg/kg/hr for 60 min resulted in a significantly greater increase in UnaV (Δ6.1 ± 1.2 vs Δ2.9 ± 0.7 μEq/min) and urine flow (μ40 ± 12 vs μ8 ± 7 μl/min) in the LE rats than in the DI rats. The greater natriuresis occurred in the LE rats despite no significant change in Uosm. Fractional lithium reabsorption (an indicator of proximal sodium reabsorption) decreased similarly in both groups. Infusion of ANP had no effect on mean arterial p...
Feasibility of a Memory Clinic-Based Physical Activity Prescription Program

Background Effective programs for promoting physical activity are needed for those with cognitive impairment. Objective To test the feasibility of mobile Health (mHealth) technology-supported physical activity prescription from a tertiary care memory clinic. Methods This feasibility study was designed as a 16-week randomized, crossover trial of a physical activity prescription: 8 weeks of intervention, 8 weeks of baseline or maintenance phase data collection. We recruited 2 cohorts: 21 individuals with Alzheimer-related cognitive impairment (mean age 72.3 (5.2), 9 females), and 9 individuals with normal cognition (mean age 69.6 (5.8), 8 females). We gave each cohort an mHealth accelerometer-based physical activity prescription to double number of steps taken. Our primary outcomes were feasibility and safety. Our secondary outcomes were change in weekly steps taken, Dementia Quality of Life Scale, Self-efficacy Scale, 6-minute Walk, and mini-Physical Performance Test. Results Set-up and use of the device was not a barrier to participation. However, only 62% of participants with cognitive impairment completed the intervention. The cohort with cognitive impairment did not change their weekly step count above Week 1. All participants in the cohort with normal cognition were able to set up and use their device and increased their weekly step count above Week 1. There were no differences between Week 1 and Week 8 for any secondary measures in either cohort. Conclusions Setup and daily use of mHealth technology appears to be feasible for a person with cognitive impairment with the help of a partner, but increasing daily step counts over 8 weeks was not achieved. Future work needs to assess alternative activity prescription goals or additional support for patients and their partners.
Evaluation of Delestrogen and Parlodel as a luteolytic agent in humans

Ten women ages 22 to 39 years were treated with a single injection of Delestrogen on day 19 of the menstrual cycle and increasing doses of Parlodel on days 19 to 23. This treatment resulted in a shortening of the luteal phase and a decrease in the production of progesterone and had no effect on serum luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), or prolactin levels. Side effects reported with this therapy included lethargy, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, hot flashes, depression, and nasal congestion. These preliminary clinical data suggest a combination of estrogen and bromocriptine regimen is luteolytic and may be useful as an interceptive abortifacient preparation in the human being.
Trigger digit release: rates of surgery and complications as indicated by a United States Medicare database

A United States insurance database was examined for trigger digit release using International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision diagnoses and procedures or Current Procedural Terminology codes. Complications after trigger digit release, including stiffness, infection and revision surgery, were assessed. A total of 209,634 patients who underwent trigger digit release were included. The rate of trigger digit release increased significantly from 2005 to 2012, with the middle finger the most frequently released. The rate of postoperative stiffness was low, ranging from 0.8% to 1.6% depending on the operated digit. The rate of postoperative infection was lower, ranging from 0.5% to 0.6%. The need for revision within 3 years of initial trigger digit release was also low, ranging from 0.3% to 0.8%. Complications, including infection, stiffness and revision surgery, occur infrequently, but certain factors, including diabetes, Dupuytren’s disease, smoking, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity and age, increase ris...
Significance of Factor VIII Inhibitors by ELISA in Patients with Hemophilia A.

Abstract Background: The Bethesda assay traditionally has been used to detect Factor VIII inhibitors in patients with Hemophilia A, but recent evidence suggests that it is not sensitive to all inhibitors, particularly non-inhibitory or low-titer antibodies. Methods: Patients with Hemophilia A without prior history of inhibitor were recruited. Study questionnaire collected demographic and clinical information, bleeding history and factor usage over the preceding 6 months. Functional status was assessed by the Hemophilia Activities List (HAL). Factor VIII inhibitor was assessed by both the Bethesda assay and Factor VIII inhibitor ELISA (GTI Diagnostics). T-test was performed to assess statistical significance. Results: Data is available for 26 patients, 19 severe, 2 moderate and 7 mild. All subjects had a negative Bethesda assay, but 10 (39%) had a detectable inhibitor by ELISA. 9/10 inhibitor patients had severe hemophilia, while one had mild hemophilia. In severe hemophiliacs, there were no differences in age, HIV status, CD4 count, Hepatitis C positivity or viral load between those with and those without inhibitors. Inhibitors were more frequent in those using plasma-derived concentrates 4/5 (80%), than in those using recombinant products 6/14 (43%), p=0.15. There was no difference in bleeding frequency or functional status in patients with or without inhibitors, although those with inhibitors had more frequent infusions.(Table). In patients on prophylaxis, those with inhibitors had a higher bleeding frequency compared to those without an inhibitor, (p =0.2). 11 patients were not on prophylaxis and had a higher bleeding frequency (p = 0.02) than patients on prophylaxis irrespective of inhibitor presence. However those with inhibitors required more factor doses per bleed compared to those without an inhibitor (4.4 vs. 1.5, p=0.16) even though the mean factor dose was the same (25.3 units/kg vs 25.2 units/kg). Conclusions: The Factor VIII ELISA assay detected inhibitors in 39 % of Hemophilia A patients who had undetectable inhibitors by standard Bethesda assay. This data suggests that these inhibitors may be clinically relevant, given that inhibitor patients who are not on prophylaxis require more doses of factor per bleeding event. Further study is necessary to determine mechanism and clinical significance of these Factor VIII inhibitors. Table. Characteristics of severe hemophilia patients with and without ELISA Factor VIII inhibitor All severe (n=19) Inhibitor (n=9) No inhibitor (n=10) Age 43.4 40.8 45.7 Plasma-derived factor 5 (26.3%) 4 (44.4%) 1 (10%) Total bleeds/6 months 8.6 8.1 9.0 Muscle bleeds/6 months 1.3 0.8 1.7 Joint bleeds/6 months 7.3 7.3 7.3 Factor infusions/6 months 50.9 57.2 45.2 On prophylaxis 8 (42%) 4 (44.4%) 4 (40%) Total bleeds/6 months 4.3 5.8 2.8 Not on prophylaxis 11 (58%) 5 (55.6%) 6 (60%) Total bleeds/6 months 11.7 10 13.2 Factor doses/bleed 2.9 4.4 1.5
Sexual dysfunction is associated with suicidal ideation in female service members and veterans.

Abstract Background Suicide is a leading cause of premature death among military service members/veterans (SM/Vs). The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide ( Joiner, 2007 ) proposes that higher thwarted belonging, perceived burdensomeness, and acquired capability confer increased risk for suicide. However, no studies have examined the association of sexual dysfunction, a possible component of thwarted belonging and perceived burdensomeness, with suicidal ideation. The present study explored whether sexual dysfunction was associated with suicidal ideation when accounting for mental health, demographic, and military characteristics among female SM/Vs. Method Female SM/Vs (n = 710) completed an anonymous online survey assessing demographics, mental health, military characteristics, sexual dysfunction, and suicidal ideation. Results One hundred fifty-nine participants (22.39%) reported suicidal ideation during the preceding two weeks. A multivariable ordinal regression adjusted for age, marital status, probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), probable depression, race/ethnicity, Army service, and deployment history. Lower sexual functioning (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.98, 95% confidence interval[CI] = 0.95–0.99), probable PTSD (AOR = 2.54, 95% CI = 1.61–4.01), and probable depression (AOR = 5.28, 95% CI = 3.34–8.34) were associated with suicidal ideation. Post-hoc analyses examined the association of suicidal ideation with specific components of sexual functioning: difficulties with sexual arousal (AOR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.79–0.97) and sexual satisfaction (AOR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.75–0.96) were associated with suicidal ideation. Limitations Data were cross-sectional and limited to self-report. Discussion Sexual dysfunction is associated with suicidal ideation, accounting for established mental health, military, and demographic characteristics among female SM/Vs. Efforts to prevent suicidal ideation in female SM/Vs may be enhanced by screening for and treating sexual dysfunction, particularly sexual arousal and satisfaction.
Diagnosis and treatment options for sequelae following radiation treatment of brain tumors

Radiation serves an important role in the treatment of metastatic and primary brain tumors. Radiation carries a risk of post radiation treatment effects, such as pseudoprogression and radiation necrosis. The ability to differentiate between radiation necrosis, pseudoprogression, and tumor recurrence remains a diagnostic conundrum with varying treatment options. In this review, we will discuss the pathophysiology, diagnostic imaging modalities, and treatments of these post-radiation treatment effects. We focus on the latest developments in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) modalities including imaging biomarkers and the newest therapeutics such as VEGF inhibitors, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, sensitized cytotoxic T cells, and Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT).
Ferroptosis, Mechanism Of Cell Death In Vitamin E Deficiency During Embryogenesis?

Vitamin E (α-tocopherol), discovered in 1922, prevents rodent fetal resorption, but the mechanisms are unknown. Adult zebrafish maintained on vitamin E-deficient (E–) or sufficient (E+) diets were spawned to obtained E– and E+ embryos, respectively, which we evaluated up to 12 days post-fertilization (dpf). Initially, we investigated mechanisms causing lethality using metabolomic analyses of E– embryos daily from 1 to 5 dpf. By 5 dpf, 80% of E– embryos experienced increased morbidity or mortality; even normally appearing E– embryos at 4 dpf were 84% less responsive to light-dark stimuli in a locomotor assay. We found that vitamin E deficiency not only caused behavioral abnormalities, it caused: 1) lipid peroxidation of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), depletion of DHA-containing phospholipids, especially phosphatidylcholine, and choline depletion; 2) glucose depletion, which was potentiated by shunting it to the pentose phosphate pathway for NADPH production; and 3) impairment of oxygen consumption and energy homeostasis. The observed morbidity and behavioral outcomes could be attenuated by glucose injection into E– embryos at 1 dpf. In subsequent experiments, normally appearing E– and E+ embryos at 5 dpf were fed an adequate diet (containing DHA and vitamin E) from 5-12 dpf. Both the E– and E+ groups survived and grew normally; however, by 12 dpf E– larvae continued to have behavioral defects. These defects coincided with sustained vitamin E deficiency despite adequate dietary supplementation. We also found in E– vs. E+ larvae DHA depletion with increased lipid peroxidation, along with defective energy metabolism. Thus, embryonic vitamin E deficiency in zebrafish leads to a metabolic reprogramming that adversely affects the neurologic status of embryos that is not readily repaired by an adequate diet suggesting neuronal cell death in the developing brain, possibly by ferroptotic mechanisms.
GaN-FET based grid-connected solar microinverter: Some design insights

In this paper, high frequency PCB parasitic analysis and control design of a GaN-FET based grid-connected solar microinverter using a differential-mode Cuk inverter (DMCI) topology are presented. The DMCI is operated using a discontinuous modulation scheme (DMS), which helps to achieve high efficiency and reduced device voltage ratings. Detailed hardware layout design for high frequency power and gate loops are presented and challenges and advantages of working with the GaN FETs are discussed in this paper. Next, Control design of a GaN-FET based grid connected DMCI is outlined and modifications required in it as compared to standalone control are presented.
A case report of clonidine induced syncope: a review of central actions of an old cardiovascular drug.

Clonidine is an imidazoline sympatholytic, acting on both α2-adrenergic and imidazoline receptors in the brainstem to induce antihypertensive and negative chronotropic effects in the vasculature and heart respectively. A 69-year-old gentleman with hypertension presented to the emergency department after multiple syncopal episodes over the past 12 months. Electrocardiogram demonstrated sinus bradycardia with a heart rate of 42 beats per minute. It was hypothesized that the antihypertensive agent clonidine was responsible for inducing symptomatic bradycardia. Clonidine was thus gradually tapered and then discontinued over five days restoring normal sinus rhythm rates while avoiding hypertensive rebound related to sympathetic surge. His heart rate and blood pressure remained within normal limits after the clonidine taper and subsequent adjustments to his other hypertensive medications and he was discharged. While clonidine has fallen out of favor for its indication as an antihypertensive, it remains a viable option for the use of opioid withdrawal, chronic pain, and smoking cessation, necessitating the appropriate clinical and pharmacological competencies for a physician to prescribe. A discussion of the clinical effects of clonidine brainstem receptor activation follows.
A biomimetic high-capacity phenazine-based anolyte for aqueous organic redox flow batteries

Aqueous soluble organic (ASO) redox-active materials have recently attracted significant attention as alternatives to traditional transition metal ions in redox flow batteries (RFB). However, reported reversible capacities of ASO are often substantially lower than their theoretical values based on the reported maximum solubilities. Here, we describe a phenazine-based ASO compound with an exceptionally high reversible capacity that exceeds 90% of its theoretical value. By strategically modifying the phenazine molecular structure, we demonstrate an increased solubility from near-zero with pristine phenazine to as much as 1.8 M while also shifting its redox potential by more than 400 mV. An RFB based on a phenazine derivative (7,8-dihydroxyphenazine-2-sulfonic acid) at its near-saturation concentration exhibits an operating voltage of 1.4 V with a reversible anolyte capacity of 67 Ah l−1 and a capacity retention of 99.98% per cycle over 500 cycles. Redox flow batteries (RFBs) based on organic redox-active molecules are attractive, but the solubility of those molecules, and consequently the capacity, is generally low. Here, the authors develop a phenazine derivative with high solubility as an energy-dense anolyte for RFBs.
Assessing likelihood of using the Bruininks-Oseretsky test of motor proficiency to predict preclinical performance of dental students

Objective The acquisition of motor skills is a key competency for the practice of dentistry, and innate abilities have been shown to influence motor performance. Thus, finding the most efficient manual dexterity tests may predict performance of dental students. The current study used the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, to assess motor skills of first year (D1) and second year (D2) dental students. Materials and methods Three fine motor subsets of the BOT-2-fine motor precision, fine motor integration, and manual dexterity-were administered to D1 and D2 dental students in 2017 and 2018. The BOT-2 subset scores of D1 students were compared with those of D2 students, who had preclinical dental experiences. For D2 students, we tested for correlations between BOT-2 subset scores and performance scores in a preclinical operative dentistry course. Results No differences were found between D1 and D2 students for any BOT-2 subtest scores (all Ps > .09). No correlations were found between total scores of each BOT-2 subtest and the operative dentistry course for D2 students (all Ps > .20). Conclusions Our results suggested the BOT-2 was not predictive of manual skills of dental applicants or preclinical dental students. Although we assumed students would perform well with instruction, practice, and feedback, we were unable to determine whether innate abilities influenced acquisition of manual dexterity skills. More research about the acquisition of technical clinical skills in dentistry is required.
Implementing a Mobile Identity Application in a Ubiquitous Computing Environment

The proliferation of smartphones and Internet of Things devices has resulted in a range of new applications. Applied and emerging technologies include Bluetooth and Near Field Communications, peer-to-peer networks, and edge-computing, all of which can substantially improve or enhance the experience of end users on college campuses. As these technologies are applied to more areas, there will be a greater need for a single federated digital identity to manage their use. A ubiquitous computing environment emerges when these various components are combined in an increasingly seamless manner, offering a range of benefits to end users and participants. The Marist College Digital Identity Initiative offers proof-of-concept implementation of key components of this emerging network of sensors and devices by demonstrating the ability to issue, change and revoke facility access across campus. There is an opportunity to vastly enhance federated identity end user experience in a wide range of activities on Marist College campus, from building access to library resource management and retail payments.
Small ponds in headwater catchments are a dominant influence on regional nutrient and sediment budgets

U.S. Geological SurveyUnited States Geological Survey; National Science Foundation Hydrologic Sciences ProgramNational Science Foundation (NSF)NSF - Directorate for Geosciences (GEO); Water Mission Area
PISA-SPARKY: an interactive SPARKY plugin to analyze oriented solid-state NMR spectra of helical membrane proteins.

Motivation Two-dimensional [15N-1H] separated local field solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments of membrane proteins aligned in lipid bilayers provide tilt and rotation angles for α-helical segments using Polar Index Slant Angle (PISA)-wheel models. No integrated software has been made available for data analysis and visualization. Results We have developed the PISA-SPARKY plugin to seamlessly integrate PISA-wheel modeling into the NMRFAM-SPARKY platform. The plugin performs basic simulations, exhaustive fitting against experimental spectra, error analysis and dipolar and chemical shift wave plotting. The plugin also supports PyMOL integration and handling of parameters that describe variable alignment and dynamic scaling encountered with magnetically aligned media, ensuring optimal fitting and generation of restraints for structure calculation. Availability and implementation PISA-SPARKY is freely available in the latest version of NMRFAM-SPARKY from the National Magnetic Resonance Facility at Madison (http://pine.nmrfam.wisc.edu/download_packages.html), the NMRbox Project (https://nmrbox.org) and to subscribers of the SBGrid (https://sbgrid.org). The pisa.py script is available and documented on GitHub (https://github.com/weberdak/pisa.py) along with a tutorial video and sample data. Supplementary information Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Improving community participation in clinical and translational research: CTSA Sentinel Network proof of concept study.

Background Research participation by members of racial or ethnic minority groups continues to be less than optimum resulting in difficulties to generalization of research findings. Community-engaged research that relies on a community health worker (CHW) model has been found effective in building trust in the community, thereby motivating people to participate in health research. The Sentinel Network study aimed at testing the feasibility of utilizing the CHW model to link community members to appropriate health research studies at each of the research sites. Methods The study was conducted at six Clinical and Translational Science Award institutions (N = 2371) across the country; 733 (30.9%) of the participants were from the University of Florida, 525 (22.0%) were from Washington University in St. Louis, 421 (17.8%) were from the University of California, Davis, 288 (12.1%) were from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 250 (10.5%) were from Rochester, and 154 (6.5%) from Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Trained CHWs from each of these sites conducted regular community outreach where they administered a Health Needs Assessment, provided medical and social referrals, and linked to eligible research studies at each of those sites. A 30-day follow-up assessment was developed to track utilization of services satisfaction with the services and research study participation. Results A large majority of people, especially African Americans, expressed willingness to participate in research studies. The top two health concerns reported by participants were hypertension and diabetes. Conclusion Findings on the rate of navigation and enrollment in research from this study indicate the effectiveness of a hybrid CHW service and research model of directly engaging community members to encourage people to participate in research.
The evolution of a shallow front in the Arctic marginal ice zone

The high degree of heterogeneity in the ice-ocean-atmosphere system in marginal ice zones leads to a complex set of dynamics which control fluxes of heat and buoyancy in the upper ocean. Strong fronts may occur near the ice edge between the warmer waters of the ice-free regions and the cold, fresh waters near and under the ice. This study presents observations of a well-defined density front located along the ice edge in the Beaufort Sea. The evolution of the front over a ∼3-day survey period is captured by multiple cross-front sections measured using an underway conductivity-temperature-depth system, with simultaneous measurements of atmospheric forcing. Synthetic aperture radar images bookending this period show that the ice edge itself underwent concurrent evolution. Prior to the survey, the ice edge was compact and well defined while after the survey it was diffuse and filamented with coherent vortical structures. This transformation might be indicative of the development an active ocean eddy field in the upper ocean mixed layer. Over the course of hours, increasing wind stress is correlated with changes to the lateral buoyancy gradient and frontogenesis. Frontal dynamics appear to vary from typical open-ocean fronts (e.g., here the frontogenesis is linked to an “up-front” wind stress). Convective and shear-driven mixing appear to be unable to describe deepening at the heel of the front. While there was no measurable spatial variation in wind speed, we hypothesize that spatial heterogeneity in the total surface stress input, resulting from varying ice conditions across the marginal ice zone, may be a driver of the observed behaviour.
The Impact of a Long-Term Care Information Campaign on Insurance Purchase

This paper estimates the effect of an information campaign urging individuals to plan ahead for their long-term care needs on the purchase of long-term care insurance. Long-term care expenses represent a large, mostly uninsured risk for the elderly, and Medicaid payments for long-term care expenses total more than $150 billion annually. In an effort to curtail these expenses, the federal government partnered with 25 states over the course of five years to run the "Own Your Future'' campaign. Using a difference-in-differences strategy that takes advantage of the staggered timing of the rollout and restricted data from the Health and Retirement Study, I find that the campaign increased long-term care insurance coverage by one percentage point, an increase of about ten percent. Although the increase is concentrated among high-asset individuals, a back-of-the-envelope calculation indicates modest Medicaid savings of $400 million in present value. This estimate represents a lower bound for the total savings from the program as individuals may have made adjustments on other unmeasured margins.
Civil Society under Authoritarianism: The China Model

Despite the dominant narrative of the repression of civil society in China, Civil Society under Authoritarianism: The China Model argues that interactions between local officials and civil society facilitate a learning process, whereby each actor learns about the intentions and work processes of the other. Over the past two decades, often facilitated by foreign donors and problems within the general social framework, these interactions generated a process in which officials learned the benefits and disadvantages of civil society. Civil society supports local officials' efforts to provide social services and improve public policies, yet it also engages in protest and other activities that challenge social stability and development. This duality motivates local officials in China to construct a 'social management' system - known as consultative authoritarianism - to encourage the beneficial aspects and discourage the dangerous ones.
A Machine Learning Approach to Temporal Traffic-Aware Energy-Efficient Cellular Networks

With the rapidly increasing demand for cellular network services, operators have responded by deploying more base stations (BSs) which have greatly increased the total energy consumption of cellular network infrastructure. In this paper, machine learning is used to exploit temporal variations in cellular network traffic. Four machine learning algorithms and one conventional time series forecasting method are used for traffic prediction and then compared. Results show that random forest regression performs best with a coefficient of determination of 0.82 on the whole dataset and 0.84 on data of isolated days of the week. Based on the predicted traffic, three sleep mode schemes are applied to a homogeneous network. Simulation results show that the strategic sleep mode scheme performs best with an 87.4% energy saving gain over the conventional scheme and a 32% percent energy saving gain over the random scheme for a given day. In addition, the strategic scheme achieves an hourly average power saving of 3,836 W per kilometer squared, which proves that machine learning traffic prediction-based sleep modes are instrumental in achieving energy-efficient cellular networks.
Emerging role of lncRNA ELDR in development and cancer

Whole genome sequencing and transcriptome analysis revealed more than 90% of the human genome transcribes non-coding RNAs including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). From the beginning of the 21st century, lncRNAs have gained widespread attention as a new layer of regulation in biological processes. LncRNAs are more than 200 nucleotides in size, transcribed by RNA polymerase II and share many similarities with mRNAs. LncRNA interacts with DNA, RNA, protein and microRNA thereby regulating many biological processes. In this review, we have focused mainly on LINC01156 [also known as the EGFR long non-coding downstream RNA (ELDR) or Fabl] and its biological importance. ELDR is a newly identified lncRNA and first reported in a mouse model, but it has a human homolog. The human ELDR gene is closely localized downstream of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene at chromosome 7 on the opposite strand. ELDR is highly expressed in neuronal stem cells and associated with neuronal differentiation and mouse brain development. ELDR is upregulated in head and neck cancers, suggesting its role as an oncogene and its importance in prognosis and therapy. Publicly available RNA seq data further support its oncogenic potential in different cancers. Here, we summarize all the aspects of ELDR in development and cancer, highlighting its future perspectives in the context of mechanism.
Non-Uniqueness of Non-Linear Optical Response.

In recent years, non-linear optical phenomena have attracted much attention, with a particular focus on the engineering and exploitation of non-linear responses. Comparatively little study has however been devoted to the driving fields that generate these responses. In this work, we demonstrate that the relationship between a driving field and the optical response it induces is non-unique. Using a generic model for a strongly interacting system, we show that multiple candidate driving field exists, which will all generate the same response. Consequently, it is possible show that the optical response is not sufficient to determine the internal dynamics of the system, and that different solutions for the driving field will do different amounts of work on a system. This non-uniqueness phenomenon may in future be utilised to engineer internal system states without modifying its optical response.
What Does Justice Require for the Victims of Katrina and September 11

The tragic devastation that followed Hurricane Katrina was largely the result of governmental negligence. Although the ineptitude of federal, state and local authorities in the aftermath of the hurricane has been well-chronicled, less attention has been paid to the shoddy construction, inspection, and maintenance of the levee system; a system that failed under the stress of a low-level hurricane. Drawing on authoritative engineering reports that reviewed problems with the levees, this article concludes that the system's failure was principally the fault of the Army Corps of Engineers, abetted by state and local failures. Thus, the federal government bears responsibility to the citizens of New Orleans whose lives were lost or shattered after Katrina. Notwithstanding this fault, those injured or killed by Katrina have received little from the government. Federal disaster relief, available in all cases following a declaration of disaster, has been the principal - and inadequate - remedy. In contrast, the families of those killed by the terrorist acts of September 11 received generous payouts, in many cases totaling millions of dollars, from general revenue. These payments were made in spite of the government's likely lack of substantial fault in the events leading up to September 11. This article argues that the difference in treatment cannot be justified by recourse to any principle of justice. Government does have an obligation to come to the assistance of disaster victims, but this obligation is constrained by the requirement of distributive justice, which mandates that the welfare of all citizens be taken into account. Thus, even the heartbreaking events of September 11 should have triggered no more than typical FEMA relief efforts. Matters are more complicated, though, where government itself is to blame for a tragedy, as was to a great extent true in the case of Katrina. In that case, one can argue that the government should pay the victims for the same reasons that we require private defendants to pay for injuries they cause innocent victims (plaintiffs): the imperatives of corrective justice, which treat the parties as a closed set and require one to pay the other to redress an imbalance that culpable conduct creates. But the government, of course, is not a private "party," and it is therefore impossible to "close off" its assets from those of everyone else. Thus, although it seems clear that Katrina victims have a better claim to government compensation than did the victims of September 11, it does not follow that the government should simply pay out in the same way that tort plaintiffs would be compensated. The article argues for a creative middle ground: Government should not restrict itself to disaster payments, but should stop short of full tort compensation. Flexibility and attention to changing developments, and a "long tail" approach to improving the lives of Katrina's victims, are the best solutions to a theoretically and practically difficult problem.
Un-intimidating Portfolio Theory and Statistics

This paper introduces the necessary statistical background for portfolio theory in an intuitive manner. By using two asset portfolio examples, the financial concept of diversification emerges along with the statistical concepts of covariance and correlation. Further, an algorithm is produced for generating an efficient frontier for a two asset portfolio. When introducing the risk free security as a third asset in the portfolio, a similar algorithm produces the weights for the two risky asset "tangency portfolio" and correspondingly a capital allocation line. By understanding these basic concepts, the student is prepared to take on the challenge of more rigorous multi-asset portfolios.
Aromatase deficiency owing to a functional variant in the placenta promoter and a novel missense mutation in the CYP19A1 gene.

Context Aromatase deficiency in females is a rare 46,XX Disorder of Sex Differentiation characterized by a defect in catalyzing ooestrogens from androgens. Objective To better understand this rare disorder, we searched for mutations in the CYP19A1 gene of an affected girl and analyzed their functional consequences. Design and Patient We examined a girl presenting with clitoral hypertrophy at birth and mild maternal virilization (acne) during pregnancy. Main Outcome Measurement A genotype-phenotype correlation was found. Results By direct sequencing of the CYP19A1 gene we identified a heterozygous A>G mutation (c. A1374G) mutation in exon IX, leading to the missense p.N411S in the P450Aro protein and a heterozygous placenta promoter variant -41 base pairs upstream of exon I.1. Aromatase enzyme activity was completely lost when the mutant p.N411S protein was expressed in COS1 cells. The placenta promoter variant had a significantly reduced (-50%) transactivation ability compared to wild type. Conclusion Our data describe a novel loss-of-function missense mutation in CYP19A1 combined with the first described variant of the placenta promoter with a significant reduction in function, likely to be the molecular basis of this rare 46, XX disorder of sex development. This seems to represent a unique case of aromatase deficiency occuring in utero only.
Benefits and Barriers to Applying Probabilistic Risk Analysis on Engineering and Construction Projects

AbstractAlthough probabilistic risk analysis methods have been available to engineering and construction practitioners for decades, their use is not pervasive in industry today. To determine why their use is not more prevalent, the research team conducted in-depth interviews and administered survey questionnaires. The analysis of these data identified the benefits and barriers of employing probabilistic risk analysis. Engineering managers can implement more formal project risk management approaches by exploiting the benefits and training employees, adopting processes and procedures for risk management, and regularly communicating the results of probabilistic analysis with project stakeholders.
Fulde-Ferrell-Larkin-Ovchinnikov versus Bose-Fermi mixture in a polarized one-dimensional Fermi gas at a Feshbach resonance: A three-body study

We study the three-fermion problem within a 1D model of a Feshbach resonance in order to gain insight into how the Fulde-Ferrell-Larkin-Ovchinnikov (FFLO)-like state at small negative scattering lengths evolves into a Bose-Fermi mixture at small positive scattering lengths. The FFLO state possesses an oscillating superfluid correlation function, while in a Bose-Fermi mixture correlations are monotonic. We find that this behavior is already present at the three-body level. We present an exact study of the three-body problem and gain extra insights by considering world lines of a path-integral Monte Carlo calculation.
Discussion as a bridge: Strategies that engage adolescent and adult learning styles in the postsecondary classroom

Abstract: This essay examines areas where literacy researchers in secondary and postsecondary contexts have explored the use of classroom discussion for extending critical thinking and content comprehension among students. It provides an argument for the use of strategic conversations in postsecondary classrooms and outlines specific methods for planning and implementing class-based discussions aligned with areas of convergence between adolescent and adult learning theories.
Porosity of coals and coal products

Different experimental approaches for characterizing porosity of coals and coal products have been described. Results of densities, surface areas and pore volume distributions for coals of different rank and the manner in which they change upon heat treatment have been discussed. True density, that is the density of the solid phase of coals, as measured by the displacement of helium, is rank dependent. It shows a shallow minimum at about 81% carbon and rises sharply as 90% carbon is approached. Particle densities of coals, as measured by the volume of mercury displaced, show the same kind of rank dependence as do the corresponding helium densities. It has been concluded that adsorption of N/sub 2/ at 77/sup 0/K measures the area of transitional and macropores, whereas CO/sub 2/ adsorption at 298/sup 0/K measures essentially the total surface area of coals. Both N/sub 2/ and CO/sub 2/ areas show a dependence on coal rank. Surface areas of coals determined from water adsorption isotherms are invariably lower than the corresponding CO/sub 2/ areas.
Terrorism in East Africa and the Horn: An overview

The United States has properly identified East Africa and the Horn as the region in Sub-Saharan Africa most threatened by indigenous and international terrorism. This part of the continent also stands out for the number of internal and regional conflicts that it has experienced in recent decades. The following analysis looks generally at the role of local conflict, corruption, Islam, and other factors that contribute to acts of terrorism. It then offers a country by country summary and concludes with some comments on US counter-terrorism policy in the region and suggestions for the future.
What Does Galileo's Discovery of Jupiter's Moons Tell Us About the Process of Scientific Discovery?

In 1610, Galileo Galilei discovered Jupiter'smoons with the aid of a new morepowerful telescope of his invention. Analysisof his report reveals that his discoveryinvolved the use of at least three cycles ofhypothetico-deductive reasoning. Galileofirst used hypothetico-deductive reasoning to generateand reject a fixed star hypothesis.He then generated and rejected an ad hocastronomers-made-a-mistake hypothesis.Finally, he generated, tested, and accepted a moonhypothesis. Galileo's reasoningis modeled in terms of Piaget's equilibration theory,Grossberg's theory of neurologicalactivity, a neural network model proposed by Levine &Prueitt, and another proposedby Kosslyn & Koenig. Given that hypothetico-deductivereasoning has played a rolein other important scientific discoveries, thequestion is asked whether it plays a rolein all important scientific discoveries. In otherwords, is hypothetico-deductive reasoningthe essence of the scientific method? Possiblealternative scientific methods, such asBaconian induction and combinatorial analysis,are explored and rejected as viablealternatives. Educational implications of thishypothetico-deductive view of scienceare discussed.