cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Design Consideration and Comparison of Wireless Power Transfer via Harmonic Current for PHEV and EV Wireless Charging

Wireless power transfer (WPT) using only harmonic current for plug-in hybrid electric vehicle and electric vehicle is a fairly new concept. The frequency limitation of most high-voltage high-current IGBTs is around 20 kHz which also limits the system frequency of the transformer. The series resonant converter (SRC) is widely used in WPT application for its simplicity and high efficiency. Due to the bandpass filter characteristic of the resonant network, the SRC allows one frequency component to pass while the other frequency components are greatly attenuated. By deliberately selecting one harmonic current as the power carrier, the system frequency can be raised up to several times with the same switching frequency. Thus, a higher system frequency contributes to a more compact system. However, a high-order harmonic system results in high conduction loss on the switches, and it leads to a tradeoff between the system size and efficiency. This paper provides a theoretical and practical design for a system using harmonic current. Furthermore, a comprehensive comparison between different harmonic systems is carried out. A 1-kW SRC prototype with a 20-cm air gap is built to verify the proposed method.
A reliability and validity study of the Women's Role Strain Inventory.

The purpose of this study was to theoretically conceptualize, develop and test the Women's Role Strain Inventory (WRSI) which assesses role strain in women who have multiple roles. There is limited research published related to role strain of women, although role strain, role conflict and role stress have been documented to have negative and positive effects (Hall 1975, Hall 1992). The theoretical basis for this study is based upon Goode's Theory of Role Strain (1960) and Sieber's Theory of Role Accumulation (1974). The pilot consisted of 62 female nurses, and the sample used for construct validity consisted of 445 female nurses. Content validity resulted in a content validity index of (.91). Exploratory factor analysis with varimax rotation resulted in a three-factor solution supporting Goode's (1960) theory of role strain, and Sieber's (1974) theory of role accumulation. Alpha coefficients for the three subscales were .89 (role distress), .86 (role enhancement), and .81 (role support). Internal consistency of .93 was achieved for the overall WRSI. Test-retest coefficients ranged from .61 to .91. The high reliability and validity of the WRSI make it a reliable and valid instrument to measure role strain of women.
Comparison of perioperative outcomes in endovascular versus open repair for juxtarenal and pararenal aortic aneurysms: A propensity-matched analysis:

ObjectiveEndoluminal aortic aneurysm repair is suitable within certain anatomic specifications. This study aims to compare 30-day outcomes of endovascular versus open repairs for juxtarenal and par...
Predictive Client-side Profiles for Keyword Advertising

Current approaches to personalizing online advertisements rely on estimating user preferences from server-side logs of accumulated user behavior. In this paper, we consider client-side ad personalization, where user-related information is allowed to be stored only within the user’s control (e.g., in a browser cookie), enabling the user to view, edit or purge it at any time. In this setting, the ad personalization task is formulated as the problem of iteratively updating compact user profiles stored client-side to maximize expected utility gain. We compare the performance of client-side profiling to that of full-history server-side profiling in the context of keyword profiles used to trigger bid increments in search advertising. Experiments on real-world data demonstrate that predictive client-side profiles allow retaining a significant fraction of revenue gains due to personalization, while giving users full control of their data.
Zone based hybrid approach for clustering and data collection in wireless sensor networks

A wireless sensor network (WSN) is a collection of spatially distributed autonomous sensor nodes that can be used to monitor, among other things, environmental conditions. WSN sensor nodes are constrained by their limited energy supply, communication range and local computational capabilities. Data routing is an area that can be optimized to allow nodes to conserve energy, improving the network's overall lifetime. Though many routing protocols can be used, using a clustering protocol can play an important role in conserving WSN energy. Under this approach, the network is divided into multiple clusters. The leader of each cluster supervises data transmission to the base station (BS), after removing redundant data. In this paper, a new hybrid algorithm is proposed which incorporates both distributed and centralized algorithms for selection of the cluster head (CH). Under this algorithm, the CHs for first two rounds are selected by the BS, using a centralized algorithm. For the third round onwards, the CHs are selected by the previous cluster heads using a distributed algorithm. In most networks, sensor nodes have limited energy, so a mobile data collector (MDC) is used to collect information, reducing energy requirements. The MDC acts as an interface between the CHs and the BS. The transmission of data from the sensor nodes to the CH uses a proactive algorithm and the transmission from the mobile nodes to the BS uses a reactive algorithm. The BS divides the network into outer and inner zones. The outer zone is further divided into sectors. Each member node (MN) is assigned to a sector. The MN which has the most excess energy resources is used for transmission, to conserve energy and prolong the network life time.
Functional Outcomes of Childhood Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy 20 to 28 Years Later.

Background Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) is a surgical method used to treat childhood spastic cerebral palsy (CP). However, the effects of early SDR on functional outcomes and quality of life decades later in adulthood remains to be elucidated. Objectives To evaluate the long-term outcomes in terms of satisfaction and mobility of adult patients who received childhood SDR. Methods Adult patients who received SDR in childhood were surveyed. The survey questionnaire asked about demographic information, quality of life, health outcomes, SDR surgical outcomes, ambulation, manual ability, pain, braces/orthotics, post-SDR treatment, living situation, education level, and work status. Results Our study included 95 patients. The age that patients received SDR was between two and 18 years. The age at the time of survey was between 23 and 37 years (mean ± S.D., 30.2 ± 3.6 years). Post-SDR follow-up ranged from 20 to 28 years (mean ± S.D., 24.3 ± 2.2 years). Seventy-nine percent of patients had spastic diplegia, 20% had spastic quadriplegia, and one percent had spastic triplegia. Ninety-one percent of patients felt that SDR impacted positively the quality of life and two percent felt that the surgery impacted negatively the quality of life after SDR. Compared to pre-operative ambulatory function, 42% reported higher level of ambulation and 42% ambulated in the same level. Eighty-eight percent of patients would recommend the procedure to others and two percent would not. Thirty-eight percent reported pain, mostly in the back and lower limbs, with mean pain level 4.2 ± 2.3 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Decreased sensation in patchy areas of the lower limbs that did not affect daily life was reported by eight percent of patients. Scoliosis was diagnosed in 31%. The severity of scoliosis is unknown. Only three percent of them underwent spinal fusion. Fifty-seven percent of patients required some orthopedic surgery after SDR. The soft-tissue tendon lengthening procedures included lengthening on hamstrings, Achilles tendons or adductors. Out of all bone procedures, 24% of patients had hip surgery, five percent had knee surgery, and 10% had derotational osteotomies. No late side effects of SDR surgery were reported in this survey. Conclusions In our 95 adult patients who received SDR in childhood, the surgery had positive effects on the quality of life and ambulation 20-28 years later. There were no late complications of SDR surgery.
SINE-GORDON VS. MASSIVE THIRRING

By viewing the sine-Gordon and massive Thirring models as perturbed conformal field theories, one sees that they are different (the difference being observable, for instance, in finite-volume energy levels). The UV limit of the former (SGM) is a Gaussian model, that of the latter (MTM) a so-called fermionic Gaussian model, the compactification radius of the boson underlying both theories depending on the SG/MT coupling. (These two families of conformal field theories are related by a “twist”.) Corresponding SG and MT models contain a subset of fields with identical correlation functions, but each model also has fields the other one does not have; for example, the fermion fields of MTM are not contained in SGM, and the bosonic soliton fields of SGM are not in MTM. Our results imply, in particular, that the SGM at the so-called “free-Dirac point” β2=4π is actually a theory of two interacting bosons with diagonal S-matrix S=−1, and that for arbitrary couplings the overall sign of the accepted SG S-matrix in the soliton sector should be reversed. More generally, we draw attention to the existence of new classes of quantum field theories, analogs of the (perturbed) fermionic Gaussians models, whose partition functions are invariant only under a subgroup of the modular group. One such class comprises “fermionic versions” of the Virasoro minimal models.
OH MYeloid! Immune cells wreaking havoc on brain homeostasis.

Genetic mutations responsible for neurodegenerative Nasu‐Hakola disease have been localized to the gene TREM2 and its adaptor DAP12, but it remained unclear what causes the brain to deteriorate. In this issue of The EMBO Journal , Kleinberger et al (2017) provide intriguing evidence suggesting a TREM2 mutation alone can lead to striking microglial dysfunction and precipitate changes in cerebral blood flow and metabolism in mice.
Associations of Residential Socioeconomic, Food, and Built Environments With Glycemic Control in Persons With Diabetes in New York City From 2007–2013

In the present study, we examined the longitudinal associations between residential environmental factors and glycemic control in 182,756 adults with diabetes in New York City from 2007 to 2013. Glycemic control was defined as a hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level less than 7%. We constructed residential-level measures and performed principle component analysis to formulate a residential composite score. On the basis of this score, we divided residential areas into quintiles, with the lowest and highest quintiles reflecting the least and most advantaged residential environments, respectively. Several residential-level environmental characteristics, including more advantaged socioeconomic conditions, greater ratio of healthy food outlets to unhealthy food outlets, and residential walkability were associated with increased glycemic control. Individuals who lived continuously in the most advantaged residential areas took less time to achieve glycemic control compared with the individuals who lived continuously in the least advantaged residential areas (9.9 vs. 11.5 months). Moving from less advantaged residential areas to more advantaged residential areas was related to improved diabetes control (decrease in HbA1c = 0.40%, 95% confidence interval: 0.22, 0.55), whereas moving from more advantaged residential areas to less advantaged residential areas was related to worsening diabetes control (increase in HbA1c = 0.33%, 95% confidence interval: 0.24, 0.44). These results show that residential areas with greater resources to support healthy food and residential walkability are associated with improved glycemic control in persons with diabetes.
Experimental estimation of the bisulfite isomer quotient as a function of temperature: Implications for sulfur isotope fractionations in aqueous sulfite solutions

Abstract Bisulfite (HSO3−) and sulfite (SO32−) compounds play key roles in numerous geochemical and biochemical processes extending from the atmosphere to the subseafloor biosphere. Despite decades of spectroscopic investigations, the molecular composition of HSO3− in solution remains uncertain and, thus, the role of bisulfite in (bio)chemical and isotope fractionation processes is unclear. We report new experimental estimates for the bisulfite isomer quotient (Qi = [(HO)SO2−]/[(HS)O3−]; [] = concentration) as a function of temperature from the interpretation of Raman spectra collected from aqueous NaHSO3 solutions contained in fused silica capsules. In pure NaHSO3 solutions (1Na+:1HSO3−, stoichiometric) over [NaHSO3] = 0.2–0.4 m (moles/kg H2O), the following relationship is obtained: ln ( Q i ) = 878.59 ( ± 32.98 ) T - 1.9642 ( ± 0.1081 ) , where T = 278–358 K (5–85 °C) (based on 50 determinations; additional significant figures are provided to avoid rounding errors). This relationship suggests that the minor isomer, (HS)O3−, may comprise 23–38% (±3%) of the mole fraction of HSO3− over 5–85 °C, respectively, which is higher in relative abundance than has generally been understood previously. We additionally provide estimates for Qi in NaHSO3 solutions containing a total ionic strength of µ = 1.0 m (0.2 m NaHSO3 + 0.8 m NaCl) and different pH (3.3–4.5), but do not appear to resolve any significant differences in Qi as a function of these additional variables. These new values of Qi are employed to re-assess the bulk sulfur isotope fractionations among bisulfite and other S(IV) compounds as a function of temperature, which appear to be highly dependent on the amount of (HS)O3− present. Our new constraints on the bisulfite isomer quotient may allow for a detailed assessment of the molecular composition and isotope mass balance of S(IV) solutions containing HSO3−, and may be useful in the further investigation of the mechanisms and isotope fractionations associated with a number of processes that involve bisulfite compounds. These may include the intracellular enzymatic transformations of sulfite and bisulfite compounds that occur as part of dissimilatory sulfate reduction, which is a major and geologically important form of anaerobic respiration.
Budgeting for national security: A whole of government perspective

There is a current argument that “national security” and “national defense” are no longer synonymous terms-that there is a new and broader definition for the activities that contribute to “the common defense.“ A whole of government approach is suggested as a means for integrating and coordinating national security policies and programs. To support this approach, recommendations have been made for an integrated national security budget. Focusing on the executive budget process, three approaches to an integrated national security budget are examined: organization-based, program-based and function-based. Though there are questions about the importance of budget structure and the effectiveness of program budgeting, a whole of government integrated unified national security budget could facilitate the fiscal trade-offs required between alternative means of pursuing national security objectives in the executive budget.
Fecal microbiome signatures are different in food-allergic children compared to siblings and healthy children.

Background Intestinal microbes have been shown to influence predisposition to atopic disease, including food allergy. The intestinal microbiome of food-allergic children may differ in significant ways from genetically similar non-allergic children and age-matched controls. The aim was to characterize fecal microbiomes to identify taxa that may influence the expression of food allergy. Methods Stool samples were collected from children with IgE-mediated food allergies, siblings without food allergy, and non-allergic controls. Stool microbiome characterization was performed via next-generation sequencing (Illumina) of the V1V3 and V4 variable regions of the 16S rRNA gene. Bacterial diversity, evenness, richness, and relative abundance of the operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were evaluated using QIIME. ANOVA and Welch's t test were utilized to compare groups. Results Sixty-eight children were included: food-allergic (n = 22), non-food-allergic siblings (n = 25), and controls (n = 21). When comparing fecal microbial communities across groups, differences were noted in Rikenellaceae (P = .035), Actinomycetaceae (P = .043), and Pasteurellaceae (P = .018), and nine other distinct OTUs. Food-allergic subjects had enrichment for specific microbes within the Clostridia class and Firmicutes phylum (Oscillobacter valericigenes, Lachnoclostridium bolteae, Faecalibacterium sp.) compared to siblings and controls. Identification of Clostridium sp. OTUs revealed differences in specific Clostridia drive the separation of the allergic from the siblings and controls. Alistipes sp. were enriched in non-allergic siblings. Conclusions Comparisons in the fecal microbiome of food-allergic children, siblings, and healthy children point to key differences in microbiome signatures, suggesting the role of both genetic and environmental contributors in the manifestation of food-allergic disease.
The Path of Emotional Least Resistance: Developing Theory Based on the Self-Reported Strengths of Happy and Distressed Couples in the Marriage Checkup

This study examined the qualitative differences between the types of strengths identified by satisfied versus distressed couples seeking a Marriage Checkup. We hypothesised that distressed couples would nominate less intimate strengths, while satisfied couples would nominate more intimate strengths. We found that distressed partners were significantly more likely to nominate items from a Parallel Support category, whereas satisfied women, but not men, were significantly more likely to nominate items from an Intimate/Affectionate category. These findings suggest that an indicator of developing couple distress is the point where couples begin to focus their attention on less emotionally vulnerable relationship aspects.
Comparison of bedside screening methods for frailty assessment in older adult trauma patients in the emergency department.

Abstract Background Frailty is linked to poor outcomes in older patients. We prospectively compared the utility of the picture-based Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS9), clinical assessments, and ultrasound muscle measurements against the reference FRAIL scale in older adult trauma patients in the emergency department (ED). Methods We recruited a convenience sample of adults 65 yrs. or older with blunt trauma and injury severity scores Results Fifteen of 65 patients were frail by FRAIL scale (23%). CFS9 performed well when assessed by subject/surrogate (AUROC 0.91 [95% CI 0.84–0.98] or physician (AUROC 0.77 [95% CI 0.63–0.91]. Optimal thresholds for both physician and subject/surrogate were CFS9 of 4 or greater. If both physician and subject/surrogate provided scores Conclusion The ED needs rapid, validated tools to screen for frailty. The CFS9 has excellent negative predictive value in ruling out frailty. Ultrasound of combined biceps and quadriceps has modest concordance as an alternative in trauma patients who cannot provide a history.
A comparative analysis of the cycle fecundity rates associated with combined human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) versus either hMG or IUI alone

Human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) superovulation combined with washed intrauterine insemination (IUI) has been advocated for the treatment of various forms of infertility when more traditional therapy has failed. To assess the relative efficacy of combined treatment with hMG and IUI compared with either hMG or IUI alone, pregnancy outcomes of the three treatment groups were compared in couples having infertility because of male factor, cervical factor, endometriosis, or unexplained. A total of 751cycles were analyzed from 322 couples. The mean cycle fecundity rate associated with hMG/IUI therapy was significantly higher than either hMG or IUI therapy alone for all patients (hMG/IUI=19.6%, hMG=6.3%, IUI=3.4%). The improvement in cycle fecundity rates with hMG/IUI therapy was also observed when the couples were separated by infertility diagnostic groups: male factor (hMG/IUI=15.3%, hMG=4.4%, IUI=3.0%), cervical factor (hMG/IUI=26.3%, hMG=7.9%, IUI=5.1%), endometriosis (hMG/IUI=12.85%, hMG=6.6%), and unexplained infertility (hMG/IUI=32.6%, hMG=5.5%, IUI=0%). Moreover, in patients who had failed to conceive with hMG or IUI alone, the cycle fecundity rate when they were switched to hMG/IUI therapy equaled that of patients who received combined therapy from the onset. We conclude that cycle fecundity rates and cumulative pregnancy rates are significantly greater using a combination of hMG and IUI compared with either modality alone in the treatment of male factor, cervical factor, endometriosis, or unexplained infertility. Indeed, in couples with nontubal related infertility, cycle fecundity rates with hMG/IUI approach the rates seen with in vitro fertilization and gamete intrafallopian tube transfer.
The in vivo differentiation of murine neuroblastoma.

C1300 neuroblastoma was implanted with regenerating skeletal muscle to study the role of tissue interactions during tumor cell differentiation. Combined tumormuscle implants, placed subcutaneously or within diffusion chambers were compared with control tumors implanted without muscle. Neuroblastoma implanted with injured muscle undergoes a partial neuronal differentiation. The tumor cells lose their normal round cell configuration and develop numerous cytoplasmic processes. Accompanying these outward changes are an increased content of microtubules in the neuritic processes; the appearance of glial-like processes containing abundant microfilaments; and the occurrence of growth vesicles identical to those of the growth cones of normal neurites. Although the implants usually contain large numbers of regenerated myofibers, tumor cell differentiation is not dependent upon the presence of these newly formed fibers. Tumor differentiation occurs equally well on the surfaces of degenerating muscle fragments, fibrin deposits and on the membrane surfaces of the diffusion chambers. These observations suggest that non-specific cell surface phenomena, rather than neuromuscular interactions were primarily responsible for the tumor cell differentiation in vivo.
Early Diagenesis of Organic Matter in Sediments

Substantial information regarding the history and source of organic matter and transfer of both carbon nitrogen to and within marine environments lies in the chemical and isotopic signals of organic materials. Origins and diagenetic histories of organic materials can be assessed on a bulk basis, using molar ratios of carbon to nitrogen and stable isotope compositions, or on a molecular level, using characteristic molecules or compositional changes to indicate the major processes occurring in the sedimentary deposit. More recently, clear identification of the preservation of particular components has been achieved, and the processes involved with the formation of an organic deposit have been established through the isotopic characterization of the compounds themselves. This chapter endeavors to lay a foundation for such molecular isotopic approaches in studies of the early diagenesis of sedimentary organic material. Specific details on molecular carbon approaches, especially those having to do with lipid characterization, are discussed in other chapters of this book [see chapters by Brassell (Chapter 34), Hedges and Prahl (Chapter 11), and Meyers and Ishiwatari (Chapter 8)] or larger compilations related to the field of marine organic geochemistry (Eglinton and Murphy, 1969; Duursma and Dawson, 1981; Brooks and Welte, 1984; Tissot and Welte, 1984; Sigleo and Hattori, 1985; Sohn, 1986).
Simulation of creep crack growth in ceramic composites

The elevated temperature response resulting from tensile creep of fiber reinforced ceramic composites was modeled using Monte Carlo simulation. The model consisted of a uniaxially loaded fiber tow aligned with the direction of applied load, and modeled the growth of matrix cracks resulting from creep failure of bridging fibers. A creep strain rate consisting of primary and steady state components was assumed, and each component was modeled by a power law relationship. Power law creep exponents in the range of 2.0–2.5 for a selected SiC/SiC system at stress levels ranging from 60 MPa to 200 MPa were evaluated. Fatigue-like behavior was predicted as a result of tensile creep, and a fatigue exponent of 3.03 ± 0.07 was predicted for nominal stress levels less than 200 GPa. The influence of initial crack length on failure lifetime was also studied, but was found to have little influence on the predicted lifetime. The predicted failure response suggested a stress dependent creep process could be used to model experimental data and evaluate the failure mechanism of reinforced composites.
Recycling glass fiber thermoplastic composites from wind turbine blades

Abstract Thermoplastic resin systems have long been discussed for use in large-scale composite parts but have yet to be exploited by the energy industry. The use of these resins versus their thermosetting counterparts can potentially introduce cost savings due to non-heated tooling, shorter manufacturing cycle times, and recovery of raw materials from the retired part. Because composite parts have high embedded energy, recovery of their constituent materials can provide substantial economic benefit. This study determines the feasibility of recycling composite wind turbine blade components that are fabricated with glass fiber reinforced Elium® thermoplastic resin. Several experiments are conducted to tabulate important material properties that are relevant to recycling, including thermal degradation, grinding, and dissolution of the polymer matrix to recover the constituent materials. Dissolution, which is a process unique to thermoplastic matrices, allows recovery of both the polymer matrix and full-length glass fibers, which maintain their stiffness (190 N/(mm g)) and strength (160 N/g) through the recovery process. Injection molded regrind material is stiffer (12 GPa compared to 10 GPa) and stronger (150 MPa compared to 84 MPa) than virgin material that had shorter fibers. An economic analysis of the technical data shows that recycling thermoplastic–glass fiber composites via dissolution into their constituent parts is commercially feasible under certain conditions. This analysis concludes that 50% of the glass fiber must be recovered and resold for a price of $0.28/kg. Additionally, 90% of the resin must be recovered and resold at a price of $2.50/kg.
A Framework for Maintenance and Scaling of an Evidence-based Guideline Program.

Introduction Use of Evidence-based Guidelines (EBGs) has been shown to improve and standardize care. After implementation and maturation of a guideline program, next steps include incorporating new evidence, sustaining adherence, minimizing measurement burden and fostering scaling of the program. We propose a framework for maintenance and dissemination of an EBG program. Methods Using a program of 28 EBGs developed for use in a pediatric emergency department (ED) in 2010, we developed: a framework for iterative review and revision, a strategy to measure ongoing use in practice and an approach for minimizing repeated measurement sufficient to evaluate outcomes. Also, we created a process to spread the EBG program to the hospital's Department of Pediatrics. Results The framework for maintenance and spread of a program of EBGs resulted in an annual review of individual guidelines with 14 revisions warranted by new evidence, some leading to decreased medication utilization and hospitalization rates. We demonstrated adherence to key quality measures, and decreased the number of measures from 89 to 43, retiring 46 measures with stable peformance. We spread the process for program development to the hospital pediatric department resulting in 36 new EBGs. Conclusions We developed a framework for maintenance and scale of a program of EBGs. Our key learning points were that regular incorporation of new evidence, assessment and feedback on performance and leadership with administrative support are necessary to maintain improvement. This framework may assure sustainability and inform other guideline programs. We offer processes to promote guideline dissemination within an academic hospital.
Meta-Matching: Combining Evidence From Heterogeneous Sources

In many instances, one piece of evidence alone will not be enough to make an accurate decision about the intertextual relationship between two texts. More evidence, combined in a probabilistic way, can improve our confidence in a classification result.
A comprehensive micro unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV/Drone) forensic framework

Abstract In the early 1990s, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) were used exclusively in military applications by various developed countries. Now with its ease of availability and affordability in the electronic device market, this aerial vehicular technology has augmented its familiarity in public and has expanded its usage to countries all over the world. However, expanded use of UAVs, colloquially known as drones, is raising understandable security concerns. With the increasing possibility of drones' misuse and their abilities to get close to critical targets, drones are prone to potentially committing crimes and, therefore, investigation of such activities is a much-needed facet. This motivated us to devise a comprehensive drone forensic framework that includes hardware/physical and digital forensics, proficient enough for the post-flight investigation of drone's activity. For hardware/physical forensics, we propose a model for investigating drone components at the crime scene. Additionally, we propose a robust digital drone forensic application with a primary focus on analyzing the essential log parameters of drones through a graphical user interface (GUI) developed using JavaFX 8.0. This application interface would allow users to extract and examine onboard flight information. It also includes a file converter created for easy and effective 3D flight trajectory visualization. We used two popular drones for conducting this research; namely, DJI Phantom 4 and Yuneec Typhoon H. The interface also provides a visual representation of the sensor recordings from which pieces of evidence could be acquired. Our research is intended to offer the forensic science community a powerful approach for investigating drone-related crimes effectively.
Ontogenetic change in predicted acoustic pressure sensitivity in larval red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus).

ABSTRACT Detecting acoustic pressure can improve a fish9s survival and fitness through increased sensitivity to environmental sounds. Pressure detection results from interactions between the swim bladder and otoliths. In larval fishes, those interactions change rapidly as growth and development alter bladder dimensions and otolith–bladder distance. We used computed tomography imagery of lab-reared larval red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) in a finite-element model to assess ontogenetic changes in acoustic pressure sensitivity in response to a plane wave at frequencies within the frequency range of hearing by fishes. We compared the acceleration at points on the sagitta, asteriscus and lapillus when the bladder was air filled with results from models using a water-filled bladder. For larvae of 8.5–18 mm in standard length, the air-filled bladder amplified simulated otolith motion by a factor of 54–3485 times that of a water-filled bladder at 100 Hz. Otolith–bladder distance increased with standard length, which decreased modeled amplification. The concomitant rapid increase in bladder volume partially compensated for the effect of increasing otolith–bladder distance. Calculated resonant frequency of the bladders was between 8750 and 4250 Hz, and resonant frequency decreased with increasing bladder volume. There was a relatively flat frequency dependence of these effects in the audible frequency range, but we found a small increase in amplification with increasing excitation frequency. Using idealized geometry, we found that the larval vertebrae and ribs have negligible influence on bladder motion. Our results help clarify the auditory consequences of ontogenetic changes in bladder morphology and otolith–bladder relationships during larval stages.
Charge-changing processes in small-impact-parameter collisions between O + q and rare gases

We have studied the charge distributions of oxygen ions after small-impact-parameter collisions with Ne, Ar, Kr, and Xe gases. Bombarding energies in the 10-30-MeV range and incoming charge states between ${4}^{+}$ and ${7}^{+}$ were scattered to angles between 5\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} and 8\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} in a single collision process. The measurements indicate that for the heavier gases an equilibrium charge distribution is obtained after a single collision. Interpretation of the experimental results on the basis of a statistical "compound-atom" model is suggested.
Attitudes and availability: A comparison of naloxone dispensing across chain and independent pharmacies in rural and urban areas in Alabama.

Abstract Background Fatal opioid overdoses remain the leading cause of accidental deaths in the United States, which have contributed to implementation of standing order laws that allow pharmacists to dispense naloxone to patients. Although pharmacy distribution of naloxone is a promising approach to increase access to this intervention, understanding barriers preventing greater uptake of this service is needed. Methods Data for the current study were collected via telephone survey assessing the availability of various formulations of naloxone at chain and independent pharmacies in rural and urban areas in Birmingham, Alabama (N = 222). Pharmacists’ attitudes toward naloxone and potential barriers of pharmacy naloxone distribution were also assessed. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and logistic regression analyses were utilized to examine differences in stocking of naloxone in chain and independent pharmacies and to determine predictors of the number of kits dispensed by pharmacies. Results Independent pharmacies were less likely to have naloxone in stock, especially those in rural areas. Furthermore, rural pharmacies required more time to obtain all four formulations of naloxone, and offered less extensive training on naloxone use. Pharmacists endorsing the belief that naloxone allows avoidance of emergent treatment in an overdose situation was associated with fewer dispensed kits by the pharmacies. Over 80% of pharmacists endorsed at least one negative belief about naloxone (e.g., allowing riskier opioid use). Pharmacists noted cost to patients and the pharmacy as contributing to not dispensing more naloxone kits. Conclusion The current study demonstrates the lower availability of naloxone stocked at pharmacies in independent versus chain pharmacies, particularly in rural communities. This study also highlights several barriers preventing greater naloxone dispensing including pharmacists’ attitudes and costs of naloxone. The potential benefit of standing order laws is not being fully actualized due to the structural and attitudinal barriers identified in this study. Strategies to increase naloxone access through pharmacy dispensing are discussed.
Biomaterials for diabetic wound-healing therapies

Abstract Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that negatively impacts patient's health and results in significant economic burden healthcare around the globe. Chronic diabetic ulcers represent a major complication of diabetes and are characterized by dysregulated molecular and cellular wound microenvironment and persistent inflammation. Biomaterials such as films, foams, hydrogels, antimicrobials, and different types of dressings have been used in a variety of therapeutic applications for wound treatment. However, despite tremendous amount of research efforts, there is still no “ideal” treatment that is able to directly address the complexity of nonhealing diabetic ulcers. This chapter focuses on the recent advances and existing challenges in the development of biomaterials for the management and treatment of diabetic wounds, including major classes of biomaterials used in wound dressings and skin substitutes, their physiochemical properties, critical aspects of biomaterial processing, as well as emerging therapies for diabetic wound treatment that incorporate biomaterials as an key component. The discussion includes synthetic, natural and combined polymers and composites, self-assembling peptides, hydrogels and nanoparticles, microRNA-based materials, alternative biophysical therapies, cell- and drug-delivery therapies. Given the multitude of approaches being investigated, along with the current explosive pace of the biomaterial technology development, the analysis warrants cautious optimism for a breakthrough in the near future that would enable the regenerative healing of a diabetic wound and provide much-needed cure for chronic diabetic ulcers.
Recent insight into intermediate filament structure.

Abstract Intermediate filaments (IFs) are key players in multiple cellular processes throughout human tissues. Their biochemical and structural properties are important for understanding filament assembly mechanisms, for interactions between IFs and binding partners, and for developing pharmacological agents that target IFs. IF proteins share a conserved coiled-coil central-rod domain flanked by variable N-terminal ‘head’ and C-terminal ‘tail’ domains. There have been several recent advances in our understanding of IF structure from the study of keratins, glial fibrillary acidic protein, and lamin. These include discoveries of (i) a knob–pocket tetramer assembly mechanism in coil 1B; (ii) a lamin-specific coil 1B insert providing a one-half superhelix turn; (iii) helical, yet flexible, linkers within the rod domain; and (iv) the identification of coil 2B residues required for mature filament assembly. Furthermore, the head and tail domains of some IFs contain low-complexity aromatic-rich kinked segments, and structures of IFs with binding partners show electrostatic surfaces are a major contributor to complex formation. These new data advance the connection between IF structure, pathologic mutations, and clinical diseases in humans.
The confluence of popular education and social movement studies into social movement learning: A systematic literature review

The purpose of this paper is to systematically review and trace the lineage of theoretical debates around social movement learning in the field of adult education. We compiled articles, books and c...
Service Chains' Operational Strategies: Standardization or Customization? Evidence from the Nursing Home Industry

Problem definition: We investigate how the Degree of Standardization (DoS) across service chain-belonging units impacts units' performance outcomes. We study this question in the nursing home industry. More specifically, we study the DoS in three operational dimensions: customer mix, service offering, and service delivery, and its impact on three nursing home outcomes: financial performance, clinical outcome, and resident welfare. Academic/practical relevance: All service chains must decide how unique or standardized each of their units should be, but it is unclear how this decision affects units' performance outcomes. We assess standardization strategies in multiple operational dimensions in chain-belonging nursing homes and their impact on important operational outcomes, and generalize our findings to other service industries. Methodology: We use a panel data set covering eleven years (2005 – 2015) of comprehensive measurements of all nursing homes in the U.S. We estimate the relationships between the DoS and important nursing home outcomes using fixed effect models with instrumental variables and clustered standard errors. Results: We find that nursing home chains need to (1) customize service delivery and standardize customer mix across units to improve financial performance; (2) standardize customer mix to improve clinical outcome; and (3) customize service delivery to enhance resident welfare. Managerial implications: To our knowledge, this study is the first systematic multi-dimensional assessment of multi-unit service firms' standardization strategies from a chain perspective. Our results guide nursing home chains in their (1) strategies of within-chain standardization, and (2) investment decisions in acquiring new properties. Our results also provide broader managerial insights for service chains' standardization strategies and merging and acquisition activities.
The association between spondylolisthesis and decreased muscle health throughout the lumbar spine for patients with operative lumbar spinal stenosis

There are data underlining the relationship between muscle health and spine related pathology, but little data regarding changes in paralumbar muscle associated with lumbar spondylolisthesis. We aimed to define changes in paralumbar muscle health associated with spondylolisthesis. A retrospective review was performed on consecutive patients with lumbar spine pathology requiring an operation. A pre-operative lumbar MRI was analysed for muscle health measurements including lumbar indentation value (LIV), paralumbar cross-sectional area divided by body mass index (PL-CSA/BMI), and Goutallier classification of fatty atrophy. All measurements were taken from an axial slice of a T2-weighted image at lumbar disc spaces. Baseline health-related quality of life scores (HRQOLs), narcotic use and areas of stenosis were tracked. We performed Chi-square analyses and student’s t test to determine statistically significant differences between cohorts. There were 307 patients (average age 56.1 ± 16.7 years, 141 females) included within our analysis. 112 patients had spondylolisthesis. There were no differences in baseline HRQOLs between the spondylolisthesis cohort (SC) and non-spondylolisthesis cohort (non-SC). There were significantly worse PL-CSA/BMI at L2-L3 (p = 0.03), L3-L4 (p = 0.04) and L4-L5 (p = 0.02) for the SC. Goutallier classification of paralumbar muscle was worse for SC at L1-L2 (p = 0.04) and at L4-L5 (p < 0.001). Increased grade of spondylolisthesis was associated with worse PL-CSA at L1-L2 (p = 0.02), L2-L3 (p = 0.03) and L3-L4 (p = 0.05). Similarly, there were worse Goutallier classification scores associated with higher-grade spondylolisthesis at all levels (p < 0.05). There are significant detrimental changes to paralumbar muscle health throughout the lumbar spine associated with spondylolisthesis.
Liquid phase regrowth of 〈110〉 nanodiamond film by UV laser annealing of PTFE to generate dense CVD microdiamond film

Abstract Herein we report the conversion of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) into 〈110〉 nanodiamonds via a melting route using pulsed laser annealing (PLA). The converted nanodiamond (ND) film is used as a seed layer to grow dense microdiamond coating synthesized by chemical vapor deposition. We utilize an ArF excimer laser with a photon energy of 6.4 eV to decompose PTFE (bandgap: 6.0 eV). Initial laser pulses result in photochemical decomposition of PTFE, and PTFE is converted to an amorphous carbon film. This amorphous carbon film, when subjected to additional laser pulses melts, and when this melt is quenched from an undercooled state at rates exceeding 109 K/s, it undergoes first-order phase transformation into the ND film. Notably, the obtained NDs are phase pure, exhibiting full width at half maxima (FWHM) of 1.23 cm−1 and demonstrating 〈110〉 out of plane orientation characterized by Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. The average ND size is ~28.5 nm (range: 5-30 nm) determined by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The COMSOL simulations substantiate the use of nanosecond laser pulses with an energy density in the range of 0.6–0.8 J/cm2 to fully convert ~ 50% crystalline PTFE into ND film. The CVD microdiamonds grew densely on the ND seed layer as compared to reduced graphene oxide confirmed by SEM and Raman analysis. This innovative method of ND fabrication by UV irradiation of PTFE opens up opportunities for generating selective coatings of advanced polymer-diamond composites and doped nanodiamonds for quantum computing and biomedical applications.
Cephalometry with ultrasound

OBSTETRICIANS have sought accurate knowledge of antepartum fetal size for many years. When elective termination of pregnancy is indicated, it is important to be certain that the fetus is of sufficient maturation to survive in the outside environment. X-ray measurement of the capacity of the maternal pelvis has proved to be an accurate technique. However, no technique heretofore used has enabled physicians to determine with acceptable accuracy the size of the fetus prior to delivery. Within recent years, investigators who used ultrasonic equipment have been able to determine fetal head size, as indicated by the biparietal diameter, with accuracy.1-4 Even though this does not enable the determination of the exact fetal weight, it is quite obvious that there is a relationship between fetal head size and fetal maturation.
Mechanism and Control of V(D)J Recombination versus Class Switch Recombination: Similarities and Differences

V(D)J recombination is the process by which the variable region exons encoding the antigen recognition sites of receptors expressed on B and T lymphocytes are generated during early development via somatic assembly of component gene segments. In response to antigen, somatic hypermutation (SHM) and class switch recombination (CSR) induce further modifications of immunoglobulin genes in B cells. CSR changes the IgH constant region for an alternate set that confers distinct antibody effector functions. SHM introduces mutations, at a high rate, into variable region exons, ultimately allowing affinity maturation. All of these genomic alteration processes require tight regulatory control mechanisms, both to ensure development of a normal immune system and to prevent potentially oncogenic processes, such as translocations, caused by errors in the recombination/mutation processes. In this regard, transcription of substrate sequences plays a significant role in target specificity, and transcription is mechanistically coupled to CSR and SHM. However, there are many mechanistic differences in these reactions. V(D)J recombination proceeds via precise DNA cleavage initiated by the RAG proteins at short conserved signal sequences, whereas CSR and SHM are initiated over large target regions via activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID)-mediated DNA deamination of transcribed target DNA. Yet, new evidence suggests that AID cofactors may help provide an additional layer of specificity for both SHM and CSR. Whereas repair of RAG-induced double-strand breaks (DSBs) involves the general nonhomologous end-joining DNA repair pathway, and CSR also depends on at least some of these factors, CSR requires induction of certain general DSB response factors, whereas V(D)J recombination does not. In this review, we compare and contrast V(D)J recombination and CSR, with particular emphasis on the role of the initiating enzymes and DNA repair proteins in these processes.