cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Agricultural Energy Policies Under Uncertainty: The Case of Electricity in South India

Abstract Farmers' attitude towards risk associated with the availability of energy inputs will influence their investment behavior and demand for energy inputs. In order to analyze policies that reduce the risk in energy availability, some modifications in methods are required. This study, using a mean-variance framework, demonstrates how cross-sectional data and time-series data on crop yields and prices can be used to analyze agricultural energy policies under uncertainty in a developing country context. It is argued that the farmers risk attitudes, their crop allocation behavior, changes in the demand for energy inputs and the stochastic relationship between various forms of energy inputs can be explained by the various energy constraints faced by them. Furthermore, using the same methods the impact of policies which affect these constraints, can be analyzed.
Numerical Simulation of Nonlinear Mesoscale Circulations Induced by the Thermal Heterogeneities of Land Surface

Mesoscale circulations forced by a random distribution of surface sensible heat flux have been investigated using a three-dimensional numerical model. The complex land surface is modeled as a homogeneous random field characterized by a spectral distribution. Standard deviation and length scale of the sensible heat flux at the surface have been identified as the important parameters that describe the thermal variability of land surface. The form of the covariance of the random surface forcing is not critical in driving the mesoscale circulation. The thermally induced mesoscale circulation is significant and extends up to about 5 km when the atmosphere is neutral. It becomes weak and is suppressed when the atmosphere is stable. The mesoscale momentum flux is much stronger than the corresponding turbulent momentum flux in the neutral atmosphere, while the two are comparable in the stable atmosphere. The mesoscale heat flux has a different vertical profile than turbulent heat flux and may provide a major heat transport mechanism beyond the planetary boundary layer. The impact of synoptic wind on the mesoscale circulations is relatively weak. Nonlinear advection terms are responsible for momentum flux in the absence of synoptic wind.
Microbial Enzymes and Lignocellulose Utilization

Although lignocellulose always has been a principal component of man’s food, fuel, and fiber, there has been for the past decade an increased interest in utilization of these materials by new and improved “bioconversion” processes. Since lignocellulose is the most abundant constituent of biomass, attention has been directed to several relatively inexpensive sources, such as agricultural, industrial, and municipal wastes. The biological reactions of the carbon cycle which are responsible for the conversion of lignin and cellulose turn over some 1011 tons/year (1). The variety of microorganisms which mediate the reactions, the extracellular conditions under which the reactions take place, and the products to which lignocellulose is converted are of scientific interest as well as being potentially valuable for technological applications. Studies of these processes range from determination of precise chemical mechanisms to analysis of microbial associations responsible for the multiplicity of reactions needed to convert the heterogeneous lignocellulose to metabolic intermediates and end products.
Acute thrombosis of a giant portal venous aneurysm: value of color Doppler sonography.

Aneurysms of the portal vein are most often considered incidental findings of no specific clinical importance but rarely may be complicated by thrombosis and occlusion of the portal vein. We describe a 68-year-old patient with acute epigastric pain secondary to thrombosis of a giant portal vein aneurysm. The role of color Doppler sonography in the diagnosis and follow-up is emphasized.
Using Social Network Sites: The Effects of Playfulness, Critical Mass and Trust in a Hedonic Context

The use of Internet social network sites has become an international phenomenon. These websites enable computer-mediated communication between people with common interests such as school, family, and friendship. Popular sites include MySpace and Facebook. Their rapid widespread usage warrants a better understanding. This study contributes to our understanding by empirically investigating factors influencing user adoption of these sites. We introduce the Social Network Site Adoption model to examine the effect of perceptions of normative pressure, playfulness, critical mass, trust, usefulness, and ease of use on usage intention and actual usage of these sites. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the patterns of inter-correlations among the constructs and to empirically test the hypotheses. All the hypothesized determinants have a significant direct effect on intent to use, with perceived playfulness and perceived critical mass the strongest indicators. Intent to use and perceived playfulness h...
Traction force needed to reproduce physiologically observed uterine movement: technique development, feasibility assessment, and preliminary findings

This study aimed to describe a novel strategy to determine the traction forces needed to reproduce physiologic uterine displacement in women with and without prolapse. Participants underwent dynamic stress magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) testing as part of a study examining apical uterine support. Physiologic uterine displacement was determined by analyzing uterine location in images taken at rest and at maximal Valsalva. Force-displacement curves were calculated based on intraoperative cervical traction testing. The intraoperative force required to achieve the uterine displacement measured during MRI was then estimated from these curves. Women were categorized into three groups based on pelvic organ support: group 1 (normal apical and vaginal support), group 2 (normal apical support but vaginal prolapse present), and group 3 (apical prolapse). Data from 19 women were analyzed: five in group 1, five in group 2, and nine in group 3. Groups were similar in terms of age, body mass index (BMI), and parity. Median operating room (OR) force required for uterine displacement measured during MRI was 0.8 N [interquartile range (IQR) 0.62–3.22], and apical ligament stiffness determined using MRI uterine displacement was 0.04 N/mm (IQR 0.02–0.08); differences between groups were nonsignificant. Uterine locations determined at rest and during maximal traction were lower in the OR compared with MRI in all groups. Using this investigative strategy, we determined that only 0.8 N of traction force in the OR was required to achieve maximal physiologic uterine displacement seen during dynamic (maximal Valsalva) MRI testing, regardless of the presence or absence of prolapse.
Safety, Efficacy, and Cost Savings of Single Parathyroid Hormone Measurement for Risk Stratification after Total Thyroidectomy:

The management of hypocalcemia (HC) after total thyroidectomy (TTx) is a challenge as TTx is transitioned into a same-day surgery. Measurement of parathyroid hormone (PTH) level after TTx may allow for prediction of postoperative HC and lead to shorter hospital stays. A prospective database was queried between January 2010 and June 2012 with 95 patients who had undergone TTx identified. Patient demographics; preoperative diagnosis; laboratory values and cost; complications; intravenous calcium supplementation; and length of stay (LOS) were analyzed. A PTH-based algorithm was retrospectively applied and theoretical cost savings were analyzed in terms of laboratory cost, LOS, and total cost. Ninety-five patients underwent TTx: 37 patients (38.9%) had cancer, whereas 27 (28.4%) had Graves' disease and the remaining 31 (32.6%) had a benign multinodular goiter. Postoperative PTH was recorded in 72 patients (74.4%); 46 (63.8%) had PTH greater than 10 pg/mL and 26 (36.9%) had PTH less than 10 pg/mL. Transient HC occurred in 10 patients (38.4%) with PTH less than 10 pg/mL (relative risk, 17.69; P = 0.0001). Patients with PTH less than 10 pg/mL incurred a 14.9 per cent higher hospital cost compared with those with PTH greater than 10 pg/mL. With retrospective implementation of the algorithm, there is a potential 46.4 per cent cost savings for the PTH less than 10 pg/mL group, 67.3 per cent savings for the PTH greater than 10 pg/mL group, and 46.7 per cent savings when taken altogether. Algorithmic risk stratification based on postoperative PTH less than 10 pg/mL serves as both a sensitive (100%) and specific (76.7%) predictor of postoperative HC. Such risk stratification may allow for same-day discharge in a number of patients, and even in patients requiring an overnight stay, result in cost savings as a result of a reduction in laboratory expenditures.
Evolution of Brown Towhees: Mitochondrial DNA Evidence

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) differentiation was studied among members of the Brown Towhee complex, Pipilo albicollis, P. aberti, P. fuscus, and P. crissalis. Using 16 restriction endonucleases, 196 fragments and 119 sites were observed, and an average interspecific sequence divergence of 6.4% was estimated. There was little geographic differentiation between Baja California and California samples of crissalis or between California and Arizona samples of aberti. Using phylogenetic procedures, it was shown that aberti and crissalis are sister taxa, as predicted by Davis (1951). Allozyme and mtDNA data clearly support the species distinction of crissalis and fuscus. The relationship between albicollis and fuscus, viewed as sister taxa by Zink (1988) based on allozymes, is supported albeit not strongly by the mtDNA data. MtDNA and allozyme data reveal similar patterns of evolutionary history within this group.
Detailed functional and structural phenotype of Bietti crystalline dystrophy associated with mutations in CYP4V2 complicated by choroidal neovascularization.

ABSTRACTPurpose: To describe in detail the phenotype of a patient with Bietti crystalline dystrophy (BCD) complicated by choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and the response to intravitreal Bevacizumab (Avastin®; Genentech/Roche).Methods: A 34-year-old woman with BCD and mutations in CYP4V2 (c.802-8_806del13/p.H331P:c992A>C) underwent a complete ophthalmic examination, full-field flash electroretinography (ERG), kinetic and two-color dark-adapted perimetry, and dark-adaptometry. Imaging was performed with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), near infrared (NIR) and short wavelength (SW) fundus autofluorescence (FAF), and fluorescein angiography (FA).Results: Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/20 and 20/60 for the right and left eye, respectively. There were corneal paralimbal crystal-like deposits. Kinetic fields were normal in the peripheral extent. Retinal crystals were most obvious on NIR-reflectance and corresponded with hyperreflectivities within the RPE on SD-OCT. There was ...
Encephalitis Lethargica: An Autoimmune Disease

Twenty patients (16 from 2-16 years old, mean 10.4 years; 4 from 17-69, mean 47.5 years) with an encephalitis lethargica (EL) syndrome resembling that reported in the 1916-1927 epidemic, and presenting between 1999 and 2002, are reported from Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, and other tertiary neurology centers in the UK.
Truth, explanation, minimalism

Minimalists about truth contend that traditional inflationary theories systematically fail to explain certain facts about truth, and that this failure licenses a ‘reversal of explanatory direction’. Once reversed, they purport that their own minimal theory adequately explains all of the facts involving truth. But minimalists’ main objection to inflationism seems to misfire, and the subsequent reversal of explanatory direction, if it can be made sense of, leaves minimalism in no better explanatory position; and even if the objection were serviceable and the reversal legitimate, minimalists’ adequacy thesis is still implausible.
Mining forums for asynchronous learning in distance education: faculty poster

Distance Education is a process of delivery of instructional resources online. It is a flexible form of education where a student can study from home, work, or wherever else is convenient. Computer based teaching materials, online conferencing, discussion boards, e-mail, and other techniques are used in distance education. The information can be delivered synchronously and asynchronously. The example of synchronous method of delivery is Web conferencing where all participants are "present" online at the same time. The discussions boards, e-mail and recorded video are examples of asynchronous method of delivery, where participants access course material at their own schedule [1]. Online discussions and forums allow students and instructors to exchange the ideas, research and information. The aim of this research is to apply data mining techniques to discussions boards and forums to measure the student participation and performance. In this research, we plan to introduce and implement the AWK (Author Weighted Keywords) Algorithm as a tool to measure the student performance and learning capabilities by monitoring their participation in distance learning forums, extract discussion topics for later comers and help instructors to guide the online discussions.
VARIATION IN ANATOMICAL LANDMARKS USED FOR CONVENTIONAL CUP ALIGNMENT AS MEASURED BY CT

Introduction Conventional methods of aligning the acetabular component during hip arthroplasty and hip resurfacing often rely upon anatomic information available to the surgeon. Such anatomical information includes the transverse acetabular ligament and the locations of the pubis, ischium and ilium. The current study assesses the variation in orientation of the plane defined by the pubis, ischium and ilium on a patient-specific basis as measured by CT. Methods To assess the reliability of anatomical landmarks in surgery, we assessed 54 hips in 51 patients (32 male, 22 female) who presented for CT-based surgical navigation of total hip arthroplasty. From a 3D model of each patient, standardised points for the anterior pelvic plane and landmarks on the ilium, ischium, and pubis were entered. The plane defined by the anatomical landmarks was calculated in degrees of operative anteversion and operative inclination according to the definitions of Murray. Results The plane representing cup position defined by the anatomical landmarks ranged from 7.8° to 64.6° in operative anteversion (mean = 32.1°, SD = 15.0°) and 37.6° to 68.2° in operative inclination (mean = 53.2, SD = 7.1°). If a safe zone of 27 degrees of operative anteversion (± 10°) and 42 degrees of operative inclination (± 10°) is selected, 50.0% of hips are out of the safe zone in operative anteversion, and 57.4% of hips are out of the safe zone in operative inclination. Discussion and Conclusion Surgeons have very specific and limited anatomical information available at the time of surgery to assist in determining optimal component orientation. Alignment relative to the operating table and intraoperative signs such as the co-planar test are unreliable due to the wide variation of position of the pelvis during surgery. This leaves anatomical landmarks that can be palpated during surgery as one remaining method upon which component orientation may be based. Unfortunately, these anatomical landmarks vary quite widely on an individual patient basis, with 83.3% of hips out of the a safe zone in this study of 27° of operative anteversion and 42° of operative inclination and 77.8% our of a safe zone of 20 degrees of operative anteversion and 45 degrees of operative inclination. As such, internal anatomical landmarks are likely to lead to systematically high incidences of component malposition such as those repeatedly documented in the literature. Based on the current study we conclude that, unless the orientation of the palpable anatomical landmarks is assessed in three-dimensions pre-operatively, these anatomical landmarks provide poor and sometimes dangerously misleading information.
Minimum vessel lists as evidence of change in folk and courtly traditions of food use

This paper discusses one segment of an empirical study of pottery and porcelain vessels from Cheasapeake sites, with comparanda from English and New England sites. The focus is whether in defining recursive relations between objects and social status during an era of rapid change, small shifts are visible in archaeological data that can be used to plot the process whereby change touched different sectors of society. The data source is minimum vessel lists. Comparable information in probate inventories for early 18th-century Annapolis merchants is integrated into the discussion. Note was made of vessel form, ware type, dominant color, and decoration. Vessels were classified according to their primary use in the food domain which was itself divided into five different phases. The argument presented suggests that it is the social context, i.e., the relationship between two food domains: (a) food prepared in a folk tradition, and (b) that prepared as part of elite cuisine, that structures the acquisition of ceramic vessels by Maryland families and their subsequent discard on archaeological sites.
FARMACÉUTICOS CLÍNICOS: PROFESIONALES ESENCIALES DEL EQUIPO DE ATENCIÓN CLÍNICA

SUMMARY Los farmaceuticos clinicos (QF) son profesionales especialmente capacitados para proporcionar cuidado directo al paciente y un manejo exhaustivo de los medicamentos. Mientras el modelo de insercion del QF clinico en la practica, esta bien establecido en los Estados Unidos, hay QF clinicos en todo el mundo que estan mejorando la atencion de pacientes de todas las edades y en todas las areas del cuidado agudo y ambulatorio. Este articulo revisa los estandares de formacion, las competencias esperadas y contribuciones de los QF clinicos.
A miniature implantable computer for functional electrical stimulation and recording of neuromuscular activity

We present details of an implantable computer (neurochip) that we are using for functional electrical stimulation (FES) and recording in freely behaving animals. The neurochip has on-board computational capability to discriminate spikes in real-time on two channels and deliver corresponding stimuli. We are using this neurochip for stimulus-response experiments to study neuromuscular dynamics in flying insects. These experiments explore problems in biological motor control and in autonomous computing. Methods and lessons learned from these studies have applications in neural prosthetics.
Flotation Column Monitoring and Control Based on PLS Models

Abstract Today, massive amounts of data are being collected routinely on hundred of variables at high frequency. However, many important variables, such as concentrate and tailings grades are available only infrequently in flotation processes. To effectively monitor flotation columns one must utilize all the information contained in routine measurements. The main difficulties are the dimensionality and the fact that process operating variables are often highly correlated and collinear. Multivariate statistical projection methods have been proposed to treat these situations. These ideas are demonstrated using simulation studies on flotation columns.
A Behavioral Analysis of Morality and Value

Morality has long been conceived as divinely instituted, so otherworldly, rules meant not to describe or explain behavior but to guide it towards an absolute good. The philosophical formulation of this theory by Plato was later grafted onto Christian thought by Augustine and Aquinas. The equally ancient theory of the Greek sophist Protagoras (that the good is relative to personal preferences and morality to man-made social customs) was forgotten until revived in the 18th and 19th centuries by such empiricists as David Hume and J. S. Mill. Then it was dismissed again in the 20th century by G. E. Moore and W. D. Ross as naturalistic fallacy, that is, conflation of what is with what ought to be. However, those who took this dismissive attitude themselves made the reverse mistake of conflating what ideally ought to be with what actually is. In other words, they mistook ideals for actualities. As B. F. Skinner (1971) said in Beyond Freedom and Dignity, sorting things out requires behaviorist parsing of the good (the personally reinforcing) and duty (the socially reinforced).
Regional autonomy in rich regions: evidence from Ajara, Georgia

ABSTRACTPrevious models of individuals’ preferences for decentralization have focused on either economic- or identity-based motivations. In some cases, however, elites in rich regions with high inequality prefer decentralization contrary to their economic preferences. This paper proposes a model to explain these instances by focusing on the preferences of self-interested elites who manipulate a strong regional identity for personal gain. I develop the hypothesis that a strong regional economy, combined with a regional identity, provides the incentive for and the mechanism by which elites prefer decentralization. I test this hypothesis using the puzzling case of Ajara, Georgia, a rich region with high inequality and a strong regional identity where elites, contrary to expectations, pushed for decentralization. Results suggest that regional identities are used by elites in order to seize on a strong economy for personal gain. This motivates future study on the interaction between regional economies and iden...
Reoperative Concerns in Fractures of the Radial Head and Proximal Ulna

Traditionally, proximal ulna and radius fractures have been underestimated as to their importance in providing stability and contributing to the long-term outcome of elbow fractures. Most of the research and clinical discussions have revolved around supracondylar injuries; however, the tight tolerances of elbow anatomy make it such that the olecranon, coronoid, and radial head also have important roles in reestablishing elbow function after injury. Most elbow surgeons now agree that the medial coronoid facet is very important to restore after trauma. Furthermore, the importance of the radial ulnar joint as well as the ulnohumeral joint cannot be underestimated to the long-term prognosis of elbow reconstruction after fracture. There are now a multitude of implant types, including the standard plating varieties with locked and unlocked screw options, as well as intramedullary devices. In recent years, there has been a development of several systems that can reestablish radial head anatomy as well as radial head replacements. The elbow surgeon now has more options than ever to help in the reconstruction of the patient’s elbow. However, despite all of these new tools, issues such as nonunion, malunion, posttraumatic arthritis, and continued instability may result. This chapter looks into those treatment options and identifies pearls that may be useful in both the primary and revision settings.
Tuberculosis mastitis presenting as bilateral breast masses

Tuberculosis mastitis can be a challenging diagnosis, often presenting with clinical and imaging findings that are suspicious for malignancy. We present a case of a 49-year-old female with a breast mass initially diagnosed as idiopathic granulomatous mastitis. Failure to respond to standard treatments, development of new breast masses, and discovery of a concurrent ulcerating thigh rash with similar histologic findings as the breast masses prompted further investigation, which ultimately lead to the diagnosis of tuberculosis mastitis. There was rapid resolution of both breast and skin symptoms after initiation of empiric drug therapy.
Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia

Panic disorder (PD) is characterized by the presence of recurrent unexpected panic attacks and anxiety about their reoccurrence. Panic attacks can be defined as, “an abrupt surge of intense fear or intense discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes” (p. 208, APA, 2013). These involve a wide range of physiological symptoms, such as increased heart rate, shortness of breath, sweating, chest pain, gastrointestinal distress, dizziness, and numbness. The rapid onset of these symptoms is often accompanied by psychological distress, such as the feeling of “going crazy,” losing control, or dying. In addition to panic attacks, a diagnosis of PD necessitates at least 1 month of anxiety or avoidance about future panic attacks. To cope with this fear, the individual may avoid activities that involve physiological arousal, with the belief that arousal will provoke a full panic episode. For example, the individual may avoid physical exercise because these activities often lead to accelerated heart rate, sweating, and shortness of breath, which may also be experienced during a panic attack. In general, PD is characterized by both recurrent panic attacks and a persistent fear or avoidance of future panic episodes.
Diagnostic Assessment of the Pulmonary Hypertension Patient

A methodical approach to pulmonary hypertension (PH) assessment in clinical practice is critical to ensure the correct diagnosis, determine disease severity, and initiate appropriate therapy. Data from epidemiological, clinical, and survey studies suggest that practice patterns vary widely across geographic regions, hospitals, and even within the expert community despite international consensus recommendations on the appropriate strategy for PH diagnosis.1–4 This knowledge gap is an important contributor to misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, inappropriate treatment, and potentially suboptimal outcome in at-risk or affected patients.5 Therefore, a discussion on the approach to diagnosing and staging PH remains timely and important. This review will outline current understanding that informs PH clinical practice with emphasis on data gathering and interpretation at point of care.
Imaging of endoscopic cystogastrostomy in pancreatic walled-off necrosis: what the radiologist needs to know

Acute pancreatitis is a frequent entity encountered by radiologists. In 2012, the Atlanta criteria were revised to help radiologists use a common nomenclature when describing acute pancreatitis and its complications. One delayed complication of acute necrotizing pancreatitis in walled-off necrosis, a collection seen at least 4 weeks after an episode of acute pancreatic necrosis and/or acute peripancreatic necrosis. Multiple treatments have been adapted in the setting of walled-off necrosis, including endoscopic cystogastrostomy. The focus of this article is to familiarize the radiologist with the imaging appearance of this procedure as well as, review the outcomes and potential complications of endoscopic cystogastrostomy.
The Role of Mindfulness Approaches in Integrative Medicine

Patients today frequently present with conditions caused by or aggravated by stress, lifestyle, and behavior. The number of patients with one or more chronic illnesses has increased worldwide, and ...
From O2 Diffusion into Red Blood Cells to Ligand Pathways in Globins

Jonathan and Beatrice Wittenberg have had a strong influence on much of the work done in my laboratory over the past 35 years, both indirectly through their papers and more directly through conversations and collaborations. I began reading their papers on facilitated diffusion of O2 by myoglobin (Wittemberg 1965; 1970; Riveros-Moreno and Wittenberg 1972), gas exchange in fish swim bladders (Wittenberg 1958; 1961; Wittenberg and Wittenberg 1961; Wittenberg et al. 1964) and ligand binding to leghaemoglobin (Wittenberg et al. 1972) when I was a graduate student in Quentin Gibson’s laboratory between 1968 and 1972. Then, as an independent investigator, I became involved in a number of studies, which built on their discoveries about the role of globins in O2 storage, transport, sensing and scavenging. Four of these projects are summarised in this chapter and were chosen because of the strong influence of the Wittenbergs’ work and are presented in a tribute to them and to their ideas. These studies include: (1) a demonstration that O2 uptake and release by intact red blood cells is limited by diffusion through unstirred surface layers; (2) an evaluation of the factors governing sulphide binding to Lucina pectinata HbI; (3) a comparison of symbiotic and non-symbiotic plant haemoglobins; and (4) an experimental verification that O2 enters and exits Cerebratulus lacteus Hb through an internal apolar channel.
Pathological spectrum of airway inflammation

In man and other mammalian species, the upper (nasal passages) and lower airways are lined by a continuous moist mucosal layer. The mucosa forms the border between the external environment and host tissue where irritants, infection and allergens are first deposited. It is the site at which immune responses are initiated by immuno-competent cells in association with resident antigen presenting cells (APC). In humans, subsequent exposure to the relevant allergen initiates immune reactions, which may become chronic. These reactions are designed as defence mechanisms that normally protect the body; however, when they are inappropriate or misdirected they may injure host tissue. At rest, approximately 10,000 to 15,000 L of air, containing pollutants and allergens, moves daily over the human nasal and tracheobronchial airway mucosa. In the nasal passages and proximal conducting airways of the lung the air is sampled, conditioned, and rendered free of irritants and allergens before it reaches the respiratory portion of the lung. The cleansing function of the conducting airways depends upon its branching pattern and the dynamic interactions of structural cells, immuno-competent cells, and neural elements. Changes in the composition and integrity of airway-wall structural components may alter its effectiveness and predispose the respiratory portion of the lung to injury.
Anatomical and Morphological Adaptations

Metcalfe (1983) lists the following anatomical and morphological characters as being xeromorphic: 1. Leaves may be small, sometimes with the margins inrolled, as in Erica cinerea and E. tetralix. 2. Characteristically, in many xerophytes the leaves become detached, and water loss is thereby reduced. 3. In some taxa, such as Salicornia spp., leaves are absent and photosynthesis is carried out by the stem. In some cases the stem chlorenchyma may then consist of palisade cells. 4. Water loss may be controlled by the stomata, as in Flourensia thurifera. The stomata are often numerous and frequently protected by being depressed, surrounded by flanges of cuticle, etc. 5. The leaf cells, especially the epidermal cells, are often conspicuously smaller than corresponding cells in mesophytes and hydrophytes. However, there are exceptions, such as, for example, the enlarged water-storage cells in the epidermis or hypodermis of Peperomia incana and P. pereskiaefolia. 6. The cuticle is often above average thickness, as are also the walls of the epidermal cells, especially the outer periclinal walls. This is well developed in members of the Cactaceae. 7. Many xerophytes have hairy leaves and are generally to be found in members of the Caryophyllaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Compositae, Ericaceae and Solanaceae. In some xeromorphs these are air-filled or of a distinctive type. It was once believed that the indumentum gave a physiological advantage to xerophytes by shielding the stomata and thereby reducing transpiration loss. In many cases it has been experimentally demonstrated that such an hypothesis is false.
'Medical Necessity' and Domination

Dubov and Fraenkel (2018) argue that it is wrong for insurers to refuse to cover facial feminization surgery (hereafter, FFS) because FFS is a medically necessary treatment for gender dysphoria. We...
Does Antibody-Mediated Rejection in the First-Month after Heart Transplant Lead to Poor Longer-Term Outcome?

Purpose Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) has been recently well described in the 2011 ISHLT AMR biopsy-grading scale. AMR has been found to correlate with poor survival and greater development of cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV). There is concern that early AMR occurring in the first month after heart transplant (HTx) sets the stage for early activation of the humoral system resulting in poor outcome. Therefore, we chose to assess the timing of AMR within the first-month after HTx and subsequent outcomes. Methods Between 2000 and 2013, we assessed 20 heart transplant recipients who developed biopsy-proven AMR≥1 in the first-month post-HTx (n=9) or 2-12 months post-HTx (n=11). Endpoints included subsequent 5-year survival, and subsequent 5-year freedom from CAV (as defined by stenosis ≥ 30% by angiography) and non-fatal major adverse cardiac events (NF-MACE: myocardial infarction , new congestive heart failure , percutaneous coronary intervention, implantable cardioverter defibrillator/pacemaker implant, stroke). Of interest was whether early AMR in the first month post-transplant led to increased recurrence of pathology AMR in the rest of the first-year. Results 45% of AMR in the first-year after HTx occurred in the first-month post-HTx (early AMR) and 55% occurred between 2-12 months post-HTx (late AMR). None of the patients with early or late AMR had recurrence of antibody-mediated rejection in the first-year. In the long-term, late AMR was associated with significantly less freedom from NF-MACE. However, there was no difference in 5-year survival or 5-year freedom from CAV in patients with early or late AMR. (see Table) Conclusion AMR in the first-month post-HTx does not appear to lead to recurrent AMR or poor 5-year outcome. Late AMR (between 2-12 months post-HTx) may increase the risk for NF-MACE. More aggressive anti-humoral immunosuppression strategies may be warranted in this patient group.
A tale of two Nortons.

This paper considers Norton’s Material Theory of Induction. The material theory aims inter alia to neutralize Hume’s Problem of Induction. The purpose of the paper is to evaluate the material theory's capacity to achieve this end. After pulling apart two versions of the theory, I argue that neither version satisfactorily neutralizes the problem.
Water Based Inkjet Material Deposition of Donor-Acceptor Nanocomposites for Usage in Organic Photovoltaics

P3HT: PCBM nanoparticle based inks were fabricated using the miniemulsion technique [1]. The nanoparticles were characterized for their size using a quasi-elastic light scattering technique. The average diameter of P3HT:PCBM nanoparticles was found to be 52nm. The blending of the P3HT and the PCBM was tested using UV-Vis absorbance and fluorescence spectroscopy – it was found that the blend ratio of the nanoparticle can be controlled by varying the individual concentrations of the P3HT and PCBM in chloroform ("the oil phase") of the miniemulsions. Finally the P3HT:PCBM nanoparticle inks were inkjet printed onto PEDOT:PSS coated ITO substrates to form the active layer of the organic photovoltaic cell. Aluminum cathodes were evaporated onto the printed nanoparticle active layer film to form functioning OPVs. The best power conversion efficiency for one of these devices was 0.07%.
Abstract P501: Mobile Daily Physical Activity and Fall Risk Monitor for Lifestyle Management, Disease Prevention and Risk Alert Generation

Mobile health monitoring is driving many smart health innovations. In this research, we focus on the daily physical activity and fall risk monitoring, for intelligent activity tracking and fall ris...
Interactive multimedia: the Brancusi project—an exploration in international collaboration

The interactive multimedia: Brancusi Project is being undertaken by an international consortium of art museums, art historians and technical partners who are producing an in-depth resource on a major sculptor of the twentieth century. The project, which addresses fundamental issues of design and marketing of «serious content» interactive multimedia, is being part-funded under the CEC IMPACT 2 Programme
Case Scenario for Fluid Management After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in the Neuro-Intensive Care Unit

Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a cerebrovascular emergency with significant morbidity and mortality. The clinical presentation varies; most patients present with severe headache, nausea, vomiting and neck pain. Loss of consciousness can also happen in severe cases. Early diagnosis is essential and confirmed with a non-contrast CT of the brain with or without a lumbar puncture. The most common cause of nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage is aneurysm rupture. Most patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage should be monitored closely in an intensive care unit after securing the aneurysm, to monitor for and prevent potential neurological and medical complications. Neurological complications include aneurysm rerupture, seizures, hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension, and delayed cerebral ischemia, all of which can worsen outcome following subarachnoid hemorrhage. Systemic complications that can occur in these patients include acute cardiopulmonary decompensation (i.e. neurogenic pulmonary edema, estress cardiomyopathy, etc.), and hyponatremia secondary to cerebral salt wasting syndrome or syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion. Close neurologic and hemodynamic monitoring and understanding of the pathophysiologic changes of this complex patient population is important to optimize patient outcome.
Model Predictive Speed Control of DC-DC Buck Converter Driven DC-motor with Various Load Torque Values

This paper presents a speed control of a buck converter driven a direct current (DC) motor. The speed control is designed and programmed to compute a constrained model predictive controller (MPC) algorithm that regulates a reliably constant and accurate speed in the presence of different value of load torque. The challenge of regulating speed under variable load torques is solved by using the predicted discrete averaged state space model and the predicted constrained input control signal. The proposed strategy uses the output feedback signal to the MPC to first predict the state vector and the input control signal that are fed to the DC-DC buck converter to adjust the required output voltage and current, then fed to the permanent magnet DC-motor. Since the DC-motor output speed signal varies, a constrained input control signal applied to the DC-DC converter to keep the control signal limited between boundaries of 0-1. This process is fulfilled by computing the quadratic programming (QP) optimization algorithm at each prediction horizon interval. MATLAB and Simulink were used to obtain the simulated results and output figures.
Quantifying wildlife responses to conservation fencing in East Africa

The fencing of protected areas is increasing worldwide. However, the implementation of fences for conservation has outpaced scientific assessment of their effectiveness, non-target impacts, and long-term costs. We assessed landscape predictors of fence crossing sites and employed camera traps over a one-year period to investigate wildlife responses to a conservation fence around Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya. Specifically, we measured the impact of the fence on wild mammal movement, and the temporal impacts of fence maintenance on wildlife crossings and behavior. Cameras captured more than 65,000 detections of animals approaching fences, with 3626 observed crossings over 2818 trap nights at 19 sites. Using these data, we developed a guide to classifying fence-specific mammal behaviors. Thirty-eight wild mammal species approached known weak points in the fence, and 27 species were recorded crossing the fence. No single environmental variable predicted detection or fence crossing points for all species, but seasonality, human activity, habitat visibility, and proximity to an adjacent protected area were each correlated with species-specific crossing locations. Additionally, breaches of repaired fence-crossing locations occurred within days of maintenance. We conclude that popular, ‘one-size-fits-all’, conservation fence designs may be ineffective and costly for restraining movement of many wildlife species. We recommend that those deploying conservation fences start with clearly articulated management goals, that fence maintenance be informed by taxa-specific tendencies to breach fences, and that managers consider the strategic creation of wildlife corridors, overpasses, or ungulate-proof fences to link fenced protected areas with surrounding habitat.
Supporting Real-Time ${T}$ -Queries on Network Traffic with a Cloud-Based Offloading Model

Traffic measurement provides fundamental statistics for network management functions. To implement the measurement modules on the data plane for real-time query response, modern sketches are designed to work with limited on-die memory allocation from network processors and collect traffic statistics in epochs of a preset length. To handle real-time queries at arbitrary times over traffic in a preceding period ${T}$ (called ${T}$ -queries), the prior art sets the epoch length to ${T \over n}$ and keeps the measurement results in a window of $n - 1$ past epochs to support approximate ${T}$ -queries. Such an approach however drastically increases the memory cost or decreases the accuracy in the query results if the memory allocation is fixed. In this paper, motivated by the concept of offloading in today's edge-cloud computing, we propose a collaborative edge-center traffic measurement model, where the traffic measurement modules at all network devices form the edge, which offloads the traffic measurement results to a measurement center possibly hosted in a datacenter. The center synthesizes the measurements from the past epochs and sends the aggregate results back to the measurement modules to support T-queries. We conduct experiments using real traffic traces to evaluate the performance of the proposed edge-center measurement model. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed designs significantly outperform the prior art.
Diagnosis of Pelvic Girdle Pain

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP), defined as musculoskeletal pain between the posterior iliac crest and the gluteal fold, is a common occurrence during pregnancy. The etiology of the pain is likely multifactorial but due in large part to the ligament laxity, instability, and biomechanical dysfunction of the pelvic joints and muscles that occur during pregnancy. As a result of these changes, patients can experience pain in the region of the sacroiliac joint and/or the pubic symphysis. Posterior PGP often radiates down the posterior thigh and is associated with transitional movements. Due to limitations on the use of imaging and diagnostic injection modalities in pregnant patients, a thorough history and physical are the keys to diagnosis. Knowledge of risk factors for pregnancy PGP, reviewed in this chapter, informs the history taking, which can in turn help guide the physical examination. A combination of specific clinical tests that reproduce the pain or functional disturbances should be performed to differentiate PGP from other sources of pain in the region. We describe the way to perform each of these tests, provide images of them, and review their sensitivity and specificity for PGP in pregnancy.
Alternative measures of systems effectiveness: associations and implications

This article reports results from a study that examined the implementation of computerized modeling systems in 29 organizations. The focus is on the use of various MIS effectiveness measures that are reported in MIS research. Specifically, we examine the relationship between user perceived effectiveness measures (user satisfaction) and behavioral measures of system effectiveness (system use). While much of the existing MIS research implies that the two types of measures are positively associated with each other, the results from this study indicate otherwise. By using a perceived effectiveness instrument that is strongly grounded in a widely accepted theoretical model, the results provide important insights into the nature of this relationship. The importance of interpreting perceived and behavioral measures of system effectiveness is demonstrated by examining the effect of system sophistication on MIS effectiveness.
Die-Off of Utah Juniper Natural Bridges National Monument

The pinyon-juniper woodland is a wide spread vegetation type in the southwestern United States that is estimated to cover from 30 to 40 million hectares. They pinyon-juniper vegetation provides a source of fuel, building materials, charcoal, pine nuts, christmas trees and folk medicines. About 80% of the acreage is grazed by livestock and wildlife. In Utah, this ecosystem is a large component (62,705 km2 or 28.6%) of the vegetation. Particularly in the Utah National Parks, the pinyon-juniper woodlands valued for their watershed, aesthetic and recreational values. Over the past several years extensive foliar damage to Utah juniper (Juniperus osterosperma (Torr.) Little) has been observed in the Natural Bridges National Monument. The characteristic pattern is for the distal foliage to become chlorotic and die. Mortality progresses along twigs until whole branches or even the entire tree dies. Reports of similar foliar damage has been reported in Canyonlands National Park, Arches National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado National Monument, areas near Cedar City in southwestern Utah and in eastern Nevada, which would indicate that the foliar damage is a widespread problem. The cause for the foliar damage is unknown. The loss of juniper trees in the national parks in southern Utah would have a dramatic ecological impact and would be an aesthetic blight in the parks. The purpose of this investigation is to determine the cause of the die-off of Utah junipers and suggest management options concerning the juniper die-off problem.
EFFECT OF CURVATURE ON NONLINEAR FRAME ANALYSES

A general curvature expression for beams and frames subjected to arbitrary rotations is developed and employed in the matrix displacement method of analysis. This formulation is compared with three other formulations utilizing: (1) linear curvature; (2) nonlinear curvature as used in elementary mechanics; and (3) small strain large displacement curvature. This study shows that for moderate rotations the formulation utilizing linear curvature is a reasonable approximation of the more sophisticated nonlinear expression.
What Flowed from "Surveys Say..."

The Averaged American . Surveys, Citizens, and the Making of a Mass Public. By Sarah E. Igo . Harvard University Press, Cambridge, MA, 2007. 408 pp. $35, £22.95, €32.30. ISBN 9780674023215. Igo explores how the spread of information collected through quantitative social studies--public opinion polls, "man-in-the-street" interviews, sex surveys, community studies, and consumer research--transformed U.S. culture.
The Positive Muon Magnetic Moment

The magnetic moment of the positive muon has been measured at PPA by determining its precession frequency in a magnetic field.
Feature driven dynamic customization of software product lines

This paper describes a model driven development approach for software product lines based on Web services, in which feature selection drives the dynamic customization of the product line architecture and implementation to derive the application. During product line modeling, feature and their dependencies are described in a feature model. The product line architecture is based around a client/server pattern consisting of user interface objects interacting with Web services. During application engineering, features are selected by the application engineer and used to dynamically customize the product line architecture and implementation.