cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Valuing reload options

Over the past quarter century, the use of stock options as pay for performance has grown enormously. Option grants now account for 32% of CEO pay—more than twice that of salaries. In addition options are now being granted to many more employ- ees than before. During this same time period, there have been numerous innovations in the features on compensation options. One of these features is the reload—the grant of new options to replace shares tendered in the payment of the exercise. Within the past year, the long-delayed FASB requirement that options be expensed for financial reporting has finally become a fact. It is incumbent upon financial re- searchers to provide methods to achieve the goal of valuing options, not only to serve the accounting needs, but also to provide ways of determining their true costs and incentive effects. This paper analyzes the various forms of reload options and provides simple Black- Scholes like formulas for evaluating them.
Differential Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Stimulation of Rat Luteinizing Hormone Subunit Gene Transcription by Calcium Influx and Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase-Signaling Pathways

Gonadotropin secretion and gene expression are differentially regulated by hypothalamic GnRH pulses by unknown mechanisms. GnRH stimulates calcium influx through L-type voltage-gated channels and activates phospholipase C, leading to increased protein kinase C (PKC) and mitogen-activated protein kinase activity. We found differential contributions of these pathways to GnRH-stimulated rat LH subunit transcription in pituitary gonadotropes and cell lines. Endogenous transcription of the alpha- and LHbeta-subunits in rat pituitary cells was stimulated by GnRH. Independent PKC activation by phorbol myristate acid stimulated only the alpha-subunit gene. In contrast, an L-channel antagonist (nimodipine) inhibited only LHbeta stimulation by GnRH, and an L-channel agonist (BayK 8644) stimulated only basal LHbeta transcription. GnRH induction of a rat alpha-subunit promoter construct in alphaT3 cells was unaffected by nimodipine or elimination of external calcium, while both treatments eliminated the LHbeta response. Application of a mitogen-activated kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitor (PD098059) decreased basal and GnRH-stimulated alpha-subunit promoter activity and had no effect on LHbeta promoter activity. In pituitary cells from mice bearing an LHbeta promoter-luciferase reporter transgene, GnRH stimulation was inhibited by nimodipine but not by PD098059. Thus, GnRH induction and basal control of the alpha-subunit gene seem to occur through the PKC/mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, while induction of the LHbeta gene is dependent on calcium influx. Differential signaling from the same receptor may be a mechanism for preferential regulation of transcription.
Is Marlatt's relapse taxonomy reliable or valid?

The Relapse Replication and Extension Project (RREP) has failed to provide empirical support for Marlatt's relapse taxonomy. Neither the reliability of the original Marlatt coding system nor its predictive or construct validity was supported by this group of studies. The present commentary explores a number of possible reasons for the generally negative outcomes. These findings should certainly lead to a re-evaluation of Marlatt's relapse taxonomy and its operationalization. Nevertheless, despite the negative results, there are a number of reasons why the general Relapse Prevention concept is likely to survive in some form: it has been widely adopted and imitated clinically, key elements of the taxonomy are often focal points of treatment, and clinical research studies have repeatedly supported some elements of the taxonomy (e.g. negative emotional states, social pressure, interpersonal conflict, positive emotional states and temptations/urges). The RREP also evaluated some modifications of the original taxonomy as well as the use of more structured assessment instruments, and some of these provided more promising results. Further developments will need to take into account both research needs for greater precision, most likely through the use of more structured assessment instruments, and clinical needs for richness of detail and sensitivity to a wide variety of life circumstances.
Multi-criteria decision-making system for selecting an effective plan for bridge rehabilitation

The managers of the US transportation infrastructure face the challenge of restoring the aging highway infrastructure system and making it perform more reliably, safely and efficiently at minimum cost and with minimum disruption. The process selection of an appropriate construction plan for rehabilitation/reconstruction of a bridge requires its evaluation on the basis of qualitative and quantitative metrics such as construction cost, effect on surrounding businesses and communities and the flow of traffic, etc. Traditional decision-making methods that are focused on costs alone are not equipped to address the multi-objective nature of the decision-making process. This article presents an example demonstrating a decision-making system based on the analytical hierarchy process that can be utilised to transparently extract quantitative weights which reflect the relative importance of both qualitative and quantitative objectives of a project and select a bridge construction plan that best meets the objectives.
Interaction between an Island and the Ventilated Thermocline: Implications for the Hawaiian Lee Countercurrent

Abstract The ventilated thermocline theory is adapted to include the interaction between an island and the wind-driven subtropical circulation. The primary goal is an understanding of the effect of this interaction on the Hawaiian Lee Countercurrent (HLCC), an eastward current crossing the Pacific west of Hawaii in the latitude band 18°–21°N. A two-and-one-half-layer model is used, with the model island located in midgyre and equatorward of the gyre center, simulating the Hawaiian Islands. The presence of the island creates two wakes. A transport wake directly west of the island is characterized by an alteration of the zonal transport caused by the diversion of the interior flow incident upon the east coast of the island into zonal jets extending westward from the northern and southern tips of the island. A potential vorticity (pv) wake embedded in the second-layer streamlines westward and equatorward of the island is characterized by an alteration of the ventilated pv signature and of the baroclinic natu...
Hypertension in Pregnancy

1. Hypertension in pregnancy is defined as blood pressure (BP) higher than 140 mmHg systolic or 90 mmHg diastolic on two occasions separated by at least 6 h. 2. Pregnancy-induced hypertension is defined as hypertension diagnosed at or after 20 weeks’ gestation. 3. Pre-eclampsia is a multisystem disease characterized by hypertension and proteinuria. 4. Pre-eclampsia may lead to fetal complications including preterm delivery, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), fetal demise, and perinatal death, as well as maternal complications of seizure, stroke, and death.
The Vinylcyclopropane–Cyclopentene Rearrangement

The vinylcyclopropane-cyclopentene isomerization was discovered in 1959. After the mechanism was studied in detail, this rearrangement was incorporated into many useful synthetic schemes. Various heterocyclic permutations of the vinylcyclopropane system have also been investigated, yielding several synthetic methods based on the rearrangements of cyclopropyl ketones and cyclopropyl imines to dihydrofurans and dihydropyrroles, respectively. This chapter is concerned only with the rearrangements of vinylcyclopropanes to cyclopentenes. Excluded are Cope rearrangements of divinylcyclopropanes and rearrangements of cyclopropyl compounds not leading to cyclopentenes. The isomerization of 2,2-dichlorovinylcyclopropane was described in 1959. The rearrangement of the parent hydrocarbon was reported independently by two laboratories a year later. Although no prior mention of this rearrangement exists in the literature, it appears likely that it occured unobserved as early as 1922 during the preparation of vinylcyclopropane by drastic methods. The presence of cyclopentene in the reaction mixtures resulting from the Hofmann elimination of a β-cyclopropylethylammonium salt is a likely possibility, considering the low temperature at which vinylcyclopropane rearranges. The detection and identification of reaction products by refractive indices only may have prevented recognition of the isomerization at that time. During the decade following the discovery of the rearrangement, virtually every simple vinylcyclopropane was studied in an attempt to settle the question of biradical versus concerted mechanism. Later there was intense activity in the applications of this rearrangement and many of its analogs to organic synthesis. Studies have also emphasized transition-metal-catalyzed rearrangements of vinylcyclopropanes. Keywords: vinylcyclopropane; cyclopentene; rearrangement; mechanisms; thermal rearrangements; photochemical rearrangements; transition metal catalysts; scope; limitations; annulations; natural products; experimental procedures
Digital Radiology Divide at McKinly

McKinly Hospital for Children, one of the leading pediatric caregivers and research centers in the nation, is implementing a Picture Archive and Communication System (PACS) to promote patient care, enhance efficiency, and reduce costs. The medical imaging department is leading the effort to ensure seamless integration and interoperability, while minimizing the organizational, political, financial, and managerial issues. This case identifies the Organizational Behavior risks and benefits that deployment of a hospital wide information system presents. Additionally, a full case analysis and preferred implementation strategy provide a framework for any organization considering PACS or similar health information technology systems.
The Honorable Jan C. Smuts: A Worthy Exemplar for Health Education?

(1984). The Honorable Jan C. Smuts: A Worthy Exemplar for Health Education? Health Education: Vol. 15, No. 7, pp. 5-5.
Mathematics as a Course of Study in Problem Solving—Then and Now

The mathematics curriculum in the first two years of college is a tool created to assist in solving problems. The enormous computational capability provided by digital computers has increased the number of problems that can be addressed and solved using elementary mathematical concepts to include problems form the social sciences, business, and the art and science of computing. The current curriculum has not yet adjusted to the larger variety of problems that fall within the scope of mathematics that might be taught in the first two years of college.
Value of cardiac MRI for evaluation of chronic Chagas disease cardiomyopathy.

Aim To determine whether cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) is more sensitive than electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram (ECHO) for detecting myocardial involvement in a Latin American migrant population with untreated Chagas disease (CD) in the United States. Materials and methods All untreated CD patients with ECG and ECHO examinations who underwent cMRI at Olive View-UCLA Medical Center from September 2010 to December 2013 ( n =81) were analysed in three groups: Group 1, normal ECG and ECHO examinations ( n =50); Group 2, abnormal ECG and normal ECHO examinations ( n =10); and Group 3, abnormal ECHO examination ( n =21). Frequencies of ECG, ECHO, and cMRI findings were compared across groups. Results Seventy percent (57/81) of the study population was female, with a mean age of 47 years (range, 17–77 years). Twenty-six percent (21/81) had delayed myocardial enhancement (DME), which was most commonly inferolateral in location (27%, 32/117 segments) and transmural in pattern (56%, 65/117 segments). Eight percent (4/50), 30% (3/10), and 67% (14/21) of Groups 1–3, respectively, had DME. Of these individuals with DME, 50% (2/4), 67% (2/3), and 100% (14/14) of Groups 1–3, respectively, also had wall motion abnormality (WMA) on cMRI. In addition to the highest percentages of DME and WMA, Group 3 also had significantly higher mean myocardial mass ( p 0.01), mean left ventricular end-diastolic ( p 0.01) and end-systolic volumes ( p 0.0005), and significantly lower mean left ventricular ejection fraction ( p 0.001). Conclusion cMRI may detect myocardial involvement in untreated CD that is otherwise unrecognised on ECG and ECHO.
Kinetic intermediates in amyloid assembly.

In contrast to an expected Ostwald-like ripening of amyloid assemblies, the nucleating core of the Dutch mutant of the Aβ peptide of Alzheimer’s disease assembles through a series of conformational transitions. Structural characterization of the intermediate assemblies by isotope-edited IR and solid-state NMR reveals unexpected strand orientation intermediates and suggests new nucleation mechanisms in a progressive assembly pathway.
Trauma center level impacts survival for cirrhotic trauma patients.

BACKGROUNDCirrhosis is known to be a significant risk factor for morbidity and mortality following trauma such that its presence is a requirement for trauma center transfer. The impact of trauma center level on post-injury survival in cirrhotic patients has not been well studied.METHODSThe National
Thermodynamic and structural insights into nanocomposites engineering by comparing two materials assembly techniques for graphene.

Materials assembled by layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly and vacuum-assisted flocculation (VAF) have similarities, but a systematic study of their comparative advantages and disadvantages is missing. Such a study is needed from both practical and fundamental perspectives aiming at a better understanding of structure–property relationships of nanocomposites and purposeful engineering of materials with unique properties. Layered composites from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and reduced graphene (RG) are made by both techniques. We comparatively evaluate their structure, mechanical, and electrical properties. LBL and VAF composites demonstrate clear differences at atomic and nanoscale structural levels but reveal similarities in micrometer and submicrometer organization. Epitaxial crystallization and suppression of phase transition temperatures are more pronounced for PVA in LBL than for VAF composites. Mechanical properties are virtually identical for both assemblies at high RG contents. We conclude that mechanical p...
Getting through the night.

Nostalgic for the bad old days of her own training, a physician wonders how, lacking the satisfactions and pleasures of taking responsibility for patients during absurdly long shifts, today's trainees will learn key lessons about what it means to be a doctor.
E-cigarette use and subsequent cigarette and marijuana use among Hispanic young adults.

Abstract Purpose Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) could have a multifaceted effect on public health by changing the likelihood that: (a) non-smokers and non-users of marijuana subsequently transition to cigarette and marijuana use, respectively, and/or: (b) cigarette smokers subsequently quit smoking. We analyzed data from a longitudinal study of Hispanic young adults in Los Angeles, California to determine whether e-cigarette use is associated with subsequent cigarette or marijuana use over a one-year period. Methods Survey data were collected from 1332 Hispanic young adults (59% female, mean age = 22.7 years, SD = 0.39 years) in 2014 and 2015. Logistic regression analyses examined the association between e-cigarette use in 2014 and cigarette/marijuana use in 2015, controlling for age, sex, and other substance use. Results In 2014, prevalence of past-month use was 9% for e-cigarettes, 21% for cigarettes, and 23% for marijuana. Among past-month cigarette nonsmokers in 2014, those who were past-month e-cigarette users in 2014 were over 3 times more likely to be past-month cigarette smokers in 2015, compared with those who did not report past-month e-cigarette use in 2014 (26% vs. 7%; OR = 3.32, 95% CI = 1.55, 7.10). Among past-month marijuana non-users in 2014, those who were past-month e-cigarette users in 2014 were nearly 2 times more likely to be past-month marijuana users in 2015 (24% vs. 12%;OR = 1.97, 95% CI = 1.01, 3.86). Among past-month cigarette and marijuana users in 2014, e-cigarette use in 2014 was not associated with a change cigarette and marijuana use, respectively, in 2015. Conclusions Among Hispanic young adults, e-cigarettes could increase the likelihood of transitioning from non-user to user of cigarettes or marijuana and was not associated with smoking cessation.
Study on the role of coenzyme Q_(10) in alleviating physical fatigue of mice in different genders

Objective To study the alleviating physical fatigue function of coenzyme Q10in mice of different genders. Methods The female and male mice were divided into 4 groups respectively,the solvent control group( soybean oil) and the low, medium and high dose group( 0. 042 g / kg,0. 0 83 g / kg,0. 250 g / kg). Mice in dose groups were orally given coenzyme Q10 samples for 30 d. Then the load swimming time,hepatic glycogen level,serum urea and blood lactic acid levels after swimming were observed in these mice. Results The differences of load swimming time,blood lactic acid and serum urea nitrogen contents after swimming,hepatic glycogen contents in three dose groups and solvent control group had no statistical significance in female mice( P 0. 05). While compared to solvent control group,the load swimming time was significantly longer in medium dose group of male mice,the serum urea levels decreased significantly in medium and high dose groups of male mice after swimming,and the blood lactic acid levels and AUC in three dose groups of male mice decreased distinctly after 20 min swmming. Conclusion Coenzyme Q10has effect on alleviating physical fatigue in male mice,but not in female mice.
Aging is not accompanied by sympathetic hyperresponsiveness to air-jet stress

It has been postulated that sympathetic nervous system reactivity to acutely applied stress is increased with age. We investigated the autonomic and hemodynamic adjustments to air-jet stress in 9 mature (12-mo-old) and 11 senescent (24-mo-old) Fischer 344 rats. Rats were instrumented with arterial and venous catheters, flow probes around the renal artery, and nerve electrodes on the ipsilateral renal nerve. After the rats recovered from surgery, blood pressure, heart rate, renal blood flow, and renal sympathetic nerve activity were recorded during control conditions and during an 8-min continuous air-jet application. Renal resistance and the low (0.01-0.20 Hz)- and mid-frequency (0.20-0.50 Hz) power of blood pressure were computed off-line. The air jet induced an increase in blood pressure, heart rate, renal resistance, renal nerve activity, and blood pressure power in the low- and mid-frequency ranges in both groups. Blood pressure and low-frequency blood pressure power increased less, and the elevations in renal resistance and renal nerve activity were of shorter duration in senescent compared with mature rats. These data suggest that sympathetic responsiveness to air-jet stress is not enhanced with increasing age.
Genitourinary and gastrointestinal co-morbidities in children: The role of neural circuits in regulation of visceral function.

Summary Objective Pediatric lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) is a common problem in childhood. Lower urinary tract symptoms in children include overactive bladder, voiding postponement, stress incontinence, giggle incontinence, and dysfunctional voiding. Gastrointestinal co-morbidities, including constipation or fecal incontinence, are commonly associated with lower urinary tract (LUT) symptoms in children, often reaching 22–34%. This review summarized the potential mechanisms underlying functional lower urinary and gastrointestinal co-morbidities in children. It also covered the current understanding of clinical pathophysiology in the pediatric population, anatomy and embryological development of the pelvic organs, role of developing neural circuits in regulation of functional co-morbidities, and relevant translational animal models. Materials and methods This was a non-systematic review of the published literature, which summarized the available clinical and translational studies on functional urologic and gastrointestinal co-morbidities in children, as well as neural mechanisms underlying pelvic organ ‘cross-talk’ and ‘cross-sensitization’. Results Co-morbidity of pediatric lower urinary and gastrointestinal dysfunctions could be explained by multiple factors, including a shared developmental origin, close anatomical proximity, and pelvic organ ‘cross-talk’. Daily physiological activity and viscero-visceral reflexes between the lower gastrointestinal and urinary tracts are controlled by both autonomic and central nervous systems, suggesting the dominant modulatory role of the neural pathways. Recent studies have provided evidence that altered sensation in the bladder and dysfunctional voiding can be triggered by pathological changes in neighboring pelvic organs due to a phenomenon known as pelvic organ ‘cross-sensitization’. Cross-sensitization between pelvic organs is thought to be mainly coordinated by convergent neurons that receive dual afferent inputs from discrete pelvic organs. Investigation of functional changes in nerve fibers and neurons sets certain limits in conducting appropriate research in humans, making the use of animal models necessary to uncover the underlying mechanisms and for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for long-term symptomatic treatment of LUTD in the pediatric population. Conclusion Pediatric LUTD is often complicated by gastrointestinal co-morbidities; however, the mechanisms linking bladder and bowel dysfunctions are not well understood. Clinical studies have suggested that therapeutic modulation of one system may improve the other system's function. To better manage children with LUTD, the interplay between the two systems, and how co-morbid GI and voiding dysfunctions can be more specifically targeted in pediatric clinics need to be understood.
An Iterative, Low-Cost Strategy to Building Information Systems Allows a Small Jurisdiction Local Health Department to Increase Efficiencies and Expand Services.

OBJECTIVE AND METHODS The objective of this case study was to describe the process and outcomes of a small local health department's (LHD's) strategy to build and use information systems. The case study is based on a review of documents and semi-structured interviews with key informants in the Pomperaug District Health Department. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded, and analyzed. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS The case study here suggests that small LHDs can use a low-resource, incremental strategy to build information systems for improving departmental effectiveness and efficiency. Specifically, we suggest that the elements for this department's success were simple information systems, clear vision, consistent leadership, and the involvement, training, and support of staff.
Plasmin: a driver of hemovascular dysfunction.

In this issue of Blood, Marcos-Contreras and colleagues present convincing evidence that mechanistically links hyperfibrinolysis, typically seen as a bleeding risk, with increased brain endothelial permeability through plasmin-mediated cleavage of high-molecular-weight kininogen (HMWK) to bradykinin (BK). This study establishes plasmin as a key effector of what might be termed “hemovascular dysfunction”: a pathological state of blood enzymatic activity resulting in vascular structural and functional disruption. Their findings point the way toward improved treatment of patients with pharmacologically (stroke and myocardial infarction) or pathologically activated fibrinolysis (trauma and surgery) through selective blockade of bradykinin activity. Combined blockade of bradykinin and plasmin activation may provide additional therapeutic benefits in hemorrhagic shock by reducing tissue edema in resuscitation while enhancing hemostasis.
IMPACT OF EXERCISE AND PHARMACOLOGIC INTERVENTIONS ON CHANGES IN VISCERAL ADIPOSITY: A META-ANALYSIS OF RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIALS

Background: Increased BMI and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) are associated with elevated risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. While several exercise and pharmacological interventions have been shown to reduce BMI, their impact on VAT is not well established. Methods: We included randomized
Leaf water 18O and 2H maps show directional enrichment discrepancy in Colocasia esculenta

Spatial patterns of leaf water isotopes are challenging to predict because of the intricate link between vein and lamina water. Many models have attempted to predict these patterns, but to date, most have focused on monocots with parallel veins. These provide a simple system to study, but do not represent the majority of plant species. Here, a new protocol is developed using a Picarro induction module coupled to a cavity ringdown spectrometer to obtain maps of the leaf water isotopes (18 O and 2 H). The technique is applied to Colocasia esculenta leaves. The results are compared with isotope ratio mass spectrometry. In C. esculenta, a large enrichment in the radial direction is observed, but not in the longitudinal direction. The string-of-lakes model fails to predict the observed patterns, while the Farquhar-Gan model is more successful, especially when enrichment is accounted for along the radial direction. Our results show that reticulate-veined leaves experience a larger enrichment along the axis of the secondary veins than along the midrib. We hypothesize that this is due to the lower major/minor vein ratio that leads to longer pathways between major veins and sites of evaporation.
Data-driven decision making under uncertainty integrating robust optimization with principal component analysis and kernel smoothing methods

Abstract This paper proposes a novel data-driven robust optimization framework that leverages the power of machine learning and big data analytics for decision-making under uncertainty. By applying principal component analysis to uncertainty data, correlations between uncertain parameters are effectively captured, and latent uncertainty sources are identified. These data are then projected onto each principal component to facilitate extracting distributional information of latent uncertainties using kernel density estimation techniques. To explicitly account for asymmetric distributions, we introduce forward and backward deviation vectors into the data-driven uncertainty set, which are further incorporated into novel data-driven static and adaptive robust optimization models. The proposed framework not only significantly ameliorates the conservatism of robust optimization, but also enjoys computational efficiency and wide-ranging applicability. Three applications on optimization under uncertainty, including model predictive control, batch production scheduling, and process network planning, are presented to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed framework.
Computer-Human Interaction Mentoring (CHIMe) 2018

HCI is a field where diversity should be considered in the systems we build and study. As such, it is important to cultivate a growing group of diverse researchers with a range of experiences to contribute to difficult design, research, and computational problems. Therefore, the CHIMe organizers invite graduate and undergraduate students to attend. CHIMe intends to provide a welcoming environment for mentoring and collaboration amongst peers, faculty, and industry experts in HCI.
Abstract 20409: Myocardial Flow Reserve Is Impaired In Systemic Sarcoidosis

Introduction: Myocardial inflammation or scarring in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis may be associated with impaired myocardial blood flow (MBF). We sought to investigate MBF and flow reserve (MFR) in patients with sarcoidosis and compare results to controls. Methods: A single-center retrospective cohort analysis was performed in patients with systemic sarcoidosis and FDG- positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) findings of inflammation or scar without obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) who underwent dynamic rest-stress (Rb-82 with 0.4mg regadenoson) PET-myocardial perfusion imaging (PET-MPI) from 2007-2015 and compared to controls without CAD or active disease known to be associated with low MBF. 4DM software was used to calculate MBF and MFR in a 17-segment model. Multiple linear regression was used to assess the association between MFR and sarcoidosis after adjusting for age, sex, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, body mass index, diabetes, and ejection fraction. Results: We identified 16 patients with extra-cardiac sarcoidosis and positive FDG-PET (age 52.6±10.6 years, EF 48.7±14%, JMHW positive 63%) and 31 controls (age 57.7±10.8 years, EF 59.5±10.8%). There were 5 patients with sarcoidosis with low MFR defined as Conclusions: Global MFR is reduced in patients with systemic sarcoidosis as compared to controls after adjusting for confounding variables.
Multifractal characteristics of Longmaxi Shale pore structures by N2 adsorption: A model comparison

Abstract N2 adsorption is one of the most widely used techniques to assess pore structures of shale samples due to its ability for characterizing pores in nanoscale. Various models have been developed to quantify pore structures based on adsorption isotherms. In this regard, using a suitable model can give us more accurate pore structure information. The Barret, Joyner and Halenda (BJH) model along with density functional theory (DFT), two most frequently used ones for pore structures of shales, employed on Longmaxi shale samples and compared. BJH model can be divided into two sub-models: adsorption (BJHAD) and desorption (BJHDE). First, the multifractal analysis was used to quantify the heterogeneity of pore size distributions derived from these models. Second, partial least regression analysis (PLS) was employed to quantify the correlations between pore structures and rock compositions. The results showed that pore structures (volume and surface area) and pore heterogeneity derived from BJHAD, BJHDE and DFT model would differ. In addition, PLS results indicated that minerals (except dolomite and clay) and organic matter would correlate positively while clay minerals negatively with pore surface area and volume independent of the method that was used. Finally, the comparison of results from these three methods demonstrated that DFT model is superior to BJHAD and BJHDE for pore structure characterization in shale gas formations.
Manufacturing Masculinity: Exploring Gender and Workplace Surveillance:

Research on workplace surveillance highlights managerial initiatives to expand monitoring and make it less obtrusive, but we know relatively little about how to explain workers’ diverse responses t...
Joint Energy Procurement and Demand Response Towards Optimal Deployment of Renewables

In this paper, joint energy procurement and demand response is studied from the perspective of the operator of a power system. The operator procures energy from both renewable energy sources (RESs) and the spot market. We observe the fact that the RESs may incur considerable infrastructure cost. This cost is taken into account and the optimal planning of renewables is examined by controlling the investment in RES infrastructures. Due to the uncertainty of renewables, the operator can also purchase energy directly from the spot market to compensate for the possible deficit incurred by the realization of the random renewable energy. By setting appropriate prices, the operator sells the collected energy to heterogeneous end users with different demand response characteristics. We model the decision making process of the operator as a two-stage optimization problem. The optimal decisions on the renewable deployment, energy purchase from the spot market, and pricing schemes are derived. Several solution structures are observed and a computationally efficient algorithm, requiring only closed-form calculation and simple bisection search, is proposed to compute the optimal decisions. Finally, numerical experiments are conducted to verify the optimality of the proposed algorithm and the solution structures observed theoretically. In particular, the impact of renewable penetration and the importance of its optimal design are highlighted.
'The Last of the Beaches': The Development and Destruction of Palisades Del Rey

From its beginning in the mid-1920s until its demise in the mid-1960s, Palisades del Rey was a luxurious enclave of beachfront homes and businesses nestled along the Pacific coastline in Los Angeles. Unbeknownst to most of its residents at the time, the addition of a new airport (which would become Los Angeles International Airport) directly adjacent to the development would send waves through the community and ultimately destroy it. This paper explores the historical significance of the legal battle that ensued between the Palisades del Rey homeowners and Los Angeles International Airport once the city attempted to purchase the Palisades del Rey properties. Billed as the "last of the beaches," neither developer Fritz Burns nor any of those who bought Palisades del Rey homes in the 1920s could have imagined what would grow on the fields of barley adjacent to their new property. The paper discusses Palisades del Rey’s early development and golden years, considers some early challenges that the community faced with proposed and approved oil drilling next to their beach, outlines the dreams of municipal leaders and the mounting fears of residents during the 1940s and 1950s, and dives into the struggle between the city and the Palisades del Rey homeowners over the highly-coveted coastal property, the process of the airport’s condemnations and property acquisitions, and the lawsuits that ensued. The last section highlights the perspectives of the Los Angeles airport officials as they expanded the airport, dealt with the complaints about jet noise, and considered the airport’s future growth prospects within its city, as seen through public speeches they gave at the time. Perhaps no single area in Los Angeles better encapsulates the intersections, struggles and disputes between property developers, cities, residents, oil, aircraft and business that has been the history of Southern California better than Palisades de Rey.
Immunological Approach to Study the Structure of Oxidized Low Density Lipoproteins

Human low density lipoproteins (LDL), the major carriers of cholesterol in the bloodstream, plays the major role in supplying cells of tissues and organs with cholesterol. It is derived from the metabolism of the triglyceride-rich very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). Pathologic and epidemiologic studies have implicated that higher concentration of LDL in circulation is correlated with the development of atherosclerosis. Apolipoprotein (apo) B-100 serves as the ligand for the LDL receptor on cell surfaces. Thus, apoB-100 occupies a crucial position in the metabolic pathway of cholesterol and LDL. The complete primary structure of apoB-100 has been determined from its cDNA sequence (Chen et al., 1986; Knott,et al, 1986) and from its proteolytic peptide sequence information (Yang, et. al, 1986). ApoB-100 consists of 4536 amino acid residues with a calculated molecular mass of 513 kDa. Based on the differential trypsin releasibility of apoB-100 in LDL, apoB can be divided into 5 domains. Domain 1 contains 14 of the 25 cysteine (Cys) residues in apoB. Sixteen of the 25 Cys residues (which are numbered from 1 to 25 from the amino end to the carboxy end in apoB-100) exist in disulfide form. All 14 Cys residues in domain 1 are linked in disulfide form, and all except Cys 1-Cys3 and Cys2-Cys4 are linked to neighboring Cys. Domain 4 contains 7 of the 16 N-glycosylated carbohydrates (Yang et al., 1989). Based on the published structural information (Yang et al., 1990), we proposed that the structure of apoB-100 in LDL is likely to be an elongated form that wraps around the LDL molecule as shown in Fig. 1 (Yang et al., 1992). The process of atherogenesis is believed to involve transformation of macrophages to lipid-laden foam cells.
Modern Energy Market Manipulation

This book explores the important economic and legal questions of market manipulation that have arisen in restructured energy markets, paying particular attention to the actions of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
The Influence of Online Training on Camp Counselor Perceived Competence

In recent years there has been an upsurge of research focused on improving the overall experience for camp staff. Although there is an extensive body of literature focused on developmental outcomes (Bialeschki, Sibthorp, & Ellis, 2006; Henderson, 2006), camp programming (Mainieri & Anderson, 2015; Morgan, Sibthorp, & Browne, 2016), and the benefits of camp employment (Brown & D’Eloia, 2016; Duerden, Garst, & Bialeschki, 2014), there is much less known about the development of camp counselors and those who supervise camp. Preliminary research has revealed that camp staff lack basic camp knowledge (Ducharme & Feldman, 1992), exhibit inadequacies with respect to managing conflict among youth (Scales, 1997), and are deficient in their ability to create a safe camp environment (Baldwin, Duerden, & Witt, 2010; Wahl-Alexander, Howell, & Richards, in press). Although recent calls have urged researchers to focus their attention on the development of ability among camp staff (Thurber, Scanlin, Scheuler, & Henderson, 2007), there is no known research examining avenues of training in addition to traditional on-site development. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of module-based training videos that supplemented an eight-day orientation at a residential summer camp. The participants in this study were 195 camp counselors employed by a residential summer camp over a two-year period. All staff members participated in an extensive eight-day on-site training program, but only half of the staff completed six video Expert Online Training modules and accompanying quizzes. Primary analyses included 2x2 (time x group) mixed ANOVAs, which allowed for an examination of pre- to post-training competency ratings provided by participants while also considering the control and intervention conditions. The results of the investigation generally support the effectiveness of the online training module as a supplement to standard on-site orientation programming. Results indicate that both the control and intervention groups’ perceptions of competence related to study constructs increased over time, but the rate of change was typically greater in the control group. However, the additional gains made by the control group were not enough to overcome initial differences attributable to the online training program. The findings suggest that participation in an online training program leads to initial gains in counselor perceived competence that appear to prepare the counselors for the onsite orientation, leading to greater overall perceived competency on post-survey scores. These results supports the effectiveness of online training programs as a valuable supplement to on-site camp training. Furthermore, this conclusion gives credence to the notion that directors in other contexts can successfully improve counselors’ competency by implementing specific pre-training training videos. Subscribe to JPRA
The Paris Agreement As a Human Rights Treaty

The Paris Agreement on climate change is the first international environmental agreement to refer specifically to human rights. Although the Paris Agreement is not a human rights treaty in the usual sense, it does help to mainstream human rights norms into the ongoing implementation and evolution of the climate regime. This chapter describes the evolution of human rights obligations relating to environmental harm in general and to climate change in particular. The chapter then assesses the Paris Agreement in light of these norms, and concludes that the agreement is generally consistent with the human rights obligations relating to climate change, but that States must strengthen their commitments in order to fulfill those obligations completely. Finally, the chapter examines how human rights law may further influence the development of the climate regime, including through supporting social and environmental safeguards in climate finance mechanisms.
Preparation of cellulose nanofibers from Miscanthus x. Giganteus by ammonium persulfate oxidation.

Abstract Carboxylic acid functionalized cellulose nanofibers (MxG-CNFA-CO2H) were successfully isolated from a sustainable grass hybrid Miscanthus x. Giganteus by a new two-step chemical oxidation, that involves bleach treatment and ammonium persulfate oxidation, followed by ultrasonication. The resulting MxG-CNFA-CO2Hs have ca. 1200 mmol/kg carboxylic acid surface groups, an aspect ratio of 230 (height of ca. 3.8 ± 0.8 nm and length of ca. 880 ± 300 nm) and 70% crystallinity. Interestingly, these MxG-CNFA-CO2Hs exhibit better thermal stability (as measured by thermal gravimetric analysis) and better dispersibility in DMF than corresponding cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) obtained from same biosource (MxG-CNC-CO2Hs) via acid hydrolysis. Poly(vinyl acetate):MxG-CNFA-CO2H composites show an increase in storage modulus (above Tg) with increasing filler content. Importantly, the mechanical properties of the poly(vinyl acetate):nanocellulose composites showed that the MxG-CNFA-CO2Hs exhibit significantly better reinforcement than the MxG-CNC-CO2H at the same weight percent filler content.
Unplugged Robotics to Increase K-12 Students’ Engineering Interest and Attitudes

The impact of technology on workforce development and socioeconomic prosperity has made K-12 computing engineering and STEM in general a national educational priority. However, the integration of computing remains obstructed by resources and lack of professional development to support students’ learning. Further challenging is students’ STEM attitudes and interest do not matriculate with them into higher education. This issue is especially critical for traditionally underrepresented and underserved populations including females, racial/ethnic minority groups, and students of low-socioeconomic status (SES). To help mitigate challenges, we developed an unplugged (computer-less) computing engineering and robotics lesson composed of two introductory computing concepts, sequencing and decision-making, using a small robot arm and tangible programming blocks. Through students’ sequencing of operations, debugging, and executing complex robotic behavior, we seek to determine if students’ interest or attitudes change toward engineering. Nine one-hour introductory pilot lessons with 148 students, grades 6-10, at two public middle schools, and one summer camp were conducted. We measured students’ engineering interest and attitudes through a 15 question pre- and post-lesson survey and calculated aggregate factor scores for interest and attitudes. We found low-SES students’ a priori interests and attitudes tend to be lower and more varied than those of their high-SES peers. These preliminary results suggest that the integration of introductory computing and robotics lessons in low-SES classrooms may help students reach similar levels of engineering interest and attitudes as their high-SES peers.
An Empirical Mediation Analysis of Mechanisms Underlying HIV-1-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders

HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND), characterized by alterations in the core components of cognitive function and age-related disease progression, persist in the post-cART era. However, the neurobehavioral mechanisms that mediate alterations in the core components of cognitive function and the progression of neurocognitive impairments have yet to be systematically evaluated. To address this knowledge gap, statistical mediation analysis was assessed, providing a critical opportunity to empirically evaluate putative neurobehavioral mechanisms underlying HAND. Neurocognitive assessments, conducted in HIV-1 transgenic (Tg) and control animals across the functional lifespan (i.e., Postnatal Day (PD) 30 to PD 600), tapped multiple cognitive domains including preattentive processes, learning, sustained attention, and long-term episodic memory. Three longitudinal mediation models were utilized to assess whether deficits in preattentive processes mediate alterations in learning, sustained attention and/or long-term episodic memory over time. Preattentive processes partially mediated the relationship between genotype and learning, genotype and sustained attention, and genotype and long-term episodic memory across the functional lifespan, explaining between 44% and 58% of the HIV-1 transgene effect. Understanding the neurobehavioral mechanisms mediating alterations in HAND may provide key targets for the development of a diagnostic biomarker, novel therapeutics, and cure/restoration strategies.
Sexual Assault And Rape of the Older Person

Abstract Sexual assault and rape is a life-altering event, undermining an individual's confidence and perception of safety, regardless of the developmental age or stage of life. When an older person is sexually assaulted, there are stress responses that jeopardize quality of life and sometimes hasten death in the older person. The design of the chapter on rape and sexual assault of older persons introduces evidence and cases to raise awareness about the complexity of sexual assault diagnosis and treatment.
The Reliability of the iPhone Leveling Application in Measuring Forearm and Wrist Range of Motion: Implications for Use in Telehealth

Date Presented 04/06/19 This study explores the reliability of the iPhone leveling application in measuring active range of motion of the wrist and forearm in order to establish a way for a client to monitor progress in range of motion at home. The leveling application is free and located within the compass function. Goniometric and iPhone measurements were obtained and compared between the examiners and subjects. A Skype or Facetime session was conducted a week later and self-measurements were repeated and analyzed. Primary Author and Speaker: Sunni Alford Additional Authors and Speakers: Jessica Tietz, Margaret Munro, Kara Greiner, Jack Dickens, Adrian Cochren
The effect of water table levels and short-term ditch restoration on mountain peatland carbon cycling in the Cordillera Blanca, Peru

Many tropical mountain peatlands in the Andes are formed by cushion plants. These unique cushion plant peatlands are intensively utilized for grazing and are also influenced by climate change, both of which alter hydrologic conditions. Little is known about the natural hydroperiods and greenhouse gas fluxes of these peatlands or the consequences of hydrologic alteration for these fluxes. Therefore, our objectives were to assess how carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) fluxes varied across a hydrological gradient caused by ditching and evaluate how short-term carbon cycling responds after rewetting from ditch blocking in a tropical mountain peatland. The study was carried out in Huascaran National Park, Peru using static chamber methods. Comparing reference to highly drained conditions, mid-day net ecosystem exchange (NEE) was higher (1.07 ± 0.06 vs. 0.76 ± 0.11 g CO2 m−2 h−1), and the light compensation point for CO2 uptake was lower. Gas fluxes were relatively stable in the rewetted and reference treatments, with small positive responses of NEE to rising water tables. CH4 emissions averaged 2.76 ± 1.06 mg CH4 m−2 day−1, with negative fluxes at water tables >10 cm below the soil surface, and positive fluxes at higher water levels. Our results indicate that undrained peatlands appear to be carbon sinks, highly drained peatlands were likely carbon sources, and rewetting of moderately drained peatlands increased NEE and the ability to store carbon to undrained reference conditions. Ditching of peatlands will likely increase their susceptibility to negative climate change impacts, and hydrologic restoration could moderate these impacts.
Nature inspired supply chain solutions: definitions, analogies, and future research directions

Supply chains are becoming increasingly complex, and many companies and researchers are looking to nature for finding solutions. In this paper, we provide a narrative synthesis and systematic revie...