cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of regional myocardial blood flow measurements with 133Xe and radioactive microspheres in dogs with coronary artery constrictions.

Paired measurements of regional and total left ventricular myocardial blood flow were performed using radioactive microspheres and 133Xe and a multiple-crystal scintillation camera. Measurements were carried out in nine control dogs and in 14 dogs with blood flow reductions distal to left anterior descending constrictions at rest and during isoprenaline infusion. In the control animals, the two measurements correlated well, r=0.97, P<0.01 (n = 14). The regression equation, y =0.90x+7.32, was not significantly different from the line of identity. In the dogs with partial left anterior descending constrictions, total left ventricular myocardial blood flow measured with 133Xe also correlated with microsphere determinations, r=0.95, P<0.01 (n = 17). The regression equation, y = 1.07x−0.18, was not significantly different from the line of identity or the regression line for the control animals. Regional blood flow was measured in an ischaemic region distal to the contriction and in the remainder of the left ventricle. In the ischaemic zone 133Xe overestimated blood flow as compared to the microspheres, 0.74±0.29 cm3·g−1·min−1, P<0.05. In the remainder of the left ventricle the measurements were not significantly different, 0.93 ±0.36 vs 0.91 ±0.31 cm3·g−1·min−1. The coefficient of variation of microsphere flow rates averaged 39% for the ischaemic region and 18 % for the control region. The overestimation of 133Xe blood flow in the ischaemic region correlated directly with the coefficient of variation of microsphere flow rates for that region, r=0.57, P <0.01. These data indicate that measurements of myocardial blood flow with 133Xe correspond closely to measurements made with radioactive microspheres. However, 133Xe blood flow measurements distal to constrictions may modestly overestimate the actual blood flow rate and this overestimation is a function of the degree of heterogeneity of flow within this region.
Helping clinicians deliver consistent HIV prevention counseling to their HIV-infected patients

The delivery of HIV risk assessment and behavioral counseling by clinicians in HIV clinical settings is one component in a comprehensive "positive prevention" strategy to help patients reduce their transmission risk behavior. Clinicians engage in behavioral prevention inconsistently, however, depending on whether patients are new to a practice or are established in regular care and on their attitudes and characteristics of their practices. We analyzed clinician reports of behavioral prevention delivered before and after participation in a large federal demonstration project of positive prevention interventions. The interventions that were part of this project were successful in increasing behavioral prevention among both new and returning patients. Prior to study interventions, clinicians reported counseling 69% of new patients and 52% of returning patients. In follow-up interviews 12 months after receiving training, clinicians reported delivering prevention messages to 5% more new patients and 9% of returning patients (both p<0.01). After 12 months, clinicians were more likely to engage in behavioral prevention if other providers in their sites were also involved. Clinicians agreeing that behavioral prevention was part of the clinic's mission were more likely to conduct it. The interventions were successful in mitigating the influence of provider attitudes precluding prevention delivery. Intervention strategies can help clinicians more consistently deliver behavioral prevention messages to their HIV-infected patients.
Heterocyclic aminoparthenolide derivatives modulate G2-M cell cycle progression during Xenopus oocyte maturation

Aminoparthenolide derivatives have been prepared by reaction of parthenolide with various heterocyclic amines to afford corresponding Michael addition products. These novel compounds were evaluated for their modulatory effects on Xenopus oocyte maturation. Two compounds, 6e and 6f, were identified that promote G2-M cell cycle progression.
FREE SPECTRA GAPS AND TAME CONGRUENCE TYPES

Chapter 12 of "The Structure of Finite Algebras" by D. Hobby and R. McKenzie contains theorems revealing how the set of types appearing in a locally finite variety influences the size of the free algebra in freely generated by n elements. We provide more results in this vein. If A is a subdirectly irreducible algebra of size k, then a lower bound on the number of n-ary polynomials of A is obtained for each case that the monolith of A has type 3, 4, or 5. Examples for every k show that in each case the lower bound is the best possible. As an application of these results we show that for every finite k if all k-element simple algebras are partitioned into five classes according to their type, then algebras in each class have a sharply determined band of possible values for their free spectra. These five bands are disjoint except for some overlap on simple algebras of types 2 and 5.
Thermal lens spectroscopy in liquid argon solutions : (Δv = 6) C-H vibrational overtone absorption of methane

A dual-beam thermal lens technique has been used to obtain the absorption spectrum of the (Δv = 6) C−H stretch of liquid methane and methane in liquid argon solutions. The lowest concentration detected was 1 × 10-3 (mole fraction) of CH4 in liquid Ar with a continuous wave laser power of 20 mW. The thermal lens signal is linear with the mole fraction of methane up to 1 × 10-2 but not for higher concentrations. Considering the system CH4−Ar as an ideal solution, the factors that contribute to the thermal lens signal were calculated as a function of the concentration of methane. A mechanism of energy transfer based on the gas-phase results could explain qualitatively the dependence of the magnitude of the signal on the mole fraction of methane.
Widefield and high-resolution reflectance imaging of gold and silver nanospheres

Metallic nanoparticles have unique optical properties that can be exploited for molecular imaging in tissue. Image contrast depends on the nature of the particles, properties of the target tissue, and the imaging system. Maximizing image contrast for a particular application requires an understanding of the interplay of these factors. We demonstrate an approach that integrates the use of reflectance spectroscopy and imaging of particles in water and various tissue phantoms to evaluate the expected image contrast. We illustrate the application of this methodology for gold and silver nanospheres targeted against a biomarker expressed in epithelial tissue; predictions of contrast properties using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy were compared with widefield and high-resolution images of labeled tissue phantoms. The results show that the predicted image contrast based on spectroscopy agrees well with widefield and high-resolution imaging, and illustrate that gold and silver nanospheres at subnanomolar concentration are sufficient to produce contrast in both imaging modes. However, the effective contrast achieved with a particular type of nanoparticle can differ dramatically depending on the imaging modality. The ability to predict and optimize image contrast properties is a crucial step in the effective use of these nanomaterials for biomedical imaging applications.
On the possibility of aligning paramagnetic molecules or ions in a magnetic field

Strong magnetic fields can hybridize low rotational states of paramagnetic molecules or molecular ions whose electronic angular momentum is coupled to the molecular axis. The hybridization creates pendular states in which the molecular axis is confined to librate over a limited angular range about the field direction. In this way substantial spatial alignment associated with large Zeeman shifts can be attained for many ground-state radicals or ions and electronically excited states of diatomic or linear molecules. The magnetic hybridization is analogous to that recently demonstrated for polar molecules in electric fields. The magnetic version can only provide ensemble alignment rather than orientation, but offers complementary chemical scope by virtue of its applicability to nonpolar molecules and ions.
Thermal degradation modeling of flexural strength of wood after exposure to elevated temperatures

Abstract Wood is being used heavily in single-family residential dwellings. Therefore, it is important to categorize their response when exposed to elevated temperatures for a sustained period of time. An important aspect of structural fire design is to assess postfire residual strength of existing structures. This study addresses this issue by developing models to predict strength degradation of wood after exposure to elevated temperature. The objectives were to (a) study the effect of exposure time on bending strength [Modulus of Rupture (MOR)] of wood at elevated temperatures, (b) interpret any relationships between different temperature and time of exposure using kinetics and a statistical approach, and (c) compare the two approaches. Two hundred thirty-two samples in total were tested in flexure as a function of exposure time and several temperatures. MOR of wood decreased as a function of temperature and exposure time. Rate of degradation was higher at higher temperatures. These results were fit to ...
Stability analysis of Volterra integral equations with applications to age-structured population models

Abstract Solvability and stability of the nonlinear Volterra integral equations with the variable lower limit of integration are investigated. Obtained results are applied to two integral models that describe the dynamics of one- and two-species age-structured populations with intra- and inter-species competitions.
Cryogenic operation of PiN power rectifiers

Abstract The results of detailed measurements and modeling on 1200 V P - i - N diodes over a temperature range of 300-77 K are presented in this paper. At typical rated current levels, the forward voltage drop increases with a decrease in temperature. Analysis and measurements prove that there is an order of magnitude reduction in the i -region stored charge from 300 to 77 K. This results in greatly reduced switching losses at 77 K. An analytical model, including end region recombination with bandgap narrowing, is presented to explain the experimental observations.
Time-resolved ultrafast spectroscopy of coherent optical phonons and charge carriers in tetragonal mercuric iodide

Abstract Subpicosecond time-resolved transient grating experiments were performed in mercuric iodide, a wide bandgap semiconductor. Hot carriers created by two-photon absorption cooled within a few picoseconds to form the free excition. The free excition lifetime was 1.8 ± 0.2 ns. Coherent Raman excitation of the 114 cm−1 A1g lattice mode was observed.
Healing the warrior: admission of two American Indian war-veteran cohort groups to a specialized inpatient PTSD unit.

The American Lake VA Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Treatment Program provides intensive inpatient treatment for war-related PTSD and associated conditions. As part of a substantial outreach effort to American Indians (AI) in the Northwest U.S., the program significantly modified its admission criteria and treatment to be more clinically and culturally relevant. An all-AI cohort, and then a group that was 50% AI, were admitted. Highlighted are lessons learned regarding: treating "traditional" versus more "assimilated" AI veterans; culture-specific additions of building and utilizing a sweatlodge on the hospital grounds, hiring an AI spiritual leader as a clinical advisor, and promoting attendance at weekend Pow-Wows; the relevance of the "regular" treatment components; and the need for regular debriefings about counter-transference dynamics among staff. Language: en
Pin reduction and fixation of volar fracture fragments of distal radius fractures via the flexor carpi radialis tendon.

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate a technique for reduction and stabilization of residually displaced volar fragments in intraarticular distal radius fractures. Methods: A consecutive series of patients with AO type C3 distal radius fractures treated by one surgeon were studied. Percutaneously placed pins were placed through the flexor carpi radialis tendon to reduce and stabilize volar fracture fragments of distal radius fractures when closed reduction was unsuccessful. The goal of treatment was to achieve less than 2 mm of articular congruity. Postoperative physiotherapy was protocol-based. A validated outcome measurement was used to evaluate patients. Results: Of 117 patients, 10 met the inclusion criteria. In all patients, a successful reduction of the volar fragment was achieved with less than 2 mm of residual articular step-off. Reduction was maintained in 8 patients. Follow-up averaged 29 months, and there were no complications associated with the technique. All patients were satisfied with the treatment. Conclusion: Although the final outcome of patients with this type of fracture depends on many factors, in the small series of patients described, a satisfactory reduction was possible using the describe technique. Transtendinous pinning is a new, undescribed technique that is useful in the treatment of such specific injuries.
On Life Table applications of ordering among risks

Abstract Survival models attached to a Life Table are compared in the first degree stochastic dominance and in the second degree stop-loss dominance. The hyperbolic or Balducci approximation of the Life Table for non-integral ages is shown to be the less dangerous of those approximations considered, and is not recommended for practical use in insurance rate making. Furthermore, stop-loss formulas are derived, which should be helpful in the construction of Life Tables based on probabilistic risk comparisons.
Accumulation kinetics of drugs with nonlinear plasma protein and tissue binding characteristics

The purpose of this investigation was to study, by digital computer simulation, the accumulation kinetics of drugs which exhibit concentration-dependent binding to tissues and either linear (constant free fraction) or concentration-dependent (increasing free fraction with increasing drug concentration) binding to plasma proteins. It was assumed that elimination rate is proportional to free drug concentration in plasma and that there occurs instantaneous equilibration of drug between vascular and nonvascular spaces. Nonlinear binding can yield, under certain conditions, apparently biexponential plasma concentrationtime curves which may be misinterpreted as being representative of a linear and biexponential-system. Such misinterpretation would cause the following errors in the prediction of drug accumulation and elimination kinetics during and after constantrate infusion: (a) the time required to reach steady state may be overestimated, and (b) the prominence of the apparent distribution phase after cessation of infusion may be underestimated. Drugs with linear and nonlinear plasma protein binding characteristics differ with respect to the relationship between infusion rate and steadystate concentration. This relationship is linear when plasma protein binding is linear. Steadystate concentration increases less than proportionally with increasing infusion rate if plasma protein binding is drug concentration dependent.
U1 adaptors result in reduction of multiple pre-mRNA species principally by sequestering U1snRNP

U1 Adaptors are a recently reported novel approach for targeted reduction of mRNA transcripts. A U1 adaptor oligonucleotide comprising of a target-complimentary hybridization domain and a U1 recruitment domain, directs the U1 snRNP complex to the terminal exon of a targeted gene, subsequently inhibiting poly(A) tail addition and leading to degradation of that RNA species within the nucleus. Here, we present data demonstrating U1 adapter-mediated gene silencing can result in significant 'off-target' silencing effects as demonstrated by the reduction of multiple mRNA species that were not intended to be targeted. Our data suggest that a substantial portion of this U1 adaptor-mediated off-target mRNA reduction is the result of sequestration U1 snRNP at levels sufficient to affect splicing and processing of non-target transcripts.
Numerical Model Simulation of Human Biometeorological Heat Load Conditions—Summer Day Case Study for the Chesapeake Bay Area

Abstract During the warm season the spatial and temporal behavior of the biometeorological heat load in coastal regions is highly complex. Observational studies attempting to describe it usually are incomplete due to the scarcity of available meteorological data. The use of a mesoscale numerical model to overcome these disadvantages is suggested. The mesoseale numerical model of the University of Virginia has been applied to the Chesapeake Bay region in order to study a typical severe heat load episode during a summer day. The possibilities offered by this method are illustrated and discussed. Results indicate a general agreement, with the available observed data.
Effects of buspirone and other anxiolytics on punished key‐pecking in the pigeon

Pigeons were trained to peck a key on a multiple schedule of reinforcement in which 30 responses in the presence of a white cue light produced 3 sec of access to food, and 30 responses in the presence of a red cue light produced 3 sec of access to food and an electric shock, which suppressed responding. Intramuscular injection of the sedative-hypnotic anxiolytics chlordiazepoxide (0.3–10 mg/kg), alprazolam (0.1–3.0 mg/kg), and zopiclone (10–100 mg/kg) substantially increased punished responding. The nonsedative anxiolytics buspirone (0.1–3.0 mg/kg) and ipsapirone (1.0 and 3.0 mg/kg) increased punished responding as much as did the sedative-hypnotics. Buspirone had similar effects in benzodiazepine-naive and benzodiazepine-experienced pigeons. Chlorpromazine (tested at 1–30 mg/kg) and imipramine (tested at 1–30 mg/kg) only decreased unpunished responding at high doses. These results show that (1) the antipunishment effects of buspirone and ipsapirone in the pigeon are replicable in another laboratory, (2) buspirone's effect occurs in benzodiazepine-experienced pigeons, and (3) alprazolam and zopiclone have antipunishment effects in the pigeon.
On Assuming Other Folks Have Mental States

Explication des theses principales de l'eliminativisme telles qu'elles sont presentees dans « Matter and Consciousness » (1988) de P. Churchland
Microinjections of dopamine agonists and cocaine elevate plasma corticosterone: dissociation effects among the ventral and dorsal striatum and medial prefrontal cortex

There is evidence suggesting the involvement of central dopamine (DA) systems in the regulation of plasma corticosterone (CORT). We examined whether or not microinjections of DA agonists and cocaine into three DA-rich terminal regions, the medial prefrontal cortex (MPC), ventral striatum (VStr) and dorsal striatum (DStr), would increase plasma CORT in Sprague-Dawley rats. The highest dose tested (18 nmol) of a mixture of the dopamine D1 receptor agonist SKF 38393 and the D2 agonist quinpirole (SKF/Quin) increased plasma CORT when injected into each of the three brain regions. Microinjections of the medium dose (i.e., 3 nmol) of SKF/Quin into the VStr also increased plasma CORT, while the injections into the MPC and DStr did not. Systemic pretreatment with haloperidol attenuated the elevated CORT induced by intra-VStr injections of SKF/Quin. Cocaine (25, 50, and 100 microg) also increased CORT when injected into the VStr, but not into the MPC or DStr. Microinjections of local anesthetics, lidocaine (100 microg) and procaine (100 microg), which have similar chemical structures to cocaine, into the VStr did not increase CORT. These results suggest that the VStr plays an important role in mediating the elevated plasma CORT induced by DA agonists and cocaine administration.
Parodia, autoparodia y deconstrucción de la arquitectura efímera en dos sonetos de Luis de Góngora (Millé 315, 326)

En 1611, tras la muerte de la reina∗ Margarita de Austria el 3 de octubre, la ciudad de Cordoba, como el resto del imperio, se preparaba para la celebracion obligatoria de las exequias reales en la...
Experimental validation of the static granular bed reactor for industrial waste anaerobic treatment.

The static granular bed reactor (SGBR) is a unique high-rate anaerobic reactor designed to operate in a simple downflow manner, offering high chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiencies (greater than 90%) resulting from high biomass retention in the system. A study was performed to evaluate the SGBR versus a control system, the upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor, and to evaluate performance idiosyncrasies of the SGBR and the control. The two reactors were operated at three different hydraulic retention times (HRTs): 8, 16, and 24 h. The reactors treated synthetic wastewater, intended to simulate food industry waste, composed of sucrose and nonfat dry milk. Overall, COD removal was higher for the SGBR than for the UASB reactor. In particular, at a HRT of 8 h, the SGBR achieved a COD removal of 90.7% and the UASB reactor reduced the COD concentration by 77.5%. The UASB reactor’s specific COD loading factor proved rate limiting with values ranging from 0.19 to 0.94 gCOD/ ( gVS⋅d ) versus 0....
Adler-Weisberger sum rule and the axial-vector coupling of a constituent quark.

The axial-vector coupling of a constituent quark is estimated with the Adler-Weisberger sum rule using the linear $\ensuremath{\sigma}$ model to regulate the nonlinear $\ensuremath{\sigma}$ model. Agreement is found with a previous loopwise calculation.
Field estimates of scalar advection across a canopy edge

Abstract Measurements of the horizontal and vertical fluxes of energy and mass were taken at a crop canopy edge and downwind of it to examine the effects of inhomogeneity on surface–atmosphere exchange, for the ideal case of flat uniform terrain. Energy balance closure was also examined and the effects of the often-neglected advection terms on the energy budget were evaluated. The results show that neither vertical nor horizontal advection should be neglected for moderate distances downwind from heterogeneous boundaries, with the energy budget closure near the leading edge improved by more than 20% with the inclusion of the horizontal and vertical advection of latent and sensible heat. Significant mean advective horizontal and vertical flux divergences of water vapor and temperature were found even in typical daytime conditions. In stable conditions horizontal advection can be responsible for more than 15% of the scalar (water vapor) transport 136 canopy heights downwind of a change in water vapor source density and surface roughness.
Transformation microyielding of retained austenite

Abstract The reversal in the temperature dependence of the elastic limit accurately determines the Mσs temperature of retained austenite in 4340 steel. Two models, one based on an exponential distribution of pre-existing nucleation sites and another based on an autocatalytic-site potency distribution, were compared in predicting the constitutive behavior of the steel in the stress-assisted transformation regime (T
Towards a theory of corruption, nepotism, and new venture creation in developing countries

The dominant view among social scientists and policy makers has been that corruption has a mostly negative effect on economic growth - especially in developing countries. However, some scholars have shown support for the efficient grease hypothesis (EGH), which is that corruption can increase the efficiency of some economic transactions. Based on the EGH and Hofstede's (1983) work on national culture, we theorise that nepotism and corruption in developing countries facilitates the new venture creation process, and thereby reinforces the persistent nature of corruption. Implications for policy makers are also discussed.
Electrical properties of DX centers in GaAs and AlGaAs

Abstract The DX center, the lowest energy state of the donor in AIGaAs with x < 0.22, is responsible for the reduced conductivity as well as the persistent photoconductivity observed in this material at low temperature. Extensive studies of the properties of this deep level in Si-doped AIGaAs are reviewed here. Data are presented showing that the characteristics of the DX center remain essentially unchanged when it is resonant with the conduction band (x < 0.22) and that, independent of other compensation mechanisms, the DX center therefore limits the free carrier concentration in Si-doped GaAs to a maximum of about 2 × 1019 cm−3. Recent measurements suggesting that the lattice relaxation involves the motion of the Si atom from the substitutional site toward an interstitial site are also presented. Evidence for the negative U model, that the DX level is the two electron state of the substitutional donor, is discussed.
Characterization of clioquinol and analogues as novel inhibitors of methionine aminopeptidases from Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis claims about five thousand lives daily world-wide, while one-third of the world is infected with dormant tuberculosis. The increased emergence of multi- and extensively drug-resistant strains of M. tuberculosis (Mtb) has heightened the need for novel antimycobacterial agents. Here, we report the discovery of 7-bromo-5-chloroquinolin-8-ol (CLBQ14)-a congener of clioquinol (CQ) as a potent and selective inhibitor of two methionine aminopeptidases (MetAP) from M. tuberculosis: MtMetAP1a and MtMetAP1c. MetAP is a metalloprotease that removes the N-terminal methionine during protein synthesis. N-terminal methionine excision (NME) is a universally conserved process required for the post-translational modification of a significant part of the proteome. The essential role of MetAP in microbes makes it a promising target for the development of new therapeutics. Using a target-based approach in a high-throughput screen, we identified CLBQ14 as a novel MtMetAP inhibitor with higher specificity for both MtMetAP1s relative to their human counterparts. We also found that CLBQ14 is potent against replicating and aged non-growing Mtb at low micro molar concentrations. Furthermore, we observed that the antimycobacterial activity of this pharmacophore correlates well with in vitro enzymatic inhibitory activity. Together, these results revealed a new mode of action of clioquinol and its congeners and validated the therapeutic potential of this pharmacophore for TB chemotherapy.
Beyond numbers: Don't ask “how many” ... ask “why”

While programmers may differ in their assessment of the comprehensibility of a program, there are nonetheless some clear cut cases of programs that are truly difficult to understand. In this paper, we analyze three programs—two of which are relatively incomprehensible—using Halstead's Volume Metric, Propositional Analysis and Plan Analysis. We argue that only Plan Analysis provides a satisfactory explanation for why the programs in question differ with respect to understandability. Moreover, we suggest that a qualitative analysis, such as provided by Plan Analysis, is the desired type of evaluation: rather than simply providing a numerical ranking for programs, the qualitative analysis can pinpoint the troublesome area in the code and provide prescriptive information for correcting the difficulty.
Are amino acid patterns necessarily abnormal in epileptic brains? studies on the genetically seizure-susceptible rat.

Abstract Free amino acid concentrations have been compared in brain regions from genetically seizure-susceptible and seizure-resistant rats. No significant differences were found in either the inferior colliculus, a region of low electroshock threshold in seizure-susceptible animals, or in the ?, a region of high electroshock threshold. No changes were found in the ratios between glutamate, glutamaine, taurine, GABA or glycine. These findings invalidate the universality of the hypothesis linking seizure susceptibility to imbalances in glutamate: glutamine ratio. It has been proposed that the anticonvulsant action of taurine is due to rectification of abnormal glutamate levels. Taurine is a potent anticonvulsant in the seizure-susceptible rat, yet no imbalances of glutamate content are present.
Spinal cord dynorphin: positive region-specific modulation during pregnancy and parturition.

Abstract In laboratory animals and humans, pregnancy is associated with opioid-mediated elevations in the threshold for responsiveness to aversive stimuli. Previous pharmacological analysis has demonstrated that this analgesia results, at least in part, from the activation of spinal cord kappa opioid receptors utilizing dynorphin as the major opioid substrate. The present report demonstrates that during late pregnancy, the content of spinal dynorphin A(1–17 and 1–8) is altered in a region-specific fashion. As a result, levels of dynorphin peptides are elevated, but only in the lumbar spinal region. In parturient animals, lumbar levels of dynorphin A(1–8) remained elevated but there was an additional increment in the content of dynorphin A(1–17). During late gestation, spinal content of Met-enkephalin and its precursor are also elevated, but, in contrast to dynorphin peptides, there is no interaction between condition and spinal level. Possible analgesic synergy between μ−δ and κ opioid receptor systems is discussed. It is concluded that some parameter(s) of the pregnant condition triggers the activation of a spinal cord dynorphin system that attenuates the pain associated with late pregnancy and labor.
Emerging perspectives on transforming the healthcare system: redesign strategies and a call for needed research

Background U.S. healthcare requires major redesign of its delivery systems, finances, and incentives. Healthcare operations, leadership, and payors are increasingly recognizing the need for community-business-research partnerships to transform healthcare. New models of continuous learning, research, and development should help focus and sustain redesign efforts. Purpose This study summarizes suggested strategies for transformational change in healthcare and identifies needed areas for research to inform, spread, and sustain transformational change. Methods We developed these recommendations based on a series of review papers, invited expert discussion, and a subsequent review in the context of a health system transformation research conference (The Regenstrief Biennial Research Conference). The multidisciplinary audience included health systems researchers, clinicians, informaticians, social and engineering scientists, and operational and business leaders. Findings Conference participants and literature reviews identified key strategies for system redesign with the following themes: using the framework of complex adaptive systems; fostering organizational redesign; developing appropriate performance measures and incentives; creating continuous learning organizations; and integrating health information, technology, and communication into practice. Sustained investment in research and development in these areas is crucial. Conclusions Multiple issues influence the likelihood that healthcare leaders will make transformational changes in their healthcare systems. Healthcare leaders, clinicians, researchers, journals, and academic institutions, in partnership with payors, government and multiple other stakeholders, should apply the recommendations relevant to their own setting to redesign healthcare delivery, improve cognitive support, and sustain transformation. Fostering further research investments in these areas will increase the impact of transformation on the health and healthcare of the public.
Multiclass SVM with ramp loss for imbalanced data classification

Class imbalance is a common problem encountered in applying machine learning tools to real-world data. It causes most classifiers to perform sub-optimally and yield very poor performance when a dataset is highly imbalance. In this paper, we study a new method of formulating a multiclass SVM problem for imbalanced dataset to improve the classification performance. The proposed method applies cost-sensitive approach and ramp loss function to the Crammer & Singer multiclass SVM formulation. Experimental results on multiple UCI datasets show that the proposed solution can effectively cure the problem when the datasets are noisy and highly imbalanced.
Vibronic Orbital Magnetism

It is shown that in systems lacking the time inversion symmetry operation the Jahn-Teller effect could be the reason of the existence of the electronic magnetic moment. In crystals with cooperative Jahn-Teller effect the last could be responsible for the vibronic magnetism – ordering of vibronic magnetic moments. The direct connection between the vibronic magnetism and piezomagnetism is discussed. If the local crystal symmetry is lacking both – the time and space inversion symmetries – the cooperative Jahn-Teller effect leads to the creation of the Jahn-Teller multiferroics.
A hydrodynamically defined culture system for benthic seaweeds

Abstract A new algal culture system, employing submerged jets of water, provides hydrodynamically defined conditions that make it possible to grow large marine macrophytes under greenhouse conditions. The system is simple to install and comparatively easy to operate, and can be run either at a constant volume with no water flow-thrugh, or with constant dilution of seawater. The various compoents of the system are described in detail, and its use in culturing both laboratory and naturally produced plants is illustrated by the results of experiments with Porphyra and Macrocystis .
Determination of high-energy fragmentation of protonated peptides using a beqq hybrid mass spectrometer.

A hybrid tandem instrument of BEqQ geometry was used to determine high-energy decomposition of protonated peptides, such as side-chain fragmentation yielding dn and wn ions. The transmission through both E and Q of such product ions, formed in the second field-free region, permits improved mass resolution and confident mass assignment. The experimental technique may involve synchronous scanning of E and Q, or, for the purpose of identification of specific products, limited-range scanning of either E or Q with the other analyzer fixed. These techniques are not equivalent, with respect to product ion transmission, to the double focusing of product ions achieved with four-sector instruments but nevertheless represent a critical improvement over conventional mass-analyzed ion kinetic energy spectrometry analyses. Fragmentation of protonated peptides occurring in the second field-free region inside and outside the collision cell were distinguished by floating the collision cell above ground potential. Mass filtering using Q confirmed the mass assignments. The data indicate that product ions resulting from spontaneous decomposition are in some instances quantitatively more significant than those resulting from high-energy collisional activation. Furthermore, the differentiation of the products of low- and high-energy processes should facilitate spectral interpretation.
The Chronology of the Pentekontaetia

The true chronology of the Pentekontaetia is difficult, perhaps impossible, to establish conclusively. The events between 477 and 432 were of the greatest possible importance: these years saw the creation of the Athenian empire and a precipitous decline in Spartiate manpower, drastic political realignments involving nearly every state in Hellas, and military activity often rising to a crescendo scarcely matched at the peak of the Peloponnesian War. Indeed, one might strongly argue that the fifty-odd years prior to 432 had a substantially greater historical significance than the three decades of war which followed, as well as a greater degree of political and military drama. But the Pentekontaetia lacks the unifying historical narrative of a Herodotus, let alone a Thucydides, and this one deficiency has caused events of the utmost significance to fade into near obscurity. There is scarcely a single political or military occurrence during the Fifty Years which can be dated to closer than a year or two, and in some cases, proposed dates have ranged over the better part of a decade. With no firm chronological framework, historical analysis degenerates into guesswork and speculation, especially if even the relative order of events is in dispute. In cognizance of this need, this paper seeks to present portions of a new chronology of the Pentekontaetia, one differing in several very significant features from those previously suggested. The severely limited nature of the available evidence precludes any hope of firmly establishing the validity of any one dating scheme over its rivals; the best we can hope for is plausibility.
A numerical solution technique for a class of integro-differential equations in elastodynamic crack propagation problems

A strategy for the numerical solution of a type of integro-differential equation arising from the analysis of dynamic crack propagation problems is presented. Specifically, the problem of interest is that of a mode III crack dynamically propagating in a homogeneous linear elastic medium while the crack tip consists of a nonlinear rate dependent cohesive (or failure) zone. The mode of propagation is general, that is, not restricted to steady state or other special regimes. Furthermore, the presented solution technique is in no way restricted to mode III problems.
SU‐GG‐J‐114: A Graphical Tool for Assessing Margin Definition from Daily Deformations

Purpose: Estimating the proper margins for the planned target volume (PTV) could be a challenging task in cases where the organ undergoes significant changes during the course of radiotherapy treatment. This is practically the case in stomach lymphoma, where the stomach can change significantly from day to day. A common practice is to add a constant l–2cm margin isotropically around the tumor volume based on planning CT scan. This might lead to some portions of stomach being under dosed or surrounding normal structures over‐dosed. The purpose of this work is to develop a tool that utilizes information from daily images to aid localization of these deformations and guide estimations of proper margins. Method and Materials: In this work, the stomach volume for each treatment fraction was delineated manually over the course of 6 weeks of fractionated treatment using daily Tomotherapy Mega voltage CT (MVCT) images from three patients. A software tool was developed to aid tracking variations in shape during therapy and record estimates of the probability by which an organ spends at any particular place. Accordingly, plots of estimated tumor coverage and excess irradiated normal tissue volumes as a function of margin could be generated.Results: Estimated stomach volumes for these cases were 429.2±67.7, 383.0±66.6, and 294.1±27.7 cc. Plots of tumor coverage and excess irradiated volume were created for each case. It was observed that with a margin of 1.5 cm over the original stomach, the entire union volume was covered. This margin resulted in about 500–800 cc of excess volume being irradiated for the three test cases. Conclusions: This work presented a new tool for visualization and quantification of daily deformations for isotropic and anisotropic margin definition guidance.
The impact of BVDV infection on adaptive immunity

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) causes immunosuppression of the adaptive immune response. The level of suppression of the adaptive immune response is strain dependent. The early events of antigen presentation require activation of toll-like receptors that results in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Non-cytopathic (ncp) BVDV infection stimulates cytokines from macrophages in vitro but the effect of BVDV infection in vivo on macrophages or in vitro with monocytes is not clear. Antigen presentation is decreased and co-stimulatory molecules are down regulated. T-lymphocytes numbers are reduced following BVDV infection in a strain dependent manner. There is recruitment of lymphocytes to the bronchial alveolar space following cytopathic (cp) BVDV infection. Depletion of T-lymphocytes occurs in the lymphoid tissue and is strain dependent. BVDV cp T-lymphocyte responses appear to be primarily a T helper 1 response while the response following ncp BVDV induces a T helper 2 response. Cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTL), an important BVDV defense mechanism are compromised. The major neutralizing antigens are well characterized but cross-protection between strains is variable. PI animals have normal adaptive immune responses with the exception of the PI strain immunotolerance and mucosal disease may be a function of the level of gamma delta T cells.
An interdependent analytic approach to explaining the evolution of NGOs, social movements, and biased government response to AIDS and tuberculosis in Brazil.

The politics of government response to health epidemics is a new area of scholarly research. Nevertheless to date scholars have not considered how social science theory can be used and interdependently linked to provide a more thorough discussion of civil societal and national government response to different types of health epidemics. Introducing what I call an interdependent analytic framework of government response to epidemics this article illustrates how social science theories can be interdependently linked and applied to help explain the evolutionary role of interest groups and social movements in response to AIDS and tuberculosis in Brazil and when and why the government eventually responded more aggressively to AIDS but not tuberculosis. Evidence from Brazil suggests that the policy influence of interest groups and social movements evolves over time and is more influential after the national government implements new policies; moreover this response is triggered by the rise of international pressures and government reputation building not civil society. I highlight new areas of research that the framework provides and provide examples of how this approach can help explain civil societal and biased government responses to different types of epidemics in other nations.
Evaluation of substituent contributions to chromatographic retention: quantitative structure-retention relationships

Abstract The use of multiple regression analysis with the indicator varibles in the statistical formulation of quantitative structure and retention relationships is demonstrated. Retention data of aromatic-aliphatic acids in paper chromatography and those of catecholamine derivatives in reversed-phase chromatography with octadecylsilica stationary phases and an aqueous eluent were analyzed. Statistical tests showed that the substituent parameters ΔRM, or the corresponding τ values in column chromatography, can be estimated with high accuracy. Very good agreement was found between the observed and predicted RM or ϰ values, the latter expressing the logarithm of retardation (capacity) factor. Data obtained with different octadecyl-silica stationary phases at various temperatures suggest that quantitative structure-retention relationships can be transformed from one reversed phase system to another as long as the eluent composition is the same.
Enduring to gain new perspective: a grounded theory study of the experience of perinatal bereavement in Black adolescents.

Black adolescents in the US experience perinatal loss at a higher rate than other races and ethnicities. The experience of eight Black urban adolescents through the first 3 months after perinatal loss was studied using grounded theory. The process of �enduring to gain new perspective� began with �denying and hesitating� when surprised by unplanned pregnancy but led to �getting ready for this whole new life,� followed by shock of �suffering through the loss,� �all that pain for nothing,� and �mixed emotions going everywhere.� Over time, the adolescents began �reaching out for support� and eventually �preserving the memory and maintaining relationship,� �searching for meaning and asking why,� and �gaining new perspective on life.� Parallels are noted to extant bereavement theory.
Conspiracy Relations in Vector-Meson Production

We list the conspiracy relations for reactions of type Π+N→V+N and Π+N→V+Δ, emphasizing that there are relations connecting states with opposite parity at t=0 even when all four masses are unequal. We show in detail that if the relations are satisfied by vanishing of the couplings of individual trajectories at t=0, all helicity-flip amplitudes are suppressed at forward angles; whereas if the relations are satisfied by conspiracy among various trajectories, the flip-flip amplitudes which conserve angular momentum in forward scattering can contribute with full strength.
Consensus embedding: theory, algorithms and application to segmentation and classification of biomedical data

Dimensionality reduction (DR) enables the construction of a lower dimensional space (embedding) from a higher dimensional feature space while preserving object-class discriminability. However several popular DR approaches suffer from sensitivity to choice of parameters and/or presence of noise in the data. In this paper, we present a novel DR technique known as consensus embedding that aims to overcome these problems by generating and combining multiple low-dimensional embeddings, hence exploiting the variance among them in a manner similar to ensemble classifier schemes such as Bagging. We demonstrate theoretical properties of consensus embedding which show that it will result in a single stable embedding solution that preserves information more accurately as compared to any individual embedding (generated via DR schemes such as Principal Component Analysis, Graph Embedding, or Locally Linear Embedding). Intelligent sub-sampling (via mean-shift) and code parallelization are utilized to provide for an efficient implementation of the scheme. Applications of consensus embedding are shown in the context of classification and clustering as applied to: (1) image partitioning of white matter and gray matter on 10 different synthetic brain MRI images corrupted with 18 different combinations of noise and bias field inhomogeneity, (2) classification of 4 high-dimensional gene-expression datasets, (3) cancer detection (at a pixel-level) on 16 image slices obtained from 2 different high-resolution prostate MRI datasets. In over 200 different experiments concerning classification and segmentation of biomedical data, consensus embedding was found to consistently outperform both linear and non-linear DR methods within all applications considered. We have presented a novel framework termed consensus embedding which leverages ensemble classification theory within dimensionality reduction, allowing for application to a wide range of high-dimensional biomedical data classification and segmentation problems. Our generalizable framework allows for improved representation and classification in the context of both imaging and non-imaging data. The algorithm offers a promising solution to problems that currently plague DR methods, and may allow for extension to other areas of biomedical data analysis.