cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A DFT Study of the Vibrational Spectra of 1, and 2-Nitrotriphenylene

Abstract The infrared (IR) and Raman spectra, and intensities of triphenylene, 1-, and 2-nitrotriphenylene were investigated by the density functional theory (DFT, B3LYP method) with 6-311+G** basis set. Normal mode assignments are proposed with particular emphasis on the nitro group vibrations. Compared to 2-nitrotriphenylene (2-NTRP) 1-nitrotriphenylene (1-NTRP) is predicted to show asymmetric nitro stretches at higher frequencies. Through the vibrational study, the structure–spectroscopic relationships of these nitro polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (nitro-PAHs) are made, and possible insights into their differential mutagenic potencies correlated. The geometrical distortions of the TRP structure upon nitro group substitution and correlations between structural parameters and vibrational data as well as structure–function relationships related to the mutagenicity of this important class of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are discussed.
Oxidative Stress-Induced Disruption of Epithelial and Endothelial Tight Junctions

Mounting body of evidence indicates that the disruption of epithelial tight junctions and resulting loss of barrier function play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of a variety of gastrointestinal, hepatic, pulmonary, kidney and ocular diseases. Increased production of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and reactive oxygen species disrupt the epithelial and endothelial barrier function by destabilizing tight junctions. Oxidative stress induced by various reactive oxygen species such as hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide, peroxynitrite and hypochlorous acid disrupt the epithelial and endothelial tight junctions in various tissues. The mechanism involved in oxidative stress-induced disruption of tight junction includes protein modification such as thiol oxidation, phosphorylation, nitration and carbonylation. The role of signaling molecules such as protein kinases and protein phosphatases in regulation of tight junctions is discussed in this article. Understanding such mechanisms in oxidative stress-induced disruption of epithelial and endothelial barrier functions is likely to provide insight into the pathogenesis of various inflammatory diseases, and may form a basis for the design of treatment strategies for different diseases.
SUBJECTIVELY SAMPLED VEGETATION DATA: DON'T THROW OUT THE BABY WITH THE BATH WATER

Lajer (2007) reviewed the use of statistical methods for the analysis of vegetation data and concluded that their assumptions are often violated. Most importantly, the vegetation data are usually not a random sample of vegetation, and consequently the statistical tests should not be used at all. Although we appreciate many concerns raised in Lajer’s paper, we find his conclusions far-fetched and inappropriate for practical use. In large-scale observational studies, it is practically impossible to define the sampled statistical population in the way that would allow for truly random sampling. As we are unable to ensure that any part of the population can appear in our sample with the same probability, we must try to avoid interaction between any bias imposed by the sampling procedure with the hypotheses we test. The same stance can also be taken in the case of datasets extracted from the databases of phytosociological releves, where a substantial bias was introduced by phytosociologists’ prejudice in selection of sampling locations. We can hardly use this kind of data when testing hypotheses concerning absolute values of species richness or discontinuities in community variation, but there are also many important research hypotheses that can be tested even with the help of this data source. In fact, such voluminous databases are the only available source of data for exploring research questions referring to large spatial or temporal scales. We must also reject Lajer’s suggestion that application of descriptive, exploratory statistical methods is less harmful for datasets with sampling bias than application of tests of statistical hypotheses. Finally, we stress the difference between observational and experimental studies, because the rigor of sampling design should be respected much more in the case of latter ones.
Moving signals on and off chip

Today, signals being transmitted on and off chip have frequency spectra extending to 10 GHz and beyond. The parasitic impedance associated with the package and ESD protection circuit can distort a signal and must be carefully managed. An overview of methods for parasitic impedance mitigation and codesign is provided.
Constructs of Simulation Evaluation

Although instructional research on simulation has been around for almost 40 years, validation research has failed to hold itself to a common, scientifically acceptable methodology for evaluating this type of learning environment. Several comprehensive reviews of simulation assessment literature have all concluded that this problem stems from poorly designed studies, a failure to adhere to a generally accepted research taxonomy, and no well-defined constructs with which to assess learning outcomes. This article seeks to address the problem by reviewing the various concepts employed in the literature of simulation evaluation and integrating them into a coherent framework from which the evaluative process may proceed in a more systematic manner.
From the Guest Editor for the Special Issue on Computational Molecular Biology/Bioinformatics

W are in a revolution. The Human Genome Project brought biology from an informationpoor to an information-rich science, and this has caused a permanent change in its research, with causal effects on medical research. In fact, it will not be long before the general public realizes the revolution. Just as two decades ago, most people did not know about computers, so they do not know about micro-array chips, DNA, and the genome. We shall move from health care that is diagnostic and remedial to a system that is predictive and preventive. Each of us will have our DNA on a chip, and a doctor will be able to predict some of what will be wrong and right with each of us in the near and far future. Predicting diseases will enable early therapeutics. It is reasonable to expect that such personalized medicine will enable more drugs to come to market, reducing pharmaceutical costs for everyone. We in operations research have a great opportunity to be a part of this revolution because of what we do—we take an interdisciplinary approach to problemsolving. Our strengths are modeling, analysis, and algorithm design. We provide a quantitative foundation for a broad spectrum of problems, and we can see transfers of technologies because of our abilities to bridge the concrete with the abstract. This issue of the INFORMS Journal on Computing is testimony to that, and it is only the beginning. I began this project with the intention of attracting others in OR to join in this great adventure, and these papers have helped me fulfill this goal with the diligence of our Editorial Board:
Methods for modeling particle deposition as a function of age

The purpose of this paper is to review the application of mathematical models of inhaled particle deposition to people of various ages. The basic considerations of aerosol physics, biological characteristics and model structure are presented along with limitations inherent in modern modeling techniques. Application of the models to children and senescent adults has been largely based on extrapolating anatomical and physiological data from young adults to match the changes observed during growth and aging. Sample results are included for total particle deposition and deposition in the bronchial and pulmonary regions. The models proposed provide particle deposition predictions that are consistent with the scant measurements available. The models discussed appear to be on firm theoretical grounds, but they are largely limited in application to simple aerosols and average individuals. Also, additional validation of the computational predictions is needed.
Investigation of scalability of In0.7Ga0.3As quantum well field effect transistor (QWFET) architecture for logic applications

In this paper, the scalability of In0.7Ga0.3As QWFET is investigated using two-dimensional numerical drift–diffusion simulation. Numerical drift–diffusion simulations were calibrated using experimental results on short-channel In0.7Ga0.3As QWFETs [7] to include the effects of velocity overshoot. Logic figures of merit (sub-threshold slope, saturated threshold voltage, drain induced barrier lowering, ION/IOFF ratio over a specified gate swing, effective injection velocity and intrinsic switching delay) extracted from the numerical simulations are in excellent agreement with the experimental data. Three alternate QWFET device architectures are proposed and thoroughly investigated for 15 nm node and beyond logic applications. Amongst them, double-gate In0.7Ga0.3As QWFET shows the best scalability in terms of logic figures of merit, thus making it an ideal candidate for the design and demonstration of the ultimate scaled transistor.
[Psychiatric and behavioral aspects of cardiovascular disease: epidemiology, mechanisms, and treatment].

Abstract Psychosocial and behavioral factors, including mood (depression, anxiety, anger, and stress), personality (Type A, Type D, and hostility), and social support, are associated with both the development and progression of cardiovascular disease. “Negative” emotions have been associated with increased rates of cardiovascular death and recurrent cardiac events, although the mechanisms responsible for this association remain unclear. A number of pathophysiological mechanisms have been proposed to explain these relationships, including hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation, platelet activation, and inflammation. Behavioral factors also have been implicated, such as nonadherence to prescribed medical therapies and physical inactivity. Several randomized trials of patients with cardiovascular disease have examined the impact of pharmacologic and behavioral treatments on hard cardiovascular disease events as well as on cardiovascular disease biomarkers of risk. Although psychological treatments generally have been shown to improve quality of life and psychological functioning among cardiac patients, the benefit of psychological interventions with respect to improving clinical outcomes has not been conclusively demonstrated.
Fishbowl the Forensic Accountant: Are There Differences in the Views of the Relevant Skills of a Forensic Accountant Among Practitioners, Academics and Users of Forensic Accounting Services?

This paper investigates through a survey study if there are differences in views of the relevant skills of a forensic accountant among forensic accounting practitioners, accounting academics and, users of forensic accounting services (attorneys were classified as the primary users of forensic accounting for this study). Currently, universities and colleges are considering adding forensic accounting courses to their curriculum or already have; this evolution has unearthed an absence regarding the significant skill set outcome that should be developed. The results of this study provide much needed guidance to further assist with the development of forensic accounting curriculum by identifying pertinent skills to accompany a program of study.
Link Between DNA Damage and Centriole Disengagement/Reduplication in Untransformed Human Cells

The radiation and radiomimetic drugs used to treat human tumors damage DNA in both cancer cells and normal proliferating cells. Centrosome amplification after DNA damage is well established for transformed cell types but is sparsely reported and not fully understood in untransformed cells. We characterize centriole behavior after DNA damage in synchronized untransformed human cells. One hour treatment of S phase cells with the radiomimetic drug, Doxorubicin, prolongs G2 by at least 72 hours, though 14% of the cells eventually go through mitosis in that time. By 72 hours after DNA damage we observe a 52% incidence of centriole disengagement plus a 10% incidence of extra centrioles. We find that either APC/C or Plk activities can disengage centrioles after DNA damage, though they normally work in concert. All disengaged centrioles are associated with γ-tubulin and maturation markers and thus, should in principle be capable of reduplicating and organizing spindle poles. The low incidence of reduplication of disengaged centrioles during G2 is due to the p53 dependent expression of p21 and the consequent loss of Cdk2 activity. We find that 26% of the cells going through mitosis after DNA damage contain disengaged or extra centrioles. This could produce genomic instability through transient or persistent spindle multipolarity. Thus, for cancer patients the use of DNA damaging therapies raises the chances of genomic instability and evolution of transformed characteristics in proliferating normal cell populations.
QAM backscatter for passive UHF RFID tags

Traditional passive UHF RFID tags employ either ASK or PSK backscatter modulation to communicate data from memory or sensors on the tag to a remotely-located reader. These simple modulation schemes transfer data at a rate of one bit per symbol period, which for an integrated CMOS tag IC requires an on-chip oscillator with a frequency at least equal to the bit rate. Motivated by the fact that most modern UHF RFID readers already employ I/Q demodulation of the backscattered signal to account for backscatter phase rotation as the tag moves with respect to the reader, we propose a QAM backscatter method using no on-chip inductors that is compatible with a single-chip CMOS tag implementation.With QAM backscatter, tags transmit more than one data bit per symbol period, permitting tag designers to employ a lower power on-chip oscillator operating at a frequency equal to the (lower) symbol rate while maintaining the same data throughput as ASK or PSK, or alternatively to send data at a higher rate for a given on-chip oscillator frequency. We present the fundamental design equations required for arbitrary QAM backscatter modulators and present simulated bit error rate (BER) and error vector magnitude (EVM) curves for the operation of an inductor-free 4-QAM and 8-QAM modulator centered at 915MHz and evaluated over the 860MHz–950MHz worldwide UHF band.
Concealing Respondents' Gender In Interview Transcripts

Research into gender differences in moral reasoning may require that gender clues be removed from interview transcripts so that the gender of respondents is concealed. In the present study, graduate students were asked to read such transcripts and guess the gender of the respondent. Graduate students were able to guess the gender of the respondent with significant accuracy. Female and male students were equally accurate, and experience with interviewing or with transcripts did not increase accuracy in guessing the gender of the respondent.
On the Short Surface Waves Due to a Half-Immersed Circular Cylinder Oscillating on Water of Infinite Depth

In this paper we examine two-dimensional short surface waves in water of infinite depth produced by various modes of oscillation of a half-immersed circular cylinder. The usual method, which depends on finding the potential on the cylinder from an integral equation with a small kernel, is here replaced by one that uses instead the known value of the potential for incident waves in the presence of the fixed cylinder. Thus we are able to determine three-term asymptotic expansions for both the heaving and the swaying modes that improve on earlier forms, and, for the heaving mode, to refine the interpolation with previous numerical calculations and confirm in principle the result obtained elsewhere by a plausible argument. The rolling mode also can actually be included by superposition of the heaving and swaying modes for this cylinder.
Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of myocardium at risk ☆: Distinction between reversible and irreversible injury throughout infarct healing

Abstract OBJECTIVES We sought to determine the relationship of delayed hyperenhancement by contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to viable and nonviable myocardium within the region at risk throughout infarct healing. BACKGROUND The relationship of delayed MRI contrast enhancement patterns to injured but viable myocardium within the ischemic bed at risk has not been established. METHODS We compared in vivo and ex vivo MRI contrast enhancement to histopathologic tissue sections encompassing the entire left ventricle in dogs (n = 24) subjected to infarction with (n = 12) and without (n = 12) reperfusion at 4 h, 1 day, 3 days, 10 days, 4 weeks and 8 weeks. In vivo MR imaging was performed 30 min after contrast injection. RESULTS The sizes and shapes of in vivo myocardial regions of elevated image intensity (828 ± 132% of remote) were the same as those observed ex vivo (241 slices, r = 0.99, bias = 0.05 ± 1.6% of left ventricle [LV]). Comparison of ex vivo MRI to triphenyltetrazolim chloride–stained sections demonstrated that the spatial extent of hyperenhancement was the same as the spatial extent of infarction at every stage of healing (510 slices, lowest r = 0.95, largest bias = 1.7 ± 2.9% of LV). Conversely, hyperenhanced regions were smaller than the ischemic bed at risk defined by fluorescent microparticles at every stage of healing (239 slices, 35 ± 24% of risk region, p CONCLUSIONS Delayed contrast enhancement by MRI distinguishes between viable and nonviable regions within the myocardium at risk throughout infarct healing.
Effect of On-Ramp Geometric and Operational Factors on Vehicle Activity

The microscopic vehicle activity levels for a random sample of 7,288 vehicles were measured and analyzed for cars and trucks on 26 entrance ramps in Louisville, Ky. Approximately 12.3 million distance measurements were recorded and used to calculate vehicle speeds, accelerations, and power requirements. This study was performed to examine the effects of geometrical and operational characteristics on changes in vehicle activity levels on entrance ramps. Linear regression and hierarchical-based regression tree methods were used to determine the impacts of the ramp characteristics. The regression analyses revealed that grade had the greatest impact on vehicle acceleration and power requirements in the Louisville area while ramp curvature, length of curvature, and mainline traffic flow rates had impacts under specific conditions. The results of the multivariable regression produced models that could explain up to 70% of the power demand based on ramp geometric and operational characteristics.
Potent Antibody Protection against an Emerging Alphavirus Threat

Chikungunya virus recently caused large outbreaks world-wide. In this issue of Cell, Fox et al. describe several potently neutralizing antibodies against multiple alphaviruses. The structure of the virus in complex with one of the antibodies reveals the antibody-induced rearrangement and crosslinking of the viral surface proteins that result in neutralization.
Human-Supervisory Distributed Robotic System Architecture for Healthcare Operation Automation

This paper proposes a human-supervisory distributed robotic software architecture, which has been applied in a multi-agent robotic system to automate the daily and repeated sterilization process at hospitals of US Department of Veteran Affairs. Each robot is considered as an independent agent to perform assigned tasks with its own capability and coordinate their operations with other robots to ensure that the main process of the work flow to satisfy the overall operation requirements. This layered architecture highlights human factors in the automation work flow to provide a flexible and robust human-knowledge-based supervision and control for safe, reliable, and automated process for healthcare industry. The proposed architecture and the implemented system were tested in a practical project to validate its effectiveness and robustness.
Scaling Up Game Theory: Achievable Set Methods for Efficiently Solving Stochastic Games of Complete and Incomplete Information.

Proposed Thesis: Achievable set methods can efficiently compute useful game theoretic solutions to general multi-agent reinforcement learning problems.
Quantitative CT Imaging of Ventral Hernias: Preliminary Validation of an Anatomical Labeling Protocol.

Objective We described and validated a quantitative anatomical labeling protocol for extracting clinically relevant quantitative parameters for ventral hernias (VH) from routine computed tomography (CT) scans. This information was then used to predict the need for mesh bridge closure during ventral hernia repair (VHR). Methods A detailed anatomical labeling protocol was proposed to enable quantitative description of VH including shape, location, and surrounding environment (61 scans). Intra- and inter-rater reproducibilities were calculated for labeling on 18 and 10 clinically acquired CT scans, respectively. Preliminary clinical validation was performed by correlating 20 quantitative parameters derived from anatomical labeling with the requirement for mesh bridge closure at surgery (26 scans). Prediction of this clinical endpoint was compared with similar models fit on metrics from the semi-quantitative European Hernia Society Classification for Ventral Hernia (EHSCVH). Results High labeling reproducibilities were achieved for abdominal walls (±2 mm in mean surface distance), key anatomical landmarks (±5 mm in point distance), and hernia volumes (0.8 in Cohen’s kappa). 9 out of 20 individual quantitative parameters of hernia properties were significantly different between patients who required mesh bridge closure versus those in whom fascial closure was achieved at the time of VHR (p<0.05). Regression models constructed by two to five metrics presented a prediction with 84.6% accuracy for bridge requirement with cross-validation; similar models constructed by EHSCVH variables yielded 76.9% accuracy. Significance Reproducibility was acceptable for this first formal presentation of a quantitative image labeling protocol for VH on abdominal CT. Labeling-derived metrics presented better prediction of the need for mesh bridge closure than the EHSCVH metrics. This effort is intended as the foundation for future outcomes studies attempting to optimize choice of surgical technique across different anatomical types of VH.
A comprehensive access control system for scientific applications

Web based scientific application have provided a means to share scientific data across diverse groups and disciplines for integrated research extending beyond the local computing environment. But the organization and sharing of large and heterogeneous data pose challenges due to their sensitive nature. The main challenge is providing a robust authorization mechanism that prevents unauthorized access of data in scientific applications. In this paper we analyze the security requirements of scientific applications and present an authorization model that facilitates the organization and sharing of data without compromising the security of data. We also discuss the key components and implementation of Computational Research Infrastructure for Science (CRIS), a web-based scientific application that currently deploys a partial set of the security requirements for scientific applications.
Structural and Mechanistic Aspects of a New Family of Dehydrogenases, the β-Hydroxyacid Dehydrogenases

The catabolism of valine, unlike that of other branched-chain amino acids, occurs with the formation of a free branched-chain acid, (S)-β-hydroxyisobutyrate or HIBA, whereas other branched-chain amino acids are metabolized solely as coenzyme A thioesters. Because it exists as a free acid, HIBA can be released into the blood stream by specific tissues and is cleared by the liver where it can serve as a substrate for gluconeogenesis (Letto et al., 1986). During the past decade there has been significant interest in the metabolism and interorgan trafficking of the R- and S- enantiomers of HIBA. HIBA is oxidized in mitochondria to methylmalonate semialdehyde by a highly specific, NAD+-dependent dehydrogenase (HIBADH or 3-hydroxy-2-methyl-propionate: NAD+ oxidoreductase, EC 1.1.1.31). Previous studies of rat HIBADH tentatively placed the enzyme in the now well-established short-chain alcohol dehydrogenase family (Crabb et al., 1993; Hawes et al., 1995). This assignment was based on amino acid sequence homology, enzymatic properties such as the lack of a metal requirement for catalysis, and effects of tyrosine-specific chemical modification. However, site-directed mutagenesis studies indicated that HIBADH differs in mechanism from the short-chain dehydrogenases studied to date, such as Drosophila alcohol dehydrogenase (Hawes et al., 1995). Furthermore, the short-chain dehydrogenases mostly prefer secondary alcohols as optimal substrates whereas HIBADH is only active with primary alcohol substrates. HIBADH, therefore, is most likely not closely related to the short-chain dehydrogenases. More recent studies showed that HIBADH shares better amino acid sequence homology and enzymatic properties with a separate, previously unrecognized family of enzymes that includes D-phenylserine dehydrogenase from Pseudomonas syringae, 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase from numerous species, and numerous hypothetical proteins of microbial origin (Hawes et al., 1996).
Embryonic platelet activating factor production in the rabbit increases during the preimplantation phase.

This study measured platelet activating factor (PAF) production by rabbit embryos in vitro and ascertained if there is increased PAF production associated with advancing embryonic development.
Characterizing a perspective underlying the practice of mathematics teachers in transition

We postulate a construct, perception-based perspective, that we consider to be fundamental to the practices of many teachers currently participating in mathematics education reform in the United States. The postulation of the construct resulted from analyses of data from teaching experiments in teacher education classes with a combined group of prospective and practicing teachers and from case studies with individuals from that group. A perception-based perspective is grounded in a view of mathematics as a connected, logical, and universally accessible part of an ontological reality. From this perspective, learning mathematics with understanding requires learners' direct (firsthand) perception of relevant mathematical relationships. Analyses of data are presented and implications of the construct for mathematics teaching and mathematics teacher education are discussed.
Effect of diets high in fat or protein on vitamin B12 deficiency in non-depleted chick.

SummaryA severe vit. B12 deficiency, as indicated by poor growth, was produced by dietary means in non-depleted chicks. Replacing 20% of the corn in an all-vegetable corn-soybean oil meal diet with 20% fat increased the weight difference between chicks receiving vit. B12 and the unsupplemented birds. A less striking effect was obtained with 20% vegetable protein.
A Comparison between Industry’s and Academia’s Perceptions of a Career in Construction Education

AbstractIt is well documented that real-world experience is essential in teaching the applied sciences. However, it has also been shown that faculty positions are being filled with candidates with strong research agendas but less industry experience. The aim of this study is to understand what industry’s perception of a career in academia is like and compare it to the perceptions of those actually in the profession. This is viewed as a needed first step in attracting more industry practitioners into construction education. The study surveys practitioners and faculty on how satisfying a career in CM academia is at meeting 16 factors identified as important to overall job satisfaction. The responses of both groups were compared to evaluate where industry’s perceptions did not align with those of faculty. The study also compared the workplace attributes that industry indicated they valued most and what faculty indicated a career in education provided. The study found that a terminal degree, interest in resea...
Canopy foliation and area as predictors of mortality risk from episodic drought for individual trees of Ashe juniper

Drought is killing an increasing number of trees globally, yet mortality risk remains difficult to predict at fine spatial scales. We sought to identify metrics of living individuals that could be used to estimate mortality risk of Ashe juniper (Juniperus ashei) trees and eventually to estimate the fraction of juniper populations at risk from drought. Ashe juniper is a keystone species in the Edwards Plateau region in central Texas, USA. We analyzed tree rings from both living and dead trees to determine growth rate prior to an historic drought in 2011 and measured morphological, physiological, and stand-level variables hypothesized to link growth rate and mortality risk. Slowly growing trees were disproportionately vulnerable to mortality. Fractional mortality of sampled trees was correlated to the difference between the mean predrought basal area increment (BAI) per tree and the predrought BAI of minimally stressed trees growing on deep soil (=BAI90 − BAI). Slowly growing trees had sparsely foliated canopies. BAI90 − BAI was positively correlated to the difference between: (1) leaf area per unit of projected canopy area per tree (LA) and the LA of minimally stressed trees and (2) projected canopy area (CA) and the CA of comparably sized trees. By contrast, there was no correlation between growth of living trees and light interception by neighboring trees, soil depth, or two functional metrics, the stem–leaf Ψ gradient and leaf light use efficiency. Mortality risk in Ashe juniper populations can be estimated from nondestructive measurements of leaf and canopy area of individual trees using relationships among risk, growth, and leaf and canopy area.
A perspective on models of membrane structure

Publisher Summary This chapter presents a perspective on the models of membrane structure. Proteins generally comprise about one-half to two-thirds of the total material in a membrane. Membrane proteins are characteristically insoluble, forming intractable aggregates in aqueous environments. As a consequence of this inconvenient property, membrane proteins remained uncharacterized during a period when knowledge of the structure of soluble proteins was increasing rapidly. The development of suitable analytical and preparative techniques for these proteins—most notably polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of the anionic detergent sodium dodecyl sulfate— has resulted in rapid progress in the last few years. These techniques quickly established the fact that most membranes contain an assemblage of proteins possibly even more diverse than their lipids.
Outcome of Pseudoseizures in Children and Adolescents

A 6-year symptom survival analysis of 17 patients admitted as in-patients and/or day patients to the tertiary psychiatric ward at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, UK, for pseudoseizures, without concomitant epilepsy, was conducted using case-note data.
The effect of accounting question response formats on student performance

ABSTRACTThe purpose of the research is to examine the effect of different response formats on student performance on introductory accounting exam questions. The study analyzes 1104 accounting students’ responses to quantitative questions presented in two formats: multiple-choice and fill-in. Findings indicate that response format impacts student performance on most of the questions, in favor of the multiple-choice. A second goal is to discover how effectively wrong-answer options in multiple-choice questions capture students’ actual incorrect thinking. Analyses of the fill-in questions showed students wrote in a wide array of incorrect answers, many of which would not have been offered as multiple-choice distracters. Answers filled in were often based on misguided logic that test question authors might never have anticipated. Students’ incorrect reasoning on quantitative fill-in questions can inform instructors on how to proactively address student misconceptions and write more effective multiple-choice i...
Management of chylous ascites after retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for testicular cancer

Iatrogenic ascites is an uncommon complication of surgery of the retroperitoneum, the base of the mesentery or mediastinum. We treated 18 patients with chylous ascites occurring after retroperitoneal dissection for testicular cancer. Patients were diagnosed by paracentesis or on clinical grounds (increasing abdominal girth). Of interest, 6 patients underwent resection of the inferior vena cava as part of the procedure, and this appears to be a high risk group for this complication. Management options include dietary restriction of fat, administration of medium chain triglycerides and diuretics, hyperalimentation, peritoneovenous shunt or surgery. The majority of patients were managed successfully by dietary treatment.
QTL Mapping in Other Populations

BC and F 2 populations are the most commonly used populations for QTL mapping. There are other populations which can also be used for QTL mapping. These include recombinant inbred lines (RIL), double haploids (DH), four-way crosses, diallel crosses, full-sib families, half-sib families, and random-mating populations with pedigree structures. We are going to discuss a few of them in this chapter.
Concepts in Diabetic Nephropathy: From Pathophysiology to Treatment

Since the 1930s when Kimmelstiel and Wilson first described the classic nodular glomerulosclerosis lesions in diabetic kidneys, nephropathy has been recognized as a major and common complication of diabetes. Nearly 40% of diabetics around the world have microalbuminuria, a marker of progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is also considered a leading cause of CKD worldwide. Given the significant morbidity, mortality, and health-care burden, several clinical and scientific societies continue to seek a better understanding of this disease. Screening for microalbuminuria and controlling hyperglycemia remain the pillars for the prevention of diabetic nephropathy. However, evidence from multiple studies suggests that controlling DKD is more challenging. Some studies suggest that there is variability in the incidence of renal complications among patients despite comparable hyperglycemic control. Therefore, there has been great interest in studying the inherent, renal protective role of the different antihyperglycemic agents. This review will shed light on the pathophysiology, screening, and diagnosis of DKD. It will also discuss the treatment and prevention of diabetic nephropathy, with a specific focus on comparing the mechanisms, safety profiles, and efficacy of the different antihyperglycemic medications.
Percolation phenomenon in connected vehicle network through a multi-agent approach: Mobility benefits and market penetration

Abstract This paper presents an integrated multi-agent approach, coupled with percolation theory and network science, to measure the mobility impacts (i.e., mean travel time of the system) of connected vehicle (CVtio) network at varying levels of market penetration rate. We capture the characteristics of a CV network, i.e., node degree distribution, vehicular clustering, and giant component size to verify the existence of percolation phenomenon, and further connect the emergence of mobility benefits to the percolation phase transition in the CV network. We show the percolation phase transition properties to appear in a dynamic CV network with time-correlated link and node dynamics. An analytical framework was developed to evaluate the CV network attributes with varying market penetrations (MP) and connection ranges (CR) to identify percolation phenomenon in a mixed CV and Non-CV environment. In addition, a multi-agent CV simulation platform was created to further measure (1) how varying MPs and CRs affect the network-wide mobility measured by the mean travel time of the network; and (2) when percolation transition occurs in CV network to capture the critical MP and CR. Percolation phenomenon in CV network was further validated with the analytical assessments. The results show that (1) percolation phase transition phenomenon is a function of both market penetration and communication range; (2) percolation phase transitions in both mobility and CV network are highly correlated; (3) the application can reduce the average travel time of the system by up to 20% with reasonable market penetration and communication range; (4) critical market penetration is sensitive to communication range, and vice versa; (5) at least 70% of the CVs on the network are required to show in the same cluster for mobility benefits to appear; and (6) for high levels of MP or CR, a low probability of connectivity (PC) does not dramatically change the mean travel time. These results provide solid supports to create evidence-driven frameworks to guide future CV deployment and CV network analysis.
Impact of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia disorder on sleep and comorbid symptoms in military personnel: a randomized clinical trial

Study objectives To compare the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi) disorder and a Control condition on reducing insomnia and comorbid symptoms in a sample of active duty military personnel. Methods Randomized clinical trial of 151 active duty US Army personnel at Fort Hood, Texas. Results This study replicated Original (n = 66) findings (CBTi outperformed Control) in a follow-on sample (n = 85) on diary-assessed sleep efficiency (d = 1.04), total sleep time (d = 0.38), sleep latency (d = -0.93), number of awakenings (d = -0.56), wake time after sleep onset (d = -0.91), sleep quality (d = 1.00), and the Insomnia Severity Index (d = -1.36) in active duty soldiers. CBTi also outperformed Control in the combined sample (N = 151) on four of the five subscales of the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (d = -0.32 to -0.96) and the mental health subscale on the Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey (d = 0.37). Exploratory analyses also showed CBTi outperformed Control on nicotine (d = -0.22) and caffeine (d = -0.47) use reduction. Significant within-group differences were found for both groups on depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, but there was no group by time interaction for these symptoms or for use of hypnotics or alcohol. Conclusions CBTi was an effective treatment for insomnia and comorbid symptoms including daytime fatigue, general mental health, nicotine, and caffeine use. Clinical trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov; Identifier: NCT01549899; "Comparing Internet and In-Person Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy of Insomnia".
No Evidence of Copy Number Variation in Acidic Mammalian Chitinase Genes (CHIA) in New World and Old World Monkeys

Copy number variation may be the most common form of structural genetic variation in the genome. Numerous studies have shown that gene copy number variation can correlate with phenotypic variation, where higher copy numbers correspond to increased expression of the protein and vice versa. Examples include some digestive enzyme genes, where variation in copy numbers and protein expression may be related to dietary differences. Increasing the expression of a digestive enzyme through higher gene copy numbers may thus be a potential mechanism for altering an organism’s digestive capabilities. I investigated copy number variation in genes coding for acidic mammalian chitinase, a chitinolytic digestive enzyme that may be used for the digestion of insect exoskeletons, in nonhuman primates with varying levels of insect consumption. I hypothesized that CHIA copy number correlates positively with level of insectivory, predicting higher copy numbers in more insectivorous primates. I assessed copy number variation with the QuantStudio 3D digital PCR platform, in a comparative sample of Old World and New World primate species (N = 10 species, one or two individuals each). Contrary to my prediction, no evidence of copy number variation was found and all species tested had two gene copies per diploid genome. These findings suggest that if acidic mammalian chitinase expression varies according to insect consumption in primates, it may be up- or downregulated through another mechanism.
Social Entrepreneurship and the Financing of Third Sector Organizations

In this paper, we review the literature on entrepreneurship and the skill sets required by entrepreneurs operating in different sectors of the economy.1 Case studies from the social enterprise lite...
Treatment of Tendon Injuries in Children

SUMMARY Tendon injuries in the child's hand can be repaired primarily with better results than in the adult; this is true at all levels, including the digital sheath. In less than ideal circumstances, secondary conventional tendon grafting also provides predictable satisfactory results and can also salvage a failed primary repair. In children under the age of six years with digital flexor tendon repairs, the limb must be immobilized above the elbow. In the cooperative child over the age of six years with a primary repair of a lacerated flexor tendon, the dorsal splint with rubber band traction as described by Kleinert is recommended. Preoperative diagnosis of tendon injuries in the young child is difficult. If there is any doubt after observing the child using his hand, the wound must be explored and tendons and nerves identified to ensure their integrity. Even though the results of tendon repair in children are better than in adults, the structures are small, technique must be meticulous, and magnification must be used. Specially trained hand surgeons experienced in primary tendon repair and tendon grafting should perform these procedures, for this elegant structure deserves the finest attention.
Improving LRTA*(k)

We identify some weak points of the LRTA*(k) algorithm in the propagation of heuristic changes. To solve them, we present a new algorithm, LRTA*LS(k), that is based on the selection and updating of the interior states of a local space around the current state. It keeps the good theoretical properties of LRTA*(k), while improving substantially its performance. It is related with a lookahead depth greater than 1. We provide experimental evidence of the benefits of the new algorithm on real-time benchmarks with respect to existing approaches.
Programmed cell death in mouse brain development.

Among the basic cellular events that shape the developing brain, programmed cell death (also called apoptosis) plays an essential role (Cowan et al. 1984; Oppenheim 1991). Although cell death during the development of the vertebrate nervous system was first described by anatomists of the nineteenth century, a mechanistic understanding of these events started only in the latter half of this century through two lines of research. First, the identification of nerve growth factor (NGF) by R. Levi-Montalcini and colleagues showed that cells died if deprived of trophic molecules and thus established the foundation for the “trophic theory” of neural development. Second, H. R. Horvitz pioneered genetic studies of programmed cell death in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and elucidated a genetic pathway involved in this process. Because the targeted disruption of specific genes in the mouse can now be performed, we can test directly whether the same cell death machinery is conserved in mammals. Moreover, the similarity of the organization and development of the central nervous system between the mouse and higher primates makes it an ideal experimental system for understanding the roles of programmed cell death in normal human brain development and congenital malformations. The present chapter focuses on the recent gene targeting studies elucidating the evolutionarily conserved cell death machinery in the context of mouse brain development.
Prevalence of Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli on the Surfaces of Raw Poultry Packages.

ABSTRACT Contamination on the exterior surfaces of raw poultry packages can be transmitted to hands and food contact surfaces during shopping and handling. This study compared the level of microbial contamination and prevalence of foodborne pathogens on the surfaces of raw poultry packages as related to the types of products, types of packaging, and packaging conditions. Packages of whole chicken, cut-up chicken (breast and leg quarter), and ground turkey were purchased from retail stores. Aerobic plate counts (APCs) were significantly different (P < 0.05) among types of products and packaging materials, with ground turkey packages and the heat-sealed, high-walled containers being the lowest. APCs were significantly lower (P < 0.05) when the packages were intact and tight compared with intact and loose. Of the 105 packages, there were 10 (9.5%) with the presence of either Shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli (STEC) or Campylobacter; of those packages, 6 (5.7%) were positive for STEC, 7 (6.7%) were posit...
Influence of hole eccentricity on failure progression in a double shear bolted joint (DSBJ)

Abstract Experimental results on the influence of bolt hole to edge eccentricity for Double Shear Bolted Joints (DSBJ) used to attach fiber reinforced composite laminates are presented. Four different eccentricities of DSBJs were examined and microCT imaging conducted at different stages of the loading history are presented. The macroscopic load-hole elongation results along with the microCT images exhibit a distinct progression of failure which dictate not only the bearing load but also the ultimate load of the joint. The experimental procedure, microCT images and failure progression mechanisms are reported in this paper. The results can serve to develop a mechanism based model of DSBJ failure progression.
Effect of Flow Rate on Acidity Concentration from Above-Drainage Underground Mines

High flows during spring runoff and snowmelt can increase the concentrations of contaminants in the discharge or dilute them. In the Appalachian region, March tends to be a time of high flows from underground mines, May has moderate flow rates, and July has low flows. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of flow rate on water quality from five acid-producing, above-drainage underground mines in West Virginia. We measured flow rates and acidity twice a week for 3 weeks in March, May, and July 2007. As expected, flow rates in March (average of five sites) were significantly higher at 32 L s−1 than flows in May and July at 18 and 6 L s−1. Flows during weeks within months were not significantly different. Acidity concentrations for March and May (high and moderate flow months) were significantly lower at 342 and 400 mg L−1 (as CaCO3) than those in July at 524 mg L−1 (as CaCO3). Similar to flow, acidity concentrations during weeks within the same month were not significantly different. In general, this data supported the ‘dilution’ concept, where higher flow rates resulted in lower acidity concentrations from above-drainage underground mine discharges.